Demon_Child
02-20-2004, 4:12 AM
CRIMSON DEATH
Part 2-Aftermath
Chapter 1
The shadows pull back over an endless void of light and darkness. A lone figure stands looking at the horizon. The clouds overhead pour cold rain, colder than the young Demon Knight has ever felt. The ground shakes, making cracks in the sands of a great desert become visible as the sun rises. Dozens of hideous flesh worms plow through the earth, surfacing to scream in unison like an unholy orchestra. Waves and waves of corrupted charge across the lifeless land while skeletons wielding swords and axes follow, along with dark figures in rags. The evil army charges right at the lone Demon Knight. He raises his hands in immeasurable fear as the furious legions of the damned come ever closer…
Just as they’re about to trample him, instead, they run right through him. He opens his eyes; only to see in place of the evil army is a dark apparition of a man standing before him. He walks towards the figure, still shaken by the previous encounter.
ShawnmanX-*approaches figure* Who are you?
*The man turns around to face him. As he does, he grabs Shawn’s shoulders and pulls him until they are face to face. The black featureless body stays the same as the face begins to shake. A dark, blank face ripples like water as it changes. It becomes the grinning face of Carnage, but his eyes are filled with a deep sorrow. Even behind the symbiote costume, Shawn can sense the pain from him. Suddenly, the face shifts again, becoming the face of PC99. She stares into Shawn’s eyes as she flinches in pain. Then, again it changes, turning into the faces of other Demon Knights. Then even more, the faces of corrupted, even ragmen. Shawn can’t take any more. He breaks out of the grasp the figure has on him.*
Shawn-Who are you!? Show yourself!
*The figure turns around, no longer facing the Demon Knight. Then, turning again, the figure looks right at Shawn. The black, rotting face is filled with an intense hatred unlike Shawn has even seen or thought he’d ever see. The being pulls a mask out from behind him and puts it on. It’s jagged teeth and horns resemble a dragon, but the white eyes with no irises that stare at him from behind the mask fill him with terror.*
*Shawn wakes up in a cold sweat. It takes him awhile before he realizes where he is. He’s back in his aunt and uncle’s home. It’s been four days since Protosschick99, a true friend and great sorceress, was murdered by Carnage, another friend turned corrupted nightmare. Shawn looks at the alarm clock on a nearby dresser.*
Shawn-4 am. Well, I’m not sleeping anymore tonight.
*Shawn sighs as he climbs out of the bed and puts on the same clothes he’s been wearing for days now. He walks downstairs and sees Demon Child, commander of the Demon Knights, standing in front of an open window.*
Shawn-You didn’t sleep at all last night, DC?
DC-*stretches wings* You should know by now, Shawn. I only sleep when I’m bored. I don’t need rest.
Shawn-Oh, that’s right. What are you doing?
DC-*he stares out the window, not turning around to reply* Keeping watch.
Shawn-Well…how are you holding up?
DC-*finally turns around* How do you think I’m holding up? *he walks over to the young Demon Knight.* Two of my best warriors, no…best friends, are lost. We had to bury PC under a tree behind this crappy house! I had to listen to Tim-and-Carl give a eulogy and play priest. Carnage, whom I would trust my life to any day, slaughtered her. He nearly chopped her in half, damnit! In my rage, I set him on fire and knocked him out of a speeding car! I heard him screech on the road! How do you think I’m holding up!?
Shawn-Hey. *frowns* This house isn’t crappy…
DC-*sigh* Let’s go. We’ll pick up some burgers or something for the others.
Shawn-Sounds good. We’ll take Sphere’s car.
DC-Of course, it’s the only one out there. Comon. *they leave and get ready to get in the armored car, when DC notices something in the dawn sky.*
DC-What the hell is that?
Shawn-*looks up* Looks like…a meteor.
DC-Nah, it’s gotta be a star or something…er…sh*t…it’s not. It’s coming closer. It’s coming right at us.
Shawn-What do we do?!
DC-What do you mean we?
*The meteor is now so bright Shawn has to shield his eyes.*
DC-It’s gonna hit the house! *runs inside and yells* INCOMING!!!
Garth-*falls out of bed* Aw…damnit!
TC-*running down stairs* Naaaaaaaaah!
*The meteor flies at the house.*
TC-*looking out window* OH SH********T!
*The meteor collides with Sphere’s armored car and causes a huge explosion.*
Shawn-*sent flying backwards* Oof!
DC-*shakes with the ground but doesn’t fall* Whew. At least it didn’t destroy the house…
Sphere-*runs outside in boxers and looks at the pieces of his destroyed car* NOOOOO! *falls to knees grabbing hair* It only had two more payments!!! WHY?!!?
Shawn-*walking up beside him* This is freaky…it’s like aliens shot directly at your car…
Sphere-WHAT!? *looks up at sky and shakes fist* Damn you!!!!
DC-*looks 4 feet into a smoking crater* Look at the size of that crater…hey…what the?
*DC looks down and sees a metallic sphere at the bottom of the hole.*
DC-Come over here. You’re not gonna believe this…
*The Demon Knights stare at the shining ball inside the smoking crater.*
Garth-This better be good. Waking me up at 4 am…
Saffron-Look!
*The sphere begins to shake, then spins to a different side. A small door is revealed. It starts to open up, releasing clouds of smoke.*
DC-Well I’ll be damned…
TC-It looks like some kind of space pod.
*A figure comes out of the tiny door and stretches his arms and legs.*
Redsoldier-*cough cough* Man, what a ride.
Garth-Aaaaaah! It’s an alien that looks like Redsoldier! Do you realize what this means?!
Redsoldier-*pulls a glowing halo out of his pocket and puts it over his head* Uh…I took a trip back to Earth from heaven in a space pod. *reaches inside pod and pulls out pistols*
Garth-Oh…good.
*A few minutes later, they all talk in the living room of the house.*
DC-Well, you’re back again. Let me guess. “God” sent you back to Earth to help us.
Redsoldier-Well, actually. I left when I saw what was going on.
Saffron-Whoa. Can you do that?
Redsoldier-Ya, but it costs a lot of money to buy a pod.
Saffron-Oh. *confused*
DC-So, you saw what happened in the town with the corrupted people, ragmen, and everything else and you’ve come to help us?
Redsoldier-Hell ya.
Garth-How are you gonna get back to Heaven?
Redsoldier-I’ll have to die again, which will be very hard, cuz I’m sort of durable.
Garth-Wow.
DC-Moving on. How’s Protosschick99?
Redsoldier-Whataya mean?
DC-You mean…she didn’t go to Heaven?
Redsoldier-No…
Shawn-Hold on. Why would PC go to Hell?
Redsoldier-She didn’t go there either. I’m guessing she’s a specter of some kind now…
Garth-A ghost?
Redsoldier-In laymen’s terms, yes. Oh. Also, I asked the G-man for a favor.
Saffron-G man?
Redsoldier-God.
Saffron-Oh.
DC-What favor?
Redsoldier-I asked him to let a friend come from Heaven. I think you’ll like him. He’s a smart ass but very loyal.
Garth-Who’s your friend?
Redsoldier-Well…*is cut off by a noise from outside*
DC-Whoa. Sounds like someone’s yelling…above us.
