RPG Final Fantasy: Quest for the Crystals [M-LVS]

[Redemption]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS][COLOR=Navy][center][size=3][b][u]Final Fantasy: Quest for the Crystals[/u][/b][/size][/center]

Ivalice - two very different wolds...

A small town high in the mountains. It is winter this time of year and snow has been falling softly over the past few days, covering the town in a blanket of white. A small school sits atop a small hill on the outskirts of the town.

This is the place where a group of teenagers will become part of a legend in a world that is very different from the one that they know.

Strange creatures?ever changing laws?medieval clothing?swords, spears and bows?warriors, archers and mages?

And, of course, the Crystals?

The Crystals, that represent the five races of this strange world and the world seam, have disappeared from Bervenia Palace. Rumours have spread over the land of the disappearance of the Crystals and the growing evil in Jagd Ahli. The people of this world have grown in fear as night after night, small villages and towns are pillaged, leaving the inhabitants with nothing.

The Queen then summoned her people and told them of a prophecy a wise sage told her not long after the Crystals vanished.

Six warriors, each representing one Crystal, will appear from another world and extinguish the growing evil throughout the world.

Or so the sage says.[/COLOR]

[CENTER]***************************[/CENTER]

[COLOR=Red]A cold wind whipped up around Dyna as she walked alone to her school in the snow-covered town of Ivalice. Clutching her books to her chest, Dyna let the wind whip her raven-black hair around her face.

" Damn wind. Go away!" she snapped in annoyance.

Up the concrete path, Dyna stepped carefully, wary of the ice that had formed last night. It was the middle of winter and the school hadn't been closed for the day although most vehicles couldn't get through the snow and deliver children to their classes that day.

" Brrrr! It's so cold..." Dyna snuggled into her red and orange scarf, trying to escape from the wind. It was a long walk to school for her. Her family lived on the outskirts of the town and the school conventiently happened to be in the centre.

Soon, Dyna found herself inside the warm entrance hall of the high-school. Shaking off the cold, Dyna put her coat and scarf in her locker and grabbed out the books she needed for her first class.

[B]First break...[/B]

Dyna walked into the warm library. She had to do some research for her Ancient history assignment on the Roman army. After setting down her folder and pencilcase on a spare study table, Dyna browsed the columns of bookshelves.

" I really don't want to do this assignment...What else could I do here?"

She walked over to the fantasy section and looked up and down the old bookcase. One book in particular caught her attention. It was very old and shabby.

" This one might be interesting."

Carefully taking it from the shelf, Dyna walked over to her table and sat down. She turned to the first page to see pictures of odd creatures drawn in it and notes written beside it in some unknown language.

" Wow....this looks better than my assignment!"

" What does?" asked a familiar voice from behind her.

OOC: Ok fellow players.Just to set the record straight, we all know each other somehow. Secondly, we all need to be in the library at the first break. Other than that, you have free license.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[Sakura]

[color=Navy]Sakura was fine with the weather, she loved it when it snowed, the air was nice and cold, just the way she liked it. A cold wind blew past and her short brown hair ruffled and her trenchcoat blew off to the side, following the path of the wind. She adjusted the goggles on her head so they were more stable.

Sakura walked along casually, she was used to walking the long distance, like her friend Dyna, she lived on the outskirts of town, but she enjoyed the long walks everyday, because she enjoys the outdoors a lot. She exhaled and looked at the mist that formed. She whistled comfortably and saw the High School building up ahead and walked over, almost missing the frozen ice. She backed up and ran forward, sliding across it skillfully. Sakura walked up the steps and entered the school hall. It was uncomfortably warm and she shrugged off her trenchcoat, transferring anything in its pockets to the ones in her cargos. She placed it in her locker and grabbed the necessary books and walked off to her first class.

[b]First break...

[/b]Sakura walked outside again, feeling the nice cold feeling of winter. One of the teachers saw her and pushed her inside, telling her to get a coat or she'd freeze, she felt a slight irritation toward the teacher, she was used to the cold and loved it, she frowned unhappily and walked around the school building, deciding to go into the Library, maybe she could find Dyna and talk with her. After wandering through the shelves she found the girl sitting at a table with a large book in front of her, and her file and pencilcase to the side, forgotten.

[font=Verdana][b]"[/b][/font][/color][font=Verdana][b][color=Navy]Wow....this looks better than my assignment!"[/color][/b][/font][font=Trebuchet MS][color=Navy][font=Verdana] she said.

Sakura smiled and approached her. [b]"What does?"[/b] she questioned.

Dyna whirled around and saw her, she smiled and beckoned her over.[/font]
[/color][/font]

[Retribution]

Shinji walked to school in his loose jeans, grey long sleeve shirt, and black ski jacket.

"Man... cold weather [i]again[/i]. This sucks." He said, complaining to himself. He prefered the warm weather, and was probably more suited to life in the Carribean than here. He adjusted his jacket a bit to cover up his neck.

He didn't have very far to walk, as he was only a few blocks from the school, but that made all the difference to him in these terrible temperatures. Eventually, he walked into school, and made his way to his locker.

"That would've been easier if I had a car. Maybe next year." He grabbed his books, and set off for the library. He didn't have any classes first period. Usually, he slept in and came to school for second period, but he decided he should get a head's start on the day.

[b]First Break[/b]

Shinji walked into the library, completely walking past several rows of books, and sat down at a computer. He heard light conversaton behind him, and decided to see who it was. Dyna and Sakura, talking. He had had crushes on both of them, at some point in time, but right now, he didn't have thoughts for either in particular. He was a good friend to them both. He stood up, and walked over, seeing what they were talking about.

"Hey, Sakura, Dyna. What's up?"

Dyna gestured to the book, and Sakura nodded her head in agreement. Shinji decided not to pry further into their conversation.

"Hm... Okay. What're you two doing tonight?"

"Are you asking us out on a [i]date?[/i] And the both of us? You have some nerve, Shinji." Sakura replied jokingly.

"Oh, no! I didn't mean for it to sound like that. I meant in Ivalice. Will you two be on later today?"

"Heh... sure Shinji. But yes, I'll be on." Dyna replied, with a grin on her face. Sakura agreed.

---

OOC: I'm not quite sure where this is headed. I don't even know if our characters know about Ivalice. So, amgoddess, if you could post to tell us what's going on, that'd speed things up.

[Kairi]

''Now Joseph...I want you to come straight home after school...ok; please.'' his grandma complaining as he got out of the car for school.

''I know grandma...I remember...no playing outside after school today. But grandma...I love the snow.''

''Remember what happened the other day when you decided to go exploring Joseph...snowboarding down that hill wasn't the brightest of ideas...you almost damn hurt yourself.''

''I know grandma...dont worry, I'll be right home after school ok. I promise...I love you grandma.'' as Joseph reached over to the drivers side and hugged his grandma.

''I love you too sweety; and fix your hair before you go to class...its all poofy and messy because of your hoody.''

Joseph got out of the car and waved to his grandma as she left the parking lot of the high school.

He was wearing his usual dark brown jacket with a black hoody and white/baish pants and boots. His red hair was all over the place as he pulled his hoody down. He didn't care though...with the snow falling into it...it looked like his hair was shiny from the suns reflection of light.

A group of 5 kids walked up to Joseph as he entered the school. Like every morning...a group of his friends would stand in a circle converging with one another...talking about the ''drama'' going on at school.

''Yo Joseph.'' said a boy named Jack...''nice look''

''Thanks man'' as he gave him a high five...''I was thinking of going a different direction today'' as he pointed to all the different directions that his hair was pointing.

***
First Break...
***

''Hey guys...I'll see you all later aight.'' as Joseph walked away from another group of friends as he spotted Dyna, Shinji and Sakura sitting on a table in the far left corner of the library.

Taking a seat beside Sakura...he put down his bookbag, took off his jacket..placing it on the chair and sat down.

''Whats up guys?''

[Orcus]

[COLOR=Blue][SIZE=1][B]"Have a good day, Shuuichi!"[/B] Shuuichi turned and waved to his mother, smiling.

[B]"You too mom! And thanks for the thermus of tea. It's great!"[/B] He turned around and walked towards school. He loved the snow, and loved seeing it all around him. The best part was that the tea he was drinking was keeping him warm. He took another sip of it and walked a little slower, trying to enjoy the scenery. He too a quick glance at his watch and then looked again.

[B]"Crap!!"[/B] He bolted off for school in a mad frenzy, hoping he wouldn't arrive late. He stopped at a crosswalk a couple blocks away from the school and shoved the thermus into his pocket. He waited patiently for the light to flash green then dashed across the cross-walk and almos slid right by the entrance to school.

[B]"Made it..."[/B] He ran to his locker threw his jacket in along with his thermus, grabbed his books and walked to his first class, ni linger worried about being punctual.

[B][U][I]First Break....[/I][/U][/B]

Shuuichi yawned as he walked out of the classroom. He walked over to his locker and grabbed his jacket and tea. He laughed when he took a sip.

[B]"Wow! Still warm..." [/B] He smilled and hummed to himself as he began to wander aimlessly. The next thing he knew, he had wandered in front of the library. He stopped.

