TheResplendent

[QUOTE=Sakura][color=navy]Meh, I don't think I have a problem with any of it. Though, we don't always actually have to pull these Magi crystals out do we? That would get a bit tiresome, plus what would you do if someone took it away? Though if I am understanding it right (which I'm not sure if I am), these crystals are just physical manifestations of the powers right? And aren't necessarily needed to be held for the power to work? Because for Summoners they'd probably rack up a few of them for their different Summons. Bah, I dunno. I feel stupid and confused. Don't mind me~...[/color][/QUOTE] I had always figured that so long as we had them on us, like in a pocket or whatever. It would be just as effective. -I'll hit up a cpu on campus later on, gotta run now.

[QUOTE=Raina][COLOR=Blue]Isn't a guy asking a girl out, and a girl asking a guy out, kind of a personality issue? I know girls who ask guys out. And I know girls who wait for guys to ask them out. I myself, am too shy to ask a guy out. And my bf was too shy to ask me out. So I did the best I could to make opportunities for him to ask me out. And I tried to show that I was interested in him. I asked him for his number. I asked him if he would like to go out sometime as friends. I asked him if I could help him study (in just 1 subject). He then made the choice to give me his number. He decided where we should go and when. He decided to come to library early to study with me. So with us, it was a two-way thing. We're dating now, because of the effort we both put in. Because we are equal. :catgirl: I try to pay for my own food, etc, because I feel bad when he pays for me. And I also want to be independant. But he won't let me pay for anything. I only paid for my own food twice, and paid for his drink once. And that was only because I wanted to, and fought for my right to do so. He felt bad that I paid, so in that way, he understood how I feel when he pays for me. So now, if I really wasnt to pay for myself, he lets me. I think I went off topic... I'm not sure. :animeswea Anyway, what I'm trying to say is culture, beliefs, etc effects our personality to some extent. So I think that a girl asking a guy out is just a part of it. I hope I made sense... :animeswea [/COLOR][/QUOTE] [font=tahoma]That's exactly it, it IS dependant on personality. Those who adhere to the "traditional ideals" will support the idea of guys asking girls out, whether you are a guy or a girl. Where as others who have changed along with the times will have different ideals. What it really comes down to is what kind of a person you are as an individual though. This can be based off a number of things, such as religion, upbringing, personal beliefs, etc etc. I've met girls who actually enjoy being the ones to make a first move, and i've met others who absolutely refuse to even if they like somebody. I personally think it wouldn't be such a horrible thing if girls let on how they felt more often and asked someone out rather then vice-versa. Flirting and signs can be fun, don't get me wrong. But it's sometimes hard for guys to figure out how girls feel exactly and making the mistake of saying something out of line is something that's usually a sole deciding factor in whether or not she stays interested if she is. 9 times out of 10, if a guy is interested in a girl it's really rather obvious. Unless he goes out of his way to hide it. Things like who pays for dinner or who picks who up work essentially the same way, they are based on personality but also adhere to a particular ideal of tradition. I've had relationships where we take turns paying each week for whatever it is we do when we go out, personally I think that is the best way to go about it. Not only is it fair, but it balances out the choices and dosen't put pressure on either party to feel like they are not involved enough in decision making or generosity. Of course there are exceptions such as if one person dosen't have a job, etc etc. But in any case, i see balance and equality has the best way to go about things in a relationship as far as what you lay out on the table, but it's always good to keep a few hidden tricks. Like buying her a small gift out of nowhere for whatever reason when she chooses where to go, or change things up and take her somewhere she didn't expect that you know she'd like if you've planned something typical. This dosent work all the time, it's more special if it's sporadic. Of course where I place "her" can be replaced with "him" as well. I just speak from my own POV. [/font]

[FONT=Tahoma]I'm glad that things finally start to pick up starting with next week's episode. My friends always look at my screen-saver as its going and ask "When are we going to see him? or her? etc etc" (my screensaver is a slideshow of wallpapers and pics i've collected from my favorite animes/games/etc. So I got everyone looking forward to the arrival of "real" shinigami finally. Even if it just briefly at the end of the episode. Regardless, it is a quite halarious ep with Kon invovled.[/FONT]

[FONT=Tahoma]Makes sense to me, dunno what would be so hard to understand bout that. I think we all pretty much had the same ideas in our heads concerning it as we post. Good work though, as for leaving something out...it's possible (it's quite early and I'm rushing to get our for class) but from what I read everything looks good.[/FONT]

[FONT=Tahoma][color=darkred][center]Thursday, 34th of Estembre 5:15 PM * * * * *[/center] Syrus watched as Monique ran off, tears in her eyes and her angrered words ringing in his ears. He stood with his fists balled up, so much anger running through his body as he did nothing but make matters worse. All over a misunderstanding...he wanted to ring someone's neck to get his anger out...but the spike of anger was nearly gone in an instant as instead of reacting violently, Syrus dropped to all 4s on the ground. From an out of context view it looked like the student was being crushed underneathe the weight of his massive broadsword. Syrus's breath felt as if it left his body. While no tears were drawn, he bashed his fists against the ground repeating the words "Dammit!" to himself over and over. Aizen watched him with a sad look on her face. She remembered the disgust she felt from when Momo claimed Syrus's intentions was to just get Aizen in bed. But as she observed him she realized that it couldn't possibly be true. Syrus, one of the academy's most respected and powerful students was there infront of him on his knees, crushed from the aftermath of an unfortunate circumstance. Aizen remembered feeling resented by Syrus, but remembered the hug he gave her in an attempt to apologize. It didn't help her situation that she now felt at fault for Monique's harsh words toward him. She slowly approached Syrus and knelt down on the ground beside him. She reached her hand over to his cheek and gently turned his head toward her own. Syrus looked into Aizen's eyes, for some reason expecting her to add insult to injury. Instead Aizen wrapped her arms around his head and hugged him close to her. His eyes widened with surprise, thinking Aizen hated him or might have believed that he really just wanted her for sex. [b]"Y...you, aren't upset with me?"[/b] Syrus said, slightly muffled by Aizen's arms. [b]"Syrus...I may not know you very well still, but what Monique said couldn't possibly be true. I think I know you well enough to say that with confidence. I also can't stand to see you so sad. You're so strong, and nice, eventhough you try your best to keep your tears in. Momo is very special to you...I understand that, and I feel that I may be special to you too, though in a different way. I wouldn't be able to live with myself if I'm the reason you and Monique grow distant. I promise i'll clear things up with her, it's the absolute least I can do...i wish...i wish I could do so much more for you Syrus."[/b] she said, holding him close. She didn't want to lose Syrus as a friend, and the guilt built up inside her for what just happened was near unbearable. [b]"No...it isn't your fault. All I wanted to do was apologize...but she, she dosen't trust me?"[/b] Syrus said, feeling instantly crushed at the realization that Monique might not trust him. Aizen put her finger to his mouth before he could say anything else. [b]"Syrus, let me do this please. I still have to repay you for being so nice to me, and introducing me to the others. It's because of you I have friends I can talk to now. I don't think I can ever repay you, but this may be a good start. So will you let me?"[/b] she said, looking sincerely into Syrus's eyes. Syrus lowered his head and felt defeated. He remembered the announcement as well, he was one of the 3 students whose presence were demanded at the arena. Syrus knew disobeying this would only make things worse then they already were...he didn't know why he was being called there, but if it was a fight...he couldn't garauntee his emotions wouldn't get the best of him in battle. [b]"T...thank you."[/b] Syrus managed to say. Aizen put a subtle smile on her face and ran off after Monique, hoping that she would atleast listen to her. Chances were she would be in an irate mood, but she had to try. She couldn't stand the thought of being brought into Syrus's life just to be the element that broke him and someone he cared for with all of his heart and soul up. Syrus stood slowly as Aizen ran off, his knees felt weak but he quickly regained his strength. [b][i]'So many...Clyne, Monique, Aizen...I'm so lucky to have them in my life, to have them care for me the way they do. But i always find a way to mess things up. Clyne hates me and ran off with Strom because I treated her so badly...I shouted at Aizen back there at the training grounds and now she's helping me...and Momo. Mo, she dosen't even trust me, and she must think so horribly of me now. I really...really fucked things up this time, didn't I?'[/b][/i] he thought to himself. He began walking slowly to the arena, trying to get is mind off of whether or not the 3 of them would ever truly forgive him. [center]* * * * *[/center] Syrus entered the Arena to see a large crowd of both instructors and students standing around. He walked around to see Strom and another student in the middle of things. [b]"Strom...that son of a bitch. What's this all about anyway?"[/b] he asked rhetorically. He looked a little closer and noticed who the opponent was. He recognized him as Leon Maxwell. Another student who studied the fire element. Class was pretty much all he knew him from. He walked around to see if he could get a good view, it was then he noticed Clyne standing near the front watching on. He closed his eyes and just tried to walk by, feeling like she wouldn't want to even see him. It was Clyne who turned her head thought and noticed Syrus, she had cooled down a little but still felt a little annoyed. She would have just turned her head around again and let him keep walking, but it was the serious look of sorrow in Syrus's eyes that drew her attention further. [b][i]'Syrus...?'[/b][/i] Clyne had never seen that look in Syrus's eyes before, not in the seven years they knew each other. She couldn't even imagine what would have caused such a feeling in Syrus. She shook her head free of her ill-thoughts and knew that no matter what she would always be there for him, and always be his friend. It looked like he could use a friend right now...and Clyne didn't want to run the risk of losing the one person she cared about as much as she did. She shoved some people out of the way and ran over to where Syrus has situated himself. She walked up to him, her hands behind her back and a guilty look on her face for feeling angry at him. Syrus turned and saw her, and began to debate with himself on what to do. Before he could decide on anything though, Clyne wrapped her right arm around his waist and stood side by side with him. [b]"Syrus...i'm sorry..."[/b] [b]"No! Please, don't. I'm sorry, Clyne i shouldn't have yelled at you. I just...well you know how I can get, but...but I must have hurt you so much..."[/b] [b]"Hey hey! It's ok...don't worry about it. Syrus, you know I love you. I don't think i can take much more of seeing that look in your eyes. I want to be there for you...it seems like you could use a friend and friends don't get much better then yours truly!"[/b] Clyne said with a bright smile, trying to alleviate any of the tension between them. Syrus felt relief in himself finding out Clyne didn't hate him. The biggest part of the problem seemed far from unfixable though...he felt like he had just destroyed his relationship with Momo. A clash of metal interuppted his thoughts, Strom and Leon had been going at it for a bit now. He tried his hardest to take his mind off of everything for now. He didn't want to seem upset infront of everyone, especially infront of Strom. Everytime he watched Strom fight, he expected him to win. It was the way it should be, he and Strom plow through all that stand in the way of their conquest over each other. Syrus was going to be the one to defeat Strom, nobody else. As time passed in the fight, things started getting pretty heated. A feeling of nervousness came over Syrus as he noticed Strom being given quite a fight, despite getting a few good shots in. He didn't know much about this Leon, but clearly he was skilled. [b]"YOU'RE - NOT - LEAVING!!!"[/b] [b]"Right. and what're you gonna do? Stop me?"[/b] Strom said. The stadium roared with laughter; Leon, however, said nothing. [b]"TIME FOR YOU - TO SEE MY TECHNIQUE! FIRE GOD!!!"[/b] [b]"Don't you dare!"[/b] Shavers and Piro, who'd arrived with the students, said together. [b]"You'll burn the Academy down!"[/b] [b]DOESNT MATTER!!! ANYTHING - TO RID MY NIGHTMARES!!![/b] Strom wasn't liking what was happening; heat engulfed all the students as Leon called on his most powerful attack from the arena; the sky above them turned a light crimson. [b]"What in the hell is this!?"[/b] Syrus said to himself, as he noticed the signs of Binary Flares (Spheres of fire with mutual orbits around one another, typiclly the source of fire streams) in the sky created by the begginings of this "Fire God" technique. Syrus's eyes lit up as he noticed what the skill probably entailed. He shoved through the few people that were in his way toward the arena floor. [b]"Syrus! Where are you...argh..."[/b] Clyne said, noticing he was already out of range to hear her. [b][i]'Dammit you stupid pinhead!'[/b][/i] he thought as he reached the shallow ramp leading to the floor. [b]"Nothing personal, but what happens from here on out is NOT on my conscience!"[/b] Leon yelled as he commanded multiple streams of fired shooting down from the sky. Strom looked up with a look of shock and uncertainty. Surely it would take a large amount of water, if any amount to put such strong fires out. [b]"STROM! IF YOU MOVE, YOU DIE! REMEMBER THAT!"[/b] Syrus yelled, as he pressed his hand to the ground. Strom turned around and saw Syrus kneeling down, not entirely sure what he meant but for some reason felt he could trust him. The ground erupted as Syrus's Flame Viper shot up and promptly wrapped itself around Strom, encircling him one level at a time until an enclosed sphere was formed around the water magi student. The flames from the Fire God technique crashed into the dome and began generating massive amounts of heat. Some students began to run, figuring it wasen't worth it to watch anymore. [b]"Dammit, this isn't working the way we had hoped."[/b] Instructor Piro yelled over the sound of the clash. Clyne watched on with concern, as sweat began dripping from her head. [b]"Why are you helping him!? Don't you two hate each other!?"[/b] Leon yelled as Syrus started dodging a few fire sparks that started resulting from the clash. [b]"You stupid son of a bitch! You think i'd let you defeat him!? I have enough damn problems today, I'll be damned if I let YOU add to them!"[/b] Syrus yelled back. Both students added on the pressure as Strom on the inside began sweating profusely. While the heat was strong, he noticed on the inside of the Flame Viper shield, it's intensity could be controlled. If Syrus wanted to fry somebody inside he probably could. Strom toughed it out for the moment though, knowing in his head for sure Syrus wouldn't. [b]"Syrus! This is too dangerous!"[/b] Clyne yelled out. She took another step but was beaten back by a stray fire spark as it brushed her cheek, not seriously wounding her but knocking her to the ground. Syrus turned to her, taking his focus off of the viper shield momentarily. [b]"CLYNE!"[/b] he yelled, finding himself torn on what he should do. He couldn't just let the shield die down, but he was concerned for Clyne. [b]"STUPID! AND NOW YOU'LL PAY FOR IT!"[/b] Syrus heard Leon yell as a blast from one of the flares was diverted in his direction. Syrus's eyes widened as he found himself with no defense to it. He stared the flare down, thinking to himself that turning away or cowering was not an option. He closed his eyes and waited for the impact. Seconds later however, he could feel the air around his face rapidly cooling. The sound of another clash was all he heard. He opened his eyes and noticed a giant panel of ice infront of him, blocking off the flare. He looked over to the right and saw Kristos there trying with all of his strength to keep the panel imbued long enough for it to withstand melting completely. [b][i]'It's him...what the hell is he doing!?'[/b][/i] Syrus thought to himself, not neccesarily upset he was being saved, but more so surprised he was being saved. At this point, the arena looked like a giant fire pit. Students scrambled while Instructors ran to the center to attempt to find a way to stop everything. Clyne was on the floor unconscious from the impact of the spark. Everything seemed like it could combust at any given moment... [/color][/FONT] [center]* * * * *[/center] [size=1]OOC: I think it's safe to say more then just instructor Shavers may be upset at the possible result of this, lol. Just to make sure it's clear, when Clyne says she loves Syrus, it is in a close friendly manner. This is recognized between the two, hence why Syrus didn't act all like "Huh?". Anyways, hope this is good with everyone involved.[/size]