Redsoldier-Oh man…
*The Demon Knights look at the ceiling as they hear the yelling get louder.*
Voice-Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!
*A guy crashes through the ceiling of the house and lands on the floor in the living room.*
Guy-Oh…that sucked!
Redsoldier-*shakes head* I knew it. You were too damn cheap to buy a pod!
Guy-*raises hand and flips Redsoldier off* Hey! I got here as fast as I could AND I saved some money!
Shawn-*stands up* I never thought I’d get to say this to a guy without being gay. Did it hurt?
Guy-Did what hurt?
Shawn-*snicker* When you fell from heaven. Hahahahahaha. *grabs sides*
Garth-Heh.
DC-I should’ve seen that coming…who the hell is this guy?
*The man stands up as the dust and plaster falls off him. He wears a tie-dye t-shirt and cut off jeans made into shorts. He pulls a halo out of his pocket and puts it over his head. He pulls a joint and a lighter out of his other pocket and lights up. As he smokes, he reaches to shake DC’s hand.*
Shroomie-Shroomie’s the name. I’m Heaven’s one and only drug dealer, making me a very rich and popular guy.
DC-*doesn’t shake hand, but raises an eyebrow* You’re dealing drugs in Heaven?
Garth-Uh…isn’t that illegal?
Shroomie-Nah. God’s down with it. The best thing is, since Red and me can’t die cuz we’re immortal, we can smoke all we want.
Redsoldier-I choose not too.
Shroomie-Pffft. Wimp.
DC-Gimmie that! *takes the joint and stomps it under his foot.*
Shroomie-Hey man! Whataya trying to do? Kill my buzz?
DC-We need you alert and clear eyed. So, you and Redsoldier are friends?
Shroomie-Yeah…
DC-And what are your powers?
Shroomie-Powers?
TC-Ya. You got any super powers?
Shroomie-Oh. I can fall from high places and not die.
TC-Hmm. That’s…crappy.
Shroomie-Shut up, nerd.
TC-Nerd?!
Redsoldier-Guys! Take it easy!
Shawn-*looks at Shroomie* Do you have any kind of weapons?
Shroomie-No.
DC-Hmm…Demon Knight huddle.
*The Demon Knights huddle and talk. Shroomie stares at them, scratching his head.*
DC-Keep your voices down so he can’t hear. Redsoldier, what are we going to do with this guy? He sucks!
Redsoldier-Hey! Give me a break; he’s an extra man. Since we lost PC99 and Carnage, I thought we could use him.
DC-Hmmm…what do you think, guys?
Saffron-He’s rude as hell, but looks trustworthy.
Sphere-I dunno. He looks like a stoner to me.
Garth-I say we dump him.
TC-Me too. I’m not a nerd!
Shawn-Me too! He put a hole in my ceiling!
DC-This isn’t your house, Shawn.
Shawn-It’s my relatives’ house!
Shroomie-Hey? You guys making out over there or what?
DC-Ok. We’ll keep him. I’m sure he can use a gun. If worse comes to worse, he’ll get a crappy job.
TC-Like what?
DC-Decoy. Does that sound good?
*The Demon Knights nod, then break up.*
Redsoldier-Ok, Shroomie, you’re in.
Shroomie-Sweet.
Sphere-One more thing. Redsoldier…
Redsoldier-What?
Sphere-Out of all the places to land, WHY MY CAR?! I ASK YOU!!
Chapter 2
Not too far away, the sun rises on a man driving his truck through the country.
*The red truck speeds past tree after tree as the guy drives along a country road next to a forest.*
Man-*singing along with country music on the radio* Prop me up beside the jukebox if I die! Lord, I wanna go to heaven, but I don’t wanna go tonight! Fill my boots up with sand. Put a stiff drink in my hand! Prop me up beside the…what in the hell?
*The truck slows down as the man stops in front of a huge tree trunk that’s collapsed, blocking the road.*
Man-Aw…damnit! *leaves engine running and jumps out of the truck. He walks over to the tree.* No way!
*He walks down the side of the tree and finds the stump. He can’t believe his eyes.*
Man-(Whoa…it’s cut clean through. What’s this sticky red sh*t? I’ve never seen any tree sap like this.)
*As he bends down to get a closer look, he sees a tall shadow on the ground. The strange thing is the shadow has lines moving around it like octopus tentacles.*
Man-Why does your shadow look like-*he is lifted up off the ground*
*He looks into the face of a red beast with a gapping mouth filled with jagged teeth. The next and last thing he feels is 2 sharp hooks slice into him just before they tear him apart…*
Meanwhile, back at Shawn’s aunt and uncle’s house…
Redsoldier-*sitting on couch next to Shroomie* There’s something I forgot to tell you guys.
DC-What’s that?
Redsoldier-I know what happened to Carnage after you set him on fire and knocked him out of the armored car…
DC-What?
Redsoldier-He recovered and ran into the woods. The corruption continued to spread, more than even the ragmen realize…
TC-What are you saying?
Redsoldier-Carnage didn’t just develop the mad bloodlust and loose his will to the ragmen, he also converted back to his old self, his dark side. I’m sure DC remembers that…
DC-I do. *He flashes back to the last time Carnage showed his dark side. They must still be cleaning the gore from the walls of that military base in the Furlin dimension…*
Redsoldier-There’s something else…
DC-What?
Redsoldier-The ragmen have completely destroyed our hometown with the army of corruption. Now they seek to release their dark master. I know even more… I know exactly who and what he is and where he is trapped.
TC-Well, don’t just stand there blabbing! Out with it!
Redsoldier-Ok. I’ll tell you everything…
A long time ago, the world was a very different place. The year was 1132 A.D. In a small village in what is today called South Dakota, lived a small tribe of Indians. They were a peace-loving tribe. They had a rich culture of beliefs and superstitions. They worshipped Mother Earth and cherished all her children. However, there was a child born within this tribe. His name was Kaloc. He was born with a terrible deformity. His eyes had no irises, and thus he was blind from birth. The tribe, wanted only mercy for the child with no sight, sought to kill him, but it wouldn’t happen. The child was the son of their chieftain, Ramdiriff, so of course, the child was spared. This proved to be a grim mistake…
Ever since he was born, accidents began to happen within the tribe. Boulders would fall from cliffs without warning. Cracks in the earth would emerge out of nowhere. “Earth shakes”, as the villagers called them, became very common. As he grew, new troubles began. Water would boil on and off, scolding swimming villagers. Fires would erupt out of nowhere. Game would turn extremely aggressive and attack hunters more frequently. Kaloc grew to become a rather big man, nearly 7 feet tall. At the age of 24, his father and his mother mysteriously died. They were said to have choked on their own tongues.
By right, Kaloc became chieftain of the tribe. The villagers were not at all pleased with this, so they worked out a plan. They wanted a great hunter, known as Tal’Dolis, to kill Kaloc as he slept. The night it was supposed to happen, Tal entered Kaloc’s tent with a dagger. He drove it into the blind man’s heart, killing him. Kaloc was buried in a quickly dug grave with no ceremony. The tribe rejoiced. Tal’Dolis became the new chief and all was well. However, nearly 5 days later, Kaloc arose from his grave. His flesh was black as if charred. His eyes were filled with hatred. He approached his village.