[B]"Hmmm.....Dyna's probably in there...she has that assignment she has to work on. Guess I'll go look."[/B] He puched through the door and looked around. He spotted Joseph, Shinji, Sakura, and Dyna sitting at the same table. [B][I]Snazzy...[/I][/B] He cassually walked over to them and grinned.

[B]"Hey guys! What's shakin? Cool book there Dyna...though what's up with the print?" [/B] He sat down across from Dyna and peered at the book.[/SIZE][/COLOR]

[SIZE=1][B]OOC: Zeth wears [URL=http://otakuboards.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=22287]THIS[/URL] outfit. Only difference is his cloak is blue, it isn't ripped and his whole outfit is black and white (like I said in my profile).[/B][/SIZE]

[Redemption]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS][COLOR=Red]Dyna looked up into Shuuichi's face.
" Hey Shuuichi! This book....well...I was bored with doing my assignment....so I thought I'd read something fantasy. This book got my attention."

Shuuichi sat down between Sakura and Shinji. They all were looking at the book.

" Why would they have a book that no one can read in the library?" Joseph asked.

" The pretty pictures?" Shuuichi joked. Dyna and Sakura giggled. Shinji and Joseph looked at Shuuichi rather harshly.

" Oh Shuuichi!" Dyna sighed. " But I do get your point Joseph, why would they? Unless it's someone's that they left here and the library staff thought it was there's."

" Try and read some of the text," Sakura said, looking at the faded written sentences in the book.

" [I]Entri nel mondo che siete destinati conservare[/I]. What the hell does that mean?" Shinji said. All of them shrugged. Dyna closed the book and looked at the cover. There was a single shard of crystal enclosed in a hard clear material that wasn't plastic.

" [i]Entri nel mondo che siete destinati conservare[/I]..." Dyna muttered to herself while looking at the cover. As soon as the last word left her mouth, the crystal shard started to glow. The glow caught the attention of the group as they peered at the shard of crystal. Suddenly a bright white light blinded them. Dyna threw up her hands to shield her eyes from the light but it was no use - all she could see was stars.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=Blue]When Dyna's vision returned, she found herself face down on a sand-dune. Lifting herself up, she looked around and saw that the others were with her - and some of them looked different. They were all lifting themselves out of the sand too.

" Oh my god....." Dyna gasped, looking at Shuuichi, who had turned into someone completely different. " Shuuichi, look at yourself!"

" Huh?" He looked at himself and saw he had grown a little and looked completely different. " Holy cow!"

Sakura walked up to Dyna and looked at Shuuichi. " Wow! We've all changed in some way. We've all gotten older I think and Dyna, you are wearing some weird clothes and you have pink hair!"

" What??!?!?!" Dyna exclaimed and pulled out a piece of hair. Seeing it was pink was a real shock to her.

" What I want to know...." Shinji came walking towards them. " Is where are we?"

" Well I'm sure none of us have an idea," Joseph came up and joined them. It was just the five of them and they had been transported into this weird world.

" What are we going to do?" Dyna asked, looking at the boys in particular.

" Well, we should try and find some civilisation, if there's any around," Joseph suggested. " And we have to be on our guard. Anything could be in this world, so don't get surprised if you see lizards walking on two feet!"

" Right," they all said and starting walking the sand dunes. It was a while before they saw any sign of civilisation. But fortunately, a town revealed itself after they came to the top of another sand dune. Dyna plopped onto the sand.

" I can't go any further. My feet feel like they're on fire!" she said, trying to air her feet out.

" We all do Dyna, but you need to hang in there a bit longer," Shinji said, helping her up. Sakura lent on Shuuichi.

" Lets go," said Joseph as they slowly wound their way down to the town. They could see more desert to the north and east, but a forest grew in the west.

[center]_______________________[/center]

The group walked through the centre of town. They saw weird things. Lizards walking on two feet (just like Joseph warned), englarged mice that were very friendly, rabbits that walked on two feet and finally large looking creatures that could converse and looked remotely like dogs.

Dyna clutched Shinji's arm as one of the lizards poked its fork tounge at her. She poked hers back and the lizard seemed to bow as if that was a greeting of some sort. Shaking away the feeling of uneasiness, Dyna whispered to herself over and over again.

" It's just a dream....It's just a dream...."

The group stopped at what looked like a pub of some sort. They entered, all looking around.

" Welcome to the Sprohm Pub!" the human innkeeper greeted them warmly. They all moved to the counter. The innkeeper looked at the girls and then to the boys.
" What can I do for you lovely lads today?"

" Excuse me sir, where exactly are we?" Shuuichi asked seriously.
" Why this is the town of Sprohm, in the lovely world of Ivalice," the innkeeper replied with a smile on his face. He obviously thought they were playing around. He saw Dyna's uneasy look towards the lizards. He chuckled.
" Afraid of the Bangaa my dear?"
" Bangaa?" Dyna asked, still holding Shinji's arm.
" Yes Bangaa. Those reptile looking creatures. Excellent hand to hand combat warriors."
" Sir," started Joseph, " We come from a distant land. We haven't seen a Bangaa before. Could you please explain what the array of creatures are?"

" From a distant land you say....." A sudden light came up in the old man's eyes. " Right-o!. The little fuzzballs are called Moogles. Good thieves and animists. The rabbit-earred creatures are Viera. And the large-looking dog-like creatures are Nu-Mou. You say you're from a distant land hey?"
" Yes. Very distant," Shinji added. The innkeeper nodded.
" Are you planning to stay here?" he asked. The group looked at each other.
" Well, we'd hoped so," Joseph said.
" That'd be 100 gil," the innkeeper replied.
" Gil? What's gil?" Sakura asked. The innkeeped had a shocked look on his face.
" Well, if you don't know about gil, then you are certainly from a distant land. Gil is the currency around here little missy. You can stay here tonight, but you'll have to share a room."
The girls looked uneasily at the boys, and the boys looked uneasily at the girls.
The innkeeper gave the key to Shuuichi. " Upstairs and the third room on the left."

The group moved off uneasily. They would be sharing a room - something most of them had never done before. Shuuichi unlocked their room and they entered. It had a very rustic look to it - timber and a little metal. Five wooden beds lay in the room, near the broad windows. Dyna jumped on a bed.
" This one's mine!" she claimed.

OOC: Ok people. We are now in the WORLD of Ivalice. The place where our adventure really begins. For the moment, you can wander around the town of Sprohm. There is a shop where you can buy your first weapon. It must correspond with the weapon you chose when you signed up. You can introduce yourself as your character's new name and look around the pub if you like. And sorry it's so long.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[Sakura]

[color=Navy]Sakura thought the words were strange and didn't think it was of any language in their World. When the light appeared, since she was sitting right next to Dyna, she had gotten a lot of the light and passed out immediately.

When they all regained consciousness, they were in sand dunes. She got up and looked around at the others and was shocked to see that they all looked different accept her, who had just aged several years. She was in awe and looked at the difference between everyone in this place and what they were like in their world. She commented on Dyna's hair colour, but they all still looked the same age as each other, even if they were older. Sakura panicked and reached up to her head and sighed in relief when she felt her pair of goggles sitting in their usual place. She grinned and patted them caringly.

They started to wonder where they are and decided to go find some sort of civilization in this strange place. They slowly hiked up the sand dunes, having a hard time as they sank in or slid backward from the shifting sand. They finally saw a town as they topped another dune. By this point everyone was tired and their feet were aching.

When they had finally arrived in the town, they saw strange creatures wandering around, Sakura thought it was unreal and was so excited because she loved anything to do with fantasy creatures, and this was a dream come to life. She looked around happily, taking in all the strange creatures that lived there. They saw a building that looked like a pub and entered, hoping to get information. They were greeted by the innkeeper warmly and they got information from him. After having no idea about their currency, he let them stay for the night for free, the only catch was that they all had to share a room.

Sakura wasn't really uneasy with the sharing because she'd shared with some of her guy friends before and stuff when they had big sleep-overs with lots of her friends. They trudged slowly upstairs, already tired from all the climbing of the dunes and entered their room for the night. Dyna ran in and claimed a bed, Sakura looked around the room and chose the one next to Dyna, which was right next to one of the large windows.

Everyone else claimed their beds too and then they decided to just wander around and try to get more information on this strange place. Sakura decided to go walking and take in the sights of this place.
[/color]

[Flo]

[COLOR=Indigo]Celia walked out of her mother's warm house into the freezing streets that lead to the school. As Celia turned to wave good-bye to her Mother she slipped and fell on her butt.
"Oww." Celia stated as she pulled herself up and saw a red haired girl next to her.
"Klutz." The girl said wiith a frown but, then smiled and laughed. She toke Celia's arm and ran ran towards the school. Celia alsomsmiled as Kasey led her through the streets towards the school.

