Valorverse: Conqueror Arc

[True Grave]

One Year Later

Omega had recovered from the defeat at the hands of Firestar. His power had built back up significantly and was growing even now. It had been so difficult to wait. Every day that passed only increased his desire to smother the world of light. His patience was rewarded exactly one year after Rise's defeat. An unexpected new pawn had just appeared on the board.

---

Jukei was a member of VAWS, just as Valor was. Unlike his best friend, however, he had not been Soul Bonded to anyone yet. He was one of the many reserves that were kept in case Crusader ever fell. So far, that had not happened yet and Jukei was getting tired of waiting. He had originally wanted to fight alongside Valor, but his jealousy had warped his feelings. He now hated Valor and wanted to prove that he was better than him.

Unfortunately, he wasn't going to be doing that anytime soon. Kept in metallic storage boxes, the reserves had nothing to do but think. He had once been communicative with the other reserves, but he had stopped speaking to them long ago. All they ever talked about was how great Valor was. Jukei wanted his time to shine. He wanted it so badly that he could taste it.

---

Omega could not have been more ecstatic. The main weapon of the heroes of the light could now be used against them. The Old God briefly lamented that he could not use an Aspect to spring Jukei and use him himself. He would have to use another pawn that could move freely in the world of the light. Dulzak did not deserve a second chance and Blood Wolf was on ice. However, there was another perfect pawn among the Grymwar that he could use.

---

After Dulzak's defeat, Omega had stripped them of the Blood Magic that they had so venerated. Without that power, the High Priests were merely sharply dressed mortals. There was a revolution and the High Priests were overthrown and imprisoned. A new Chieftain, Vizharr, had taken the throne and was plotting the conquering of several planets. With only brute force, however, they would only get so far. Omega would unite Vizharr and Jukei in a Soul Bond that would give rise to Conqueror, his ultimate champion that would be capable of becoming a Destroyer, just like Crusader.

 

[True Grave]

Omega reached out with tendrils of thought that began oozing their way into Vizharr's mind.

Vizharr, I want to offer you power.

I know who you are, Omega. The old fossil talked about you all the time. You hung him out to dry. Get lost.

Oh, don't be so quick to dismiss your one chance to have everything you've ever wanted.

Like Dulzak got to have everything he ever wanted? You gave him power and then took it away. I want nothing from you.

Not even godlike power? Not even a Soul Bonding?

Vizharr perked up.

A Soul Bonding? You expect me to believe that those Kashans would give power to a Grym?

They won't give it. You will take it by force.

The Chieftain was silent.

Getting interested now, huh?

I take it that you will perform the Soul Bonding?

Indeed.

What's the catch?

That you destroy the heroes of Earth.

The same guys Dulzak couldn't beat?

You will be far more powerful than Dulzak ever was. You can become a Destroyer.

A god of destruction? Me?

Yes, you. Simply fuse with Jukei and I will transform you into one.

Vizharr grinned.

Maybe we can do business after all, Omega. An empire will be a cinch to build with godlike power.

Yes, it will. Now go to Kash-Volt and secure Jukei.

The Chieftain stood up and confidently strode out of his palace in the direction of the battleships.

 

[True Grave]

Queen Enjela was meeting with her Cabinet to discuss affairs of state. The meeting consisted of planetary protection strategies, trade news, and zoning talks. The department heads had their projections on digital display monitors and everything looked healthy. The Kashans were doing well in both urban development and natural beautification. Domestic affairs were the main concerns, chiefly on the issue of travel across the country. They were chiefly invested in public transportation and were trying to figure out how to best use it on a global scale.

The meeting was suddenly interrupted by alarms blaring. A ship had breached the airspace of Kash-Volt without authorization. The military was already scrambling and Queen Enjela marched to the War Room in her palace. The monitors displayed monstrous airships opening fire on the city. They were instantly identified as Grymwar vessels. There was no time to waste.

"Put the ships in the air! Have the gunners open fire from the ground! Have the auxiliary evacuate the citizenry to the bunkers!"

The Kashans fought back but the huge ships seemed indifferent to them. Those massive black ships headed for the palace.

"Raise the shields!" Queen Enjela ordered.

Green shields were projected from shield generators placed strategically around the palace. It formed a green dome around the entire complex. The objective now was to hold out while the Kashan air force and anti-aircraft weaponry fought the invaders. Unfortunately, Vizharr had come prepared. The ships began ascending until they were within the stratosphere. After that, they dropped a single massive EMP bomb.

Once it detonated, all electrical systems shorted out. Even back-up generators failed. Kasha was a modern city and so was completely crippled by it. With no means of resistance short of VAWS, they were well and truly defeated. Vizharr descended from his ship and walked alone into the palace. Queen Enjela came to meet him.

Despite the fact that Vizharr dwarfed her, the Queen set her jaw and was defiant in candor.

"Where are the souls?"

"Find them yourself."

"You will take me to them or I will start executing your people. I will make you watch them die."

With no choice, Enjela led him to the storage room.

Vizharr entered and found Jukei's box. After picking it up, he strolled out.

"How disciplined of you to only take one," Queen Enjela said sarcastically.

Vizharr grinned at her maliciously. It was the most horrible grin that Enjela had ever seen.

"One is all I need," he stated with satisfaction.

 

[True Grave]

Once Vizharr and his ships left, Queen Enjela telepathically reached out to Firestar.

The Grymwar stole one of the VAWS souls. It was Valor's best friend, Jukei.

Understood. I'll get the team right on it.

We have to get Jukei back as soon as possible!

---

Onboard the flagship, Vizharr went into his quarters. Opening the box, he was amazed to see a white soul shining brightly within.

"You will be the ticket to my empire," Vizharr gloated.

The soul ascended, pulled upward by Omega's power.

Let me begin the Soul Bonding by energizing this Voltari Soul.

Hey, you don't need to do that to me, buddy!

I'm not your buddy. I'm going to imbue you with the power of a god. Once you have my full power, I will Soul Bond you to Vizharr.

Omega began pumping his dark power into Jukei. It was not a painless process. The telepathic screaming was horrific.

---

Firestar's team was shooting into space from Earth aboard The Firestar. Existence heard the screaming and cringed.

"We must hurry! Jukei is in pain."

No one was more worried for Jukei than Valor. This was an absolute nightmare.

---

Once Omega had poured all of his power into Jukei, he shoved it into Vizharr's body. The Soul Bond was not done gently, like normal, and the pain was agonizing for the Grymwar Chieftain. Every cell in his body was an inferno of pain. He writhed and screamed like a dying animal. The divine power was not meant to be absorbed this quickly. If Vizharr was not a Grymwar with a flawless constitution, he would be dead.

---

When the white hot pain ended, Vizharr was unconscious. Within his consciousness, he met Jukei.

So, you are the Voltari Soul Jukei?

Yes, and you must be the Grymwar Chieftain Vizharr. I once hated your kind, but now we are perfectly suited as partners.

Why?

Simple. We both hate the same people.

The enemy of my enemy is my friend, huh?

That's about the size of it.

