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Reborn On the Mars I

At that moment of pushing open the heavy door, a strong stench of blood rushes into the nose. Although the gush of wind brushed across her face from the sanctuary, Shasa does not forget to hold tight onto her silver candle-stand in her hands. The sweat in her hands is unbearable. The candle light flickers. Evil darkness lurking in surroundings appear with the candle's presence. Shadows look upon the brave girl from above as if they are alive. To Shasa, since her baptism till currently 15 years old, this is a place where she visits every week. Even so, the girl still steps in the church soaked in darkness with the emotions she had for the first visit. [Saint Maria, please protect me, please protect me, Saint Maria...] Shasa is, apart from her elder brother, the most courageous person in the village. The timid villagers, have all been hiding in their home ever since [their] appearance. Even her father who is the village-leader, would only hold his breath in his house boundary all scattered with garlic and hawthorn. Her brother had wanted to save his abducted fiance from [them], but nobody has offered to help. Three days ago, Shasa has wanted to go together with her brother when he decided to intrude into the church which [they] had occupied, but the brother rejected her by asking her to take care of the parents in his absence and left alone -- and never come back. [Lord, please protect me. Saint Maria, please protect me...] Shasa carefully glides through the darkness of the sanctuary, advancing step by step. A hand reaches out from the inauspicious darkness and knock on her shoulder. Her focused eyes which she hardly blinked twitch. As Shasa licks her dried lips, she suddenly hears a sound from the floor nearby. [Who... who's there?] A huge feminine silhouette appears in the faint light of the candle-stand, Shasa is taken aback. She

steps back 3 steps spontaneously, then see that the woman's hands are carrying a baby. The marblemade face carries a gentle smile. Shasa let out a relieved sigh. [What a fright... please do not frighten me, Saint Maria] Though her heart is still pondering fiercely, her trembling knees have managed to stop. Shasa wipes the cold sweat off her forehead. After what seems to be a slight grumble to the female guardian of the village, she turns her back quickly -- this time, her heart almost stops. There are 2 shadows sit on the chair. [Ah...it seems like someone has come, Millis] [Malice, a cute bird has intruded] Smiling at each other, are two women. They look like one same person. The identical statue-like fair beauty and waist-length blond hair. In this season which is going to snow soon, both women wear thin lacey gowns. The only difference is their lipstick color, one is light-pink, the other is light blue. After blinking her amber-colored eyes, the pink-lipped lady speaks softly. [Millis, this is not proper. Such a rare guest, not even a cup of tea. Where's the teapot?] Shasa flashes her candle-stand in front of the giggling women. [What.. what have you done to my brother? You monsters!] In the wavering candlelight, the 3 shadows are dancing like strange creatures. Though in fear, the girl shouted with all her strength. [I'm...I'm Shasa, a warrior from Kenapoli, the daughter of Caspolake! I've come to revenge my brother! Come and have a fair fight!] [Brother? The one whom this little bird is talking about, is it that brave rooster? Malice?] The pink-lipped spoke.

[Do you still remember? The rooster who read the bible to us a few days ago?] [Oh I have the bible! And the cross too!] Her right hand holds up the bible, and then reveals the cross hung from the rosary around her neck. Shasa screams. At that moment, strong fear grips her knees which tremble. Her heart almost freezes. With gentle smiles and melodic voices, the two women are as beautiful as fairies of the night. But Shasa is not moved at all by this scene. These beautiful women are [them]. The enemies of human race after the [Armageddon]. Disgusting creatures with given names like [shadows], [descendants of the night], etc. Among which, the most recognised name is -[Vampires! recognise your fate, sacrifice your heads!] [Your brother was delicious, little bird] Sweet voices entered her ears directly. With hands hugging her shoulders, Shasa's face turned pale as frost. The shadows originally on the chairs, have vanished. In a spilt second, two monsters are standing behind the brave girl. [He used all his strength to read the scriptures...] [Flashed the cross...] [Then cries to beg for his life...] [But ended up as our food] Listening to their interlocking whisperings, Shasa can't reply even a word. The girl stands there as if frozen, her fingers turn ice-cold, the silver candle-stand drops to the floor. [This little bird is cleverer than her brother, Millis. All well-equipped] [Oh yes, Malice. Hateful silverware... we, the Long-Life hate Ultraviolet rays most, followed by this thing] The blue-lipped woman kicks the fallen candle-stand to a corner of the church with a disgusted look. The candles distinguish, and darkness returns to the surroundings.

[Do not be afraid, little bird. We will send you to your beloved brother] The pink lips open up slowly, revealing glows of long fangs. [Come, little bird. I wonder what kind of taste you are?] Bathed in the faint moonlight showered in from the window, light pink lips kiss on the girl's neck. White glowing fangs slowly dig into the pure soft skin -At this moment, a sharp ray of light cuts through the darkness. [!] The blue-lipped vampire lets out an unimaginable scream of pain, her body stumbles backwards. Deeply embedded in her hand, is an ordinary cross. Such a blunt cross, it's hard to imagine how much strength is used to fling it out to actually pierce through the palm. [Mi...Millis!] As the pink-lipped vampire hugs her agonised sister, she turns back to look fiercely. Her unblinking eyes full of anger, draw to a thin slit. [Who.. who's there? so there is still fools in this village who dare to interrupt our meals...] The blue sky is visible beyond the upper windows. Two moons look down on the earth from the southern sky -- one is silver, displaying a round full moon. The other is red as blood, floating in the sky as a tilted crescent. In this inauspicious moonlight, a big silhouette suddenly stands there. [Apologies, I'm not from the village] The voice from the silhouette sounds quite peaceful. [Vampire Malice Zadorofshuka and Millis Zadorofshuka... in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, I'm arresting you for 22 homicides and robbing of blood in Kenapoli] [You... that priest robe is -- !] Under the faint shadows cast by the moonlight, Millis shows her sharp fangs. That silhouette -- a bigframed man wearing a long black robe and cape. Has a sparkling golden cross hung on his chest.

[Vatican!] [Oh, sorry for being late. I'm sent from AX agency and my name is...] A detailed self-introduction yet seems to be done at the wrong timing, is drowned out in the sounds of blood-soaked flesh pierced through by something... Deeply pierced into the back of the man, is the same cross previously embedded in the hand of the vampire. Millis has stood behind him without warning, and speaks with a vicious tone. [Foolish Short-Life Being, how dare you to hurt my body...redeem your sin with your life!] The frail thin hands with comparable strength with a bear, trust the whole cross into the flesh with a graceful swing. With a spine-chilling ribs-breaking sound, the big man falls onto his knees. Reflecting the moonlight yet with blood splattered on her pale beautiful face, Millis flashes a contented smile. [Naive...whether it's this Father or that fellow... the Vatican rears a breed of fools, Malice] [I don't care about this, but don't dirty the floor, Millis. You have to be responsible, clean up that mess of blood] The younger sister turns back to clean up the mess, while Malice's eyes fall on the girl in her arms. The little bird has lost consciousness due to witnessing the tragedy. [Thus, this little bird is for me to enjoy] Flicking back the strands of hair fallen over the fair face, Malice smiles. As a Short-Life Being, this girl is considered beautiful. The blood should be just as tasty. Sounds of sharp teeth tearing apart flesh came from near the door, and follows the sounds of Water of Life going down the throat of the sister. Perhaps the fresh blood of the prey is too delicious, even the breathing becomes intense. [Please leave half for me, Millis] Malice continues to fling back the hair from the girl's forehead as she speaks to her sister.

[This little bird's blood, I'll leave half for you. Fair deal] [... No, that can't do it] a peaceful voice, not her sister's. [I'm picky with food... I don't want that girl's blood] [?!] As she turns back, what reflects in Malice's eyes is her sister's body with eyes wide-open with fear like those Short-Life Beings. The blue lips shaped as if left out a scream, gasping weak breaths, and the expressionless face as pale as a sheet. Surpassing the shock is not the sight of her sister, but rather the huge silhouette overshadowing her sister's neck... [No, it's not possible...what are you?!] The lips that mark onto Millis' neck as if a kiss, pulls away red strands of blood. It's a scene, which Malice is familiar with. But the victim being sucked is -[Bastard! You, You fellow, actually, actually sucks our blood!] [...You have never thought about this?] Millis' body tumbles onto the floor from loss of blood and horror. That creature smiles with a streak of sorrow. From within the crescent-shaped lips, are clearly seen sharp fangs. [Cows and chickens are eaten by humans. Human's blood is sucked by you. Then you...] [Right... I've heard of...Vatican, our enemy...have reared an unimaginable monster. That monster will suck our blood...] As that creature advances towards the vampire whose teeth has started clattering with fear, he declares his own identity with a touch of sorrow. [I am...the one who drinks vampire's blood as food...vampire] << end of Prologue >>

Chapter 1: City of Blood The red setting sun, glides down along the side of the glass roof. The sky, which is dyed to blood-red, is hard and cold like the kiss of witch. Abel Nightroad steps down from the steaming train cubicle, and let out a breath of white mist. [Wow... this place is real isolated] He uses his hand to push up his round-framed glasses, which resemble the bottom of a milk-bottle; his winter-lake blue eyes scan around the almost-empty train terminal. It reminds one of a greenhouse-like train station that is as vast as a palace, but left deserted due to lack of visits. Station employees and passengers with large luggage that sum up within the count of 5 fingers, carry unsettled facial expressions and walk around listlessly. The station itself, if you were to observe carefully, the bricks beneath the feet have long shown serious cracks but nobody is asking. Even the glass roof is full of scars. [Its exactly a lawless place...ah, but I can't go back to Rome just like this?] [Hey! the Tall one over there!] An anxious voice calls out to the tall self-mumbling young man standing in front of the stairs of the train cubicle. A fellow looks out from the train and shouted impatiently. [Don't stand there and block the way! Get going if you are alighting! It's dangerous!] [Aw, sorry. ah... but, can I ask? Is this really the terminal?] [Yes. Isn't it written clearly over there?] The fellow impatiently uses his chin to point to the signboard. A digitized voice read out the station name, which is written in both Hungary and Roman language. [This is Istvan -- liberal city Istvan terminal station] [Eh...no mistake about it.... if possible, I really hope I made a mistake]