[B]First Break[/B]

Celia looked around the hallways trying to find her brotherr but she soon remebered her project and rushed towards the libary almost hitting the doors. Smiling at herself she glanced around and saw Dyna and a few other of her friends gather around a book. Dyna was reading from the book as Celia apporched. In a sudden light Celia felt herself vanish from the area she was standing.
~~~~~~
A gust of wind from an open window, woke Celia as she looked around trying to find were she was. See appeared to be in some kind of tavern and having her head layin gon the table rather sleeply. A voice spoke to her startling her as she raised her head toward the speaker.
"You know your not the first person to just appear here. A few other kids came in to my well, inn asking were they were." The voice came from a strange looking man who smiled at her strangly.
"Um, sorry to repeat questions but, were am I exactly?" Celia asked as she looked at herself. she let lose a little screech and the man pointed towards a mirror hanging on the wall as he began to speak again.
"Your at the Sprohm Pub in the world of Ivalice." He said with a smile.
Celia nodded as she examined herself. Her hair was long and white and her ears were long and almost rabbit like. Celia even noticed that she looked older but, not as old as her grandmother, more around eighteen She wore a light tan halter with strings hanging down over her tanned skin. On her right arm she bore a bleeding rose tatoo. [I]Oh! Mom would never let me have a tatoo![/I] She began rubbing it witch olny made it appear more visable and the blood dripping from the rose looked more real.
"Celia?" A voice called and she turned to see Sakura standing looking almost the same as she had at school. Running over to her Celia embraced her and smiled.
"I thought I was the only on here in theis place! I'm glad to see you Sakura!" Celia spoke in a rushed tone.
"But how did you get here? I don't remember seeing you around the book."
"Well I was walking into the libary when I saw you all around Dyna, who was reading to you all. Then after this bright light hit me I appeared here." As Celia spoke she waved her arm towards the table she had been sleeping on.
"Oh wait is Dyna and the others here too?" Celia sked as she galanced around and put her arms to her side. She felt smooth leather with ovals cut along the sides and when she looked down that was what she saw. She also toke in the sight of heavy leather combat boots with metal around the front before she looked back towards Sakura.[/COLOR]

[0ber0n the Neko]

OOC: Gomen for replying so late!

Kent sighed, looking out the window. "There's got to be something better to do than this..." he said to himself.

He started to doze off. [i]Maybe... If I were somewhere else, I could do something cool...[/i]

----

Kent awoke with a start. The bell at the school rang for the first break. He had forgotten about a delivery to the library, and he had only a few seconds, he figured, before they would dock his pay. "Shitshitshitshitshitshi-" he was stopped when a blinding flash of light emitted from the library. There was a book, lying open on one of the desks. "Hunh?" He said, bewildered. He walked in, carrying the box, and putting it on the front desk. He picked up the book , and read the passage inside. "Entri nel mondo che siete destinati conservare..." he said, nearly silenced by the din of the library. Then he felt a sort of breeze. He looked around, and there was nothing but light. He covered his eyes with one arm.

----(listen to "Interactive-Foever Young" if you have it)

He stood, and he looked at his hand. It was now covered by a glove that he hadn't remembered putting on. He stood, and the weight of his clothes seemed to pull him down. "God, how long was I out...?" he opened one eye and saw a weird rabbit thing.

"You people keep showing up! How many more of you are going to appear?" The thing asked. Kent suspended a momentary heart attack. "WH-WHAT THE HELL IS THIS!? SOME SORT OF PRANK!?" He exclaimed, backing away, he reached for the wrench at his side, and found a hilt. "What the-!?" He drew it and pointed it at the rabbit. "Who-WHAT are you, and where the hell am I?" He looked around. His eyes found a large group of people, looking strangely older. He stood again, realizing that he had gotten taller. "Hmm..."

The moogle looked at him quizzically. "You guys are so clueless. This is Ivalice."

Kent sighed, relieved. "So this IS a prank!" He pulled on the moogle's ears, "So this will come right...off...?" The ears, not surprisingly didn't come off.

"I am a moogle..." The moogle said, obviously growing impatient, and in pain from the sudden tug. "My name is Kuropo. I'll show you around. Maybe you should join your friends!" He said, smiling and forgetting the intrusion on his personal space. He gestured towards the group of adults.

"Friends?" Kent said, catching up to the flurry of new concepts being thrown at him. He looked them over. They looked just as confused as he was, but they were practically teeming over with childish delight. He recognized some of them, though, from the time when he went to school.

One he remembered distinctly. "Shinji?" He said, timidly.

Shinji turned to see him. "Is that you, Kent!? I Thought you weren't into this whole fantasy bit!"

"I'm not... There was a book..." He said, rubbing his now throbbing head.

"Ah! Well, still it's good to have you!" Shinji said. "Hey, guys! It's Kent! The guy who opted out of school!" Everyone was giving Kent quizzical looks.

"Hey..." Kent said. "Remember... English class?" Everyone brightened up after that.

"I remember you!" Shuuichi said. He was accompanied by numerous other synonymous cries of rememberance.

"Is there any way out of here?" Kent asked, simply.

Many of the group looked at each other. "We're not exactly sure..." Shinji said.

"Well, let's pull through this together, eh?" Kent said. "Let's find our way out of here!" He said. Nobody assented.

"We kind of like it here."

Kent looked around. There was much to be liked. No responsibilities. No arguing. No dead-end job. He kind of liked it himself. "Alright. So let's stay!" He said.

There was general murmuring among the group "whoever made him the leader? If anyone should be the leader, it should be Dyna... she found the book!" they whispered one to another.

Kent caught ear of this, and gently stepped out of the spotlight. "Well, I'm glad to see everyone again!" He said.
OOC: Okay that should do it!

[Orcus]

[COLOR=Blue][SIZE=1]Shuuichi took a once over of the strange outfit he was wearing, then felt his hair. [I][B]Amazing...It's twice as long![/I][/B] He broke away from the group for a second and peered at himself in a barrel of water. [B][I]Hmmm...my facial features different. What happened to us? I should talk with Dyna...[/I][/B] He walked back to the group, smiling.

[B]"This ain't too bad, eh? Gotta admit though, the clothes are slightly different from what I'd pick to wear in public."[/B] The others laughed. He looked back to the inn they had walked from and noticed that underneath the 'Inn' sign, there was a sign with a sword on it. [B][I]Weapon shop...[/I][/B] He spun around to face the group again.

[B]"I'm gonna go back to the In for a sec, 'kay? Don't worry I'll be right back."[/B] He sprinted off twoards the Inn and flung the doors open sharply, accidentallly hitting a Bangaa in the face. The Bangaa got up angrily and pushed Shuuichi down. The Bangaa pulled out his blade and put it to Shuuichi's throat.

[B]"How dare you knock me down! Does a low life like you have a name? OR do they name scum?"[/B] the Bangaa behind him laughed loudly. Shuuichi's eyes scanned the room nervously, looking for a way to get out. His eyes stopped on a bandanna that had a blue moon with white light behind it. He rolled over, jumped up, grabbed the bandanna, and put it on.

[B]"My name!? Hmph...my name is Zeth of the Blue Moon. And you should be apologizing to me for getting in my way." [/B] Zeth grinned, pleased with his response. The Bangaa growled and raised his blade again, but decided against his action and put his blade into his sheath.

[B]"You live...for today. If we weren't in the city..."[/B] The Bangaa growled and shoved by Zeth. The bartender whistled as they walked out. He then adressed Zeth.

[B]"New aroun' 'ere and a'ready startin' trouble? What something to drink?"[/B] Zeth walked over and took a seat.

[B]"Yah...uh...Orange Juice, I guess. How did you know we were new to these parts?"[/B] The bartender placed a mug of orange juice in front of him and grinned. He then turned around and began looking for somethin.

[B]"Innkeeper tol' me. But on t' more pressing matters...Ah! 'Ere it is!"[/B] The Bartender turned around and smiled. He was holding a sword and it's sheath out in front of him. Zeth almost spit out his drink in suprise. The Bartender chuckled.

[B]" 'Ere ya' go. Yer not gonna' get anywhere 'round 'ere if ya' don't got a weapon. 'Sider ita gift between new friends." [/B] Zeth grinned happily, feeling like he wanted to hug the man. He grabbed the blade and swung it around a couple times. He slid it into it's sheath and put it at his side. He turned to walk away, the spun around.

[B]"I almost forgot to thank you and ask you what your name is. Man I feel stupid! And how am I gonna pay you for this?!"[/B] The Bartender shook his head, bemused at Zeth's nervousness.

[B]"Don' worry yerself. T'ain't nothin'. And my name's Linyll. Come round every once 'n a while t' talk wi' me and we call it even, 'kay?"[/B] Zeth drank off the rest of his drink and nodded.

[B]"You bet! Later, Linyll."[/B] Zeth ran outside and joined the others. Dyna was the first to take notice of his blade and bandanna.

[B]"Hey where'd you get the sword and bandanna, Shuuichi?"[/B] Zeth laughed, amused that she had called him Shuuichi. He folded his arms across his chest and grinned.

[B]"I got it at the Inn. And it's not Shuuichi. Not anymore. It's Zeth now. Zeth of the Blue Moon."[/B][/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Kairi]

OCC: ok amgoddess, I'm gonna attempt to try and clarify what race I am for being part of ''the world'' of Ivalice. PM if anything is wrong with it.

