Adam: You two look like you know something

Blue and Evelyn shared a quick look before Blue spoke up.

Blue: We saw a missing poster a few days ago. A boy from Nevermore went missing before all this started. We thought maybe he ran off, but...now it feels like something more.

Adam: And you didn’t think to mention it before?

Evelyn: We didn’t think it was connected at the time. Now, though....seven students missing? This isn’t some coincidence, some creepy clown is kidnapping people to sell on the black market! Or.....something like that

Adam glanced back toward the dispersing crowd, lowering his voice.

Adam: At least we know that something’s wrong. If students are disappearing and no one’s seen a trace of them, it could mean....

Blue: Someone is taking them, and we don’t know who or why.

Evelyn: That's what I just said! It was a clown! Probably Pennywise!

They stood in silence for a moment, the realisation sinking in that something dark was brewing beneath the surface at Nevermore. Whatever it was, they couldn’t ignore it any longer.

They needed to find out what was happening before more students vanished......

As time passed, Blue, Adam, and Evelyn gathered with their friends to discuss the growing tension surrounding the missing students.

The group met in a secluded corner of the Quad, away from the ongoing activity of Parent's Weekend, their expressions serious.

The group consisted of Blue, Adam, Evelyn, Wednesday, Enid, Yoko, Eugene, Xavier, Bianca, and Ajax. Thing scurried over to sit beside Wednesday, tapping its fingers anxiously on the ground.

The weight of the situation hung heavy over all of them, and the usual lively banter was absent. Blue’s mind, however, was elsewhere. His thoughts drifted to Warden, the elusive Moon Demon.

Warden had always been in the shadows, never fully revealing his purpose but constantly hovering near Blue, whispering cryptic offers about recruiting him for some mysterious plan.

The possibility that Warden could be behind the disappearances gnawed at the back of his mind, but there was no proof of that. As the others discussed theories, Blue struggled to focus. His head clicked with possibilities.

Could Warden be responsible? And if so, what did he want with those missing students? Evelyn, noticing Blue’s distraction, nudged him gently.

Evelyn: Hey, you with us?

Blue: Yeah, yeah....sorry. Just thinking about all this. It’s not right.

Enid: It really isn't, seven students gone. This is serious.

Bianca: Someone's definitely behind it, but who? And why? The school has protections.

Ajax: And it's not just random, I mean, they’re all students from Nevermore, so.....what’s the connection?

Xavier: Maybe there isn’t one. Maybe whoever’s doing this just wants outcasts, and Nevermore’s the prime target.

Wednesday remained silent throughout most of the conversation, her dark eyes scanning the group. She was thinking about the Old Horn, about Veles, the Demon she had met inside it.

She kept that information to herself, aware that the others didn’t know she had ventured into the Horn’s depths. It wasn’t something she intended to share.

Meanwhile, Blue remained lost in thought, piecing together fragments of memories about Warden. He had tried to stay out of the Moon Demon’s path as much as possible.

But Warden had a way of appearing when Blue least expected it, offering vague promises of power and control, hinting at some grand plan that required Blue’s participation.

Eugene: Do you think this could be connected to one of the Old Horns?

Everyone turned to Eugene, his question catching their attention.

Xavier: The Old Horns? I don’t know. They’re ancient structures...no one’s been inside them yet....It’s not like they can just come to life......r-right?

Yoko: Unless they do, there’s been so much weirdness surrounding them since they appeared. What if something's starting to stir?

Enid: That’s creepy.

Evelyn: More than creepy, if the Old Horns are involved, that means there’s something bigger going on here than just a few disappearances.

Blue clenched his fists, his mind racing. Warden, the Old Horns, the missing students....it all felt connected somehow. But he couldn’t piece it together yet.

Bianca: I don’t think we can ignore the Old Horns as a possibility, if something is happening there, we need to be ready. We can’t afford to let this go on any longer.

Adam: It's a good start, but we can't mess with the Old Horns, otherwise we could end up dead....

Wednesday, still keeping her secret, remained stoic. She had already been to the Old Horn, seen Veles, and heard his cryptic warnings. Yet, she said nothing, not even to Thing. The others didn’t need to know....at least, not yet.

After their conversation about the missing students in the Quad, everyone parted ways to spend time with their families. Adam, accompanied by Ingrid and Uncle Darren, headed toward the Gothic architecture of Nevermore’s halls.

Their destination was clear: Dracula. The vampire leader had played a pivotal role in helping Adam unlock more of his ghostly abilities throughout the school year, and this meeting felt needed.

