Himitsu 15 - Spiritual Decay

In response to Kenzo's actions, Atsuko lashes out and punches him in the gut with all her might. Although Kenzo feels no pain, he ceases pulling Atsuko's hair and pulls her closer to him, tilting her chin upward with his index finger, "Now this is the Atsuko that's more attractive. Even though it was fun having you as my puppet." 

Atsuko feels a wave of embarrassment wash over her as she looks into Kenzo's strange purple-colored eyes. She rolls her eyes and gives him a death glare. "You've had your fun, now it's time to play by the rules," she says firmly. "Dr. Alistair has wronged both of us. The merging of Caspien and the real world is impossible." Kenzo's expression turns dark as he leaned in closer to Atsuko. "It can happen if you die," he says, his voice low and menacing. "You and Jun both, but especially you. We need a human sacrifice, and it's always been you. Your death will give people like Hideo and me more luminescence, making us stronger." 

Hideo mentally begs to be left out of the conversation, tired of this cat-and-mouse game. Atsuko yanks away from Kenzo, her eyes flashing with anger. "And what if I refuse to be your sacrifice? You're nothing but an evil good-for-nothing leech, and your days are already numbered." 

Kenzo let out a laugh, clearly amused by Atsuko's defiance. "Please spare me the lecture. I was born this way, and I love it. I already know I'm destined to die the way I am and go straight to the underworld." Hideo smirks but remains silent, knowing all too well of such a bleak fate. Suddenly, Hideo clears his throat, interrupting the tense moment. "It's our job to either end your life or have you become like us," he says coldly. "Your spiritual decay will be beautiful. Kenzo likes to play with his food, but I don't waste time." Hideo makes a sweeping gesture with his hand, and Ms. Lia appears before them, lying in a coffin. Her body is hollow and sunken, making her look like a beautiful, yet creepy, decorated doll. Kenzo joins in, filing his sharp nails, his mood a mix of both mad and happy. "And let's not forget the false reality. That one was so fun but a little boring. Jun was persistent and challenging. He was always getting in my way." Atsuko is lost in thought, remembering how things used to be and grateful that they are no longer like that. She's upset about many things, realizing that the life she knew was all a lie. She's just someone who's still asleep and doesn't even know about the real world. Suddenly, the brunette begins to cry uncontrollably, overcome with great sorrow. Accepting the truth comes with much sorrow, but it's better than living in a lie. Lies may make us happy, but they also make us delusional, leading us to live in a world of our own beliefs and perspectives. It slowly destroys our soul, leading us to insanity or allowing us to dream foolish dreams.

Kenzo merely stares at Atsuko, growing annoyed with her tears. "Crying won't save you now." he says dismissively as he rolls his eyes and stands up from his throne. As Atsuko begins to feel drowsy, Kenzo walks over to her and wraps his arm around her waist, "We should dance one last time? Before things get out of control!" Atsuko tries to refuse, but she's too tired. They start dancing a waltz, faster and faster. The more they spin, the more Kenzo's appearance becomes dark and creepy. As Atsuko loses consciousness, Kenzo grins, revealing his sharp, pearly whites. He knows that time is running out and that it's valid for everyone else. The end is near.

****

Remiel and Seiko stand facing each other, both looking serious and determined. "Seiko, I will be going to Somnus Facility to save Atsuko while you stay here to save Jun." Remiel instructs, on his shoulders is a gray backpack with a few important items inside. He is also wearing a black jumpsuit.  Seiko nods in agreement, mimicking an accurate soldier's salute to its captain, "Aye sir! Come back in one piece or else." She may be nervous, but she knows that they have to do everything they can to save their friends.  As Remiel turns to leave, Seiko surprises him by hugging him tightly from behind, tears streaming down her face. Remiel is taken aback, not expecting such an emotional outburst. He feels awkward, his body freezes up and his eyes grow wide, "What's the matter, Seiko?" The male asks, trying to remain calm. Seiko can't stop her tears from falling, "It's just, please don't get hurt. We must save Atsuko and Jun." Remiel can feel her fear and concern, and he knows that they're all in this together. He gently pats her head, trying to comfort her as best he can. "I'll be okay, Seiko. We'll both do our best to save everyone." he reassures her. Seiko nods her head, slowly letting go of Remiel. She wipes away her tears and looks at him with a determined expression. "I know you will," she says, her voice strong and resolute. "May God be with you, Remiel." 

"Thank you." Remiel smiles and Seiko leans in, giving Remiel a sudden kiss on the cheek.  Remiel blushes beet red and Seiko gives him another hug before pulling away. Remiel waves kindly and leaves Haven Headquarters. His mind goes back to the task at hand. Saving Atsuko from a spiritual decay. As he takes a deep breath, Remiel can feel the weight of this heroic responsibility on his shoulders. He knows that time is of the essence, and that lives are at stake. Remiel sets out on his mission, determined to save Atsuko and bring her back to safety. He knows that it won't be easy, but he's ready for the challenge. He silently prays that everything will turn out alright, and that they'll all make it out of this alive.