[FONT=Tahoma][color=darkred][center]Thursday, 34th of Estembre 4:46 PM * * * * *[/center] Syrus stood in his place after watcing Clyne and Strmo walk off and could think of nothing else to do but punch the wall beside him as hard as he could, leaving a very noticeable crack. He felt alone all of a sudden, like because of who he was seemed to have driven off so many people already. But why? It wasen't his fault...he was just trying to do the right thing...nobody else seemed to think so. They all just saw the battle hungry Syrus that liked a good fight. Well, guess that's somewhat reasonable...if you think about it. Syrus went out of his way to make that kind of reputation for himself. Kristos and Strom had been his toughest opponents in the entire eight years he spent at Argo Arx Acanum. Simply because he wasen't able to defeat them yet. A part of him liked that, the part that craved the competition. Right now though, all he wanted to do was calm himself down...but the thought of Clyne hanging out with Strom angered him even more. [b][i]'If that bastard tries ANYTHING...i'll break his damn head...'[/b][/i] he thought to himself, feeling protective over his long time friend. Syrus sighed and realized that he wasen't going to accomplish much just standing around. He decided to look for Momo, if it was comfort he needed he knew he could find it with her. She always brightened him up with her smile and a hug, even if it didn't seem like it did on the outside. The truth is Syrus loved it. He just hoped she wasen't mad at him like everyone else seemed to be. He walked off, not really knowing where to start. He stopped off by a few students asking them if they had seen Monique, but he either received a bunch of "I dunnos" or "OMG, you kicked ass in that fight Syrus"...neither of which he really wanted to hear about at that moment. After a full run of the whole central part and east wing of the main academy building he groaned out of frustration...until he noticed someone else sitting on a bench beside one of the tunnel entrances to the upper towers. He recognized Aizen, her green hair draped over one shoulder and a sorrowful look on her face, like she had just lost a best friend. Syrus didn't expect to run into her...but he realized that he probably contributed to the sad look she had on her face. He didn't know why but he felt horrible all of a sudden, probably because he took part in ruining something so beautiful. Like Aizen's radiant smile. He walked over slowly, wanting to apologize to her as well...out of all the people he had to apologize to, she probably deserved it the most. [b]"Um...hi..."[/b] Syrus said, sratching the back of his head and looking down toward her. Aizen looked up and became startled only for a brief second. She wasen't sure if she was glad to see Syrus or not...nor did she know if he was still angry at her. Aizen clasped her hands in her lap and put her body in a sort of defensive position and looked away slightly. [b]"Oh...hello Syrus."[/b] she said, fighting back one last tear. Syrus watched her face and began to feel crushed, he ran back through his mind how he left the cafeteria just to console her and try to be her friend. Albeit at first it was because he thought she was hot, but after finding out what kind of a girl she really was, it really made an impact on him. She was so fragile and innocent, someone he couldn't imagine wanting to make a career out of being a risk breaker. He felt bad about not doing his duty in a way, he hurt Aizen when what he really wanted to do was protect her. He clinched his fists out of frustration again and just rushed downward and lifted her up into a big and tight hug. Aizen flew up and felt his arms clasp around her. She didn't know how to feel as her cheek rested against his shoulder. She felt Syrus's head leaned against hers, as if trying to cover up tears...but none came out. She figured Syrus wasen't the type to easily cry. But she was somewhat relieved that he was capable of feeling bad. [b]"I...i'm, s..sorry. The last thing I wanted to do was hurt your feelings."[/b] Syrus said, holding on to her. She eased her hands around him to return to hug, but very gently still unsure of how to react. Her reaction would have to come later however, as they were interuppted by someone else. [b]"Syrus...? What the heck is going on with this!?"[/b] Momo cried, after finally finding him. [/color][/FONT] [center]* * * * *[/center] [size=1]ooc: Here yas go Kitty and KW =P. Have at it! lol. Just so things are clear as well, Syrus had no ulterior motives, he simply wanted to apologize to Aizen. [/size]

[QUOTE=Dagger]Do you have Siren? If you have her, get ST Med-RF (at least I think that's it, heh). I don't really know of any other way to get a Remedy+ except by refining regular Remedies... and it's such a simple process, at any rate, that it wouldn't be worth the effort to find them in any other way. ~Dagger~[/QUOTE] [font=tahoma]It's been quite a while since I last played FFVIII, but if i remember correctly you can also use your card refinement ability to obtain a certani number of remedy+ from a certain card (which exactly slips my mind atm, but it is a rare one). It is actually easier to refine remedies then doing it the alternative way, i remember obtaining doomtrain almost immidietely after getting the [spoiler]solomon ring[/spoiler]. [/font]

[FONT=Tahoma]CC is definitly a great RPG, with it's strongest feature i think being it's diversity in characters. It has the variety of characters like an SRPG does, which was something fairly new at that time, along with the concept that [spoiler]you would lose your main character half way into the game and have him replaced by one of the main antagonists. Following CT's replacement of Chrono with Magus.[/spoiler]. It made for a ton of interesting character combinations (what with the double and triple team moves and all) and a good portion of them (usually the more important ones) had some great back stories. The story was alright, i didn't go crazy for it, not in the way i did for Chrono Trigger anyways. The graphics were decent, and the music was phenomenal i think. CC in my opinion also has one of the absolute best opening themes in gaming history. Everytime i went back to play it after a save or going back to new game + i would take the time out to watch the sequence and listen to the song. As for the ending, I thought it was fine...though it really helps to play CT before CC despite the fact they don't seem to directly connect as a prequel/sequel kind of deal. There are common characters, and the ending will probably make a little more sense as well. The open ended feeling of the game at times was nice, and for some reason i really liked the world map. Though while the game wasn't particular challenging, i'll always remember friggen [spoiler]Miguel[/spoiler] hanging me a couple of beatings before I actually beat him. Talk about a deceptive looking boss. [spoiler]Dario was right up there with the difficulty, but Riddel made the battle rather easy.[/spoiler]. All I know is, appreciate the giant variety in chars, but all i need is [spoiler]Serge/Glenn/Kidd/Karsh/Zoah/Fargo/Ohrla[/spoiler] FTW. [/FONT] :D