Adam could sense the pride in Ingrid’s usually cold demeanor as they walked. She hadn’t expressed it openly, but Adam knew she was impressed with how far he had come.

Darren, on the other hand, was his usual laid-back self, offering Adam a casual pat on the back as they made their way to Dracula’s quarters.

Meanwhile, Wednesday strolled with her family, her dark eyes watching the gloomy landscape of Nevermore with her usual stoic expression.

Morticia and Gomez walked ahead, arm in arm, speaking in their usual romantic, affectionate manner. The subject of Blue inevitably came up again, as it often did.

Morticia: Blue is such a wonderful boy, I still can't fathom the fact that he is the only Son of Lupercio...quite a legacy, if I must say.

Gomez: Indeed! A legend in his own right. And our Wednesday, lucky enough to have him as a friend for over a year now.

Wednesday narrowed her eyes, annoyed at the conversation. "Why do they always have to bring up Blue?"

Yes, they were friends. Yes, he was a demon and the Son of a legend. But he was also dense, oblivious to the world around him in a way that sometimes made Wednesday’s patience run thin.

She remained silent, her thoughts lingering on Blue, on the Old Horn, and on the mysterious forces at play.

But she didn’t let any of it show as she continued walking with her family, not wanting to feed into her parents’ growing fascination with her connection to Blue.

Elsewhere, Enid spent time with her parents, who had come to Nevermore to see their Daughter. Her mother, Esther, was all smiles as they sat together in the Quad, casually bringing up Blue....again.

Esther: So, how has Blue been? He’s a good boy as always, isn’t he? Are you happy, darling?

Enid blushed slightly, twirling a strand of her hair around her finger.

Enid: Yeah, Mom. He’s good. You know he’s...uh, pretty dense though, as you have seen already.

Esther: [Chuckles] Oh, I know. But you’re making the most of it, right?

Enid: He’s cute in his own clueless way. He’s trying, at least.

Esther: Good. I’m glad to hear it.

Meanwhile, in Jericho, Blue, Evelyn and Marina stepped into the familiar warmth of the Weathervane Coffee shop. The smell of coffee and pastries greeted them as they made their way to a booth.

Blue immediately orders pancakes with ice cream, while Evelyn opted for cookies. Marina, ever the picture of elegance, ordered a simple cup of tea.

As they settled in, Blue noticed Sheriff Galpin sitting at the counter, nursing his own cup of coffee. He waved, and the sheriff returned the gesture. Marina, curious, leaned in toward Blue and Evelyn.

Marina: Who’s that?

Blue: That’s Sheriff Galpin, we’ve met a few times. He’s...had a rough year and a half.

Marina: Isn’t he Tyler Galpin’s father? The boy who....?

Evelyn: Yes, Tyler was the Hyde last year, same one that Blue took down

Marina’s face grew serious, her maternal instincts kicking in.

Marina: Does he hold a grudge against you for that?

Blue: Nope, he’s been...well, he’s really understanding.

As if on cue, Sheriff Galpin approached their table, tipping his hat politely.

Galpin: Mind if I join you for a moment?

Marina offered a kind smile and gestured for him to sit.

Marina: Of course.

The sheriff sat down, placing his coffee on the table. He glanced at Blue, a small, tired smile on his face.

Galpin: Hey kid, I just wanted to say thank you again....for last year. I know it wasn’t easy, but you did what had to be done.

Blue: I just did what I had to. Tyler....did end up as a traitor, and ticked me off.

Galpin: Yeah....it hurt when I found out about Tyler....what he’d become. But I don’t hold any ill will toward you. You’re a good kid, Blue, and I respect that.

Marina listened intently, her eyes softening as she took in Galpin’s words. She knew Blue was strong, Lupercio’s blood flowed through him after all, and it was a good amount of it as he is a Demon, unlike Evelyn.

But hearing the sheriff’s gratitude made her feel a sense of pride she rarely showed. The conversation shifted to lighter topics, and as Blue finished his pancakes and ice cream, the tension in the air began to dissipate.

They talked for a while longer, sharing small laughs and pleasantries, but in the back of Marina’s mind, she couldn’t shake Lilith’s warning from earlier.

Marina: Sooner or later, Blue will be called to face something greater, I just hope he’ll be ready when that time comes.

As Blue and Evelyn sat in the Weathervane, their conversation drifted to something they’d both been thinking about for a while.

Megan.

Blue: I think we should go see her after this. We haven't introduced her to Mother yet.

Evelyn: Yeah, I’m sure she’ll want to meet Megan and Lennon

Marina, sipping her tea quietly, overheard and smiled warmly at her children’s excitement. But then, Evelyn noticed something odd as Sheriff Galpin got up to leave their table.

