Chapter 6

10 years ago

A group of cloaked figures were gathered around a table in the dark basement of a building. A seven year old child was tied down to the table, crying. One of the cloaked men stepped forward. In addition to his cloak, he wore a white mask with a silver star over the left eye.

“Bring in the Avatar,” he said. “And be quick about it. If we take too long with this, the clawed thing is bound to show up again.”

Two of the men brought brought in a large device on wheels. The device consisted of an aquarium like tank, surrounded by miniature Tesla-coils and wires that were constantly emitting a loud humming noise. Inside of the tank was a mass of pure blackness that was constantly shifting its form.

“Connect them,” the man in the mask said.

The men set up Tesla coils at each of the tables coils, and connected wires to the child. They hooked the wires up to the coils, which they then connected to the device.

“Begin the transfer,” the masked man instructed.

The men removed the lid from the tank. The shadowy mass immediately tried to escape, but they flipped a switch, and electricity shot from the coils, hitting the mass. It was torn apart and absorbed into the device. It was pulled through the coils, and was transferred through the wires to the other coils placed around the table. Bolts of black electricity shot from them, striking the child. He screamed loudly as the energy surged through his body. He lied there, twitching. The pupils off his eyes shrank, and soon disappeared altogether. After a few minutes, the electricity flowing from the coils changed from black to blue.

“Transfer complete,” one of the men said.

“Shut it down,” the masked man said.

They switched off the device, and the coils stopped releasing electricity. The boy lay on the table, panting. A black aura was now being emitted from his body.

“Was it successful?” one of the men asked.

“It seems that way,” the masked man said. “We'll have to wait and see. For now, return him to his cell, and keep an eye on him.”

Present day

After hitchhiker for a long time, John finally arrived in Pittsburgh. Before he had arrived, he had wondered how he would find the thing his dad left for him, but now that he was there, he could feel it somewhere in the city. He started walking, and the feeling grew stronger. He continued to follow that feeling. But he stopped when he saw a figure walking toward him. It was a teenage boy, wearing tattered clothing and covered in dirt. He was limping on his left leg, and both his arms had deep cuts in them.

“Hey, are you okay?” John called to him.

The boy took a few more steps before falling to his knees. John rushed over to try and help him. He got a look at the bys eyes, and jumped back in alarm. He had no pupils. There was something wrong with his eyes.

A car pulled up on the sidewalk next to them and a nineteen year old man stepped out.

“Are you Jonathan Calwar?” he asked.

“Yeah,” John said. “How did you-?”

He stopped his question mid-sentence. He felt a strange aura from this new guy. It reminded him of his encounter with Conquest.

Who are you?” John asked.

“My name is David Dragen,” he replied. “I'm your cousin. The son of the third Horseman.”

“I see,” John said, before turning back to the injured boy. “This guy needs help. He's badly injured.”

“Let's get him in the car,” David said. “We can treat him back at my place.”

They got the boy in the car and started driving. The more they drove, the stronger John's feeling became. They pulled up in front of a house a few minutes later. It was a small house, with a huge farm land behind it.

“Wow,” John said. “Nice place.”

“Thanks,” David said. “Come on, let's get him inside.”

They brought the boy inside and set him down on the couch. A woman heard them come in and entered the living room.

“Oh, David, you're home,” she said. “Who are your friends.”

“This is John,” David said. “He's War's son. And this... is some guy we found on the street. He needs help, can you get the first aid kit?”

“Um okay,” she said weakly, before leaving the room.

“Was that your mom?” John asked.

“Yeah,” David said.

“She seems a little-” John started to say.

“ Terrified?” David interrupted. “She has every right to be, considering what I am.”

“What, the son of a Horseman?” John asked.

“Not just any Horseman,” David said, looking at the injured boy. He was sleeping, so he couldn't hear the conversation. “I'm the son of Rage. I may seem like a normal guy now, but when I lose control... it's never pretty. It's happened before, and every time, bad things happened. That's why I live out here in the country. It's peaceful here. My outbursts are less frequent than they were when I lived in the city. But even so... my own mom thinks I'm a monster.”

“That's rough...,” John said.

“I know,” David said.

David's mom came back in the room briefly and set the first aid kit on a nearby table. John began treating the boy's wounds.

“You know how to do this stuff?” David asked.

“I learned how to treat wounds in camp,” John said. “I've always hated seeing people in pain, so I did what I could to learn how to treat wounds.”

“I see,” David said.

“So... my mom said my dad left something for me in this town,” John said.

“I think she meant his horse,” David said. “War and Death left their horses with my family for safe keeping before they died.”

“Really?” John asked.

“Yeah,” David said. “A Horseman isn't much without his steed.”

Meanwhile

Krysix, followed by a group of dead-eyed men with bits of machinery embedded in their flesh, entered a nearby shed, where a bunch of farm tools were kept.

“Well, this is rather disappointing,” it said, looking around at the equipment before him. “The country always leaves such simple devices lying around. It's hard to find a good CPU around here. Oh well, I've builf WMDs out of paperclips, tupperware  and discarded Gameboys. I'm sure I can figure something out with this junk. Let's get to work.”

Back at the house

“So, did you know your father?” John asked.

“Yeah,” David said. “A Horseman can only live for ten years after having a child, and my dad stayed with me and my mom the entire time.”

“I see,” John said, sadly.

“You never knew War, did you?” David asked.

“No, John said. “He left when I was one, and I never saw him again.”

Their conversation was cut short when the wall was torn down. Several of Krysix's men stood there, wielding makeshift flame throwers and explosives. John drew his sword as they charged. One of them threw a bomb at him, which he narrowly dodged. As it exploded, he was knocked off balance. They piled on top of him, pinning him to the ground. David ran to the corner of the room and grabbed a morningstar which was hidden there. He tried to fight them off, but he was caught in the ribbed by a club swung by one of the attackers. He was pinned down as well. It seemed like they had lost. Suddenly, a shadow flew over the room, knocking the men off of them. David and John got up and watched as the shadow changed its form to that of a black bird, and perched on the shoulder of the injured boy, who was now standing up and glaring at the attackers.

