School House Rumble, Part 1: Arcadia, school of Old

[Ghost]

Natalie widened her eyes and smiled quietly.

"Danke...do you think she can get over me? Strengthen her heart against evils like Maxwell?"

"Well, I haven't met this Maxwell fellow yet." Rhia said. "Mind you, not for lack of trying. But I'll do my damned to make Selma ready to face him, I promise you that. Selma has a lot of power inside. I just need to make her realize that."

She smiled coldly. "And when I do meet Maxwell Bernadotte, I will punch him in the face. That's also a promise."

"As for getting over you, I can't say," she said with a slight head shake. "I'm going to be honest, Nat: she still hasn't given up."

[GrampaGen]

OOC: Yeah sure, was leaning that way anyway. Maybe Janos and Kekowa can be buds after all this:p

OOC: Kekowa stabbed him through the kidneys. Not gonna happen :p

"Well, I haven't met this Maxwell fellow yet." Rhia said. "Mind you, not for lack of trying. But I'll do my damned to make Selma ready to face him, I promise you that." She smiled coldly. "And when I do meet Maxwell Bernadotte, I will punch him in the face. That's also a promise."

"As for getting over you, I can't say," she said with a slight head shake. "I'm going to be honest, Nat: she still hasn't given up."

"Ah! Well that's good then, especially with five of you! That dummkopf won't see what is coming, ja?"

At Rhia's revelation, Natalie's face cooled and set her eyes downcast.

"...ja? Well...," she sighed, and summed up all her wondering in one word:

"Why?"

OOC: I gotta head off. be back in 8 hours or so.

[Miburohunter929]

OOC: Kekowa stabbed him through the kidneys. Not gonna happen :p

.

OOC: Friendship is overated.

Janos and Kekowa will be friends, when one of them is six feet deep :P

[Silver Knight]

OOC: Kekowa stabbed him through the kidneys. Not gonna happen :p


OOC: Well close to the kidneys:p He intentionallu missed his major organs.

Ok GG I'll repost the end so mark this spot for when you return.

[Ghost]

"Ah! Well that's good then, especially with five of you! That dummkopf won't see what is coming, ja?"

"Actually, seems like eleven clones is my maximum. So that would be twelve of me." Rhia giggled. "I think we'll need to form an orderly line if all of me want to have a swing at him."

At Rhia's revelation, Natalie's face cooled and set her eyes downcast.

"...ja? Well...," she sighed, and summed up all her wondering in one word:

"Why?"

Rhia shrugged. "Maybe she's still in denial? Or maybe she just isn't ready to let go of her hope? I don't know. What I do know is that you represent something important to her, Nat, same way my brother represents something important to me. It's both her greatest strength and her greatest weakness."

She put a hand on Natalie's shoulder. "But hey, this doesn't mean Selma can't find love with someone else, eventually. And, for that matter, it doesn't mean she can never be that person you might love yourself, either. But it will take time, Natalie. Selma can't become a new person over night. She needs more then healing, she needs to grow."

[Silver Knight]

[QUOTE=Silver Knight;6282338]OOC: Im surprised it didnt take you longer to write that:p

Gasping in pain Kekowa fell to a knee. I did it. I did it, but at what cost?Kekowa felt Janos fall over unconcious with his chi senses. He knew that if Janos died it would be on his head. Kekowa had spent most of his energy during the fight. His body was much better off than Janos's but the pain roared through.

Using the rest of his chi he managed to close most of the wound, but not before a gush of blood rushed down his chest covering his jacket and chest with blood.

He made a makshift bandage out of part of his hamachi bow and made his way over to his blades

Kekwoa got up and picked up his blades now covered in blood. It disgusted him to look at them. With a huff he sheathed them the blood coming off on the sheath.

He turned back to Janos and bowed in respect.
You are a great warrior. Although you may never hear me say this. It was an honor to face you in near mortal combat. You where right I had to use my blades to win, but then again if I had used my more viscious and deadly arts you would have been worse off. We both fought a battle in which we used all of our strength I have no regrets and neither should you. I have proven I am the strongest. And I hope we can be ally's someday

Kekowa stood back upThis moment will be with you always. And it will live on with me as well I need nothing to prove my worth

Kekowa walked off arm mostly healed it would be better after a few hours rest.

OOC: Edited from last night

How does everyone like?

[FalconX2000]

OOC: Friendship is overated.

Janos and Kekowa will be friends, when one of them is six feet deep :P

OOC:

When Kekowa dies, Xellos will not take any chances with 6 measly feet of dirt. He will cremate the body, then transport his ashes into the deepest abandoned mine he can find and collapse it with a ton of C4.

So he stays in there. Just to be safe.

[Silver Knight]

OOC:

When Kekowa dies, Xellos will not take any chances with 6 measly feet of dirt. He will cremate the body, then transport his ashes into the deepest abandoned mine he can find and collapse it with a ton of C4.

So he stays in there. Just to be safe.

OOC: You may get your wish later on... DUN DUN DAH! *ominous*

[FalconX2000]

OOC: You may get your wish later on... DUN DUN DAH! *ominous*

OOC: Well you've said before that you're thinking of having Kekowa go out in a blaze of glory and all that before, so I'm not too surprised.

[Ghost]

OOC: Falcon, while I'm waiting for GG, Khold or ET to get back, how about we get that apology out of the way? Rhia can bump into Xellos outside of Natalie's room, if you want.

[FalconX2000]

OOC: Falcon, while I'm waiting for GG, Khold or ET to get back, how about we get that apology out of the way? Rhia can bump into Xellos outside of Natalie's room, if you want.

OOC: Go ahead and start. I'll reply once I finish resetting my brain. It's 2am here. I'm on leave tomorrow though.

BTC:

Sitting on a bench facing a window, Xellos took a sip from his coconut and continued sifting through fresh data on his PDA. The situation in Arcadia raised some interesting business prospects from which Xanatos could benefit.

[Miburohunter929]

OOC: Well you've said before that you're thinking of having Kekowa go out in a blaze of glory and all that before, so I'm not too surprised.

OOC: If Dean were to die, he'd solo like...

Jon, Alexander, and Evil Xing...

Wait, bring Jon and Xing back to their senses, kill Alex, then finally have a date with Kagura, and die under a tree after escourting her to her room.

Thats baddass.

All this is probally after the bringer.

[Silver Knight]

OOC: Well you've said before that you're thinking of having Kekowa go out in a blaze of glory and all that before, so I'm not too surprised.

OOC: Well I was. But I decided against it with all the new stroy tweaks. Honestly I thought the RPG would go on for a long time and at the very end Kekowa would kill the final boss and truely be the greatest fighter, dieing with the title he so longed for. But he cant really *die* at all now with his charecter modifacations and story tweaks.

Alls i mean is Kekowa's going to make another trip into the spirit world. Thats the only hint about hsi upcoming story you guys are getting.

[Ghost]

OOC: Go ahead and start. I'll reply once I finish resetting my brain. It's 2am here. I'm on leave tomorrow though.

BTC:

Sitting on a bench facing a window, Xellos took a sip from his coconut and continued sifting through fresh data on his PDA. The situation in Arcadia raised some interesting business prospects from which Xanatos could benefit.

Rhia approached him. "Hey there."

She grabbed her arm, feeling a bit awkward. "Look, I'm sorry if I snapped at you back here. You know, telling you to shut up and stuff."

[Silver Knight]

Gasping in pain Kekowa fell to a knee. I did it. I did it, but at what cost?Kekowa felt Janos fall over unconcious with his chi senses. He knew that if Janos died it would be on his head. Kekowa had spent most of his energy during the fight. His body was much better off than Janos's but the pain roared through.

Using the rest of his chi he managed to close most of the wound, but not before a gush of blood rushed down his chest covering his jacket and chest with blood.

He made a makshift bandage out of part of his hamachi bow and made his way over to his blades

Kekwoa got up and picked up his blades now covered in blood. It disgusted him to look at them. With a huff he sheathed them the blood coming off on the sheath.