He did so in broad daylight. He walked right into the village, terrifying the people there. Brave men attacked him, but they would regret it. Each time one came at him, Kaloc would grab him by the neck and touch the man’s tongue with his still decaying finger. Every man he did this too instantly went into convulsions and died screaming. The number of men who died like this…was 12. After the last one, Kaloc walked right into the tent where Tal’Dolis was resting from a hunt earlier. Kaloc walked right up to him and grabbed him by his long hair, lifting him off his feet. As Tal’Dolis howled in pain, the villagers outside the tent bore witness to what Kaloc said to the new chief…
“You are mine from this day forth. Your soul will nourish me and your flesh will serve me. Your blood will boil and so will the blood of all who will be mine this day and those who will be mine in the days to come. Scream your last screams, Tal’Dolis. Savor the bittersweet irony for it will be the last thing you taste besides your own bile. For when you die, your soul will serve me and you will never know the peace of death. Your new name as my slave will be…Crion and as long as I live, you will serve me in agony. Say goodbye to your will and your soul, for this is the last words you’ll hear from my tongue. Welcome…to slavery.”
With that, Tal’Dolis was literally torn apart alive. The villagers ran in terror as the seemingly unending screams echoed across the land. The fastest of them only ran a mile before the 12 that Kaloc killed arose and hunted them down. They learned they could use a dark tentacle from their right hands that would deposit a crimson liquid into each villager’s mouth. Those who fell victim to this became savage and deadly. Their eyes would roll into their skulls and fill with blood. Those who witnessed this a few months later came to call it “rosalijdo malika”, which in the modern language translates to, “crimson death.” It was named this because the victims became corrupted and lost all sense of reality. They sought only to kill and destroy everything in their path. They grew to become a great army of corruption that served Kaloc’s will unquestionably.
The twelve warriors who tried to stop Kaloc had become what they sought to kill. Bound to Kaloc’s evil will, they tore at their own flesh and chopped off their hands and legs. Many wondered how they managed to chop off both hands by themselves, but many more wished not to know. These men then proceeded to wrap themselves in a dark tape. Also, their hands and feet were replaced with claws of some unknown black metal. They were given unholy power unlike any ever seen. It has been told that they had been Kaloc’s heart, which was cut into 12 pieces. This would explain their power and immunity to normal means of attack.
All together, the army of corruption and their master Kaloc led a campaign of death across the old lands of the United States. By the year 1204 A.D. Kaloc’s army had exterminated and infected ten tribes that no scientist has ever found the remains of. One tribe, however, rose to fight the unholy army. They were said to be the greatest warriors in the whole land. They stood against the army as it charged to consume another tribe to add to its ranks.
As the tribe of noble warriors clashed with the fiends, the ground shook with quakes and the sky roared with thunder. Kaloc was summoning his power to annihilate the brave warriors who stood before him. Suddenly, just when the battle seemed to be over and Kaloc victorious, a young shaman arose from within the tribal army. He called the down very power of the elements to strike at the corrupted minions of Kaloc. Lightning bolts fried dozens at a time. Thunder came down for the sky and shook the ground, causing chasms to swallow the monsters. After a battle lasting three days, Kaloc and his twelve ragmen were all that remained. The warriors managed to subdue the ragmen, destroying them and leaving only rags and metal claws. Finally, the great shaman, known only as Cygnus, gathered his power for one final blow against the ragmen’s master, Kaloc. The two fought with ferocity. In the end, Kaloc fell. His power was fading and his black blood was all over the battlefield. He was at death’s door…
With his dying breath, Kaloc called down a terrible spell. As Kaloc died, his spirit escaped his body and rose before the shaman and his warriors. Cygnus, anticipating such a dire action, formed a spell of his own as the vile spirit of Kaloc attempted to possess him. He pulled a black crystal from his robe and uttered a spell that would trap Kaloc’s spirit within it. As Kaloc’s soul was trapped in the crystal, all traces of the ragmen faded from existence. The wise shaman formulated a plan. The crystal was placed in an underground vault that was made especially for what the shaman planned. Two hundred feet below the surface, Cygnus ordered his brethren to seal the vault and never look upon it again. Once trapped in the vault with the black crystal, Cygnus vowed to guard it for all time. The spell he had chosen to capture Kaloc’s soul came at a great price. As long as the crystal existed, Cygnus would never age. He went into a sort of stasis in which he would remain unless outside forces attempted to enter the vault.
Redsoldier-And so…for nearly 800 years, Cygnus has guarded that vault. Now, I fear the ragmen and the newly arisen army seek to dig into the vault and reclaim the crystal that holds Kaloc. From there, they’ll proceed to release their dark master once again…
Demon Knights-…
DC-Holy sh*t.
Redsoldier-Ya. I know.
DC-So…we need a plan.
Shroomie-Ah. Red and I worked it out. The ragmen are most likely heading for the desert to try to open the vault. So, we’ll have to go to the place it’s hidden and intercept them before they can.
DC-Great. Where is it?
Redsoldier-I have the coordinates of its exact location.
DC-Excellent. We’ll set out right away. You’ll lead us, Red.
Redsoldier-Will do.
Garth-W00t! Wait…the armored car was crushed. How are we going to get there?
DC-Hmm…guess we can walk.
Saffron-Sphere. Tell them!
Sphere-What?
Saffron-You know you have enough money to let us all ride the bus!
*The Demon Knights look over at the two.*
Sphere-Aw…sh*t.
Garth-Hey. It’s one of the burdens of being a Demon Knight.
Sphere-I’m not a Demon Knight!
DC-*grins* Well, not with that attitude.
Sphere-Aw….
DC-Ok. It’s settled. We set out in the morning for wherever we’re headed. Red, you draw up a route we can take.
Redsoldier-Already did.
DC-That’s another thing! How do you know all this sh*t?!
Redsoldier-Hey. Shroomie’s been in heaven since…5308 B.C., right?
Shroomie-Yep. I was the patron saint of weed. I was a martyr.
Redsoldier-Stop lying!
Shroomie-Fine. I was stoned and thrown off a cliff.
Shawn-Whoa. You were stoned to death?
Shroomie-No! I was stoned and thrown off a cliff. What’s so hard to understand?
Shawn-*blink*
Redsoldier-I have a feeling this is going to be a looong trip…
Chapter 3
*Far, far away in another place. A place where the sky is a dark shade of blue and the water runs emerald green. The plant life is bizarre and the animals are alien. In a little place, known to the Demon Knights as the “Furlin Dimension”, a lone warrior readies himself as a portal opens before him.*
???-Hmm. I hope I’m not making the wrong choice. Then again…*looks around at the world around him* If I don’t come to their aid, my home could be next.
*As he steps closer to the portal, he notices rustling behind him. Three stout creatures emerge from the brush. Short creatures, only four feet tall, carry jagged sabers and crude shields. Their faces have dark tusks running along the sides. Their skin is made of dark, gray scales. They chatter in an unknown language at the figure who keeps an eye on the three, ready for action.*
???-*smiles* So. You were sent to see me off?
*The leader of the other two stands on his hind legs and hisses.*
???-I’ll take that as a yes. *draws a crystal sword* Now, I’ll get this over with quickly. I have to leave soon. *he charges at the three.*
*He slices at the first saber that comes at him, chopping it in half. He smiles as the weaponless Furlin shrieks and runs in terror. He turns around and impales the leader Furlin on his sword. He swings the little creature, smacking it into the last Furlin.*
???-Too easy. *he kicks the leader off his sword, then decapitates the hurt Furlin he smacked as he crawls away.* Now, for the last one.