Joseph took a bed next to the window which looked out over most of the city. It was quite grand...stone and clay housese, a market place could bee seen down on the streets below, and smoke rising from a point of origin he could only assume to be the weapon shop.

[I]Man...why does my head hurt?[/I] as he genlty rubbed his palm up against his forehead.

Images, information, people, places he had never been kept rushing through his mind. As if a voice in the back of his head was talking to him...showing him things.

[I]How did I know that there would be such creatures here before I even saw anything when we first got here...[/I]

''You alright Joseph...something wrong?'' asked Dyna as she crawled onto Josephs bed...drawing his attention away from the window.

''Yea...I'm fine; just a little headache I think...nothing serious. I love your hair Dyna...it looks good on ya.''

''If you say so...oh, thank you for helping us get here Joseph, quite smart of you to think of finding civilization first before we did anything...and you guessing that there would be lizards walking around on two feet. That was pretty cool...quite the leader.'' as she gave him a wink.

''Na...'' trying not to blush. ''Just thought of the most logical thing to do...we couldn't just stay out there in the middle of nowhere ya know.''

He was lying...something deep inside told him what to do...but, he just couldn't put his finger on it.

''And the lizards?''

''A lucky guess maybe.'' as he gave her a smile. ''Where has everyone else gone too?''

''They're all taking off to go explore this new world...its quite fasinating...do you think we're all dreaming Joseph?''

''I don't know...but this must be some form of reality, especially if it seems to be this real. If you can...tell the others to be back here at the Inn by nightfall; we don't want to loss anyone, especially on the first night in a place we know nothing about.''

''Your probably right...I'll do that for ya...'' Joseph began to get up from the bed. ''Where are you going?''

''I'll be back by nightfall; don't worry...just for a walk thats all...see ya.''

''Bye.''

***Downstairs

As Joseph decended down the staircase leading to everyone room, he passed both Celia and Sakura...acknowledging to them by waving as they waved back. He was about to leave the Inn when a furry creature blocked his way.

Joseph!''

[I]What...[/I] Joseph was looking all over the pub trying too see who was calling out to him.

''*It's me, Kent. I can't believe this is happening.''

''Hey Kent...yea your right...sounds to me like your liking it here...''

''That I am...but this is all happening so fast, it's weird.''

''Don't worry about it...I'm sure we'll figure this all out soon; just don't go anywhere ok...and make sure to be here by nightfall alright man.''

''Sure...''

''See ya...''

Joseph got a chance to talk to Shuunchi, or shall we all say now...Zeth of the Blue Moon. The two of them joked about it for a while...Zeth telling him how he had gotten his new name with the little conflict with the bangee creature. After they were done talking about that...Zeth wanted to talk to Joseph about everything that was going on.

But that just brought the headache back...so Joseph told him that he would be walkign around the city for a while...and they will all talk about it tonight. All the other citizens stared in curiosity and bewildernment as both Zeth and Joseph gave each other high fives as Joseph departed.

Coming to a fountain in the middle of the city...Joseph decided to sit down on a porch resting directly on the fountain. His head was pounding...voices in his mind that he couldn't comprehend. With his head rested against his palms...leaning back against the fountain, he took in the warm sunlight beating down on him.

[I]Thats nice...[/I]

He couldn't believe what was happening...one moment, he was sitting in the library of his high school, looking at a book with Dyna, Zeth:), Sakura and the rest as Dyna read some ancient chant on the cover, and now...here is was; taking in the sun of some unknown world.

[I]That chant must have to do with why we're all here...and that crystal...[/I]

[COLOR=Blue]A Totem...[/COLOR]

''What the...'' ...he sat straight up...looking around to see who said that. But no one was around him to whisper it to him. He put his head in his hands...trying to calm himself down.

[I]What the hell is going on?[/I]

''You look lost young one...''

Joseph looked up and saw a old woman carring a walking stick of some kind with a blue orb at the top coming towards him.

''You look lost...for such a strong, intellegent, and handsome lad such as yourself, you should never be lost nor confused.''

Joseph looked at himself and his new clothing...a white bandana covering his forehead with a yellow scarf, a blue vest covering a green T-Shirt with green pants, and black boots. He was a little uneasy having an old woman hit on him.

[I]At least my hair is still the same...[/I]

''So'' as the woman took a seat beside Joseph...''what to you grieve so?''

''Grieve...'' Immidiately Joseph thought back to home; his grandma back home...probably worried sick about him.

''To be honest ma'am, I'm not supposed to be here.''

''Ah...'' as she patted him on the back...''you are supposed to be here...we all got to be somewhere don't we.''

''I guess so...''

The old woman took a moment to look at Joseph...measuring him up so to say as he just stared at the ground in front of him.

''You're one of them...aren't you?''

''Come again...'' as Joseph turned his attention towards the old woman.

''You have the mark...'' as she took her finger and pulled down his bandana around his forehead. ''see for yourself.''

As she pointed towards the fountain...Joseph turned around and looked at the symbol on his forehead. It was a black half-moon, or a waxing moon...he hadn't even noticed he had it till the woman brought it to his attention.

''How did you know...'' as he turned back too her. ''And what do you mean as one of them...''

''You'll understand in time my boy...you all will.''

Joseph looked at her in shock...he knew exactly who she was referring too...his friends. Strangley...this woman reminded him so much of his grandma back home.

''That mark...makes you different from the rest of your friends...as they too have their own special qualities. Here...I want you to have this...'' bringing forth her staff...she placed it into Josephs hands. Immidiately he felt a rush of power surge through him...[I]The Spring Staff...[/I]

''I know this...''

''Ah...that you do...it grants its weilder the ability to heal any member of his or her clan, as well as for themselves.''

''Clan?''

''Don't worry...'' as the woman placed her hand on the boys shoulder...lifting herself up...''you'll come to understand all things in time. You're a part of this world now...embrace it.'' and she began to walk away.

With the staff firmly in his grasp...he too got himself up, deciding to walk around the city some more.

''Thank you!'' he called out to the old woman as she dissapeared among the crowd of people.

[I]I must tell the King...they are finally here. [/I]

[Retribution]

OOC: I gotta get my weapon right now... so I'll do that. I can't do much more. Sorry! And thanks for including me thus far.

---

IC:

Shinji walked long and hard, drudging through the hot sands. He took a look at himself, seeing he was dressed in a completely black robe, with silver fringe, and everyone else looked different too. Looking at his arm, the word ?Granada? was burned onto his flesh. He raised an eyebrow, but could not waste any more energy. He had to support Dyna, who was leaning against him, with pink hair.

Actually, everyone had changed, and he found it strange. They stumbled into an inn, and luckily they were admitted without any payment necessary. The innkeeper must be a nice guy.

?I?m gonna see what there?s to offer down here.? Shinji said to the group, not following them upstairs. By chance, he sat down in front of a weapon?s merchant.

?Nice wares you have here. What?re they for??

?Hhaha.? The man laughed in a jolly tone. ?They?re for defendin? yerselve. Whaddaya want??

Shinji reached across the counter, to grasp a dagger, and see what it felt like. His sleeve pulled back while he did so, and the man dropped a handful of weaponry he was carrying.

?Is?. Is that the mark of Granada??

?Erm? I suppose so.? He man leaned in towards him, speaking softly among the din of the inn, so that no one else would hear.

?The mark of Granada is one that is passed on to Black Mages. And particularly gifted ones. There?s no mistaking that. Ya must be a very talented mage, muh boy!? He was patted firmly on the back.

?Heh. I suppose so. But I?ve never ?? he was cut off by the man.

?No, no no. I?d be damned if I didn?t give a Granada mage any of my wares for free. Take yer pick.?

Shinji picked up a staff, which was about 3 feet tall, and had a red, orb at the top. The only thing was, it was hovering a few feet above the rest of the staff. He touched the sphere, and it glowed a hot, cherry red, then returned to it?s dull red color.

?I?ll take this.? He said.

?A very fine choice. A flame rod. It will take you far, especially this one. It?s rare. But like I said, you can have it for free.?

?Oh! Thanks! And how much does it cost? you know, if I weren?t a Granada mage??

?About 200 gil. It?s not that expensive.?

?Thanks again.? Shinji said, and walked upstairs with a flame rod, and a very special one at that. He went into the room, where most everyone was. Dyna was sitting on a bed, and patted the spot next to her. Shinji took a seat, with the staff on his lap.

[Redemption]

[COLOR=Blue][FONT=Trebuchet MS]OOC: Ok, I mustn't have explained this very well. But we are all humans, we just represent the crystals. Unless of course, you want to be a moogle or the such. PM me if you do. Sorry about that. And nice to see most people are posting!


Dyna smiled as Shinji sat next to her. Her eyes traced the red-orbed staff Shinji now carried.

" Wow, nice staff Shinji! Where'd you get it?" she asked, fascinated by the ever-changing red coloured orb.
" Downstairs. The weapons dealer said something about being a Granada mage, but I don't know what that is," Shinji replied uncertainly, " It's on my arm." He showed the marking on his arm. Dyna gasped.
" That's really cool. You're so lucky!"