“Good work, Kestrel,” he said to the bird. “You guys are John and David, right? I owe you my thanks.”

“That's an Avatar!” David exclaimed. “But, why is it shaped like a bird?”

A scream was heard from David's mother in her room.

“My name is Kaiser,” the boy said. “I'll explain things later, you guys just go check on her. I'll hold down the fort here.”

“You can't take these guys on your own!” John said.

“I'll be fine,” he said.

Kestrel melted and covered his right arm and shoulder. A black wing sprouted from the shadowy mass, and a bird-like talon encased his hand.

“Are you sure?” John asked.

“Kestrel and I have been in worse spots,” Kaiser said. “Now go!”

John and David ran from the room while Kaiser and the men charged at each other. They ran into David's mom's room, to see her lying on the floor, bleeding out, with a metal skeleton standing over her.

“Y-you're Krysix!” David stammered.

“Oh, yes, that's me,” it said. “And you must be John Calwar and David Dragen. Nice to meet you.”

“What did you do to her!?” John demanded.

“Oh, this wench?” it said, kicking at the body at its feet. “I just came in, saw this person who wasn't the son of a Horseman, and thought 'well, she should die'.”

“YOU SON OF A BITCH!!!” David yelled.

“Well, I'm not a son,” Krysix replied. “I technically don't have a gender.”

“YOU BASTARD!” David yelled. “I'LL FUCKING KILL YOU!!!”

“Hey man, don't get carried away,” John said, turning to David. He took a step back when he saw the red glow coming from his eyes. “Hey, are you okay? Answer me!”

He couldn't. He couldn't hear John. Hatred had deafened him, and blinded him. He saw nothing but Krysix. Nothing but the creature he wanted to destroy. His body grew. His muscles expanded, tearing his clothing. His morningstar clattered to the ground, and the innocent farm boy who had stood there before had been replaced by the pure embodiment of anger, bearing the appearance of his father.

Rage had awakened.

Chapter 5

5 years ago

Deep in the depths of Netherworld, at the edge of the Cliffs Of Suffering, Akuma stood, wielding two swords, one of which he had impaled in the solar plexus of Dragon Slayer Jack, dangling him over the edge.

“What's the matter?” Akuma laughed, twisting his sword. “You seem to be in pain.”

“I take it you're enjoying my suffering?” Jack said, coughing up blood.

“Damn right I am

,” Akuma said, raising his second sword. “Any last words?”

“I was about to ask you the same question,” Jack said, raising his right hand.

His gauntlet began glowing brightly, and expanded so that it was large enough to strangle an elephant. He attempted to swipe at Akuma, but a circle of satanic symbols appeared in the air between the hand and Akuma. No matter how much Jack tried, he couldn't break through the seal.

“Satanic Seal 14, Barrier,” Akuma said. “Nice try, but I'm afraid it's not enough.”

Akuma raised his second sword again, and stabbed it through Jack's armor, penetrating his stomach. He stabbed again and again, hitting as many of Jack's vital organs as he could, until his body stopped moving. He pulled the swords from Jack's body, allowing it to fall to the ground far beneath him. He removed his blindfold and looked at the corpse, at the bottom of the cliffs.

“Too easy,” Akuma said. “One more rival bested. Time to surpass some more super beings.”

He merged his blades together, forming a motorcycle, and rode off into the distance.

Present day

Jack and Akuma stood face to face once again. A silver blade was held in Jack's hand, parrying Akuma's sword. Behind Jack, John Calwar was laying on the ground, injured. Deceit stood a few yards away, standing on the corpse of the fallen snake, watching the events unfold.

“How are you here?” Akuma demanded.

“I know I guy who owed me a favor,” Jack said. “So, shall we continue where we left off?”

“I'd love to!” Akuma shouted, raising his sword and attacking.

Deceit rushed forward with inhuman speed and pulled John away.

“This is a fight you don't wanna get too close to,” he said.

Akuma and Jack became locked in battle. Akuma's weapon transformed into six long swords  which hovered in midair. He sent them flying at Jack, who deflected them all and charged straight at Akuma. Akuma's swords returned to him and merged into a giant falchion. They clashed blades again and again, until Akuma managed to cleave Jack's sword in two. He raised his sword and brought it down hard, but Jack's gauntlet grew to enormous size and blocked it. He swatted Akuma away with all his force, sending him flying. He grew his gauntlet even more, and brought his fist down.

“Satanic Seal 14, Barrier!” Akuma shouted, as the seal appeared above him, blocking Jack's massive fist. He got back to his feet and shouted “Satanic Seal 2, Lightning!”

Another seal appeared in front of him, and a red lightning bolt shot from it, hitting Jack in the chest plate. Jack cried out in pain as the electricity surged through his body. His gauntlet returned to his original size, and Akuma charged at him, sword raised. Jack's gauntlet glowed with a blinding red light, and with right arm was encased in a massive red cannon. He lifted it effortlessly and fired an orb of red light at Akuma, who dodged it. The orb hit John's car, blowing it up.

“Dude!” John shouted. “My car! What the hell, man!?”

Akuma and Jack ignored him, continuing their fight. Akuma got up close to Jack, swinging his sword. Jack's gauntlet changed form once again, becoming a giant, double edged sword. They clashed repeatedly, before Jack managed to knock Akuma backwards. He shifted his gauntlet into a cannon again, firing another orb. Akuma blocked with another barrier, and jumped backwards. He raised a hand into the sky, and a huger seal appeared above them all.

“Satanic Seal 19,” he said. “The Final Summoning!”