Vizharr nodded in satisfaction. With Destroyer power, they could both defeat Crusader and build a thriving Grym Empire.

---

Vizharr woke up and shakily got to his feet. After almost falling down, he steadied himself by putting his hand on the wall. Omega began speaking to him.

Activate Jukei's power to put on his armor. Don't unleash all of his power yet.

Why?

You're going to destroy Firestar's ship.

Vizharr nodded and clenched his fists. With focus, he willed the power to come forth. He was clad in white and silver armor. Looking at his hands, Vizharr grinned.

"Holy shit! It really worked."

It's too soon to be impressed, fool. You can now fly and breathe in space. Get out there and unleash hell, Conqueror!

Vizharr exited the ship through an airlock and hovered in the vacuum of space.

What should our first technique be called?

Vizharr curled his arm, clenched his fist, and grinned.

---

The Firestar was getting close to Kash-Volt. On the bridge, Crusader saw Conqueror hovering in space.

"Dammit! We were too late!"

They knew that Conqueror would attack them, so Existence put up a shield. If it held, Crusader would launch the counterattack.

---

Conqueror flared up with a black aura. Omega's power had superceded their spiritual energy and so had determined the color. Its menacing appearance fully displayed the intense power that formed in his arm. Just powering up alone was unleashing shockwaves that buffeted The Firestar. Once it was at its zenith, Conqueror grinned maliciously behind his helmet.

Destruction!

A circular black shockwave radiated out from his fist. It struck the shield of Existence and erased it. The man himself was knocked to the ground. Crusader and Lithuel exited the ship through an airlock and shot toward Conqueror like bullets. While they did that, The Firestar descended toward Kasha City. Those who could not breathe in space could best help on the ground.

 

[True Grave]

Crusader and Lithuel closed in on Conqueror. A flurry of blows followed from both sides but Conqueror was able to block all attacks with one arm each. Lithuel did not bother using his sword and threw both hands and barbs aplenty.

"Catch hands, you discount bitch!"

That got him a punch in the mouth that he ate with a smile. Conqueror's eyes widened as he realized the trap that he had just fallen into.

Crusader lit up the whole exposed side of his body with Million Punches of Valor. The last punch went right across his jaw and probably would have knocked him out if he wasn't armored. Worse still, Crusader and Lithuel immediately followed up with simultaneous punches to the face with powered up fists. Conqueror went shooting back and his opponents split off to circle around for a pincer maneuver. The Destruction technique saved him from that by blowing both of them away. Once they had recovered, Conqueror still had the same problems.

Although he was just as powerful, Conqueror did not have the skill or fighting experience of his opponents. He had always gotten by on brute force and that simply wasn't going to work here. His armor was holding up, but it was unlikely that he could take another beating like that. Getting into a stance, he kept his eyes on his opponents.

This doesn't look good, Jukei.

Well, what did you expect?!

Conqueror's eyes widened as Lithuel summoned his sword before making it glow with holy energy. Crusader morphed his right arm into the Destroyer Fist and summoned the Sword of Valor.

Oh, holy shit. We are so fucking screwed, Jukei.

Omega's voice boomed into his mind.

Unleash the power!!!

Conqueror did as ordered and let loose the reins on Omega's power. His Soul Energy soared and he achieved the Destroyer form. His armor changed in color to platinum and blue. While he was still admiring himself, he disappeared. The Divine Edicts had automatically removed him from the mortal plane. It was a truly clever escape plan.

Crusader looked grim.

"A god of destruction was just born. This isn't going to be good."

"Can't you become a god of destruction, too?" Lithuel asked.

Crusader nodded in response.

"I only hope that I can do so before it's too late."

 

[True Grave]

Conqueror looked around and saw new surroundings. The planet he was on was covered in green foliage. The marks of civilization were few but comfortable. It was the most beautiful vision that the Grymwar Chieftain had ever seen.

"What is this place?"

It's sure not Kash-Volt.

Looking up, he saw an indistinct black humanoid shape descending from the sky. It landed and grinned at him.

"Hello, Conqueror. Welcome to the Universe of Gods."

"Omega?"

"Yes, this is my Aspect."

"Aspect?"

"A physical form that represents my shapeless consciousness. I enjoy using a genderless human body the most."

"What is this place?"

"The Universe of the Gods. It is one plane of existence higher than the mortal plane."

"So it's true, then?" Conqueror asked.

Omega smiled suggestively and cocked his head, as if to say 'What's true?'

"I really became a god of destruction?"

"Of course. I told you that you would."

Conqueror was ecstatic, but then had a thought that put a damper on his excitement.

"Can I go back to the mortal plane?"

"Of course. You were born mortal, after all. All you have to do is power down, but don't do that yet."

"Why not?"

"I want you to see the Universe of Gods."

For hours, Omega showed Conqueror around. The planets of Heaven, Hell, and Firestar were just three of thousands of planets. Things existed that no mortal could even begin to comprehend. There was even a planet devoted entirely to warriors. It was to this planet that Omega took Conqueror at the end of the tour. It was on this planet that Conqueror would become a true god of destruction.

 

[True Grave]

Six months later

Crusader had been training with Firestar for six months within his palace. His focus, combat ability, speed, and reflexes had all improved even more. His Soul Energy had increased, but he was still nowhere near the god of destruction level. Conqueror had not left Combatia, so it was safe to assume that he had been training, as well. Sooner or later, Conqueror would begin building his empire. When he did, it was go time.

---

Existence had been training within an ashram in New Delhi. His focus and ability to center himself was improving. Originally started to rein in his telepathy, he now did it for inner peace and tranquility. For someone with his level of power, control in all forms was of vital importance. He had found himself unexpectedly tested, however. Siren had arrived and was making eyes at his handsome, youthful form!

---

Lithuel had been training in Hell. The brutal, blood-soaked combat was grisly and efficient. His sword and fists absolutely devastated his opponents. Control of his techniques and brutal nature was becoming easier. Mastery of his techniques would make him even stronger. With both steadily growing holy and unholy powers, Lithuel was no doubt getting close to being one of the strongest within Hell.

---

Spirit Rider had been training in the Wind Temple. His connection to his vessel was growing even stronger. His wind power was also increasing. It was becoming easier to become as one with the wind. The opening of portals was becoming easier, too. Best of all, his wind blades could now cut down to the cellular level.

---

Lone Wolf was continuing to hone his martial arts, as he did everyday. His technique was as flawless as ever, but repetition helped ensure that. The Wolf Clan continued to foster strong relationships with their allies within the United Clans. Lone Wolf had few detractors, especially since he had helped save the world. However, some questioned his commitment to the clans due to his membership within Firestar's team. Thankfully, neither his allies nor the women sharing his bed had any doubt about his resolve.

---

Shell Shock had been doing his training at Shadowgreen. The combat practice and exercises with most of the Shadow Force were exhausting but worth it. His energy blasts were working great against alumni and instructors. His Combat Sambo was even getting better. His unique fighting style was developing nicely. He was committed to improving himself everyday, having fully committed to the lifestyle of Team Firestar.

