RPG Citius Altius Fortius [M-VSL]

[TheResplendent]

[size=1]ooc: Would be difficult for Kyosuke do carry Alex with an injured shoulder but i can probably work it in.[/size]

- - - - - - - - - - -

[size=1][color=navy]Blood dripped onto the floor of the hallways from all three male students. It was so late at night, nobody else was awake except the select few night owls who just hung out in their dorm rooms, unaware of what had just happened. The magnitude of the situation had yet to really set in with either of the 4 students that were present for the demise of Mox. They were all too concerned with getting to the infirmary to get their wounds treated. It was unthinkable how powerful Mox really was, Kyosuke and Alex nearly getting killed in exchange for their attack advances if it weren't for Agamemmnon. Though none of them expected it to be easy since he was a certified instructor of the academy.

Kyosuke struggled to drag himself along, supporting Alex with his good shoulder and keeping him up. Ayame being carried by Kyosuke's Fenghuang. Kyosuke ignored the pain well enough, giving him enough energy to think back to how he was defeated. His thoughts focused only on how pathetic he felt, though they were slightly decreasing only due to overwhelming fatigue. He could hear Sakura's voice now, yelling at him for getting hurt, then trying to uphold her collected state by not crying after she got her hits in. He would have preferred her not to find out about his injuries. Kyosuke had been injured in the past from sparring, but that was years ago. He has considered himself above needless injuries, but was now forced to second guess himself.

Lazarus could barely stand but he managed to stay conscious until reaching the infirmary. A loud thud could be heard in the doorway, as Nurse Mallon walked out of her office to see all 4 students either unconscious or struggling to stay on their feet.

[b]"My goodness! What in the world happened to you all!? Your all a mess!"[/b] she said while rushing to get them all onto stretchers. Kyosuke helped Mallon get Alex onto one before falling to his knees. He gripped his shoulder and tried his best to convince himself that it didn't hurt. He recalled Fenghuang and eased Ayame into his arms. He placed her onto a stretcher gently and fell again. Something was weird about his wound, that black thread that was shot through him...it was like he was more fatigued then he was before following Daiya. His vision began to blur and he grew weak.

[b]"Kyosuke! What in the world have you all been doing? Tell mee..."[/b] Nurse Mallon tried to ask, but it all just sounded like incoherent echoes to Kyosuke, who soon collapsed himself. Nurse Mallon's aides rushed and brought all four of the students into the emergency room. Daiya stayed on Ayame's bed and tried to revive her but she had collapsed probably from a mix of the impact she received from Mox and fatigue.

Nighttime began to pass as the students received their involountary rest inside the academy's infirmary, under the watchful eye of Nurse Mallon. What would await them upon their awakening?
[/size][/color]

[Riku]

[COLOR=RoyalBlue][SIZE=1][FONT=Tahoma]The bright light of the sun flooded throughout the hallways and into the student's dorm room. It was already morning, yet it felt as if everyone had just gotten to sleep, turning over in their beds and grumbling at the light.

[B]"Ugh,"[/B] Rinoa muttered, covering her eyes with her right hand so that she could still get a little bit more sleep until she had to wake up for her classes. [B]"Why... why couldn't be a holiday already?"[/B] she moaned as she sat up, rubbing her eyes and trying to flatten her poofed up blue hair. After getting out of bed, brushing her teeth and putting on her black, white and blue uniform on, Rinoa collected all her books and rushed out of the room towards the main hall, hoping she'd be able to talk to Havok at least before the bells chimed.

As she was walking through the hall slowly, she saw a dozens of students collected in a little group, talking amongst themselves. Rinoa walked over to the group so that she could hear what they were talking so eagerly about....

[B]"Oh my gosh! Did you hear that some students went out late at night and returned wounded?"[/B]

[B]"I know! I heard it was Kyosuke and some other lame students who were injured... oooh, I hope he's alright."[/B]

Rinoa slightly gasped as she heard the conversation. [B]"What?!"[/B] she accidently yelled out, causing the group to turn and stare at her as if she was retarded. She then walked faster over to them and tried to ask them a question with a worried look over her face, [B]"Wh..what happened?! Who was injured? Is Kyosuke going to be okay?!"[/B]

Suddenly, one of the more "popular girls" grabbed Rinoa's yellow tie and pulled her near, smiling sweetly yet evily in her face. [B]"I don't know, you freak,"[/B] she said, causing some giggles to be heard from other girls, [B]"but what do you know anything about Kyo, hmm?"[/B]

Rinoa gulpped loudly... she was usually the one being picked on in fights, but she was always scared. She gently placed her hands over her tie and tried to make up some lame excuse, [B]"Uh.. uhm.. I was just talking to him the other day and.. well,"[/B] she paused a little before continuing, [B]"..we're friends... I guess."[/B]

The girl snickered as she slapped Rinoa's right cheek with her hand, causing her face to turn sharply. [B]"Don't you go fantasizing, thinking that anyone, especially Kyo, to become friends with a nobody like you."[/B]

Rinoa slowly turned her head back, holding her red cheek and almost starting to tear up... which some girls saw and started laughing at her. Suddenly, a familiar voice was heard from behind her, [B]"Hey, leave her alone and go cake on some make-up somewhere else."[/B] Rinoa turned her head to see Sakura crossing her arms, her head tilted upwards, and Havok a little bit in front of her with a scowl on his face and his hands on his hips.

The girl scoffed and threw Rinoa towards them, causing her to land hard on her back. She summoned her group to follow her and walked off, looking at Rinoa one last time before she walked away.

[B]"You okay?"[/B] Havok asked her as he and Sakura helped her up. Rinoa picked up her things and looked towards them, ignoring the slight sting coming from her cheek.

[B]"Do you both know what happened to Kyosuke, Alex and Ayame?!"[/B]

They both looked dumbfoundedly at each other and then at her, their faces more serious. [B]"Well,"[/B] Sakura coughed, [B]"They were injured last night... badly. Now they're inside the Infirmary resting. We were just heading to your room to ask if you wanted to come with us."[/B]

[B]"Of course I do!"[/B] she cried, turning to walk over to the Nurse's Room but then being held back by a worried Havok holding her arm.

[B]"Are you sure you're okay?"[/B] he said, [B]"I mean... doesn't your cheek hurt?"[/B]

She laughed a little before she touched her cheek lightly, [B]"It's alright... this wasn't the first time something like this happened to me."[/B] She then turned around and started walking towards the Infirmary, Havok and Sakura looking at each other before following her.

As they finally got to the door, Rinoa lightly knocked before coming in... seeing people laying down in the strechers, still asleep or unconcious. Sakura was the first to run by Kyosuke's side while Havok gently nudged her into the office. [B]"Excuse me, Nurse Mallon?"[/B] he finally said, [B]"She needs to be treated on her right cheek."[/B]

The nurse nodded and walked over to Rinoa, asking her and Havok to have a seat. As Nurse Mallon was treating her cheek, she asked, [B]"Uhm.. nurse? Will... will they be okay?"[/B]

She lightly chuckled and nodded, [B]"Yes.. they will, but they need their rest for a little while longer."[/B] The nurse then looked at Rinoa's face a little bit longer until she laughed a little bit more, [B]"So... you must be this... 'Rinoa', huh?"[/B]

[B]"Uhm... yes mam'm,"[/B] she replied nervous.

[B]"Well... I heard from Mr. Vermilion here that you're friends with this group of students."[/B]

She lightly nodded, [B]"Yes mam'm."[/B]

[B]"Well then,"[/B] the Nurse replied, putting a bandage on Rinoa's cheek and standing up to put the medicines away. [B]"Do you have any idea what they were doing so late at night and why they were so horribly injured?"[/B]

She slightly gasped, putting her hand over her mouth and sweating a little... Rinoa knew that Alex was up to something, but not this serious.

[B]"What am I going to say to her?"[/B] she thought, nervousness sweeping over her.

[CENTER]~*~[/CENTER]
OoC: I hope you guys don't mind me joining... after all, we're friends, right? :D[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Doublehex]

[url=http://www.otakuboards.com/showpost.php?p=741603&postcount=11][b][center][-Alex-][/url][/b][/center]

Blackness. A great cage that goes on and on and on?it does not end, it does not begin. It is simply there, a creation of your mind.

Isn?t that right, Alex Glesen?

Where am I?

Here.

Where is here?

There.

This doesn?t make any sense!

Nothing makes sense. Some things just make more sense than others. It is a matter of perception.

I don?t want to be here. Get me out of this place! Get me out! Out! Out! I hate it, I hate it, I hate! Damnit, I want to see! I wanna be! I wanna do things! Let me live! Live! Live! Live! Kyosuke?Sakura?Rinoa?Ayame?I want to see them! I need to see them! Let me out! Let me out!

A line echoes across.

Do you know who you are?

A line slips downward.

What?

Across.

There are many Alex Glesens in the world. There is the Alex Glesen in Sakura Cylen?s mind, there is the Alex Glesen in Kyosuke Ories? mind, there is the Alex Glesen in Instructor Aki?s mind, there is the Alex Glesen in Rinoa Ryuzaki?s mind, there is the Alex Glesen in Ayame?s mind, and there is the Alex Glesen in Carrot Burnheart?s mind.

Down.

Who?

Across.

You hide from the pain.

Vertical.

A car burning in the streets.

Down.

Let it stop! I don?t want to see this!

Across.

You want to spin a constant thread of happiness, but that simply cannot be.

Down

Make it stop! Mama! Mom, make it stop! Please Mom?please?

Across

Pain and happiness rest side by side. The perfect life is one of both joy and gloom. People will feel darkness in their hearts, but they will see light as well, if they will accept it.

Down

I don?t want to live! I don?t want to be here! I just want to be!

Vertical

?I?ll be a good boy! I will be a good boy! Papa, don?t let them take me! Let me stay! I?ll be the bestest boy there ever was! Please Papa! Papa!!?

Down

My father?he left me?

Across

You must accept the pain. Let the separated threads unite.


[center]*[/center]

Nurse Mallon looked over at Alex Glesen. ?Oh, he?s awake now.?

[Sandy]

[COLOR=DarkRed][I]Day 2, in the morning[/I]

Carrot stepped out of her dormitory room adjusting her plaid skirt. It didn't take her long to notice that something was off in the school. There were groups of students gossiping everywhere, some looking worried, others excited.

Something big had happened during the night, Carrot deduced. She wondered if it had anything to do with the burst of magic she had felt in the midnight.

She tried to eavesdrop others, but couldn't make out much except that some students had been injured and were now in the infirmary.

It was enough to know what she would be doing this morning - every time there had been several injured patients, the Head Instructor of the support magic studies, Elward Phoenix, would send her to aid Nurse Mallon to the infirmary.

Carrot wasn't wrong, because soon enough she saw Instructor Phoenix heading her way.

[B]"Miss Burnheart, wait!"[/B] the instructor hollered. He was a middle-aged, skinny man with round glasses and a balding head. He also looked very enthralled. [B]"I've got a [I]perfect[/I] training session for you!"[/B]

[B]"Actually, I should be heading to magic weapon training class..."[/B] Carrot tried to object, although she knew it would be in vain.

[B]"Nonsense, Miss Burnheart! Nurse Mallon needs your aid in the infirmary with the injured students, and since these are the very same people who you will be participating to the Final Exam in three months with, you simply [I]can't[/I] miss this opportunity!"[/B]

Instructor Phoenix seemed to be so excited that it wouldn't be a surprise to Carrot if he suddenly would clap his hands and giggle. Talking about taking pleasure from somebody else's pain!
[B]
"Oh, alright. I'll go, then. Could you at least tell me what's happened?"[/B]

[B]"Something very serious"[/B], the instructor said, his whole demeanor suddenly changing from joyous to grave. [B]"Hush-hush business, faculty matters, you shouldn't interfere... Go on now, will you?"[/B]

Carrot rolled her eyes in frustration and took a direction towards the infirmary.