*The figure uses his mind to locate the fleeing Furlin. He senses the creature believes he’s escaped.*
???-Heh. You could never run fast enough. *he lifts his sword and throws it seemingly into the air. It comes down far away and lands, driving into the Furlin’s skull, killing it instantly.* Gotcha…
*The figure picks up his sword and heads back to the portal.*
???-*sheathing his sword* Be patient, my love. I come to avenge your death…
*The figure enters the rift in dimensions, crossing over and arriving at Earth. He lands on a highway in the middle of nowhere.*
???-*smells the air* I can almost smell the corruption in this land. They’re no match for me…
*The figure walks down the highway, searching for a clue as to where he’s arrived.*
Meanwhile…
*The army of corruption marches toward the location of the hidden vault, being guided by an unlikely ally.*
Ragman-I should of known it was you Crion. It was a shame I’d forgotten about you…
*The shadow follows his on the ground.*
Crion-You never forgot me, ragman. You must’ve just suppressed any memory of me. After all, it is practically my doing that brought Kaloc to what he is now.
Ragman-Don’t be foolish. We were both made by Kaloc. He is the reason for our existence. Once we release him from his curse, he’ll lead us to our destiny.
Crion-Yes. *rises from the ground and stops the ragman. The army stops with them* Now, we head west for several more hours and we’ll be right on top of it.
Ragman-Excellent. *raises his claw to his mouth and whistles.* Move out! All skeletal warriors take the rear. Corrupted in front. Rally the flesh worms! They must be sent ahead!
*The ground shakes as the monstrosities beneath the sand slide ahead. The army continues on its journey.*
Elsewhere…
*The Demon Knights drive along a desert road in a bus. It’s only them, the driver, and an old couple.*
DC-Ah…on the road again.
TC-This sucks. Are you sure you know where you’re going Redsoldier?
Redsoldier-Of course I do! Tell ‘em Shroomie.
Shroomie-*high* What is the destination but the way you get there…
Saffron-Huh. If PC99 was here, she’d call him ghetto.
Sphere-*sitting next to her* Ya, probably.
DC-Ok, guys. Settle down.
Garth-*sitting next to old couple* I’m with DC. We should relax before we get to this place.
Old Woman-*sitting next to Garth* Where are you young kids off too? A costume party?
Garth-Why would you say that?
Old Woman-Well, you’re a pirate, ain’tcha?
DC-*snickers* She’s got a point.
Garth-*turns to old woman* Hey! It’s an eye patch! I lost my eye in the war!
Shawn-Uh…Garth, you lost your eye in a freak dishwasher accident.
Saffron-No way!
Sphere-Hahahahaha!
Garth-Shawn! Ex-nay onay he-tay ishwasher-day!
TC-We’ve only got 15 miles to go. I’d also like a chance to thank Gus, the bus driver, for letting us bring our weapons and bombs on this bus.
*The Demon Knights applaud.*
Shawn-*walks up to the front of the bus* Ya. Thanks Gus.
Gus-Uh…I don’t care. I’m getting fired tomorrow.
Shawn-Why?
Gus-Driving under the influence…*pulls a liquor bottle out from under his seat.* I’ll wait till I drop you terrorists off…
Shawn-We’re not terrorists.
Gus-Ok. Whatever floats your boat…
Shawn-*sigh* Hey…what’s that?
*Shawn notices a red truck parked over both lanes on the road.*
DC-*coming to front* What the hell?
Gus-I’m stopping. Looks like this is the end of the line.
DC-No problem. We can move it. I can get some help from Carn…oh, that’s right. Ok. Red, Shroomie, Garth, lend me some muscle so we can push it off the road.
*The four Demon Knights step out of the car and head for the truck.*
Redsoldier-What kind of jerk would park along the road?
Garth-You got me…
Shroomie-Whoa…that truck’s red…
DC-Maybe I should’ve left you on the bus.
Shroomie-Dude, you can’t like…be on a bus!
Garth-Wtf are you talking about!?
Shroomie-Wtf are any of us talking about?
DC-*rolls eyes* Comon, guys. I’d like to push this truck today! *They line up and push the truck.*
Redsoldier-On 3. 1…2…3! *they push the truck, but suddenly it slide right back to where it was.*
DC-Wtf?
*They push it again, same results.*
Shroomie-Dude…I am sooo stoned! It’s like the truck is moving on its own.
Garth-Shut up, Shroomie.
DC-*hears a scrapping sound* What is that? *walks over to the side of the truck* Something’s wrong.
Shroomie-Hey…I may be stoned, but what stinks?
Redsoldier-…look out!! *dives to the ground away from the truck. Garth and DC do the same. Shroomie just stands there.*
*The truck is lifted off the ground. A figure holds it high above his head. DC turns around to see Carnage laughing at them.*
Carnage-*holding truck* Hahahahahahahahahaha!
DC-Carnage…*looks at his crazed comrade.* You’re sick. You’re under the ragmen’s control.
Carnage-That may be…hehehee…*throws truck off the road and it crashes in the desert* but what a rush!
*DC, Redsoldier, Garth, and Shroomie now standing looking at the insane symbiote.*
DC-I don’t wanna hurt you, Carnage… *draws sword* but if you try to hurt any of your old friends, so help me…I will put you down…
Carnage-Hehehehe…You always were a joker, Demon Child. *looks at his claws. He lifts them to his mouth and licks them.*
Garth-*holds guns* That’s disgusting…look at his hands…
Redsoldier-*holds pistols as he looks closer* They’re covered in blood! Oh, Carnage. What have you been doing?
Carnage-I had to get a ride, so I killed some stupid farmer. It’s been so long since I’ve tasted blood…
DC-You’ve been warned, Carnage. *readies sword.* Get out of here…you can’t beat all three of us.
Shroomie-Hey…there’s four.
DC-You don’t count.
Carnage-Hahahahahahahahahahahaha!
DC-Wtf is so funny?
Carnage-The look that’s about to be on your face…*his hands turn into spiked hammers*
DC-You heard him, guys. Fire!
*Redsoldier and Garth start shooting at Carnage.*
Carnage-*stretches out his arms* Hahahahaha! BANG BANG BANG!!! *starts to charge at Demon Child.*
Redsoldier-Demon Chi-*is smacked flying by one of Carnage’s roaming tendrils.*
Garth-Red! You bastard! *runs at the charging Carnage with his sword*
Carnage-*grabs Garth by the ankle with a tendril and flings him at the bus.* Kill you later! I have some bigger fish to filet! Hahahahahaha!
DC-*stands with sword* Do your worst you mad f*ck…
Shroomie-Dude! Sweet! I got a gun! *pulls it out and starts shooting in random directions*
Carnage-Hey you! Catch! *shoots a spike at Shroomie. It hits the gun, knocking it out of his hands.*
Shroomie-Sh*t!
Carnage-Hahahaha! *stops a yard from DC* You ready to tango, old man?
DC-I’ll put you in your place, boy. Just get close enough.