---

In between training with Scott, Firestar bankrolled the restoration of Kasha City's electrical system. Thanks to his money and the hard work of city engineers, they were able to get the city running like it was before Vizharr's invasion. Queen Enjela was worried about Jukei but Firestar told her that she was likely wasting her heart. He had become twisted by jealousy and no longer had any allegiance to Kash-Volt. Just like Omega and Vizharr, he would need to be stopped. The emotion that would stir in Valor was not about to make that fight any easier.

---

After half a year on Combatia, Conqueror was no longer reliant on brute force. He had learned multiple martial arts with names like 'Zazuken' and 'Gyxpao'. While some resembled human martial arts, others looked nothing like any of their styles. They were even distinctly different from the martial arts of Heaven and Hell. With his training complete, it was time for the Grymwar Chieftain to start building his empire. He was confident that no one was a match for him.

---

Conqueror powered down and returned to the mortal plane in his Voltari Armor. Using a technique he had learned on Combatia, he tore open a portal in space-time and went through it back to Grym. When he set foot on his home planet once again, the Chieftain felt at peace.

"Home sweet home," he said.

Exiting his throne room, he surprised some guards, who directed him to the war room. When he entered, his ministers greeted him as if he had never left.

"My liege, we have long awaited your return."

"Chief Minister Monzak, I want the entire fleet scrambled. We are going to occupy our entire star system today."

"But, my liege, that's a dozen planets. I'm not sure we can accomplish that in one day."

"I will be doing all of the fighting, Chief Minister."

The wizened Grymwar arched his eyebrows.

"You've become that strong, have you?"

"Stronger. The training on Combatia nearly killed me, but because of it, I now fear no one and nothing."

Chief Minister Monzak smiled with almost religious zeal.

"Then the glorious new age of the Grymwar is guaranteed!"

 

[True Grave]

Conqueror ripped opened a portal in space-time and traveled to the planet Fvala. It was an industrial planet roughly the same distance to Grym as Earth was to Mars. The Grymwar Chieftain grinned as he stood in one of its lush natural parks.

It's finally time to begin our conquest, Jukei.

I'm itching to get started.

Conqueror curled his arm and flared up with a black aura.

They focused incredible power into their Voltari Arm. They didn't even need a Destroyer Arm for this task. When enough Soul Energy had been focused, they both grinned.

Anti-Personnel Destruction!!!

A shockwave of energy erupted from them, spreading out over the entire planet. With ruthless efficiency, it destroyed the bodies of all living things it touched so that not even a shadow was left behind.

Its most heartbreaking characteristic was that being inside did nothing to save anyone. The technique only destroyed living beings. Passing harmlessly through walls, it killed everyone and everything on the entire planet. The Fvala Defense Force had no chance to even know that they were in danger. A genocide took place but left the planet entirely untouched and ready to be replaced by a Grymwar population. It was an evil, heartless act.

(This is Conqueror's theme.)

This barbaric strategy was repeated eleven more times across the Plutarch Star System. No one had even had a chance to fight back. The Grymwar military was occupying each planet, with one General each living inside the palace of each conquered planet. Conqueror had returned to Grym and sat on his throne. He would await the heroes of Earth there. His dearest hope was that Crusader would become a god of destruction, as well.

 

[True Grave]

The huge influx of mortal souls ascending to the godly plane did not escape the attention of Firestar. It was unusual to have so many come up at once. Linking to the Divine Records, the horrifying truth was revealed to him. Conqueror had both begun building his empire and committed genocide in the process of doing so. With this being the most dire of emergencies, Firestar called an emergency meeting at his home on Earth. They had to put a stop to this before even more lives were lost.

After the team was filled in, everyone needed some time to process the news. Although none of them had known anyone in the Plutarch Star System, it was still very grim news. Both innocent and righteous men, women, and children had died horrible deaths. That was always a tragedy, no matter if they were known or not. Crusader and Lithuel took the news particularly hard.

"If only I had been able to stop him six months ago," Crusader said, his eyes closed and tears silently rolling down his cheeks.

Although Lithuel was not a mortal being, it still infuriated him that so many had died so needlessly. He grit his teeth and his eyes burned with rage. Both of them knew what needed to be done. They only needed a few minutes to grieve and accept the consequences of their failure. Once they had done so, it was time to move forward. Conqueror and Omega would not get away with what they had done.

Firestar began projecting his thoughts through Existence.

The plan is that we will attack the Grymwar in six simultaneous solo raids. That will liberate half of the Plutarch System in one fell swoop.

"For an operation of this size, though, I think we should get some help," Crusader said.

Who did you have in mind?

"Rise."

Everyone else was surprised by Crusader's idea.

"The guy that probably hates us, you mean?" Spirit Rider asked.

"I don't believe he hates us at all. I think Rise will help if we explain the situation to him."

"The Divine Edicts forbid your idea," Existence said.

"But there is an appeals process," Crusader replied.

Crusader is right. I can meet with the Judges and petition for a temporary lifting of restrictions under the extenuating circumstances clause. If it's granted, we could do it for a set period of time.

"If the Judges grant the petition, only one of us should go to Rise's world," Lone Wolf said.

"Right," Existence replied, "I'll go."

"No, I will," Crusader said.

"But, Scott--" Existence began.

"Just hear me out, okay? I talked to Rise during the battle of last year. I think that the two of us could work something out. If he refuses and tries to fight me, I'll leave his world and we'll commence the counter-offensive without him."

Everyone thought that this seemed fair.

I'll speak to the Judges, then. The meeting is adjourned.

Despite this, no one moved to leave the room. The circumstances were unreal and everyone was in their own head about it. An entire star system was damn near dead due to the actions of two evil men. They could never allow that to happen again.

 

[True Grave]

Firestar appeared on the Law Planet Zenefo. Three Judges lived here that ruled on the Divine Edicts that governed the behavior of the gods. It had been quite a while since the Fire God had visited. After securing a hearing, he appealed for a brief exception to the ruling on Omega class mutants. The Judges deliberated and agreed to the appeal on the condition that Firestar bring about the punishment of Omega for violating this rule. The God of Fire accepted this deal and passed the news on to his team.

---

After processing what needed to be done, Crusader took a Fire Path from the conference room and into Rise's world. The surroundings were bleak. Barren desert seemed to stretch for as far as the eye could see. After willing his armor onto himself, he took to the sky. Destroyed buildings and dirt seemed to be the only things beyond the sand. It was desolate and hollow no matter where he looked.

He flew north for miles before he finally saw signs of civilization. There was a small oasis in the desert with water and people. When Crusader landed, he made sure to be within walking distance. He willed his armor away so that he would not frighten people. After walking into the oasis, he approached the first man he saw.

"Excuse me, sir?"

The man, who was dark skinned and wearing a turban, turned to him.

"Yes?"

"I'm looking for Rise. Have you seen him?"

The man beamed.

"You are a friend of Rise?"

"That's right," Crusader replied, feeling a little bad about the white lie.

"Then you'll want to go East to the capital. He's in the palace in Rise City."

"Thank you."

Crusader left town and armored up before shooting off toward the east. Rise must have been a big shot to have an entire city named after him.