[font=tahoma][color=darkred]Syrus pulled out his blue magi crystal behind the guard of his broadsword from the air. He remembered the spell he had obtained from Momo earlier and spoke the words. He leaped up through the air and landed on a single current. He went off balance slightly, but it seemed as if he was getting the hang of it. He walked over the wind, as Aizen stopped to watch him. The wind died down as Strom fell slightly forward from the momentum pushing him backwards stopping suddenly. Syrus landed once again on the ground. Aizen clasped her hands and wondered how everyone felt about her interference. She looked back toward Kristos and tried to stop him from walking away but he only slapped her hand away and kept walking. She frowned, but turned to Syrus in hopes that he wouldn't be too mad. [b]"Syrus...I, i'm sorry but I had to..."[/b] Syrus interuppted her sentence with a cold and piercing stare. Aizen was surprised at the anger she saw in his eyes, it was unreal. She knew how tough Syrus was but to think even he could look toward her with such cold and violent eyes made her heart sink. [b]"I don't care who told you to interfere, that bastard was getting what was coming to him! Him and his little sob story! Well, boo fuckin hoo! That dosen't give him the right to walk around acting so self-righteous doing whatever the hell he wants! Next time I see him I won't go easy on him, thats a promise!"[/b] Syrus screamed out, turning his glance away from Aizen. He walked out of the room leaving Aizen almost in tears. She wanted to drop to her knees and just cry but she tried to hold herself up the best she could. She knew she did what was asked of her, and probably what was right as well...but she wanted Syrus as her friend. She was comfortable around him and was thankful that he went out of his way to comfort her yesterday. She looked up at Syrus in time to catch a glimpse of him before he turned the corner. Momo ran after him, stopping beside Aizen on the way. She looked at her and handed her a hankerchief. [b]"You really probably shouldn't have stopped him, you know. But try not to get too worked up. He'll cool down eventually, but when he gets going...it's usually a bad idea to interfere. I'd stay away from him...if I were you."[/b] Momo said, hinting a slightly apprehensive tone but ultimatley trying to help Aizen out. Momo continued running after Syrus to try and calm him down. Aizen held the hankerchief in her hands as she watched her run on. She didn't want to stay away from him...or Kristos...she wanted to run after them both and just apologize endlessly like she usually would. But she realized that it probably was a futile action at this time. She didn't know what to do. It was then Instructor Kaya pt her hand on Aizen's shoulder. [b]"Aizen, those boys are just angry right now. You did the right thing, I assure you. Please don't feel so bad."[/b] she said, trying to console Aizen as best she could. [center]* * * * *[/center] Meanwhile, Strom sighed and placed his Kyndras back in their sheathed positions. He started to walk out but by the time he got to the door, Instructor Shavers stopped him. [b]"HEY! Where do you think you're going!? I appreciate you trying to step in and stop them Mr. Vanguard but I hope you know you contributed to THESE damages!"[/b] Shavers yelled as he pointed out the training grounds. Walls were cracked and broken, as was the floor. Ice still emblazoned many parts of it, there were burn marks on the floor as well as the giant hole where Syrus's Flame Viper had erupted from. Strom gulped, after actually taking the time to look at all of the damages. [b]"ALL 3 OF YOU ARE PAYING FOR THIS! Since you're the one still here, i'll start with you! And don't think I won't be telling the Headmaster about this!"[/b] he yelled again walking toward Strom. [b]"He..hey, wai' a minute!"[/b] Strom said, slowly backing up from Instructor Shaver's advance. Just then Instructor Kaya stepped in between the two, turned her head and motioned for Strom to run the hell out of there while he still could. Strom didn't think twice before he jetted out the door, passing Aizen on the way. [b]"Guy, please! Calm yourself down, I know you put a lot of your own personal money into this room but maiming the students isn't going to help."[/b] Kaya said, trying to calm the enraged Weapons Training instructor down. [center]* * * * *[/center] Syrus kept walking toward the direction he turned to. With no actual destination in mind, he merely tried to blow off steam by keeping in motion. [b][i]'I can't believe that guy...and then Strom had to show his face up there, how dare he think that I would have needed HIS help! And Aizen...she...argh! forget it!'[/b][/i] he thought to himself, shaking his head free of his thoughts. He passed by the infirmary on his way, realizing this he turned his head slightly so nobody in the room would notice his cuts. He didn't want to waste time there getting treated for wounds that weren't even serious. As he passed though he noticed Alex being confined to a bed. He narrowed his eyes and scoffed at him in his mind. [b][i]'Damn weakling, what the hell is he doing trying to become a risk breaker anyhow?'[/b][/i] he thought as he continued forward. He lost himself in thought again he didn't realize he walked into the wing that held the firearms training grounds. He sighed and turned and started walking back. It was five minutes later he arrived at the dorms area when he saw Clyne running up to him. He rolled his eyes and figured she had to have heard what happened by now. [b]"Hey! Syrus!"[/b][/font][/color]

[quote name='Sandy']Duh, Doublehex is the creator of this game, so he can do whatever he wants - under the restriction of the OB rules, of course. ;P[/quote] [font=tahoma]*shrugs* Dunno, guess it just seemed a little unfair to me. But if it's allowed then it's allowed, what can I do. But in any case, glad we've finally hit a point in the RP where it's nice an action packed. Been waiting a while to use some magic.[/font]

[font=tahoma]Hey, DH. Mind if I ask what's up with changin Alex's magic minor from support to blue after the RP has started? I wasen't aware that was allowed.[/font]