A giant dragonic creature, with red scales and razor sharp horns, emerged from the seal, staring hungrily down at Jack. Jack began battling the monster, firing energy orbs at it and slashing it with his blade, but it wasn't enough. The beast whipped its tail, hitting Jack in the chest and knocking him to the ground. It then pinned him there with one of its clawed hands. Jack turned his gauntlet into a cannon and fired more orbs, but they weren't powerful enough. John couldn't stand on the sidelines any longer. He got to his feet, ignoring the pain, and raised his sword to the sky. Storm clouds began circling the sky, and a bolt of lightning struck the end of his sword. He felt new strength spreading through him. He aimed his blade at the dragon's face and released most of the power he had just absorbed. The dragon screeched in pain, and released Jack. Jack's gauntlet expanded, and reached up to the dragon's throat, choking it. John began running, and jumped up. A blast of thunder exploded beneath his feet, propelling him through the air, and towards the dragon's face. He landed on its snout, and plunged his sword between its eyes. It collapsed to the ground, dead. Deceit managed to catch John as he was falling, and landed safely on the ground. Akuma knelt on the ground, panting. Summoning the dragon had taken a lot out of him. He slammed his fist into the ground, and another seal appeared.

“Satanic Seal 12, Transit,” he said. He vanished in a flash of red light.

“What's that guys problem?” John demanded.

“Akuma, the Terrorspawn of rivalry,” Deceit said. “He views all powerful beings as his rivals, and seeks to surpass all of them.”

“I see,” John said. “So he wants to beat me because I'm the son of one of the Four Horsemen?””Exactly,” Deceit said.”And you!” John said to Jack. “Why the hell did you blow up my car!?”

“My apologies,” Jack said. “If you want, I can repair it. It won't cost much. All you have to do is shake my hand to seal the deal.”Jack reached his right hand out, but Deceit suddenly moved between them and grabbed it by the wrist.

“Sorry, Jack,” he said. “I'm afraid I can't let you have this one.”

They both vanished before John could even blink. He waited there a little while, before deciding he needed to find a way to get to Pittsburgh.

“Maybe there's a bus or train station nearby,” he said to himself, as he started limping toward his destroyed car. He wrapped his sword up in some of his clothes that survived the explosion, and headed out.

Meanwhile, in Netherworld

Akuma reappeared in a park in the capital city, and collapsed. A man was waiting there. He had jet black hair, avian eyes, and a pair of wings sprouting from his back. His right arm was muscular, and resembled a bird's talon.

“You've gone and wasted all your power again, didn't you, Akuma?” he asked.

“Shut up, Hell Talon,” Akuma said. “Where the hell is Glasp?”

“She's on business elsewhere,” Hell Talon said. “Why?”

“Because I'd rather look at her than you right now,” Akuma hissed. “We have a problem. Dragon Slayer Jack is alive.”

“Well, that's not good,” Hell Talon said.

“No, it's not,” said another voice.

A man, dressed in a black hooded cloak, with black bandages concealing his face, stepped out from behind a tree.

“Lord Strain,” Hell Talon said. “Are you sure you should be out in the open?”

“It doesn't matter where I go,” Strain said. “With Jack in the picture, things are likely to become more difficult for us.”

“So what do you want us to do?” Hell Talon asked.

“Akuma, once you have recovered, you will head to Dallas,” Strain said. “Glasp will rendezvous with you there. Hell Talon, You are to go to Pittsburgh, where you will be meeting with Bill Dawson. I want you guys to do what you can about the Terrorspawn who are guarding the hybrids.”

“Yes, my lord,” Hell Talon said.

“Fine, but I'd better see a challenge once I get there,” Akuma said.

“I'm sure you will,” Strain said. “It is important that you don't screw this up. I will have my revenge against the Horsemen, no matter what.”

Chapter 4

14 years ago

Deceit walked through the Red Forest in Netherworld, dragging a sword behind him. The forest was large, and full of several different types of trees, all of which had red leaves or pine needles. He walked several miles before stopping abruptly. He wasn't alone.

“Who's there?” he asked.

Akuma suddenly jumped out from the trees, swinging a pair of giant cutlasses. He attacked Deceit mercilessly, keeping him on the defensive. He eventually sliced one of Deceit's wrists, causing him to drop his sword. Akuma merged his swords together into the form of a giant ax, and prepared to behead Deceit, but before he could, Death appeared out of nowhere and impaled him on the end of his scythe's blade. Akuma fell to the ground, coughing up blood. He raised one of his fists and slammed it into the ground. A giant glowing circle filled with glowing satanic symbols appeared on the ground beneath him.

“Satanic Seal 12, Transit!” he exclaimed. In a flash of red light, he vanished.

“Aw, he ran away,” Deceit said, disappointed.

“You didn't seem to be very serious back there,” Death said.

“I didn't feel like using my true form,” Deceit said. “Transformations feel weird.”

“Tell me about it,” Death said.

“So what brings you around here?” Deceit asked.

“I've come to give you this,” Death said, handing Deceit a piece of paper.

“What's this?” Deceit asked.

“Directions,” Death said. “They'll come in handy if you choose to aid the kids later.”

“I see,” Deceit said. “I can't guarantee I'll choose their side, but I'll keep these just in case. So what are you gonna do, now? Your daughters seven and a half, isn't she?”

“Correct,” Death said.

“Which means you don't have much time left,” Deceit said. “How do you plan on spending it?”

“I have some things I need to take care of before I accept my fate,” Death said.

“You plan on visiting them at all?” Deceit asked.

“It's better that I don't,” Death said. “She deserves a normal life.”

“A normal life without a father?” Deceit asked.

“I'm no father figure,” Death said.

“I guess that's true,” Deceit said. “But she'll have to learn who she is at some point.””And I'm not the one she needs to learn it from,” Death said.

Present day

Johnathan stopped inside a diner to get something to eat. He had been driving all day, and was still a good twelve hours away from Pittsburgh. He ordered some food and began eating. He had to stop and close his eyes after a few bites. He was getting a headache. He then realized something wasn't right. He opened his eyes and saw that the restaurant was empty and the lights were off. It had been brightly lit and crowded a few moments ago. He got up and looked around. Strangely, there was now a large air hockey table where a group of diner tables used to be.

“Care for a game?” said a voice from behind him.

John spun around, startled. A man was now sitting in a previously empty chair, holding a puck in one hand and smoking a cigar in the other. He was dressed in a black business suit with a gray tie, and had shoulder length black hair. He black eyes were visible, even in the blackness of the diner.

“Who are you?” John asked.

“Name's Deceit,” the man said.

“Where did everybody go?” John asked.

“Oh, they're fine,” Deceit said. “So, how about that game?”