[B]"Didn't even get breakfast..."[/B] she muttered as she walked on. She noticed how the amount of students around her grew as she approached the infirmary. Accidents happened all the time inside the Argo Arx Arcanum, but very rarely anything of this scale. The whole school was aiming it's focus on the infirmary.

Suddenly Carrot was eager to see who was injured as well, and just how badly.[/COLOR]

[SIZE=1][B]OoC:[/B] One Carrot coming your way![/SIZE]

[Doublehex]

[url=http://www.otakuboards.com/showpost.php?p=741603&postcount=11][b][center][-Alex-][/url][/b][/center]

?You really should be sleeping, Mister Glesen,? Mallon scolded as she helped Alex sit up. ?You nearly got your spine fractured. You should not even be awake.? Alex just moaned in response. Sighing, Mallon attempted to have him lay flat on the bed, but Alex just grunted softly in rebellion. ?Fine, fine, be that way!?

?Having trouble with a patient nurse?? Carrot asked as she walked in.

?Ah, perfect timing Miss Burnheart! I need to attend a faculty meeting to inform the higher ups what happened. Can you watch the students here??

?What [i]did[/i] happen??

Mallon sighed. ?I guess I can tell you, since Headmaster Enteri will probably inform the school anyways. It was Instructor Mox ? he tried to kill them.?

Carrot was shocked. ?An instructor tried to kill a student??

?Not student. Students ? three others are here, resting.? She backed away to show the resting forms of Lazarus, Ayame, and Kyosuke.

?Kyosuke, eh? Got in too much trouble for his own good I see.?

?Miss Burnheart!?

?Sorry ma?am.?

Mallon sighed. ?Just watch after them please?and make sure Alex doesn?t do anything drastic. He?s been restless for the past hour.?

?Understood ma?am.? With that, the elder nurse left and Carrot was left alone. Alex moaned as he tried to reach for a glass of water. Carrot rushed to him, lightly pushing him onto the bed. ?Here?, she assured him as she handed him the drink.

?T-thanks,? he whispered.

Carrot raised an eyebrow. She could of sworn she had seen him somewhere before. Then it hit her ? he was here yesterday, when she came for a definition of a term! ?You were here yesterday, weren?t you??

?Y-yeah??
The cup was drained. ?Hey, you want some more? You look kinda thirsty.?

?Y-yeah, sure, I guess??

?You guess? What is it, wise guy? Its either one or the other!?

?Uh, sure, let me have another.? Glad that the boy finally chose on an answer, she filled it at a nearby sink and handed him the glass. Alex quickly drained it.

?So, what the hell happened??

?What??

?Don?t play dumb with me! You guys look like you just came from a war! I know Mox tried to kill you, four eyes and miss hyperactivity, so what I want to know is why. So spill the beans!?

Despite the harsh tense the redhead had with him, Alex didn?t feel threatened by her. He actually felt comforted. ?Me and Ayame went sneaking into Mox?s chamber to spy on his class session with Lazarus, because Lazarus said earlier that Mox was in on the Trials. So, we went in, and when Mox found us, he tried to kill us. Kyosuke was struck cold, and Ayame was knocked out. I held Mox off while Lazarus summoned Aggaememmnon. Long story short, I got my ass kicked, Lazarus summoned the demon, Mox got chewed in half.?

Carrot giggled. ?Wow, I never expected a big, dramatic story like that from a pipsqueak like you. I guess you deserve to know my name at least.? She extended her hand. ?Carrot Burnheart.?

?A-Alex Glesen.?

?Well, nice to meet you?I guess.?

?You guess? Which is it? Is it nice to meet me or isn?t it??

Carrot giggled a little, realized she got caught in her own. ?[i]Fine[/i]. It?s nice to meet you.?

?Good enough?, Alex sighed.

[Sandy]

[COLOR=DarkRed]Carrot felt strange that all these years she had been attending to the same classes as this Alex Glesen, but before now they hadn't spoken even a word to each other. Alex was the quiet type of guy, sitting in the backrow, never raising his hand when a question was asked. And Carrot, she was the opposite, always sitting her back turned to the kinds of Alex, always on the front row, constantly lifting her hand up.

[B]"So... Were you scared?"[/B] Carrot asked as she viewed the monitors Alex was linked to. His pulse was still weak.

[B]"Huh?"[/B] Alex asked back.

[B]"When you fought Professor Mox. Didn't it scare you to face a magician of his prowess?"[/B]

[B]"Uh, dunno..."[/B] Alex murmured. [B]"I didn't stop to think at that moment, I just did what my guts told me to do."[/B]

Carrot smiled. [B]"Hmm, a brave mouse, eh?"[/B]

She turned around and walked to the other beds before Alex had the chance to reply. She wasn't too thrilled to treat the bastard Orias and the crazy chick Ayame, but Mallon had trusted the infirmary to her so she had to do her job.

[B]"Hi, Carrot"[/B], Ayame greeted thinly. Her eyes didn't seem to quite get a good focus, they looked a bit crossed. To her personal shock, Carrot felt sorry for the spastic girl. She even managed to give Ayame an encouraging nod and a smile.

[B]"Rinoa... and Havok... They came by here earlier. They just left before you arrived. But they should be back soon, they just went to get some of our belongings here. Nurse Mallon... said this could take a while."[/B]

[B]"I'm sure you'll be just fine by the time of the Trials"[/B], Carrot said with her most empathic tone. [B]"After all, who else could I compete against then?"[/B]

Ayame smiled at Carrot and closed her wandering eyes.[/COLOR]

[SIZE=1][B]OoC: [/B]Sorry that I wrote Rinoa and Havok out of the scene, but I corrected that by writing them back in - they can return to the infirmary at any time now.[/SIZE]

[Tekkaman]

[center][font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][u]8:54am[/u][/i][/b][/size][/font][/center]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i]Aaron was awoken to rapid beating on his door.[/i][/b] Slightly frighted since no one hardly ever knocked on his door, Aaron shuffled to put on a towel of some sort before answering the door. The knocking on his door repeated again, faster this time.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]"Coming, coming, hold on a damn mi-"[/color][/i][/b] Aaron opened the door to see an estatic Mr. Phoenix; his Support Magi instructor. [b][i][color=darkgreen]"Hey, Mr. Phoenix,"[/color][/i][/b] Aaron's attitute changed slightly. [b][i][color=darkgreen]"I was just getting ready for class."[/color][/i][/b] Aaron was a bad liar, knowing that he had overslept.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkorange]"Get dressed and go to the Infirmary right away,"[/color][/i][/b] Mr. [color=darkorange][color=black]Phoenix seemed happy and demanding at the same time.[/color] [b][i]"And never mind your tardiness, you make excellent grades in my class anyway."[/i][/b][/color] Mr. Phoenix grinned ever so slightly. [b][i][color=darkorange]"There are four students who were badly injured last night and somehow I believe their injuries are connected with the recent dissapearance of Mr. Mox."[/color][/i][/b][/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]"That Black Magi teacher?"[/color][/i][/b] Aaron stated, surprised.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkorange]"One and the same."[/color][/i][/b] Mr. Phoenix nodded.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]"..I'll... just gimme a minute sir!"[/color][/i][/b] Aaron yelled, slamming the door behind him. He dropped his towel, revealing himself to no one before jumping into the shower for a quick wash up.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]Mr. Phoenix began to yell through the door, not wanting to intrude on his student's privacy. [b][i][color=darkorange]"I must warn you Mr. Covais, that I sent [u][color=darkred]Carrot Burnheart[/color][/u] to the Infirmary as well and.."[/color][/i][/b][/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]"Ah... shit!"[/color][/i][/b] Aaron yelled, cutting his teacher off from outside. Besides Stephen, Aaron hated having other [i][color=darkgreen]'supporters'[/color][/i] getting to the bread and butter before him, despite his personality towards others. Yes he was slightly competitive and he prided himself for it because that quality, combined with wanting to be the best, that made him as strong as he is now. As he jumped out the shower, turning off the water, he put on a fresh pair of black briefs, white socks, a white tee-shirt, white faded jeans, and his white mandatory robe for the Academy. After buttoning his robe all the way up, making sure his buttons weren't crooked or anything, he put on his belt - summoning jewel included. He then double-checked his neck to make sure his Blue Magi jewel was still hanging, which it was. After checking then double-checking, Aaron stepped out the door of his room, door unlocked and [u]his platinum hair still soaking wet[/u].[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]"Thanks for the info, sir!"[/color][/i][/b] Aaron said taking off at a dead sprint towards the Infirmary.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkorange]"You're welcome!"[/color][/i][/b] Mr. Phoenix said, watching Aaron dissapear from his sight.[/size][/font]

[center][font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i]~+~[/i][/b][/size][/font][/center]

[center][font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][u]9:32am[/u][/i][/b][/size][/font][/center]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]Winded, Aaron stepped into the Infirmary looking for the nurse. When he had found her doing a mandatory cleanup in the room with all of the blood samples, he spoke to her, [b][i]trying to regain his breath[/i][/b].[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][color=darkgreen][b][i]"Excuse me...I'm here... via Mr. Phoenix on behalf... of 4 students who were injured... last night. Can you..."[/i][/b][/color][/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i]"Straight ahead, just open the door."[/i][/b] The nurse replied to the boy, going back to work. Aaron was shocked at the quick reply, forgetting that it was a school infirmary, not a hospital.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]"Um... Thanks."[/color][/i][/b] Aaron said, smacking his head before walking to the room.[/size][/font]

[center][font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i]~+~[/i][/b][/size][/font][/center]

[center][font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][u]9:33am[/u][/i][/b][/size][/font][/center]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]Aaron walked into the room, seeing several new faces: all new faces except for one, [b][i][u]Carrot Burnheart[/u][/i][/b].[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]Carrot was talking to one of the injured that awoke from his unconcious sleep, hearing footsteps behind her. She turned around, a half-smile pursing through her lips. [b][i][color=darkred]"Well, well, well.. if it isn't Aaron Covais. I should've known that Mr. Phoenix wouldn't let me come here without bringing you along for the ride as well."[/color][/i][/b] She flipped hir red hair back with a flick of her neck. [/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]Carrot and Aaron were rivals as well in Support class, but Aaron began to neglect Carrot's presence after becoming more and more on par with Stephen Jonuvar. Now, whenever the Aaron and Carrot meet, tension fills the air between the two of them.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][u]Aaron blushed[/u], but pushed through his embarrassment by asking her a legitimate question.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]"What the [u]hell[/u] happened to these four?"[/color][/i][/b] He pointed at the three on the hospital beds and the one that Carrot was talking to.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]=========================[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=navy]OOC[/color]: Finally, [color=darkgreen]Aaron[/color] meets [color=darkred]Carrot[/color]. Muahahaha![/i][/b][/size][/font]

[TheResplendent]

[center][color=darkred]The clock read [b]9:40[/b] as the two young medics attempted to help the injured.[/color][/center]

[center]- - - - - - - - -[/center]

[color=navy][size=1]After explaining what she had heard from Nuse Mallon, Carrot made her way slowly over to Kyosuke's bed. She glared down at him, he was awake but stiff as a statue. He hadn't payed a single bit of attention to what had been going on in the room for the last half hour. Carrot shook her head and though to herself [b][i]'Hmph, maybe a good ass kicking was what he needed to finally bring him down off his high horse'[/b][/i]

Carrot reluctantly placed her hand on Kyosuke's shoulder to try and ease the pain further with her support magic, but her hand was fluently slapped away by Kyosuke, who turnes his head to her with a deeply annoyed look on his face.

