Chapter 06: Ecchigo Eguze

 

As both carvings glowed, both symbols started to move away from each other.  The edges of the symbols looked cleanly cut, considering that there wasn’t even a dent on the Diode to begin with.  Inside was some sort of projection lens.

 

“Don’t stop!!!” Col. Hassa said.  “Now you must both use your powers to activate that lens.” He then looked at Axess “Make it work!” He then looked at Stream “Remember how it works!”

“I think I got the hang of this.” Axess said.  “If it’s just willing, then...”

 

As if it was a much greater task, both orbs glowed brighter than before – at the same time.  The lens activated instantaneously, projecting something upwards.  At first there was nothing but static, then it showed a man around 30 years old, with a one-sided hairstyle with glasses wearing a lab coat.  On the lower right side of the video it says “September 27 2014”

 

“To those who have inherited my will and my memory, I congratulate you.  I am the man in the portrait that concealed this device.  I am Professor Ecchigo Eguze, the one who gave you the powers that activated this video projector.”

“This world is slowly but surely being enveloped in darkness.  What’s worse is that this is the darkness that is hardest to find and overcome – the darkness hidden in the light.  It has been slowly eating away at our world since the end of the prehistoric era.  This is why I am conducting this research - to prevent its further advancement and eliminate it completely.  The cause has been identified: it is a secret organization known only to a few.  Its name is Feis – and up until now it is hiding under the guise of one this world’s religions.  Ever since it began, it has been preaching blind obedience. They teach it as paths to enlightenment, so people would not think twice.  The religion with the most restrictions:  Yes – to the public, they are better known as Kasoris.”

 

Static followed the video. 

 

“N-no way...” Manny said, dropping on his knees

“That thing... that was from Kasoris?” Axess said

“Sad but true” Stream replied

“But why would – “ Axess began

 

The video returned.  This time it was dated “June 26 2017”

 

“The research is steadily progressing.  I used my own DNA to develop those that will fight and defeat Feis.  I know what I’m attempting to do is change the very foundations of society itself, and that it is no easy task.  But I must do it, and I must succeed.  I must make sure that no one will have to go what I went through as a child.  I want everyone to be born free – to grow up free.”

“Science holds the key in this task, and this research is trying to find that.  During the Industrial Revolution, it was – and still remains to this day - the greatest enemy of Feis, but they managed to grab hold of it and use it for themselves.  However, they have banned certain findings for a reason – those will be their downfall.  I am now using those methods; well aware of the risks I am taking.  From these forbidden sciences, I have started developing seven weapons.”

“Codename: Sonar – it has the ability to control the air and make it as sharp as a blade.”

“Codename: Dynamo – it has the ability to generate its own electricity, and control time-space.”

“Codename: Fighter – it is adept at close-ranged combat.  Possesses extreme strength, stamina, flexibility, and agility.”

“Codename: Mystic – given the ability to see the future from reading the stars.  Also can control fire and earth.”

“Codename: Frigid – able to command the elements of ice and water.  Can also destroy any alloy.”

“Codename: Nitro – able to pinpoint the weakest point of any defense, and can create explosives at will.”

“Codename: Impale – skilled at both offense and defense.  Adept at handling sharp/pointed objects.”

“Once these seven have been finished, I will put my plan into action.  By implanting my own DNA in them, I am sure that Feis cannot use them against me, nor will they go against me.  Rather, they cannot go against me - at least, as long as Feis exists.”

 

Static again.

 

“S-so my powers...” Tina said, surprised “This is something the stars did not tell me...”

“But where do I fit into all of this?” Axess said

 

The video returned again, dating “December 17 2017”

 

“My wife just died, giving birth to my twins:  one is a boy, the other is a girl.  The boy came out first, so he’s the elder sibling.  However, the doctors said that they were both born with weak hearts.  I just... I just can’t accept it!!!  I will find a way to save them, no matter what.”

 

Short static followed, then the video returned.  It was dated “December 20 2017”

 

“It was faster than I thought.  My twins will die within 24 hours.  I only know of one way to save them.  I will have to entrust them with the success of my ambitions.  No – I will make sure that they succeed.  They are, after all, of my flesh and blood.  They are the ones that I chose – the ones who will inherit my will and my memory.”

 

Instead of static, a blue screen followed.  It was the end of the video.

 

“T-this is...” Axess began “So he’s...” he then looked at Stream we’re...”

 

Stream, however, didn’t seem disturbed upon learning who her real father is.  It was as if this piece of information was insignificant to her.