“Why?” John asked.

“I'm bored, and think it'd be a good way to test you out,” Deceit said. “So, shall we?”

“Fine,” John said.

Deceit handed him an air hockey mallet and stood at one end of the table. John stood across from him.

“Rules are simple,” Deceit said. “First one to get a goal wins.”

“Just one?” John asked.

“One's all it'll take,” Deceit said.Deceit served, and the puck spun toward John. The world slowed, and John saw exactly how to hit the puck so that it would ricochetted in a way that Deceit wouldn't be able to stop it. He smacked the puck, but to his surprise, Deceit sent it back at him effortlessly. John blocked and sent it back at Deceit, who blocked as well. They continued sending the puck back and forth, back and forth.

“Don't get cocky,” Deceit said. “You're not the only one who possesses Lightning Thought.”

“Lightning Thought?” John asked, blocking another of Deceit's strikes.

“The ability to think at incredible speeds,” Deceit explained. “Allowing you to analyze every aspect of your surroundings, and piece together the perfect strategy. When two people with the gift clash, the battle can go on for years if it's allowed to.”

John didn't intend to let it go on for that long. If he couldn't outsmart Deceit, he would have to overpower him. As the puck flew at him yet again, he put all his strength into his block. A blast of sound, loud as thunder, echoed through the diner as his mallet hit the puck. It was sent flying at high speed, knocking Deceit's mallet out of his hand when he tried to block. The puck ricocheted off the sides of the field, flying back at John. He smacked it again, sending it straight into Deceit's goal. A couple seconds later, the sound of Deceit's mallet hitting the ground could be heard.

“Congratulations,” Deceit said, giving a soft clap. “You've done pretty well.”

A circle containing a glowing pentagram appeared on the table, and red lightning filled the air.

“Oh shit,” Deceit said. “Run.”

A man emerged from the glowing circle, dressed in crimson clothing, and wearing a blind fold. He carried a massive falchion, and wore a fanged smile.

“W-who are you?” John asked, frightened.

“I'm Akuma,” the man said. “And I'm gonna kill you.”

Akuma swung his sword, which John barely dodged. He jumped behind the counters and ran into the kitchen, looking for something to fight with. Akuma raised a fist into the air, and slammed it into the ground, summoning another circle of satanic symbols.

“Satanic Seal 4, Cataclysm!” he exclaimed.

Red lightning filled the air, and the floors and walls cracked. The entire establishment came crumbling down, and John was barely able to escape in time. He ran to his car, and opened the trunk, pulling the sword out. He turned around to see Akuma standing there, sword raised. John parried Akuma's strike with all his strength.

“Hey Deceit!” Akuma yelled over his shoulder. “That's your old sword, right?”

“Used to be,” Deceit said. “It's his now.”

It suddenly hit John where he had heard Deceit's voice before. It was him who had given him this sword. It was him who quoted that line about storms answering his battle cry. Akuma raised his sword for another strike, but as he did so, John shouted as loud as he could, and a bolt of lightning struck the ground between them. Akuma dodged it and jumped back several yards. He raised a hand in front of himself, and a satanic circle appeared in midair.

“Satanic Seal 9, Third Summoning!” he said.

A great serpent burst forth from the seal, with thousands of hedgehog-like quills sprouting from its back. John raised his sword, and a lightning bolt struck the blade. He could feel the power of the lightning flow through his body, empowering him. The serpent struck, and he parried its fangs. Akuma appeared behind him, with his falchion raised. John turned and blocked the attack, just as the snaked prepared another attack. Deceit stepped in, grabbing onto the snakes tail and throwing it effortlessly to the side.

“Oh, Akuma, you shouldn't have!” he said, jokingly, standing face to face with the serpent. “How did you know I wanted one of these!?”

Deceit began fighting the serpent, while John continued to battle Akuma. Akuma charged his satanic energy through his blade and attacked. John put all of his power into his blade as their swords clashed. The sound of thunder filled the air, and Akuma was sent flying backwards. He got to his feet and punched the air, summoning another seal.

“Satanic Seal 1, Fireball!” he shouted.

A massive ball of fire shot from the seal. John shot a bolt of lightning from the tip of his sword. The blasts collided, and John was knocked over by the resulting explosion. His left arm and leg and been injured in the blast. Akuma was suddenly standing over him. His blindfold had fallen off, revealing red eyes with glowing pentagrams visible in his pupils.

“It's over!” he exclaimed, raising his sword. John closed his eyes, expecting the worst. He were the clang of metal against metal. He opened his eyes to see a man with long, golden hair standing over him, blocking Akuma's sword with a blade of his own. The man was wearing plated armor, which was entirely silver, save for his right gauntlet, which was a deep crimson.

“Well, this is an interesting turn of events,” Deceit said, standing over the corpse of the serpent.

“Dragon Slayer Jack,” Akuma hissed. “I thought I killed you.”

Jack grinned broadly beneath his awesome mustache.

“You thought wrong,” he said.

Chapter 3

17 years ago

A man sat in a chair, cradling a baby in his arms. The man was a little over six feet, and had crimson hair and brown eyes. He was telling a story to the child.

“And just when it seemed that all hope was lost, the brave knight managed to plunge his blade in between the dragon's toes,” he said. “The beast roared in pain. Seeing his chance, the knight drew his brow and fired an arrow between the dragon's eyes. The beast died died, and the village was safe once again.”

He set the child down in his cradle and tucked him in. He then stepped out onto the porch, where his wife was waiting for him.

“Is he asleep?” she asked him.

“Yes,” he said.

The two of them stood on the porch for several minutes, talking. However, the conversation came to an end when the man spotted something at the end of the street. A young man had pulled up, riding on a solid steel motorcycle. He was dressed in red clothing, with a pentagram emblazoned on his shirt, and a blindfold covering his eyes.

“Mary, you have to get out of here,” the man said.

“Why?” She asked, looking down the street at the strange figure. The motorcycler seemed to be staring straight at them through his blindfold. “Justin, who is that?”

“I'll explain everything later,” he said. “Just take Jonathan and go out through the back.”