Carnage-Hehehehehe. Ready to die? Good! Very good! Good luck, have fun!!! *jumps at the demon, laughing insanely.*
Part 2-Aftermath
Chapter 1
The shadows pull back over an endless void of light and darkness. A lone figure stands looking at the horizon. The clouds overhead pour cold rain, colder than the young Demon Knight has ever felt. The ground shakes, making cracks in the sands of a great desert become visible as the sun rises. Dozens of hideous flesh worms plow through the earth, surfacing to scream in unison like an unholy orchestra. Waves and waves of corrupted charge across the lifeless land while skeletons wielding swords and axes follow, along with dark figures in rags. The evil army charges right at the lone Demon Knight. He raises his hands in immeasurable fear as the furious legions of the damned come ever closer…
Just as they’re about to trample him, instead, they run right through him. He opens his eyes; only to see in place of the evil army is a dark apparition of a man standing before him. He walks towards the figure, still shaken by the previous encounter.
ShawnmanX-*approaches figure* Who are you?
*The man turns around to face him. As he does, he grabs Shawn’s shoulders and pulls him until they are face to face. The black featureless body stays the same as the face begins to shake. A dark, blank face ripples like water as it changes. It becomes the grinning face of Carnage, but his eyes are filled with a deep sorrow. Even behind the symbiote costume, Shawn can sense the pain from him. Suddenly, the face shifts again, becoming the face of PC99. She stares into Shawn’s eyes as she flinches in pain. Then, again it changes, turning into the faces of other Demon Knights. Then even more, the faces of corrupted, even ragmen. Shawn can’t take any more. He breaks out of the grasp the figure has on him.*
Shawn-Who are you!? Show yourself!
*The figure turns around, no longer facing the Demon Knight. Then, turning again, the figure looks right at Shawn. The black, rotting face is filled with an intense hatred unlike Shawn has even seen or thought he’d ever see. The being pulls a mask out from behind him and puts it on. It’s jagged teeth and horns resemble a dragon, but the white eyes with no irises that stare at him from behind the mask fill him with terror.*
*Shawn wakes up in a cold sweat. It takes him awhile before he realizes where he is. He’s back in his aunt and uncle’s home. It’s been four days since Protosschick99, a true friend and great sorceress, was murdered by Carnage, another friend turned corrupted nightmare. Shawn looks at the alarm clock on a nearby dresser.*
Shawn-4 am. Well, I’m not sleeping anymore tonight.
*Shawn sighs as he climbs out of the bed and puts on the same clothes he’s been wearing for days now. He walks downstairs and sees Demon Child, commander of the Demon Knights, standing in front of an open window.*
Shawn-You didn’t sleep at all last night, DC?
DC-*stretches wings* You should know by now, Shawn. I only sleep when I’m bored. I don’t need rest.
Shawn-Oh, that’s right. What are you doing?
DC-*he stares out the window, not turning around to reply* Keeping watch.
Shawn-Well…how are you holding up?
DC-*finally turns around* How do you think I’m holding up? *he walks over to the young Demon Knight.* Two of my best warriors, no…best friends, are lost. We had to bury PC under a tree behind this crappy house! I had to listen to Tim-and-Carl give a eulogy and play priest. Carnage, whom I would trust my life to any day, slaughtered her. He nearly chopped her in half, damnit! In my rage, I set him on fire and knocked him out of a speeding car! I heard him screech on the road! How do you think I’m holding up!?
Shawn-Hey. *frowns* This house isn’t crappy…
DC-*sigh* Let’s go. We’ll pick up some burgers or something for the others.
Shawn-Sounds good. We’ll take Sphere’s car.
DC-Of course, it’s the only one out there. Comon. *they leave and get ready to get in the armored car, when DC notices something in the dawn sky.*
DC-What the hell is that?
Shawn-*looks up* Looks like…a meteor.
DC-Nah, it’s gotta be a star or something…er…sh*t…it’s not. It’s coming closer. It’s coming right at us.
Shawn-What do we do?!
DC-What do you mean we?
*The meteor is now so bright Shawn has to shield his eyes.*
DC-It’s gonna hit the house! *runs inside and yells* INCOMING!!!
Garth-*falls out of bed* Aw…damnit!
TC-*running down stairs* Naaaaaaaaah!
*The meteor flies at the house.*
TC-*looking out window* OH SH********T!
*The meteor collides with Sphere’s armored car and causes a huge explosion.*
Shawn-*sent flying backwards* Oof!
DC-*shakes with the ground but doesn’t fall* Whew. At least it didn’t destroy the house…
Sphere-*runs outside in boxers and looks at the pieces of his destroyed car* NOOOOO! *falls to knees grabbing hair* It only had two more payments!!! WHY?!!?
Shawn-*walking up beside him* This is freaky…it’s like aliens shot directly at your car…
Sphere-WHAT!? *looks up at sky and shakes fist* Damn you!!!!
DC-*looks 4 feet into a smoking crater* Look at the size of that crater…hey…what the?
*DC looks down and sees a metallic sphere at the bottom of the hole.*
DC-Come over here. You’re not gonna believe this…
*The Demon Knights stare at the shining ball inside the smoking crater.*
Garth-This better be good. Waking me up at 4 am…
Saffron-Look!
*The sphere begins to shake, then spins to a different side. A small door is revealed. It starts to open up, releasing clouds of smoke.*
DC-Well I’ll be damned…
TC-It looks like some kind of space pod.
*A figure comes out of the tiny door and stretches his arms and legs.*
Redsoldier-*cough cough* Man, what a ride.
Garth-Aaaaaah! It’s an alien that looks like Redsoldier! Do you realize what this means?!
Redsoldier-*pulls a glowing halo out of his pocket and puts it over his head* Uh…I took a trip back to Earth from heaven in a space pod. *reaches inside pod and pulls out pistols*
Garth-Oh…good.
*A few minutes later, they all talk in the living room of the house.*
DC-Well, you’re back again. Let me guess. “God” sent you back to Earth to help us.
Redsoldier-Well, actually. I left when I saw what was going on.
Saffron-Whoa. Can you do that?
Redsoldier-Ya, but it costs a lot of money to buy a pod.
Saffron-Oh. *confused*
DC-So, you saw what happened in the town with the corrupted people, ragmen, and everything else and you’ve come to help us?
Redsoldier-Hell ya.
Garth-How are you gonna get back to Heaven?
Redsoldier-I’ll have to die again, which will be very hard, cuz I’m sort of durable.
Garth-Wow.
DC-Moving on. How’s Protosschick99?
Redsoldier-Whataya mean?
DC-You mean…she didn’t go to Heaven?
Redsoldier-No…
Shawn-Hold on. Why would PC go to Hell?
Redsoldier-She didn’t go there either. I’m guessing she’s a specter of some kind now…
Garth-A ghost?
Redsoldier-In laymen’s terms, yes. Oh. Also, I asked the G-man for a favor.
Saffron-G man?
Redsoldier-God.
Saffron-Oh.
DC-What favor?
Redsoldier-I asked him to let a friend come from Heaven. I think you’ll like him. He’s a smart ass but very loyal.
Garth-Who’s your friend?
Redsoldier-Well…*is cut off by a noise from outside*
DC-Whoa. Sounds like someone’s yelling…above us.
Redsoldier-Oh man…
*The Demon Knights look at the ceiling as they hear the yelling get louder.*
Voice-Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!
