Wilderness



rAn area on Earth with a very diverse environment.

Storm Vs Star
* Star is standing in a meadow waiting for Storm to arrive*


 * Storm flies to the battle ground in his Demon Dragon form*

"As I'm sure you know by now, I've been waiting for this." Star says as he clenches his fists.


 * Storm smiles and gets in his fighting stance*


 * Star smiles* "Begin" Star says


 * Storm flies at Star and kicks him in the face, but Star blocks the kick*


 * Storm punches Star in the face, but Star catches his punch*


 * Star punches Storm in the face, but Storm ducks under the punch*


 * Star sweeps Storm, but Storm jumps over his leg* `


 * Storm kicks Star in the face, but Star slides out of the way, then Star sweeps Storm, but Storm hops out of the way*


 * Storm does 3 backflips to get some space and then vanishes on the 3rd flip*


 * Storm appears behind Star and kicks him in the head but Star ducks under the kick*


 * Storm elbows Star in the face but Star catches his elbow and throws Storm across the meadow*


 * Storm lands on his feet and instantly flies back at Star*


 * Storm rapidly punches Star but Star blocks all of the hits*


 * Star punches Storm in the face hard and Storm kicks Star in the face*


 * They both back away to get some space and rethink their strategies*


 * Star flies at Storm and kicks him in the face but Storm blocks his kick*


 * Star punches Storm but Storm does a backflip just in time to avoid it*


 * They both fly at eachother*


 * Star punches Storm but Storm flies into the sky avoiding the punch*


 * Storm vanishes in mid air and appears in front of Star rapidly punching and kicking him but Star sensed his energy and blocks all of the attacks*


 * Star kicks Storm sending him flying*


 * Storm lands on his feet unharmed*


 * Storm flies at Star and afterimages through him*


 * Storm appears in front of Star and punches him in the gut pushing him back*


 * Star stops himself and then Storm kicks him in the face sending him flying*


 * Star stops himself from hitting the ground and Storm does a backflip to rethink his strategy*

"Sorry, but did you think you had defeated me?" Star says

"Hmph, I won't fall for your cheap pranks. I knew all along it wouldn't be that easy to take you out Star" Storm says

"Hmph, I thought it would be appropriate to play a little joke since you aren't fighting me seriously" Star says

"Hey you're holding back as well" Storm responds

"Little by little I shall reveal to you, the perfect power that lies within me" Star says

"Bring it on" Storm says as he gets back in his fighting stance

"You seem to be enjoying yourself, very much. I'm not surprised, as an angel, fighting is all you live for." Star says

"Are you saying you're any different?" Storm asks


 * Star laughs and starts walking towards Storm* "Well it depends on who I'm fighting" Star says

"Well then, I'll try not to disappoint you" Storm says


 * Star runs at Storm and chops him in the face*


 * Storm ducks under his hand and kicks him in the chest*


 * Star vanishes before the attack landed*


 * Storm vanishes as well*


 * They both start rapidly fighting so fast that it's hard to keep track of their movements*


 * Storm's girlfriend, Eagle arrives at the site to watch*

"Their speed, it's incredible" Eagle says as she tries to track their movements

"I can't keep up" She says


 * Storm and Star start fighting faster and faster as the thrill of battle flows over them*


 * Soon they appear behind Eagle, still fighting*


 * The force of their battle is so strong that it starts creating a dust storm*


 * They both vanish again and reappear in the sky grappling*


 * Storm kicks Star higer into the sky, then he appears above him and elbows him towards the ground*


 * Storm pursues Star all the way to the ground*

"Storm!" Eagle says with worry in her voice


 * The 2 land on the ground and rapidly punch and kick each other*


 * Star punches Storm in the face but Storm catches his punch*


 * Storm punches Star in the gut hard but Star catches his punch*


 * The power from Storm's punch travels and it hits a mountain destroying it*


 * Star punches Storm in the chest hard but Storm catches his punch*


 * The power from Star's punch travels and it hits a boulder destroying it*


 * Star kicks Storm in the chest but Storm jumps over his leg, and as Storm is in the air Star punches him in the face but misses*


 * Storm lands on his feet and Star starts rapidly punching him in the face, Storm blocks all the attacks but is slowly getting pushed back*

"It looks like Star's in control" Eagle says


 * Star punches Storm in the chest but the punch phases through his body*


 * Star turns around and looks at Storm* "Oh you're good" Star says


 * Star flies at Storm but Storm ducks under Star and kicks him hard into the sky*


 * Storm flies at Star charging a pure energy beam*


 * Storm shoots the pure energy beam at Star but he deflects it away*


 * Storm appears behind Star and punches him in the back hard, making Star yell in agony*


 * Star gets mad, turns around, and punches Storm in the face hard, then he punches him in the face hard towards the ground*


 * Storm lands on his hands and knees causing the planet to shake from the impact*

"Alright, I suppose that was a good enough warm up" Star says

"Yeah" Storm responds

"Well, it looks like they're ready to get down to it for real" Eagle says

(So Storm, I see your battle instincts are not like the other angels, this should be most intriguing) Star thinks to himself

(He's just as strong as I'd imagined, and that means I gotta be on edge. 1 slip, and it'll be all over) Storm thinks to himself


 * Storm gets into his powering up stance* "Now!" Star yells

(Yes, now we will see) Star thinks to himself


 * Storm starts powering up to full power as a white aura surrounds him*


 * Storm's power is so strong that it makes the whole planet shake*

"What power!" Eagle says


 * Storm reaches full power and a huge dust storm appears as his power starts blowing away trees, animals, etc.*

(That's it Storm, show me the true power of an angel) Star thinks to himself


 * Star's body emits a white glow that pulsates around him*

"Hmmm" Star says as he gets into his powering up stance


 * Star powers up to Storm's power level to make it fair*


 * Star's power literally blows everything away*


 * Star's body emits a black glow that pulsates around him*

"It's a stand off, they're both fighting at maximum power" Eagle says


 * Storm slowly walks towards Star*


 * Storm stops 5 feet infront of Star, and their auras are almost touching eachother*

"Your move" Star says

"Of course" Storm says


 * Storm punches Star in the gut hard, elbows him in the back of the head hard, and kicks him in the face hard sending him flying. Then Storm appears behind Star and punches him in the back hard making him bounce off the ground hard*


 * Star stops himself and wipes the blood from his mouth as Storm lands*

Star laughs* "Good work Storm, at last a worthy opponent, this is the competition I've been waiting for. Since our powers are almost equal it should make for an interesting contest don't you think?" Star asks

"Yeah, count on it" Storm responds as he gets in his fighting stance


 * They both fly at eachother*


 * They grapple and Star starts rapidly punching Storm hard, Storm blocks all of the attacks and sweeps Star*


 * As Star is falling, Storm punches him in the face hard but Star appears behind Storm before the punch connected*


 * Star turns around and punches Storm in the face hard but Storm vanishes before the punch connected. Star vanishes as well, in pursuit of Storm*


 * They start rapidly fighting so fast, no one can see them*


 * They reappear and they both fly at eachother*


 * Storm kicks Star in the face hard but Star blocks his foot*


 * Star punches Storm in the gut hard*


 * Storm kicks Star in the head hard*


 * Star kicks Storm in the face hard sending him flying*


 * Storm lands on his feet and instantly flies back at Star*


 * Storm kicks Star in the face hard but Star appears above him and kicks Storm in the face hard*


 * Storm punches Star in the face hard sending him flying*


 * Star stands up and Storm lands on the ground*


 * Storm gets back in his fighting stance rethinking his strategy*


 * Star starts laughing evily*

"I've got a surprise for you" Star says

"Huh?" Storm says

"This looks bad" Eagle says


 * 3 clones of Star appear beside him*

"How do you like these odds?" Star says

"No! Storm!" Eagle says with worry in her voice"


 * Storm gets in his fighting stance*

"You had this planned right Star?" Storm asks


 * All of the Stars laugh*


 * The 4 Stars fly around Storm cornering him*

"No way, this trick won't work on me" Storm says

"We'll see about that!" Star says as all of them fly towards Storm


 * They all rapidly punch and kick Storm but he dodges and blocks all of the attacks*


 * Storm kicks 1 of the Stars in the face hard sending him flying*


 * They all rapidly punch and kick Storm again but he blocks and avoids all of the attacks*


 * 1 of the Stars elbows Storm in the head hard*


 * Storm headbutts 1 of the Stars hard*


 * 2 of the Stars rapidly punch and kick Storm but he blocks all of the attacks*


 * The other 2 Stars kick Storm in the face hard but he blocks the attack*


 * They all rapidly punch and kick Storm hard but he blocks and avoids the attacks*


 * Storm punches 1 of the Stars in the face sending him flying*


 * 1 of the Stars elbows Storm in the face sending him flying*


 * 1 of the Stars kicks Storm in the gut hard*


 * Storm punches 1 of the Stars in the face hard just as 1 of the Stars punch him in the face hard*


 * 1 of the Stars knees Storm in the face hard*


 * They all land around Storm again* "Well done, I see your fighting techniques keep improving" Star says

"Well thanks, I tried" Storm responds

"Oh but this match isn't over yet, you have no idea what I have in store for you next" Star says


 * All of the Stars charge a dark beam of energy*


 * They all shoot it at Storm but he flies away from the beams just in time to avoid them*


 * All of the Stars pursue Storm*


 * Storm laughs* "Right this way" Storm says


 * Storm turns around and punches 1 of the Stars in the face, he knees another in the face, punches another in the face, and knees the last 1 in the gut hard*


 * All of the Stars fall to the ground and hit the ground hard*

"Pull yourself together Star!" Storm says


 * All of the Stars become 1 body again*

"He did it!" Eagle says


 * Star gets up and creates a dark energy disk*


 * He throws it at Storm but he avoids it*


 * The disk pursues Storm all over the forest*

"Ha nice try Storm, you're trying to draw that disk back towards me" Star says


 * Star makes another disk and throws it at Storm*


 * The 2 disks phase through Storm's body*


 * Star turns around and looks at Storm* "It went right through him! This time I'll finish you off for good" Star says


 * The 2 disks phase through his body again*

"There's no way you can beat me with your stolen fighting technicues, now, give up" Storm says

"Hmph, no not yet. It's over when I say it's over" Star responds


 * Star powers up*

(He's concentrating all of his energy into something, what's he up to?!) Storm thinks to himself


 * Star charges a full power dark energy beam*

"No you can't put that much power into an energy beam! It's too dangerous!" Storm says


 * Star shoots the beam at Storm but Storm flies into the air trying to divert the beam away from the forest* "HEY STAR UP HERE!!!" Storm shouts

* Star makes the beam go after Storm*

* Storm vanishes before the energy beam hits him and the beam goes into space*

* Storm appears behind Star and kicks him in the back hard sending him flying*

* Star lands on his feet*

(Way to go Storm that was a close one) Eagle thinks to herself

"But how? That blast was too close for you to have escaped" Star asks

"I guess, it was luck" Storm responds

"Of course, you're very lucky but how did you disappear and reappear like that?" Star asks

"A new technique, the Instant Teleportation" Storm responds

"Instant huh, sounds like a useful little maneuver" Star says

"Yeah, it is, you know that blast would have completely destroyed the Earth, if I hadn't diverted it" Storm responds

"Yeah maybe so, but I knew you would do something heroic to save it" Star says

"Hehe, oh I see so you were counting on me" Storm says

"Well don't get the wrong idea, I don't care one bit about this planet or it's filthy people. But without it there'd be no one to KILL" Star says as he vanishes


 * He appears beside Storm and elbows him in the face hard*


 * Storm punches Star hard but Star vanishes before the punch connected*


 * Star appears above Storm and elbows him to the ground*


 * Storm pushes himself into the sky*


 * Star flies above Storm and chops him in the back hard to the ground*


 * Storm kips up and tries to locate Star*

(Where is he?! He's increased his speed I can't even see where he is!) Storm thinks to himself


 * Star appears behind Storm with his arms folded* "Am I too fast for you Storm?"


 * Storm turns around and both of them start fighting so fast that no one can see them*

(Come on Storm, you can't let Star win, you're the only one who can beat him now!) Eagle thinks to herself

"Aww man, Star's...good" Eagle says


 * They continue fighting faster than anyone can see*


 * Star punches Storm in the face hard, Storm blocks the punch but gets pushed back*


 * Star punches Storm in the face hard*


 * Star rapidly punches Storm in the face hard*


 * Star punches Storm in the face hard but Storm ducks under the punch*


 * Storm kicks Star in the gut hard sending him flying into the sky*


 * Storm appears above Star and punches him in the back hard but Star vanishes before the punch hits him*


 * Star appears above Storm and punches him to the ground hard, but Storm appears under him before the punch hits him*


 * Storm punches Star in the face hard but Star appears infront of Storm before the punch connected*


 * Star punches Storm in the face hard but Storm appears beside Star before the punch connected*


 * Storm kicks Star in the gut hard but Star vanishes before the kick connected*


 * They both continue fighting faster than anyone can see*


 * Star punches Storm in the face hard but his hand phases through Storm's face*


 * Storm punches Star in the face but his hand phases through Star's face*


 * Star kicks Storm in the face but his foot phases through Storm's face*


 * Storm punches Star in the face hard but his hand phases through Star's face*

(There you go Storm, keep moving at his speed) Eagle thinks to herself


 * Storm knees Star in the gut hard causing him to cough up blood*


 * Storm punches him in the back hard but Star vanishes before the punch connected*


 * Star appears beside him and punches Storm in the face causing him to spit out blood and send him flying*


 * Storm stops himself*


 * Storm starts breathing a little heavy*

"Not a bad fight Storm, perhaps you are worthy of fighting a warrior of my surpreme stature" Star says

"Oh boy" Storm says

"Too bad all the fights won't be this good. Now, let us continue" Star says


 * They both fly at eachother*


 * Their forearms connect so hard it shakes the planet*


 * They both start fighting faster than anyone can see and so strong it shakes the heavens*


 * Storm kicks Star in the face hard sending him flying*


 * Star tackles Storm to the ground then flies at him*


 * They rapidly punch and kick eachother*


 * Star punches Storm in the gut but Storm avoids it*

"Storm don't give up!" Eagle says


 * Star sweeps Storm but he jumps over his leg*


 * Storm kicks Star in the shoulder hard sliding him back*


 * Star appears behind Storm, Storm kicks Star in the face but Storm blocks the kick, then Star punches Storm in the gut hard but Storm vanishes before the punch connected, so Star punched a hole in the ground*


 * Storm appears infront of Star and kicks him in the face hard but Star vanishes before the kick connected,then Star appears behind Storm and they both kick eachother in the face hard*


 * Storm flies into the air, Star appears above him, and Storm turns around*

"Is the game too hard for you, should I make it easier?" Star asked


 * They both land on the ground*

"The last one standing wins the game" Star says

"I see, so it's a fight to the finish" Storm says

"Would you have it any other way?" Star asks

"No, I guess not" Storm says as he stretches

"Right, that's enough talk Storm, now it's time to continue the game" Star says


 * A dark beam of energy is shot at Storm but he avoids it*


 * Star rapidly shoots dark beams of energy at Storm but he dodges every one of them*


 * Storm turns around and rapidly shoots pure energy beams back at Star*


 * Their beams collide creating a huge explosion shaking the heavens*


 * Storm flies at Star and punches him in the face as hard as he can but Star blocks the punch*


 * Star punches Storm in the face as hard as he can but Storm blocks it*


 * Storm punches Star in the shoulder as hard as he can*


 * Star punches Storm's wrist as hard as he can*


 * They start grappling*


 * A white and black aura surrounds them as they use more power to try and push eachother back*


 * Their power causes the heavens to shake*

"They're even! Not only are they equal in speed, but now they're equal in power as well!" Eagle says


 * Their power makes mountains crumble*


 * Star punches Storm in the face as hard as he can*


 * Storm punches Star in the face as hard as he can*


 * They rapidly punch and kick eachother as hard as they can*


 * Storm punches Star in the face hard into the ground*


 * Storm flies at Star*


 * Star shoots dark energy beams at Storm*


 * Storm blocks the beams but the impact causes the heavens to shake*


 * Storm flies into the sky*


 * Storm charges a full power pure energy beam*


 * Star laughs* "Storm wouldn't dare release an energy beam from there, he'd destroy the Earth if he does" Star says

"No he wouldn't!" Star says


 * Storm appears infront of Star still charging the beam*

"Noooooooo" Star screams as Storm shoots the beam at him, knocking Star out


 * Storm returns to normal* "Maybe next time big brother" Storm says *Storm passes out*

Zane and Lilliahnie
Zane is sitting on the ground looking at the clear sky

Lilliahnie just happens to be walking by when she sees a boy laying on the ground.She ignores his pres sense and leaves him alone and walks straight past him.When she does she feels a familiar power about him.

Zane notices the girl "Hey what are you doing way out here."

"I should ask you the same." She says softly."I am hunting,and you?"

"I'm relaxing." Zane sighs. "You should try it."

Lilliahnie looks at the boy and sighs also."Thats too boring." She says smiling."I'd rather do something more exciting."

"Just for a little while? Besides I'm here so your not alone."

Lilliahnie looks at Zane for a little bit and squints her eyes."I know you from somewhere." She says walking closer to him and getting on her knee's.

Zane looks at her kinda surprised.

She looks at him and and touches his face with her middle and index finger.She then places her whole hand on his face."You cant...be him"

"Can't be who?" Zane asked

She looks closer at him wide eyed."Zane Shade."

"Yeah, Why?" Zane asked confused

Her eyes widened and she hugged him closely."ZANE! I've missed you." Then she realizes something and pulls away slapping him across the face."WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ALL THESE YEARS??"

"Kidnapped" Zane looks down. "Sorry I worried you"

"You dont remember me do you?" She says standing up and backing away from him,ready to leave

"No.......Sorry I can't say that i do" Zane Looks at her.

"I.." She suddenly feels the urge."Lilliahnie...Monroe." She hold backs tears but her eyes water at the realization that he doesnt remember her.She continues to walk away from him.

"Really!? You Look different. I guess I forgot what you looked like, But i always missed you." Zane smiles.

"Yeah." She says a little uneasy now,she is still backing away.

"Wait why are you backing away?" Zane takes a few steps in her direction.

"I um...." She pauses."I dont know." She says,still walking backward.

"Why don't you come Stay with me again. So we can catch up." Zane still walking closer

She sighs and walks closer to Zane,until she is closely next to him."So what do you want to talk about?"

"I want to talk about you" Zane smiles

She laughs at him."Same old Zane. Allaborate,what about me?" She says smiling back at him.

Zane laughs. "Trust me my life turned to hell after i was kidnapped. And i always missed my best friend. That girl that passed out in my arms" Zane smiles at her

She laughs "Oh come on we were like 10! And I was really tired." She says."Well after you left..." She pauses and looks at him. "I was crowned princess."

"Really? So did you ever get married?" Zane looks at her and smiles.

She laughs."Nononono No way." She says laughing."I never married and I never will she said to him."

Zane laughs too. "not your thing. I get it. So uh.....what else happened?"

"You know same old same old,Realm and world menacing threat I had to rise up to the challenge,fight,almost die,and then rise above the odds defeating the villian becoming a hero." She says in a nutshell

"Ha sounds like my life except a lot more hell was involved" Zane laughs

"Ha yeah." She says still feeling a little awkward around him.She then used her middle figure and point to wrap her hair behind her ear.

"Do you remember my sister?"

Liliahnie looks at Zane."You had a sister?"

Zane Looks surprised. "Yeah and she actually getting married soon"

Lilliahnie realizes now that she doesnt really know him anymore."Wow.I never knew."

"Would you want to go to her wedding with me?" Zane asked

"Uh yeah sure.....but like a date is it?" She says to him

"Do you want it to be?" Zane blushes slightly

She laughs."No way man that would be weird." She says pushing him

Zane laughs "Will you go as a friend then?" meet may sister."

"Sure" she says as she looks to the sky.Suddenly a bird flew down from the sky and landed in front of Lilliahnie. Lilliahnie then turns to Zane."I gotta go,sorry." She says kissing his cheek."It was nice seeing you again."

"Well it was nice to see you too...." Zane says as he smiles. ".....and have this" Hands her a piece of paper with the address of the complex. "this is where I live"

Way of Time Part II
"I forget how beautiful this part of the world can be." "I don't remember this place, where are we?"
 * Demgel walks out of the portal and takes a deep breath
 * Ashley walked out of the portal and looked around

"Back on Earth...Somewhere....and it's dark.Hmm..." "Did it."
 * Demgel gathers some twigs,sticks,and leaves
 * makes a hole in the ground and puts the stuff in the hole
 * lights a match and sets he stuff on fire

"Hmm.." "Well it is currently 8 PM. I didn't realize we had been gone for so long."
 * Ashley checks her watch to make sure this darkness was simply the cause of night

"Me neither. Time flies when your givin' something to do." "True."
 * Demgel sits near the fire
 * Ashley sits next to it, though she did not require it's heat because of her Frost Dragon Ancestry

"Hmm. Do you like the stars?"
 * Demgel looks into the skies and see stars

"They are alright I suppose. I never really took the time to gaze at them." "The stars are like a path. They show knowledges of good and truth. Something we all search for." "I never really had the time to discern this about the stars, my life hasn't exactly been the most leisurely. My mother loved to watch the sky though, she said that all good things come up from above."
 * She looked up briefly
 * Ashley sighed and laid back on the ground and looked up

"Your glad you have one. I don't know mine. I don't know what she's like. Or I if I'll ever know. My life so far wasn't all that great neither."

"Tell me about it..?"

"Hm sure. I don't know who my parents are. All I know is that my mother is a angel and my father is the Son of Archfiend Kaiser Asmodeus. I don't know if they ever took care of me during my child hood, but i do know that I that I was found in a destroyed city by a M.C.C.P super weapon named Jonas. He took me in and trained me well. Taught me martial arts armed combat. And trained me in every "End of the World" scenario he could think off. I lead a team and we succeeded in the hardest of missions. One day a giant Earth mass attacked the facility and took me away. I wake up afterwards and find myself completely older than I was before and met a nice man, Father Divine. He had told me the man who hold the answers I seek. I went on a hunt to find him. But on the way I have killed innocent lives. I can't help myself every time I'm around people. My demon side takes over and i loose myself. All I can see are faint images of people trying to flee from me. After I gain control of myself I find my hands soaked in blood. Just knowing I have the potential to do something like that angers me. It is still plagued in my mind, as if it were tree sap. I've longed the day to find my father and mother. Maybe they can help me stop myself before more harm can be done...before there harm can be done to the people I love. I try my best not to be around people and I often force myself into seclusion. But even then, guilt fill my soul. I have not only killed people but I also killed an angel and nearly killed Gabriel, that's why he hates me and I have killed an entire army of demons myself. It's as if no matter where I go, I can seem to control my angel side nor my demon side and I am left to wallow in the guilt of their outcomes." "Why must I be doomed to live a life where I cannot choose to do right or wrong on my own accord?! WHY CAN'T I BE FREE?!" "Hey now, don't think like that. Sometimes fate deals us a bad hand sure. But everyone has hard times and maybe God has a plan for you in the future. I mean he told Gabriel to spare your life didn't he? He even stated that you were a force of Good and not of Evil, so obviously someone thinks highly of you. I know I do." "Knowing of your parents is great and all but it isn't always worth knowing them, especially if they could be evil or just, disappear on you. Like my mother..." "My parents met a long time ago. I mean during the Ancient times of Earth's history. My father was apparently a Dragon, he use to rule the skies over Britain and was a terrible force of Evil. Until he met my mother and fell in love with her. The two had a private marriage and soon she gave birth to me but my father had disappeared, my grandfather who was the king found out about what my mother had done and banished us to the sea because he couldn't bare to kill us both. For all those years we were at sea until we landed on the otherside of the British channel in France. There me and my mother lived as peasants up until her death. From then on, this ageless form is just a tale of heartbreak after heartbreak, as apparently no one can live as long as a Dovah. I was trained in the ways of magic by the Blue Mage, it is where I get my last name from. He taught me well, and he helped me craft Soulcaster. For about 10 years I studied under him and learned. I even became a powerful mage in my own wright. But like all humans, he died after a while, I was alone again for about a hundred years until I met William. He was a marvelous man, and we were supposed to be married but politics and perhaps his own lust kept us from ever becoming anything special, though he did take me to England again, the land of my birth. Look, I know you didn't ask me this, but I said all of this to say that your fate isn't yours to decide, but no matter what happens in life you have to be able to keep moving forward no matter what, and sometimes you have to learn to forgive yourself for your wrongs. I couldn't protect those I loved, and their memory will be there with me forever more. Hell, my heart has been broken into so many pieces I don't know where they all are, but I'm learning to move on with my life and let life happen, even if I am fated to outlive every man, woman, and child of this world." "If it means anything to you, I don't think anything less of you because of who you are... You have been one of my closest friends Demgel, and you're always there for me. I want to be there for you too." "Your right. Life is life. It wasn't supposed to be like the way it is now, but it is. And in every way it will get to you. I'm sorry about your mother, lovers, and your ageless...ness. And you have always been there or me too. You saved my life about 3 times or 4. I don't know i totally forgot, but it was more than once." "Thanks." "Anytime." "I bet that William guy never knew how lucky of a guy he was when he met you."
 * Demgel then looks at the fire and can hear the screams of all the people he had killed
 * Demgel sighs
 * Demgel looks at his hands and he sees the blood of the people and hits the ground
 * Ashley touches Demgel's shoulder
 * Ashley looks at the fire and can see her own past
 * She sits and pulls her knees up against her chest, while wrapping her arms around her legs and looking into the fire as she told her story
 * She patted Demgel on the shoulder
 * She smiled brightly as the light of the fire shined on her face, illuminating her smile further
 * Demgel is touched by what she said
 * Demgel smiles at Ashley
 * She nods and lays back looking up at the sky again
 * Demgel lays back and looks at the sky

"To be fair I was only a peasant and he was a Lord, times were different back then and to top it all off I was also only a woman. The feudal system was even less glorious for a stranger girl from another country, even if she did meet her "dashing prince Charming". But it worked out in the end."

"I guess I'm glad to hear that. But I am still content with finding my parents. It's the one thing I want to find out before..."

"Find out before what?"

"...Nothing..." "Goodnight"
 * Demgel kisses Ashley on the forehead
 * Demgel goes to sleep

Something moves around in the grass.
 * Something was moving not far from them.
 * Demgel gets up and pulls out a pistol

"Who's there? Show yourself you mangy bastard."

A cat-like humanoid pops up from the grass and says "NYANYANYANYA!" and sets its teeth in the head of the creature, though the bite would not cause any damage at all, the cat-like humanoid stops biting and jumps back, "You're not food! Tao is very hungry..."
 * Demgel is confused

"Da fuck are you?"

"I am Tao! Who are you-meow?" Tao says.

"I am Demgel and this is Ashley. Do you live out here?"

"Tao is from the desert-meow! I don't know how i got there, I probably got carried off searching after food... Meow." Tao says.
 * Demgel pulls a Snickers bar out of his pocket and tosses it to Tao

Tao catches it somehow with her giant paws and swallows it whole. "Tastes good, Anyway, I wonder what tao shall do neow...."

"I guess you can stay with us if you want."

"Sure! Now, What shall -We- do neow?" Tao says.

"Rightnow we we get some sleep.It's been quite a day."

"But i want to do stuff..." Tao says as she makes a ":(" type smiley with her shadowed face with red eyes and white teeth. "Please dont do that' when i'm about to sleep."
 * Demgel is kinda creeped out by this

"But tao wants to do stuff!" Tao shouts as she jumps around, very full of energy and very playful.

Xerion lands nearby and sees Tao and starts bouncing around. "Another kitty! I like kitties! Wanna play?"

"Who are you-meow?" Tao says, Confused.

"I'm Xerion. Dark Prynce found me in space and took me in." Xerion realizes he's still in cub mode and shifts into his current age as a tiger.

"Meow? Oh well." Tao says as she runs around in circles on all four really quickly and then stands up and looks around, she really needed to waste her energy.

Xerion walks over and reverts to his cub form and snuggles up to Tao. "Can we play something. I hardly ever get out."

"Sure-meow, What do you wanna do?" Tao says, very eager to play around for enjoyment.

"Well, it's been a while since I raced somebody." Xerion says bouncing around.

Tao was suddenly not there, rather, she was hundreds of meters away and a faint "CATCH ME IF YOU CAN!" is heard.

Xerion then bounds towards Tao and fades out of sight, right behind her. "BOO! Tag, you're it!" Then he runs off.

Xerion hears a "Tag." a second after he ran away and tao had jumped far into the air as she simply flew into the atmosphere while waiting for something to happen.

He then jumps up and floats next to Tao. "Time for the real race. We'll go to the moon then back to the ground. Biggest crater means fastest racer. On your mark, get set, go!" Xerion then flies at the moon at an incredible speed.

Tao suddenly appears in front of Xerion as she kicks him back to the ground as she jumps so fast she suddenly lands head-first on the moon and falls back down to earth.

Xerion lands and barely makes a crack, whereas Tao makes a giant crater. "Owww. That hurt. But it was fun! What next?"

Tao gets up, after putting out a fire on her hoodie, she looks around and says "What? Meow."

Xerion looks up at the sky and frowns. "Awwww. I have to go back now. I hope to play with you some more later!"

Tao waves, In the wrong direction since she was looking in the opposite direction, she then falls asleep.

3 hours later "What da fuuck?" "Again. What is this" "Yes, I see. Your feelings changed."
 * Demgel wakes up from an abstract nightmare
 * Demgel gets the picture out of his pocket and is shocked to see the picture has changed.
 * The picture now shows Demgel and Ashley being married.
 * Demgel looks at Ashley then back to the picture
 * Kaos appears
 * Demgel looks up at Kaos
 * Kaos looks at the picture

"My...feelings?"

"Yes...like I said. Your fate depends on action and reaction, which is morally based of feelings. your feelings have changed from Lucime to Ashley." "I believe now, that you are ready."
 * Demgel looks at Ashley again

"Ready for what?'

"To take the Knowledge Leap" "OOOOOOHHH SHIIIT!! KAOS! WHERE ARE YOU?!" "Yea?"
 * Kaos opens a blue portal beneath them and goes through it
 * Demgel jumps down and is falling through and is now falling into what seems like an apocalyptic-looking city
 * Kaos is floating next to the falling Demgel

"I AM FALLING TO MY DOOM!"

"You can fly, dumbass!"

"NOT WHEN I'M FALLING!"

"*sigh* Geez" "What's happening Kaos? That city it's..."
 * Kaos teleports them both to the ground a few miles away from the city.

"Being under-attacked I know. This is something I'd like to call, "Possible Futures or Fates" or you can simply call them "PFs". Here is the first one. This is what was originally supposed to happen. Here the Sedition is disbanded and all Mytho containing agencies are no more leaving the Mythos to run amok but sadly they migrated somewhere away from this beyond fallen world. They headed back to the Realm of Fantasy."

"Who would do this to the world?"

"Three people. A economic dictator. A social terrorist. And a public menace. They are what happened to the world."

"My gosh. This...is unbelievable." "Hey"
 * Demgel sees a teen with black angel wings carrying Death's Scythe along his shoulders walking toward the burning city

"What"

"That's my scythe. Why does that kid have my scythe?"

"He's the one...woes gonna fix everything." "Oh God." "Da fuck is that?"
 * Demgel sees an shadow overcast and looks up and it looks like 3 giant claws
 * The giant claws come down on Demgel and continues to move forward
 * Demgel has his arms over his head and his eyes closed
 * Demgel opens one eye, then the other, then put his arms down and sees a mechanical chrome beast with hind legs and an M.C.C.P Drone on its back moving two long poles back and forth walking toward the boy

"Mytho sited. Species: Dark Angel. Command: Incinerate." "New master acquired. Awaiting command." "Wow...what was that?"
 * The mechanical beast puts his hands forward and the bottom of its wrist opens a hatch showing a nozzle it then starts to fire flames from them
 * the boy pulls out his scythe dodges and he scales his way up its body until it reaches it's back
 * The boy attempts to slice the Drone
 * The Drone immediately grabs the scythe away and grabs the boy by the throat
 * The boy kicks the drone in the face and grabs his scythe back and slices the drone in half and hooks his scythe into the mechanical beast's forehead
 * the boy points toward the city
 * the mechanical beast starts moving toward the burning city

"That was a machine made by the M.C.C.P. They served as a temporary solution to the Mytho problem. they nearly wiped out twice as many Mythos than Hitler slew Jews. So probably 12,000,00,000 or more."

"You said temporary."

"Well, because of this."

"Hmm. I see. Sooo is that all you wanted to show me?"

"No, there's still more." "I better not be falling to my death this time"
 * opens another blue portal beneath them and goes through it
 * Demgel jumps through through the portal

Wherever they were now, Tao was yawning right next to them as she somehow made it to them. "I fucking hate you right now, Kaos"
 * Demgel falls into tree and falls out of it
 * Kaos slowly falls down

"I know" "Da fuck? Tao is that you?"
 * Demgel looks to his side and sees Tao

Tao says "Yes, Meow!"

"W-Who is she?"

"That's...Tao."

"How did she get here?"

"I don't know"

"Did she follow us here through the portal"

"I don't know. I thought portals close once everyone goes through them. Tao how did you get here?"

"Well, There was some flashy stuff and then i ate something while dreaming and then i came here meow." Tao says.

"That's really awkward, Tao."

"Very."

"Whatever Meow..." Tao then sniffs something and says "Food!" and runs off at blinding speeds and comes back with some grilled steak, presumably from a campfire, she somehow grabs the steak with her large paws and starts chewing it.

"What? how...how did she do that?"

"I DONT KNOW? What is she?"

"By the looks of this...I believe she's a demon."

"A cat demon?"

"Yea, I think"

"Awkward."

Tao swallows the steak and says "What to do now Ang-ly guy?" with a relatively happy voice.

"Ang-ly? Who's Ang-ly?"

"Ang-ly is Dem-something." Tao said as her face turned into ":3"

"I-It's Demgel"

"Okay Ang-ly!" Tao says, Ignoring whatever he said, or she's too stupid to remember it.

"Well, here is the PF 2." "Is that me? I don't look very different except i have stubble. I don't look half-bad in it."
 * Demgel sees and adult him and an adult Ashley holding a baby

"In this future you and Ashley are married and have just given birth to a baby daughter."

Tao was licking her giant paws while this was happening. "What?"
 * Demgel sees another Tao jumping all over the place, trying to catch a butterfly

Suddenly and somehow, tao extends her giant 30 centimeter claws and slices the image of the buttefly in half somehow.

"Apparently she exist in this PF."

"Why though?"

"Let's ask you."

"Me?"

"Yea, you. Hey Demgel!" "Hey Kaos, whazz up?"
 * Adult Demgel sees them and walks over where they are

"We wish to ask you why Tao is in this PF."

"Well funny thing actually, over time we grew quiet fond over and we decided to keep her with us."

"Like a pet?"

"No, more like an acquittance/friend. We hated to see her go off all by herself trying to look for food, so we decided to give her a home with us, despite the fact I fear that she might mess with baby or possibly eat her. so, it's best to keep her feed. She's pretty nice to have along."

"So Demgel, tell yourself about your life in this future."

Tao was suddenly holding, somehow, a lolipop, and licking it.

"How is she doing that?"

"That's just Tao for ya'. She's done that for years. She call's in Square Breaking, don't know what that is."

Tao suddenly eats a chili fruit and suddenly spews out fire all over demgel.

"AGGGGGGGGGHHHHHH" "She seems like a walking calamity."
 * Demgel runs all over the place on fire

"It's like that." "I'M ON FIAAAAAAAARE!!!"
 * Demgel rolls all over the ground still yelling

"Y-yea w-we can see that."

"Anyway, here me and Ashley got married. We've been married for 7 years. The best 7 years of our lives now..." "I have a daughter to share it with."
 * Adult Demgel looks at Ashley holding their baby daughter

"What do you do for a living?"

"I work as a Cop/Detective/Sheriff, while Ashley works at the hospital as a nurse. We get paid quiet fairly."

"What is happening Ang-ly?" Tao says, Confused.

"He is tteliny me about me possible future life with Ashley."

"Meow? So you are talking about cooked fish? I want some!" Tao says.

"Is she always that hungry?"

"Yep"
 * Adult Demgel tosses Tao a can of tuna*

"See if you can open that"

"My life here sounds blissful."

"It is for me here. Im not saying this the life you should choose, Im saying this could be the life that you can have. Watch over my friends for me. It was nice seeing you again Kaos." "Ashley, wake up."
 * Adult Demgel walks back to Ashley and their child
 * Demgel wakes up and looks at Ashley, then he looks back at the picture of them being married
 * Hears a stomping sound

"Hmm... What's wrong?" "Something is here and guessing by the stomping it is huge, not to mention it maybe a machine."
 * Ashley groans softly as she sits up
 * She paused as she felt the stomping and didn't say a word

Scottsbridge
Kid had been walking to Scottsbridge,getting ready to restock for his next trip to the Dragon realm,when smelling a familiar scent."Something...is wrong here." He said before increasing his walking speed."Dragons..." He says seeing the faint sight of a Dragonic Figure before sighing."Why is there always trouble when I'm around." He says

''5 dragons are seen flying above the town breathing fire and burnging down buildings, streets filled with mas panic. The M.C.C.P arrive in jeeps and helicopters and are firing all they have at the dragons.''

Soldier: Evacuate all civilians!Take down those lizards! *Starts shooting at the dragons*

One of the dragons attacks the M.C.C.P

Kid sees them shooting at the Dragon's and speeds towards one of the Soldiers."Dont shoot leave them to me!" He says before leaping 60 feet into the air like a rocket towards one of the Dragon's and encasing his hands with Dragon Talons." Soul Art! Tamashī āto tokubetsu!: Spirit Breakar!" He says slamming the Talons into the Dragon multiple times before spinning and creating a whirlwind of Dragonic Energy."Crimson Storm!" He says slamming it into another Dragon.

''2 of the dragons fall dead on the ground. Another dragon takes notice of this and breathes fire at Kid. A helicopter fires numerous shot at the dragon.''

Pilot: Die, you sonofabicth! *continues to fire*

''The dragon wacks the helicopter down with its tail and turns and tail wacks Kid into the nearest building. The helicopter crashes and explodes. The dragons roar.''

Kid slams into the building and through its interconnected floors before,slamming into the basement.He gets up and smiles."Looks like they are gonna put up a fight." He says as he lets out a howling war cry as he releases his massive Dragon Spirit,that destroys the building from the inside because of its sheer size.The Dragon Spirit then begins to open its mouth."Dragon Art! Doragonfaiyāāto! Carnage Crusher!" He says as his Spirit shoots a massive beam of Fire towards the Dragon that hit him thats temperature reached 1,900 degrees.

''The dragon appears to be unaffected and bites Kid and swings him around into the air. Another dragon tail smacks Kid down to the grown. One of the soldiers shoots a needle into a weakspot on the dragon's neck. The dragon motions toward the soldier and bites his arm. The soldier pulls a grenade and puts it into the dragons mout and it explodes. The dragon falls unconscious. The soldier lost his hand.''

Kid then gets up,ignoring the bite on his hand before leaping towards the dragon that smacked him with his tail."Dragon Art! Doragonfaiyāāto!:Dragon's Deliverance!" He says collecting Flame into his Fist and let out a barrage of attacks to the Dragon's Mid section,and crushing its rib cage before grabbing the dragons finger and running up its own body and slamming it on the Dragon that was out cold and summoning a Giant Dragons Fist and Slamming it on the two.

The last dragon launches Kid in the air and into his mouth and gulps him down.

Soldier: Holy crap!

soldier 2: Well, it's a good thing we didnt know him.

Suddenly,the Dragons stomach began to glow within about 2 minutes after Kid was eaten.The Dragons glow began to grow brighter until the stomach of the beast began to grow and grow and grow until the Dragon was a balloon.As the Dragon cried out in pain the glow intesified before causing the Dragon to explode from the inside.

Soldiers 1& 2: *Are covered in dragon blood*

Soldier 1: I think I prefered that green-colored water at the Nick hotels.

Soldier 2: What do we do about the kid?

Soldier 1: I think he might ba a mytho. Let's see. *pulls out a scanner and scans Kid* No, he's human.

Soldier 2: Superhuman.

Solider 1: No...possibly Hyperhuman.

Kid struggles to get up,after almost being drowned and digested.He manages to get up."What.....did you call me?" He said pushing up from his hands,coughing up dragon gunk before struggling to his feet.

Soldier 1: Uhhhhhhh...A Hyperhuman. It's not an insult. There are stronger than Superhumans and alot more ecstatic. Give off alot of energy sigs.

Kid smiles."Thats what I thought.But-" Kid says exploding his aura so that all of the Dragon Slime if oof of him and he is dry."I wouldnt consider myself exactly Human,no matter what kind."

Soldier 2: Sooo..what hybrid are you now?

Zane lands to look at the groups and Kid. "Whats going on here?"

"I am Human." Kid says sighing to the guard.He then turns to smell something."Smells like.." When Zane arrives the scent gets stronger."Royal Dragon Blood." He says smirking."What up ye highness?" Kid jokied,making fun of Zane's lineage before walking over to grab his messenger bag(with his base ball bats in it) and skateboard."Anyway I think I'll be get going."

Zane looks at him. "Why the rush?"

Kid looks at him."I guess you havent heard." Kid says pausing."I didnt earn the title of Blaze The Dragon Slayer for nothin. But that was then this is now.Anyway I tend to always end up in a fight when I am around Royal Dragons."

Zane laughs. "I'll spare you. i bet you wouldn't be much of a challenge." Zane smirks. "Do you have any idea on who I am"

"Do you have any idea WHO I AM."(he isnt yelling so just saying it with more feeling) He says looking back at Zane in the side of his eye.

"I'll take that as a no. And i may have heard your name once. I'll killed stronger dragons than you" Zane laughs.

"Same." Kid says to Zane,saying he has killed Dragons more Powerful than Zane.

"Oh.......You think there are dragons stronger than me!?" Zane laughs at that one. "I really doubt that."

"Well" Kid says smirking."There is always me.But apparently I dont count as a Dragon just a Hyper Human."

Zane appears behind him. "I wouldn't be so sure about it"

"I am-" Kid says disappearing and re appearing behind Zane."Pretty sure."

Zane smiles. "Are you trying to push me into proving i'm better. I really dont feel like killing you."

Kid smiles."You dont feel like? Or you cant." He says as he hops on his skateboard and begins to roll off,before turning his head and grinning at Zane

Zane Kicks the skateboard from under him and catches it. "Dont feel like it"

When Zane kicks the board from up under him,Kid flips and lands in a handstand before noticing that Zane has his board.He then became consumed with rage."Give.It.Back." He says an aura begging to form around his body.

"Chill man" Tosses him the board. "You have some nice moves. but you have a long ways to go"

He grabs the board."Thanks... Then how about you show me what I still have to learn oh wise one." He said pushing his board away.

"Are you ready to learn?" He smiles. "I'm Zane. Whats your name?"

He grins.He doesnt trust Zane completely so he decides not to tell him his real name and use one of his alias's that he is famously known for."Kaio,They call me The Kaio-Ken Kid." He says smirking."I am ready for anything you can dish out."

"I like you...But i doubt you can keep up.

"I'll have to prove you wrong then." He says to him."Come on lets just get this started?"

"Bring it man" Zane smiles

Soldier 1: Should we call back-up?

Soldier 2: Not sure about you. *gets out his iphone* But I'm postin' this on YouTube.

Kid smiles as he drops his bag before he begins to talk."So a Dragon vs A Dragon Soul huh?" He says smirking at Zane's possible confusion "dont worry you will find out soon enough." He said before speeding towards Zane,but not before he creates a sonic boom and letting his arms flail out behind him.Kid runs so fast that Wind displacement can't keep up with him before leaping into the air about 6 feet high and Superman punching Zane so hard that the Laws of physics and gravity are displaced 60 feet around them for about 59 seconds.

Zane takes the punch and slides a few feet. "hm. nice try. My turn...." Zane rushes at Kid also creating a Sonic boom and disapears right before he reaches Kid. Zane then appears in front of him holding his sword and slashes him horizontally. Now standing behind kid he turns and Slashes him verticly and diagonally. Then Zane fires a weak blast at point blank range. "You should survive that"

Soldier 1: Holy shit, these guys are going at it.

Kid smiled as the attacks didnt even phase him."Dude you have be packing some more fire power than that or all of this would be for nothin.I know I still have some Fire left in me." He says as he flips and counters Zane's remaining attacks.He then began to speed towards him again,evading blasts and everything else the Prince shot at him before flipping over him and while and mid air performing an attack of his own."Fire Dragon Roar!" He said shooting immensely powerful flames at Zane at point blank range causing a massive explosion.He lands about 15 feet away in a kind of loosened version of a Martial arts stance.

Not far from there, Some person who looked like wearing a cat hoodie was apparently taking a nap, though not easy to spot.

Zane stands there smiling. "I really dont want to kill you right now. I could easily end this."

"Oh really now Tough guy?" Kid says smirking."So how about you quit with the Side Show and get on with the Main Event." He says egging Zane on to go to Full Power.

A black lighning bolt strikes around Zane. "Lets see what you got first."

Soldier 2: I bet you 10 bucks the skater is gonna win.

Soldier 1: Nah, fuck that. That humanoid-lookin' version of Shadow the Hedgehog is Zane the frick frackin' Shade.

Soldier 2: Holy shit, that's...

Soldier 1: Weapon Draconis. *nods his head for a little while* So I bet 20 on the Shadow the Hedgehog lookin' mother fucker.

Kid smiles."Usually I like to see what I am dealing with before I go all out.But I guess I could make an exception." A enormous amount of energy begins to flow off of KB's body,so strong it is invisible but powerful enough to instantly create a crator around where Kid is standing.It doesnt take long for widens and deepens and gale force winds to appear from the sheer force of the power coming from Kid as his aura become's visible.Kid has a serious look on his face."This is just the beginning." He says as the power coming off of him increases in bursts of abrupt power.Then Suddenly the Power becomes so intense that pressure coming off of it increases gravity by 150 times.A spire of light then shoots up from the creator around where Kid is standing and an even more intense one emits where he is standing that can be seen from Neptune.A Spirit of a Dragon begins to form inside of the spire."RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!" He begins to yell as the light increases its size before he lets out a howling cry,causing an explosion that shakes the planet and even causes his aura to show right through the center of the earth to the other side,even outshining the sun.The Spirit of a Dragon Wraps around Kid as he floats,the pressure around him so intense that Gravity is non existent around him and his Spirit.

Zane standing in the windstorm unphased. "Quite a show. But Does it really pack a punch." Zane Smiles as he feels the need to show him the power of a dragon god. As the ground begins to shake violently a black and red lightning aura forms around Zane. Zane still looking normal his hair begins to spike up and become less tangible. The ground shakes more and cracks appear and look like canyons. Zane's eyes begin to turn read as he still standing unphased by this power. As the lightning aura gets thicker the crater Kid had formed deepens. Zane now floating his hair becomes pure darkness and fire. As Zane exhales the power causes the crater to deepen and a few trees fall over. "This is my Dragon God Form. But still no where near the full extent of my power. If you want a fight i would advise against it. Notice that transformation took almost no effort." Zane laughs "Trust me Kaio you have no idea what you are up against or who I am."

Kid's rage is suddenly triggered when Zane unexpectedly speaks his father's name.He zooms across the landscape almost instantaneously before slamming his fist into Zane's face with the force of 20 Atom Bombs before launching a Fire Dragon's Roar,a Burning Rasengan, and finally a Dragon's Fist before leaping backward's.

Soldier 2: Man dude. This is like 64% DBZ, plus 19% Helsing ultimate, plus 17% AoT.

Soldier 1: I can see 5% of SAO and anther 5% of Asura's Wrath.

Soldier 2: dude, that game was awesome!

soldier 1: I know right!

Soldier 2: Goku got notin' on freakin' Asura.

Soldier 1: Neither does Naruto. Suck on that, Uzamaki!

Zane Stands there unaffected "Whats with you?"

Kid stands across from Zane,his anger fading away."You said my fathers name.No mystical beast should say my fathers name and live to say it again!" He yells to him

"Hey. I'm sorry but thats the level of power it's at. I mean no disrespect, But you are not the only one who lost your parents. I watched them get killed. I know how you feel but...." Zane pauses. "Hey i got to go deal with something. See you around."

Kid felt something,kinda like a distress signal."The Dragon Realm......Hey! You aint leavin without me are ya?" He said before running up to Zane.

Zane smiles. "Guess not. This should be fun" Zane goes back to base form

Two Swords Clash: London, England
Kado suddenly rushes Hiroshi with blinding speed, and quickly grabs Hiroshi's face. Spinning wildly, he suddenly throws Hiroshi towards a skyscraper, flying after him with wings of pure darkness. As he approaches the skyscraper, Kado suddenly slams into him, sending both into the building, tumbling, crashing, and tearing through walls and alarmed business workers, causing various screams as the two tumble out the other side, Kado landing on the skyscraper's side and then gliding after Hiroshi, who is forced to fall all the way down.Hiroshi is training 12 students basic martial art skills

Hiroshi: Punch, punch, front-snap kick, right hook, punch *feels something* What is that? I felt it...somewhere before...hmmm.

Outside his academy front, he sees a young man staring directly staring at him intently, observing every movement he is making. After a while, he silently appears to slip off into the crowd, but the eyes he saw seemed familiar... as if they were the eyes of a shapeshifter wearing a form... He struggles to brush off the thought, and decides to end class early.

Hiroshi: Stop.

students stop

hiroshi: You did very well today. You are dismissed. *bows towards his students*

Students bow back, gather their stuff and leave.

Hiroshi: *looks back outside* Who are you?



From the roof above him, the man drops down, this time a clear view of his eyes, most definitely the eyes of a Echo Shapeshifter.

"No one really... except..."

The man unexpectedly swings a katana, one hidden in his clothing with the skill of an expert.

"I'm the man who is out for your blood." The man growls.

Hiroshi: Then you'll be wasting your time, because Earth has no blood. *starts mildly shaking the Earth* I have never seen a shapeshifter this far from Echo. I can see it in your eyes, you are descent from Echo.

"Ahhh... you haven't lost your sharp sight. I certainly heard much of you... Earth Slayer Hiroshi." Hiroshi pauses, surprised that this person knows his name, which only Phoenix would know...

The man changes form, becoming a man in a black jumpsuit with a white cloak, a grey mask with a blue circle, and long grey-brown hair.

"You are correct, I am from Echo. I have been hunting you and Phoenix for quite some time."

Hiroshi: You would have to have a justified reason to do this. So tell me, what did we do to you?

"Less talking. More dying." The man suddenly stabs at Hiroshi's head, while also stabbing at his side with a dagger, the strikes almost snake like, the mark of an assasin's quick and agile strikes.

Hiroshi: *absorbs the metal and is covered with it* You cannot kill me what comes from the Earth *his hand turns int a sword and slashes at the man*

The man quickly flips backward, and he draws two weapons, a red and black katana. The sight of them both sends chills down Hiroshi's spine, and he becomes angry, already suspecting what they are, and wondering how he got his hands on them.

Hiroshi: How in the world did you recieve Dark and Fire Slayer? *continues to slash at he man*

"How do you think? I found the stupid little kid, barely alive, and finished your sloppy job. I interogatted him, and discovered there were more lovely swords like his... so I searched and found the old woman, and slit the harpy's throat too. I know everything about you, including what you did to the boy. In exchange for killing him, I even told him I would kill all of you for him."

He easily blocks every sword stroke of Hiroshi, with a skill to match his own. "The name you seek? People on the streets call me Wildcard! Because it doesn't matter who gets in my way, I'll cut ya up!" He strikes at Hiroshi with a burst of fire, and a wave of darkness.

Hiroshi: *blockwith and Earth block* I will not be beaten by a hired thug. *bushes the block at Wildcard*

Wildcard seems to get hit, but out of no where, a stab from Dark Slayer impales him in the shoulder, slipping through the faint kinks in Hiroshi's armor of steel. Just as quickly as he was there, he disappears and jumps back, onto the earth block.

"Cept you see I am no hired thug. I'm acting of my own conciousness. That consciousness tells me that Earth Slayer of yours is mighty appealing. Besides what I said about the kid, which I meant, I'm also interested in collecting that sword of yours. I bet you talk big, but perhaps... you're just a bigger coward than I!" He chuckles, and throws a fire bomb at Hiroshi's feet.

Hiroshi: *forms a metal dome over the bomb before it explodes* If I am a coward, how come I haven't ran away yet? You do not know the meaning of the word. *launches himself at Wildcard an impales him in the shoulder and lifts him up* What have you got to say to yourself now?

"...Is this how you felt as you so eagerly impaled your own disciple...?" He chuckles darkly. "Oh no, not just once... not just twice... wasn't it... four different times?" He asks mockingly.

Hiroshi feels his anger at this man grow ever moment, and decides he wants to unmask this coward for who he really is.

Hiroshi: A true coward hides behind a mask. *unmasks the man only to be surprised to look at the his true face* You...

The young face of his former student stares down at him, a almost lifeless expression and look in his eyes. "...Hello again, Earth Slayer. So how does it feel? Knowing you've impaled me yet again? Do you get a sense of pleasure out of it? After all, it was you who made the first and last blows... both of which nearly killed me..."

Hiroshi can only stare at him in shock, wondering how he could have survived alone all of this time, and if this is just another trick.

Hiroshi: I guess I taught you well. You have survived all these years by yourself and managed to find your way here. You must've spent a lifetime trying to find me, I almost feel loved.

Suddenly, a vicious snarl rips through Kado's mouth, and he violently stabs Hiroshi in the chest with Dark Slayer. His eyes burn crimson red, and strange black and red markings scrawl about his body.

It occurs to Hiroshi that Kado's appearance is wrong. He knows from experience that it has at least ten years since he last saw Kado, who was no more than 15 years old. Yet his face does not seem to have the vissage of a young adult... but his prior 15 year old face. It suddenly dawns on him the only possible reason for this appearance. Extreme mental trauma.

Kado rips himself free of Hiroshi's blade, and lands in the street, dripping blood, his face contorted into a wild expression of rage. His hands grasp his swords so tight they appear pale white, and is breathing deeply, each breath cutting off into a snarl, and Hiroshi isn't reminded of a proud warrior coming to challenge him, but a savage beast with the sole purpose of slaughter.

Hiroshi: Your mind is just as clouded as your face. Instead of living a new life, you instead waste it on killing us. You were a fool when I trained you, but have become a bigger fool now. No wonder I denounced you as my apprentice.

Kado leaps over to him, and begins to slash and hack at him violently, determined to injure the man that caused him such pain for so long in his life.

"The only fool was you! Fire Slayer was far wiser than you ever were! You know nothing about what I went through because of you! I said that I killed her, but that was a lie! Before you launched your attack, after you sealed my power, Fire Slayer released her seal and nursed me back to health when I escaped from you! She didn't look at me as just another threat, she cared about me, and saved me! She in the end... was more of a master to me than you ever will be!" He roars.

He manages to get a cut on Hiroshi's side, drawing a thick stream of blood.

Hiroshi: *the leaves of the Earthcircle around him, some of the leaves touch his wounds and he is healed* If it weren't for me you would've died the day we nearly killed you. You only saw confornt in Fire Slayer because she was the only one who didn't betray you. You are fool for letting me get to you that much. A lesson I thought you, let your emotions pass by you, like a stone in a flowing river. You failed at doing so. I may have betryed you, but doesn't mean your training was for nothing. Look where it's gotten you now.

Kado silently glares at him, a dark aura about him is growing stronger every minute that passes, as if it was being fed by his wrath.

He points Dark Slayer at Hiroshi. "You were simply unlucky your sword didn't dig deep enough into my chest to kill me. No training could ever prepare anyone for what you put me though. Even to this day, the only memories I have of you now is the sweat and bruises of your training, and the bite of your treacherous sword. The howling fear I felt as I was hunted down like a wild animal. The pain of every footstep, of every breath, heartbeat... it all echoes in my brain and soul like a ceaseless war drum... beating me contiously, relentlessly... in my sleep, all I feel is the same memory over... and over... and over... again and again..."

He gives his old master a look of cold hate. "The only thing left of that boy ten years ago... is the wild animal still hurting and crying out in pain... broken, and never to heal."

Hiroshi: But aren't you proud? If we hadn't have put you through all that, would have turned out the same way you are now? It was to stengthen you for a cruel world that lied ahead. You have a responsibility, do you not? They could've healed your heart but instead you pushed them aside and put them in harms way to try asnd find me. They put their faith in a broken child. If have proven to be just as worst as me...son! *smirks*

Hiroshi is shot from behind by a bazooka

Soldier 1: I can't believe I am shooting a bazooka even after I lost my arm.

Soldier 2: Mane, suck it up. Your still alive aren't ya' *shoot his bazooka at Hiroshi*

Hiroshi: *is breathing hard* W-what? Whooo...w-whoooo are t-they...?

Soldier 2:*is imitating Batman* We're your worst nightmare, old man.

Soldier 1: Eh, more or less *shoots at Hiroshi again*

Suddenly, a swift cut of a sword cuts both bazookas like they were butter, and a figure jumps up and spin kicks both soldiers into the nearest building, dislocating their shoulders and cracking their jaws from his kick.

Hiroshi looks at the figure, and realizes that Kado is gone, and only what looks to be a child blackened by thick darkness stands. The child turns toward Hiroshi, and he sees solid red eyes, with dark red markings in the style of the Shadow covering its body. He suddenly remembers this child as the one they had found when they first took in Kado, and he can't help but remember raising the frail weak child, and secretly having had great joy in watching the child grow up and become strong, even hoping that he might even inherit his sword one day.

He looks at the child, and suddenly realizes the depths of the damage done to him, and senses that the Kado he had seen before was merely a shell, a shell protecting the fractured mind left behind ten years ago, and realizes that if anything is close to Kado's true self, it might be this.

Soldier 2: *is in pain but manages to pick up another bazooka* Say hello...to ma' friend...*is aiming at Neo Kado*

Hiroshi: *block comes from beneath the bazooka and has it poiting upwards*

Soldier 2: *fires on accident and the shot hits Big Ben.*

The hour hand on Big Ben falls off

Soldier 1: Oh God, did you just shoot Big Be?

Soldier 2: I didn't mean to shoot it!

Soldier 1: Tell that to The Pope! Thanks to you they'll cancel BBC America! Looks like im gonna have to say god bye to Doctor Who.

Soldier 2: Still can't believe that happened. *is slammed back into the building by the block*

Soldier 1: That is what you get when you fuck with Britain.

The other soldier notices Kado silently walking toward him, walking almost in a zombie stumble, but definitely moving toward him aggressively.

Soldier 1: Well, looks like we're gonna die...finally. It was nice knowing you Gilles.

Soldier 2: *is still buried under the block* Fuck you, Pratt.

Kado silently executes the soldier, and with blood still splattered on his face, turns towards Earth Slayer. In a blinding motion, he sends a thick wave of darkness at Hiroshi, and the wave smashes him into a brick building, causing a section of the wall to collapse into the street.

Hiroshi: *is surrounded by floating rocks and dust* It's time to put and end to you. If I created you I can destroy you. *fires multiple large rocks at Neo Kado*

Kado knocks some aside with his hand, and the rest he slices into harmless pebbles, and before Earth Slayer can blink, jumps over to him and slashes at him with Dark Slayer once more.

Kid,who was just returning from training in the dragon realm,saw all the junk that was happening there."Just great! Why does everywhere I go involve a fight?" He then noticed Kato ad got some weird vibes from him."I'll make sure to steer clear of that guy." He stretched before dropping his back pack."Now let's see the spoils of my training." He said before rocketing at Hiroshi at speeds close to Mach 15 and landing multiple Megaton proportion blows on all of his pressure points before going back to his orgin spot.

Hiroshi: *blocks most of them with his blocks* And who might you be?

Kado suddenly rushes Hiroshi with blinding speed, and quickly grabs Hiroshi's face. Spinning wildly, he suddenly throws Hiroshi towards a skyscraper, flying after him with wings of pure darkness. As he approaches the skyscraper, Kado suddenly slams into him, sending both into the building, tumbling, crashing, and tearing through walls and alarmed business workers, causing various screams as the two tumble out the other side, Kado landing on the skyscraper's side and then gliding after Hiroshi, who is forced to fall all the way down.

Hiroshi: *controls the glass windows on the building and turn them into glass shards and starts shooting at Kado as they fall*

Kado only seems to fly straight at Hiroshi, the glass slipping right through him, and Hiroshi realizes he's gone intangible, and curses the capabilities of the Dark Slayer under his breath.

Kid,still trying to keep his distance from Kado at the moment,inhales sharply."Roar of The Fire Dragon!" He says shooting the large blast of fire towards Hiroshi's back and forcing him towards Kado.

Hiroshi: *sees the blast at the corner and of his eye and blocks it with a glass shard shield which explodes upon impact*

Kado flaps his wings, and a massive barrage of shadow bolts begin streaking at Hiroshi, flying like missles straight for him. Hiroshi finds this odd, as he knows that Kado should only have two levels of power... but this is almost a level five ability of Dark Slayer...

Hiroshi: Too much time on his hands. *dives straight toward the ground below, while causing most of the metal support on the skyscraper to pull apart blocking Kado's way. The skyscraper starts coming down.*

People from inside the skyscraper starts panicing as well as the people below

Suddenly a vast darkness begins to seep from Kado, growing thicker and thicker, until it appears as if night itself is being summoned. The people falling suddenly come to a stop as they fall into the shadows, somehow suspended as if in syrup. The darkness grows and solidifies, slowly taking the form of a vaguely humanoid skeleton with two large horns sprouting from its forehead. The building's top collapses onto the skeleton, where it begins dissolving on contact, causing more people to sink into the darkness, being protected by the thick shadows. Once the majority of the people are captured within, they suddenly are grabbed by shadow hands, and taken outside of the form a whole block away, where they quickly set them down, and return to the form.

Hiroshi stares in absolute horror as the black wings sprout from the back of the skeleton, and it easily breaks free of the building's foundations, and swats the rest of the building away from it. He'd only heard legends of this power, a power only used once before, by the first Dark Phoenix, Hadari. At the same time, he is struck dumb, there should be no way that Kado could be using this power. They sealed his spirit's power!

''...Or perhaps... something more than just a mental break down occurred... perhaps it isn't just a case of having split personalities... but a fractured soul?''

The massive skeleton rises up, red patterns dancing about its form, glowing red eyes occuping its eye sockets. The creature lets out a vicious roar, one that signifies that the elder of the Phoenix, the oldest and most maleviolent of them all has risen once more... the return of the Dark Phoenix.

Hiroshi: You are truly my son. *smirks* But sadly you can no longer live. *before he hits the ground, the ground comes up and pushes him back up above the skyscraper*

"....." From within, Kado feels pain. But he no longer cares. It's the same as all the rest of the pain... nothing worth living for exists that can cull it. He swings his gigantic blade at the pillar of earth upon which the sole object of his hatred stands... the blade's dark fire cuts through the earth like paper, and devastates the many buildings behind them. But who cares for drones of ants that would only sting him anyway?

Hiroshi: Yes! Embrace the hatred you feel! Come at me! Become the weapon we forged! Become...DARK PHOENIX!

Almost instantaneously Kid's fist was sunken into Hiroshi's face."Super Dragon Fist! Explode!" He yelled,,causing an explosion of nuclear proportions of golden light with a roar of a Dragon in the back ground.He then moved quickly to escape Kado's sight.

Hiroshi: *turns into dust. The dust blows all the wat to the top of Big Ben. The dust reassembles back into Hiroshi*

The skeleton suddenly appears to turn towards Kid, and for a brief moment, there is a silent tension. With a sudden roar, it swings its sword in his direction, sending a blast wave into the buildings he stands on, before in the same motion turning towards Hiroshi and swinging two of its black swords at him, moving so fast he realizes he will have to use that form to avoid getting hit.

Kid sees the wave coming and just barely dodges it,by side back fipping.While in mid air,he ignites his feets and spins like a top,lobbing fire balls towards Hiroshi.He then speeds to another location close to Big Ben and concentrates his energy,a gigantic fiery aura surrounding him.

Hiroshi: *block the fireballs with metal squares* Time for your final lesson, Kado. *raises his hands in the air. The entire London area is being lifted from the Earth itself and into mid-air*

The skeleton suddenly flickers in intensity, and it grows six more arms, which each begin to charge black spheres of energy. From the skeleton outward, a area of darkness begins spreading around the city, taking out all of the lights as it goes, leaving the areas behind in pure darkness. As it approaches Hiroshi, he begins feeling a sick feeling of nausea, one that becomes almost paralyzing as it passes over him, making it even difficult to hold up his sword. He suddenly feels his control over the city cease, as the shadows completely surround the city, and force it to come to a stop, neither falling nor rising. The skeleton then fashions six more swords out of the surrounding darkness, and forms a pair of legs, and begins charging at Hiroshi, at a rate too fast for Hiroshi to possibly move out of the way, and the range of the construct's range tells him he won't get out of range of any of his swords in time either.

Hiroshi: *sees the hour-hand on the ground and lifts it up and blocks the six-armed skeleton* I will not be killed so quickly. Element of Earth come to me, lend me your blessings, so that I may vanquish all that oppose you and me. *rocks and metals from all over London form a armor on Hiroshi* You forget boy, I control the very thing God himself created. Those whowere brought from the dust, will return to dust. *draws Earth Slayer*

"You fail to comprehend... that in the beginning... only darkness existed... before the Earth was even first born, there was only an empty void. Your words are petty, in comparison to the power of Darkness, the power of the Void, where all life and existence was born."

A woman's voice slowly says in Hiroshi's mind.

The clock hand dissolves into shadow, and the blades slice into Hiroshi's construct's shoulders and chest.

Hiroshi: AAAGGGGRHHH! *lifts one hand in the air and Big Ben itself rises into the air. Hiroshi throws it at Kado*

It passes right through the skeleton, and disappears behind it with a rush of energy, and then reappears above Hiroshi, and slams down on top of him.

Kid sees Big Ben Also coming towards him and he breaks concentration for a moment to en coating his fist with his Soul Dragon's hand before leaping towards the clock and blasting through it,before once again trying to concentrate in mid air.

Hiroshi: *is falling toward the Earth* Good job Kado....this lesson is over....*hits the ground but doesn't seem to be there*

The city begins to shudder, as the darkness begins to retract, and slowly lets the city lower, until it gradually returns to the security of the earth once more. As the city begins to erupt into chaos, the skeleton begins to collapse, until Neo Kado is set back on the ground. He hears the approach of heavily armed men, and quietly turns to face them, turning into shadow to deny them the first move, even as they start shooting at him.

He quietly walks toward them, and as they flinch backwards, he silently walks through them, and begins sprinting off towards the city border, only one prey left in his mind. He dodges and jumps over police cars, and knocks aside anyone who gets in his way, and quickly manages to leave the city before they can close off the city, and is already out into the wilds. Once he has gained significant distance, he pauses, and begins feeling around, eventually picking up a disturbance in the earth below, thanks to the darkness. He has found his prey again. He then silently runs off in the disturbance's direction, not looking back at the city in chaos behind him.

The darkness will have its hunt. It will have its prey.

Hiroshi emerges outside his secluded bunker, but worried. Even though he has traveled a great distance, it still feels as though Kado's presence has not abated at all. Nervously, he decides to seal himself inside the bunker, just to be safe.

"You know he is going to find you right?" Kid says,appearing behind Hiroshi."I have learned with Determination,Instinct,and enough hatred for someone.You can do anything." Kid sees the suprised look on Hiroshi's face and smiles."What exactly did you think I was doing when I was manifesting my energy for an attack? Or looking into the future and leading Kado here?" He smiles."Its not the first one either." Outside in front of Kado,there is the Aurora Boreialis,but it was different in the sky there was a track of red energy that was meant to guide Kado to the bunker.

Hiroshi: T-this...cannot..be...

Suddenly, an earsplitting roar deafens them, as a massive molten dragon explodes through the hill in front of them, igniting everything in its path on fire, and as it rampages towards them, they feel their skin start to burn from the intensive heat. Hiroshi recognizes it as the legendary Fire-Earth dragon Hitomara, a being he encountered once before that could strangely defy his control over its metal body with the sheer intensity of its heat, its terrible wrath legendary on Echo. ...Which means this must be Kado as well... but how he could have faced Hitomara without dying is beyond him. Not that it matters, the more pressing matter is getting inside the bunker before Kado uses its almost mantle level temperatures to burn him alive.

"You know the good thing about being who I am?" Kid says to him,a cocky grin on his face."I am extremely immune to heat so no matter how hot it gets it will never effect me.YOU on the other hand cannot and will die certainly when the dragon comes around.You might be thinking,'I GOT TO GET INTO THAT BUNKER!' but thats not such a great idea either,because then you have to deal with me.Both choices are equally as bad." Kid says heating his body everything around him to thousands of degree's,hotter than the surface of a blue star.

Hirshi: *turns to dust and blows off past Kid and Kado* This...isn't...over...*blows off into the wind*

Kado suddenly returns to normal, and stares off after him.

"...You taught me many things, master! You taught me to be unshakable, and to never allow anyone to uproot me from my cause! ...It's true... that my sword is a sword of Chaos! Do you know why?! Because I'm going to tear down the order of this world! Children, innocents... families, they're uprooted, just because they're different, and forced to live their lives as tools, or be killed or treated like animals, locked in a cage! This order, SHOULD COME DOWN! And I also know this, master! Phoenix's true goals... isn't about killing off the Elementals... it's about destroying Humanity and claiming 'God's Blessing' in their place! Am I wrong?

No matter who wins, we're both on the side of Chaos! Are we not?! Come back here, and let's have our final lesson! Don't turn your back on me!" He yells after him, his voice full of passion, a voice he had only ever addressed Hiroshi with.

"...This isn't about my hatred anymore! ...This is about my cause, against yours! You know your honor demands you respect our clashing of ideals! Face me!" Kado yells. He points his spare Katana at Hiroshi's fleeing form.

"COWARD!"

Hiroshi: There is is such thing as a coward and a smart man. Blind you are and blind you always shall be. *disappears into the wind*

Kid sees the whole thing unfold in front of him,a little confused about whats happening but still interested.He shakes his head and begins to stand up straight after Hiroshi dissappears."Welp my work here is done." He says teleporting his bag and skateboard that he left to him,leaping on the skate board and rolling off."I aint very good with all this emotional junk."

Kado silently stares off into the horizon, contemplating the memories beginning to surface. Not just of the fight, but of his past, and wonders just what could have been. His thoughts begin to turn toward the destruction within the city, but he knows he would only cause more trouble to try and aid them.

There is still the Echo World Summit to deal with, after all. He closes his eyes.

''"Azula... I'm ready to come back." "I understand. ...Do you want to talk?" "...No... I don't know if I'll ever be read to talk about this..."''

He disappears, just as the lone white figure watching him smiles.

"So... our little bird is starting to spread his wings.... how long before he takes flight to join the flock...?" She chuckles to herself, as Kado disappears from sight.

"So then... I suppose we'll just sit back and await the return of Dark Phoenix, shall we, Hiroshi?" She smirks at the dust that is hovering by her. "He'll see it our way in due time."

Hiroshi: He is becoming everything we wanted him to be. He will either acknowldge are work or deny it by pity Earth-standard morals. What he chooses will be crucial for us.

She looks back where Kado had stood, and a strange look of concern crosses her face for a moment. "Did you sense it, Hiroshi? ...There was a third fragment to his mind... Besides the one just now and that... 'Neo'... what do you suppose that other one is...?" She pauses, and then gets a playful smile. "Or were you too stuck in memory lane to notice it?" She teases.

Hiroshi: You can say that, but whatever those 2 others are, they clearly have more power than Kado could ever possess. We must be fully aware of them.

"Yes... but for now, I suppose the others will want to hear about our dear Dark's return to the world... I do believe there is an apprentice who would be... very anxious to learn of this turn of events." She disappears into a flash of light.

Afterwards
''Ontop of London's rooftops, a portal emerges out of thin air, with two figures walking through it and the portal closing behind them. One of the figures looks around.''

Daikeim: So, this place remind you of somewhere?

Elaonore: *is struck with horror* Oh my God...*sees the entire London area completely decimated. Buildings are shattered all over the base of the grown, tons of people are dead and buried under debris. Helicopters hover over skies, medics are down there helping injured survivors*

Daikeim: I... I didn't mean... *Is unable to say anything as he just stands there seeing Elaonore in this state*

Elaonore: *sees her mother with heavy debris untop of her legs* Mother! *flies down toward her mother*

Mother: *sees Elaonore* Elaonore...It's you...all these years...

Elaonore: It's ok, Mother. I'm here. *looks like she's about to cry*

Mother: *yelps in pain* My legs...I'm not sure if I can make it...

Elaonore: *has a determined look on here face. She uses the winds itself to lift the debris off her mother and throws it into the distance* Are you ok now?

Mother: *her legs are bleeding and is badly bruised* It's better than nothing, right? *barely smiles*

Elaonore: Mother..*hugs her mother*

''Daikeim flies down and looks at Elaonore's Mother. He then rips the Soul Stone off of his medallion and hands it to her. He then sits down and stays quiet, the Soul Stone shines bright and an energy covers Elaonore's Mother, slowly healing her.''

Daikeim: *Begins talking in Murr God Dialect* (May the clock rewind... Heal the damage that has been done, for you still have purpose in this world. May the Soul Stone's energy mend your body.)

Mother: *wounds are alright, as if they were never injured to begin with* My legs...there all better. *has an simle of relief*

Elaonore: *looks at Daikeim and gives him a tearful smile*

Daikeim: It's nothing... I always try to help. *He gives a small smile towards both Elaonore and her Mother*

Mother: Elaonore, you and your friend must help the rest, I will provide supplies for you.

Elaonore: Yes Mother. Let's help the rest Daikeim.

''Both tended to the thousand, if not million injured survivors all day. After a while they finally healed everyone.''

Elaonore: Whew, we did it. Everyone's better now. Thank you for your help Daikeim.

Daikeim: No problem, it's nice to help a friend. Look, I need to apologize for the thing at the start... It must of been hard seeing London like that... *Daikeim looks down to the floor*

Elaonore: *puts her hands on his right cheek and lifts Daikeim's head up and smiles* It's ok. Atleast you got us here to save all these people. They may have abandoned me but I will not abandon them. Thank you for giving me this chance to save them.

Daikeim: No problem... *Daikeim smiles once again, but it's more noticeable*

Mother: I can't thank you enough for helping us. I'ts near nighttime and we have a long way to go home.

Elaonore: No need mother *teleports to a one-story house in a green field with a huge garden of crops behind the house*

Mother: Whew, an old lady can get use to that. *walks into the house and there is an old man sitting down at the kitchen table reading the latest news*

Father: *is reading a article called 'Battle at Big Ben'* Damn monsters...

Mother: Honey, look who's home.

Father: What is it woman? *turns around and sees Elaonore walk through the door*

Elaonore: *is a bit hesitant* ...Hello, Father...

Father: *has a disgustful look on his face*...You gotta be kiddin' me. *gets up and walks into another room*

Elaonore: *has a disdained look on her face*

Mother: I know. He still hast gotten over his hate for the ' monsters '. Don't let that bother you, hon.

Daikeim: *He looks around the house* It's a lovely place you have here... *He also takes notice of which room the Father went in* Umm, you don't mind me looking around, do you?

Mother: Not at all. If you plan on sleeping we only have 3 rooms, One is the master bedroom, the other is the bathroom, and the other is Elaonore's room.

Daikeim: Ok, thank you. *He goes around the house looking at the rooms, finally going into the room the Father is in. Daikeim just starts looking around.* Y'know... When someone hasn't seen their daughter in years, they'd be thrilled to see them again...

Father: *takes out a cigarette* That thing out there ain't my daughter. *smokes the cigarette* It be better if she had died the last time I saw here face. *exahles smoke*

Daikeim: You're ungrateful, it's because of her that your wife is still alive. It's because of her that half of London isn't 6ft under. So listen up, I want you to treat your daughter with the respect she deserves. It's sickening, the way you treat her now... You used to care for her, and what if she's a Mythos? You still loved her before that incident, so what changed?

Father: The fact that she was a monster the whole time. Those entire 15 years since if raised her, I had housed a freak in my house. Those are the very words I would here from a 'monster lover' like yourself. I rather my wife die any other way than to do die at the hands of a mytho-freak. *exhales smoke*

Daikeim: ...*Sighs and goes Half Dragon and walks to the Father* A 'monster lover' like myself... Fair enough... But... *He grabs the Father by the shirt and picks him up with one hand* You ever call Elaonore a freak or monster... I will kill you... *He lets go*

Father: *fixes his shirt* If you love her so much, you can go have her. It's not like I'm going to take her back. Besides, this is my house and I will not be threatened by a scaly mishap like you.

Daikeim: Hehe... You oughta meet my friend Drake, you two would get along just fine... *He exits his Half Dragon form, he then turns away from the Father and walks towards the door* Just hear me out... Elaonore is a great person, Mythos or not... If your wife loves her despite her being a Mythos, then surely you can try to adapt... After all, that's one of the things humans are best known for... Am I right? *He opens the door and leaves the room, closing it afterwards*

Mother and Elaonore are having tea while joyfully conversing

Elaonore: *looks at Daikeim and greets him with a smile* Daikeim, you're just in time. I was just telling my mother what i've been doing since I was taken.