Abel grumbles unhappily as he scratches his messy silver hair. [This is bad... after seeing the given name [Pear of Danube], I thought it would be a sunny holiday resort... at the sight of this, isn't it just a 100% rural area?] [Get off quickly! This train is going back its route now! Have to get back to Vienna as soon as possible!] [Oh? The train is departing now?] Hasn't it just arrived? Abel asks slowly as he pushes up his glasses whose lenses have turned mistywhite by the steam. [Excuse me Captain, can you wait for me a while? I don't know if I should go back to Rome with the preparation of being fired, I'm currently a bit indecisive...] [Idiot! It's getting dark now! We cannot stay here for another minute!] [Huh? What does this mean...wow! It's hot!] Abel jumps aside frantically. With the ear-piercing sounds of the whistle, the train emits out steam. In front of the young man who is tagging his long overcoat and stepping backwards, the big train wheels start to spin hurriedly. [Thats... that's very dangerous! it'll... it'll scald me!] [Bye, young lad! If you still want to live, find a hotel to hide. Or else -- ] [Or else] -- What is he trying to say? The shouting of the fellow is drowned out by the noise of the steaming train and does not reach the ears of Abel. The train bypasses the station, cut into the changed lane, and rushes towards the horizon of the dark blue night. Abel could only watch the diminishing lights of the train as it gets further and smaller. [*cough* *sobs* My one and only good clothes! It's done! Heartless!] It's like a protest, but nobody is listening. The defeated Abel picks up his traveling bag, pats his coat lovingly, and steps on the platform. The surrounding air has started to turn blue. It's necessary to find a landing spot before darkness falls -- just as he hastens his steps, a shadow walks out from the darkness of the pillar, too sudden for him to avoid.

[!] At that moment of a soft cry of agony, the paper bag in the hands of the other person toppled. The bag drops onto the red bricks, followed by slight sounds of something smashing. [So...sorry!] Despite in a state of drowsiness himself, Abel manages to speak to the sudden intruder. [Sorry! It's because I was daydreaming... are you alright?] [Ah...] Straightening up the back, sitted right on the bums, is a man. Coarse-clothed worker-suit with long trousers looks a bit of a country-pumpkin yet warm and comfortable. The newspaper-boy cap is worn low with a scarf that covers half of the face, thus the looks is barely visible but it seems to be a short young man. Standing up probably not even to the height of Abel's chest. [Sorry, sorry. Are you hurt?] [...Dont, don't touch me!] The young lad uses similar thin frail hands and shrug off Abel's reached-out hand. He pats his bums and stand up swiftly. [Really sorry...oh right, there are strange sounds from your stuff. Is it all right?] [Ah...] Abel's hands reach out faster than the man with the cap to pick up the fallen paper bag. There isn't a clue as to what is inside, but it's pretty heavy. The bottom is wet. [Is this oil or something? oh, the bottle seems to have broken] At the moment of opening the paper bag, a nose-piercing smell floats out. There are 2 glass bottles inside. Seem to be big bottles of wine, containing transparent and brown fluids respectively. The one

containing transparent fluid has a big crack on it. The fluid has flown out and soaked the pocket-watch tugged at the side of the bag. [Ah, this pocket watch seems to be spoilt too. All the inner particles have come out. Apologies, I will compensate you] [...ah, no, no need. The pocket watch is originally spoilt] The man with the cap answered hastily. For unknown reasons, the voice sounds to be weaker. He steps backwards, as if trying to escape from Abel. [Don't need to compensate, it doesn't matter. It's nothing expensive...but still, please return that to me?] [Ah? but, this kind of thing should be properly handled] Abel speaks as he digs for his wallet. [How much will it take? 200? Is it enough? This is all my financial property... 1, 2, 3... ah! Only 8!] Looking at the thin wallet, Abel changes his speech. He grabbed the anxiously struggling hand of the boy with the cap -[Sorry, I don't have enough money at hand. Oh. If it's convenient for you, can you wait for me a while? I'll give it to you the day after tomorrow] [Eh.. alright...I'm fine with it...] [Great! You are really easy to deal with. I'm so sorry, please give me your address and name...] [Ad.. address? ah, no, I think let's leave it. It's not anything important anyway...] [No, please do not say so! ah, I'm Abel Nightroad. Transferred here from Rome. Pleased to meet you] [...] With obvious anxiety on the face, the man with the cap attempts to shake off the hand of this overfriendly man. Shimmering with bright glory, eyes which remind one of blue-green precious stones busily spin around to look for escape routes. The expression hidden underneath the scarf freezes upon

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seeing the ticket gates. Around 10 uniformed persons are bypassing the gates. All big-built men. Though they wear the same dark blue coat and with berets, it is obvious they are not the station employees as guns hang from their belts. [Ah, Istvan is really quiet. I'm here for the first time. Towards this poor, backdated, peaceful tone is ...] The group of men in uniforms pass through the gates, across the station and directly towards here. Abel as if yet to realise it, as he continues to speak minor issues, so the boy with the cap can only repeat in an anxious tone. [I have to go somewhere now. So...] [Ah, is that so? Then please give me your name and address. I'll drop a visit tomorrow] [No, I already said it's not necessary...] [You two there!] A voice with the scent of tobacco interrupted the argument between the two. [What are you doing here?] A big man just like a bear looks down on the two. So huge. Probably a head taller than Abel. Just looking at the dimension of the body, it's hard to imagine it's the same living species. A soldier? A very imposing gun hangs on his uniform waist area. The double-cross badge on his beret is the city symbol of Istvan. [...You are?] [Istvan City Guard, Colonel Gergey Radcn] With surveying small eyes, the man declares his identity. His threatening hand lays on his gun at the waist. He seems like a man without many friends, so apparently the fierce-looking followers behind him should be his troops.

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[You two! Don't you know that this station is prohibited area after 18.00? What are you still doing here?] [Oh, actually I broke this person's luggage...am asking him to accept my compensation. So sorry to alert everyone] [...] Radcn glares at them with the look like that of a piranha's, but Abel's rubbing of the palms and apologetic bow seems to lower his weariness. He loses his interest and nods. [Leave quickly] [Ah, can go off now? sorry, sorry. I'll take my leave then... Wah?!] As Abel nods his head and ready to leave, he suddenly slips. Falls flat-faced on the floor with a scream of agony. [Hey hey, be careful...you are breaking the station] Radcn steps back his foot and mock at the scream. The soldiers behind follow suit and laugh. [Pain, painful ahhhh...] Pressing a red nose, Abel finally raises his head. Blood drips from between his fingers. [...Hey, are you alright?] Following a worried voice, the boy with the cap squatted down, his small hand offering a paper handkerchief. [Use this. Can you stand up?] [Ah, thank you...] Abel gratefully accepted the offered paper handkerchief, than stands up staggering. The boy with the cap supports him by the shoulder. [Don't push yourself, walk slowly]

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[Sorry. Haha, I'm so careless...] [Hey, tall one!] As Abel rests on the boy's shoulder and about to leave, a voice from behind calls him. Turning back to look, the men are looking at them as if looking at fools. [Don't trip next time~] Radcn laughs wildly ear-piercingly like that of a hyena, then turns over his huge body to his troops who are eager to please him. As he speaks of unsightly jokes, he walks over to the platform. [A group of jerks] It's a very soft voice, but unfortunately, it's especially clear and prominent amidst the laughter of the soldiers. The soldiers stop laughing all of a sudden, and rest their sight on the colonel who has halted his steps. [Wait...who was speaking just now?] With a roar like earthquake, the huge palms with speed inappropriate to the body mass have climbed onto the boy's shoulders. [You said jerks...it doesn't happen to be referring to us?] [...] The boy does not answer. But lightly shrugs his shoulders disgustedly, trying to shake off the hands -at this moment, his thin small body is flung out straight. [!] Flung out about 3 meters, then crashes to the floor with a sharp sound. The boy draw to a defensive position when he drops, probably has some knowledge in martial arts. But before he has time to stand up, a hand grabs his collar. [Dare to say City guards are jerks, You have some guts, huh?!]

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Radcn easily raises the boy to his level of vision and starts scolding. The 2 hands have visibly turned grey from beneath the sleeves. Judging from this, this man is probably a bionically-enhanced soldier. Using rediscovered Lost Technology -- bionial-enhancement techniques from the time before [Armageddon] to modify soldiers to have the strength comparable to a bear. [Oh.. oh, not again] [He's an impatient person] [Please at least leave him an arm~] As if used to seeing their officer worked up, the soldiers just laugh it off. Hearing the commotions, the station employees pop out their heads to look, but only become too frightened and shrink back. [Hey, speak! Or too frightened to speak? Call yourself a man...] Radcn shakes the boy by the collar, and speaks with his big fat lips. [How dare you say I'm a jerk? Be prepared for what's to come?] [I don't need to...] A bitter yet clear voice comes from underneath the scarf. [I'm only speaking the truth] [What arrogance... huh?] Radcn's face suddenly crumbles. And bends down as if to look clearly at the face under the cap. [Are you...] [!] A stone-fist flicks aside the cap. The tea-red which has been tucked within falls and scatter. Just once glance at the fair face beneath, the big man's lips tilts lustfully. [Amazing! This is top quality...]