The man on the motorcycle parked in front of the house as Mary ran inside to grab the child. The biker's motorcycle melted into liquid and reformed itself into a giant falchion, far too large for a normal person to carry, yet he held it effortlessly in one hand.

“Long time no see, War,” he said.

The man on the porch began to grow, reaching ten feet in height. Black and red armor covered his body, and a horned helmet covered his head. Ten glowing white orbs began circling his body. He grabbed on of the orbs, which transformed into a giant spear. He grabbed another orb in his other hand, which took the form of a huge, circular shield.

“You've come to assassinate me, haven't you, Akuma?” he asked.

“You and that half-blood brat of yours,” the biker said. “Have you said goodbye to the kid yet? Cuz you ain't getting a chance to after this.”

Akuma charged at War, swinging his sword. The world slowed down through War's perspective, allowing him to easily predict Akuma's movements and counter them. He successfully deflected Akuma's attack and disarmed him. He then pinned him to the ground with one foot and pointed his spear at Akuma's throat.

“What part of 'puts the greatest military strategists to shame' don't you get?” War asked.

A giant serpent suddenly burst from beneath the ground and coiled around War, crushing his armor in it's muscular embrace.

“You shouldn't be so quick to underestimate the Terrorspawn,” Akuma said. “It just so happens I didn't come alone.”

A woman rose from the ground. She had black hair, glowing silver eyes, and was dressed in a gown of snake skin.

Glasp,” War said. “You're here as well?”

“That's right,” she said. “Akuma, finish him.”

“With pleasure!” Akuma said, raising his blade.

His swing was cut short as ice formed over his entire body, restricting his movements. The snake wrapped around War froze solid. War saw his chance, and shattered the serpent. He smashed his shield into Akuma, sending him flying. A young man with pale skin and blue hair appeared above Akuma.

“Get the hell out of here,” he said.

A giant violet vortex began swirling in the air above them. The newcomer grabbed Akuma by the throat and threw him through the portal. War grabbed another of the floating orbs, which transformed into a large flail. He swung it so that the chain wrapped itself around Glasp's waist. He swung it again, sending her flying through the portal. The young man snapped his fingers, causing the vortex to vanish.

“I wasn't expecting for you to arrive, Ice,” War said.

“Well, some of us have gotten in their heads that you and your son should be killed,” Ice said. “Lucky you you, I feel differently.”

“Well, that's good to here,” War said.

“You can't keep hiding things from her,” Ice said. “You need to tell her who you really are and what's going on here. Then you need to leave.”

“But what if they're attack while I'm not here?” War asked.

“Trust me,” Ice said. “Things will be a lot worse if you stay with them. If you're really worried, I'll keep and eye on them and make sure nothing happens.”

“Okay,” War said. “I... I have to go speak to her now.”

“Go do what you have to do,” Ice said.

Present day

John ran down the stairs.

“When did you get ba-?” his mom started to say, but she stopped when she saw the sword in his hand.

“I can't talk right now!” John said, running to the door. “I have to go!”

“Wait, we need to talk!” she called after him. But he was already out the front door and running down the street.

He arrived back at Mike's house to find the entire place was gone. The whole place had simply vanished, without a single trace. He stepped into thew empty area, looking for any trace of his friend. All he found was a not.

It read; If you wish to see your friend again, then come find me in Netherworld, and join me, as you were meant to. -Conquest.

A car pulled up on the sidewalk behind him, and John's mom opened the door.”John, come here,” she said. “There's something we need to talk about.”

The ride home felt longer than it should have been.

“Mom, what's going on here?” John asked.

“This is about your father,” she said.

“The man who abandoned us after I was born?” John asked bitterly.

“He did that to protect us,” she said. “Your father wasn't a normal person. He was the second horseman of the Apocalypse.””So, what they gray guy said was true?” John asked.

“Yes,” she said. “That man was your uncle, Conquest. Your father said he would return someday, to bring you to the Netherworld. Ice O'Leit stayed here to protect you.”

“You mean Mike?” John asked.

“That's the name he chose to go by,” she said. “He had to adopt a false identity so that the other Terrorspawn wouldn't know he was protecting you.”

“What's a Terrorspawn?” John asked.

“The more common term for them is Fears,” she said. “They are entities that represent humanity's fear. Ice is the Fear of being cold, and lone.”

Cold and alone, John thought to himself. The same way I've felt my whole life since dad left.

“He was kidnapped,” John said. “Conquest took him. He said I'll never see him again unless I go to Netherworld.”

“You can't go there,” she said. “Netherworld is a dangerous place. You'd have to have a death wish to go there.”

“I don't care,” John said. “I have to save him.”

The car pulled up in front of the house, but neither of them got out.

“Your father said that some day you may be forced to go to war,” she said. “He said that when that day came, you would have to claim your inheritance.”

“My inheritance?” John asked.

“You're father left you something behind,” she said. “It's in a town called Pittsburgh Texas. He said you would need it in order to defeat the forces of darkness.”

“What is it?” John asked.

“He didn't say,” she said. “But if you're serious about saving Ice, then you should go get it. I'm not going to stop you. You have to do what your heart is telling you to.”

Meanwhile, in Netherworld

Conquest waited in a dark building. Another figure entered the room. It was a woman, made completely of wood, with long black hair and a yellow, ballroom dress.

“Why exactly have you summoned me?” she asked.

“I have a problem,” he said. “And I need your assistance with it. But first, where are the others?”

“Right here,” said another voice. Deceit stepped through the door. “I think Krysix will be here in a couple minutes.”

“Then we will wait,” Conquest said.

“But I hate waiting!” the woman said.

“Be patient, Mrs. Kinn,” Conquest said.

“It's not like it'll be that long, Manny,” Deceit said.

Another figure, resembling a mechanical skeleton entered.”Manny Kinn!” it said, delightedly. “Deceit! I hardly ever see you two any more! How have things been?”

“Not bad, Krysix,” Deceit said.

“Boring as hell,” Manny replied.

“Now that we're all here, we can discuss business,” Conquest said. “I had an encounter with Jonathan Calwar earlier today. He didn't seem to want to join me. I've given him some incentive, but I doubt it will be enough.”