*A guy crashes through the ceiling of the house and lands on the floor in the living room.*
Guy-Oh…that sucked!
Redsoldier-*shakes head* I knew it. You were too damn cheap to buy a pod!
Guy-*raises hand and flips Redsoldier off* Hey! I got here as fast as I could AND I saved some money!
Shawn-*stands up* I never thought I’d get to say this to a guy without being gay. Did it hurt?
Guy-Did what hurt?
Shawn-*snicker* When you fell from heaven. Hahahahahaha. *grabs sides*
Garth-Heh.
DC-I should’ve seen that coming…who the hell is this guy?
*The man stands up as the dust and plaster falls off him. He wears a tie-dye t-shirt and cut off jeans made into shorts. He pulls a halo out of his pocket and puts it over his head. He pulls a joint and a lighter out of his other pocket and lights up. As he smokes, he reaches to shake DC’s hand.*
Shroomie-Shroomie’s the name. I’m Heaven’s one and only drug dealer, making me a very rich and popular guy.
DC-*doesn’t shake hand, but raises an eyebrow* You’re dealing drugs in Heaven?
Garth-Uh…isn’t that illegal?
Shroomie-Nah. God’s down with it. The best thing is, since Red and me can’t die cuz we’re immortal, we can smoke all we want.
Redsoldier-I choose not too.
Shroomie-Pffft. Wimp.
DC-Gimmie that! *takes the joint and stomps it under his foot.*
Shroomie-Hey man! Whataya trying to do? Kill my buzz?
DC-We need you alert and clear eyed. So, you and Redsoldier are friends?
Shroomie-Yeah…
DC-And what are your powers?
Shroomie-Powers?
TC-Ya. You got any super powers?
Shroomie-Oh. I can fall from high places and not die.
TC-Hmm. That’s…crappy.
Shroomie-Shut up, nerd.
TC-Nerd?!
Redsoldier-Guys! Take it easy!
Shawn-*looks at Shroomie* Do you have any kind of weapons?
Shroomie-No.
DC-Hmm…Demon Knight huddle.
*The Demon Knights huddle and talk. Shroomie stares at them, scratching his head.*
DC-Keep your voices down so he can’t hear. Redsoldier, what are we going to do with this guy? He sucks!
Redsoldier-Hey! Give me a break; he’s an extra man. Since we lost PC99 and Carnage, I thought we could use him.
DC-Hmmm…what do you think, guys?
Saffron-He’s rude as hell, but looks trustworthy.
Sphere-I dunno. He looks like a stoner to me.
Garth-I say we dump him.
TC-Me too. I’m not a nerd!
Shawn-Me too! He put a hole in my ceiling!
DC-This isn’t your house, Shawn.
Shawn-It’s my relatives’ house!
Shroomie-Hey? You guys making out over there or what?
DC-Ok. We’ll keep him. I’m sure he can use a gun. If worse comes to worse, he’ll get a crappy job.
TC-Like what?
DC-Decoy. Does that sound good?
*The Demon Knights nod, then break up.*
Redsoldier-Ok, Shroomie, you’re in.
Shroomie-Sweet.
Sphere-One more thing. Redsoldier…
Redsoldier-What?
Sphere-Out of all the places to land, WHY MY CAR?! I ASK YOU!!
Chapter 2
Not too far away, the sun rises on a man driving his truck through the country.
*The red truck speeds past tree after tree as the guy drives along a country road next to a forest.*
Man-*singing along with country music on the radio* Prop me up beside the jukebox if I die! Lord, I wanna go to heaven, but I don’t wanna go tonight! Fill my boots up with sand. Put a stiff drink in my hand! Prop me up beside the…what in the hell?
*The truck slows down as the man stops in front of a huge tree trunk that’s collapsed, blocking the road.*
Man-Aw…damnit! *leaves engine running and jumps out of the truck. He walks over to the tree.* No way!
*He walks down the side of the tree and finds the stump. He can’t believe his eyes.*
Man-(Whoa…it’s cut clean through. What’s this sticky red sh*t? I’ve never seen any tree sap like this.)
*As he bends down to get a closer look, he sees a tall shadow on the ground. The strange thing is the shadow has lines moving around it like octopus tentacles.*
Man-Why does your shadow look like-*he is lifted up off the ground*
*He looks into the face of a red beast with a gapping mouth filled with jagged teeth. The next and last thing he feels is 2 sharp hooks slice into him just before they tear him apart…*
Meanwhile, back at Shawn’s aunt and uncle’s house…
Redsoldier-*sitting on couch next to Shroomie* There’s something I forgot to tell you guys.
DC-What’s that?
Redsoldier-I know what happened to Carnage after you set him on fire and knocked him out of the armored car…
DC-What?
Redsoldier-He recovered and ran into the woods. The corruption continued to spread, more than even the ragmen realize…
TC-What are you saying?
Redsoldier-Carnage didn’t just develop the mad bloodlust and loose his will to the ragmen, he also converted back to his old self, his dark side. I’m sure DC remembers that…
DC-I do. *He flashes back to the last time Carnage showed his dark side. They must still be cleaning the gore from the walls of that military base in the Furlin dimension…*
Redsoldier-There’s something else…
DC-What?
Redsoldier-The ragmen have completely destroyed our hometown with the army of corruption. Now they seek to release their dark master. I know even more… I know exactly who and what he is and where he is trapped.
TC-Well, don’t just stand there blabbing! Out with it!
Redsoldier-Ok. I’ll tell you everything…
A long time ago, the world was a very different place. The year was 1132 A.D. In a small village in what is today called South Dakota, lived a small tribe of Indians. They were a peace-loving tribe. They had a rich culture of beliefs and superstitions. They worshipped Mother Earth and cherished all her children. However, there was a child born within this tribe. His name was Kaloc. He was born with a terrible deformity. His eyes had no irises, and thus he was blind from birth. The tribe, wanted only mercy for the child with no sight, sought to kill him, but it wouldn’t happen. The child was the son of their chieftain, Ramdiriff, so of course, the child was spared. This proved to be a grim mistake…
Ever since he was born, accidents began to happen within the tribe. Boulders would fall from cliffs without warning. Cracks in the earth would emerge out of nowhere. “Earth shakes”, as the villagers called them, became very common. As he grew, new troubles began. Water would boil on and off, scolding swimming villagers. Fires would erupt out of nowhere. Game would turn extremely aggressive and attack hunters more frequently. Kaloc grew to become a rather big man, nearly 7 feet tall. At the age of 24, his father and his mother mysteriously died. They were said to have choked on their own tongues.
By right, Kaloc became chieftain of the tribe. The villagers were not at all pleased with this, so they worked out a plan. They wanted a great hunter, known as Tal’Dolis, to kill Kaloc as he slept. The night it was supposed to happen, Tal entered Kaloc’s tent with a dagger. He drove it into the blind man’s heart, killing him. Kaloc was buried in a quickly dug grave with no ceremony. The tribe rejoiced. Tal’Dolis became the new chief and all was well. However, nearly 5 days later, Kaloc arose from his grave. His flesh was black as if charred. His eyes were filled with hatred. He approached his village.
