章 98: Chapter 98 - Void's Embrace - A Saiyan's Reckoning and the Awakening of Primordial Power - Part 3
Orach assumed a battle stance, facing his toughest opponent yet—a darker version of himself, a 'Dark Orach.' The counterpart merely narrowed his eyes, exuding the predatory aura of a hunter eyeing its prey. Orach, in turn, narrowed his own eyes, scanning for openings to gain an advantage. Finding none, he grasped the strange nature of this confrontation and resolved to test the waters.
In a blur of motion, Orach vanished, reappearing before his dark self with a lightning-fast punch. But the doppelganger's eyes flashed, anticipating the move. With inhuman speed, it caught Orach's fist, twisting and hurling him across the arena like a rag doll.
Orach slammed into the ground, the impact carving a crater and forcing blood from his lips. The pain, sharp and real, jolted him. He vividly recalled how, just before his fist could connect, the doppelgänger's eyes—which had seemed unable to track his movements—suddenly snapped to his incoming strike. This was no mere illusion; this part of him was terrifyingly real. Before Orach could fully grasp this revelation, his dark counterpart loomed over him once more, its menacing presence a palpable threat. With brutal efficiency, the doppelganger kicked Orach upward, then seized his throat, lifting him until their eyes met.
In the merciless grip of his darker self, Orach fought against a force that seemed to eclipse his own. As he struggled for breath, his eyes locked with those of his doppelganger, and in that moment, the carefully constructed walls of his psyche shattered. A tempest of voices and emotions, long buried beneath layers of duty and stoicism, threatened to engulf him.
The first voice sliced through his defenses like a blade of pure anguish. "You murdered them, you monster!" A survivor's raw pain echoed in his mind. "With your godlike powers, you could have saved them, restored their sanity. But no, destruction was your answer. You're no better than the abominations you claim to fight!"
Orach's heart constricted, each word a shard of glass piercing his soul. He yearned to explain, to justify the impossible choices he had faced, but the weight of his actions crushed the words before they could form.
Another voice, heavy with grief, cut deeper still. "My son idolized you, followed you into battle. And now he's gone forever. YOU STOLE MY CHILD!" The mother's accusation reverberated through his being, each word a sledgehammer against his resolve. Orach saw the face of the young warrior who had fought beside him, once full of hope and determination, now forever silenced.
A displaced refugee's fury scorched through him, leaving his spirit raw. "Why do they deserve your protection when our world burned? Why, oh mighty savior? Why should they live while my people, my entire civilization, lies in ashes?" The questions burrowed into Orach's mind, each one a seed of doubt threatening to take root. He had saved countless lives, but for each soul preserved, how many had been lost?
But it was the final voice that shattered the last vestiges of Orach's composure. Shin's sister, her words a venomous mixture of despair and hatred, the cruel result of experiments that had warped her very being, now a weapon of the Androids and fighting against them:
"Orach, you failed us! Shin believed in you, welcomed you into our home. We were simple folk, content with our lives. Why did you higher beings meddle? Where was your godlike powers when our world burned?" Her voice, a symphony of agony and rage, threatened to overwhelm them both. "You stand here, guardian of these worlds, while my world is gone! I'll never forgive you. I'll reduce everything you protect, all to rubble."
The dying words of Shin, his first devastating loss, echoed in Orach's mind: "Big brother... promise me... you'll survive... don't let... the monsters... win. If possible, if she lives... please... save my sister. Thank you for everything, big bro..." The scene of Zeta's sword slicing through the mecha-fused form of Shin's sister flashed before his eyes, followed by her final, chilling curse:
"Orach of Sadala, I damn you... May you endure only to witness the destruction of all you hold dear. Suffer the loneliness I endured! The Androids may have robbed me of my free will and body, but you... you allowed them to obliterate everything that gave my life meaning—my family, my world, the very essence of who I was."
Each accusation, each agonizing memory, was a dagger twisting in Orach's psyche anew. The burden of his past decisions, the lives he couldn't save, and the unintended consequences of his actions threatened to crush his spirit anew, just as they had during his year-long coma after the war. He could feel the darkness closing in once more, guilt and regret yawning wide to swallow him whole. Yet, strangely, a comforting darkness seemed to whisper that it was okay to give up and let go.
In the arena, spectators watched in horror as an aura of darkness spread from the doppelgänger to Orach, threatening to consume him. His comrades wore expressions of steely determination, especially Para, Aleoria, and Ragnar. Soon Para's eyes grew cold with fury, gritted her teeth, fighting the urge to intervene. She knew this was a battle her young master had to face alone, but the sight of his struggle tore at her heart. Blood trickled from her bitten lip, her eyes turning crimson with suppressed rage. Yet, beneath her anger burned an unshakeable faith—a conviction shared by all members of Orach's old crew. They believed, with every fiber of their being, that Orach would emerge triumphant.
As if responding to their unwavering trust, just as Orach teetered on the brink of despair, something deep within him stirred. The gentle rustling of the white tree that resided in his inner world whispered to him once more, and visions of the future blossomed before his eyes, igniting a tiny, defiant spark of hope. He saw a large, happy family—wives, children, and his possibly reincarnated parents—all smiling and playing together in a world at peace. Then, the image changed, shrouded in primordial chaos, a figure appeared, meditating, with nine ancient rings of power circling behind him, radiating supreme might. Though he couldn't discern the face, a voice jolted him—his own, but ancient and powerful,
'RISE'
The command pulsed through his entire being, and together with the glimpse of a possible future, became his beacon, guiding him from the abyss of sorrow, failure, and guilt. Though he didn't yet fully understand the implications of this future family or the ancient, supreme figure with his voice, the mere sight of his reincarnated parents' joyful faces, his lover Diana's tender smile, and his daughter Rachel's innocent laughter was enough to ignite a fire within him. He yearned to return to them, to meet and know the new lives of his parents, to embrace his lover, and to watch his daughter grow.