He turned back to Janos and bowed in respect.
You are a great warrior. Although you may never hear me say this. It was an honor to face you in near mortal combat. You where right I had to use my blades to win, but then again if I had used my more viscious and deadly arts you would have been worse off. We both fought a battle in which we used all of our strength I have no regrets and neither should you. I have proven I am the strongest. And I hope we can be ally's someday

Kekowa stood back upThis moment will be with you always. And it will live on with me as well I need nothing to prove my worth

Kekowa walked off arm mostly healed it would be better after a few hours rest.



OOC: Finishing his story before Cleric comes:D

Slowly he made his way to his room. He brabbed the door. It wasnt locked strangely. He came in and saqw Valeria sprawled out on the bed no blanket just her short yellow dress covering her body her sword lying on the floor in front of her.

Kekowa walked over with a smile. He picked her up. Her warm soft body soothed his mind after the battle. he laid her body on the side of the bed and got on himself laying his kodachi next to her sword.

He looked over at her. He didnt want to bother her but he couldnt resist he ran his fingers through her long silky blonde hair, but this made her open her eyes.

Valeria's eyes slowly opened looking at Kekowa "My king..." she then noticed the fresh scar on his nose, then peeking her head up a bit she saw his body. Covered in blood his chest, his arm, his hands, even his sheath where all stained with blood. "Dear gods! Kekowa what happened!"

Kekowa rolled over on his back. "My queen, I used my mighty hands to honor Daichi Yamada my friend. Then I..." He winced from pain finally relaxing his body now told him how it felt. "I fought a great battle. I used all my strength to prove I am the strongest. I just need rest thats all."

Valeria looked upon Kekowa's bruised and battered body his knuckles where purple, his arm torn, his muscles look contracted. By Odin's eye he looks like he's been through hell. Is this he's way of mourning? He gave his all tonight, a magnificent man I am proud to bear his child.

Kekowa began to speak "Val in the courtyard theirs..." She put a finger to his lips and silenced him "Hush now I will make you better my king."

She took the straps of her dress and the top half almost came down all the way over her chest. Kekowa's eyes widened and he smiled a bit. Valeria smiled as well.

She took off his robe and his bloomers his thong remaining. She threw a blanket over them and let half of her dress fall over body reveling her bare chest. He cuddled next to him blanket covering them she closed Kekowa's eyes and her magic and his chi combined making a aura around them that started to heal Kekowa and make them both at ease

They slept till morning

[Chrosis]

OOC: Who controls Janos?

And I'm sad Death never got to have a cameo with Solarus.

[Yun Lao]

OOC: Who controls Janos?

And I'm sad Death never got to have a cameo with Solarus.

OOC: That'd be GG

[Chrosis]

OOC: That'd be GG

Ah. :)








Damnit.

[Silver Knight]

OOC: Who controls Janos?

And I'm sad Death never got to have a cameo with Solarus.

OOC: Like Yun said. Hey Chrosis is death avalible for other things? I may need your help later with the next part of Kekowa's story during the World Tournament. talked with Cleric and He may work it out and help but May need death.

[Siriel]

OOC: Back, ready to RP is anyone wants to.

[Chrosis]

OOC: Like Yun said. Hey Chrosis is death avalible for other things? I may need your help later with the next part of Kekowa's story during the World Tournament. talked with Cleric and He may work it out and help but May need death.

OOC: First off, it's Death with a capital "D", and he only appears when people die. Secondly, he's only visible to the dead person in question or other dead people in the area.

Third, I have the condition that I control him unless I'm overridden by Cleric or Cleric takes control of him.

PM me the details.

[Yun Lao]

Levi woke, finding his back empty save for himself. Tomoe probably went to get something, or so he imagined. Deciding to get in yet another shower to wash off the blood from the fight with Janos, he eventually got dressed in a clean blue cheongsam detailed with a golden stitched dragon; much like the formal one he wore for the Dorm Tournament. Removing the bloodied bandages from his head, he simply wore the eyepatch over his eye now. Glasses and his various jewerly came next, followed by the braiding of his hair.

With all that completed, his left his dorm room, making sure to collect the Ruyi Jingu Bang from the top of his desk.

[Silver Knight]

OOC: First off, it's Death with a capital "D", and he only appears when people die. Secondly, he's only visible to the dead person in question or other dead people in the area.

Third, I have the condition that I control him unless I'm overridden by Cleric or Cleric takes control of him.

PM me the details.

OOC: Geesh touchie arnt we?:rolleyes: :p

He doesnt have a dimension of his own like a spirit world or relm?

I knew that thats why I asked you, I may need your help later is all

'fraid I cant do that, cant trust you to keep a secret:p Besides Im only letting you know in case Cleric's idea needs some help.


Now that i got that settled anyone want to RP with Kekowa? Levi woke up So I assume its morning Kekowa and Val can get up to:D

[Yun Lao]

OOC: Geesh touchie arnt we?:rolleyes: :p

He doesnt have a dimension of his own like a spirit world or relm?

I knew that thats why I asked you, I may need your help later is all

'fraid I cant do that, cant trust you to keep a secret:p Besides Im only letting you know in case Cleric's idea needs some help.


Now that i got that settled anyone want to RP with Kekowa? Levi woke up So I assume its morning Kekowa and Val can get up to:D

OOC: Depends on what time you want it; Levi could have slept til morning or simply had a cat nap after much asskicking.

[Chrosis]

OOC: Geesh touchie arnt we?:rolleyes: :p

He doesnt have a dimension of his own like a spirit world or relm?

I knew that thats why I asked you, I may need your help later is all

'fraid I cant do that, cant trust you to keep a secret. Besides Im only letting you know in case Cleric's idea needs some help.

OOC:

Just because I don't have a happy emote next to my text doesn't mean I'm being grumpy. :rolleyes:

And you're giving everyone spoilers right now. You should be PMing me this. ;)

[Silver Knight]

OOC: Depends on what time you want it; Levi could have slept til morning or simply had a cat nap after much asskicking.

OOC: considering the asskicking he and Kekowa did, they needed the few hours untill morning came:p

[Silver Knight]

OOC:

Just because I don't have a happy emote next to my text doesn't mean I'm being grumpy. :rolleyes:

And you're giving everyone spoilers right now. You should be PMing me this. ;)

OOC: Ok.

I'll think about it. How can one trust the Lord of Dickery? Im not saying anything more about it.

[Ghost]

OOC: Damn, it's been a slow day around here. oO

[Silver Knight]

OOC: Damn, it's been a slow day around here. oO

OOC: I thoguth you'd be happy about that^^

[GrampaGen]

OOC: 20 minutes before work! Let's get caught up...


Gasping in pain Kekowa fell to a knee. I did it. I did it, but at what cost?Kekowa felt Janos fall over unconcious with his chi senses. He knew that if Janos died it would be on his head. Kekowa had spent most of his energy during the fight. His body was much better off than Janos's but the pain roared through.

Using the rest of his chi he managed to close most of the wound, but not before a gush of blood rushed down his chest covering his jacket and chest with blood.

He made a makshift bandage out of part of his hamachi bow and made his way over to his blades

Kekwoa got up and picked up his blades now covered in blood. It disgusted him to look at them. With a huff he sheathed them the blood coming off on the sheath.

He turned back to Janos and bowed in respect.
You are a great warrior. Although you may never hear me say this. It was an honor to face you in near mortal combat. You where right I had to use my blades to win, but then again if I had used my more viscious and deadly arts you would have been worse off. We both fought a battle in which we used all of our strength I have no regrets and neither should you. I have proven I am the strongest. And I hope we can be ally's someday

Kekowa stood back upThis moment will be with you always. And it will live on with me as well I need nothing to prove my worth

Kekowa walked off arm mostly healed it would be better after a few hours rest.

OOC: Edited from last night

How does everyone like?

Much better :)

[Silver Knight]

OOC: Hey Yun I got a cool Idea. Can Kekowa wake up and Bump into Tomoe? Might be funny;)

[GrampaGen]

Ah. :)








Damnit.

OOC: Whassup? PM me the idea if you want

[Silver Knight]

Much better :)

OOC: Thank you.

[Yun Lao]

OOC: Hey Yun I got a cool Idea. Can Kekowa wake up and Bump into Tomoe? Might be funny;)

OOC: Tomoe left with the rest of the Shaolin Team, so she won't be making an appearance until...well later today.