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Before the eyes, is the pale face of a young girl. The blue eyes sparkle like a cat, no make-up on the face, attractive deepest eyes and nose, very beautiful. Elegant-shaped lips tightly sealed, as if in humiliation or pain. [Hey, come look! great stocks!] The man plays around with the protesting girl like a cat, as he reveals his teeth and smile. [This time we have some fun, everybody!] [Hey hey, Colonel Radcon's old habit is kicking in again] [That's too bad -- she probably can't go home tonight] [Colonel, don't spoil her before our turn] Amidst the irrelevant mockery, the big man holds the girl up high as if looking at a prize of victory, studies her face and speaks with a stench of tobacco. [Missy, what's your name?] [Esther...Esther Blanchett] [Good, good name. Esther, lets get along well tonight.... after I settle some work, I'll dote on you till dawn] [You are nothing!] A loud sound rings from Radcon's cheek. The hanging Esther has given him an unexpected slap. [Let go of your filthy hand! You bastard! I can still spare you your life now, wait and see if you dare to be rude again!] She looks down at the big man as she speaks firmly. If to put aside the difference of 3-heads' height and 3-time thickness of the waist, anyone would have been intimated by her commanding air. But at this moment, that courage would only push the person into a more unfortunate direction. [What a strong-willed gal...]

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Looking at the silly smiles of his troops, Radcon rubs his slightly reddish cheek. [I'm liking you more] [!] Suddenly, the girl lets out a moan, her body flies into the air. With a powerful crash into the pillar, this round she yet to have the chance to even get into defensive position. Like a broken doll, directly drops onto the ground on her back. [Ah, *sobs!*] The cluster of breath has yet to form a groan and escapes from her open lips. [Initially thought to enjoy a good meal after work...] Radcon presses down the hard-breathing girl, and reaches out for her breasts with his fat rough hands. [I will enjoy it right here now!] [!] The piercing sounds of tearing rings, the fair skin is exposed to the air. The thin frail chest painfully twisted under the thick rough hands. Slim legs ferociously yet helplessly kick in the air. [St.. Stop!] [Be obedient! Satisfying you soon!] Radcon licks his lips as he looks down on the pale face twisted with humiliation more than fear. He is right, it's a headstrong girl. To conquer such a prey by force is an absolute entertainment to him. [Stop.. Stop it, shameless fellow!] [Good. I like sharp-mouthed girls] The screams should have been heard by even the station employees, but apparently nobody is

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thinking of offering any help. Radcon feels delighted by the strong determination of Esther that still persisted even at this stage, as he reaches out for the pants zip. [Eh, excuse me?] A steady yet gradual voice is drowned out by the angry accusations of the girl and the laughter of the big man. [Sorry to interrupt...can I ask a question?] [.... What's up, bastard, looking for trouble?] Radcon raises his face dyed to purplish-red by lust and anger, and erupted. Standing in front of the evil stare, is that young man with the round-framed glasses. The blue eyes sparkle disturbed glory, looking down at the big man and the girl blocked underneath. [Eh, that...Just now I smashed that lady's things. We have not finished discussing about the compensation] [Idiot! Run!] [Hey, hold on to this girl...don't release] Radcon orders his troops to press down the limbs of the girl as he stands up slowly. With the look of a bear, which has just tasted human flesh, he looks down at Abel. [...Eh] The big man presses into an uncomfortable distance, Abel blinks his eyes continuously in embarrassment and eventually makes a cough, turning into a serious expression. [*coughs* The Lord once said. [Thou shalt not commit adultery] --] [Huh!] A short threat overlaps with a heavy sound. The young man's head gets a powerful punch; the body

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shakes in great pain. Half turning in circles half squatted on the floor. [... I like moans of women, but moans of men isn't too bad as well] Radcon's lips twist and reveals a torturing smile. His foot steps on the back of the coughing Abel on the floor, and pulls his messy silver hair. [...!] [Stop, stop it!] Abel's throat lets out an unclear moan but Esther lets out a shriek. Radcon raises up his hand which is entwined with silver hair. The stepped-on body arches up like a shrimp. Sounds of ear-piercing ribbreaking can be heard. [Don't do this! He has nothing to do with this!] [Lets see how long you can bear with this?] Underneath the foot of Radcon who shows a devilish smile, the paled-face Abel is beginning to flip his eyes. [I said don't do this! That man will die!] [Come on. This will only break his spine, and paralyzed for a lifetime] Perhaps wanting to crack another mean joke, Radcon opens his mouth. Enjoying the touch of the bending spine under his fingertips as he inserts his final strength into both his hands. [See, now you are game --] [...Suggest you to halt, Colonel Radcon] A flat emotionless voice rings from behind the big man. At the same time, a gloved hand overlaps the crude hand from the side. [Colonel, you have left your assigned zone for 478 seconds. Please return to duty as soon as possible] [What...]

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Radcon turns his body angrily, and howls harshly at the face at his back. [You, you bastard... Tres Iqus!] Watching expressionlessly at the big man is a small-framed man. Probably only about 20 years old. Wearing a prim and proper soldier's uniform, the major's rank sparkles at the chest. [Major Iqus! Are you looking for trouble with the Colonel?!] [Negative -- I have no intention of interfering in your entertainment] A voice still without any stirs, the young officer continues to speak promptly. [But currently you are on duty. Please put aside your entertainment. All Security facilities have been set up except for zone 1827 under your supervision] [Iqus, you rookie, treating me like a fool? Don't get stuck up just because sire Gyula likes you! Huh!] Staring at the face, which almost seems to have put on a mask, Radcon continues to bark. [There's still more than an hour before sire Gyula arrives. Just 30 minutes and I can finish the preparations -- now scram!] [There's news just now. Because of the alteration of the route, the express train will arrive 30 minutes in advance] [What?] Facing that fish-like crumbling face, the voice maintains its stability. [The time Marquis Gyula will arrive is 19.00 - in less than 20.00 seconds. Colonel, I advise you to swiftly get into precaution mode] [...huh!] Star of Sorrow - Chapter 2 - part III

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Andracy Street - otherwise known as the "Hero street" is the main street that stretches across east and west of the Pest area in Istvan. (Note from Shiro- Istvan is split into two parts, Buda and Pest. And as we know (or may know), Gyula's title is Count of Hungary. Budapest is the capital of Hungary.) The history dates back to more than a thousand years before "Armageddon"; when Istvan ruled the area as a Kingdom, the street was the center of the city's economy. Even now the city may be deserted but, if you walk through the paths, you will see simple buildings along with complicated street lamps as the leftovers of the prosperity, and when it is a nice Sunday afternoon, you will see several flea markets along with second hand clothing shops, also some black market foods that drifted from near by farm towns, which gathers a good amount of people. No matter how much the town may falter, people will naturally gather to places where things are distributed. "Uh huh, so this is the black market... For a black market, it's very open, isn't it? The city police dont do anything about it?" "With bribery, anything can be done. As you can see, there are even shops that are run by the associates of the city police... See, that second hand clothing shop is one. That is a shop that distributes military supplies." Mingling amongst the crowd of people in the side of the street, out of the group of three, the young priest spoke softly. He was a very beautiful young man with a kite colored hair. (Note from Shiro- kite is a bird that's like a hawk.) More than half of those who passed by them had their eyes swimming and almost half of those people actually bothered to stop and turn around to look again. "But if you were to go to the church, I don't think we had a need to go through the main street, right, Dietrich?" The other half of the company, the nun with the round glasses whispered in a strange manner as if she was talking about something bad. "If anything, I would think it would be safe if we went through the back streets... " "In the back streets, the city police set traps. Also, due to the lack of people, I think we would stand out more." "Haha, I'm sure we would stand out... especially me."

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With a pathetic expression, the nun with the glasses nodded as she stuffed her silver hair into the coif. What an awfully tall woman. She must be over 190 cm. Shaking her head that was rather up high, she ranted to the shorter nun that walked beside her. "Ahh, I want to go back to Rome. What did I do to make myself wear this. . . " "Well, it's too bad even if you say that. Nightro-- Sister Abelina's looks and identity is known completely by the city police. Even so, if a normal citizen goes to church at this hour will stand out." The shorter nun - Esther remonstrated the taller "nun" in a soft voice. The tone of her voice was serious, though the look on her face seemed twisted, as if she was fighting hard from laughing. "And, that looks great on you ha" "Hey, what was that?! What was that 'ha' in the end?"

Reborn On the Mars II

Prologue - Summer of the Queen The arriving Cardinal is a beauty beyond description, this rumor has spread. People who have flocked here to catch a rare glimpse of the high authority official of the Vatican, hawkers who have come to cater to these crowds, and soldiers who have formed human-walls in front of the embassy. Decorate the streets as if a festive season. In the August of Carltap, particularly during noon, the outdoors is no different from the bottom of a hot saucer in hell. Especially when summer is the season prone to sandstorms. What the nomads described as [Summer of the Queen]. To be overlaid by the sand blown over from the deserts, even Carthage's proudest city appears to be a tint of orange. [..Ah, there are curious spectators everywhere] As Pieretejok Polomini gulps down the ice-soaked ice-cold wine of Carltap from his glass, he laughs out with evil intention. To be outdoors on such a hot weather just to glance at the Cardinal, it is totally beyond understanding to him who is born in Rome. To find an air-conditioned and uncongested hotel bar to laze through the dreamy afternoon, this suits better the behavior of this big guy. Watching through the glass at those

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crowds under the hot sun, it can be quite enjoyable. [Ex.. excuse me...can I sit beside you?] A small body frame along with a scent of fragrance appears before his eyes, Piere turns over his thick neck. The sparkling captivating eyes beneath strands of tea-red colored hair, reminds one of bluegreen precious stones looking down at the big man. [Of course, please take a seat...bartender, please bring a glass for this lady] Aged approximately 16-17 years old -- as Pieretejok makes some judgment on the girl who has sit down, he gulps excitement down in his mind. Small delicate chest, plus beauty with a pinch of childlikeness. It suits his appetite. [Please have it. This is my wine, if you don't mind] [Oh, thank you] Though speaking in fluent Carthage language, from the look of her fair skin, she seems like to have come from around Albion in the North. Judging from her low-cut fanciful dress, she's possibly a hostess. But from her unseasoned reactions and slightly stiff smiles, she probably hasn't been long in this line. The shyness on her face drinking down every made offer, appears to be very innocent. [... I like] [Ah?] As Piertejok poured a 2nd glass of wine for the girl who is blinking her eyes continuously in a loss of actions, he shrunk his broad shoulders. [Oh, no, I'm just asking if you like the wine. This wine is named [Tears of the Queen], it's the best wine in this bar] [Ah...eh. It's very good. Very very nice] Seeing the girl reply with a pure innocent smile, Piertejok is getting increasingly unsettled -- this girl is top quality. [Right. If it's convenient for you, want to make a trip to my room?]