He did so in broad daylight. He walked right into the village, terrifying the people there. Brave men attacked him, but they would regret it. Each time one came at him, Kaloc would grab him by the neck and touch the man’s tongue with his still decaying finger. Every man he did this too instantly went into convulsions and died screaming. The number of men who died like this…was 12. After the last one, Kaloc walked right into the tent where Tal’Dolis was resting from a hunt earlier. Kaloc walked right up to him and grabbed him by his long hair, lifting him off his feet. As Tal’Dolis howled in pain, the villagers outside the tent bore witness to what Kaloc said to the new chief…
“You are mine from this day forth. Your soul will nourish me and your flesh will serve me. Your blood will boil and so will the blood of all who will be mine this day and those who will be mine in the days to come. Scream your last screams, Tal’Dolis. Savor the bittersweet irony for it will be the last thing you taste besides your own bile. For when you die, your soul will serve me and you will never know the peace of death. Your new name as my slave will be…Crion and as long as I live, you will serve me in agony. Say goodbye to your will and your soul, for this is the last words you’ll hear from my tongue. Welcome…to slavery.”
With that, Tal’Dolis was literally torn apart alive. The villagers ran in terror as the seemingly unending screams echoed across the land. The fastest of them only ran a mile before the 12 that Kaloc killed arose and hunted them down. They learned they could use a dark tentacle from their right hands that would deposit a crimson liquid into each villager’s mouth. Those who fell victim to this became savage and deadly. Their eyes would roll into their skulls and fill with blood. Those who witnessed this a few months later came to call it “rosalijdo malika”, which in the modern language translates to, “crimson death.” It was named this because the victims became corrupted and lost all sense of reality. They sought only to kill and destroy everything in their path. They grew to become a great army of corruption that served Kaloc’s will unquestionably.
The twelve warriors who tried to stop Kaloc had become what they sought to kill. Bound to Kaloc’s evil will, they tore at their own flesh and chopped off their hands and legs. Many wondered how they managed to chop off both hands by themselves, but many more wished not to know. These men then proceeded to wrap themselves in a dark tape. Also, their hands and feet were replaced with claws of some unknown black metal. They were given unholy power unlike any ever seen. It has been told that they had been Kaloc’s heart, which was cut into 12 pieces. This would explain their power and immunity to normal means of attack.
All together, the army of corruption and their master Kaloc led a campaign of death across the old lands of the United States. By the year 1204 A.D. Kaloc’s army had exterminated and infected ten tribes that no scientist has ever found the remains of. One tribe, however, rose to fight the unholy army. They were said to be the greatest warriors in the whole land. They stood against the army as it charged to consume another tribe to add to its ranks.
As the tribe of noble warriors clashed with the fiends, the ground shook with quakes and the sky roared with thunder. Kaloc was summoning his power to annihilate the brave warriors who stood before him. Suddenly, just when the battle seemed to be over and Kaloc victorious, a young shaman arose from within the tribal army. He called the down very power of the elements to strike at the corrupted minions of Kaloc. Lightning bolts fried dozens at a time. Thunder came down for the sky and shook the ground, causing chasms to swallow the monsters. After a battle lasting three days, Kaloc and his twelve ragmen were all that remained. The warriors managed to subdue the ragmen, destroying them and leaving only rags and metal claws. Finally, the great shaman, known only as Cygnus, gathered his power for one final blow against the ragmen’s master, Kaloc. The two fought with ferocity. In the end, Kaloc fell. His power was fading and his black blood was all over the battlefield. He was at death’s door…
With his dying breath, Kaloc called down a terrible spell. As Kaloc died, his spirit escaped his body and rose before the shaman and his warriors. Cygnus, anticipating such a dire action, formed a spell of his own as the vile spirit of Kaloc attempted to possess him. He pulled a black crystal from his robe and uttered a spell that would trap Kaloc’s spirit within it. As Kaloc’s soul was trapped in the crystal, all traces of the ragmen faded from existence. The wise shaman formulated a plan. The crystal was placed in an underground vault that was made especially for what the shaman planned. Two hundred feet below the surface, Cygnus ordered his brethren to seal the vault and never look upon it again. Once trapped in the vault with the black crystal, Cygnus vowed to guard it for all time. The spell he had chosen to capture Kaloc’s soul came at a great price. As long as the crystal existed, Cygnus would never age. He went into a sort of stasis in which he would remain unless outside forces attempted to enter the vault.
Redsoldier-And so…for nearly 800 years, Cygnus has guarded that vault. Now, I fear the ragmen and the newly arisen army seek to dig into the vault and reclaim the crystal that holds Kaloc. From there, they’ll proceed to release their dark master once again…
Demon Knights-…
DC-Holy sh*t.
Redsoldier-Ya. I know.
DC-So…we need a plan.
Shroomie-Ah. Red and I worked it out. The ragmen are most likely heading for the desert to try to open the vault. So, we’ll have to go to the place it’s hidden and intercept them before they can.
DC-Great. Where is it?
Redsoldier-I have the coordinates of its exact location.
DC-Excellent. We’ll set out right away. You’ll lead us, Red.
Redsoldier-Will do.
Garth-W00t! Wait…the armored car was crushed. How are we going to get there?
DC-Hmm…guess we can walk.
Saffron-Sphere. Tell them!
Sphere-What?
Saffron-You know you have enough money to let us all ride the bus!
*The Demon Knights look over at the two.*
Sphere-Aw…sh*t.
Garth-Hey. It’s one of the burdens of being a Demon Knight.
Sphere-I’m not a Demon Knight!
DC-*grins* Well, not with that attitude.
Sphere-Aw….
DC-Ok. It’s settled. We set out in the morning for wherever we’re headed. Red, you draw up a route we can take.
Redsoldier-Already did.
DC-That’s another thing! How do you know all this sh*t?!
Redsoldier-Hey. Shroomie’s been in heaven since…5308 B.C., right?
Shroomie-Yep. I was the patron saint of weed. I was a martyr.
Redsoldier-Stop lying!
Shroomie-Fine. I was stoned and thrown off a cliff.
Shawn-Whoa. You were stoned to death?
Shroomie-No! I was stoned and thrown off a cliff. What’s so hard to understand?
Shawn-*blink*
Redsoldier-I have a feeling this is going to be a looong trip…
Chapter 3
*Far, far away in another place. A place where the sky is a dark shade of blue and the water runs emerald green. The plant life is bizarre and the animals are alien. In a little place, known to the Demon Knights as the “Furlin Dimension”, a lone warrior readies himself as a portal opens before him.*
???-Hmm. I hope I’m not making the wrong choice. Then again…*looks around at the world around him* If I don’t come to their aid, my home could be next.
*As he steps closer to the portal, he notices rustling behind him. Three stout creatures emerge from the brush. Short creatures, only four feet tall, carry jagged sabers and crude shields. Their faces have dark tusks running along the sides. Their skin is made of dark, gray scales. They chatter in an unknown language at the figure who keeps an eye on the three, ready for action.*
???-*smiles* So. You were sent to see me off?
*The leader of the other two stands on his hind legs and hisses.*
???-I’ll take that as a yes. *draws a crystal sword* Now, I’ll get this over with quickly. I have to leave soon. *he charges at the three.*
*He slices at the first saber that comes at him, chopping it in half. He smiles as the weaponless Furlin shrieks and runs in terror. He turns around and impales the leader Furlin on his sword. He swings the little creature, smacking it into the last Furlin.*
???-Too easy. *he kicks the leader off his sword, then decapitates the hurt Furlin he smacked as he crawls away.* Now, for the last one.