[GrampaGen]

"Well, I know this wonderful privately owned music shop that survived the carnage. Of course, with things as they are obtaining new musical instruments is hardly anyone's priority."

Xellos swept the air with an upturned palm,

"the owner was at a loss till I happened along. You could say I bought it for a song."

He chuckled,

"so we've shut up shop at the moment. Xanatos will be coming to move the stock to a safer location till looters are no longer an issue, but for now everything is just as it was left."

He tapped his chins,

"I was thinking we'd play a few songs to acknowledge the suffering Arcadia went through on the rooftops. Then, once we're a bit more up to speed, there's an orphanage that's now, unfortunately, swelling with new members. I was hoping we could cooperate to lift their spirits with a few more hopeful pieces."

Natalie curled her lip against the bitter news, and then, feeling vindicated, pat Xellos affirmatively on the shoulder.

"Ja, it would be my honor."

'Zeitgeist', the spirit of the times. In her time with Dragon Dorm she had little time to regard the less obvious parts of her mission. There's a time for heroes to rise and fight against the darkness; the rest is spent keeping the light from dying out.

[Chrosis]

OOC: Ok.

I'll think about it. How can one trust the Lord of Dickery? Im not saying anything more about it.

OOC:

*Hits keyboard with face*

...just send the PM.

[Silver Knight]

OOC: Tomoe left with the rest of the Shaolin Team, so she won't be making an appearance until...well later today.
Well I dont want Kekowa to keep bothering Levi:p

They could RP if its ok with you?

OOC:

*Hits keyboard with face*

...just send the PM.

Made Chrosis hit himself in frustration. I am so sigging that:D

and Ok Maybe

[Yun Lao]

Well I dont want Kekowa to keep bothering Levi:p

They could RP if its ok with you?

OOC: Good with me, comrade.

[GrampaGen]

"Actually, seems like eleven clones is my maximum. So that would be twelve of me." Rhia giggled. "I think we'll need to form an orderly line if all of me want to have a swing at him."

Rhia shrugged. "Maybe she's still in denial? Or maybe she just isn't ready to let go of her hope? I don't know. What I do know is that you represent something important to her, Nat, same way my brother represents something important to me. It's both her greatest strength and her greatest weakness."

She put a hand on Natalie's shoulder. "But hey, this doesn't mean Selma can't find love with someone else, eventually. And, for that matter, it doesn't mean she can never be that person you might love yourself, either. But it will take time, Natalie. Selma can't become a new person over night. She needs more then healing, she needs to grow."

"That's...that's what I've been trying to do for so long," Natalie replied,"But she draws too much from outside of herself, even things long past and forgotten, that she forgets who she is right now."

[Siriel]

OOC: I need to RP.

[GrampaGen]

OOC: And I'm out. Work and awayyy~! -_-;

[Yun Lao]

Walking outside, a soft sigh was given as he embraced the morning despite the fact that the sun had just barely began to lighten the heavens. The birds were chirping as they took woke from their rest and he listened to them as he walked across the dew moistened grass of the Academy grounds.

[Chrosis]

OOC: I need to RP.

OOC: Peter's not doing anything.

[Gladiaria_Alata]

OOC: Before I go to bed.

What's going on now?

[Siriel]

OOC: Peter's not doing anything.

OOC: Neither is Julien.

It is however required that you start it.:p

[Yun Lao]

OOC: Before I go to bed.

What's going on now?

OOC: It's time for a FillerTime report!

1.) Maxwell was torturing Selma in front of Natalie, but she and Xellos FUBARed him.

2.) Janos challenged and stalemated Levi for Captainship of Dragon dorm

3.) Kekowa managed to defeat Janos right after above fight

4.) Team Monk made an appearance and most left

[Ghost]

"That's...that's what I've been trying to do for so long," Natalie replied,"But she draws too much from outside of herself, even things long past and forgotten, that she forgets who she is right now."

"Tell me about it," Rhia said. "But that's why I think it's important she still has someone to remind her of that. And while we can't change what has happened to us, the mistakes of the past can be catalyst of great strength and determination as much as it can be a source of anguish, if you have the proper mindset." She smiled. "Trust me, I know that as well as anyone."

[Chrosis]

OOC: Neither is Julien.

It is however required that you start it.:p

Peter, standing in the corner, glanced at Julien. He made eye contact, and brought his fingers to his eyes, and then pointed them at Julien, as if to say, "I'm watching you."

[Eternal Torment]

OOC: It's time for a FillerTime report!

1.) Maxwell was torturing Selma in front of Natalie, but she and Xellos FUBARed him.

2.) Janos challenged and stalemated Levi for Captainship of Dragon dorm

3.) Kekowa managed to defeat Janos right after above fight

4.) Team Monk made an appearance and most left

OOC: Also, Angelique tortured Alexia until she returned to normal.

And Rhia has talked with Selma about her problems.

[Silver Knight]

Walking outside, a soft sigh was given as he embraced the morning despite the fact that the sun had just barely began to lighten the heavens. The birds were chirping as they took woke from their rest and he listened to them as he walked across the dew moistened grass of the Academy grounds.

Kekowa woke out of bed. A strange feeling came over him he didnt know what it was at first untill he looked down. He remembered and felt Valeria's warm half naked body on his. She cood in pleasure. He carefully got out of bed not to disturb her. He noticed she dressed his wounds and saw his strength returned and chi replenshied.

She must have worked hard to help me. I never thought I would find someone like her in all my life. I dont know what I'd do without her, maybe when this stuff with the world tournament is over we can settle down and... Kekowa stopped, the thought shocked him. Give up his dream when he was so close? Why would he do such a thing. And then he looked at her lying in bed.

For her maybe.

He picked up his bloomers and robe she had got up when he feel asleep and cleaned them. He smiled as he fixed his clothes and turned picking up his kodachi. [I]She must've not seen the blood on the sheath oh well. That will be a memento of that battle.I]

He tiptoed out but placed a not by Valeria's bedside

*Dear Valeria, if I am not back when you wake up im sorry had to take a walk I will return shortly Thank you for everything you have givin me*

He made his way out and locked the door when he left so no one would disturb her. Walking past the courtyard he bowed at Daichi's statue before spotting Levi on the grounds.

He smiled and walked over to his friend and captain "Hello Levi Early riser as well huh?"

OOC: please forgive if im long in posting watching Afro Samurai:D

[Ghost]

OOC: Also, Angelique tortured Alexia until she returned to normal.

And Rhia has talked with Selma about her problems.

OOC: Care for some Rhia and Alexia RP? I'm already having two convo's at once at different times. One more won't matter much.

[Yun Lao]

Kekowa woke out of bed. A strange feeling came over him he didnt know what it was at first untill he looked down. He remembered and felt Valeria's warm half naked body on his. She cood in pleasure. He carefully got out of bed not to disturb her. He noticed she dressed his wounds and saw his strength returned and chi replenshied.

She must have worked hard to help me. I never thought I would find someone like her in all my life. I dont know what I'd do without her, maybe when this stuff with the world tournament is over we can settle down and... Kekowa stopped, the thought shocked him. Give up his dream when he was so close? Why would he do such a thing. And then he looked at her lying in bed.

For her maybe.

He picked up his bloomers and robe she had got up when he feel asleep and cleaned them. He smiled as he fixed his clothes and turned picking up his kodachi. [I]She must've not seen the blood on the sheath oh well. That will be a memento of that battle.I]

He tiptoed out but placed a not by Valeria's bedside

*Dear Valeria, if I am not back when you wake up im sorry had to take a walk I will return shortly Thank you for everything you have givin me*

He made his way out and locked the door when he left so no one would disturb her. Walking past the courtyard he bowed at Daichi's statue before spotting Levi on the grounds.

He smiled and walked over to his friend and captain "Hello Levi Early riser as well huh?"

OOC: please forgive if im long in posting watching Afro Samurai:D

He nodded, "It's best to exercise early in the morning before everyone wakes, that way you do not lose any time with them." The Dragon Captain replied, though a soft sigh escaped his lips as he recalled last night, "It seems I let my darkness get the best of me last night, forgive me for spoiling Daichi's statue with such combat..."