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If it's the hostess, it'll be a definite yes. Piertejok took out his wallet as he invites. [There's white wine from Rome in the room. Would you like to compare it with this wine?] [Rome? Mister is from the holy land Rome?] In the wallet, which is taken out to show off to her, is full of stacks of currency notes. Glancing at the wide-eyed girl, Piertejok nodded. [Oh yes. I'm out on an assignment. Actually I'm a computer engineer] [Ah? people who can manipulate digital intelligence of the lost technology?] With eyes full of respect, the girl looks up at the big man beating on his solid chest. [So, you work in the government?] [No, it's almost a personal request. But the assignment will be exhausting, and have to be hiding in the dark sewers below -- ] [Underground sewers? Your client is from the public-utility sector?] [Its magician] Piertejok blinked bluntly at the girl who is blinking her eyes continuously in awe, then proudly blow his own trumpet. [A magician requested me to make a sandstorm. It's finally over this morning, and now to enjoy a rare vacation] [You are in the underground sewers because of a magician's request to create a sandstorm?] As if playing a word-game, the girl breaks up every word and repeats. [For example?] [Forget it. It's too much to explain]

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Piertejok smiles nervously, and overlays his gold-bangled left hand over the girl's hand. The girl's shoulders stiffen a bit, but she does not reject. The engineer naturally slides down his hand to her waist. [Let's go to the room. Then I can explain gradually. And I want to know more about you] [This, this, Mister, before this...] A breeze bypasses the ear; the girl speaks softly with slight stammering. [The one over there also says, he wants to understand better what your [assignment] is] The girl's fingertip points to the tall and dark silhouette at the bar entrance. [You are an ex-employee from the holy treasury archaeology division under the Vatican, Prof. Piertejok Polomini?] A cool steady voice rings in the almost-empty bar. Wearing a faint smile and pushing up his round-framed glasses, is a young man with shiny silver hair and priest robe as if decorated with royal crests. [Nice to meet you. I'm from the AX Agency Abel Nightroad. Prof. Polomini, the reason for me to come forward to rumble... You probably knew?] [A, AX?!] Its probably unmanly to let out a shout of anger, but as an untrained man, the big man's reaction is worth to be praised. He grabs the hostess as shield, pulls out his gun hidden in his chest, and points at the side of her forehead. [Don't move, Father!] All the customers in the bar hastily hide under the tables. Polomini shouts roughly.. [If you move, I'll kill this girl!] But the priest named Abel reacts calmly.

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[Ah~ you were once an influential member of the Vatican, this is a bit disgraceful] He pulls out his old-style pistol, and grumbles as if mumbling to himself.. [I think it's better to add on some insurance... sorry to trouble you, Esther] [All right] A steady voice answers the priest's request. In that spilt second, the hostess' body sinks to the floor. [What?!] Polomili's eyes grow wide with shock. A strong flying kick attacks his feet. The big man falls due to lose of balance and a commanding voice speaks from above the head.. [Don't move!] What is previously hung under the skirt is now held in the hands of the girl. It's a gun that is designed to be the length of the upper thigh. The shooting distance is short, but is an excellent weapon that can fire with several different bullet types. The red-haired girl aims with precision, and warns again. [I'm Esther Blanchett from AX Agency. Prof. Polomini, I'm arresting you in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. You are guilty of breaking the confidentiality agreement -- last month when you are dismissed from your post, you are suspected of duplicating the software that you were in charge of. Please put your hands behind your head, and stand up slowly!] [Hoho, it's so simple] Apparently not of any contribution yet smiling delightly as he pushes up his glasses, is the silverhaired priest -- Abel. [Ah, if this is assigned to me, work of this kind of standard is simply easy] [...Father, you can blow your trumpet later, pass me the handcuffs first]

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The red-haired girl remarked harshly -- Esther uses her free hand to smudge away her lipstick. [This foxy attire, I can't stand it for even a second] [Alright, alright. Wait a while. The cuffs are at... strange?] From his robes, the priest pulls out a half-eaten chocolate, a deflated balloon, a single sandal, then the hands suddenly stop. Only to see that he frantically scatters out the messy pile of papers and complains. [*sobs* Aren't these the receipts from the previous assignment? Oh no. I can't make it in time for last month's cut-off date. If we go straight to the accounts division once we are back in Rome, do you think they will settle it?] [Who knows! Father, why do you always have to wait till the last minute... Fa, Father!] Esther's warning is slower by a beat. At that moment when the two lost their focus, the big body lying on the floor springs up. When Abel whose mind is all occupied with receipts lets out a sob, the strong man has already hold the unfortunate priest down from behind. [Game's over, gal!] The windows facing the roads were smashed to pieces by fire shots. Polomini fires with the pistol he has robbed and yells. [If you don't want to see the priest's neck to be twisted, then stand there and don't move!] [... *sobs* Lord! my neck is strangled.] The priest's painful face has started to turn dangerously pale. Esther holds steadfast to her gun and says: [It's useless to struggle, Polomini! Let go of the priest!] [Shut up! no tricks!] Polomini fires a shot at the ceiling. As Esther shelters her head from the splinters of the chandelier, Polomini has flown out through the broken windows. Of course, he takes the priest along. He breaks through the disturbed crowds and prepares to escape to another direction in the streets.

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[Hold.. Hold on!] Esther gives chase hastily, but it is not easy to advance through the frantic crowds. Because of a moment of carelessness to result such an inrepairable situation, just as the sister is giving up hope -[-- What are you doing there, Father Abel Nightroad?] Above the messy noises, is a lifeless metallic voice. If you put a piece of frozen metal in your mouth, you probably can speak with such a tone. Polomini is stunned by such an emotionless voice, his steps halt. Standing opposite him, is a small-framed silhouette. The priest wears a distinctive black priest robe. Facing the big man who is grabbing his co-worker by the neck, and ignoring the opponent's gun, he asks again coldly. [This is a special high-security zone, Father Abel Nightroad. What are you doing there?] [My, My neck is being strangled... Hi, Hi, Tres. What a reunion] The priest with glasses is almost strangled to death, and answers in a almost diminishing voice. [Haha, the situation is as what you are seeing...eh Tres, what about you, what are you doing here?] [I'm on a mission] The small-framed priest -- Tres Iqus from AX Agency, looks coldly at his dying co-worker. [340 seconds later, the carriage of the Duchess of Milan will bypass here. I'm here to confirm the security] [Oh, that's really hard on you... *sobs!*] [Shut up! The two of you stop talking as if I'm invisible!] Polomini yells as he anxiously grabs his hostage's neck. The gun tip leaves from Abel's head and points at the new priest.

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[Hey, stand back! If you don't, I'll kill you!] [Dan dangerous! Please stand back, Father Tres!] [...] Whether to the gun which is pointing at himself, or Esther's warning, the small-framed priest does not respond -- but moves something else [Currently confirmed to be Caution Level 1 enemy face-off situation -- battle begin] How many people actually hear that soft whispering? Followed by intense gunshots, then a rough groan. [Eh!] It is like the attacking power of a wild bull, which attacks Polomini's hand -- to be more accurate, it's the gun in his hand. The gun flies off and drops on the stone ground. Tres is faster, and advances decisively with fang-like huge guns still smoking away. [Eh! don't, don't come over --] [Slower by 1.98 second] Polomini punches his fists as he rumbles, but his attacker is no longer in front of him. Just as he looks up, a strong swing attacks firmly on the back of his head from behind. The huge body is paralyzed in an anatomical style, and falls on the stone ground -- groaning like a frog stepped on, but nobody takes notice. [Ex, excuse me... Father Tres?] The small-framed priest shoves his guns in their covers, and turns back his head after hearing somebody call him from behind. The eyes are just like half a year ago, the same look when Esther first saw him in her hometown. The same inorganic glory. [Its been awhile. Do you still remember me? I am --] [Esther Blanchett. I remember you]

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The priest nods his head with a cold expression. [If the file I've received is correct, 160 days ago, this year February 20th, you have been assigned as AX agency official. Then 250 hours ago after 5 months of training in the monastery, you are sent to the investigation division, currently serving as assistant to Father Abel Nightroad to arrest the loose criminal, right in this city... please correct if there's wrong information] [No, you are right...speaking of which, the criminal is that person who has fallen] [Situation understood] Tres coldly nods his head, then grabs the unconscious Polomini. The small-framed body displays unimaginable strength, and flings the computer engineer to the direction of the sister. [I suggest. Bring him to the embassy while he is still unconscious] [Thank thank you!] As Esther is still showing her gratitude, Tres has already turned back. The small-framed body gradually disappeared at the other side of the crowd with rhythmic strides. With eyes of admiration, Esther watches him leave -[Sorry. Hey, ask you, what is going on?] The voice from the side brings her back to reality. Surrounding them are police in charge of public security. Probably senses the commotion thus hurriedly advance here with swords. Suspiciously surveying the inappropriately dressed girl. [ThisThis, I'm not any suspicious character] Esther nervously explains as she flips out her identity card from beneath the dress. Her shoulder straps fall off her shoulders, and she has to pull them up with efforts. [I'm Esther Blanchett. AX Agency. Was chasing after the criminal from the restaurant over there... ah, this is the permit.] Several pairs of eyes scan through the permit in details; finally the officers nod their heads. The earlier conversation with Tres, they probably have seen it too, thus their attitude obviously softens.