With his soul now aflame with the desire to protect and nurture this future, Orach cast aside all thoughts of restraint. Gritting his teeth, he summoned every ounce of his power. His being responded with a fury that shocked even him. The aura of darkness that had threatened to consume him was blasted away, replaced by a dazzling display of power. Crimson God Ki erupted around him, intertwining with the verdant energy of his ancient bloodline. The silver sheen of Ultra Instinct enveloped him as he threw caution to the wind, acting on pure, primal instinct.
But the spectacle didn't end there. A pure white aura of the void burst forth, bathing the arena in its ethereal glow. The onlookers stood, alarm and awe mingling on their faces. They had come from different worlds within the alliance, but each had heard the tales of the Void realm—the dreaded dimension where even gods perished. Witnessing their comrade, their family, unleash the aura of the Void realm left them struggling to comprehend the magnitude of what was unfolding before them.
Suddenly, Orach released a primal roar that sent the doppelgänger hurtling across the arena. The dark entity crashed into the far wall but quickly regained its footing. In a flash, Orach appeared before it, his hair now longer and silver, having fully entered the state of Ultra Instinct. Mirroring his counterpart's earlier actions, Orach grasped the doppelganger by the throat, lifting it off the ground. His eyes, now clear and piercing, bore into the entity as he asked, "You're more than just a manifestation, aren't you?"
The roles now reversed, the doppelganger met Orach's gaze with a cold stare. "Why resist the darkness?" it rasped. "After everything we've endured... the deaths, the pain... you would let them manipulate you like this? These dragons... our power belongs to us alone. They have no right to deny what's rightfully ours. During the war, I kept us alive. You need me. I am your true strength." Once more, its aura of darkness began to spread over Orach. But this time, even as the darkness crept across his hands, Orach didn't resist. He knew, on some level, that the doppelganger spoke the truth.
Orach closed his eyes briefly, and when he opened them, his clear, calm gaze now held a hint of balance. The myriad powers within him were coalescing into harmony, guided by the white tree in his inner world. He looked at his doppelganger and spoke, his voice steady and resolute:
"You're right that you're a part of me. But even with all that anger, you should know you're wrong about one thing. These people are our comrades, brothers-in-arms who fought beside us, those who sacrificed themselves for us. Their role as wardens of our power is for our own good. You remember the corrupted, don't you? We can never allow ourselves to become that. The Android war is over. I can't keep carrying all this anger, this hatred, this pain. I need to move forward. I accept my mistakes and my sins, and I will redeem myself, untangling the karmic knots woven by my actions in the war. But I can't stop growing, evolving, becoming stronger. Since you're a part of me, you must have seen the glimpses of the future this new power showed us."
The doppelganger's eyes narrowed as it replied, its voice barely above a whisper, "A new war... is coming... surpassing the great wars of old."
Orach nodded grimly. "Exactly. We can't lose anyone else... not them. If I'm to become the kind of being capable of facing this looming threat, if I'm to protect the ones we love as we saw in those visions, we can't remain at odds. We are one! We are ORACH THE SAIYAN!"
The doppelganger's expression softened slightly, a hint of curiosity in its eyes. "I concur, but... are you certain? Can you truly handle it? Will you not falter when the time comes to do what must be done? Why not let me take control?"
Orach's eyes remained calm, but his voice carried a steely edge as he responded, "After what we've experienced, I'm not that weak anymore. I will show no mercy to anything that threatens our world... our family."
The doppelganger's gaze sharpened, a hint of approval in its dark eyes. "I believe you," it said, "but you must prove your strength. Show me you won't break this time. Let's spar... with no restraints."
Orach nodded, releasing his grip on the doppelganger and flying backward to create some distance between them. As the doppelganger steadied itself, its dark aura flaring ominously, both entities assumed battle stances. With a silent nod of mutual understanding, they launched themselves at each other, ready to test the limits of their strength and resolve.
Spectators
As Orach and his doppelganger clashed in a titanic struggle, the arena crackled with raw energy. The spectators watched, transfixed, as two versions of the same being engaged in a dance of destruction.
Taron Thornborn the avid explorer's eyes widened in disbelief. "By the primordial Gods! Look at them go! I can't follow along anymore!" he exclaimed as Orach unleashed a flurry of punches, each one leaving afterimages in the air.
Aeloria's eyes morphed into slits as only using her dragon sight could follow along with the two fighting in the arena, dragon horns appeared and her scales shimmered with reflected energy. "This is beyond Ultra Instinct," she breathed. "He's tapping into the very essence of the Void realm. The evolution implications are... staggering."
Taliana Nightshade, high elf warrior gripped her sword hilt, her knuckles white. "Gods above, look at that speed!" she gasped as Orach dodged a devastating kick from his doppelganger, the movement so fast it bent light around him.
Ragnar nodded grimly. "He's not just fighting; he's evolving with every exchange. Watch his form – it's becoming more fluid, more... perfect."