“So you want us to bring him here against his will?” Manny asked.

“Well if you want to put it so bluntly, yes, that is what I want you three to do,” Conquest said.

“Sounds simple enough,” Krysix said.

“Don't get too cocky,” Conquest said. “He his inherited his father's lightning thought and weather manipulation. He won't be an easy opponent.”

“I like a challenge,” Manny said.

“So, we have a deal then?” Conquest asked.

“Sure,” Manny said.

“Of course!” Krysix said.

Deceit simply grunted.

“Is there a problem, Deceit?” Conquest asked.

“Look, I like the thought of taking on a Horseman,” Deceit said. “But I don't drag people places. That ain't my style. I'll fight the kid, but I'm not gonna bring him back here. You can do that yourself.”

“Very well,” Conquest said.

“Well, I have some other obligations, so I'll catch up with you clowns later,” Deceit said.He left the building, walking out into the streets of Netherworld's capital city. A woman was waiting for him. Her hair resembled a great conflagration  being multiple shades of red, orange and yellow, with blue and white roots. Her skin was fair, and she was dressed in a tight wedding dress.

“You aren't really going to side with them, are you?” she asked.

“Dunno,” Deceit said, pulling a cigar out of his pocket. “I wanna see what this kid's made of, then I'll decide. Hey, you mind lighting this for me?”

The woman snapped her fingers, and the end of the cigar burst into flames.

“Thanks,” Deceit said. “Anyway, he's probably gonna head over to meet David Dragen soon. I think I'll bump into him on the way there and pt him to the test.”

“Do you think Omnipotence and Silene Stenophylla would agree with this course of action?” she asked.

“Who knows,” Deceit said, taking a puff from his cigar.

“Whatever you do, be careful,” she said.

“Don't worry, Blaze,” he said. “I'll be perfectly fine.”

Pittsburgh, Texas

A 19 year old boy carried a bundle of straw into a stable. He was pretty tall, and had dirty blonde hair and blue eyes, and was dressed in a white T-shirt and blue jeans with cowboy boots. He enter the stable and gave a cheerful hello to the three horses which were kept in there. One of them was pale, and had a thin, black mane. The next one was dark red and was built faster than the others. The third one had dark blue fur, and was the bulkiest of them all. The boy fed them all, then went to brush the blue horse's mane.

“There you go, girl,” he said calmly to her. “You're looking good today.”

Suddenly, the red horse began neighing loudly, startling the boy.

“Something wrong, Myrie?” he asked. But ass he watched the horse, he realized that it wasn't upset. It seemed more like it was excited about something. “It can't be,” the boy thought. “Could he finally be coming here?”

He walked out of the stable and stared off into the distance. He began smiling. He could feel it. The son of War would soon be arriving.

Chapter 2

22 years ago

“Well, are you in?” Silene asked.

“Maybe,” Deceit said, getting up from the park bench and flicking his finished cigar into a nearby garbage can. “We got plenty of time before the hybrids reach maturity. I could change my mind by then.”

“You're far from the easiest person to trust, but we really do need your assistance with this,” Omnipotence said.

“I'm not particularly fond of doing favors for the Horsemen,” Deceit said.

“Neither am I,” Silene said. “But this is too good of an opportunity to pass up.”

“In your opinion,” Deceit said. “I'm still don't see why I should give them any any help.”

“Then don't do it for the Horsemen,” Omnipotence said. “Do it for her.”

“Please don't bring her up right now,” Deceit said, as a tear fell from his eye.

“Are you crying?” Silene asked, chuckling.

Deceit moved impossibly fast, clearing the distance between himself and Silene in a fraction of a second. He grabbed Silene by the throat and pinned him against the wall, squeezing tightly. Silene drew a dagger from his belt and raised it above his head, but Deceit grabbed his wrist with his free hand and twisted it so hard that the bones could be heard breaking.

“Deceit!” Omnipotence shouted. “Release him!”

Deceit hesitated for a moment before dropping Silene to the ground.

“What would she want you to do?” Omnipotence asked.

Present day

Jonathan walked up to the door of his friend's house. A plaque nailed to the door read “The O'Leit Residence”. He knocked and waited for a while. A young boy, about sixteen, came to the door.

“Hey Mike,” Jonathan said. “How's it going?”

“John, do you have any idea how early it is?” Mike said, brushing his black emo hair out of his eyes.

“Yeah, but it's my birthday and I wanna get and early start,” Jonathan said.

“Whatever man,” Mike said. “We still got like, an hour before any good places open. Wanna play some chess?”

“Sure,” John said.

They started playing. John had a secret. Something he had never told anyone before. Every now and then, the world around him seemed to slow down. He had time to analyze everything around him, and figure out every possible action that could be taken. An ability he took advantage of when playing games. He managed to beat Mike in 12 moves.

“Damn, you're good,” Mike said.

“You know I never lose,” John said jokingly. “Wanna play again?”

“Sure,” Mike said.

Before they could get the board set up again, there was a large explosion that blew down one of the walls of Mike's house. The room was engulfed in flames, and a the towering figure of Conquest stepped through the hole in the wall, carrying his great blade in his hand. John fell over, staring at the newcomer in horror. Mike, on the other hand, seemed almost completely unfazed by the newcomer. He stood up, and the room temperature plummeted. Ice formed over the places that were on fire.

“You could have given him time to enjoy his birthday before showing up,” Mike said, staring at Conquest defiantly.

“Ice O'Leit,” Conquest said. “I haven't seen you in a while.”

“What did he just call you?” John asked.

“He called me by my real name,” Mike said. “I'm not who you think I am.”

“What do you mean?” John said.

“Silence!” Conquest shouted.

A ball of fire shot from the end of his sword, flying straight at Mike. A shield of ice appeared in Mike's hand and blocked the fireball.

“Get out of here,” Mike said to John.

“I'm not gonna leave you behind!” John said.

“I can handle myself,” Mike said. As he spoke, his appearance changed. His skin turned deathly pale, and his hair became a dark shade of cyan. A sword of ice formed in his free hand.

“What the hell?” John asked.