Mother: It is pretty intriguing. And you say there is an enormous town full with marketing?

Elaonore: Yes, if you and father were there you two would be very rich. No other farmers can crop like you and father can.

Mother: *is flattered* Oh stop. Daikeim is it? Do come sit with us. Elaonore made you a cup of tea too.

Daiekim: Thank you. *He walks over and sits down, he then takes a sip of tea* This tea tastes amazing, thanks Elaonore.

Elaonore: It's a special tea me and my mother made when I was but a little girl. We used lots of the herbs we used outback. Tea would always keep me calm.

Mother: Now Daikeim, tell me about you.

Daikeim: Umm, what would you like to know?

Mother: Oh,absolutely everything you feel comfortable telling me about. I llke to know what boys my daughter brings home.

Elaonore: Mom, I never brought home any boys. They follow me home all the time.

Mother: Then we should've reported them sooner. I will not have more than one boy stalking my daughter.

Elaonore: *snickers* It's too late now. Its beyond over with.

Mother: But go ahead, Daikeim.

Daikeim: Well... Ok, my name is Daikeim Omakkas. I am 18 years of age and used to live in a paradise called Arcadia, I am also a demi-god. Because of that... *Daikeim goes in his Half Dragon form briefly* I'll say I had a... Harsh upbringing, since I was born during a war, when I grew up, I watched a second war happen... And it was here where I met one of my closest friends; Drake. Me and him ended a war... But was banished from there because of it. So I ended up on Earth, I'd later go to a place called Fantasy where I would find out it's one of my favorite places... And here I am now. Sorry for that brief explanation, most of my history isn't worth saying.

Mother: Oh, I understand. So your one of those extraterrestrials? I always wondered if they were real, look like you proved it.

Father: Great. Now I got a fuckin' alien in my house. Just fuckin' great.

Mother: Oh, don't mind him. He's a bit of a grump. But I'm glad my daughter found someone as helpful as you. You did a great service for us today. We couldn't thank you enough.

Daikeim: Don't worry about it, you all are great people. I'd never forgive myself if I didn't help. *He takes another sip of tea* And I'm glad I could meet you, including him over there.

Father: A fuckin' dragon from space.

Mother: Well you two must be sleepy. Sadly we only have 2 bedrooms, unless you want to sleep in the bathtub.

Daikeim: Ummm, no bathroom please.

Mother: Ok, you share room with Elaonore. Sadly, she only has one bed and we dont really have alot of covers, so make due with what you have ok?

Elaonore: Yes mother. *goes into her room*

Mother: Goodnight.*goes into the master bedroom*

Daikeim walks into Elaonore's room and sits down and leans his back against a wall, he then only grows his wings and they go around Daikeim.

Daikiem: Elaonore, your parents are awesome... That's the first time I've seen humans been kind to me, it's a nice feeling...

Elaonore: I haven't felt that feeling before in a long time. I still thank you for taking me back to London. I know you didn't expect for it to end up like this, but we saved countless lives that could've been lost.

Daikeim: You're welcome... Hehe, we're like little heroes. To think that we're healing humans, I wonder what the Mythos would think of us...*Daikeim looks up to the ceiling* I miss seeing Fantasy's moon... And the little blue lights that would come out from the grass. *Daikeim hums a tune*

Elaonore: I do too. We can head for home tomorrow morning. *looks at all here drawings on the wall. Drawings of love and peace through the world* Still a dreamer, but I know today that that dream will come true. All It takes is one person to make a difference. *gets in bed*

Daikeim: Hey... I wanna ask you something, what do you think your life would be like if your powers never showed?

Elaonore: I never truly thought about that. I know I wouldn't have the same problem I have with my father *snickers* But both my parents would have died and I would be left alone at the age of 15. I would no doubt move on and later apply all that i have been taught by my parents and possibly still do what i have always done at Fantasy, only a bit out of synch. But I do know I would have had a chance at winning a Nobel Peace Prize. *mildly smiles*

Daikeim: So either way, you'd still be your amazing self, and I know that you'd still look beauti-- *Daikeim quickly shuts up and looks at his Soul Stone*

Elaonore: I have a question for you. *sits up* What would your life be if you haven't been exiled?

Daikeim: Hm... Well, the war mainly caused it... So if the war didn't happen, I wouldn't of met Drake. I'd probably went on without knowing what it would be like to... 'Fit in', and I wouldn't know the beauty of other worlds... Like Fantasy for example, I'm guessing my life would be much more boring... So in a way, I'm glad I got exiled, I've never felt so free. I know how people are and how they would react to certain things, and how to help. If I never got exiled, I would be completely different. It's kinda scary if you go into these kinds of things.

Elaonore: I know. It always comes back to question starter 'What if'. And in all honesty, I am too glad that you are here. You helped in many ways than one and even went to try and save Jumbo, even after he attacked your friend. You are just as an astonishing person as I am.

Daikeim: Thank you... For everything Elaonore. For taken me and Drake in, risking your life in the Dragon Realm, letting us live among the Mythos... You're an angel. *Daikeim once again has a small smile*

Elaonore: *laughs a little bit* I'm not an angel. I'm a sylph. But I understood what you meant. And you're a true knight-in-shining-armor. Always there when your needed or not and even if you don't succeed, you never come home empty-handed.

Daikeim: I'm like that because of you and the Mythos, you guys never seem to give up... So why should I? Like I said, you people are inspiring. *Daikeim looks at the drawings on the wall* ...Love and peace, heh, that sums you up in three words.

Elaonore: *chuckles* Look at us. Throwing complements at one another when we should be going to bed. Come on now. *pats the side of the bed with space left for one more*

Daikeim: Oh, yeah. *He chuckles and walks over to the empty side of the bed and gets in*

Elaonore: Sorry if there's not enough room. Here. *gives Daikeim part of the cover* I still hope you can sleep well.

Daikeim: Thanks, and I'll sleep fine. Goodnight Elaonore.

Elaonore: Goodnight Daikeim. *both go to sleep*

A few hours later

Daikeim wakes up and yawns, he then sits up and looks around him.

Elaonore: *is still asleep, but is gently holding onto Daikeim's arm and has her forehead gently planted on Daikeim's shoulder. A tear streams from her eye*

Daikeim: Poor girl, must be a nightmare... *He wipes the tear away* I wonder what it is...

Hovering can be heard from outside and lights, motors, and other numerous sounds can be heard and seen from outside aswell

Elaonore: *clutches Daikeim's arm tighter and closes her eyes tighter*

Daikeim: The hell could be doing that... *He growls* Unsung... *He looks at Elaonore and gently shakes her* Elaonore, wake up!

Elaonore: *wakes up with a startle* What is it? *hear the noises outside*...They're here!

Soldiers wearing black and red bust through the door and throw smoke bombs into the house.

Daikeim: Elaonore, stay here... I promise I won't let them hurt you. *Daikeim goes into his Half Dragon form and leaves the room, when the smoke clears, the soldiers can see Daikeim wielding a blade. Daikeim points the blade at them.* Leave now... I will not let you touch her!

Soldier: Don't think she's going to be the only one who gets hurt.

2 soldiers shoot at Daikeim with shotguns

''Daikeim swipes his hand in the air, causing a energy barrier to emerge and deflect the bullets back at the two soldiers. Daikeim then sprints at some soldiers at slices them in half, he then grabs one of the soldier's gun and fires at the rest in the house.''

Soldier: Commence ariel assualt.

Flyer: Roger that. Aim all available firepower at the house. *fires their railguns at the house tearing it up.

The helicopter is then beginning to spin out of control and lands on the ground safely,same happens with the other helicopters.

Daikeim: Heh... Fair play Elaonore... Now. *Daikeim walks out of the house and sees soldiers...* Hm... Counting 50... Time to test this out...

''The fliers get out the helicopters and and unattach their railguns from their helicopters. 2 soldiers are holding each railgun and fire at Daikeim.''

''Daikeim stops the bullets with both of his hands and drops them. Daikeim gains a dark grey aura and grey eye coloruing, he then looks at the soldiers and walks towards them. The soldiers continue firing the railguns but the bullets have no effect on Daikeim. Daikeim then stops walking and aims both hands at both of the soldiers and fires two small beams, they pierce the soldiers hearts. Killing them instantly, Daikeim slams his hand down onto the floor, causing a massive shockwave which destroys any vehicles and aircraft.''

Daikeim: Final chance... Stand down or pay the price...

Elaonore: *appears next to Daikeim* There is not need for that. You've beaten them.

Mother: *comes outside in her night gown* What's going on here?

Elaonore: Unsung came and attacked the house. Are you ok, mother?

Mother: Ofcourse, even after I woke up, i saw bullet holes all around my bed and numerous holes in my roof.

Elaonore: *chuckles*

A shot can be heard from behind and the bullet casing falls on the ground in blood.

Daikeim: The hell? *Daikeim notices blood on his shirt, he then spits out a bit of blood* ...Who the hell. *Daikeim turns around*

Father: *is holding a smoking shot gun* I gotta another round with your name on it. *shoots Daikeim again through is stomach*

Soldier: *come from behind Daikeim and hits him in th back of the legs with the back of his shotgun, then sticks him in the arm with a needle, then hits him in the back of the head, causing to fall unconscious*

Elaonore: NO! DAIKEIM! *is grabbed by a soldier and has a collar put on her. She is then being drag away from her parents once again. Has flashback of the exact same thing happening. She stretches her arm out for help toward her parents. Her mother tries to reach it but her father is holding her mother back."

Father: *turns his head away from her in shame once agains and carries Elaonore's mother back inside the house and shuts the door behind them*

Elaonore: * single tear streams from her eye and is put into the back of a van along with an unconscious Daikeim*

Several minutes later.

''Daikeim suddenly wakes up and breaths heavily. Slowly looking around then to see the wounds.''

Daikeim: That bastard... If I ever see him again... Where am I... Where's Elaonore.

Elaonore: *Is siting in a corner of the van all curled up with tears streaming down her face uncontrollably*

Daikeim: Elaonore... *He slowly crawls towards her and sits besides her, he then holds one of her hands* Listen... I promise on my life, that I will get you out of here... I don't want you reliving past events. *He tries to make a smile, he gets his other hand and tries to softly wipe the tears off of Elaonore's face.*

Elaonore: *hugs Daikeim and cries in his chest*

Daikeim: *He puts his arms around Elaonore and hugs back. He then looks to the end of the van* There should be a way to get out, right? The doors... I have an idea.

''The van stops and the dorrs open. The soldiers get in and drag both Daikeim and Elaonore out and are taken inside the facility. There thay can see mutated Mythos inside gel-capsules. The put him in front of a man wearing a doctor mask and red circular glasses, the man also seems to be a bit hunched over.''

Soldier: Where to, Dr. Drekavas?

Dr.Drekavas: *looks at Daikeim* Take that one to Test Chamber 1A. Take the other to Test Chamber 2B. I belive we found what we are looking for.

''The soldiers drag the two to their designated chambers. Elaonore reaches for Daikeims hand but he is too far and is taken inside Test Chamber 2B.''

Daikeim looks at the soldiers and smirks, he then begin laughing.

Daikeim: I feel sorry for you... You guys have to work for a hunchback... Also, he needs to learn a difference between a Mythos and me... *He laughs again*

Soldier: We know. We were told by the caller of that property that you were a 'dragon from space'. Besides, that hunchback is the scariest thing you'll find here. *takes him inside Test Chamber 1A. They strap him down on an examination table, then leave*

Daikeim: Scariest thing? Sure... *He looks around* Guess I'm waiting for the hunchback... Actually... *He looks at the straps and sighs* They can't even tie a human down with these.

''The straps some how strap on to him tighter. A doctor wearing bandages over his mouth and head, but still has a little hair flowing from the back. He appears to be taller and thiner than Dr. Drekavas.''

Dr.Jerek: *goes over to examine some futuristic surgical tools* Do you prefer to be awake or sleep?

Daikeim: Hehe... Awake so I can see the regret in your eyes...

Dr.Jerek:*is still looking at his tools* If you noticed, I have glasses, actually. *puts on his circular red glasses* Now i'm wearing glasses. Any questions before we proceed?

Daikeim: Elaonore... What do you guys want with her...

Dr.Jerel: It's a new project we're putting into play. Project: Unisung. She will be our solution to the Mytho problem. This world is heading int to Solution Era. Man can no longer handle the Mytho threat and they seek an answer. Every agency is coming up with their own Final Solution. For us...its the girl.

Daikeim: Are you serious, humans can no longer handle the Mythos? I've witnessed humans who have no problem with the Mythos. I've seen the Mythos HELP the humans! Why are you so hesitant to work with them... Or is that just how it is? Simply because you can't comprehend them and what they're capable of... Because you're scared.

Dr.Jerek: I admit, we are scared. Here we see them as...Cryptids. You know unknown animals. Like Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster. We want to know what their capabilities are so we can possibly use it for human use. *picks up some scissors and puts it on a tool tray several inches away from Daikeim*

Daikeim: Well... Glad to see you're honest... *He sighs* This is gonna hurt...

Dr.Jerek: Your a strong guy...*picks up a surgical knife* You'll no doubt get through this...*stabs Daikeim and starts cutting him open*

5 days later

A portal emerges ontop of London's roofs, a figure walks out and the portal closes.

Drake: Right... Now where could them two be... Hm, Elaonore must have parents... *He jumps down into the streets, he then walks around calling out for Elaonore's parents* HELLO!? THE HELL ARE!?

Mother: *Bumps into Drake on accident* My apologizes, young man. *walks past him*

Drake: ...Right, why does Daikeim hang out with these people... *He turns to looks at the woman* Hey, umm. Can you help me? I'm looking for two people, one has brown hair, blue eyes and dragon wings... And the other is his girlfriend or something.

Mother: *stops* You mean...Daikeim and...Elaonore?

Drake: Yeah, have you seen them? They were supposed to come back a couple of days ago... Do you have any idea where they are?

Mother:...Unsung...took them...I dont know where Unsung is...but they took them...

Drake: Unsung... How did this happen!?

Mother: My husband...that's what happened.

Drake: ...Where is he.

Mother: I don't know...he left this morning...Please...find my daughter...

Drake: Don't worry, I will... *He creates a portal and steps through, the portal closes afterwards*

Back at Unsung

Dr.Jerek: *comes in Test Chamber 1A with a DVD and a DVD Player in his hands*

Daikeim: ...What's on that CD.

Dr.Jerek: As you know we needed your friend to complete our project. And as you know we have conducted our expirements. *puts the DVD in the DVD player. It shows Elaonore undergoing experimentation and undergoing mutations with each experiment. She screams in pain and asks for them to stop. She is reverted back to normal with a stick of a needle after every mutation. She was surgically cut open and they stuck tubes within her to extract tissue.*

Daikeim: No... Why... *He tries to get out of the straps*

Dr.Jerek: Sadly, it does not stop there. *the video goes to today only about 3 hours ago. The dark figure and a dark elf adolescent appear into the room when no one but Elaonore is in it*

Evoh Vemel: Why are we here, old man?

Voice: We've come to use this sylphs air and wind manipulation to our advantage. The Gods will be no more soon and i must gather the newer ones.

Evoh Vemel: And why am I not chosen to take your place?

Voice: You know why. Extract piece of her hair and a piece of her skin. I will be back. I am going to see what is this Project: Unisung is all about. *disappears*

Evoh Vemel: *scoffs* what joy is there in that? *looks back at a weakened and dreary Elaonore and smiles* My aren't you a beauty. *touches her face and then looks at her body* And an even more beautiful body. This sort of fun I can definitely crave. * He rips her cloths of and violates her body her. Elaonore yelps in pain and this makes Evoh more motivated. After Evoh is done...*

Voice: *returns and sees a naked-weeping Elaonore and Evoh with a pleased look on his face* This is not your we supposed to do. I asked of you to get a string of her hair and a piece of her skin. Instead you indulged your sexual urges on here.

Evoh Vemel: what's the point in doing this, if I dont get anything out of it?

Voice: And you ask why you are not fit to be a god. Come. I guess your child will make a better heir than you. *both are surrounded by a dark aura and disappear. The DVD ends*

''Daikeim roars loud enough for it to be heard throughout the facility. He then breaks the straps and rips off the collar. He gains a golden aura and his eyes have a golden trail. He grabs Dr. Jerek's neck and snaps it, killing him. He then roars again, causing the facility to shake. He then tracks Elaonore's energy signature and walks to where she is.''

Daikeim: Them two will die... Everyone here... The other Doctor... *He growls once again, he reaches where Elaonore is*

Elaonore: *is laying on a table her back with covers over her naked body. Her skin is pale and she is looking blankly up at the ceiling light. She is breathing slowly but heavily and tears seem to be streaming endlessly down her face.*

Daikeim: No... *He walks up to Elaonore and looks at her, he sheds a few tears* I can't believe they done this... *Daikeim sits her up and wraps the covers around her body, he then picks her up and carries her on his back and walks out of the room.* I'll kill every one of them... Life is too good for them..

Elaonore: *speaks in a weak and cold voice*...Daikeim...Don't kill them....they don't know what they do...Please...Home is all we need...

Daikeim stops walking and says with a voice filled with guilt, anger and despair.

Daikeim: ...They don't know what they do? No Elaonore, they knew that they did... How can you forgive them... *A tear drops before Daikeim slowly starts walking* Let's just get you home...

Elaonore: *wipes Daikeim's tear away and manages to crack a small smile* I remember that you told me it was ok to cry, but I never understood why you continued to wipe away my tears.

Daikeim: Because you looked cute when you smile... *Daikeim starts walking at normal speed* Elaonore... I never mean't to hurt you... It's because of me that you're like this...

Elaonore: *smile fades*...Daikeim...there is no mistake that you wanted to make me happy...I know more bad than good happened...and I can see why you blame yourself...but don't...please..don't...*holds on to him tighter and shuts her eyes hard and her tears are streaming faster*

Daikeim: Elaonore... Do you know why I'm like this towards you? Why you're the one that matters most? Why I go out of my way to make you happy?

Elaonore: *thinks for a little while* No...Im not really sure...I always asumed that you were only trying to cheer me up...due to the fact that my life wasnt all that cheerful after I was taken...

Daikeim: *Chuckles* It's because I love you...

Elaonore: *is some what confused and shocked* ...W-what...?

Daikeim: I love you Elaonore, you're a sweet, amazing and outstanding girl... You have no idea what'd I do just to see you smile... *Daikeim has a small smile*

Meanwhile back in London, two figures step out of a portal and it closes.

Drake: Aaaaand I'm back again, alright then. We should be able to find it easier if I go by air and you go by floor. If either of us find it, we'll signal eachother, got it? *Drake goes into his Aura Dragon form and hovers*

Jonas: *sniffs the air* Found them. There up 350 miles up north from here.

Drake: Awesome, meet you there. *He starts to fly North*

Jonas: Damn buses. Never around when you need them. *starts walking*

Back at the facility.

Elaonore: I...I...Never thought you saw me like that before.....*has flashbacks of all Daikeim's previous actions leading up to right now*...You...love me...? *looks like her eyes are gonna explode with tears of joy*

Daikeim smiles as they start to reach the exit of the facility.

Daikeim: Don't worry, we're almost out... *He notices that Elaonore's about to burst with tears of joy, so he quickly sits Elaonore down against a wall, kisses her head and takes off his Soul Stone medallion and gives it to her*

Elaonore: *is crying tears of joy. She hugs Daikeim while still holding on to his Soul Stone tightly. Her head is lying on his chest*

Daikeim: *He hugs her back and then carries her on his back again* Hehe, you can hug me 'til death once we get back ok? *They exit the facility and Daikeim closes his eyes and focuses on Fantasy, Elaonore and Daikeim glow gold and teleports to Fantasy*

Meanwhile, Drake manages to reach the facility and waits for Jonas.

Jonas: *finally arrives* Damn twigs. Ok finally made it. Wish there was a detour to this place. This better be worth it.

Drake: You said it yourself, sickest minds is science, so let's show 'em their minds. *He takes out his Shadow Pistol and sword and walks towards the facility*

Jonas: *pulls out a Blu cigarette and smokes it* Well let's do it. *follows right behind Drake* This better not be some ambush shit or I swear.

Drake: I have no idea what happens when we open these doors, all I know is that Daikeim and Elaonore should be here... *He puts C4 on the main doors leading into the facility and steps back and presses a detonator. The C4 explodes and Drake walks into the facility*

Jonas: Should? *walks in behind Drake*

Drake: It's a win win situation here Jonas, we either rescue them two, or kill a bunch of sadistic people... Speaking of... Where the hell is everyone? *He looks around he sees two signs, one saying "Test Chamber 1A" and another saying "Test Chamber 2B"* Should we split up here and check the rooms?

Jonas: Sure thing. I got 2B. *heads into Test Chamber 2B*

Drake: Ok. *Drake goes towards and enters Test Chamber 1A and looks around, he then sees Dr. Jerek's corpse, the broken straps and a destroyed collar* Well... This is starting to scream Daikeim... Ok, table, tools... *He sees the DVD player* Hm? *He presses play and watch* That's Elaonore, wow... Yeah, Jonas was right. They're fucked up. *He takes the CD* Still wondering where the guards are. *He exits the Test Chamber and moves towards 2B*

Jonas: *looks around and sees blood and empty needles* This is one messed up room, man. *walks around and steps in something and sniffs* Is that..*looks at the bottom of his shoe and sees a milk-like substance on it* Ugh...just ugh. *wipes his shoe on the floor* Fell sorry for the poor sucker who was in here.

Drake: Well... *He enters 2B* These sick bastards recorded it... *He hands Jonas the CD* A whole three hours of it... It's of Elaonore, that would explain why in 1A, there's a dead person, broken straps and a destroyed collar. Looks like we were a little late. *He sighs*

Jonas: *looks at the DVD* Wha..? OH MY GOD! Holy Fucking Fucker Fuck! I am done good golly! That's the worst thing I ever seen on a DVD in my life.

Drake: Yeah... Well then... Atleast there's more of a reason to kill these assholes... Where ever the hell they are. *He shots his Shadow Pistol into the air, hoping to gather some attention*

Jonas: *sniffs the air* I can smell them. We gotta go down a little bit further. There in some ginormous laboratory. *walks down a few corridors*

Drake: Ok then... *He follows Jonas, he opens his HCS and scrolls down the list of weapons he has, he then takes out an anti-material rifle. He then shakes his head to try and forget the DVD* Ugh... Yeah, that'd scar anyone... That reminds me, do you have a girlfriend? *He laughs*

Jonas: Yea, i do. You?

Drake: ...Fuck you man, anyways, how close are we now?

Jonas: We're here.

Both enter a enormous laboratory/auditorium filled with dead soldiers and doctors.

Drake: Hooooly shit... *He sighs* Dammit, we missed out on a bloodbath. Wait, what could of done this, you managed to smell them. *He prepares his gun and aims around*

Jonas: *sniffs the air* I dont smell blood, just air....hmmm.

Drake: What do you mean, just air? One, how the hell can you smell air. Two, HOW IS THERE NO SCENT OF BLOOD WHEN THERE'S A CLEAR SIGHT OF DEATH!?

Jonas: *takes helmets of the soldiers and looks at their faces* Suffocation or lack of oxygen.

Drake: ...That's not good, well... For people who need oxygen to survive. *He walks around* Hm... Well since we're here, we might aswell gather any private information we can. *Drake opens his HSC and starts taking scientists notes, samples and more*

Jonas: *looks up files on the computer and sees one that says "Project: Unisung"* Hmmmm....*opens it and reads some of it* Awwww shiiit.

Drake: What do you mean, aww shit? *He walks over and reads the file* Oh... Shit.

Jonas: We gotta get out of here man. *feels a breese* Right now! *makes a run toward the door but it shuts once he gets to it* Crap, Crap, Crap, Crap, Crap. Probably should've brought Ammo. *wind can be heard*

Drake: I don't see why you're worried, you're immortal, right? *He charges up the rifle and fires at the door, but to no avail* Well fuck.

Jonas: I don't wanna stick around to see if a Werepyre can die by lack of oxygen. *winds blows again* Quick, find something sharp.

Drake: Fine fine. *Drake gets out his knife and hands it to Jonas* This better work man...

Jonas: It should. *wedges the knife in between the door and starts moving it around*

A darkness starts to take form

Drake: The hell... Uhh Jonas... We have company. *Drake goes over to Jonas and helps him with the door*

The darkness takes the form of Elaonore, but with black skin, red eyes and black and red hair.

Drake: *He turns around and sees Dark Elaonore* Well... Ok then, let's just be lucky that Daikeim wasn't here to see this. *Drake smirks* Bring it bitch, because I'mma beat the darkness out of your fucking body!

Unisung: *disappears and reappears in front of Drake's face, she places her hands on the side of his face and her lips are about to touch his, but instead starts sucking the oxygen out of Drake*

Jonas: *throws the knife at Unisung and she backs away from Drake*

Drake: Thanks. Right then! *He charges at Unisung and grabs one of her arm and pulls her towards Drake, he then punches Unisung in the face and lets go. Causing her to be sent flying* Sorry sweetie, I don't date red-heads.

Jonas: Man you suck. Red-Heads are hot.

Unisung: *turns into a void and starts sucking away all the oxygen*

Jonas: *is finding it really hard to breathe*

Drake: Personal preference! *Drake goes into his Half Dragon form and flies towards the door and punches it, blasting it open* GO!

Jonas: *runs out the door, but Unisung is sucking the oxygen from the entire facility through the air vents*

Drake: This girl is getting on my nerves... *Drake gets out his Shadow Pistol and fires at Unisung, causing her to stop* Tsk tsk, animal abuse? You should learn better...

Unisung: *turns into a void that starts to suck up everything in the facility. Bodys,computers, papers the walls of the facility itself. Everything*

Jonas: *still unable to breathe* Thanks...alot...smart one...

Drake: Oh shit... *Drake flies away from Unisung and grabs Jonas' arm and speeds through the facility, finally exiting through the way they came in* I don't see you doing anything other than suffocating...*He lets go of Jonas* Right now, we need to decide what to do with that thing...

The facility has been torn apart, but the Unisung turns into a giant black tornado still sucking up all the oxygen and the trees surrounding the facility

Jonas: *catches his breathe* Dang, this is hard. We gotta keep it away from London.

Drake: No shit... *He looks at the tornado* How the hell do we even stop it?

Jonas: I've got an idea, but your gonna have to stall it until I get back. And no I am not runnin' off and leavin' you here to die. I'll be right back. *runs off back towards London*

Drake: Stall a tornado... Sure man, why not... *Drake flies away from London and fires fireballs at the tornado* HEY! COME GET ME!

Back at a liqour store in London

Jonas: *puts a case of liqour on a counter and puts 12 bucks on the counter too*

Drake: This is getting boring! *He's just flying around the tornado*

Debris is being flung at Drake

Jonas: *putting gasoline into each bottle of liqour*

Drake: Shit shit shit! *He gets his Shadow Pistol and shoots the debris to pieces*

Jonas: *is taking the bus back toward the forest*

Drake: *Is doing an impression of Jonas while shooting the debris* Stall a tornado Drake, I'll be back Drake... Sure, take your time Jonas... I'm not doing nothing.

Jonas: Glad you aint', now get down here.

Drake: About time! *He flies down* So, what's the plan fluffy?

Jonas: *tears off a piece of Drake's shirt and shoves it into a bottle. Lights a Blu cigarette and lighs the cloth and throws it into the tornado*

Unisung: *is hit with the bottle and is on fire. The tornado disappears and the debris falls all over the place*

Drake: Molotov cocktails... Nice. *Looks at his shirt* ...If anyone asks, we kill 'em.

Jonas: That sounds awesome. *smirks*

Unisung is consumed by the fire and blows away.

Drake: Finally... But I got a feeling that's not the only one... *He falls down on his back* I need a drink... *He stays quiet for a minute* Hey Jonas... Does the M.C.C.P do mercenary work with people other than the Mythos... Because if it's against other companies and such... I'm totally down to do some work...

Jonas: Yea...what do you think I am? And I wouldn't drink those if I were you...

Drake: Awesome ... I'll be around. *Drake gets up, throws a communicator to Jonas and walks to London* Contact me when I can start... As for me, I got a man to find.

In an underground Unsung cryo-chambers

Computer: Project: Unisung has failed releasing Project: Neo.

A man with black and red hair and blue eyes wakes up from inside his chamber and breaks out of it

Man: Now, It is my time to demand a change. *looks up into the sunlight crack in the roof*

Meanwhile in London, Drake is searching around.

Drake: Where is that bastard... Where would he be...

Father: *is holding a basket filled with vegetables and bumps into Drake* Hey watch it you. *walks past him*

Drake: *Turns back and grabs onto the father's shoulder* You wanna say that to my face, fucking moron. If I weren't already looking for a guy, you'd be dead.

Father: Lucky that guy is. *yanks his shoulder away and continues walking*

Drake: God you're fucking infuriating... Wait, do you know a guy named Diakeim?

Father: No. Should I?

Drake: What about a girl named Elaonore?

Father: Sadly, Yes.

Drake: Good! *He knees the father in the gut* Idiot, Daikeim was with Elaonore when they arrived. This also means that you sent them two to the Unsung facility... *He aims the Shadow Pistol directly at the father's head* And I don't care how many people are here, I'd be more than happy to but a bullet between your eyes... Oh, by the way, name's Drake.

Father: *swings his basket at the gun knocking it out of Drake's hand and pulls out his shotgun from his basket and aims it at Drake* Oh, by the way, I don't care.

Drake: Heheh... Hahaha. I can't kill you if I wanted, Elaonore and Daikeim would kill me... *Drake reached out for his gun, which flies into his hand* Besides, you're human, so it'd be a bit cruel to kill you... Anyways, see ya'. *Drake makes a portal and steps through it, with it closing afterwards*

Father: God, I hate space. *puts his shotgun back in his basket and walks on his way*

Reckon Day
Omega, Mu, Epsilon, Gamma, and Alpha are helping build the Big Ben back up.

Omega: Never liked Europe...

Mu: Hey, it's been 20 years, lighten up. Times may have changed. *Smiles*

Epsilon: There is only a 14% chance of that, Mu. But I get where you are coming from.

Omega: Stop being an ass to these people.

Gamma: They don't have any food in this part of town...

Alpha: Okay, lets go get lunch guys.

Gamma: REALLY?! *Goes and hugs Alpha awkwordly.* Can we get burgers?!

Mu: Ewww, meat...

Epsilon: We should eat hea-

Gamma: Don't say that word!

Omega: Pointless children's fights. Lets just go.

Gamma: Okay 'Grumpy' of the 7 dwarves.

Omega: My height doesn't matter. I can still punch your face in.

Alpha: Guys. Stop. Seriously.

They enter a McDonalds for cheesebugers and a salad.

''Alex exits the line at McDonald's with a large tray filled with food and drink. He walks past the entrance of the place as a group, apparently well armed individuals enter. He glances at them quickly before taking a cubicle at a nearby window, and digging into his meal.''

Alpha: 9 cheeseburgers and 1 side salad, 10 large fries, and 14 beers.

Casheer: No beers sir.

Omega: *Picks up Casheer* You sure about that punk?

Casheer: *Touches panic button, police approach*

Alpha, Mu, Epsilon, and Gamma: *Sigh* You ruined another meal, now lets go...

Alex: with his mouth full* Man, you really (slurp) have an attitude problem, buddy(nom,nom). You ever try therapy?

Omega: You little! *Throws apunch that is blocked by alpha. Alex notices that Alpha in sinking his shooes farther and farther into the ground because of Omega's streanth.*

Police: Hands up Monster!

Omega: Grrr... *Stops hitting Alpha.* Your turn punks. *Kills all the police in 5 minutes, hitting the dead bodies over and over.*

Gamma: Can I have at LEAST 3 large fries?

Cook: *nods head, eyes wide*

Alpha: *Over comm* Computer, activate ship and hover near our location.

Computer: Yessir.

As the other customers rush out of the building, Alex stares at the pile of bodies on the ground and let's out a sigh. He stands up.

Alex: I wish for all of our sakes that you hadn't done that. Now my lunch is ruined...

Omega: *Lifts Alex from his shirt collar* What, punk?

Alpha: Put him down. *sigh*...

Omega: Punk, awnser me.

Mu: Just awnser him so we can go please? *Sadly smiles*

Alex: I'm sorry. I think you misunderstood me. What I meant to say was boost.

Alex's necklace glows briefly before disappearing. A four pronged seal appears on his hand, one of the points extended further than the others a Alex swings his  legs back and smashes them into the angry man's chest. Omega is sent back into the adjacent cubicle.

Omega cracks his knuckles as the rest of the team eats fries and sits down to watch.

Omega: You ass. Your turn to be mocked!

Omega punches 2 ribs in and then goes in for 3 kicks, kick-snaping 4 of Alex's tendons, disabling him.

Omega: Lets hear that Power Rangers saying while you can't move shithead.

Alex: *wheeze* A month ago... *wheeze* That might have been the case. Now...

In one fluid motion, Alex kicks Omega's feet out from under him, stands and throws him by his foot into the kitchen, where the sizzling sounds suddenly get louder.

Alex:...Not so much. *picks up soda* (slurp) I feel better all of a sudden.

Alex looks at the man's apparent allies.

Alex: Anyone else want a go?

Omega: I... Ain't... Done... Shit!!!!!

Omega punches Alex's skull in, then rips him into sheets of Alex Paper.

the pieces of Alex disappear suddenly, As Alex sits among the hooligans allies.

''Alex: is he always this angry? (Slurp) how you doin'? He says, winking at the female amongst them before jumping back to the floor. Looking at his hand, Alex looks surprised. ''

''Alex: wow, I've already used two seals. Two! You should feel proud of yourself...not.''

Omega: Mu is Epsilon's girl, and my friend!

Omega picks Alex up, and breaks his back and skull on his knee.

OMega: Come back from THAT. *Unloads a round of grenades into Alex's stomach*

Alex: coughs up smoke. Ugh. That was just plain rude, you ass! Let's see how you like explosions...*Raises hand* Burst. A large wave of energy hits Omega square in the chest sending him flying out of the restaurant at a strange angle. Standing once again, Alex wipes the ash from his lips. looks at his hand as the third prong of his seal was used up. Now I have a bit of a headache...

Creeek...

Omega bursts through the roof, slamming down on Alex.

Omega: You have terrible reflexes ass. *He watches the big fourth prong go away.* Heh, you're out of lives punk. Put in anouther quarter, maybe that'll help.

Alex: says the guy who's about to shine like the spring festival...*opens hands, revealing a single shining pin* oh, and... I don't  need a quarter to win this fight. But you'll need a new life in a sec... *A grenade goes off, setting the others on his belt off and lifting Omega off the ground. Taking advantage of the opening, Alex begins a speedy assault on The man that takes them half a mile away from the restaurant. As the attacks go on, Alex becomes more aggressive and subsequently more coordinated with his strikes, injuring Omega further than he would have, otherwise.

After about 5 blocks, Omega fell to the floor, bruised in multiple locations. Alex, wheezing again, took a while to catch his breath before throwing Omega his pin back."It's not a quarter but... who cares...Game Over. And, just a tip: don't think just because you have tactics that your arrogant as s won't get handed to you by a kid that knows what he's doing..." Alex then begins the walk(zombie shuffle) back to the fast food joint.

Omega: Heh... You need to be trained. I know a guy if your interested. Names Alpha, one of the guys watching... He'd train ya. Gets up, and walks back to the McD's.

Alex: Why not... got nothing better to do.I just hope there are girls there...

Mu: I'm the only girl...

Alex: Oh...(Sigh)

Epsilon: And you hit on her? You'll need an oxygen tank in space.

Alpha: Yea, I'll train you.

Gamma: You have one first thing to do: Get us some lunch. Omega can't and I buy "too much"...

''M.C.C.P workers come and overwhelm Mu, Epsilon and Alpha. Leaving Omega, Gamma, and Alex beaten and near death...''

Omega: *Stands up* RAWWWWWWWWWWWWW! *Punches ground, nocking over Big Ben 3 miles away.* Those are my BREATHERAN!!!! YOU CANNOT TAKE THEM!!!!!!!!!!!

''Omega jumps onto the ship, ripping a hole into it. Then is overwhelmed and taken as well, leaving Gamma and Alex.''

Gamma: Anyone wanna tell me what person can give THAT much of a headache?

Alex: No idea...but he's your friend, you tell me.* Barely getting to his feet, Alex turns to Gamma. *Can you move?

Gamma: I have a sheild. You may be hurt, but I only have a migrane. Helps me be conservative of energy.

Gamma disables the sheild and puts his hands into his pockets.

Gamma: Well... Can you run fast, fly or shizz? Our ship got destroyed and the other guys are a dot in the sky with a smoke signal.

Alex: I can run fast "and shizz", but I need a minute to heal... two fights in a row drained me pretty well.

Gamma: Here...

Gamma heals Alex and restores the 4 prongs.

Gamma: If all four prongs are used and you die, do you STILL come back?

Alex is shocked that Gamma could reset his seals, but begins to laugh when he asks if he'll die.

Alex: Die? As far as I know, I cant die. These powers are still new to me, but I dont think they're tied to my life energy.*shows gamma his hand* These prongs are seals that constantly draw in and store energy. When I use one, I can either absorb that energy or fire it. The downside is that the extra power only amplifies my current state; it doesnt restore me first. A moment ago, using the final seal would have been barely enough to bring me back to normal. Thanks to you, I think I may have found a new limit. *smirks* So where am I running to?

Gamma: Well, this'll be difficult to explain... Basically I'll put my sheild around us like a mouse's wheel. Then you'll run and I'll bounce around and we'll follow the smoke trail. Sound good?

Gamma puts the sheild up.

''Alex: Alright. I hope your stomach can handle it...''

''Alex activates two of his seals and begins to run faster than he was ever capable of before. He tries his best to avoid stepping on Gamma as he goes.''

''Everytime Alex ran out of seals, Gamma would re do them, and they'd run faster. And faster. And Gamma now has a black eye. But, they are at the compound Outpost 17B of M.C.C.P organization.''

Gamma: MAN! This place is g-a-u-r-d-e-d! We SURE they'll be hurt in there?

Omega: *from inside* GET THIS NEEDLE OUT OF ME!!

Gamma: ...

Alex has stopped speaking some time ago. His aura is coming off of him in waves of black and red. As they traveled further, and Alex's limits were broken, he began to require the aid of his seals less and less. Standing near the gates, Alex finally spoke.

Alex: Lets bust through. Right at their front door...

Gamma: Alex.... Have you gone cra cra? That's a 9 inch steel gate with LASER CANNONS. My sheilds can only do so much... I think they are invincible but YOU arn't! We need like, a plan? That the word?

Alex: ''A strange look crossed his face as his previously aggressive visage was replaced with a much softer, calmer expression. The seal on his hand disappeared, returning to its necklace form. ''Okay, what do you have in mind?

Gamma: I'm the LAZY guy. Normally Epsilon or Alpha would plan stuff...

Alex: Plan B then. Shield up! *grabs Gamma and jumps over the gates. as the guards fire on them Alex uses th shield surrounding Gamma to block. He makes sure to avoid the turret fire as he and Gamma somehow manage to take out the guards and make it to the entrance. Alex blows a hole in it with one of Gammas grenades and they make it inside.

Alex: Wow. All of that without using a seal. Huh.

Gamma: Huf... Puf... That... Was... Un... called... For... Just let me catch my breath... I wish Omega would've been here, he could just walk in, walk out with all of us plus some, then blow it up without a sheild....

''An explosion on the other end happens, and the team comes out. They are followed by a green-haired girl with flower katanas that are being thrown.''

Omega: I can't carry all of them @$#%heads!

Dont worry about that right now...wait, who's that? Alex said upon noticing the addition to the group.

Ameno Uzumi: I'm not supposed to let you get away! If you'd be so kind as to come back?

Omega: Hell no!

''Omega hands the rest of the group to Alex and Gamma. He then charges Ameno, hitting her spine and breaking her arms.''

Omega: She'll be crippled, but alive.

Gamma: Dude...

Alex: Pick her up. We can't leave her like that. It's not right. Better yet... *throws Epsilon to the ground; Walks over and gently lifts Ameno into his arms* Ill take her. You deal with the guns outside so we can leave.

Epsilon: That's... Jonas'... Girl.....

Alpha and Gamma help carry Mu and Epsilon while Omega fights.

Omega: We shouldn't help her.

Jonas: Actually. *rams into Alex making him drop Ameno and catches her* I got 'er.

Alex: Im getting-pretty fed up with you thick headed bully types. So unless you have a damn good reason for me to hand that girl over to the hairy hillbilly, you and I are gonna-

Jonas- Im Jonas the fuckin werepyre, and this darlin here is my girlfriend. So I suggest you all get outta here quick as possible young blood. 'Fore I put you all in cages...Wont be no'n gentle bout it neither.

Omega: I hate people in your line of work. I hate you. i hate that girl. SO GO FUCK YOURSELF!

Omega punches Jonas into little peices before calling the ship.

Alpha: Remind me not to piss him off...

Alex: Whatever. Let's get the heck out of here before I decide to break something...

The Neo Seeker
A portal appears in an entrance of a underground lab, a figure then walks out and looks around.

Drake: Hmm... Something fascinating, well this is gonna be a boring ass mission. *He opens the doors to the lab and he searches around*

A note is on the ground.

Drake: *Picks it up and starts to read it*

Jides' Notes: "The vessel is almost ready. I must require the samples of body tissue and blood from the patient in Test Chamber 1A and the power will surpass that of Weapon Draconis. Hopefully this boy has much potential as I am making it turn out to be. The time for true change starts now."

Drake: Daikeim... Shit. First the Ealonore clone now him, hehe... True change? The Admin was right, he's a mad man... *Drake puts the note in his pocket and continues walking throughout the lab*

Glass,broken boxes an numerous papers are all over the place and numerous creaking can be heard from the rusted walls too.

Drake: Well... The fuck happened here? There must be a reason why this place got abandoned in the first place... Must be pretty recent as well since this guy knows about Daikeim... *He goes around collecting anything of worth*

A folder with numerous notes anatomy schematics.

Drake: Mine. *He picks it up and opens it, closing it afterwards* ...Instant regret. *He puts the in the HSC and continues exploring the lab*

There is a DVD sticking out of some broken glass.

Drake: ...This isn't gonna be good... *He picks up the CD and finds a CD player, he puts it in and presses "play"*

Dr.Drekavas: For many years now...we had a dream of change....into a better being....this is why we have the theory of evolution and for years people believed it was true....but the evidence you see today are not the missing links to human evolution...but instead skeletal remains of common apes and ancient men who have died of sickness and/or bad weather...Man refuses to belive that....they still believe in change....I don't know what it may be...but I will find it...and once I do...the dream will be complete...and the last song this world will hear will be Unsung...

Drake: A mad man with a hopeless dream... *He takes the CD out and stores it* So... Where the hell is that "fascinating" object!?

There is a chamber door that says "Lab of Failures"

Drake: This'll be interesting... *He walks up to the door and opens it, he then walks through*

Shows tubes of water with misshapen figures of Zane and Daikeim in every single one of them.

Drake: Hoooooooooly shit... *Drake gets a camera out of his HSC and goes down the chamber, taking pictures along the way.* This is all kinds of disturbing, I'm gonna blow this place sky high before I go back...

At the end of the lab lies a broken chamber pod labeled "Project: Neo"

Drake: Well... That explains why this place is abandoned... *He takes one last picture before putting the camera away* Neo... That doesn't sound good... But regardless, I got what I came for. *He starts setting down explosives around the tubes as he walks out the chamber*

a rumbling can be felt from above

Drake: But first... *He finishes filling the lab with bombs and exits to see what's causing the rumbling*

''Above all of London a black and red light can be seen. The skies go dark and red lightning flashes. London is then being lifted from the ground and into the stormy sky.''

Drake: The fuck...? *He goes into his Aura dragon form and flies up to London*

All of London panics as the thunder gets louder.

Drake: Ugh... Humans are so easily scared, it's only a floating city... *He lands and looks up* Hmmm, guessing that the thing causing this is the Project...

''Debris is floating up into the air as lightning strikes the floating London. The winds whisper 'Change'.''

Drake: Change? Ok... Who the fuck are you? 'Cause I'm sure wind doesn't talk...

''The light takes form of an adult with black and red hair coming over his forehead with the eyes of that of Daikeim. He wears a black, high-collared, leather coat that has a red interior and red lining. The coat has an X-shaped strap across the top and has red techno-lining designs on the back. He also wears black pants with red geometrical patterns which glow. And finally is wearing button-strap combat gloves with red lining. He has his arms folded like a badass.''

Drake: So... Project: Neo. Looks threatening enough but... Why don't you prove it?

With just a mere thought sends Drake flying to the park

Drake: Oh your mother FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCKEEEERR! *He lands against a tree, when he gets up. He sees the OMEGA team, Jonas and a dying Ammo* Thank me later you two... *He opens his spell book and aims his hand at Ammo, a ritual ring appears underneath her. And in a matter of seconds, Ammo is bad to full health with no damage, he does the same with Jonas*

Omega: What sent you here? Big fying guy in the sky? HRRRRRRRRRAAAAHHH!!!!

Omega jumps up to punch Neo, but gets sent through the city of London, to the ground below...

Gamma: Shit... Can we just go and pretend this never happened? *Starts sheild up over the 3 wounded of his team.*

Omega: I ain't done!!!!

Omega Punches Neo before Jonas and Drake, breaking the shirt.

Project: Neo is unaffected and take Omega's arm and crushes it with one hand,then grabs his face and cracks His helmet and let him fall to the ground below.

Drake: Ugh... Moron. Jonas, with me. *He goes into his Half Dragon form* The rest of you metal faces, if you wanna join us in beating this bastard down, be my guest. Just don't get in my way, either that or make sure the dumb one doesn't die from that fall. *He looks at Jonas and points to Ammo* Two things, nice girl you got here and do you think she'll be able to help?

Jonas: It never stopped her before, no has it?

The figure lands on a tall stick debris coming from the ground and looks up into the hectic sky.

Ameno: I'll stick to healing. Be safe Joney! *Half hugs, then flies off to help Omega*

Gamma: I'm like, the only fighter... *Puts personal sheilds around all of them.* Sigh, you owe me pizza after this...

All three go in for an attack.

Omega: THEY FORGOT ME!!!!!!!!!!!

Omega jumps upward, landing on Project: Neo, then holding Project: Neo up as a punching bag for the others.

Drake: Heh... *He covers his hands in explosive energy and flies up to Project: Neo and punches him in the gut, sending Omega and Project: Neo to be pushed back* ...Hmph

The figure frees himself from Omega's grasp and grabs his face and punches him hard enough to penetrate his armor and incinerates him from the inside.

Omega: That... Tickled...

''Gamma heals Omega in full from his station, then Omega continues to hit the figure. He eventually hits the figure hard enough for a groan of pain.''

Omega: Suck it dirtbag *kicks figure to Jonas*

Jonas: Aw crap! I wasn't ready for that! * is smacked back Omega by the figure and both fall to the ground*

The figure looks at little blood coming from the corner of his mouth and wipes it of and rubs it against his fingers.

Drake: *Looks at Jonas, Omega and the figure and sighs* Right... *He looks at Project: Neo and smirks* Guess it's just you and me! *He flies at Project: Neo and kicks the side of his head, sending him flying. Drake then sprints and Project: Neo and slams both his fists downwards on him, crashing him down into the floor*

Omega: Alright, you called for it... HHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!

''Omega and the figure start a real fight, with multible punches and kicks, many hits and even more misses. They seem to be at a stale mate, so this leavs Jonas to help Drake.''

Jonas: *sees a bazooka* Awwww snap, yes! *gets the bazooka and aims carefully and fires at the figure and gets a direct hit* Bomm-shaka-laka!

The smoke clear and the figure is completely unaffected

Jonas: Aw crap.

The figure's eyes shine and and two quick flash beams of light shoot Jonas in the chest

Jonas:....Ow...*falls over*

Drake: *Sees the fight* Oh for god's sake... *He stomps Project: Neo's head into the ground and walks over and looks at the figure* Hey shitface, I appreciate the fact that you're not with us. Because that allows me to crack some more skulls. But I don't appreciate piercing my friend's chest with lasers, so I'm sorry. *He flies at the figure and punches him in the gut, he then grabs the figure's arms and throws him too the floor* So, what's your name? If you have one?

Gamma: Scary people with laser eyes have NAMES?! Every monster movie EVER is wrong! I mean seriously wrong!

''The figure shoots his Alpha Beam and it makes a direct shot into Drake's eyes. He grabs Drake's head and factures his skull with one hand. He then puts one finger on the center of his forehead and quick streaks of light piece Drake through his heart and blood spills from Drake's body. The figure drops Drake.''

"You ask who I am...I am Drekavas, The Neo Seeker..."

Drake: *Coughs up blood and gets up, only seeing through one eye* That's... Nice. Hehe... I'll tell you about me now... *Drake's aura darkens to a dark grey* My name is Drake Ryunexo of the Ryunexo mercenary group... Also known as the Soul of Revival. *He smirks, also showing a dragon-like fang while doing so* And I'll give you something... Drekavas, you already kicked my ass pretty easily... *Drake's aura enlarges, Drake then begins laughing* But, now this changes! *He growls* I'm gonna send you and your toy down to hell and back! *He roars, causing a shockwave that can be felt all across London*

Omega: Hey! This g-

Gamma: Just walk away... Just walk away from the scary monster people... *Gamma picks up Jonas and loads everyone on the ship, then they fly to outer space, leaving Gamma and Omega so Jonas can be healed.*

Omega: Ready Gamma?

Gamma: Let's go die. For the team!

Omega and Gamma: HOO-RAH! *Run and join the fight, Gamma holding Project: Neo back while Dragon-Drake and Omega try to kill Drekavas.*

Drekavas: *grabs Gamma's head and throws him at Omega and Drake and shoots him with his Alpha Beam*

Drake: *Steps in the way and deflects the beam with his hand* That your best!? *He flies at Drekavas and charges a dark energy ball and fires it directly at Drekavas' face. Drake then teleports behind him and grabs the back of his neck and repeatedly punches him in the spine and back, Drake then fires a blast into his back, sending his crashing into some buildings*

Omega catches Gamma, and the pull out popccorn.

Gamma: This is very interesting. *Puts sheild around Drake, so that Drake can hit OUT but Drekavas cant hit IN.

Drekavas: *reappears infront of Drake and puts his hands on the shield and it breaks like glass. The glass swirl around into razors and strike Drake's wings off* Do you know understand my purpose in all this? A change is arriving. Change cannot be stopped. It keeps repeating the process. A process that can't be broken.

Drake: Too bad you won't be there to see it... *Drake punches through Drekavas' chest and fires a beam into his face, Drake then pulls his hand out and smiles evilly. Drake then grabs Drekavas by hims and and dislocates them, then Drake laughs once more and creates a dome around Drekavas and slowly shrinks it. Crushing him in the process*

Gamma: S. C. A. R. Fucking Y. Scary... Remind me not to piss Drake off...

Omega: Will do...

Red lightning strikes the dome and Drekavas releases himself in the process.

Drekavas: *seems after the damage dealt by Drake, seems not to bother him* Interesting enough. You don't understand. I will be the one to bring forth that change. And that change will be Unsung. Man for ages believed in evolution, because they believed they changed into something better. I soon relized this to be false through thorough study of "proof". All of them proved to be hoaxes. But metamorphosis for instance was a true change. From one thing to the next. Man are afraid because their not strong enough, their too fragile and create mechanisms that can kill them easily. I wish to change that. To make it where they can be near unstoppable.*gestures at himself* Like me.

Drake: Getting... Real tired... Of your shit. So do me a favor... *Drake appears infront of Drekavas and uses his tail to strangle Drekavas, Drake then unsheathes his sword and slashes him* AND SHUT THE FUCK UP!

Gamma: Drevie [Drekavas] better be quiet...

Omega rips Drekavas' head off, slowly hearing him scream in pain and agony.

Omega: That satisfying enough? Just get him in an unbreakable cell at M.C.C.P or something...

Drekavas: *laughs and he regrows a new head and the Omega has explodes. Cuts Drake's tail off with his hand* You've gotta love Demonic Physiology. *puts his hand forward and a streak of light passes Drekavas' hand. Once he grabs the light, it turns into the Draconia blade, hybridized with Zane's blade*

Drake: My fucking tail and wings... *Drake aims his sword at Drekavas* You'll pay! *He gets in a stance and glares at Drekavas*

Drekavas: *Sighs* If you must.

''Drake roars and flies at intense speeds towards Drekavas, preparing his blade for the final strike. Just as Drake swings his sword at Drekavas, Drekavas charges his sword with Alpha Energy and slices across Drake's chest in an instant. Causing Drake to instantly fall to the ground in fatigue, making him unconscious.''

Drekavas: Too bad you don't live up to the warrior you think you are...

Omega: MY MOTHERFUCKING HAND! YOU BLEW OFF MY H-

*WOOSH* The Ship comes, dropping off Alpha and Jonas.

Alpha: I got the parts to help Omega!

Alpha rushes at full speed, stopping the blood loss and putting together a hand made of metal.

Alpha: It should carry the same streangh as your real hand, and it can withstand air, water, and fire. It also has a personal up-down sheild. You should be in fighting shape!

Omega: ... ... .... ARG THIS FUCKING HURTS! Fine, lets go.

Alpha picks up Drake and they escape on the ship...

Drekavas: *watches them leave* The world must be destroyed, and from the ashes it will arise anew. For this is the true meaning of change. *disappears and London slowly returns back to Earth*

The Offer
Alex trained inside of a London Dojo, attempting to increase his strength and test his already enhanced limits.

A figure wearing a dark one-strap hooded robe is standing behind Alex

Alex: How long do you want to stand there without saying something?

Figure: Hard to believe you still train after all that has transpired here recently.

Alex: The stronger I get, the less I have to fight. And they say the meek shall inherit the earth? Please. I don't care about ambiance, as long as I can get better. Now what do you want?

Figure: I'm here to lend you an offer. To help you hone your skills and help purge the world of life, death, Hell, pain, and responsibility.

Alex: *begins a handstand*I don't care about most of those things to begin with. But go on...

Figure: Do wonder why there is still violence today?

Alex- Because the strong assert their power on the weak. You don't need to be a genius to know that.

Figure: Of course. You see? You share our ideals. Now, if you join us, we can exact revenge on the very being we feared and killed us. God himself. And we will take his place on the throne.

Alex: And who is the "us" you're referring to?

Figure: There are more of 'us', more of 'you' *points at Alex*

Alex: You mean Nephalem?*stops his exercise* Where?

Someone taps Alex from behind

Alex sweeps his arm back at the intruder, only to hit air.

Another figure is behind him only slightly taller

Alex turns completely around. He sees multiple individuals standing before him.

Alex: *turns to figure* If I were to accept, what would you have me do?

Figure: We are searching for a way to obtain perfect unity of all oppositions, but we are being pursued by our parents. The angels and demons of God and Satan. We must hold them off until we have made our preparations complete. *puts his hand out seeking him to join them*

Alex: At least it sounds like you've got a plan.*smirks* And you just might have some answers to the questions I've wondered about.*walks over and takes the figure's hand* Okay. Let's see what you've got.

Figure: Enthusiasm. Let's see how well you can apply that to your new job.

The figure behind Alex gives him a hooded robe

Figure: This will hide you from your enemies, but in the event they spot you, don't hesitate to send them to a place beyond both Heaven and Hell.

*Alex takes the cloak, draping it around himself.* I don't think I'll have a problem with that. *Pulls up his hood, obscuring his face from sight.* How do I look?

Figure: Death to your enemies and a face to be remembered by all once we reveal our triumph.

Alex: A bit too poetic for my taste, but alright. What's next?

Figure: Now, you come with us. *dark portal opens and everyone walks into it*

The DEATH Of A.H.
''A.H. is sipping Coffe at his home in South Mars. He then hears a nock at the door and a package left. "Kill Prodigy" and an adress are on it.''

A.H. crashes through prodigy's strip club in London.

Prodigy: *feels the crash* There is too much going on here today. *walks outside*

A.H: [Brother: You will die. It's just a warning. Repent now!] *Goes in for punch after punch*

BANG!

Ameno Uzumi: Yea, he hired me, I don't think he'll die today! Sorry!

A.H: [ARG! Are you an idiot?!] *Shoots shot gun into her abdomon, leg, and scrapes her head and chest.*

Elsewhere:

Alpha: where do we drop you guys off? *Looks at Ameno's seat* Great, we're missing one guys.

Drake: *Gets up and looks at the hatch in the floor, he forcefully opens it up and jumps down it. Slowly falling down to the floor, the second he lands. A crater is formed with Drake in the middle* Ugh... *His hand goes over his busted eye* This still stings... Anyways. *He looks around him and walks* Going where ever this takes me...

Back at the club:

Back at the club:

Prodigy: *dodges and blocks every punch A.H. throws at him* Are you serious? I am trying to tart an honest buiseness here an you do this? Have you lost your mind?

A.H: [You have killed millions. Time for you to feel real pain.] *punches Produgy's nose in*

Omega: Dude! Calm down! *Holds A.H back.*

Jonas notices Ammo on the floor as A.H struggles to get free.

Jonas: *limps over to Ammo* It's alright...It's a good thing I got this *pulls out his teleporter and picks up Amma and walks over to Drake*...Looks like were gonna be gettin' a day off...*smirks and teleports all 3 of them back to the M.C.C.P*

Prodigy: *wipes his nose* Ever heard the term, "Forgive and Forget"? *punches A.H. and twist it upon hit him*

A.H: [You killed my city's my friends. You will die he-]

In slo-mo: Omega rips A.H's head off, Prodigy: He was mine!, Omega throws the helmet to Epsilon...

Epsilon: .... No ... No no NNNNOOOO!!!!!!!! That was our BROTHER! OUR BROTHER!

Mu: Why did you do that?! WHY?!

Alpha: Art... Art's dead... ART!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Gamma: Dude.... Dude that's like... Brutal man....

Omega: He... No... What... SHIT! NO! ART!!!!!

Prodigy: Good ridance. *goes back inside the strip club*

Omega: What did I just do.... Why...

Alpha: Mu, Epsilon, Gamma - on the ship. Omega isn't one of us...

Omega falls to his knees, with A.H's helmet in his hands...

Gamma: If he isn't one of us, I ain't one of us either. If that makes sense?

Alpha: Last chance. In, or out.

Gamma: *walks over to Omega* Out. Go fuck yourself Alpha.

Mu, Epsilon, and Alpha get on the ship.

Omega: Gamma, you should've gone with them... You just gave up your life...

Gamma: Dude, who was with me my first painful year at H.O.L.E? Was it even ONE of them? No. It was you. You stuck with me, I'm sticking with you. We're brothers, remember?

Omega: *Stands up* Yea... Heh, brothers man.

The pair head out for donuts, being careful to take A.H's body to a mourge.

Sic est Natura
''Daikeim appears in a field with massive mountain ranges behind him, he takes a minute to gaze at the scenery. He then focuses on what's infront of him.''

Daikeim: Ok doctor... Where are you.

''A whisper can be heard in the wind.'Change'.Dark clouds come from from behind Daikeim and the sky turns hectic as red lighting flahses rapidly. One strike of lightning hits the ground several feet away from Daikeim and a shadow can be seen behind the dust. The dust clears and shows a man with black and red hair coming over his forehead with the eyes of that of Daikeim. He wears a black, high-collared, leather coat that has a red interior and red lining. The coat has an X-shaped strap across the top and has red techno-lining designs on the back. He also wears black pants with red geometrical patterns which glow. And finally is wearing button-strap combat gloves with red lining.''

Daikeim: I'll give you one warning, stay away from her... *Daikeim goes into his Half Dragon form and glares at Drekavas*

Drekavas: Fine by me. But it's more like you I am interested in. You desire a better world. A world of peace. A world without war or hatred or monstrous deeds. You want a world without no pain, just unity and equality for all.

Daikeim: Even if I do, it'll never happen. You don't understand, but a world without pain, war, hated and more is impossible, the world will never accomplish this through any means. Humans and Mythos are at war with eachother because of hatred, there needs to be a balance to good and evil. One good event will always have it's counterpart. Figuratively speaking, you can try to snuff out the flame by taking away all the negativity in this world, but there will always be someone or something to relight that candle. And you want change... That I can understand, but decide right now. I'm trying to make a change that makes Mythos and humans equal, is your idea of change the same?

Drekavas: Yes, it is. We share the same mind you know. That's why Unsung exist. To bring forth a Neo Age. An age where we can change this wretched cycle, by changing their inner most being.

Daikeim: Changing their inner most being... By what? Operating on them? Thanks to your "change", the woman I love can barely see, think, she's a nervous wreck, tearing up almost all of the time. You have no idea what's it like to see that... Ironically, it's causing me pain aswell. And yes, I do regret taking her to London... For the most part. Also, no matter how much you put people through, you're not gonna change who they are. Their soul will remain the same as it was before, this goes for Elaonore aswell... *Daikeim smirks* I know there's gonna be a war between the Mythos and humans, and we won't be able to stop that. Let me tell you something, when this war happens... As of now, I won't know who will win. *Daikeim loses this smirk and speaks in a more determined voice* But tell me, doctor. What would the Mythos gain if they won, what would the humans gain if they won? ...My opinion is that it doesn't matter who wins, because both sides will lose.

Drekavas: That's why I want to keep that from happening. You see, when you have 2 separate species, they tend to...get to each others neck. But what if...they were the same species?

Daikeim: *Summons the Draconia* But that won't happen... Mythos don't want to be human and humans don't want to be Mythos, it'll just cause too many problems...

Drekavas: you've seen the Mythos. They are far different from humans. If humans become Mythos then they too will be like them and their would be no war and no pain. I am already making a specialized pathogen made out of Mytho DNA and genes. Once humans receive this pathogen, they will be like the Mythos and will seek the aid of other Mythos to help them cope with their new selves. The humans will then see the error of their ways and the Earth can be without violence once more.

Daikeim: *Chuckles* You're foolish, doctor... We may have the same mind, but we think differently. Your views on peace is chaotic and impossible, you would just create another war... *He aims the Draconia at Drekavas* But I didn't come for a conversation... One more thing, your name... What is it.

Drekavas: I am Drekavas, The Neo Seeker. And maybe your right. I'm only in this for the change of man, not equality. Those were my past views. Now I am only content with making man a stronger species. Through the Mythos, man kind will be a stronger race. Stronger than any other and we can accomplish much more.

Daikeim: The Neo Seeker, hmph. May the best species win... *He charges the Draconia with energy*

Drekavas: *stetches forth his hand out and a streak of red light comes across it. He grabs the streak of light and it turns into a combination of Draconia and Dragon Shadow* Draconia Shadow. *is ready for Daikeim*

''Daikeim sprints at Drekavas and slashes the blade upwards across his chest, Daikeim then sweepkicks Drekavas and grabs his legs and throws him away. Daikeim gets into a stance. ''

Drekavas: *appears right infront of Daikeim with his blade and stabs him the chest with it and throws him into the ground. He then summons red lightning to strike Daikeim*

''Daikeim points the Draconia towards the lightning, absorbing it. Daikeim then recovers and starts swinging slashes the sword at Drekavas, causing a blue lightning to blast out of it and strike Drekavas multiple times.''

Drekavas: *deflects the blasts with his sword. He rushes right at Daikeim and some how ends up behind him. A streak of light slahses Daikeim's abdominal area and a gush of blood comes out*

''Daikeim spins around and slashes the sword across Drekavas' chest, giving him a similar cut. Daikeim then jumps back and spits out some blood.''

Drekavas: Quite amusing.*his cut instantly heals* But I know you can do better. *everything turns to pitch-black darkness*

Daikeim: Hmph... *Daikeim's cut heals* What trick is up that sleeve of yours...

A red streak of light cuts through Daikeim's heart.

Daikeim: *Coughs up blood* Ok... *His eyes glow gold, they gain a golden trail and Darikeim gets a golden aura* No more playing around... *The wounds heal up*

More and more streaks of red light strikes through Daikeim's heart

''The wounds heal after they strike, he swipes his hand down and the darkness fades away. Allowing Daikeim to get a clear look at Drekavas, he walks towards him and aims his sword at Drekavas. Causing him to get pulled into the Draconia and impale himself, Daikeim kicks Drekavas off of the sword. ''

Drekavas: *stands up and his wound heals* Now this is where I'm getting at. See what you did there. You changed. Why? Because you want to end me. Your trying to survive and win. That is the same thing I am going to bring to humanity.

''Daikeim creates multiple phantom copies of the Draconia, he aims them at Drekavas. The swords all impale him then dissipate, Daikeim then appears behind Drekavas and hits him across the head with the Draconia's hilt and charges a blast and fires it onto Drekavas' back, sending him flying across the land.''

Drekavas: *appears infront of Daikeim and everything turns pitch-black dark again. 2 red streaks of lighing strike Daikeim's heart and huge red explosion ensues. After the explosion is over and all is but dust, Drekavas is holding an unconscious Daikeim* You will see it my way soon enough.*puts Daikeim down and disappears*

''Hours later, Daikeim awakens and stands up. Still a bit shaky from the battle, as he adjusts his clothes, he notices the multiple wounds on his body and makes a sigh of annoyance. He clenches his fists and slams them both into the ground, causing a small crater around them.''

Daikeim: Damn that bastard... *Daikeim grabs his sword and coughs up blood, after wiping the blood away from his mouth. Daikeim tries to go into his Half Dragon form, but instantly feels pain and collapses to his knees* The hell... *He tries to go into his Half Dragon form again but goes into more pain, after a while. Daikeim gets up and starts walking*

The dark figure appears behind Daikeim

Voice: Come. Your lover needs you. *puts out his hand*

Daikeim grabs hold of his wrist.

Daikeim: I'm guessing she's not ok...

Voice: More than you think. *both disappears*

Noli Draconis
''Drake appears in a town, he takes a minute to glance around before entering one of the bars located there. He walks up to the counter and takes a set, he asks the bartender for any drink, moments later to receive a simple beer. He takes a second to sip before quietly laughing and then speaking loudly.''

Drake: So... What's all of your opinions on a Mytho?

The bartender scoffs.

Bartender: Worthless and pathetic, waste of space if you ask me... And everyone here.

Drake: Then tell me, you believe in aliens?

Bartender: Non-existent, can't be real...

Drake: *Smirks* You're not very opened minded, aren't you?

Bartender: *Speaks in a more hostile voice* If you want a drink here, you'll shut up. Or do you want one of these men to break your back and kick you out?

Drake takes a second to look around the room, he then laughs again.

Drake: Here's an idea, why don't you make me? You're a bartender, you should have a gun on you, right? If not, you're as worthless as the Mytho you insult.

Bartender: Ok, that's it! *He grabs a Winchester rifle from under the counter and aims directly at Drake* Get out! You're banned for life!

Drake: What's with the sudden hostility? I only asked for your opinion, and here's my opinion; you're a dumbass with a pathetic life.

''The bartender fires at Drake, catching everyone's attention. The place stays quiet before they can hear laughing coming from Drake, who has caught the bullet between his teeth. He bites down and crushes it.''

Drake: Nice try... *He takes out his Shadow Pistol and loads an Ember bullet* Y'know what one of these are? They're called an Ember bullet, think of it like phosphorous... But, the second it touches you, the bullet explodes and releases a fire hotter than the surface of the sun... This pretty much turns you to blood stained ash in under ten seconds. *He aims it at the bartender, who is motionless due to fear*

Bartender: W-What are you!?

Drake: *Has a evil grin on his face* You may call me... Red Cinere. *He fires, he watches as the bartender screams in pain and is reduced to ash. He takes a sip of his beer, stands up and looks at everyone else* So, as anyone would say... *He aims his Shadow Pistol at everyone and fires* Leave no witnesses.

''A minute later, Drake exits the bar, wiping off any ash that was on him. He then continues walking to a different town.''

Drake: That was fun, but I hope the next bar will have better company...

Omega falls from the sky onto Drake, pushing his head into the path.

Omega: Sorry to ruin the party. Thought you were selfish not inviting me.

Drake throws Omega off of him and gets up, he looks at Omega and sighs.

Drake: Great, one of the metal faces arrived... What do you want? I'm too busy entertaining myself. *He puts his hands into his pockets*

Omega: *Grabs Drake's hair and points his head to the bar* That, That was my FAVORITE bar. *Pushes Drake to his knees. Then breaks his nose*

Drake: ...It's still there, just that no one is alive. *Drake gets up and places his hand over his nose and heals it, he then smirks* If you're looking for a fight tin man... *Drake then has a evil smile and cracks his knuckles* Then bring it.

Omega: The Bartender had a wife - *Punches Drakes head, giving a severe concussion* - Two kids - *Breaks Drake's spine* - A dog - *Breaks Drake's arm* - 9 mortgages on the Bar and his house - *Kicksnaps all of Drake's tendons, paralyzing him* - and his parents died by the hand of a dragon at age 12. *Kicks Drake's stomach, making him vomit blood*

Drake fades away in black fire and reappears fully healed in the air charging a massive fireball.

Drake: Hmm, that was interesting... But that ain't gonna kill me that easily...

'' Drake throws the fireball at Omega, causing him to get engulfed in black fire. When the smoke clears, Omega is sent flying into some more buildings, Drake then laughs once again and walks up to Omega and grabs his arm and tightens his grip, crushing his arm and armour. Drake then throws Omega aside and charges another fireball and blasts it directly into Omega's helmet, causing the visor to melt off. ''

Drake: You're impressive for a golem... *He places his foot on Omega's chest and presses down, keeping him in place. Drake then creates multiple energy blades and sticks them into Omega's feet and hands* But, your survival depends on if this fight can entertain me. You manage to keep up, you live. Fuck up? And you ain't gonna live the same way ever again...

Omega: Sounds fair. Just one thing - Wrong. Arm. *He rips from Drakes grasp, and takes his helmet off, exposing the metalic flesh substance. (Looks like a shiny human, like he is wet or something)* Suck it. *Punches Drake's skull in.*

Drake: *Has a evil smile and tribal markings appear on Drake's face, bones can be heard repairing themselves* Next time, learn what a Cyanican can do... *Drake goes into his Aura Dragon form, but it is now black. Drake wraps his tail around Omega's neck and tightens his grip, causing Omega to suffocate to near death. Drake's tail throws Omega into another building, this time causing it to collapse onto Omega* Come on... I'm getting bored... Where's the rest of your little group of friends? They probably have a better chance at hurting me...

Omega: *Pucks up building, throws it at Drake. Hides behind it running just as fast, and when Drake easily deflects it, Omega breaks his skull* I. Hate. Regeneration.

Drake: *His skull repairs itself* That's too bad, also. You're boring me... *Drake slams his fist into Omega's stomach, causing him to vomit into his helmet. Drake then flipkicks Omega away, Drake charges another black fireball and throws it at Omega. The moment the fireball burns out, Drake is infront of Omega and has another evil smile.* So, you got yourself one cybernetic hand... How about a whole forearm? *Drake summons a sword and kicks Omega to the floor and slices Omega's forearm off* I win... *Drake then walks away*

Omega: Am I dead? You coward. You unhonorable COWARD! *Picks up arm and slaps Drake with it* You DO NOT FIGHT! You USE the abilities you DID NOT EARN to fight those who DID! *Punches Drake's heart, pulling it out* YOU MAKE ME SICK! *Breaks Drake's skull*

''Drake fades away in black fire and reappears fully healed. ''

Drake: I'm unhonorable? You're the one fighting in a suit... *He exits his Aura Dragon mode and gets in a Cyanic fighting stance* Regardless, you've sealed your fate... *Drake charges at Omega and sweepkicks him into the air, Drake then jumps above him and slams his heel down on Omega's chest, denting his armor and breaking a couple of ribs* I did not say I would kill you, I said you won't live the same way again... And in the state you're in, I can see that happening.

''Drake grabs hold of Omega by the head and slam him down into the floor, Drake then keeps Omega's leg still and slams his forearm down. Breaking Omega's knee. Drake gets up and presses his foot down on Omega's chest and slowly crushes his chest. Drake notices a communicator on Omega's armour, he picks it up and gets it to work.''

Drake: If I were you, I'd follow this signal and help your friend out, he's in a shitty state. *He looks at Omega and smirks* I ain't heartless, but ruthless. *He drops the communicator and goes into his Aura Dragon and flies to a different town*

''A day passes, and Drake is seen exiting a town that has been set ablaze. Drake looks back and laughs, he then turns his head back and focuses on the forest ahead of him. ''

Drake: Well... That was fun, but now I'm bored... *Enteres the forest and begins playing around with a black fireball* Hmm, maybe I'll find tinman's little group and end their lives... Or just break 'em... Soo many options...

A figure suddenly appears not far from Drake, and appeared to look at Drake, the figure comes closer and says "Hello there, My name is the Mirage of Void, You entered my line of vision, therefor I now have to have a conversation with you for some reason."

Drake: ...*The fireball dissolves* ...Sure. *He continues walking*

Mirage: Honestly you look like a black silhouette, Also, There's some people behind a strange wall talking about you. *Mirage said as he followed*

Drake: Coming from someone who looks like a phantom, also, what strange wall?

Mirage: The 4th wall, Also, One of them said something about marriage, You with... Angeli, Or something, I don't keep track of everything.

Drake: ...You're already annoying me, what do you want? And make it quick, I need to go get the blood off of my clothes...

Mirage: I can clearly tell that you're not annoyed, in a rush or stressed, therefor i will just delay the discussion as long as possible. *Mirage says in a sarcastic tone.*

Drake: Oh yay... *Drake creates a fireball and bounces it between his hands*

Mirage: Just pointing out, One of your friends just died. *Mirage seemed to be quite aware of things he shouldn't be aware of, He suddenly claps his hands together and mutters something in an unknown language* Rekh mih brel trok whu kerr. *Mirage suddenly flashes purple as another version of him, a temporary clone, appears for a split second and then disappears elsewhere*

Drake: ...Died? Who the hell cou-- ...Oh shit.

Mirage: Somebody named Elaonore.

Drake: Oh, nevermind then... *Throws the fireball at a tree and continues walking, he gets his spellbook and starts reading spells from it* Hmm, this'll be fun to use. The next town is gonna get reduced to ruins after this..

Mirage seemed to ignore him and began to mutter something suspicious.

Drake: *Turns to look at Mirage* The hell are you doing...

"Oh, Nothing at all, Just Machanerz Critah." Mirage said as he pointed at drake and surrounded drake in a bunch of runes and smoke, This was a mind control spell.

Drake: ...Using spells against a spellcaster? Hmph... *Tribal markings appear all over Drake, he smirks as he swipes his hand through the air. Causing the runes and smoke to dissipate, he then aims his hand towards Mirage* Well then, lets see who's the better spellcaster! Kaosuboru! *A black sphere grows in Drake's open palm, it charges with dark energy. Drake then fires it at Mirage*

Mirage: Oh whatever shall i do? I'm being attacked by a spellcaster murderer retard. *Mirage snaps his finger and counterspells it, As it dissipates into nothing, He then continues with throwing a simple silence to remove Drake's magic abilities for a few seconds and then mirage proceeds to fire three orbs of energy that surround Drake.*

Drake: Heh... Y'know, if you really want someone who matches your 'skill'. I know a group of people who'd be more than happy to play with you. *Fades away in fire and appears behind Mirage and slams a white orb into his back, blasting him away* Though I'll admit, your spells will be fun to learn...

Mirage suddenly turns around, And creates a really quick barrier that would sort of bounce Drake back as he appeared all the sudden, Mirage then proceeded with "I'd like you to try, Since it would take a few centuries for you to even understand the language."

Drake: *He smirks once again* Give me a few years and I'll be able to casts your spells. But I must say, you better have a different form of attacking. Because silencing me isn't gonna do much, let's go! *Drake goes into his Aura Dragon form and allows his Aura to form off, acting like a clone of Drake. They charge at Mirage and grab him and slams him into the floor, Drake and his Aura clone jump back and sees what happens next*

Mirage had created a clone from before that would appear whenever necessary, It appears in mid-charge, Grabs Drake's head, augments his strength to be able to counter his speed ten fold and proceeds to smash Drake's head into the ground, Mirage himself suddenly disappears and the clone of Drake suddenly appeared in another state of time and was also smashed into the ground, although faster.

Drake: ...Well, that was something. Regardless, this is boring me. And I'mma fuck off, see you later phantom. *He smirks and fades away in fire*

A New War
Ameno and Jonas stare up into the sky, the unusual sight of the aurora borealis filling the sky both amazing and somewhat disturbing.

Jonas: Hm. Well dat ain't right.

An M.C.C.P. soldier runs up to them. "We just got news from command, apparently these lights are being caused by some sort of massive energy increase related to portals, which are causing an unknown army of what appear to be.... ninjas and elementals to appear, the majority of our forces are out matched and outnumbered, even with reinforcements!"

Jonas: Shoot, man. Then let the Myths handle this. I gotta do somethin' about Ameno. Tell Admin to release one of his other Weapons he has in his basement. I'm unavailable.

Suddenly a massive portal opens right next to them, and hundreds of black and red enemy troops erupt forth, each of them with a red bird emblem on their chest-plates. Their front line forces charge with energy shields, and they lock sight with Jonas, Ameno, and the soldier.