There was a faint, almost imperceptible blush on his face as he said his goodbyes to Marina. Evelyn’s mind.....raced like it has never done before.

Evelyn: Oh no. Could it be? Did Sheriff Galpin....develop a crush on Mum? That quickly?!

The idea seemed plausible, after all, both Sheriff Galpin and Marina had lost their significant others. Maybe, in some twisted way, the sheriff had developed feelings for her Mother during their brief conversation.

But Evelyn quickly forced herself to calm down.

Evelyn: There’s no way. Mum would never fall for anyone else. She loved Dad too much

Their parents had been perfect together, despite their contrasting backgrounds. Marina, the psychic, and Lupercio, the powerful demon. Their bond had been unbreakable.

Pushing her worries aside, Evelyn said nothing, deciding that it wasn’t worth stressing over. She knew her Mother too well. Marina’s heart belonged to Lupercio, even in death.

With that thought settled, the family of three wrapped up their visit to the Weathervane and decided to head over to Lennon’s shop, where Megan spent most of her time.

Marina, always curious about the friends her children made, followed along as they ventured to the other side of Jericho.

As they entered the shop, Lennon was busy tinkering with something at the counter, but Megan immediately brightened when she saw them.

Even as a robot, her expression softened when her eyes landed on Blue. There was a warmth to her that always seemed to defy her mechanical nature.

Blue: Heyo!

Megan: Hello, Blue. It’s good to see you again.

Marina watched their interaction closely, her eyes curious but not judgmental. Megan’s happiness to see Blue was palpable, even for someone who wasn’t fully human.

And Marina could see that Blue, in his own way, cared for Megan too. Evelyn knew it was time to introduce their Mother.

Evelyn: Mother, this is Megan, and that’s Lennon over there

She points to the mentioned man behind the counter who gave a brief nod of acknowledgment. Marina greeted them politely before turning back to Megan.

Marina: So, I hear you’re a bit....special

Megan tilted her head slightly, a robotic gesture, but her voice remained calm and sincere.

Megan: Yes, I’m not like most people. But I’m happy here.

Marina: Can you tell me your story?

Blue and Evelyn stayed silent as Megan explained her origins, how Lennon had created her, how she had once tried to act on her personal and darker desires.

But because of Blue, she had since found a new life at Jericho, where she was safe and learning to live among others. Marina listened carefully, her eyes widening at certain points, especially when Megan mentioned the danger she had once posed.

But to her credit, Marina didn’t get overprotective, as Evelyn had half expected. Instead, she trusted Blue and Evelyn’s judgment.

Marina: I see, you’ve been through a lot. But it’s good to see that you’re in a better place now. Blue, Evelyn....I can tell that you’ve made a good friend here.

Blue: Megan’s great. She’s learning a lot, and Lennon’s been a huge help, seeing as how he made her.

Lennon: They’ve been good to her, I'm happy that Blue is going the distance in making sure Megan doesn't.....crash out.

Marina: Blue was always friendly to people, so I'm not surprised.

As the conversation wrapped up, Marina couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of pride in her children. Despite everything, despite the dangers and challenges, they had built a strong, trustworthy circle of friends.

Blue, especially, had found his own way of navigating a world that could sometimes be unforgiving. And as they left Lennon’s shop, with Megan waving them goodbye, Marina couldn’t help but reflect on Lilith’s warning once more.

The world around Blue was shifting, and the Old Horns would soon come into play. But for now, she was grateful that he had people.....both human and otherwise, who cared about him.

As they walked back through the streets of Jericho, Marina looked at Blue and Evelyn and smiled. They were stronger than she’d ever imagined, and whatever challenges lay ahead, she knew they’d face them together.

She will not let Blue face everything by himself.
______________________________

As Blue, Evelyn, and Marina left Lennon's shop and made their way back to Nevermore, the atmosphere felt lighter despite the looming tensions that had been present earlier.

They chatted casually, making plans for the rest of the day when, all of a sudden, Marina's phone buzzed.

It was Darren.

Marina answered the call, stepping aside for privacy while Blue and Evelyn continued their conversation.

Evelyn: I know it's early days, but do you think Megan will be okay?

Blue: Yeah, she’s safe with Lennon despite....ya know....Plus, I think she's learning the right things.

Then their conversion was interrupted when Marina returned, her expression filled with concern.

Marina: Blue, Evelyn. Uncle Darren just called....we’re going to Russia.

Blue: What? Why?

Marina: It’s just going to be me, Darren, and you, Blue....because the Old Horn in Russia is reacting.