[font=tahoma][color=darkred][center]Thursday, 34th of Estembre 12:40 * * * * *[/center] Syrus looked over at the beaten down Alex, then up at Kristos who seemed to be sweating rather noticebly on his forehead. Seeminigly not from the actual fight though, but from over exerting himself. He seemed way too adamant about hurting Alex in Syrus's eyes, it pissed him off. What business did Kristos, somebody Syrus thought was a fighter of honor, have beating down on someone weaker then him to make himself feel better? Kristos was about to sheath his sword without saying a word about it. Syrus didn't really care much about Alex either, but it was the principle of what had happened that bothered him. Syrus walked over to Kristos and held [color=blue]Aludra[/color] out from his side. Kristos's hair began to show signs of friz, clearly he was over excited. [b]"Hey! Why don't you try some that on me ice man? You seem eager to fight, how about fighting with someone around your own skill level."[/b] Syrus exclaimed, pointing his broadsword in Kristos's direction. [b]"Mr. Cainun, please. Try to calm youself..."[/b] Instructor Shavers asked, but to no avail as Syrus only approached closer to Kristos. Kristos looked at syrus with a half concerned half angered look on his face. [b][i]'Hm, this is the one the Instructor should have gotten to begin with. Not that weakling...I must calm myself down for this opponent however...'[/b][/i] Kristos thought to himself as he put Zenjiga closer to it's sheath. Syrus saw this and thought Kristos had meant to sheath his sword. He violently swung his broadsword horizontally toward Kristos's face, forcing him to move his sword quickly and guard against Syrus's blow. Kristos caught his footing after being pushed a few inches from the impact of the strike. [b]"I guess we should begin."[/b] Kristos said in a quick and serious tone. He applied pressure against [color=blue]Aludra[/color] to hold his footing, but Syrus was exceptionally strong. [b]"I hope you remember what I told you last night! Let's see just how impressive you can be."[/b] Syrus said as he pulled his sword away and went to sweep out Kristos's legs. Kristos quickly reacted and jumped over and extended his katana out toward Syrus's side, but it was evaded as Syrus swung his leg outward to give him enough room to redirect his body. Syrus came back with the blunt end of his broadsword to guard against any possible incoming attacks. Kristos refused to comply but the second part of Syrus's method of engagement was a sharp upward swing, as he turned his wrist to connect with the sharp side. The sword brushed the clothing on Kristos's shoulder but failed to create a wound, Kristos backed away but formed a small palm sized icicle in his left hand. He waited for Syrus to return his sword to his side and flung it toward the side of Syrus's head. The icicle was dodged, but merely served as a distraction so Kristos would charge forward and begin a barrage of slashes with Zenjiga. The clanging sound of metal against metal filled the room as Kristos backed Syrus up toward the middle of the training grounds. Kristos began some artistic lookin swings trying to coax Syrus into taking advantage of what would seem to be an opening. Syrus knew better and stayed on guard knowing that Kritos was a crafty fighter. [b]"Not bad...still not good enough to beat me though. If Strom can't beat me, someone like you definitly wouldn't be able to!"[/b] Syrus said, hinting the closest to a compliment he would say toward his academy rival. Kristos narrowed his eyes at the remark, clearly thinking he was being severely underestimated. Another thought ran through his head telling him it was just taunts from his opponent in an attempt to rile him up even more. Either way, the battle was well under way. More thoughts raced through Kris's head about what had happened to his nurse friend. He figured the only way he could be even more intent on defeating Syrus would be if he was a wind magic user. [b]"You'll find your words meaningless in this battle."[/b] Kristos exclaimed as he split one large icicle into 5 within his palm and threw them allowing them to spread vertically. Syrus guarded with his broadsword, as all 5 shattered on contact the the blunt end of it. Syrus grinned from behind the guard of his sword, feeling exhilirated from the fight. Syrus knelt to the ground all of a sudden in the middle of battle. Kristos watched on with his sword at the ready. [b]"Very good, now I'd like to show you some of my magic."[/b] Syrus said, as he pressed his hand to the ground. Instructor Shavers saw this and protested aloud. [center]* * * * *[/center] [b]"Mr. Cainun! The damage reducing field is not up at this time, and your spell has the potential to cause a considerable deal of collateral damage! You will stop this instant, the both of you!"[/b] he said in an official sounding voice. Syrus was already in his zone at that point though, any other situation he would have listened for fear of what would happen to his future as a Risk Breaker. But this was the lapse of judgement he was known for when he became agitated. The ground shook a bit, hardly noticeable but it was part of Syrus's spell. Kristos began casting a bit of his own magic, as he slowly began to encase Zenjiga in ice, extending it's reach considerably. He squinted his eyes and charges toward Syrus to interrupt him before he could conjure whatever it was he was trying to. [b]"Too late! Flame Viper!"[/b] Syrus yelled as the ground burst inches away from Syrus, and the immense serpent shaped fire jetted out stopping Kristos's charge. He swung his sword but the heat from the viper melted the ice extension as it ran it through on it's way upward. The extend of the flame reached the roof of the training room, which was considerably high, perhaps around 35 feet from the floor to the ceiling. Kristos eyed the flame structure and gritted his teeth. Syrus pointed his hand as the flame propelled down from the sky and went to spear Kristos like a battering ram to a castle gate. Kristos reacted as quickly as he could and formed a giant, think panel of ice to serve as a shield. The flame hit the shield hard and sent Kristos flying back all the way into the wall before the viper split itself away revealing the shield completely melted by the time Kristos hit the wall. [b][i]'Damn him and his pride, such an impressive achievement that fire snake of his is...but now i'll show him the true art of elemental mastery.'[/b][/i] Kris thought to himself as he wiped his forehead from the increased sweat caused by the heat of the flame viper. Kristos grinned himself, actually starting to rather enjoy this bout between he and Syrus. [b]"Ha, hope you're not smiling because you think you did a good job guarding against my attack. I held back it's power significantly...afterall, without the damage reducing field I could have killed you."[/b] Syrus explained. [center]* * * * *[/center] It was then another student walked in to the training center, she walked by a group of medical students tending to Alex. She looked up and saw Instructor Shavers looking intently at something on the training grounds. He seemed to be in a rather annoyed and impatient mood. She walked up to him out of curiosity, wondering what was going on. [b]"Instructor! Is everything all..."[/b] She stopped herself mid-sentence when she turned her head to see Syrus and Kristos facing each other, both seeming worked up. It was obvious they have been fighting, there was also quite a bit of damage done to the room. [b]"Oh my god, Syrus!?"[/b] she said in a surprised tone. [b]"Oh? Ms Tyriest, i'm sorry but this isn't a good time. These two have been going at it for quite some time, I'm about ready to step in if things get badly out of hand."[/b] Shavers said, noticing Monique beside him. [b][i]'What's this all about!? Why is Syrus fighting Kristos?'[/b][/i] she thought to herself, watching on herself. Kristos began to walk forward, staring intently at Syrus's confident and grinning face. He went to move his left hand and only then noticed the pain. He glanced downard at it and noticed it was badly burned from trying to guard against the flame viper spell. Kristos shook it off and tried to ignore the pain as he held his sword out infront of him horizontally with his good hand. He stood still for a few seconds, as Syrus watched on waiting for is next move. [b]"Come on Kristos, is that all?"[/b] Syrus taunted. Kris concentrated hard as he began to form a panel of ice infront of him. Syrus took notice and began to run toward him intending to break it before he could finish his spell. But the following panels assembled too qucikly cutting Syrus's path off, then soon after his retreat and both sides. The ceiling finished the structure as Syrus found himself within Kristos's Shattered Reflection spell. Kristos's eyes remained focus as he was fully intent on paying Syrus back for before. [b][i]'Ha, i've seen this spell before. The ceiling is meant to shatter and injure me, but there nothing a little heat can't do to fix my situation here.'[/i][/b] Syrus said in his head as he pressed his hand against the back wall of the "house of mirrors". He began to focus a great amount of head, emitting from his hand to melt the ice wall. The wall proved more durable then expected, as it was quite thick and well imbued with strong magic. Syrus narrowed his eyes and considered a plan b, which was to thin the ice enough to atleast be able to slash it through and break it with [color=blue]Aludra.[/color] [b][i]'You may try, Syrus Cainun...'[/b][/i] Kristos thought to himself, as he readied his sword. Syrus continued to heat the side until it appeared thin enough. He would just use the flame viper again if he didn't need more time then he wished to spend in order to break out of Kristos's spell. He clutched his sword's hilt and reeled it back behind his back. [b][i]'Nice try Kristos. But you won't catch me with this ice trap!'[/b][/i] Syrus thought to himself as he swung his sword forward. Kristos raised his left eyebrow and motioned with his sword inward, and all of a sudden the very wall Syrus had meant to break through shattered into pieces, sending thin shards of ice flying toward Syrus's direction. Syrus got his sword up to guard him as quickly as he could, but he felt his right cheek being sliced by a few shards. The debris from the ice crashing into his sword cause him to close his eyes, but the pain from his cheek let him know that he sustained exactly 3 shallow, yet sharp cuts. [b]"My god! SYRUS!"[/b] Momo screamed out, running out toward the field. Instructor Shavers grabbed her arm and stopped her though. He looked her and shook his head, and motioned with his eyes for Momo to look closer toward Syrus. Kristos charged in with his katana outstretched, ready to take advantage of Syrus's lack of knowledge of the complete workings of the Shattered Reflection. He reached the mirrors as Syrus violently swung his broadsword across crashing through the remaining mirrors, their swords met again in a loud clash. Kristos tried to supports his right hand with his left but was unable because of the burn. The mist from the ice cleared and Syrus's bloodied face came into clear view, as well as his eyes which showed an enormous amount of rage. He overpowerd Kristos back with his sword and shoved him hard down to the ground. Kristos rolled and stopped himself with his good hand. [b]"Son of a bitch...you think you're pretty damn clever don't you!?"[/b] Syrus yelled as he winced from the pain. [b]"It's your own mistake for underestimating me. I could have done worse, trust me."[/b] Kristos retorted. [b]"Yeah!? Well if you think that first run in with my flame viper was everything I had to offer, allow me to show you how much more I can do!"[/b] Syrus yelled back. [center]* * * * *[/center] It was then yet another student walked in, looking for Instructor Shavers. This time a male student. It was none other then Strom Vanguard. He had came from his last class, looking for a way to calm his nerves down from the encounter with his professor. [b]"Instructor, I wanted to ask if you would allow me to..."[/b] [b]"Mr. Vanguard! Now really isn't a good..."[/b] Instructor Shaver's was interuppted by a stray shard of ice that seemed to fly off course as it sliced across his arm. Shavers clutched his arm as Strom ran to see to him. [b]"Instructor!"[/b] Strom yelled, as he looked over at the battle field. [b]"Jesus, what in the worl' is goin' on here! What do you guys think your doin!?"[/b] Strom yelled out in an angered tone. [b]"Stay out of this, rainbow! It's none of your concern!"[/b] Syrus yelled back, without moving his focus from Kristos. Strom narrowed his eyes and grew angry from the comment. [b]"This is it, I must step in and stop this. It has gotten way out of hand!"[/b] Shaver's said, standing up. Strom stopped him though and placed his hand behind his back onto the hilt of one of his blades. [b]"No instructor, please treat your wound. I'll stop this myself."[/b] Strom said as she ran onto the training grounds. Momo tried to stop Strom but to no avail. She watched on, wanting to get involved herself just to help Syrus. She didn't want him to get seriously hurt but she knew Syrus would hate it if she interfered. [/color][/font] [size=1]ooc: I seem to have something going on lately with getting motivation half way through my posts and them coming out quite long, lol. I leave the continuation in the hands of another. Hope this is alright with you, Engel. Ah, feels good to finally break out the fire magic though.[/size]

[FONT=Tahoma][color=darkred][center]Thursday, 34th of Estembre 7:05 AM[/center] Syrus rolled over in his bed, half asleep half awake and glanced over at his alarm clock. It was set to go off in about 10 minutes. It's been a habit as of late though, he would always wake up before his alarm went off. He considered it getting cheated out of sleep, but he knew he had to get up or risk being late for class. Today was thursday however, so he felt relieved he didn't have class until early afternoon. Still, despite getting to sleep rather late last night, getting up early enough for some breakfast and training before class was important to a solider in his eyes. He groaned and turned his alarm off pre-maturely and sat up in the normal academy twin-sized bed and sat down and we looked over at his still sleeping roommates. [b]"Feh...bunch of slackers."[/b] he said as he rubbed his hand through his hair and started up for the shower. He grabbed a couple of towels and tossed them on the closed toilet, as he began to shed his clothing and started up the shower. He stepped in and let the warmer then normal water spray down on him as he leaned himself against the wall and dipped his head down to get his hair wet. Many thoughts ran through his mind as the water beat down on him. He thought about how great last night was with Monique, the way she just jumped on him and things getting pretty heated from there. He also thought about why Clyne got so upset at him when he told her. He figured she knew that him and Momo were close like that. He sighed and just shook his head, oblivious to any latent feelins Clyne might have had. [b][i]'Man...what's with girls being so sensitive about everything? Why do I have to be made out to seem like the bad guy even when I haven't done anything wrong?'[/i][/b] he thought to himself as he finished up his shower. Syrus stepped out, dried up, and got dressed. He looked at his watch, it read 7:27. He walked back into the main area of his room and noticed his roommates still sleeping. One of them 2 years younger then the senior class, who liked to think he was popular with the girls. Brandol, a fraud of a playboy to say the least. Syrus would tease him sometimes saying that he could get more action in a single night then Brandol could in a year. Not the most dedicated student either, Syrus shook his head when he thought about him and how he probably would never be good enough to pass his final exams in two years. The other one was a pretty cool and laid back guy who Syrus got along with rather well. His name was Jed, a member of the senior class as well. In personality the two got along, but they don't typically spar together. Jed refuses to step onto a battle ground against Syrus, rather then beside him. He threw his academy uniform jacket on as the finishing touch and grabbed his trusty broadsword from beside his bed. He opened the door and walked out, headed straight for the cafeteria to get himself a nice big breakfast. [b]"Oh man, I can smell the food all the way from here! Nothing like a bacon and sausage omelette, a stack of 4 pancakes with maple syrub, hash browns, and some slices of pineapple to start a day off!"[/b] he said to himself as he sped up his pace. He rounded the corner toward the end of the the east wing dorms, where the entrance to the wind with the cafeteria was. The last group of dorms there were the B section, for Black Magic majors. He turned the last corner but before taking another step he was ran into by female student with strawberry blond hair. Syrus was only moved a bit out of place as the girl fell flat on her bottom. She was accompanied by a male student who looked rediculously like the girl who ran into him. It was pretty obvious even to a blind man that these two were related. [b]"Ow...dammit! Get out of my way would ya!"[/b] she screamed up at Syrus as she picked herself up and ran around him. Syrus just stood there with a dumbfounded look on his face as he followed her with his eyes, wondering what the hell just happened. Her brother quickly walked up to Syrus and placed his hands together in an aplogetic form. [b]"I'm really sorry about that, please forgive my sister...she's very, well..."[/b] [b]"Yeah don't worry about it...I think I know the type. I had no idea the halls were so damn active on a thursday morning."[/b] Syrus responded. [b]"Um, my name is Circes. My sister is Cassandra, again i'm quite sorry."[/b] Circes said bowing his head to Syrus. Syrus waved his hand, as if to tell him it really wasen't neccesary to apologize so much. [b]"CIRCES! Would you hurry up, please!? God, you can be so slow sometimes!"[/b] Carrot yelled back, loud enough for practically the whole wing to hear. Circes snapped to attention and started running toward her way. [b]"Um, gotta go! Sorry, it was nice meeting you!"[/b] Circes said before running after his sister. Syrus shook his head and just continued on to the cafeteria before something else happened on the way there. He did wonder though why they seemed to be in such a hurry. A lot of rumors have been going around campus since yesterday, but Syrus tried to forget about them. What he needed now was a big breakfast, and some serious training before his Blue Magi class. [/color][/FONT]