"C-crap! I don't wanna die!" The soldier yells as the army begins to form a large circle around the three, their rear side also erecting shields from their arms to avoid being flanked. After more than at least 500 hundred of these troops arrive, a single man with dark irises and white pupils emerges, wielding a strange sword.

"Well well well... if it isn't Jonas McVienel... I hear you're quite the big shot in M.C.C.P..." He chuckles. "A werepyre... thought I'd only see those in a bad fan fiction of Twilight."

Jonas: Man, everyone's a sucker for Twilight. But you don know that things gonna happen with Jacob and Bella's child. A bit pedophilic if you ask me.

The man chuckles. "Oh I know alright... say wolfly, you wouldn't happen to have seen a young man wearing a mask and eyes like mine now would ya?"

Jonas: Nah, don't believe I have.

The man covers his face with his hand. "How unfortunate. I was hoping he would accept our invitation. ...It seems the Dark Phoenix really is a traitor."

He looks up and sees Ameno. "Say now... who's this pretty little girl anyhow?" Jonas can tell from just looking in this man's eyes that while this man seems at ease and more or less carefree at the moment, his eyes hold a dangerous energy to them. The potential for him to become a threat seems high.

Jonas: This has a 'No touchin' policy'. If you are smart and not big asshole, you should respect the policy.

As if there was an unspoken signal, the troops surrounding them begin to move out, leaving the four standing there.

The man smiles, not reassuring Jonas. "Oh trust me little wolf. I don't care about touchin' nothing." He pauses, sniffing the air suddenly. "What is that scent I smell... seems... ''familiar..." ''

Jonas: Is it the guy yer lookin' fer?

The man looks back toward them. "No."

Before he can even blink, the man suddenly has Ameno unconscious in his grasp, standing before him as though he hadn't moved. "I just found an unbounded elemental!" He cackles.

He blocks Jonas's first attack with ease, his sword able to withstand Jonas's strength.

"Aww calm down there wolfy... it's only a measly Earth Elemental. They're not worth anyone's time..." He chuckles. Some of his men return, and erect a red barrier infront of Jonas, blocking him off from the man.

He sets Ameno down carefully, and looks at his men. "Prepare to summon the beast." They, nod, and begin some kind of spell.

Jonas angerly punches the barrier, but it refuses to give.

Jonas: Fine...just give me a moment. *takes off his coat. His vision becomes sharply impared. His arms grow longer and he starts growing hair and his face changes ito that of a wolf. He gets taller, finally after the transformation is complete, he roars. In a few moments he braks the barrier in a single strike and in a even more few moments decapitates all of the soldiers and is know face to face with the man* Warned you about the policy.

The man, unimpressed, suddenly stabs Ameno in the chest, and her body solidifies and turns to stone, then slowly crumbles into the sword, it beginning to take a green glow as it absorbs her. When finished, he brandishes the sword at Jonas.

"Look how beautiful her soul's glow is... would you like to see her power?" He suddenly creates a massive wall of earth and slams it into Jonas, sending him crashing into a wall, and he covers himself in an armor of metal and earth.

"Now what's the fuss? She was only an elemental... yet you're losing your head. But don't worry. She's alive."

"...But if you kill me, you will doom her soul to being trapped within the sword for eternity."

Jonas: *is angry, but reverts back* Fine...take her.

The man cackles. "Here's a little compensation prize!" He claps his hands together, and a massive mound of earth rises up behind him, slowly becoming the rough shape of a dragon's skeleton. Within it, something like molten lava begins to form, and the shape begins to turn metallic. The metal dragon skeleton's skull eyes begin to glow with a dark red light, and as it completely fills with lava, it let's out a monsterous roar.

"Say hello to my friend Hitomara... I'm sure you'll get quite acquainted with each other... with you in his stomach."

The man rushes off, and the dragon he called Hitomara suddenly rips apart the two buildings next to it by extending its wings, and it charges Jonas, maws opened to devour him.

Jonas: *simply steps back and the dragons mouth hits the ground instead* Missed.

The dragon's eyes flare, and suddenly Jonas is blown far back by a massive blast of hot air, one which nearly burns his skin, and everything in the blast radius has erupted into flames in seconds. The dragon lifts its head up and swallows the earth, and then spits it back out as a sphere of pure refined molten earth and minerals at him.

Jonas: *dodges them with ease without even moving his feet* Missed again.*his skin begins healing but not fast*

The dragon leaps over to him in a quick flurry of movement, and as it comes near him, he feels his whole body and everything else where it lands ignite from the intensity of its heat. It then breathes a stream of fire at Jonas's face.

Jonas: *takes step out the way and the steam blows past his face* Man, you are not a good mover, are ya?

''A jet flies over head and releases a metal capsule with glider wings. The capsule unscrews itself and a figure falls out of it. The figure takes flight and stops right above Hitomara.''

Jonas: *looks at the figure* What da?

The dragon suddenly dives into the earth, as it does so what could only can be described as a volcanic eruption blasts both Jonas and the figure away with an explosion of lava, gas, earth, and fire. The explosion continues for a good five minutes, and the radius continues to grow until it has decimated an entire city block. When it finally stops, there is a large mound with a huge pool of lava writhing to the surface.

Jonas: Rrrrggh! There is too much shit going on to begin with! *is coughing due to the gas in the air*

The figure waits above for Hitomara.

Suddenly the whole of the area surges, a violent movement that begins to cause earthquakes, tearing down multiple buildings around him, and large cracks rip across the ground, as a swelling in the ground begins to take a shape Jonas had only read about in books, and seen on television. A volcano.

The cone suddenly lets out a violent explosion that deafens him and begins to rain lava and ash on the area, the eruption bombarding the city's buildings with huge chunks of rock.

Jonas: Well guess wht? It keeps getting worse! *jumps back while dodging a few rocks. Gets to higher ground and looks at all the lava*

The volcano quiets, only to be ripped apart by yet another explosion, only from its side instead. A huge ravaging ball of fire, gas, ash, and magma rips out, and Hitomara flies out, even bigger than before, the blast slamming into the city and decimating several city blocks in mere moments, and blowing huge clouds of ash and gas into the rest. Hitomara himself slams into Jonas full force his unbelievably hot body once again burning Jonas, and sends him flying towards a skyscraper.

Jonas: *is laying on his back inside the building, burning* It's a good thing i took my coat off...

''the figure has a shin in a shape of a Pentagram, that shoots 5 sparks at Hitomara. The Pentagram symbol can be seen on Hitomara as waves of heat are fllowing into the figure. The lava starts to disappear the same with Hitomara.''

Jonas suddenly sees the light of Hitomara's eyes dim, and then its body suddenly violently explodes, sending metal shrapnel into the figure and Jonas's entire body, and raining even more lava and metal into the city.

Jonas: *is in pain* AAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRGGGHHHHH!!!

''The figure is hit too, but just simply removes it from his body. Boost at Mach 5 speed and grabs Jonas and flies off while avoiding molten metal rain.''

The man watches the figure leave. "So they have Jumbo as well huh...?" He holds a red crystal in his hand, a small metal band with a red light glows like fire in it. A small growl of anger ripples from the crystal.

"Ah shut up you scaly beast." He looks about at all of the destruction and smiles. "Ya didn't wipe it completely out, that's unfortunate. But..." He has a dark smile on his face now. "I still have this beautiful new sword..." He holds the sword up to the sky, admiring its soft green glow.

"Now now little lady... if you behave, I might let you take physical form for a while."

He sighs.

"Ah well. Tomorrow's a whole new day to destroy another city." He disappears into a portal, along with the various Phoenix troops, who leave to rest for the night. Some time later, Another portal appears, this one a large gate that appears out of thin air. It opens, and Kalin runs out, wearing a white steel bracer on his left arm.

Kalin looks around, seeing the destruction left behind, and sighs.

"Dammit! Too late!" He says before absorbing the remnants of fire and lava he sees, before coughing in disgust. "What IS that? It smells like cigars, and... Burnt dog fur. Puppy, not you too..." Kalin opens another portal and runs into it, leaving the area quiet once again.

''A pair of figures walks into the destruction zone. One helping the other sit down.''

Gamma: Damnit Omega... Why do you always kill the guy who breaks a bar?

Omega: He... Wanted a sandwich... Decided to recomend the knuckle...

Gamma: And, of all things, you get hurt when a whole fucking war is going on killing our kind!

Omega: Oh common. That's always happening...

Gamma feels a odd sensation, as though someone is watching them. He looks between two buildings and sees what looks like a void in the light, vaguely human shaped.

Gamma: You got Hotdogs?! I like hotdogs!!

Omega: *looks at his empty wrists in sadness and shame* Got a Dora Band-Aid?! I need a Band-Aid!!! Or a hand!!! That would work!!!!

2nd Day
M.C.C.P are waiting around the world for the portals to re-open

Soldier: *peaks into his walkie-talkie* Everything seems to be good here. We've set around basic perimeters and defenses around a few of the world's largest cities, out of the debris from smaller buildings. We also have hiding holes, to keep from enemy sight. The debris from yesterday will help us with stealth, with there being alot of junk and all. We're all set and ready.

The Administrator: Good. Prepare too shoot on sight.

Soldier: Yes sir.

Suddenly, a single red crystal appears out of a small portal in front of the soldier and the M.C.C.P. In three other cities, similar crystals are seen. From the red one, the Soldier swears he can hear a heartbeat. And around the crystal seems to be a metal band with a red light, similar in appearance to a mind control unit the M.C.C.P uses.

Soldier: I don't remember us subjecting a crystal for mind control. I can also hear a sound....like beating... Everyone step back.

Everyone stands behind their debris defenses and wait to see what happens

A sudden roar rips through the air as a wave of energy blasts forth from the red crystal, and suddenly it rises into the air, as it does, glass, metal, concrete, stone, dirt, all begin to fly toward the crystal at a violent rate, and some of the skyscrapers nearby begin to rumble ominously as their structural integrity begins to fail.

The other crystals begin to activate as well, one causing a massive flood out of nowhere, another creating a thunderstorm, and yet another begins drowning them out in darkness.

Soldier: Aw crap! We forgot to shoot on site. Well, we done screwed up. Everyone stand by. Get ready, it's almost about time.

''The soldiers hide out under the debris and under that debris are tunnels filled with people who lived in cities and suburban areas, all of them huddled together and panicking. Some want food, others are sick due to climate change, other have already died of it and are being used as part of defenses.''

The cloud of material around the red crystal suddenly condenses and turns red, and takes the form of a dragon skeleton, which begins to turn pure metal, and the soldier realizes that this is the same dragon that caused a volcanic eruption that they defeated... only apparently they didn't. 

Soldier: Holy...crap. *speaks in his walkie-talkie to Aero Force* Concentrate all available firepower on that thing.

Pilot: Target locked and engaged.

2 tint planes with 'Aero' written on the side in blue text fly from around the dragon and fire their missles and energy-based firepower at it.

The dragon causes the ground to split open, rupturing open the tunnels below. It then launches the red crystal straight into a skyscraper, and they can see it tear through several more before it disappears into a neighborhood on the other side of the business section. The missiles hit the now inanimate dragon, but some miss and enter the crack below, detonating within the tunnels themselves.

''Explosions fill the tunnels and everyone in there dies and turn to ash. Screams can be hard mixed with the crackling of fire. One soldier makes it out severely burnt.''

Soldier: AAAAAAArrrrggghhhh! AAAAArr! UUAAARGGH! Send back now!

Pilot: Sorry. All personel around the world are occupied with the similar problem. There is not much help from The M.C.C.P due to recent attacks. And all the hybrids have escaped. There is nothing we can do.

Soldier: *is breathing hard until he finally passes out*

Five sparks hit Hitomara and and heat waves start flowing into a familiar figure.

In another city, a different crystal finishes gathering its energy, and the wind and lightning condenses into a massive wolf, which howls in rage and scatters the assembled forces with ease, knocking out the power as it chases after them, its howls sending gusts of wind tearing at houses and buildings.

On the side on a collapsing building, a figure slides down watching the wolf before jumping off and landing beside the fallen troops, he takes a look around at the injured and sighs.

Drake: Guys aren't worth much in battle, are you? Then again, I wouldn't want to fight that if I were you... *He smirks* Good thing I'm not you guys.

''Drake looks up to a damaged building near the raging wolf, with a snigger. Drake goes into his Aura Dragon form and flies up onto the roof of said house, fire surges around Drake's hand as it condenses into a big fireball. He fixes his arm onto the wolf's side and blasts the fireball into it.''

The wolf roars, jumping back from Drake, it lands with a mighty crash and sends asphalt flying into the air. It opens its mouth with a mighty howl, and discharges a massive lightning bolt straight at Drake, the electricity arcing as it goes, exploding cars and even a gas station as it flies at Drake.

Drake: This.. Is gonna hurt. *Drake forms an X with his arms infront of him as the lightning bolt strikes Drake to shield himself, despite this. He is blasted back into a side of the building, as the smoke clears, Drake is seen with lightning shaped marks on his arms. Drake focuses his sight on the beast and growls* Ok then... Might aswell not play around anymore!

''Drake sets himself ablaze and flies towards the wolf, charging another fireball. But grows in size the closer Drake gets to the beast, just before he collides. Drake slams the fireball against the beast's face, causing the fireball to explode on impact and sending the wolf crashing through a couple of buildings. Drake lands ontop of a roof and smirks.''

A massive burst of lightning erupts from the buildings, and suddenly the wolf appears in front of him, much closer and moving far too fast to dodge. The wolf grabs ahold of his arm, and begins to violently shake him, and then tosses him, tearing open his hand and damaging his bones. While Drake is still airborne, the wolf grows larger again and jumps on top of him, and begins mauling his chest with lightning claws, the strikes sending lightning coursing through his body, and after multiple rakes, it jumps off him, and lands a few yards away, and lets out a howl that sends lightning flowing through it and short circuits the city's power.

Drake: *Gets up and looks at his hand and chest, he then growls once again* Fine, you want to fight like an animal... *Drake's voice changes* Then a fight like an animal it shall be...

''Drake's eyes turn animalistic, he grows dragon fang, claws, black dragon wings and tail. His wounds slowly repairing themselves, Drake glares at the wolf and roars. Drake jumps into the air and creates a black fireball, he then flies down and slams the fireball against it's back, causing it to quickly collapse. Drake then lands infront and stares down the wolf as red lightning surges throughout Drake's hand.''

Drake: Roar again you son of a bitch... I dare you.

In response, a long wolf howl goes off, and the skies turn dark, and it starts raining, and thunder rumbles. In the distance, Drake can see a wall cloud approaching quickly.

The wolf springs up, and as quickly as lightning, jumps into the sky, and begins running straight up, and then races over towards the wall cloud. It comes to a stop at the edge of the cloud, and looks back at Drake. It then lets out a second, even more powerful howl, and from the clouds descend several massive tornadoes, the collective number more than enough to block the horizon, and they begin tearing straight for Drake, all the while wiping up trees, houses, buildings, cars, and Drake swears he sees a cow fly by. The massive winds slowly begin to tug at Drake as the massive wind storms approach menacingly.

Drake: Wind and lightning... Hmph.

''Tribal markings appear on Drake as he starts chanting, fire begins to envelope around Drake and form into a massive creature of it's own. A dragon condensed in fire lets out a massive roar powerful enough for the wolf to feel it, the dragon then flies up into the sky above the storm and looks down. Seeing the wolf behind the wall of chaos that travels through the city, the dragon flies straight down and lands perfectly. Sending out a massive shockwave that causes the storm to quickly dissipate, the dragon focuses it's eyes on the wolf and roars one more time before charging at the wolf behind the ruined skyscrapers. The dragon solidifies and bites hold onto one of the crumbling towers and smashes into the wolf.''

The wolf disperses in a massive gust of wind and blast of lightning, and Drake notices a glowing object falling rapidly towards the ground.

''Drake flies out of the dragon's chest as the dragon disburses into fire and fades away, Drake managed to catch the glowing object. As he land, he inspects the object and notices the metal band.''

Drake: Hmm.. They had these back at the M.C.C.P, pretty touch to get off aswell... *Drake's fingers glows white and as he taps the band, it dissipates into dust. Drake places the object down and falls back onto some debris and breathes heavily, losing his aura and tribal markings* Damn... That took way much energy than it should. *He looks at the object with a puzzled expression* What the hell are you anyways?

The object begins making a sound as though it were a heart, and with a crackle of electricity the wolf takes form again, but more on the lines of a real wolf's size.

"I am the Elemental Terror Razorwind. I have been a captive elemental for a number of years, enslaved to the ones who have been attacking this world. They are Phoenix, an organization that once hunted elementals as beings that violate the natural order. There are three other such Terrors, all of them enslaved. Our old masters created us to be their ultimate weapon, but the time of their rule has long since ended.

''Long have we four sought to be free from our imprisonment. I fear that if all four of us were summoned to battle, it will be a great task for your forces to defeat us. On that note, I wish to thank you. What is your name?" ''The wolf speaks to Drake's surprise, the voice echoing and sounding purely artificial, but distinctly male. The voice arcs and hums with electric undertones, implying its electric nature further.

Drake: It talks... Well, he talks... My name is Drake Ryunexo. *Drake looks up to the sky and sighs* So... Three others under the control of an organization called Phoenix. I see why you guys are named Terrors, anyways... Do you know where I could find the other three?

''"I indeed sense the other three, though they are on the key compass directions. North, South, and West. As I said, I must thank you for releasing me from my chains. I must warn you that only one other of my fellow Terrors are in any way... friendly. Hitomara and Dimrune by nature are extremely violent, and would likely attack regardless of affiliation if given an opportunity." ''The wolf opens its mouth, and what looks like a crystal shard comes out and floats into Drake's hand.

"It is a shard of my living Core, the most powerful of elementals do not need anything but a simple vessel to contain their consciousness. It has it's great advantages... and its great flaws. If you need me, I will come. It is a small portion of my core, and I will hear your request should you speak to me. Caess is the Water/Ice member of the Four, if you seek to stop the rest of us, it would be possibly prudent to acquire her support as well."

Drake: Caess is next... Ok, thank you Razorwind. This will be very helpful, oh and one more thing. Phoenix, do they have a base of operations?

Razorwind nods. "Yes. I do know that Phoenix resides in a massive fortress complex called Yosai Fortress. It lies in Fantasy, however it is guarded by the same masters that created us, who are also imprisoned by Phoenix. To attempt to penetrate their defenses... I fear that it would be pretty much a suicide mission. It is at least as large as one of these human cities, if not maybe bigger, with many sections. I could not tell you what methods they use to protect themselves, nor how they create portals on such a scale. It does occur to me you have met one of them before though."

Drake: *Thinks for a minute* The one with the mask, once and only in Fantasy... If Yosai Fortess is located in Fantasy, this will cause trouble. But for now, we need to free the rest of the Terrors... *He stands up and looks at the sun before facing North, while still clenching hold of the shard* North it is then. *He starts walking*

In Shanghi, India

Van Valer:*waits near the Taj Mahal. Looks up into the sky and sees a glimmering green light that looks like green stands of light coming a loose* I will be waiting for your arrival, dear ally.

A raspy laughter can be heard in an echo

The city remains awfully quiet where Hitomara had attacked, no sign of him has even registered for about two hours.

Pilot: We have no sight of it. We recommend all personnel to keep watchful eye out for any firebeast.

All other soldiers check in to confirm

The whole city suddenly undergoes a massive quake, and a ring of earth around the entire city suddenly collapses, revealing a massive seething lake of magma beneath the entire city.

Pilot: Nevermind, found it. Alright all Aero Force, get into formation.

3 other planes appear bside each other

Pilot: It's time to fire the Mephisto Canon.

All of the planes are charging up red photon

Pilot: Wait for it..

From behind the planes, they hear an explosion, and suddenly one of the planes is grabbed by a dragonic head made of stone and magma, and the beast begins violently shaking the plane, before tossing it into a skyscraper. They hear roaring, as more dragon heads begin to emerge from the magma lake.

Pilot: Alright. Let's get as far as we can away from that thing, then we circle back around. *the get in a far enough distance from Hitomara, then circle back around*

Pilot: Fire!

All 4 of the planes fire the Mephisto Canon at Hitomara's head, only blowing up 3 of them

More heads rise, and begin firing molten streams of metal at the planes, one of the beams slices through a plane's wing, and sends it spinning towards the ground.

Pilot: Well that's bull. We're gonna have to turn back around. We're heading back to base.

The last 2 planes turn around and fly away.

Hitomara's heads turn towards Jumbo, and make a menacing series of growls. Liquid metal flows out of their mouths, sizzling down into the streets below.

Jumbo: *lands and looks at all the lava oozing across the streets. He spreads his wings and flaps the so hard it causes debris to fly into the lava, but the lava itself is no longer hot, but rather cool*

A chuckle comes from the dragon's mouths. "You should not have brought your pet a second time. You have not even come close to comprehending the power of the Eternal Eruption." A strange voice echoes, clearly not dragonic in nature.

Jumbo: *flies up to where he is face-to-face with Hitomara*

The dragon's eyes are looking at him, but the gaze lacks any hint of actual awareness. Just like Jumbo, it is not acting of its own will. The dragon snaps at Jumbo, several other heads either biting as well or blasting at him with molten metal beams.

Jumbo: *is unaffected as he continues to stay where he was*

The dragon heads all curve away from him, curved back, as though how a snake would coil its head in preparation to strike, but more on the lines of caution. Small red glowing cracks begin to show on their stone bodies.

Jumbo: *his control head-set has been burned off. Regains his thought* The Before....*looks at Hitomara* You....join us...I can feel you are one of us...*stops* The Before control this one too...

The eyes of some of the heads seem to flicker between dull and suddenly alive, and one makes a faint statement before falling silent once more. "Beware.... red crystal...drain...you..." The head that spoke explodes, and the neck that had supported it crashes to the ground.

Jumbo: We cannot be drained, for we are one. *sees the of shining light come from the crystal. flies up to it ad touches it with his hand, then grabs with his other hand and begins pulling* Nothing will stop us...

The dragon's long earthen neck whips backward in attempt to move away from him, at the same time, the whole of the neck begins to crystalize, and the red crystals begin growing on Jumbo's hands and lower arms, drawn by Jumbo's power. The other dragon heads crystalize and begin shooting red crystals at him as well.

Jumbo: *continues to pull, even though red crystals are being chucked at him* Nothing will stop us! *pulls harder*

Jumbo can feel the red crystal itself begin to try and pull back, heating up intensely and even causing lava to begin rising within the hollow of the neck.

Jumbo: *is pulling harder* NOTHIIIIING!!!

The crystal finally gives way, and as it comes out, the dragon heads all give off a horrid scream, and collapse. The whole city itself seems to violently lurch with the crystal's removal. The crystal begins to violently flash red, as it lies helplessly in Jumbo's hand, despite the temperatures, the metal band remains firm around the crystal, not even melted an inch.

Jumbo: *is breathing heavily, until he sees the metal band around the crystal* Is this it? *grabs hold of it and begins to pull it*

As he pulls it off, it lets out a short energy pulse, likely signaling the removal of the device.

Gradually, Jumbo can feel an very old presence of a consciousness begin to stir in the crystal.

Jumbo: Ahhh...you live inside...this is your heart...bound by your oppressors...No longer will you be. *puts the crystal on the ground, pins it down with his foot, then grabs the band with both hands. He pulls straight up, ripping the band completely off. Jumbo falls back and breathes slowly*

The crystal begins to sink into the ground, warping the ground as it goes, and once a large mound has formed, begins to take Hitomara's previous shape, metal and lava take shape once more.

Hitomara's eyes burn into being, now full of vibrant and deadly energy.

''"Free... at last... free...! I shall ravage Phoenix with my vengeance...!" ''Hitomara pauses, and looks down. ''"Who are you...?" ''The metal dragon's voice says in a bubbling, hissing sort of sound, mixed with a dragon's usual tone.

The dragon senses soldiers coming, and it idly smashes its tail against them, smashing them dead instantly.

Jumbo: *gets up* They call us Jumbo...You are free now as am I...It's time....*is breathing excitedly* Decades...DECADES...COME FORTH BROTHERS!!! *flies off in an instant*

Hitomara instead looks towards the North, where he senses Caess, and to the South where he senses Dimrune.

''"So that's the game they play..." ''Hitomara growls, and suddenly takes flight, a wave of fire trailing after him as he soars into the air, flapping his giant wings, billowing his way to the North, where his fellow Terrors still wait for freedom.

Overwhelmed
The soldiers all retreat up stairs, as massive floodwaters ravage the streets below, as the giant of ice and water slowly proceeds through the city. It stretches its hand towards the sky, and giant hail begins to slam into the buildings, crushing the roofs that still remain above water, and smashing holes into the tall buildings.

"D-damn, what are these things?! And four different monsters? Just who could be behind all of this?" One yells.

Another calls command. "We're getting our asses handed to us out here! What's the situation in the other cities?"

A figure appears behind one of the soldiers in a flash of light. "Pretty much the same as here, although not as damp...hold on." he said as a wave of water ascended the stairs towards the individuals grouped on the landing. The figure encased his arm in a black aura, and punched the wave as it reached them. The water splashed against the walls as the wave broke, and receded back down the stairs. The figure, Kalin, then opened a portal behind him as he turned to the soldiers. " Head back to base, and tell your boss to send me some backup, not more of you useless folk. One of those Mythos he still has locked up, and yes, he still has some. Also, tell him I intend to pay him back for that damn tranquilizer..."

Soldier: Yeah, uhhh sure..Thanks again.*Enters the portal, which returns him to M.C.C.P. Headquarters *

Kalin: Alright, then. Let's see what I'm up against...*Runs up to the roof of the building, taking in the situation* Oh, so someone's obviously let loose a fire elemental around here...

A giant wave of water crashes against the building, and from behind a building steps a massive humanoid made of ice, and flowing from it is the source of all of the water.

It turns, and its light blue eyes notice him.

Kalin: ...Or not. Hey big guy! I don't want to hurt ya, but you look like you may want to hurt me, so I'll act under the assumption that I'm right. *The armor of his bracer expands covering his body in a white armor. He then draws Weiss, which morphs from a katana to a long sword.* Come on, then. Let's fight! *Charges a wave of light in his blade, and sweeping it through the air, sends a light energy slash at the giant.*

Suddenly a mass of water appears out of nowhere, and it solidifies into ice, blocking the attack. The giant raises its hand, and needle thin shards of ice whip at Kalin's face at insane speeds, looking like mere beams of light they travel so fast.

Kalin expertly deflects most of the shards, although a few make it past, piercing him in the openings in his armor. Kalin subconsciously increases his temperature, melting the ice rapidly as he begins to heal.

Kalin charges at the elemental, propelling him self towards the barrier of ice with waves of fire. As he lands, he twirls before sending another two waves at the water being.

A wall of water rises up, and extinguishes the flames. The temperature of the region begins to drop significantly, and Kalin can soon see his own breath.

Kalin laughs. "Giving me the cold shoulder, eh? Sorry, but that won't work out quite how you imagined..." he said as the temperature in his immediate area shot up extremely quickly, evaporating the ice beneath him in a flash. As he fell from the platform, a pair of black wings with dark red feathers extended from his back. He then fired a black wave of energy at the being as he regained his balance.

The giant literally melts in a great rush of water, and disappears into the giant floodwaters below.

A large whip of water rises out of the waters, and with great force, slams into Kalin's chest and he feels his ribs snap under the force, and he is sent flying into multiple skyscrapers.

Recovering from the hit, Kalin flies towards the waters below, prepared to strike at it again, before stopping just short of the waters.

"Maybe... We don't have to fight, despite the fact that my next decision was to erase this entire city along with you. I think, this once, I can think with the heart and mind of a true spirit of valour..." As he finishes speaking, Kalin's wings disappear, and he falls into the waters beneath him. Suddenly, ripples of white light emanate from where he fell, as Kalin attempted to calm the spirit. "I hope this works," he thought as he floated through the water. "It's either this, or leveling this place."

He sees a strange crystal glowing blue in the water deep below him, a metal band around its surface with a red light blinking. His efforts to contact the spirit completely fail, an outside force easily casting aside Kalin's attempt to communicate.

Strange fish appear to be swimming in the water, with long sharp teeth. Piranhas. Their beady eyes fixate on him.

"Not a chance in hell that you're bitting me!" Kalin thought as he sent a wave of fire at the fish. With the added property of destruction from his dark energy, the fire managed to move through the water without being extinguished. The fish were incinerated almost instantly, with some avoiding the flame and charging toward him. Turning to the strange crystal near him, Kalin reached out with light, creating a construct of a gauntlet which grasped the gem. Kalin proceeded to swim away from the remaining fish, as the construct lined up with his arm to allow him to retrieve the gem.

Kalin begins to slow down, first slowly, then at an escalating rate. Everything seems heavier, until he can no longer move through the water at all, and he begins to sink, just as the water around him visibly begins to crystalize, becoming ice. The ice forms around the gauntlet of light and distorts it until it breaks apart, and the crystal freely moves away from him, just as all of the water turns into pure ice, entombing him in the ice. The ice literally freezes to the point where Kalin cannot even turn his head, and he quickly begins to loose oxygen.

For a few moments, the shell of ice begins to sink deeper and deeper into the ocean of water, when suddenly, Kalin unleashes a burst of darkness flame that shatters the ice block. After a moment taken to recover, Kalin envelops himself in light, and disappears, reappearing near the crystal. Gripping it in his hand, Kalin inspects the gem a bit more closely. Realizing that the metal band is of different origins than the crystal itself, Kalin closes his hand into a fist, and creates a small dark flame in his hand that destroys the band. "I wonder what that will do" he thought as he flew out of the water.

The crystal begins to hum with a tranquil soothing sound, and it flashes with blue light very slowly, and he can gradually feel a presence stir within the crystal, though very guarded and cautious towards him, the contact barely touching his mind, ready to retreat at the slightest threat.

"Oh? So have we all pulled ourselves together?" Kalin said with a gentle laugh. "Don't worry, I'm not trying to hurt you anymore. I would like to know abit about you, if that's alright." He said, as a warm, bright aura enveloped him.

The crystal drops out of Kalin's hand and falls into the water below, and the giant reforms, appearing feminine in appearance this time, a mix of surging water and chunks of ice. The waters around it recede and eventually vanish, though a section of it remains around her immediate proximity.

"I am Caess of the four Elemental Terrors of Echo. For many years now we have been imprisoned by ones who call themselves 'Phoenix.' The same group is behind this widescale attack on this world. The fact that I sense the others here as well tells me that Phoenix intends to cause massive chaos to this world."

" Straight to the point when you have a body, huh? Well, the attack is no surprise to me. The fact that you're from echo, on the other hand... I think I know what to do next." Landing on the building he arrived in, Kalin said, " Caess, was it? I am headed to Echo at the moment. If you'd like, I could take you back, as well," He said as he turned towards another horizon. "Or you could wait for...whatever that is."

Caess looks towards the South. "Not yet. One more remains a slave. We cannot leave without him. Our aid is necessary to stop Dimrune."

"I know that when you say "we", you mean you and the rest of the elemental giants club, but I can't stand to miss a real fight... I blame a former friend of mine for that. I can get you there pretty fast if you can shrink. In the meantime..." As Kalin speaks, two gateways open, one that leads to Echo, another shifting to multiple locations as Kalin attempts to find any remaining rampaging terrors. As he concentrates on the shifting portal, his shadow slips into the portal to Echo, as his left pupil goes completely black. Kalin closes his left eye, and turns back towards Caess. "So then, what do you say?"

Caess looks down on him. "Duck."

A massive roar fills the air, as a dragon standing taller than any single building in the city lands on the ground, magma pouring out of its skeletal structure, sending many buildings toppling from the strength of his landing. It turns towards them, giant glowing eyes glaring down at them.

"Caess... who is this mongrel...? Shall I eat him?"

Caess says calmly, "I would prefer you didn't."

"Where is Razorwind?"

"Somewhere to the east of us. I expect him and his companion to be arriving soon."

"You look familiar." Kalin said, looking up at the dragon with a smirk." I beat the crap out of you once. Well, not me; a friend. And... Not you either; another friend who looked like you. Either way, it is nice to meet you... And if you ever consider eating me, I'll spill your insides across half the planet..." he finished, a smile sharing room on his face with a dark expression.

The earth shakes and several more skyscrapers crack ominously, the ground splitting as Hitomara lets out a low growl.

"''If you ever refer to that little shapeshifter again, I promise you this. You. Will. Regret it." ''Hitomara snarls, lava pouring down and out of his mouth, one of the streams falling near Kalin and making the temperature incredibly hot.

Caess edges away from Hitomara. "It would be most unwise to provoke Hitomara. I would not mention such things to him again. He is... easy to turn on even allies. A degree of respect is required when dealing with him."

Hitomara chomps at the side of a skyscraper, and chews it up effortlessly, then swallows it, the metal and glass quickly breaking down into more molten material.

Kali steps back himself, growing a pair of white wings, and floating upward towards Caess' shoulder, where he takes a seat." I'll just stay here, then. If ya' don't mind. So, I've only seen a small amount of Echo. What's it like there?

"One part of Echo is mostly within Reality, while the other half lies in Fantasy. The middle region is covered by vast mountains, which protected the East from the savage weather of the West. The east is covered by countless forests, swamps, and jungles. The world is more savage, but in a way, the life is still quite tranquil at times. ...Though beings like Hitomara like to have too much fun. Putting it one way."

Casess closes her eyes. "We have not been there for more than fifty years..."

"Well, look at it this way: The sooner you guy save your friend, the sooner you can go back home." Smiling, Kalin tapped her shoulder with his hand, causing ripples across the surface of her body. "And I'll tell you what: I still intend to head back over to Echo. The SHAPESHIFTER! is mixed up in some personal problems at the moment, so he could use a hand. So I guess, when this battle is over, I could take you, all of you, back home. Sound good?"

Hitomara growls, but does not let himself get baited, opting to smash another skyscraper with his tail instead, faint yells of surprise ring out from the soldiers in that area.

Caess looks at Hitomara. "Can you please stop wrecking things?"

"Is he always so much fun?" Kalin asks, the joy of watching the dragon rage around the city almost enough to remind him of Rose. "Um, I... I'm sorry, big guy. I won't mention that guy again." He said, his head bowed in apparent shame. "Hey, were there ever more than just the four of you?" Kalin asked Caess.

"There has always been the four of us. Our masters, the Elemental Warlords, and our creators, have been locked away for many years. The same organization that forced us into servitude also defeated our masters, who ravaged much of Echo and Earth at one time. If you met the one who defeated Hitomara, Dark Phoenix, then you already know the method by which the masters were sealed. The Eight Elemental Slayers. Two wielded by the Dark Phoenix, Kado of the Spiritwood Tribe."

''Drake glances at the destroyed city, taking notice of the dragon and the giant. Drake crates a wave of fire under him, 'surfing' ontop of it towards said city. He opens his hand and looks at the crystal, he then rolls his eyes and begins talking to it.''

Drake: So... Are them two the other Terrors?

A faint crack of lightning can be head, and Razorwind appears next to Drake. "Yes. Hitomara, the Eternal Eruption, and Caessa, the Veiled Frost. It would appear a Mythos is on Caess's shoulder. Peculiar. She doesn't normally like to socialize with other beings. Though I suppose in these circumstances that can't be helped right now. I suppose that just leaves Dimrune, Terror of Death."

Drake: *Chuckles* Terror of Death, sounds cuddly, makes ya' wanna hug him... Hmm, I wonder who the Mytho is. *The wave speeds up* So, Dimrune... How difficult will he be to stop? That's if these two won't attack me instantly...

"That depends. Dimrune likes to use mental warfare to destroy his enemy's morale. He likes to deceive, to trick. To even have a chance of freeing him, we will have to get up close and personal, which is for us... a massive disadvantage. He can completely control light and darkness, to distort the senses to his will. He cannot be deceived, as he has full range of senses. If you lie in the light, he will know you are there. But if you hide in the darkness, you will be just as easily found. No matter where on the battlefield, he is capable of knowing and anticipating most attacks. There are few who can figure out his games."

Drake: *Sighs* So pretty damn difficult, ok then... Besides, getting up close and personal is my kinda skill, it shouldn't be that hard for me. But I'll probably soon regret those words, so. *They soon enter the city* Let's get aquainted with your friends here, shall we?

Hitomara turns his head as they enter and lets out a growl, and they can hear his voice clearly from the distance.

"Wonderful... another two legged mongrel. Hmmm... though I taste dragon's energy. Razorwind, you always seem to pick up the most interesting of characters to associate with..."

''"Pretty intricate language coming from the mighty Hitomara." ''Razorwind retorts.

"And just when I was going to enjoy this reunion... now I want to bury you 70 feet under."

Drake: *Looks up at Hitomara and smirks* That is one big bastard... Give me a minute Razorwind. *He goes into his Half Dragon form and flies up to Hitomara, hovering only a couple of feet away* So you must be Hitomara, nice to see another dragon around here with an attitude. the name's Drake, pleasure to meet you.

Hitomara looks at Drake and eyes him. He opens his mouth and blasts DK back with a powerful gust of hot air, blowing him away back towards Razorwind, who suppresses a chuckle.

Drake: *Laughs* Yep, attitude... So I was told there was Dimrune to deal with... Why are we waiting here? We are prepared right? Or are we waiting on another? 'Cause I see that Hitomara is all by himself, does he need company? *Smriks*

Hitomara lets out a growl, which in sync with it comes a small earthquake. ''"We don't need help from the likes of some miniature dragon and a boy with an attitude problem. Come along if you wish, but I will not tolerate your tongue a second time." '' Hitomara takes off, a blast of hot air smashes into them as his wings flap and he heads off towards the south, Razorwind races off in the air, and Caess begins to surge forth like a massive tidal wave.

Drake: Ok... Me, stop pissing him off, ok? Ok... *He turns towards Razorwind and flies up to him, keeping the same speed as Razorwind* Ok, so we're heading south?

Kalin leaps from Caess' shoulder, launching himself forward with a jet of flames beneath his feet to land on Drake's back for a moment. As he jumps again, Kalin yells "Not exactly, dragon boy!" Propelling himself with another burst of energy, Kalin appears suspended in mid air with his arms outstretched as he creates a gate. The gate takes the appearance of a giant door, which opens into a vortex of energy as the party approaches.

Drake: Ow... Anyways, *He looks at the vortex* going through there... You sure this'll take us there?

Suddenly a massive wall of ice rises up and covers up the vortex, and a symbol meaning 'sealed' appears in the ice.

Atop the pillar of ice, a tall woman with light grey complexion and long black hair, with glowing blue eyes stands, silently staring down on them.

"My apoloigizes... but I'm afraid you won't be fighting Dimrune today. You see..."

Nineteen other women, all the same as the original appear. "WE have buisness with you."

''Drake looks at the women, with a slight smirk on his face. He then speaks up, giving out a cocky and confident tone to his voice. Despite being a bit childish about the whole affair.''

Drake: Twenty skimpy dressed women are challenging a fight with us, how stupid could you be? I don't care how many of you there are, I'll take all of you out! *He points to one of them and laughs* Except you, I'll take you out... To dinner.

Hitomara, Razorwind, and Caess aren't so amused. "...That's Aoi... the Ice Slayer of Phoenix." They growl.

The main one looks down at Drake and Kalin. "I will give you one chance to leave... or suffer the consequences of your actions."

Drake: *Sighs* You people are no fun... Hmph. *Drake's hands set ablaze* So, a Phoenix member... This'll be fun, although... *He reverts back to his Aura Dragon form* Ok, ladies first. *He smirks*

Kalin: "So you've got one of those nifty swords, huh? As much as I'd like to take it from you, I don't think we have much time for that. Let's get this over with." *Creates walls of darkness that separate everyone into groups; Razorwind and Drake with 10 of the copies, Hitomara with another 5, and Kalin and Caess with the remaining 5 bodies, one of which Kalin assumed to be the real one.

The one he assumes is the real one smiles with amusement. "I'm not that easy to corner... but since you are so gracious to allow me to recapture the Terrors... I shall."

Suddenly massive pillars of ice engulf Hitomara, Caess, and Razorwind, who all let out shrieks of terror.

Kalin and Drake move to melt the ice, but she tsks. "No you don't. Melt the ice and you will melt them as well."

The five he had trapped with Hitomara walk through the darkness to where Kalin is, cracks in their bodies. As they come out, they simply heal and disappear, leaving Drake and Kalin with an equal number of enemies.

"We aren't some random lunatics. We have the power and the will to crush this world. Your interference means nothing in comparison to the collective might of the Phoenix. Strike us down? So what? The swords will find new masters, and begin the cycle again. We truly are the Phoenix. You've made the wrong enemy. This is our justice. The justice that others would be too meek to take up for themselves. Justice... for all."

Drake: Ugh, you're already boring me with that shit talk just then... So, I got ten... You have ten, seems fair. *Drake summons a sword out of fire and aims it towards one of the copies* You first! *Drake flies towards the copy and slams the handle of the sword against her neck, causing her to stop breathing for a moment. During this moment, Drake grabs a hold of her arm and impales her through her stomach. He then throws the copy towards the other copies* Hmph, so much for a challenge...

The copy gets up, the hole still there, with water trinkling out of the body.

"You're right. So much for a challenge." It says emotionlessly. It draws its sword, and the temperature around Drake plummets. The ground beneath Drake's feet turns to ice, and it begins snowing, each time the snow touches the wound, it closes even more. On Kalin's side, the ground also freezes, and the same weather occurs.

"I promise you, a simple stab to the stomach won't even slow one of us down."

Drake: *Laughs* It wasn't meant to kill you...

''Drake sets himself ablaze, keeping him warming and melting the ice. Drake charges towards the copy and punches her in the gut, causing her to spit out blood. Drake then creates a fireball and blasts it against her back, Drake focuses his gaze on the other copies. He gains tribal marks all over his body as he begins chanting, his eyes now glowing white. The wounded copy gets sealed in a small dome no bigger than she is.''

Drake: So... Let's start.

Kalin: Huh...so 10 to 1. Meh, those odds seem fair enough to me.
 * Kalin whistles in surprise at the sudden development *


 * A black substance falls from his eye, as multiple copies of Kalin appear from the shadows, 10 appearing for each clone of the Ice slayer, some brandishing swords, others engulfed in magic flames, and others still coated in more darkness. Kalin stretches out his arm, as the cursed blade, Masamune, appears in his hand*

Kalin: You're not the only one here with power...*charges a dark flame at the tip of his sword, and sweeps outwards towards his opponent*

The ice on the ground rises up and blocks the dark flame, and a massive gale of razor sharp ice blasts Kalin and his clones, many of the clones being ripped to shreds by the bombardment, leaving only nine total clones and Kalin himself standing. The air temperature beings to plummet every passing second.

On Drake's end, despite the fact he heated up with fire, the fire's warmth fails and dies, replaced by a savage cold that despite any magic he uses, simply is blown away by the harsh winter cold. The nine draw their swords, and the cold only strengthens. He starts feeling a sensation as though razor sharp blades were coursing through his body, serious burning can be felt all over him.

Drake: Mother... Fuckers. Too cold, to do anything...Too much pain... Ok, time to get primal... *Drake's aura and eye colour changes to a dark gray, the nine senses the dark energy manifesting, growing, taking control of Drake. His eyes turn animalistic, he gains sharpened teeth and claws, he focus his glare at the nine and growls. Sounding demonic in the process, his sword changes shape and gains a black aura around it aswell. He then tightens his grip on the handle and slowly walks towards them.*

Kalin: *senses a surge of dark energy nearby and smirks* I guess somebody just let loose. Well, there isn't much to worry about here, except her*looks towards Caess* oh well.*looks towards Aoi while moving towards Caess* Hey, you don't mind if I get comfortable myself, do you? *Hits Caess' frozen body, causing her to shatter. He grabs her crystal and places it into his pocket.* Sorry about that. You're safer in there than you are out here. Now then...This is the first time I'm using this against a worthy opponent, so I hope you feel proud of yourself.*suddenly, 5 of Kalin's copies return to shadows, and they proceed to envelop him, until there is no distinction between the darkness and its master. Kalin opens both of his eyes, which glow with an unnatural red. The shadows that appear as his hands are sharpened at the ends, and Kalin's hair has a black spiked style to it. Gripping his blade tightly, he turns to the remaining clones, emitting a low growl from his featureless face as a signal for them to leave. Refocusing on the enemy, Kalin gets into a crouched position, preparing to strike.

She points at his pocket. "I rather am proud of myself. Proud that you just blatantly ignored what I just told you and killed Caess. I told you that if you tried to melt the ice, you would also melt them. Perhaps you should have also considered the possibility that would apply to shattering the ice. Don't believe me? Look? That is what your powers bring you! Death!"

He looks, and his pocket is absolutely drenched, and he empties out his pockets in a panic to see Caess's crystal dull and lifeless, very slowly melting in his hand.

"But... tell me... you probably have lost someone else too... look what you've accomplished. Nothing but the extermination of those you care for and protect. A meaningless existence wouldn't you say? She was freewalf with his blade. After being split, and unable to repair itself, the clone fell to pieces. Kalin immediately extended his arm, which literally stretched out to grab hold of another clone like a whip. Dragging it into range, he decapitated it with a roar. The third and fourth, he grabbed with both arms, smashed them together, tossed them into the air, and slashed them both with Masamune before blasting them to dust with a wave of darkness. *

She smirks, and easily side steps Kalin, easily grabbing the remnant of Caess's crystal from Kalin's hand. As he turns to attack her, her eyes glow and Caess's crystal begins to grow and slowly return to a glow.
 * Kalin did all of this in an instant, moving like the shadows he had fused with. As he landed he turned, and launched himself at the lone slayer, prepared to finish their battle

On Drake's end, he suddenly sees his clones disappear.

She smiles. "I was never here... and we've already won this fight. Dimrune has been extracted in advance, and now I have possession of Caess once more." She straps a metal band onto Caess's crystal, and a red light appears on it. She suddenly billows away into snow, along with Caess's crystal. "Your weakness... is the inability to recognize the powers of your enemies. Nor their weaknesses. Against us... you stand no chance. I foresee that you shall likely bare witness to the deaths of everything that matters to you. And just like today... it will be your fault." Her voice disappears into the wind, and Hitomara and Razorwind are freed from the ice.

''"Drake... are you alright?" ''Razorwind asks.

''Drake lowers two fingers, causing the walls of darkness to fade away. As he looks back, he sees two of the three Terrors, he looks towards Kalin speaking with a more feral tone.''

Drake: Caess, what happened to her?

Kalin: *he lets out another growl* Gone... *He returns to normal* and Dimrune as well... Aghhhh! *slashes the giant seal with masamune, causing it to fall apart* It was a trick! It was obvious, and yet I still fell for it!

Razorwind looks at Kalin. "It is unfortunate. It would have been safer to avoid a confrontation with Aoi. But you could not have known the formidible powess of Phoenix. You haven't encountered them before. ...Unless you count Dark Phoenix. But he operates differently, as I'm sure you came to know from your time with him. Do not blame yourself. We should have advised you against confronting her. We should have informed you more of the organization. You came without any intel, that isn't your fault. I assume most would assume in that situation that Aoi really was there. So do not blame yourself. We will have other chances. Phoenix will not likely hold back any weapon in their arsenal if it means eliminating a threat such as you. Dimrune and Caess WILL be deployed again. They are too useful to them not to."

Hitomara looks at Razorwind. "You certainly like to talk a lot, don't you?"

Kalin: I'm sure you meant that to be encouraging, but I am not sure whether or not another fight is something I want. *Wipes the black substance from his eye* But I guess I may have no choice. I made a promise to take you guys home; all of you. If I have to fight to do it, then I will. I just have to get stronger first. *Opens a smaller portal for himself* Go wherever you need to prepare for what comes next. I will do the same. Good luck to you. *enters the portal*

Drake: *Opens a portal of his own, he then turns to look at Hitomara and Razorwind* Razrowind, Phoenix's headquaters is in Fantasy... Correct?

Razorwind lets out a soft growl. "Yes. But what do you intend to do? Storm the fortress? Suicide. We don't even know where in Fantasy it is."

Drake: I'll just trace that girl's energy signature, simple as... As for everything else, yeah... I know... *He sighs* If you ever find someone named Daikeim, tell him the news... *He turns towards the portal and steps through, with the portal closing afterwards*

Razorwind lets out a deep sigh. "This will not end well..."

Hitomara growls. "So be it. A fool is a fool."

Osaka, Japan: Countdown to Chaos
''Hiroshi and Naomi appear in Osaka. The atmosphere appears to be green from the toxicity that was exposed to the air from the attack by Phoenix. The town seems to have been evacuated due to the toxicity. City buildings appear to be only half-destroyed and still falling aparte.''

Hiroshi: *sniffs the air* The air reeks of poison.

Naomi wrinkles her nose. "Do you suppose igniting the fumes would do any good?"

Hiroshi: I would presume so. It is only best we dont light a spark or anything like that.

She frowns. "Think it will cause us any health issues?"

Hiroshi: Please, The earth is my air. We should have no problems.

Naomi sighs. "Do you think we will run into Kado?"

Hiroshi: Hopefully. But if we dont, the others will.

Naomi clutches her chest. "...Don't worry master... I won't let him get in your way."

Hiroshi: No. I wont let him get in your way. Your mind has been abit offset on the the plan and more on the boy. Listen, if you do not wish to fight him, you do not have too. You already pained by his turn to darkness. Don't hurt yourself even further by fighting him, when you know you could never hurt him.

"I have to do this. I have to... or I'll never be able to live with it... it's because of the past that I have to do this. To protect my memories of him... I can't let him sink any lower."

Hiroshi: You do what you must. It will be your own doing, if you once again receive a broken heart.

"It's better... than to live with regrets of not stopping him... just because I'm afraid."

Hiroshi: Being afraid is ok. It shows that you want to live, but are you willing to show how much you value your life?

"I don't care. I don't care if I die. You don't really care anyway Master. Torrent and Kado were always your favorites. If I died it would be of no consequence to you."

Hiroshi: I value all my students. But I only value those who do not look down upon themselves. Besides, I feel more comfortable around those two because they were boys and im not really used to training girls. The only thing that separates you fropm those two, is that you are gentle. The other two are far too violent. You only seek to right your wrongs instead of continuing to do so. You may not be like the rest of us, but what's wrong with being unique? Jusr remembered you are still loved and valued by me and by Phoenix. Remember that.

Naomi looks at the sunrise slowly appearing over the ocean. "...It's beautiful isn't it? Even though the air is polluted, at least the glory of the sun isn't touched."

Hiroshi: *looks at the Sun carefually and sees green strands of light coming aloose. The Sun also appears to be getting darker as in more sunspots* Unusual.

Suddenly a group of five people appear at the coastline, and when Hiroshi sees a familiar masked figure, he looks over to warn Naomi not to engage, but she has already long charged out of earshot towards the group.

He realizes that she wouldn't know about Kado's current appearance... and would be at a very dangerous disadvantage.

Hiroshi: *summons a rock block to block her path* Stop child. Not yet.

Kado whips his head toward the noise, and sees the block.

"Guys. Search the rest of the city. I got this section covered."

He charges towards the block of stone, flickering with shadows.

The block slams itself into Kado and into the water

Gobble: HAHA! He got powned by a rock.

Kado rushes out of the rock, a pure shadow. He sees Naomi and stops in front of her, his shadow form rippling.

"...Who are you?" He looks at her Slayer. "...I see you have a Fire type. Are you supposed to be some sort of replacement for the old Fire Slayer?" His eyes narrow.

"...Who are you people?" The girl in turn asks.

"We are agents of Azure. We've come to put an end to you and the rest of Phoenix."

The two regard each other, circling until both strike at once, their swords clashing, Kado drawn two normal katanas.

"...I don't care who you are, I won't let you interfere with my master!" She growls.

"So Master Hiroshi is here then? I figured that attack was his. You shouldn't give away your position, old man!" He yells.

The two clash, neither gaining an advantage.

Gobble: Awww snap. This is so coool. I wonder what we do now.

A large pillar of earth come from beneath them and hoist them up above Osaka

Gobble: Aw crap. I didn't se that coming.

Seco: None of us did. *looks over the edge and sees the entire city* We're approximately 450 feet above ground level.

Gobble: What are we doing up here then?

Hiroshi: *is floating on a singel pile of earth* Cause I brought you here.

Gobble: Aw cool. I'ts an old man. What's up, old man?

Seco: Are you one of them? One of Phoenix?

Hiroshi: Yes I am. And you must be Kado's underlings.

Gobble: Not really underlings, more like captives that have yet to be given their freedom for that other place.

Hiroshi: Well then, let me be the first to welcome you home. But sadly it's under quarantine. And infestation called 'humanity' has torn up this home. So we're here to take care of the problem. *lands on the pillar*

Gobble: Oh, wel thanks man. Here I wanna give ya' somethin' for your hard work. *puts something in Hiroshi's hand and pullsa ring out and runs back*

Hiroshi: *opens his hand and sees a grenade, that immediately blows up in his face*

Hiroshi looks up from a rooftop below them. "Is that all the best you can do?"

Gobble: No, you just dropped your tip.

Hiroshi: *looks down at another grenade and it bows up in his face* Amusing...Your really amusing.

Gobble: *bows* Why thank you. I try my best everyday.*grins*

Hiroshi: *is irritated. Summons shards made of glass and they turn into razors and launches them*

Begin to fire at the glass shards. The glass shards disappear, but stalagmites come from from under them.

Gobble: * jumps up and is balancing on a stalagmite* Oh thank god. My balls nearly died.

Hiroshi: *appears infront off Seco*

Seco: *swings his rifle at the side oh Hiroshi's head*

Hiroshi: *is unaffected and takes the rifle, breaks it in half and smacks Seco's ears with the broken halves*

Seco: *puts his hands over his ears* ARGH!

Hiroshi: *punches Seco in the face and stomps on the ground and a dull-headed stalagmite comes out from the ground and his Seco directly in the face, knocking him off and over the edge*

Seco: *hits the water*

Down below, it looks as though the girl has struck Kado with an explosion, and he appears to lie helpless. She gets too close however, and Kado grabs her arm and throws her into a building. He gets up, though his mask appears to be cracked and beginning to crumble.

"Who are you?! Why didn't that kill you?!" She gasps, getting back to her feet. ''Such reflexes and skill... how could he be that good?''

A red katana slips out of his sleeves, and into his grasp. She distinctly remembers the sword.

"I would think you would have already heard of me. After all, I was a former member of the organization..." He draws the red blade of Fire Slayer.

"Wait... no that can't be... you're....?!" She gasps.

"I am the Dark Phoenix. My name is Kado. And I will destroy every last one of Phoenix."

"...So it was all true then..." She starts crying. "Everything they told me... you really have fallen into darkness... it's all true...!" She sobs, and Kado gets an irritated air.

"I don't know what you're rambling about. Either get out of my way and tell me where Hiroshi is or stop acting like a sniveling child. This is war, not a sob story." He says coldly. He sheathes his sword, much to Hiroshi's surprise.

"I'm not going to attack someone who doesn't have the guts to strike back. Where is he?"

"..." She remains silent.

Meanwhile, Avalia and Gobble are firing at Hiroshi who is blocking the shots with pebble after pebble.

Hiroshi: *summons a rock wall and sends it moving towards them.

''Avalia and Gobble climbe over the wall, but Hiroshi sends wave of moving earth towards them. Gobble jumps over, but Avalia is sent over the edge, but she grabs side of the pillar.''

Gobble: Good job guy. Your really having us move. Best work out I had in ages. *starts stretching*

Hiroshi: The 'workout' hasn't even started. *gestures Gobble to fight him*

Gobble: Sure thing, old man. *sprints toward Hiroshi*

She stands up. "...Just stop Kado. Give up on this whole revenge thing. Is power really that important to you...? ...We're trying to save the world from the sins of the people! It's not too late to turn back...! You can join us, you can help us!"

Kado closes his eyes. A heavy sigh of anger comes from behind his mask. "Revenge...? Power...? Don't talk like you know me. You must be delusional like the rest. Saving the world from sin? ...Who are you people to talk...? Who are you people to judge... you're part of the problem."

She gets a defiant look. "No! We're fixing everything! No more suffering! The world will be made pure of sin!"

She pauses, tears streaming down her face. "And I do know you... don't you remember anything...?"

"I don't know you. All I know is you're some girl who clearly has just been told a bunch of empty lies until she blindly accepted them." He hears Hiroshi's battle.

"So that's where he is. I'm done wasting my time here. I have to put an end to all of this." He turns and walks away towards the noise.

"...Don't you turn your back on me... not... not... ''NOT AGAIN!" ''She roars, and charges him with her sword. Kado wheels around and grabs it with his hand, a trinkle of blood runs down it, but he manages to stop it with only a slight cut.

"You're going to have to do a lot better than that. Don't waste any more of my time. I don't want to fight someone who doesn't have a true motive. Hiroshi and the others I know have a set clear mind. They know what they want. ...You do not. You will not beat me. Whoever you are, this is pointless. I'm going to fight him. Do not get in my way."

She suddenly strikes him in the face, breaking his mask effortlessly and slams him into the wall.

Meanwhile

Gobble: *slides across the ground on his back, severly bruised* Ow, ow,ow,ow,ow,ow.

Hiroshi: There is no stopping Phoenix.

Gobble: We're not stopping...We're stalling....I think...

Hiroshi: *stomps on the ground and Gobble is immediately thrown over the edge and into the water* Foolish. *disappears*

Kado struggles out of the wall, Naomi about to make an attack when she sees his face and freezes again. Though years had passed, she could guess him to be... almost the same face. Though she knew better. There had been many years between his betrayal and now. His eyes remain black and emotionless as before, not even a hint of recognition in his face.

''I have no choice... I really do have to end it... he doesn't see me at all. ...Is he really that far gone?''

She feels her tails grow out, and her ears change, as well as an increase of power and speed. If I can just nail him before he can react I...

"...You... you... you've got to be kidding me... ...This has to be a joke.... right...?" Kado coughs, leaning against Fire Slayer as a support, until he stands upright, a floored expression on his face.

The look in his eyes. Realization. Remembrance. Recollection. She can clearly see it in his eyes.

He stumbles backwards. "No... this is..." He studies her with an expression of either denial or awe.

"...T-t-those damn ears... those tails... are you... ...N-N-Naomi?!" He stammers.

"K-Kado?" She whispers in shock and awe. "Is it... really the real you...?"

Kado closes his eyes. "...Naomi... so it is you. It... has been a long time. ...But there is no other me. I have to stop Phoenix, Naomi. They're not saving the world, Naomi. They're going to destroy everything. The men. The women. The children. All of them. They don't care about families or innocents. They'll kill them all."

Naomi takes a step back. "No, you're wrong, we're doing this for the good of all-"

Kado sighs. "Did White tell you this?"

"What do you mean-"

"She's been lying to you. About everything. I didn't choose to leave Phoenix. You were kept in the dark. You need to hear the truth. The real truth."

"I...." She trails off.

"They tried to have me killed, Naomi. If it wasn't for Fire Slayer, I would have died that day."

"But they said-"

"...That I killed her? No. She saved me from death. She raised me back to health, and taught me all she could, before sending me off to the city. For a while, it really was about revenge. But things have changed. I'm not doing this for revenge. One of the things most important to me that I learned while in exile was that the strong oppress the weak. Ever since then, I've made it my goal to end that cycle. And now that path has lead me back here Naomi. Phoenix will kill everyone, children, human, Mythos, anyone they can to get what they want. They don't care about who is innocent or guilty. They just want to destroy humanity. Naomi... please... I know you have a kind heart... let's not do this. I have to stop them. This is how it has to be. Please..."

She looks at him with a sad look, her whole body trembling. "I..." Her ears fold, confusion tearing her apart, he could feel it.

He walks up to her and embraces her, the warm feeling shocking Naomi, she could feel his sincerity and compassion. He was still the same person she knew before... perhaps colder... but his heart at the bottom of it all... was still there. She drops her sword.

Oliv and Jason manage to drag the three out of the water. "Alright, now who needs CPR, or are we all good here?" He says in a gruff voice.

Kado senses Hiroshi coming, and he turns his head to face him. A slight aura of shadow envelops him instinctively.

"Nice to see you again, Master. ...Leave her out of this. If you seek to draw blood, only draw it from me. I'm your enemy."

She looks down from Hiroshi. "...Is what he said true...? Are you really going to wipe them all out...? Even the people who didn't do anything wrong?" She trembles. "Tell me the truth, master!" She yells.

Hiroshi: If one suffers, all suffers. Man's heart, no matter how good they turn out to be have a seed of darkness within their hearts. They have spread that seed down from generation to generation and ore trees of evil grow from those seeds, constantly growing form the ever exceeding evil. Man has done too many wrongs to right, but that's nothing Phoenix can't fix.

Kado narrows his eyes. "Two wrongs don't make a right, Hiroshi. An evil brings an evil. You have no idea what your actions will bring. I will not allow you all to destroy the future."

Naomi clings to Kado. "...I'm sorry master... but that isn't right. To judge everyone for something they never did and might never do... I can't accept that... ...I don't want to be lied to anymore." She closes her eyes, and Kado suddenly buckles, and Hiroshi can see the seal controlling part of Kado's Dark Slayer and the seals preventing him from using the Fire Slayer both fail at once, and a surge of power erupts from Kado, a golden aura mixed with a stronger black aura emerges.

"...You... what is this feeling...?" Kado can feel the new energy flowing through him. He flexes his hand, and a thick layer of shadow covers it.

"...Is this part of my sword's power...?" He looks toward Hiroshi.

"Master. Let us take the battle else where. The only person you need fight is me. I don't want to worry about collateral damage when I should be dedicating my energy to fighting you. And I know you would rather I give it my all in a fight than be distracted. No interference, no sly tricks. Honor on honor, cause against cause. I fight for justice, and you fight for yours. Though since I'm on the subject, will you consider standing down? Or will you not see my reason? Bloodshed is the last resort of a true warrior."

Hiroshi: A warrior lives to shed blood, boy. It's where the blood comes from that counts. Besides, what's wrong with fighting here? It seems like a good setting to me. *teleports them both to the other side of Osaka* It isn't much but it will do. *pulls out Earth Slayer and points it at Kado* It is time for your final lesson, on what it truly means to be a warrior.

He draws Fire Slayer and Dark Slayer, and Hiroshi notices for the first time its new appearance, how much lively and fully of energy it seems.

Kado smiles. "That last battle of ours... I want to thank you, Master. I thought everything I knew was set. I thought I knew myself. It caused me a great deal of pain... but in the end... I've rediscovered myself. ...One last thing. Is what you're fighting for... is it what you truly believe in? Is this cause what you truly believe is right?"

Hiroshi: Im this world, there is not right and wrong, well atleast we refuse to see what is right and what is wrong. I never questioned the destiny of Phoenix, the family I was born into. There is no true way to find out who you are truly mean't to be. But today, we're going to see who's going to live to find that out. *gets in stance*

Kado smiles. "I respect you for that. I'm still proud to call you my master." He shifts into stance as well. "After all, I learned to fight for what I believed in.... I learned everything, all the best from you. May the best man win... Master Hiroshi."

A quiet wind blows.

Hiroshi: *positions his feet and sprints towards Kado*

When he strikes at Kado, Kado's first strike is light and nimble, quickly deflecting Hiroshi's blade, and then immediately following up with a second strike pushing just past the blade and pushing it up so a block would be ineffective, and aims narrowly at the armpit area. In his second movement, Kado's other sword comes in for a attack more directly at Hiroshi's chest. As he moves out of the way in time, he estimates that Kado's fighting style is still dual swords, but a bit more calculated and savage, probably a style picked up from a rough life on the streets.

Hiroshi: *maneuvers backward in a dance-like motion only getting mildy hurt*

Kado's swords hum with a vibrant energy, they seem to want to be let loose in full, not held back. Kado bullrushes Hiroshi and smashes into his chest with his elbow, and breaks Hiroshi's footing, suddenly coming in with violent powerful strokes, one traveling along the ground and making a small split appear in the ground then just shyly missing his chest.

Hiroshi: *hits Kado in the face with the handle, breaking his nose, then elbows him in his neck, causing him to stagger back. He hits the ground with Earth slayer and giant stalagmites stikle out of the ground*

Kado goes transparent and jumps back, and slashes the stalagmites with Dark Slayer, the blade cutting through the stone like butter. He smiles, and the shadows crawl all over his body, and seem to gain a solid form, rippling with energy. He clutches Fire Slayer tighter, and an aura of flames ignites the armor of shadows. He raises the sword at Hiroshi, and a ripple of energy travels down the blade until it is let loose in a condensed explosion right on Hiroshi.

Hiroshi: *puts up a metal barrier and blocks the explosion. He stabs the metal barrier multiple times sending metal spike shards at Kado*

Kado frowns, and raises his hand. A aura of shadow surrounds the spikes and they suddenly reverse direction, and go straight through the metal and tear out on Hiroshi's side, the attack catching him off guard and several spike embed deep in his body before he manages to dodge the others.

Hiroshi: *absorbs the metal spikes that pierced him and it heals his wounds*

Kado extends his arm and hand towards Hiroshi, and a shadow hand extends from his reaching hand and straight at Hiroshi's throat, which then whips him up into the air and tosses him, while Kado sends another explosion straight up at Hiroshi, it detonating right in front of Hiroshi and sends him smashing into a building.

''The building starts to bend and begins to take bodily form. The building fires a sharpened iron bam at Kado and also fires glass and metal shards at Kado aswell*''

Kado manages to dodge most of the projectiles, though a shard or two manages to cut him, he winces at the contact, and moves out of the way.

"Heh, Earth Phoenix Mode huh? You know what they say, the bigger they are the harder they fall. But that's too cliche as it is... tch!" A sudden pain comes over him, and he feels a sense of pure anger building.

''Oh no, not you... not right now... GO AWAY! I don't need you! ''He growls.

Kado dodges another attack from Hiroshi, and notes all of the pollution in the air. ''I wonder how much of that is flammable... if there's enough... maybe I could blast him right out.''

He begins charging his Slayers, while watching for any sign of Hiroshi's next attack.

''Hiroshi emerges from the building with armor made of earth and steel, with glass formed in shapes of ancient markings that are glowing green. Behind him are evenly cut glowing glass shards floating in lineament in a form of wings. He is also wearing a metal mask with glowing green glass lenses.''

Hiroshi: Well boy. It has been an honor ighting you, but Phoenix destiny is clear, whether your with us or not. We will triumph. *throws Earth Slayer at Kado. The Slayer spins and becomes a whirlwinds of leaves.*

A spinning whirlwind of rapid slicing comes in between Kado and Earth Slayer, deflecting it into the air.

Hiroshi: *catches Earth Slayer* What the-- *looks down at a figure wearing a long-tailed leather coat*

Kado jumps away from the figure, his swords raised in a defensive manner, shadow armor thicker and the fire even stronger. "Who are you?" Two red marks can be seen on his left cheek.

The figure partially turns his head towards Kado with hard light-brown eyes.

"The guy who just saved you ass." *looks back at Hiroshi "Now get back*. *snaps his fingers and a single flame is lit on his thumb. He lift his hand in the air and blows the flame, causing fire to spread into the sky*

The sky literally explodes into fields of fire, consuming Hiroshi.

Hiroshi: *is being cosumed by the numerous explosions* AAAAAAARRRGGGGGHHHH!

''After awhile the skies are clear buy smoky. Hiroshi falls down on the building. He continues to crash down until he hits the first floor and everything else just falls untop of him''

Kado growls. "Excuse me? What makes you think that a bunch of fucking leaves is a threat to me?! And who the hell are you? I was handling myself just fine. What makes you think I needed your help?!"

A chibi demon pops up in Kado's face

"Hey man, don't be given shit to the boy! That thing was going straight for your neck! You were gonna be the new Sleepin' Hollow it if it weren't for him, so stop poutin' like a bitch!"

A chibi female angel pops up

"I must agree with him on this one. You could be a little bit grateful"

"A little bit?!"

"Guys, its ok. I didn't do this for thanks anyway. It's hard to know when I'm doing the right or wrong thing. I tend to make alot of mistakes anyway." *turns all the way to look at Kado* My name is Demgel, The Son of Good and Evil"

The demon is still in Kado's face

"So you better respect that, you masked piece of--!" *is pushed out the way by the angel

"sorry about him. He rages alot. My name is Leg and that...red blob thing is Med."

"And you better respect that too!"

Kado's face darkens with recollection, as well as anger at the demon getting in his face. The red markings on his face now have an ominous red glow.

"...Demgel...? As in Demgel of the Sedition...?" The name does not seem to ease his guard, perhaps only making him more guarded.

Demgel: Yea, of the the Sedition. A name given by the authorities. We'rea group of Mythos who are being hunted by the M.C.C.P and deal with world threats and other world threats. Right now I don't know where everyone else is.

Med: Psh. It's not like we needed them anyway.

Kado sighs with irritation. "Not to be rude, but I seriously didn't need help. I may not be as powerful as someone like you, but I can hold my own just fine." One of the marks slides and disappears, the other one now dull colored, and he starts to walk towards the building where Hiroshi fell.

Demgel: It's fine. It's not like I'm wanted anyway.

Leg: That's not true. Your wanted by us.

Demgel: It's not the same by being wanted by an actual person. Besides, I'm not even sure what I'm capable off. I have all this power, but it still not enough. Atleast, not enough on a Nephalem standard.

Med: If Nephalem's have one.

Suddenly the ground heaves as the Earth Phoenix Mode activates again, and it towers high above them defiantly. "It will take a lot more than that to stop me."

Kado looks up at him, and then turns toward Demgel. "Say... that fire trick... do me a favor... do that at me... that is... if you can make it as powerful as last time." He points his red sword at Demgel. "Unless that was a one time gig. In that case, I'd be disappointed."

Demgel: Since your actually asking for my help, sure. *snaps his finger and a small white flame appears. He blows the fire at Kado*

Kado straightens his arm and the sword seems to absorb the fire with a howl as though the fire itself was screaming. Afterwards, it glows with a fierce red glow.

Suddenly a stone fist smashes Kado, and at first Demgel is surprised, but Kado simply slips right out and dusts himself off, then jumps onto the arm, his figure blackened and rippling as he rushes up the arm.

Hiroshi: Come at m, boy!

the fist turns to rubble then reassembles above Kado and swat him to the ground

Demgel: *cuts the fist in half through the wrist*

Kado lands nimbly on his feet, and wings made of fire laced with dark fire edges appear, and he soars up and lands on the giant's shoulder, and stabs straight into the stone, sending a heavily concentrated blast straight into the structure of the giant, blowing it to pieces and sending Hiroshi soaring, landing with a violent tumble and rolling for several feet, landing on his head, chest, legs, and back multiple times before skidding to a stop. Kado lands on the ground, with the debris falling all around him.

He then looks to where Hiroshi landed and rushes off towards his direction, determined to close the gap as quickly as possible.

Hiroshi: *brings forth several spiked-balls of steel and sends them toward Kado*

Kado leaps over them and keeps going, launching fireballs at him.

The spikes extend towards Kado read to impale him but all of a sudden their cut in halves befre they can even touch him

Hiroshi: *is astonished by this sight, but does not get distracted as he easily fling the fireball over his head and into a nearby tower*

Kado creates a whip of Dark Fire and whips Hiroshi with it, the tendril restricting Hiroshi and then tossing over towards Kado, who creates a massive searing wall of fire that races towards Hiroshi just as he is racing towards it, both move too fast to avoid each other and Hiroshi slams right into the wall of fire, the fires setting him ablaze.

Hiroshi: *is coughing and kneels on one knee and touches the ground. Silver coats his skin and heals his wounds. He gets up, stretches, then summons 2 steel shard razors and has one trace Kado and the other trace Demgel*

Kado glances at them, then sighs.

"You're too careless, Master. The shadows lie everywhere. And you should know fully well how formidable the power of shadow is..."

Suddenly the shadows of the shards rise up and become blacker than night, and violently impale Hiroshi in the lungs, and he can feel them rip into his chest cavity and expand, tearing at the entirety of his vital organs and blood vessels, blood gushing out of his body at an alarming rate.

Hirshi: *is breathing for quite heavily and collapses* you also forgot something too. The flesh is dust. And dust is of Earth...*stretches forth his hand and Kado body begins turning into solid rock ever so slowly* That that has been risen from dust...will return to the ground from whence it came...*coughs up blood* The shadows are everywhere, but the earth is everything...

The small pieces of rock tremble and fall through him, leaving a transparent version of Kado instead. He silently walks forward, and Hiroshi's leg buckles, as though something had forcefully bended his knees.

"And out of that void, what man later called darkness... God gave rise to the oceans... and then to the shores and the land. A mere infant the earth is compared to the power of Darkness. It's why many fear darkness. Because it is the true origin. One who masters Shadow can control and see many things.

Violence is not my way. Regrettably it is necessary." Hiroshi suddenly feels a sense of paralysis take hold over him as Kado comes close.

He raises his sword in an execution style, still flickering and shifting in his shadow form. "You're probably the greatest influence on my life, Hiroshi. Without everything you taught me... I would never have had the will to survive, to bring people together for a common cause and bring our justice to the world. We have a long way to go, and it will be hard. But... I just wish you could be there to see that future. I'm sorry you don't respect my dream. I doubt you're even proud of me for following the path I believe in.

Torrent had all of the talent... I was just the fool who could never please you." He closes his eyes and sighs. "Do you have anything left to say to me?" He opens his eyes again, staring down at Hiroshi who is still immobile.

Hiroshi: Are you kidding? I could never be prouder...*smiles* torrent was smart but violence controlled his actions. He was unsteady. Unbalanced. Like you, but you corrected your error and did better than you have before. Like how I tought you....I proud to call you my...*slowly lifts his hand up* son...*falls on his face* It does not matter what I think. It is what you think. Your belief. I may be just as big a paw *cough,cough* as you were. But now...where I'll end up being is unknown...Promise that you will take care of the girl...She does not deserve to fight and die by those she thought as family...just like you didn't deserve it...

Kado nods. "I would never let her come to harm. That I promise. I don't know about where you may go. That isn't for me to decide. But I can always hope that if and when you are judged, you are judged fairly. I'm sorry it had to come to this."

Hiroshi: Funny thing is..it never had to at all...*closes his eyes and awaits Death*

Kado closes his eyes and cutting off his emotions from overwhelming him, finishes it with a stroke to the neck with Dark Slayer, using its energies to dull the pain that would otherwise result from the strike, and Hiroshi simply goes without any pain. As the blood pools, Kado kneels on the ground with a blank desolate look on his face, hidden from view by his hair, which blows in a faint wind.

"...Be free of the pain of life... my master." He says softly. He sheathes his sword, and then takes hold of Earth Slayer, and gently puts it into its sheath, carefully wiping the blood off the sword of his master.

Demgel: *appears next to him* I could've blessed him, you know. Send him to a place he probably didn't deserve.

Kado doesn't look at him, just holds his master's sword. "Even though we are granted powers beyond imagining... it isn't our place to undermine the divine. It's too easy to play god. In reality no one should try. Without such limitations, we then allow ourselves to answer to no one. As much as that would be comforting... I would rather trust in a fair afterlife than cheat the dead. He did wrong... he made mistakes... but so does all who fights. So does all who call themselves warriors and soldiers."

He takes off his white robe, revealing his jumpsuit and the absolutely startling amount of weapons strapped to him. On his back, near the shoulders, are 8 places for swords to be secured. He puts Fire Slayer and Dark Slayer on them, and with more reverence places Earth Slayer in one as well.

Demgel: Are you gonna be ok,man?

Kado puts his white robe back on, covering his weapons.

"No. I generally never have that much luck." A few dozen soldiers wearing white armor with blue trim arrive.

Demgel: No such thing as 'luck'. Only miracles. *takes few steps and loks up at the Sun and sees greens strands of light coming aloose and there appear to be more and more sunspots all over the Sun. Narrows his eyes and begins to walk away*

Kado looks at the men. "Take his body and prepare it for burial." The men hesisate. "But isn't that....?"

"Just. Do it."

"...Yes sir."

"Off to somewhere then?"

Demgel: Yea. Nomad goes where a nomad is called to.

"In other words, nowhere. Very well then." He turns and takes out a spare mask and places it over his face. He then starts walking back where Naomi and the others are.

Gobble: Dude, we just saw the whole thing from here! It was all *making sound effects* and we were all like 'Whaaaaaaat' and then the other part was 'Holy Shit!'

"....There are no winners in battle. ...Only losers." He says quietly.

Gobble: Wow man. You just brought a new meaning to 'Winning isn't everything'. Man, I swear: Honor is overrated.

Kado makes a rather dark growl. "You know something....? You should really learn to watch your mouth."

He looks at the others. "How are you all doing?"

Avalia: We're all good. *looks over to an unconscious Seco* Seco's been out for quite a while now. His nose is broken and his back is shattered as well...

Gobble: The old man took it pretty hard I suppose. How 'bout the other old man? Is he dead?

Oliv examines Seco and begins treating his back with some kind of magic.

Naomi looks at Kado, who remains silent.

Eventually a sword slides into view, the sword Hiroshi had wielded, Earth Slayer.

Gobble: If you were gonna be all gloomy because you done killed him, why do it anyway?

"I doubt you'd understand. Like you said. You think honor is overrated. That alone proves you would never understand. It had to be done."

He pauses. "They were my family. They weren't just some random people I grew up with knowing. They were real people to me. ...Some of them were like my brothers, some my sisters... and some like parents. ...Old bonds can wither, but they will always still have a hold on your heart. ...If you even have one."