Both Blue and Evelyn stood in stunned silence for a moment before Evelyn realised who Marina had mentioned.

Evelyn: Wait, why can’t I go?!

Marina: Not this time, Evelyn. It’s too dangerous, and we don’t know what’s waiting for us there. We need to be cautious.

Blue: Wait....does that mean I get to fight a demon?! :D

Marina smiled at her son’s eagerness but maintained her serious tone.

Marina: Yes, but you must listen to me at all times. This isn’t something you can take lightly.

Blue: Okay, but is this demon stronger than Warden?

Marina: The Moon Demon? No, I doubt it, but don’t underestimate him. He or she will still dangerous.

Blue: Wait...do you know this demon personally?

Marina: Maybe. We don’t know exactly which demon is sealed inside the Old Horn, but the energy I felt....it’s weaker than Warden’s.

Blue: How do you know?

Marina: Magic

Blue rolled his eyes, unsure if his mother was being smug or simply cryptic.

Blue: I can't tell if that smile is a smug one or not.

Marina laughed, patting Blue on the shoulder.

Marina: It doesn’t matter. Come on, let’s go back.

The trio hurried back to Nevermore, where they met up with Adam, Ingrid, and Darren near the entrance. Darren was already prepared, a serious yet excited look on his face.

Darren: I’ve got a private jet waiting for us, courtesy of the Outcast Special Forces.

The mention of the Outcast Special Forces piqued Blue’s interest. The secretive group was known to protect the world from global supernatural threats, including guarding the Old Horns.

He had not known about about them until that summer when they went to Riga. They had outposts all over the world, including one in Riga, Latvia as mentioned.

Blue: Is it just the three of us going?

Darren: Yup. The Old Horn we’re heading to is located in a snowy, remote part of northern Russia. No city, just endless white and a military base. The Outcast Society has been granted access to the area since the Old Horn emerged there.

Marina: Remember, this isn’t just an adventure. You’ll have to rely on all the training you’ve received. The Old Horns are dangerous, and we don’t know what we’ll face.

Blue: I get it, Mother. I’m ready.

As they made their final preparations, Lilith was already informed of the situation. Meanwhile, Evelyn, who couldn’t help herself, accidentally spilled the details to Wednesday, Enid, Yoko, Eugene, Xavier, Ajax, and Bianca.

Bianca: Wait, Blue’s going to Russia to fight a demon?!

Evelyn: Yeah, I...uh...kind of forgot to keep it to myself

Adam: Not surprised. Look, Blue’s been training for this. He’s capable, but yeah, it’s still mad....he has his Mother with him, so he will be fine.

Wednesday, always composed, narrowed her eyes thoughtfully. She hadn’t said much during the conversation, but she couldn’t help but feel a strange pull of curiosity, and perhaps a bit of concern, about Blue’s upcoming journey.

Enid: Y-Yeah, I’m sure he’ll be fine

Yoko: I trust Blue to come back safe

Eugene: I-It still is a Demon, but Blue is the best Demon!

Xavier: He still has to watch himself

Ajax: Yeah, this demon probably has years and years of experience!

The group, while reassured by Blue’s abilities, couldn’t help but feel a sense of dread. The Old Horns were ancient and powerful, and despite Blue’s strength, none of them could predict what lay within the Russian Old Horn.

With everything in place, Blue, Marina, and Darren made their way to the private jet. As they entered the airport and boarded the jet, Blue thought about what might happen in the next few hours.

He was excited, yes, but also aware of the gravity of what was to come. And as the jet took off into the sky, heading towards the cold, remote Russian wilderness, the weight of their mission settled in.

This wasn’t just another test....this was the real deal. And for Blue, it was only the beginning of something much larger.

At Nevermore, Lady Lilith had gathered some of the school’s most respected teachers for a consultation regarding Blue’s mission.

Seated around the large oak table in her office were Dracula, Medusa, Prospero, and Coach Vlad. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on most of them, as they discussed the implications of Blue heading to Russia to confront an Old Horn.

Prospero, the slightly nervous but good-hearted botanical sciences teacher, wrung his hands.

Prospero: Is it really safe for him? I mean, Blue is strong, but this....this is an ancient demon we’re talking about.

Medusa: I agree with Prospero. The Old Horns are unpredictable, and even the strongest can fall when dealing with such dark forces.

Coach Vlad, the fencing master, leaned back in his chair with his arms crossed, nodding slightly.

Vlad: Blue has the heart of a warrior. I’ve seen it in him during lessons, but still, I worry about the dangers. This isn’t just a duel...it’s life or death.