[b]"Hey! What the hell! I'm trying to help you, you know? It's not like I want to either, i'm doing it because I'm a support magic student! You could at least let me help then we don't have to see each other again for the whole damn day, ok!?"[/b] Carrot screamed, trying her way of reasoning.

[b]"Leave me alone, just get out of here."[/b] Kyosuke answered, narrowing his eyes at her. Carrot groaned and shoved the curtain out of her way as she stormed through it.

[b]"FINE! I don't care, lay there in pain!"[/b] she yelled as she turned around in time to bump into another female student. Carrot looked her up and down and let out a frustrated sigh.

[b]"Hmph, your infallible hero is in there!"[/b] Carrot said to Sakura, pointing to where Kyosuke was laying. She shoved Sakura's shoulder back while passing by her and went over to Aaron who was trying to treat Lazarus with some pain killing medicine. Sakura turned behind her and motioned that she would be right back to Rinoa and Havok.

[b]"Wait! I want to see him..."[/b] Rinoa said with her hands clasped together.

[b]"I won't be too long...I just want to see him alone for a couple of minutes,"[/b] Sakura answered back.

Havok put his hands on Rinoa's shoulders and convinced her to let Sakura go ahead. Sakura pushed through the curtains and saw Kyosuke laying there with a wrapped up shoulder and a bitter look on his face. She knew what was going through his mind now, but after hearing what she had heard about what happened she was more upset then ever.

[b]"Look at you...what were you guys thinking!?"[/b] Sakura started to say as she walked up to his bedside. Kyosuke just shifted his eyes toward her for a few seconds, then back to his normal focus.

[b]"Don't you have anything to say to me, Kyosuke!?"[/b] she said in an insistent tone.

[b]"Ayame...is she alright?"[/b] Kyosuke asked.

[b]"What? Yes...she's alright, Carrot tended to her before...she seems to be a bit dizzy but she's awake and fine,"[/b] Sakura said, a bit confused.

[b]"...and Alex?"[/b] Kyosuke continued.

[b]"He's in worse shape than she is...but he should also be fine. Nurse Mallon said that all of you are going to be alright,"[/b] Sakura assured him.

[b]"Good...now leave me alone."[/b]

Sakura's eyes almost teared up at those words, as she thrusted her face at his.

[b]"Don't talk to me like that! How do you want me to feel after hearing you put yourself in a situation where you could have gotten killed!? I know what your going through now it isn't anything new, Kyosuke! You feel sorry for yourself, your angry because you screwed up, well people screw up! Even you! It dosen't make you any less of a person, and it dosen't mean that your useless! If i have to slap you across the face a hundred times to get that through to you I'll do it!"[/b] she said in a half angry half upset tone. Kyosuke just glanced up at her, and then back down without saying a word.

At that, Sakura stormed out and forgetting Rinoa and Havok was there, accidently bumped into Rinoa. Rinoa looked at her face and saw her trying to hide away her upsetness. She knew Sakura well enough to know she was a very level-headed person, and she was nothing short of impressed of how quickly Sakura is able to calm herself down after certain emotional situations. Still, she felt obligated to do whatever she could...Rinoa just wrapped her arms around Sakura and hugged her. Havok watched them both, and began to grow annoyed. Havok walked through Kyosuke's curtains and looked down at him.

[b]"Listen to me man, i'm sure it isn't my place to say anything...but you need to get your head on straight. Sakura really cares about you, and i know how much you care about her. It's not just her either though, we care about you man...me, Rinoa...she only just met you but she considers you a friend. In fact she got smacked today because of you! *sigh* look...I know you probably need time...but you just need to know that when you get out of here...you better apologize to Sakura."[/b] Havok finished up and walked back outside.

Kyosuke was left with himself thinking about everything that was said to him. He began to think about Rinoa, who had only just met him but he could hear her outside sounding concerned for him...like it was someone in her family that had been injured. He thought about Ayame, and her limp body as it was in his arms at the doorway of the infirmary. He thought about the burst of power Alex had gotten during his battle with Mox, though it ended in defeat for him as well...if it weren't for agamemmnon they could all very well be dead now. Kyosuke wished he could set aside his current feelings, but he's worked so hard for the past decade to be who he is, it was more than painful for him to fail...but what was most painful about this wasn't that he failed in attacking Mox...it was that he failed in protecting his friends.

He thought about everyone who had put up with him enough to form an actual friendship. He felt bad about not speaking to Sakura, but Havok was right...he just needed time to think. After that he would definitly apologize to her, he would see Ayame and hope that she would forgive him for not being able to protect them, his views on Lazarus even changed a little, but complete trust was still more than an arm's reach away. Alex...he saw his will to survive against Mox, he knew that what Alex needed to prepare himself for the trials was there...he no longer felt the need to go through with what he had planned.

Outside he could hear Aaron and Carrot arguing with one another, as well as supplies dropping and things breaking. He tried to contain himself, but a slight smile came across his face and he let out a sigh. Kyosuke knew what he had to do, he would become better, stronger, and more effecient...for himself and for his friends. Kyosuke reached over to his chest...but felt around a bit before noticing something was missing. A look of concern began to show on his face.

[b]"Oh no....my cross! Where did it go!?"[/b] he said to himself, as he tried to sit up but was shot back down from the pain.



[/color][/size]
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

[size=1]ooc: Sorry if i made you seem too abusive Sakura, lol. It just seems to fit the relationship, not real hitting of course just your typical anime style girl slaps guy kind of thing.
ooc2: Ya, i brought rinoa and havok back already :P[/size]

[Kitty]

[size=1][indent][center]Day 2 - 9:30 AM, Infirmary[/center]

Ayame was stuck in a bad dream with no way out. Her brief semi-consciousness gave her momentary refuge from the barrage of bad memories, but she was quickly dropped back into them. Things she would rather not remember at all flooded her, leaving her miserable and lost. She tried to ask where she was, but no sound came out.

And then, memories of the events of last night took over her thoughts. Though she was knocked out for a large portion of the fight with Mox, she still felt Aggaememmnon's presence. When he arrived, she felt as if she was melting, and after he left, she felt frozen solid. And though she was unconscious, the sound Mox being bitten in half echoed through her ears. She thought of the others getting hurt, and that she couldn't do anything to help out. Kyosuke, Alex, and even Lazarus did something. All she did was get tossed around like a useless rag doll.

[i]Do I really deserve to wake up? What's the point if I'm just going to end up being a burden for people?[/i]

Her eyes slowly opened, revealing a somewhat blurry yellow room full of people.

[b]"She looks confused,"[/b] one voice muttered.

[b]"I would be, too,"[/b] another replied. She recognized this voice.

[b]"Alex, is that you?"[/b] she asked, rubbing her eyes as she sat up slowly. Her vision cleared, and she saw him nod. She blinked and glanced around the room. She recognized most of them, but was surprised that so many had heard they were there already. Sakura had just gone to see Kyosuke behind his curtain, and Havok was convincing Rinoa that it would be best to let Sakura go in first. Alex, Carrot and another boy she didn't know too well were talking, though she didn't appear to be too happy with the boy. And then Ayame remembered her dream. She had the intense urge to curl up in a ball and die right there just thinking about it, but she was tackled by Daiya.

[i]"Ayame!"[/i] he giggled as she attempted to detach him from her face.

[b]"Hey Daiya,"[/b] she mumbled.

[i]"I brought you some ice cream from the cafe."[/i] he smiled, pulling the dessert out of thin air. [i]"It's your favorite!"[/i]

[b]"Thanks."[/b] She pulled the wrapping off and took a small bite out of it. The furry spirit raised an eyebrow, but said nothing. She was unusually calm and quiet, even though she was generally like this after waking up. He shook of the odd feeling he got, passing it off as over worrying.

[b]"My, my. He just won't wake up,"[/b] Nurse Mallon muttered to herself as she walked out into the room. She was surprised at the large number of students there, but smiled. [b]"Whoever wants to visit Mister McCloud may do so now,"[/b] she smiled as she walked away. Nobody made any movement to do so, except for Ayame who handed her ice cream to Daiya to finish. Rinoa and Alex were the only ones that noticed, but only glanced at each other.

She pulled the curtains aside and entered the small section to see a sleeping Lazarus. He looked peaceful, but she wondered if he was having a similar nightmare experience like she had. She walked over to the side of the bed and stood in silence for a moment before smiling.

[b]"Thank you. I thought you were a mean guy, but I'm glad I was wrong. Wake up soon, okay?"[/b]

And with that, she got up and walked out. She asked the others if it was okay to visit Kyosuke, and the general response was 'only if you want to'. Sakura had an obviously upset expression on her face, and Ayame wondered what could have happened between them, but entered his room anyway.

[b]"Hey Kyosuke,"[/b] she said quietly.

[b]"Ayame! Are you sure you should be--"[/b] he began, but was silenced when she waved a hand.

[b]"I'm fine. I just got tossed around a little, that's all. How about you? How is your shoulder?"[/b] she asked.

[b]"It's been better."[/b]

She jumped up and sat on the bed beside him, though the two remained quiet. After a while he spoke up.

[b]"You sure you're okay? I've never seen you this quiet."[/b]

[b]"Hmm? Oh... I was just thinking about some things,"[/b] she replied, avoiding his eyes.

[b]"Can I ask you a favor?"[/b] he asked. She looked up at him and nodded. [b]"Can you help me look for my cross? It's probably down in the basement, but I don't think I can move too well on my own."[/b]

[b]"No problem,"[/b] she smiled meekly before calling for Daiya. [b]"Take us down to the basement."[/b]

[i]"The basement? But... I thought you couldn't stand it down there?"[/i] he replied. She glared at him, making him float backwards a bit. [i]"Okay, okay. You're scary when you wake up, you know that? Sheesh."[/i] He flew up, landed on Ayame's shoulder and wrapped his tails around Kyosuke's arm. A moment later, the three were gone.[/indent]

---
OOC: The clock makes things much easier. xD Sorry if it's long. Got inspiration half way through. >.>;[/size]

[Sandy]

[COLOR=DarkRed][I]Day 2, 10:00 AM[/I]

The infirmary was a hazzle, and the orderly side of Carrot Burnheart wasn't pleased. Just as she had been trying to tend Kyosuke Orias, a total of three guests had arrived to see the patients: Sakura Clyne, Rinoa Ryuzaki and the guy named Havok.

Then suddenly, nobody else but [I]Aaron Covais[/I], another of her childhood bullies and still a regular pain in the butt, had appeared to "help" her. What was Instructor Phoenix [I]thinking[/I]?!

Finally, as if to make Carrot's day even before it had properly began, Kyosuke Orias along with Ayame had [I]disappeared[/I]!

[B]"Nurse Mallon"[/B], Carrot said as she slipped behind the curtain that was separating Lazarus McCloud's bed from the others. The nurse was using a powerful healing [I]magi[/I] on Lazarus's wounds. [B]"I think we have a problem here..."[/B]

[B]"Yes, dear?"[/B] Nurse Mallon asked, keeping up her permanent smile.

[B]"I... eh, seem to have misplaced a few patients..."[/B] Carrot said uneasily. The nurse turned to look at her dumbfounded.

[B]"Misplaced? How can that be?"[/B]

[B]"Well, in one minute Orias and Ayame were here, and now... they're not. They didn't use the door, that's for sure. If it hadn't been for Aaron Covais stealing away my attention..."[/B]

[B]"No use pointing fingers now, go find them! They are in no condition to leave the infirmary! Hurry, dear!"[/B] Nurse Mallon ushered her out of the enclosed section.

Carrot sighed deeply. Of course it was [I]her[/I] job to find those morons! She narrowed her eyes, took a threatening pose and let her gaze go through everybody in the room. From Sakura and Havok to Aaron to Rinoa and Alex.

[B]"Listen up, people! If any of you have even the slightest idea of where Orias and Ayame eloped, you better speak up!"[/B]

[B]"Uh... I think I saw them teleport earlier"[/B], Alex said unsurely.