After crossing several hundred miles, he flew over the stone walls and set down in shadows. Dropping his armor, he casually walked into the city square. Acting as if he belonged, Crusader headed toward the palace. There were no guards, but with Rise having such incredible power, he didn't need them. Crusader entered the palace and saw Rise sitting in a throne. Several people were petitioning him for help while the effective king of the city listened with patience and compassion.

Crusader waited until everyone else was done and had left. Rise turned to him and was suspicious after just one look at Scott.

"Who are you?"

Crusader armored up and Rise's eyes flashed.

"Crusader? Why are you here?"

"I come in peace, Rise. Actually, I want your help."

"My help?"

Crusader explained to Rise what Conqueror had done. When he was done, Rise had his eyes closed and tears silently ran down his cheeks.

"Those innocent souls deserved better."

He stood up.

"If I am to be gone, Shepherd must know. He can look after this world while I'm away."

Crusader and Rise left the city and went to a sheep farm a few miles to the west. There they found Shepherd, an old man dressed as such and wielding a crook. He smiled when he saw Rise.

"My son! So good to see you!"

They hugged and Rise introduced Crusader, who shook hands with Shepherd.

"It's nice to meet you. Would you two care to sit down?"

They both took a seat at the table inside Shepherd's house.

Rise explained the situation to Shepherd. When he was done, the kindly old man nodded.

"You can trust me to protect this world while you're gone. Now go, Rise. Go and prevent any more tragedy from occurring."

Crusader and Rise excused themselves and left the sheep farm.

"So, who is Shepherd?" Crusader asked.

"The man who raised me. He is a mutant, too, and powerful. He guides people toward peace."

Rise said no more and Crusader didn't push. They walked through a Fire Path into Firestar's team headquarters that closed behind them.

 

[True Grave]

With Rise now seated at the conference table, Firestar was ready to plan their offensive. He projected his thoughts through Existence.

"Step one of the plan is to send Rise to all of the depopulated planets. He can absorb the ghosts there and grow even stronger. Step two will be pairing him with Lone Wolf for his assault on one of the now occupied planets. Since he is the only one among us without powers, he will need the help against a full Grymwar military presence."

Lone Wolf could see the logic in this plan. He had defeated Grymwar soldiers before, but that was during an invasion of Earth where the enemy forces were divided. Attacking an occupying enemy force that was dug in would be a different matter.

"While Lone Wolf and Rise are attacking their planet, the rest of you will do solo raids on other planets. Once all Grymwar forces have been defeated, they will be imprisoned on Zenefo. That will leave Conqueror on Planet Grym itself."

"And if Conqueror escapes again?" Crusader asked.

"Both Rise and Existence can boost your power until you become a god of destruction. From there, you can fight and defeat both Conqueror and Omega."

It sounded like a simple plan, but all was easier said than done. The meeting was adjourned and Firestar opened a Fire Path for Rise. He walked through it and it closed behind him.

---

Rise went on a tour of the planets, stealthily collecting all of the ghosts. Filled with more souls than he ever could have imagined, Rise was the most powerful mortal being in Crusader's dimension. He might have been the most powerful mortal in existence. After returning to team headquarters, he collected Lone Wolf and they walked through another Fire Path to the Planet Anais. Placing his hand on Lone Wolf's shoulder, he granted him a temporary small fraction of his power. With that small fraction, though, Lone Wolf would be as strong and durable as Crusader.

Lone Wolf and Rise walked confidently toward the Grymwar-occupied capital.

"Everyone who works with Firestar abides by the rules. We don't kill on a mortal plane."

Rise nervously looked at his hands, which were deadlier than guns.

"I'll do my best. With this kind of strength, killing is easier than you could imagine."

---

(This is Lone Wolf's theme.This is Rise's theme.)

The Grymwar occupiers began firing laser machine guns at them. Thanks to Rise's ghosts, these weapons were ineffective. Lone Wolf split off and began taking down Grymwar soldiers with his flowing Japanese Karate kicks. His head kicks in particular were devastating. Thanks to the ghosts, Lone Wolf was able to attack without being interrupted. Though he did not fight to kill, the display was still terrifying in its smooth precision and thunderous power.

Rise, on the other hand, was not so terrifying in his attack. A simple tap to the forehead from his index finger was enough to render any Grymwar soldier unconscious. They fell at his feet one by one. Thanks to the Fire Paths, they were able to travel all over the planet and literally knock out the Grymwar army. General Kaluk surrendered without a fight. Though a bittersweet victory, Anais was free.

 

[True Grave]

(This is Crusader's theme.)


On Planet Narcra, Crusader had landed and immediately sought out the Grymwar base. Flying at full speed, it wasn't long before he found the besieged former capital city. After landing in the center, he tripped all sorts of alarms and provoked a hostile response. Crusader's fists and feet glowed with Soul Energy, amplifying his already powerful striking tools. In his righteous anger, he was not inclined to be merciful. The ground was littered with teeth and blood as he smashed hundreds of Grymwar jaws with brutal Muay Thai kicks and knee strikes.

Once the main resistance had been crushed, Crusader was free to make his way into the palace. Knocking out guards as he went, he stormed into the throne room and found a Grymwar General sitting in the throne. This particular General, Nulza, grinned in bloodthirsty eagerness.

"Ah, Crusader. I was hoping that it would be you who came."

Despite his anger, curiosity got the better of him.

"Why is that?"

"I was there when Dulzak invaded Earth. I was only a Sergeant back then. You knocked me out, and ever since then, I have wanted the chance to pay you back."

"So you were one of Dulzak's guys, but you threw in with Vizharr?"

"I always back the winning side."

Crusader was disgusted by the opportunist in front of him.

"Not this time."

Nulza stood up and his hands glowed with Blood Magic. They each took a fighting stance and slowly closed the distance between them. Crusader's hands glowed with Soul Energy and he watched Nulza carefully. With such a dangerous weapon as Blood Magic, he could not be underestimated.

Nulza struck first, and that was his mistake. Crusader ducked under his roundhouse punch and countered with his own to the jaw that staggered the Grymwar. With that opening, he began nailing him with Million Punches of Valor. Nulza was completely helpless to do anything about the savage beating that he was taking. On the final millionth punch, Crusader punched him directly in the nose with great force. Nulza flew back into the throne and knocked it over.

Crusader checked on him and saw that he was unconscious.

"I hope I never see the likes of you again."

He stepped away from the unconscious Grymwar.

"Planet Narcra is clear," he reported to Firestar.

Looking around, Crusader felt saddened that an entire race had been extinguished. It only further fueled his desire to defeat both Conqueror and Omega.

 

[True Grave]

(This is Existence's theme.)

Existence appeared on the planet Trotus in the middle of a desert. Closing his eyes, he focused his reality bending powers. Finding the minds of every single Grymwar on the planet, he instantly put them to sleep.

"Planet Trotus is secure. Returning to base."

He opened a portal back to Firestar's mansion on Earth and stepped through before the portal closed behind him.

---

(This is Spirit Rider's theme.)