[font=tahoma]In my eyes, the ideal way a RP should be i believe i expressed around the time i put Sinister Nation up. Control to a certain degree is not only useful but probably essential to the success of an RP. But to a light degree, as i tried to promote through my RP (along with many other examples from past RPs). This included merely stating what the general idea of what certain [b]days/chapters[/b] should entail. Whether it be [i]"Students, interact with each other!"[/i] or [i]"Everyone undertake a mission of your choosing!"[/i]. Examples like those offer a degree of guidence while allowing for an ample amount of creative freedom. What should be included in the general guidelines from the creator are things absolutely [b][i]not[/b][/i] to do, such as in my SN RP i stated that eventhough people could choose whatever they wanted as a mission to showcase their talents, not to kill off any of the important to the story NPCs (Corbin, Murdocks, etc). I however do not believe in restricting chapters or days to only a certain amout of people to post. This restricts people and is risky due to possible cases of unreliability on the parts of those who are required to post. It isn't fair to everyone to have to wait on someone who isn't as dedicated or just cannot post. An example of this is The Boss's [u]War in the Shadows[/u], in which Di.fm was the last person required to post in the chapter we left off in, but never did. Granted i noticed Boss went MIA shortly afterwards, but the example remains valid as it pertains to the guidelines being too restricting. It may appear to be the best way to convey best certain parts of an RP, but i believe even if certain people are not meant to participate in an event going on, they should atleast have the freedom to post about different things, in which to occupy their own time while it's their turn to engage in the main storyline. A greater abundance of room for creative freedom in the hands of the participants is extremely important. But just as an assembly line has a foreman to oversee things, depsite the workers being the most essential part, and RP's creator should have an idea of the general direction of where the RP should go. It's really as simple as that, IMO. Everyone should be on the same page in the long run when participating in an RP, despite each character requiring a noticeable amount of individuality.[/font]

[font=tahoma][color=darkslategray]Joachim hoverd his body over the edge between the main ground and the first pillar. The pit was deep, but the lava below was obvious from it's heat and the sound. He peered back up and watched the sleeping dragon. [b][i]"How am I going to get out of this? The concept seems simple but who knows if i can really do it?"[/b][/i] Joachim thought to himself. He took multiple deep breaths and held the hilt of the Kusanagi on his side for good luck. He took a decent sized leap onto the first pillar and landed with the soles of his feet half off each edge. He balanced himself rather quickly and noticed his stance was not wide what so ever. With his feet within inches of each other, and yet half of his feet still stuck out over the edge. He exhaled and looked up at the dragon first, it was still sleeping. He now searched with his eyes for the next closest pillar. He noticed the one directly to his right, as he turned his body slowly and carefully. He inhaled deeply again as he inched as close to the edge of the first pillar as he could. He counted to 3 in his head and jumped over to the next pillar, this time slipping a little with his left foot before grabbing hold of the edges wit his hands. Some tiny rocks crumbled from the impact of his body hitting the pillar, as they rolled down and found their place in the sea of lava. Joachim jolted his head up to check on the status of the dragon. It's head moved subtly, but it seemed like it was still asleep. [b]"Man...there's gotta be another way..."[/b] Joachim said aloud, sweat drops clearly forming around his head. He looked over at the other end of the gorge. 7 pillars left...he detested the idea of jumping between them all. He sighed deeply and positioned himself for the next jump. He began his countdown again... [center]* * * * *[/center] [center][b]One...[/b][/center] His breathing got more rapid, to match his heartbeat. The dragon's eyelids seemed to move but Joachim had no time to confirm. [center][b]...two...[/b][/center] Joachim flexed his calves, getting ready for the jump. [b][i]'This is no problem, I can do this...just stay focused.'[/b][/i] he repeated to himself in his head. The dragon began to move down, it's eye eased open very slowly as it surveyed the area quickly, seeing the young boy attempting to traverse the pillars. [center][b]...THREE![/b][/center] [center]* * * * *[/center] Joachim leaped toward the next one, but a giant gust of wind emitting from the giant dragon's breathe forced Joachim off course and send him flying backwards clearly stray from the path of pillars. Joachim's body plummeted downward as a brief yet powerful scream came from his mouth. [b][i]'No...this is it...i'm going to die! I'm going to succumb to the traps in this damn place just like everyone else, why did this have to happen to us...WHAT DID WE DOOO!?'[/b][/i] Joachim screamed in his head as he neared the lava. His doom seemed impendent until a light breeze encircled his left arm. His arm jolted out on it's own as the Kusanagi thrusted into the side of the gorge, Joachim's momentum stopped abruptly as he hung on to the sword which was now embedded. [b]"You...saved me again. This is what now...the third time? Man, do i even deserve to be saved?"[/b] Joachim said aloud, adrenaline pumping through his body at this point. Joachim's eyes grew more focused and he even began to grow angrier. He was tired of feeling like a ragdoll and he knew if he was going to survive on his own he had to start being tougher. He found himself drawing most of his strength from Callisto during the time they spent together, but now they were seperated... [b]Fine! I'll thank you for saving me so many times by asserting my own strength into you! Don't give up on me, ok?[/b] he yelled at the sword as he glanced upward to see the Dragon crashing through the pillars with it's wingspan, jetting straight for the dangling Joachim. Joachim started intently at the dragon as it approached at top speed. Mere feet away the dragon thrusted it's head, mouth open at Joachim. Joachim stepped off the wall and leaped as far upward as he could and pulled the sword out of the wall causing him to drop. The dragon's teeth crunched into the rocks as Joachim aimed for it's leg and thursted the sword into the creature's leg, drawing blood and forming a stable grip for him. The dragon roared in pain and took a chunk out with it's teeth before spreading it's wings again and flying straight through the ceiling of the cavern. Joachim held on with all of his might as he started to slowly climb up the creature's leg, clutching his arm around as hard as he could while he used the sword as a step each time he shimmied up further. The dragon waved his foot about everytime his leg was pierced, trying to drop the boy but it was to little avail. The sword's power held onto Joachim, assisting his own strength. The lava filled cavern was in the distance now as the dragon soared through the skies at a low altitude. Joachim dared not look down, as he gritted his teeth nearing the neck of the dragon. In under a minute's time Joachim made his last stab and propped himself up and seated split-legged on top of the dragon's neck. [b]"This is your last flight!"[/b] Joachim yelled as he took the sacred blade and cut halfway into the creature's neck, forming an exceptionally deep horizontal wound. The Dragon bobbed his head back from the pain and began to drop it's altitude unwillingly. The area they were flying over came into view as it seemed to be a giant garden, complete with grass and flowers of all sorts. Joachim felt relieved that their crash landing wouldn't be in as scary of a place as the dragon's lair. He closed his eyes and held on tight expecting to be thrown off from the impact. The dragon fully lost control of it's motion as it fell sharply into the ground beneathe, launching Joachim a good twenty feet forward. Joachim braced himself as he hit the ground hard and rolled a good distance before falling into a 6 foot deep ditch around the size of a burial site. Joachim fell only about 3 feet horever before he crashed into something soft and hard at the same time. [b]"My goodness! What is this about? You...you are the boy with the sword?"[/b] the voice came. Joachim slowly opened his eyes and tilted his neck up to look at who was with him. There was much pain in his body, but his wounds were cut to a minimum thanks to the Kusanagi. Joachim saw flowing purplish hair and noticed he was laying against her chest, which was the soft part. After noticing he prompty jolted his head back in embarrasment, only to cause himself more pain. [b]"Argh! I...i'm sorry..."[/b] Joachim mustered out, clutching the back of his neck. [b]"You...i've seen you before. So you survived as well."[/b] [b]"I fear it's more complicated then that, child. I was dead in fact...but the fates seem to favor my return to this wretched place. Though i know not why, there must be a reason for it. Come, let us get out of this hole."[/b] she woman said, offering Joachim a boost. Joachim reached up and crawled himself out. He reached his arm down and helped the woman out as well. [b]"My name is Joachim, by the way."[/b] [b]"Pleased to meet you, Joachim. I am Maya."[/b] [center] [IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Labyrinth/labyrinth-lifecard.png[/IMG] [IMG]http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c323/SamSandy/Labyrinth/labyrinth-maya.jpg[/IMG] [/center] [center]* * * * *[/center] [b]"Hey! You look hurt, are you alright?"[/b] came a young high pitched voice from behind Joachim. Joachim turned his head and noticed a little girl standing these, accompanied by an older woman who was huffing and puffing, seemingly from running so much. [b]"Feng, Lita! You both are alright?"[/b] Maya asked, surprised she had been placed in the very place that served as her previous demise. [b]"Yes...but the minotaur...*pant pant*...it's still behind us!"[/b] Lita said in a shaky voice, fighting to catch her breathe at the same time. [b]"I see...it seems we will only be rid of it one way."[/b] Maya said as she stood up straight. Feng placed her hand on Joachim's shoulder and neck and started to work her healing power. She seemed to have gotten a hang of that part much more then the manifestation of flames. Joachim winced and screamed out as it hurt before it began to heal. Lita watched on in disbelief, she had no idea that little girl had such a power. [b]"T..thank you. I suppose the only good thing about this is that thanks to my sword my injured aren't as serious as they probably should be."[/b] Joachim said as he held it's hilt still in his left hand. The rumbling of the ground drew closer to them, as the burrowed minotaur broke through yet again and stood opposite of the slayed dragon from the fiery lair. The 4 of the remaining individuals stood and faced it, struck with both fear and anxiety. Maya's words were right, between them they posessed amazing powers...whether it was possible or not, they had to try and rid themselves of this beast. Joachim pointed his sword forward and readied himself, praying in his head for the Kusanagi to lend him it's power once again. Maya stood, arms crossed with a determined look on her face. She wanted revenge, not just for herself though...but for all those she had to watch die. To her, it was justice. Lita's eyes shook as she looked at the massive beast, but she drew courage from the others beside her, she wasen't sure what she could do...but she would find some way to be helpful. Feng backed up a little, trying to get her hands to flame up again...she wasen't sure exactly how to control it fully yet, but she was determined to help the others fight it off. She wanted the minotaur to pay for trying to kill her, and for killing Maya who protected her. [b]"We can do this..."[/b] Joachim said, as the four nodded in agreement. [/color][/font]