*The figure uses his mind to locate the fleeing Furlin. He senses the creature believes he’s escaped.*
???-Heh. You could never run fast enough. *he lifts his sword and throws it seemingly into the air. It comes down far away and lands, driving into the Furlin’s skull, killing it instantly.* Gotcha…
*The figure picks up his sword and heads back to the portal.*
???-*sheathing his sword* Be patient, my love. I come to avenge your death…
*The figure enters the rift in dimensions, crossing over and arriving at Earth. He lands on a highway in the middle of nowhere.*
???-*smells the air* I can almost smell the corruption in this land. They’re no match for me…
*The figure walks down the highway, searching for a clue as to where he’s arrived.*
Meanwhile…
*The army of corruption marches toward the location of the hidden vault, being guided by an unlikely ally.*
Ragman-I should of known it was you Crion. It was a shame I’d forgotten about you…
*The shadow follows his on the ground.*
Crion-You never forgot me, ragman. You must’ve just suppressed any memory of me. After all, it is practically my doing that brought Kaloc to what he is now.
Ragman-Don’t be foolish. We were both made by Kaloc. He is the reason for our existence. Once we release him from his curse, he’ll lead us to our destiny.
Crion-Yes. *rises from the ground and stops the ragman. The army stops with them* Now, we head west for several more hours and we’ll be right on top of it.
Ragman-Excellent. *raises his claw to his mouth and whistles.* Move out! All skeletal warriors take the rear. Corrupted in front. Rally the flesh worms! They must be sent ahead!
*The ground shakes as the monstrosities beneath the sand slide ahead. The army continues on its journey.*
Elsewhere…
*The Demon Knights drive along a desert road in a bus. It’s only them, the driver, and an old couple.*
DC-Ah…on the road again.
TC-This sucks. Are you sure you know where you’re going Redsoldier?
Redsoldier-Of course I do! Tell ‘em Shroomie.
Shroomie-*high* What is the destination but the way you get there…
Saffron-Huh. If PC99 was here, she’d call him ghetto.
Sphere-*sitting next to her* Ya, probably.
DC-Ok, guys. Settle down.
Garth-*sitting next to old couple* I’m with DC. We should relax before we get to this place.
Old Woman-*sitting next to Garth* Where are you young kids off too? A costume party?
Garth-Why would you say that?
Old Woman-Well, you’re a pirate, ain’tcha?
DC-*snickers* She’s got a point.
Garth-*turns to old woman* Hey! It’s an eye patch! I lost my eye in the war!
Shawn-Uh…Garth, you lost your eye in a freak dishwasher accident.
Saffron-No way!
Sphere-Hahahahaha!
Garth-Shawn! Ex-nay onay he-tay ishwasher-day!
TC-We’ve only got 15 miles to go. I’d also like a chance to thank Gus, the bus driver, for letting us bring our weapons and bombs on this bus.
*The Demon Knights applaud.*
Shawn-*walks up to the front of the bus* Ya. Thanks Gus.
Gus-Uh…I don’t care. I’m getting fired tomorrow.
Shawn-Why?
Gus-Driving under the influence…*pulls a liquor bottle out from under his seat.* I’ll wait till I drop you terrorists off…
Shawn-We’re not terrorists.
Gus-Ok. Whatever floats your boat…
Shawn-*sigh* Hey…what’s that?
*Shawn notices a red truck parked over both lanes on the road.*
DC-*coming to front* What the hell?
Gus-I’m stopping. Looks like this is the end of the line.
DC-No problem. We can move it. I can get some help from Carn…oh, that’s right. Ok. Red, Shroomie, Garth, lend me some muscle so we can push it off the road.
*The four Demon Knights step out of the car and head for the truck.*
Redsoldier-What kind of jerk would park along the road?
Garth-You got me…
Shroomie-Whoa…that truck’s red…
DC-Maybe I should’ve left you on the bus.
Shroomie-Dude, you can’t like…be on a bus!
Garth-Wtf are you talking about!?
Shroomie-Wtf are any of us talking about?
DC-*rolls eyes* Comon, guys. I’d like to push this truck today! *They line up and push the truck.*
Redsoldier-On 3. 1…2…3! *they push the truck, but suddenly it slide right back to where it was.*
DC-Wtf?
*They push it again, same results.*
Shroomie-Dude…I am sooo stoned! It’s like the truck is moving on its own.
Garth-Shut up, Shroomie.
DC-*hears a scrapping sound* What is that? *walks over to the side of the truck* Something’s wrong.
Shroomie-Hey…I may be stoned, but what stinks?
Redsoldier-…look out!! *dives to the ground away from the truck. Garth and DC do the same. Shroomie just stands there.*
*The truck is lifted off the ground. A figure holds it high above his head. DC turns around to see Carnage laughing at them.*
Carnage-*holding truck* Hahahahahahahahahaha!
DC-Carnage…*looks at his crazed comrade.* You’re sick. You’re under the ragmen’s control.
Carnage-That may be…hehehee…*throws truck off the road and it crashes in the desert* but what a rush!
*DC, Redsoldier, Garth, and Shroomie now standing looking at the insane symbiote.*
DC-I don’t wanna hurt you, Carnage… *draws sword* but if you try to hurt any of your old friends, so help me…I will put you down…
Carnage-Hehehehe…You always were a joker, Demon Child. *looks at his claws. He lifts them to his mouth and licks them.*
Garth-*holds guns* That’s disgusting…look at his hands…
Redsoldier-*holds pistols as he looks closer* They’re covered in blood! Oh, Carnage. What have you been doing?
Carnage-I had to get a ride, so I killed some stupid farmer. It’s been so long since I’ve tasted blood…
DC-You’ve been warned, Carnage. *readies sword.* Get out of here…you can’t beat all three of us.
Shroomie-Hey…there’s four.
DC-You don’t count.
Carnage-Hahahahahahahahahahahaha!
DC-Wtf is so funny?
Carnage-The look that’s about to be on your face…*his hands turn into spiked hammers*
DC-You heard him, guys. Fire!
*Redsoldier and Garth start shooting at Carnage.*
Carnage-*stretches out his arms* Hahahahaha! BANG BANG BANG!!! *starts to charge at Demon Child.*
Redsoldier-Demon Chi-*is smacked flying by one of Carnage’s roaming tendrils.*
Garth-Red! You bastard! *runs at the charging Carnage with his sword*
Carnage-*grabs Garth by the ankle with a tendril and flings him at the bus.* Kill you later! I have some bigger fish to filet! Hahahahahaha!
DC-*stands with sword* Do your worst you mad f*ck…
Shroomie-Dude! Sweet! I got a gun! *pulls it out and starts shooting in random directions*
Carnage-Hey you! Catch! *shoots a spike at Shroomie. It hits the gun, knocking it out of his hands.*
Shroomie-Sh*t!
Carnage-Hahahaha! *stops a yard from DC* You ready to tango, old man?
DC-I’ll put you in your place, boy. Just get close enough.
Carnage-Hehehehehe. Ready to die? Good! Very good! Good luck, have fun!!! *jumps at the demon, laughing insanely.*