He turns and jumps onto a building rooftop and sits down, Naomi follows him.

Gobble: If he thought f them as family, why killl 'em at all? He's only lying to himself even more. The White chick definitely needs to die.

Avalia: It's far more complex than that.

Gobble: Yea, whatever. I wonder how much longer the old man is gonna be out.

Avalia notices blue flames burning on Gobble's hair, though he seems not to feel or notice it.

Avalia: Uuuuuuuuu...Ehhm....Aggghhh....aw dang *walks toward Seco and Oliv*

Gobble: *is sweating* Man, why do i feel so hot? *touches his head and flinches back* OW! What da fuck? Is my head on fire? Real mature, douchebag. *runs to the water and jumps in*

When his head is out of the water, the fire is still there, and he notices it isn't actually burning. Naomi looks over at him and winks.

Oliv looks up at Avalia. "It'll take me a bit, but I should be able to heal him, nose and all. Probably about fifteen minutes."

Avalia: That's good. Thank you, Oliv.

Gobble: *comes out of the water* Looks like I'm the new Johnny Test. *sits on the ground soaking wet*

Naomi laughs.

Kado looks towards the West. "I expect the others will arrive on Earth any moment now."

Back at India

Van Valeric: *looks at the Sun* Your time is almost come, ally. And the world will be void of all evil, and weary will perish beneath your thirst for decimation. No cannot stop what is about to come.

Freedooomm...Awaits meeeee.....So much chaos...Chaos...without me....is a sin...The Universe...will be my playground once again...

The Echo of War
Jonas takes down yet another crimson soldier, but more just keeps coming. They had burst out of the various underground networks under the cities, completely catching the defense off guard, and in as great or greater numbers than the first attack on day one. Some of their swords crackle with elemental energy, and he has to be careful, as a rather pesky lightning one had been eluding him quite well, stinging him repeatedly the past couple of minutes.

Jonas: Admin. They came from up under us. I dont think we can keep this up any longer. Every other agency has their hands full with guy like these.

The Administrator: No, no. It's ok. Hold you position. Let them come. We have an answer to the problem.

Jonas: Sure thing, Admin. *punches another crimson sldier in the face*

Suddenly from the rear of the enemy lines, Jonas can hear shooting, and he can't tell for sure, but it appears as though a group of armored men with insiginas he's never seen before have come up from behind the crimson enemies and flanked them, the sneak attack thinning out the rear guard of the enemy quickly. They appear to be similarly equipped as the crimson ones, but they clearly appear to be enemies, as the crimson soldiers are returning attacks.

Jonas: *is confused* Sooooo. Am I supposed to fight both of dese guys?

The crimson soldiers begin to retreat, sealing their entrances as they fall back into the ground, the few that don't are either captured or killed by the white soldiers. They notice the M.C.C.P. soldiers and Jonas, and tense up, seemingly more nervous than hostile, their energy shields held in front of them.

One of them speaks. "We're not your enemy. We're here under orders to assist in fighting the soldiers of Phoenix, the organization behind this invasion. You can ask for verification from those representatives and that president about it. We'd prefer it if you didn't shoot us in the back."

A shadowy form appears behind the white armored soldiers, and a masked man appears, one a few of the soldiers, and a very particular man recognize from the infiltration incident.

Jonas: Wait. Aren't you the guy who saved the uder' guys ass from me that one night when the facility was goin' to shit?

"You have a good memory. Not that it matters." He silently scans the ranks of the M.C.C.P. soldiers, regarding them with caution.

Jonas: Help us you say. You can start by clening up the dead guys. We're going to see if there are more flushing out the people. *headset* Hello? Status.

Soldiers: *is shoot at the crimson soldiers* Fighting for our lives at the moment. Might at the call you back. *smacks one with the butt of his gun and continues shooting*

Jonas: Hmm. We could come in on both sides and outnumber that way, but I don't know if more will come.

The masked man takes out a katana with a brown handle and blade, and stabs it into the ground where the crimson enemy had retreated, and he feels the ground lurch as a large section of the street collapses, the tunnels below collapsing on the enemy, with their shrieks of alarm signalling the attack had worked. He silently sheathes the sword turns back to Jonas.

"They won't be coming out that way again."

Jonas: Ummmm...Ok. Thanks....So are you guys helpin' us screw up the red guys?

"Yes. This is just our first platoon. We have plenty more on the way. If you see any particular Slayer wielders like me who stand out, let me know. I defeated the Earth Slayer Hiroshi recently, and I now wield his sword. If you see one with a water or air one, let me know immediately. They're the biggest threats to Earth right now."

He looks over at a particular man with metallic hands. "You can stop glaring at me now. Getting rather annoying."

Jonas: Sure thing. That shouldn't be so hard to find. *turns toward his soldiers* You heard him. Tell the others who aren't occupied what to look out for.

Soldiers do what their told

Jonas: Shouldn't be too hard.

Suddenly the ground rips open and Ripjaw emerges, chuckling. "Well well well! If it isn't little ol' mutt and the traitor!" He cackles again, and points a sword glowing green at Jonas.

"I've seemed to have lost my favorite pet dragon... know where I can find the metal bastard?"

Jonas: *looks at Ripjaw* Oh. Its you. Woopdeedo. Nice sword you got pointin' at ma' face there.

"I know, isn't it though? After all, it is infused with the power of that little elemental you seemed to care so much about... opps... hit a sore spot, didn't I?"

Kado's eyes narrow when he hears this, but says nothing.

Jonas: *closes his eyes and opens them again* Dumbass.

"Hmm. I don't believe an ass can be dumb. Unless they have brains... oh, do you refer to the animal then?" He says mockingly.

Jonas: If that animal is holdin' a sword up in ma' face, then yea.

"Well, I do believe this animal sent you packing to the infirmary before... how sad that little wolfy got all torn up."

Jonas: Dude, that was yesterday. So what? You don't think it's happened before?

Kado looks at Jonas. "Why are you not trying to kill this asshole? Didn't he say something about someone you cared about or something being trapped in that sword?"

Jonas: Yea. I know.

"Well the situation is that if he kills me, well, his girl gets to be a sword for all eternity, I'd imagine at least."

Kado narrows his eyes. "So one of these guys then... must be an old timer from the old days of Phoenix with that attitude." He reaches into his sleeves and pulls out his swords, a black and red one, then looks at Jonas.

"I don't believe I introduced myself. I'm Kado, former leader of Azure, and I think this guy needs his face introduced to his ass."

Jonas: Easy. Just put a mirror in front his face and there it is.

Ripjaw chuckles as Kado charges, and just as he is about to strike at Ripjaw, he erects a wall of stone infront of Kado, and Kado just sighs.

He slashes the block and the two swords clash.

Jonas: *watches and takes out a Blu cigarette and begins to smoke*

Suddenly Ameno appears in front of him and stabs at him with an sharpened arm of Earth, saying nothing.

Jonas: *is dodging while smoking while backing up at the same time* Come' on, babe. We can work dis out.

Her face is emotionless, a blank slate, and she continues attacking.

"Fraid she can't hear you, I pretty much wiped the girl clean of anything unnecessary, you know, emotions... thoughts... personality... who needs a sword that talks?"

Jonas: Apparently Sonic needs one. *takes the earth arm away from Ameno and breaks it in half and smacks her with both halves*

Kado suddenly disarms Ripjaw, and the sword lands far away, Ameno's image crumbles and disappears, and Kado continues his attacks on Ripjaw.

Jonas: *picks up the sword and looks at it for a while then closes it. Kisses the sword and walks toward Kado and Ripjaw with it*

Suddenly large stone spikes erupt from the hilt, stabbing his entire hand holding the sword.

Jonas: *ignores it and continues walking*

Kado knocks Ripjaw off his feet with a rope of shadow, and swings him into a building, Ripjaw letting out a curse of frustration.

Jonas: *is standing next to Kado* Hold. *looks at the sword one last time and walks up to Ripjaw*

"What exactly are you doing?" Kado asks.

Jonas: Lettin' it go. *holds the sword out to Ripjaw*

Ripjaw chuckles violently before grabbing it and lifing up a pillar of earth and flinging it at Jonas, but Kado impales it with Earth Slayer, and absorbs it.

Ripjaw pales. "Not... the original... but if you have the Earth Slayer.... why you little runt."

He slings more stones at Kado, but Kado either absorbs or cuts the attacks in half, and then proceeds to start jabbing him with precise jabs to the throat, which makes him cough up blood, before Kado suddenly lobs off Ripjaw's arm holding Ameno's sword, Ripjaw letting out an animalistic howl of pain as he does so.

Kado looks back at Jonas. "I am more or less projecting, but I don't think your heart has the leisure of just letting things go."

Jonas: *shrugs* Eh, more or less.

A soldiers tackles Ripjaw from behind and sticks him with a needle with pinkish fluid in it

Soldier: I got'em!

Jonas: Alright keep'em down! *runs over and begins releasing all his rage and fury out into every punch and kick. he is attacking Ripjaw so hard that blood and teeth fly out left from right*

Soldier: Holy crap, I think I see some dents in his face.

Jonas: Give me your gun...

Soldier: *tosses him the gun*

Jonas: Stand'em up...

Soldier: *stands Ripjaw*

Jonas: *is beating Ripjaw over the head with the butt of the gun furiously*

Soldier: I think I can see more dents...and pieces...

Suddenly Ripjaw grabs the butt of the gun, and rips it out of Jonas's grip, and smashes him as if it were a baseball bat.

''"Hee hee hee...!" ''Ripjaw gurgles slightly. He closes the distance between them swiftly, and begins battering Jonas with violent kicks and punches, each strike feeling more like Jonas was being hit by a boulder than a fist or foot.

Soldier: *comes behind Ripjaw with a large piece of debris and knocks him over the head with it and proceeds to beat him with it then looks at Kado* Don't just stand there like the retards who passed the robbed man. Help us! *continues to beat Ripjaw with his giant piece of debris*

Kado silently looks at Ripjaw, and then throws a shuriken at him, and he promptly ducks and kicks the soldier in the spleen, then charges at Kado, who simply stands there and lets him come to him.

Jonas: *rams into Ripjaw from the side knocking him down* Take Ameno and go. *pats his elbow, jumps into mid-air and lands on top of Ripjaw's neck and begins to beat his face*

Kado watches Jonas beat Ripjaw. "And that is why you just don't charge your enemy head on. I keep telling them that."

Jonas: Told him he was a retard. He just wouldn't listen. *continues to beat* Too busy laughin' like a' freakin' maniac.

Ripjaw suddenly headbutts Jonas, launching him into the air. "I AM a maniac! And proud of it!"

Jonas: Yea, and I'm the guy who doesn't give a shit and I'm proud of that to.*flies back toward the ground and lands on Ripjaw with his elbow in his face* Hello'

Ripjaw rolls out of the way and rolls right into Kado, who grabs him by the arm and flings him over his shoulder, and jumps up after him and begins slashing him in the face and stomach. As Ripjaw falls, Kado stabs him in the heart and twists the sword as he pulls out, ripping the still beating organ out of Ripjaw's chest and sending it into a sewer drain pipe.

Kado looks at Jonas. "So who's this Admin I've heard about?"

Jonas: It's pronounced "The Admin." and he's the due you do not wanna be fuckin'. Especially when all this shit is goin' down.

Kado looks as though he's going to say something, but three crimson lines run down his right cheek and his expression changes to something more sinister. "''I could take him." ''A different voice says in a darker version of Kado's voice, laughing from what it sounds like.

Jonas: Okay, that sounds beautiful. If you wanna fuck with The Admin. you can. Just don't expect anyone to jump in and save ya'.

One of the soldiers recognizes the red marks from a news cast about the London Incident.

Soldier: Hey...your that...guy we saw..back at London..you we're fighting and old guy right?

A dangerous smirk crosses Kado's face. "''That's right. What's it to ya?" ''A glint of red is in his eyes.

Soldier: Just wanted to thank you for getting us ready for all the death this shitstorm has brought upon us.

He looks like he is going to say something, but he loses balance and the red marks disappear, and Kado groans. "Damn it... why'd he come out...?" His voice is back to normal, but he suddenly goes ridged.

"...Tell your troops to get to high ground, Jonas."

Jonas: You heard 'em. Get to higher ground.

Soldiers get up and make their way to a new location

Kado stabs Earth Slayer into the ground, and the soldiers nearest to Jonas and Kado are lifted up along with them by a massive pillar of earth, which rises above the tops of the skyscrapers, where they behold a mind numbing sight. A endless wave of water is racing towards them, stretching from both ends of the horizon.

Jonas: No one told us a tsunami was comin'.

Soldier: Anything we can do sir?

Jonas: Can't fight water. Unless you just pound your fist into it.

Kado frowns. He sticks his sword back into the ground, and veins come into view as a massive wall of stone begins to rise in front of the city to meet the oncoming wave. It finishes just as the wall of water slams into it, barely enough to hold it back, and it races on away from the city, and Kado collapses, sweating heavily.

"I... managed to stop it... damn though... master must have been truly strong... if he could lift so much more land than that..." He pants heavily.

He looks out over all the water, and sighs. "...At least I managed to move it away from this city... not sure what will happen to others though..."

Jonas: Yea, but somethings got to give. It wont hold forever.



Jonas notices a figure rising up from the water's edge near the dam, a woman. She appears to be looking at them, with an aquamarine colored sword in hand.

Jonas: I think she's yours, buddy. Go get 'er.

Suddenly the air heats up as a black haired girl lands next to Kado, with a blazing aura of golden fire around her body, with fox ears and five tails.

"Sorry I'm late, Kado." She says quietly.

The girl on the water seems to take a step back, surprised.

Jonas: Where did the little girl come from? She yer' sister?

Kado sighs, and puts on his mask. "Do I LOOK like I have fox ears to you? She was the Fire Slayer's apprentice at one point, and if I didn't get Fire Slayer, it would have gone to her."

The fox girl looks at Jonas. "I recently left the organization after Kado told me the truth about the organization. I always believed what we were doing was bringing salvation to the Earth."

They look back at the water, and the girl approaches in mid air, walking on what looks like a faint puddle of water. She stops a few good few feet away, hovering in air.

"...Kado... and Naomi... For a deserter for most of their life, I didn't doubt you would arrive. To hear that Master Hiroshi lost to the likes of you disappoints me. But what disappoints me more is the fact that you betrayed us, Naomi." She frowns. "Come back to us now and White will forgive your momentary lapse in judgement."

Soldier: What should we do, sir?

Jonas: I don't know. I feel so out of place right now.

Kado looks at Jonas for a moment, and then Jonas feels a sensation as though someone's thoughts are tapping against his own, trying to grab his attention.

Jonas: *looks at Kado* You need something?

''"Give me a hand here and tell me what capabilities you have. I need to weigh my options here. ...I'm not very familiar with Toma in comparison to the other members of Phoenix." ''His voice echoes in Jonas's mind, as an additional mind seems to link them somehow.

Jonas: Well i got claw reaction, supernatural condition, enhanced bite, immortality, and regenerative healing factor. And that's only the ones i can remember.

Kado frowns. "Think you can distract her? I need time to see how she fights..."

Jonas: Fine. I'm already beat up anyway. *takes one step and disappears*

Kado looks at Toma, and draws his katanas.

Naomi looks at her as well, a slight air of hesitation in her eyes. "Toma, we don't have to fight... there are other ways of carrying out justice!"

Toma looks at her. "Like what? Ask them to change their ways? So naive."

Jonas dahses past Toma and knocks her over the head

Jonas: How 'bout start and uprising. Sounds like a good place to start with human rehabilitation.*dashes past Toma and knocks upside her head again*

With his second strike, he goes right through her, her form turning into water. As he leaves the space where her body stands, she creates a whip of water and lashes it around his neck, and flings him toward the ground.

"There have been plenty of uprisings. Like the uprising that gave rise to Hitler. Or the communist revolution of China. Or the Russian Revolution, which lead to the conflicts known as the Cold War, Vietnam, the Cuban Crisis, and need I not point out the Korean War? Humanity had their chance. Now... it's time for Mythos to get their cut in life. Able to stand free and able to live their own lives in a society that accepts them for who them am, not mindless tools.

You have no rights. No freedom. No future. Except this. Violence. Death. And Hate. All feed, bred, and grown by humanity." She says quietly.

Jonas: *lands on his feet* Sadly, I have no right to think. Your talking to a Myth who saves humans lives for a job.

She raises her sword to the sky, and massive clouds begin to form at a violent rate.

"A job, or slavery? You only say that because you have no choice. But tell me something. If you had the chance, would you really want to have to live your life by the sword? Would you really risk every day with the possibility that that lover of yours might die?"

Jonas: Hey, you gotta do what you gotta do, right? Also, I recommend you ask yourself the same question.

Toma looks at Jonas. "I would gladly die for this cause. Humanity throughout the ages has caused suffering for no other reason than self gain. Not just Mythos, but also themselves. They justify hatred and violence on mere differences such as race. We didn't have a choice in the matter, why should we suffer for it? This is my call. To put an end to humanity's ruthless crimes once and for all. Time and time again they have been given a chance to change, but willingly remained true to their nature. All beings should be free to live. The animals should be free to live in the wilds, free and without imprisonment in bars. Humans should accept others and not care if they are different, and promote their own freedom of self. Mythos should be free to use their powers how they see fit, to benefit others and live in the pursuit of happiness."

A dark look comes over her face. "No one should have to be a slave. I knew the answer to the question I asked you when I was a young girl. That is my answer. I am a soldier, fighting for the day of salvation. Your cause will not stand against the might of the righteous."

Jonas: I'm doing this i'm givin' mankind another chance. Hopefully after all this is over, they'll learn something. I guess you can say we're both soldiers. You can be Captain America and I can be The Winter Soldier. Sound good?

A drop of rain splats onto Jonas's shoulder, and strangely stings. He looks at it to see a small hole dripping with blood. Toma silently stares at him for a moment.

"There is no such things as heroes. Only winners, and losers. No villains, and no heroes. Ally and foe. Freind and enemy." She sheathes her sword. "You... are my enemy."

Jonas: So you wanna be Aqua Lady or somethin'? Besides we dont have to be enemies...We can talk about our feelings. I'll start. Mhm. So how are you doin', Aqua Lady?

The sky begins to darken with rainclouds, and drips of rain begin to fall around them. Each time one hits Jonas, it stings like fire.

"I think not."

Jonas: Well you don't have to be like that. But I must say, it feels like a 'sauna' in here. Get it? Progressive? Love those guys next to the Geico commercials.

She suddenly rushes him, incredibly fast and deadly as she closes the gap in almost no time, and begins laying on him various brutal martial arts moves that are quick and agile, fluid and graceful. And deadly.

Jonas: *is blocking and dodging most of her attacks* Duck,duck,duck,duck,duck,duck,goose. *flicks here forehead.

As his finger makes contact with her head, he feels a burning in his arm, and visibly it looks as though the arm is suffering necrosis.

Jonas: Hm. *sarcasm* Oh ma' gosh it burns, make it' stop.

The Two Shadows
A lone figure slowly appears on the vast plains of ice of the south, the cold a mere sensation, after all... how many times was it that she felt herself dying to hypothermia before? She can't even remember now. She stares off towards the north, already feeling the negativity flowing from battle.

"So it really is proceeding as bad as I detected..." She says to herself quietly, out of habit. The long white hair she has had since death stretches down an inch past her feet, not cut once. She prefers it untamed, unbound. The weight simply a reminder of the many countless years lived. She looks up to the sun.

"I wish it would all stop... but wishing won't do anything... only those with the will and the power can end the violence... perhaps once humanity has recovered from this, I'll put a stop to it myself... wouldn't that be a interesting fantasy..." She muses.

She pauses after a moment. "...So he's here too... I guess he wasn't kidding, must be preparing that welcome party for his little friend."

India

-

Van Valeric: *is watching the life of the sun unfold* It is almost time, my ally. Freedom is almost yours.

Yeeeesssss...Almost miiinee...

Valeric feels a strange tingling as though the presence of a great eye is bearing down on him, at first a mere buzzing, but eventually grows more persistent and now much stronger in his mind. He almost misses it, but he thinks for a moment he picks up a faintly familiar presence along with the gaze, and then it begins to recede until the gaze feels almost like the faintest pinprick.

Van Valeric: I never thought you would want to venture this far. Sorry for the scenery, but your children are playing War against humanity. Which is all fine by me. What does bring you here though?

No response comes to him, though he figures out that the presence is coming from the far south, in the polar icecaps.

Van Valeric: *looks back at the Sun* I'll be back later. *disappears*

The One Behind the Curtain
Toma breaks out of the rubble, panting. Every bone in her body still screams from the pain. She sees the werepyre get back onto his feet. ''Great. He's already kicking again. But Kado isn't... if I could just get a moment's rest... I'd probably be able to finish him. But then there's the damn mutt. Arrghh. I guess I'll just wait. ''

Jonas sees the enemy manage their way out of the skyscraper, and is considering attacking when he hears a panicked voice on the radio.

"SIR! Emergency! We're under attack, but I have NO IDEA what's hitting us! It's just a flash of light and then, 'BAM'! Dead! All of em! The only reason I'm alive-"

"''Is because you were a coward." ''A voice says coldly, before the man's screams ring out as a sickening crunch echoes from the other side, and then silence except blood drips. The radio turns off with a click.

Jonas: Whoa. I just heard the evil in her voice. Ya' know her?

Toma looks down at Jonas. "Yes. Sadly for you. What's even more sad for you is that I'm not foolish to stick around and get caught in her attacks. Bye." Toma disappears in a reverse rainfall.

Suddenly Jonas hears a soft footstep behind him, and turns to almost instantly be blinded by a searing white light in front of him.

Jonas: *shields his face with his ahnds* Ah! AH, MY eyes! It BUUUUUURRRNS! NOOOOOOOO! *over dramatically falls over*

Jonas's yelling makes Kado wake up, and he struggles to his feet. "Ow my head... why are you yelling like that?" He groans.

Jonas: Because it hurts, man! Ooooowwww. Why does itve to be so briiiiight?!

Kado takes one look at the light and growls. "White..." He growls.

The light fades to reveal White smirking playfully. "Kado," She replies simply.

"''White...!" ''Kado growls again, tightening his grip on his swords.

"Annnnd let's not start that dumb cliche." She says as she kicks him in the face straight into a building.

Kado stumbles out of the wrecked wall. "Damn it... so fast!"

White yawns. "Honestly Kado I couldn't go any slower probably."

Jonas: *is crawling around with his eyes closed* Where is everbody? Don't ya' see a blind manhere?

He feels a tap on his forehead and his vision returns just in time to be kicked into a building as well.

"Hope that helps." White says, then moves her head to the right to dodge a stab from Kado effortlessly. She proceeds to merely adjust her head or simply step back to evade every single one, and then without effort flicks his forehead and he becomes acquainted with the wall again. When he gets up, a thin line of blood oozes from the spot she flicked.

"Not to offend you (not that I care), but I'm more interested in taking that mutt to the pound than fighting you."

Jonas: *lands on her cerebral cortex* Man dude, I hate it when people treat me as if i'm an animal. Everyone knows when you mess with an animal you tend to loose a limbo or two...or three...maybe even four...and a screwed up face for the fun of it.

As soon as his feet touch her body, she whips out from under him and roundhouse kicks him straight into Kado, who had just gotten ready to charge.

"ARRGH!" Kado yells. "Hey, would you mind getting off me?!"

Jonas: not my fault this crazy white bitch rounhoused kicked me into you! *gets up* gotta plan to take this bitch down?

"Does 'not die' sound like a good one to you?"

Jonas: You know? I'm getting real sick and tired of hearing that answer.

"Well sorry I only met her one time, and that was right before she ordered my execution!"

White looks at Kado. "Actually you've met me before. Many times."

He turns and glares at her. "I'm sure I have, haven't forgotten you're a shapeshifter too."

"That is not what I meant."

Kado blinks, confused.

"Forget it. Another time."

Kado growls. "NO, we settle this NOW!"

White appears next to him in less than a second. "Not interested." She suddenly shoves Jonas's head down a manhole and swats Kado a few feet away from her as he tries to punch her face.

Jonas: *gets his head out the manhole and his head hits the back of White's head and trips her, while he maneuvers unto his feet*

She makes an agile flip onto her feet, and looks completely unfazed. He thinks for a moment he can see large scales on her face.

Jonas: *is disgusted* Ugh. look like one of them reptilaian alien thingies I see all over the Interwebs.

The scales disappear. "You shouldn't insult a lady's appearance."

She sighs and holds out a finger, and stops Kado's blade with it. Not a scratch. "You're going to have to be a bit more creative than that..." He stabs at her again, but she merely sidesteps him, and dodges various martial arts moves.

"Sloppy. Slow. Sloppy again. Timing off by five seconds. You hit like a toddler." Are among the many passive remarks she says as she dodges or is unaffected by any of them. Finally she forms her hand into a claw formation and rakes Kado's face with it, causing large gashes in his face.

"AGGGHH!" He crumbles to the ground, holding his face. His blood drips from her hand, and looks toward Jonas.

Jonas: *helps up Kado up* Come on man. What happneed to 'not dying' being apart of plan? I'm guessing you just threw that out into the wind.

"So pathetic. Is this really all you have Kado? You turn your back on us just because of one little test and spout nonsense about equality between humans and Mythos and justice? Has these past years really been nothing but a game to you? If you were really wanting to defeat us this whole time, you should have trained til your knuckles bleed and nothing else. But instead you play hero and try to change a system that has been broken from the very start. A system that only fools have tried to change. Guess what Kado? They all died, crushed underneath the cruel engine that is the world.

You should have never have come here. I'm not surprised that you could have managed to sway Naomi over to yourself... you're both fools. Fools die great together in pairs. I'm not surprised Hiroshi lost to you. His heart was not in the right place. But did you seriously think... for one moment? ONE MOMENT, that you could BEAT ME?! With that pathetic strength? That measly will?! You will never be strong enough. ''Never. ''Now go play hero somewhere else while I burn this world to the ground and make it anew."

She spits on the ground, and begins walking away, while Kado furiously clutches his face, deep in pain. "Damn... you....!"

Jonas: Yea, yea. You can curse her later, but now wee need to go. All personnel, move and clear out.

Soldieir run away

Kado tries to move out away from Jonas to keep fighting, but fails. "Damn it all... she has to go down damn it!"

Jonas: I thought the plan was to 'not die'. Man you suck at following plans.

Jonas and Kado make it a couple of blocks before Azure soldiers show up. "Sir! Are you alright? Get him some medical treatment for that wound!" They bark orders around, and a healer walks up to him and begins treating and healing his face, though he has to hold in grunts of pain.

One of them approaches Jonas. "What happened back there?"

Jonas: Some white bitch came over and decided to hand this dude's ass to'em. I say she did pretty good with that.

Suddenly an explosion rips apart the buildings from far away all the way to the closest buildings behind them, and after the dust settles, White stands there, her finger pointed in their direction.

"Did I actually say that you were allowed to leave, wolf boy?"

Jonas: I don't know. You sure didn't say anything about keepin' me.

In the blink of an eye, she is right over him, her sword baring down on his head ready to impale him. Just as the blade touches his skin, she leans in and says, "Heh, lucky devil."

Suddenly she breaks away from him and flips backwards just as a woman with black hair slams her fist into the ground where White was a moment ago, the impact strong enough to lift the ground Jonas is standing on and make him lose balance.

''Am I too late to join the fun? ''The woman's voice rings in their ears.

Kado blinks in surprise. "I thought you were at the south front."

''The south front crumbled so quickly I barely was needed. Thought my help would be better served here.''

Jonas: Man dude, did you bang all these chicks or what? Because for all I know, she's pissed at you for not givin' her child support.

Kado sighs. "You have a wonderful way with words. Azula is a longtime friend. White is the true definition of 'almighty bitch'."

White smiles. "Didn't your mother ever tell you to watch your language? Someone needs their mouth washed out."

Azula glares at White. ''You won't touch him again. EVER.''

"And how's that?"

White's eyes widen in surprise as Azula manages to ram a punch into her gut, and send her flying into a tall building. She lands on the wall, and the whole thing cracks and crumbles.

''I will completely. Utterly. Destroy you.''

"Well, have fun with that darling. I very much doubt you can."

Jonas: Actually, I think I'm getting a somewhat of a lesbo vibe from the white bitch.

The two charge each other, and the two exchange blows, White is faster and stronger, but Azula seems to hold her own. White fires a beam of light at Azula, but she deflects it with a shield of darkness, then makes a spear of lightning and jabs at her. White ducks back and trips Azula with a sweep of her leg, and Azula rolls back to her feet.

White suddenly flies up into the air with dragonic wings, and Azula silently snarls.

Come back here!

Azula takes a deep breath, then has a silver glow. ''Mythologic Adaption. ''She suddenly sprouts six silver wings, and rockets up after White. White is waiting for this, and begins rapid firing spheres of condensed light, which when Azula dodges, rains down on Jonas and the others like bombs, exploding with violent force.

Jonas: *is dodging the raining lights as much as he can* Crap Crap Crap Crap Crap Crap!

Azula charges a sphere of energy, which becomes a shield dome over them, protecting them from the rain of death. She then fires lightning bolts at White, who gracefully flies out of the way each time.

"Ah, such effortless strength! You really are something else Azula!" White laughs.

Shut up you wretch!

White creates a spear of light and throws it at Azula, who manages to dodge, but the spear sails onward and it impacts into a section of the city and causes a massive explosion.

Azula flies at White and tackles her, the two spiraling down toward the ground, throwing punches and kicks.

Jonas: So guy. You do ya' think is gonna win this one?

"Azula. She's never lost. Never. I have faith in her. She will win." Kado says without question.

Jonas: I know why you only said that because she's on our side. Also, you say that because you hate the white chick.

"People tell me that I'm a great leader. ...No. I'm not. Without her, I'd still be lost in those streets, stealing food from corrupt street markets. I would be fighting tooth and nail, without a reason to fight. Without her... I couldn't be the person I am now. She's made me who I am. ...That's why. I trust her. I believe in her.... ....And I love her. ...She won't lose. ...She can't."

Jonas: Well, I hope you two can live you lives in peace and all that other happy shit after all this.

Azula suddenly drop kicks White into the ground, shaking the ground violently. She lands, panting.

''And... take. That.''

"No thank you." White says, getting up and dusting herself off.

Azula begins punching White in the face repeatedly, drawing blood a few times.

''Why... won't... you... just... DIE?!''

After countless punches, White suddenly raises a hand and says, "Stop." And Azula stops, a fearful expression on her face as she obeys the command.

White dusts herself off again, and straightens her clothing. "Well now... that was certainly exhilarating... but enough is enough."

''I'm not finished yet!!! ''Azula yells. She throws another punch, but White grabs her fist and repeats herself. "Stop." And once again, she freezes, only this time she doesn't move.

"That's better."

Jonas: Hey guy. you didn't tell me your chick was the white chick's bitch.

White looks at Azula. "I think it's time to end this game. Don't you?"

''No... what's happening....?! Why... why can't I move?!''

"I've been meaning to collect for a while now... but there were too many complications... I had hoped to do this while no one was watching... but now time is against me... and I need all of my weapons available... for phase two."

A dangerous light gleams in her eyes.

Kado growls. "What have you done with her? Stop it now!"

"I'm afraid it's too late for that." She turns towards Azula again. "I think it's time we began in earnest... now... Awaken... Zeta 'A' 290!"

Azula begins to let out a horrid scream, as her body glows golden and six massive angelic wings rips forth from her back and black armor begins to form around her body, and six additional arms grow from her shoulders, all jet black metal.

As the metal armor begins to cover her face, she falls over, her dimming eyes meeting with Kado's.

Kado has a petrified look on his face, as he hears:

"I'm... so... sorr- so... sorry... ''f-for-forgive... I...I-I love..." ''

She goes silent, as her eyes dim and the faceplate finishes forming over her face.

As Kado drops on to his knees in shock, White grabs her by the hair, and a dark smile grows over her face.

"And now... everything is ready. All members of Phoenix. There's been a change of plans. Evacuate and await further orders at Yosai. ...And the Spearhead has been aqquired."

As she and Azula begin to disappear, Kado rushes White. "NO! ''I WON'T LET YOU TAKE HER!!!" ''He screams. Suddenly Azula punches him in the gut, and he is sent flying, and lands in a crumbled heap. Azula and White finish disappearing, leaving Kado breaking down in insane sobs of grief.

"''DAMN IT! DAMN IT DAMN IT DAMN IT!" ''He screams. His men stand in terrified shock.

One of them turns on his radio. "...All members of Azure. There's been... an unfortunate incident. ...Leader Azula... has been lost."

Jonas: Well shit, dude. Looks like both of us lost our chicks. But don't worry, we're bound to get them back soon.

Suddenly a heavy pulse of electromagnetic energy ripples from Kado, and electricity from the city begins arcing into him.

A surge of power bellows from him, knocking them all back, and a voice echoes:

''This world... all it does... is take... no matter what... it's always about someone else. Take take take take take take! No one ever really was concerned about me or how I felt. Everyone... looked at me... as a savior... a hero... a leader... but I didn't want that... I never wanted that! All I wanted really... was to be happy... as long as I was by her side... ...the rest of that didn't matter. It didn't matter what they took...''

''But now... ...now... ...there's nothing. ...Nothing left. ...why should it be about anyone else.... why... why...''

''.........I'm tired of the world taking from me... ...everything... ...so now...''

I'll take everything from the world.

Jonas looks up at the center of the blast, to find Kado standing, with pale gold eyes and red markings covering his body, his hair much longer down to his waist and partially covering his eyes. Surrounding him are strange tendrils of red light that flicker with strange red markings as well, ending in sharp blades. The look in his eyes reminds Jonas extremely of many Mythos he's fought in the past, empty and almost lifeless. But also a deep, burning anger. His form flickers with what looks like red lightning.

Jonas: Hey guy! I know how that's like! Everything was taken away fro me too, ya know? I lost my life, man! My rents left me and I had to live on the streets for centuries!I've spent the rest of my centuries in a capsule! Only being woken up to go out into the field of war! It was a meaningless life, man! Up until Ameno came! Then them Phoenix bastards took her away from me and I couldn't do shit about it! But that doesn't mean I have givin' up! We all have a responsiblity in life! It all depends iwe're strong enough to take it! And right now you aint bein' a team player'!

One of the Azure agents pulls him back as one of the tendrils nearly stabs him. "Careful! ...This is really, really bad. We're going to need a suppression team to handle him..."

Jonas: Here! Take this! *pulls out a collar and throws it to the Azure agent*

As Oliv and her men arrive, Kado suddenly collapses onto a knee and holds his face in agony. After he stops, he gets back up and looks up at them again.

"Kado! What's wrong? Are you hurt?"

''Only from the selfishness of others. ''

He flinches, as a crack runs down his cheek to the middle of his chest, a golden light flickering through it.

"...''I guess it's not a complete union... tch!" ''His eyes glare at them. He slowly turns and begins to walk away, the energy around him fading to a slight black aura.

Oliv tries to charge after him. "Explain yourself, what's going on here?!" She yells, but one of the tendrils smacks her back, and she lands in a flip on her feet.

"''I'm done serving others, done with their hatred, done with struggling every day of my life. For no purpose. For no gain. For no happiness. I'm done with you sheep constantly begging for me to help you. You want help? Help your fucking selves for once. You all have no backbone. That's why the Mythos takes orders from the humans and enslaves their own. Because they don't have the guts to stand up for themselves. Especially not you." ''He growls at Jonas.

"''If you want to have a new leader, Oliv, might as well nominate yourself." ''Kado walks off again.

Jonas: Tsk. you sound like like a blue haired kid I knew.

Gobble: Hey Jonas! *waves*

Jonas: *looks over his shoulder* Hey Turkey! What's up?

Goble: nothin' much at all. Just becam captives of another plan of Fantasy and shit, but nothing too too bad.

Jonas: Good good. Hey where's your ol' man?

Gobble: you know...sleepin'. Ol people be gettin' tired way too easily these days.

Jonas: Yea, I hear that. Tell him I said 'howdy'

Gobble: Sure thing, man.

Oliv looks about, then sighs. "We have so much work to do..." She takes her radio out. "All members of Azure, begin rendezvous to our coordinates. We've lost very important members of our family today... and we still have no idea what the future will hold tomorrow. We will relay all information in coordination with the humans, and act accordingly. I just hope we will make it through tomorrow..." She turns her radio off. She notices the sword of Ameno in Jonas's hand.

"That a Slayer?"

Jonas: Hmm. *looks down at the Slayer* Huh, will ya' look at that? It is.

Oliv reaches a hand out to it. "Is it that person you mentioned that was taken away from you? May I see?"

Jonas: Sure thing. Better in your hands than the other guy's. *tosses her the Slayer*

She looks the blade over carefully, before letting out a sigh of disgust. "These seal designs are crude and barbaric... not at all like the quality of Phoenix's. Let me take a crack at the seals." Her hand begins glowing as she runs her hand along the blade.

Gobble: *peaks over her shoulder* Cool...

After a minute, her hand clenches into a fist, and she begins to pull on some kind of green orb, with seven similarly colored strings of energy attached to it. After a violent tug, the strings break and the orb descends towards the ground, growing into the form of Ameno.

"It's done. She's no longer bound by the blade." The sword cracks and crumbles in her hand.

Jonas: *looks at Ameno* R-really? I-i it really her? *slowly moves toward her*

Oliv nods. "Yes. It is. Can you do me a favor? I need to speak with the President and or the representatives, can you find someone who can arrange a meeting tonight?"

Jonas: *falls to his knees and hugs Ameno* I-I can convince The Admin. to scheduale a meeting...I can sure try...

"I understand if you need some time with her, but understand that we are both an organization and a nation. The sooner we establish the situation, the better."

Gobble: Whoa Jonas. You didn't tell me you had a chick. *whispers* Did you finally get laid?

Jonas: Don't you have another dimension to go back to?

Gobble: *backs off* Well I'm sorry, man. Im just bein' happy for ya.

Oliv sighs. "You're a handful, Gobble. ...I cannot believe that's your nickname."

Gobble: You should. When it comes to someone like me, the name just fits. *winks at Oliv*

"Uh huh. Let me know when you get in contact with him." She walks off, and starts talking to various other squad leaders.

Gobble: See ya', Jonas *follows the rest&

Jonas: *continues hold hold Ameno*

Kado runs. He leaps from windowsill to windowsill, light post to light post, anything to get away. ''From the pain. From the memories.''

''Who am I... I don't know anymore... ...I don't know anything...''

''Not... ...not without her...''

Jonas: *talks to himself* I hope yer endin' can be as happy as mine, guy.

Kado finds a operating train, and while it moves past him, he jumps onto one of the cars, letting it take him away, where ever it might be going.

''Where doesn't make a difference... hell is still hell...''

Ameno: *Opens eyes* WHere.... In the.... HELL am I?

Jonas: You here, with me. And not in the hands of some crazy-cookoo-bastard guy.

Oliv sighs. "First Kado resigned, then Azula was corrupted... now Kado has abandoned us... this is really a rough patch... I'm not sure what to think right now. I just hope Kado will come to his senses..."

Avalia: *walks up to Oliv" Oliv, what all happened?

Gobble: Our captor of martyrdom finally pussied out of his job.

Oliv gives him a look that pretty much says, 'I'm going to order a nuclear strike on your ass'.

"To answer your question Avalia... it really wasn't Kado's dream, Azure that is. It was Azula's. He was the one who could fight if given direction, and could win. She was the one with the dream. She dreamed of a future of happiness, justice, and order. Kado was desperate for something to hold on to, and resolved to help her. He fought because that's what she fought for. When he fought... he was fighting the battles Azula couldn't. And she gave him the drive to succeed. ...From the very beginning... she was his rock, his very foundation. For him, she meant everything. And now she's gone... turned into the very thing he fought to defeat. An instrument of hatred. ...with her gone... there's pretty much nothing left in his heart."

She sighs. "I very much doubt anyone could appeal to his heart now. I don't think anyone can reach him where his heart has crumbled."

Avalia: *has a saddened look on her face* So much is happening. What if we loose everyone?

Gobble: Then we live underground for the rest our lives, duh.

Oliv looks at Avalia. "Cheer up. Azure has suffered many adversities before. This war is just another one to add to the heap. We will make it through this, not matter the cost."

Avalia: Then we'll be standing by you, no matter the cost.

Gobble: *confused* We?

Avalia: *slaps him ober the head*

Gobble: *rubs the back of his head* Yes we.

"I thank you. We will decide our next move after discussing with the leaders of the humans the current situation. In the mean time, I would suggest not speaking to any M.C.C.P. officials if you can avoid it. We don't need fights to break out right now."

Gobble: Sort of hard. No doubt The Admin. will just destroy us after the whole invasion thing is over. He's a douchebag like that. Mythos are still Mythos. Whether they help humanity or not.

"I'm afraid invading Echo is going to be a much different ballgame than he realizes, Gobble. You see, you only were able to access Echo that time because we left our rifts wide open. Since your attack, we sealed off any and all rifts large enough to detect. The only way to access it now would be from being teleported there by a being with the specific knowledge of how to travel to it without instant transportion, or..." She breaks off. "Never mind, it was destroyed many years ago. It would never be possible."

Gobble: Well, I'm glad you got that covered. But I keep an open mind if I were you. The Admin. is one skivin' bastard.

Avalia: I have to agree with Gobble. The Administrator is one scary dude.

"I fear no one. Even if he is to be feared, the only true fear I will feel is that of the judgement day."

Gobble: Which will be brought to you by The Admin.

Oliv sighs. "Well you're certainly shiting your pants. That MUST require some degree of effort to get that result..."

She looks over at Jonas. "How are you feeling right now?"

Jonas: Like all of Jesus' bitches when they found out he rose from the dead.

"I see then. Don't forget about my request now. We're going to start relief efforts. I have a feeling that we ground troopers will be little more than cannon fodder in the days to come, if the enemy hasn't given up yet."

She signals her men to investigate the area.

Jonas: you hear all that, Admin?

The Administrator: No.

Jonas: Lie.

The Administrator: Keep your mouth shut and it won't half to be.

Oliv looks at Jonas, and then winks. She suddenly jumps into the air and gracefully transforms into a eagle, and flies off, a storm of feathers blowing in the wind as she jets off into the sky.

Jonas: *watches her leave* Yea...that's exactly what I'll do...

Ameno: Alright. What's next? I think I can fight again...

Jonas: *sigh* Well, that's all we're gonna be doin' today, apparently. *hugs Ameno tighter* I'm just really glad yer' back...

Ameno: *Hugs back* I know, hun. I know. Lets just get the job done, okay?

Jonas: Ok... *gets up and begins to walk toward their next destination*

Unstable
Oliv appears outside the building where the President and Representatives were said to be meeting, turning to normal and noticing the security watching her.

"Excuse me, I need to speak with the President on some urgent matters."

Guard: Do you have any approval by anyone from The World Council or any one associated with the Branches?

"I am General Oliv of the forces of Azure. I must speak with him."

Guard: fine. But we're going to have to escort you. *takes the lead while the other stays behind Oliv*

She allows them to escort her, but she remains tense on the off chance they are trying to trick her. Her years on the streets taught her to never trust anyone in politics. Anyone.

''The guards take her through several hallway turns and finally they make it to two big double-doors. They open the doors and let her in. All there is, is the President staring out his window.''

Guard: Mr. President. There is someone who request to speak with you.

The President: *turns from the window and looks at her* Oh, come in, come in. Please take a seat.

Oliv takes a seat opposite of him. "Thank you for allowing me to speak with you. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Oliv Walker, 1st General of Azure."

The President: *nods* Honored. I assume you are here under the circumstances of the war.

"Yes... I am pleased to tell you that in our battle this day we defeated many of the enemy with little casualties, and even managed to defeat Hiroshi, the Trimaster of Earth, the battle of which occured at Okasa, Japan. ...However... something else happened... during an engagement with Toma, the Trimaster of Water."

The President: I had gotten reports of a flood occurring in one of our major cities.

"Yes. It was her power, but it was stopped after a strange plague of darkness occurred... and mere moments later that incident came another. All of the members of Phoenix, even their foot soldiers started disappearing left and right. ...then their leader showed up... and.... ...I think it's better if you saw for yourself."

She takes her hand to the side of her head and when she pulls her head back she has a sort of memory storage unit in her hand. It flares to life and begins replaying the battle against White, and to the President's surprise, shows Azula's corruption and Kado going insane with grief, then deserting.

Oliv bows her head. "...That is the situation, sir. ...No leader... in the middle of a war... on top of the crisis back at home... I'm afraid that the situation has become poor, for both of us." She takes the device, and slides it along the side of her head, and when she moves her hand down, the device is gone.

The President: *sigh* I always thought the man was strong, but there is only a motivation that drives men's hearts. He's obviously lost his. He is right though. God is punishing us for our sins, but we must take our punishment like men and endure. Even if it's too hard to move forward.

"To come so far... and after all of this... it seems too cruel. ...I just wish I could understand how to reach him... .....but I digress. We were told that something was coming soon... I'm worried. It feels like Phoenix is up to something even bigger than before. I don't know what.... but did you hear what she said when she did that to Azula...? ...She said 'Spearhead.' That concerns me. I almost wonder if Azula ties into everything somehow."

The President: She might. But we have to be on aware. We must brace ourselves for the blow that is to come and hope that we can still walk away from this alive.

Oliv closes her eyes. "A question, if I may. What do you think of Mythos? We know that your people show little regard for the treatment of Mythos, but what of the man who leads the people? I'm not talking political bull right now. I'm talking person to person. What do you think of us?"

The President: My fellow man wants me to hate them for leveling our past generations and our great nation. But I look at them and I see them surviving, not destroying. In many ways they are like us. their capable of so much more. and I believe it or not, but I believe that Myths are the ones who deserve this planet, not the human race. We have fallen too far from the grace of God and the Myths grow larger in numbers and their hatred is unrivaled. It's only a matter of time before we die out.

"...I see. But does your political beliefs reflect that? Or are you like all of the other two faced bastards?" She seems to speak from some sort of previous experience.

The President: Believe me, I used to be two-faced myself. Not everything can be about politics, right? Days like that become fairly confusing.

Oliv sighs. "I will report in if I get any news. However, I feel as though going forward beyond whatever end this war has, as though nothing will have come from this. Man will still oppress the Mythos. And we will be caught in the middle. I trust you need not an explanation of what our organization stands for."

The President: I don't mind if you educated me a little. What's wrong with a little bit of new knowledge, right?

"Azure stands for equality and justice between the races. We judge individuals by their actions, not where they come from or what they are. Mythos are treated like humans, and humans like Mythos. All are given fair justice. We try to help the ones who have lost their way, and give them new purpose. We fight the hatred with compassion, rather than swords and guns.

This has been our philosophy for years. Since our start five years ago, we have endured and overcome many trials. We have fought many battles and many wars, and fought to promote our belief in the better nature of all who live. That is why Azure originally attacked the M.C.C.P. in that small attack a month ago. Because the ideology of this world and it's peoples clash so violently with our own... we felt the desire to right the wrong we felt was been done. Even after this war, President, without change in the system, I'm afraid that Azure cannot ignore or overlook what we feel is a heinous crime in this world."

The President: I see. Sounds like everything I wish the world could be. Then i wouldn't be in such af tug-of war with myself and my nation.

"Azure was a mere band of street rats once. We wished a lot too. We never imagined our actions would accomplish anything. We just lived our lives trying to change the world, one step at a time. Whatever it took. Wishes can come true. But you have to have the will to see them become reality. While it is good to have opinions and wishes, what good are wishes and opinions for those who never act upon it? While it's true the world is cruel, I've noticed that those who fight for what they believe will always have a better chance of getting it. Waiting for change or simply wishful thinking will never accomplish anything."

The President: Believe me, we fought hard for the good of this nation, but we somehow find ourselves short. Our work turns to be in vain as generations beyond generations undermined what we had to go through to make this nation great.

"And yet you don't fight back?" She responds.

The Presidnet: *gets up from his chair* Oh believe me. We fight back. But sometimes you can only fight for so long. We have enough fight left in us. I just wonder how long we can last.

"That isn't what I meant. If you're willing to fight, then why are Myth's being oppressed? Or have you given up the fight there? It is pointless to have ideals if you aren't willing to fight for them, President. Sometimes a leader must make choices his people will not approve of."

The President: Same with Abraham Lincoln. In the end he was killed by his people. Besides, I know it will not change anything, because this is the will of God.

Oliv closes her eyes. "Coward." She stands up. "Enough of this. I've wasted enough time. I have an operation to oversee. And a future you've left to rot to save." She begins to walk to the door.

The President: You cannot save a doomed race. I don't intend to save anyone. Just to keep my people alive and well and hope that the Myths can make it home.

Oliv opens the door, and looks at the President. "You're the ones killing them off..." She says in a low voice, before closing the door behind her, and ignoring the guards, sees herself out of the building.

She has always hated politicians. After all... they're what made her the way she is...

The President: She's gone now, Obi.

A shadowed figure falls from the ceiling and lands on The President's desk

The President: I hope your taking advantage of this invasion>

Figure: Ooooohhh, sure thing. Mr. Strigg. So many have come to us. After this hullabaloowe can reside and grow. Hopefully we can recover quicker than the rest...They'll be in safe hands. the hands of The Party. Everyone loves parties. *laughs* But mmm. Depending if the rest of the underworld took a large blow, we can strike them hard and be rid of The Under Empire.*laughs*

The President: Then keep doing your job. Keep your people safe and i'll be with you momentarily.

Figure: Sure thing Mr. Prez. *leaps over the President and jumps out the window* WHOOOOOOOO!!!

The President: That man never believed in doors.

Paris, France: The Rising
The Administrator: *radio* We've recieve reports that a beast with enormous wings about 8 feet and appeared to have a beak has been sighted. jumbo is around here. Scower the area and find Jumbo.

Aria: I'm already on it. I'll get him, don't worry. *cuts the communication, and proceeds to pick up a ton of bags, from various storefronts in the area. Instead of her usual outfit, she is wearing a gray, form-fitting dress, with a brown belt, and knee high boots.* I don't think I've looked for him in this shop.Oh, a cafe! I definitely didn't look for a monster in there...

The Administrator: Do not get distracted. The world is already being leveled out by the invaders. Keep you mind focused.

Aria: A little late for that, don't you think? How are you even still connected?*sigh* okay, let's see...*Her irises turn to slits as she listens for any sign of mythos activity*

A Serpent comes from under the Eiffel Tower and scales up the tower.

Aria: And there we are. I guess it's time to work. * leaps onto the roof of the cafe, and runs towards the Eiffel Tower. When she gets close enough, she leaps from the roof of the building, sending herself flying at the giant snake*

A CRAzy leaps right over her.

CRAzy: Mytho detected. *slams its feel into the Serpent's neck, causing the the beams to bend*

Serpent: *hisses in pain and turns head around and bites the CRAzy's side*

CRAzy: *Double Ax Handles the Serpent in the eye causing it to let go. Grabs on to one of the beams and swings back up and plans its feet in the Serpents face into the tower*

Skana: *Wakes up on ledge of Effle Tower* People, people, settle down. Someone want to tell me what happened out here? *Pulls out Cronos* And, fine lass, please do not wear skirts above men below.

Serpent: *coilds back around and gobbles the CRAzy*

CRAzy: *opens up the Serpent's mouth and shoots a fireball in its mouth. It jumps unto another beam.*

Serpent: *chokes and coughs out smoke*

Aria:*looks up at Skana* Hey! Don't judge my choice of fashion.*knows full well she isn't wearing underwear* Who do you think you are, anyway? I mean, seriously, sleeping on the Eiffel Tower?*Leaps across the beams, being careful not to get crushed by either the robot, or the snake*

Skana: Skana. I am Skana, young lass. And I have no home out of MCCP. Sightseeing is my hobby. *Flies over to Aria*

Aria: Awww, you called me young...wait, you're with MCCP, too? They take anybody these days.

Skana: Ah, so you must be Aria. I heard you were coming. The Admin warned you would eat me. *sheaths sword* But, lass, why are you here?

Aria: Uh...Eh?*gestures towards the CRAzy* EEH?*Gestures to the giant serpent,leaping as it's tail smashes into a nearby beam* EEEEHHHH!?*Gestures at all of the insanity occuring on the side of the freakin' Eiffel Tower*

Skana: Don't not worry.

Skana pulls out Cronos and slices the serpent' head off.

Skana: Would you like coffee?

CRAzy: 8leaps off the Eiffel Tower and lands on the nearest cafe* Mytho has been destroyed. Scowering the area. *walks off, looking for more Mytho activity*

Skana: *Touches earpeice* Yessir. Be there soon sir. Yessir. Got a job. See ya 'round Aria.

Lost Way
Kado sits on top of the train, silently listening to the rumble of the train as it rolls on the tracks. A gloomy day overall, and he thinks he can smell the rain come.

''My head hurts... I can't think... ...Who am I...? ...Does it even matter anymore? ...I have... nothing left...''

He hears the train come to a slow stop.

''I guess.... I need another ride then... still too close...''

Once the train stops, people run off in a hurry. After everyone leaves a man wearing a black leather coat, holding a scythe along his shoulders walks off.

Med: I still can't believe there's and active train down here. You figured after all that crap happening up there, the surface would've crumbled by now. *looks at Kado* Hey look, it's the Ungrateful One. Oh Ungrateful One, aren't you not glad that our paths have crossed once again?

I can feel that he is hurting deeply. Like he's feeling all since of purpose in his life. It's so sad.

Med: He must've been very ungrateful about his life then,if he sees he has no purpose than to be ungrateful. Sucks to be you, guy.

Kado suddenly whips his head up toward them and leaps back, his face filled with both confusion and fear.

"''Keep away from me!!! Who are you?!" ''He snarls.

Med: Wow. I cannot believe he forgot us that easily, after all we did to save his ass.

Demgel: Yea, basically what this guy said. I'm the guy who helped or atleast semi-helped you take down that guy was flingin' rocks and shit at you.

"Go away."

Demgel: Hold up. *turns around and has a conversation with Med and Leg*

Kado's eyes gain a faint gleam of red, and he starts getting antsy.

''A trick. Going to attack us.''

''Must react. Fight.''

Flight.

Fight!

FLIGHT!

Kado suddenly bolts off the top of the train, running towards the distant ruined buildings, seeking to hide in the many alleys and corridors created by the ruins.

Med: Oh looky there. He was so ungrateful he didn't say goodbye. WELL SCREW YOU TOO, UNGRATEFUL ONE!

Leg: Demgel, we have to go after him. Believe it or not, he needs help.

Demgel: Alright. *jumps on top of the train, bolts off and follows after Kado*

Kado's eyes glow fully red.

''He follows. Going to kill us. Fight. Fight. Fight! FIGHT!''

Kado's next footstep creates massive cracks in the ground, causing two large earthen cubes to rise up and attempt to crush him between them.

He then leaps up into one of the buildings, and runs into one of the more intact sections, trying to hide.

Med: *looks at the cubes* Ah mother fucker.

Demgel: *wall jumps on the ear cubes and makes it to one of the buildings*

Med: Where to now, Sherlock.

Demgel: Shhh. hold up...*listens intently for Kado* He's close by. *runs toward where h hears Kado*

Demgel eventually stops, when suddenly the ground shifts into a steel fist and gives him a wicked uppercut that slams him into the ceiling, while Kado's body swirls out of the ground, causing cave ins in the corridor as he runs.

Demgel: *licks the blood streaming from his mouth and his eyes turn red. He takes another route to get to Kado*

When he turns the corner and sees Demgel, he doesn't stop, instead speeds up and a pair of shadow hands appear and draw two of Kado's Slayers, while one of his normal hands draws Dark Slayer, and in his spare hand he charges a sphere of dark fire.

He first blasts Demgel with a shot of dark fire, while then using the explosion to stab and slash at him with the three swords.

Demgel: *almost at blinding speed blocks the two swords with his hands and the third with his knee. He maneuvers around and spin-kicks him in his pelvic area*

Kado crashes through a wall and drops down towards the streets below. Just as Demgel goes to get him, a burst of fire blasts him back as a massive multicolored flaming bird-no, a Phoenix erupts into being whose heat is so strong it burns him, even from that distance. The bird begins firing huge blasts of fire at the supporting structure where Demgel stands, making it start to crumble and fall. It lets out a shrill screech of rage.

''The rocks some how levitate in the air and entraps the Phoenix in a sphere like cage. Demgel is seen with black wings with a red outline and red eyes.''

Med: Well, I'll be damned. It's Satan's Pet.

Suddenly a blast rips apart the rocks, before they reform into a metal armored giant connected with a fiery interior, in the style of a samurai. It starts lobbing fireballs with giant boulders at great speed, the first one slamming into Demgel and the rest simply piling on top of him. It then rushes the pile and kicks it, sending both Demgel and the boulders flying up high into the air.

''No one wants to help me. Everyone just wants to use me. I won't be used anymore!!!''

Demgel: *takes the boulders and they form into spears of netherstone and they all impale the Phoenix and once they all do, they explode with fiery force.

Kado falls from the explosion, but lands with great force on the ground, still somewhat uninjured. He forms many countless rocks and chunks of earth and makes them into solid steel, and launches them at Demgel, each of them coated with a thick aura of darkness that streak at him like homing missiles.

''Keep away from me! I don't need you or your help! Play god with someone else's life!''

Demgel: I am no God. *stops him with just his finger and Phoenix disappears only leaving Kado instead*

Leg: Just tell us what troubles you, honey.

Kado snarls, and begins to breath unsteadily, red energy flickering about his form and his figure blackening, Demgel can sense massive Negative energies beginning to concentrate around him, rage, pain, suffering. Loss.

Suddenly a wall of energy forces Demgel back as Neo completely takes over, and Demgel looks up after coming to a stop to see six red streams of Negative energy, almost snakelike in form.

''Kill... Kill... Kill everything.... ...that hurts.... ...make it stop...''

Demgel: Hm. Well never get anywhere unless we can open up to him.

Med: Do we hit him harder?

Demgel: I don't know...

Suddenly he draws Dark Slayer and blasts him with a massive wave of darkness, while the red streams of energy lash out at Demgel, one comes close to impaling him and he can practically feel the hatred burning within it.

''They've taken everything away... ...time to take it back! ...And burn them! Crush them! Leave them to die!''

Demgel: *is unaffected and slaps Dark Slayer out of his hands* Stop poking me and speak words. You ain't no Hulk, man.

Leg: We're only trying to help you. You can only trust us. Well, everyone excluding Med.

Fuck-you!

Neo begins angrily punching him in frustration, screaming furiously.

''Die! Die! Die! Die! Fuck you and just die! ''

Demgel: *is unaffected* You know we can do this all day, and it will won't change anything.

The next punch is incredibly weak, and then Neo collapses onto the ground, beginning to sob uncontrollably, gradually changing form into a helpless looking girl. Demgel can feel Kado's consciousness lingering, but it is simply too clouded with pain to respond to him.

Med: Whoa, talk about transgender.

Leg: *punches Med's arm*

Med: Owww!

Leg: Stop it! *touches the girls head* What's the matter, honey? You can always tell an angel.

The voice that comes from her is incredibly broken sounding, between a rasp and a choke from all of the crying. "...Broken.... everything feels..... broken.... ....like broken glass....... .....everything hurts.... .....I just want it to stop...." She breaks down into more sobs.

Leg: *looks sad* Aww, I don't like seeing others cry. Like I said, you still have us.

".......I.....have....no one.... ....I have..... nothing.... ...nothing left.... nothing worth.... fighting for..... to live....why.... ...why did this happen to me.... why can't I.... just be happy... ...I just want to.... hold onto something...." Demgel feels Kado slipping.

Demgel: I know how that is. Wanting to feel happiness. I constantly ask myself, what is my purpose? Am I just doomed to take happiness away from others and not belong anywhere. What am I to do? You see. Your purpose and your fate lies in the hands in God. And if you put your life in his hands, he'll guide you to happiness. It may be a tad bit harder for me, but it can definately work for you.

The girl seems to collapse into a silent slumber, unresponsive, as Kado's consciousnesses quiets to a soft murmur of intelligible thoughts and memories, occasionally crying in her sleep.

Med: Sooooooo....what now?

Demgel: *picks the girl up* We take her with us.

Med: Ofcourse. We just can't leave her for dead, can we?

Demgel: No...not this one anyway. *walks of among the shattered buildings a burnt debris*

The girl makes a low moan and eventually stirs, feeling soft grass. ".....Where.......?" Blank gold eyes open up slowly.

Med: Oh shit! Dude, look at her eyes!

Leg: Med, how rude! They look beautiful.

Demgel: *is taken back by her eyes*

Med: I know right!

Leg: How are you feeling, honey?

The girl tries to move her head, but seems too frail to do so. "......"

Demgel notices this seems to be a different soul than that of actual Kado, and now that he thinks on it, there was another one present controlling Kado's actions as well, though more darker, while this one seems very light, but very weak in comparison, while the dark one was incredibly powerful.

Demgel: Your someone else, aren't you?

The girl makes an effort to speak, but gives up and listlessly nods.

Demgel: It's alright. You don't have to be shy around us.

The girl coughs weakly. "...Who....?"

Demgel: Us. My name is Demgel. The red, pudgy one is Med, and the angel lady over there is Leg.

Leg: What's your name, dear?

"...Name.......?" The phrase seems to confuse her.

Demgel: Yea, you know. What people call you.

The girl's expression alone seems to point out she doesn't know her name, or doesn't have one.

"...I haven't been called anything before..." She makes an attempt to sit up, and manages to do so. She looks at her hand as though she had never seen it before.

"...I don't even... know who.... or what... I am...."

Demgel: Hey, its alright. I know how that's like not knowing who you are. I just woke up about some weeks ago and I don't remember anything. Even my own name. Well, i gotta call you something.

"....You're not going to.... call me the name of a body part are you....?"

Leg: *laughs* I like her. She's so adorable when she jokes.

Demgel: Hmmm. *he sees a card blow away into the wind. He gets up and catches the card once it touches the ground. He looks at the card and it's and Ace Card* Hm. How about Ace?

Med: Man dude, that's a boy's name.

Demgel: So is Terry, but that somehow worked for the eldest McGinnis. What do you say?

The girl blinks slowly, and makes an attempt to stand up but stumbles and falls back down. She slowly tries again, and manages to stand, though extremely wobbly to the point Demgel swears a slight breeze could blow her over. She looks up at Demgel, and she now has pupils, and the golden eyes seem more alive now.

"A-Ace....?" She stutters.

Demgel: Yea, Ace. You like it?

She nods vigorously.

Demgel: Ok then, Ace. you hang with us until this war thing blows over. *stretches forth his hand towards Ace*

She slowly reaches for his hand and takes a hold of it, just by feeling her touch he can feel how weak physically she is, he could probably severely hurt her by mere accident.

Demgel: Looks liek you gonna have to still close to us. Your abit too fragile.

Med: Sort of like an uncooked spaghetti noodle.

Leg: Med!

"What's.... S-Spa-ghe-tti?"

Demgel: Basically, ummm. Noodles or like strings you can eat. I'll probably show if I find the given resources.

Ace slowly reaches down to her stomach and puts her hand on it, after which a slow growl emits from it. "My stomach hurts...."

Demgel: Must be hungry then. Here. *takes a Snickers bar out of his coat pocket and tosses it to her* Eat up.

Ace looks at the Snickers bar with great curiosity, until Demgel has to help her figure it out and open it, then she slowly proceeds to eat little portions at a time.

"Where are we going?" She says with a mouthful of Snickers.

Demgel: Away from here. Let's get going.

Med: As long as the wind don't blow you over. *laughs*

Leg: Med! Be quiet!

She continues to slowly eat the candy as she walks after him, though very unsteady on her feet.

She curiously looks at Med and Leg, then at Demgel. "...Do you fight with your other selves?"

Demgel: Nah. Just these two.

Ace blinks. "You don't fight one another? ...Even though you're different...?"

Demgel: They fight. Sort of. But not alot. If it weren't for me being here, they would actually fight alot more often.

Ace head gradually lowers, and she stops eating, just silently walking with them. "....I see....."

Demgel: Besides, they only fight because they wants what's best for me. They want me to feel happy. and with them being a devil and an angel, they have a different view of what happiness is. Even if they are different, ehave one goal: To protect me. Sort of like how my goal is right now.

"You're trying to protect someone? ...Who?"

Demgel: She's walking right behind me.

"......." She slowly stops, and Leg sees the slightly blank look in Ace's eyes has returned. "....But.... ....Shield is dying... ....no one can protect me now..." The blank look becomes almost sad. "....I.... ...I'm not even meant to exist...."

Leg: Oh don't say that, dear. We're all here for a reason. Tell yourself, if you werne't even supposed to exist, why are you even here? Everything in and on this world has a purpose, it all depends if you have a guide.

Med: Hail Satan!

Leg: NO! *beats Med down* NO! NO! Don't listen to him he's a devil. I mean God. He tells us that we are here to serve him and if we serve him, then we already have a purpose. He has a plan for you, Ace. Though you may not see it now, trust God and he will show you.

She gets sadder and sits and curls up into a ball. "...You don't understand... we're dying.... ...We're going to disappear.... ...forever."

Demgel: You not going to disappear, if you keep saying you are. There is power in words. and the more you say it, the more likely it will happen. Stop worrying about dying and just live. you anna say you lived a good life don't you?

Med: Half-life.

Ace starts crying. "Shield... Shield is dying... ...you don't understand.... ........you're trying to protect him by protecting me.... ...but he's already dying... ...he's been dying since her...."

Demgel: Then let me help him. Stop saying he's dying and let me help him.

"......But how do I do that.....? ...I... ...I don't even know myself.... ....I'm just a fragment of Origin..."

Demgel: Hmmm. I got. I can enter your mind and try to save him.

"...You will....? ...But why are you helping him? ...Origin is the real one.... we're just... his fragments... ...we don't have a right to exist.... ...we're borrowed minds.... bodies... ....souls..."

A voice rings out. "Damn it Ace, just up and be useful for once! If you want to cry like a baby then fine! That's all you've ever been useful for! Cry cry cry cry cry cry cry! So annoying! Just kill the damn bastard and then fight me!"

Demgel: *has a stern look on his face* Well screw you completely. *touches Ace's forhead and he is instantly in Kado's mental mind*

Med: Cool, now where Mindnaughts.

Demgel quickly spots Ace, who is curled up next to a tree in the middle of a snowfield, seemingly sleeping. Further away from her almost in a circular effect, the area appears to crumble into some sort of void, across the void he can see what looks like a cityscape, where red and yellow lightning flash.

Med: Man, screw Mindnaughts, this is feakin' meta-Inception....

Demgel: Let's get going then. This isn't anything new. *walks toward the cityscape*

Med: Technically it is. i mean how many minds do you enter each day? None.

As they get closer, they see a small dark figure get knocked down and slammed into the ground just on the edge of the city, though Demgel can't see where the being that struck the dark one down is.

Med: Oh shit! It's the fall of Lucifer all over the again!

Demgel: *goes up to the dark one*

Neo rips a boulder on top of him off himself, then looks up at Demgel and bitterly cackles. "Oh look, it's Gloomy Nephalem, Stinky Demon, and Angel Breath! Come to join the party ehh?"

Med: Worst insult EVER! Man dude, you really need some work on that, man.

Neo laughs, then whips his head forward as a clap of thunder roars, and the scene becomes a pure white flat field, and ahead of them Kado lies on the ground, with a strange humanoid shape that is barely visible from all the white holding up a sword execution style, readying to impale Kado in the heart.

Demgel: Yep, you were right Med. This is defiately super meta-Inception.

Med: You mean I am right.

Demgel: Sure fine whatever. *full sprints towards Kado*

As soon as he gets close, the being waves its hand and Kado's form sinks into the ground, while it introduces Demgel to the painful sensation of getting its foot planted square in his face, knocking him back towards Neo.

"Oh hey, you're back." Neo cackles.

Demgel: *manuevers back on his feet and cartwheel kicks Neo in the face, then kicks hi in the knee cap dislocating it, then buts him in headlock ith a blade point at his neck*

Med: Ohhhhhh snap. He's got youuuuu, soooon! Ohhhhh.

Demgel: Where is he?

Neo looks at him with irritation. "Ummmm.... dumbass, why don't you ask Origin that? Oh, and by the way, Origin is about to introduce your head to your ass. I'd dodge, just a suggestion. Though I would like to see that."

Demgel: *trips him makinghim flip over in mid-air then drop kicks him in the back forcing to slam on the ground8

Med: Well, he sure introduced your ass to the grouuuuund! Oooohhhhh!

A whip of yellow energy lashes around Demgel's waist. Neo looks at Demgel with a slightly pissed off expression. "Ok, before I say goodbye: I just told you that Origin was coming. Second of all, you're an asshole. And three, keep that shit up and good look fighting Origin on your own. Ok then. Goodbye asshole."

The whip suddenly pulls Demgel towards Origin, which deliverers a massive spin kick straight to Demgel's stomach, and smashes him into the white ground below.

"So you are the Nephalem I sensed. Annoying beings you are... don't you know that it's the job of spirits to keep balance, not you mini gods strutting about the place?"

Yellow lightning flickers about its form, briefly illuminating its barely visible form for a moment.

"I am Origin. I am the Original, TRUE Kado. I am taking back what's mine."

Med: Your gonna take back a little girls body that happens to be weaker than a twig? Noooot the best move in the world, guy; just sayin'

Demgel: *gets up* What's your purpose for taking his body?

"Body? Hmmph. Forgetting the bigger picture. All that I am is a mere will. I was stripped of all emotion, all memories, devoid of sensation and body, devoid of thought and soul. Neo... Shield... Ace.... as worthless as calling broken pieces of glass a name. I'm simply putting back the pieces. Their souls belong to me. Their minds belong to me. The body they share... is mine. What right do you have to deny me my right to exist? It is my right, and mine alone. I will devour and destroy anyone who gets in my way. That is my purpose. Leave and I will let you off with a warning once I make my return to the world."

Demgel: There are some people who still have a right to live. If their so broken, why not give them ther own bodies? Cast them out of this one?

"Only together do they make me who I am. Without them I am nothing more than a bare consciousness struggling in the void. You know what happens to wills without a soul who pass on? Nothing. We just disappear. A soul fragments, it creates new wills to replace the one central will. Two souls unite, both are destroyed and a new singularity is born. Only the strongest wills survive... I believe that's what you could call that apparition that attacked the world in Darkness not long ago. A will devoid of a soul to call its own. Were it not for my original intent to preserve my being, my shattered self would have developed into three separate new beings, with their own body. They're nothing more than jigsaw puzzles meant to be refitted back to their complete form. Stop wasting my time. I have the only right to exist... they're just fragments of me. They aren't like you or I..."

Demgel: Neither are Myths or humans. Myths were never supposed to exist, but here they are. You were never supposed to exist, neither was I and since were existing anyway, why stop someone else from existing too?

Origin begins to descend to the ground silently. "Because if I allow them to exist, I have to disappear. There is no place for me without my original soul. I cannot see heaven. Or hell. No one would even care if I passed on... they don't even know I'm gone. I will not accept this fate. To fade away. It's every man for themself.... I choose myself."

He lands, each footstep connecting with the ground discharges a massive pulse of energy, which changes the enviornment into a vast lava field with slabs of cooled rock and open pools of lava. Neo appears and lands next to him.

"Hello again, asshole. I assume you got your face introduced to your ass by now? No? Too bad. Anyway.... mind not beating me up for no reason this time, General Patton?"

Med: Hey man, you we're being an asshole to us first. you didn't think he was gonna be an asshole back?

Neo sighs. "Urrrrggghhh. Point taken. ...Ya didn't need to hit me though...."

He looks up at Origin, who begins violently sparking with yellow lightning. "Oh that's lovely. Heads up, beware if he shoots lighting at you. They're his version of Spirit Hands. He gets a direct hit on your chest and he'll eat your soul. I had a close call not long ago."

Demgel: *dodges two so far by tilting his head*

Neo draws Dark Slayer and slashes at Origin, who flickers and appears an inch out of the way, before he fires a concentrated blast of yellow lighting at Demgel.

Demgel: *draws forth Death's Scythe and slashes the lighting bolt in half, then sprints towards Origin and slashes at him*

Origin sidesteps and creates an energy blast that knocks him dangerously close to the edge of the nearest lava pool.

Demgel: *the lava behind him rises and it slams into Origin*

Origin easily manipulates the lava into flowing around him, then begins firing shots of high speed chunks at Demgel, all shooting bullet speed.

Demgel: *cuts all the bullets in half*

Origin creates a yellow energy chain with a scythe on the end, and while the lava continues to pelt Demgel, he begins to swing the scythe in an arc, the blade quickly gathering speed, and then swings it at Demgel with great force.

Demgel: *jumps back and has his scythe entangled with Origin's*

Origin suddenly yanks on the chain hard, launching Demgel forward, while he creates a energy sword with his spare hand and brings it down on Demgel's shoulder, the blade biting into his bone with ease, the flesh around it is seared, and Demgel's arm is made momentarily numb, then Origin blasts Demgel back even farther, throwing him into lava.

"This is my world. My mind. My soul. No one else's. Begone and be forgotten."

Demgel: Easier said than done. *does a spin attack launching lava everywhere and frees him from the blade*

Origin sighs. "''I have no time for this." ''He suddenly launches himself at Neo, who barely manages to dodge his first attack, and right as he is about to get struck by the second hit, Origin disappears, and for a moment Neo looks confused, before swearing violently.

"BASTARD! He's going for Ace!"

Demgel: How are we going after him?

Neo grabs Demgel. "''Ya damn got brain rot?! Get to Ace before he does!" ''Neo phases through shadows dragging Demgel with him multiple times, until the snowy field Ace still sleeps in comes into view, with Origin already bringing his sword down to execute the sleeping spirit.

But before he can do so, Kado appears in front of Ace and takes the blow meant for her, the blade tearing into his whole right side and draining him of spiritual power, his body lies on the ground, literally looking like broken porcelain. Origin's form begins to take on a more solid appearance, becoming a ghostly, slightly older looking version of Kado with dark yellow eyes. A yellow aura surrounds him, with yellow lightning flickering about him.

He points to Ace's throat. "And now she's next."

''The scythe turns into a spear and extends. It impales Origin and pins him to the tree.''

Leg: *teleports to Ace and touches her face and teleport her next to Demgel and Neo*

Med: What's good, asshole?

Demgel notices that Ace hasn't even budged or done anything other than sleep and breathe, making him wonder what is with her. Neo sighs with irritation. "Sleep sleep sleep sleep... all she does is sleep. I've never understood it. Sometimes I wonder if she's just a damn doll. Never could get close enough cause of damn Shield getting in my way if I so much as tapped the neutral ground to try and get to her side...."

Origin growls, before ripping the spear out of his chest, and a yellow shield erects around him in all directions. "Troublesome brat... what's it to you if they live or die? You don't even know the damn fool to begin with!"

Demgel: I see someone who needs help, and I'm obligated to help them. *scythe turns into a buzzsaw and begins shredding Origin*

Origin's eyes flash, and the buzzsaw barely nicks Origin before Demgel is violently repelled, and lands within an altered version of the cityscape he saw.

Origin growls. "Nice try. But I believe it's time to step up my game here... now... ''get out." ''Demgel suddenly finds himself in the real world, as Origin rises up from the ground, transparent but very much in control of Kado's body.

"Confused? That's the power of a Mediator. In otherwords, I control and command the other spirits of this body. I'm basically the Alpha of the pack. And in my body, that includes you I'm afraid. If I don't like someone in my body, I can eject them. Now... to business."

Origin creates two energy swords, one blue and one red in color.

"En Garde." Their blades clash roughly at the same speed.

Demgel: *slashes at him at mach speed*

Origin jumps over the attack, and lands perfectly on the blade, slashing at Demgel's face.

Slow Motion

Demgel: *duchs back to where the tip of the blade nearly touches his face. Then he moves his scythe from under Origin and swings it back around and swings at his head*

Origin ducks, and sinks into the ground before appearing in Demgel's shadow and stabbing Demgel's side, before moving back out of range.

Demgel: *uses his shadow and stabs him in the with his scythe*

Origin hisses, but then chuckles. "You know, this is a shared body. Gonna make clean up a b*tch for ya later." He fires a blast of negative energy at Demgel.

-Kado's Soul

Neo sighs. "Why am I stuck babysitting what's essentially a damn doll?! ...I bet with Shield gone I could kill her and take over this damn body... ...but I know that damn Demgel would be right on my ass before I could say 'cheeseburger'. ...Damn it 5x5, you and your Earth food memories! Why did Azula have to show him those anyway?!"

He glares down at Ace's still sleeping form, which he's forced to have on his lap with Med and Leg supervising him.

Leg: She looks so peaceful when she sleeps.

Med: Meh.

Demgel: *gets knocked back* I need to think of something else. *looks at his two emblems*

Origin begins firing more and more negative bursts, faster and faster, trying to keep Demgel on the defensive.

Demgel: *twirls his scythe, deflecting the bursts and uses one of his emblems as it shines it fires crosses of light at Origin*

Origin manages to dodge, but barely. He begins shooting yellow lightning at Demgel in response.

"Forgot... should have expected as much. Damn Nephelim..."