[Chrosis]

and Ok Maybe

OOC: ...just send the freakin' PM.

[Siriel]

Peter, standing in the corner, glanced at Julien. He made eye contact, and brought his fingers to his eyes, and then pointed them at Julien, as if to say, "I'm watching you."

...Where did he come from?

Julien walked up to Peter, smiling.

"We haven't been properly introduced, I am Julien."

[Chrosis]

...Where did he come from?

Julien walked up to Peter, smiling.

"We haven't been properly introduced, I am Julien."

Peter nodded, "Peter Schmidt."

[Gladiaria_Alata]

OOC: It's time for a FillerTime report!

1.) Maxwell was torturing Selma in front of Natalie, but she and Xellos FUBARed him.

2.) Janos challenged and stalemated Levi for Captainship of Dragon dorm

3.) Kekowa managed to defeat Janos right after above fight

4.) Team Monk made an appearance and most left

OOC: Also, Angelique tortured Alexia until she returned to normal.

And Rhia has talked with Selma about her problems.

OOC: Thank ye.

[Siriel]

Peter nodded, "Peter Schmidt."

OOC: Not making this easy on me are you?:p

IC:

How friendly.

"I couldn't help but notice you were staring at me, could I ask why?"

Please tell me you didn't hear my speech...

[Silver Knight]

He nodded, "It's best to exercise early in the morning before everyone wakes, that way you do not lose any time with them." The Dragon Captain replied, though a soft sigh escaped his lips as he recalled last night, "It seems I let my darkness get the best of me last night, forgive me for spoiling Daichi's statue with such combat..."

Kekowa walked over to him. "It is ok my friend. I blame Janos for daring to question your skills and insult you. He's the one for picking the fight not you. And considering my former life I understand completly."

He chuckled a bit. "Besides I dont think Janos will bother you or our dorm for awhile."

[Chrosis]

OOC: Not making this easy on me are you?:p

IC:

How friendly.

"I couldn't help but notice you were staring at me, could I ask why?"

Please tell me you didn't hear my speech...

Peter shrugged, "People know when people are watching them. You turned and saw me, and then I convinced you to come over. I was just getting your attention. So what are your abilities?"

[Yun Lao]

Kekowa walked over to him. "It is ok my friend. I blame Janos for daring to question your skills and insult you. He's the one for picking the fight not you. And considering my former life I understand completly."

He chuckled a bit. "Besides I dont think Janos will bother you or our dorm for awhile."

A small frown formed, "He was right in some areas, it is my responsibility to put the dorm before myself. Though out of combat he may be difficult to deal with, but in combat he is one that you should ally yourself with..." Levi murmured before he stopped. Noticing a small baby bird who suffered the misfortune of falling from its nest near his feet, the former monk picked it up and placed it back upon the branch above where the nest was located. "...but still, life is precious and should cherish each moment of our lives..."

[Siriel]

Peter shrugged, "People know when people are watching them. You turned and saw me, and then I convinced you to come over. I was just getting your attention. So what are your abilities?"

"Abilities? Not much, aside from being pretty fast."

Yeah, I'll just tell you all about it.

[KamenRaida]

OOC: Neither is Julien.

It is however required that you start it.:p

OOC: So, what the hell is he doing with Xing? :rolleyes:

[Siriel]

OOC: So, what the hell is he doing with Xing? :rolleyes:

OOC: I thought you were dead!:eek:

If you want, I can RP with both of you, and just pretend Julien met Peter a few minutes later.

[Cleric of Hell's Brigade]

*Kicks Thread*


This. Is. PALE STAR!!!!!!!!!!!!



.............................



Oh, sorry, wrong therad. :o


*Coughs*



Hmm, well then, the first fights start tomorrow (early for me) since I'm off for two days.

I'm also still waiting on the last Stat upgrades to be posted.


Until then.




P.S.
























HILDA, BELL, AND SASAMI MUST BREAK YOU!








P.S.S.



A couple other old familiars from my old RPG's, and the character creation tournaments, will also make guest apearances as Tournament members or guests.




Can you guess who?

[Silver Knight]

A small frown formed, "He was right in some areas, it is my responsibility to put the dorm before myself. Though out of combat he may be difficult to deal with, but in combat he is one that you should ally yourself with..." Levi murmured before he stopped. Noticing a small baby bird who suffered the misfortune of falling from its nest near his feet, the former monk picked it up and placed it back upon the branch above where the nest was located. "...but still, life is precious and should cherish each moment of our lives..."

OOC: :eek: Um I hope you know that that birds mommy will abandon it now. Dont you know your not supposed to do that?:p

Kekowa smiled as he watched Levi "Yes glad what ive said has finally sunk through. Why do you think I vowed not to kill?"

He walked over and extended his hand to lift him up but winced and stumbled.

[KamenRaida]

OOC: I thought you were dead!:eek:

If you want, I can RP with both of you, and just pretend Julien met Peter a few minutes later.

OOC: Nah, let's just say that Julien and Xing got fed up with each other and went their separate ways, :p

Besides, I've Maths tuition in like 30 minutes >.>

[Cleric of Hell's Brigade]

*Kicks Thread*


This. Is. PALE STAR!!!!!!!!!!!!



.............................



Oh, sorry, wrong therad. :o


*Coughs*



Hmm, well then, the first fights start tomorrow (early for me) since I'm off for two days.

I'm also still waiting on the last Stat upgrades to be posted.


Until then.




P.S.
























HILDA, BELL, AND SASAMI MUST BREAK YOU!








P.S.S.



A couple other old familiars from my old RPG's, and the character creation tournaments, will also make guest apearances as Tournament members or guests.




Can you guess who?

So it doesn't get missed.

[Chrosis]

*Kicks Thread*


This. Is. PALE STAR!!!!!!!!!!!!



.............................



Oh, sorry, wrong therad. :o


*Coughs*

What are you talking about? This is the Pale Star.

...right? :(


























HILDA, BELL, AND SASAMI MUST BREAK YOU!



...

...

FUCK!!!




P.S.S.



A couple other old familiars from my old RPG's, and the character creation tournaments, will also make guest apearances as Tournament members or guests.




Can you guess who?

I'll try.

[Chrosis]

"Abilities? Not much, aside from being pretty fast."

Yeah, I'll just tell you all about it.

Peter 'hmm'-ed. He knew he didn't learn everything. He shrugged, "I'm pretty adept at fire magic."

[Cleric of Hell's Brigade]

What are you talking about? This is the Pale Star.

...right? :(


Sadly, no, it's not. Pale Star 2 died a cold, wintery death before it's time.




:(

[Siriel]

Peter 'hmm'-ed. He knew he didn't learn everything. He shrugged, "I'm pretty adept at fire magic."

Truly, do you even try? Although I guess I'm not really hiding it either.

"So, what do you think about what's been happening?"

[Silver Knight]

OOC: :eek: Um I hope you know that that birds mommy will abandon it now. Dont you know your not supposed to do that?:p

Kekowa smiled as he watched Levi "Yes glad what ive said has finally sunk through. Why do you think I vowed not to kill?"

He walked over and extended his hand to lift him up but winced and stumbled.

OOC: Cased Yun missed

Oh And Cleric I hope Aoshi or Kyo dont come crawling out from Neo DBZ;)

[Yun Lao]

OOC: :eek: Um I hope you know that that birds mommy will abandon it now. Dont you know your not supposed to do that?:p

Kekowa smiled as he watched Levi "Yes glad what ive said has finally sunk through. Why do you think I vowed not to kill?"

He walked over and extended his hand to lift him up but winced and stumbled.

He caught Kekowa before the other could fall, "Perhaps you should use your own healing technique on yourself?" He suggested, not sure if it worked that way, but it didn't hurt to ask.

[Yun Lao]

So it doesn't get missed.

OOC: Eh hopefully it won't be too early so I don't miss anything.

Speaking of guessing, do you recall where Kuan is from, Cleric?

[Chrosis]

Truly, do you even try? Although I guess I'm not really hiding it either.

"So, what do you think about what's been happening?"

Peter glanced around, "Well, it ain't a joyride. That's for sure. My question is, though, if we have a whole school of people with more apocalypse in them than the movie Armageddon, why aren't we utilizing them?"