As if to prove Ragnar's point, Orach suddenly phased out of existence, reappearing behind his doppelganger with a thunderous elbow strike that sent shockwaves through the arena.
Durgnar Stormgranite the captain, let out a low whistle. "Now that's what I call a sucker punch! Hah! Our boy's giving that shadow self a run for its money!"
Ysraza Flintstone the engineer's eyes darted across the battlefield, analyzing every move. "It's not just raw power," she mused. "Look at how he's combining techniques. That last move – it was Ultra Instinct merged with Void manipulation. He's innovating mid-battle!"
Reyan Oathsworn winced as the doppelganger landed a crushing blow, sending Orach hurtling across the arena. "This is taking a toll on him," he muttered. "Look at the strain on his face."
But even as Reyan spoke, Orach was rising, his aura pulsing with renewed vigor. The doppelganger charged, darkness trailing in its wake, only for Orach to meet the assault head-on. Their fists collided in a blinding flash, the very fabric of reality warping around the point of impact.
Abrandt Kunzel leaned forward, his voice filled with awe. "Incredible. He's not just holding his own; he's pushing back. Every time that shadow-self lands a hit, Orach comes back stronger."
Para remained silent, her eyes never leaving the battle. As Orach and his doppelganger took to the skies, their combat reaching new heights of intensity, she finally spoke, her voice barely audible over the din of battle.
"This isn't just about power," she whispered. "Look closely. With every exchange, they're... understanding each other. Orach isn't trying to destroy his darkness; he's trying to embrace it."
As if in response to Para's words, the battle suddenly shifted. Orach and his doppelganger, locked in a grapple high above the arena, began to glow. Light and darkness swirled around them, merging and separating in a mesmerizing display.
Taliana gasped. "What's happening? Are they... fusing?"
Para nodded, a glimmer of hope in her eyes. "He's doing it. He's finding balance."
In a final, earth-shattering explosion of energy, Orach and his doppelganger became one. As the light faded, a single figure descended to the arena floor. It was Orach, but transformed. His aura pulsed with a perfect harmony of light and dark, his eyes reflecting both fierce determination and profound wisdom.
The spectators held their breath, the weight of the moment settling over them. They knew they had just witnessed not just a battle, but a rebirth. Orach had faced his inner demons and emerged stronger, more complete. As he turned to face his comrades, they saw in him not just their friend and comrade, but a beacon of hope for the challenges that lay ahead.
Para stood, tears glistening in her eyes. "Welcome back, young master," she whispered. "You are finally back."
Aeloria's eyes widened, her pupils dilating as she sensed the raw power emanating from Orach. "The energy I'm sensing radiating off him... it's off the charts," she breathed. "It's like he's tapping into something… primordial."
Taron's usual jovial demeanor evaporated, replaced by a solemn one. "All this time," he murmured, his voice thick with regret, "he was carrying this burden alone. We should have seen it. We should have been there for him."
Ragnar squeezed Taron's shoulder, his voice steady yet laced with profound regret. "This is exactly why I brought everyone together," he said, his gaze fixed on Orach's transformed figure. "Since the war, we've all sensed Orach's inner turmoil, how it's reshaped him. But we've been blind to the true depth of his struggle. He's been fighting a war within himself, one we couldn't—or wouldn't—see."
He turned to face the group, his gaze intense. "We've all harbored resentment towards him for changing, for not living up to our expectations after the war. But perhaps... perhaps we were the ones who failed to understand, to adapt, to support him when he needed us most."
Ragnar's voice grew more impassioned as he continued, "Taron, you were the first to join him on his adventures. Remember after the war, how long it took him to build that pod? How he spoke with Aeloria about continuing to explore? He never truly abandoned his dreams... or us. He was just... lost, trying to find his way in a world that had changed as much as he had."
His eyes swept over the group, a challenge in his gaze. "I think it's time we let go of our anger, our disappointment. After witnessing the turmoil he's been through, don't you think he deserves our unwavering support once more?"
A heavy silence fell over the group, each lost in their own thoughts, wrestling with their emotions and past judgments.
Taliana broke the quiet, her voice barely above a whisper, "I agree, but... is he truly ready for what lies ahead?"
Durgnar materialized a flask, taking a long swig before responding with a spark of his old bravado. "Ready? Hah! If anyone can handle this kind of power, it's our Orach. Remember when he single-handedly took on that entire fleet of Android warships? Or when he resonated with our entire higher realm—the very act that summoned these dragons and obliterated that True God level Android? The lad's always had a knack for the impossible." He gestured towards the arena with a wave of his hand. "This? Sure, it's a challenge, but for Orach? Nothing's impossible."
Para, usually stoic and reserved, allowed a small, proud smile to grace her features. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears as she spoke, "Indeed. The young master has always found a way to surpass his limits. This... this is merely the next step in his journey."
Aeloria, her eyes gleaming with insight, spoke next. "It's far more than raw potential we're witnessing," she said, her voice filled with awe. "Look closely. He's achieving a perfect harmony between his past and his potential. It's... truly remarkable."
Taron stood, his eyes a storm of conflicting emotions. "Fine," he said, his voice thick with unspoken feelings. "I'm still angry, but... I understand now." He paused, gathering his thoughts. "I would've given him access to my dragon realm anyway, but I probably would've beaten him senseless first." A wry smile tugged at his lips. "Now, though..."
He sighed deeply, his gaze fixed on Orach's transformed figure. "I've changed my mind. We've all changed, haven't we? Maybe it's time we embrace that change, just as Orach has."