“I said go!” Mike snapped. “I've got this!”

Mike and Conquest charged at each other, engulfed in ice and flames. As their swords collided, they created a shockwave that tore the roof off and sent John crashing into the wall behind him. He slumped to the ground. As he attempted to get up, a foot came from no where and stomped into his back, pinning him there. A sword stabbed into the floor a few inches in front of his face. And unfamiliar voice spoke into his ear.

“I trust you can figure out how to use this,” it said.

The man pinning him to the ground suddenly vanished, leaving the sword behind. He stood up and pulled it from the ground, and turned back to the fight. Conquest shattered Mike's sword and shield with a powerful slash, then grabbed him by the throat and lifted him into the air.

“Let him go!” John demanded, lifting the sword.

“I will,” Conquest said. “But only if you come with me quietly.”.

“I have a better idea,” John said. “You let him go, or else I'll kick your ass!”

“Hehe,” Conquest chuckled. “You have your father's spirit.”

“What the fuck do you know about my father!?” John demanded.

“He is War, the second Horseman of the Apocalypse,” Conquest said. “And I am Conquest, the first Horseman.”

“Bullshit!” John shouted. “Just let my friend go already!”

Suddenly, a lightning bolt hit the ground between them, knocking Conquest backwards and causing him to drop Mike. John looked up at the black clouds circling the sky. It had been clear before. Where had those clouds come from?

It was then that John felt a presence behind him, and the same voice that had given him the sword spoke again.

“And even the storm clouds answer to his battle cry,” it said, before vanishing again.

Conquest stood up again, and charged at John. The world slowed down again. John could see exactly how Conquest would swing his sword, and he dodged just in time. Conquest swung again, and John was able to parry. He saw his chance to strike, and he took it. He swung his sword, and as it made contact with Conquest's chest plate, the sound of thunder filled the air, and Conquest was sent flying across the room. He stood up again. His sword transformed into a giant bow, and he fired a flaming arrow at John. Mike appeared between them, and was hit in the chest with the arrow.

“Mike!” John exclaimed.

“Go!” Mike said, turning around and shoving John.

John fell to the ground of his own bedroom, still holding the sword. He had no idea how he got there. All he knew was that he had to get back and help his friend.

Chapter one

22 years ago

In the depths of Netherworld, a figure waited atop the Mountain of Madness. The mountain was tall, far higher than any mountain on Earth. The skies surrounding it were dark purple, with clouds blacker than night. Sharp rocks stuck out from the mountain, making it a dangerous place to travel. Only the strongest beings ever meet there.

The man waiting at the top was ten feet tall, with gray skin and pointed ears. His hair was long and black, with a crown of gold circling it. He wore jet black armor, with gold edges encrusted with dark amethysts. He leaned against a rock with his eyes closed, waiting for his companions to show up. It didn't take long for the first to arrive.

A hulking man appeared, over twelve feet high, with muscles bulging from every square inch. His eyes were blank, with no irises or pupils, and his head was shaven bald. His skin was a deep tan, and lined with pulsing veins.

The first man opened his eyes, revealing triangle shaped irises with slit pupils.

“Rage,” he said. “Good to see you've made it. Where are the others?”

“I believe War is wrapping up some business with the Bone King,” Rage replied calmly. “As for Death, I cannot say with any certainty where his whereabouts are. Why is it you wish to speak with us, Conquest?”

“Death has done something foolish,” Conquest said. “I mean to confront him on it.”

“What has he done?” Rage asked.

“He has impregnated a woman,” Conquest said.

“I see,” Rage said. “And this concerns you?”

“When a Horseman has a child, their power is slowly transferred to the child,” Conquest says. “When the child turns ten, they will absorb the last of their parent's strength, and the Horseman shall die. Eventually, the child shall grow to replace their parent as a Horseman.”

“And in that way, there shall always be four of us,” Rage said. “I've been told of this, but I have never witnessed the event.”

“And soon you will, thanks to our foolish friend,” Conquest said.

“You do not wish to see him die?” Rage asked.

“That's not my problem,” Conquest said.

Before he could continue, a third man appeared, covered entirely in black and crimson armor, with a horned helmet. Ten glowing orbs circled his waist.

“Conquest, Rage, it is nice to see you two again,” he said.

“Hello, War,” Conquest replied.

“Greetings,” Rage said.

“So what's this about?” War asked.

“Death's mistake,” Conquest answered.

“What'd he do this time?” War sighed.

“He's impregnated a woman,” Conquest said.

“So what's the big deal?” War asked. “You gonna miss him when he's gone?”

“Hardly,” Conquest replied. “I'll explain what the big deal is when he get's here.”

“Well, I think we have a bit of time before then,” War said. He tapped one of the orbs circling him. With a flash of light, the orb was replaced by a greatsword so large that a human would need both hands to hold it. However, War was strong enough to use it effortlessly with a single hand. “Shall we spar?”

“Sure,” Conquest said. Flames engulfed his hand, and a giant sword, designed to be held in a reverse grip, appeared.

The two of them stood across from each other, with their swords at the ready, and charged. However, before they reached each other, there was an explosion of cold air between the two of them. They were pushed back by the force as a new figure appeared there. He had the form of a cloaked skeleton with horns. There were no eye holes on his face, but two fiery, misshapen eyes hovered beside his head.

“Am I late?” he asked.

“Slightly,” Conquest said.

“What took you so long, Death?” War asked.

“I was having a smoke with Deceit,” Death said. “So why are we here?”

Conquest began speaking. “I wish to talk to you about the woman you-”

“Knocked up?” Death finished for him. “Yeah what about it?”

“You know the consequences, right?” Conquest asked.

“Yeah yeah, I know,” death said. “But I don't care. We're thousands of years old. We were created for the sole purpose of destroying the world, and yet we haven't done so yet. We're just sitting around waiting for the big man to give us the green light. Well, I don't know about you guys, but I'm sick of waiting. Why not pass on this destiny to the next generation. Let them do the waiting.”

“He has a point,” Rage said.

“Yes,” Conquest said. “But the woman you impregnated was human.”

“Oh really?” War asked. “Did you do it in your human form, or was she into giant skeletons with weird floating eyeballs?”