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But just as she gives a sigh of relief, the officers look cautiously at the floor. [Then, sister... who is this fellow over here?] [...*sobs!* Lord, why is my life full of ups and downs... occasionally I would want flat land to walk on too...] That fellow still lies flat on the floor in a step-over position. Looking from the side of the eyes, young lads who have gone over to check things out are mischievously poking him with sticks, but he only bothers to mumble to himself and doesn't seem to have any intention of waking up. [Eh, oh...that person -- ] Esther shakes her head firmly. [I don't know him at all!] << end of prologue >> Chapter 1 - Banquet of the guests

[Oh no, it's so late already!] It's already 22.00 after bathing and changing back to the nun's uniform. The typewriters condition is very bad; it takes so long to do the report. This is still a Vatican embassy, hope they will put more efforts in the facilities. The Cardinal is here on a friendly visit, and there is a banquet right in this embassy for the government officials. Esther hastily fixes her wet hair and by the time she rushes over to the hall, the governor is just about to end his long and boring speech. All the formerly attired government officials and church officials are toasting with an expression of relief. The common employees of the embassy walk amidst the crowd and serve as ushers. [Eh... is there anything I can help?] In this trip, the embassy has given her a lot of convenience. Esther looks around, hoping she can do something in return. Can they cope with the food servings? Esther pops her head into the kitchen --

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[Oh, isn't this Esther?] The nun turns back to look. In front of her is a pair of winter lake-like eyes smiling foolishly. [Why are you looking around? dropped your wallet?] [Of course not! What about you? What are you doing here, Father Nightroad?] Even at such a formal occasion, the priest is still wearing his one and only dirty priest robe with cape. Esther looks at him suspiciously, then sees the full-to-the-rim meal box on his right hand, and finally the silly-looking priest who's scratching his head. [Arent you just out from the station and sleeping in the room?] [Oh yes. But the fragrance floated in. So I woke... it's once in a lifetime to be present at such a grand banquet. I must make use of the opportunity to feast. Look, look, I even packeted. Hohohoh] [...] [Hohoho] some more. It's a headache every time to hear this man speak. Esther rubs her head and leaves. But just behind the girl who is about to step into the kitchen, a tall-framed priest follows uninvitedly. [Ah, Esther is interested too? Great. Let me introduce to you which one is better. I've just done some serious research. This vicinity is my territory... lets see, lets start from the roast beef over here?] [I'm not here to eat! Eating free meals without any contribution, this makes me feel guilty. Thus I'm going down to help out in the kitchen] [What? Kitchen? Oh, there's such a move!] Abel claps his hands, but Esther does not know what kind of holy message he has received. All she wants to ask of the priest is, if he is going to catch some prey, please go further where it's out of her sight. [Listen to me, Father. Please go over there? Don't look at me, I'm busy!]

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[Ah? not, not going to the kitchen? I want to go too~ I want to help too ... don't they say theres no free meal?] The priest speaks with a straight face as he follows behind the irritated girl who is flagging him away. Oh well, maybe this man can wash the dishes -- just as she is going to give up, she suddenly thinks of something. [From your expression... I know it! You are planning to steal food to eat when helping out!] [Ah? haha, stop fooling around, how can that be] Accused with a pointed finger, the priest's eyes spin around. [I'm still a servant of God. To steal food while helping out, I wouldn't do such a shameless act. Disrespectful] [...Oh, right. the bible says [Those who have intentions can't feel sincerity]. Eh, that's from the books by the disciples?] [Please do not invent strange verses!] Esther put her hands on her hips, poses as if going to start a lecture. Staring at that face with shrunken chin and higher than her by about two heads' height. [Listen to me, since events have taken to such a turn, today I'm going to lecture you. Father Abel, why are you always -- ] [Oh, Father Nightroad, you are back?] A sweet yet slightly hoarse voice interrupts the girl's pressing protest. [I heard that you would be staying out at the station...when were you out?] [Oh, Caterina. Good evening] A slim silhouette has stood at the side without any sign of warning. Turning the head to the direction, Abel still flashes a silly smile. But it's different for Esther. Her expression changes and frantically lowers her head. [Her majesty... Cardinal Bishop Sforza!]

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Standing there in the company of the nuns is a beauty with thin-framed glasses and an elegant smile. Wearing the dark red holy robe embroidered with golden crosses -- even in the Vatican, this is the holy robe to be worn only by the Cardinal Bishop, the highest authority just under the Pope. [I have heard about the events in the day, Father Nightroad. Seems like there will be an interesting report to read] Milan Duchess Cardinal Bishop Caterina Sforza -- the gifted lady who takes charge of external affairs of the Vatican as State Secretary, smiles at the silly priest who is scratching his head. Then her eyes swiftly move to the stiff-looking girl at the side. [Oh, you must be Esther Blanchett? I have impression of the Istvan incident. Congratulations to you for completing the mission. Father Tres have praises for you, saying you are very capable] [Not, Not at all...it's too much of a compliment, Sire!] What has Father Tres reported to the supervisor? Thinking back on the inappropriate actions during the day, Esther's face twists. Crying out in her heart, complex emotions. She shrinks her shoulders in guilt. [-- About this, actually it was very dangerous. But it was fully accomplished. Because I was there. He he] This stumbling block destroys the humble image which the nun is portraying. One hand holding the stick of lamb-chops, as the priest snorts his nose with a proud face. [Oh, Esther still has a lot of areas, which she is still unseasoned in, but that doesn't matter. With another half a year by my side, she will soon be one of a kind. Then her life is almost accomplished, ahahahaha] [...apologies, sister Esther] The girl's hands are trembling but she doesn't speak a word. The lady in royal robe glances at her with empathy. [It's so sorry to have you to take care of this kind of person. But currently we are short of manpower. Please endure a bit and company him for a while]

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[Please, Please do not say so! I can't take the responsibility!] Among all the people Esther has come across, Caterina Sforza is the most intelligent and respectable character. Her beauty and rank, is as close as to Goddess in this world -- but such a person, actually speaks to her with the word [please]! (Huh? But...?) There's an unknown feel of pinch, which crosses Esther's mind. Caterina's speech sounds as if there's hidden meaning within. (Her majesty is currently -- ) [Oh you, Caterina] As Esther is still thinking twice over her supervisor's speech, her thoughts are interrupted by a frivolous voice. [What does that mean, huh? If others heard you, they would think I'm a good-for-nothing?] [Ah, isn't it so? I thought you already knew] [Wah~ it's so impolite of you. I'm definitely not. Don't be deceived by my looks, actually I...] This moment, the world's most beautiful Cardinal Bishop and the Vatican's most useless priest continue their undecorated mouth-fight. Abel is still the same, only scratches his head foolishly. Caterina's eyes watch him with gentleness, it's hard to imagine this is who is feared in both in and out of the Vatican, the foreign affairs aristocrat [Iron Maiden] (...right, to think of it, I'm totally not close to these 2 persons) [I'm a vampire hunter -- the vampire who sucks vampires' blood] In the city of her hometown, she has seen the other side of this young man. [[You] are the...] At that time, what does the Marquis of Hungary wanted to say?

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And, to what standard does Cardinal Sforza understand this priest? These 2 are -[Apologies, to interrupt your delightful conversation, sire Sforza] At the sound of an emotionless voice, the girl's thoughts are awaken. Back to reality, she sees the hastily approaching embassy employee, politely handling a note to Caterina. [There's a call from Rome for you. I have transferred it to your room, please proceed immediately] [A call? I can't leave now. Please pass a message to the other person, I will return a call later] After hearing Caterina's reply, the embassy employee shows a disturbed expression. [But... it's from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith] [Congregation -- it's Cardinal Bishop Medici?] Francesco di Medici -- hearing the name of her half-brother who takes charge of the internal affairs of the Vatican, the beauty's brows knit. [Understood. This is indeed hard to reject... apologies, sister Esther. Sorry, to halt the conversation, is it convenient excuse me for a while?] [Of.. of course! Please do not mind!] Caterina looks at the stiff girl with a gentle smile. Then she pats softly on her shoulder and says.. [Then we will talk later... Father Nightroad, go ahead and eat all you want or anything, do it now whatever you want to do. It will get busy again when we are back in Rome] [Ah, want me to leave you a share?] [Not necessary. I do not want to be accused of being a superior who snatches food from my subordinate]

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The beauty who rarely cracks a joke walks to another building under the lead of the employee. Esther looks at her with the eyes of a mixture of admiration and uneasiness -[...Ahhh, it's hard for Caterina, oh] Apparently the silver-haired priest hasn't noticed anything about the girl's complicated thoughts, but only casually shakes his head at the side. Mumbling as he swiftly swooshes the food from the table into the meal box then crudely fills his mouth with things. [Look, look, because Istvan sent out troops, the royalties here thus become wary of the Vatican? Especially this liberal city located just in front of the [Empire], all of them are scared to death, thinking when it will be their turn. So it can only be like this, to send out the State Secretary personally to set their heart at ease. So admirable oh] [...you and her majesty have a lot to talk, huh] [Huh?] The priest replied with an inaudible voice with his cheeks all puffed with lamb chops. Till he gulps down everything, he finally starts to reply. [What did you say just now, Esther?] [I said, you have quite a good relationship with Cardinal Sforza] [Oh, that's because we've known each other for a long time] Abel apparently has not noticed the hidden sarcasms in the nun's speech, and looks afar with a nostalgic expression. [The first meeting was 20,30 years ago... she was studying in University after skipping grades. That time, I remember Caterina was younger than you. Probably 14 - 15 years old? Anyway... huh? Where have you gone, Esther?] A frantic voice chases after Esther who has advanced forward in large strides since the middle of the conversation. [If going to the kitchen, I want to go too --]