Spirit Rider appeared on planet Cryon, riding his motorcycle over its great grassy plains. There wasn't much in the way of industry here, most of the planet being covered in natural unspoiled vegetation. With not too much in the way of shelter, it wasn't hard to find the Grymwar. Spirit Rider slammed into them with his motorcycle, enhancing the front of his motorcycle with wind power in order to increase the force of the hit. With the mobility of his motorcycle, he didn't have a problem running over every Grymwar and rendering them unconscious. General Mulak saw the motorcycle coming and blocked the hit with his arms, leaving him conscious but throwing him to the ground.

Having not forgotten the genocide of Cryon's inhabitants, Spirit Rider decided to render Mulak unconscious in the meanest way that he could. Extending his right arm with the palm open, he sucked all of the oxygen out of the air. Mulak grabbed at his throat and collapsed, unable to breathe. Once he had passed out, Spirit Rider returned oxygen to the air and filled Mulak and the rest of the Grymwar with it so that they would survive.

"Planet Cryon is clear."

Spirit Rider opened a portal back to Firestar's house, rode through it, and it closed behind him.

---

(This is Lithuel's theme.)

Lithuel arrived on planet Mutu, a mountainous planet with not much in the way of lowlands. Thanks to his wings, this was no problem for the nephilim. Summoning his sword, he flew at high speed to track the Grymwar. The occupiers of this planet were very much not suited to the mountains since planet Grym was all flat desert. Thus, Lithuel was easily able to knock out scattered and non-entrenched enemies using the flat of his sword. Even the general didn't stand a chance against his speed.

The nephilim landed on a mountain top and sighed in disappointment.

"Well, that was boring as fuck. I guess that's the drawback to being so strong."

He looked to the sky.

"Planet Mutu is clear."

He opened a portal back to Firestar's house on Earth, flew through, and it closed behind him.

 

[True Grave]

(This is Shell Shock's theme.)

Planet Jial was largely urban with a well-developed road system similar to Earth. This was a necessity for Shell Shock's Ferrari. Racing through a Fire Path, he hit the road at top speed and weaved around stopped vehicles. The Grymwar were ahead, so Shell Shock would have to use a custom feature of his car. After tapping a button at the bottom of his steering wheel, the radio control panel flipped around to reveal a hand print scanner. After placing his palm against it, the scanner slid up to reveal an opening for him to put his arm into.

Shell Shock put his arm in there and the sensors detected it. A virtual targeting computer appeared in front of his steering wheel. After making sure that his energy blasts would be concussive, he fired small blast bolts at the heads of Grymwar using the targeting computer. They collapsed into unconsciousness and Shell Shock drove right past them. When Grymwar appeared to the side, he formed a finger gun and fired energy blasts in his own version of a drive-by. Thanks to his excellent driving skills and aim, he was putting them down fairly quickly.

However, things soon got more complicated. The Grymwar began chasing him on land speeders that were faster and more maneuverable than his Ferrari. With no choice, Shell Shock turned on cruise control and fired finger gun blasts at them. The land speeder Grymwar dodged them, forcing him to fire energy blast beams that forcibly dismounted them onto the pavement. They would be hurting, but they would live. Shell Shock turned back to the road and turned off cruise control before skillfully taking a tight curve.

Several more Grymwar got taken down by his drive-by shootings. There was a further complication when automatic gun turrets began opening fire on him. With expert control of his car, Shell Shock avoided their fire and destroyed them all with blast beams from his palm. Thankfully, the Grymwar had only had time to set up a few turrets. Using his Ferrari, Shell Shock tracked down and knocked out all of the Grymwar soldiers on the planet. That just left the General.

---

General Catulz was unusual for a Grymwar. Most of his kind preferred hands-on barbaric combat, but he was an exception. Cursed with a squeamish disposition, he couldn't stand the sight of blood. Though this made him a laughingstock among the rank and file, it also served as motivation for him to get involved in the technological side of the Grymwar military. He had designed the EMP that took out Kasha City's defenses and allowed Commander Vizharr to take Jukei. Vizharr had been so overjoyed that Catulz got a battlefield promotion to General.

The newly-minted General had designed and built the most advanced tank in the Grymwar army. It not only boasted impressive armor and shield capabilities, but it could both run on land and hover. The fuel efficiency allowed it to travel over one hundred miles farther than a standard tank on one fuel source of fully charged electricity. It was equipped with both long and short range weaponry that was able to attack from 360 degrees. Thanks to cameras mounted all around the tank, Catulz had no blind spots. With the guns moving along with his line of sight, that meant that he could lock on to and destroy anything that he could see.

---

Shell Shock sighted the black tank emblazoned with the crimson Grymwar insignia and knew that this would be a problem. It was fortuitous that he saw it, as General Catulz fired a homing missile at him. Shell Shock veered around it and destroyed it with a finger blast when he saw that it was following in his rearview mirror. He was forced to turn off when the tank opened up with multiple powerful laser machine guns capable of reducing his Ferrari to rubble. The Grymwar General did not bother to give chase, knowing that his tank could never keep up with the faster car. If he stayed put, Shell Shock would have to come back to him.

Knowing that he couldn't risk taking that tank head-on, Shell Shock was forced to park his car and get out. Using his Soul Energy, he flew to the top of a tall building and got eyes on the tank. Unfortunately, General Catulz sighted him, as well, and fired a barrage of homing missiles. Shell Shock put up an energy barrier that blocked the missiles before using the cover of the smoke to descend back to the ground. He saw that the tank did not fire on him once he was out of its line of sight. Having deduced its weakness, Shell Shock grinned and took hold of his right wrist with his left hand to begin charging up an energy blast.

Having no idea how tough that tank was, he charged up a blast with maximum destructive power. Having a general idea where the tank was, he made sure the blast beam would be wide enough that he wouldn't miss. The silver lining of the tragic depopulation of this planet meant that there would be no innocents to watch out for. When he was ready, Shell Shock fired the blast, which penetrated through buildings in a straight line. General Catulz had just enough time to eject from his tank before the blast hit. His precious tank, his pride and joy, was disintegrated as if it had never been.

---

As Catulz parachuted down from the ejection, he was numb from shock. Shell Shock had driven around to where the tank had previously been and saw his quarry floating gently to the ground. Remembering the genocide of this planet, his eyes flashed with anger.

"Get fucked, creep."

Using his targeting computer, he shot the parachute cords with precise finger blasts. General Catulz screamed as he fell from a pretty good height before he starfished facedown onto the pavement.

Shell Shock drove up to the Grymwar General and checked on him. His thick skin, bones, and muscles had prevented the fall from being fatal, though he was definitely out cold.

"Planet Jial is clear," he reported to Firestar.

Shell Shock spit on Catulz before walking back to his Ferrari. He turned around and gunned it toward a Fire Path that opened at the end of the street. He passed through it and it closed behind him, taking him to the road in front of Firestar's house on Earth.

 

[True Grave]

Firestar's Team as well as Rise had gathered at their headquarters. Existence projected Firestar's voice to everyone present.

"Half of the planets in the Plutarch System have been liberated. We will now enter phase two."