[Silver Knight]

He caught Kekowa before the other could fall, "Perhaps you should use your own healing technique on yourself?" He suggested, not sure if it worked that way, but it didn't hurt to ask.

"Heh I did its just.." Kekowa straighted his arm an stood "Its just he..." Unsure whether he should tell Levi about his fight with Janos "I was in a fight with someone and my arm was cut into the muscle It was my own fualkt really focused more on my strength rather than protecting myself. It'll be 100% when the tournament comes along."

He adjusted himself "Its a small price for defeating him and proving my strength."

[Siriel]

Peter glanced around, "Well, it ain't a joyride. That's for sure. My question is, though, if we have a whole school of people with more apocalypse in them than the movie Armageddon, why aren't we utilizing them?"

"Heh. Because that would kill the suspense, building up is everything. Once you've built it up just right, then you go on to the main event."

[Yun Lao]

"Heh I did its just.." Kekowa straighted his arm an stood "Its just he..." Unsure whether he should tell Levi about his fight with Janos "I was in a fight with someone and my arm was cut into the muscle It was my own fualkt really focused more on my strength rather than protecting myself. It'll be 100% when the tournament comes along."

He adjusted himself "Its a small price for defeating him and proving my strength."

A small frown formed, but it vanished some. Though honor was something he knew, he also knew that it was foolish to devote oneself to it, but not many people had his opinion of the matter, "Let's hope so, we can't have you wounded going up against the best, no?"

[Chrosis]

"Heh. Because that would kill the suspense, building up is everything. Once you've built it up just right, then you go on to the main event."

Peter frowned, "Ah, yes. I forgot the suspense. I mean, we want to draw out the fight with the Universal threat as long as possible."

[Silver Knight]

A small frown formed, but it vanished some. Though honor was something he knew, he also knew that it was foolish to devote oneself to it, but not many people had his opinion of the matter, "Let's hope so, we can't have you wounded going up against the best, no?"

Kekowa chuckled "No we very well cant." A odd look came over Kekowa he sighed relenting that it was better to tell Levi the truth "Levi We'er friends right? If I tell you something can you not get mad?"

[Siriel]

Peter frowned, "Ah, yes. I forgot the suspense. I mean, we want to draw out the fight with the Universal threat as long as possible."

Julien laughed a little.

"Of course, why do you think the world is still standing? Both Light and Darkness are fully dedicated to this little game. And, since we are some of the main characters in this particular play, it is our duty to keep it dramatic."

[Yun Lao]

Kekowa chuckled "No we very well cant." A odd look came over Kekowa he sighed relenting that it was better to tell Levi the truth "Levi We'er friends right? If I tell you something can you not get mad?"

He blinked. While he had lost himself to his emotions a few times lately, he usually wasn't one to get angry, but still he had to ask, "What is it?"

[Silver Knight]

He blinked. While he had lost himself to his emotions a few times lately, he usually wasn't one to get angry, but still he had to ask, "What is it?"

Kekowa sighed and turned his head. "After your fight with him I followed Janos. He was barly hurt and he fixed himself up. In case you didnt know we have a history. He nearly defeated me in combat, if my master hadnt knocked me out and dragged me away I could have perished in the battle. And it stuck at me I was unable to let that go. I was angered he would pick a fight with you. enraged that he would try to usurp you captainship and further angered he picked a fight on such sacred ground."

He looked back at Levi "He insulted me and my honor, so I challenged him. This time the fight went much different. He almost had me at one point but I came around and beat him decisively knocking him unconscious." He pointed to the scar across his nose and the bandage on his shoulder. "He gave me these but I gave him a sound defeat. I proved I am better than a captain of Arcadia, but I dont feel like I normally would. Its as if my mind and conscience are telling me I was wrong. What do you think Levi-Kun?"

[Siriel]

Julien laughed a little.

"Of course, why do you think the world is still standing? Both Light and Darkness are fully dedicated to this little game. And, since we are some of the main characters in this particular play, it is our duty to keep it dramatic."

OOC: If Chrosis has not replied in 15 min, I shall go away and come back later.

[Yun Lao]

Kekowa sighed and turned his head. "After your fight with him I followed Janos. He was barly hurt and he fixed himself up. In case you didnt know we have a history. He nearly defeated me in combat, if my master hadnt knocked me out and dragged me away I could have perished in the battle. And it stuck at me I was unable to let that go. I was angered he would pick a fight with you. enraged that he would try to usurp you captainship and further angered he picked a fight on such sacred ground."

He looked back at Levi "He insulted me and my honor, so I challenged him. This time the fight went much different. He almost had me at one point but I came around and beat him decisively knocking him unconscious." He pointed to the scar across his nose and the bandage on his shoulder. "He gave me these but I gave him a sound defeat. I proved I am better than a captain of Arcadia, but I dont feel like I normally would. Its as if my mind and conscience are telling me I was wrong. What do you think Levi-Kun?"

"I believe it might stem from the fact that you fought him after his fight with myself." He said with a sigh, "I believe that one more fight in the future will cleanse your mind of such guilt."

[Silver Knight]

"I believe it might stem from the fact that you fought him after his fight with myself." He said with a sigh, "I believe that one more fight in the future will cleanse your mind of such guilt."

Kekowa looked out over the horizon "No its not that yes he may have been slightly injured but he recovered fast. I think he was at full power. Its just I guess I promised myself I wouldnt seek my glory so rashly or increase my title so boldly and then I let my feelings get the better of me. I felt the rage I used to feel. I was consumed by my need to win, to prove myself the strongest."

He sighed "I hope I can keep that back in check I dont want to fall back into darkness. I have found a ray of light, and it illumanates all thats good in me."

He looked at Levi "Maybe one more match would be best. One final test. Althgough I dont know if I have the guts to talk to him after what I did to him in our battle. Perhaps when this is all over we will fight again and I might prove my strength without feeling guilt."

[Yun Lao]

Kekowa looked out over the horizon "No its not that yes he may have been slightly injured but he recovered fast. I think he was at full power. Its just I guess I promised myself I wouldnt seek my glory so rashly or increase my title so boldly and then I let my feelings get the better of me. I felt the rage I used to feel. I was consumed by my need to win, to prove myself the strongest."

He sighed "I hope I can keep that back in check I dont want to fall back into darkness. I have found a ray of light, and it illumanates all thats good in me."

He looked at Levi "Maybe one more match would be best. One final test. Althgough I dont know if I have the guts to talk to him after what I did to him in our battle. Perhaps when this is all over we will fight again and I might prove my strength without feeling guilt."

He nodded, "Yes, I believe that would wise. Reflect on it and wait when you believe it is truly time." Levi replied, watching as the mother bird returned to the nest, unaware of its child's descension to the ground belows earlier.

[Eternal Torment]

OOC: Care for some Rhia and Alexia RP? I'm already having two convo's at once at different times. One more won't matter much.

OOC: Alright, then. But you'll have to start.

[Ghost]

OOC: Alright, then. But you'll have to start.

After parting with Xellos, Rhia finally made it back to hers and Alexia's room. "Oh dear, what a day!"

[Silver Knight]

He nodded, "Yes, I believe that would wise. Reflect on it and wait when you believe it is truly time." Levi replied, watching as the mother bird returned to the nest, unaware of its child's descension to the ground belows earlier.

OOC: Sorry for the long wait had to run an errand

Kekowa pondered this. Both times he fought Janos he could have killed him. He didnt think the rock would kill him but he didnt know for sure he could hae taken his life. And in their last match his blades missed Janos's major organs my millimeters, If he had moved them by a hair Janos would be dead.

"Yes Levi I will. Its just." He sighed "Last time I nearly killed him in my pursuit I stabbed him with both of my blades. Next time I could get careless and actually do it. Or what if he gains new power and we kill each other? I need some advise old friend."

[FalconX2000]

OOC:

*Hits keyboard with face*

...just send the PM.

OOC: For shame. How could you let SK, of all people, manipulate you into self-mutilation?

Rhia approached him. "Hey there."

She grabbed her arm, feeling a bit awkward. "Look, I'm sorry if I snapped at you back here. You know, telling you to shut up and stuff."