" Heh. Hey, you've got cool pink hair. And your clothes are pretty cool too."
Dyna smiled. " Thanks Shinji. You always say nice things to me. Joseph said the same thing about my hair too."
" Really? Then it must be cool then."
" Yeah..."

Shinji looked at Dyna who looked thoroughly bored.
" Do you know Celia is here?" Shinji said.
" Celia! Really! Wow. Now there's three girls against....one...two...three...four guys. We're almost even."
" Heh. Do you want to go get a weapon? I think we all might need one."
" Ok. I'll be out in a second. I just have to check something first."
" All right." Shinji got up and walked outside.

Making sure Shinji was outside, Dyna shu the door behind him and locked it. She took off her top and looked at her back in the mirror. She gasped loudly. A large tattoo of a blue dragon was on the small of her back, the wings outspread, going all the way around to the front of her hips.
" I knew something was there..."
Putting her shirt back on, Dyna unlocked the door and exited to the room. Shinji looked at her as she rearranged her top to make it comfortable.
" I heard you gasp. Is something wrong?" Shinji asked, looking Dyna up and down as they walked downstairs.
" I have a huge tattoo of a blue dragon on my back..." Dyna said, her eyes wide open in disbelief.
" Now that's cool." Dyna laughed.

They stepped into the common-room of the inn. There were lots of different races around, drinking, talking and playing card games.
" Lets go explore," Dyna said as she grabbed Shinji's arm and dragged him outside. Bright light hit both of their eyes. Sprohm was a town near two deserts and a forest. Dyna and Shinji walked through the bazaar, browsing each of the stalls. There were all sorts of strange things on sale.

Dyna and Shinji walked passed one stall. The owner, a warrior-looking bangaa hissed at them, calling out Dyna's name.
" Dyna the Dragon Tamer. Come over to my ssstall. I have a weapon that you mussst sssee."
Dyna and Shinji stopped mid-walk and wandered over to the Bangaa that knew her name.
" How did you know who I am?" Dyna asked.
" You are the one who holdsss the Bangaa'sss sssymbol of our Totema. The tattoo on your back. That is the sssign of the Bangaa cryssstal quessster," it replied, its fork tongue flicking out everytime that he pronounced a 's'.
" Crystal quester? What is that?" Shinji asked.
" In time, you ssshall dissscover what I mean," the Bangaa said mysteriously. Then it bent down and rumaged through a collection of swords that lay at his feet. Finding what he wanted, he presented Dyna with an ornately-smithed sword. Where the blade met the hilt, a dragon crawled up the blade.
" Take thisss. Thisss isss the firssst sssword of the Legendary Dragoon that you will become Dyna," it hissed. Dyna shook her head.
" I can't take that beautiful sword. I have no money to give you in return."
" Take it. Think of it asss a gift to the Legendary Dragoon that, with her friendsss, will sssave Ivalice from evil."
" Evil? What kind of evil?" Shinji asked.
" I will sssay no more." The Bangaa handed the sword to Dyna who took it uneasily. It was such a beautiful sword for her first weapon.
" Thank you," she said as she bowed to him - a sign of respect in the Bangaa culture. He bowed back.
" It hasss been a privelege."

Dyna and Shinji walked away from the stall. Dyna looked at her new sword in awe.
" I can't believe he just gave away something like this. And what does he mean by me being the Legendary Dragoon?" she asked Shinji.
" I have no idea, but we need to find answers soon." The afternoon was soon turning into dusk.

[center]*********************************[/center]

Meanwhile.....

[B]At Bervenia Palace[/B]

The Queen paced nervously around a large living room. An old woman sat in one of the many tall-backed cosy chairs. An aging Nu Mou sat in the one beside the old woman.

The Queen was a fair lady. She had long blonde, reaching to her waist, and soft warm brown eyes. She was the leader of the world of Ivalice. Her voice was soft and calm normally. A woman full of compassion and love for her people, Queen Reina was a born royal.

" Are you sure that they have arrived?" the Queen asked tentatively.
The old woman nodded. " I have seen most of them. I even talked to the one that corresponds to 'The World' crystal. He knows much but doesn't understand his gifts. Three girls, four boys to be exact. There are more than we expected. What do you say to that Zeroun?"

The old Nu Mou shifted in his seat uncomfortably. " I foresaw a group of children coming, but I must have miscounted them. Anyhow, they have still arrived Ophelia. We need to bring them to the Palace at once. They must not be caught wandering near the Jagds. Not when they do not realise their purpose here. No doubt the people would already be asking them questions about things they do not know."

" Judgemaster Zedekiah! Bring the Crystal Questers to the Palace at once!" Queen Reina ordered. A tall, striking man stepped out of the shadows.
" At once your Majesty!" he said, bowed low and then marched out of the room.

" To Sprohm my loyal soldiers..." Queen Reina whispered as she sat down in a chair heavily.

OOC: Ok people. Meet at the common-room in the Inn. Grab your first weapon and get a little info about the legend of the Crystal Questers. ;) Then, we'll get our first mission after we get taken to the Palace. Have fun![/FONT][/COLOR]

[Sakura]

[color=Navy][b]OOC: [/b]I spoke with amgoddess and changed my weapon, and the words written in '[ ]' are pronounciations in case you're not good with Japanese.

Sakura walked along the streets and passed several stores full of weapons, she looked down as she walked and noticed a strange marking that she hadn't seen on her left palm. She lifted it to her face and saw it was a pink cherry blossom with five petals, in each petal was a Japanese character, the first was 'chi[chee]', the second 'me[meh]', third 'i[ee]', fourth 'te[teh]' and finally 'ki[key]'. All in all it read Chimeiteki, which was translated into Deadly. She frowned as she looked at her new mark. She approached a stall with a large variety of weapons and looked around the inside for the shop owner. They finally came out from the back somewhere, it was what the people here called Viennas.

[b]"Hi, sorry about that, just looking for something in the back. How can I help you." [/b]she asked kindly.

[b]"Um, I'm just looking for a weapon that can help me around here." [/b]Sakura replied, putting her hands on the counter.

[b]"Well we have a large variety, feel free to look around." [/b]she answered, waving a hand around to her goods.

Sakura pointed to a random weapon with her left hand and the Vienna noticed the mark, grabbing her hand gently but firmly and turning it palm side up. Sakura stared at the shop keeper as she inspected the mark, rubbing it gently to see if it was fake.

[b]"Amazing, you're part of the 'Deadly' family/clan."[/b] she murmered.

[b]"The 'Deadly' family? Is that a good thing?" [/b]she asked nervously.

[b]"Of course it is! The clan's famous, and great mages sprout from the clan." [/b]she said with stars in her eyes.

[b]"I see, well what kind of weapon would you recommend?"[/b] Sakura asked, pulling her hand out of her grip.

[b]"Oh, you can have anything you want. I'm so honoured to have someone like you coming to my stall."

[/b]Sakura sweatdropped at the Vienna's enthusiasm and spotted a staff made of oak. It was three feet tall and had a blue orb hovering over the top of the staff. She asked for that one and she passed it to her. Sakura felt the weight of it and twirled it, amazed when the hovering orb followed as if it was stuck on top of the staff. She reached out and rested her hand on the orb, it lit up in a medium sapphire blue before turning dull again when she pulled her hand away.

[b]"I think I'll take this. What is this weapon?"[/b] she asked, holding it.

[b]"Good selection, that's the Chill Rod, it has the power of Ice within it."[/b]

[b]"How much do you want for it? I don't have any of the Gil stuff that you use but I have other things I can give you in exchange." [/b]Sakura said, reaching into her pockets with her right hand.

[b]"Oh no. You can have it from free. By the way, what's your name? Just so I can brag to my friends." [/b]she laughed, waving her hands.

[b]"Thankyou. My name's Sakura...Sakura..." [/b]she wanted something more to her name and remembered what she'd told her about the 'Deadly' clan. [b]"...the Deadly Flower."[/b] she finished smiling.

[b]"Well, good luck in whatever you do, Sakura the Deadly Flower."[/b] the Vienna said, smiling happily.

[b]"Thanks again for the staff, and for the information. Bye." [/b]Sakura finished walking away, switching her staff into her right hand.

Sakura walked around a while longer, then decided to go back to the common room in the inn to find the others.
[/color]

[Retribution]

"Hey, Dyna, I'm gonna go outside for a moment. Okay?" He said to her. Shinji shifted his weight, and took a step backward.

"Sure, no problem. I'll wait in the common room for ya. Don't take too long! Later." she said. Shinji turned and walked out the door, and gripped his staff tightly. He looked at his arm, where it said "Granada" and wondered what it was. Surprisingly, it had gotten him a free weapon, and he knew of his ... 'clan.'

He jogged over to a bush, which had several green leaves, and was struggling to survive in the desert climate. He wanted to test out the staff.

"So... how exactly do I do this? Lemme think..." He had read books about 'wizards' and 'witches' who could cast fire magic. He decided to try one of their words. He raised the staff in the air, with the orb pointing to the sky.

"Fira!" He said in a sharp tone. He felt the air displace itself, and the orb began to glow the same cherry red as when he touched it. He staff changed shape, with a piece of the wood growing around the orb in a semi-circle. Then he felt warmth wash over his body.

The bush spontaneously combusted, slowly burning from the weak attack. He felt slightly fatigued, as if he had sprinted a few feet, panting lightly.

"I wonder if any other words do anything else..." he said thoughtfully. He looked a few feet away from the bush, and saw a tree with a few dead leaves. He turned and faced it, took a deep breath, and said:

"Fire Bolt!" Again, the air displaced itself, and he felt warm again. However, the spell casted itself almost as soon as the last word and left his lips. Several arrows of fire shot through all the leaves on the tree, making them all burn. However, the tree itself was unscathed.

"Damn. Did I do that?" He looked at his arm again, feeling it become hot again, and he gasped in shock at what he saw. The word 'Granada' wasn't alone anymore. It now said 'Canaas of Granada.'

"Who is Canaas? Me?" He said thinking hard. He decided to go back inside the Inn, and go to the common room. He was stopped by the weapons dealer again.

"Ey thur, lad! Me saw yer handie werk out thur. Yeh did a good job of it. I'll give you somethin' else, just for the Granada mage. Methinks I shuld bee respectful of yer kind." He finished roughful.

"Erm... Thanks. What else do you have?" The dealer stepped to the side, revealing a wall full of items. "Um. How about those floating gems?"

"These three? These'll powr up yer staff. Ther' yeh goes. Bee careful now, lad, it'll pack a punch!"

"Thank you, sir." He said, and left with three gems, one sapphire, one amber, and one white marble. All of them were nearly weightless. He held them openly in his palm, and they began to hover, slowly revolving in a circle. "Whoa..."

He walked into the common room, where a few memebers of the party were already sitting down, talking, and showing each other their weapons. He took a seat on a wooden bench, and set the staff down next to the gems.

His jaw dropped, as he saw the staff hover in the air by itself, and the three stones rotate around the staff's red orb. All of them glowed brightly, blinking on and off softly. Then it returned to its regular state, with the spheres revolving around the top of the staff, and their colors back to normal. The flame rod itself stopped floating, and returned to his hand.

He leaned his head against the wall, and closed his eyes, wondering what exactly happened.

[Kairi]

OCC: *bangs head on table* I apologize grealty Kent as well as to you amgoddess...I miss read your post and made u a moogle:)...i changed everything though to fit to everyone being a human again:)...again...im sorry.

*yawn*...''it's getting late quite quickly now ain't it?''

Joseph had been walking the streets all day long with his staff as his walking stick. He was facinated by everything around him. The creatures, the primative, and yet magical essence of the place...he felt like walking forever.

[I]The lone wanderer...[/I] he thought to himself. *laughing* [I]Thats ridiculous Joseph...[/I]

*sigh*...[I]Maybe I should call it a night...everyone is probably worried where I had gone too...I told Dyna to let everyone know that we should all be back at the pub by nightfall. I don't want to be a hypocrit. [/I]

''Me Lord *Kupo kupo*...me lord''

A little moogle flew into the crowd of people in the streets; pushing and shoving...trying to makes its way towards Joseph. Flying straight into Joseph's back...he turned around to see the moogle on the ground.

''Please me Lord...you must help me *kupo*''

''Why are you calling me Lord...and how do you know I can help you?''

''You were strangers at pub yes?''

''Yes...thats right...''

''Well...*kupo* me see you all are different...some of you have powers, magical powers. You hold Spring Staff yes...''

''Yes...I believe I'm able to heal people with this.''

''Exactly *kupo* me mother needs your help, me name is Kirby...pleaes... *kupo* follow me.''

The little moogle took flight...grabbed Joseph's hand and dragged him through the crowded streets to where his mother lay.

''Please me Lord...help her...''

Croaching down to look at her, the poor old moogle looked beaten and torn. Something obviously happened her...

''What happened Kirby?''

''Mommy was attacked by theif...me no see who it was...please *kupo* do something.''

But Joseph had heard enough...

''She hurt bad *kupo*, please help her...''

He could feel the power of the staff flowing through him...as if he had had this magic within him all along. Pointing the orb towards the fallen moogle...Joseph focused those energies through the staff onto the being.

[I]Curaga...[/I]

At first nothing happened...both Kirby and Joseph just stood there.

[I]Had I done something wrong...[/I]

But then...a white light which looked like a flame engulfed the moogle; above it formed what looked like little water droplets and fell upon the body. Everyone in the street stopped for a moment to look at the sight. When the light was gone...the old moogle flew into the air and did a couple of twists and turns in the air.

''I feel great...'' she proclaimed...her woundeds seemed to have healed.

''Thank you *kupo*...I knew you were one of them...the prophecy has been fullfilled, the ones who have come to save us!''

''Whoo whooo...wait a second there.'' Joseph was starting to get a little worried. Everyone in the streets were now looking at him as the old moogle continued to fly in the air.''

''What is your name me lord?"

''Joseph...Joseph...''

''There you have it everyone!...Joseph, servant of the Sacred Fire and his companions have come to save us!''

There was cheering and joyish celebration for the healed moogle.

[I]This isn't good...I don't want to draw any more attention then I already have.[/I]

Turning into a dark ally, Joseph ran away from the growing mob crying out ''Praise Joseph, servant of the Sacred Fire.''

''Damn it...its getting late. You're such a fool Joseph, you shouldn't have done that...now you've brought more attention upon yourself and the others.''

But at the same time...Joseph was happy, happy that he was able to help a creature in need.

[I]I won't forget your name Kirby...its all your fault[/I] as he laughed to himself...running as fast as he could through the streets...keeping the tower of the pub in his sights so he wouldn't get lost.

***

''It's about time you got here'' yelled Celia...waving a finger in Josephs face, however with a smile on her face.

''I'm sorry, you wouldn't believe what happened to me today...''

''Hey Joseph...nice staff.'' said Zeth...coming up beside him.

''Thanks...some old woman gave it to me...strange huh. I see most of you got some stuff as well...cool.''

[Redemption]

[COLOR=Blue][FONT=Trebuchet MS]Dyna smiled as everyone sat at the table, talking to each other happily. They seemed to have accepted that they were in a different world to the one they knew.

Food was spread out on the table before them. Some of it was familiar, but others were, like roast Chocobo, which looked like chicken but they couldn't be sure. Dyna took some bread and munched on that as she surveyed the room.

" You ok Dyna? You're very quiet," Zeth asked.
" I'm ok. Just cautious," she replied, smiling. Zeth smiled back.

Suddenly, a thundering sound crashed through the Inn. All its occupants held their hands over their ears. The doors and windows were flung open by the sheer force of the sound.

When they looked up, a troop of guards had entered the Inn. One was dressed in a knight's armour. He looked like the leader of them.
" Where is the Crystal Questers?" he asked stiffly.
" O...Over there Judgemaster Zedekiah."

The group walked nervously as the guards strode up to them. Dyna stood up, feeling that she was the one the others designated leader - even though she didn't like it, it was her job.
" Who are you? What do you want?" she demanded.
" I am Judgemaster Zedekiah. I have with orders to escort you back to the Bervenia Palace," the leader said.
Dyna's eyes narrowed. " Well, Judgemaster Zedekiah, it would have been more appropriate to greet us in a friendly fashion, not barge in here all high-and-mighty."
" Heh.......I see that you are indeed the Bangaa's crystal quester. No other would talk to me like that."
" I'm just saying what I observed."
" Very well then. But I stil have my orders to escort you back to the Palace."

Dyna looked at everyone and then back at Zedekiah.
" Fine then. But no tricks."
" As you request."

The group stood and followed the guards outside. An old Nu Mou stood out there.
" Are these them?" he asked Zedekiah.
" Yes."
" Fine. We shall return to the Palace. In a flash of white light, they were transported to Bervenia Palace.

[b]Bervenia Palace[/b]

Queen Reina paced around the large living room. Ophelia was still in the same seat. Zeroun had accompanied the soldiers, making their transportation quicker.

Soon, the door were flung open and Judgemaster Zedekiah and Zeroun entered. The Queen immediately looked at them.
" Well?"
" They are here Your Majesty. They await your presence," Zedekiah said.
" Right. Let them be for a while before you and I talk to them," Zeroun suggested.
" Yes. Good idea."

OOC: Sorry people but I have to leave it there. I have to go, so just wander around or something. Sorry to leave you in such a rotten spot.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[Retribution]

Shinji was rather unsure of what had happened in the last hour or so. Some knights had rode in, and taken them back to this palace place.

"Hey, Dyna, what're we doing here?" She seemed busy, cleaning her weapon, and shrugged him off.

"Alright then..." he trailed off in an annoyed tone. He picked up his staff, and twirled it around for a minute, then walked off to the other side of the cavernous hall, and tried more magic. He decided against fire spells and the like, as they were damaging. So, he decided upon flying.

"Well, wizards can fly in the movies, right?" He grinned, trying to figure how he should go about flying. He twirled his staff once move, but he didn't catch it well enough, and it fell. However, it didn't clatter to the floor, but just hovered in the air on its side about 3 inches off the ground.

"Maybe... I can ... I'll try it!" He whispered to himself. The only trick would be to somehow harness the staff's levitation abilities. After mustering sufficient courage, he climbed up a sharply inclining wall, and jumped off once he got to the ceiling.

Falling like a rock, he knew he would die, and the staff would not save him any more. He prepared for death, however, his Flame Rod did manage to make them both hover, and it fed off his his power.