[center][font=tahoma] Wednesday, 33rd of Estembre 7:15 PM [/font] * * * * *[/center] [FONT=Tahoma][color=darkred]Momo got a pouty look in her eyes, she suspected Syrus's silence came from a preoccupation of his mind on Aizen again. She lowered her chin, but rather then get discouraged she decided to do something about it. She took her legs off of Syrus's lep and leaped over onto him. [b]"Whoa! What the..."[/b] Syrus said, startled. Mo straddled her legs across Syrus and sat on his lap facing him. She leaned up on him pressing her chest to his and slowly moved herself forward on Syrus's lap further toward his stomach. Syrus's eyes rolled back in his head for a quick second from the sudden sensation he got from Monique's motion. Syrus's hands found themselves to Momo's body without him even thinking about it. Momo gave an inviting smile, liking that she fully had his attention. [b]"I'll take your mind off of her...Syrus."[/b] she said in a low and melodic tone. Syrus wasen't about to fight it, but it took him a bit to register in his head why she was doing this. He wanted to tell her that he wasen't thinking about Aizen but she silenced him by pressing her mouth against his and deeply kissing him. She adjusted herself again and raised herself up on him so he could slip his hand underneathe her skirt. He happily obliged, as she now invited her tongue into his mouth. He wanted to clear things up with her but she hardly gave him a chance. Not that he was complaining. He spent so much time the past few weeks training hard (and reluctantly studying for what seemed to be back to back history exams) he had little time to really spend with his friends or Monique. He always enjoyed how aggressive Momo could be, not to mention she was especially motivated this time. She pulled him down on top of her off the chair onto the bunched up blankets she had set up to serve as a makeshift bed. She kicked her shoes off playfully and giggled a bit as Syrus began to take control. Her scent intoxicated him, and drove him even more. [center][color=black]* * * * *[/color][/center] Syrus lifted his watch up from the floor and glanced at it. The time read 9:56 PM, the night sky sparkled with a few stars, but it seemed darker then most days during the month of Estembre. He looked down at Mo who was snuggled up with a pillow, still asleep. The serene look on her face brought a smile to his, as he stood up and tossed his shirt on carelessly. [b][i]'It's getting pretty late...talk about a good way to lose track of time. I can't slack on my training though...I wish she would given me a chance to explain that my mind was actually on the finals. But oh well...things turned out pretty well anyway, hehe.'[/b][/i] Syrus thought to himself as he leaned over the edge of the little room they were in. He didn't want to wake her so she could cast that spell again just so he could get down. He took some time to admire her body a little bit more, eyeing her from head to toe. He covered her with the blankets before whipping out his blue magi crystal. [b]"Heh, let's see how much progress i've been making. I'm still only at 25% but as long as i keep studying with Professor Terep i'll have it up in no time"[/b] Syrus said confidently as he activated his crystal unleashing a copy of the wind magic Momo used to get them up to her secret room. Syrus rose in the air and stumbled off balance again. [b]"Gah! I definitly cannot get used to this...give me fire magic anyday."[/b] he said as he struggled to gain control on the air currents. He aimed himself toward the courtyard entrance and deactivated the magi close enough to the floor to just drop down lightly. He fixed his hair up a little and walked into the academy. He figured most of the students were in their dorms by now, studying hard before going to sleep. Especially the senior class with their final exams coming up fairly soon. He turned left at the entrance and headed toward his dorm before too late so he wouldn't wake his roommates. Another right brought him to the center of the building. Mo's secret place was a bit of a ways away from the dorm area, but he didnt mind the walk. A few noises from around the corner of the next intersection slowed his movement down a bit. It sounded like footsteps, someone else seemed to be roaming the halls. Syrus doubted it was anything to be concerned about but he readied his hand by [color=blue]Aludra's[/color] hilt just in case. Could never be too careful. Syrus snuck up to the corner and spun around it quickly only to see a fist pointed at his face. [b]"Gah! What the, Clyne what are you doing?"[/b] Syrus said, grabbing Clyne's hand instinctively. [b]"Syrus? I was the library gettin some books, what are YOU doing roaming around?"[/b] Clyne asked in return, her arms folded. [b]"I uh...just, I...was training..."[/b] Syrus replied, figuring Clyne already knew he was lying. [b]"Right, training?"[/b] Clyne said, rolling her eyes knowing that Syrus was with Monique. [b]"Well, I was headed to my dorm too...so if you really ARE headed there let's go together"[/b] Clyne said, taking it upon herself to make sure Syrus gets some sleep for the night. They continued on toward the dorms as they ran into yet another person out roaming the halls. It was Kristos, his pace was quick and the expression on his face quite serious. He walked quickly and brushed by Syrus, shoving his shoulder with his as he passed him. Syrus stopped and turned to him. [b]"Hey, didn't your mother ever teach you to say excuse me?"[/b] Kristos stopped for a second and looked back toward him. [b]"I have no desire to explain myself to you, Syrus Cainun. I'm doing something quite important."[/b] [b]"Ha, you sound all big and bad now. I saw you in the cafeteria, it was impressive don't get me wrong. But if you ever want to know what it's like to fight with a real warrior you better remember the name you just said."[/b] Syrus answered in a serious tone, focusing in on Kristos's eyes. Kristos turned his head and continued walking on, not wanting to get involved in anything other then finding the information he needed to know... [b]"Come on, he isn't as bad as you think. Save some energy for the exams will you?"[/b] Clyne said, pulling Syrus along with her. After a few more minutes they reached the wing of the building with the dorms. They had to walk across the I section of the dorms in order to get to where theirs was... [/color][/FONT]

[font=tahoma]*shrug* Yeah, why not. [b]Name[/b]: Avery [b]Species[/b]: [u][URL=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forest_falcon]Falcon[/URL][/u] [b]Colouring[/b]: Golden Brown / White. A noticeable blending on his body, his tail feathers being purely white. [b]Disposition[/b]: Avery can be a pain in the ***, and quite greedy at times. He's got a sharp mind though, and it often serves as the basis for his superiority complex. Aside from his outward undesireable attitude though he actually takes the forest's security quite seriously and will often make remarks about looking out for everyone, but never getting anything back in return. Though he prefers to undertake the role anyway. [b]Anything else[/b]: Avery is a bit of a complainer, as aforementioned. He also despises the stereotype that all birds eat worms, despite eating them himself. Uncharacteristic for a bird as well, he strangely enjoys the rain.[/font]

[font=tahoma][color=darkred]Syrus sighed as he sat down beside Clyne and rested himself. Clyne looked over at him, confused as to why he just stood there infront of Strom. It didn't seem like Syrus, and Clyne knew when something weird was going on. [b]"Um...Syrus?"[/b] She began to say. [b]"That bum just dosen't get it does he?"[/b] [b]"Huh? What do you mean?"[/b] Clyne asked, unsure of what Syrus meant. [b]"Strom. He's too damn sensitive. As if i'd draw my weapon and start something over something so trivial. A fight between us would be a lot more damaging then that pansy warm up we just went through. If you think for one second i'd put my career at risk because of an uncalled for squabble, you are mistaken."[/b] Syrus said, standing up and stretching. [b]"Wow...never took you to be so, well...noble."[/b] Clyne joked. [b]"You knew ever since I came here, becoming a risk breaker has been the most important thing to me...I wouldn't actually TRY to jeopardize that."[/b] Syrus replied, a bit annoyed Clyne thought differently. [b]"Well...you know you can be pretty damn unreasonable yourself when you get angry. I remember instances where it was you with your weapon to his throat..."[/b] Clyne said, trying to keep Syrus in check. [b]"Hmph...the past is the past."[/b] was all Syrus said as he started walking off toward the exit. [b]"Hey, where are you going?"[/b] Clyne asked, taking a few steps forward so she wouldn't have to yell. [b]"Going to look for Mo and spend some time with her. She seemed pretty upset before. I don't really feel like studying anymore anyway."[/b] He said, walking through the double doors. After a few steps he ran into Aizen, she looked up and looked startled for a second before realizing who it was. [b]"Syrus! H..hi."[/b] she said, still shaken up from the incident before. Syrus noticed her pale face and she was still shaking. His eyes narrowed as he put a more serious expression on his face. [b]"Aizen...is something the matter?"[/b] Syrus asked in a concerned tone. Aizen looked into his eyes. She didn't want to say anything, she especially didn't want to look even more weak infront of Syrus then she already had before. Her voice was still shaky but she hoped that he would be convinced nonetheless. [b]"N..no. I'm fine...really. I think i'll just go back to my room for a little bit..."[/b] she said, looking away from Syrus. Syrus steadied his glance toward her, took a deep breath and just sighed. [b]"Alright then. I'll see you around then, right?"[/b] Syrus replied. Aizen nodded as he continued on his way. Halfway down the hall he turned around and called back out to her. [b]"You should know...I know what people say. I may not be the most perceptive person but I can tell when something is wrong. Regardless of how I may seem, I do care. I'm here if you want to talk...and I still have to show you some javelin techniques, right?"[/b] Syrus said, hoping he could convince Aizen that he was trustworthy. Aizen stopped in her place and smiled to herself. She wasen't really sure how to think at that time, but she felt much better knowing that Syrus was actually worried about her. [b]"Yeah!"[/b] Aizen said with a nod and a smile. The two students continued on their way. Syrus really wanted to see Monique, he hoped she wasen't upset with him. At the same time he was concerned about Aizen. He couldn't get how timid and meek she was out of his head, he wondered if she really expected to become a risk breaker. He thought about how certain people liked taking advantage of girls like her...it enraged him to even think of it. But the last thing he needed now was a headache. Stress rates were high, being close to finals and all. All Syrus wanted to really do now was relax. As usual, he put studying for history off till later. [/font][/color] [center]* * * * *[/center] [size=1]OOC: Leaving off into the evening time. [/size]