Only Dracula seemed calm, even excited. He smiled, revealing his fangs slightly.

Dracula: This will be a good test. Blue has been trained well, by me in class and by Lilith in private lessons. If anyone is prepared for this, it’s him.

Lilith, standing by the window, gazed out with a conflicted expression.

Lilith: I know he’s strong. His control over his blue flames has improved immensely. But even with all his progress, the unknown remains. And we don’t know which demon is sealed inside that Old Horn.

The room fell silent for a moment as they all considered the stakes. Dracula, though confident in Blue’s abilities, understood the weight of what was at hand.

The teachers knew that they had to trust in Blue’s strength, but they couldn't ignore the unease that came with the sudden mission.

Meanwhile, in the private jet bound for Russia, Blue sat quietly, staring out of the window as the clouds blurred past Marina sat next to him while Uncle Darren sat across

Darren, ever the calm and collected figure, was busy going over some documents related to their mission, while Marina kept an eye on Blue, her maternal instincts always sharp.

Marina: How are you feeling?

Blue: I feel ready.....essentially I’ve trained for this, but not actually.....but...it’s still weird. The Old Horns are...I don't know...they just effect me in a weird way

Darren: That should be normal for a Demon, just stay focused, Blue, and do what comes natural. I'm here, and so is your Mother in case things get.....hectic for you.

Blue nodded, knowing Darren was right. He had been preparing for this, but the reality of the mission was setting in. By the time they landed in Moscow, the sky had already darkened.

It was around 7:50 PM, and the cold air bit at their skin as they disembarked the jet. They were greeted by Russian military personnel and escorted to a car that would take them to the military base near the Old Horn.

As they drove through the snowy wilderness, the massive, ominous structure of the Old Horn came into view.

It loomed in the distance, towering over the landscape like a monolith from another time. Its presence was unsettling, a stark reminder of the dark powers sealed within.

Blue: I look like the other two...but it feels different.

Marina: Each one has its own unique aura. This one...it feels more hostile.

The car pulled up to the military base, which was a mix of Russian military and Outcast Society structures. Tents, vehicles, and watchtowers surrounded the Old Horn, with soldiers and outcast personnel keeping a close watch.

The area was on high alert, especially with the recent activity from the Old Horn. Once they were out of the car, the three were provided with heavy, warm clothing for the snowy conditions.

Darren and Marina put theirs on quickly, while Blue, ever resilient, didn’t really need it. Still, he wore the jacket over his Father's trench coat, commenting on how comfy it felt.

As they approached the Old Horn, Blue could feel the negative pressure radiating from it. It was almost suffocating, like an invisible weight pressing down on him, just as it had been with the other two Old Horns he’d encountered.

The air around the Old Horn felt dense, filled with a dark, swirling energy that made the hair on the back of his neck stand up.

Blue: This thing is......alive

Darren: I'm surprised you can tell, but yeah, it’s reacting. The demon inside must be close to escaping, but we need to figure out how much time we have.

Marina: Just stay focused, Blue. When the time comes, we’ll be right there with you.

Blue nodded, feeling the familiar thrill of anticipation. He had faced dangerous situations before, but this....this was something else entirely.

He could feel it deep in his bones. This was bigger than anything he had faced so far.

As the storm outside began to pick up, Darren continued his discussions with the commanding officers from both the Russian military and the Outcast Society.

They were planning their strategy for containing the demon if or when Blue gets the chance to pin it down.

Blue remained quiet, mentally preparing himself for the inevitable confrontation. This demon...whoever or whatever it was, it was going to be a challenge. But he was ready.

At least, he hoped he was.

Back at Nevermore, however, his friends were all thinking of him, hoping the same. As Blue, Marina, and Darren stood before the Old Horn, the tension in the air was palpable.

Blue, still adjusting to the pressure the demon was emanating, turned to his Mother with a question that had been weighing on his mind since they’d left Nevermore.

Blue: Soooooo, why are you letting me do this? Before, when I said I wanted to fight these demons, you were against it. You demanded I stay away from them. So, what changed?

Marina sighed, her eyes softening as she looked at her son.

Marina: Blue, I still don’t want you to fight. The thought of you going up against demons like this terrifies me. But...I can’t deny what’s inside of you anymore. You have the same fighting spirit that your Father had. Lupercio was a warrior, through and through, and I see that same fire in you.

Blue: But I’m not him. I’m not Dad.

Marina: No, you’re not, but you’ve grown stronger, and I can’t ignore that. This...this is going to be a test for you. And believe me, if things get too dangerous, I will step in. I may not be a demon, but I’m powerful in my own right, and I won’t let anything happen to you.