[B]"And you didn't bother to tell me?!"[/B] Carrot snapped in a high-pitched voice. [B]"Where could've they gone in their condition? It's dangerous!"[/B]

[B]"As if you'd care, Little Nurse Blackheart"[/B], Aaron Covais snickered.

Carrot's temper boiled over. [B]"I [I]DO[/I] CARE! THEY ARE [I]MY[/I] PATIENTS AND IT'S [I]MY[/I] DUTY TO CARE! IF YOU DARE TO CLAIM OTHERWISE, BE SURE NOT TO GET SICK ON [I]MY[/I] SHIFT, YOU RETARDED WEASEL!!!"[/B]

Then she stormed out of the infirmary, leaving the other students staring behind her.

[B]"Somebody should probably go after her and tell that Kyosuke and Ayame must've returned to the crime scene down at the basement..."[/B] Alex said, breaking the deep silence.

Rinoa nodded to Sakura and Havok.

[B]"We'll be back soon"[/B], she said to Alex, tapping his knee before she left.[/COLOR]

[SIZE=1][B]OoC:[/B] Hope you don't mind the company you're going to get soon, BK and Kitty. ;D[/SIZE]

[Riku]

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue][SIZE=1][FONT=Tahoma][CENTER]Day 2 - 9:54 AM, Infirmary[/CENTER]

Rinoa was in the group of small friends, talking about what had happened and other stories. Her Weapon Training class had already started a few minutes ago, but Nurse Mallon had already said it was okay for them to miss this class period and that she had already informed their teachers that they would be absent. Carrot and Aaron were bickering amongst themselves, while Alex, Havok and Sakura were laughing... and apparently Ayame, Kyosuke and her spirit animal, Daiya was apparently gone for some sort of emergency. She sighed a small sigh and smiled, glad that everything was coming back together... slowly yet surely.

But she then looked at the stretcher that was closed around it with the curtains. It seemed to her as if no one except Ayame really visited the person inside there... Lazarus. [B]"I feel kind of bad that he's alone,"[/B] she thought to herself, [B]"I mean... from what Alex says, he practically saved everyone. Maybe... maybe I should just go visit him for awhile."[/B] She nodded at the positive idea and got up from her seat, slowly walking towards the closed curtains and slightly opening them, walking in and closing the closed space again.

Havok stopped talking and noticed her walking over to Lazarus. He got up from his conversation and walked outside the private area, stopping in front of the curtains and gently eavesdropping at what Rinoa had to say to the unconcious boy... [B]"I.. I'm not doing anything wrong,"[/B] he thought to himself, [B]"Lazarus may have helped everyone, but he's still a mean bastard... it would be safe if I just stood here in case anything happens."[/B]

Rinoa sat down beside the strecher, looking intently at the unconcious teen: he had long dark blue hair that was spread out amongst the stretcher, some what of a nicely muscular toned body and a strong yet calm face. She had heard many girls talking about him during free time... some saying that he was a complete bastard for always bullying Kyosuke, while others loved his mean side and wanted to go out with him. She'd heard things about him, but didn't really judge him until she heard al the good things about him. [B]"I don't think you're actually mean, Mr. McCloud,"[/B] she finally said, leaning a bit closer to him with her hair falling over her shoulders, [B]"I think you're a caring person that would do anything to protect his friends... or at least the people he's mean to."[/B] She quietly laughed a little bit and then sat upwards, smiling at his calm yet peaceful face.

And then suddenly, small moans were heard from him as he slightly awoke. His eyes fluttered open as he put his right hand over his forehead and slowly sat up, still whincing from pain. He then finally looked at Rinoa with a scowl on his face... which meant that he was obviously pissed.

[B]"Who the hell are you?"[/B]

Rinoa lightly leaned backward and took a deep breath before talking, thinking to herself that she shouldn't be scared. [B]"H.. hi, Mr. McCloud,"[/B] she replied, slightly bowing, [B]"I'm Rinoa... Rinoa Ryuzaki and it's nice to me..."[/B]

[B]"Cut the frigging introductions,"[/B] he intterupted, [B]"Are you a friend of that bastard Alex and the others?"[/B]

[B]"Uhm... yes I am,"[/B] she replied nervously.

He then slightly chuckled and looked down for a bit, then looked back up at Rinoa, causing her to flinch. [B]"Heh... it's okay, I won't bite."[/B] Lazarus then slowly lifted his hand up tp Rinoa as a friendly gesture, [B]"It's nice to meet you... Rinoa."[/B]

She then brightly smiled and took his hand gently, shaking it and realizing that he definitely wasn't the kind of person everyone had taken him for. [B]"And it's very nice to meet you, Mr. McCloud."[/B]
[B]
"I said cut it out with the introductions,"[/B] he sighed, [B]"My name's Lazarus... but," [/B] he tilted his head up and down, looking at Rinoa's body and features, [B]"But a cute girl like you ca..."[/B]

[B]"Hi, you freaking bastard!"[/B] Havok came running in, sharply opening the curtains just in time before Lazarus finished his sentence. He smiled at Rinoa and got closer to Lazarus, acting as if he was talking to him like friends but actually pinching his shoulder. [B]"Look, you pimp daddy,"[/B] he whispered, [B]"You can flirt with every other girl in this school, but not her... she's not like others."[/B]

[B]"Ow ow ow!"[/B] Lazarus moaned, but kept it down so Rinoa couldn't hear, [B]"... okay okay! Fine.... but that doesn't mean she won't want me, you know."[/B]

Havok lightly slapped Lazarus' head, causing him to cry in pain. Rinoa stood up and walked over to his side, wondering what had happened. [B]"What's wrong?! Are you okay?"[/B]

[B]"Yeah, he's just fine!"[/B] Havok smiled fakely, warning Lazarus to do the same.

[B]"Yeah yeah... I'm freaking okay,"[/B] Lazarus finally mumbled under his breath.

As soon as everyone else heard a commotion going on, they opened his stretcher curtians and added him in the conversation, laughter, friendly swearing and small bickerings going on.

Havok stood by Rinoa, who was watching everyone, and smiled as he sighed. [B]"You know... he's not as mean as they say he is."[/B] He paused and continued, [B]"Okay wait... maybe he's retarded, but not a big bully."[/B]

[B]"I know he's not,"[/B] Rinoa replied with a smile, [B]"...he just shows that he cares in his own way."[/B]

Havok looked at her and smiled, agreeing with what she had just said and turning his head toward everyone, watching intently as the others talked.

**Then suddenly, she heard Carrot yelling and staring at them, saying that she would look for both Ayame and Kyosuke. After she stormed out the room, Alex looked at Sakura, Rinoa and Havok seriously. [B]"Somebody should probably go after her and tell that Kyosuke and Ayame must've returned to the crime scene down at the basement..."[/B]

Rinoa nodded to the others and lightly tapped his knee, [B]"Okay, we'll do that. Be back in a few!"[/B] she smiled and stood up, walking out of the door while the others followed her.

~*~
OoC: I just pictured Havok the way I thought a guy would do to a friend if he tried to flirt with a girl the guy likes. XD And omg the time does help... makes it a hell of a lot easier I tell ya.

OoC 2: Dang, Sandy.. you posted before me!! XD Lol anyways... ** means it starts where Sandy's post left off.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Doublehex]

[b][center][url=http://www.otakuboards.com/showpost.php?p=741603&postcount=11][-Alex-][/url][/center][/b]

The cat-shaped clock in the infirmary reads 10:01 AM
- - - - -

?We?ll be back soon?, Rinoa assured Alex, tapping her heels as she and Havok left the infirmary to make sure Carrot didn?t cause the next Contra War. Alex just sighed. Now he was all alone with the nurse. He ignored the fact that Lazarus was still there. He didn?t exactly expect Lazarus to start or hold any sort of conversation.

Alex?s theory, however, was proved wrong when Lazarus snickered softly. ?Man, its hard to believe, isn?t it??

Alex just ignored him. It was probably gonna devolve into a raunchy comment at his inconvenience.

?I can?t believe that good for nothing bastard is dead! Finally! Ha, he deserved what he got; I?m telling you that right now!? Lazarus breathed in, containing his excitement. ?Heh, sorry about that. I guess I should thank you Alex.?

?Whys that?? Alex mumbled, not really caring.

?Because Mox was a son of a bitch in every sense of the word. The things he made me do?gawd, I can?t even think about it.?

?Whatever.?

?Yeah, I guess you?re right. I wouldn?t be surprised, considering the way I treated you like an ass??

?You got that right??

?You remind me of when I was a kid, though.? He paused. ?When I first came, I mean.?

?What??

[Lazarus]

Lazarus took a deep breath as if organizing his thoughts before continuing.

"Yeah. You remind me of myself. I suppose I should be thankful to Mox. He gave me a reason to better myself, harden myself. Nevermind that it was hate that fueled me. It taught me how to eat, how to drink, how to breathe. I thought I would die with all the hate in my veins. I just couldn't let anyone else go through that. Least of all, you."

"Why though?"

Lazarus smirked, lost in his thoughts. "Because you reminded me of myself. I was so unsure, quiet, withdrawn. I killed my own mother. Did you know? No, that's a silly question. Of course you didn't. It's not like it was intentional. My gift manifested one day, and simply stripped the soul right from her body. She was literally dead before she hit the ground, in every sense that the word dead can be applied."

A single tear traced it's way down Lazarus's cheek, and he wiped it away angrily. "My father, he resolved to get rid of me. Afterall, I'd killed his beloved wife. He was going to send me away to a boarding school. Then the magisters came. They slapped this watch on me, and my life here began." Lazarus held up his wrist, showing off the onyx faced watch.

A bitter chuckle escaped Lazarus's lips. "You wouldn't believe what my first year was like. I refused to have anything to do with anyone. I was so worried I'd hurt them, or worse. Mox was brought in from a field assignment to tutor me specially, since I wouldn't attend classes. He nealy broke me. He worked on shattering my spirit day and night. One day, I just...had enough. I resolved that dying would have been better than this, and I called upon my gift to send me to my mother."

Alex looked on, stunned, as Lazarus continued. "I awoke, on the floor, with Mox standing over me. He was battered and beaten. I only found out later that not only had I channeled my curse, but that I channeled it into him and had nearly torn him apart before he'd been able to render me unconscious. I wish I'd held on for a few moments longer. Then none of you would have been drug into this. After that, I turned into the person I am today. I guess I still push people away. Some part of that fear that I'm going to hurt someone will always be with me, and that's how I deal with it, I suppose."

[Sandy]

[COLOR=DarkRed][I]Day 2, 10:11 AM[/I]

Carrot was relieved to find out that the masses of students hanging in the corridors and hallways had all gone to their respective classes. It was much easier to find the missing patients now.

[B]"You're a smart girl, Carrot"[/B], she said to herself. [B]"Think! Where could've they gone to? What could they possibly do in their condition?"[/B]

The first image Carrot had included Orias and Ayame in hot, sweaty intercourse, but she shunned away it immediately.
[B]
"Fiery hell, what's gotten into me?!"[/B] she cried out.

[B]"Carrot! Wait!"[/B] shouted a familiar voice behind her. The voice was accompanied by the sound of several running steps. Carrot turned around to see Rinoa, Sakura and Havok.

[B]"We'll help you find Kyosuke and Ayame"[/B], Sakura said kindly. It was really hard to hate the girl.