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[I have said, you are not to follow me!] The high pitch voice even surprises her herself. Esther shrugs off the hand of the priest from her shoulder, and says harshly. [Enough. Whether you want to eat there or whatever!] [Ah?] Watching the suddenly changed attitude of the girl, Abel widens his eyes in confusion. It's normal for him to be shocked. Because even Esther herself doesn't understand, why she herself is so angry. [Eh... Esther, what are you angry about?] [I'm not angry!] Why is myself shouting so loud? Esther can't think of a reason, she can only turn her head aside. Getting angry for no apparent reason, she herself is not happy about it, but this just results in getting more worked up. [How have I been angry, speak! I'm not angry but accused of being angry, this annoys me!] [No, now is...eh, have I done something that made you angry? I think reasons... should be a lot. If I've annoyed you, I apologise first. I'm sorry, don't be unhappy... right, oh right! The burger here is very delicious?] [...I'm busy] Not in the wrong but still apologising, the priest's attitude only enrages her more. She coldly turns her head the advances in quick steps. [I have a lot of work. No time to talk about irrelevant things with you here] [Ah. Where are you going? The kitchen is not there] Hearing the reminding voice, then realises walking in the opposite direction of the kitchen. But it has come to this stage; it's not possible to change direction.

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[...I, I'm going to take a look at Polomini] Esther squeezes out an excuse, then continues to walk forward. [I'll go and check if he's been good. And I'll get his reason for coming here] [Ah, then I...] [I've said, just leave me alone! Father can stay here to continue to converse with her majesty! Didn't you like talking to her majesty?] What am I saying? Getting reprimanded for no reason, the priest can only stay dumbfounded. Watching at that face, for unknown reason, Esther's tears start to well. Thus she hastily turns her back -[Any...Anyway let me go! Don't you follow!] Using all her might to throw out this line, as if escaping, the girl throws the banquet to the back of her mind. Chapter II Jasmine, Rose, Lemon -- sweet fragrances floats in the dense darkness. Bougainvillea, Mimosa, Hibiscus -- in the dark scene accumulated over a thousand years, the flowers proudly show off their limited life. A hot round spot sunken at the edge of the desert, the temperature of the streets drop dramatically. Breezes from the Mediterranean sea blow away the warm air circling in the streets, and bring a touch of comfort to the skin-burned skin. No idea if it's an illusion, but the facial expressions of the market crowds appear friendlier than in the day. [Huh? is it really not this corridor...strange, where place is this?] Watching the unevenness of the old city streets from the maze-like corridors, Esther has lost her directions -- totally lost. Whether it's Polomini's cell, or the banquet, she can't recall. Why is the embassy occupying such a big piece of land?

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[Aw...hungry] Till now then it crosses her mind, she has yet to eat anything and rushed through the day after breakfast. As Esther comforts the groaning roundworms in her stomach, she weakly leans against the railings. The night of Carthage is so dreamy. The Vatican embassy is located at the corner, which is the oldest vicinity in the old city. The once pagan chapel tower before the [Armageddon] stands in the North, and before the eyes is the dense flea market that operates till late in the night. The wind carries a blend of orange fragrance, as there is a perfume market nearby. The precious metals market displays silver handmade artifacts, which shine with glory, it feels too eye dazzling just to stand there. To a girl who is born in the North, this is like a scene from a fairytale. But -(Why am I appearing in this place?) This Southern country would never cross the mind when back in the hometown. To live in that city, to fight for that city citizens, then to be buried somewhere in that city, she has never doubted about this. In less than a year, she is now in this several kilometers away, a maze at the edge of the Mediterranean Sea, lost and alone. [...I want to go home] Esther looks at the sky. Even if she's back, there's no family. Everybody is killed. The bishop and nuns, the guerilla companions, even the Marquis of Hungary -- because of that war, everyone is dead. Why do they have to die? [What are you doing here, sister Esther Blanchett?] [Ah?!] What knocks the girl put of her deep thoughts, is an emotionless flat voice.

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Esther looks back frantically, in front of her eyes stand a man dressed prim and proper in priest robe. Towards Father Tres Iqus -- AX Agency executive officer, Esther quickly bows. [Greet, greetings. Father Tres. May I ask what you are doing here?] [I'm on patrol. Please enter an answer, sister Esther Blanchett. What are you doing here?] [This...actually I'm lost] It's obvious, what a fool she herself would have looked right now. Pressing down her blushed face as low as possible, Esther replied in an almost inaudible voice.. [I was thinking of going to the cell-room of that computer engineer, but I can't find my locations...] [...] If it's somebody else, he will probably be laughing out loud by now. But the machine does not have any intention of mocking the girl. The face that is proper to the extent of almost artificial, just nods without any expression. [I understood your situation -- I will lead you to the room. Suggest that you come along] [Huh? ah, that's not nice, too much trouble for you --] [Do not stand on ceremony, sister Esther Blanchett. According to the rules and regulations of the Vatican 3rd point of the 6th and 9th statement, 8th of the 1st terms and conditions from the 81st statement, to provide aids to co-workers in times of encountering obstructions during missions -- let me lead the way. Please follow] [Thank.. Thank you!] As Esther is still giving thanks, the small-framed priest has already advanced in large strides. Watching the furthering back view, Esther hurriedly follow suite. [But.. But, this building is really big. Not only are the corridors undistinguishable, there are also a lot of stairways...]

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[Positive. This is originally built as the President residence. I'm concluding they have deliberately chosen a complicated blueprint to confuse intruders] Just a comment to cover up her embarrassment, it gets a absolute and proper answer. The man who is fully mechanized apart from one part of the brain stem -- HC-IIIX, is an extremely clear-headed and accurate expert. Totally different from somebody who is a priest. [...Sorry, Father Tres?] Watching at the uniformly advancing back view, Esther intentionally speaks. [Can I ask you a question?] [Positive. You are free to ask, but I'm not definite if I can give an answer] [That's alright...actually I want to ask about Father Abel. I don't know about him] That is for the whole of today, no, for the half year, a question pondering in her mind. (I'm a vampire -- the vampire who sucks the blood of vampires) The man she seen at Istvan is an overpowering presence. (I am your partner) Thus she believes this man will always be the person she can rely on. Esther gave up her hometown and come to Rome, more than half of the reason is because of that priest's presence -- she feels if she stays by his side, one day the priest will lead her to find the answer she desires. But things do not work out to expectations... [After the reunion here, that person has not taught me anything. Furthermore I do not know if he's really being silly or trying to smoke through, he keeps doing stupid things...Father Tres, please tell me. What kind of person is Father Abel?] [-- This question I cannot answer, sister Esther Blanchett]

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Tres rests his calm eyes on the girl's face, then nods his head emotionlessly. [Data relevant to AX Agency executive officers, you have no authority to access. So I cannot answer] [Oh, it's all right. It's me who shouldn't ask. Sorry] AX agency executive officer -- data of special agents directly under the State Secretary is top confidential information even among the Vatican and State office. The common officers like Esther's level, normally do not know of their presence. Esther actually knows she wouldn't be able to get an answer, but she still asked. It's more of just finding someone to dismiss her chagrin. [But I don't understand. When in important times, he can be so strong. Yet in ordinary days he is that kind of personality? Why...] [Perhaps ask him directly, sister Esther Blanchett] In the sounds of heavy yet rhythmic footsteps of the boots, the small-framed priest reminds her in an icy-cold voice. [I suggest. Seek a confirmation from Father Abel Nightroad directly] [Actually I asked him before. [why won't you work seriously?] ... but he never answered. Just changed the topic] Esther shakes her head in dismay. He still doesn't trust her? Because he doesn't trust her thus he doesn't speak? But he's so intimate with Cardinal Sforza, as if they can talk about anything. [--arrived] A voice deprived of emotions, interrupts the girl's endless thoughts. [This is your destination. Please confirm] Then she realises, Tres is pointing to the end of the corridor, a metal door, which she has some impression of. The door handle is engraved with simple patterns, exactly the same as in Esther's

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memories. [Confirmed it's this room. Oh, very thankful, Father Tres] [Do away with the formalities. I'm just following the rules and regulations] [Ah, but... thank you] The small-framed priest uses his violet-blue eyes to look at the bowing low thanks-giving Esther, but speaks not a word from his lips. Silently turns back. Then once again walks to the corridor. Esther nods again towards that back view, then reaches her hand to the door. Wondering if that big man has been corporative or not -[Ho, Hot?!] The moment her fingers touch the handle, Esther lets out a yell of shock and retreats her hand. An unknown sting of great pain comes from the fingertips. [What, what's happening?] Watching at her swollen finger, Esther widens her eyes. On the skin of her red fingertip, small curls have appeared. The girl's yell has made Tres return from the opposite corridor. [What has happened, sister Esther Blanchett?] [Door, door handle...the door handle is so hot! What is it so?!] [...Step aside] The quick-stepped priest grabs Esther aside, then directly holds the handle. A burnt smell rises from the gloves. [The temperature is indeed rising -- sister Esther Blanchett, did you lock the door when you imprison the suspect?] [Of course. Look, here's the key. I've definitely locked the door when I came out...huh? The door is