-Kado's Soul

Neo silently looks at Ace, and watches Med and Leg out of the corner of his eye. ''If that bastard does kill Origin... he'll still have to restore Shield. While he's doing that.... I could probably get away with Ace and devour her before these two notice.... then I won't get in trouble with Shield. In fact Shield would probably protect me in that scenario... wouldn't want one of his precious pieces dying...''

''Well... I'd probably have to devour her while running from these two actually... I wonder if they actually have any teeth to their bite? ''

Med and Leg are right next to his face

Med: Man dude, you really need to learn how to whisper.

Neo sighs. "Weeeeeellllll fuck. I suppose this is the part when you decide to beat the shit out of me, right? I'll make it easier for ya." He holds his hands up behind his head. "Arrest me, officer."

Leg: I am not going to do such a thing.

Med: But I will! *summons a giant neversword and impales Neo against the tree with it* And it gets better! *snaps his fingers and razor blades pop out of the edges and they begins to rotate*

''"Stop." ''A quiet voice says from below Leg and Med, and the nethersword suddenly crumbles into snow, and the wound in Neo's body closes. Leg and Med look down to see Ace's eyes slightly open, a blank soulless pair of golden irises. She silently gets to her feet, walking up to Neo and to their surprise, shoves him away from the tree, which she hugs gently, a blue aura surrounds it and the damage done is reversed. Once this is done, she rests up against a uplifted root as her bed and the trunk her pillow, and her eyes begin to close again, until she falls asleep again, not before she mutters,

"Leave..."

Neo blinks in surprise. "...She never talks. Never wakes up. Why now?" He looks at the tree. Even though she restored it, it still looks wilted and nearly dead regardless.

"....You don't suppose... ...nah." Neo walks off, away from both Med, Leg, and Ace, sitting down on the very edge of the snowy field. "Oh, you guys, I'd take her seriously and leave her alone. If she can turn that pretty sword of yours into snow, I'm pretty sure she could do plenty to rearrange your face. ...And don't hit the tree again. ...You'll probably make her angry." He calls out to Leg and Med.

"...Though she might like you more, Leg. Might be able to get her to talk or something."

Leg: *looks at Med with anger*

Med: I had to pin him down somwhere.

Leg: *punches Med in the face*

Med: *falls over in pain* Owwww.

Leg: *flies up to Ace and watches over her* You sleep well now. Demy will do something to help you.

Origin dodges another volley of the crosses of light. "Don't tell me you're going to start shouting that old line, 'the power of Jesus compels you', right? I ain't no demon."

Irritated, Origin suddenly creates many countless pillars of solid rock beneath them, sending them high into the air, the only footholds are the many pillars he created.

"Let's make this more interesting." He makes his energy weapons disappear, and readies into a martial arts stance, the horse. "Come on. Show me what ya got."

Demgel: *gets into a Judo fighting stance*

Origin suddenly launches himself forward at Demgel with iron chains and delivers a painful spin kick to the side of the head, followed up by a flurry of jabs and half inch punches to his stomach. He lashes Demgel with the chains like a whip, then lashes them around Demgel's throat and throws him into the side of a pillar, which begins falling from the impact.

Demgel: *jumps out from the impact and head butts Origin in the face*

Origin flips backward and lands on the side of a pillar, using the quickdraw style to unleash a massive explosion from Fire Slayer, decimating everything in front of Origin's swordstroke.

Demgel: *moves out of the way and launches himself at Origin and kicks him in the gut then roundhouse kicks him in the face sending him flying into a pillar*

Origin finds himself stuck in the pillar. "Well of all the ridiculous... ...well... ...no more mister nice guy..." Origin extends his hand towards Demgel, and his arm begins sparking with negative energy. "We'll see how you like this..." He suddenly fires a jolt of pure negative energy, which strikes Demgel on the head, sparking some of his more painful memories to well up uncontrollably.

Demgel: *has his hand on his head as he almost looses his balance*

Origin blasts Demgel again. "Not so tough now, are ya?! You should really learn to mind your own damn business!" *Blasts him again*

Demgel: *flalls down trying to hold on to the pillars. closes his eyes and focuses, until the point he gets back up and begins to make his way toward Origin*

Origin begins to flicker, as darkness begins seeping from him in a vast wave, almost a flood.

Demgel: *begins to run toward Origin*

Suddenly a large shockwave emits from Origin, as the entire area is encased in darkness.

"Know Fear... Hatred... Pain..."

A ring of 10 Origin's appear around Demgel, and begin firing Negative Energy at Demgel at rapid speed.

Demgel: *his mind can't handle it any more. his eyes turn to light blue and his emblem shines and finally an explosion of light blows all the negativity away and in the midst of the light there is a figure with wings can be seen from. The light clears and it only leaves Demgel and Origin*

"Grrrrrr.... damn it."

Origin begins to shadow warp, trying to get some distance from Demgel, not sure of his next move.

Demgel: *shoots a beam of light from his finger and it as it hits origin, he finds it that he cannot move*

"''D-Damn...! ...You-You bassstard!" ''His eyes light up with fury and a twinge of fear.

Demgel: *slowly walks up to him* You said you wanted me to know fear.Pain. Hatred...right?

"''Grrrrrr...!" ''Origin desperately tries to move. "You want to kill me eh? Got news for you. You kill me, there's no hope for Kado. You'll damn him to never be Kado again. The REAL Kado. Not the sniveling brat broken like glass. I promise you this much. You kill me? You'll doom him. It's only a matter of time. You don't know what I know, Demgel. Kill me? ...Kado will die. Not right away. But I guarrentee they'll tear him apart. Neo, Ace, Phoenix... it WILL destroy him. My control would be a kindness compared to his fate in store."

He laughs cruelly. "He'll curse you for it."

Demgel: *just blankly looks at him then slightly leans forward and whispers* Does it look like I give a damn?..*takes his emblem and shoves shoves his fist into his chest*

Origin begins crumbling at the strike point. "Remember what I said... ...you have no one to blame but yourself for what will happen..."

Demgel: There are so many thing I blame myself for already...*a light shines from inside Origin's chest and it glows brighter and brighter until the light consumes them both. the pillars crumble and the light takes the shape of a cross*

Kado's Soul-

Neo looks about. "Does the air seem lighter?" The area suddenly shakes violently for a moment, before quieting down again.

"....Ah... I think that asshole actually managed to beat Origin. Hmm. Wonder what he did to him. Might want to hurry back to fix Shield before I don't know... he dies? Though if he wants, he could take his merry time and let that happen so I can take over this body real quick..."

He looks at Leg and Med. "I'm ''KIDDING." ''He sighs. "I'm joking, don't stick another sword in me, Ace will get annoyed again."

Med: Man dude, I can give less a fuck about what Ms. Hangover here thinks.

A white smoke breifly turns into a hand and shoves Med off the side of the snowy plain, his scream fades away as he falls into the nothingness below, and then progressively louder as he emerges from the sky and slams into the ground face first.

Neo sighs. "And that proves my point. Perhaps next time she will elect to turn you into a Snowcone."

Med: I atleast be once spicy snowcone.

Demgel: *falls into nothingness as he is uncnscious*

Leg: *appears and takes Demgel to the tree they are waiting by and lays him up against it* That must've taken alot out of him. Atleast he can rest peacfully now.

Med: Now we can be one happy family! I heard it all before, woman. *plants his face back into the ground*

Neo thinks for a moment. "Well I guess the body is mine for the moment... Ace is still sleeping and Shield is still broken pottery. Finally I get a lucky break!"

Leg: *looks at the emblem* We could bless Shield too.

Med: *groans* i don't wanna bless people.

Leg: Med!

Med: Imma demon, woman. What do you expect?

Neo sighs, then gets up and starts walking over to Med. "Come on and shut up." When Med defies being dragged, Neo kicks him in the groin. "Let's go!" He drags him over to Leg, Demgel, and Ace.

"So what's this whole business about blessings then?" He kicks a struggling Med in the groin again. "Stay down and answer, and if you get up again Med, I will do what you tried to do to me, but it won't be your chest I do it at."

He narrows his eyes. "Oh and if that involves me and or Ace being evicted, then fuck no."

Leg: It works for many things. Blessing works on anything of wicked nature or someone broken. It makes them whole or it purifies them of all wickedness. We can use this emblem to fix Shield.

"...Would that heal him spiritually? Cause ya know, we're kinda his negative and positive souls, would that evict us or force us to become one with Shield or something?"

Leg: Ofcourse. It's a cross after all.

Neo's eyes dangerously narrow. Suddenly three red energy hands grab Leg, Med, and Demgel and lift them up away from Shield.

"Letme tell ya something. I'm fine with Shield hanging around. In fact in some cases it's better to have him around. But. And this is a very BIG but. BUT. I am NOT ok being a part of him. I ain't stupid, and I ain't dumb. But if you think I'm going to give up my own existence, then hell f*cking no. Maybe Ace would be ok with it. I wouldn't know. But she doesn't even have a real consciousness yet. She's like a toddler or an infant. But me? I have my own memories. I am my own person. Some dipleg Angel and horny Devil is not going to just strip me of who I am, just cause they feel like it!

You can fix him alright. Do anything in the way of healing. BUT, you are NOT going to take everything away from me! I've put up with too much shit! Kado did fine on his own without us! You do that shit to me, or at least try, and I'll kick you out and kill you, Angel or not!" He roars.

Med: You almost fell for it, if it weren't for follow-up questions. But good luck, by all means, Lord Satan would looooove, loooove. lovey-lovey-lovey-love to see you.

Leg: But have you ever stopped thinking about yourself and think about the others. Whether you mean something to them or not, your part of a whole and a whole means self-family.

"A. Demon. Shut up. I'd gladly kill you and your little lord as well. B. I have thought of others. WE thought of others all the time. You think that this operation is a one man job? Bullshit. Whenever Kado needed strength to fight the injustice he saw, he drew upon my wrath and slaughtered his enemies. When he was on his last stand, I came to his aid. When he was on the brink of death, Ace sheltered his mind, taking the blow for him. We've been there for him ever since our birth. He knew, he KNOWS that. He would probably kill Demgel over this shit. He turned down Van Valeric's offer to seperate us for a reason. He wants us around."

Leg: Then don't you feel wanted for that?

Ace's head stirs, and a strange look is in Neo's eye. "''You know what I hate?" ''Three voices speak as one, Neo's, Ace's, and Shield's.

"I hate people who keep going on about what they want for me, and they never think, never ask if that's what I want for my life. I don't want some divine intervention to solve my problems. It's why God doesn't just fix everything directly, am I right, Angel? If you don't learn to fix it yourself, then you haven't really lived. If I don't learn to live with my problems, it just makes me weaker."

Neo blinks. "What the honest fuck was that?"

Leg: Speaking her mind and God gives you that choice. god gives us all a choice. Like how Demy risked his life to help you guys. By all means he didn't have too, you never asked and he barely know you, but he did anyway. It was his choice and that's what he wanted. You guys are obligated to do the same. To choose.

Med: That was touching right there, mane.

"How about we let Shield answer that one? He's the boss. Heal him, but no funny business."

Leg: You can always trust an angel. Where is he?

Neo points at Shield's broken form.

Leg: *flies over and stretches forth her hands over Shield and he begins to glow with divine light*

Med: Man, I wish i had some sunglasses.

Neo watches her suspiciously.

Leg: *the glow glows abit brighter as slowly Shield starts to come together he also begins to float in mid-air*

Med: *looks at his imaginary watch* Anytime now.

Neo smacks him with the now spare red energy hand. "I could just devour you."

Med: You can try, but it wont work.

"Ok then, SHUT UP AND LET HER FOCUS!" A band of negative energy comes towards Med's mouth and stitches it shut.

Leg: *continues to piece Shield together as she is almost done* Just a little while longer.

Neo begins using Med as target practice for knifes out of boredom.

Med: *licks the band out of boredom* Taste like candy.

Leg: Finished. *the glow fades away and Shield slowly lands back down*

To their surprise, a strange kind of armor suddenly surrounds Shield and he immediately gets up and heads toward Neo.

"Hey hey hey! Wait! Nooooooo! Do NOT do it again! I was helping! You saw! We all saw!"

Shield kicks Neo high into the air, all the way over the cityscape and out of sight, while Neo screams, "Nooooooooooooooooot agaaaaaaaaaaaiiinnnnnnn!"

Shield then looks at Demgel and puts a hand on his forehead, and a faint grey glow comes around Shield as Demgel wakes up, filled with energy again.

"Let's discuss matters elsewhere." Shield indicates the city in the distance.

Demgel: Damn...did you really have to wake me up?

Med: I know right, we were having that awesome moment together.

"From what I'll gather you're the boss of this outfit, and secondly I wasn't in the mood to carry you."

Demgel: we didn't have to speak privately neither. *gets up* What is this about Neo?

Shield flies over to the city, a grey aura surrounding Med, Leg, and Demgel and they are carried over onto the rooftop of a skyscraper.

"Well since you asked. The angel wanted to bless me apparently, which would make Ace and Neo become a part of me. I'd rather they didn't. Nor would I like them separate from me. I've gotten rather used to the two, even if it does come with its issues. I also wanted to thank you. But I am afraid if you really want to help us, you'll have to speak with Kado as a whole... on the outside. We are collectively Kado. Not singularly. I am just as much Kado as Neo or Ace, but individually we are different. ...Kado himself... ...is still likely lost. ...He can tell you better than I can. But I just wanted to say, thank you for freeing us from Origin. ...What did you do to him anyway?"

Shield looks over toward Ace's plane, a scattered collection of snowy plains that is featureless except for Ace's tree. On the other side of the city, a landbridge links up to the city from Neo's realm, a dense jungle.

Demgel: does it matter what happened to him? He's gone now right?

"....yes. Gone. He was the Kado before us. The one broken by the grief, the fear, the pain, the hate... ...of betrayal. Life's cruelty. Wanting to live, but denied. Denied by the ones he loved. And now there is only us left. Origin is gone. ...Just like Us. In time, We might be consumed by the same monsters he was... ...you'll understand when you speak with him. With Us."

Demgel: *exits Kado's mentality and is back in Reality* I heard you want to explain something to me.

He looks over at Demgel, almost blank, empty eyes staring at him. "...I'm sorry about earlier. ...I... ...was lost. ...In more ways than one. ...I still am. ...Forgive me for my actions."

Demgel: Hey ma, no problem. you needed help and i'm obligated to do so.

Kado sighs. "....I can't go back. ...Not after what I did. ...Nor do I want to... ...yet I feel guilty about it.... ...probably because of..." He breaks off, a momentary breakdown consumes him and he just silently weeps with his head in his hands. After about a minute, he sighs and sits up. "....sorry..." He thinks for a moment.

"...I should probably explain... ...why all of this happened in the first place. I mean, you got involved in my personal problems... I feel it would only be fitting to explain myself."

Demgel: You don't have to if you don't want to, man. I just wanted to help out of my on free will.

"No... no... it's fine. ...I lost someone very important to me today... ...she meant everything to me. She was my rock when I could no longer stand... ...she was my hope for the future, the reason I could hold my sword. ...Because she was there with me. ...And now... ...the world has gone and taken her away from me too. ...I don't know if I have the strength to carry on without her with me.

...These invaders... ...they're my family as well. ...Noriko, Torrent, ...Master Hiroshi... ...it's so hard. I tried to hold on to the notion I was fighting for what's right but... ...now I feel as though I don't even know what I was fighting for all these years. ....I feel lost... ...just like seven years ago. ...Heck... it feels like nothing has changed... I'm back where I started. ...with nothing."

Demgel: i know how that's like. I had a family once in the M.C.C.P, when my mother and father didn't want me. I loved my family and with them I felt like nothing else mattered, up until an explosion happened and I was taken away from my family and I also lost my memory of that family. Now, I found a new family even though i'm not that uaint with them yet, I'll get there. The Universe started fromnothing, but look around at the night sky. Billion and billions of stars and galaxies. Galaxies are made of many stars, like how a family needs members, whether related or close. They will forever stay together and there are billion of glaxies out their, meaning billions of families that can never break apart. you will find anther family soon. the key is that life is a circle. It keeps going round. It only depends if you move along with it or you get stuck.

"...I see. ...I need your advice on something. ...I want you to look at what happened to ... ... ...her. ...The enemy.... ...did something to her. I don't know what happened but... ...I just thought you might know more about it... ...you'll see what I mean."

Demgel: Ok, show me then.

Kado opens his mind to Demgel, and with great reluctance shows Demgel the battle with White, all the way down to when she had taken command of Azula and caused the strange transformation, though Demgel is able to feel the strange sensations Kado had felt at the same time, and realizes the wings weren't just for show, and watches to the end of the memories, which interesting to him, involves Kado's vision beginning to show heavy 'static', right up to waking up to the present conversation.

Demgel: I guess after you saw her turn and leave, you basically lost it?

"...Yes... ...that's probably what happened... ...If I was stronger... ...I could have..." He threatens to breakdown again, but regains himself. "...Do you... have any idea what that... transformation.... that... energy... I felt... do you have any idea what sort of power that was?"

Demgel: It was like that of an angel. n arch-angel in fact. Tossed in with some mechanics and stuff. But definitely arch-angel.

Kado appears half shocked half horrified. "A-a-a what?! ...Azula... an Arch Angel? ...That... doesn't make sense... how could... Phoenix possibly get an Arch-Angel to side with them? What they're doing is wrong... it isn't possible..."

Kado thinks for a moment, his head suddenly hurting. Having forgotten to cut off his mind from Demgel, Demgel sees it as a distortion in Kado's memories, involving a great multitude of memories. Many of them childhood.

Demgel: Oh crap,uhmmmmm. Hey dude, not now. You said you needed my advice. What is it that needs to be advised?

Kado manages to control himself. "S-sorry... ...I just wanted to know if you knew what that was... that happened to Azula. But are you sure about Arch-Angel? Is that even possible? Aren't Arch Angels supposed to be the ultimate angelic champions or something?"

Demgel: There are also higher ranks of arch angel. I am most definately sure it is an arch angel. I don't know how that adds up, I just know what i've sensed.

"...If that's true... ...then I absolutely... ...positively cannot let Phoenix stand..." He pauses for a moment. "...Why can't I remember it? ...There was a fortress Phoenix headquarters in, I know it for sure... but I can't remember! ...Why?!" He grabs his head in frustration.

"I need more answers... ...to be able to control an Archangel... ....wait... is that it...? No."

Demgel: *is still confused* Youuuuu still good, bro? Cause you knooowww. I meaaaan I can always come back if your havin' a moment.

When Kado looks at him, there is blood red eyes. "I remember. In the long battles against the Eight Elemental Warlords, our people of Chinmoku thought desperately of ways to kill the Warlords. They were like gods. ...In their desperation, they developed a theoretical weapon so powerful it would be something only a god could hope to use. ...That being said... ...supposedly they destroyed any trace of this 'mythical weapon'. ...But... White mentioned in that memory... a Spearhead. ...And a long time ago, she said she found the 'Engine' to rival gods... ...Demgel... I think Phoenix has a MUCH bigger plan than simply flushing Humanity down a drain. ...I think White has that weapon... 'The Spear of God.'"

Demgel: Holy shit...It sounds pretty damn cool.

"...If you count a weapon capable of destroying all matter and souls on this world in an instant cool, then yes. ...Hold on..." Kado sniffs the air. "Demgel... don't react, but we're surrounded. I smell at least fifty." He mutters. "Phoenix. ...How'd I guess?"

Demgel: Maybe because you know the guys for one. Don't worry. I'm sure we can take 'em. Power of Two.

Around them, fifty black and white cloaked figures appear, each holding a white or black sword.

"White and black swords? ...Light and Dark Slayers? ...Great..." He draws his own, while two shadowy arms ripple from his back and one grabs Earth Slayer, while the other grabs Fire Slayer.

He suddenly whips a chain out from his sleeves and flings it at a White figure, hoping to ensnare it but instead just barely misses as it side steps with ease.

"You'll be coming with us, the both of you."

Demgel: I don't see that happening. *draws forth Death's Scythe*

A White cloak suddenly attacks him, the clash of their blades strong enough to push Demgel back significantly.

"Well that's great... WOAH!" Kado yelps as a Black cloak engages him and nearly stabs him, but Kado manages to deflect the blow.

Demgel: *does Death's Whirlwind and everyone backs up*

Several fire light and dark blasts at them, Kado absorbs the dark attacks but is forced to dodge the light attacks.

"Great, I get to fight people who can counter my dark powers. Hmmmm..." He suddenly points at some with Fire Slayer, and lets off a massive explosion which sends some of them flying. Kado gets a big grin on his face. "Awesome."

Demgel: That was so cool.

Kado frowns. "Too bad that didn't clear them out. Hmm." He looks at Demgel's shadow, and suddenly gets an idea. He without warning stabs the shadow, which to Demgel's surprise hurts as if Kado had jabbed a needle in him. He pulls back and it forms into a shadowy armored figure, which immediately dives at the Slayers, taking on ten all at once, not caring at all when it is stabbed or sliced.

"....I've got to use that more often!"

Demgel: That's my shadow too....Even more cool!

Kado takes a breath, then charges into the fray and begins fighting pretty well against five of the swordsmen, while more engage Demgel.

Demgel: *does some fancy attacks with his scythe*

Eventually they come down to two, a black and white, and they look at each other, and silently nod. They impale their swords into the ground, and a portal starts to open behind them.

"...They're summoning something." Kado growls.

Demgel: More of them, maybe?

A black and white crystal begins to emerge, and all the color in Kado's face drains. "Oh shit."

Demgel: Oh shit? Why 'Oh shit'?

"...That's Dimrune." The crystal suddenly begins pulling both light and darkness towards it, the effect eventually forming a vague outline of a humanoid shape, and the crystal disappears into the form, and red eyes begin to glow faintly in the humanoid's head.

"Weep before the might of Dimrune! Cower! Surrender and we might spare- ARRRRGGGHHH!" The being suddenly impales the two with tendrils of energy, and they turn to dust.

Demgel: Betrayal. So cool.

Dimrune suddenly attacks with the tendrils, and Kado leaps out of the way. "Damn it, why did it have to be Dimerune?!"

Demgel: I like his name and all, but who is this.....guy...thing?

"Dimrune is basically one of the 'weapons' created by the Elemental Warlords on our world Echo. Apparently Phoenix got their hands on them. ...Which I find interesting cause they wouldn't normally serve people like Phoenix. Ever."

He dodges another series of attacks from Dimrune.

Demgel: Hmmm. You have plan or anything?

Dimrune starts bombarding them with bolts of shadow, which Kado manages to absorb fairly easily. "...The only way they could control them is probably mind control. That said, it would have to be on the crystal, it's his soul's container. Don't break it though, you'd kill him."

Demgel: I won't. My scythe should do the trick. As long as I only cut the band. Where is the crystal?

"It should be in the center of that figure. But you'll have to be careful. That thing's got massive range."

Demgel: Ok then. Cover me! *runs toward Dimrune*

Kado fires a series of shots at Dimrune, who dodges quite well. He claws at Demgel with his shadowy claws.

Demgel: *ducks his head back from his claws*

Dimrune lurches back as soon as it sees Demgel swing his scythe, easily dodging the attack and returns fire with a beam of light and dark energy, blasting him into a tree.

Demgel: *reverts the beam back at Dimerune*

Dimrune nimbly dodges, emitting a powerful blinding light.

Demgel: *splits the light two ways with his hand. Kicks his scythe in the air and as it is about to hit the ground, he door-stomp kicks it at Dimerune. The scythe turns into a spear ad impales him in his crystal*

Dimrune lets out a violent howl, and the figure begins to dissipate, leaving a black and white crystal which begins to fall.

Demgel:: *picks up the crystal and looks at it* Cool. *tosses it over to kado*

''"Toss me again, and I will bury you in the Abyss." ''A dark voice growls.

Demgel: Sort of hard to do when your a mineral. What now, man?

Kado looks at Dimrune. "I don't know. I heard from some guy named Van Valeric that some god of destruction is planning to attack or something, but I don't know when or where or whatever."

Dimrune suddenly chuckles. "Oh yes, that. I heard White talking about that subject once... she said she couldn't wait to trap the little fish and spear them dead... ...interesting analogy."

Demgel: *eyes narrow* Did you say Van Valeric?

He looks at Demgel's expression. "Errrrr.... ....yes? ....You know him?"

Demgel: *has his lips tucked in and slowly nods his head* Mmmhmmm.....Sure do...Suuuure do...

"Ooooookay then... I'll clarify that I only met him once, and he just freed my sword's spirit and mentioned the whole god of destruction thing and left. ...You seem angry... ...did he do something to you?"

Demgel: Yea....he's done lots of things....not to me, but my family too and countless others through time...you take care of yourself, Kado....*walks off with his scythe along his shoulders*

Kado looks after him for a moment. "Hey Demgel. Thanks for the help. I owe you one." After he sees Demgel walk off, he sighs.

"Annnnnnd alone again. Great. Awesome. Perfect. Lovely. Fantastic. .............Now what am I going to do..." He rubs his forehead, before taking out his old mask and looking at it. He throws it away after a moment, and starts making a new one, one with a 'A' with an 'X' on the forehead. He puts it on after a moment.

"...No use sticking around... might as well get going."

"You do realize I'm here as well."

"Yes, but you are very poor company."

"Don't get cheeky with me. I'll bury you in the-"

"The Abyss, I get it. Shut up."

"This is going to be a looooooooong trip."

Demgel: Hey Kado, hold up. *runs back* Also, take this. *takes of one of his emblems, one with and upsidedown cross with the Star of David in the center*

Kado blinks behind his mask, the movement the only indication of surprise. "What? Oh, what's this thing?"

Demgel: This is the Emblem of Sinner and Saint. This allows you to go to places on the plain of earth and Downation, it can take you as far as Heaven and hell itself. So if you want to go somewhere, just thin it and the door will open to you.

Kado gingerly takes it. "...But why give this to me?"

Demgel: Hey, we're friends right?

"...Yeah... thanks man. See you around then." He smiles faintly behind his mask.

Demgel: Se your around, man. Sweet mask too. *walks off again*

Kado watches him go, then stares at the Emblem and quietly pockets it. ''Why would he give me something so powerful....? Where'd he get such a thing anyway?''

Demgel: *yells back* I fought the Devil for it! Besides, I think you need it more than I do!

''Annnnnnnnnd he can cosmically hear my private thoughts. O JOY! ''

So Long
Albany, New York.

A black phoenix flies through the sky, blowing air at the water below.

Ameno: *stops drivng the boat for a second* Skana?

Skana: Hey... *Looks at Jonas* Been a while, no?

Jonas: You ain't French, ya' dumbass. You .are. Asian. Know. your. place.

Skana: You racist -

Ameno: Skana...

Skana: Fine.

Cronos: - bastard.

Jonas: Thank you. So i'm guessing you came back to see Ameno?

Skana: Yes and no. *Transforms to Human Form* I was told by a not-so-reliable source that around here is a serpent whose scales are worth millions each. And my Sanctuary is in some bad debt.

Ameno: Oh no! Can't we help him Joney?

Skana: That is-

Ameno: No, no, we can help.

Cronos: Unnecessary?

Jonas: If she wants to help, let her. I'll be right behind her. Besides, The Admin. hasn't given us any new orders, so I can assume we're all good here.

Skana: Fine. But you get stabbed *Points to Jonas* Don't expect your weak-

Ameno: SKANA! We have to get going, don't we?

Skana: Fine.

Cronos: -ass regeneration to save your sorry behind because mines better, sad face, I like Ameno, and you better back off. Right?

Skana: grumble grumble...

Ameno: What was that?

Skana: Nothing.

Jonas: Where to then?

Skana: Should be around here, but more... Underneath us...

Ameno: Okay. *Jumps into water*

Skana: 'BAKA! 'Idiot! Common, we gotta -

Cronos: Is that the Serpent?

A 400-foot serpent with teeth as large as Jonas comes out of the water with Ameno in it's tail.

Skana: ... Pray to Uzumi... *draws Cronos and flies towards the Serpent* DROP FLOWER!

Serpent: *tail whips Skana into a building*

Jonas: Bye. Set go. *is instantly untop of the serpants head and stabs it in the eye with its hand, but his hand begins to burn*

Skana: Idiot. I'm 500 pounds. If he can fling me, no shit he can fling you. *stabs the serpent's other eye with Cronos*

Jonas: Man dude, you must have gain some since you left, cause I'm still' 162. *smirks*

Serpent: *spins and launches Skana and Jonas off. Smells the air with its toungue, hisses, and slithers at Jonas and has him in its jaw*

Cronos: Time to REALLY fight?

Skana: Yea. *Turns into phoenix form, making Cronos into it's beak* I bet you can't do THIS at 162. *Flyies at the speed of lifht, cutting off the tail of the serpent and catching Ameno in his claws. Skana then puts Ameno down in the boat* We got this. *wink*

Ameno: O-Okay...

Skana: *Flies back at the serpent, going for the mouth.* Swallow THIS. *Throws blade after blade into the Serpent's mouth*

Serpent: *chokes on the blade*

Jonas: *reaches for its nostril and pulls it downward, causing the serpent to be tugged along*

Skana: Show off. Now seriously, I think it's dead. Lets get the scales into the boat and go sell 'em. *Flies to the nearest scale and rips it off* Not dead, not dead!

Serpent: *coils back around and and swallows Skana whole*

Jonas: Holy shit...

Cronos comes out of the top of the serpent's head, killing it.

Skana: I need a bath... And we probably could've started with that... *Jumps into water to wash himself*

Jonas: *only puts his arm in the water*

Ameno: That's funny...

Skana: *Spits* Yea, sure.

Jonas: Welp, you got what ya' cam for. Watch ya' plan on doin' now?

Skana: I PLAN on selling the scales on the black market, so we need to harvest the scales... Well, I only need one. Lets leave it so I have a fall-back plan. Lets start heading for the Monastery.

Jonas: *looks at him confused* We? And why do you need a fall-back plan?

Skana: First, WE need to go because I left on a bad note. And the fall-back plan has money stored up just in case.

Jonas: Just in case for what? The Apocalypse? dude, 9 times out of 10, they'll be too busy about surviving than money.

Skana: Just in case I need to lay low for a while. These monks ain't... Traditional...

Ameno: I'll keep the bird running for when you two come out.

Jonas: I'm still not sre on the concept of we. We only agreed to help you with the scales, not this Monestary shit.

Ameno: Common Joney. I'm going whether you are or not. I'd rather you come...

Jonas: Hmmmm...*sigh*Fine, I'll tag long.

Valeric's New Acolyte
Skana drops out of the sky, falling towards the spot where Valeric stands.

Van Valeric: What is your reasoning of coming here, pawn?

Skana: Why does anyone come here? To find strength. My friend's dead body was stolen by a man who seemed shrouded in darkness, and a war threatens my home. I must find strength. You seemed to fastest and best way to do that. I have little time and much to learn.

Van Valeric: so you wish to increase you abilities and its usage? I see. My training mostly takes more than a month or two to complete, meaning you must add in the extra effort to get there.

Skana: Don't worry about that. I will survive this. I have endured worse.

Van Valeric: First lesson.

Three stalagmites come from under Skana.

Skana: *Flies above the stalagmites.* What the hell?!

Skana gets stabbed in the chest by an ice shard and falls to the ground

Skana: What. Was. That. *Pulls the shard out as his leg heals, then deflects another with a quickly pulled Cronos*

Four stalagmite pierce at Skana's neck

Van Valeric: Overconfidence gets you killed quicker. Do not say, what you not know. Always treat you opponent as a threat, whether big smal, strong or weak. Your enemy is your enemy and an enemy's purpose to to get killed by his enemy. Understand? Also, you must move quicker and more proned to suspect what is to come next.

Skana: Yessir. *Stands up*

Van Valeric: Good. We'll be continuing your second lesson. *stalagmites go back into the ground*

Skana: *Gets into a meditative state*

Van Valeric: Clear your mind of all thing. Only think of your surroundings. Be one with the air you breathe, with the ground you touch, with the lands you see. and with it, may you triumph over your opponent, for your mind is clear and a clear mind equals to no burden on your back. As light as a feather. Maybe even lighter than that.

Skana: *closes eyes and feels his surroundings, as he is on his toes, lighter than a feather* GAH! *Looses concentration and falls to the ground* Damnit!

Cronos: Weakling! Get off your ass and keep at it! If you don't, then you're just a wimp who'll never become the strongest. You'll never SAVE ANYONE. Especially Ameno. You couldn't challenge that shadow dick's TOE! So get up and keep at it.

Skana: Damn you, Cronos. *Gets up and tries agin, fails, and repeats for over an hour* I can't do it...

Van Valeric: One who seeks excellence, will reach excellence. One who doubts, will be run over by all who oppose him. Not everyone can master everything during the first turn. Continue. Breath and think of the beauty the Earth still has left. Think of the way you are alive and living.

Skana: How am I supposed to fight a god anyway... I mean, how am I supposed to fight that shadowy guy? How? I'd die. That's how. Then he'd steal my body too. *Gets up and succeeds*

Van Valeric: foolish. It is not strngth that wins battles. It's smarts. You can obtain all the power you want and one day, an opponent who has no form of training can appear out of nowhere and somehow defeat you. no matter how many times you attack him, you miss and finally, you have given up. He avoided the battle and wore out his opponent, without even raising a finger. Stop worrying about staying alive and worry about living.

Skana: True... *Practices the task*

Van Valeric: *opens a portal to darkness* Come with me.*steps in and disappears*

Skana: *Follows Valeric* What is this place?

Van Valeric: *shows skana the rising sun from the horizon of one of Fantasy's many landscapes.* See how vast this lnadscape is? Your abilities are almost as vast like your home. Boundless. The only limit you have to you powers, is that sun before you. and it is a great distance away. Realize that you have much to learn and as long as you have nearly no limit, your productivity will get you to your limit. You have a long way to go, but you will getthere, if you are willing. and if you are willing, you can do anything. This land is your boundary and that sun is your limit.

Skana: How do I reach that sun? How do I fight something so patient, so unbreakable?

Van Valeric: Let the wind guide you beyond your boundary and let the sunlight give you its warmth. This signifies that you are close to reaching your limit. You hold one of the most powerful hybrid blood known to my own knowledge. The extent of your abilities that you do not know are like i said 'boundless'. You have the power, now I must teach you how to use your mind and how to use those powers properly. Patience is a virtue. Learn it fast.

Skana: Yes, teacher. Thank you. *Sheaths Cronos*

Van Valeric: *opens a portal* Come now. There is much to be done and not much time to do it in. *goes through*

Skana: *Walks through portal* How do you know my species? Are there other Endlos out there?

Van Valeric:......No.....not anymore...

Skana: Well, I guess it isn't important. Lets continue training?

Van Valeric: Ofcourse. *two stalagmites pop up from the ground next to Skana* Pick those up. Lift them to shoulder height and hold them there.

Skana: *Does the task* Okay

Van Valeric: you have to hold them out. One on each hand and stand on one foot.

Skana: *Does the task* Alright... What now?

Cronos: Show off.

Van Valeric: Now. *a stalagmite come up from under Skana and has him in the clouds, but still on one foot and still holding the other stalagmites*

Skana: *Cotinues to hold the stalagmights.* Now... ?

Van Valeric: Keep your balance. easier said than done, right?

Skana: Yea. *Continues to complete the task

Van Valeric: Now. *puts a stalagmite on Skana's head* Shift your feet whenever you need to.

Skana: May I ask what happened to the Endlos? *Shifts his feet*

Van Valeric: And my ask why?

Skana: 17 years ago my mother and father left for the Endlos encampment and never returned.

Van Valeric: Hm. Sad for for them.

Skana: I do not like games. What happened to them? Their names were Nick ad Lauranda if that's anything.

Van Valeric: I don't care. You are here to train, not here to seek answers.

Skana: Fine. *Swiches feet*

Van Valeric: Now close your eyes and listen.

Skana: *Closes eyes* Alright.

Van Valeric: How are you feeling right now?

Skana: Calm. Like I have the world's weight on my shoulders.

Van Valeric: That's never a good thing.The world is too heavy to have on anyone's shoulders. Meaning you are not calm.

Skana: *Clears his mind* Alright. I am calm. I am calm... *Switches feet*

Van Valeric: There is power in actions as there is power in words. What are you thinking?

Skana: Of the day I kill the man shrouded in darkness. He may evade normal blades... *Looks at the sheathed Cronos* ...But nothing can evade Cronos.

Van Valeric: Wrong. You should be thinking of nothing, but no matter what your weapon is capable of. Nothing can touch The Administrator.

Skana: *A look of disgust is shown on his face* The Admin is like a father to me. He rose me when he saw me eating from a drainage pipe! Adn he helped me get a job. I am talking about a black-clothed man with a crown and shadows bending to his will. I know the Admin is invincible, but I doubt this man is.

Van Valeric: Oh. So you mean Hadari. He is but a peasant boy who is more confident than he is skilled.

Skana: ... Yea, pleasant...

Van Valeric: Peasant, boy. Peasant.

Skana: A mere peasant? I was a peasant when I was young. Trust me, we come back to bite the shitheads who care about class systems. Anyway, do you know why he is collecting dead bodies?

Van Valeric: To raise an army possibly or to raise something much more...in depth than that.

Skana: Then we must get back to training so I can help stop him...

Van valeric: Stop thinking and listen.

Skana: *Shuts up while his eyes close. Shifts feet*

After some hours

Skana: *Shifts feet* So... Are we doing this until I fall? Because I can do this for days... And I don't really have days.... And you left...

''Skana drops the stalagmites and turns into Physical Phoenix Form. ''

Skana: Well, until he gets back... *Flies toward Shanghai* I love Chinese food...


 * When Valeric returns, Skana is meditating'*

Skana: How was your trip? *Valeric smells General Tso's Chicken on his breath*

Van Valeric: Did you move from your place?

Skana: ... How'd you guess? The stalagmites on your way in, or my breath? *Gives a full grin* If you expect me to stay in one place, don't just leave for 5.5 hours! *Picks up the stalagmites and gets back to practice*

Van Valeric: No forget it. Drop them. Patience is a virtue. Learn it quickly.

Skana: Alright. *drops the stalagmites* What now, Sensei?

Van Valeric: *leads Skana to the water and a stalagmite pops up from the water* Stand on that with one foot.

Skana: *flies atop the structure, landing on one foot* You love stagmite, don't you. *smiles a little*

Van Valeric: It helps to keep balance. How do you feel now? Without the wight of the burden on your arms.

Skana: Better. Lighter. Empty...

Van Valeric: Good. This helps you use your powers in a greater capacity and of a wider range. *a trail of stalagmites lead further out into the water* Run. But slowly. Examine the world around you. *disappears*

Skana: Alright... Run slowly... Alright... *Starts examining the earth around him*

Van Valeric: What can you see?

Skana: A waterfall north... A river east... Mountains in the south...

Van valeric: See? You are one with all that is off the earth while keeping your blance by moving. You do great.

Skana: Thanks. *Continues going farther, as far as Albany.*

The stalagmites go into a step formation

Van Valeric: Always remember that your surroundings will change and you must adapt quickly if you wish to survive.

Skana: *Starts ajusting* Alright...

Van Valeric: Don't focus on how high you are. Focus on how far you go.

Skana: ... *Walks farther up the stalagmite*

Van Valeric: Don't think. Clear your mind on all thought. Look at the stars, how pretty they look and how far you might reach those other stars.

Skana: Alrighty... *looks at the stars*

Van Valeric: Let the beauty of the stars guide you to ascension.

Skana: *floats in the air* I feel... good...

Van Valeric: There is greater definition to how you feel. Express it.

Cronos: *sigh*

Skana: *turns into Physical Phoenix form* Yeaha! *Joyfully flies around the stalagmites*

Van Valeric: Always remember, that all things good come to an end.


 * A large pillar of water splashes Skana upward, then he falls back down into the cold water*

Skana: Alright. *flies out of the water, then lands in front if Valeric in human form* Whats next, sensei?

Van Valeric: Now. *a strong cold wind blows by*

Skana: Alright... *Gets in a ready stance, grabbing Cronos' hilt* What are you planning...

Van Valeric: Nothing. Walk against the force of the wind. *the wind blows harder*

Skana: Alright... *Walks*

Van Valeric: You should not let the wind blow you away. Fight against it.

Skana: *Sighs* Okay then. *Doesn't seem to slow down*

Small ice shards begin to cut Skana

Skana: *Shows no sign of slowing or pain* Ugg...

More shards stick him in the face and cuts his clothes

Cronos: Okay. That was his ONLY OUTFIT you peice of shit!

Skana: *Does not slow down*

the ice shards begin to actually swarm around Skana and repeatedly cut him

Skana: *Does not flinch, and speeds up*

The ice shards form into ice spikes and begin to spear themselves into Skana's body

Skana: *Does not slow down*

Cronos: Holy mother of shit, you fucking retarded bastard....

Skana: Cronos... Shuttup.……

Van Valeric: Surpress the pain and progress forward.

Skana: Have been. *Keeps up speed*

Van Valeric: Getting done quicker doesn't make the pain go way

Cronos: Hey, shuttap won't you? He is enduring more than my fucked-up children did when you killed them, so can it dick!

Skana: Sorry for Cronos, Sensei. He doesn't know some boundaries.

Van Valeric The Kronos I knew actually had some.

Cronos: *Goes into physical form* Wanna say that to mu face, scum? * Spits in Valeric's face* the spitwad turns into ice and falls to the ground before it touches Valeric's face

Van Valeric: You wanna try that again?

Skana: STOP. *Makes Cronos turn back into a sword* Next person who speaks badly of each other, I kill. Got it?!

Cronos: Yessir...

Van Valeric: That is enough for tonight.

Skana: Okay.

Cronos: The hell? Where do we fucking sleep?! *A portal opens* Nrvermind... *Walks through as it closes*

A while later, Skana is meditating as the sun comes up.

Cronos: *Walks through the portal* Back...

Skana: Good. Training starts in 10 minutes.

Cronos: If your instuctor lives...

Skana: ... What happened?

Cronos: I visited Kukyo...

Skana: Hm... Not the smartest thing you've done.

Cronos: Being mortal has weighed on her... And she has a man now... I waited too long to resurface...

Skana: Ah. Well, I'll see her when we go to Echo. Do not go there until then, though. And I will go alone. You do not seem to not be able to keep calm around her, am I wrong?

Cronos: No...

Skana: Ten minutes are up. *Stands* Hello, Valeric.

Van Valeric: Quite eager, are we?

Skana: Merely on time. And I wish to be done today, for Cronos says you have... Plans tomarrow.

Kronos: You did that to h-

Skana: Choose your battles, Cronos.

Kronos: Fine.

Van Valeric: Alright then. To make use of your power, concentrate and feel the power that you have and unleash it. Feel it course through your veins. Revel in who you are.

Skana: ... Okay...

Kronos: Sti-

Skana: Shut. Up. Already.

Kronos: Fine. *Opens a portal*

Van Valeric: Let both of your halves combine and work as one. Just feel. Do not think. Just...feel.

Skana: My.. Halves?

Van: you know. 1 half, then another. Combine them to make a whole.

Skana: I still am cunfused as to what you mean. I know the definition of Half, but what halves?

Van Valeric: One part is Endlos, other part is Phoenix.

Skana: Alright... Do I go into Phoenix Form?

Van Valeric: *facepalms* No Skana. You can feel the power of both the Endlos and the Phoenix, right?

Skana: I feel the normal Phoenix and an unknown, yea...

Van Valeric: Then feel both of those powers flow through your body at the same time and unleash the full extent of your capabilities.


 * The entire place goes white, Valeric's ears pop under pressure as Skana releases an imense blast that could've wiped the desert clean, was concealed by Kronos.*

Skana: Agh! *His body shows burns that don't look livable*

Kronos: *Turns to Valeric* You godamned idiot! You could've killed him!

Van Valeric: I'm abit trifle deaf in this ear. Speak a little louder please.

Kronos: Just shut the fuck up you goddamned man.

Skana: Kronos - Don't get mad... *Passes out from pain*

Kronos: Great. And the onlynperson I know who can heal this sort of wound is mad as shit at me. And you took THEIR POWERS. So, know any nearby hospitals?

Van Valeric: I am the hospital. *takes Skana's body and makes a makes an ice orb and encases him in it and the orb begins to glow*

Kronos: Famous last words...

Van Valeric: *looks up at the Sun* It is time. Do hold out until I come back. *disappears into the darkness*

Kronos: Fine. *Follows him a millisecond delayed, watching where he goes and what he does*

Later

Skana: *Wakes up* Where... What... *Passes out in his icy shell*

Atlas: Kronos has definatly been here... Sleep little one... Be calm... *Sits, ajusting the Celestial Globes on his back*

Kronos:*Pops his hand through the soil* ATLAS!!!

Atlas: *Pulls Kronos up* Took you long enough... Where should we hide... Him? *Points to the orb of ice*

Kronos: Send him to Echo. Second Dimension, Fith Realm, x 2346 y 5667 z 8953.

Atlas: Alright. *Pulls down a Celestial Globe* Mmhm... Alright. *Puts the icy orb onto the Globe, transferring him to that point* Done...

Kronos: Now... Get the rest that arn't in Hell.

Atlas: Okay... *Looks at the Celestial Globe* I'll get them... *Picks up the Globe, and starts walking*

Kronos: And give this to Skana! *Throws the Hades Helm* He needs it more...

Isolated
Kado appears within a remote city on Earth, quickly moving to the shadows and into the alleys. He comes to a remote building that is labeled abandoned, and smiles faintly behind his mask. He enters, and begins looking throughout the building carefully. He discovers a hidden basement with various things like computers and electronics, and he can't help but laugh softly.

''Ah, a nice little hideaway. Man people like secrets. But when they can't keep the bills, they're such great treasure troves for a simple guy looking to build a base.''

He quickly teleports back to his old Azure residence, and takes as many things as he deems worth bringing over, including a power generator. He then hooks up the power to the building, and turns the basement lights on, smiling as the place comes to life. Though it will take some time to inspect the computers for any useful data they may have, the potential for a base of operations seems good. After running a few tests to make sure power is working correctly, he turns everything off and conceals the power generator within a wall, and then locks up and hides the basement again using Earth Slayer to make it as though the basement never existed. Sighing, Kado walks up the building to the roof, quietly watching the city dwellers.

''I'll have to take a look around town sometime and see what the place is like... for now I'll try to relax a bit before tomorrow. ''

A few hours later, Kado wakes up to find to guys standing above him

Kado irritably looks up at them with irritation. "Can I help you with something?" He sighs. His form twinges and becomes undetectably transparent.

Mam: Yea, we were gonna ask you the same thing, buddy.

Man 2: We're just up here to say your not supposed to be up here.

"I'd hate to point this out, but it's never a wise move to confront a masked man. You punks from a gang or something?"

Man: Uhhh yea. We rightfully owned the building though, legally too. Besides, for all we know you could be gettin' ready for Halloween.

"I was part of a gang once. We didn't call ourselves that, that's what they called us at least.... ....used to kill punks like you everyday." He lets that sink in for a minute, then adjusts his head to look at them better.

"You say 'owned', right? If you not the owners any more, perhaps you'd like it off your hands?"

Man: Nah. This building is for business purposes. Not to mention our boss runs this place, so your gonna have to take it up with him.

"I see then. I'll wait to talk to your boss then. If you would be so kind as to leave, that would be nice." His arms fold behind his head and into his sleeves, a very relaxed but subtle method of reaching for his guns, knowing they might become necessary, and silently pulls them out of their hidden holsters, but makes no effort to draw them. Not yet.

Man 2: You don't understand. You need to leave. Notice that we are asking kindly.

Kado silently stands up, and walks past the two men, stopping long enough to rap one of their heads with a fully exposed silenced semi automatic pistol, pausing long enough to let them hear the 'click' of him cocking it, then firing it past his ear into a nearby building. He then walks to the other side of the roof and stands on the edge over an alley.

"In the future, don't stand over someone like that, you make excellent shooting targets that way. Especially when you're dealing with someone trained in military grade firearms. I'll be back later...." He jumps off, and when they look for him on that side, he's vanished.

Man: Man dude, he almost tore your ear off.

Man 2: I know, right? I knew he was gonna do that too, but my reaction time wasn't good enough.

Man: Yeah. you can say that again. *both of them turn and leave*

Kado appears from the top of another building, further away. "Well, that was annoying."

Voice: I know right.

''A shot can be heard and Kado looks down to see there's blood exiting from under his abdominal area and as he slowly turns around he sees a man with an red oni mask on. The man punches him in the face and renders Kado unconscious ''

''A few hours later Kado wakes up to find himself in chains. Not only that, he's in a dark cell with limited light coming from the eye hole''

''Nothing I wouldn't expect. Heh, if it was pitch black I still wouldn't be concerned. Neo.''

What?

Mind telling me the situation?

''Some guys took you here, didn't pay too much attention. 'Ace'- interesting name that Demgel guy came up with- is still sleeping, same as always.''

''I see. Well I suppose we just humor whoever these people are for the moment...''

voice: These people are savages...all of them are humans kidnapping myths...and bringing them here so they can beat the hell out of us for their amusement and courage. *spits* More like red courage. Heard of people like that...just never thought they'd come for me.

Kado silently looks about the cell, his eyes able to see clearly even in the dark.

''There is a small slit of light coming from beside him, but this light is only artificial. He can see a small glimpse of the other person on the other side.''

Kado looks at him, but says nothing in response.

Voice: It sucks...how people like that who rip you away from your life and think so lowly of you. Believe me when I say the people here HATE us. Just HATE us. The fact that I see the same people everyday yelling, "Kill that freak, kill that freak!" just proves it

"That's brilliant. Remind me to care never...." He says irritably.

Voice: I know....I wouldn't expect you to...our lives are meaningless....even to our own kind....Just why...why do we exist...is it for this exact purpose...to empower mankind,just by being the tool for that demolishing empowerment?

"Atrocity isn't anything new. You have to learn to expect such things. In the end they will get whatever fate they deserve. One who lives by the sword dies by the sword."

Voice: Not these people. These people are......I'd kill myself if all humanity was like them. In this place, it feels just like that....

"Ugggh... talk about something else. Who are you anyway?"

Voice: Another man who's waiting to meet his...I don't have that kind of fight left in me.....I just wish I could tell my family how much I loved them one last time....

Kado sighs. "A single memory is worth more than a thousand words. No point in regrets. Even if you do die, they will always have your memory."

''The is a mechanical sound that sounds like it alleviating from the other cell. Sunlight shines from withing the other cell. as people can heard cheering and shouting.''

Voice: I wish that were true...

''Something shuts and all that can be heard are a few cracks and moaning and after few more minutes of the same sounds, a gong tings and everyone roars. The light in the other cell goes out.''

Kado just shakes his head, closing his eyes and prefering not to listen to the arena.

I wouldn't doubt we'll be chosen at some point.

Can I have a turn?

''No. If they want sport, they'll be disappointed. I fight for a cause. If they want a blood sport, only their blood will spill.''

An earthquake can be felt from above

Kado grunts. "Well great, let's hope whatever that is breaks this place down."

Another set of eyes peep through Kado's cell

Man: So. What's your name or nickname? If you don't have a name or nickname, one will be given to you.

"I don't think it really matters, naked ape. But if you want a name to scream when you all die, there are those who have called me Dark Phoenix. Though I doubt a naked ape like you could care less about my name. Is that all or do you have some other reason for poking that buggy eye infested with maggots in my direction?"

Man: Man. Youmust be one dumb myth. Can't really see well out of that ther' slit can ya'? Maybe I'll come by later after everyone's put their bid on ya' and fix that slit. *disappears*

"''Sure, bid all you want. On which one of you dies first." ''Neo chuckles darkly.

Shadow Over Earth
Ever so suddenly, a beam of blue light shot into the skies above Mount Elbrus. It stopped high in the sky, and began expanding outward. Another beam shot out elsewhere, followed by another. The beams were accompanied by a fourth, and began to seem as if they were creating something. These forming energy waves began to connect to each other, and began to expand around the Earth. It travelled slowly, and, within hours, Earth was completely trapped inside a shell of energy.

A ship was launched into the skies, tearing towards the newly formed bubble. It collided with the barrier, and exploded on impact. The creators of this bubble knew that they had now trapped Earth within their grasp

Atlas the Rescuer
Atlas appears on a broken shrine.

Atlas: Thea, come out. I know you are here.

Thea: *Has tears in her eyes* You... Shouldn't have come here... The... It's...

Atlas: *Sighs* Okay. Get to safety... Monster, show yourself!

Giant monster hands stetch out from the ground and nto the sky as far as the eye can see and it omes back down and it lifts up a body of a gigantic man who's height nearly touches the clouds surfaces from the ground.

Typon: What is it, Atlas? Why is it you summon me when I slumber.

Atlas: Your assistance is needed. We are getting our forces together. We will raid Tartarus. Nobody will be left in that is related to the Titans. Please, join us Typhon. If not, you shall die here for the enslavement of my dear family.

Typhon: I have not enslaved my family. My family intermingles with the numerous bloodlines of there fellow kind. I have no coil with anyone. I just wish to slumber again.

Atlas: Then where is the rest of my family? Were you not the one who put these globes on my back? Who put my family into Tartarus? Yes, you were, and for that, you shall die here.

Typon: The Gods entrapped you, not I. For I ended up in the Tundra as you did, besides, the Gods were the ones who made you hold the heavens upon your back. There is no need to kill me. If this is why you called I would have resisted to urge to come up here

Atlas: I will leave you be then, as you have showed me the error of my anger. I appologize and thank you for your time. If you interfere with my plans, however, you will die.

Typhon: You do not have to worry about that. In the event your plans go south, do feel free to summon me then. *retreats back into the earth*

Atlas: Have a nice slumber... Thea, let us go. You are in charge of him.

Thea: Okay... I'll... Do that...

A Glance at the Past
Kado emerges in an alley some distance away, and watches to see if Segura comes out. When he does, he grunts irritably.

"Stubborn... we won't be here long, I have a friend to pick up, and then I'll be make a trip to my home world to pay my respects to my master. "

With that, he peeks out of the alley and sees the assembled Azure forces making their preparations to return home. With an agitated sigh, he steps out and approaches, not caring for any of the gasps of the soldiers, as they are shocked to see him.

"Sir! You're back! Kado, are you back among us?!"

He silently ignores them, and walks up to the center, where Oliv and Naomi, among a few dozen ranked officers stand, talking.

"Oliv." He says quietly, and the organization hushes to dead silence.

"Kado.... you have returned?" She asks cautiously.

"No. I came for Naomi. And no one else." He looks at Naomi, his gaze softening upon looking at the Yokai hybrid.

"I thought you might like to see our master one last time. After that, I'd like to take you with me to somewhere I can keep you safe."

Naomi is speechless.

Segura: We got get goin' before the boss knows we went off. He doesn't trust the night.

Kado looks over over at Segura. "....Keep talking and I'll stuff you in a black hole. And trust me. You'd wish I wasn't joking." He turns back to Naomi, who looks a bit hesitant.

"Come on, I promised Master Hiroshi I'd look after you." He smiles faintly.

Oliv steps up to him. "Kado. Please reconsider."

Kado barely looks at her. "No." He says flatly. "It's over, Oliv. Consider yourself the leader of Azure. It's time you went home."

Oliv dips her head, seemingly disappointed. "I see. Very well. Men, we'll be leaving now." The various soldiers begin to fade, disappearing back to Echo, and Kado and Naomi begin to walk towards Segura.

Kado smirks on his way back. "Segura, just so you know, the night is more or less my realm. If anything were to happen, it would be a big mistake on whoever came across us to challenge me." He looks over at Naomi. "You can relax and show him your true form, Naomi."

She sighs, and five black fox tails appear, and a pair of fox ears grow on her head.

"My name is Naomi. ....I'm a former member of Phoenix, like Kado. ....We're close friends since we were kids." She says quietly, nervous in Segura's presence.

Segura: You look like some chick I would see from a anime roleplay. I can take that back if that's insulting. Name's Segura. *looks back at Kado* you do know you didn't get full permission to bring her to The Slums, right?

Kado looks at him with slight irritation. "I realize that. I'm taking her with me to the site where my Master is buried. After that I'll be dropping her off in a secure location until I do get permission. Understand though I am loathing of the concept of leaving her unprotected any longer than nessisary, and permission or not, I will not allow her to remain so for long. White has taken enough from me. I'm not giving her an oppertunity to take something else."

He opens another portal, while Naomi looks confused. "Anime roleplay....?" She asks, confused.

Segura: Yea. What about it?

".....What is that?" She asks, genuine confusion on her face.

Kado looks at Segura. "Honestly man, don't ever expect me or any of my friends to know what t.v. or any of that nonsense is. We didn't exactly grow up in a world of prosperity."

Segura: Neither did we. Specially with that T.V. stuff. I know what it is, but I never watched anything much less had one.

Kado sighs. "Let's just go." He enters the portal, with Naomi close behind.

Segura: *enters behind them*

Strange New World
Earth, a strange land inhabited by odd people. In this place Chika and the mercenary arrive, in a great wildland.

"We're here. Now for my pay."

Chika hands him the twelve gold. Later, about an hour after he left, he'd find out it was really copper.

"Alright... Now to get to Echo," she says to herself.

"That's not going to be easy, lady," says the mercenary, appearing before the angel with an annoyed look on his face. He tosses the copper back to her, "You know, had you met my price, you would've saved money. Most others in my line would have charged you one hundred times the amount I asked for, plus 'a night on the town.' It isn't polite to lie to one such as I, especially if I know your destination and of your heritage among things." The mercenary levels an eye with Chika. "Pay the proper amount or I'll pester you until you go mad... Oh and no funny business. Your sword and touch won't do a thing to little ol' me."

"Oh you gotta be kidding..." She starts to walk away.

The mercenary follows Chika silently, occasionally poking one of her wings or asking her about their location.

"As long as you're here, might as well make you shut up," she says to him. Her wing flaps and slaps him in the face the next time he pokes it. "Don't."

"Then pay me properly."

"I'm not that well off. Twelve gold is a lot of money."

"Twelve gold is less than the one and five grand I could have charged. Since you agreed to my price and didn't say anything about the price being too steep initially, I'm not lowering it," says the mercenary.

"Then you're not getting any gold."

"And you won't get any peace until I do."

"And you will die here if you stay."

"Nah. you could try, but you'd fail miserably. Be my guest though."

"I'm saying I'm going somewhere there is a man who'd gladly kill you - and he could - to have a half-Death God on his side." Chika gets an irritated look. "So, if you want to wait somewhere for me come get you when we can go where I'm actually going, then that's fine."

"Oh Hiro? He could try too, but that would be a mistake on his part... Besides, getting to Echo ain't easy, especially from this world. Give it a few decades and maybe, but not now." The mercenary matches Chika's look with a dull look of his own. "And no, I'm not letting you have any peace of mind until I get my fee... On another note, I could get us to Echo, just saying."

"Are you attempting to make me pull a tab? And if you ever come into a shower we'll have a civil rights problem, got it?"

"Tab? No, that implies I trust you to actually pay me if I give you leeway. That ain't happening... You aren't gonna find many showers in the wilderness, lady."

Chika sighs. She starts to fly toward a portal.

"You're going to fly towards a portal, which is about as likely to take you to Echo as I am to dtop hounding you before you pay me," comments the mercenary drily, lazily following the angel into the air, "You're practically begging to be captured and experimented on or killed by groups like the M.C.C.P. Getting to Echo isn't just simply entering a portal, you have to find a functioning gate, get the proper power source and hope that you aren't deposited into a place like Antiva if you don't have anything from Echo to lock the destination."

She sighs again and starts to meditate in mid-air.

"Good, maybe that'll cool you off enough to actually think and listen."

Her wings fold up and her eyes scrunch up. "Kado is coming back soon. Let us wait, then..."

"If he's your boss, ask him to pay up."

"Here..." She punches the dirt, making it into solid gold. "Your payment. Now I have found Kado, so please leave me alone."

"...Why didn't you do that in the first place? Your priorities are skewed. Also, too much gold. I only take what I asked for, no more and no less."

"I'll take the rest then." At that, she turns it into peices and takes all but his pay. Chika then flies off toward the place of which Kado is. The Party.

"Very skewed priorities... Ah well, at least she couldn't see through the disguise."

An Oddly Placed... Dragon?
Deep within the wilderness lies a strange school. No one knows why it was built here of all places, but it is said that one of the teachers here is legendary for both his genius and insanity...

A cloaked girl emerges from a rift, looking around. "Oh wow, it really is a forest castle... hmmm.... interesting. I hope master was right about him being nice...."

As she draws closer to the school, she sees a group of people emerge from its front gate. Almost everyone appears to be her age or just a few years younger. Standing out among them is a young man wearing almost entirely all black, with hair of so many shades of green that it looks similar to grass and yellow eyes. He appears to be a few years older than the others and taller. Oddly, he carries two short swords on his waist.

Naki slows to a stop, nervous and trembling slightly. ''Are they.... going to attack me....?''

 The people do not initially notice her, but when the green haired man does he calls her over with a wave. He doesn't appear to be unfriendly, more eccentric than intimidating.

She cautiously approaches them, greatly nervous. When she is closer she waves back, but remembers her claws and just as quickly timidly hides her hand in her sleeve, afraid of a possible reaction.

The green haired man seems to glide to her, smiling and extending a hand.

"Ah, I see you're a new face around here," he greets nonchalantly, "My name's Anira, but you can call me Annie or Ishida. You must be... Nagi? I detected your presence and came to greet you, though my class wanted to follow suit, so everyone's here." He appears to be a rather care-free and kind person.

She reluctantly extends her hand timidly. "A-A-Almost, it's Naki. It's uhhhh... a pleasure to m-m-meet you?"

"Same to you," he replies, "I don't know how long you'll be here, but you're welcome to act a as student until you go, Naki." Anira swirls a finger in the air and Naki's cloak is replaced by a simple school uniform. "To help you blend in."

She blinks at the change. "Woah..." She looks at him curiously. "How did....?" She shakes her head with a reluctant smile. "I guess it doesn't matter... ...I've been exposed to enough things like this, I shouldn't be surprised anymore..."

"Nah, I've been around for awhile and things still surprise me every once in a while. I'd recommend talking with the others, they'll help you out and should be willing to talk to you. Appearance isn't important here, so you don't have to worry about that."

She looks around. "I've never been in a school before.... ...my life certainly has changed since I met master...."

"I wonder if the full moon truly has vassals," says Anira mysteriously, "School is interesting, though I didn't get to experience it until I got reincarnated."

"Reincarnated?" She blinks with her iridescent eyes. "Would you show me around by chance?" She asks.

"Long, long story," he says, "I could show you around, but I think on of the students should." He gestures to the teens performing various activities.

She nods slowly. "A-Alright then..." She takes a deep breath and approaches them, looking extremely nervous and shy without the covering of the cloak to give her assurance.

One of the students notices her. He appears to be about Naki's age and has dark brown hair, blue eyes and a tall and thin, yet muscular, form. He wears a  black jacket with gold and silver forearm protectors and the standard school uniform underneath it. Most noticeably, however, is his prehensile tail anf the staff it carries.

"Heya, how're you," he asks. "I'm Sol."

She makes a attempt to smile. "H-Hi... my name is Naki. I'm well... I was kind of wondering if you could show me around? I'm kind of new here." She says uncertainly.

"Sure, you have the aura of a good person," Sol answers, "A bit shy, but shy isn't bad... C'mon!" With that Sol begins a perimeter tour around the school, making sure to warn Naki of the dangers of the forest.

"So the forest is a bad place? Why's that?" She asks. "This place seems really nice..." She says in wonder. "I've never been to a school before..."

"Ah, we're in a similar boat then. Is my first time in a school myself," he says, "The forest isn't bad, but it is home to some fearsome monsters... Like the deer or the bear thingy barreling towards us." Sol steps in front Naki and prepares his staff.

She shrinks back behind him, scared. "That thing is huge!"

''I wonder if the elements Zwei taught me would be of help... ....probably not... I only just learned to use them...''

The bear is easily twice the size of a fully grown grizzly bear and is far more imposing. The coarse, dense fur on its body fades to chipped scales laden with scars and raw patches. Its head looks more akin to a dragon than a bear's, but it is possible to see the resemblance to both.

Sol hurls his staff at the creature.

"Expand," he commands an instant before the staff thickens to just beyond the size of the bear and crashes into it. A pained roar sounds from the other side of the staff and it sounds like the bear has returned to the forest. Sol gestures for the staff to return and catches it with his tail once it returns to its original size. "He's gotta stop coming here. If me or Ishi Sensei aren't the ones to find him, he'll be killed..."

"Shouldn't you just get rid of him if he's such a problem?"

"It's not that simple of a matter," begins Sol, "He's waiting for his master, the god governing this area, to return. According to Ishi Sensei, he's been around for well over one hundred years and has watched over this area as a guardian up until very recently. Basically, he's gone senile, but remembers his duty enough to try to do it... But he doesn't recognize who or what he's supposed to protect beyond an extent. "

"I see... so you two avoid killing him out of pity?" She thinks quietly for a moment while they walk. "So how did you end up at this place?"

"Pity, not so much. It's closer to understanding, " he says absently, "A friend of mine sent me here, he said that if I stayed here for four years, I could join him and the others on their adventure... Though, now that I think about it, I want nothing to do with a quest for revenge. How about you?"

She falls quiet for a moment.

''What do I say to him? He seems like a nice person, but I don't know what I should and shouldn't say... ''

"A person I look up to is having a rough time right now, he's going to cool off for a bit so he brought me here. I don't know what to do with myself though."

"Ah... I hope he can reach inner peace then," he says, looking up, "Hm, class should be starting soon, so maybe you can join us."

Naki nods lightly. "I don't see what else I can do, so I guess I might as well."

''What do they even teach here? ....Would they still accept me even if they knew my original self was a human? ....I wonder if I'll like it here...''

Sol takes Naki back to Anira, who calls the rest of the class to him.

"Alright, time for class," he yells, "Today, we'll be talking about familiars and attempting to properly make one, then we'll continue our lesson on the history of the Coexistence Movement, followed by a quick Chemistry lesson and lab and finally a bit of time to spar or train." This is met by a mixture of responses, ranging from excited chatter to groans of discontent.

At the word 'familiar' Naki is interested, and Janpu appears inside her shadow, though only his head is visible, the rest of him lies flat against the shadow she makes, his tiny eye occasionally risking opening to take a look around.

She quietly listens to what Anira has to say, not wanting to draw attention to herself.

"Familiars are, in the most basic sense, extentions of one's being given form, at least the summoned ones are. Familiars can be born from one's mind, one's heart, nature or from excess power," he says, "They vary from person to person and have an infinite number of potential abilites that range from combat orientation to support and healing to even time management and task management. No two familiars are the same, even if they look nearly identical..." He continues his explanation, answering any question regarding their nature or abilities until he gets a certain question.

"Anira, what is your familiar," asks a human student who appears to be a year younger than Naki, "If you don't have one, I don't think you should be teaching us about this..."

The teacher gets a thoughtful expression on his face before he responds.

"I could show you my familiar, but only after we get through the summoning exercise," he says, passing everyone a sheet of paper and what appears to be an oversized stylus. "Alright, repeat the symbol I'm about to draw, but say your name in reverse as you do." Anira draws three lines into the air, the first similar to an uppercase 'U', followed by a line similar to a downwards facing arrow missing its left half going through the center of the first line, then finally a second curved line intersecting the other two diagonally.

The moment Anira hands a paper to Naki, Janpu uncoils rapidly and playfully snatches the paper, before disappearing in Naki's shadow.

"One can have multiple familiars," the teacher muses, winking at Naki while the others attempt to copy the symbol he drew, "Apparently someone has over forty in the future... Care to see if you have access to more than one?"

Naki looks down at the shadow. "Janpu! Quit! Give it back!" She lightly hisses at the familiar, and a small hand stretches out and hands it back. "He's always touching things..."

She takes the stylus and begins to carefully replicate the symbol, being slow and precise with her movement.

"Curiousity isn't a bad trait, as long as he doesn't cause trouble," says Anira as the first familiars begin to Manifest around the class. Sounds of awe come from nearly every direction as more and more appear. "Hm, seems like everyone is capable of summoning a familiar..."

Two marks appear, one on each hand of Naki's and a two headed snake appears at her feet, vermilion in color.

"Hmm, quite interesting," notes Anira, before a sounds of awe erupt from behind them. Turning around, they see that the human student from earlier has summoned quite the intimidating familiar.

Standing at equal height to the teacher is a figure clad in heavy grey and black armor. It has spiked pauldrons and pointed gauntlets and carries a large, ebony great sword between its shoulder blades, where two skeletal wings with the occasional black feather still connected to the bone. Its helm is horned and completely obscures its face, save for a trio of glowing blue eyes. It growls deeply as its creator smirks.

"Impressed, teacher," asks the girl, smirking cockily.

"Eh, I rather prefer mine, Serah," responds Sol, sitting atop an eastern dragon with a dark storm cloud for a mane and smoke colored scales. It stretches into the forest and is large enough to carry the entire class on its back with no trouble. Ribbons segmented by magamata trios extend from its mane and wrap around its body, coupled with a large magatama trio ring. It's eyes and talons are gold, though it appears to be much friendlier than Serah's familiar despite its intimidating appearance.

Naki, while impressed by both displays, shows overall indifference, though she does linger on the dragon Sol summoned. The snake becomes a large vermilion scarf that wraps around her neck and shoulders, and she experimentally says the name, "Jue', and the left end of the scarf morphs into a snake head and opens its mouth, and a large spear with a iridescent blade comes out and Naki grabs it, curiously testing its weight, finding it a perfect fit.

"Hm. all three of you have interesting familiars," says Anira, equally indifferent to the display.

"Your turn, teacher," says Serah, her smirk remaining, "Unless you don't have one." She emphasizes the last three words.

"Oh, I do," responds the teacher, "I just never summon him for the most part because he's... large."

"Prove it," sneers the girl.

"If you insist..." Anira shrugs and the air grows thick, "You may wish to step back..."

Naki quietly steps back, a bit more than the others do, putting away the spear and the snake disappears back into her scarf.

A loud crack can be heard as the sky literally shatters, revealing a monstrous dragonic gauntlet larger than the school itself. The gauntlet is  coppery in color and has titanic black talons and pointed plates with the occassional cluster of spikes. At the center of the gaunlet's palm floats a sphere of black and purple energy that crackles with lightning.

"This part of Megalo," says Anira, "If I brought all of him into this world, we'd be at the scene of a giant monster movie." Serah only gapes at the enormous part of the teacher's familiar.

Naki gasps. ''This is what Mythos are capable of... ....this is the world I've been thrown into... ....incredible... ...so terrifying, but so.... ....wonderful.... what are the possibilities?! There's got to be so many.... ....incredible... incredible...!''

Sol waves a hand in front of Naki's face, trying to get her attention.

"Um, you're eyes have stars in them. I didn't think that was possible," he says, concerned and amused, "You there, Naki?"

"EEEP!" She jumps back in alarm. "W-What are you talking about? Were you saying something or..." She trails off, now feeling awkward and looks away with a hint of an embarrassed flush.

"...I was trying to say the next lesson has begun, but  you kind of missed all of it," he says. "You alright up top?"

Oh boy, not gonna go on that topic.... "Hmm? Oh what was the lesson?" She asks, swiftly attempting to ignore his question.

"It was about the Coexistence Movement and what factors were behind it," Sol says, dropping the other subject, "If the ambassadors from both sides had arrived slightly soon, I think that we'd be able to coexist to a much greater and more positive extent than currently... Oh right, Chemistry was cancelled because we're missing a few chemicals. Apparently someone raided the science hall."

"C-Chemistry canceled?! Awwwww.... so what's going to happen now?" She asks curiously.

"Free period," he responds, smirking at Naki's reaction to the canceled class. "Most people use this time to spar or hone their skills or explore the forest. I do the latter most, I'm trying to see if I can find the Land God for this area or the Land God's Shrine."

"I see..." She sighs, still upset about the canceled class, and sits down, and stares at her taloned feet. "...Still aclimating... still not used to walking like this..." She murmurs, vexed at the limbs, a less than pleased look is on her face as she studies them and occasionally moves a digit as through trying to see how they worked.

"Hm... You need to learn the Transfiguration Spell," says Sol after a moment. "I could teach it to you, I know it, but rarely need to use it."

She blinks. "Oh, thanks for the offer, but I need to become used to my form. It's what I really am now, so I might as well adapt to it. Changing my form would be convenient, but I can't live a lie either."

"Hm... Bird Anatomic Structure?"

She looks away slightly, closing her eyes. "It's.... complicated what I am... I can't really explain. Not sure if I should or am at liberty to." She flexes her feet again. "Perhaps you could say that... I don't know. I know what I am, but I wasn't...." She sighs, not knowing how to explain her situation, also afraid of what he might think of her if he knew her secrets.

"Ah I get ya," he he says, "I was asking if understanding how a bird or a similar animal would help you out in figuring out how your feet work, though... I won't ask how you got turned into a Mythos."

She starts a bit, opening her eyes. "Wait, you... ....did you know or just inferred.... ...I should keep a better watch over my words..." She seems a slight bit distressed.

"Eh, I just know things. Being the Monkey King's descendant has its perks," he says, shrugging. "Don't worry, ninty percent of the people here have no ill will against humans... The ten percent being elitist pricks who hate everyone other than 'people of their status'."

Naki closes her eyes. "Well between living a life as a street rat until my capture and change into what I am now... I'd say I'm not exactly anything worth raising a monocle towards. I bet they'd have a row with me no problem..." She lets out a sigh.

"Do you have any idea how overwhelming everything is? For me? I grew up not being able to even read or write, and suddenly I'm some being with powers I don't understand, and suddenly things I couldn't even imagine have become not only a part of me, but are all around me... ...I'm still trying to process all of it." She lets out another sigh, rubbing her face from slight stress.

"Eh, you could've been raised in an elitist family as the black sheep, kicked out for being picked by soething your older brother was supposed to inherit, forced to duel your older brother because you parents couldn't fathom a magical staff that chooses its owner not choosing the family prodigy, hunted down after defeating said brother fairly, made to change your name twice only to still be found out and deprived of peace of mind because the magical staff likes to talk to you," he says in a single breath, "Somethings take awhile to get used to... Other things, you don't get used to... The world is strange like that, always keeping you on your to-" Sol somersaults through the air, avoiding a slash from Serah's familiar. He lands on his feet and twirls his staff, pointing the  weapon at the knight like being.

"Sol, we challenge you and your girlfriend to a duel," says Serah as a teen in a pristine uniform takes her side. He smirks and summons a two headed wolf the size of a bear to his side.

"Sol, I believe you are the rank one student in the school," muses the other male, petting his wolf, "I cannot allow that, especially from one who consorts with commoners as if they were his kin." Sol scoffs.

"Fine, I'll take you both on," he smirks. Serah tsks at him.

"You and the new girl," she repeats, "Oh, I forgot you only learn through being punished..."

Naki closes her eyes. "Not interested. I'm not involved in this and I don't intend to. What's wrong with showing the new girl around on their first day? Oh and... I'm not his girlfriend."

She quietly gets up and puts her hands in her pockets, walking away, though Janpu appears, thicker and bulkier than normal and coils around her, his singular eye watching Naki's rear defense, knowing the danger.

"Don't you turn away from me," growls the other teen, stalking towards Naki only to be hit in the stomch by the staff and collapse, his familiar fading the instant he loses consciousness. Sol turns towards Serah as lightning crackles around him.

"Lightning Extension," he says, having his staff extend as lightning gathers around it, piercing the armored familiar and hitting its master in the stomach, shocking her. He sighs as Serah falls unconscious. "Annoying people are annoying..."

By the time he turns around, Naki is gone and still walking, finding a quiet section of the grounds, though a few people are still strolling around, it's otherwise isolated enough for her to be content, and she pulls out a book from her clothes and starts reading, still very much annoyed. She makes a slight tsk as she turns a page.

"Nothing changes... bullies on the streets, bullies in a schoolyard. Janpu, if anyone gets close, kindly punch them in the face. I'd like to be left alone..."

"I'd rather not be punched in the face for checking on you," says Anira, "appearing beside Naki his a set of Chemistry books, "Here, I noticed you weren't happy to miss the Lab and lesson I had to cancel, so I dug up these guys. Have fun and try not to get banned from laboratories like I was when I made explosive water by accident."

She lowers the book she's reading and looks up at him, Janpu looking at her for permission.

"Down, Janpu. ....Thank you sir. I appreciate it. School is as much as I've heard about and heard rumors of... ...it's funny, but's almost enjoyable." She takes a look at one of the books and smiles faintly, opening it up to read it.

"School is supposed to be enjoyable, not the battleground of jealous girls and holier than thou students," says the teacher, "I'd request that you stay, but its almost time for you to go..."

She closes her eyes. "I see.... I had a lot of fun... it was a great experience sir. Even with the jerks a moment ago, it was still nice. Do you think it would be possible for me to come back though?" She smiles faintly. "It would be nice. Do your students normally live here? Or do they come from other places every day then return?"

"The students live here, there are dorm rooms and housing wings," he says, "And you're welcome at any time, Naki." Anira gets up just as the doctor appears, his eyes no longer crimson.

"Ah, Anira," remarks Volmond, "How are you?"

"I'm well," responds the teacher, "Still attempting figure out how a certain possibility occurred, but I'm otherwise fine."

"My I ask which possibility that is?"

"The one I said you've really dislike."

"Ah... How was Naki?"