[font=tahoma][color=darkred]Kristos stared down Issac as the other students taunted Alex, the one that once held Alex's sword in his hand who was downed by the robed student layed still while the other 2 tried to make a run for it toward Syrus's table. Clyne eyed Syrus out of her corners and saw his eyes focusing on one of the running students. [b]"Syrus, don't even think about it. Do not get involved!"[/b] Clyne pleaded. Strom finished up his lunch and laughed a bit to himself. The two students ran by, one of them tripping clear over Syrus's extended leg, the other tripping over Strom's. The students got up and angrily confronted the two. [b]"Who in the hell do you bastards think you are!?"[/b] the one yelled into Syrus's face. Syrus jolted up almost instantly and reamed the student down to the floor with a single punch. His friend saw this with shock, and tried to turn and run but Strom grabbed him by the back of his shirt collar and tossed him onto the adjacent table. Kristos meanwhile pinned Issac against the wall and adhered him there with a few icicles created from his palms, creating a human like dart board through the loose ends of his clothing. He eyed the other 3 students who were involved. [b][i]'Hm, that's quite interesting. Issac's little gang was always a bunch of weaklings anyway.'[/b][/i] Some other students looked to get into the mix until the doors burst open and 2 representatives from the academy security ran in. [b]"Alright! Break this up now! Put everything back where they belong!"[/b] one of the guards yelled, as the other one began to round up the downed students Syrus, Strom, and Lazarus took care of. [b]"You weren't needed you know"[/b] Syrus said to Strom with a scowl. [b]"I could say the same for you."[/b] Storm answered, dusting off his hands. [b]"Ha, i'd like to see YOUR knock out punch."[/b] [b]"Wow, would you two stop? You guys even fight after you beat people down together huh?"[/b] Clyne asked rhetorically. Syrus walked over Alex who now held his sword back in his hands. The cafeteria slowly came back into order. [b]"Hey, you alright?"[/b] Syrus asked, standing tall over Alex. He turned his head and eyed Leon out of his corners, wondering what his intentions were. He seemed pretty calm considering what happened. The guards left with the 3 students as they were taken straight to the headmaster's office. Issac still hung by his clothing, as he struggled to break free. Kristos watched him and shook his head. He broke the icicles that bound him to the wall and let him down. [b]"You still want to fight me? Then come."[/b] Kristos said, finding amusement in giving Issac a fighting chance.[/font][/color]

[QUOTE=Doublehex]Ah, okay I see now. *Notes to self to tell Sin its not good to invite Omega to sign up for RP...*[/QUOTE] [font=tahoma]Damn, talk about oppurtunistic. lol. Ya still could though, if you look at it technically there are 13 chars if you take Sandy's twins into consideration. One more player couldn't hurt.[/font]

[QUOTE=Doublehex] Ahem, MILITARY academy, anyone? [/QUOTE] [font=tahoma]So is the dance class a capoeira class or something? lol[/font]

[FONT=Tahoma][color=darkred]Syrus could seem pretty split in his demeanor at times. The fact that he enjoyed the company of girls and yet the soft spot in his heart caused him to hate the way they can be sometimes. Especially when they act unreasonably toward people who didn't deserve it. Though it wasen't just a thing that girls to to girls, it was pretty much a people thing. Syrus always tried to put first everything that is essential to being the best risk breaker he can, which usually meant battle, training, and keeping in shape. He'd be a pretty miserable person without his friends though, and it's that same soft spot that makes the competition and battle craving Syrus also be a friendly and indulgent Syrus. There was one aspect of his personality that seemed to combine both however, and that was defense and protectiveness. It seemed unofficial that his obligation was to defend those who needed it the most in his eyes, namely the weak and his friends. That was the true duty of a soldier, with the thrill of battle being an added joy. Though in his agitated state, it could seem reversed. He stood beside Aizen looking upwards toward the school walls. Behind them was the water, the waves could be heard splashing against the rocks at a adagio tempo. He turned to Aizen, who was still trying to cover herself up from the "accident" in the cafeteria. [b]"You know...you gotta start standing up for yourself. People like that don't need a reason to mess with ya, know what I mean?"[/b] Syrus said, causing Aizen to look up from her seated position. She observed Syrus's confident stance and his intimidating sword attached to his back. [b]"Y..yeah, I guess."[/b] Aizen managed to say in a bit of a muffled tone. [b]"It isn't like you can't fight either...I see you everyday in weapons training class. Plus your a senior too so it isn't like your helpless. What's your magic specialty anyway?"[/b] Syrus asked, peering over his shoulder at Aizen. [b]"Well, my major is Support...and my minor is wind elemental."[/b] was the reply. [b]"Heh, yeah I can see that. You seem like the support type."[/b] Syrus said while placing both of his hands behind his head in a lean-back sort of pose. [b]"Huh? Oh...is that a bad thing?"[/b] Aizen asked, unsure of how to perceive Syrus's comment. Syrus turned to her rather quickly and took his arms down. [b]"Huh? No no! I didn't mean anything by it, i just mean...well it's pretty important so it's not like i'm insulting you!"[/b] he said, waving his arms infront of him trying to think of a way to fix what he said. Aizen left out a soft sigh, feeling a little better that he at least felt as if her role in the academy was an important one. Syrus reached down and grabbed Aizen's javelin that was laying beside her. It took a few seconds for Aizen to realize he had taken it, and she popped her head up and looked at him. [b]"You can throw this thing pretty well...your deceptively strong. But how are you at handling it in the fray?"[/b] Syrus asked, swinging the javelin around a bit to loosen his arms. [b]"Oh! I mean...I've been working on it, but..."[/b] [b]"I can show you a few things sometime...i mean if you want. I've trained with weapons of all types, I just prefer to use my baby here!"[/b] Syrus exclaimed, patting the hilt of [color=blue]Aludra[/color]. Aizen watched Syrus do some practice thrusts and defensive menuvers with the javelin, like it was his weapon of choice. [b]"Sure, that would be great!"[/b] Aizen said excitedly, happy really at the fact that Syrus expressed interest in her company and not so much at the specifics at the moment. [b]"Alright! Well as for now, let's go get some lunch. "[/b] Syrus said, still hungry. He also forgot that he left without finishing his studying with Sakura, and that he was supposed to meet Monique there as well. [b]"Um, alright...but I want to go change really quick, ok?"[/b] Aizen said, a little nervous about sitting down with a group of people. Especially people like Clyne, who despite having spoken to on a few occaisions was still one of the popular girls. She wanted to make a good impression so they didn't think she was a loser. [b]"No problem, but hurry ok?"[/b] Aizen took her javelin back and hurried to her dorm. [color=black][center]* * * * *[/center][/color] Syrus left the garden and on his way back to the cafeteria, bumped into Strom Vanguard. They ran into each other at the merging of a hallway fork and stopped before nearly bumping into each other. [b]"Well, if it isn' Syrus Cainun."[/b] Strom said, sending a grin Syrus's way. [b]"Hmph, you seem awfully smug about holding your own with me today. You think you can do it again?"[/b] Syrus responded, narrowing his eyes. [b]"I guess we'll jus have ta see, eh? Right now though, i'm goin' get me some lunch"[/b] Strom said as he started walking toward the cafeteria. [b][i]'Great, as long as he dosen't sit at my table...'[/b][/i] Syrus thought to himself as he reluctantly walked in the same direction. They arrived at the cafeteria, Strom grabbed a tray and started picking out what he wanted. Syrus sternly walked passed him toward his table, as if to say "keep away from me" with his body language. Syrus saw Monique sitting with Clyne with about 3 other students, 2 other girls and 1 guy. [b]"Hey there you, I heard you ran off all of a sudden. I was afraid you weren't going to come back!"[/b] Monique said, leaning her chin against her palms. Syrus took his seat that was still open between Clyne and Monique. [b]"Heh, nah. You kiddin me? I only had half a sandwhich and a few fries, i can still eat a horse."[/b] Syrus said as he tried to steal a pretzel from Clyne's bag, only to have his hand slapped away. [b]"Yeah, and you forgot your textbook here, and you never answered my other question!"[/b] Clyne said, shoving Syrus's text book infront of him. [b]"Oh, right...um, what was it again?"[/b] [b]"Oh forget it, now that everyone is here we should all start together."[/b] Clyne said. [b]"Oh, and by the way. That girl Aizen is going to join us. She's just changing her clothes."[/b] Syrus added. [b]"Aizen? You mean that really quiet girl with the green hair?"[/b] Monique asked, as she playfully twirled her textbook around the table. [b]"Yeah, she's the one."[/b] [b]"Uh huh...I figured that's where you went."[/b] Clyne said, implying that she was right again. Monique leaned back in her chair and propped her feet up on Syrus's lap and rested them there. She subtly crossed her legs and moved her chair a little closer. [b]"Alright, so where do we start?"[/b] she asked, as she got settled in. Before anyone could say anything, Strom walked by the table with a tray of food. Clyne looked over recognizing him. [b]"Hey Strom, want to join us?"[/b] she asked, pointing out an empty chair. [b]"What the hell! Why are you asking him?"[/b] Syrus mumbled to Clyne promptly, clearly opposed to the idea. Strom looked over at Syrus's discontent and walked over to the table. [b]"Well sure, i'd love to!"[/b] Strom said, seating himself with a grin toward Syrus's direction. Syrus rolled his eyes and mumbled under his breathe. Strom took a bit of his chicken cutlet and glanced over at Clyne for a few seconds. [b]"Ya know Clyne, a beautiful an' intellegent girl like yourself should really reconsider hangin' out with guys like Syrus."[/b] Strom said, with every intention to instigate. Syrus drew his attention away from Monique upon hearing the comment. [b]"What was that!? You got a problem with me, you take it up with me you got that?"[/b] [b]"A problem? No no, jus makin' a suggestion."[/b] Strom said, eating his food pretending like he was just making friendly conversation. [b]"Here's a suggestion from me to you, [i]buddy[/i], shut your mouth and i won't have to stomp it shut with my boot!"[/b] [b]"What's with the violent behavior? Didn' you get it all out in Shaver's class?"[/b] [b]"You haven't seen what I can do with violent behavior yet!"[/b] Before the squabble could continue, Clyne reached behind both Syrus and Strom's heads and slapped them. [center]"Oww!" [color=indigo]"Oww!"[/color][/center] [b]"There, much better. Now we can begin"[/b] Clyne stated as silence aside from laughter fell upon the table. [/color][/FONT] [center]* * * * *[/center] [size=1]OOC: Well, i certainly didn't intend for this post to come out as long as it did...heh. You guys can take it from here and go whereever. Just figured i'd get some interaction done and build up some more of the particular relationships between Syrus and certan other students for the future.[/size]