Crusader clenched his fists. He knew that he would soon be fighting Conqueror.

"Crusader, you'll be heading directly to Planet Grym to challenge Conqueror. The rest of you will liberate the remaining five planets of the Plutarch System. If Conqueror has not escaped to the Universe of Gods, fight him until he does so. From there, you can channel power into Crusader until he also becomes a Destroyer."

"When I do, I will personally settle things with Conqueror," Crusader said.

Firestar opened a Fire Path to Planet Grym and Crusader stepped through before it closed behind him.

 

[True Grave]

Crusader exited the Fire Path in the throne room of Conqueror. The Grymwar Chieftain grinned behind his armor and stood up.

"I'm glad to see you, Crusader. I've been waiting for this chance to have a rematch."

While Scott and Vizharr stared each other down, Valor telepathically reached out to Jukei.

How could you, Jukei?

How could I what, Valor?

How could you join forces with the enemy? How could you murder all of those living beings? I thought you wanted to be a hero?

I did! I wanted to be a hero so badly that I could taste it!

Then why?! Why would you betray everything VAWS stood for?

Because I was tired of living in a box! I was tired of hearing about how great you were! We were supposed to be partners, but you left me behind!

Jukei, that isn't--

Yes, it is! You got all wrapped up with being part of Firestar's Team and forgot all about me! You never came back to check on me or scouted a human for me to Soul Bond to like you promised! I was relegated to being your replacement if you died. So, yeah, when the opportunity came to escape that box, you bet I took it. I didn't care what I had to do if it meant that I could get my revenge on you.

Valor needed a moment to compose himself. It was very hard dealing with his best friend becoming his worst enemy.

You're right, Jukei. I didn't keep my promise to you and I was wrong for that. But that doesn't justify betraying our homeworld or committing genocide. I'm going to make sure that you don't hurt anyone else ever again.

Vizharr sneered.

"Your boyfriend's not with you today, punk. It's just you and me."

Scott ignored the taunt and took his Muay Thai stance.

"Come and get it," he said to the mass murderer in front of him.

Conqueror cracked his neck on both sides and banged his fists together.

Crusader watched as Conqueror took a martial arts stance that he had never seen before. His legs were planted similarly to a Karate stance, but his hands were in the position of holding a ball in front of his solar plexus. Since he didn't know what martial art Conqueror was using, it was impossible to predict his moves. Crusader carefully inched forward, on guard for any sudden attack. Conqueror faked an attack as if trying to make him flinch and Crusader jumped back. The former chuckled derisively.

"What's wrong, Crusader? Scared to back up that tough talk?"

Crusader ignored him, knowing that he was being goaded. Conqueror was likely using a martial art that he had learned on Combatia. Firestar had told him that many great warriors trained there and had likely passed on excellent techniques to their enemy. As much as he didn't like it, Crusader was a little afraid of Conqueror.

Composing himself, Crusader shook off the fear. He had come to stop Conqueror and that was exactly what he was going to do. Racing forward, he went for a high side kick to his opponent's face. Using the back of his left hand, Conqueror deflected the kick upward in a style reminiscent of Chinese martial arts. He then fluidly leaned forward and landed a counter palm strike to the rib area with his right hand. Every cell in Crusader's body was on fire with pain and he dropped to one knee.

Crusader's vision was swimming. It felt like his blood was on fire. The nausea was so bad that he almost puked into his helmet. Crusader raised his head to look at Conqueror, though in his vision, he was seeing three of him.

"What...What was that technique?"

Vizharr sneered in arrogant triumph.

"This martial art is called Gyxpao. It attacks the soul rather than the body."

Conqueror cracked his knuckles again.

"Hurts like a bitch, don't it? If you didn't have such a strong soul, that single strike would have killed you."

He went for an uppercut, but Crusader dodged it at the last second with a backward roll into his Muay Thai stance.

 

[True Grave]

Crusader focused intently on Conqueror as he further tightened his Muay Thai stance. His opponent was back in his Gyxpao stance and waiting for him with a predatory smile. Ten minutes passed with no movement on Conqueror's part. That was when Crusader realized that Gyxpao had to be a defensive technique. He had a theory that the first counter strike from the Gyxpao stance was the most dangerous. If that was true, there was only one way to find out.

He rushed forward and threw a right straight directly at Conqueror's nose. His opponent once more deflected it upward with that Chinese martial arts style movement. Predicting that the follow-up palm strike would aim for his solar plexus, Crusader flash stepped to Conqueror's right side at the last possible second. With Conqueror vulnerable, Crusader nailed him with a right leg switch kick to the stomach from a forty-five degree angle. Without thinking, Conqueror threw a right uppercut from a hunched over position in response. Crusader willingly took the hit under the chin.

Though the hit rattled his teeth and he was knocked back a few steps, Crusader was grinning in triumph. His theory had turned out to be correct. That uppercut had smarted, but it had been a punch to the body and not the soul. If Crusader could deal with Conqueror's counter blow, then Gyxpao was nothing to be afraid of. Conqueror could see that Crusader had seen through his technique, but he was stubbornly going to cling to it, anyway. Crusader would make sure that he paid for that mistake.

Crusader quickly took his Muay Thai stance and shot off like a rocket toward Conqueror. He threw a right roundhouse punch this time, causing Conqueror to block it in a way that resembled the crane block from Okinawan Karate. When Conqueror went to counter with a right uppercut, Crusader shifted his body to the side at the last second. Staying in close like this allowed him to land his own counter left uppercut. While Conqueror was staggering backward, Crusader quickly got back into his Muay Thai stance. His fists glowed with Soul Energy and he unleashed Million Punches of Valor.

Having previously been stunned, there was nothing Conqueror could do about this savage beating. Fists of Valor struck him mercilessly in every vital area and hundreds of thousands of times in his armored face. While the armor helped soften the impact, the sheer volume and rotation of the punches had Conqueror paralyzed and unable to fight back. On the millionth punch, Crusader charged up a final shot and delivered it right between the eyes. Conqueror flew back and became embedded in the stone wall behind his throne. Crusader got back into his Muay Thai stance and watched for any sign that Conqueror was going to continue fighting.

 

[True Grave]

Conqueror was sore all over and nauseous after taking such a brutal assault. The Voltari Armor of Jukei had more than done its job, though. Without it, he'd be unconscious right now. He wasn't too much better off right now, though. His vision was black at the edges. It would be so easy to close his eyes and go out right now.

Hey!

The telepathic voice of Jukei caused Vizharr's eyes to snap open.

Get your head together, Vizharr! We can't give up after just this.

I know, Jukei. But--

No buts! What did we do all that training for?!

Vizharr began pulling himself out of the wall.

You're right, Jukei. We've come too far to give up now.

Yeah, and I got an idea based on that technique he just fucked us up with.

Vizharr strained and finally got one leg free. Once it was planted on solid flooring, he used it as a base to pull the rest of himself out. He shook his head and his vision cleared.

Alright. What's your idea?

Remember the spear hand thrust technique that the old geek stabbed us with on Combatia?