[B]"Alex thought they might have headed to the basement, where they got attacked last night"[/B], Havok explained.[B] "The only thing is that the place is now heavily guarded by the Instructors. They are investigating the crime scene, and there's no entry there."[/B]

[B]"Then how can we get to Ayame and Orias, then?"[/B] Carrot asked frustrated.[/COLOR]

[TheResplendent]

[color=darkred]9:58 AM, Party of two: Kyo and Aya search for something precious. [/color]

[center]- - - - - - - -[/center]

[color=navy][size=1]Kyosuke and Ayame landed in the basement where the Mox incident had taken place almost 7 hours ago. Daiya jumped up and rested on Ayame's shoulder while Kyosuke tried to regain his balance from the teleportation. Ayame giggled silently to herself but stayed quiet as she began to look around for the cross. Kyosuke searched with a frantic sense evident in his eyes. Clearly it's purpose was very important to him.

Kyosuke took one step and almost collapsed on the floor. Kyo fell to his knees and tried to hold himself up with his hands. Ayame saw and rushed to his side with a gasp.

[b]"Kyo! Maybe you should let me..."[/b]

[b]"No...i'm fine. I couldn't ask you to do this for me, it's my responsibility"[/b] Kyosuke said, cutting Ayame off. Kyo clutched his shoulder and tried to stand himself back up. Ayame wore a concerned look on her face but didn't outwardly express it. She thought about how she would be acting if she were in his place, she considered herself to be a much weaker person than that. She then began to remember how bad she felt when she realized all she had done against Mox was get tossed away when Kyosuke, Alex, and even Lazarus put their lives on the line.

Daiya noticed Ayame's saddened face and cuddled up to her neck trying to cheer her up. Ayame hugged him, appreciative but found it not very helpful. Kyosuke walked up to a wall and leaned himself on it, starting to regret making the decision to get out of bed so quickly. He turned to Ayame and noticed her sad look as well. He assumed it was due to being back in the basement, he knew she hated it.

[b]"Ayame, theres no need for you to stay here if you don't want to...i will be fine searching on my own,"[/b] Kyo told her, catching her by suprise. Ayame jolted up from her "in thought" trance and looked at him.

[b]"Oh!...um...I don't mind,"[/b] she managed to mutter. Diaya noticed how unusually quiet Ayame had gotten, and from being with her for so long recognized the situation she normally acts that way in. Daiya laughed to himself a bit and kept silent.

[b]"Are you sure?"[/b] Kyosuke asked, unconvinced the first time. Ayame just nodded her head, and threw on a smile. She was smiling, but her mind couldn't stop with so many thoughts going through it. Kyo continued to look around for the cross but couldn't find it anywhere. Ayame looked over at Kyo and watched silently, forgetting that she should probably help to look for the cross. She recognized the chipped area on the wall near where Kyo was standing, the scene it occured from flashed through her mind.

She remembered the extreme drop in temperature she felt. She saw in her mind Kyosuke standing tall, manipulating the atmosphere to his will. She had sat in on a few ice elemental classes before when she had free time and never once saw what Kyosuke had done. Curiosity began to get the best of her, and she was beggining to wonder if she should start making conversation or not. For some reason she felt it was harder then it was before to speak up around him. Daiya leaped off her shoulder sometime during her train of thought, though she hadn't noticed. Ayame stood up and tried to look around a bit to kill some more time before she said something to Kyosuke. Finally she just decided to bring up the first thing that came to her head.

[b]"Um!...Kyo? Can I ask you something?"[/b] she mustered out in a low tone voice.

[b]"What is it?"[/b] Kyosuke answered, still looking around through the debris.

[b]"Oh...well...that magic you used against Mox. It was...pretty incredible. Did you really learn that at the academy? "[/b] she asked, still pretending to look around so Kyosuke didn't think she was nervous in any way. Meanwhile Daiya pawed through some debris and took the chain connected to Kyosuke's lost cross into his mouth.

[b][i]''Boy, what would everybody do without Daiya around to be the observant one?'[/b][/i] the small cat like creature thought to himself, as he scurried over to Ayame to show her the cross.

[b]"Well, the academy has mainly taught me how to control and contain my magic. I was first able to form icicles as well as other solid ice forms when i was 6 years old. Since coming to the academy over a decade ago, i've matured my magic abilities and made them battle worthy...or...so I thought..."[/b] Kyosuke said, decreasing the tone of his voice as he neared the end of his sentence, remembering again his failure to stop Mox.

Ayame noticed that she had brought up a subject that made Kyosuke feel bad and started hitting herself mentally. [b][i]'No no no, Ayame you idiot! Oh boy, i just shouldn't have said anything...'[/b][/i] she thought to herself. She tried to rebound herself in hopes that she could cheer Kyo up.

[b]"Hey! Don't feel bad! Think about it...Mox was a professor of the academy...his black magic was really strong! Plus all you really gotta do is keep at it and you'll be able to kick major ass with your magic!"[/b] she said in a burst of excitement, hoping it helped a little.

Kyosuke glanced downward, he knew Ayame would never be able to understand how he felt. He needed to be the best not only for himself, but for his family name. The Orias name was well known throughout both continents because of his father's power, both magical and diplomatic. He wanted badly to create his own name, one that would lead up to creating his own legacy. Kyosuke's high expectations of himself were near impossible to duplicate. He looked over at Ayame, and just smiled at her. In turn it made Ayame smile, whether or not she really had cheered him up seeing his smile was enough for her. She just told herself that next time she would cheer him up for sure, giving up wasn't in Ayame's vocabulary. She figured her last chance to try and cheer him up for sure would be to find his cross. It was then Daiya leaped up to her shoulder again and dropped it into her hands.

[b][i]"Here dummy! Now give it to him....the cross I mean!"[/b][/i] Daiya said with a grin on his face. Ayame looked over at him and couldn't help herself...

[b]"Daiya! You and your naughty mind!"[/b] she said suprised, but then turned to Kyosuke who just kind of stared blankly at her. Ayame grew red like a tomato and sunk her head down in embarrasment. Daiya smacked the back of her head with his tail, causing her to remember the cross.

[b]"Oh! By the way Kyosuke, is this the cross?"[/b] she asked, holding it out in her hands.

[b]"You found it!"[/b] Kyosuke said in an excited tone, as he struggled to drag himself over to her. Ayame rushed herself over to him to try to keep him from doing as much moving as possible. She handed it over, Kyosuke reached out and their hands met. Her smaller hand, smooth in texture cupped inside of his as she dropped the cross into it. She looked up at him and into his eyes, she started to get red again and quickly turned her focus downwards. With the cross still in Kyosuke's hand, she noticed the inscriptions and became curious again.

[b]"Hey Kyo, whats with the inscriptions on the cross? Luna...Wisdom...Ice...and Water? Hmmmm...i can't seem to read the rest..[/b]

[b]"My father gave it to me...I'm not sure what the importance of the inscriptions are but i can only read....Wait! Did you say water!?"[/b] Kyosuke said, in sudden shock that she had read one of the inscriptions he could not.

[b]"Huh? Oh yeah! That one right there *points to the second one from the bottom*, it's the ancient symbol for the water element...the one that corresponds to the alchemic planetary system."[/b] she said again, with a smile on her face. She felt smart telling Kyosuke something that he didn't know.

[b]"But...i've studied almost my whole time here to find what these symbols mean...are you sure that's what it is?"[/b]

[b]"Uh huh! But you won't find it in any books...these symbols haven't been used for centuries. The only reason I know of it is because of what i've seen in my mind...and my dreams. I see the symbol all the time when i use my water magic as well."[/b]

[b]"Dreams...? You...see the symbol?"[/b] Kyosuke asked in a perplexed manner.

[b]"I don't really know why myself, but Instructor Iraki told me that it's normal...he even described what it looks like to me and it matched up, so it must be it!"[/b] Ayame said with an assuring look on her face.

Kyosuke stared at the cross for a few moments, wondering how something like that had eluded him all these years. He finally knew another inscription on the cross that his father gave him...he needed to find out the other 4 now. He ran over in his mind how he came to realize the others, he had seen Wisdom and Luna in the books that his father used to read. He remembered Ice because...wait...he remembered what Ayame said about seeing it in his mind. Kyosuke retraced time and went back to when he had his stand off with Mox...it was there! He saw the symbol for ice that was etched into his cross. He must have seen it from the past times he had used his ice magic as well which is why it came to him. It made sense since he couldn't remember a single book he had ever seen the symbol in...could it really be the ancient alchemic planetary symbols for the elements?

[b]"I'm glad you have your cross again, Kyo!"[/b] Ayame said, clasping her hands behind her back and swinging her right leg around.

[b]"Yeah...thanks to you, Ayame. Thank you...very much."[/b] Kyosuke said, this time beaming a sincere smile toward her. Ayame began to feel all warm inside for doing something helpful.

[b]"We should get going now...i think it was this way,"[/b] Kyosuke said, leading Ayame toward the exit. Up a few stairs they noticed some academy security and instructors infront of the doorway. Kyosuke extended his arm and stopped Ayame, she looked up and saw them too.

[b]"Well...I guess it's to be expected. Considering what happened and all..."[/b] Kyosuke said quietly to himself.

[b]"It's no problem, Daiya can just teleport us out!"[/b] Ayame said, aimed toward Daiya. Daiya nodded and spread his paws out between Ayame and Kyosuke and had transported them back to the infirmary. The students suddenly appearing startled Alex and Lazarus a bit, coming out of thin air and all. Kyosuke and Ayame's appearence cut Alex and Lazarus's conversation short.

[b]"What the...well, you guys are back then!?"[/b] Alex said, leaning a bit back in his chair.

[b]"Yes...i just needed to retrieve my cross...where are the others?"[/b] Kyosuke asked, looking around the room.

[b]"To look for you two, we've been sitting her talking since then"[/b] Lazarus said.

Kyosuke sighed, hoping that they could have done it without alerting anyone else. Suddenly pain began to set in again as Kyosuke grabbed his shoulder and fell to his knees again. The other students went to check on him, but again kyosuke tried to stand himself back up on his own.

[b]"SO, there you are! young man you have some explaining to do! You too Miss Ayame!"[/b] the voice of Nurse Mallon said, coming from the doorway.



[/color][/size]

[Tekkaman]

[center][font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][i][b][u]10:30 pm[/u][/b][/i][/size][/font][/center]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]As Aaron came back into the infirmary after getting some soda from the outside vending machine, he returned to see the two students from before[i][b] plus Kyosuke and another standing in the middle of the room[/b][/i] being scolded by Nurse Mallon. Aaron looked behind himself, then at the extra two students dumbfoundedly, wondering how the hell they snuck past him while he was getting some to drink. Shrugging off the matter, Aaron waited for the nurses scolding to stop followed by the apologies of the two reappearing students. As the nurse walked away, all eyes were on Aaron.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]"Everyone's looking for you two."[/color][/i][/b] Aaron stared at Kyosuke and woman with the ball of fur on her shoulder - now climbing to her head. [b][i][color=darkgreen]"Guess I found you first though."[/color][/i][/b] Aaron cracked a smile.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=navy]"I know you!"[/color][/i][/b] Kyosuke stated. [b][i][color=navy]"Your Aaron Covais, the one who was looking for Blaize Harbinger."[/color][/i][/b][/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][color=black][b][i]"You know this guy?"[/i][/b] Lazarus spoke up.[/color][/size][/font]

[b][i][font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][color=#000080]"He's a great Supporter in this Academy, second only to Stephen Jonuvar."[/color][/size][/font][/i][/b]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][color=#000080][i][b][color=black]"Humph."[/color][/b][/i] [color=black]Lazarus puffed out.[/color][/color][/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]"Thanks."[/color][/i][/b] Aaron smiled looking at Kyosuke.[b][i][color=darkgreen] "And i'm still looking for him actually."[/color][/i][/b] Aaron corrected. [b][i][color=darkgreen]"You still haven't seen him?"[/color][/i][/b][/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][color=navy][b][i]"No I haven't. Why is he supposed to be here?"[/i][/b][/color][/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]"Nah,"[/color][/i][/b] Aaron stated, putting his hands in his pockets. [b][i][color=darkgreen]"I'm actually here via Mr. Phoenix's orders. For 'support' purposes only."[/color][/i][/b][/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=navy]"Oh."[/color][/i][/b] Kyosuke said, his voice lowering.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]A silence filled the air for a moment, no one knowing what to say. [i][u]Ayame soon broke the still air[/u][/i].[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=magenta]"My name's Ayame and my friend here is Daiya."[/color][/i][/b] She stated, pointing at the animal on top of her head. Daiya waved at the stranger.[b][i][color=magenta] "What's your's?"[/color][/i][/b][/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]Aaron smiled from her enthusiasm. [b][i][color=darkgreen]"Arron. Arron Covais."[/color][/i][/b][/size][/font]

[center][font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]=========================[/size][/font][/center]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i]OOC:[/i][/b] Just trying to get Aaron integrated into the playing field by getting to know everyone. Aaron's a cool guy and all, but he's emotionally detatched - nonchalant at times. Just putting that out there if anyone decides to interact.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=black]OOC2:[/color][/i][/b] Kitty, hope your ok with pink. your character just felt pink, heh. =D[/size][/font]

[Kitty]

[size=1]OOC: No worries, Acheron. Pink is very much Ayame's color. xD Not much happens in this post, so don't get too excited. *points at KW* >.>;;
---

[indent][center]Day 2 - 10:35 AM, Infirmary[/center]

Ayame smiled wide as she held out her hand for Aaron. He paused before chuckling and gently grabbing it with his own.