Xellos shut his PDA,

"it was a delicate situation and you've got a better grasp of empathy than I do. I took less offense from it than if most other people had said it."

[GrampaGen]

"Tell me about it," Rhia said. "But that's why I think it's important she still has someone to remind her of that. And while we can't change what has happened to us, the mistakes of the past can be catalyst of great strength and determination as much as it can be a source of anguish, if you have the proper mindset." She smiled. "Trust me, I know that as well as anyone."

"mm..."

She recalled what she saw in Selma's mindscape in when she used her psychic ability to try and bolster her heart. Materialistic parents, a beautiful if lifeless home, her only friend an inanimate stuffed bear.

"She didn't have anybody like Shamra. Or Ilsa. Not until Samuel was hired to fill her afternoons," she said quietly.

[Eternal Torment]

After parting with Xellos, Rhia finally made it back to hers and Alexia's room. "Oh dear, what a day!"

Rhia entered as Alexia wrung the last of the blood out of the mop.

"....hey."

[Ghost]

Xellos shut his PDA,

"it was a delicate situation and you've got a better grasp of empathy than I do. I took less offense from it than if most other people had said it."

"Better grasp of empathy, huh?" Rhia chuckled. "Thanks, I guess."

She looked out the window and sighed. "Thing is, I think you were right. Selma needs to realize her strength for her own sake, not for Natalie or anyone else. I just hope I can help her, even though I'm not even sure where to start."

[Siriel]

OOC: Is Chrosis still here?

[Silver Knight]

OOC: For shame. How could you let SK, of all people, manipulate you into self-mutilation?


OOC: Im just that damn good:cool: Seriously if I had the room in my sig I'd put a link to that, but I cant just cut my lovely quote out so It must go unknown for now.

[GrampaGen]

Natalie curled her lip against the bitter news, and then, feeling vindicated, pat Xellos affirmatively on the shoulder.

"Ja, it would be my honor."

'Zeitgeist', the spirit of the times. In her time with Dragon Dorm she had little time to regard the less obvious parts of her mission. There's a time for heroes to rise and fight against the darkness; the rest is spent keeping the light from dying out.

*punts post*

[FalconX2000]

Natalie curled her lip against the bitter news, and then, feeling vindicated, pat Xellos affirmatively on the shoulder.

"Ja, it would be my honor."

'Zeitgeist', the spirit of the times. In her time with Dragon Dorm she had little time to regard the less obvious parts of her mission. There's a time for heroes to rise and fight against the darkness; the rest is spent keeping the light from dying out.

They made their way to an old shop south of downtown. Metal grating was pulled over the shop window.

Xellos brought out a set of keys, unlocking the locks on the grating and door and opening both. He turned on the lights and airconditioning.

A warm glow illuminated the room from the ceiling lights. The marble floor and oak furniture showed the wear of age, but had been lovingly maintained. A wooden platform dominated a corner, for no apparent reason except the whim of the owner. Grand pianos, cellos, flutes, instruments of all kinds and varying nationalities filled the spacious room. Some waited quietly on soft rugs, some hung high on wall racks, a few stood proud upon short pedestals.

"here we are,"

Xellos said fondly.

[Ghost]

"mm..."

She recalled what she saw in Selma's mindscape in when she used her psychic ability to try and bolster her heart. Materialistic parents, a beautiful if lifeless home, her only friend an inanimate stuffed bear.

"She didn't have anybody like Shamra. Or Ilsa. Not until Samuel was hired to fill her afternoons," she said quietly.

Rhia frowned. "Well, see, about Shamra..."

She was silent for a moment, and then she looked at Natalie again. "Look, I have a confession to make. I-I haven't told anyone about this before..."

She hesitated.

"I hated him. There, I said it."

Rhia entered as Alexia wrung the last of the blood out of the mop.

"....hey."

"Feeling better now?" Rhia asked. Then she noticed the bloody water. "...What happened here?"

[Eternal Torment]

"Feeling better now?" Rhia asked. Then she noticed the bloody water. "...What happened here?"

Alexia quickly covered up the bucket.

"Oh, nothing happened. I just woke up after a while." she lied.

[Yun Lao]

Kekowa pondered this. Both times he fought Janos he could have killed him. He didnt think the rock would kill him but he didnt know for sure he could hae taken his life. And in their last match his blades missed Janos's major organs my millimeters, If he had moved them by a hair Janos would be dead.

"Yes Levi I will. Its just." He sighed "Last time I nearly killed him in my pursuit I stabbed him with both of my blades. Next time I could get careless and actually do it. Or what if he gains new power and we kill each other? I need some advise old friend."

"You must keep it from becoming a fight to death. Unfortunately how you do that is something you must figure out for yourself." He replied, glancing to the sun as it began to peak out from beneath the horizon.

[GrampaGen]

Rhia frowned. "Well, see, about Shamra..."

She was silent for a moment, and then she looked at Natalie again. "Look, I have a confession to make. I-I haven't told anyone about this before..."

She hesitated.

"I hated him. There, I said it."


This was a startling revelation. Ever since she started picking up mental feedback from her mind, Natalie had assumed Rhia's older brother was someone she held on a pedestal, an inspiration and someone for her to reach. If that was only a recent development, it seems that even the sunny-faced princess had a few skeletons in her closet.

"...ja? Why is that?"

Natalie took one of Rhia's hands in hers, setting her eyes downcast so as to keep her appearance nonjudgmental.

[Tami]

OOC: Tamiko is free if anyone needs someone to talk to.

IC: Feeling the need for some exercise, Tamiko goes outside to practice with her spear. Standing in position, spear in hand, she runs through weapon's drills. Spinning the spear over her head, she then brings it down and thrusts it forward, "Hya!" she yells out as she does. Pulling the spear back, she runs through several other motions, ending each set with another thrust forward.

[GrampaGen]

They made their way to an old shop south of downtown. Metal grating was pulled over the shop window.

Xellos brought out a set of keys, unlocking the locks on the grating and door and opening both. He turned on the lights and airconditioning.

A warm glow illuminated the room from the ceiling lights. The marble floor and oak furniture showed the wear of age, but had been lovingly maintained. A wooden platform dominated a corner, for no apparent reason except the whim of the owner. Grand pianos, cellos, flutes, instruments of all kinds and varying nationalities filled the spacious room. Some waited quietly on soft rugs, some hung high on wall racks, a few stood proud upon short pedestals.

"here we are,"

Xellos said fondly.

OOC: Wait, is this still on Arcadian premises?

"Sonderbar..."

Natalie stood in amazement. Though it was small and humble, the vibrant brass, the twinkling bells, and the smell of wood finish loaned the room a certain spirit. So much potential, the holdings of an orchestra yet to be made.

She wished she had more than her own rusted and humble talents to work with.

[Yun Lao]

Feeling the need for some exercise, Tamiko goes outside to practice with her spear. Standing in position, spear in hand, she runs through weapon's drills. Spinning the spear over her head, she then brings it down and thrusts it forward, "Hya!" she yells out as she does. Pulling the spear back, she runs through several other motions, ending each set with another thrust forward.

Making his way onward, he came across Tamiko. For a while, he simply kept silent and watched her as she went through her spear katas. Thus finally, he spoke, "You have grown quite a bit since we've last spoken." Levi said with a soft smile.

[Ghost]

Alexia quickly covered up the bucket.

"Oh, nothing happened. I just woke up after a while." she lied.

"...Right," Rhia said, slowly, her eyes narrowing. "And why are you mopping our room?"

[Silver Knight]

"You must keep it from becoming a fight to death. Unfortunately how you do that is something you must figure out for yourself." He replied, glancing to the sun as it began to peak out from beneath the horizon.

"Thats the thing isnt it?" Kekowa recalled his training in the spirit realm

*Cue Flashback*

Kekowa trains hard as Master Qui Lan comes up behind him "Remember Kekowa this is a killing art. You must learn all of it if you want to master it" Kekowa stops and takes a breather "But master I can use this to heal bones and tissue, disable muscles, cripple for life if needed. I can focus on using this power to give me more strength and speed why must I know its deadly moves?"