With that, Taron vanished to his dragon realm. The group, once divided by their conflicting emotions, now stood united in their resolve to support Orach in the challenges ahead. One by one, they departed to their respective realms, leaving only Ragnar to address Orach.
Ragnar materialized before Orach, nodding with a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "Well done, young master. You've succeeded."
As if sensing the shift in the atmosphere, Orach opened his eyes. For a moment, one eye was black, the other white, before both returned to black. His gaze met his friend's, and he said, "Thanks, old friend." He turned to the empty colosseum and sighed. "Looks like they all left."
Ragnar gave him a wry smile. "Don't worry too much, young master. They're still waiting for you to meet them."
Orach nodded. "Thanks for everything, Ragnar. I needed this experience. But I think I need to move on to the other dragon domains."
Ragnar nodded and replied, "I agree. It's time for you to go, young master. All the best!"
Orach smiled, then opened a portal and walked into it.
Fourth Dragon-Realm of the Swordmaster
A portal opened from which Orach walked out, to be welcomed by a towering and ancient looking tree. Its verdant branches reaching towards the sky, stands at the heart of a realm teeming with vibrant greenery, lush forests, and tranquil lakes. This majestic scene evokes a sense of ancient wisdom and natural beauty.
Orach closed his eyes, drawing in a deep breath. The air here was different – crisp, invigorating, charged with an energy that seemed to seep into his very being. As he exhaled, he felt a surge of vitality course through him, as if the realm itself was welcoming him, sharing its strength. With each breath, he felt more attuned to the subtle currents of power that flowed through this domain.
A smile played on his lips as realization dawned. There was only one being whose realm could resonate so deeply with the very essence of life. His eyes snapped open, a glint of anticipation in them as he called out, "Tali? I know you're here."
The response was as swift as it was fierce. A gust of wind whipped around him, carrying with it the whisper of unsheathing steel and the faintest scent of cherry blossoms. In the blink of an eye, the cold kiss of a blade almost pressed against his throat. But Orach was ready. With a movement almost too quick to follow, his finger covered with a layer of crimson God Ki, intercepted the sword's edge mere inch from his skin.
The forest fell silent, the tension palpable as the two met in a deadlock. Orach's lips curved into a challenging smirk. "Your greeting could use some work, old friend. Is this how you welcome all your guests?"
A melodic laugh rang out, and the pressure of the blade eased. "Only the ones who can keep up, Orach."
Soon, Taliana materialized beside him. She was a vision of ethereal beauty and deadly grace – a High Elf Swordmaster whose mere presence made the air around her dance. Her armor, an exquisite fusion of obsidian and slate hues adorned with sharp, angular patterns, hugged her upper body while daringly exposing her midriff. A forest-green skirt, its high slits offering tantalizing glimpses of her legs, completed the ensemble with an air of elegant ferocity. This masterpiece of elven craftsmanship and cutting-edge higher realm technology shimmered softly in the dappled light, its surface alive with subtle patterns that mirrored the pulsing life force of the realm.
With a fluid motion that spoke of centuries of practice, Taliana sheathed her sword. Her eyes, the green color of her eyes, sparkled with a mix of amusement and pride as she regarded Orach. "I glad your reflexes in your base haven't dulled too much. Perhaps there's hope for you yet."
Orach chuckled softly, shaking his head. "Your flair for the dramatic is as sharp as ever, Tali." His gaze swept across the lush landscape, drinking in the vibrant hues and pulsating energy. Drawing another deep breath, he felt the realm's essence course through him. "I must admit, though, this place is... extraordinary. The rich essence of life here is palpable. It's as if each breath I take forges a deeper connection to the very core of the law of life itself."
Taliana's expression softened as she turned towards the great tree at the heart of her domain. She reached out, placing a hand on its ancient bark. As she did, the entire forest seemed to pulse in response, a wave of energy rippling outward from her touch.
"While this isn't my original world," she said, her voice tinged with both pride and a hint of nostalgia, "the power of my dragon has allowed me to carve out this piece of paradise. Here, the law of life flows freely, nurturing all that exists within its bounds."
She turned back to Orach, her gaze intense and searching. "I saw your match, Orach. I witnessed not just your power, but the way you've finally confronted and risen above the shadows of your past that have haunted you for so long."
Taliana took a step closer, her voice taking on a formal tone that seemed to resonate with the very fabric of the realm. "Orach, Prince of Sadala and my cherished comrade, hear me now. This dragon… no… rather I, who embody the law of life itself, hereby acknowledge you and your growth."
As she spoke, the forest around them came alive. Leaves rustled in a nonexistent breeze, flowers bloomed in cascades of color, and even the great tree seemed to lean in, its branches swaying in agreement.
"From this moment forward," Taliana continued, her eyes never leaving Orach's, "you shall have access to this dragon's power—the power of life, renewal, and growth. Use it wisely, old friend, in the battles to come."
As her words faded, a surge of energy pulsed through the realm. Orach felt it wash over him, seeping into his very core. It was warm and invigorating. In harmony with the white tree in his inner world, this new power began to unleash and synchronize with his soul, further aiding in awakening the untapped potential within him.
Overwhelmed by the magnitude of the moment, Orach bowed his head in gratitude. "Thank you, Taliana of the high elves of Nexen," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "I vow to honor this gift and wield it in the protection of all life."