Blue nodded, understanding his Mother’s reasoning, but before he could say anything else, the ground began to shake violently beneath them.

A low rumble echoed from the Old Horn as the massive structure began to shift, its ancient surface cracking slightly. Everyone in the base tensed, weapons ready, as the air grew thick with dark energy.

Suddenly, a burst of energy erupted from the Old Horn, and a figure shot out from its depths, landing with a heavy thud near the base.

Snow and debris scattered as the ground shook from the impact. Blue’s eyes widened as he took in the sight before him. The creature that stood there was a demon, taller than Blue, but not as colossal as Warden.

Its skin was jet black, its body covered in hard, jagged spikes. It had multiple arms, each one clutching a massive red demonic blade, and its eyes glowed with the same molten orange as the lava that dripped from its mouth.

The creature's chest was a furnace, with small cracks emitting a fiery red light as if it housed an inferno within. Marina’s face went pale as she whispered.

Marina: W-Wait...I’ve seen him before...

Darren: You know who that is?

Marina: Sindweller....the Agent of Chaos.

Darren: Damn, with a name like that, he’s got to be one of the more.....colorful demons.

Marina: You have no idea. He was part of a group of demons that killed my husband.

Blue: W-What?

Marina’s eyes were filled with both sorrow and rage as she nodded.

Marina: He and two others.....they were responsible for your Father’s death.

Blue’s fists clenched, and without another word, he jumped down from the platform they were standing on, landing a few feet away from Sindweller.

Sindweller: Huh? What is a brat doing here? Why do I sense demonic blood inside of you?

Blue doesn't speak, and instead he summons his pocket dimension portal and reaches in, he takes out a sword sheathe and unsheathes his Father’s legendary katana, Sutakira.

The blade’s blue glow shone brightly in the snowy wasteland, its aura filled with the weight of history and legacy. Sindweller let out a low, gravelly laugh, his molten eyes locking onto Blue.

Sindweller: Now I see who you are, Lupercio’s brat!

Blue’s grip on the katana tightened, his eyes burning with a mixture of rage and determination.

Blue: I never knew my Father. He died when I was barely a newborn...and now I’m hearing that you killed him.

Sindweller’s lips twisted into a cruel smile, lava dripping from his fanged mouth.

Sindweller: Not directly, no. There was another.

Blue: Then who did it? Who killed him?!

The demon laughed, a deep, sinister sound that echoed across the frozen landscape.

Sindweller: I’m not saying~

Blue: Then I’ll make you talk!

Blue’s eyes flared with anger, they turn purple while blue flames surged around him.

Sindweller: Oh, I’ve been looking forward to this!

Sindweller's multiple arms raise the demonic blades in their grip, each one dripping with dark energy. Without hesitation, Blue charged at Sindweller, his katana glowing as he slashed at the demon with lightning speed.

Sindweller deflected the strikes with his blades, the clash of their weapons sending sparks flying in every direction. The fight had begun, and Blue could feel the intensity of the battle growing with each strike.

Sindweller was powerful, no doubt, but Blue was determined. This demon had a connection to his Father’s death, and he wasn’t going to stop until he got the answers he needed.

Marina watched from the platform, her heart in her throat as she saw her son take on the demon. Darren stood beside her, his arms crossed.

Darren: He’s got this, Marina

Marina nodded, but her eyes never left Blue. She was ready to jump in if necessary, but for now, she trusted her son. This was his fight, and she knew he wouldn’t back down.

As the battle raged on, Blue's movements became faster. Sindweller might have been a demon of chaos, but Blue had something far more powerful driving him, his will to honor his Father’s memory, and the strength he had cultivated over the years.

With a roar, Blue unleashed a massive wave of blue flames, forcing Sindweller back. The demon growled, but there was a glint of something in his eyes...respect, or perhaps amusement.

Sindweller: You’ve got fire in you, boy. But let’s see how long you can keep it up.

Blue: I’m just getting started, believe me!

Blue knocked Sindweller back across the snow, and then over the edge where a large gap was. Sindweller had blocked the attack, but Blue wasn't done and jumped up before kicking Sindweller down the large chasm.

The kick was also blocked, but Blue didn't care because it meant he was close to inflicting damage. The two land on their feet, standing on a reinforced section of the military base, the metallic ground beneath them ringing out with every step they took.

As the fight with Sindweller raged on, Blue could feel the intensity of the battle increasing. Every strike from the demon felt like a thunderclap, and though Blue was holding his own, he knew he needed more speed, more freedom of movement.