Kekowa is backhanded and flys back 20 feet "You must that is this style's curse. I dont care if you vowed not to kill. Someday you will, you must for the path you take to drive out evil will lead you to a place one day, it will lead you to a point where you will have no choice and a evil so foul yo will be honored to destroy it. Do you wish to defeat this evil? Or do you want to give up now and die?"

Kekowa lifts himself out of a pile of rubble "Show me."

He came back to the present "If I use my fists and my art I could kill him easily if he doesnt improve, if I use my blades one misstep and he'll be crippled at best, having burst organs at worse."

Kekowa sat down "If only I knew a way to surpress my emotions and think more clearly then I could fight him with an open mind."

[FalconX2000]

"Better grasp of empathy, huh?" Rhia chuckled. "Thanks, I guess."

She looked out the window and sighed. "Thing is, I think you were right.

"I always am."

a lopsided smile formed,

Selma needs to realize her strength for her own sake, not for Natalie or anyone else. I just hope I can help her, even though I'm not even sure where to start."

"I'm good at saying what's wrong and needs to be done, which is alright when the audience is receptive. You, on the other hand, seem to almost instinctively say what they need to hear."

He tapped his chin habitually, staring at the floor for insight,

"Selma shows alot of signs of mental despair. She probably kept trying very hard to do something very important to her, but never succeeded. Maybe something to do with an extremely close family member or friend."

"She might think she's willing to try hard, but in reality her psyche is still traumatised enough that she easily slips back into her funk over and over again. Of course, this leads to a death spiral if left unchecked."

he frowned,

"Despair is a rather deceptive emotion. To the casual observer it might seem like the person is going through hell when experiencing it. In reality, it's a comforting state of mind. 'I've tried, I can't do it, why bother?' That's why lifting people out of it is so hard. They don't want to. Having given up on happiness, they just find a soft spot to lie down and die, telling themselves all the reasons they can invent why its right to do so."

he nodded his head, coming to a tentative conclusion,

"Selma has to want to experience what life has to offer. Not Natalie, not a specific someone, but the bounties and oppurtunities that life as a whole can provide if she'd just get up and take a look around."

[KamenRaida]

IC: Feeling the need for some exercise, Tamiko goes outside to practice with her spear. Standing in position, spear in hand, she runs through weapon's drills. Spinning the spear over her head, she then brings it down and thrusts it forward, "Hya!" she yells out as she does. Pulling the spear back, she runs through several other motions, ending each set with another thrust forward.

Xing watched Tami proceed through her drills. Of course, he'd no purpose behind it. He could imitate nothing from her, not being one to use spears. Still, it was better than doing absolutely nothing. After awhile, he clapped at the performance.

"I never knew you were so adept with a weapon, Tamiko."

[Silver Knight]

OOC: Any psychic's Kekowa could talk to I have a plan.

[FalconX2000]

OOC: Wait, is this still on Arcadian premises?

"Sonderbar..."

Natalie stood in amazement. Though it was small and humble, the vibrant brass, the twinkling bells, and the smell of wood finish loaned the room a certain spirit. So much potential, the holdings of an orchestra yet to be made.

She wished she had more than her own rusted and humble talents to work with.

OOC: Arcadia the island or Arcadia the school campus? It's on the island, but in the general town area.

BTC:

Xellos rubbed the side of a railing gently,

"do you think a string or a woodwind instrument would work better with a glockenspiel?"

[Yun Lao]

OOC: Arcadia the island or Arcadia the school campus? It's on the island, but in the general town area.

BTC:

Xellos rubbed the side of a railing gently,

"do you think a string or a woodwind instrument would work better with a glockenspiel?"

OOC: Is it normal that I'm suddenly reminded of FFVIII when you have to make a band?

[FalconX2000]

OOC: Is it normal that I'm suddenly reminded of FFVIII when you have to make a band?

OOC: Played the game for 10 minutes, so I can't comment.:D

[Ghost]

This was a startling revelation. Ever since she started picking up mental feedback from her mind, Natalie had assumed Rhia's older brother was someone she held on a pedestal, an inspiration and someone for her to reach. If that was only a recent development, it seems that even the sunny-faced princess had a few skeletons in her closet.

"...ja? Why is that?"

Natalie took one of Rhia's hands in hers, setting her eyes downcast so as to keep her appearance nonjudgmental.

"Why indeed?" Rhia said. "After all, what's there not to love about him? He's so strong and kind and powerful and talented."

She shrugged. "...Maybe 'hated' is the wrong word. I mean, I never wanted him dead or anything. But... some days I did wish he was never born."

Rhia looked up at Natalie and smiled sadly. "Nat, have you ever had to compare yourself to someone who is perfect in every way? That's what most of my childhood was like. He was always better and more important then me. Shamra, the great genius, heir to the throne, the young prince everyone loved. Next to him... I was nothing." She shook her head. "After a while, I just gave up. I stopped taking my training seriously, because why bother to train when even my best accomplishments paled compared to his?"

"I resented him. That's the truth." Rhia bit her lip, and her eyes turned moist. "And then the big fool went and almost got himself killed just to save my life. Me. The lazy, useless, spoiled idiot princess who resented him!"

"...I felt so ashamed. So very ashamed."

[Tami]

Making his way onward, he came across Tamiko. For a while, he simply kept silent and watched her as she went through her spear katas. Thus finally, he spoke, "You have grown quite a bit since we've last spoken." Levi said with a soft smile.

Xing watched Tami proceed through her drills. Of course, he'd no purpose behind it. He could imitate nothing from her, not being one to use spears. Still, it was better than doing absolutely nothing. After awhile, he clapped at the performance.

"I never knew you were so adept with a weapon, Tamiko."

Realizing that she had an audence, Tamiko stopped, turned to Levi and Xing, and bowed, "Thank you." blushing slightly at their complements.

Taking a break from her exercises, the spear dissapeared, and she walked over to where they were, "I hope you both are doing well." Saying it not just for conversation, but also out of concern.

[Silver Knight]

"Thats the thing isnt it?" Kekowa recalled his training in the spirit realm

*Cue Flashback*

Kekowa trains hard as Master Qui Lan comes up behind him "Remember Kekowa this is a killing art. You must learn all of it if you want to master it" Kekowa stops and takes a breather "But master I can use this to heal bones and tissue, disable muscles, cripple for life if needed. I can focus on using this power to give me more strength and speed why must I know its deadly moves?"

Kekowa is backhanded and flys back 20 feet "You must that is this style's curse. I dont care if you vowed not to kill. Someday you will, you must for the path you take to drive out evil will lead you to a place one day, it will lead you to a point where you will have no choice and a evil so foul yo will be honored to destroy it. Do you wish to defeat this evil? Or do you want to give up now and die?"

Kekowa lifts himself out of a pile of rubble "Show me."
*end flashback*

He came back to the present "If I use my fists and my art I could kill him easily if he doesnt improve, if I use my blades one misstep and he'll be crippled at best, having burst organs at worse."

Kekowa sat down "If only I knew a way to surpress my emotions and think more clearly then I could fight him with an open mind."

OOC: Any psychic's Kekowa could talk to I have a plan.

OOC: Case these got missed

[GrampaGen]

OOC: Arcadia the island or Arcadia the school campus? It's on the island, but in the general town area.

BTC:

Xellos rubbed the side of a railing gently,

"do you think a string or a woodwind instrument would work better with a glockenspiel?"

OOC: Ah, I didn't realize there was a small town there. Well, even if there wasn't there is now :D

IC:
Natalie walked behind the empty counter, magically unlocking the display case and pulled out one of the tiny xylophones. Idly she tapped the bars, and shimmering notes filled the air.

"...a needly pulling thread..." she sang out as she played.

With a small shrug, she turned to Xellos. Honestly she wasn't sure.

"I don't know very much about music," she replied with an awkward look,"I guess it depends on the song, ja?"

[Yun Lao]

Realizing that she had an audence, Tamiko stopped, turned to Levi and Xing, and bowed, "Thank you." blushing slightly at their complements.

Taking a break from her exercises, the spear dissapeared, and she walked over to where they were, "I hope you both are doing well." Saying it not just for conversation, but also out of concern.