Vizharr shuddered. As part of his training, he hadn't been wearing his Conqueror armor. During one of their hard sparring sessions, his instructor of the day had pierced his thick skin and chest muscle as easily as if it had not been there at all.

How could I forget?

Well, focus our combined power into your hands and perform one million spear hand thrusts on that punk Crusader. With his smaller body, he may not be able to withstand it.

Vizharr grinned maliciously.

That's a great idea!

His hands glowed and he took a Zazuken stance, which was similar to a Karate stance except that the hands were formed into the spear hand position rather than being clenched into fists. Conqueror jumped into Crusader's personal space and unleashed the Million Spears technique from close range.

No, you idiot! You were supposed to stun him first!

The spear hand strikes started flying, but there was an immediate problem. Crusader's training with both Firestar and the United Clans, as well as his daily sparring with the other members of Team Firestar, had paid dividends. He was able to effortlessly dodge every single one of these strikes. Crusader's body flowed like water. As if all of that wasn't mind-blowing enough, Crusader caught the very last strike between his palms. Conqueror was paralyzed with shock.

He saw his hand get pulled down before Crusader retaliated with a right straight to the face. Staggering backwards, Conqueror was more in shock than pain.

I can't believe it! How did he do that?!

Jukei exhaled a short breath in frustration.

I hate to say it, but Crusader is even better than everyone said they were.

 

[True Grave]

Taking advantage of Conqueror being in shock, Crusader took a stance and jumped forward into his personal space. His fists glowed with Soul Energy.

Million Punches of Valor!!!

This time, Conqueror saw what was coming in time to react to it. His spear hands glowed with Soul Energy.

Million Spears!!!

Their techniques clashed. Fists collided with and cancelled out spear hands. Tense seconds passed as both warriors threw hands at blistering speed. On the simultaneous final strike, their techniques collided so hard that a shockwave cracked the floor, walls, and ceiling around them. They both pushed against each other, each trying to follow through. They both poured Soul Energy into their hands, each trying to overwhelm the other.

Crusader thought of the genocides and screamed in absolute righteous fury. His Soul Aura exploded out of him in force, further cracking the room. Conqueror tried to hold his ground but was getting pushed backward. His arm shook in exertion as Crusader's Soul Energy seemed to rise without end. Crusader pushed again and slipped by the spear hand. The force of the punch that hit Conqueror square in the nose shattered his helmet and put him through the wall behind him.

Conqueror had bounced a few times and was now flat on his back. If not for the helmet, he would have been dead. He was dizzy and disoriented, though not in serious pain. The Voltari Armor had once again done its job.

We're just gonna have to go balls out, Jukei.

Yeah.

Conqueror regenerated his helmet and not a moment too soon. The flying knee strike he took from Crusader smashed it to pieces once again. Conqueror put his arms up to block a Million Punches all aiming for his face. Crusader was trying to finish him off. Keeping his head, Conqueror blew him back with Destruction. That bought him enough time to regenerate his helmet again and block a second flying knee with his arms.

The two started viciously exchanging at close range. There was no thought of blocking or dodging. It was just a straight up test of toughness. Conqueror also knew Muay Thai and was giving as good as he got. Crusader wasn't about to let him fully recover, viciously piecing up his body with kicks from different angles. The two collided with knee strikes and the ground cracked underneath them.

 

[True Grave]

Crusader and Conqueror continued to exchange blows without blocking or dodging. Their Soul Energy enhanced strikes landed without mercy. Conqueror kicked Crusader into the air. Crusader did a back flip to reorient himself before absorbing a Soul Energy knee to the solar plexus. The two exchanged again while flying, moving around in the sky at great speed like pinballs in a machine. They clashed fists, broke, and then stared each other down while in stances as they hovered in the air while surrounded by their individual Soul Auras.

 

[True Grave]

It's no good, Valor. We're too evenly matched.

Use the Destroyer Fists. If we can land a clean shot, we can destroy his armor.

Good idea. I hope this doesn't kill him.

Crusader focused his Soul Energy and his arms turned red and gold. They were vibrant and striking compared to the black and gold coloring of the rest of his armor. Unfortunately for Crusader, Conqueror could also use Destroyer Fists. Platinum and blue fists appeared on his arms, looking just as lustrous and eye-catching. There could be no more reckless absorption of blows. These were fists of the gods, made purely to destroy.

Crusader shot like a bullet toward Conqueror. Within his personal space, the Destroyer Fists glowed with white and gold Soul Energy.

Million Punches of Valor!!!

Conqueror had prepared himself and his own Destroyer Fists glowed black.

Million Spears!!!

The divine strikes flew at blistering speed, clashing against each other and sending out shockwaves of force all around them.

As the millionth strike neared, Crusader suddenly ducked down. His 999, 999th strike destroyed the Voltari Armor around Vizharr's solar plexus. The millionth strike would most likely be fatal. Realizing this, Conqueror unleashed his full power and disappeared from the mortal plane. Crusader's fist continued forward and threw him off balance. He kicked himself internally for not stunning Conqueror before going for the finish.

 

[True Grave]

A Fire Path opened behind Crusader and his friends ran through.

"Scott!" Shell Shock yelled to get his attention.

Crusader turned around and acknowledged his friends with a nod. A calm sense of urgency settled over the group as they stood together in close proximity.

"Conqueror escaped. I have to follow him."

Crusader held his hand out with the palm down. Existence exhaled softly and his hair stood on end as he altered reality enough to allow everyone to share their power with Crusader. A white and gold Soul Aura shown from Crusader as his Soul Energy became visible. Without hesitation, Shell Shock's white Soul Aura became visible as he stacked his hand on top of Crusader's.

"You kick that punk's ass," he said firmly but with a smile.

Crusader's Soul Aura intensified as Nick's Soul Energy poured into him.

The next to stack hands was Lithuel. He glowed with a twilight Soul Aura of angelic white and demonic black.

"Don't let some discount, knockoff, dollar store, Temu ass bitch defeat you," he said with a smile.

Crusader laughed as the nephilim's Soul Energy filled his body. His Soul Aura became brighter and more substantial still. He could fill his power rising to a higher baseline.

Lone Wolf was the next to stack hands. His blue Soul Aura shone as the power gained from generation upon generation of martial tradition manifested. His eyes burned with an intensity that even Scott found frightening. Absolute confidence and unshakeable belief in one's self had transformed Lone Wolf into a man who took on everything, human or otherwise, with only his body.

"Win," Lone Wolf said, that single word encapsulating the strength of mind that was his true martial art.

Crusader nodded, knowing that if he emulated Lone Wolf's mindset, he would win, without a doubt.

Spirit Rider stacked his hand next. His green Soul Aura manifested itself. The wind picked up and a small upward, circular current billowed around them.

"Stay focused up there," he said with a relaxed smile.

Crusader could feel the wind and its unchained freedom raise his power to an even higher baseline. Spirit Rider was like the wind itself, calmly assured that it was eternal and relaxed in its need to prove nothing to anyone.

Existence glowed with a purple Soul Aura.

"Get ready," he said to Crusader.