[QUOTE=Keyblade Wielder][COLOR=Purple][SIZE=1][FONT=Tahoma]Holy crap... there's already a lot of posts from TODAY. I mean, I looked this up before I went to school and now there's a lot. WHAT THE FRICKIN' CRAP... some of us have school, you know!! XD Lol I kid. Anyway, yeah, it would be awesome if we got to interact with people from the previous CAF... I would love to see Rinoa now. :D Anyways, Aizen will have only four classes if that's alright... she's the type that doesn't want to interact with the [I]mean[/I] people, if you get my drift.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR][/QUOTE] [font=tahoma]We have school, we just also have computers AT school mwahahaha :p (Well, I do...lol) And yeah tekka, that pretty much explains it. Everyone (pretty much I think) being seniors should be taking their last classes anyhow (passing them is another story). I assumed students could choose if they wanted to take electives of what not. Like I told Sakura last night, classes like dancing or even others not listed could be considered extra classes based on the interests of the student. Syrus specifically is the type to just take what he has to in order to improve his skills. He's a dedicated and hard worker when it comes to the classes about battle, and tends to forsake the less important classes (in his eyes) like History and what not. [/font]

[font=tahoma]I only mentioned four since Syrus isn't the type of person to take up electives. He just wants to take the required courses. I just tried to follow the time schedule to have the classes matched up. [/font]

[font=tahoma][color=darkslategray]Maya stared downward into what seemed to be an endless sky. She closed her eyes and sighed to herself. [b]"Truly, the fates toy with me."[/b] she said aloud to herself as she began searching around the room with her eyes for another way out. Her search was interuppted by a faint voice in her head. This one...for some reason was clear as day, unlike the muffled voices of before. [center][color=green][b][i]'Faith will bring you structure...heed the calling of your heart...'[/b][/i][/color][/center] [b][i]'Faith?...what would this mean?'[/b][/i] Maya thought to herself as she stared down into the clouds. She felt the breeze ffom below as she took a moment to enjoy it. She foud it hard to believe that anything within this hellhole of a place could be enjoyable, but she knew the horrors weren't at an end yet. It then struck her as she continued to stare downward. [b][i]'Faith will bring me...structure? That can't be it...can it?'[/b][/i] Maya thought to herself as she reseated herself so her legs hung off the edge of the trap door, her feet dangling down toward the clouds. She reached down and took one of her shoes off and tossed it lightly downward, and watched as it landed plainly ontop of a cloud as if it were solid. [b]"So that is it. I suppose it is better then staying up here to rot."[/b] Maya said, as she closed her eyes and dropped her body down toward the cloud. With a soft thud, she landed on top of the cloud leaving only a small inprint of her body on the soft surface. She peered over the edge of the cloud and saw a pattern of steps she intended on taking. She took the same shoe from before and tossed it onto the next cloud, to test that one as well. It landed safely again. Maya leaped and landed on the next cloud down. She continued with the same tactic, throwing her shoe making sure the clouds were safe to be on before leaping to each one. Before long she was able to see a field of grass and flowers below, it seemed finally as if the sky had an end. Maya found it hard to fathom how complex this place actually was, as everything started as a maze and as everyone split it seemed to have no limits as to what shapes and forms it could take. As she descended one more cloud, a cold and killing intend began to alert Maya's senses once again. She became concerned, wondering if something was to befall her before she reached the ground. Her suspicions were soon put to sleep however as she was now in range to see the field clearly, as well as an upheavel in the ground in the distance. In front of that were more upheavels, all of which with extravagent size. [b][i]'It seems something burrows within these grounds...'[/b][/i] she thought to herself as she looked around for more instances. Over to the left however, she noticed a small girl romping around in the field of flowers, picking some as she went on. Maya slightly recognized her, she believe she saw her back with the others in the graveyard. She frantically looked around for more clouds and saw only 3 more before the ground, but they were quite far. She thought it best to try and call out to her first, though she didn't recall her name. Feng Li took a break from picking for a second and gazed around, as she began to feel the earth move. The sense Maya felt started to take physical form on the ground below. [b]"An earthquake or something? Well that dosen't seem too dangerous...there's nothing to fall on me!"[/b] Feng said to herself, trying to be brave in the potential face of danger. By this point Maya has screamed out for the "little girl" to be careful around 3 times, but it seemed as if her voice could not carry well enough. Maya readied herself to try again but she was interuppted by the ground beggining to quake and crack only a few yards away from Feng. From below the ground arose a frightful looking beast of lore, but exaggerated in size. Maya recognized it clearly as a minotaur, it propped itself up on 4 legs as it stood almost as high as the clouds themselves. Feng was still content with pre-occupying her time with the flowers, assuming everything that was happening was a harmless earthquake. The minotaur stalked after Feng slowly as Maya tried screaming again, but again to no avail. She decided she had to get down there as fast as she could to warn her. Maya quickly grabbed the shoe off of her other foot and tossed it down to the closest cloud. Only this time the shoe went clear through. [b]"No...why would it stop here?"[/b] Maya said to herself, discouraged. She looked down and saw Feng Li staring up into the sky with an annoyed look on her face. She wondered if Feng had noticed her. [b]"Owwww! Hey! Who the heck is throwing shoes!?"[/b] Feng said, rubbing her head from where the high heel had hit her. Feng was now turned around as she froze in place next, as she finally saw the giant minotaur only feet away from her. Feng's eyes began to quiver and tears involounteeringly flowed from them. She felt so much fear at that time, all the faux bravery left her body. [b]"Well, I guess that worked too...at least she sees it now!"[/b] Maya said as she watched on hoping she would run. But Feng was frozen in place, not knowing what to do. [b]"No! Don't stand still little one, run! You must run!"[/b] Maya yelled, hoping Feng would hear her. The minotaur leaned it's head down toward Feng as she stared into it's enclosed teeth, frightened to death. Maya clinched her hands and bowed her head down to the cloud, thinking hard of something she could do. So many things ran through her mind, the perils facing that little girl pained her so much. She couldn't shake the cryptic patterns running through her mind, forcing themselves out of her mouth aloud, as if her spirit began to manifest itself sub-consciously. [b][i][color=purple]"De Dyaus Pita, Fo Parjanya, Pi Sarasvati, Aten Ha Bes Ma'at, Vayu! Apas! Parjanya![/color][/b][/i] The incantation seemed to take hold of Maya's tongue, as the sky grew dark, and the very cloud she was on began to moisten and grow cold. Feng noticed a drop of rain fall on her nose, as it seemed to snap her out of her daze. The minotaur took it's oppurtunity and lunged it's head at Feng, mouth open prepared to tear her to shreds. Feng fell backwards in a single motion and screamed out loudly as she place her hands infront of her face in an instinctive action of self-preservation. As the minotaur grew within arms length of her, the beasts's eye became engulfed in flames. It reeled back and swung it's head wildly trying to ease the pain of the fires. Feng opened her eyes slowly, surprised she was still alive. She looked at her hands, as the fires around them dimmed down and all that was left was smoke. [b][i]'Huh...it, it happened again!'[/b][/i] was all Feng could say to herself as she watched the beast writhe in pain. She knew it wasen't going to stop him for good though, it still had one good eye and there was no doubt it was angered now. The minotaur recovered finally and thrusted forward for Feng again but a bolt of lightning shooting down from the sky kept it from reaching her. The minotaur looked up as the sky now poured down rain, complete with violent winds and lightning. Maya stayed herself in her position, literally still like a statue as if possessed. The lightning continued to shoot down, forcing the minotaur to back itself away each time. It was clearly afraid of the lightning, as Feng tried to shelter herself from the rain with her arms. The minotaur dug it's way back into the ground to avoid the lightning and began to burrow itself away from their position. Maya broke out of her trance and fell slightly onto the cloud. She looked down and saw Feng sheltering herself from the rain. She waved her hand and the intense wind blew the remaining three clouds closer to one another, she figured if the top one was a normal cloud, one of the bottom ones must be solid enough to hold her. She leaped down and fell through the first two clouds, falling with a soft thud on the bottom one, and from there down to the ground onto a think pile of grass. Feng looked up and saw Maya seated in the grass. Maya dashed over to Feng and helped her up. [b]"Child, we must go. There is a good chance the beast may return once the storm dies down."[/b] she said, as she lifted Feng. They began to run the opposite direction from where the minotaur came, hoping the storm would buy them some time. Feng looked up confused at her, she didn't know who Maya was or why she was helping her but she was willing to take her chances. [b][i]'The storm...did this woman do that? How scary...'[/b][/i] Feng thought to herself as they continued running. Meanwhile, Scott was wandering by himself wondering what was in store for him after seeing Feng run off by herself into the door. He leaned against a stone wall to rest, but it was short lived as the wall caved in and crumbled forcing Scott to tumble inward down a steep tunnel. Jagged rocks made the fall painful, but not enough to induce any major wounds. Scott crashed through another seemingly fallible wall and rolled a ways before his momentum died down. [b]"Geez...can't even get a moment's rest can I?"[/b] he said, taking his glasses off the ground and placing them back on his face. Scott got up and clutched his side slightly where most of the pain from the fall was concentrated. He limped a bit toward the only opening aside from the one he fell through. He walked through the archway and came to a giant cylindrical room, with pathways hugging the walls in spiral staircase fashion. He looked down and saw ground, so he was not very far up. Upwards however he noticed a large object hanging from the middle of what he presumed to be a ceiling, since he couldn't actually see it past the size of the object. It seemed to have an opening on the bottom of it's oval and ridged shape, with green and yellow think liquid dripping from the opening. [b]"Don't need to be an architect to know that whatever that is, can't be a good sign."[/b] He said, as he reluctantly started descending the spiral staircase while keeping a watchful eye on the giant hive like structure. [/color][/font]