Taliana smiled, nodding in acknowledgement of his sincerity. But soon, a hint of mischief returned to her eyes. "Don't thank me just yet, Orach. Now that you have access to my realm's power, there's another matter to discuss—the continuation of my sword style."
Orach's brow furrowed slightly, curiosity piqued. "What do you mean, Tali?"
"I know you practice your mother's style," Taliana explained, her voice a blend of gravity and warmth, "but I want my sword style to live on as well. I'd like you to teach it to my niece, Rachel or to your future children—my nieces and nephews, in a way. They would be the perfect vessels to carry on my legacy."
Orach's eyes widened in surprise, then lit up with excitement and determination. "Tali, I... I'm honored. But are you sure? You want me to pass your teachings on to my own children? Your people may not like it."
Taliana nodded, a soft smile playing on her lips. "Your children will inherit your strength, Orach. Combined with my sword style, they could become formidable protectors of life across the realms. Don't worry about my race's views. Unfortunately, many of my people are stuck-up elitists who benefit from the alliance while clinging to their fading glory days. I'd rather not entrust my sword style—my legacy—to such individuals. So, will you accept this responsibility?"
Without hesitation, Orach placed a hand over his heart and bowed deeply. "I accept, Tali. I promise to teach your style to my children and ensure it lives on through my lineage. Your legacy will endure, I swear it."
"Good!" Taliana exclaimed. She pressed her fingers to her forehead, eyes closed in concentration. A shimmering bead of Ki formed, condensing the essence of her sword style and techniques. Opening her eyes, she smiled and gently pressed the bead to Orach's forehead, merging it with him. The transfer complete, Orach now possessed the scriptures of her style, ready to be passed on.
"Now, go see our other comrades," she said warmly. "May the primordial gods bless your journey, old friend."
With a graceful wave of her hand, Taliana beckoned to the majestic tree. Its ancient branches stirred, reaching out to guide the startled Orach towards a newly formed passage. The tree's base split open, revealing a shimmering portal that beckoned him onward to his next destination.
Fifth Dragon Domain: Realm of Innovation
The portal's energy dissipated, unceremoniously depositing Orach onto a hard surface. He winced, rubbing his sore backside. "Tali's idea of a gentle send-off, is still off. Seesh my butt hurts…," he muttered, a mix of amusement and exasperation in his voice before he caught the glimpse of the new realm he had entered silencing him.
As Orach regained his composure, his eyes widened in recognition. Before him, was a metropolis of breathtaking scale and complexity stretched out in every direction. Sleek, towering structures of gleaming metal pierced the sky, their surfaces reflecting the warm glow of a simulated suns.
Yet, scattered among these marvels of modern engineering were pockets of lush greenery and elegant fountains, creating a harmonious blend of nature and technology.
In the distance, he could make out what appeared to be massive forges and workshops, their chimneys releasing plumes of multicolored smoke that dissipated into nothingness before reaching the pristine sky.
A fond smile tugged at Orach's lips as memories surfaced. This realm of cutting-edge innovation and boundless creativity could only belong to one person. "Ysraza," he said softly, recalling the spunky high dwarf woman who had been an integral part of their crew. Her passion for tinkering, her meticulous maintenance of their ship and mechas and her invaluable help in modifying his mecha prototype into the formidable Scarlet Zeta were moments he cherished.
Eager to reunite with his old friend, Orach picked himself up and jumped to fly towards the active workshops. He couldn't help but wonder what Ysraza had in store for him this time.
Landing gracefully at the entrance of the largest facility, Orach immediately caught the smell of unmistakable tang of dwarven ale. Throughout the alliance, the high dwarfs were famous for their technology and ale. even the wine produced by the high elves didn't have the levels of demand the dwaven ale had throughout the many world in the alliance. He sighed at the implication of smelling the smell since it could only mean this friend of his was flat out drunk.
Shaking his head with a bemused smile, Orach followed the scent of ale. As he approached, he heard a familiar cacophony: loud burps punctuated by the exasperated tones of a mechanical AI.
"Miss, I must advise against excessive alcohol consumption," chirped a floating orb - Ysraza's ever-present AI assistant.
"Bah! Did you see our old friend out there? He conquered his demons! That calls for a celebration!" Ysraza's words were slightly slurred as she raised another mug of ale.
The scene before him stirred memories of countless nights aboard their ship. Orach couldn't help but chuckle. "Since when do you need an excuse to drink, shortie?"
The words had barely left his mouth when he saw a blur of motion. A barrel of ale hurtled through the air, aimed squarely at his head.
"WHO ARE YOU CALLING SHORT?!" Ysraza bellowed. With a whir of activating thrusters on her boots, she launched herself at Orach, fist cocked back and ready to strike.
Orach's lips curled up. Some things, it seemed, never changed - and he wouldn't have it any other way.
With lightning-fast reflexes, Orach caught the barrel in one hand—knowing Ysraza would surely lament over spilled ale once she calmed down—and in the same fluid motion, he caught her fist mid-swing. Her momentum carried them both into a spin, transforming her attack into an impromptu dance.
"Still as fiery as ever, I see," Orach laughed, setting the dwarf down gently. "And still packing quite a punch!"
Ysraza's scowl melted into a grin. "And you're still as annoying and quick as I remember. Come here, you big lug!" She threw her arms around Orach in a bone-crushing hug that belied her small stature.
As they separated, Ysraza's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Well, look who finally decided to show up!" She gave Orach a friendly jab on his chest. "Took you long enough. Now, be a dear and hand me that ale, would you?"