Without hesitation, Blue shed the heavy coat provided to him for the cold.

Underneath, he wore his signature brown trench coat, previously belonging to his Father. Its familiar weight resting comfortably on his shoulders.

Sindweller could also recognise it, and it made him excited in a crazed way. The air was freezing around Blue, but the heat of his blue flames kept him warm.

With his coat fluttering in the cold wind, Blue could move much more freely now.

Sindweller, with his multiple arms and demonic blades, was like a whirlwind of chaos. His movements were unpredictable, his strikes wild yet precise, reminiscent of a Dark Souls boss in how relentless and merciless he was.

Blue’s heart pounded in his chest as he quickly dodged a series of slashes, the blades barely missing him. Blue had come a long way since his first battles at Nevermore.

Back then, he had to save his blue flames for desperate situations. They were his trump card, a wild, untamable force that he could barely control.

But now, after months of training with Lady Lilith and Dracula, Blue had learned how to channel his flames more effectively.

He still couldn't access the full capacity of his power, but 25% of his blue flames was already an impressive feat, giving him incredible speed and strength.

But Sindweller was a demon, and this fight was unlike anything Blue had faced before. The gap between them was clear. Sindweller’s chaotic attacks were fast, relentless, and dangerous.

The demon was clearly toying with Blue, pushing him to his limits, waiting for him to falter. Blue deflected an overhead strike from one of Sindweller’s blades, but the force of it sent him skidding back on the metallic ground.

Sparks flew as his boots scraped against the surface, his katana still glowing with blue energy.

Sindweller: Is that all you’ve got, Lupercio’s brat? You’re fast, I’ll give you that. But speed alone won’t save you.

Blue grit his teeth, focusing on his opponent’s movements. Sindweller’s attacks were wild, yes, but there was a rhythm to them, a pattern that Blue could just barely detect.

It reminded him of the grueling hours he had spent training in combat, learning to read his enemies and anticipate their moves. He had to rely on that now more than ever.

The demon lunged at him again, all four of its blades coming down in a flurry of strikes.

Blue ducked, weaving in and out of the attacks with lightning-fast reflexes. His blue flames flared as he slashed upward, his katana clashing against one of Sindweller’s swords with a metallic screech.

But Sindweller was no ordinary opponent. His other arms moved simultaneously, and one of his blades came crashing down toward Blue’s side.

Blue barely had time to react, bringing up his katana just in time to block the strike, but the force of it sent a shockwave through his body.

Blue: Damn it.....he’s good

Blue backs up, while Sindweller’s grin widened, sensing Blue’s growing frustration.

Sindweller: You’re too slow, boy, your flames may be strong, but you’re not using them to their full potential. You’re holding back.

Blue’s eyes narrowed. He knew Sindweller was right. He was still only using 25% of his blue flames, and even that was taxing on his body. If he pushed himself any further, he risked losing control.

But if he didn’t...Sindweller would overwhelm him. Blue took a deep breath, centering himself. He needed to find a balance. He couldn’t go all out just yet, but he had to push harder.

Raising his katana, he channeled more of his blue flames into the blade, the fire intensifying around him.

Blue: Alright, let's see what I can do.

With renewed determination, Blue charged at Sindweller again, his movements faster and more aggressive. His katana glowed with a fierce blue light as he swung it toward the demon’s midsection.

Sindweller blocked the strike with one of his blades, but Blue quickly followed up with a barrage of slashes, his flames leaving streaks of blue in the air.

Sindweller growled in annoyance, clearly not expecting Blue to fight back with such ferocity. The demon swung wildly, but this time, Blue was ready.

He ducked under one of the demon’s blades and spun, landing a solid kick to Sindweller’s side. The force of the impact sent the demon stumbling back, if only slightly.

Sindweller: Not bad, boy. But you’re still not ready for the real fight.

Blue wiped the sweat from his brow, his blue flames flickering around him like a protective aura. He could feel the strain on his body, but he wasn’t backing down.

Not now. Not after hearing what this demon had done to his Father.

Blue: I don’t care if I’m not ready. I’m going to make you pay for what you did to my Father!

Sindweller: Big words for a brat who hasn’t even seen the full extent of my power!

With a roar, the demon’s body erupted in flames, the ground beneath him shaking as the heat intensified. The temperature in the air spiked as Sindweller’s lava-like energy surged around him, creating an inferno of chaos.

Blue could feel the heat washing over him, but he stood his ground, his blue flames flaring in response. He wasn’t going to let this demon win. Not today.

Blue: Bring it, I’m not afraid of some goblin!