"She was a good student, didn't cause trouble. I'd be willing to accept her as a student," says Anira.

"I wonder about that," says the doctor, thoughtfully, "In any case, it is time to go. Naki is there anything you'd like to say or do before we go?"

Naki thinks for a moment, putting away her personal book. "Hmmm.... Mast-.... ....Zwei, do you think that I could learn here?" She looks at Anira. "Would it be possible for me to stay at home with him in the mornings and evenings and come here for lessons?" She looks over at Volmond. "At least then I could still be at home part of the day to keep you company since Miss Shinwa is with her brother now. Do you think I could do that Master?" She asks curiously.

"S-sure, Naki," says the doctor.

"That's feasible," agrees Anira, "You could start tomorrow, I'll handle the necessary paper work."

Naki suddenly gives Volmond a hug. "Thank you!!" She says happily.

She looks at Anira with a sour face. "If those two bother me again, I'm going to have Jue summon a rocket launcher with a nuclear payload on their ass..."

"Eh, I don't think that's allowed," says Anira, "I'd have to check the rule book..."

"...What do you mean you don't know if that's allowed," exclaims Volmond.

"The rule book was boring so I read half of it then quit..."

"..." Volmond grumbles.

"But no worries, I don't even know how to summon anything specific with Jue anyway. I just got him after all. I was just kidding. Anyway, it was nice to meet you Anira." She smiles, then looks at Volmond. "I'm ready to go now master." She says, hugging him again.

The doctor nods. "Let's go then." He teleports them back to his domain, just as Sol arrives.

"You just missed her," says Anira.

"Huh. I meant to hand her a book on birds, but I guess that won't happen," Sol replies.

"Try tomorrow, she'll be back..."

Naki stretches her arms and yawns. "Thanks for taking me there Zwei, it was quite enjoyable. Oh, can you teach me how to adjust my appearance so Anira doesn't have to do that again? Also, did I upset you?" She asks.

"Hm? Oh it's nothing," says the doctor before briskly explaining the Minor Transfiguration spell and how it works. "Remember to focus when casting this or else you'll appear as your darkest self."

Naki nods, and quietly focuses, until her feet become human in form, and she lets out a small sigh of content, then begins experimentally checking to see if her digits work correctly, occasionally correcting something slightly.

"That feels right. Thanks Zwei!" She says with a smile, practicing walking around with her feet, before eventually switching to her Etherite form and practicing more on adapting to her taloned feet. She then experiments with the different clothing, the clothing she received from White, the robed form, and the school outfit she got from Anira. Once she is satisfied with the extent of her usage, she resumes her form with White's style.

"Ok, that checks out. Hmmm... got any thing on mechanics and human anatomy?" She asks out of curiosity.

"Yes?" Volmond is somewhat confused, but he produces the books. "Wouldn't an avian or draconic anatomy book be more useful though?"

She opens up some books and begins reading multiple ones at one time. "It's not about my feet. You have pet projects, and I want to do something as well. Once I get the majority of this stuff down, I'll let you in on my idea."

"As long as it isn't Alchemy, it should be fine," he says, shrugging. "And as long as you don't blow yourself up."

"While that is an interesting subject, I'm thinking more mechanical things at the moment."

"My second statement still applies," Volmond says. "Don't blow yourself up."

She smiles. "I won't. I'm just now reading up on this stuff. I won't try it until my research on the subject is thoroughly done. Plus I'm a big girl. I won't take any chances too dangerous to risk."

"Doesn't mean I can't nag you about it anyways," he grumbles. He tosses her a sphere of metal. "This'll be helpful."

"Hmm? What's this?" She says, catching it.

"Multitool. It changes depending on what tools you need."

She smiles. "Thanks. Again, I still have to read up on all of this, but when I'm done I'll be sure to use it. What did you do while I was gone? Or do you not want to talk about it?"

"I'd rather not talk about it... Though it was helpful in finishing up my plan and the event's prologue..."

She gives him an odd look, then shakes her head with a reluctant grin. "Want some coffee? I can get Janpu to go get some."

"Make it strong," he says, "Weak coffee is bad coffee."

Naki nods, and Janpu disappears for a few minutes, then comes back with two really strong coffees nice and hot.

Volmond downs the drink in a gulp, then sighs. "Good stuff. Now, have an idea as to what you want to make?"

Naki looks at the books. "Well, you could say the current target is a device modeled after the human arm and or hand that specializes in optimization and amplification of a user's power, be it physical or magic. As it runs on its own separate power, negating a persons power would be a moot point with the device, as it would allow someone to tap into its reserve via the nerve system. It would be as simple as flexing your fingers to use."

"Ah, sort of like an External Mana Sphere and Mana Aqueduct Theories," says the the doctor, "Neither of those have been proven successfully. Maybe you can do it."

"Perhaps. If you wonder about why I would make such a device, you once said you were human too, right? Didn't you ever feel helpless, like you couldn't achieve anything with your own two hands?" She asks as she reads, looking at diagrams of human hands, observing the fine details carefully.

"No, I was too busy trying to not be killed by people of a 'righteous' cause that was really greed. I only felt what you said when I lost Kokua..."

Naki closes her eyes. "Oh... ...sorry. Bad example. I should be more considerate."

"It's fine..." The doctor sighs and leans back. "So many things have changed since then... It's almost laughable."

"Hmmm... ...right... I'm pretty close to having a round idea of the framework I'll need now... I'll need some metal...."

"What type? We have Bronze, Copper, Alluminum, Iron, Steel, Carbon Steel, Titanium, Chromium, Infinitium, Cosmic Steel, Dragon Forge Metal, Solar Titanium, Singularity Iron, Singularity Steel and Silver."

"Normal steel will be fine. I need only the framework done for the moment."

The doctor has several pieces of steel float towards her. "Tell me if you need more, I have plenty of Steel."

She nods, and begins working on the metal, making reference to the books and sometimes her own hand as she begins to construct something that looks like the rough frame of a glove or hand.

Volmond begins reading an old leathery book, possibly an ancient compendium or spell book.

After a while, with her stomach growling, she manages to finish the framework, and carefully eyes all of the individual components she's crafted. "...Satisfactory... ....hmmm... I would ask if you had rubber wire I can use to make the tendons and 'muscle' of the device, but I'm hungry. How about you?"

"Not particularly, I just had coffee," says the doctor, not looking up as a pile of rubber wires spills into Naki's lap. "If you want something to eat, I'll get it in a moment."

She nods. "Well it's sort of getting late now, just thought you might be hungry. Thanks." She begins attaching bits and pieces together in complex designs, slowly attaching the components together, occasionally welding parts as well. After a while, she pauses and puts it on her hand, flexing her hand and hears a sharp 'click!' as she closes it into a fist, the effort made with ease. "Good... that's what I wanted to hear.... the mechanism works. At least the ignition that is..."

She holds out the skeleton of the device out for Volmond to see her work. "This is the bare bones, the parts that allow movement and the device to be triggered. I'll add more to it later, but you can kinda see the various working pieces aside from the power source and the amplifiers, that sort of thing."

Volmond looks up and nods. "Tweak the angle of the left most bit, it's ever so slightly off tilt."

She blinks, then corrects it. "Thanks. Do you like the design?" She rubs her head for a moment. "After you make some food and I eat, I think I'm gonna sleep for the rest of the evening."

"Mhmm, I want to see the complete deal," he says, getting up. "What do you want to eat?"

She thinks for a moment. "Never had a taco before... maybe that or three cheeseburgers." She takes off the glove, and looks at Janpu. "Can you get me a case for all of this?" Janpu disappears and grabs a decent case, and Naki begins putting away all of her materials and equipment, as well as the glove.

Volmond vanishes, then reappears fiftenn minutes later with three cheeseburgers and a loaded taco. "Here you go, Naki. Have a good night."

Naki nods, and begins eating, thinking silently. When she finishes, she looks over at Volmond and smiles. She gets up and walks over to him, giving him a hug. "Good night. ....You know, I kinda think of you as a father like figure... not sure if that's weird or if you understand... but thanks a lot for day. ...Good night." She gives him a light squeeze, then heads to her room and collapses in bed, thinking about the day's events.

I wonder what will happen tomorrow...?

She slowly drifts off into sleep.

The doctor sits alone for a bit.

"...I never expected to hear that ever... Not outside of that one possibility," he says, smiling wistfully, "If only things were as easy as Anira said they were in that unlikely scenario..." He sighs again, laying back and staring at the ceiling until morning arrives.

Sometime that morning, Naki slowly opens her eyes sleepily, yawning. Janpu appears quickly to greet her. "Good morning... I wonder how Zwei is doing...." She yawns again.

When Naki finds the doctor, he is reading the same book from last night. Sitting across from him is a breakfast platter with orange juice and jam of assorted flavors sitting beside it.

"Good morning Naki, you have twenty-five minutes to eat then get ready for the day," he says.

She sits down and begins eating. "Good morning Zwei. How was your night?"

"Long, I didn't sleep," he says, still reading, "A lot of things were on my mind."

"I'm sorry to hear that... I didn't have anything to do with that right?" She asks, then drinks her orange juice, then keeps eating.

"No, this happens everyone in a while, I'll be fine after a couple of weeks without sleep," he responds, "I never asked you how your day was, I just realized. How was it?"

"Oh it was enlightening. I never got to go to a school before, but it was really nice. There was some nice people, and some... ...not so nice people. Someone tried to start a fight, but Janpu could have just beat the tar out of them. He says he was itching to break their skulls and... ....rip their brains out... ...for trying to attack me. ...Yeah don't do that. Please. But anyway, over all it was nice. The guy Anira is pretty nice too. You two know each other?"

"Mhmm, we met awhile back in a summoning contest," he says while wagging a finger at Janpu, "You can't kill the other students, that'll get you on Anira's bad side very quickly. It's time to go, are you ready?"

Janpu crosses his arms, and Volmond hears it speak in his head.  Well they touch Naki, so much as a scratch and I'll show them the meaning of: 'eating their own shit.' 

Naki quickly gathers a few things, then nods.

"Janpu, don't get Naki into trouble... An angry Anira is a scary Anira." The doctor opens a portal. "Oh and beware Anira's tests..."

Naki blinks. "Ok... ...I will."

''....Fine. ...Horseradish... ''

She walks through the portal with a wave at Volmond. "See you later!"

Outside the school, Anira stands, waiting. "Good morning Naki, ready for your first official day?"

She already has changed appearance to that of the disguise he had given her before, and she nods her head, slightly excited. Janpu is coiled tightly around her body, his head peering out from behind Naki's at Anira in curiosity.

"Good, to the stadium we go," he declares, "There's a test today!"

She blinks and nervously says, "Ok, Sooo what's the test?"

"Eh, Familiars, Elements and basic chemistry."

"...Ok. Let's go then I guess." She waits for him to show her the way.

Anira leads her to a colossium-like stadium where the rest of the class is waiting. "I'll get things set up, you can wait with the others."

Naki walks over to the others, quietly taking her place, though Janpu quietly scans for the boy and the girl who had harassed Naki earlier, quietly seething to Naki. His snake head tail quietly twines around, smelling the scents of the air.

Janpu is able to see Serah, though the other boy is isn't present. He is also able to see Sol, whom the girl seems fixated on. Sol himself seems to be concentrating on something.

Naki gets the feed of information from Janpu and quietly reflects on the information while she waits.

''Seems no one is paying me that much attention. Good... rather prefer it that way for the moment. Janpu, feel free to keep an eye out. I don't want to deal with nonsense again. I wonder what exactly how the test will work... though I have a suspicion as to why we're in this stadium. ''

A loud ding rings out throughout the stadium as lights flicker on. The sound of gears grinding fills the area.

"Got it," exclaims Anira from where he is.

Naki anxiously listens to the gears. ''Machinery... ...probably relevant, though POSSIBLY just the light system. Highly doubt it.''

Janpu is still keeping tabs on the girl, and is also looking for the missing guy, slightly concerned of a threat.

A loud bang fills the area as the center of the stadium slides open and a large platform emerges from the center. Several seconds later, four pillar emerge to support the platform as a large transparent sphere forms above the platform.

Naki suddenly feels energized for some reason...

''What's this weird feeling.... ....I think it has something to do with that sphere... ....what is it for though? ''

"Alright, the testing stage is up and running," echoes Anira, "The first test is a Tournament styled deal. Basically, you're being as flashy as possible with your familiar. I don't expect to see anything on a miraculous scale, but I may be surprised... The seeds have been set!"

The orb above the platform shows a picture of everyone in the class paired with another person. Naki is paired with a student by the name of Selene while Sol is paired with Serah.

Naki quietly glances at her two familiars, and sighs. "Nope. No flashy here..." She mutters to herself.

Janpu whines.

"Oh yes, because fetching coffee is SO flashy, Janpu."

"You should be fine," says Sol, seeming to have materialized beside Naki, "Most people here don't even know how to utilize their familiars, let alone do flashy things." He hands Naki a book about birds.

She jumps. Janpu, your observation skills suck!

''Wha- CRAP! ''Janpu sinks a bit realizing he failed.

After taking a second to relax, she smiles and takes the book. "Oh... thanks." She looks back towards the sphere and sighs a bit. "Good luck, though something makes me doubt you'll need it." She says, not bothering to look at him.

"Good luck to you as well," he says, "For things like this, Ishi Sensei grades based on effort. The more you try, the better of you'll be."

Naki sighs. "Alright, thanks..." She silently waits for her turn.

Ten minutes pass before Naki and Selene are called to the platform. Selene appears to be a mousey person with thick glasses. Her familiar is a frail looking drake with two flickering balls of fire.

Janpu critically looks at the drake with a disapproving eye, quietly sizing it up.

The drake mirrors Janpu's action as the flames around it light properly. Selene summons herself a staff and holds it defensively.

You thinking what I'm thinking Janpu?

Janpu nods. He then stretches out and grows larger and longer, now taller than either girl by a whole torso, and Janpu manifests two balls of fire in its hands, much larger than the fire of the drake's. The fire slowly begins to change colors.

"Alblaz," says Selene and the drake's fireballs vanish. A moment later the wind begins to kick up as it is drawn into a single point above the platform, finally appearing in the form a perfect sphere of iridescent flames. The drake cocks an eye at Janpu as it begins to glow with orange light.

Naki's eyes glance up at Janpu. "Don't go overboard."

Janpu slowly starts to make the two fires spin by making them juggle, and they suddenly become iridescent and enlarge into large iridescent twisting serpents that twist tightly around Naki and himself, after a few rounds of coiling, they burst into shreds of multicolored wisps of fire and ember, the embers sparkling like jewels before extinguishing, and the majority of the burst condenses into tight orbs of iridescent fire in Naki and Janpu's hands, Janpu assisting her in channeling her flames, and she slowly makes them extinguish, and Janpu patiently waits for a response.

The sphere slowly expands, becoming somewhat oval shaped until it peels apart, revealing a brilliant  lotus flower composed of static iridescent flames. The flower slowly floats to the ground, gradually losing petals as it descends. The moment it touches the ground, the drake breathes on the flower just as Selene mutters "Alfri" freezing the flower and its still floating petals in place, still gleaming iridescently. The drake continues to glow brighter and brighter, finally releasing the light in a stream that makes rings of rainbows circle and loop continuously around the flower while a golden beam of light shines from the center.

Naki quietly looks at the display, quietly impressed. ''With my limits of what I even know about magic, might as well give up there. I've not been taught long and I've only practiced it once. Hell, I'm a recent born Mythos. I didn't think I had a chance to begin with. Urrgh, creativity isn't my strong suit... ...damn it.''

Naki closes her eyes and crosses her arms, and Janpu shrinks down to his previous size, extinguishing the flame.

''If I had more practice, maybe this would be a different story. ...I hope I at least had somewhat of a decent effect.''

"Good effort both of you," says Anira from his still unseen position, "That was much better than I expected to see from you two. Naki, you've got excellent synergy with Janpu, Selene, you seem to be really coordinated with..."

"Weyrn," supplies the mousey student, quietly. She appears to dislike being in the spotlight.

"Weyrn. You two are quite the pair. In a few years, you might be able to join the regional Summoning Contest. The same applie to you Naki, Janpu... That being said, while you both pass with flying colors, Selene advances to the next round."

Naki nods, expecting his words, and rejoins the classmates silently, sitting down on the ground, Janpu loosely coiled around her, laying his humanoid torso on the ground with his hands behind his back.

"That was a pretty awesome display," says Sol, "If you had just a bit more 'Umph' I think you'd have advanced... Still, the little guy has some surprises hidden."

"Janpu discussed making a fireworks display, but I told him we should scale back a bit so we would have options." Naki says, closing her eyes. "And thanks, Janpu has alot up his sleeves, as it were. He says if it was a fight that probably would have ended much different. Slightly. He's better with the quick and easy stuff, concentrating for a long while like that bothers him. He's kinda got a short attention span."

"Honestly though for me personally I wouldn't have been able to do that. Right now Janpu has more of the brawn and I have more of the wits. I only started magic a few days ago. ....And my existence as well. Like this at least...." She opens her eyes slightly. "Brother's probably still in that facility... wondering what they did with me... ...probably think's I'm dead."

"...I see," says Sol after awhile, "The caged flower does indeed bloom in company..."

Naki closes her eyes again. "Hmm...." Janpu produces a pillow, and she lays down on the ground, resting her head against it, eventually smirking. "I can almost see those 'friends' of yours coming to cause trouble 'cause you're talking to me... ...not sure I'm worth the trouble. I'm just a lab rat afterall."

"Eh my friends are alright... Oh, THEM... Well, I can handle that... A lab rat trumps being the black sheep among the family of black sheep." Sol balances on his tail and meditates. "Besides the only reason I'm on their radar is because I'm smart like them, but not an elitist." He shrugs the relaxes until his name is called. "That's my cue. I'll be back in a moment." He hefts his staff onto his shoulder and heads towards the platform as a dark storm cloud rolls in.

She opens her eyes slightly, watching him leave. ''But at least you weren't born to create a weapon to destroy all life. ....I was manufactured as a tool for someone else's vengeance...''

She sighs, and sits up to watch.

Sol's match ends in almost an instant. While Serah has her familiar use fancy swordplay and footwork, Sol gracefully dodges and avoids the attacks until he leaps into the air and a complex seal with Magatama and the universal symbol of balance appears beneath him. He lands on his dragon's mane and extends his staff through the seal, gathering a large amount of lightning on its tip before he ascends into the heavens... Only come crashing down in a display of two dragons, one of storm clouds and the other of blue lightning, twining into a singular dragon embodying the fury of a thunderstorm before phasing through the seal with a dozen dragons, each representing a part of nature and balance, that coil around Serah and her knight.

Naki looks at the spectacle in awe, but she cannot help but feel a slight despair. For she learned but knows she could never tell anyone about why she was made. Before Volmond had taken her, Azula had come to her and taken her DNA to the labs below. But before she left, she told Naki everything. The real reason Naki was turned. To provide the dna for a biological superweapon. What Azula was to become... ...and what would have Naki's blood would pump through its veins.

''From me shall be spawned nothing but destruction. You have no right to even look at me. I'm a tool meant to usher in the beginning of the end. A black sheep? There is no comparing me to you. I am lower than any of you...''

Her eyes begin to close, dimmed with the secret despair within her mind.

The matches continue, ultimately resulting in a final match between Sol and Selene. Sol wins, the match but is close thanks to Selene's syngergy and coordination with Weyrn. Once this test is over, Anira announces a twenty minute break before checking on Naki.

"What's bothering you, Naki," he asks.

She remains silent for a moment. "....The reason why I exist. To be honest, I suspect you know about what I am, how I came to be this way, and why this was done to me." Her eyes fully close. "A possibility that occurred... ....do you see time?" She asks too quietly for anyone else but the teacher to hear.

"Time, parallel lives and possibilities, space, just about any and everything," he says, "In truth I do know of your origin and what happened, but I do not mention what I find to be uncomfortable to others."

She buries her face in her hands. "Those things... ...those beings bred for destruction... have my blood, my power running through their veins... if they succeed in their purpose, it'll be my fault... because they were made from me."

"Naki, unless something extremely idiotic happens, you shouldn't have to worry about that," says Anira, "So unless Admonition royally screws up, we should be in the clear... Besides, the beings you mentioned aren't totally aligned with their... master"

Naki opens her eyes and looks up at Anira. "Admonition? Who's that?"

"You'll see soon," he says, "As soon as both sides are ready, things will make a turn for the interesting."

She sighs, still kind of glum. "I've been trying to stay upbeat for Zwei's sake, but this has been eating me for a while. That the only reason I even have these powers is because someone wanted to use me for a purpose like that.... what's worse is that I could have been so easily just have had my mind made into a vegetable and stuffed in a test tube, along with the other specimens they've gathered. ...And no one would ever know I existed, I'd be lost down there forever."

She wearily watches Sol for a while. "He calls himself a black sheep... ....at least that's better than whatever I am."

"If only you knew his past...," he says, "Zwei isn't the type of person to be unnecessarily cruel. He may seem distant and emotionless at times, but he won't harm anyone without a valid reason nor will he betray your trust... Sol, you could say their origins are very similar, though the Choice has not presented itself... I wonder..."

Naki sighs. "I guess. ...Thanks... I guess." She takes the book Sol gave her earlier and starts reading.

"I'll let you off for the second test, you need some time to yourself for now."

She blinks, shocked. "T-That's not necessary at all! I don't need special treatment."

Anira shrugs, "Alright, you have five minutes before the next test starts."

She relaxes and quietly meditates on each of the elements, slowly focusing for a while on each one, until she has concentrated on 4 different occasions on each of the eight elements.

Anira returns to his concealed position and announces the new test's rules.

"Alright, second test. The rules are simple: Show me that you can manifest at least six of the elements, including the elements easiest and hardest for you to summon. This will be done in alphabetical order."

Naki sweats a bit. "Alright... ...just got to take it nice and easy...." She mutters to herself.

"Ha, it's expected that a commoner like you worry about something as simple as this," says Serah to Naki, a haughty look on her face.

"H-hey, leave her alone," says Selene, "You think because you were born into power, that all things are beneath you! You don't know what real effort is."

"Coming from the person who can barely do anything outside of magic and science, those words mean less than nothing. You can't even do what you're 'good' at."

Naki ignores her, irritated. Janpu gives Serah a dangerous glare, and the snake head hisses venomously.

Serah gives an equally venomous glare to Janpu and the snake, scoffing at them before stalking off.

Naki shakes her head and stands up. "If only she knew what I was... I have blood rarer than she'll ever dream to have..." She mutters to herself.

She looks at Selene. "By the way, ignore her and what she said. The only thing that comes out of the mouths of trash is more trash. She doesn't know what it means to have it rough, and what strength is derived from that."

"I know, it's just her superiority complex talking," says Selene after a moment, "I never formally introduced myself. I'm Selene Maribellum of the Phantom Family."

Naki smiles faintly. "I'm Naki... ....I used to have a family, but they are gone now. Nice to meet you. By the way, what you did back there? It was pretty. I'm still fairly recent at element magic, and well... ....everything to do with having power. I'm not exactly what you'd call a.... ....normal Mythos. Given some practice I could have made things better, but still. Quite incredible compared to what I could do."

"To be honest, I'm not really that fit to do things like that. I was taught combat magic and how to defend myself with the elements, not how to create sculptures and displays. I'm surprised you didn't move to the next round, I thought your display was much more interesting than my frozen lotus..."

Naki smiles. "Your lotus alone is proof of how skilled you and your companion are, anyone can make a bunch of savage fire, but to compress it into such a orderly form, it was beautiful."

"Thank you," says Selene, looking down. "We still have some time before we're called, want to talk for a bit?"

Naki blinks. "Oh, sure. I don't mind. I don't know that many people, so it would be nice." She slides a bookmark into her book and closes it, and hands it to Janpu, who dematerializes the book in his shadow for safekeeping.

Selene begins to talk about the various types of magic and how they can be used in tandem with science.

Naki listens with great interest in the subject. After a while she thinks thoughtfully. "I see... I admit myself to be interested in such things, the application of the unity of science and magic... though my project isn't nearly ready for completion yet. Much less showing off." She smiles wearily. "Right now I'm trying to create a power source that allows for the channeling of magic without the user actually having magical prowess, and apply the concept to a device that can be disguised as an arm or hand."

"Why not a ring or signet? In theory it should be just as effective, if not more subtle in appearance."

Naki closes her eyes. "This device merges with your systems directly. A ring or signet still requires you to actively divert attention to channel from it. With this, you could merely clench your fists, and be a human, yet be perfectly capable of casting magic and going toe to toe with an ogre. Plus you could say it's stage one for potentially more refined devices down the line using similar technology."

"Ah, I understand," she says, nodding. She gets a bright look in her eyes before she appears to draw out a complex equation, but before she can finish Naki's name is called.

Naki waves and then heads back up to the platform, and for a moment concentrates.

With barely any effort at all, a large sphere of darkness forms between her hands, crackling violently with its intensity.

"Good, it seems that darkness is your most affinite element," says Anira, "Five more to display."

She takes a deep breath, and begins to concentrate on the Earth. It takes her a little while, but not nearly as long as last time, but she manages to create a palm shaped rock, much bigger than the pebble she made last time. With a sigh, she places it on the ground and moves straight to fire, the fire coming much quicker and very intense in its energy when it comes out, and Naki quickly restrains it to a palm sized sphere.

"Fire and Earth... Three to go."

She struggles with ice and only produces a small hailstone, then hurriedly moves on to wind, which she manages to make visible not too long after initially summoning it. Light she doesn't do well with at all, a tiny sphere briefly forming before vanishing, and she excels with lighting but has to dispel it due to how much she accidently made. Her water sphere she creates lasts a little while, but it eventually loses energy and splashes to the ground.

"Hmm, You can summon all of the elements... You pass."

Naki leaves the stage and returns to her position before, sitting back down.

Selene is called shortly after Naki returns to her spot. She walks onto the platform, but hesitates for a moment. She steels herself before individually summoning a diamond shaped cluster of ice, a sphere of fire, a beam of light from the heavens, a dallop of seafoam bubbles and a small, smooth stone. She begins to create a ball of wind, when the elements floating around her go berserk and explode violently, sending Selene hurtling into the stands. Luckily, Sol manages to catch her, having moved at such a speed to appear to teleport.

Anira does teleport, appearing beside the two and checking Selene's vitals before sighing with relief. He has Sol set the girl down as he calls for several members of the school's nursing staff. The normally calm teacher now looks extremely angry, his eyes narrowed into golden blades and his normal smile replaced by tightly pursed lips. Naki and Janpu, before Selene is rushed away, detect a malicious aura around the area.

Naki stands up and looks around. What the hell was that....?

Sol and Serah both see Naki and move towards her.

"What the hell was that," exclaims Serah, "I didn't think you'd throw her under the bus or something like that!" Her normal haughty aura is replaced by one of anger.

"Don't point fingers when you're just as likely to be the culprit," hisses Sol, "Besides, Naki doesn't give off the same vibe as whoever did this."

"'Vibe!?' You're basing your argument off of a feeling you get around her!? That's nonsense!"

"Better than pointing fingers without any evidence." The two glare at each other, icy blues meeting stony greys until Serah looks away.

"Fine," she grumbles, looking down, "But she's helping us."

"Us?"

"You really think that you're going to be the only one to investigate this? As much as I dislike people like her, I will not allow my own classmates to be harmed!"

"...So you Do have a heart... Naki, what about you? Do you want to help out?" Serah's eyes narrow at Sol, but she doesn't say a thing.

Naki's eyes narrow at Serah when she hears the accusation, then she looks at the scene of the incident and closes her eyes for a moment.

"....I'm going to try something. I'd appreciate it if you didn't get close when I do this. You'll get hurt. Or worse." She walks over to the area where the element explosion occurred, and Naki's eyes glow slightly as she draws on her secret power of Ether Manipulation to begin using the energy to analyize the energy that was unleashed, trying to sample the origins of the attack. A soft blue energy field surrounds her as she does so.

Naki doesn't detect anything at first, but before she can give up hope she detects a faint the same malicious aura from before, only in a concealed yet more condensed form. The aura gathers into a single spot, forming the outline of a being greatly resembling Volmond, but with a more sinister and less ambiguous presence, that retraces its steps, from phasing into the stadium, to planting what appear to be bombs of pure magical energy around the stadium and on Selene before vanishing into the forest's direction. A moment later, Selene gets on the platform and the first of the bombs detonates...

Naki processes the information, then looks at everyone still in the stadium. "Guys, we need to get out of here now! There's some kind of explosives that went off, and I think there's still more! Quickly! Someone did this on purpose, and it wasn't any of us it was... we need to get out of here and quickly!"

She is already moving quickly toward the others, her aura of energy disappearing.

At first everyone is slow to react, but that quickly changes multiple explosions go off in quick succession, both inside and outside the stadium. It takes less than a second for a large panic to start and soon students and staff are pouring from the school in a frenzied sea. Sol manages to grab Naki and Serah and get them out of harm's way just before they could be swept into the stampede of people.

"I don't know what's going on or who did this, but someone is about to be put a good six feet under," snarling Sol, his canine teeth elongating and his hair growing into a wild, unruly mess while his tail gains a puff of white fur at the end of it.

"Agreed," says Serah, her eyes cold and steeled.

Janpu becomes much more heavily muscled, his single eye glowing red. ''Come on, come on, come on! ''The three can hear its angry growls. The snake tail becomes thick and muscled, the snake head gaining very long and deadly looking fangs, and lightning sparks in Janpu's hands.

Naki mutters a name, and a snake head forms and Naki pulls out a staff with two mace heads on each side, a dire mace. The two heads spark with massive currents of electricity, enough to fell an elephant instantly.

"The being strongly reminded me of my master... in terms of appearance. ...I don't know why. The being was very cold and malicious in its energy. I was able to trace its path in the entire stadium. I don't know who it is, but it definitely placed an explosive on Selene." Naki says tightly.

"Any idea where it went after that? I get the feeling it isn't here, at the school," says Sol, closing his eyes and returning to his original appearance. "If you can trace it, I can track it."

Naki thinks for a moment. "It left towards the forest. ...But Sol, I don't think it would be safe to go there alone. Who knows how powerful or how dangerous that thing is? We cannot just charge in recklessly!" She says, and Janpu lightly nods.

''Dangerous. Dangerous! It is malicious! Chew you up and spit your bones and then make oatmeal out of them! Then eat them again!''

The familiar says in a nervous, frantic tone.

Sol prepares to argue, but Serah interrupts him.

"She has a point. We know nothing about our adversary, it's sui-"

"If I have to, I'll brave the forest myself," he says, "As much as your assistance would be appreciated, I won't put anyone else in harm's way if I can avoid it." He lowers the girls to the ground before crouching onto all fours and sprinting into the forest, quickly ascending the nearest tree. He can be be seen flipping above the next couple of trees before he vanishes from sight completely.

"That idiot," hisses Serah, "He's going to get himself killed!"

Naki quietly says, "Keep back a moment." The same energy field as before covers her, and Naki seems to be quietly focusing.

The image that appears to Naki appears much more quickly this time and moves away quickly as it perfectly mimics Sol's actions until it too disappears from site. Luckily a trail of light is left behind after the aura disappears, allowing Sol to be followed.

"What are you doing," asks Serah.

"Let's just say I'm a rather... unique being. I won't explain, but this aura allows me to recieve information from my enviornment. Don't touch it whatever you do. Let's just say it can.... devour more than just info. I'm tracking where Sol went." To prove her point, she holds a stick to the aura, and it slowly is devoured by the energy. "So please don't touch me right now."

She points in the direction Sol went. "That way."

Strangely, Naki now understands the composition of wood and had gained a slight photosynthetic property, as well as the ability to harden her skin. Serah nods and follows after her, having summoned her familiar.

"Mortis Angelo should be able to protect us from most things in the forest," says Serah, drawing a rapier with an azure blade. "Let's hope we can avoid trouble though..."

''This feels weird... does this mean my body will adapt and modify itself if I absorb materials? ...What would happen if I absorbed someone? ....I don't even want to think about that....''

After a while, Naki is now getting used to her taloned feet, able to move much more quickly, her body gradually becoming more and more natural with every hour now to use.

"We should probably avoid jumping right in, it could provide a element of advantage if the enemy doesn't expect back up." She continues to scan the environment with her aura, quickly sensing for any possible threats as well as Sol and the being's aura.

Sol's aura is much further ahead than it was moments ago, but the being's aura is still far ahead, barely within Naki's range of perception and rapindly escaping it. Suddenly, Sol's aura stops and begins moving around one location for a while. This continues for a few minutes, after which Sol's aura splits and takes seperate paths.

"He split up... did he sense us?" Naki wonders.

Serah shrugs.

"I don't know, but waiting isn't getting us anywhere. Let's go."

Naki and Serah follow the trail further.

The Cursed Forest
The forest around the secluded school. The area is silent and an eerie calm fills the area. Parts of the verdant area seem to be rotting or obscured by a red mist. The silence almost worse than the sounds of unseen predators prowling the forest.

"This place is starting to give me the creeps... ...something tells me there's more than bears and wolves lurking in this place."

"Those are generally the prey here," mutters Serah, "There's that wild beast and some of the bigger things that've poked their heads out. Still, it is strange that this place is so quiet..."

"...." Naki spreads her aura in an attempt to discern the reason for disturbing quiet.

Naki detects a high concentration of predators in one area, though the number appears to be rapidly dwindling. A moment later, she hears a snap and a spectral voice.

''Etheric Knowledge... Accessing...''

Naki flinches and rapidly retreats her aura into herself and Janpu begins attempting to fortify her mind and begins wrapping around her like a suit of armor.

The voice continues. ''Activating Etheric Knowledge... Boosting Exceed Nexus to three thousand percent...''

"Is something the matter," asks Serah, readying her weapon as her familiar shifts stances.

"''Janpu! Get her out of here now! The school, anywhere, get her away from me!" ''Naki screams out, and Janpu grabs Serah and her familiar and begins to speed off at violent speeds away from Naki.

''Something amiss. Extreme danger. Danger. Danger. Danger. The Exceed Nexus. WIll consume. Escape. Escape. ''It panics in Serah's head.

''Legna! Legna! Legna! Something's happening! Help me! ''Her mind pleads for him to help her.

The doctor appears instantly, assessing the situation as best he can before his eyes flare a brighter shade of green.

''Legna! Don't interfere!'' The voice directs itself at Volmond as thousands of etheric symbols form a seal in front of him.

"I will not let you utilize another as your host because your form is sealed away, Taea," says the doctor as two blades of energy erupt from his arns and another set from his face. His hair blows with an invisible gale as what appear to be solar systems and stars appear in his hair.

Increasing output to twelve thousand percent!

''Get out of my mind! Get out!'' She screams. ''Legna help me!!! What's happening?! ''Her mind panics in fear.

The doctor moves calmly and with purpose, placing a hand on Naki's forehead. Circuit like lines spread across her body and connect to her Exceed Nexus, initially matching the color of the ether, but rapidly shifting from blue to gold to red to black then finally white before fading along with presence in Naki's mind, though a great deal of information and power is left it its stead.

"W-W-What..... what the hell.... just happened to me?!" She shakes violently, choking back tears of fear. She hugs Volmond violently, deathly afraid and now crying.

"Somehow your Exceed Matrix was... Accessed by Taea, an Etherite that could be considered your elder sister. Taea is extremely aggressive and violent, which is why I have her sealed inside of her dreams seeing how aggression removing tactics failed... Yet somehow she was able to connect with you despite being sealed... This was a serious oversight on my part... I have to go quickly, lest she attempt connect with another... Naki, as much as you are probably afraid, I need you to perservere for a bit." Volmond summons a clone of himself. "He'll stay with you until I return."

As Janpu reaches the school, it seems to make a mental sigh. ''Exceed Matrix stabilized... threat neutralized for the moment... Elder Master has secured safety. Threat contained. Mistress terrified. Threat of mortal danger to mistress and surroundings ceased... ''Janpu seems slightly more at ease, and puts Serah and her familiar down.

''Mistress mind not stable enough to make solid connection. Unable to verify origin of destabilization. ''

Naki falls to her knees, trembling violently with the shock and fear of what just happened to her, curling up in a tight ball, crying softly.

''Why would she do that to me... ...I don't deserve this...! I'm so scared....''

"Naki, what just happened will not happen again," says Volmond, "Family is far too important to me to be harmed. I will make sure that Taea understands this..."

"....Are you going to hurt her?" She asks. She privately and cautiously begins sifting through the data her mind had received from the incident, slowly processing all that had happened and what was obtained.

"If that is what is what is required to make her understand, then yes," he says, "If not, I will not."

"...Why must violence be the answer to everything...." Naki mutters, still trying to process all of the information in her head.

"I wish it wasn't but some beings will never learn- rather will ignore- the severity of their actions or lack thereof until violence is used. Violence should never be a first choice... Something I've learned over the years. I will, if possible, avoid violence, but if I must use it, I will."

".....Can you take me back to the school?" She says softly, still trembling.

"What about your friend deeper in the forest," asks the doctor, helping Naki out of the forest, "He's much further in."

"I sensed a being that disturbingly resembled you, Sol went after it. Can you make sure he's alright and get him out of there if he's in danger?" She asks.

Volmond and his clone frown.

"Ah, he's here, I'll have to deal with that as well..." The doctor nods at his clone then vanishes deeper into the forest. The clone looks at Naki.

"I am designated to make sure you remain calm and safe. Please call me Drei or Lessa."

She nods quietly. "Alright... Drei..." She says, an edge of unease still in her voice from the event.

The clone gives her a reassuring nod.

"As long as I stand, you'll be safe, Young One."

She thinks for a while, then sees Serah. "H-Hey, you alright?" She calls out. "I hope I didn't..."

"It's fine," she says, "Just... Watch yourself... Who is he?" Serah refers to Drei.

"I am Drei," says the clone, giving a slight bow.

"He is.... like a clone of my master, he is the one who got my power back under control. He's gone after Sol for us. He seems to know who the entity who attacked the school is as well. Listen... ....I'm really sorry about that. You might have been a jerk and you probably still don't like me, but if I had gotten you caught up in that... ...I wouldn't be able to forgive myself for that." She says quietly.

Serah doesn't answer for awhile. "It's hard you know... Living among being's who, despite your best effort, surpass you and make your effort look like absolutely nothing..."

Naki closes her eyes for a moment. "I know how you feel. I wasn't born a Mythos you know. ...I'm a lab rat. Someone's experiment. Born on the streets as a young girl, had to fight and steal just to get my daily bite to eat. Then my parents and family were killed, my family's killers captured me and experimented on me, turned me into what I am now. The only reason I have gifts, have any power at all is because someone wanted to see what happened when they infected me with the DNA of an extinct race. Without that little science project, I wouldn't be here, nor would I have talent aside from picking someone's pocket and breaking open doors."

She closes her eyes and shrugs. "Even with my power, I don't know how to control it. I can become capable of learning just about anything set before me, but I'm still not as good as you or Selene. I've got gifts, but I admire people who work hard for them."

"Ha, says the person with two familiars and nigh infinite potential," says Serah, bitterness evident in her voice, "While I don't envy how you got your powers, you aren't looked down upon as the  scum of the earth by most others nor do you have to deal with pressure of being the sole human in a place filled with what others would call monsters... At least you fit in despite your diversity... My only 'friend' sees me as a tool to further his own ambition."

Naki sighs. "Yes, you're right. I have power. But just now, that power and that nigh infinite potential nearly got a classmate of mine killed. And to be honest, I don't look down on you as scum of the earth. Not for being human at least. I only care about who a person is, not what they can do or what race they are. You shouldn't have to worry about being the only human here, it doesn't really matter does it? You're talented and you want to get better, isn't that right? I've never been to a school so... for me, I'm here just to learn and experience a taste of what it might have been like if I had a proper education. To be honest, the only 'friends' I have are in the forest and in a hospital ward most likely. You, I don't know what to think of you. But at least I know there's more to you than what first impressions imply."

She opens her eyes with a sigh and crosses her arms. "I've never even had friends until this point to be honest. All I've known is... ...unpleasant things. I'd rather be on your side than having this pointless hostility, Serah. You said you don't have any friends, but maybe it's because until now you've not bothered to open to other people? Hell, I'd be glad to help you out if you wanted. But being a crab apple doesn't help anyone. Especially not you."

Serah remains silent, though Mortis Angelo nods fervently, earning a glare from its silent master.

Naki sighs. "Well, it's up to you. Make your mind up about it, though if you want to keep at the current way of things, feel free but don't complain later. Stubbornness won't help you."

She turns back to Drei. "How is master fairing?"

"Hmm... Zwei appears to be at a stalemate with the other being. Your friend's status is injured and another being appears to be helping Zwei against the being, though Zwei has a limited amount of time before he must leave, which will leave his ally and your friend to fend for themselves... This does not bode well."

Naki frowns. "What should we do...." She wonders.

"I'll show you," mutters Serah, stalking into the forest with worried looking Mortis Angelo by her side.

"Hmm... This will create a secondary possibility... Maybe we should go after her," offers Drei.

"Right... Janpu. Let's go." The familiar coils around Naki, and she runs off after Serah.

Drei follows behind them slowly, though he quickly catches up to the two when he senses a formidible presence.

"Class S Komainu-Shisa detected," he says, "You two continue onwards, I'll catch up. No other threats should bar your path until you reach a ruined shrine."

Naki has a worried look on her face. "What is going on here... ....I don't understand any of this..." Janpu is far more muscular now.

"The Guardian for this area is approaching, your best option is to press on," says Drei, "I'll hold the being back for as long as I can, but hurry nonetheless." Loud snapping and cracking can be heard over the sound of the brush shaking violently.

Naki speeds on. "We'll leave it to you."

Serah rushes off after Naki just as a massive bear like creature that appears to be fused with the forest tears through the brush. The last thing they hear is the sound of earth being crushed and a tree being uprooted.

Naki cautiously scans the area in a swift sweep with her power, hoping to avoid having another issue occur, yet at the same time find out the situation ahead.

Naki detects a heavy clashing of auras not too far ahead, three fighting against the single malicious aura.

Janpu's coils grow thick around Naki as they get closer, dangerous flames burning in its palms.

"We're getting close." She says steely.

Serah readies her sword, as does Mortis, as they reach the entrance of the shrine. Just beyond the ruined door lies the sound fighting and a very heavy atmosphere.

"Doesn't seem like we can turn back at this point," states Serah, grimly.

Naki quietly goes down into the shrine, Janpu dimming his fire so their approach won't be given away by the light source, Naki holds her electrified dire mace defensively.

The group quickly reaches the source of the sound of fighting, a large chamber with a broken tiled floor and three pools of water, one of which is glowing green. The four combatants are the doctore, Sol, a man with a black and red cloak and greying hair and a being that heavily resembles Volmond, but with black scelera wild, unkempt hair with roots and plant life growing from it, a mane of ropey vines and an overall sinister aura.

"Is that the best you could do," the being sneers, "I expected more from you, Volmond... Of course I can see that you are holding back to protect the ones around you, too bad that makes my job easier." The doctor growls and the three warriors lunge at the malicious entity, only to be blocked by a rising wall of earth then forced away by root like spikes.

Janpu suddenly splits off from Naki into the shadows, once in position, he fires a bolt of lightning from the side of the room at the figure, while Naki hides for a moment, while she charges a shot of darkness from the shadows of the room.

The figure blocks the lightning with a cluster of roots and returns the favor by having razor sharp vines stab at everyone in the chamber in a wild frenzy.

Naki lets loose a wild firestorm upon the roots and vines in retaliation.

The vines only seem to grow more ferocious once the flames touch them, lashing out in a vicious fury that forces Volmond, Sol and the elder man back, while Serah is shielded by Mortis Angelo.

"Weak," sneers the being, "This power puts me far beyond all of you combined!"

Naki puts her hands together, and Janpu comes to help her and helps her channel energy, and she then lifts her hands to the air as a faint rumble goes off and a blast of lightning pierces straight through the ceiling and blasts the being, knocking a few chunks of the ceiling on top of him as well, the effort makes Naki pant a little.

The figure spears the chunks of the ceiling with its roots and stops the lightning before it can be hit. It flicks its wrist just as Volmond flickers out from the shrine. A sphere within three large spheres forms, then divides into two, then four, followed by eight, sixteen, etc. until a hexagonal pattern repeats within the smallest of the three spheres. The being grins as the three spheres dissolve, sending out a cloud of red particles towards the group...

A cube of steel forms around the figure and the red fog as Janpu slams its fists to the ground, and various symbols meaning 'repel' appear.

Naki scowls. "I think we'd best leave. Janpu says we have five minutes before it wears down."

"We have strike his weakpoint," says Sol, "If this... thing is allowed to remain the Land God of this area, everyone, regardless of if we escape, is screwed."

"The boy is right," affirms the cloaked man, "If I were still in my prime, I could defeat him, but these bones are too old for anything like what I used to be able to do."

"Naki, you're crucial, you take Serah and go, us two'll-" Sol slumps for a moment, but regains his strength, "We'll handle this as best we can..." He uses his staff for support as the elder man readies his black and red rapier esque katana.

Naki narrows her eyes. "Don't try and play hero here! How do you expect to take him on your own? You barely stood a chance in a group! And besides, what do you mean 'I'm crucial'?"

"We'll figure something out," says Sol before rushing the being and extending his staff to perform a series of powerful blows on the being, who shrugs them off while the elder man practically warps to the being and begins making a series of deep gashes into the being's roots only for them to heal almost an instant later. He chuckles before wreching the staff from Sol's hands and batting the duo away.

"To think, you hold one of the greatest weapons, yet don't even know how to do more than the basics with it," he sneers, "You don't even know your weapon's name." He twirls the staff before holding it before him. "Awaken: Ruyi Jingu Bang." The staff explodes with golden light as wavy symbols and inscriptions lost over the many years re-etch themselves upon the now silver staff with golden rings adorning both ends.

"This isn't going to end well, is it," asks Sol drily.

Naki looks at Janpu, who lunges at the being's shadow and binds it with Shadow Paralysis.

"....Suit yourself. Don't get yourself killed..." She begins to leave quickly.

The being is empowered by the darkness based action,but doesn't make much of an effort to try and stop Naki from leaving, instead focusing on combatting its attackers, now up to four including Serah and Mortis Angelo. Outside of the decrepid temple waits Sol's familiar, which picks up Naki and places her on its back before flying towards the school. The Forest itself seems to be angry and vicious, trees block pathways, vines and roots shoot towards the  dragon like spears, the earth juts out or fissures, bringing trees and rocks crashing down as the dragon continues its perilous flight.

The forest seems to be unending as the chaos within it increases. A ferocious storm begins to rage overhead, sending down burning rain and sharp hail as ligtningstrikes closer and closer to the dragon and, by extension, Naki. A landslide begins as the earth grows more and more unstable and the wind becomes frigid and more difficult to breath. Finally veins of red light begin to overtake the forest and race after Naki and her mount, just as she reaches the forest's edge... And finds the school in shambles.

Teachers attempt to protect their students from the plants and animals from the forest as the storm rages and the earth gives way. Eventually, Anira directs everyone into the school, just as the landslide reaches the edge of the forest. Luckily, almost everyone is able to reach the school's interior, Naki being tossed in by the dragon just before it winks out from the damage it had taken. The sturdy doors are shut as several teachers and students begin reciting a powerful protective aria to fortify the school and keep it from being displaced...

What seem like hours pass before the storm finally stops and the chanting ends. A curious student opens the doors protecting them from the savage onslaught of nature and sees the complete destruction outside of the building's walls. There is no longer a forest, instead there is a sea of broken and uprooted tress. The ground is a field of mud and rocks with the occasional puddle of water or icy patch visible. Most jarring however is the complete and total silence within the area. Not one bird calls and no insect chirps, making the land appear to be truly desolate... Until a figure emerges from the edge of the forest, followed by another and a rather large beast...

Naki quietly looks at the group with unease.

The two figures turn out to be Sol and Drei, both heavily battered and injured, but alive, while the beast appears to be the bear, albeit no longer a grotesque reptilian hybrid creature. Instead it appears to have become closer to a lion, but with the stature of a bear and some of the features of a dog.

"Are.... are you alright?" Naki asks, running up to Sol.

"I'm alive," he says, leaning on the bear for support, "And I can move, so I'll be alright with a bit of rest." Drei nods, carrying the awakened Ruyi Jingu Bang.

"I was able to patch him up after I found him... That was impossible for the older sir, he would not allow me to do so."

"Wait, what about Serah?" She asks, noticing she is gone.

Sol goes quiet.

"She's the reason we're still here," he says after a moment, "She... She sacrificed her humanity and life to finish off that... thing and became the new Land God... Though since then, she's not stirred and hasn't been able to be moved."

Naki's eyes go wide. "....She..." Her eyes dim and her head bows. "....I see...." She starts to appear weak in the knees. "I... I should have... ..." She collapses on her knees, head bowed.

"....I should have been there... ....she shouldn't have had to make that sacrifice... ...damn it...."

"She is still among the the living," says Drei, "I estimate that she will awaken soon, once her power is stabilized... From what I've gathered, she chose her fate to protect the others and you, she specifically said to accept it as her answer to earlier."

Naki buries her face in her hands. "....What am I even good for if I can't even help my friends when they need me...."

"You tried your best, if anything, I'm to blame for getting you two involved," says Sol. "I should've gone myself... Maybe that would've stopped Serah's and Sir Miren's sacrifices... For all of my wisdom, I'm naught but a fool controlled by his emotions."

"We involved ourselves!" Naki snaps suddenly, looking up and glaring at him. "Don't blame yourself for our decisions! I followed you because I wanted to help you, Serah followed me because she wanted to as well! Don't blame yourself, and don't ever undervalue your emotions! There is nothing good about that, nothing but emptiness! When you cast aside your emotions Sol, you lose everything you are!" She stands up and gets right in his face. "Don't ever forget that!"

Her iridescent eyes have anger, but they are also at the same time incredibly dull. The anger slowly drains out her of her eyes, momentarily making the gaze seem empty, before turns and walks away to Anira, and asks him how she can help the others out best.

The teacher looks up then sighs.

"We need medics and healers, but we're in short supply," he says, "If you know how to heal, then you're golden. If not, search the forest for any more signs of life."

"...Do you have any books specifically on healing magic?" She asks.

"You gained some knowledge on basic Alchemy recently, did you not," asks Anira, "That should be helpful... Still, just in case, check the room to the far left. There should be a few books on healing and restoration."

"...You don't mind if I directly absorb them... do you?" She asks.

"As long as it isn't the oldest set of three. Those books are one of a kind..."

Naki nods, and runs into the room he mentioned, finding an acceptable book that isn't rare but still has all the information she needs, and opens up her Exceed Nexus and places the book inside the energy, and waits for it to be absorbed, bracing for the information rush.

Naki absorbs information regading basic injury treatment and preparation and information regarding both basic to intermediate medical procedures and basic to intermediate restorative magics.

She begins to help heal and treat the wounded, eventually seeing Sol. "Sol, please can you help me with some of these patients?" She asks breathlessly, even as she is treating another patient.

Sol, himself, is busy with healing others using a strange yet relaxing form of green and gold energy, while Drei heals with both magic and medical treatments.

Naki eventually heals the last of her patients and leans against a wall, utterly exhausted, breathing heavy from the effort to heal so many, her skin paler than normal, sweat drenching her forehead, which she wipes away.

Sol tosses Naki a bottle of water, not looking too good himself.

"Here, don't overwork yourself," he says, "The Medical Ward should be up and running soon, so the pressure on us should be reduced to zilch once it is... Then comes the search part and the reconstruction, though I think Ishi Sensei's handling that."

She gladly takes the water, and slowly drinks half of it, wiping her brow again. "I see.... ....you doing ok....?" She asks tiredly.

"I've been worse off," he says, "I can keep going at this pace for a couple more hours before I need to rest... Thank goodness that guy patched me up or I'd be out of it right now."

"I see.... ...What did you mean, I was 'crucial', back there in that shrine?" She asks softly, taking a moment to sit down and rest her weary eyes.

"You were crucial to getting us support and back up," he says after a moment, then sighs, "Though I guess that may or may not've had an effect depending on how long it took."

"The being was pretty much right on top of me in terms of how far I got. I didn't have time to get any help. All I could do is simply take shelter."

"I understand," he says, "I really should've expected that to happen."

"No one can anticipate everything. ....I'm just glad you managed to stop it in the end, before it was too late. ...I'm sorry that I wasn't there."

"It's fine... At least a greater catastrophe was averted..."

"....After we help get things in order, and rest up a bit... ...would you mind taking me to see her? ...If she is awake by that point?" Naki asks quietly.

"....If only I were there... ...she wouldn't have to go through this burden...." She murmurs. "I already was twisted and corrupted.... ...it wouldn't have mattered to me if that was my fate... ...but she... ...she was human... ...she didn't have to go through what I did... ...I could have protected her from being changed into what she's become now..."

"That's fine... Though I doubt she'll agree with your attitude..."

Naki looks up at him tiredly. "...Probably... ...but I just can't help but feel really guilty about it. What did I even do? I left you guys. I feel like a coward for not staying by your guy's side. ....This place... ...was the first place I ever made friends, you know Sol? ....I won't fail again... I won't!" She says, a hint of determination in her voice.

"I told you to go," he says, "You chose to listen to my bad call. Neither of us knew what would happen nor the ultimate outcome. Stop blaming yourself... You aren't the world class buffoon..."

"....." She falls silent, then eventually sighs. "You know you're in a bad mood when even the thought of reading doesn't cheer you up...." She mutters to herself.

Sol shrugs then goes back to tending to the wounded with his strange healing ability.

After a minute longer she also goes back to healing, despite her exhaustion.

An hour or so passes before the Medical Ward is operational. Anira has the trio rest in the ward, disregarding all arguments.

"You need the rest," he says, "You've worked hard."

Naki wearily nods and closes her eyes, too tired to argue against it.

Sol paces around for a while then lays down and goes to sleep for an hour.

Naki dreams for a number of hours, dwelling on much of her past on the streets of Earth, and how long and hard she struggled...

''I'm still helpless... ...powerless... ...I couldn't change anything then... ...nothing's changed... ...what good is power if you can't even use it?''

Eventually she reluctantly wakes up, her eyes dim with the empty bitterness inside her.

You aren't helpless, just lacking in discipline, Young One.

''Aggh! Is someone hacking my brain again?!''

''Not hacking, I'm not my 'daughter'. I am here to offer knowledge and discipline... If that is what you seek.''

''I'm both terrified yet terribly curious. Who are you, and how do people keep getting inside my head like this? Naki says with a slight edge of unease and minor panic.Wait... daughter? You don't mean psycho lady do you? What's her name... Taea?''

''It's because you, I and Taea are connected by bloodlines or genes... You lack a lock on your Exceed Nexus, allowing us to connect to you and vice versa. Unlike Taea, however, I do not seek a host, rather I await the missing fragments of myself to rejoin me, and I wish to aid you as you grow into your power... I am Gaea, the Incomplete Aeon.''

''I guess I understand... aside from why you want to help me and why Taea is such a psycho... ...man my life just keeps getting more complicated by the day... ...so did master create us from you then?''

''Partially, yes... He used my DNA and the DNA of a Netherin to create Taea her elder sister, though by accident... Having lived since before the birth of this universe, I can say that interesting is a bill short... As for why I want to help you... Call it both a whim and the role of an elder... I do not like Legna, but I understand the reason behind his actions. Sometimes the vilest of actions conceal the brightest of intentions and sometimes the brightest smile hides the darkest of intentions... Your master is closer to the former.''

....I see... Naki slowly sits up in her bed, quietly thinking about everything that has happened to her. ''There is so much I don't understand... ...I'm starting to lose comprehension of what I even am anymore... ...if I have all of this potential... ...what am I even supposed to do with myself? Will I just keep growing until anything I do becomes trivial? What then? What is my purpose? Arrgghh!''

''I wish I could get my head around it all... but just when I think I have begun to understand myself, things just keep changing and I have to keep looking at my self in all of these new perspectives.... ....so infuriating!''

''Your purpose is your own, as is your potential... You can choose to grow to the point that all becomes dull or you can limit yourself... I cannot give you a solid answer to those questions, your answers will come in time. It is best to be patient and let the answers find you. All riddles have their answers, all puzzles their complete form... It is your choice to become overwhelmed or to press on... You determine how you will turn out. If you become overburdened, find a place to gather your thoughts, but don't root yourself until the true answer is found...''

Naki looks over towards Sol to see if he is alright. ''....Why is Taea like that anyway? There has to be a reason, right?''

''Part of it is her inner darkness, part is her anger and part is her lack of empathy and sympathy... Taea was born with the Seed of Corruption within her, the sign of the one Legna seeks to destroy. The once serene and gracefully girl slowly lost any dredges of her heart and innocent soul as the Seed ate away at her. Legna attempted to bring that back, but only worsened the situation and was forced to place her in an eternal sleep, though it appears her power and corruption only grew...''

She makes a brief grunt, before she takes out the book Sol gave her and begins to read it, waiting for him to wake up. ''....Before I get distracted I guess I'll say thanks for the offer and advice... ''

''You are welcome, Young One. If you wish to learn more about your abilities, send a thought in my direction...''

Sol continues to sleep for a little while longer, but wakes up with a snap. For a split second his eyes are unfocused and almost feral, but they quickly revert to normal.

"Hey, you ok Sol?" She asks, putting the book down on her lap.

"Hm? Oh, I'm fine... Thought I heard someone calling me in my dreams, that's all," he says, though a strange look enters his eyes. "I'm probably still a little out of it..."

"....Calling you? ...Are you sure you're alright? I'm not sure if that was an actual dream. With this crazy world we live in, I would never doubt anything is just 'normal'..."

"Y-yeah, I'll rest a bit more. I should feel fine after that," he says.

"Sol, what's wrong?" She starts to sound worried. "Is something bothering you?" She asks quietly.

"I'm alright," he insists and a small amount of lightning sparks around him. "I feel a bit off, but I think that's the recoil from using Ki-Ijutsu..." He yawns tiredly. "Yeah... I think I'll sleep for a little while longer."

She looks at him worriedly, but sighs. ''Why has my life gone so awry? I just wish things could get better...''

Sol falls asleep just as Drei enters the room.

"I see that you are well," says the clone, peering over Naki, "Anira has said that Selene has woken up."

She sits up straight and then looks back at Sol with a worried expression. "...Ok. Can you take me to her?" Naki slides out of bed.

Drei leads Naki to the room with Selene. In front of them stand two other people, both in wizard's attire, with the same blue tinted hair as Selene.

"Huh, never thought, Sel would have visitors," says a person behind them. Similar to the people in Selene's room, he has blue tinted hair, but he wears an almost spotless black uniform and has an aura similar to death, compared to the elemental and soothing aura of the other two. "Not like she had much worth to begin with..."

Naki's eyes narrow in suppressed irritation. "If she isn't worth anything, one must wonder why show up at all?" She mutters. She looks back at Selene.

"Hey Selene, are you awake?" She asks softly.

"H-hi, Naki," she rasps with a weak smile, "S-sorry for worrying you..."

"It's your own fault," says the rude student, "I warned you, but you never listen to me, idiot. Now mom and dad are here and you're confined to a bed. I'm not always mean to you for no reason."

"I-it's good to see you t-too, Apollos..."

"Yeah, yeah. I just came to say my piece," he grumbles, "Don't die, I'm not in the mood for Necromancy or Black Magick." With that, he stalks off, vanishing around a corner.

"Don't listen to him, it was not your fault. NOT your fault. Did anyone tell you what happened while you were unconscious?" She asks.

"Y-yeah... That must've been terrible to have experienced," she says, "Apollos means well, h-he's just... prickly..."

"Yeah it was bad, but we pulled through ok. The being that caused that incident is destroyed, at least that's what I think happened to it. Hopefully things will get better soon."

"Hopefully," she says before she yawns. "I'm s-still tired." Without another word, Selene falls asleep.

"So who are you guys?" She asks the two who came before them curiously.

"I am Apollonyr," says the man, bowing, "I am Selene's father."

"I am Thalassa," says the woman, "I am Selene's mother. You are Naki correct? Selene spoke of you highly. She said that you and a boy named Sol were her first friends."

Naki nods. "Yeah my name is Naki. It's nice to meet you Thalassa. To be honest I never really had friends before either. Your daughter is a nice girl."

"The fact that she opened up to someone is amazing, she used to be so shy," says Thalassa, "Apollos used to always coddle her as a child... Times sure have changed..."

"They have," affirms Apollonyr, "Thank you for befriending our daughter, Naki."

"You're welcome, it was my pleasure to meet someone talented and nice as her. She's much better at elemental control than I am. I have a lot to learn."

"She still has a long way to go," says her mother. "She's not aligned with the elements, but something else that has yet to be found... Still, thank you."

"There isn't any need to thank me." She tilts her head in a slight bow. "It was nice to meet you."

The two bow as well before quietly shuffling out of the room.

Naki sighs and looks at Drei for a moment. "Man it's been a long day... ...I'm going to see how Sol's doing...." She walks back over to where Sol is located.

Sol appears to be sleeping peacefully, but once Drei comes into range, Ruyi Jingu begins to glow ominously. The weapon wrenches itself from his hands and flies over to the sleeping boy, resting only once it has taken a spot by his side. Both Naki and Drei hear the sound of countless voices whispering around them.

Naki looks at Drei. "Classic case that something's wrong is when you start hearing voices." She quietly uses her exceed nexus in an attempt to see if she can figure out what's causing the voices.

Strangely, while Naki senses nothing in the area, the whispers grow louder and the area tints blue.

"Oh dear, we appear to be beng pulled into a dream realm," comments Drei.

"....That's bad isn't it...."

"Depends really," says the clone as the world completely distorts around them, resulting in a blue haze completely obscuring their vision...

"I'm getting freaked out now..."

The Broken Dreamscape
A strange realm. It appeared to be a blue void with twinkling stars in the distance and a platform comprised of clouds. Silver pillars floated around the platform, revolving in a semi-uniform pattern. Beyond the pillars floated a golden light, a beacon of sorts in the vacant realm.

"....And just when I complained about life not giving me a break... it goes and does more crap."

"You could have the doctor's luck," comments Drei, now in the form of a spectral tiger.

"Yipee...." She grunts irritably. "Why are you in that form?"

"This was the form that I was granted, upon being brought here," he responds, hopping onto one of the pillars. "It appears that the light is our destination. Let us get there quickly to minimize the amount of time we must be here."

"...Alright..." She proceeds to follow after him, trusting his judgement more than her own.

Drei leaps from pillar to pillar, stopping occasionally to make sure Naki is able to keep up, until he reaches the platform with light. "I cannot interact with this, it is up to you, Young One."

"....Me? Why me? I don't know anything about this or what's going on... what do you even want me to do?" She asks with confusion.

"Touch the light," he says, "For whatever reason, I cannot move closer to it nor interact with it." He extends a paw towards it, but a barrier stops him from moving closer to the light.

She looks over at him for a long moment, then slowly and reluctantly touches the light, afraid.

The light grows brighter and eventually completely encompasses the duo... A moment later, the light fades and the area has changed. The background is no longer a blue void with twinkling stars, but a golden sky with white clouds that are positioned in such a way as to resemble the boundaries of a sphere. The cloud platform and pillars have been replaced by floating hexagonal platforms of two sizes: large enough to be considered a large platform and small enough to be considered smaller, stepping stone platforms. These are arranged in a large spiral upwards, with eight of the larger hexagons being visible and numerous smaller ones floating in between.

Drei has also changed, now resembling a white tiger colored lynx. By his side hovers a vermilion sparrow with a bronze colored beak and talons and a bandaged wing. Above the damaged wing is an incomplete wing composed of rose colored energy. It's eyes are red, though a blue ring can be seen within the irises.

"I have to wonder just what is going on..." Naki mutters. "What's with the bird, Drei?"

"Bird? What do you mean, Naki," asks the sparrow, looking confused. "It's me, Sel- I'm a bird!?" The sparrow beings flapping its wings frantically, creating small bursts of flame.

"Calm down," requests Drei, "It appears that we are to assist the Young One through this area."

"W-who're you?"

"I was the man standing by the Young One when she came to visit you. I am Drei, though you may call me Lessa."

Naki sighs. "I really wish I understood what's happening, though I guess I might as well stop complaining. I guess since Selene is a bird this world has a strange sense of humor... ...but why you guys are appearing as animals is beyond me... is there a reason it would make you appear as animals? She blinks for a moment. Am I like you guys or am I different for some reason?"

"You look like a human girl, Young One," says Drei, stretching, "It explains your lack of power and the arm you carry."

"What he said," nods Selene, still confused by her bird form, "You have a weird sword across your back and a bright light coming from your hand, but I think only we can see that..."

She closes her eyes for a second. "....Odd.... ....this must mean something... ...maybe I'll ask later... ...but now... Okay, I guess you guys help me through this I guess? Do I just navigate these platforms?"

"Yes, thouh I doubt things will stay that easy... Dreams are fickle places," says Drei, "They can change in a snap, so its best to be prepared... Hm, reach the next platform and I'll be able to show you a thing or two about defending yourself here."

She lets out a sigh. "Alright..." She cautiously begins to make her way towards the next platform, weary of any potential surprises that may come her way.

Naki reaches the next platform with no encounters of any sort, with Selene following right behind her. Drei has already reached the platform despite having not accompanied the duo. He raises a paw and a barrier forms around the platform.

"Naki, draw your weapon," he says, using her name for the first time, "I'll be giving you two a tutorial on fighting here, though you should understand the gist of it already, despite the fact that you cannot use your own abilities here. Are you ready?"

"...Alright?" She says, drawing the sword nervously.

The sword has a cloudy blue blade that sparkles and a silver guard that extends on the side facing the blade. The blade's hilt has a trigger and a what appears to be a motorcycle break facing the same direction as the weapon's guard. The blade also appears to have two slits shaped ports on each side. The sword as a whole is styled as a fusion between a katana and a wide rapier. When drawn, the golden light mentioned by Selene becomes visible on her right hand along with a set of golden markings that travel halfway up her forearm before stopping.

Drei nods and lowers his paw, causing the hexagonal platform the three of them are on the shatter then reform into a hexagram made of glowing blue light. Three purple spheres appear in the center of the platform and transform into a trio of wiry armored figures with blades replacing their right arms and needle like feet. None of them do more than shift around in place.

"Try using your sword against these Nights, Young One," says Drei, swaying his tail as he sits on his hind-legs.

"Ok." She attacks the swordsmen with the strange sword, trying to figure out the best way to use it.

The sword isn't very heavy, making Naki's attacks less clumsy than they could've been. Still, the swordsmen block the attacks, but do not change positions.

"Hm, try again, but with more focus and deftness behind your blows," Drei says, "Once you get that down, we'll move on to the next part."

Naki moves with greater focus and speed, though she prefers the feel of a polearm.

"Good," says Drei after Naki defeats the final Night. "I suspect you have a preferred weapon, Young One, but we cannot do anything about that at this point. Onto the next stage. Press your sword's trigger." He raises a paw and a second trio of Nights spawn.

She does so, pointing the sword at them.

Upon pressing the trigger, the light on her other hand begins to glow both gold and deep blue.

"You've activated what could be called Dream Mist or the energy that lies within dreams," explains the lynx, "Hm... it would be better to show you an example of what it can do, would it not?" Drei glows with the same gold and violet light before leaping at the Nights. The closest one attempts to bisect him only for the feline to land on its blade's flat, then catapult off while wreathed in crackling lightning. He becomes a blue and white blur as he ricochets between the three constructed swordsmen before he launches himself high into the air and dispels the lightning in a volley of arcing blasts that launch the Nights upwards as be lands on his padded feet. "That is the power of Dream Mist affiliated with Lightning, something you should be able to use, even if not to that extent, Young One. You concentrate on an attribute, elements being the simplest and easiest to do this with, and the Dream Mist will react according to your will, whether it be armor or a ranged attack or a different weapon. Be warned, however, Dream Mist is not meant for continuous usage as it must regather itself after being used. Try not to exceed actions that will take longer than ten seconds or ten meters... Now, you try it out: Defeat these three then we will move onto the next and second to last basic lesson."

She quickly rushes at the trio, using the Dream Mist to unleash a small fireblast in their midst to defeat them, once they are down she releases the trigger, then backs away.

The three Nights are easily destroyed by the flames, dispersing into blue clouds once Naki moves away. Drei nods.

"Excellent work," he says as he raises a paw. A cage forms around Naki, leaving Selene out with the lynx.

"What are you doing," exclaims the sparrow, "Let her go!"

"Calm yourself, this lesson is for you, Little One," says Drei, summoning a single Night. "Young One, you are to give pointers to the Little One. You should notice that your hand's Beacon is now the same color as her wing. This means that you two are synchronized and that you are able to support her with your Dream Mist, which is more versatile than hers, though lacking in range and power." He turns his head to Selene, "You are able to fly, Little One, making you more nimble and evasive. You also can utilize your spells via Dream Mist, but not much else." A black staff with a feathered plume clatters before Selene, who gingerly grasps it with her beak before flapping her good wing. Unsteadily, she rises into the air, before her energy wing stabilizes her ascent.

"Young One, assist the little one in defeating the Night using commands or advised actions."

"Okay.... ....err... try... blowing up the Night with an explosion...?"

"I'll try," offers Selene as she flies around the Night a few times, narrowly avoiding its strikes in her direction before casting Alblaz on it. For a moment nothing happens, but suddenly the staff flares to life in her beak and the Night is engulfed in an explosive ball of fire. "Huh!? That was much stronger than my normal Alblaz!"

"That is because you are connected to the Young One and because your power has been altered to suit your form," says Drei, dispelling the cage around Naki, "Now for the final lesson before we continue. Young One press both the trigger and break on your sword at the same time."

She does so curiously. "Why?"

The moment Naki presses the break and the trigger, the Beacon on her right hand becomes completely violet and the sword begins to dismantle and reassemble itself into a short spear like lance with cerulean, gold and crimson Dream Mist spiraling around the blade like spinning flames. Naki herself is now covered with the golden glyphs the went up to her her forearm previously and is overflowing with energy. Additionally a large gold and silver seal of energy has formed behind her, depicting a being balancing light and darkness within itself while swords, axes, spears and bows point towards it.

"This is the Dream Buster State," explains Drei, "For a short amount of time, all of your physical and spiritual limiters are bypassed allowing you to perform near impossible feats. The draw back is that once you use this state, it will have to recharge for fifteen to ninety minutes before you can use it again and you will have less effective Dream Mist control for that duration. This state can be passed to anyone you want though you will feel the aftermath if your were the one to activate it and pass it on. Lastly, try not to use a Double Dream Buster, very few can handle the strain from that... Oh, if you simply press the break without the trigger, you can enter a temporary state known as the Knightmare State, which breaks your limiters temporarily, but rapidly drains your energy after a minute of continuous use. Any questions?"

"No, not really. How do you know this stuff though?"

"I share the doctor's knowledge and experiences though I lack his power and the ability to feel emotions for the most part," he says, dispelling the barrier around the platform and walking to the edge, "If that is all, let us continue." He begins hopping to the next large platform.

She follows after Drei cautiously, keeping an even pace.

The next platform is identical to the previous one, minus the fact that a lone Night stands in the center of it. This one has both a sword arm, the blade both shaped like a Flamberge and covered in flames, and a large shield along with armor along its wiry joints. The Night regards Naki with a nod before raising its weapon and shield.

Naki looks at it, then lets out a small sigh. "Go ahead and blast the sucker with water Selene, and I'll shock him. Sound like a plan?"

Selene nods before taking to the sky. "Malqua!" A jet of water blasts towards the Night only to be cut in half and have its force reversed on the sparrow as a wave of steam.

"Whoa," shrieks Selene, barely skirting away from the surprisingly powerful attack. As she tries to regain her bearings, the Night dashes towards Naki, shield up and sword at the ready.

She presses the trigger, and instead of swinging her sword as expected, she instead leaps forward and kicks the shield hard, discharging a large burst of electricity straight into the shield and the Night by extension. From the disorienting move, Naki then takes the initiative and slashes its helm.

The moment Naki gets back within range, Drei cries out.

"Young One, it's a trap!" The words come just as the Night's shield freezes over and it forcefully expels the layer to stun her before detonating a fire ball from the tip of its sword at Naki, following with a bash from its shield.

Naki rolls under the Night and stabs it in the shin from behind, then backs away, now more on guard.

"Aim for the shield," directs the lynx as the Night stabs its sword into the ground and takes a knee. There is something off about this maneuver.

Naki makes a cautious series of attacks, jabbing at various joints, until she abruptly switches targets and stabs the shield with a burst of fire.

The Night weathers through each attack, but freezes the shield's outer layer to mitigate the power and flames of the stab. A faint rumbling is heard...

Naki repeats the attack on the Shield, pressing her attack more aggressively and stronger, increasing the heat of the fire.

Just before Naki can strike the shield, she is encased in an orb of icy water by the Night, but before it can do much more, Selene knocks it off balance with a wind spell.

"Malwin!"

''This is just ridiculous... ...why do I get the feeling this just the beginning of the headaches I'll endure today....?''

Drei uses this time to shatter Naki's prison. The Night regains its balance and has filled out more, no longer being a wiry figure with armor. It regards Naki with another nod before skipping to the next platform and the one after that until it vanishes from sight.

"That wasn't an expected denizen," remarks Drei, "A Doppelganger... An extremely high ranking Nightmare. Nights I could understand, they are the vanguard of dreams, but are mindless and attack everyone and everything that attampts to enter this realm... But Nightmares? Great, now I'm getting a headache."

"Great... I was right... ....just beginning... ....also, is that thing intelligent?"

"It is," groans the lynx. "We'll be seeing it again later, which will only make things annoying when it returns. Until then, lets head to this area's exit." He doesn't wait for a response. He leaps from platform to platform until he reaches the next major platform, then continues onwards.

Naki follows him, sighing. "You know anything about this Dream Realm or anything Selene?"

"No," she says, "It's my first time here... I think? I don't really know why I'm here, but I'll help you as much as I can."

"Thanks... ...man I wish I knew what was going on..."

"We all do," says Drei once Naki catches up at the last platform. Four regular Nights stand and point their weapons at Naki, protecting the molten beacon in the center of the platform.

Naki looks at them for a moment. "Selene, knock them off their feet?"

"Malwin-Ai," chants the sparrow as an explsion of wind goes off, launching the Nights skyward.

Naki waits for the right moment, then slices two of the Nights in half as they fall down, then manages to catch the other one off guard with a fireblast, and turns towards the last one.

The last Night rushes Naki once it picks itself up, then leaps into the air and spins like a top, generating a vortex of Dream Mist around itself.

Naki looks at Selene. "Can you knock him out?" She prepares to dodge it.

"I can smash him," offers Selene, "Algaea!" A pillar of earth erupts from the platform with enough force to crush the airborn Night and sending it higher into the sky where it disappears like a twinkling star. The Beacon of the platform, an amber sphere of light, glows in resonation withe the golden Beacon on Naki's hand.

"Naki, the Beacon," directs Drei.

She quickly walks up to it and puts her hand upon the beacon.

As with the previous beacon, the light becomes blindingly bright before a new area of the Dreamscape is revealed. This area is rather straight forward as there are only five platforms, these shaped like rings of energy, in a cross formation. The issue is how far out they are spaced, each being hundreds of meters away from the other. The cloud barrier of the background has been replaced with a ring of hexagrams and octagrams.

An annoyed growl comes from Naki's side. Drei, formerly a lynx, is now a white and blue striped tiger cub adorned with black and gold armor on his paws. His blue eyes narrow.

"This is rather bothersome," he says, "Oh, the Little One is gone..."

"Whoa, whoa, whoa, the Dreamscape," exclaims a green, black and gold dragon, with an amber energy mane, about Naki's size, "Huh, never thought I'd get pulled here again..." The voice from the dragon is Anira's.

"Master Anira?! You're here now too? ...." She groans. "What is going onnnnn?!"

"I don't really know, but the majority of the students in my class and another are in a forcefully induced sleep. I came here to figure out the cause myself, but it seems you have the leading role," explains the dragon, "The issue is this place... You aren't about to like this place one bit..."

"....And why wouldn't I? ...For once I'd rather like to be the side actor in this movie...." Naki grumbles.

"Well... You'll see. Orange Areas are always a pain in the Dreamscape," warns Anira, "We should probably move forwards."

"Agreed," nods Drei.

"Okay, so do you have any ideas as to what I actually do?" She asks, taking a few steps to look around.

"Hm, try circling the edge," offers the teacher.

Naki reluctantly starts to approach the edge and begins to circle it.

Once Naki steps on what would be the direct front of the platform, she and the others are warped to tha platform mirroring their platform's position in the formation.

"Oooookay, I take it that this is not going to be as easy as it appears. ...Ok... if that made me go there..." She curiously steps to the edge facing another platform.

Again, Naki and the others are warped... back to their initial platform.

"....It's gonna be one of those, isn't it...." Naki mutters.

"Yeah... I can already see a headache coming," adds Anira, exhaling a plume of smoke. "Let's not complain and power through this."

Naki takes an annoyed breath and tries again.

Again, Naki ends up completely across the formation.

"Right is null," says Anira, "That leaves two, technically three options."

Naki tries going straight instead of right.

Naki ends up back in the center of the current platform.

"...That's two down," comments Anira.

Naki frowns. She then walks to the back of the circle.

Naki and the other end up on the platform to their right, where a strange object floats.