Orach, slightly puzzled by her sudden shift from seeming intoxication to apparent sobriety, passed the barrel back to his friend. He hypothesized that in this realm, Ysraza's soul-form could likely manipulate her state at will.
Just as Ysraza was about to suggest they share a drink, her AI assistant chimed in, "Caution, Miss! Dwarven ale may not be suitable for young Saiyans."
Ysraza paused, then shrugged, handing the barrel to the floating orb. "Right, right. We'll save that for another time." She cleared her throat, changing the subject. "Now, onto business! I've got something incredible to show you."
She grabbed his hand and dragged him towards her workstation. With a wave of her hand, holographic screens flickered to life around them, showcasing incomplete designs of a mecha. Orach's eyes widened as he recognized Diana's emblem on the folder, which Ysraza quickly closed. Before he could inquire, she pulled up another design.
"Remember that energy core prototype we designed for the Scarlet Zeta? Well, I've made some improvements!" Ysraza announced, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
As the new design materialized before them, Orach's eyes widened in amazement. The refined concept promised power outputs that would significantly enhance his mecha's capabilities, allowing the Zeta to evolve further and remain a formidable weapon even as Orach reached new levels of power.
"Ysraza, this is... remarkable," Orach said, his mind already racing with possibilities. "How did you manage to increase the output so dramatically?"
Ysraza grinned and puffed out her modest chest, a mix of pride and mischief in her expression. "Let's just say I had a stroke of inspiration. Pretty impressive, right?"
Orach nodded, genuinely impressed. "If these concepts prove viable, the Alliance's Scientific Council would undoubtedly recognize this as a revolutionary innovation. But I'm curious, Ysraza. What really sparked this breakthrough?"
Before Ysraza could respond to boast some more, her AI assistant chimed in bursting her bubble, "Miss gained insight from the dragon and incorporated various enlightened concepts into these designs."
Ysraza's face flushed slightly, caught between embarrassment and annoyance. "Why you little... I was getting to that part!" She playfully swatted at the floating orb, which deftly dodged her attempt.
Orach, observing this exchange, murmured, "It's a near-perfect replica of her old AI."
Turning back to Orach, Ysraza shrugged with a sheepish smile. "Well, there you have it. Seems even us geniuses can use a little divine inspiration now and then. But don't let that fool you – translating those concepts into practical designs? That's all me, baby!"
Orach gave her a wry smile and nodded. "Trust me, this will etch your name in the annals of history. I'll make sure to submit this research under your name once I return to the Alliance."
"I appreciate the recognition, but I'm not interested in fame right now," Ysraza said, her expression a mix of pride and concern. "I'd rather you use these upgrades to strengthen your Zeta and your house's power first. We can think about wider disclosure in the future. With all the recent turmoil caused by the corrupted, I don't want my technology falling into greedy hands."
Orach nodded, understanding the weight of her decision. "Agreed. We'll keep this between us for now. But Ysraza, this is more than just an upgrade. It's a game-changer."
"That's the idea," Ysraza winked. "Now, I know the others are waiting, so..." She paused dramatically and snapped her fingers. The AI orb sprang into action, its eye glowing as it manipulated the floor, raising a sleek mechanical throne.
With a flourish, Ysraza twirled and plopped herself onto the seat. Clearing her throat, she adopted her best regal tone, which was more comical than commanding. "Ahem! Orach of Sadala, as the Dragon of Innovation—yes, I named the dragon, don't like it, deal with it—I hereby acknowledge you as the wielder of this dragon's... no,mypower! Use it as you see fit, but preferably to create more cool stuff!"
She couldn't maintain the serious facade and burst into laughter. "Nailed it, right?" Ysraza asked, grinning from ear to ear.
Orach had been struggling to maintain his composure throughout Ysraza's theatrical performance, but her final flourish proved too much. He burst into hearty laughter, his eyes crinkling with genuine amusement.
"Was that over the top?" Ysraza asked, a slight flush coloring her cheeks as she watched her friend's mirth.
"Not at all," Orach replied, regaining his composure. His eyes softened as he regarded his old friend. "Never change, Ysraza. You're one of a kind—brilliant, witty, and irreplaceable."
"Oh, stop it," Ysraza retorted, her embarrassment evident. "Save the sweet talk for your wife!"
Orach's expression turned sincere as he placed a hand on his chest and gave a small bow. "Thank you, Ysraza. For everything. I hope I've never disappointed you."
Ysraza's features softened. "Water under the bridge, you big lug. Now, before you go visit the others, know this: I'll always be here to support you and help you innovate and grow stronger. I've got some designs in the works for your wife, and I'm cooking up something special for your daughter too. Once I've got the initial drafts ready, we can work on them together. They're in for quite a surprise!"
Orach smiled warmly at his old friend, grateful for her unwavering support and brilliant mind. With a casual wave of her hand, Ysraza opened a portal that would lead Orach to his next destination. He took a deep breath, steeling himself for whatever lay ahead, and stepped through the gateway. The world around him began to shift and blur, signaling the start of his next encounter.
Sixth Dragon Domain - Realm of Desire
As Orach stepped through the portal, he found himself in a familiar corridor. A quick glance out a nearby viewport confirmed his suspicion, he was aboard a spacecraft. This realization puzzled him, as he couldn't immediately discern whose realm he had entered. Given his extensive travels, it could have been Taron's dream ship, a representation of battleships both warriors amongst his crew had served on, or perhaps a manifestation of his former crew captain Durgnar's dream vessel.