He felt extremely tired, fighting for every second of being airborne. He was gliding across the room, and a respectable pace; faster than he could sprint. He turned, flying like superman to and fro. After a while, he could sustain his effort no longer, and thumped to the ground on his stomach frrom about six feet in the air. Letting out an appropriate "oohff." he curled into a ball, feeling happy that he could fly just barely, but in pain.

"My staff... I think those orbs allow me to fly..." He said outloud to no one in particular.

[0ber0n the Neko]

Kent sat on the chair in the hall, observing what things were transpiring within. Shinji was off in a corner, trying to fly. The rest of them weren't doing anything in particular. He leaned back on his chair, until he heard a faint noise. It was a person behind him, beckoning for Kent to come closer. Kent silently put his hand on his sword, stood up, and walked towards the boy. The boy only grinned and looked him up and down.

"I see that you are the master of the human crystal?" he said, "Are you? Is it really you?" his face was eager.
"Who's asking?" Kent said, raising his chin to the boy, who was significantly smaller than he.
"Oh, I'm sorry. I forgot my manners." the boy bowed. "I am Dyne Windel. I'm the royal blacksmith's apprentice. When I heard that you were coming, I..." he blushed, "I have always believed you would come... So I brought you this..." The boy bowed lower, presenting something long and heavy underneath a cloth to the astonished Kent.

He picked it up, removed the cloth, and saw it was a sword of rather fine make. It was longer than the one he had recieved upon entering this world. It seemed to have been made experimentally, not being as well polished as some of the other swords he had seen on the guards. It was, however, weighted in such a way that Kent did not feel clumsy whilst holding it. It seemed natural. "Thank you, Mr. Windel. How did you know how I prefer a sword?" Kent said, smiling and swinging the sword absent-mindedly.

"Please. Call me Dyne..." Dyne said, bowing nervously "Only if you want to, I mean, sir!"

Kent motioned for Dyne to stand. "Call me Kent. I think I will call you Dyne from now on. Well met, friend." Kent shook his hand.

The boy was wide-eyed and had an expression of joy. "Th-Thank you, sir! I mean, Kent! Sir Kent!" There was a call from the hallway.

"BOOOOY! You had better get back here before I tan your hide! I'll not have you bothering the Masters!" A man with a blacksmith's apron looked Kent over, and bowed. "I'm very sorry, milord. I'll have Dyne back if you would... Oh right! Dyne, did you give him that sword?"

Dyne nodded, and dazedly walked over to the Blacksmith.

"Well, I made something for you, too. It's not much, but it'll help - even if only a little..." The Blacksmith proffered a shield to Kent. It was small, but also weighed to Kent's liking. It was a little less comfortable than the sword he had been given, but still he smiled and thanked the Blacksmith. As Dyne walked off with his master, Kent called after him. "Dyne!" He saw the admiration of the boy, and he picked up his old sword, still in it's sheath. He threw it to the boy, who caught it and nearly fainted.

"Th-th-thank you, Sir Kent!" The boy said, bowing, remembering not to bow, then staring, then running after his master, who was just as surprised.

-----

Kent walked back to the others, still wielding his sword out of its sheath. He slung the shield over his back, where he could carry it easily. He sheathed the sword, and proceeded towards Shinji, who was hovering three inches in the air, nervous that were he to move, he would fall.

"Hey! Check this out!" Kent said. He drew the sword, and showed it to Shinji. Shinji gave it a passive look.

"Not as cool as the ones these 'Judges' have." Shinji observed, getting back to attempting to fly.

Kent sat, sword in his lap, and he heard, "The Queen will see you all now."

[Sakura]

[color=Navy]Sakura watched as Shinji messed around with his magic carelessly. She felt annoyance toward him for being so reckless and walked off in an opposite diretion to where he was, deciding to [i]carefully[/i] test the magic that she supposedly possessed.

She saw a small pot plant and looked at it slyly, she twirled her staff and pointed toward it with the staff. She felt words come to her lips and spoke.

[b]"Blizzard!"[/b] she called.

Accidently, instead of just freezing the plant, she caused a blizzard in the hall and froze the walls and floor. First she sweatdropped at the problem she had caused, but then relaxed, enjoying the coolness from the ice and bits of snow that lay around her. She piled up a bit of snow and sat, feeling the coolness envelope her comfortably. She heard someone's outcry and looked in the direction it came from. There was someone standing there, looking at the ice and snow in the middle of the hallway. Sakura stood and apologised, explaining what had happened. He huffed, annoyed and told her to fix it. Sakura sweatdropped, she couldn't....but she knew someone who could. She ran to where she'd seen Shinji and saw him lying on the floor. She asked for his help and he got up, walking over to the area she'd turned into an iceland and explained to him what had happened.

He made a small fire and the ice slowly melted. Sakura was sad to see it go and watched as the remaining water evaporated. Sakura felt a different word come to her lips and used it.

[b]"Ice!" [/b]she said, pointing her staff at the fire that continued to burn.

Ice encased the fire and it looked interesting to see a fire within ice.

[b]"Thanks for the help Shinji." [/b]Sakura said, then he nodded and walked off. Sakura just sat beside the fire incased in ice and stared into the depths.
[/color]

[Redemption]

[COLOR=Blue][FONT=Trebuchet MS]Dyna didn?t intend to be mean to Shinji. She just couldn?t talk, feeling extremely nervous about meeting the Queen. What she was really nervous about though was what the Queen expected them to do. They had only just arrived in this world, and by the sound of it, they had been expected.

? The Queen will see you now,? Judgemaster Zedekiah announced. The group gathered together ? Dyna wanting to be close to Zeth but she wasn?t brave enough to go over to him. They all walked into a large room that was covered in ornate paintings and richly carved statues. Before them was a large open fireplace that was in use. In front of the fireplace sat three chairs ? one golden, the other two black. In one of the black chairs sat an old woman. In the other was the old Nu Mou that teleported them from Sprohm to the Palace.

In the golden chair sat the Queen. She was as beautiful as a soft snowflake ? unique and unparalleled in beauty. Her face was soft and supple, her features gently smoothed. Her long blonde tresses complemented her soft brown eyes perfectly. Looking up from the chair, Queen Reina greeted her quests.

? Welcome to the World of Ivalice. I am glad that you decided to agree to our meeting. I am Reina, Queen of Ivalice. You have already met Judgemaster Zedekiah. The two elderly folk in the black chairs are Ophelia and Zeroun, my counsels. Zeroun is the one who predicted your coming to our world. It was he that suggested that we must converse with you before you wander around Ivalice.?

? Yes,? the old Nu Mou, Zeroun, spoke up. ? My dear warriors. I foresaw your coming into this world because we are in desperate need of help. You all fulfilled a prophecy that I foresaw ? the prophecy of the Legendary Crystals Questers. These warriors would be the ones that conquer the growing evil in Ivalice. At first, the Jagds were the first places to brim with this evil, but now, many of the forests, mountains and deserts are unsafe. The evil has grown into gigantic proportion. You are the only ones who can stop this evil.?

? How are we supposed to do that? We only just arrived,? Dyna spoke out for the group.

? You are the only ones who can capture and use the Crystals that represent each race in Ivalice, and one of you has the all-mighty power of ?The World? Crystal?? Joseph looked at his feet, knowing it was him. ? You must use the power of these Crystals to squash this evil. Unfortunately we do not know the location of these Crystals or how to find them. I am very sorry I cannot help you in that department. But we are able to help in others. Judgemaster??

The group looked to Zedekiah who cleared his throat.
? By orders of the Queen, each of you are to receive an All-Mighty Law Card. This means you are not restricted by any of the Engagement laws in Ivalice. These laws are only effective when you ?Engage? or go into battle.?

He handed them each a card with the Queen drawn on them ? the symbol of the All-Mighty Card.

? Show this to the Judge when you engage, and you will not be penalised for any laws.?

? Yes. As you can see, we are in a predicament,? Queen Reina said, ? Now I can see all of you are exhausted from your event-filled day. May I offer you the services of a bed and a bath??

The whole group nodded, most of them sleepy. A maid was starting to lead them off when Ophelia spoke out.

? And remember, as a group you are called the Crystal Clan. Remember that.?

They all nodded and were led to their chambers.

OOC: Ok people. Everyone to bed and then up in the morning. I hope that explains a little. In the morning, our first MISSION! Yay![/FONT][/COLOR]

[Retribution]

Shinji felt ugly in front of the Queen. She was as close to perfect as the mortal worlds could come. He remained silent, and did not make eye contact with her, as a sign of respect. When they were dismissed to their chambers, he bowed lowly, and walked backwards so that his back wasn't turned on her. Somehow, it just felt right.

Everyone was led to their sleeping chambers by a servant dressed in a clean, white robe. He showed them the rooms for the boys, and the rooms for the girls across the hall. The beds were extremely soft, as it had seemed that the Queen wasn't cheap in her purchases of furniture.

"Whoa this is nice." He idly commented, sitting down on a bed, which felt like sitting on a cloud. All the guys agreed, with a few mumbled responses. "But I'm gonna go take a bath. Later."

He left the room, shutting the door firmly behind him. The servant led him to the bathing area.