"....Dare I ask what it even is?" Naki asks Anira.

"It's a treasure chest," responds the dragon, "They generally contain all sorts of beneficial objects. Most carry over into the waking world too."

Naki walks over to the chest and touches it curiously.

The chest whirls violently before imploding in on itself and revealing a gold, white and red, polearm version of the sword Naki is wielding.

"Huh, interesting. I guess the Dreamscape is giving you a message or something," says the teacher.

"She does appear to prefer polearms," notes Drei.

She takes a hold of it, testing out the feel of the weapon. "Interesting... I like the feel of it... ....I like pole arms because of the range and time it gives me to think... I can keep back an enemy better and foil their moves as well.... ...hmmm... this place is just full of surprises...."

"Both good and bad," comments the tiger cub, "Now where do we go?"

Naki tries the left.

Naki appears on the platform opposite of the one she was on. This one also has a treasure chest.

Naki touches the chest, curiously.

This chest opens in a similar fashion to the previous one and from within comes a strange scarf with a wing insignia on it.

Naki picks it up curiously. "I wonder what this is..." She looks at it, noting the wing design.

The dragon and tiger cub shrug.

"Keep it, it may be useful in the future," says Drei.

Naki wraps the scarf around her neck snugly. She takes a look around, then tries going forward.

Naki is again warped to the platform she arrived on.

Naki sighs and slowly recalls the path she took, going to the front, then backwards, then left. When she arrives back on the platform she failed at, she tries going left.

Naki is warped to the platform across the formation from the platform she arrived on.

Naki takes a deep exasperated breath. "Okay okay... ....whoever made this realm or whatever is a wonderful tool. I'd love to meet him so I could burn him at the stake...."

She sighs, going backwards, then left, then tries going right.

Naki ends up back in the center of the same platform.

"Last guess.... down?" She tries going down.

Naki ends up on the platform across the formation from her.

Naki lets out a stressed squeal of frustration, letting out a small gasp, then goes right out of sheer lunacy.

Naki and company are returned to the first platform again...

"Maybe we should try a different route," suggests the dragon.

She meekly nods, then goes right.

Naki ends up on the central platform of the formation. A crimson Beacon awaits her.

Naki blinks. "Is.... this it?"

"I believe so," says Anira, with Drei nodding, "Probably the last one too. Red Beacons are the last beacons, unless a Nightmare Scape is born... Well then, to the final area."

Naki holds out her hand to touch the beacon.

Warm red light engulfs the area and when it fades the final area of the Dreamscape is revealed. There are two major platforms, the one Naki is standing on and a much larger, more complicated one in the distance, connected by a bridge of smaller platforms. The platforms appear to be circular magical seals of sorts, though the major ones appear to be far more complex and made of at least seven connected seals. The background is red like flames, but the closer it gets to the other major seal, the closer to black it becomes.

Drei no longer has a solid physical form, instead he appears as a spectral cat comprised of blue energy. Beside him floats a golden sphere.

"I wonder... ...what is it that we do here?" Naki wonders aloud, holding the spear tighter.

The cat only looks ahead.

Naki sighs. "I guess it's up to me then...." She begins to navigate the bridge, making a more firm grip on the spear as she walks across.

Once Naki gets beyond a certain point of the bridge, there is a bright flash and Naki appears to be within a temple of sorts within someone's memory. There are four shadows of children playing around inside of the expansive temple while two larger shadows watch over them. The two larger shadows begin to talk to one another before the vision fades out and Naki is back on the bridge.

She stops, surprised. "Someone's... ....memories? ....I guess it sort of make sense... ....but why all the same.... guess the only answers I'll get are the ones earned by moving forward...." She continues unabated.

At another point of the bridge, another memory flashes before her eyes. Two of the children from the previous memory are playing near a lake under the supervision of a trio of adults. One of the adults starts a conversation, but stops when they see one of the children panicking. They rush over to the lake, only to find that one of the children has fallen in and hasn't returned to the surface. Reacting quickly, the adult calls a gold and silver staff to themselves, stabs it into the ground and ties a rope around it before diving into the water. Several minutes pass before a golden light fills the lake, followed shortly by a golden orb ascending the rope, making it onto the shore before fading and revealing the two shadows that entered the water. The adult seems distraught and checks the child's pulse and screams when they find none...

.....That staff... is that Sol's? ...that would make these something to do with Sol if that's true...

The vision skips ahead, showing the two children at a funeral for the adult, the child who was saved now resembling the adult to an extent. Both appear to be crying as others watch on. Two adults in particular seem to be watch the children with interest, one pointing out something about the two before the vision ends.

Naki frowns. ".....What is all of this....?" She keeps walking, though slightly disturbed.

At the next interval, Naki sees the children, now older, undergoing training within the temple. The one who had fallen into the lake appears to be lagging slightly behind. One of the two adults reprimands him, but he doesn't appear to take it to heart. He continues the training and eventual meditation, where a faint golden aura overtakes him while a blue aura overtakes the other, taller child. Both adults seem to notice this and call for a person holding a concrete looking staff. They take the staff and point it towards the child with the golden aura and get a strong reaction. The same occurs with the child with the blue aura. The two adults look at one another and nod before the vision ends.

She continues walking, slightly weary of what's going on. Why am I seeing these things....?

The next vision shows the two children, now around twelve years old, fighting against one another in what appears to be a battle to the death based on the savagery and brutality of their attacks on one another. The children are no longer shadowy figures, instead they appear to be a younger version of Sol and someone who looks nearly identical, but with wilder, golden hair and more precise, powerful movements compared to Sol's. The two continue to fight ferociously, but is easy to tell that neither wants to continue the fight until Sol is backed into a wall and literally has a hole punched through his chest. He slumps over, but before his life leaves him, an apparition of the figure who saved him from drowning overtakes him. The adult, a woman who Sol highly resembles, engulfs the boy in a bright golden aura that rivals the sun in brilliance before fading away. Sol's injury has been healed though something is far different about his demeanor.

He reinstigates the battle with his opponent and easily overpowers him despite not using anything besides physical skills while the oher uses a plethera of mystical and spiritual techniques, but stops before he deals a fatal blow and leaves the area where the battle took place. He passes the two adults from the previous visions, both whom resemble his opponent, and calls the concrete staff to himself before leaving the temple. Shortly after which, the vision fades.

Naki quietly contemplates the events that happened. "....Sol... ....so this has something to do with him after all... ....is it the staff's doing?" She continues walking.

The next vision shows Sol fleeing through a forest canopy as dozens of people pursue him. He fends off those who get close to him with swift, yet powerful swipes of his staff and he continues, but just as he reaches the forest's edge, the two adults block his path.

"You do not deserve such a treasure, Cursed Brat!"

"Your life is forfeit. Luna should have left you to drown, boy."

"Your brother, he deserves the staff. You are but an usurper, all thanks to that idiotic girl's actions. I was right in plan to abandon you in the forest. I should not have listened to the pleas of a child!"

"Always the shadow, never the one in the light... You're pathetic, even the simplest of things were too difficult for you. That's why Sun surpassed you. You could never do the right thing, not even when the task was as simple as reading a scripture from the Ancient Texts."

"That all ends here. Die, wretched failure, you shall not be missed."

With that, the vision cuts off. 

''....Poor Sol... ...no wonder he blames himself for what happened... but why is this place only seeming to draw upon Sol's memories? ...is the Dreamscape we're in tied to something happening to Sol...?''

She continues forward.

Naki arrives at the final segment of the bridge and sees one last vision. Sol is beaten and battered, covered in his own blood and the blood of his opponents, who like on the ground in broken yet alive forms.

"You're t-too soft... You.... ....greatest flaw...."

"Y-you think that we'll... simply a-allow... you to go...?"

"If anything.... We'll take you with us.........!"

The two begin to glow brightly as energy crackles around them, eventually enveloping their forms.

"Even with us gone..."

"You shall not find peace..."

"Our successors shall hunt you until you die..."

"But need not happen... You will meet your end here!"

"Accept our dying will!"

There is a blinding flash of light before a deafening explosion goes off, ending the vision.

She contemplates what she has seen. ''How could anyone call themselves 'family' after that? ....My family always stuck together, no matter our problems... ...I guess the downtrodden life is universal...''

She continues on.

The moment Naki steps foot on the large platform, she sees a white Beacon, but it is quickly replaced by a person sitting on a yellowed skeletal throne. He wears the standard uniform for the school and holds a bloody skull with flowers growing from it in his hand. His hair is blue, but some sections are so dark that they appear to be black. His eyes are crimson and a sword rests by his side, a more twisted version of the one Naki carries.

"Ah, you've arrived. I didn't expecct that cat to protect you so as you progressed, but it matters not. You will not advance past here," he says, lazily rising from the throne, as if the effort required to do so is beneath him.



She grips her spear tightly and evenly points it at him.

"Who are you? Are the one the one behind this dreamscape nonsense?" She says evenly.

"I wonder," he says, discarding the skull and picking up his sword, "The answer to that question is for me to know."

"What's the point in all of this? What are you trying to acomplish?" She asks, raising her spear defensively.

"Has it occurred to you that maybe, just maybe, I was bored," he asks in return, "Maybe I enjoy messing with people's heads, maybe this is all just a game to me... The answer to that is for me to know." He smiles darkly.

Her eyes narrow slightly, studying him. "Then do something productive other than sit on your ass all day. Work out, take a walk, hell, watch a tv rather than sit on that depressing seat you call a throne! If you're that bored watching me walk around all day is a sign you have a serious need for a damn hobby!"

"Eh, limited options and none are interesting," he mutters, "I tried sewing, golf, embroidery, alchemy, competetive running. All boring. This is at least partially interesting, especially when mouthy people arrive. They make things hilarious."

She launches herself forward using the polearm to cut the distance between them short, then pulling the trigger and causing the blade to charge with lightning as she brings it down on his head.

He ducks under the strike and closes the distance further to knee Naki in the stomach then follow with a palm strike to her chin.

She rolls, then gets up and swipes his head with the flat end of the polearm. "Can either of you help me with this or am I on my own?" He calls out to the cat and the sphere.

The cat shakes its head while the sphere does nothing in particular. The person weaves to the side, then extends his hand, releasing a black gale of wind in her direction before springing into the air and pressing the trigger on his sword.

She dodges the wind and releases the trigger on the blade, waiting for his move.

He makes a cutting gesture in Naki's direction before shouting.

"Elnove, Alnov, Ilmete!" Nothing appears to happen aside from him landing gracefully.

She stabs at him again, but just as he dodges she presses the trigger again and a blade of electricity extends from the tip extending its range enough to still score a direct hit.

Instead of dodging, he redirects the blow with a stone columm then sends jets of water after her from the front and behind.

She twirls the polearm, deflecting the water and then smashing the columm in his face, using the debris as a medium for a surprise attack and blasts a wave of darkness in his face.

The darkness, once it gets within a certain distance of him, falters, then appears to boil before launching itself back at Naki, only much faster than before. He sends the debris towards Naki in a forceful wave as a gale picks up. The platform appears have a slight reddish orange tint to it.

She stabs the spear into the ground, using the momentum to launch herself into the air above the platform and the attacks. She presses the trigger again and sends a blast of wind to deflect the attacks back in his direction.

The person thrusts his empty hand forward, stopping the attacks in place, then jerks his hand down, pulling Naki to the ground with great force. The platform begins to glow brighter.

She stops herself by grabbing onto the still erect polearm. "I'm beginning to resent you now... just a little..." She mutters.

The figure chuckles, "This is rather fun!" The air around the person becomes visible as a black and purple sphere. The sphere begins to spin and Naki feels like it is slowly drawing her towards itself.

She braces herself against the polearm, bracing her feet against the trigger and break, but not actually pressing them.

The pull gets stronger and the platform begins to burn with molten light.

Naki grunts in frustration, and looks down on the trigger and break, and with another grunt presses down on the break.

Naki feels a massive surge of power as her Exceed Nexus sprouts from her arms. Her senses are magnified and her reflexes faster than lightning. See is able to see the multilayered seals rotating around the platform, all flowing into the rapidly darkening sphere around the person. Suddenly, a golden light forms in the center of the sphere.

She quickly launches herself forward with the spear in hand, a large sheathe of Ether coming from the Exceed Nexus and coating the spear as well, she thrusts the blade in front of her as she flies at the person.

Just as Naki reaches the sphere, it explodes violently enough to force her back and engulf the entire area, but she is able to gain knowledge on how to cast Elnove, an extremely powerful explosive spell and a spell called Schwartzweld, which seems to be a controllable singularity. The person appears to be surprised that Naki survived the spell.

Not wasting any of her time, she flies forward at him with the Ether still present and when close enough begins slashing at him with the extended blade of Ether, hoping to score a hit on him while her power is still engaged.

Naki manages to score a few hits on the person before pillars of energy begin to erupt from the platform randomly.

Naki begins to reroute some of her power to defense, keeping a watchful eye out for a sign of danger.

Some of the pillars of energy erupt near her as the person changes his grip on his sword. Naki begins to feel somewhat sluggish compared to a moment ago.

Naki releases the break, retreating a bit from the pillars and the person.

The sluggish feeling worsens, but Naki still retains her heightened abilities to an extent. The person is now surrounded a multitude of seals and balls of energy.

Naki holds the spear in a more defensive position now, waiting for his next move.

The person thrusts his hands in Naki's direction, causing the balls of energy to gather before him and form a very large meteoroid that he fires at her.

Naki dives down under it to avoid it at the last second.

The meteoroid skims over Naki, missing her, but singing her along her back. The figure seems very drained, but Naki feels heavy and sluggish, balancing out the situation.

Naki keeps her spear in a defensive position as she stares at the figure silently, breathing regularly in an attempt to regain some stamina.

The figure points his sword at her, but remains in place. A faint green aura is about him and he seems to be recovering from his fatigue quickly.

"Hm, you aren't the run of the mill, over the top, grandeur crazed, air headed hero...ine," comments the person, "I guess I can grace you with my title... I am of  the Phantom Waltz, Lady Charade. I am the Macabre Nacht."

Naki blinks slightly at 'Phantom Waltz', but otherwise remains focused. "That's probably because I don't reckon myself as a hero-ine much. I'm just a girl who keeps getting thrown into things she'd rather be left out of. Not heroic, I know, don't care. To be honest the only reason I'm fighting is because this place annoys me and I want out. I'm Naki, just some misfit reborn as something she doesn't understand, into a world a bit too big for her tastes."

She keeps her spear raised defensively.

"Ah... Hmm... A misundersatnding then. All unnecessary forces should've been removed... No wonder your aura did not match the one known as Sol's completely and yet I sense his presence here," says Macabre, an annoyed look passing over his face. "Disappear, I have no need for you here." A portal opens beside Naki, one that appears to lead to the real world.

Naki doesn't budge. "What do you want with Sol?" She asks flatly.

"He is needed to draw out a certain person, that is all you are allowed to know," he says, his eyes narrowed. "Now go."

"I'm not a hero or anything like that, but that's my friend we're talking about. The throne of skulls doesn't make me strike you as a pleasant person, nor does the attacking me business. So that'll be a no. I already failed a friend once. I'm sure as hell not going to do it again."

"In that case, I must remove you," his eyes narrow further and  he fingers both the trigger and break of his sword, "Please perish." He pressed both and explodes with potent negative energy.

She presses both the trigger and break of the pole arm in response. "I am not going down that easy. No matter how much you ask nicely."

Once again,  the Beacon on Naki's right hand becomes completely violet and golden glyphs cover her body as a gold and silver seal depicting various weaponry surrounding a being balancing light and darkness appears behind her. Her spear lengthens, its blade broadens and gains an extra blade of the other side as gold, violet and indigo Dream Mist swirls around both blades. Additionally, the scarf she acquired coils  around her right arm and back, forming a golden tower shield that floats in front of her arm and for wings of golden Dream Mist.

Macabre has undergone a different transformation. His attire changes into that of chrome armor and his hair becomes black and silken. Additionally, "he" reveals his true nature as a "she". Her sword morphs into a bladed longbow with two triggers and blade, red and gold Dream Mist twines around it. A seal depicting a rampaging beast surrounded by bloody red eyes appears behind her and sharp grey glyphs cover her form.

Naki charges forward, raising her shield and baring her spear, ramming the shield straight into Macabre's face and stabbing at her.

Macabre seems to fall backwards just as Naki attacks, disappearing in a haze. Naki suddenly feels a light, yet staggeringly strong rap to the back of her head.

Naki whirls, spinning her polearm and slicing at Macabre, jumping up in the air and slashing her blade down into the ground to cause a large tornado of fire to consume the space of the platform.

The being counters with her bow, turning one side of it around to make it into a glaive, before flipping over Naki and shattering the platform.

Naki flies up and fires a bolt of magenta lightning at the figure, using the glaive as a lightning rod to guide the strike.

Macabre deflects the bolt of lightning before vanishing suddenly. Naki can hear a faint rumbling sound...

Naki instinctively dodges to one side and fires a blast of gold fire in the direction of the noise.

A massive maw of black and red opens beneath Naki and begins to close, threatening to consume her.

Naki flies up, shooting down a large fireball into the maw and tears apart the maw with the explosion.

Macabre appears behind Naki and performs a near instantaneous slash on the girl before another maw appears.

Naki moves out of the range of the maw and counters the next attack of Macabre and grabs her arm and pulls her in range for a stab to the chest.

Macabre takes the stab, but instead of slowing down or faltering, she uses this to grab Naki and release a brain scrambling  pulse of energy before pulling herself off the spear. At this point, the sphere begins to glow.

Naki attempts to keep up the fight, trying to shake off the disorientation.

Macabre uses this time to turn her glaive back into a bow and fire several energy arrows at Naki.

''...You... girlie... Who... you... ...Sol? ''A female voice originates from the orb, addressing Naki.

Naki attempts to block the arrows with her shield.

''I'm not Sol... I'm Naki, a friend of Sol though. I don't know why, but this psycho seems to want something from him, and I can't imagine it's good... ....why?''

''You're a friend of his... Hm, would you like assistance... I... You...Accept?''

Naki is able to block most of the arrows, though one gets to her before she can full defend herself. While she doesn't feel much pain, the world inverts for a split second upon impacting with her. Macabre fires more arrows at her before charging up a what appears to be larger, more powerful arrow.

"Gespenst..."

''Any help would be great...! Any way you can help, I would greatly appreciate... ''

She barely manages to block the remaining arrows, still trying to focus.

The sphere glows brightly, almost invitingly, while Macabre continues to charge the arrow...

Naki moves for the sphere as quickly as she can, reaching out for it.

Just as Naki reaches the sphere, Macabre releases the arrow.

"...Schutz" The arrow is more like a high powered laser as it blasts away from the bow, accelerating until it appears as a large beam of energy. Naki's shield manages to block the arrow long enough for her to grab the sphere and be engulfed in golden, warm light. When the light fades, Naki is emitting an aura that rivals the sun and her spear has been replaced by a staff comprised of gold and silver energies.

''I had to temporarily overide your spear to fully manifest. Just say the command that comes to mind and we'll end it here.''

Macabre seems to be both surprised and frightened by Naki's current state.

''Errr... spiral? ....No idea where that came from...''

The staff spins in front of Naki before vanishing. Less than a second later, the the sound barrier is shattered by the shrill shriek of an object surpassing light speed as a ferocious twister of horizontal energy shreds through the space in front of Naki, completely overtaking Macabre before she can perform the slightest of actions. The twister continues forward for quite awhile before it rapidly expands and finally disperses, resulting in the reappearance of the staff before Naki. A white Beacon floats slightly further ahead.

"Um, thank you very much for the help... ...I was in a rather tough spot there..."

''You claim to be a friend of my brother... Had you not been, you would have died the moment we made contact... Please, tell him to be safe, even if he's grown stronger... ''The golden aura fades and the staff dissolves back into the spear, giving Naki just enough time to reach the beacon before the Dream Buster state starts to fade.

She wearily touches the beacon after grabbing ahold of the spear.

The Dreamscape dissolves around her, fading to white then finally black before she awakens on a cot. Crowding around her are Anira, Drei, Sol, Selene, a shirtless man with golden blonde hair and lion ears, a somewhat sickly looking woman with pure white hair and crimson eyes, a man with black, red, gold and silver hair with hard blue eyes, an older man with tied back blonde hair and deep grey eyes and, of all people, Serah.

"You're finally awake, Young One," sighs Drei, wiping his forehead. "You had us worried."

"She's the one, Sol," asks the shirtless man curiously. The teen nods and the man nods in return, "The name's Leone. I'm an old friend of the little guy here!" He smiles as he puts Sol in a headlock and ruffles his hair, much to Sol's chagrin.

Naki groans, a killer headache coming over her, she rubs her head in response. "Uggh... can someone explain what happened? That was not pleasant...."

She blinks for a moment. "...Serah?"

"Yeah, I'm back," she replies, flipping a strand of her now green tinted hair. Her eyes are now the same hazel as the doctor's eyes although they seem to have a more primal, savage quality to them. She no longer is wearing the school's uniform, instead wearing skinny jeans without shoes or socks and a vest-like halter top under a flowing floral robe that emits an aura of life, longevity and primal natural power. "I woke up after the forest was restored for the most part and my new home was rebuilt. Apparently, you draw trouble to yourself, getting sucked into one thing after another."

"She means that she's glad that you're alright," says Selene, "Naki, you've been out for awhile and a lot has happened. How long do you think it's been since you got pulled into that place?" Curiously, Selene seems to be back in perfect health.

Naki needs only to hear this and to see these changes to do the most logical thing: groan audibly and immediately seeks to connect her forehead to the nearest wall in a loud thud of aggravation.

"....Let me guess.... ....weeks? Months? Years? In other news, my headache has tripled."

"....Also, yeah, I noticed. I really wish the universe would stop doing that..." She adds, hints of stress lines under her eyes. "...You know what, just hit me with it."

"About three weeks," says Selene, patting Naki on the back. "I woke up after a few days and Mr. Annie did after a week and a half, complaining about teleportation being annoying. You, however, couldn't be woken up, let alone touched up until recently.... Since then, the forest was restored to an extent, the holiday season began, Sol's friends came to check up on him and the school's condition and you... Well..." She seems hesitant about something.

"Just look in a mirror," snaps Serah, vines sprouting from her clothes for a split second and her hair becoming extremely wild before she takes a deep breath. "Sorry, still getting used to these new abilities... But, yeah, you've changed..."

"....Changed....? ....What are you... ....ugh just show me...." Naki groans. Her headache is only mounting with her frustration.

Naki is presented with a hand mirror.

Naki blinks, staring at the image.

Her face is less innocent and more stern, though her eyes still show plenty of her inner self, with a stronger green hue to her iridescent eyes, the iridescence is dulled enough to see it now. Her hair has mixes of brown and blonde, though the light shining off it remains iridescent in color as well. The scarf from before is wrapped around her neck, while a large case is on her back, holding the spear inside. Her clothes are more durable and simple, with armored arm braces, pauldrons, as well as leg braces attached to the clothing. Her claws are long enough to be sharp, but not to stand out or be a nuisance, and her feet are human with small claws instead of nails. Her arm braces are designed in such a way to allow more of her ether from the Exceed Nexus to flow, which she turns off to avoid absorbing anything. Her hair is shorter in the front, but longer and tied up in the back in a well done braided ponytail. Two red markings on both cheeks are visible below her eyes.

"...Why'd this happen... ...Anira, do you know exactly what happened to me? A lot of weird things happened in some sort of dream... ....I had to fight a psycho lady to get out of it..."

"Hmm, I could explain, but it would be very convoluted coming from me," says the teacher, "Zwei might be able to better explain, but he's currently unable to come to this place himself because something big came up."

"I may be able to explain," offers Drei, "Simply put, your form has changed to suit your values and ideals. As for the being you fought... From what I sensed before my connection was severed, you fought a fragment of the whole... Did they have any motives for being there?"

"More than that.... they named themselves. She called herself 'Phantom Waltz, Lady Charade'. She said she was after Sol, why, I have no idea. But my 'involvement' was not anticipated."

The eyes of all of the strangers narrow, upon hearing the name of the one responsible,

"She was here," growls the man with multicolored hair. For an instant his eyes flash red and armor like scales appear on his face, but they quickly vanish and he sighs, "Rest for now, we'll talk tomorrow." We that, he and the others exit the room, leaving Naki with Selene, Serah, Drei and Anira.

"....Well that can't be good..." Naki mutters. "It seems like you're more right than you know Serah... the universe just loves dumping stuff on my head."

"Try not to get yourself dug in too deep," says the fledling Land God. "You aren't in a position to kick the bucket yet."

Naki frowns. "I'm not in a position to kick the bucket? I'm not exactly looking to die so I am not sure where that came from.... anyway, it's nice to see you again. You feeling better too Selene? Now that I think about it, you said I couldn't even be touched?"

"She meant don't get too deeply involved with anything that could get you kill-"

"Stop translating what I'm saying, dammit," snaps Serah.

"-ed, you have too many people who- Ow!" Selene rubs her forehead where Serah flicked her hard.

"Then listen," huffs the other girl.

"Anyways, yeah. No one could get near you without something forcing them away from you, as if there was a barrier isolating you from everyone else," finishes Selene, "Occasionally you would begin to mutter things that made no sense and odd auras would surround you until you finally woke up."

Naki closes her eyes. "Ahh... ....I'm sorry, I wanted to visit you as soon as possible, but ironically it was you who ended up visiting me... ....also, about earlier... ....I'm sorry I wasn't there. I feel like I let you down back then."

"It's fine, I forgive you," says Serah, "Try not to do it again or I'll begin to question whether or not you're simply trying to off me." Selene begins to interpret, but the Land God shoots her a wicked look.

Naki smiles. "I have no intention of doing so again. So who were those people anyway?"

"Friends of Sol," says Selene, "They arrived shortly after Mr. Annie woke up, about a day later. They were... Leone, the lion person, Ark, the guy with multicolored hair, Lucia, the lady with white hair, and Patrikolos, the older looking person."

"I see... ...I can't believe it's been weeks since all of this happened... ....I hope Volmond isn't too worried..."

"He should be coming by in the next few days to check on you," says Anira.

"Yes, the doctor is currently with others, though if you called him, he would no doubt be here within an instant," affirms Drei.

"I miss him, but I'll let him come when he wants to come. I don't want to rush him into anything. You know though, as much inconvinence all this as been, I still don't hate this form of mine anymore. I mean, it's been a real eye opening experince... ....I'm gonna miss my family, and no amount of wishful thinking will change the fact that I lost them to Phoenix... ...but at least I've gotten to meet friends like you guys to help me along. I'm really glad to have met you all..." Naki says with a smile. She takes the case on her back off and opens it, revealing the spear.

"...So I still have this huh? Guess that weird place did have its advantages, despite the loss of a few weeks."

"You win some, you lose some," says Anira.

"Is there anything I can do, or do I need to stay and rest or something?" Naki asks.

"It's quite late actually," says the teacher, "Rest up for tomorrow."

"....Feels weird to go to sleep when I just woke up..."

"I know, but you wouldn't realize how tiring sleeping is," says the teacher before chuckling to himself.

Naki shakes her head. "I guess I'll sleep then... I'll see you later I guess..." She quietly lays down on the cot, smiling up at Serah and Selene. "Talk later I guess?"

"Sure," They say in unison before leaving the room with the teacher. Drei turns into a white cat with blue, almost black stripes and curls up on the floor beside Naki's cot.

"Sleep well, Young One," he mews.

Naki drifts off to sleep, wondering what tomorrow will bring.

Meeting Riot(And Other Awaiting Disasters)
Naki wakes up feeling completely refreshed. Drei raises his head and and gives her a lopsided look.

"You should bathe," he says before laying his head back down and going back to sleep.

She nods, and heads to take a shower, taking some time to relax in the water, then changing into newer clothes. She comes back and stretches with a yawn.

She picks up the case of the spear and straps it to her back, heading down to eat.

On her way, she meets up with Serah.

"You're up, good. You were probably going to get lost," she says, "Follow me, I'm heading to the dining hall."

Naki follows her. "Thanks for the help."

Serah grunts a reply as she leads Naki into a large room filled with people sitting and eating and talking to one another. Serah leads her through this to a short line of people. "They have everything you could imagine and beyond, so ask for what  you want and how much of it you want."

Naki ends up asking for four pancakes and a glass of milk with some sausages, then sitting down at a table.

Serah sits down in front of her, her plate loaded with all sorts of foods, some appearing to be nearly indescribable. "Huh, I though you appetite would be bigger..."

Naki smiles. "I'm just going to be focusing on one thing at a time to be honest... won't be as satisfying if I scarf it all down at once."

"More plates next time," suggests the Land God, tearing into her massive amount of food.

Naki shakes her head wearily. "Remind me not to start a eating competition with you..." She eats her pancakes quietly.

"I actually got more than this the day before and more than that the day before that," she says, "If anything my appetite is diminishing... Soon I won't need to eat." A melancholy look crosses her face for a moment, but she shrugs then finishes off her breakfast. "Sol's friends want to talk with you, by the way. I dunno why, but they do."

Naki soon finishes hers as well. "Hmmm... ....I'm guessing it's about that Charade person... I suppose though you can still eat for pleasure though, right?"

Serah shrugs, "Maybe, apparently there are a ton of procedures and customs to follow..."

"Customs and procedures? Also, you know where his friends might be?"

"Yeah, all sorts of rules... I have to meet the lesser deities of the area soon," she says, sighing. "They'll be in the stadium, Sol's friends."

Naki closes her eyes. "I hope things can get better for you Serah... I'll go ahead and see them I guess. It's great to see you again."

"Same to you," she mutters under her breath, "Now get going."

Naki waves goodbye, before making her way to the stadium, while she heads there she reads one of her books.

When Naki arrives, Leone is waiting for her outside.

"Heya," he beams. His attire ia similar to what he wore yesterday, he still lacks a shirt, but is wearing brown cargo pants with crossing belts. "The others are waiting for you inside, but first..." A blue and gold spectral lion forms behind him. "I want to test something. Hit me with your best shot. no strings attached."

Curiously Naki frowns at him. ".....You're asking me to punch you....?"

"Punch, kick, blast with magic, its up to you," he shrugs, "Just hit me with your best shot."

Naki sighs, then punches him with a fairly decent punch towards the stomach.

"Was that really your best," he asks before shrugging, "Well, best not keep Ark waiting."

Naki blinks, then shakes her head and enters the stadium. ''Can't imagine what he wants, if he was at the room I was sleeping in why couldn't he wait somewhere like the dining hall...? Seems inconvenient... but then again he might be a hot head, so maybe he doesn't always think things through... who knows...''

Inside the stadium Naki sees Ark, who gives her a look that cannot be read.

"So you met Charade... Could you go over your encounter in depth," he sks, his tone even, almost monotonous.

Naki takes a deep breath, and recounts all that occurred in the fight to the best of her ability, noting the strength of the person.

"Overall the only reason I fought Charade is because she got in the way of me getting back out of the dream and because she wanted something regarding Sol, I wasn't having that considering she was behind the whole dream thing to begin with. I've already let down too many people to let him down too."

"Explain your last statement," he says.

"The last time I was in a fight like that... I thought it best to seek help from the teacher, and I left Sol and Serah and another behind... ....I thought they would be able to hold out until I got help... but I failed and didn't even have time to get help... all I could do is hide with the others in the school... ...I wasn't there when they needed me, and because of that, Serah sacrificed herself and her humanity... ....I still feel so terrible and guilty for that... ....even if that had never happened, I still would never have just let that being do as it wished. I was a coward, I should have stayed and helped them back then. ...I don't intend to repeat that mistake."

"I see," he says, "Hmm... Your sincerity is genuine. Would you like the power to protect those close to you?" The older man looks confused.

"Arkyle, surely you don't mean a Pact..."

"And if I do, after all I have to try it at least once," says the young man, "Besides, it is of no ill-effect to her."

Naki's face tightens as she automatically starts accessing his meaning. Not immediately coming to a conclusion, she looks at Ark with a sharper eye. "Define... pact."

He shows her a triangular marking with an octagon within it on the back of his left hand.

"A Pact is a gift of power to one who lacks it from the source of said power," he says, "Most of the times the one capable of giving the power asks that you serve them or give up something in exchange. This is no different: In exchange for the power I offer, I want you to become a junior member of Riot, my organization dedicated in part to defeating Charade, though that is not the extent of our activities. I'll give you time to think on it." Before he can dismiss her, the white haired woman speaks up.

"A moment, please," her voice sounds weak, almost sick, but the strength within her eyes belies the frality of her form. "I'd like to speak with her..."

Naki's eyes shift towards the woman, still having the appearance of subtly analyzing the situation. "...What do you want to talk about?"

"My father," she says, "...He was at the shrine..."

"Your father was at the shrine...?" She asks, not understanding where this is going.

"He was in the area and said he felt a disturbance that he would investigate... After that, I never heard back from him..." She coughs a bit.

"Sacrifices..." Naki murmurs, remembering something. "Does... Sir Miren mean anything to you? That's the only name I know of anyone involved, though I do not know what happened to him. Sol said something about a sacrifice regarding him, but I don't know anything... I'm sorry. Wish I could be more helpful than that."

"...I see," she says, looking especially disheartened. "Miren was my father... I'll have to inform mother of his passing."

"....I'm... sorry..." Naki looks toward Ark. "Why are you offering this to me? I'm not a good fighter. Surely there's a reason I'm not aware of?"

"And one I'm probably unaware of," he says, "Though I will admit that your conviction and sincerity was a deciding factor in this. You do not have to decide now, I'll give you two days to mull it over."

Naki rubs her head. "Alright... I'll think about it..." She says with a sigh.

"Until then, be watchful and tells any of us if you notice anything suspicious happening."

Naki quietly nods and walks away.

When Naki gets back into the proper school building, Apollos is waiting.

"Huh, you didn't kick the bucket yet," he says in a deadpan voice, "I guess that's notable or something." On closer inspection, he looks almost identical to the form Macabre took, minus the red eyes. Everything else is spot on."Watch yourself, you're on a ledge of sorts. One false move and the abyss will consume you... Take that as you will."

"You know, you remind me of that bitch from the dream place I fought earlier. I can't imagine that's a coincidence, so if you're threatening me or something, I'd like to point out that there's a group back there who'd love to have a chat with you about Charade. You certainly fit the 'suspicious' image perfectly. Also, mind elaborating? I don't have a tolerance for mind games or riddles. If you can't say it straight, keep your mouth shut." Naki's voice is tight, her eyes vaguely tinted with a shade of red from her irritation.

"Threaten? I have no reason to do so," he says boredly, a purple symbol of a six petaled flower forming in his eyes. "I was simply warning you of something that the spirits of the fallen seem see you as connected to. As for what that is, I will not tell- rather I cannot because I am forbidden to do so by my own Patron... Ask Arkyle what a Patron is, it'll prove to be most enlightening... As for your tolerance and shody detective work, I care not for what annoys or pleases you, just as you do not for me and the one you believe I am associated with... Check closer to yourself, one you trust is or, as of recently, was associated with her... Now you'd best get going, you are needed elsewhere."

Naki walks off silently. ''Needed? Urgh, What do people think I am? Some sort of fighter? Annoying!!!''

Not long afterwatds, Naki runs into Anira.

"Ah, just in time. I have something for you, but the sender specifically said you had to fufill a requirement before I could give it to you," he says, holding up a rather large parcel.

Naki sighs. "Great... what is it?" She rubs her forehead. ''What is with people and wanting things from me... I just want to live peacefully... why do I keep getting dragged into things? Is it because I'm an Etherite?''

"They said to take a break from things for awhile specifically. Read, meditate, learn  how to use Qi, just take a break for the next couple of days. If you agree to that, I can give you the parcel."

Naki blinks. "Well, I rather would like a break very much. For me at least, there's been too much at once happening to me."

He hands her the parcel."Open it after you get some peace of mind."

She takes it, and quietly walks off. She eventually finds a tree with a decent amount of shade from the sun, and goes to sit down and read the book Sol gave her.

"That's right... still haven't finished reading this..." She mutters.

Once Naki finishes the book, Sol appears.

"Hey, you alright," he asks as he plops down next to her.

Naki sighs. "No. I'm just tired of getting involved in things. I'm just some girl, I don't want to be involved in these epic grandiose adventures or nonsense. I just want to be at peace. Things were so nice for a few days, but now life has taken those days away.... ...what a sick joke... it teases me with the idea I can finally live a life I would have wanted to live, then it tears that hope down only a few days later!"

"I see... In truth, I don't know what to say besides perservere and take breaks as often as neccessary and possible." He looks at her for a moment and for a few seconds Naki sees the spirit of a woman whom Sol greatly resembles floating beside him. She vanishes just as Sol offers her a back massage. "It may relieve some tension."

Naki looks at him and blinks. "Oh, thank you I guess... perservering I've pretty much booked that... but I've never really gotten a chance to catch a break in my life. Just constantly moving, doing, running, hiding, stealing... pretty much if we wasted any time or had time to ourselves, that was one less minute we had to secure our breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Usually we didn't have lunch though, that was a lucky thing."

Sol nods as he moves into position, placing a hand on each shoulder blade. "This may feel a little uncomfortable at first, just a warning, it depends on how tense you are." Without saying more, he begins to gently massage her upper back as a burning sensation spreads through her. "That's the Qi flowing, the feeling will fade soon."

Naki simply sighs and looks around the school grounds, quietly thinking. ''I need to figure out that glove at some point... ...how should I power it?''

Sol looks confused for a moment, but continues the massage, the burning sensation from earlier having been replaced by soothing warmth.

Naki sighs contently closing her eyes and starts calmly thinking about methods to power the device she has been developing. Janpu appears with a case and opens it, revealing the mechanical device, and Naki quietly opens her eyes and looks at it for a bit, still calculating and thinking about the subject.

"Hm... Explain the device," says Sol, continuing the massage. "You're quite tense, but for good reason."

Naki thinks quietly for a moment. "It's a device meant to allow someone not born with the ability to use magic to channel it. It also would boost magical capacity and physical strength, and couldn't be negated by conventional suppression techniques, as it's not a part of the body. Channeling magic would be simply a matter of how you moved it."

She slowly demonstrates the moving parts to Sol, so he can see the various shifting mechanical bits already comprising the device.

"Would it be locked to a single person," he asks, finishing the massage, "As in, would it only work with a single person once they activated or utilized it?"

"Well that could be an option. Why? Also, thanks Sol, that was... nice."

"No problem," he replies, "As for why, you could possibly power it with a person's Qi or energy assuming the device was receptive enough to it. Qi, if you didn't know, is what allows most mortal beings to function as it helps our bodies function. We are constantly releasing it and gathering it, so it should not be much of an issue to have a workable amount of it..."

"I would guess so, but the problem is what happens if someone's power is surpressed? Would someone still be able to use the glove?"

"Unless that person's life force itself was suppressed and limited, they would be able to continue using it. Qi is directly connected to your life and health, the greater the quality of your Qi, the greater quality of your life... At least in terms of physical health and wellness."

"I suppose that could work... thanks for the suggestion..."

She thinks for a moment. "I've never thought about this until now, but what or who was the Monkey King?" She asks.

"Very long story," says Sol, "Originally, he was a stone in the shape of a monkey in a forest, but eventually gained life...." He recounts the tale of his ancestor with great detail, as if he were telling of his own past experiences instead of recounting the exploits of his ancestor long past.

"I see, you seem to know a lot about him. ....the only thing I know is that the person I'm made from is a real bitch with a bad attitude. I was told something about her being corrupted, but I'm not too sure on the details. Lucky me right? A mind connection with a trigger happy 'sister', whatever she is."

''I can hear you, you know... ''

"Ah, well then," says Sol, "It seems like we both have our fair share of 'family' issues."

''Oh no, I offended you! Sorry! ...Not... You know, if you have such a problem with me insulting you, then maybe you should try to be, I don't know, a better, what's the word to describe us...... sibling? Just a thought? Perhaps? You know, trying to take over someone's body is generally not considered a reason to like someone. And on that note, I have more than a quarter of my mind that really is urging me to call master to deal with you before you try that again... in fact I think I'll do that now. Unless you've got something other than 'I'ma swallow your soul!!!' to say.''

"Yep, and the best part is, she's back... on that note, let's get some distance from any of the buildings.... I'd rather not have a repeat of the last time me and 'sis' had a 'conversation'."

Sol obliges. "Alright, you lead the way."

''Relax, I can't bypass the temp lock that Legna put on you, not that it matters, I've already found a more willing host who hits far closer to home than you do. That being said, your Ether defenses are absolutely terrible miss high and mighty daddy's girl. If Legna hadn't put up the temp lock, I- no ANYONE with enough knowledge and control over Ether- could 'hack' you in an instant, just saying... Oh and I'd just like to point out that you don't know more than a fraction of your 'Master', let alone what sins and great evils he's committed up to this point. I don't need to harm you, you'll be the tool of your own destruction with your ignorance and smart mouth 'sister'. Now be a dear and play nice with your boyfriend while I'm correcting something that you really want to be corrected, even if you don't know what it is at this point.''

Naki lets out an irritated mental growl. ''And who's the older of the two of us? Three of us if you count Gaea? Of course I don't have good Ether control, I've been around for... not counting the trip to dream land, what maybe a week? As an Etherite. I don't have anyone to teach me this, or at least, I haven't had time to learn it either! You're just like the people back at earth... taking advantage of 'trash' just because it's convenient for you...''

She thinks for a minute as she walks a bit away from the school.

''Besides... I'm not stupid... I've accepted what I am now, but that doesn't mean I actually forgive my master and mistress for what they did to me... she took away my family... I don't even know if my brother is alive. But so what if I were to hate him? What would I do about that Taea? Like you said, I don't have the ability to defend myself properly to live here, nor could I simply leave his realm on a whim. If I didn't live here, or in Legna's realm, where would I go, pray tell, oh so 'wise' and 'clever' 'sister, where would I go? Home? I never had one to begin with, and now that I'm a Myth, humans would never accept me! As much as I hate what I had to go through, the only thing I have left really is Legna! Don't christen me a fool when I'm well aware of my own powerlessness!''

''Yelling at me gets you nowhere, besides I don't care about how you judge me or my choices. I forge my own path, even in confinement. If anything, you are confined far more than I am, but by chains from the heart rather than physical bindings... That makes you just like Gaea, bound without reason despite emancipation being within your grasp. And if you're so smart, why do you not explore your own abilities? I taught myself how to utilize my abilities, even under restriction and limitation and Gaea acquired them within an instant. We were not taught by others, we taught ourselves. Learn, that is your purpose until you find your true reason for existing. Friendship, comradarie, relationships, bonds, all of those are meaningless aside from the knowledge they give. You don't need the doctor nor do you need anyone else. Go off the grid, vanish, disappear, you don't need anyone at all.''

...

... 

''Done. Enjoy the single favor you'll get from me, not that you'll understand it.''

''I'll never be like you... I will never give myself up in exchange for knowledge... knowledge only carries you so far... you'll never be fulfilled that way...''

....Gaea, you there....?

Naki stops on the edge of a hill and sits down. "I swear Sol... some people are just rotten... promise me you won't ever abandon your feelings, okay? It's not worth it..."

"...Sometimes that's the only way to cope with things," he says after awhile, "Still, I won't abadon mine, only keep them in check... You alright?"

''I am here... Do you require my assistance?''

"Yeah... it's just that Taea is... ....not like me. She told me to abandon my bonds, everything I hold on to for knowledge. I'm not going to listen to her. I love learning things. A lot. But I don't want to give up who I am for power or knowledge."

''Can you teach me more about myself? How to control my powers? There's so much I don't understand or know....''

''That depends on how much you wish to know, Young One. Some things I can teach you, others Legna or my younger brother of sorts, Anira, would be better off teaching.''

"I understand that," Sols says, "I knew a few people like that... Bitter to the end, they were."

Naki nods, but is slightly focused on her conversation. "Sorry if I seem distracted, I'm talking to another like me."

''Well... in general I just want to be able to control Ether better, to be able to protect myself, just to understand my overall capacities, I don't want to have to worry about others protecting me anymore, I guess.''

Naki feels something akin to a warm smile from Gaea. ''I see, then let us start with the basics. We shall first go over how to expand your Exceed Nexus without it harming the world around you. Take several steps away from your friend, your first attempt may not be successful. Once you've done that, slowly expand your Exceed Nexus from your arms, but focus on gathering knowledge rather than assimilating it. This may sound easy,  but it is not ass you would imagine. The key here is slow and steady.''

She does as Gaea asks, and begins to slowly and carefully spreads the Ether around her, trying to focus on gathering knowledge without assimilating it into her, taking her time.

"Just so you know Sol, I'm practicing, keep clear from me ok? I don't want an... accident... to happen."

He nods and releases a green and gold flecked aura. Naki herself has some difficulty maintaining her focus with the high influx of information, but nonetheless is succeeding in not assimilating information.

''Alright.... how's this...?''

She takes a quick moment to catch her breath, before attempting it again.

''You are doing well, Young One. If you are ready to move on, we can.''

''Sure I guess... what's next?''

''The next thing to try is branching off your Ether. Imagine it to be like a mane of hair flowing in water, going in every and all directions or something similar to that, but do not focus on a singular part at a time or else you will lose control of the rest. Remember to gather information, but not to assimilate.''

Naki begins to try and branch it off like she said, trying to move the energy slowly and carefully.

''To be safe, do not become stiff and rigid, let the Ether flow, but within boundaries. ''

Naki attempts to follow Gaea's instruction as best as she can.

Again, she is able to grasp the concept, but not without some difficulty.

I think it may be best to prioritize these two lessons, but first we should do one last thing.

''What is that? ''She asks.

''Your Exceed Nexus is open to just about anything at this point. I want you to try and turn off the extra "feedback" you receive. This will decrease the amount of information you unconsciously take in, but it will also make it more difficult for others to hack into you. This will be a temporary measure until you are ready to create a proper lock on your Ether... This should far easier than the other two excercises.''

''Alright, turn off the extra feedback... is there a specific way to do that?''

''Imagine a running faucet, then turning it off or at least making the water pressure and amount decrease. Now substitute water for information.''

Naki takes a moment to collect herself, then begins to try to reduce the information flow.

The information flow gradually lessens and lessens until Naki can only gather information withing range of her Ether.

''Good work for today. Focus on the first two things for the next couple of days, I don't want to overwhelm you.''

''Alright... thank you very much Gaea...!''

She takes a breath and brings her Ether back to normal. "Well, I got some practice in. Sorry about that Sol."

Think nothing of it.

"It's fine," he says, dispersing his own aura.

Naki sighs. "Ark invited me to make a pact with him and join his group, Riot, I think it was called..."

"Pact? As in with a Patron," questions Sol, confused, "Riot, I guess I could understand him offering you a position... What are your current thoughts on it?"

"Yeah, like that. To be honest, I'd gladly fight to protect my friends and all, but... I don't want to fight for some person I barely know's cause. Power... it just doesn't hold an appeal to me. I mean, this is the first time in my life really I've ever had something that could be considered 'normal'. Not scavaging for food, not stealing and risking getting caught, not fighting a bunch of thugs so I can get home safely... I just don't know really. I don't know anything about it and I... I just don't know."

She looks down at her feet quietly.

Sol shrugs. "It's your life, follow the path you figure is the best unless signs prove that it is less than ideal... I see Ark as a friend, but I disagree with his course of action because revenge will only take him so far... What happens afterwards or if the objective is never met?"

She sighs. "How has Serah been?"

"I get the nagging feeling she likes me... Other than that, she's worried about her appetite, meeting the other deities in the area and not blowing up on them," he says, "In other words, she's stressing out."

Naki nods. "Yeah, I could see that. What are the other ones like? Why would she blow up on them?"

"Apparently, they are extremely... stuffy and snobby and traditional. They also look down on younger beings, so yeah... That meeting isn't going to end without a bang or several."

"Well she shouldn't let them run her show. She just needs to be confident and not let them stomp on her."

"I doubt they'll be the ones doing the stomping..."

Naki laughs. "That's true. Serah would probably tear them a new one."

"We should probably head back in, now. Things have calmed down," he sighs, though he smiles contently.

Naki quietly nods. "Sure thing..." She sighs. "Do you think it's weird that at the same time that I hate my master and mistress, who made me this way and was sort of responsible for me losing my family, yet care about them for everything that I've gotten to experince because this happened to me?"

"Sounds like family to me," Sol says before he clams up. Finally he speaks again. "Family isn't always who you're born with, but the people you meet later on.... Sometimes, a person gets blessed with two families- Two groups of people who care for their wellbeing and happiness. Others... Aren't so lucky."

"Hmmmm...." She ponders what he said, then give him a short hug. "Thank you Sol... meeting you helped me learn how to live a new life... I've never had a friend before I met you... so, umm... ...thanks." She says, getting embarrassed and pulling away with a flush to her face.

"No problem, I'm available if you need me," he replies, "You're the first person in a long time that Ruyi's liked, usually she's shy. That makes three people now..."

Naki smiles faintly and walks with him to the school.

''Hmmm... ....Hey Gaea, sorry if I'm bothering you, but do you know how many beings were created from me? I know that White was preparing to do that, but I never knew exactly what she was doing...''

''Hmm... I sense four from you and three from them, one of them being remarkably similar to Legna and one similar to you...''

''.....That many...? ...I can't believe it... ...I knew that I was a part of White's plan but... ...for that many.... I feel so vile thinking about the fact that they exist because of me...''

Well none of them are completely in line with her plan from what I'm getting, they're being forced for the most part.

''I see... still gives me an uneasy feeling...''

"What should we do now?" Naki asks as they continue walking to the school.

"Hm, there's the observatory and music wing..."

Naki thinks for a moment. "How about the observatory?" She asks.

A Message from the Heart
As Naki and Sol reach the observatory, a figure with white, gold, silver and black attire appears before them.

"Who're you," asks Sol, his eyes hardening. The person doesn't answer, instead turning to Naki.

Naki looks at him with a critical eye. "You... you're... ...one of them, aren't you?"

"I am," he says, "I have a message for you." ''So you're Naki... Are you well?''

"....What do you want, and what the hell does that mean?" She grabs the case of the spear and steps back from him slightly.

"To deliver a message from Nageki, that's why I'm here."

"Na-Nageki?! He's... he's okay? Wait... how do you know him?!" She grabs the man roughly.

"He's alright... Though he's no longer human, if that explains anything. Besides that, he misses you and wants to see you, something that would end very badly if I brought him along or you back... I'll say that I'm sorry though, if I had a choice in the matter, he wouldn't have been changed."

Her eyes sadden at the news. "I miss him too... why can't I see him?"

"I doubt I could coerce White into allowing you into the fortress without harm to you and I doubt I could get Nageki out of the fortress without her knowing or sending the others after me, then there's Yellow Cloak......! Eureka..."

"....What are we 'Eureka'ing about?" Naki says slowly.

"Naki, if it were possible, would you want to return to being a human? I think it would be possible to reverse a transformation, but I'd probably be drained completely or fully restored... In the event that such a thing is possible I could get Nageki out of the fortress, though you'd owe me assuming I survived the mayhem that would follow."

"...I...At first I hated it but... ...what's happened to me, I've already accepted this as the new me, plus because of it I've learned so much..."

"I see. Heh, you're lucky, ya know? You've got little bro to protect you and people to protect yourself... Oh right, Legna won't be coming by for awhile, he has to recover."

"I guess... ...What happened to him?" She asks.

"We got into an argument, one that... Not too long ago did you feel a large tremor? That's what our argument led to."

"....I see...." She looks away quietly.

"If you have anything to tell Nageki, please tell me."

"Tell him I love him and I wish him well. Also to hold on until I get to see him again. Take care of him for me, you hear? You are based off me, so you could say you owe me for that."

"That's within reason, besides that's something I decided to do anyways, 'Little Sis'."

"Thank you."

Nanashi feels a strange sensation crawl over his neck.

Immediately he manifests his Ether around himself in a form fitting field and, before Naki's eyes, adds a destructive aspect to it.

Identify yourself.

"Naki, get to Anira. Now."

He realizes after a minute the sensation is from a loss of contact with Gurīn, who appears to have somehow dropped from the CE network.

''I see... Interesting and hopefully good for her... ''He sighs before returning to the fortress.

Naki sighs. "Well, that was interesting, you ok Sol?"

"Mhmm, I was assessing the situation before choosing how to act."

Naki looks toward the observatory. "Shall we go?"

He nods, "Yes, let us." He leads her into the large room with a telescope and several maps and charts of the stars. There is also a set of mirrors, a tea set, turtle shells and a large bowl next to a pitcher and hand-held pendulum.

She looks around. "Wow... that's a... telescope, right?"

"Yep, though its best used at night to see the stars and planets," answers Sol.

"Oh! I want to see!" Naki says excitedly.

"It may not be dark enough to see them yet, give it a couple of minutes," he replies.

Naki sighs. "Okay.... hey, how much do you know about Anira anyway?"

"No one here knows much about him, not even the other teachers and staff. He's definitely the oldest person here and is really strong... Other than that and his knack for teaching or helping others, zilch."

"Sounds like a mystery," She remarks dryly. She leans against a wall, and begins silently pondering.

"He doesn't really go on about his past, he's more prone to telling small portions of it that seem to have no real connection what so ever," says Sol, "It should be about time for you to use the telescope."

"Okay, how do I use it?" She says eagerly.

He directs her to the lens on the lower part of the device, near a panel.

"You look through there for the most part. The console next to you allows you to change the magnification, area that you are viewing to a degree and apply or remove filters and effects," he explains.

Naki eagerly tries out the telescope, and begins trying to find a planet.

It takes a few minutes, but Naki spots what appears to be a rather bright yellow star.

"Hmmm... hey Sol, what's this?" She asks, indicating the star.

"Hm... Zoom in on it, it may be Jupiter," he says, squinting at the bright object.

Naki zooms in for him.

As Sol predicted, Jupiter is in sight.

"The king is present in the sky..."

"Can I see?" She asks eagerly.

Sol moves to allow Naki to see.

"That is so cool... the text book has nothing on this!"

"That's often the case, unless the text book is more of a field journal I would think."

"Wow... that's so amazing..." Naki continues to look for various planets and objects. Eventually she stops. "Thanks for taking me here, it was great Sol." She smiles.

"No problem," he replies, "Glad you enjoyed yourself."

Naki thinks for a moment. "I don't really know what to do right now... is there anything you want to do?" She asks.

"Not really, is there anything you want to do?"

"I don't know... do you know where a library would be?"

"I do, follow me," he says, leading Naki out of the Observatory.

She follows him, wondering what books there are to read.

Sol eventually reaches a circular library with thousands upon thousands of books visible on the rounded shelves.

"I think I could die... oh lord I love books...." She purrs.

"H-hey, don't start swooning!... Was that a purr?"

Naki flushes. "Uh, uh, uhh, nope, nope, definitely wasn't! Have no idea what you're talking about!"

"Right... I believe you... Totally." Sol has a rather amused look on his face.

"....Shat up..." She grumbles with her arms crossed, walking into the library.

"It was kind of cute actually," he mutters, trailing behind Naki.

Her face goes red, to her ears in fact, but she with holds any response, as she begins to search for books, embarrassed.

Sol picks out an old tome in a foreign language. "Huh, I forgot this was here."

Naki picks out a few books and sets them down on a table, then opens one to read. "What's that?" She asks absentmindedly, trying not to think about what just happened.

"Old, Old book about the foundations of Qi and its applications. It's really hard to find, even here."

"Hmm, sounds interesting." She says as she reads a book about rare animals.

Sol glances through his book, moving slowly and methodically through the pages. A melancholy smile forms on his face and, without him noticing, a few tears fall from his face.

Naki notices and looks up. "....Hey Sol, are you okay? ...why are you crying?"

"H-huh? Oh... I remembered something from a long time ago... When I lost my elder sister thanks to my own foolishness..."

"....Don't blame yourself for that Sol. ....she wouldn't want you to think that way about yourself." Naki says, remembering what she saw in the dreamscape.

"I shouldn't have been so careless..."

Naki suddenly glares at him and places a hand on his shoulder, sending a current of electricity through him. "Hey, I said don't blame yourself." She lifts her hand. "What happened to your sister wasn't your fault. ...Tell me something, how did she die?"

Sol hisses and Naki feels something akin to a hot needle passing through her arm.

"Tsuki... Luna died because she exchanged places with me. I'd already reached the other side, but it wasn't my time so she exchanged our lives, saving me, but..."

Naki glares at him, holding her arm. "Listen, don't make me repeat myself. She had to do something, I don't blame her. I would do anything to save, to protect my little brother. I would give my life to protect him. I don't want to hear you blaming yourself because of what somewhat else did. What she chose to do is her business, not yours, Sol, so quit blaming yourself for that, before I smack you upside the head, it's not your damn fault!"

"If I hadn't been where I was, it wouldn't have happened iin the first place!"

Naki takes a deep breath. "Sol. I don't care what you think. You're still wrong. That's just life. Sometimes we are just put into situations we don't understand, sometimes we end up at a place we shouldn't, sometimes bad things happen. You need to accept the fact she's gone, and there was nothing you could do about it. It's not your fault, don't ever blame yourself. You were there, it happened, it's in the past. The past can hurt, but don't let it settle in your heart, because I already have enough trouble with the thorns I let grow in my heart. So do yourself a favor and get some weed killer or something for yours, cause I'll be glad to shock some sense into you if that's what you need to cut the crap. As an older sister to a little brother, I would sacrifice myself if it could mean my little brother could live. So I'm telling you what I would tell my brother: don't insult her memory."

"Did you know? I wasn't born with black hair or blue eyes," he says after awhile, "I used to look like my brother, but after Luna died I inherited her hair and eye color... You wouldn't understand the pain of a younger sibling, not to the degree that I do... Especially since your family's hatred was directed towards you, all because you weren't born as the ultimate warrior and successor to your family... I've tried to leave my past where it is, but it always resurfaces... Always."

Naki's eyes get a strange look momentarily, and she pulls something out of her pocket, a photograph. "Four brothers, three sisters. Five cousins, and two aunts and uncles, a mom and a dad. My grandparents and great grand parents. They are all there. We were all there. We always were together, we didn't have anything else but the alleys, the bridges, the abandoned warehouses. And guess what Sol....?

...I'm only the middle child of the lot. I saw my elder and younger brothers and sisters all shot, cut down, and burned. My parents beheaded. I don't need to go on. But quit acting like I don't understand you at all, Sol. I'll be there for you, but don't you dare act like you're the only one. You're not. 'You wouldn't understand', don't be so presumptous! I don't even think you even know me that well to even justify such a thing!" She gets up, and places the books on the return cart, and starts walking out, putting away the photograph after she lets him have a good look.

"You're my first friend Sol, but don't be the one that pushes them away. You worry me sometimes, you know?" She says, not looking back as she walks.

"She doesn't know the half of it," remarks Sol before a shadow dances across his vision, "It's a good thing I don't get too close to others and push them- Damn, already? I thought I'd at least get another few months..." He exits the library swiftly and isn't seen again for the rest of the night. Sorry for not giving you a warning...

Naki quietly walks off to the corner of the yard where she always likes to read, and just sits down with her back against the wall.

Awhile later, Serah walks up to her. "...What happened?"

Naki's eyes are closed, but her head lifts up in her direction. "...What do you mean?" She asks in a dull, disinterested tone.

"Don't play coy with me, I can practically see the annoyance in your aura. Something happened."

"I didn't realize that was a perk," Naki says in a light sarcastic tone, before sighing and opening her eyes. "Sol tried to pull the 'you don't know how I feel' card on me. I didn't appreciate that very much. Wouldn't stop blaming himself over the death of his sister."

"Yeah... He was kind of scarred by his family after that, so he's really touchy about that," nods Serah, "Still, he's got to get over it someday..."

Naki shrugs. "Maybe I'm overreacting, I don't know. All I know is that he's putting himself down when I was chatised for putting myself down about... ...things. I don't care much for hypocrites."

"Maybe he had another reason for it. With him, figuring out his intentions without him directly telling them is practically impossible," shrugs Serah, "You never know, he may have been trying to push you away, but for a reason known only to him..." Whether she's noticed it or not, Serah's tone has become far more cryptic and wise, though only for a moment.

"Well whatever it is, he's a fool to not trust in other people. Things will never change for himself if he refuses to accept help." She says as her eyes narrow with her irritation with Sol.

"I don't think it's a trust thing, actually," says Serah, "I'll look for him and see if I can straighten him out."

"Be sure not to use a curling iron...." Naki mutters loud enough to hear.

"How'd you know I planned on using that on you," replies Serah as she enters the school building. "Oh, I'd get to a room soon, it's nearly midnight."

"...That was a joke, right?" Naki asks hestitantly. "I like my hair straight..."

All she gets is a scoff before the other girl disappears.

Naki sighs. "Won't pretend to understand what that was about..." She quietly walks around, not sure where the rooms are for sleeping. She attempts to find some means of a map to help her.

Drei finds Naki not to long afterwards, still in the form of a cat.

"Follow me," he says simply, as if having read her mind, "...Young One, be careful when the future looks unsure as it does now."

"...What do you mean?" Naki asks. "Unsure?"

"It means the future is in question, more so than usual. Watch yourself when I am unable to."

Naki frowns. "....Ok... I will." She follows him.

He leads her to a room with two beds.

"The other bed belongs to no one. You should rest up for the day, tomorrow may not be as you expect it to be..."

Naki sighs. "Drei, I would hardly expect anything less. Expect the unexpected... ...that's gonna have to be my catchphrase for now on..." She mutters, climbing into bed.

"It could be worse, tomorrow could start early..." The cat curls into a ball and rests.

Family Ties I
The next day begins with Drei waking up Naki.

"Wake up,"  he says, "...I'll go with you today."

Naki groans, but gets up. "Hmmm...? ...Is something wrong Drei?"

"Call it a hunch..."

Naki sighs. "Alright..." She takes the case of the spear and straps it on her back, wrapping the scarf around her back. "Shall we go then?"

He nods and exits the room, swishing his tail as he does so.

She follows him, then looks down at him. "Why are you still a cat?"

"It's a ploy. Easier to come off as harmless as a small cat than as a human or tiger," he says, not looking back, "It's also rather enlightening."

"How so?" She asks as she walks.

"That's for me to know, it's rather tedious to explain," he says, reaching a door. He looks at the door and it opens, allowing him and Naki to reach the field behind the school where Anira and his class wait.

She walks up with Drei to the rest of the class.

"Ah, you're here," notes Anira, "Curiously, have you seen Sol? He's normally the first one here."

Naki shakes her head. "Not since last night I'm afraid."

"I see. We'll carry on without him then," says Anira, "Today is a practice day. You are to focus on either your studies or honing your abilities to protect yourselves. Anyone feel confident may choose to spar with me, but know that I will not go easy on anyone who does."

Naki chooses to refine her skill with Ether, finding a spot away from the others.

After several moments of high concentration, Naki fully grasps how to control whether or not her Ether damages what it touches.

Naki focuses on continuing her training with Ether for a while longer, before reaching out to Gaea. ''So I've practiced a while with the training, is there anything else you want me to try? ''She asks.

''Continue with the basics and experiment. You are not yet ready, Young One.''

Alright...

She continues practicing, trying out different ways to manage the flow of the Ether.

Before her success can be tested, a loud clamoring begins among her classmates.

Naki looks up at the others, seeing what's creating the noise.

There appears to be a sparring match between Anira and Ark, neither of whom are using weapons. Both launch lightning fast blows at each other and seem to be keeping up with one another with ease. Finally, Ark overshoots a straight, which Anira ducks under and counters with what would've been a fatal blow to the neck had he not stopped the hit from connecting.

The rest of the class cheers and the two shake hands before Drei walks up to Anira in his cat form and issues a challenge. While this happens Leone comes to spectate, as does Apollos and Lucia. The air changes to suspenseful when the cat assumes its regular form.

Naki watches with attentiveness.

The two fighters regard each other with nods as they circle around one another. Then, with no warning, the two spring towards each other and deliver a flurry of swift punches to the other. Anira dodges and weaves through Drei's punches while Drei slips between each of Anira's. All at once Anita launches a roundhouse kick that Drei ducks under, but follows through with a whip kick to catch his opponent off guard.

Drei skips away from the teacher, then leaps forward and performs several hard to follow jabs followed by a powerful straight on Anita, who dodges the final blow and goes in for the game changing blow... Only to find his target in midair, performing an aerial dropkick powered by the momentum of his last punch. The teacher blocks the blow, but is briefly knocked off balance when Drei springs off of his arms into a crouch as he tenses up for a powerful punch.

Catching this, Anira does his best to right himself before launching a punch of similar power at Drei without having to ready himself. Their fists collide and the grass around them flattens from a shockwave emitted from their attacks connecting. Neither appears to be harmed, but it is clear that the battle could go on for hours until both combatants bow and shake hands.

"You're good for a clone," remarks the teacher.

"And you're strong, even as you moderate you're strength," returns Drei. The class erupts into cheers after the two walk away from each other.

Naki looks down, and practices some more, keeping an eye on her surroundings while she does so.

"I would think that you would have a better way to spend your time," comments Apollos, "Aren't there better ways to kill time?"

Naki ignores him, continuing her practice on Ether. "Oh look, Captain Deadpan is here. Look, I don't know if it occurs to you... but some of us have to practice at things we do to get better... I know it's confusing, especially for you, but I think your brain cells can handle it. Do you need something, or should I throw your own words about killing time at you? Because you seem to get a kick out of being snide to me and Selene." She says in a neutral tone, trying to focus.

"Coming from the person who has no sense of danger at all, I should be insulted. Not that I care. I forgot that people like you tend to get so engrossed in their own worlds that they forget that they need to interact and care for others... Of course if a certain person dies, it has no real effect on me, so I guess I shouldn't have come to warn you.

You're right, I am wasting my time telling you that things aren't as they seem. I should really stop doing that, after all I have nothing important to say and nothing I say has any real impact on what will happen next. I'll just return to my studies and prepare for my assignment and promotion next month, oh and continue being snide to idiotic wastes of time with less brain cells than a single celled organism that failed to divide itself. Enjoy the rest of your day and the curly hair." Apollos walks off, but not before he snaps his fingers and Naki's hair curls into ringlets.

Naki's teeth clamp down hard in a snarl. She quietly gets up and heads toward Anira.

"Excuse me but... ...do you think we should go look for Sol? You did say that it's unusual for him to be late."

Anira appears to have a whirlwind around himself.

"Oh, I sent Apollos to investigate that a moment ago," he says, "If you want to help out, follow him."

Naki nods her head reluctantly. "Alright." She looks back in the direction Apollos went, then looks at Drei. "You coming?"

"I am," interjects Leone before Drei can answer, "Could be good exercise."

"Of course, Young One," answers Drei a moment after Leone does, as if he expected the interuption.

Naki shrugs, then goes after Apollos in the attempt to catch up with him as soon as possible.

She finds Apollos waiting at the edge of the forest. "Ah, right on schedule. Follow me and say absolutely nothing once we enter the forest if you want to stay among the living." He walks into the forest, making no noise.

She follows him quietly, though she silently calculates various situations.

Apollos leads Naki and the others through the forest decreetly, occasionally touching the ground and pulsing with dark energy. Eventually they reach the edge of a clearing and Apollos signals for Leone. He whispers something to the older male, who nods before bursting into the clearing wreathed in flames.

Naki grabs ahold of her spear's case quietly. She glances at Apollos questioningly.

He gives Naki a look of disdain before casually ducking under a body that flies into a tree beside him. He continues onward.

''Dear... freaking... lord. I hate his guts...''

She follows him, though irritably. She decides to output some of her Ether to quietly sense the environment about her.

Most of what Naki senses are traps ahead of them, traps that Apollos avoids without trying. At one point, she senses two presences above them, but they fall to the ground, knocked out, within moments of Apollos looking upwards.

Well I can say he's certainly skilled... ...wish he didn't have to be so nasty to me... ...not to mention he could at least be more direct with others... Mr. Mysticism and all...

She continues scanning the area, not wanting to be caught off guard and give Apollos another reason to give her spite.

Apollos stops abruptly at another clearing. "You handle this area, it's more important to you, I'll take care of the reinforcements. Your guardian is coming with me." He passes the clearing by, leaving Naki and Drei.

"I do not have to follow him, Young One."

"Actually, you do. If you stay, Miss Attitude ends up with a knife in her throat and a sword through her heart." Drei grumbles.

"If I am needed, call for me." He stalks after Apollos. "I shall see if his words carry weight or not."

Naki takes the case and opens it, readying herself as she holds the spear, Janpu appearing around her. She walks toward the clearing, keeping alert.

In the clearing she finds Sol, standing alone.

"Why did you come here?" His tone is harsh as he asks her. "You've only made things more complicated than they need be." He doesn't turn around.

"I came here because I was concerned about you. You weren't around." She says, surprised both to see him and at his tone. "It should be expected that someone would look into someone just up and disappearing."

"Leave, my affairs are of no concern to you," he growls, "Just being here endangers you."

"Ah brother, that isn't how you address a lady," says another person from far above Sol, "I thought you would be nicer, Taiyo, especially to her. Afterall, Ruyi took a liking to her."

"That is none of your concern, Yume," states Sol, readying his staff as a figure wearing a purple cloak drops from a tree. "Leave her out of this."

Naki's Ether flows more freely, and she encases herself in a thick shroud of it, brandishing the spear higher.

"I don't think you understand, which is odd, considering how 'wise' you are. I would have thought you already understood the answer that would come from me. I'm not leaving a friend ever again. You remember, don't you? The last time I went away and left you, remember what happened? Never again. I won't leave my friends when it matters. I thought you were smarter than that than to play the lone wolf, the guy who doesn't need any help. When it comes down to my friends Sol, it becomes my affair, it becomes my business. Or do you not understand me very well? I thought you were good at that." She states flatly.

"You're an insufferable fool, you know that? I'm here, trying to keep you safe by staying away, but you come rushing in despite that," sighs Sol, "This is a matter you don't need to be involved in. Take my advice and go, I don't need you to get hurt."

"I don't think she will," comments Yume, "After all, opinionated obstinant people always crowd around you while Kagerou, Toshiro and I get all of the mindless peons. It's unfortunate that, she'll have to die as well, but that's fate." Sol growls then rapidly extends his staff towrds Yume, who skips out of the way.

"I said, leave her out of this!" Sol rushes the cloaked figure and launches several kicks, but each one misses. "Tch, I forgot how much of an evasive brat you were."

"A girl's gotta stay on top of her business," replies Yume, "Besides, you were always ever so slow brother."

Naki merely stands her ground and increases the size of the field of Ether around her, while Janpu disengages from her and begins to change, becoming more muscular, the snake growing much thicker, while what looks like armor starts growing. Janpu then cracks his knuckles as lightning begins to discharge off the armor. Naki makes several extensions of the Ether, weaving them slightly in front of herself.

"Ooh, a familiar! Best banish that," notes Yume weaving through Sol's attacks. "Taiyo, you're it!" faster than can be seen, Yume kicks Sol into Naki then draws a symbol into the air.

Janpu responds by firing a blast of highly compressed air straight at Yume's chest to knock her off her feet while she is kicking at Sol and disrupt the symbol.

"Nice try, but too slow" calls Yume, saluting Janpu as she floats about the air blast and completes the symbol, "Soul Purging Field." A wave of faint green light quickly covers the area of the clearing and far beyond, forcibly dismissing and sealing all familiars and similar beings within the area.

While she is distracted with the familiar, Naki has created a fine web of Ether tendrils around them, which she has been constricting the area with slowly.

"Hm, that may be a problem... Whatever it is," remarks Yume before she brings a hand to her face, "Ninjutsu: Disruption Pulse!" She hops upwards then releases a piercing scream that puts high pressure on the area it hits, aiming at Naki and Sol.

Naki creates a wall of earth with some difficulty, and from behind the wall she unleashes a barrage of strikes with the larger Ether tendrils she made, swarming at Yume.

"Bunshin!" Yume disappears in a puff of smoke only for several of her to appear in various spots. Each prepares a different technique.

"Kitsunebi!"

"Ten Ikazuchi!"

"Kamaitachi!"

"Yami no Mon!"

"Oho Nami!"

"Tenbatsu!"

"Chikyū no Kuchi!"

"Ikari no Yuki!"

Naki begins to generate a lot more Ether around her and Sol, making sure to prevent it from harming or otherwise absorbing anything from him, focusing on concentrating the energy into a thick barrier between them and the clones.

"Some help would be nice," Naki grunts.

"Try a kick from her yourself before you complain," snarls Sol. "Your best bet is to get out of here, at least out of her line of sight, more targets means more damage from her and she's playing around right now."

"Shin Ryuubi Ken!" The clones of Yume strike identical poses before dashing around the Ether barrier, forming a ring of fire around it before they generate a dragon comprised of fire and have it crash into the shield Naki formed. Seven of the clones are consumed by the flames, boosting the temperature considerably while the last clone signs five symbols in the air.

Naki thinks for a moment. "Out of line of sight huh..." With that, she claps her hands, and a massive rush of cold darkness rushes through the clearing, blanketing the whole area, Naki is now using her sense with Ether to track Yume, and continues constricting the network of Ether around them to pressure Yume closer.

"Jūryoku Bunshin!" More clones of Yume appear, each of which with an equivalent amount of aura and energy.

Naki begins to shrink the Ether network to the point it now is beginning to exclude Naki and Sol, now more spherical and closing in on the clones and Yume, using the darkness to obscure the location of the net from Yume.

Naki feels an abrupt pain in her side, followed by a swift wrenching sensation. Sol is gone, in his place stands Yume, who tilts her head then vanishes.

"Your mistake was thinking that all of my clones were within that field~"

Naki at the last second hardens the skin affected to minimize the damage, but the wound still hurts.

"Tch... you act like such a brat..." She thinks for a moment, calculating certain factors of the air, then lets out a sharp powerful breath that begins to cause a certain odor to become detectable, the smell quickly blowing through a large portion of the clearing.

"That's not good... Hm... Shinu Taiyo." Emerald eyes glow from beneathe Yume's cloak as her clones merge into a singular one then explode into a sphere of light that absorbs the color from the immediate area. Sparks shoot off of it as it shrinks down to the size of a small marble.

"You know what's sad? You. I bet you don't even have the faintest idea of what a family is. Just what is your problem with Sol? The only thing I understand is something to do with a damn staff, let me tell you something. You're pathetic. The whole lot of you, if all you care about is a damn staff. Staff be damned, I'd rather throw the thing in a volcano in spite of you. You people take material greed to a whole new level, it's so damn sick. I don't know if you're trying to kill Sol or what, but he's worth far more than a staff. And worth more than you'll ever be. Kill me or not, at least I protected something more valuable than you'll ever be, or that staff for that matter." She growls, moving away from Yume while making a thick Ether shield.

"Staff? I'm here to avenge mother and father, not fetch some dingy stick," responds Yume, tilting her head in confusion as the sphere gets even smaller, "Taiyo killed them in cold blood then ran away, at least according to Toshiro and he doesn't lie. I don't care about a staff, I care about the loss of my parents. Ruyi may be cool and all, but I'm not here for her."

"Oh, is that what he told you? Everyone lies. You're more of a child than I thought. Besides. You've got your facts mixed up. Your parents offed themselves. Blew themselves up, just to kill Sol, so his brother could have the stupid staff. That's what this is really about. The staff, and only the staff. I bet you that this Toshiro is just like them, using you to off your brother so they can have the staff. They tried to kill him just because he got the staff. There is nothing else to this.

You were lied to kid, that's the real story. Your parents with their dying breaths tried to kill Sol. They despised him. All he's done is defend himself. And now your family's hatred has strung you up like a puppet. It's sad really. I remember the whole thing clear as day. Interesting what can happen and what you can see when you're unconscious for weeks in the Dreamscape."

"You know what else? He's strung up tighter than a bow string about Luna dying, saving his life from that drowning incident. He doesn't need anymore of your crap. And yes, I know about that. Plenty of other things too. Sol has been tormented by his past long enough. Either you get out of the way or I'll fight until I've beaten you beyond recognition. Even if it means I have to sow myself back together, or hell, if I have to die to accomplish it. But at least I'll put another one of you hateful bastards six feet under."

Yume's eyes flicker until they glow the same blue as Sol's. The aura around her becomes far more oppressive and ominously dark. She speaks, though the voice is not hers.

"I see, it seems I made the mistake of not coming myself," "Yume" says, ''"I never expected that someone aside from Taiyo and Kagerou would know the whole truth of that incident. That makes you more of a liability than I would have thought, girl, and all liabilities must be removed if I am to acquire Ruyi Jingu Bang. Unfortunately, removing you will also cost me one of my better pawns, but one cannot always expect flawless victories in life. Now, to take you up on that offer. Die." ''The moment the word is uttered, Yume's eyes dull and the area before her withers. Naki feels her blood flow  begin to reverse and her heart beat slow.

Naki unleashes a extremely powerful blast of wind at Yume, but it is not for the reason expected, the force is so strong it forces Naki back at a high velocity, the burst sounding like a cannon being shot from its intensity, she goes flying back far from Yume, at the same time the massive gale blasts Yume away from Naki.

Yume flies backwards, unmoving as a searing yet cold sensation fills Naki's chest.

"''Drei..." ''She coughs heavily. She feels a burning sensation on her forehead.

Within an instant, the clone of the doctor and a blood covere Apollos are beside Naki. Apollos looks at her.