Seeking clarity, Orach made his way to the main deck. He entered a turbo lift and requested transport to the bridge. As the doors slid open, the scene before him caught him off guard. Instinctively, he pressed the 'close door' button and took a step back, drawing a deep breath to collect his thoughts.
"This can't be right," Orach murmured, trying to reconcile what he'd just witnessed with his memories of the ship's captain. "Durgnar enjoyed his drink, sure, but he was always professional and respectable. This doesn't align with the person I knew."
What Orach had glimpsed was unexpected. The bridge, typically a bastion of order and discipline, now hosted a scene of revelry. Scantily clad figures danced around the captain's chair, with some even performing on poles that certainly hadn't been part of the original deck design. At the center, a pair of women were engaged in intimate acts, creating a spectacle for the one who occupied the captain's seat—though Orach hadn't gotten a clear view of the occupant he clearly heard a familiar voice.
Steeling himself, Orach realized he needed to investigate further. This realm, after all, represented an aspect of his crew mate's place of peace—perhaps it was showing him something beyond surface appearances. With renewed determination, he reached for the door release, ready to step onto the bridge once more.
As the doors opened, a familiar voice rang out, filled with unrestrained pleasure, "Oh yes, that's perfect! Ah…ah…ah…yes that's how you do it…AH…Keep it coming!"
"WHAT in the name of the primordial gods are you up to, CAPTAIN?" Orach shouted, a vein bulging on his forehead.
"Oh crap! Kid, not now! Timing was never your strong suit. I'm in the middle of something—ah, ah—middle of a lot of somethings! This is a celebration for your—ah—ah—achieve—AH—ment," Durgnar replied breathlessly.
"Are you serious right now? Captain, are you actually using me as an excuse for your debauchery?" Orach demanded, his anger boiling over.
"I'm—ah!—CUMMING…! Durgnar exclaimed breathlessly. "Ladies, that was fantastic but, my friend has arrived. We'll continue this... celebration later." He gave a playful pat to one of the women's backsides as they began to vanish.
He turned in his chair, now wearing his usual captain's uniform, though it appeared loose and disheveled.
"Welcome to the Domain of Desire, lad," he said with a wry grin, taking a swig from a flask that materialized in his hand.
Orach, still visibly shaken, spoke in a controlled yet icy tone. "Captain, I'm struggling to understand. You've used the dragon's power, a manifestation of primordial chaos itself, to create... this? What happened to the serious, professional captain I knew?"
Durgnar sighed, his expression softening. "Look, kid, I've always had this side to me. I just never showed it around you."
Orach raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "Why the secrecy, Captain? The crew's always been a colorful bunch with their own peculiarities. Plus its not like I don't know about people who have interests like this. Take my childhood friend—he's into dual cultivation and has a harem that would make many emperor level powerhouses blush. Surely your... proclivities wouldn't have raised too many eyebrows?"
Durgnar let out a wry chuckle. "Ah, kid, there's a world of difference between your friend and me. He's royalty, living it up in another higher realm. Me? I'm just a working stiff for the Alliance Security Council. And let's not forget your mother is Empress Gula herself. One whiff of me 'corrupting' her precious son, and she'd have used my hide for target practice. So, I kept this part of me under wraps, saving it for shore leaves and private moments. But here, in this realm? I can finally let my hair down without worrying about imperial wrath raining down on me."
Orach couldn't help but shudder at the thought of his overprotective mother discovering anyone introducing her son to such debauchery. He had to admit, Durgnar's caution made sense.
"I see your point," Orach conceded, his expression softening. "Mother's... protective nature can be quite intimidating. But now that we're here, in your domain, what exactly did you want to show me, Captain? Surely it wasn't just to give me a glimpse into your private life?"
Durgnar's eyes twinkled with mischief as he leaned forward. "Kid, you've already got the acknowledgment, but before you visit the others, there's something else I want to share. You see, you approach everything with that brilliant scientific mind of yours. But now that you've found a partner, it's time you learned about a different kind of... expertise."
Orach felt his connection with the dragon strengthen, but as he processed his captain's words, his eyes widened in realization. "Captain, I don't think—"
Before Orach could finish his protest, Durgnar snapped his fingers, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. In an instant, Orach found himself transported to a lavish suite. He was surrounded by various incarnations of his beloved Diana, each one dressed differently—from elegant evening gowns to daring, risqué outfits, and even intimate lingerie.
"Welcome to Relationship 101," Durgnar's voice echoed through the room. "Trust me, kid, what you learn here will make a world of difference in your future marriage. A happy wife means a happy life. Now, pay attention!"
As the lesson began, Orach found himself overwhelmed by the presence of multiple smiling Dianas, each approaching him with affection. Soon, the room filled with soft muffled sounds and gentle moans, the air thick with an atmosphere of intimacy and pleasure.
Seventh Dragon Domain - Realm of War
Orach emerged from the portal, his legs slightly unsteady. His body bore the marks of his intense experience in the previous domain - faint bite marks, lipstick traces, and light scratches on his back. As he stepped into this new realm, he stumbled, dropping to one knee. Instinctively, he reached out to the Fourth Dragon of Life, drawing upon its power to rejuvenate himself and recover from the draining exercises Durgnar had put him through.