[b]"It's a pleasure to meet you, Aaron."[/b]

[b]"Same here."[/b]

The uneasy silence refilled the room until Carrot and the rest of the group returned with defeated looks on their faces.

[b]"We couldn't get into the base-- YOU TWO!"[/b] Carrot shouted upon looking up and seeing the two she had been looking for standing right in front of her. Ayame, who was standing next to Kyosuke, took a step backwards, almost as if to hide behind him.

[b]"Heh. Heard you came looking for us,"[/b] Kyosuke laughed. While Carrot began grinding her teeth in fury, Sakura ran up from behind her and pushed a menacing finger up against his nose.

[b]"You are in no condition to leave this room, Kyosuke."[/b] Ayame and the others could tell she was mad, as Sakura almost never referred to him by his full name. [b]"I don't know how you got out of here and back without us seeing you, but I suggest you don't do it again unless you want worse injuries, courtesy of yours truly."[/b]

[b]"Alright, alright.. I had just dropped something and Ayame helped me get it back,"[/b] he tried to explain. He tried to sound apologetic, but had little practice at it, and came off sounding somewhat smug. She eyed him angrily, only just glancing back at Ayame for a second. Over towards the door, the steaming red head paused for a moment, her face turning bright red.

[b]"What's wrong?"[/b] Rinoa asked, being the first to notice. The others turned to look at her, and she waved her hands frantically in front of her face.

[b]"N-Nothing! It's nothing! But really. You shouldn't have left, Orias. You're barely standing where you are right now,"[/b] she spat, trying to get the attention off her.

[b]"It's my fault,"[/b] Ayame suddenly spoke up. [b]"I should have gone to find it on my own, rather than drag him with me. I'm sorry for any distress I may have caused you all."[/b] Her apology was rather formal, especially for her, and was even accompanied with a bow.

[b]"A-Ayame, really--"[/b] Kyosuke mumbled, but Ayame smiled up at him.

[b]"All I have is a minor headache, so I'll be going now. Studying for the finals, y'know? Bye everyone,"[/b] she waved, walking past everyone and out the door. She sighed as she shut it behind her, and started off with a brisk pace, wanting desperately to get out of there.

[i]"Smoochy, smoochy!"[/i] came Daiya's teasing tone. Ayame's face turned bright pink as she clamped her hands over Daiya's face and pulled him off her head and tucked into her stomach in one swift, rapid movement.

[b]"[i]Shhh[/i]!"[/b] she exclaimed, her head whipping around to see if there was anybody nearby. [b]"Keep your big, telepathic mouth shut!"[/b]

[i]"Okay, okay!"[/i] he cried, struggling to get out of her arms. When she finally released him, he floated safely a few feet ahead of her. [i]"Party pooper."[/i] She eyed him warily, but he merely shrugged and turned around, floating in the direction of the library.

[i]"Clear your head and meet me at the library later."[/i]

Ayame blinked before grinning. Daiya could be a pain, but he understood her better than almost anyone that came to mind. That brought up the image of Kyosuke smiling. Her already red face seemed to turn several shades darker, and she desperately brought her overly-large sleeves in front of her face, bringing to her attention that if she was going to return to class, she'd have to get into her uniform.

[b]"Crap,"[/b] she sighed, breaking out into a run towards her room.[/indent][/size]

[Riku]

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue][SIZE=1][FONT=Tahoma]OoC: It's my fault that Ayame wants to do "evil" things to Kyo, everyone... I'm sorry. XD *looks at Kitty and giggles*

OoC: Woo.. sorry it's so long.. I had this storyline in my mind.

[CENTER]~*~

Day 2-10:41, Infirmary [/CENTER]

Ever since Ayame had left the Infirmary, Rinoa realized that it was time that she would also get ready for her exams by praticing her sparring and fighting moves. Since she weasn't the one who was the greatest at fighting, she thought she should get a move on it.

She finally got up from her seat and smiled at everyone while gathering her things. [B]"I'm sorry to leave you guys,"[/B] she said, [B]"but I have to at least train once so I can be prepared for the trials."[/B] Everyone nodded and she smiled, waving to them as she headed out the door and closing it softly.

Havok got up from his seat and was just about to follow her until his arm was lightly held back. He slightly turned around to see Sakura holding his arm, her face a bit serious. [B]"Hey, what's up?"[/B]

She chuckled a bit and looked up at his serious face, [B]"You know... you're not a puppy,"[/B] she replied, [B]"she's not a child, she can go places by herself you know."[/B]

[B]"Oh come on, Sakura,"[/B] Alex replied, laughing, [B]"Havok's a fool in love, what do you expect?"[/B]

[B]"But I do agree with Sakura,"[/B] Kyo entered in the conversation, [B]"Rinoa's an adult and even if she does have a calm and silent deminor about her, she needs to grow up a little."[/B]

A bit offended by what he had just said, Havok totally understood, sighing and sitting back down. [B]"I know I need to leave her alone,"[/B] he sighed, [B]"but... something makes me just want to be there when she needs me[/B]."

Lazarus laughed, finally engaging in the conversation. [B]"You loser... that's what's called love... duh."[/B]

Sakura laughed a little, then placing her hand gently on Havok's right shoulder, lightly patting it. [B]"It's okay. It's not like something horrible's going to happen to her, right?"[/B] Havok sighed deeply and nodded, agreeing with them and staying where he was... but letting his mind wander off, worrying about her.

[CENTER]~*~

Day 2-10:56, Main Garden[/CENTER]

[B]"Alright... it's time to practice."[/B]

Rinoa had brought her Katana, Sakura Crimson, with her to the garden to practice her sword moves. Her mother gave the sword to her, hoping that she would carry on the Ryuzaki generation.... but, she wasn't that kind of girl. She sighed, shaking her head and placing her feet and body into somewhat of a samurai pose. [B]"I've learned some techniques from father," [/B] she thought to herself, [B]"so, I'm not that stupid in sword fighting."[/B]

She slowly unsheathed her sword, metal rubbing against the sheath and glowing in the bright sunlight. Her sword was finally in place, in front of her body and gripping it lightly... a serious look swept across her face. She swayed the sword down harshly and brought it up quickly, pointing it at the direction in front of her. She then brought it over her head and then moved quickly, unleashing several sword slashes looking as if she had only produced one. After she had finished the previous sword move, she slowly placed the sword back into the sheath... then running forward and slashing a leaf quickly, putting her sword back into the sheath while the leaf slowly cut in half after the recoil.

She turned around and sighed, wiping her hand against her sweaty brow and sighing. [B]"Okay... so I may not be as good as father,"[/B] she sighed, [B]"but... at least I'm not out of practice."[/B] She placed her hands on her hips and nodded, headed towards Instructor Caliver for some weapon techniques... until a group of girls stood in her way.

[B]"Well well well,"[/B] a voice was heard, coming closer to Rinoa,[B]"look who it is... and without her popular posse, huh?" [/B] Finally, the producer of the voice came within looking reach... it was the [URL=http://img76.imageshack.us/img76/5893/picblue4ac5.jpg]girl[/URL] from this morning... yet this time she was laying a samurai sword just like Rinoa's on her shoulder.

Rinoa gulped loudly and tried to get through. [B]"Um.. excuse me,"[/B] she uttered, [B]"I... I didn't mean to make you mad this morning..."[/B] But as she walked pass, the girl grabbed the back collar of her shirt and pulled her backwards harshly, Rinoa falling onto the ground on her behind.

As the other girls laughed, she tilted her head upwards and smirked. [B]"Don't think your stupid apologies will work on me,"[/B] she scoffed, [B]"...you're not leaving until you beat me in a sword fight."[/B]

[B]"You'll never beat Ayumi, you freak!"[/B] a random girl cried out, causing all the other girls to cheer... for Ayumi, of course.

Rinoa slowly got up and wiped the dirt on her shirt, then looking up at her with a sad look on her face. [B]"Look... I.. I don't want to fight you..."[/B]

[B]"Well.. too bad cause you are!" [/B] Ayumi swung her sword horizantally, aiming at Rinoa's hips, but she flipped backwards... missing the sword by a few feet. [B]"Hmph,"[/B] she scoffed, placing her sword back in her purple sheath and getting into stance, [B]"...at least you're not a weak mouse we took you for, otherwise this wouldn't be any fun."[/B]

Rinoa sweated from the intense pressure she felt, but she knew she couldn't be scared and weak all her life... she had to fight to get stronger. She also got into stance, gripping her sword handle tightly as she tried to stare her oppenent down.

Cheers from the group of girls were heard, readying themselves for the fight... but also telling others to come and watch.

[CENTER]~*~[/CENTER]

[B]"What in the world is that loud noise?"[/B] Nurse Mallon asked, walking over to a nearby window to see what all the commotion was about.

[B]"What is it, Nurse Mallon?"[/B] Carrot asked as she got out of her seat to look out the window with her. She then suddenly gasped a little and then came running back towards the others. [B]"Guys! Guys!"[/B]

[B]"What's wrong, Carrot?"[/B] Alex asked first.

[B]"Hurry and come look! It's Rinoa against a girl... and.. and it looks like they're going to fight!"[/B]

Havok was the first to gasp loudly and ran over to the window as Sakura followed him while Carrot helped Alex over.... and of course, Kyo and Lazarus slowly walking over to the window. Havok looked out the window, seeing the one he loved facing the girl who had slapped Rinoa this morning... but wielding a sword and surrounded by chanting students.

[B]"Oh man,"[/B] Sakura said, seriously, [B]"this isn't good... that girl... Ayumi, is supposed to be a good swordswoman."[/B]

Havok didn't answer, but watched intently to see what would happen... he of course wanted to run down to her rescue, but he thought he should see what she could do on her own... without him... for awhile.

Everyone in the Infirmary watched intently, waiting for the battle to come and any moment if they needed to help their friend out.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Ellerby]

[color=#555555][INDENT][SIZE=1][CENTER][b]Day 2 - 10:57am, Dorm Rooms[/b][/CENTER]

Stephen walked casually around the halls, waving to anyone he knew and smiling to anyone he didn't know. Stephen was always quite proud of his luck with the ladies. He liked to think that it was his strong charm and sweet smile that sucked them into his abyss of sexiness. He was [i]so[/i] cocky.