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unlocked now?] [Positive] As he replies, Tres gracefully pulls out the big guns from the sides of his waist. [After you imprisoned the suspect, somebody has intruded this room from the exterior] Both hands raising the biggest guns in the world -- Jericho M13 Dies Irae, the priest kicks open the door swiftly. The metal plate flies off, and distorts slightly. What follows is a curtain of dark black smoke. [...What smell is this?] A breeze of stench blended with black smoke, Esther can't help but to cover her nose. The whole room is filled with a rotten smell stronger than burnt hair. The source of the smell lies paralyzed there, as if leaning on the wall besides a window. That thing is already burnt till pitch-black, hard to be distinguished from its original form, Esther could barely recognise it. Making out [its] identity, is because of seeing that on the left hand, entwines a golden bangle which lacks of a sense of fashion. [This, this...is Polomini?] Esther clenches her teeth, holding back the sense of disgust, which rushes up from her stomach. As she subconsciously steps backwards, she clinches her cross and mumbles. [Lord, protect me in your Holy name... what is happening? Why has it become like this?] There is no trance of any stove-like facility in this stone-made store-room. And there are no windows. The only likely object of starting a fire is the oil lamp set on the wall opposite the door. But that's not possible to spark an accident. [--Come look] The priest squats down at the side of stinking body and waves to the sister. Then as if a doctor performing an autopsy, he pokes open the blackish skin at the neck to show her. The toasted skin curls upwards, revealing beautiful light pink human flash beneath. This means the body is exposed to very high temperature within a very short period of time. But this is not what made Esther wide-eyed

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and speechless. Punctured in the light pink flesh are two small marks. According to her experiences and trainings back in her hometown, the situation before her eyes is due to -[Traces of vampire?!] Esther springs up spontaneously, her eyes scan around. The oil lamp rocks subtlety, that shadow looks ghostly suddenly. This burnt body -- Polomini has been bitten before he died! [There's vampire nearby?] There are no windows in the room. Since the vampire has killed Polomini and burned the body before he exits, then he must still be somewhere in the embassy -- in the next second, Esther's conclusion is proven in an unfortunate manner. [-- He's above, sister Esther Blanchett!] [?!] Esther shifts her eyes to the ceiling, what comes into vision is a shadow hanging reversal directly above her. That person's face is like the magician from an old fable, the hood is pressed low, the features unclear, only the crescent-shaped lips sparks off a sharp dazzle. [Move!] If the mechanized soldier has not pushed aside the stiffen girl with extraordinary strength, her head would likely have sprung a fountain of blood and her brain splatter. The vampire's claws drop down straight like raindrops, and dig with mighty strength into where Esther was half a second ago. [Battle strategy modified from protection to destruction mode -- Battle begins] Seems like it is not entered in the brains of the killer-machine words like [shock] or [fear]. The attacker pulls out his claws from the floor and before he can steady himself, Tres has already fired intensively from the two stretched-out arms. Scattering wall debris together with fragments resulted from the pressure of the gunshots, duets to a sharp aria. But the machine-gun bullets, which fire at the speed of as fast as one mach, did not sink into the flesh of the prey. At that moment of fire sparks, the vampire flings his long cape and leap. Avoids the

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bullets with the speed no human can match up to, then turns over his fist and poses in a forward action. Above his empty palm, appears a ball of blue-white light in the size of an apple. [...] An inauspicious smile shows at the lips of the monster. In a spilt second, the wrist gently swings, and throws out the ball of light. [High-energy source detected -- evade] Tres halts his originally advancing footsteps, then rolls over to his side. The ball of light flies passes the ends of his hair and smashes into the wall behind, then explodes and burn. [Suggest that you to retreat to safety-zone, sister Esther Blanchett] Responding to Esther's groan is Tres. Unruffled eyes reflect partially burnt hair, and the silhouette that has once appears with a ball of light at the palm. [Vampire with the ability of fire -- target area F, identified as [Ifrit]] As if responding to the voice of the killer-puppet, the fireball once again hisses.

Reborn On the Mars IV

(An extract from Trinity Blood R.O.M. #4, chapter 2: The Templar Witch) How... how did it go, Lady Catherina!? The silver-haired priest jumped up from the sofa impatiently the moment Catherina walked back into the guestroom assigned to her. Judging by the shadows under his eyes, he hadn't gotten a minute's sleep all night. Blinking nervously, he stared at his superior's pale face. What course of action was decided on? Where are we to start the investigation? With the respect to this case, it has been decided that it is out of our, the Ministry of State's, jurisdiction.

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Placing her cardinal's biretta into the outstretched hand of Tres Iqus, the other priest present in the room, Catherina lightly coughed. The climate in these parts was harsh. She stretched her legs out in front of the fireplace and took a moment to compose her breath. The investigation is to be conducted as a joint effort of the Department of Inquisition and the City Guard. While it remains our task to assist - and safeguard - His Holiness. How... How could they..!? It was a member of the Ministry of State that was kidnapped! Uncharacteristically, Abel raised his voice. His face was near as pale as that of his superior. Whether it was the self-blame after having watched a comrade be kidnapped right in front of his eyes last night or some other emotion that was gnawing him, but his voice was slightly trembling. One of ours gets kidnapped and we don't even get to take part in the investigation!? Who was it that came up with this stupidity!? And, even as we talk, Esther... Calm down, Abel. Catherina softly rebuked the priest, who looked ready to dash out of the room at any moment. It took an effort to keep her voice calm. Now he is taking all the responsibility! Where did his usual self go, so carefree it set one's teeth on edge? As she looked at the priest, who made no effort to hide his distress, the cardinal had to pull herself away from a dark emotion, which began to smolder in the depths of her soul. In a composed voice, she continued with the analysis of the situation: Of course, I also agree that the well-being of Sister Esther should be prioritized as highly as possible. After all, she is a valuable asset, who returned to us with the vital information concerning the Empire. To lose her now would be most inexpedient. But the issue of security measures for His Holiness can't be ignored, pointed out the flat voice of Tres Iqus, still standing in the corner of the room. The cyborg, devoid of most human emotions, proceeded to spell out the pure logic: While the vampire in question remains hiding somewhere in the city, the possibility of His Holiness or the Duchess of Milano becoming her next target is far from negligible. In the eventuality of such attack taking place and succeeding, we shall be held fully responsible. This must be avoided. Well, Tres, why don't you stay here with Lady Catherina then.

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The pointed tone of the remark was not at all like Abel. Poised on the edge of the sofa, ready to fly out of the room on a moment's notice, the priest gabbled furiously on: And in the meantime, I will go out into the town and search for Esther. I am still a bit familiar with the terrain from a year ago, yes, so it isn't like it's going to be completely aimless... Negative. In the present situation it can't be recommended to divide our manpower, Father Nightroad. We have three targets to safeguard - His Holiness, the Duchess of Milano and Cardinal Borgia. It is a physical impossibility for me alone to cover all three of them. Such a task demands at least two units. Presently, this means - me and you. Urgh... Faced with the cold and precise logic of the cyborg's words, the silver-haired priest lost his voice. For a moment he gasped, struggling for an answer to give, and then fell silent. But not defeated - for he turned to Catherina with a mute appeal in his eyes. Please. Lady Catherina. I... that child... But in response to that imploring look, Catherina only shook her head softly. No. You will not, Abel... Father Nightroad. Wiping all traces of emotion from her voice, she continued quietly: I do understand your frustration. I too am worried about Sister Esther. But that vampire is still at large, isn't she? At large and lurking nearby. If she comes attacking again, who will stand in her way? Who will protect me and Alec? The only one who can is you. Or else, Abel... The young man bit his lip at the soft-voiced scolding. His eyes, all but ready to burst into tears, shone with clear turmoil, a bitter conflict of protective instincts. It was looking straight into these eyes, pale blue like a midwinter lake, that the beautiful cardinal delivered her killing blow. ...or else, for you I... we... are not someone worth being protected? ......

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The youth's eyelids dropped, with a start. All blood drained from Abel's face, which looked, with the eyes tightly shut, as if he just swallowed some terrible poison. But before long his mouth opened again and he spat out in a torn voice: How cowardly... Lady Catherina. That was... that was uncalled for... Having said that, the lanky priest stood up and headed for the door. Where are you going, Father Nightroad..? The briefing isn't over yet. Return to your seat. As Abel was making his way out the door, the other priest present in the room called out to him in a sharp voice. But got completely ignored. With a blank face, Father Tres stood up and turned towards the door his co-worker just disappeared into. ...there is no need to go after him, Father Tres. Restraining the short-heighten priest with her eyes and her voice, Lady Catherina slowly shook her head. Even without that, Father Nightroad would remain here with us. That's just the kind of person he is... What was the momentarily expression that flickered then across the exquisite cardinal's face..? Was it self-abhorrence..? Or merely an irritation..? A complicated mixture of bitter emotions rippled across the surface of her beauty - and was gone in less than an instant. With a calm, composed face Catherina ordered her loyal subordinate: Rather, Father Tres, I would have you withdraw and return to your duty of ensuring the security of the Cathedral. I shall finish up with a few small duties and in the afternoon accompany His Holiness to the Central Hospital. Please find also the time to make the preparations necessary for this visit. ...Positive. Upon receiving his mistress's orders, the cybernetic soldier reacted in a somewhat unusual for him fashion. He stood there for a few moments, looking almost as if he was trying to say something. In the end, however, he said nothing but turned around and silently followed his predecessor out of the room.