Sindweller: I will enjoy gutting you for that!

Blue gritted his teeth as the heat of the battle intensified. His blue flames flared brighter around him, now reaching 35% of his full power.

The aura of blue fire that surrounded him crackled with energy, wrapping around his body and coating the Sutakira in a glowing, ethereal blaze.

But he knew his limits, he couldn’t push past 40%, or he’d risk losing control. If he went too far, he would transcend into the “Losing Control Zone,” where his power would consume him, turning him into an animalistic, mindless demon.

And that would be game over.

Sindweller stood before him, his demonic form radiating heat and chaos. The demon’s blackened skin pulsed with molten energy, his multiple arms swinging the red demonic blades with wild abandon.

Each strike from Sindweller was like an earthquake, the sheer force behind his attacks shaking the ground beneath them.

Sindweller: Is this all the son of Lupercio has?! I'll hang you by your intestines if you don't entertain me, boy!

Blue: Back in London, we say, 'Shut up, bruv! I'll spark you out!'

With that, Blue lunged forward, his blue flames surging around him like a storm. He swung the Sutakira in a wide arc, the blade glowing with intense azure fire as it clashed with one of Sindweller’s demonic swords.

Sparks flew, the sound of metal grinding against metal echoing through the battlefield. The clash sent shockwaves rippling through the air, and for a moment, it seemed as though the world had stopped.

Blue held his ground, his muscles straining as he pushed back against the overwhelming strength of Sindweller. The demon grinned wickedly, clearly enjoying the battle.

But Blue wasn’t done yet.

He twisted his body, using the momentum from the clash to spin out of Sindweller’s range. With a swift, precise movement, he swung his blade downward, aiming for the demon’s exposed side.

Sindweller reacted just in time, bringing one of his swords up to block, but Blue’s blade grazed him, sending a spray of lava-like blood into the air.

Sindweller growled in annoyance, but Blue didn’t give him time to recover. He pressed the attack, his blue flames intensifying as he darted in and out of the demon’s reach, delivering a series of quick, calculated strikes.

The ground beneath them sizzled from the heat of their battle, the metallic floor of the base groaning under the strain. Up on the platform, Marina and Darren watched with a mix of awe and concern.

Marina’s heart pounded in her chest as she watched her Son hold his own against a powerful demon. She was proud, so proud of how far Blue had come, of the strength and control he had gained.

But there was still a knot of worry in her stomach. She knew that Blue was walking a fine line. If he pushed himself too far, if he let his flames consume him.....everything will stir.

Marina bit her lip, her eyes never leaving the fight.

Marina: He’s strong, but I don’t want him to lose himself.

Darren: He’s doing well, Marina. But we’ll intervene if things get too heated, he’s your Son, after all. And he’s Lupercio’s kid. He’s got that fighting spirit in him.

Back on the battlefield, Sindweller let out a guttural laugh, clearly enjoying the battle despite the small injuries Blue had inflicted on him.

Sindweller: You’ve got fire, boy. But is that really all you’ve got?!

Sindweller swings one of his massive blades toward Blue’s head. Blue ducked, the sword whistling just inches above him. He rolled to the side, coming up with his katana ready.

His blue flames were burning hotter now, the aura around him growing fiercer by the second. He could feel the power surging within him, pushing him closer to that dangerous edge.

Sindweller’s attacks were relentless, each strike more brutal than the last. Blue was still the underdog in this fight, there was no doubt about that. The gap in power between them was clear, but Blue was surviving.

He was holding his own, dodging, blocking, and counterattacking whenever he could.

But it wasn’t easy.

Every time he deflected a blow or landed a strike, he could feel the strain on his body. His muscles were screaming, and his flames were draining his energy.

But he couldn’t stop. He wouldn’t stop. Not until he made this demon pay for what he had done to his father.

Blue: You...killed my Father, and you’re not walking away from this.

Sindweller: Your Father? Oh, right. Lupercio. He was a strong one, I’ll give him that. But you? You’re just a shadow of him.

Blue’s grip tightened on the hilt of his katana, his blue flames flaring even brighter.

Blue: Shut up, I’m not my Father. But I’ll make sure you remember my name!

With a burst of speed, Blue launched himself at Sindweller once more, his katana glowing with blue energy as he swung it toward the demon’s chest.

Sindweller blocked the strike with two of his long daggers, but the force of Blue’s attack sent a shockwave rippling through the air. Blue was still the underdog, he was still fighting against overwhelming odds.

But he was surviving...and for now, that was enough. He had to push harder. He had to stay in control. Because if he didn’t....he might lose his life.