However, all that would change soon. Soon, Stephen would realize that girls aren't all that important. But that comes later. For now, he's just an 18 year old playboy with the ability to control Support Magic. He eventually found himself back at his dorm room.

He rapped on the door once, to see if Aaron was still in there. When there was no answer, he just walked inside. Quickly, he slipped out of his green striped shirt and put on brown t-shirt. Overtop of that, he slid on a salmon orange dress shirt with brown stripes and a popped up collar. He rolled the sleeves up and did up the three middle buttons.

Checking his hair in the mirror in his bathroom, he flattened it down a bit and then sprayed some deoderant around his armpits and chest. He walked out of the restroom and changed his socks from a plain white to... plain white. He wasn't one to wear colourful socks.

After that, he turned off the lights in his room and closed his door tight, locking it behind him (since Aaron had a key to the room). He charged down the hallway and into the Infirmary.

[CENTER][b]Day 2 - 11:00am, Infirmary[/b][/CENTER][/SIZE][/INDENT][/COLOR]

[TheResplendent]

[center][color=darkred]10:57 AM: The students watch the fight quietly, as Rinoa proves her resolve.[/color]

- - - - - - - - [/center]


[color=navy][size=1]Kyosuke and the others looked on through window as the girls began to surround Rinoa. Concern was evident on Havok's face, but he also couldn't bring himself to hit a female so he was unsure on how he could even be able to help Rinoa is he could. Kyosuke noticed a few of the girls and his face lost color and he looked over at Havok with a blank look.

[b]"Um...Havok...you said earlier that Rinoa got smacked because of me...would those by chance be the girls?"[/b] Kyosuke asked, his glasses slightly low on his nose.

[b]"Yeah...that's them...i didn't know they would take it so serious though."[/b] Havok answered, still looking on.

Kyosuke smacked his forehead. [b][i]'Ugh...I hate those girls...last year they even tried to break into my dormroom to steal my boxers!'[/b][/i] Kyosuke thought to himself. Sakura looked down and wondered if Rinoa was going to be ok if they all decided to jump her rather then for it to be a fair fight.

[b]"My goodness! Aren't any of you going to go down there to help Miss Ryazuki?"[/b] Nurse Mallon asked, pleading to the other students.

[b]"No,"[/b] Kyosuke said right away. [b]"Even during the impending trials and final exam where teamwork is emphasized. We will not always be able to help one another out. Self-reliance through fighting is essential for Risk Breakers as well. It's best if we let her take care of herself"[/b]

Havok looked over at Kyosuke after his explanation, at first as if to say [i]"but it's your fault this is happening anyway!"[/i] but eventually came around and realized that Kyosuke couldn't have helped it. He also knew from the past that eventhough Kyosuke can be a prick to people, he was a very good judge of character. His words allowed him to believe in Rinoa even more.

[b]"Hey! Rinoa! You can do it!..."[/b]

The other students ran and tackled Havok and covered his mouth before he could finish what he had to say.

[b]"Hey! Love sick puppy! Shut your trap or else you'll distract her!"[/b] Carrot yelled, as the students let him back up and continued to watch. Rinoa clutched the sheath of her blade close and tried to think of a way out of it. As she became surrounded though she was beggining to believe that fighting was the only way she was going to get out of it. She slowly went to draw her blade out but Ayumi ran forward at her and slashed at her, causing her to roll on the floor toward one of the other girls that were encircling her. She looked up at the girl she rolled, who sneered down at her, as the others laughed. Rinoa tried to get up but she was kicked square in the chest by the other girl.

[b]"Hey! That was dirty!"[/b] Sakura yelled, obviously protesting the lack of honor.

Rinoa clutched her chest and rested on her knees, trying to keep the pain in but moans and huffing sounds escaped her mouth, much to the delight of Ayumi.

[b]"Come on little girl, pick your sword up and face me!"[/b] Ayumi yelled at her, kicking Rinoa's sword closer to her encouraging her to pick it up.

Rinoa looked up at her, still holding herself in pain...but she knew she had to fight back...she knew she had to defend herself and show that she can be strong too. She would be the laughing stock of the risk breaker class if she was the only one that couldn't pass the trial. Biting her bottom lip, Rinoa reached out and grasped the hilt of her sword.

[b]"Oooh! Look! She's going to fight back it lookd like!"[/b] one of the other girls in the group said.

Sakura turned her attention from the window and glared at Kyosuke. [b]"Kyo i certainly hope your not actually attracted to those kinds of girls!"[/b] she yelled, somewhat speaking out of emotion.

[b]"Wha...what!? Are you crazy? They're more rabid than a wolverine!"[/b] Kyo shot back, clearly voicing his discontent for his supposed fangirl club.

Back in the garden, Rinoa was standing fully now staring Ayumi down encircled by the other girls. She narrowed her eyes and tried to draw strength from her friends. She thought about all the times she saw Havok training with his twin blades, how focused he could be in battle. She remembered the collective elemental seminars with all the elemental students...she recalled Sakura's great whirlwinds, Kyosuke's amazing particle control with his ice. She may not have known everyone too well but she payed attention enough to know that she had to become stronger than she was.

[b]"You ready now?"[/b] Ayumi said in a taunting manner.

[b]"Yeah! So come on then!"[/b] Rinoa yelled, throwing caution into the wind.

The two girls charged at each other, swords clashing and footsteps adorned the area as the atmosphere grew tense with every passing clash. Rinoa blocked a horizontal slash from Ayumi but was slightly pushed back.

[i][b]'No! I can't lose....i can't be weak!'[/b][/i] Rinoa repeated to herself again and again.

Rinoa thruster her sword, but Ayumi sidestepped and kicked her hand up, leading Rinoa open for a shot. Ayumi shoulderblocked Rinoa back and just laughed, feeling superior enough not to even use her sword. Rinoa held her shoulder, but stayed focused.

[i][b]'I can't lose...I can't lose...!!'[/i][/b] she continued to repeat to herself.

[center][color=darkred]11:00 AM: Enter Argo Arx Arcanum's #1 supporter and playboy


- - - - - - - - -[/color][/center]

The other students watched on intently, as Stephen walked into the infirmary only to see everyone (including Nurse Mallon) watching something outside the window.

[b]"Uhh...hiya..."[/b]

[b]"SHHHHHH!"[/b] came the cohesive voice of everyone in the room.

[b]"Yikes!...what's going on anyhow?"[/b] Stephen asked, as he walked up to the window as well.

[b]"Hmmm...chick fight eh? Not bad, anything good happen?"[/b] he asked in a light tone.

Havok turned to him with a concentrated stare. [b]"Hey playboy, watch what you say around me, ok?"[/b]

Stephen backed up a bit from Havok feeling too much tension then he cared to deal with. He just started to quietly watch with the rest of the group.

Rinoa had been taking quite a beating, but she refused to give up. She charged again and slashed at Ayumi, but Ayumi dodged and slashes Rinoa's left arm causing the first drop of blood to spill. Rinoa lifted her arms to attack again, which is when she noticed the cut...she was focused on atleast gettin a hit in atleast at this point so much that she ignored the pain it caused. Rinoa looked intently at Ayumi, and seemed to be gathering more stamina. She didn't exactly know what was happening but she could feel her adrenaline kicking in. She had plenty of energy left and she was definitly going to show Ayumi that she isn't one to be messed with!

Rinoa charged again, with a grin Ayumi just moved...but Rinoa stopped herself short and spun to the right and slashed down at Ayumi's leg. Ayumi caught herself in time and jumped but was met by Rinoa who jammed the hilt of her sword into Ayumi's side. The other girls acted suprised, but Ayumi just turned and slashed at Rinoa again. Rinoa ducked and parried her blade away leaving a large enough opening to kick Ayumi down to the ground.

[b]"Man...where did she get that burst of energy?"[/b] Havok wondered out loud.

[b]"It seems she had a strong enough resolve that won't allow her to lose. She may have to work on her skills a bit, but from the way this is looking...it may not be that hard of a task for her."[/b] Kyosuke deduced, pushing his glasses up.

[b][i]"I knew you were strong, Rinoa...just don't give up!"[/b][/i] Havok thought to himself, with a smile on his face.

[/color][/size]

[Riku]

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue][SIZE=1][FONT=Tahoma][CENTER]Day 2- 11:06 AM, Garden[/CENTER]

Rinoa jumped up and lifted her right leg to kick at the opening Ayumi left, but was blocked by her quick thinking. Ayumi quickly lifted up her sword and blocked Rinoa's kick, blocking her foot and stopping her in midair. With the one idea on her mind, Rinoa leaned forward to gain momentum and swung backwards, flipping through the air while gripping onto her sheath. While landing on the grassy ground, she sprinted towards her fallen opponent and slashed vertically at her body... yet only to be blocked again by Ayumi's sword.

Whilest Ayumi was blocking Rinoa's slash, she slowly stood up and continued to taunt her. [B]"What makes you think you're so special, huh?"[/B] she sneered, using all her strength to hold her guard while Rinoa kept pushing her sword, [B]"just because Kyo talks to you doesn't mean he wants to know you."[/B]

The audience of girls continued cheering as sparks flew from their swords. Rinoa had a serious look on her face... she had to win to show that she wasn't a weaking. Suddenly, one of the girls on her right side kicked her ribs... causing her to cough up more blood and kneel down on the ground. Ayumi found this the golden opportunity to attack, slowly raising her sword over Rinoa's head.

[CENTER]~*~[/CENTER]

Havok couldn't take anymore of this. He finally backed away from the window and headed out the door. [B] "Wait Havok!"[/B] Sakura yelled, [B]"she needs to fight this on her own!"[/B]

[B]"I understand that,"[/B] he yelled back, still running, [B]"but you can only do so much by yourself!"[/B] He continued running down the halls, determined to stop the fight before anything horrible happened.

[CENTER]~*~[/CENTER]

[B]"It was nice knowing you, little girl."[/B]

Ayumi was playing around with Rinoa's life, wondering wether or not she should actually kill her. Rinoa tightly gripped her waist, wondering wether or not she should just die right then and there.

[B]"No... I can't die,"[/B] she thought to herself, [B]"there's so much I have to live for..." [/B] Then suddenly.. she thought about all the good times she was having with her friends. Sakura, Ayame, Kyosuke, Alex, Lazarus... and Havok... she couldn't die, not with her friends still around..

She then slowly tilted her head back up and lifted her sword over her head, blocking the death swing that Ayumi was about to bring down. Struggling and shaking to keep her sword up, she got up on her feet and looked Ayumi seriously in the eyes... letting her know that she wasn't about to give in.

[B]"Guh... d.. don't think you're scaring me!"[/B] Ayumi falttered, starting to weaken her grip on her sword. Rinoa saw the opening and then jumped backwards, standing on her feet but still gripping her hand around her waist. All the girls started laughing along with Ayumi. [B]"Hah! So you really are a weak little mouse!"[/B]

[B]"Not really,"[/B] Rinoa quietly exclaimed, [B]"but.. maybe you should change your shirt?"[/B]

Ayumi gasped, then looking down at her shirt. It was still intact... but then in a few seconds, it started ripping to little slivers of cloth. The group of girls gasped, surprised at the sudden change in mood. Ayumi blushed red and tried to cover herself with her arms and hands.

Then suddenly, Instructor Caliver came running out with Havok by his side. [B]"What in the world is going on here?!"[/B] he yelled, looking at a half- naked Ayumi and the group of amazed girls.

Rinoa then sighed with relief and slumped to the ground, clutching her bleeding shoulder tightly. Havok ran over to her side and picked her up in his arms. [B]"Rinoa!"[/B] he said, [B]"Rinoa are you okay?"[/B]

She slightly looked up at him, her eyes half closed yet still smiling at him. [B]"Di..did I.. did I win?"[/B] she whispered.