“The first one,” Death said. “But if you see any woman who like the second thing you mentioned, give them my number.”

“You two are so immature,” Conquest sighed. “But because of what you've done, the child will be half human. And you know what humans can do, correct?”

“Not much in terms of power,” War said. “Are you implying that they have some kind of power I'm not aware of?”

“They possess the ability to stray from their destined path,” Death said.

“I see,” Rage said. “That's why Conquest is concerned. It's destined that the four Horsemen of the Apocalypse will bring about the world's end.”

“And if a Horsemen is half human, there is the chance that they'll be able to change that destiny,” Conquest said.

“That's-” War said, but paused a moment before continuing to say “-unlikely. There is a chance, yes, but it's too slim to make a difference.”

“See?” Death said. “War agrees.”

“But still, couldn't you have mated with something that can't change destiny?” Conquest asked.

“Most of the things that can't change destiny are ugly as shit,” Death said.

“Agreed,” Rage said. “Although, you're probably not the one who should be talking.”

“I think perhaps we should move on,” War said. “Death's right. Let's give this task to the next generation.”

“Yes,” Rage said. “I haven't been around as long as any of you, but even I can admit that I've grown bored with waiting.”

“Do what you want,” Conquest said. “But I'll be sticking around to make sure your progeny don't screw up the order of things.”

“Okay,” Rage said, vanishing.

“You do that,” Death said, also vanishing.

“I suppose I'll be leaving too,” War said.

“Before you do, I'd like to know something,” Conquest said. “What went through your head when you paused?”

“Excuse me?” War asked.

”You possess the ability to think at lightning speed,” Conquest said. “It's a power that allows you to produce flawless battle strategies in a fraction of a second. What kind of ideas did you have during our conversation?”

War chuckled. “You ask too many questions,” he said, before vanishing.

A few days later

A handsome man was lying on his back on a park bench in a city in Netherworld, gazing carelessly up at the dark sky. A beautiful woman with dark orange hair approached him.

“I need to talk to you, Deceit,” she said to him calmly.

“What's this about, Omnipotence?” Deceit asked.

“One of the Horsemen approached me earlier,” she said. “He requires your services.”

“Why don't you help him?” Deceit asked. “What does he need me for?”

“Because he needs more than just her,” said another voice.

Deceit looked up to see a man leaning against a building. He had messy, crimson hair and wore a long coat.

“Nice to see you, Silene,” Deceit said.

Silene grinned broadly, much broader that anyone should be physically able to grin.

“I already discussed this with him,” Omnipotence said to Deceit. “We need your help as well, if we wish to accomplish the task the Horseman requested of us.”

“Tell you what,” Deceit said, pulling a cigar out of his pocket. “Light this, and I'll listen to what you have to say.”

Omnipotence raised a hand, and red chitin began growing over her forefinger and thumb, forming into the shape of talons. She snapped them together, creating a spark that ignited the end of Deceit's cigar.

“Much obliged,” Deceit said, taking a puff from the cigar. “Now, let's hear what this guy wants from us.”

A few years later, War and Rage also found human lovers, and reproduced. When their children reached the age of ten, the Horsemen died, save for Conquest, who chose not to breed. Instead, he waits for the day the youngest one comes of age, so that he can guide them down their destined path.

Present day

Jonathan Calwar lied in bed, fast asleep. His alarm clock struck seven, and began blaring loudly. Jonathan raised a hand sleepily, and brought it down on the snooze button with enough force that the bedside table collapsed in pieces.

“Shit...,” Jonathan muttered, getting up. He got dressed and went downstairs to the kitchen. “Hey mom,” he said as he passed her.

“Hey honey,” she said. “Happy birthday.”

“Thanks,” he said. “I'm heading over to Mike's, I'll be back later.”

“Make sure you're back by dinner,” she said. “I know you're an adult now, but you still live in this house so I don't want you being out too late.”

“Don't worry,” he said, walking out the door. “By the way, the bedside thingy broke again.”

He left, going out to enjoy his eighteen year. Little did he know that dark forces were about to enter his life.

For he is Jonathan Calwar, the son of the second Horseman of the Apocalypse.

Introduction

Hello. I am Acelegin, and this is a work of fiction written by me. I had the idea for this story a long time ago after reading an article of Darksiders 2 in an issue Game Informer magazine. However, I didn't do anything with said idea. Many months passed, and I became a member of the Fear Mythos. Then many more months passed, and I had the following thought; "Hey, what if I combined that Horsemen idea I had a while back with aspects of the Fear Mythos, and use my own badass interpretations of the Fears like Rapture does". So that's exactly what I'm going to do.

This story will involve the Four Horsemen Of The Apocalypse. I also plan to steal ideas from Darksiders as much as I legally can. Please don't sue me.

Now, enjoy this thing I wrote;

When the end comes, the Horsemen shall ride.

The first Horseman, riding a white steed, shall come first. He is Conquest, the almighty conquerer. The fires of conquest shall burn wherever he goes.

He shall be followed by War, upon his red horse. He puts the greatest military strategist to shame, and even the stormclouds answer to his battle cry.

Rage shall ride next, on the curulean horse. As he rides, the Earth shall tremble from the anger of all mankind.

Finally, Death shall ride on his pale horse, and the chill of death shall freeze the land.

And after they have brought Hell to Earth, they shall each take a corner of the world, and fold it in upon itself.

The world shall come to an end.

The Horsemen shall ride.

And Hell shall follow after.

This is my own recreation of that thing I read in the bible. This will come up occasionally in the story.

You may be wondering why I replaced Famine with Rage. There's an explanation for that which will be revealed eventually. Also, Darksiders got away with it, so I see no reason why I shouldn't be able to.

Now, I'm kind of debating whether or not I should end posts on this blog with music. I do that all the time on my personal blog. This isn't my personal blog, but it's on the same blogger account, so I'm not sure if I should. Oh God, this decision is stressing me out! I need to clear my head. I think listening to music my help. I'm gonna go do that. You guys should listen to music too. Here. have some music;

Oh crap, I just posted music here, didn't I?