While the encounters with the multiple versions of Diana had been pleasurable, they couldn't compare to the real thing. His heart ached for his true Diana, the one waiting for him beyond this void. The moment he felt sufficiently synchronized with the Sixth Dragon of Desire, Orach had asserted his will, overpowering the Captain's influence. Using his mastery over space laws, he'd opened a gateway to this next realm.
As he regained his composure, Orach reflected on his experience. He'd learned techniques that both intrigued and surprised him, some of which he looked forward to exploring with Diana. Others, however, he found less appealing. Rising to his feet, he gazed up at the night sky of this new domain. The clear night sky only intensified his longing for Diana and his determination to escape the void realm and return to her side.
Shaking off the last vestiges of fatigue, Orach steeled himself for the challenges that lay ahead in this new realm. As his eyes adjusted to the surroundings, he found himself standing amidst a vast, desolate battlefield. The air was thick with an oppressive aura, a palpable mixture of death and killing intent radiating from the various weapons protruding from the ground. The scarred and bloodied earth, once verdant, now bore a crimson hue from the blood shed upon it. Each blade, each shaft pulsed with a dark energy, emanating the lingering resentment and unfulfilled ambitions of their former wielders. Orach could feel the laws of death and destruction permeating the very air he breathed. In the distance, rising above the field of abandoned armaments, stood a majestic tower surrounded by towering golden statues, a stark contrast to the grim battlefield.
Intrigued, Orach leapt into the air and flew closer to the tower. As he observed the statues, though he couldn't recognize many, he could easily tell they were warriors like none other—each reigning supreme in their own right. Every statue seemed to depict a legendary warrior or leader, their poses speaking of great deeds and hard-won victories. However, as he continued his observation, he was startled to recognize one of the faces. There, among the unknown visages, stood a statue bearing an uncanny resemblance to his mother.
Hovering before his mother's statue, Orach was overwhelmed by a tidal wave of emotions. The golden figure captured her essence with uncanny precision, from the steely determination in her eyes to the regal set of her shoulders. Every detail, from the way she held her chin high to the subtle curve of her lips, spoke volumes of her strength and grace. As Orach gazed upon the familiar features, a flood of memories washed over him, each one as vivid and poignant as if it had happened only yesterday.
He remembered the horror etched on her face when he intercepted a deadly blow meant for her during their stand against the corrupted forces. The memory of her voice, a mixture of worry and pride, as she kept vigil by his healing pod, still resonated within him. Her words of comfort and encouragement had become a mantra, sustaining him through his recovery. The void left by her sudden departure, when the escalating conflict demanded her presence elsewhere, still ached within his heart.
Instinctively, Orach reached out to touch the statue's face, but his hand froze mid-air, trembling. The visions he'd experienced earlier flooded back—the young woman among unfamiliar faces in that wholesome family scene, wielding his mother's sword and wearing her clothes, came to his mind.
"A natal spiritual weapon won't allow anyone but its rightful owner to wield it," Orach murmured, his mind racing. "Mother, Father... have you truly been reincarnated?"
These glimpses of a possible future lifted the veil of melancholy from his heart, igniting a fierce spark of purpose within him once more. Hope and determination surged through his being, propelling him forward with renewed vigor. He resolved to uncover the truth about the outcome of the war against the corrupted and, if the worst had indeed come to pass, to make that future vision a reality.
His voice grew stronger as he continued, echoing through the desolate battlefield. "I failed you before. Haunted by my mistakes, I wasn't strong enough to control these dragons, to be there when you needed me most. But that ends now."
Orach's eyes blazed crimson, his hair momentarily agitated and turning dark blue as he declared, "I swear upon the essence of my being, upon every fiber of my soul, I will master this power." His fist clenched, mirroring his resolve. "Even if the cycle of reincarnation has claimed you, even if you've been scattered across a thousand lifetimes, I will find you."
The air around him crackled with energy as his aura fluctuated. The night sky began to darken, as if responding to Orach's tumultuous emotions. "No matter how many realms I must traverse, no matter what impossible obstacles stand in my way, I will overcome them all. Our family will be whole once more." A soft smile touched his lips, a stark contrast to the fierce determination in his eyes. "And when we're reunited, I'll introduce you to the new family I've found, the bonds I've forged in your absence."
Orach's voice rose to a crescendo, his words echoing across the battlefield and beyond, as if reaching across time and space. "This time, I won't falter. This time, I won't fail. This I swear, not just as your son, but as possibly the last of the Saiyans, as the bearer of our legacy—of your legacy and power. Our family WILL RISE AGAIN!"
As if responding to the power of his soul binding vow, the realm itself stirred. The clouds above churned, dark and ominous. Lightning crackled across the sky, each bolt striking the battlefield with furious intensity. The weapons stuck in the ground began to resonate, their auras flaring in response to Orach's declaration. Like a sponge, Orach unconsciously absorbed their aura, cleansing it into pure Ki that only made him stronger.
Orach released a breath, steadying himself. With the memory of his parents driving him forward and the love of his new family supporting him, he prepared to face whatever challenges lay ahead. He looked at the tower. As he did, the gates opened, as if welcoming him to the next trial.
Narrowing his eyes, he understood the intention of the domain master, and murmured, "Let the trial begin." His eyes gleamed with determination. "I am ready."
クリエイターの想い 
G009ps
G009ps I had hoped to write more, but jet lag and pending action items have limited my progress. I hope you still enjoy this installment. With two more dragons to go, I'm excited about the upcoming twists and travels in the story.
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