"Huh, so close yet so far... Hold on for a few seconds, he'll stabilize you until I get back," he says before walking off. Several moments later, he returns holding Yume and Sol by their collars, both appearing be badly damaged, though Yume is in far worse condition. Meanwhile, Drei works on keeping Naki's heartbeat stable and keeping her bloodflow from completely reversing.

When Apollos returns, he drops the two people he carried at his sides and cups Naki's face, bringning his face very close.

"You're going to fall asleep, that's the only way I can fully repair this damage," he says, his tone almost holding a shred of emotion. He places a hand over her eyes. "Sleep."

When she falls asleep and he removes his hand from her, he catches a glimpse of a red blazing phoenix emblem on her forehead that quickly fades away, Drei notices it had been easier than expected to keep her stable, the disappearance of the emblem causes a momentary dip.

"Another annoying peculiarity, great," sighs Apollos. He turns to Drei, "Carry the others, I'll deal with the Stigma placed on her." The clone nods then picks up Sol and Yume around the time Leone appears. He gauges the situation before opting to assist Drei.

Naki wakes up in a cot some time later, wrapped in bandages covered in various symbols. Across from her, in separate cots, lie Sol and Yume, the latter of which covered in similar bandages. Apollos sits at the far end of the room, his head down as he peruses his own thoughts.

"You're awake, I guess that means you are somewhat resilient to things," he says without looking up. "You are in my debt until further notice, no ifs, ands or buts."

Naki grunts in reply. "Arguing with you is as pointless as tightroping over an erupting volcano..." She says with a groan.

"At least you understand you position. Besides arguing would be highly detrimental to you, it'd probably cause your soul to be ripped from your body as of the present."

Naki closes her eyes. "Ok, Mr. Doom. ...Apollos..." She corrects herself after a moment of thought, closing her eyes and letting out a small breath. "What happened anyway...? ...And please tell me I wasn't in another coma again..."

"A Stigma was cast on you, a seven layered one. It would have caused you an agonizing death five times over, tore your soul out of you body, then corrupted what remained into a pawn of the caster. That being said, it was less potent than it couple have been by a long shot, possibly because it was an indirect casting done over a long distance. Still, it was powerful enough to require me to wrap you in several layers of purging seals and cast an Aria in the making on you to prevent you from dying. You're currently in an unstable state, one which would be worse off had I not removed your soul from your body then had it slowing reconnect to your body with Necromancy," explains Apollos, not looking up. "You've been out for ten hours."

"...I see... well I won't be running marathons for a while then, huh?" She makes a weak attempt at a joke, and just lies there.

"I would hope not, I doubt you could manage more than a few meters before fatigue kicked in, then not much more than that before you ended up dead without realizing what happened."

Naki cracks her eyes open and has a faint smile. "Oh lord you take things way too literally... now that's just depressing..." She weakly laughs, the smile fades as she grows quiet for a while.

"Try living in my shoes. Depressing isn't even close to aptly describing my existence at this point."

She stays silent for a while longer, before she turns her head toward him. "...How could anyone be like that? ...All of that for what? Power? What is that even worth in the end? It's things like that..." She stops, closing her eyes. "I couldn't imagine something like that. Tearing each other apart for something that doesn't matter in the end... ...power takes you only so far... I mean, so what if you were to get all the power in the world, what does that really get you?"

"It depends on the person really. Some might want to save the world, others might want to absolutely destroy it," he responds with an uncaring shrug. "Do not judge based on worlds alone, there may be reasons hidden from all but the speaker... Besides, to the people that something does matter to, destroying even family bonds is nothing if it means achieving their goal. As for Sol's family, you do not know the full story so it is best you hold your judgments for now. A time will come when you understand far more than what you saw in the Dreamscape, if you live long enough that is." He shrugs again. "Time will tell with that one."

"...It's official isn't it? I have a curse. They were right when they said I seem to make trouble gravitate toward me... just my luck..." She mutters.

"If you were cursed, you'd be dead," deadpans Apollos, "Stigmas feed off of base negativity, meaning that had a curse been planted on you, the Stigma would have advanced to its final stage instantly any you would have been ripped apart in the cardinal directions after all of your bones snapped, your heart exploded, your blood boiled and your were lacerated internally. You just have possibly the worst luck any has faced. Deal with it, karma will smile upon you at some point... Eventually."

"Pllllleeaaasssse stop talking to me so seriously!" Naki moans. "I think I'm gonna get a headache now..."

"You should rest your eyes then and stop allowing yourself to be riled up. Rather unhealthy for you as you are." The faint smirk on Apollos' face denotes that he's aware of what he's doing. "Besides, would you rather me be literal with you or insult you or do both at once?"

She sighs. "Now I know he has a smart ass option somewhere in his brain... Too much to ask for there to be a 'nice' option up in that head of yours, huh?" She says, closing her eyes irritably.

"You aren't in a state for me to be 'nice'," he says, "That would imply I had an inkling of care for you."

Her only response is a faint grunt as she decides sleep would be a better alternative to listening to him, wearily falling asleep.

"Good riddance." Apollos leaves the room.

Family Ties II
Several hours later, Yume wakes up. Confused about her surroundings, she tries to remember what happened prior to her arrival and recalls being used as Toshiro's puppet before he tried to kill her and her then opponents. She also remembers what Naki said and part of what her brother said. She balls up a small fist and punches her cot, tears welling from her eyes.

"Damn it Toshi, I trusted you," she seethes, biting her lip and drawing blood. "... No more of a pawn than the ones lower than me were. I was such a fool..."

Naki stirs and looks at her. "Oh, you're up. Don't stress yourself out too much... I think we're all in no condition to be getting worked up... you ok, what's her name... oh, Yume?" She says, her eyes cracked open again, still tired.

"Leave me to my own devices," she snaps before clutching her head.

"Did I not just say not to get worked up? There's nothing you can do about it now, so just lie down and recover." Naki says dully, resting her head. She looks around the roomchains, I'm here in the infirmary. Again. I have a feeling I'll be staring up at this ceiling a couple more times."

"Indeed," says Apollos, entering the room, "You'll be out soon, but from today onwards, you are my aid and will listen to what I say without question." His eyes are veiled.

Naki's eyes open more. "Say what now? Aid as in just aiding you in combat or Aide as in your secretary or maid or something like that? Because I'm down for repaying debts and all... ...but is it really that necessary for a life long binding thing or something?"

"I'm sorry, but until your debt is repaid your questions will remain unanswered. It would be advisable to remember what to block and what to avoid today," he says, "Four hours. You'll be in decent shape in four hours, so rest up."

"Wha? Block...? ...Avoid...? Can you make sense please?"

"I am contract bound to not make sense, so no, I cannot."

"One of these days, you're going to drive me insane."

"That will be an interesting day, no doubt," he replies. "I'll be going now. Rest up. You'll have a visitor soon though, I hope your answer is ready."

She sighs in aggravation. "...He better at least not have the audacity to ask me to join him while I'm still in bed... the last thing I need is to be put under pressure when I just get up..."

She shakes her head for a moment, then closes her eyes. "Yume, get some rest too. If my luck says anything, it's probably contagious, and you'll need rest for it in case my bad luck rubs off on you."

The younger girl looks away from Naki and lays down begrudgingly.

"He's more tactful than that, but your answer should be ready beforehand anyways," retorts Apollos before leaving the room.

Naki thinks quietly, as she closes her eyes and slowly drifts off, thinking about what was said.

Three and a half hours later, Ark enters the room and clears his throat lightly.

After a moment, Naki stirs. "...Urggh..." She lifts her head up slightly and opens her eyes. "Yeeep, I knew you'd be coming around here after a while. I gotta tell you though, I have a feeling I'll be looking up at this ceiling a few times..."

"That's the type of world we live in," he says, "If you believe I am here for your answer to my proposition, I am not. I've come to check on you, just to make sure that you're alive, even if not in the best condition you could be in."

She laughs wearily. "Well, I'm alive, though considering I was in a coma or something for a few weeks, and now am bandaged in soul trapping bandages so my soul doesn't get ripped out, I could be better. How about you? How are you holding up?" She asks, as she adjusts herself so she can see him properly.

"I could be better,  consoling Lucia is difficult."

"Oh... I see... universally a bad week I guess..." She mutters.

"Universally bad month... Anyways, it's goid that you are at least aliive and in decent shape. You should probably rest up for the future."

"Yeah, I've been told that a few times now."

"It may be the only time of peace you have for awhile, enjoy it." He leaves the room.

Naki closes her eyes with a sigh. "Don't I know it..."

Half an hour later, Apollos enters the room.

"Your soul should no longer be in danger," he says, "Remove the wrappings and dress yourself after you take a shower, then meet me outside the school. Also, I'd hurry to the shower, your current appearance is less than presentable."

She looks up at him groggily. "Whatever..." She rubs her eyes.

"Try not to flash anyone," he says, leaving the room.

She sits up with a groan, then wraps her blanket around herself, grabbing her clothes and enters the shower area, putting her clothes just outside the shower, where she takes off the bandages slowly, then takes a long shower. After which, she quickly dries herself and puts her clothes on, making an attempt to dry and then straighten her hair, before grabbing her weapon case and scarf, putting it around her neck and makes her way outside the school.

"Right on schedule," nods Apollos, dematerializing a pocket watch, "The hair enchantment will only worsen if you mess with it." Naki's hair, if anything is curlier than before.

Naki blinks, then quickly looks at her hair. "...Oh you asshole... why'd you even do that to me anyway?!"

"Because it was interesting and in a world filled with bores, I need some form of entertainment," he says, "That and curly is more interesting than straight. More volume."

"...Blarg... ...Anyway... ...why are we out here?" She asks.

"We're going on a short trip," he replies, "Now follow and be silent, the land of the dead is very sensitive to sound."

"...Land of the dead....?" She sighs.

"Yes, we are visiting an old colleague."

"...Alright..." She says with resignation. She thinks for a moment. "Will I be able to summon Janpu again? That Yume girl did some kind of sealing thing..."

"You should be able to."

"...Alright... I guess we go now?" She asks.

"Indeed." He checks the pocket watch once more, "A minute ahead, but close enough. The gate shall open..." The entrance to the school becomes ashen and gains a more gothic design.

Naki blinks in surprise, her face giving away her question: 'What...?'

"I opened the gate, and now to cross over," he says, "Rules: One, no matter how sleazy or grotesque, be polite. That's the difference between being somewhat surprised and being scarred permenantly or killed. Two, in the event that I tell you to run or say absolutely nothing, you will listen without question and without fail. Three, alert me if you suddenly hear bells tolling or chains rattling and the temperature drop, that means a Reaper is coming for you. Four, decline any and all food, drink, trinkets and garbs offered to you unless they come from me. Accept one of any and you'll find yourself as a permenant resident in one way or another. Lastly, do not wander off or follow any voices, even mine, if I am not directly speaking to you and before your eyes. If you think you can't do that, hold onto my jacket. Oh, and don't stare. Understand?"

"...Alright..." She says quietly, nervous.

"Good, now follow me," he says, opening the door, revealing a nightmarish landscape. The air is hazy and the arid land shimmers from sweltering heat. Black rivers flow slowly, dirty ice crusting their banks. Dreary silhouettes dot the horizon, obscured by a smog like haze. The sky is black and glows with burning embers and the occasional flash of red lightning that outline various monstrous entities within the charred heavens.

She nods, then follows him, not bothering to look at anything other than Apollos.

The heat is oppressive and stifling, but Apollos is completely unaffected by it. He takes quick, light steps as he leads Naki across the ruined field.

Another one...

I wonder why he brought her...

A sacrifice maybe?

To the Yama?

Possibly...

Girl...

Trust him not...

Lineage of the Necromancer...

Heir of the destroyer...

The trickster and snake...

Beware...

Naki nervously continues following Apollos.

Apollos carefully crosses over a river, then extends an arm out to her.

A foolish choice...

Why not heed us?

We speak with your best interest in mind...

Do not be tricked by him...

Such a vile presence...

She looks at him for a moment, her eyes alerting him to the fact the voices bother her. She slowly takes his hand.

"Just ignore them or pretend to. Let them know that you can hear them and we'll be swarmed in seconds." He doesn't move his mouth as he says this and pulls her across the river.

I wonder if she knows...

Of course she wouldn't...

That the blood of many stains his hands...

She doesn't know of the fiend before her...

The wolf in sheep's clothing...

Will she die like the others?

If she fails to heed us, it is inevitable.

She nervously follows him, now unsure of Apollos.

The air becomes hotter and the ground cracks and chars as they progress.

Do you think she understands us?

Possibly...

I wonder if she knows of his secret...

Ah yes, the fate of his sister...

A wave of deathly energy grazes past Naki, into the space behind her.

It seems we have angered him...

Not that it matters...

A monster like him deserves no sympathy...

Kill him...

End him without remorse...

She tries her best to ignore them.

Apollos arrives at a large lake of lava. He glances at Naki.

"Do you have a fear of heights?"

"Errr... when I was a kid... ...not so much now..."

He scoops her into his arms.

"Hold on, lava isn't the nicest way to go."

He leaps high into the air, sailing over the lake of molten rock without much trouble.

She still trusts him...

How foolish...

Maybe she's fallen for him?

I wonder...

So childish not to heed us...

Such foolishness...

She will not last long...

Naki has to keep her mouth shut to avoid retorts slipping out of her mind and mouth. She looks at the lava below. Man that would be a bad way to go indeed... She thinks to herself.

He plops her on the ground further away from the lake. He leads her away from the lake, towards a sinister looking forest. "Once we're inside, you can speak freely."

She nods quietly, but follows him.

Upon entering the forest, the voices stop. "Good, you didn't heed them. It wouldn't have ended well if you had chose to."

"What was all of that, and why have you brought me here?"

"That was the entrance area, filled will vengeful spirits you hold a particular grudge towards my great grandfather. You're here because you're my aid."

"...Tch... ...what was that about your sister that they were talking about?"

"Something... personal. Until you know the full story, I will not explain my reasoning."

"And knowing you, I'll never know the full story, cause your lips are tighter than a clam."

"At least you aren't shaking anymore," notes Apollos, a dead and dull expression on his face. "Anything else before we proceed?"

"..." Naki looks away. "No. I might as well stitch my mouth closed rather than bother with you. Sometimes I wonder why I even try."

"Possibly because of your curiosity. Now let us continue, some answers you may seek lie ahead." He continues through the forest, but offers her a hand. "It is rather easy to get lost here, even when following close behind another."

She quietly takes his hand.

The forest grows thicker and on several occasions, faerie-like beings try to offer Naki food and drink, though they seem to curse Apollos upon sight.

"His sister... But a shadow," one of the less spiteful whispers, "He killed her, you know, but for reasons most wouldn't comprehend... I wonder if you will."

Naki ignores them, only for the fact asking questions or being concerned about it is all but pointless now.

Another speaks as the path grows denser and more narrow.

"If I lived with both his blessing and curse, I too would shun all others. I don't blame him, his lineage has never had things easy... Do not feel sorry for him once his tale is known, accept him as he is."

The forest begins to darken as the two progress.

She continues following Apollos quietly.

The forest begons to thin and a faint light can be seen.

"Few have carried his burden and succeeded. To know, yet not be able to tell is..."

"I wonder if you realize how protected you really are... Do you? It would be strange if you did not..."

"We're almost there."

She grunts in reply.

"I wonder, how much would you love the ones who condemned you at birth, only to later be proven wrong in their judgment? Would you respect them or would you seal your heart away?"

"An heirloom unwanted, one that brought ruin and brilliance, then a contract that befuddled and fogged. Have you figured out why?"

"We're here," says Apollos, reachin the entrance of a dark cave. With his free hand, he conjures a ball of blue fire. "... If you don't want to come, you don't have to. It doesn't matter to me."

"You dragged me this whole way, it would be kind of pointless for me to stay. Hell, don't give me a choice to come or not when you already made me come in the first place. Let's just go." She says irritably.

He shrugs. "I'll warn you now, you may want to keep your eyes shut. Thinks here aren't appealing to the eyes like the Wisps were."

"Sure..." She mutters.

"Believe me or don't, it matters not." He proceeds into the cave, and seems to plunge downward before continuing down a spiraling path. The smell of death and mold is heavy in the air.

She follows him closely behind, largely ignoring the surroundings and more focused on what Apollos is doing.

The smell only worsens and the cave grows damp. Apollos is unaffected and carefully treads along the slippery ground. A faint dripping sound can be heard.

"Why can't the land of the dead be, I don't know, a little more clean?" She grumbles.

"Because of my great grandfather. All of the problems here stem from his ambitions and their aftermath," answers Apollos. "That's all you need to know." The sound of running water can be heard further away and the air gains an iron smell to it.

She sighs. "Sounds like a really cheery person..." She says with bitter sarcasm.

"If you call a bloody crusade that completely destroyed the balance within this place before his son sealed him off, yes he was very cheery. How astute of you." The sound of running water gets louder until they arrive at a waterfall strewn with rotting skeletons and rusted weapons. Apollos picks Naki up once more, then leaps across the fall to the other bank. A darker tunnel lies ahead.

Naki sighs. "I keep forgetting you kill the sarcastic mood with ease..."

Apollos shrugs and leads them down the tunnel, arriving at a large gate bound by heavy chains. He waves a hand and the chains shatter, causing the gate to peek open.

Naki doesn't comment, just keeps following him.

Beyond the gate lies a figure chained to a wall with dirty blue hair and glowing red eyes. They are garbed in a tattered dress soaked in red and black blood. Their eyes narrow on Apollos, but they smile nonetheless.

"Apollos, coming to visit so soon," they ask, straining towards him. The stoic young man gives nothing away.

"Have you come to terms with your sentence," he questions.

"Of course I have, dear brother. 'Tis a shame I couldn't have had my body with me... How is Selene I hope she is enjoying her rather temporary time on Earth..."

Naki starts slightly, then her eyes glance toward Apollos.

The figure notices Naki and smiles.

"Ah, gentle Naki... Fiery Naki... You're still as lost as you ever were... Come to visit an old friend?" Apollos takes a step in front of Naki.

"She is not of your concern."

"Ah, but my sentence is. Apollos, for all that you see, you are blind. I will not speak to the one who sent me here, the one who tore my soul from my body and ripped out my heart... You are the spitting image of Apollyon, you know. He still speaks to me, tells me that I was in the right, abhors you for denying your true self... You are his true heir after all." Apollos stiffens.

"Be quiet, Selene," he growls, showing a hint of emotion.

"Apollos, what's going on?" Naki speaks up.

"None of your business," he says, only for Selene to answer for him.

"Apollos, my darling brother and killer, is the one who imprisoned me. He defied his fate and slew me when I deigned to take his place. He couldn't understand why I would follow in Apollyon's footsteps, not with his heart that loves all things that live. He couldn't understand the pleasure derived from extinguishing such menial existences... Ah, the thought give me the shivers."

"Keep your perverse fantasies to yourself."

"...What is... ...how are there two Selene's?!"

"I'm the real Selene," answers the bound figure, struggling against her chains, "The other is just my body reanimated and given personality, courtesy of dear Apollos breaking the single rule binding our family..." Apollos glares at Selene.

"Silence."

Naki remains silent, though her mind is racing.

"The answer you seek Apollos, I will only give if you leave the room," says Selene, "I do not answer to you who denied his heritage and power for a small reason."

"You are attempting to justify the concept of mass genocide for pleasure," retorts Apollos, disgusted. "Do you even hear yourself? Those are not the words of my sister, those are the ramblings of a madwoman who believes that in death comes beauty."

"Yet you understand what I mean. Only you would understand me and Apollyon, not that traitor Alzael or the one who sired us," hisses Selene, her eyes turning black with purple irises as cracks from them spread down her face. A moment later her face returns to normal and she smiles knowingly. "You've lost it, the part of you that made you even slightly different from me and Apollyon and even Alzael. You've developed the eyes..."

"Be silent!"

"I will not!" The chains binding Selene crack as a horrifying amount of killing intent erupts from her.

"Girly, Run," commands Apollos, "If you stay, you'll perish. Do not speak to anyone, unless they identify as a Yama."

Naki bolts, running away as fast as she can. "Damn it, why'd he even bring me here..." She growls to herself.

The path of the cave diverges as she ascends. Tremors can be felt from far behind her.

She hurries to the right, hoping to get more distance in case a collapse happens.

The right path continues upwards and out of the mouth of the cave, into the forest. The tremors increase in power.

Naki keeps running, now worried by the force of the tremors.

Several seconds later the cave implodes and a pillar of dark energy erupts from it. The forest appears to have become hostile as plants try to snag her as a large number of spectral bee like creatures swarm towards her.

Naki runs even faster, trying to outrun the danger. "Why is it always me?!" She growls.

Eventually she reaches a clearing filled with faeries, hakf of which fly towards her offering various types of food and drink and the occasional trinket. The ones that don't gives her looks of urgency.

She shakes her head venomously, still running.

Some of the beings hiss at Naki and gain more demonic appearances before flying after her. Several do not transform, but fly after her as well, intending to protect her.

"Do not enter the plain, take a right. Now that the Scion of Apollyon is not protecting you, the vengeful spirits there will attempt to devour your soul and take your body for themselves."

Naki makes a hard swerve to the right, not looking back. ''Man this is a real pain... Aid my ass... the only 'aid' I am is probably for his amusement...''

The path leads her to a valley between two mountains.

"We shall protect you here, continue forward."

She does so, beginning to more carefully manage her energy as she runs.

As she reaches the center of the valley, she feels a chill go down her spine and the fades to sepia. The sounds of bells tolling can be heard.

''"Damn it Apollos, one of those reapers is after me! I don't need this right now! Gaah!" ''She runs faster.

The sound of bells tolling comes from in front of her. A ring of spectral fire forms around her, but spreads over a large area as inky darkness seeps into the circle,  a few dozen meters away.

"Hey, back off! Last time I checked I'm not old, and haven't had any medical history! I'm not even overweight! Maybe you should, I don't know, find something more productive to do!" She shoots a light empowered fireball at the darkness.

The darkness swallows the fireball before melding into a figure wearing a shadowy cloak and a red mask shaped like a skull. Chains wrap around its cloaked torso, each adorned with several bells. It looks at Naki from beyond the black holes in the mask where its eyes should be before manifesting a scythe adorned with skulls and faces twisted into agonized expressions. "Thou art a hindrance to the balance. Become part of the flow... Perish..."

Before it finishes speaking, Naki has drawn her spear and using light to speed its attack, smashes the end of the pole directly into the mask, then follows up with another jab to where its stomach would be.

The reaper dashes backwards and into the air, becoming a vortex of dark energy. Several red points form around the edges of the vortex.

Naki preemptively begins making evasive movements, while concentrating. "Nue!" She barks, and a symbol on her hand shows up, as a snake forms out of one of her scarves and spits out a energy shield, which Naki attaches to her arm. She continues moving even with the shield.

A moment later, a barrage of blades and barbed hooks connected to chains erupt from the vortex, pulverizing the ground where Naki once stood. The vortex then grows a large central blade and slams into the ground, reeled in by the hooks and blades, generating several rings of scythe blades around itself and causing the ground to quake.

Naki makes a whirlwind to blow the blades away from her, and also raises her up from the ground a bit, making more evasive movements.

The blades do not move from Naki's whirlwind, instead they are drawn back into the ground as the vortex reverts to its original shape as the reaper. It watches Naki before making a downwards raking motion with its right hand, a trail of red energy trailing after its hand a second or so later. Similar red lines of energy form in front of her.

Naki raises the energy shield, which expands and blocks the attacks, sparking, but remaining intact. "Jue!" She barks, and a staff with a large bludgeoning end forms, which she hurls at the Reaper's body, smashing into it with extreme brute force.

From the lines extent crimson scythe blades. The reaper allows the bludgeon to be caught in its cloak and confused before it rakes upwards with its left hand. This time no lines are visible.

Naki dodges to the side as quickly as possible, making the weapon spin wildly abruptly and slam down on the reaper's head hard.

Reaper's mask cracks, but the club explodes from the force required to do so. The reaper seems to be unaffected though moments later it turns itself back into a vortex of dark energy and flies upwards. This time no red points appear within it.

Naki summons another weapon, this time it is a sort of hand cannon with a long barrel, and she begins charging the shield in preparation for its next move.

Another barrage of chained blades and hooks rips into the ground, but instead of the vortex crashing down into the area, it begins to spin ominously. The ground impacted by the chains forms into a dark rift and the chains connecting the two pulse with black and red energy. A red ring forms within the vortex.

Naki prepares to take evasive action, watching carefully, then quickly begins dodging as fast as she can.

Chained blades slowly spiral from the vortex, striking over a much wider range than the first set did, each creating their one dark vortexes that spiral as well.

Janpu appears, and begins wrapping around her body, melding with her form to become a kind of armor, including her head, his singular eye serving as her vision, and she is now able to perceive much faster than earlier.

Naki prepares herself to dodge at the first sign of an attack.

The vortex comes crashing down once more, creating a massive tremor and several waves of dark energy along side nine pillars of black and red energy and a maw of swirling red blades that tear apart the ground around them.

Naki begins moving away as fast as she can possible go at the first sign of danger.

She manages to avoid the majority of the attack, but a stray blade nicks her as a second tremor goes off before the Reaper returns to normal, its mask now more cracked.

As soon as Naki sees the mask, she fires the hand cannon at the Reaper, the cannon rocketing a tungsten rod in less than a second at its mask.

A larger crack forms on the mask before the Reaper's bells begin to chime and rise. They fire a barrage of high speed, piercing lasers of white, blue and gold energy at her, tracking her as best they can.

Janpu uncoils and begins lobbing boulders of steel at the Reaper and the lasers to interrupt and confound the Reaper's line of sight, as well as keep the lasers away from Naki. She fires the cannon again, this time with an even stronger blast.

This time the Reaper expects the blast and phases out of the way, firing the lasers much faster as it does so. Finally, lurches forward, then hops back only to dash torwards her at blinding speeds.

Naki evades backwards and to the side, while Janpu fires a blast of pure kinetic energy at its mask.

The Reaper spirals into a thin point, piercing through the blast before diving into the ground, becoming a massive puddle that snakes after Naki.

"GET. A. LIFE." Naki snaps, moving faster with wind. Janpu's snake tail rears, then blasts a wave of corrosive acid, while it blasts a wave of fire at it.

The puddle, if anything, moves faster after the attacks absorbed into it as it hounds Naki.

A burning symbol of a phoenix begins to burn into existence on Naki's forehead, as one of her eyes turns electric blue, and her energy levels jolt up beyond her usual limits, and she moves even faster. While she does so, she suddenly throws the shield at the Reaper, which suddenly changes into a globe shaped barrier that captures the Reaper inside in a sort of seal, her thoughts now more organized and efficient.

The Reaper remains in liquid form and begins to swirl. Red lines begin to appear everywhere within the barrier, some even overlapping.

The shield begins directly blocking the Reaper's attack by using the Reaper's existence as its battery as a counter.

The Reaper glows white for a brief instant and it feels as if everything froze over suddenly. It finally decides to teleport out of the shield and manifests its true scythe before launching scythe blades at Naki from every imaginable angle at extreme speeds.

Janpu wraps around Naki and resumes his armored form, causing the scythe blades to bounce off harmlessly off his armor form, aided by a faint red aura being generated from the emblem now fully formed on Naki's forehead.

The Reaper rushes towards her, its true scythe ready to cleave her in two.

She rushes off to one side, then pretends to leave her side exposed as she goes for a strike to its chest, then once its scythe comes close enough, she pole jumps using her spear to evade the scythe and then at full force slams her fist into the mask with enough force to cause an explosion, knocking it away as it does so, then flips away with her spear in hand.

Naki manages to shatter the mask, albeit the force of doing so nearly splinters every bone in her arm before she is blown back a surge of black energy erupting from the Reaper. The ring of fire flickers out and the sepia tint of the world weakens as energy explodes from the being.

Naki wastes no time in fleeing as fast as she can, using the surplus energy in her to run as fast as possible from it, willing her legs to run faster than she's ever made them go before in desperation. Naki reaches the end of the valley when the feeling of impending death reaches her. The world fades to black and white and everything seems to freeze over. Around that time feathers begin to fall.

D-damn it, what now?!

Naki tries to keep fleeing.

A wall of white greets Naki as she continues forward, blocking her path. She hears church bells tolling as the feeling of death becomes stronger. At that moment, a figure clad in white robes descends from the sky, floating down on skeletal wings that have lost their feathers. Further away lies the Reaper, its cloak now white and laden with more bells and its red skeletal mask replaced by a featureless white mask, with an almost angelic scythe.

"She stagnates the flow... I must purge her."

''"I would rather you not. Return to your post, Azrael." ''The robed figure shakes its head at the Reaper.

'''"Only because you are above me... I shall obey." '''The Reaper turns away and vanishes in a ray of light, leaving behind black and white feathers.

Naki steps away from the figure, her heart pounding audibly like a drum, as she tries to keep her spear raised in her good hand, with little success.

''"Relax, child, if I were here to judge you, your soul would already be in the place it would spend eternity in. It is not your time yet." ''The figure turns around, revealing a partially veiled face and clear blue eyes. Strands of silver hair ij.b gh b from within the hood of their robe.

"J-judge...?" She falls to her knees as the emblem disappears, the only energy she had left to stand with gone, her body visibly trembling from both fear and exhaustion.

''"Yes, I am of the seven Yama. I am Silael, the Light of Judgment. I came when I realized that a mortal was in danger within this realm. You are in no danger around me." ''The Yama gives her an appraising yet kind look. "My only question is how did you arrive here?"

She trembles still. "I... I was with Apollos, he told me to come with him, as his 'aid'. ...Though I don't even know what he wants from me, so far the only thing I've done is be forced to flee for my life after the cave... ....I hate this..." The last thing she said she mutters to herself.

"Ah, the Scion of Apollyon... He most likely meant well, but he cannot feel or express emotions, at least not positive ones. The fact that he told you to escape from a situation means that he cares for your safety to an extent. After all, few people who have come to this realm with him have ever deigned to fully trust him, instead allowing themselves to be swayed by temptations or untruths... I assume you met his sister."

"....Yes... I did..." Her tone indicates she is not pleased to hear that subject again.

''"... If only fate had been nicer to them." ''Silael's eyes cloud. "Do you know what led to their current state? A simple wish gone wrong. All males in the line of Apollyon are born with power over the dead and souls, Necromancy. Unlike those who practice it, they are born with such mastery and power that it drives them mad if they cannot withstand its temptation. Apollos and his grandfather were able to do so, but not Apollyon himself or his many other sons and their descendents... As for Selene, it is not her fault, her pure heart and desire to help free Apollos of his burden caused her transformation. If she hadn't tried to split the burden, she would not be facing Apollos as she is now, a spirit condemned more than even Apollyon was."

She closes her eyes. "I don't know what to think... how I should think... so much that I don't understand... ....it's infuriating..." After a long pause, she quietly asks, "What was it talking about, stagnating the flow...?"

"Mortals, while they are not barred from this realm, have a peculiar effect on this realm's denizens. Many seek out new bodies to return to the realm of the living or hate the living with a great passion, feelings that are amplified when a mortal enters this realm. You no doubt heard the cries of vengeful spirits and faced the wrath and offers of longing spirits as you and Apollos passed through the area. They wanted you to either perish or become one of them, their hatred or longing corrupting the purification process slowly, something that Reapers and us Yama are sensitive to. You per se are not in the wrong for being here, but you are in danger when without a being of higher rank near you."

She nods quietly. "...What do I even do with myself now...?"

"I would offer to return you to wence you came, but that would leave Apollos unattended... Would you care to hear a story?"

"...I guess. I haven't... much else to do." She leans herself against a rock, tired.

"Once upon a time an angel fell from the heavens, having been consumed by its duties. It descended to the Earth with no memories and its power sealed, lying dormant for many years until a young woman found it and nursed it back to health. For years, it lived with her as a silent guardian, unaware of its developing conscious. Eventually, it realized itself as more than a protector and fell in love with the woman, soon afterwards starting a family with four sons, each gifted with some of the angel's power.

'' The six of them lived in relative peace for ten years, dealing with any issues they may have had. But one day the peace was broken. Accused of witchcraft, the woman was burned at the stake before the village that they llived in without trial nor evidence and her children condemned for being the children of one who consorted with demons. The angel, saddened and angry at the death of his wife, lost itself in rage when its children were sentenced to be hanged and awakened its original power at the cost of its sanity. ''

''Without morals to stop its fury and logic to temper it, the angel slaughtered all within the villlage, even the oneones it had wanted to saves, before reviving them as slaves to its will, minus its children, whom had been possessed by their power already, all but one, the only person within the village to cling to life. The child hid itself away, knowing that its parent would all but kill him in order to force him to his side...''

''The child wound up here, in the Land of the Dead, seeking to hide itself from the fallen angel and its brothers. Instead, it met persecution and punishment by the lord of this realm, whom had seen it as a nuisance at best until he learned of its power and purpose. Taking the boy under its wing, the lord taught him all that he knew about the boy's power in hopes of grooming him into the next lord of the realm. It was around this time that the angel made its way into the real. abd started a war that destroyed both the beauty and balance of the realm within days. The war lasted for years, ending with the former lord of the realm being slain and replaced by the mad angel.''

''The angel's child, now  a man with a wife expecting a child in the near future, went into hiding to hone his power, knowing that someday he and his family would someday have to face the angel, even if it was generations later. Time passed and the angel prepared for a bloody crusade across Earth, while its son mastered and developed powers that rivaled the angel's own, readying for the inevitable clash to come. The battle began three years later, after the man's daughter had been abducted by one of his brothers..."''

Naki thinks quietly. "....You're talking about Apollos' family, aren't you....?"

The Yama nods.

"Indeed, Apollyon was once an angel of fearsome power, but that power grew after his corruption... Only his son was able to stop him, but at great cost. History seems to be repeating itself... If you are wondering why I do not intervene, it is because the Scions of Apollyon must solve their own familial issues. That was the pact made with us Yama after the Lord of the Dead, Alzael, slew and sealed Apollyon and sent his daughter to live on Earth, away from the madness that now consumes this realm because of Apollyon's crusade... Apollos is the current Scion of Apollyon, the one who must destroy the branches of his family that have fallen  to the curse of Apollyon's power without aid from anyone within this realm or the one that he hails from. He must also deal with his own innate abiility to see the past and future of all who enter his line of sight, down to the slimmest of possibilities, his ability to know everything about a person by making prolonged eye contact, his lack oof emotions and his own power that surpasses even Lord Alzael's, power that surpasses the boundaries of Necromancy, Demon Mastery and the arts of Destruction, branching into the realm of Chaos."

"....I see. ...I can kinda understand him for that but... I wish he wasn't so vague all the time... I swear it drives me to insanity. I don't even know why I'm here... wouldn't tell me anything... ....I hate that..."

''"He's bound by a contract with the Violet Cardinal to be vague. In exchange, his power is limited by a seal that weakens as he is forced to use more than a certain amount of it. The last time he was here, he did not have eyes that could foresee death nor could he stand as much malice as he is now, as he fends off his sister... Hm, that will result in an issue of sorts soon..." ''As Silael speaks the sky darkens over a specific part of the realm before the clouds wither away. "I see... Soon the others will act... Young One, the other six Yama shall arrive soon. Please stay by my side, a few of the others aren't as accepting of mortals as I am, especially the one who likely authorized the Azrael to go after you."

She sighs. "Figures..." With some effort, she hesitantly gets up and walks over closer to him.

Six flashes of light, ranging from a brilliant blue to a vehement red, occur and six robed figures similar to Silael appear. The first, from the blue flash of light, appears to be a humanoid woman with completely blue eyes, a cyan fiery aura, two branching silver horns with lightning between them and blue-black scaled claws for hands. The second, originating from a green flash, is also humanoid, but of no discernable gender, with leafy green hair, segments of bark with branches and leaves growing from their elbows downward, chlorophyll tinted skin and yellow eyes, one of which adorned by a gold monocle. The third looks less human, stemming from the metallic and crystalline nature of their body and the somewhat serpentine features of their physical structure, stems from an orange flash. From violet comes a black and grey being with eyes like smoldering coals and billowing clouds arcing with lightning flowing around them. From black appears a serpentine dragon with prismatic scales and pure black eyes and similarly black flams licking at its robe. Lastly is the being from the red flash, a hulking brutish being with  blood red skin, clawwed hands with sharp black scales, a mane of black hair that crackles with negative energy, lighting and embers, black and golden eyes, a set of five gnarled horns, each wrapped in some form of sealing writs, a  pair of tusks that looked sharper than any blade, a forked tail barbed with long black quills and gaping hollow in the center of its chest.

"The Brat of Apollyon is making another mess? Why must we allow him to do as he pleases?" The demonic Yama looks at Silael with visible contempt. "And why is the mortal I sent my Azrael after still among the living?"

"It is interesting... I wonder if he can handle her or will she escape and cause another calamity," ponders the Yama from the green light. It looks at Naki. "I imagine that it is because her time has not come yet, Landol."

"She disrupts the flow! Her very presence agitates the spirits! She must perish or-" Landol directs his anger towards the plantlike being before he is interuptted.

'"I do not see it as such a thing." 'The Yama from the blue flash states. "If anything, she was caught in a situation she had no control over and thus should not be harmed."

'''"Siding with Silael and Arius as always, Agnea. It's no wonder, you are Silael's plaything." '''Agnea bristles and her aura explodes outwards before wrapping around her tightly.

"I do not see it as meaningful for this argument to continue," states the dragon, mediating the issue. "Silael, explain the situation at hand please." Silael nods and recounts all that has happened so far that he's noted.

Naki becomes very interested in a rock while they speak, too nervous to even glance up, afraid.

The dragon nods slowly after Silael's explanation.

"I see, most interesting. Child, your voice is required." The dragon addresses Naki in its shifting voice. "Do you wish to return to your previous location or aid the Scion of Apollos? Both have their own costs and benefits."

'''"Choose quickly! Master Fernadeus has no time to waste on one such as yourself." '''Landol growls darkly at Naki.

''"You will not rush her." ''Silael's eyes narrow and for a split second Naki feels exactly how dangerous the kind Yama is, far more so than the Azrael sent after her.

"....Well... if I wasn't exhausted and drained from earlier... I... would help him. ...I would, but as I am now I'm too tired to fight... ...I'm not even sure if I would be of any help to begin with. ...but I would regardless... ...though from what I saw, I'm currently not a match at my level... ...tch..."

While she says this, she looks up slightly at the dragon, but once she finishes she looks away.

"I did not mean for you to fight, I only wished to hear your opinion on the matter." The Dragon nods at Naki. "We shall indirectly aid the Scion of Apollyon, we are not forbidden from doing so." The others nod.

'"May I suggest something?" 'The storm shrouded being speaks up. "We could lessen the limiter upon him just enough to allow him an equal chance."

"That seems logical, Gyrim. It would be better than allowing him access to fractions of our power. What about the girl?"

"I shall watch over her for now, until the Scion succeeds or fails. In either case, I will return her to whence she came."

'''"That's all you're good at anyways." '''Landol huffs before he and the other Yama glow with their respective colors. Several moments of silence pass before the glow ceases. "Done. Now we what and see if the Brat makes a fool of himself or actually cleans up after himself."

Naki remains quiet, Janpu coiled around her reassuringly.

The Yama watch the sky silently, waiting for an outcome. Finally they all look at one another.

"He tried..."

"Indeed. If only he had been swifter."

"An unwanted outcome, but it appears that this was fated to happen..."

"Indeed, outside interference. How troublesome."

"I can't help but think that Agnea is correct. Fate does seem to be working against him."

"....Is he alright?" Naki asks in concern. I'm still worthless...

"He is, but he was unable to contain hs sister due to outside interference aiding her escape at the last moment... I have no doubt that you wanted to help from your words earlier, but you aren't in such a condition to do so."

"To help Apollos would mean having to grow much stronger in a short period of time. While I do not doubt that you could do such a thing, it is not advisable."

"Let the girl do as she pleases, if she sends herself to an early grave, so be it. If it would get things over with, I'd train her."

"That almost sounded chivilrous, Landol."

"Was that a compliment, Agnea?"

Naki silently closes her eyes, cursing her weakness. ''I can't get anything done like this. I can't protect anyone... ....I might not have a choice but to accept Ark's offer... ...what if next time, I could have done something but was too weak...? ....I have to get stronger... at least... for the sake of everyone else... ...and he had to protect me... damn it I ran again!''

"The hell are you moping about? I sent you away because it was convenient, not because I wanted you to live, idiot. You would've made a good meat shield," Apollos words are harsh upon his appearance, his eyes now scarlet and his hair now sporting a black patch. "Stop crying, we've overstayed our welcome." Despite his harsh sounding words, he pats her on the forehead and helps her up. He spares a glance at the Yama before reciting, "And the gate shall open..." A door appears within the space before them, one which Apollos opens up and enters with Naki, returning to the school. "Go get some rest, you had a long day."

She quietly walks away, holding her damaged arm as she walks without a word.

You could have been nicer...

"As if that would help."

Still, is kindness that difficult?

"If it prevents calamity,  I will not act in such a way... I'll be slightly kinder tomorrow."

Naki stops by the shower and washes herself off from the dried sweat and grime from the day's events, grimacing as she carefully washes her broken arm, then after finishing, dries herself off and gets into sleeping attire, sitting on her bed and takes out bandage cloth. Janpu carefully holds her arm steady while Naki painfully wraps her arm up, slowly making a bandage, then treating the limb with healing magic for a few minutes, before tucking herself into bed.

Naki awakens surrounded by the Yama. The environment is nothing like the Land of the Dead, instead being in an alabaster citadel of sorts. None of them speak, instead they stare at her with various levels of interest before the scene warps and an Azrael stands above her, trying to place its mask, lined with sharp debris, on her face.

Naki squirms with alarm trying to swat at the being's hand with all her might.

The scene fades once more, replaced by a burning home. Before Naki lies the lifeless body of Selene surrounded by unnatural shadows that hiss at her.

Tch, is someone screwing with my head now?!

The scene fades once more, shifting to the school but in the future. The forest around it is vibrant and lush, bustling with live. The school looks newer and has a tower next to it. Two figure, both familiar yet foreign stand at the top of the building, watching the sun set.

...Who...?

The visions fade and Naki finds Apollos peering over her.

"Are you planning on getting up any time soon? You've slept through the first half of the day," he says, "You're lucky today is a Saturday or you'd be in hot water."

Her eyes take a moment to register he's there. "....." She gets up and heads to a bathroom and changes into day clothes, then gets her spear upon coming back, then leaves for the tree she always hangs around, and applies more healing magic, all of this done without a response to him.

I thought you said you would be slightly kinder...

"Her hair is no longer curly."

...I really doubt that counts in anyone's book.

"What, do you expect me to smile and be cheerful? The most I'll do is repair her arm, though she'll have to ask for that."

''Always the miser for favors... ''

"You know perfectly well why I'm not nice, stop pretending."

''Whatever you say... Just make sure you're fine with reaping what you sow.''

Naki under the tree, sucks in a breath and hisses as she readjusts all of the bones in her upper arm back into place so the magic would work better, then applies another round of healing.

Apollos sits on the other side of the tree.

"That seems to be painful," he notes, "Reapers are tough bastards aren't they? The same thing happened when I fought one for the first time, only I had no one send it away... Don't ever let one put its mask on you if you meet one in the future, you'll wish that it had killed you and taken your soul if one does."

Naki visibly starts when she hears the last thing he said, surprise burning in her eyes, enough so to make her lose focus and her healing spell sparks out.

"....coincidence....?" She mutters.

"Hm?" Apollos looks slightly curious, though he refuses to make eye contact in the slightest.

"I saw... ...a Reaper trying to put its mask on me... ...among other things..." She mutters. She edges away from him slightly, a tense sort of aura emitting from her.

"...You jest," he says, his tone icing over, "Yama, Reaper, past, future... Did you see all of that?"

".....my life just got ten times more complicated, didn't it?"

"No, mine did." He swears then paces around, mumbling about interference and unwanted intervention. "Alright, as of today, it seems I'll have to train you in things because everything in the future just got royally screwed over. Meet me at midnight, we'll begin then." He begins to walk off, but stops and grabs Naki's broken arm, healing it within seconds. "That was going to bother you for three more days."

"...Tch, will you at least explain even at a basic level what's happened? I know being vague is part of your 'mission statement' and all, but...."

She buries her head in her hands. "No no, wait, you won't even give me that much." She pauses, then angerly punches the nearby wall in her frustration, the wall cracking a bit.

"Couldn't even if I wanted to, it'd interfere with the future," remarks Apollos, "Midnight, above the Observatory."

Naki grumbles, a faint 'whatever' distinguished from part of her grumbling. She begins to walk off again.

Apollos walks off. ''I'll have to keep an eye on Selene, make sure that nothing unsavory occurs... ''

Naki wanders off for a bit, then settles in by a secluded pond in the school grounds, staring into the water with various fish swimming.

Gaea, could you teach me how to conceal my energy from others?

''It is a rather difficult thing to master, yet easy to use. Concentrate on drawing all energy you release into yourself. It may take some concentration, but you should be able to do so easily.''

Naki takes a breath, then first begins to calm herself and her mind, then slowly begins concentrating on withdrawing all of her energy, make a slow, but steady effort, going for efficiency over speed.

As she gets pretty far into it, for a moment she sees an image of herself in an operating table... ....as a human. White and what she assumes is Volmond are overseeing her procedure, but then she realizes... ...the person isn't Volmond. She can't see his face, but she can see spiky blond hair, and he hears his laugh for a moment, before the image subsides.

''What was that just now? ''She pauses in her training, for some reason the image bothers her.

A Division
Naki takes a small breath, then quietly begins finishing the training she started, though now on edge. What's going on?

''Possibly a minor form of Psychometry or even minor temporal vision... You could have gained an ability without realizing it.''

''...I don't know why... ...but that whole thing... felt... ...so real... it couldn't have been though... I mean, there can't have been... ...another me....''

''You'd be surprised, I have two components of myself running around doing what they please... Hmmm, almost whole...''

Naki focuses on completing the concealment practice.

As she does, she is pricked by a sharp object from behind, followed by mischievous laughter.

Naki throws a punch in the direction of the sharp object's owner. "I. AM. NOT. IN. THE. MOOD!" She snaps.

"Aw, but you won't learn if you're so uptight and rigid," whines the owner of the object, unseen and unharmed, "You gotta focus, but be unfocused to succeed ~"

"Why you little... who are you?" She snaps, hair bristling slightly.

"Yume~" The younger girl pops into existence, upsidedown in midair and blowing raspberries at Naki before vanishing, leaving no trace of her presence. "A strange Baa-san told me I could help you out~!"

".....Baa? Oh dear, are you taking orders from sheep now? I think I'm going to die from the sheer stupidity of how that sounds." Naki's voice is still slightly acidic in tone.

"No, another granny, but older than you," Yume's answer echoes around the area. "She was nicer too~"

".....Pardon?" Naki growls, a tinge of a red aura growing.

"A strange, nice granny asked me to help, young, angry granny~ I'm good at Ninjutsu and stealth unlike Taiyo andntye others~"

Naki has a very cross look. "Yeah, thanks but no thanks. I'll figure it out just fine. Concealing my energy can't be that hard." She gets up and starts walking away.

"That's what they all say~" Yume's light tone changes, "Then they find a shinai in their gut. I'm offering to help you, old lady. Gaea asked me too politely."

Janpu appears, his arms crossed, his eye strangely focused on something... I'll eat you...

Naki gives him a look. "Oh calm down... ....Wait... did you say Gaea?"

"You could try, Kageko, but it wouldn't be a good idea. Banishing is only a stepping stone..." Yume returns Janpu's sentiments. "Yup, Gaea Baa-chan told me in a dream that someone needed a little help with Concealment ~"

Naki sighs in aggervation. "Alright fine... just don't poke me again, or Janpu is gonna give you a third eye socket. That's what he says at least..."

"He can try~ The poking is mandatory. If you can concentrate with a distraction such as that of loud noises, you won't leak your presence as much."

"....Fine..." Naki rubs her head for a few moments, trying to calm down. When she is a bit more relaxed, she tries again.

"Ignore the light pokes..." Yume's voice trails off. Several moments later, Naki feels a sharp point press into her artm for a fraction of a second.

Naki tries to ignore the poke as best as she can.

Several seconds later she feels another poke in a different area, then another.

Naki continues focusing, starting to ignore the pokes a little more easily.

The  pokes increase in succession and become slightly stronger.

Naki begins to gradually grow largely inattentive, despite the increase in strength.

"Beheader~ Fly!" Naki feels the air around her moving as if something were approaching at high speed.

With a minor thought, Naki instructs Janpu to create a dome of steel, continuing to focus.

The feeling disappears abruptly.

"Hm, Granny can't stand Genjutsu... Anyways, concentrating solely in a single area will get you nowhere. You gotta be able to move at various speeds and maintain your focus while doing so."

Naki has the dome lowered, but the effort needed to maintain her concentration has greatly diminished.

"Now try running while doing so."

Naki starts running, ignoring a twinge of irritation, her concentration dropping a slight amount.

"Oh, there will be distractions as well~ And no barriers, that's a crutch, not an aid." pebbles begin to pelt Naki as dust and dirt are kicked up.

Naki finds it considerably harder to focus, wincing every time the pebbles smack into her.

"This much is easy, there aren't bullets and flashbang grenades being shot to draw you out!" Yume grumbles.

"Yeah, sure, whatever, you were born a Myth, I wasn't!" Naki refocuses her thoughts and concentration, slowly but steadily.

"Grow up, Granny, I'm half your age!" The pebbles fly much faster. "Try not being conceited!"

"Well if I'm a granny, then you're an old lady with no hair and more wrinkled than a walrus!" She says in a retort, still maintaining her concentration.

"And you're as hairy and splotchy as an old Yeti with liver spots, cataracts and ear wax horns!"

"Yeah yeah, at least I'm not a hagfish..." Despite the insult tossing, Naki is slowly adapting to the situation.

"At least I'm not an angler fish faced cougar."

Naki elects to ignore her instead of responding.

"Would both of you please cease your argument? " A completely neutral voice says. "It is not good to allow one's temper to rule them."

"....." Naki sighs. "...Who are you?" She asks.

"Disciplinary Committee Chairman and Vice President of the Student Council, Aeoleus." The owner of the voice rounds a corner, revealing a uniform clad student with a red and black vest instead of the standard jacket. His eyes are the color of steel with a slight greenish blue tint and his hair is the color of gold in the sun. Still, without his voice, it would be rather easy to mistake him for a girl.

Yume has since grown quiet for some reason.

Naki quietly looks at him for a moment, letting go of her concentration for the present moment. "...Alright....? Aeoleus, is that all you need...?" She says, very much not interested in meeting any people at the moment.

"Indeed." He nods slightly. "Please refrain from creating disturbances."

"I make no promises.... life never goes my way anyways..."

"Duly noted. I do not want to have to appear again, I already have to deal with Anira's antics almost every hour."

Naki shrugs her shoulders, not interested in continuing the conversation, above their heads, dark clouds loom and red lightning can be seen.

"..." Aeoleus points towards the sky and draws dozens of triangles in the span of ten seconds, a complex figure comprised of many rotating triangles forming above his hand. "Veritas: Horizon."

"...What's going on? I've never seen red lighting before..."

Aeoleus gives no answer, he appears to be completely entranced.

"Ho... Someone's got firepower," mutters Yume as she draws an ornate gold and silver dagger with a diamond at the base, a second at the tip of the blade and several offshoots. The weapon visibly pulses. "That's on the same level as Vajra at its full power..."

The lightning does not appear to be actively targeting the school, but seems to be the mere byproduct of a powerful being releasing its energy all at once.

"..." Aeoleus keeps his gaze upwards. Yume watches the sky with awe.

After an hour, the storm comes to an end, a light edge is still in the air for a few minutes afterward, but then there is no trace left of the mysterious storm.

"....Just what was that...?" Naki says, looking up at the sky.

"A disturbance." Aeoleus gives a simple answer before striding off.

Naki sighs. "And now I'm just tired, I'm gonna go eat..." Naki walks off.

Aeoleus doesn't react, not even when his head is mounted by Yume.

"..." He silently walks off.

Naki makes her way over to the cafeteria, and gets her lunch, deciding to sit alone for the moment, as she eats she ponders the various things that have happened to her.

Shortly after lunch, Naki is called into Anira's office.

Naki promptly heads to Anira's office. Doubtless there's some urgent issue or something...

"Ah, you're here... This is a rather perplexing question to ask, but... Do you prefer Sol or Apollos?" Anira looks as if he has a world class headache. He reaches for a mug of steaming liquid darker than black in coloration. "Ah right, do you want a cup of coffee? I just brewed some."

The Pursuit of Alchemy
A man walks up to a spirit in the wild and bows. "What is my next task, Muliet?"

"A certain place must be visited... A tool of great importance lies in wait... You have been there before..."

"Hm? I do not understand, my'lady.... Are you saying that there is a man who knows where to go?"

"A location... A person may be there... Remember the poor state..."

"Ah... Obi's place, correct? Last time I saw him, he was still leading a small place... This outta be fun. Arigato." At this, he bows and starts to walk off, kissing her cheek even though neither could feel the other.

As he leaves the spirit whispers. "Beware... The trickster is near..."

The Search
''A red figure soars across the skies, his eyes darting across like a bird of prey. He was searching for something... Someone...''

"I must find you... But where are you..." He said, as he continued his flight across an open plain.

Demgel: *is walking through a barren and sees someone flying over head*

???: Hmm? A traveller? Maybe I can find directions from them... Or help...

He descends and lands near Demgel

???: Greetings, noble traveller, I am in need of directions and help. I was hoping you would be the person who could help me out.

Demgel: Uggghhh....sure, why not? not doing anything currently.

???: Thanks, good sir. Allow me to introduce myself, I am Angel-Ion.

Demgel: Is that like a hybrid name or something?

Angel-Ion: Oh, no. I'm no hybrid or anything, although I may look like one. Anyways, I am on a search for something, I have been for about a year now, and my search has bought me to this planet.

Demgel: Ok then. What all are you looking for?

Angel-Ion: I am searching for a person. My sibling, Ly. She went missing after our planet was attacked by a force known as "the Legion".

Demgel: That sounds like a demon thing. So waht leads you to believe she's here.

Angel-Ion: As I said, I have been searching for a long time. This planet is the furthest place I've been to, although I have a hunch that I am close.

Demgel: Hopefully none of the agencies have found her.

Angel-Ion: Agencies???

Demgel: Yea. Guys that contain anything strange or not human in particular and exipirement on them for human use.

Angel-Ion: That sounds... Horrible. Would you happen to know the location of any ancient ruins or portals to other realms on this world?

Demgel: No. Only woke up last year. Wouldn't know much at all sadly.

Angel-Ion: Damn... How about any forms of civilisation?

Demgel: like ancient or modern day cities and shit?

Angel-Ion: Either will do.

The Memorial Lost at Sea
Nanashi arrives at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, a somber expression on his face. He flies forward, moving towards the ocean's center. Once he reaches a certain point his flight abruptly ends, resulting in him landing on a platform of light that rose from the sea. He nods to himself. Yep, this is the right direction...

He continues, walking on platforms of light as they appear, for hours. Finally, the platforms stop forming, leaving Nanashi standing over a particularly dark part of the ocean. He closes his eyes, remembering some of his life as a human, before performing a quick, small cut his wrist and releasing several drops of blood into the eerily calm water.

Initially nothing happens, until the wind kicks up. The clouds darken and gather overhead into a nearly black ring that spans for miles. It begins to rain heavily as the ocean starts to toil violently, the beginning of a whirlpool forming. Lightning strikes in almost continuous streams around the rapidly developing whirlpool. The forming storm only intensifies as a maelstrom forms, pulling in all but Nanashi and the platform he stands on. The wind becomes sharper than the sharpest blades as it rips through the air into the center of the widening funnel within the sea.

Mere moments later a beam of green energy erupts from the maelstrom's center followed by eight others around the storm's outer reaches, forming an octogon around the central beam. The light illuminates the sky for leagues and grows stronger as time passes, until finally metal begins to peek up from the center of the massive vortex.

Slowly and steadily a large dome like structure with eight smaller structures connected to it emerges from the depths of the ocean like an anchor being drawn back onto a ship. The structure, while pristine and futuristic in appearance, is ancient, having sank over nine thousand years ago. Nanashi sighs.

"Home, I'm finally back..." He floats towards the central structure as the dome protecting it dissipates, revealing a futuristic city co-existing with nature. He lands on a smoothly paved walkway in front of spiraling building with a polished silver glint to it. He enters the building and makes his way to an elevator that takes him to the top floor of the building, a floor housing a large metallic sphere.

"Atlantis System, Start Up," he says, "Code Phrase: Ark Carrier." The moment the words leave his mouth, the machinery within the room whirs to life as green and blue energy slithers around the building and into the city in circuits of light. The sphere before him opens into a large console with a pad for a hand to be placed. Nanashi places his hand on the pad and waits until he is addressed by the system.

''''

Nanashi clears his throat before he gives his answer.

"I am of legends, born of the Saint -And of the Dragon, returning I am to gather, to restore, to return I am of the Ark, one to ferry the departed -One to return them home."

The machinery glows white.

''''

"Command: Gather and refine Galtite and Adamantite into alloy form," he says, "Command: Duplicate and Minimize Barrier."



"Lastly, bequeath me the Saturnus and Plutonian Systems," Nanashi states.

''''

"Yes." A moment later, a cylinder closes around Nanashi and fills with liquid that converts his form into that of the same liquid while leaving his conscious and mind in tact. Surprised, he initially tries to escape the cylinder, but stops when his sight of a rapidly feeling tube is replaced by the sight of the majority of his family.

Huh?

''Thou hast finally returned, Angelius. We have been waiting thou and thy brother, Legna... We must tell you much in the short time we have.''

What seem like hours pass before Nanashi reawakens. The first thing he notices is the change to his bracelet, which now sports two additional links and golden diamond extensions. The next thing he notices is his overall more human appearance, with the exception of elongated canine teeth, a thin, almost invisible layer of interlocking scales and circular symbols that extend from the back of his fingers up to his elbows. His sword is now closer to an estoc in shape. His clothing have remained largely untouched, but the metallic colors have become more noticible.

The cylinder drains itself and dries Nanashi before rising into the ceiling, allowing him to see two large canisters sitting beside a technological sword and staff. Near these sits a small sphere.

''''

"Hm, has the Ark been utilized yet?"



"I see. Command: Encrypt the Ark. Command: Soft Shutdown."



Nanashi collects the items exiting the building via elevator and flying out of the area before the dome around the area reforms and the city sinks back into the Atlantic Ocean. He watches the city's descent before he returns to the fortress.

The Living Ruins
Nanashi and Nageki appear above the Atlantic Ocean. Nanashi raises a hand and waits as a massive whirlpool forms.

"Wh-wh-what is this? Where are we?" He stammers, alarmed by the whirlpool.

"Please calm down, we're at a place where I can train you in peace and take you sight seeing." As Nanashi says this, the first signs of the lost city surface from within the whirlpool.

"What is that? Is... is that a... city?"

"Yes, my old home." The city slowly surpasses the waves and a green beacon explodes from the center of it.

"Wh-whoa...." He gasps.

"Let's go," Nanashi says, "Hold on." He floats towards the city with Nageki in tow, the dome shielding it dissipating as they get closer.

Nageki looks on in wonder at the strange sight. "....What is this place.......?" His mind cannot comprehend what he's seeing.

"Humans call it Atlantis," Nanashi explains, landing in front of one of the larger gardens, "It sank over ten thousand years ago, but not for the reason most theorize."

Nageki looks around in awe, still overwhelmed.

Nanashi gives Nageki a few moments to gather his bearings.

Nageki eventually begins to settle down, and looks up at Nanashi. "...So... ...what are we going to do now?" He asks hesitantly.

"One, mental training and meditation, two, sightseeing, three, power refining," answers Nanashi, "Not necessarily in that order."

Nageki nods, flexing his two extra arms experimentally, still not used to the extra limbs.

"Oh right, hang tight for a minute, I need to register you into the system," says Nanashi. "I'll be back in five minutes or less. Until then, don't experiment with your powers or touch anything shiny or that looks like a scanner. The security here will boot you if you do so without in recognizing you." With that, he flies towards an exceptionally tall building.

Nageki blinks, and merely sits down on the ground, waiting for him to return, not wanting to wander alone.

Several minutes later, Nanashi returns.

"Alright, you're in the clear," he says, "So, what do you want to do first?"

Nageki stands up, an unsure expression on his face. "I... don't know. Power refinement...?" He asks.

"Alright. First off, what do you think you can do?"

"....I don't know... ...I just feel... ...strange. The wings, the tail, the extra arms... ....I'm trying to... figure myself out..."

"Hm... What do you want to be able to do?"

"Arrgh, I told you I don't know!" He says, with more frustration, when suddenly he clutches his head for a few moments, in some form of agony, when he slowly looks up at Nanashi and jumps, moving away from him. "W-W-Why can I see your bones?!" He all but shrieks. The eye symbol on his forehead is glowing, and his eyes seem glossed over.

"Hm, the symbol on your forehead is active... Calm down, take deep breaths. Getting freaked out only worsens issues." Nanashi is calm despite what's going on.

Nageki shudders for a while, and eventually calms down. The eye symbol dims, and his eyes return to their normal appearance.

"W-what just h-happened to me?" He gasps.

"You tapped into a latent ability of yours. It's full effects and capability aren't known, at least by me... White knows, but I'm not very keen on asking her anything," says Nanashi, "Hm, I really shouldn't have expected you to simply dive into this new ability thing. My apologizes. We'll start when you're ready."

Nageki lets out a breath. "...Can... can we... just do something basic for now?" He stammers.

"Try to focus your energy and create a fire. It's much easier than it sounds, just imagine fire really intensely, to the point of visualizing it. I'll make sure that the flames don't go out of control... Do you need an example?"

Nageki shakes his head, instead begins focusing on what he was told, and surprisingly takes only a minute to manifest a ball of fire.

"Very good... Now try Lightning, but be careful not to shock yourself."

Once again, Nageki shows very little needed effort to summon lightning, and maintain it, the ease starting to unnerve the boy.

Nanashi nods.

"I see. Now before you grow worried, let's try Earth."

He is again, able to master it with relative ease. "It feels so... ...natural to me..." Nageki murmurs.

"Hm, the elements appear to come easily to you as they do with me," notes Nanashi, "I want you, now, to manifest both Darkness and Light at once, but be careful, Darkness feeds off of negativity."

He nods, and begins to draw upon both, taking a bit longer than the others, but manages to accomplish it well enough.

"Good, good. Now, Wind and Ice in a similar fashion."

Nageki manages to do so with relative ease.

"Good, lastly try. Water, then we'll move on."

He nods, and also manages to do water with little effort needed. "...How am I able to do this...? It feels... ...so natural... like it's just flowing out of me..." He says in wonder.

"I could explain, but... Well you'll see."

Nageki nods quietly. "Alright..."

"Anyways, now to teach you how to Blink," says Nanashi.

Nageki looks at him funny. "You mean like this?" He blinks, showing his confusion.

"No, like this," answers Nanashi as he blinks, vanishing into thin air without a trace.

"What the...? ...Though I guess how we got here, I shouldn't be surprised..."

"Actually, that was a Warp," says Nanashi, appearing right beside Nageki, "More reliable when crossing dimensions and planes with multiple people. So, how did I do it?"

"...I... don't... know?" Nageki says, confused.

"Kiddo, you have a brain with the capacity to analyze just about anything and break it down. Stop giving up before you start and use your head."

"I don't know, maybe you thought about a location you wanted to go and just willed it, or maybe you turned invisible for a moment," He replies.

"The first thing you said is closer to it. I don't turn invisible, I cross into the four the dimension to avoid detection."

"So I think about a location and do what then? I'm sorry it's just... ...it's hard to imagine myself able to do these things when..." He trails off.

"For a beginner, you don't think about the location, you have to see it in front of you the concentrate on being there, but the range is limited to a small area based on your standards. Just thinking that an area is small will not increase the range of a Blink. Understand?"

He nods, trying to concentrate at being near the doorway to one of the nearby buildings.

"Remember to breathe. Take a deep breath before you try it."

Nageki does as he says, taking a deep breath, then tries to Blink.

Nageki arrives at the door, albeit somewhat dizzy and slightly stomach sick.

"They never mention these things before you do them..." He groans.

"Something up," asks Nanashi, confused.

"I'm just... a little dizzy."

"Oh. Close your eyes and take several deep breaths. That normally worked when I used to get dizzy."

"I.. I see. I'll take that into account next time... I'll try again in a minute."

"That's fine, regain your bearings before you do anything," says Nanashi, "You don't want to hurt yourself."

After a minute, he tries again, keeping in mind what Nanashi told him.

This time Nageki does not feel any side effects from Blinking.

"I feel better than last time... I guess I did it properly this time," He remarks.

"That's good. Now lets work on your awareness," says Nanashi, "Close your eyes and try to envision your surroundings as best you can."

Nageki blinks, confused, and wearily just does as he is said, trying to somehow sense his surroundings.

"Stop, stop. Your expression told me you didn't understand my meaning in the slightest." Nanashi sighs. "Use your senses to determine your location or to get a fair grasp of it. What do you hear? What can you feel? What do you smell? Are your nerves on end? Those are the things you need to thing about, not necessarily seeing your surroundings, your eyes can be fooled, as can your mind's eye."

"Oh, oh, okay..." He tries to focus on the environment more, seeing if he can pick up anything.

Nageki gets a fair grasp of the immediate area,  knowing that the ground rises and dips in area and that the gentle breeze rustling some of the plants in the area is stifled by the buildings in his proximity. The air has the smell of salt and several faint floral fragrances, but also a very faint metallic scent.

Nageki reflects on it for a moment. "I can smell some kind of... ...flowers? Also salt, I'm gonna go on a limb and say sea salt. Also the area isn't completely flat. Also a bit of metal..."

"Yep, we are in the middle of an ocean. The flowers you smell come from the garden of fruit bearing plants, the scent indicating that they are about to produce fruits. The metal is from the iron rich soil around a large ore deposits to the far east," explains Nanashi, "The ground itself is actually flat, but the walkways aren't. Several sets of staircases create artificial hills. Good job, Nageki. Take a quick break, then I'll answer any questions you have."

Nageki nods, sitting down to then experiment with his four arms, trying to get a feel for the new set of limbs.

Nanashi meditates in the mean time.

Nageki watches him curiously, not sure of what he is doing.

Nanashi takes several deep breaths as he sits with his eyes closed. Light of all colors begins to gather around him and his hair and clothes begins to levitate as a serene aura emanates from him.

Nageki decides to watch him out of curiosity, his breath caught in his throat.

Nanashi's clothes slowly change into that of those befitting a monk and the elements swirl around him in eight identical spheres. A ninth sphere appears above his while a tenth appears above his left hand, an eleventh above his right hand and a twelfth forms behind him. He begins to float as the spheres start to spin around him.

The boy continues to watch, fascinated.

Nanashi floats higher as the spheres spin faster and faster until a cloud falls from the heavens and forms a sphere around him.

''What is he doing? ''Nageki wonders to himself.

Several minutes pass before the sphere disperses and Nanashi's clothes return to normal.

"Well that was most enlightening."

"What was that?" The young Lambda asks inquisitively.

"What was what?" Nanashi looks genuinely confused by the question.

"Your appearance changed and there were these spheres... you even floated for a while."

"Huh, so that's what happens when I reach that plane... Interesting," notes Nanashi, "I did not realize that my meditation had such an effect."

"Oh... so you were unaware...? How odd... what exactly were you doing though?" He asks curiously.

"Meditating," answers Nanashi simply, "It's actually something I enjoy doing."

"Hmmm.... interesting... could you show me some time?" He asks, a hint of eagerness in his voice.

"I planned to eventually, just not at this very moment."

"Awww ok." He says, mildly disappointed.

"Don't get all depressed about it, we'll go over it a little later, after I do a couple of things here and there."

"Oh? Like what?" He asks.

"Unfortunately, I can't tell you. It's against the rules at this point."

".....Rules suck..." Nageki grunts.

"Rules prevent the onset of absolute chaos and strife," replies Nanashi, "When they are kept and maintained anyways. Besides, these rules are very important to me... Following them nets me a greater reward than breaking them. Maybe I'll entrust them to you one day."

He looks down for a moment.

"What exactly are we?" He asks after a moment.

"Blunt answer or softened answer?"

"Just be honest...." He says wearily.

"We're essentially a melting pot of various different races in conjunction with machines, me more so than you and the others because of things that happened recently. The machine part of us is both crucial and not, but I am prohibited from removing it from you to show you why it isn't, mainly because you'd be off the grid if I did and I'm not in a position where I can be hunted down yet. I have yet to accomplish my goals, so I can't do anything that reckless yet, not before I see them reborn..."

"...Can you keep teaching me?" He asks.

"Of course I can! I could teach you just about anything... Except how to kill. You've lived a life of hardship and strife, but I will not train a weapon, only a scholar or explorer. Besides, the world doesn't need more beings like me or the others..."

He nods. "What's next? You taught me elements. ...Also, what do you think is next, as in, for all of us... ...whatever we are."

"Hm... Can you fly?"

"I don't know..." He experiments with his wings awkwardly.

Nanashi watches to see if Nageki can right himself in the air.

Nageki appears to be having trouble with the wings, attempting to sync the wings to flap around the same time.

"Focus your breathing and calm yourself and your heart," advises Nanashi.

Nageki calms down a little, and tries a little more carefully, managing to get some lift.

"Good, now try not to get too excited or else you'll probably lose air," directs the elder Lambda.

He carefully tries to control his emotions and wild adrenaline from the experience. "I-I'm flying?!" He squeaks as he flaps higher up.

Nanashi nods.

"You are. Now be smart and do not try any maneuvers or fancy things. Focus on keeping yourself within the air."

Nageki nods a bit, trying to maintain his flight, experimenting a little bit with directions.

"Remember to breathe, you're a fledgling, not an old crow," cautions Nanashi, "Take things as slowly as you are now."

"...Alright..." Nageki groans.

"Don't complain, we don't need another Icarus because you rushed through the basics."

"...Icarus?" The boy asks.

"A boy who did not heed the advice of his uncle and perished because he flew too close to the sun."

"....Right..." After a while, he lands, a bit tired.

"Rest for a bit, eat if you need to."

"What is there to eat?" He asks, interested.

"Did you eat all of the food you brought?"

He blinks. "Oh, I forgot..." He reaches into a bag and begins eating some fruits and sandwiches he brought. The boy seems to be slowly developing a air that suggests he is welcoming his modification, his movements with his four arms seem natural now. Nanashi can also sense a desire to learn more growing within the child, in fact he seems very eager.

Nanashi lays back and looks at the sky, smiling nostalgically. His smile then becomes a frown.

"Is something wrong?" Nageki notices the frown quickly.

"..." He makes an irritated noise then sighs. "My brother was an idiot..."

"Hmmm? Why?"

"There was the dress incident, the soup incident, the tea incident and the laboratory explosion incident..."

"....That's a lot of incidents... it seems like he got himself in trouble a lot?"

"It certainly made my life tedious..."

Nageki looks away, and curiously experiments with elements, thinking for a moment before blowing air out of his mouth and creates large bubbles of water, which the boy sends at Nanashi with an amused laugh.

The bubbles swirl into a globe before flowing into him.

"Hm? Experimenting are we?"

He nods, before attempting to create steam.

"Don't burn yourself, steam can cause terrible scarring."

Nageki nods, and carefully releases a cloud of steam from his mouth, smiling as he watches it drift off.

Nanashi creates an interface of sorts in front of himself and begins adjusting values.

"What are you doing?" He asks in curiosity.

"Adjusting a thing or two, nothing too important."

"Oh..." Above them, a violent storm of red lightning begins violently rumbling.

"..." The dome reforms around Atlantis with a glance from Nanashi. "Well, until that's over and done with, no sightseeing."

Nageki seems bothered by the energy of the lightning. "...Before you put the barrier up, it felt like someone was really angry..."

"Indeed, best be safe rather than sorry."

A Familiar Stranger
In a quiet alley, Inga Kankei silently appears, sweeping her hat off in a swift movement, her clothing as a witch disappears in a wave of dark fire, and her hair becomes blonde while her eyes dark brown. Her clothing becomes that of the average young adult, and with her modifications complete, quietly steps out into the city she appeared in.

"How many years has it been since I was last in this area...? It's been a long time..." She says to herself quietly, looking around for somewhere to eat and learn the news.

''I have..... about 560.89 in currency... ....it'll last me a while. I won't be needing any grocery shopping at least.''

In the city, there appears to be nearly no one on the streets and as she listens closely can hear what sounds like yelling in unison.

''Chaos huh? Well, this time it does not seem to be caused by me. ''

Inga quietly walks toward the ruckus out of boredom.

''There she sees human protestors chanting at a line of M.C.C.P soldiers with a CRAzy behind them. The have signs saying 'Myths are Like Us' and 'Humans + Myths = Better World'.''

Commander: *speaks in a megaphone* There is no need for any form of escelation. We are not hear to capture anyone, we are only patrolling for any mythological creature activity.

Protestor: Don't lie to us! We know why you're here, you're here, you racist bastards!

A few others are pushing the soldiers and yelling their chants in their faces.

Commander: We are not here for you or any myth. We are only keeping watch. Any form of violence against us, will be responded with brutalization.

Protestor: Oh now you wanna treat us like the 'trash', huh? All 'cause we're standing up for them! All 'cause their different! When are people like you gonna stop judgin'! We're destroying this world! You are destroying this world! And if you can't see who the real enemy here, then we'll show you! *picks up a stone and throws it at a soldier*

A few others join in while still chanting.

Inga watches for a few moments, before smiling with a quiet laugh. "Oh, this nonsense again. So things haven't changed in the last hundred years I've been gone..." With a shrug, she walks on, keeping a watchful eye on the M.C.C.P. soldiers and the CRAzy as she walks by the protest.

Commander: You have 2 minutes to cease or yo will be dealt with as inhumanely as possible.

The protestors shout 'Fuck you' in unison and continue to throw stones at them.

Commander: Welp, they ain't yieldin'. So, soldier draw for your sticks.

The soldiers draw forth their taser nightsticks to their sides.

Commander: Hold.

Inga continues walking past and towards another street, no longer caring for the spectacle.

Commander: Now.

''The soldiers go towards the protestors and begin to beat them down and tase them. The Commander shoots whoever is trying to escape and after 2 minutes of beating every single protestor to death, the begin to check the bodies. The Commander walks among the dead, bloody bodies and stops at a woman playing dead with a dead man laying on top of her. He steps on her arm, breaking it and the lady yells in pain. The Commander puts bullet in her.''

Commander: Form back into the line.

Soldier: Commander. *has a baby wrapped in cloth in his arm* One of the protestors had a baby. What should we do with it.

Commander: Let me see.*takes the baby into his arms* Awww, look how adorable it is.

Baby: *just looks around in curiosity*

Commander: It's so cute I can just eat it. But since I can't, Heads up. *tosses the baby into the air*

CRAzy: *eats the baby*

''The head of the dead baby falls into the Commander's hand. '' 'To reach Heaven, you must be innocent. But once we grow, we loose that innocence. We spare those who still have it so that it won't be too late. This is for the best." Tosses the baby's head to the CRAzy and it eats the head.  'Form back into the line."

The soldiers form into the line and the CRAzy burn the bodies with flame-throwers from under it's wrists.

The soldiers feel a strange presence in the air.

Commander: Well now, just as soon as we burn bodies only then does a myth decide to make itself known. Everyone. Form a circle.

The soldiers form a circle around the CRAzy with their assault rifles out.

"Mondai no hanran..." A woman's voice says as the CRAzy suddenly detonates, not a single molecule left. In front of the soldiers, a figure appears wreathed in emerald flames, it takes them a moment to realize the figure inside the fire is in the shape of a witch.

Commander: I expected witches to have a annoying-old laugh and face covered in warts. And if i'm not mistaken is supposed t be ridding a broom. Just sayin'

"Oh, look, it's a nine year old, oh I'm sorry, did I break your little toy?" She chuckles, the fire disappearing to reveal the witch, she has a rather oversized witch hat, with a white hood and cloak, as well as some sort of armor, and holds a ivory staff in her hand. Her hair is pink, and she had emerald eyes.

She taps her staff against the ground, and a strange blue light flies from her, hovering between the woman and the soldiers before suddenly exploding, in the aftermath, the crowd that was killed is somehow back to life, stunned. With another tap, she whisks them away to another location in the city.

She gives the soldiers a coy smile. "Now... who shall be my prey?"

Commander: Prey on this. Arise!

''A metal hand comes up from under Inga and swats her to the ground and her back aches. Another CRAzy unearths itself from the ground. It holds Inga in its grasp.''

Commander: Sorry it's not cooked properly, but I know you'll improvise.

An orb appears next to her, and suddenly the witch trades places with the Commander, and Inga claps her hands twice, and the CRAzy crushes the Commander into a bloody mess before becoming completely deassembled. She flashes a small smile at the soldiers.

"Oh, hello boys... ...would you like to run now?"

The soldiers look at each other ,shrug, then drop their guns and walk off.

Inga watches them for a moment, then starts shooting plasma bursts from her staff at their heads, picking them off one by one. "I'm not sure this is an acceptable definition of 'running'."