Crusader steeled himself and nodded. Existence stacked hands and Omega-class Soul Energy poured into Crusader. His power shot way up and he struggled to rein it in. The other sources of power also increased to a similar level, increasing the strain even more.

With absolute focus, Crusader used what he had learned from his friends and allies to harness the power and become one with it. His Soul Energy was absorbing it and increasing permanently by leaps and bounds. Existence watched closely and could see that Crusader had it completely under control.

"You have almost become a God of Destruction. Just a little more."

He looked over at Rise and nodded.

Rise walked forward and glowed with a tan Soul Aura.

"Please avenge all of the innocent souls that Conqueror murdered," he asked.

Crusader's eyes hardened in righteous determination and he nodded. Rise stacked hands and Soul Energy from the most powerful Omega-class mutant in all of existence flowed into him. Crusader assimilated it and his Soul Energy rapidly raced toward godhood. All of the necessary power had been gathered.

Everyone put their sole focus on getting him there. A tornado of color whipped all around them, obscuring them from view. Shockwaves raced along the surface of the earth. The skies darkened and lightning struck the ground around them. All of nature could feel it. A Destroyer was about to be born.

When Crusader felt it was time, he and Valor let the Soul Energy loose with a mighty roar. Just before they disappeared from the mortal plane, their entire suit of Voltari Armor had turned a lustrous red and gold. Everyone pulled back their hands and looked toward the skies. Slowly, they all began to smile. No one had to say anything, as they were all united in a common feeling. Their hearts and minds were all in support of the Champion.

 

[True Grave]

When Crusader entered the Universe of Gods, he was hovering in outer space. Ten feet away was Conqueror, who had been waiting for him. He banged his fists together and sneered at Crusader.

"Now that I can use my full power, I'm going to destroy you."

Crusader took his Muay Thai stance.

"Come and get it."

Conqueror flared up with a black Soul Aura and moved forward at a speed that couldn't be seen. Crusader was being battered with punches long before he realized it. He kept his head but couldn't even see Conqueror. Holding out, he waited until the trajectory of the punches formed a predictable pattern. Crusader lashed out with a left jab up the middle and caught Conqueror on the chin. While his opponent was still surprised, Crusader landed a follow-up right head kick that rocked Conqueror.

Crusader pressed the advantage and began piecing up Conqueror with Million Punches of Valor. However, this time, Conqueror flash ducked, stepped in, and landed a nasty body uppercut to Crusader's solar plexus. With the advantage his, he began lighting up Crusader with Million Spears. Crusader was taking a savage beating but kept his head. On the millionth spear, he countered with a snapping headkick up the middle to Conqueror's face that knocked him back. Conqueror chuckled in astonishment and amusement.

"I've got to hand it to you, Crusader, you're one tough son of a bitch. Even so, you have no hope of winning."

"Why's that?"

"Because I've been a Destroyer for six months while you just became one today. The gap between us is simply too wide for you to defeat me."

"Say that after you've beaten me," Crusader replied with unshaken conviction.

 

[True Grave]

Conqueror smirked and cracked his neck on both sides.

"I'm not going to beat you, Crusader. I'm going to kill you."

Moving so fast that Crusader couldn't see him, he closed the distance and battered him with strikes. This time, however, he used Gyxpao. Thousands of shots bypassed Crusader's body and hit his soul directly.

Crusader screamed in agony. He was paralyzed in pain and bleeding from every orifice. It took everything he had to withstand the suffering. Conqueror eventually stopped battering him, but not out of any desire to be merciful.

"I want your execution to be public."

Grabbing him by the face, Conqueror shot off toward Combatia with Crusader in tow.

After breaching its atmosphere, Conqueror landed in a filled coliseum. He tossed Crusader onto the ground and looked around at the crowd who had gathered to watch a gladitorial show.

"People of Combatia, allow me to show you how a Destroyer finishes his fight."

Crusader groaned as he rolled over onto his back. He was trembling in pain and his vision was swimming. He felt like he might vomit into his helmet.

Conqueror summoned a spiritual kanabo and the crowd went wild. His intention was to smash Crusader's head like a watermelon.

"Some Destroyer you turned out to be, Crusader. Enjoy your miserable death."

He raised his kanabo and brought it down. The crowd roared its approval as blood sprayed through the air.

 

[True Grave]

Conqueror stiffened and looked down in shock. A gold and white Sword of Valor had impaled him through the solar plexus. He coughed up blood and felt his vision swimming.

He got me, Jukei. The little son of a bitch actually got me...!

Don't give up, Vizharr!

Crusader glared at Conqueror.

"For all of the people you so callously murdered, and for all of the people I am sworn to protect...I will defeat you!!!"

His Soul Aura flared with tremendous intensity. The crowd was blinded and shockwaves rocked the entire planet. Crusader screamed at the top of his lungs with pure emotion.

Crusader's Soul Energy traveled through the Sword of Valor. Conqueror was paralyzed as the Soul Energy began coursing through his body. It filled his armor and began shutting down his muscles. Crusader would keep him alive but unable to move even the slightest muscle. Even Conqueror's Soul Energy was being suppressed from the inside. Conqueror was feeling tremendous discomfort and fear began to cloud his mind.

Crusader caused the Soul Energy inside of Conqueror to explode. His Destroyer Armor shattered and Conqueror was covered in purple blood. Conqueror had screamed in pain and the crowd went nuts. Conqueror was still on his feet, but barely. He was now in no condition to fight.

"Damn you, Crusader...!"

Crusader got to his feet and walked over. Though he was still in pain, he could still fight. Glaring at Conqueror, he had only two cold words to say to him.

"You've lost."

Conqueror tried to reply but couldn't. His mouth kept filling up with blood.

Crusader delivered a palm strike to Conqueror's face in the exact stance of Existence whenever he used his psychic or reality changing powers. He followed up with a downward diagonal chop in the face in the exact stance of Spirit Rider using one of his wind blades. His third strike was a clawing blow in the exact stance of Lithuel in his demonic form. His fourth strike was a Japanese Karate head kick with perfect technique in the style of Lone Wolf. The fifth and final strike was an energy blast from the palm to the face at point blank range. Shell Shock couldn't have done a better job.

Conqueror flew back and crashed into the coliseum wall. He was sitting up but barely conscious.

How...? We were the strongest in all of existence. How did we lose...?

Conqueror fell over and went unconscious.

Crusader panted and smiled.

We did it, Valor! We won!

Yes, we did. I only wish that I hadn't had to use my fists on a friend.

Crusader approached Conqueror, intending to take him to Zenefo.

However, Conqueror's unconscious body began to flare up with a black Soul Aura. Crusader was shocked and horrified to see him stand up. The Destroyer Armor covered his body once more and he raised his head to face Crusader. His eyes were a glowing crimson red. When he spoke, it was not the voice of Vizharr.

"You've gotten in my way for the last time, Crusader."

Crusader took his Muay Thai stance. He instinctively knew who this was.

"Omega!"

Omega, in complete possession of Conqueror, was going to take direct action against his hated enemy. His black Soul Aura was frightening and almost incomprehensible in its intensity.

"To get the job done right, I'll have to do it myself."