Havok smiled broadly and nodded, [B]"Yeah... you did. And it was awesome!"[/B]

She sighed again and smiled, slowly closing her eyes and unleashing herself into the calm darkness.

[B]"Rinoa hold on!"[/B] she could her Sakura yell.

[B]"Take her to the Infirmary immediately!"[/B] Instructor Caliver explained to them.

Havok scooped her up into his arms and started running back to the Infirmary, a feeling in his heart that he has just seen her grow from a gentle friend to a strong warrior. [/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR]

[TheResplendent]

[center][color=darkred]11:20 AM: The students are summoned, the Headmaster's address.[/color]
- - - - - - - -[/center]

[color=navy][size=1]Kyosuke, Sakura, Carrot, Aaron, Stephen, Alex, and Lazarus all waited in the Infirmary, as Havok helped Rinoa back in.

[b]"Rinoa, you did great!"[/b] Stephen greeted her. Rinoa just smiled at everyone, while Havok served as her shoulder to lean on.

Nurse Mallon took Rinoa from Havok and added some styptic to the wound. She assured everyone that she would do just fine.

[b]"Not really sure what I missed, but I guess the rumors i've been hearing about that incident last night turned out to be true"[/b] Stephen said as he noticed the bandages on Kyosuke's shoulder, as well as Alex and Lazarus's injures.

[b]"They have the basement guarded pretty tight. A lot of instructors and security are roaming around the halls too...I wonder if this is the first time something like this has ever happened in the academy?"[/b] Havok said, referring to the years before he was enrolled.

[b]"Not in the 11 years i've been here. It's understandable that they would be taking this quite seriously."[/b] Kyosuke added.

The students continued to talk about things while waiting for Rinoa to be treated, when suddenly the academy PA system went active. The voice coming over, none other than Headmaster Enteri himself.

[size=3][b]"Attention students and faculty, this is Headmaster Enteri speaking. May I have your attention please. There will be a mandatory campus wide meeting for all students and faculty to be attended immdietley in the auditorium. There will be several major announcements, which everyone in attendance will be required to hear. Next period's classes are cancelled as well as the others proceeding the meeting. Please be dressed in academy uniforms, and do not be tardy. Thank you, and see everyone there"[/b][/size]

Everyone looked at each other, then at the time. It read 11:25 AM.

[b]"A big meeting. Guess we better get going."[/b] Sakura said, motioning for Kyosuke to go with her.

[b]"See everyone there I guess"[/b] Aaron said, as the students began to go about their business.

[/size][/color]

[ArgentEagle]

11:20ish AM: James hears the message.
- - - - - - - -

?DAMNIT!? James yelled. He had finally gotten the note, which basically said that Kyo should help him from Ms. Gilluim. When he headed down to the nurse station, no one was there. So he just did what he normally would have done. Lucky for him today was the day his lance would be fixed, how was he supposed to know that pole vaulting with it was a bad idea. He had ended up paying for it with cut throw down his back.

He was heading to his weapon training class, or the ?Class with sharp things that cause ouches and pain? as James calls it. He hadn?t had it in the last week because of his little??mishap? with the lance. He was just about to get to his class when he heard

[B]"Attention students and faculty, this is Headmaster Enteri speaking. May I have your attention please. There will be a mandatory campus wide meeting for all students and faculty to be attended immediately in the auditorium. There will be several major announcements, which everyone in attendance will be required to hear. Next period's classes are cancelled as well as the others proceeding the meeting. Please be dressed in academy uniforms, and do not be tardy. Thank you, and see everyone there"[/B]

James looked up to the heavens and mouthed ?thank you? there would be no pain for him today. Then a second thought crossed his head. It said it was mandatory, that would mean that big headed Kyo would be there. Another devious grin splitting across his face he ran down the hall a maniacal laugher following.

OcC: This is post was going to be longer, but I ran out of ideas for it. *sigh* sorry.

[Tekkaman]

[center][font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][size=3][font=Palatino Linotype][b][i]11:10am, Lunchroom[/i][/b][/font][/size][/size][/font][/center]


[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=navy]?So do you at least know her name??[/color][/i][/b] Stephen asked.[/size][/font]

[b][i][color=darkgreen][font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]?Of who??[/size][/font][/color][/i][/b]

[b][i][color=navy][font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]?The one who got hurt in the Infirmary?"[/size][/font][/color][/i][/b]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]?Nope.?[/color][/i][/b] Aaron stated.[b][i][color=darkgreen] ?Never got it.?[/color][/i][/b][/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]Stephen paused for a minute while he got his food from the lunch lady. [b][i][color=navy]?Why are you so damn nonchalant all the time??[/color][/i][/b] Stephen said, [color=darkgreen]trying[/color] to understand Aaron?s emotionally detached attitude. Aaron avoided the question while they both made it to an empty table surrounded by the hottest women the school had to offer. The women casually moved their trays and purses to Stephen?s table before he even sat down; the circular table entirely filled in less than a minute. Aaron sighed at Stephen?s charm.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]?I don?t know. My past I guess.?[/color][/i][/b] Aaron said as the table filled. He told one girl to take a hike as she was just about to sit down at the table, ignoring Aaron. She stormed off, pissed.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]Sitting a chair away from Stephen, the seat next to him was taken by a beautiful brunette that ? unfortunately for him ? wasn?t his girlfriend. He moved his head past the girl to look at Stephen only to have another girl to the side of him interrupt his talk. The girl who had tapped him on the shoulder was a 17 year old black girl who [b][i](like every other woman)[/i][/b] wanted a piece of Stephen Jonuvar.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=pink]?Excuse me.?[/color][/i][/b] The girl politely said, rubbing lip gloss with her lips. She was very attractive to say the least, despite Aaron?s attitude towards women. [b][i][color=pink]?Are you friends with Stephen Jonuvar??[/color][/i][/b][/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]?Uhh? yes I am.?[/color][/i][/b] Aaron stated.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=pink]?Really??[/color][/i][/b] The girl squealed, sounding elated. [b][i][color=pink]?Well can you give him this note for me please.?[/color][/i][/b] The girl winked playfully at Stephen who had his hands full with the brunette already. [b][i][color=pink]?I?d appreciate it.?[/color][/i][/b][/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]?No problem.?[/color][/i][/b] Aaron said, looking at the chocolate woman now. She almost looked good enough to eat. She was clearly 5 foot and some change with about a 32C cup. Aaron looked at the woman for awhile, completely forgetting that he was in a lunchroom.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i]?Hellooo?!?[/i][/b] A voice had broken Aaron's concentration.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]?Huh?! Wha..?[/color][/i][/b] Aaron turned around wide-eyed to see Stephen with his arm outstretched. [/size][/font]

[b][i][font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][color=navy]?You okay??[/color][/size][/font][/i][/b]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]?Yeah.?[/color][/i][/b] Aaron checked for any drool that could?ve escaped his lips from staring too hard. [b][i][color=darkgreen]?I?m fine.?[/color][/i][/b][/size][/font]

[b][i][color=navy][font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]?The note, please.?[/size][/font][/color][/i][/b]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]?Oh!?[/color][/i][/b] Aaron had forgotten that he had it in his hand, giving it to his friend promptly. [b][i][color=darkgreen]?Anyway, as I was saying, I don?t know why I am the way I am.?[/color][/i][/b] Aaron brushed his platinum hair back, wiping away the embarrassment he felt.[/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=navy]?Well? it?s not healthy for you to be like that the entire time dude.?[/color][/i][/b] Stephen argued, opening the letter. [b][i][color=navy]?Get out and enjoy other people?s company.?[/color][/i][/b][/size][/font]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]?Yeah? I guess.?[/color][/i][/b] Aaron looked at Stephen who looked stunned at the contents of the letter that he was given. He looked at the black girl who immediately blew him a kiss, [u]lip gloss and all[/u].[/size][/font]

[i][font=Palatino Linotype][size=3]Strangely though, as the girl blew the kiss towards Stephen, all Aaron could think about was passing the Finals and if he would need the assistance of the people that he met in the Infirmary.[/size][/font][/i]

[font=Palatino Linotype][size=3][b][i][color=darkgreen]?I wonder what this assembly meeting is going to be about??[/color][/i][/b] Aaron said to himself as he bit into his lunch meat.[/size][/font][/size][/font]

[Doublehex]

[b][center][url=http://www.otakuboards.com/showpost.php?p=741603&postcount=11][-Alex-][/url][/b][/center]

[center]11:20 AM ? The message is heard, and news is revealed
---[/center]

As always, Headmaster Enteri?s voice was calm, in the same low, yet somehow uplifting tone that had spread his fame throughout the school. Also to the Headmaster?s credit, the message was quick and to the point. [i]?Get to the meeting or you?re in deep shit?[/i], Alex deciphered the message for himself. Using his arms as support, Alex attempted to lift himself up. Nurse Mallon, in her constant, if not irritating, care for the student, rushed to slow him down. She planned to have him transported to the assembly in a hostipal bed.

?Mister Glesen! You are not to get up! Your wounds have not completely?healed?? The head of the infirmary stared in amazement as Alex slowly unwrapped the bandages around his chest. When he had arrived less than twelve hours ago, if he had not been attended to immediately, Alex surely would have died. Now, there was no evidence of any scars, nevertheless a battle. She just starred at him, unable to say anything comprehendible.

?Can I go??, Alex said arrogantly, although that was not his intent. He just wanted to get to the assembly, and didn?t want to be held back by the Nurse. She nodded shakily, and with that Alex headed for a nearby closet where his clothes laid. Slipping on his white and black jackets and tanned jeans, Alex made his way towards the auditorium. Several of his comrades, Ayame in particular, suggested they go as a group, but shook his head lightly, ending it with a ?No thanks?.

[center]***[/center]

Military drums could almost be heard in Alex?s ears as he took his seat in the vast auditorium. Not in the literal sense, but in the place where banners of the Academy?s symbols, the four way cross, was displayed, it was not hard for Alex to image drums being played. Alex shrugged it off as him being too much the romantic.

He eventually saw the form of a certain Carrot Burnheart take the seat next to him. Before Alex could ask her to leave ? he didn?t really feel the want to talk to anyone he knew, even though he felt no transgressions against the fiery redhead, Carrot scolded ?It?s not like I want to sit next to you or anything, blue eyes. It?s just that I can?t find a seat, so don?t try anything perverted, got it??

?Whatever?, Alex grumbled. Carrot pouted somewhat, expecting a more pathetic answer, but her attention was diverted to the Headmaster as he began to speak.

?Good afternoon. I will get straight to the point of the matter. As I am sure most of you are already aware, there was an incident in the basement levels around midnight. It would appear that the black magi instructor, Arreleis Mox, attempted to summon a minor demon of the hells, Aggaememmnon. The reasons for this are vague, to say the least, but we are certain that Mox was going to use it to test some last years in the upcoming Trials, with proper precautions to weaken the demon we are certain. Alas, things got out of hand and the demon went on a small rampage. He eliminated the Instructor, and his student, Lazarus McCloud banished him to the hells. Meanwhile, students who were trespassing to retrieve some information on the Trials assaulted the demon to buy Mister McCloud time. That is the truth of the matter on the Mox Incident as some of you have decided to call it.?

The headmaster coughed softly as he continued the speech. ?Now, I will move on to more interesting matters at hand, I?m sure. The incident with Mox has slowed down neither the trail nor the Final Exam. Both will take place in three months, as was planned. And yes, the Trial will be unique to each student, thanks to new runes we have imported from the Western Continent. And as keeping to tradition, the Exams will be set to all Trial graduates in groups of four. That is all for this meeting. All classes are dismissed for the day, but will resume tomorrow.?

OOC: OK guys, the Prologue is now 99% over. You may now skip around the month to any amount you may please. There should be no more than FIVE posts that are in the Prologue, including my own. I shall initiate Chapter One.