The room was huge, nearly as big as a swimming pool. It was made out of marble, and the candles were above the bathing pool on a gold-and-silver chandelier. He opened his eyes wide in surprise at the luxury. There was a magical barrier between the men and women's side, preventing one from walking to the women's side or seeing over.

"I see you're interesting in the barrier." The servant said to him calmly.

"Yes. Could you explain exactly what it does? It's like ... misty glass. The kind that distorts your image, only magical."

"Something like that. However, the women [i]are[/i] allowed to see through it, and even walk through it. They are purer of heart than males." The servant smiled, and Shinji chuckled.

"I suppose that's relative. Anyway, thank you." He servant bowed, and left. Looking around, he realized he had no bathing clothes. As if an answer to his thoughts, a light, white robe apparated in midair in front of him. He caught them, took off his regular clothes as, and put the clothes and staff on the side of the marble bath area. The disappeared, but he didn't worry. He knew that when he was done, they would reappear.

He sunk into the water, until it reached his neck. He sat there in the water, feeling his troubles bubble away.

[Kairi]

[COLOR=DarkSlateGray][SIZE=1]The living conditions were quite grand and exquisit. With the barrier between the girls and boys...no one had to worry about any unexpected visits while changing and whatnot.

''Hey guys...I'll be back later alright. I wanna take a look around the castle ok.''

''Alright Joseph'' replied Shinji

''Later'' responded Zeth and Kent at the same time.

The structure of the castle was enourmouns. Massive hallways that seemed to ever end. Carpeting and tapestry beyond imagination with its complex and yet sublime formations of colors and images.

[I]This is incredible...[/I]

Eventuall Joseph found himself in a beautiful courtyard within the castle walls. Laying down his staff, he sat on the ground crosslegged...staring up at the stars. Through his eyes...they looked foreign, but inside he felt like he was back home. It was a warm night...the gentle breeze was soothing to the nerves.

[I]I don't understand...what did that Nu Mou mean by me having the all-mighty ''World'' crystal. I have nothing...[/I] as Joseph looked at his hands palms up.

''What grieves thee...'' asked Judgemaster Zedekiah...taking a seat next to Joseph.

[I]Whats up with these people asking about me and grieving?[/I]

''...Just thinking thats all my Lord...''

''It is I...who shall be calling you Lord, Joseph, Servant of the Sacred Fire.''

''Please...stop calling me that. I haven't earned any such title.''

''But it is what you are...ain't it not?''

''No Zedekiah, I'm a simple student in my world...I'm not what you think of me. I don't understand...Zeroun saying that I have the all-mighty power of ''The World'' crystal. Zedeziah...I have nothing.''

Zedekiah didn't say anything at first...he just looked staring at the stars with Joseph doing the same thing.

''I used to look up at the stars like this all the time when I was your age...'' bringing Josephs attention back to Zedekiah, however Zedekiah kept looking up at the sky. ''I've been in service to the Queen all my life. I used to think if there was any other purpose for me out there in the world of Ivalice.''

''Did you find any...''

''No need, I kept my undying loyalty to the Queen, and I have become the most powerful Judgemaster of our time.''

Joseph just sat in silence...looking back up at the stars.

''I heard of what you did in the city today Joseph by a moogle by the name of Kirby...............I don't know what you were in your world, but I do know this. No simple creature could have done what you did today...and this is only the beginning for you. In time...'' as Zedekiah looked at Joseph with his big and powerful brown eyes, placing a hand on his shoulder...''you will come to understand the power within you. As will the rest of your friends.''

''I still don't understand Zedekiah, if the others have crystals for each of the different creatures of Ivalice...what does ''The World'' crystal mean.''

''That you are a part of this world...more than you know. You feel it do you not...deep down inside...dont you?''

''I feel...different yes. Like I've been here before...''

Zedekiah patting him on the back...''see...thats it. Thats the power within you...it may not be much...but its a start. Sooner or later...you will come to understand your purpose...just like I did all those years ago.''

The judgemaster stood up from the ground...as Joseph continued to sit on upon the grass deep in thought.

''Always remember Joseph, Servant of the Sacred Fire...in order to lead, you must learn to serve. No greater way to do that then to learn the ways of healing with that Spring Staff.''

Joseph shot a stare up at Zedekiah, almost in tears of joy. [I]In order to Lead...you must Serve.......the words of Grandma...[/I]

''Never forget...'' Zedekiah rubbing his hand through Josephs hair...messing it up. ''don't stop looking up at those stars...they contain our dreams...and with you...nothing ever ends...this is only the beginning'' with that...the judgemaster walked out of the courtyard back into the castle.

Joseph feel backwards onto the grass...feeling the world upon his back. Lossing himself in the infany of space, he could feel reality on his back with the blades of grass...all he could do was lie there in awe to Zedekiah's words.

[I]Even if I don't understand...this is the path, the life that has been set before me...there is no turning back now. I promise Zedekiah...I will not fail. [/I][/SIZE][/COLOR]

[0ber0n the Neko]

(listen to "sub ace and aura-all my dreams" if you have it)

Kent awoke, not in the morning, but at night. Zeth was still asleep, and upon his return, so was Shinji. Hw decided he would take a walk. He felt completely awake, and knew he needed time to think about things. He strolled into the hallway, carrying his sword, somewhat proudly. He felt wanted... needed. He smiled, and he walked out into a courtyard. He lay on the ground, much more comfortably than he ever would in a bed. He looked up, seeing nothing but the perfect night sky of Ivalice, a town with no electricity to ruin the light coming from above.

The stars were like falling snow, suspended and beautiful. Kent closed his eyes. "I really wish that I was beautiful like that..." He said to himself. He opened his eyes again, looking into the sky again. He laughed to himself. "Yeah, I understand that this is how I was meant to be. God, all those kids are having so much fun... I'm glad they are, too. Maybe... just maybe... maybe my purpose is not to be loved, but to love. To try and help others..." He fantasized. He smiled.

He sat up, drawing his sword. "Alright! I dedicate myself to helping this party through! I will protect them... even if it means I must die to do so!" he held his sword pointed towards the moon.

Someone laughed. He turned to find Dyne standing nearby. He was accompanied by a person in a robe. "Hey, Sir Kent!" he said, waving. "I brought a new person for you to meet!" Dyne motioned for the robed person to take off the hood. The hood came off, and a girl of decidedly peasant descent emerged.

"Hello..." shesaid, turning away shyly.

"Hello, there. What is your name?" Kent asked. He smiled encouragingly.

"I'm... Sev. Sev Meron. You're... Sir Kent?" She said quietly.

"Well, the 'sir' part is still a mystery to me, but yeah. I'm Kent." He grinned widely.

"Well, I'm sure it's because of the many things you have done for others!" She said, grinning sheepishly.

"I dunno.. I haven't done much for anyone..." Kent said, now sounding somewhat shy. "But I hope to do so! You can count on me to save you guys!" He grinned again, heroically.

Dyne nudged the girl, and she turned around, blushing intensely. "Come on! Tell him... the other thing!" Dyne said, teasingly.

"What other thing!?" Sev said, panicky. Dyne was about to utter a response, but his mouth was instantly obscured by Sev's hand.

"Oh, THAT thing... It's not important!" Sev said, blushing furiously. She carried Dyne off. "Goodbye, Sir Kent!" was the only thing he heard fro mthem as they left. Kent smiled.

"Probably nothing, eh?" Kent said to himself. "Well, now I'm so comfy... I'll sleep here."

[Orcus]

[COLOR=Blue][SIZE=1]Zeth stirred in his sleep and awoke abruptly. He had been having trouble staying asleep, though by all means he should have been exhausted considering the day's events had drained him. He stood up, got dressed and walked out into the hallway. He observed the beautiful castle, amazed by it's splendor.

[B]"This is great...Nowhere like this in [I]our[/I] Ivalice. Hmmm...and quite the unusual people. Reina, Zedekiah, Ophelia, and Zeroun all give off an air of majesticness. But...can we really harness the power of these Crystals?"[/B] He sat in silence, doubting his abilities. He pulled the All-Mighty law card out of his pocket and twirled it in his fingers.

[B]"Wonder how these laws work. Though I have to admit, the sound of engaging others in battle sounds exhilirating..."[/B]

[B]"They can be quite amusing."[/B] Zeth unsheathed his blade and spun to face the voice. Judgemaster Zedekiah was stroling towards him. Zeth sighed in relief and sheathed his blade.

[B]"Judgemaster...It's only you..."[/B] The Judgemaster walked next to him and sat down, motioning for Zeth to do the same.

[B]"It seems that our warriors are restless tonight. Not but a couple of minutes ago I spoke with Joseph, Servant of the Sacred Fire. And now I'm graced with the presence of Zeth of the Blue Moon."[/B] Zeth laughed. He had absentmindely given himself that name...but it felt like it was destined for him nonetheless.

[B]"Judgemaster...Do you really believe that we can complete this task weighed upon us? What if we fail?"[/B] The Judgemaster sighed and stood up and began walking away. He stopped and tilted his head slightly to talk with Zeth.

[B]"Though doubt may rest in your heart, do not fret. For in mine their is no doubt, only unbridled faith that you will prevail."[/B] Zeth grinned as Zedekiah walked off. Zeth stood up and walked out to the garden, spotting Joseph.

[B]"Hey! What's up, man?[/B]"[/SIZE][/COLOR]