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Having waited for the sound of his too-regular footsteps on the other side of the closed door to die down, the cardinal leaned back into her chair. She brought a handkerchief to her mouth and coughed into it. ...bad woman... The words rolled off the thin lips in a hoarse whisper. Was it that in the fit of cough her throat got a little cracked...? Be as it may, in the razorblade-colored eyes staring at the small red stain on the white lace of the handkerchief there was no longer a trace of a shrewd politician, feared throughout the Vatican as the Iron Lady. I am really... a bad woman. Having whispered the bitter words once more, the woman flung the blood-stained handkerchief into the burning fireplace.

Rage Against The Moons I

Prologue of Chapter 1: FLIGHT NIGHT Silver light streamed through the stained glass, darkening the shadows of a winter night. Bless us Oh Lord, for the wine offered here is the bounty of tonight, and I am grateful to Thy for the gift of this holy night. Amen. The voice came from an old man, prostrating before the chapel, and its tone was gentle, even benevolent. Yet the eyes of the young nun gagged and tied to the bottom of the chapel was wet with unadulterated fear. She would not have feared so, even in the presence of a vicious criminal if the man before her were human. If to kill her had been his only intent. I have kept you waiting long enough. It is time for the sacrament, Sister Angelina. ! Something glittered in the old mans hand as he turned to face her. It was a knife, and once, when its owner had still been human, it had been used to cut the bread for the countless pious men and women who came to his chapel to pray. Yet now the knife had acquired an ominous, rusty red color, and gave off a strange odor, smelling strongly of iron.

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Take this bread and eat; this is my body. The nuns garment tore loudly, spilling her still budding bosom from under her simple undergarments. This cup is my blood, which is poured out for you. Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood abide in me, and I in them.. Oh Angelina, you will become a part of me. Within me, you shall live in eternal night. Sharp fangs, too long to be simply dismissed as redundant teeth, glinted from between lips chiseled in a smile. Mouth quivering in insuppressible desire, the old man set the knife to her bare white breast, ready to plunge the blade through the struggling girls fluttering heart Itte, missa est The sacrament is over, Reverend Scott. !? A shadow stood beside the crucifix, frozen blue under the moonlights glare. His face was slightly down turned, obscuring his features, but even in the darkness it was clear he was very tall. Former Bishop Alexander Scott of the Rondinium Chapel in the name of the father and son and holy ghost, you are under arrest for seven cases of murder as well as the robbing of blood. NName yourself! Scott cried out. Ah, forgive me for forgetting my manners. I The mans absurd attempt to answer politely was his biggest mistakethe next moment the knife, thrown with speed that far surpassed the human limit, stood firmly into his chest. Hah! I dont know who you are, but I wont allow you to disturb my sacrament. White fangs flashing, the robed vampire laughed atop the altar in which he had once, only a month before, stood as a priest. Your ignorance is your folly, repent with death You could have at least given me a warning.

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What!? Scotts eyes grew wide. The knife had, without doubt, buried itself into the mans heart; and yet the tall man was still standing as if nothing had happened. You know, I used to love to hear your lecture the one about how humans are the only beings in the world who can believe in themselves. Thats why I didnt want to resort to violent measures; but it seems I have no choice... Tthis is impossible! The old man, who thought he had acquired immortal power in exchange for the sun and his conscience, stood frozen in disbelief. You are you one of us!? No. I am The voice was cut short by a keening, metallic sound. The knife stuck in the mans chest slowly began to sink into his cassock. The old vampire moaned. I remember! Ive heard of you when I was still human they say the Vatican has a division that keeps a monster. That they use that monster to illegitimately take care of the Vaticans troublesyou are that monster, arent you!? Ax or more specifically, Arcanum cella ex dono dei. My employer hates scandals, you see. She doesnt want the world to know that a former Bishop of the Church has undergone a transfer... Suddenly, as if out of nowhere, a double-bladed giant scythe was held in the mans hand. Seeing the scythe swung high above his head, Scott unleashed a scream. Catherinas dogs dispatch executive officers! The scream was met with the spine-chilling sound of blade cutting through wind. From the Empire Masked crowds with burning torches marched along the street.

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The seashore square surrounding the Cathedral and Doge's Palace was thoroughly illuminated as if in daylight, even the moons were eclipsed by the blooming fireworks. Stupid Terrans! Astharoshe cursed in frustration, as the wind carried the din all the way into the dusky alley. Although she had obtained some general information about the Venice Carnival, the whole situation was ridiculous beyond imagination. To continue such celebration spree day and night for ten days, the nerve of Terrans was unbelievable. Anyway, I'd better wait here...just for how long I'm gonna be stuck on this spot! In homeland the sunset was the prelude to a new day, it's different here, a day started and ended at midnight. The tower clock above just announced the start of another day. But the person in question was apparently reluctant to turn up on time. Astharoshe pulled up the collar of her leather coat for extra warmth, then took off her sunglasses. Maybe I shall just go ahead and track down 'that guy' by myself?! The person she had been waiting for, one of the supposed best among them...called 'AX agent'? if she remembered right... but a clumsy and weak Terran nonetheless. Working alone would be more convenient, as no one else got to know 'that guy' better. Now that... Oops... nope forget it Astharoshe shook her head to get rid of the tempting thought. Out of that group of zealots, some sensible ones had finally showed up, if she left now, it would only hurt the other's self-esteem. Better catch 'that guy' as soon as possible then leave this monkey hill Right. Some voice was sourced from the waterside; Astharoshe tilted her head to listen in. Appeared that two young females and several male ones were having a quarrel. Judging from the amount of slang used by the male, they were asking for sex to compensate the inadequate amount of cash.

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~Where the Terrans decided to mate is none of my business, though it would not be a pleasant scene if happened nearby, maybe I should persuade them to proceed somewhere else.~ Err excuse me...? A funny void emerged from the end of the alley. May I ask...? nmm...Is it this way to St. Mark's Square? That was a tall young man. Matted silver hair, a pair of milk-bottle-bottom-alike round-framed glasses reflected the moonlight with a mild glow. Shabby black priest robe with a worn-out garment, typical dressing of a Father. ...The streets of Venice is like a maze. Are you going to the ceremony? Thats wonderful the Carnival actually I'm going too... As you can see, we're busy here, Father. A brawny man popped out of nowhere, with a thick and rough oar in hand. Ask for direction? Go elsewhere! Ahh but... Father! Help! Two girls immediately run towards the Father, who was already backing off facing the truculent man. Hiding behind the timid Father, they started to appeal in tears. Please help! They wanted to rape us Huh... Seeing the frightened girls, Father seemed to finally realise the big trouble he had got into. Blinking his blue eyes... Err... quarrel is no good. God says, 'Cease from anger'...ouch!?

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Father barely dodged the oar, then fell back like a drowned rat. Ahhh... what... what was that for? Cut the crap and go to hell! Damn Father! No one's going to listen to your nonsense! Non nonsense? Oh, Lord, please forgive the infidels... arhh ladies, time to run...huh? At some point of time, the girls had fled the site and were no longer anywhere in sight. Huh huhhh... oh, it's alright... my sacrifice alone to protect female virginity, it's worthwhile I don't mind at all that's right, I truly don't mind at all hah... err what? Suddenly the Father stopped his somewhat solitary giggle, as if finally acknowledged others' approach, he turned around to be met by ten pairs of eyes with murderous gaze. Err... gentlemen... please... please clam down oh, God says, we shall exercise forbearance towards the ignorant and erring... Kill him! Howl mingled with wail then blended into the midnight breeze. Kill... killing a priest will incur retribution... please all of you calm down, let's take a deep breath together... oww help... HELP!! ~A useless Terran.~ Astharoshe signed. ~It's not a big deal to let him die, but, having him killed right under my nose may weigh on my conscience... besides, that so-called 'expert' is still nowhere to be seen.~ ... She rushed forwards in silence, leaped up, gaining altitude with every step against the wall, then landed gracefully in between. ...?! But all others remained still.

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In front of their eyes, a beauty beyond description stood, bathed in the dimming moonlight. She is tall and slender, probably a bit over 180cm, wrapped in a dark coat. Fair hair, except for a scarlet strand in front, the color is of ivory white. Who are you... mind my asking? Step aside. Astharoshe pushed the Father out of the way, then turned to face the rascals. As the Father falling into the river, Astharoshe dashed forwards... In mere seconds, on the ground, lay ten unconscious men with cracked chins and collarbones. Huh useless Terrans! Pooling blood aroused the underlying desire, Astharoshe snorted with contempt. Attacking weak fellows in-group, what a flock of cowards! Their bestial display is utterly intolerable, it's a shame that the Terran dare to refer to the Methuselah as 'vampire'. Ex excuse me... A trembling voice caught Astharoshe's attention. ...Could you please give me a hand? My fingers can't reach... ... ~Right, there's still this guy. Although it's better to avoid unnecessary contact with Terrans, it's not an option to leave him down there either; he might well die of heart attack. ~ thought Astharoshe as she extended her hands. Come on, hold on tightly. Oh, thanks... err are you the one from the Empire? The Methuselah Empire, Duchess of Kiev, Astharoshe Asran? What...!?

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Astharoshe's expression froze as if she had been hit by lightning. ~No one here is supposed to know my identity, except for 'them'. How did this guy...?~ ~Wait! NO, can't be, this is beyond absurd...~ The young noble lady was shocked as the dramatic realisation flashed into her mind. ~They Duchess of Milan Caterina Sforza and the Department of Foreign Affairs promised to appoint expert to cooperate in this case. Even for those crazy and stupid Terrans, there is no way they can send out someone like THIS.~ A stern look he should be afraid but instead, Father stared at Astharoshe with a silly smile on his face. Great, it's really you, I thought you might be gone already. My name is Abel, Abel Nightroad. Duchess of Milan assigned me to assist in this manhunt. Nice to meet you. ~Shall I break it off now and return?~ Astharoshe was distraught with disbelief.

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