He glanced over to Xing with a nod before his gaze returned to Tamiko, "I am doing well for now, I hope you are doing well yourself." The last time he coudl recall speaking to her directly was back at Atlantis when she was still unsure of her abilities, now it seemed those thoughts had vanished from her mind.

[Eternal Torment]

"...Right," Rhia said, slowly, her eyes narrowing. "And why are you mopping our room?"

"...because there was a spill?" Alexia said sheepishly.

[GrampaGen]

OC: Hey Chrosis, you want to start that subplot off?

[Chrosis]

OOC: ...and I'm back.

GG, want to do that scene now?

[GrampaGen]

OOC: ...and I'm back.

GG, want to do that scene now?

Sure. Could you start it off? Janos is just comatose and wounded

[FalconX2000]

OOC: Ah, I didn't realize there was a small town there. Well, even if there wasn't there is now :D

IC:
Natalie walked behind the empty counter, magically unlocking the display case and pulled out one of the tiny xylophones. Idly she tapped the bars, and shimmering notes filled the air.

"...a needly pulling thread..." she sang out as she played.

With a small shrug, she turned to Xellos. Honestly she wasn't sure.

"I don't know very much about music," she replied with an awkward look,"I guess it depends on the song, ja?"

OOC: Well, there is a hotel and an arena with a huge capacity. Surely there's a city there of some sort.:D

Bringing my dog for a walk. Be back shortly.

BTC:

"I'll bring both then."

Xellos smiled,

"has that one caught your eye?"

[Chrosis]

Sure. Could you start it off? Janos is just comatose and wounded

OOC: Sure. The reply may take a bit, but it'll be done in a couple minutes.

That's just because it's so good. ;)

[KamenRaida]

Realizing that she had an audence, Tamiko stopped, turned to Levi and Xing, and bowed, "Thank you." blushing slightly at their complements.

Taking a break from her exercises, the spear dissapeared, and she walked over to where they were, "I hope you both are doing well." Saying it not just for conversation, but also out of concern.

Xing glanced momentarily at Levi. He, for a moment, considered asking if Levi's chi had recovered, but decided that it would be in bad taste should he do so.

Turning his attention back to Tamiko's question, he laughed softly, "Well all things considered, I suppose I'm doing quite well. I trust the same goes for you as well?"

[Siriel]

OOC: ...and I'm back.

GG, want to do that scene now?

OOC: YOU!

Let us finish this! I only have 20 min left!:p

[Ghost]

"I always am."

a lopsided smile formed,

Rhia rolled her eyes.

"I'm good at saying what's wrong and needs to be done, which is alright when the audience is receptive. You, on the other hand, seem to almost instinctively say what they need to hear."

He tapped his chin habitually, staring at the floor for insight,

"Selma shows alot of signs of mental despair. She probably kept trying very hard to do something very important to her, but never succeeded. Maybe something to do with an extremely close family member or friend."

"She might think she's willing to try hard, but in reality her psyche is still traumatised enough that she easily slips back into her funk over and over again. Of course, this leads to a death spiral if left unchecked."

he frowned,

"Despair is a rather deceptive emotion. To the casual observer it might seem like the person is going through hell when experiencing it. In reality, it's a comforting state of mind. 'I've tried, I can't do it, why bother?'

"After a while, I just gave up. I stopped taking my training seriously, because why bother to train when even my best accomplishments paled compared to his?"

Rhia nodded slowly. "Yeah..."

That's why lifting people out of it is so hard. They don't want to. Having given up on happiness, they just find a soft spot to lie down and die, telling themselves all the reasons they can invent why its right to do so."

he nodded his head, coming to a tentative conclusion,

"Selma has to want to experience what life has to offer. Not Natalie, not a specific someone, but the bounties and oppurtunities that life as a whole can provide if she'd just get up and take a look around."

"I see," Rhia said. She scratched her head and frowned. "But how do I accomplish that?"

[GrampaGen]

OOC: Well, there is a hotel and an arena with a huge capacity. Surely there's a city there of some sort.:D

Bringing my dog for a walk. Be back shortly.

BTC:

"I'll bring both then."

Xellos smiled,

"has that one caught your eye?"

OOC: np

IC:
Natalie nodded and brought out the other mallet and played a small scale tune, singing a short lyrical verse.

"...Unpredictable as weather, she's as flighty as a feather, she's a darling, she's a demon, she's a lamb~!"

She held the last note for a while, then stuck out her tongue playfully.

"Ilsa took me to a playhouse when I was younger," she shrugged,"I always liked this one."

[Tami]

He glanced over to Xing with a nod before his gaze returned to Tamiko, "I am doing well for now, I hope you are doing well yourself." The last time he coudl recall speaking to her directly was back at Atlantis when she was still unsure of her abilities, now it seemed those thoughts had vanished from her mind.

"Yes, I managed to have a peaceful nights sleep so I am doing well myself." Tamiko smiled, then glanced over at Xing, "When you went off on your own, in the battle, I was worried about you, Xing. I am glad that you survived."

[Ghost]

"...because there was a spill?" Alexia said sheepishly.

"Uh-huh?" Rhia said. Then she sighed and walked up to Alexia.

"Look," she said, putting her hands on the other girl's shoulders, "you don't have to tell me what happened if you don't want to. All I want to know is; are you okay?"

[Chrosis]

Janos awakened.

Or so he thought.

As he slowly stood to his feet, the first thing he noticed was the lack of intense pain normally associated with the injuries he had received. The second thing he noticed was his body on the ground at his feet. It was, as far as he could see, dead as a doornail. But that meant... what? Was he to be a ghost forever? A lone specter, bound forever to this world? Or was he in Hell, forever to bear witness, but to never take action? Yes, Hell was a very possible place.

Then the landscape changed, but Janos, and his body, remained as they were. He and his body were now in a vast wasteland, dirt and ruins as far as the eye could see. The sun was blinding, not a single cloud in the sky to obstruct it. There wasn't a hint that it was inhabited by anything but the odd weed or bush.

"No. Not yet..."

The cold, ashen voice had seemingly come from everywhere and nowhere. There was the sound of a single set of footsteps, echoing everywhere. Then a figure appeared before Janos, it's face veiled by long black hair and a large top hat. Black leather and cloth adorned its body, a katana at its side and a white Flying V electric guitar was hung over it's shoulder.

Before Janos stood Death.

[kain5252]

"Guess you cant find her huh?" Justin said to Kado as he put the photo back and was starting to give up

[Yun Lao]

"Yes, I managed to have a peaceful nights sleep so I am doing well myself." Tamiko smiled, then glanced over at Xing, "When you went off on your own, in the battle, I was worried about you, Xing. I am glad that you survived."

He nodded again with her comment. The one-eyed captain smiled once more, "I see you've gotten better with your spear." Rubbing his chin, he added, "Though it was quite powerful already from what I recall." He could remember fights where Tamiko's spear had an influential effect in winning.

[Eternal Torment]

"Uh-huh?" Rhia said. Then she sighed and walked up to Alexia.

"Look," she said, putting her hands on the other girl's shoulders, "you don't have to tell me what happened if you don't want to. All I want to know is; are you okay?"

"Yeah. When I woke up, she went back to sleep, if only for a little bit. I guess you can thank my sister for that."

Alexia stopped.

She cursed herself when she realized that she had let something important slip.

OOC: I think I'll need to stop right now. There's a delicious cake waiting for me in the kitchen, and I'm pretty tired.

[GrampaGen]

Janos awakened.

Or so he thought.

As he slowly stood to his feet, the first thing he noticed was the lack of intense pain normally associated with the injuries he had received. The second thing he noticed was his body on the ground at his feet. It was, as far as he could see, dead as a doornail. But that meant... what? Was he to be a ghost forever? A lone specter, bound forever to this world? Or was he in Hell, forever to bear witness, but to never take action? Yes, Hell was a very possible place.

Then the landscape changed, but Janos, and his body, remained as they were.

"No. Not yet..."

The cold, ashen voice had seemingly come from everywhere and nowhere. There was the sound of a single set of footsteps, echoing everywhere. Then a figure appeared before Janos, it's face veiled by long black hair and a large top hat. Black leather and cloth adorned its body, a katana at its side and a white Flying V electric guitar was hung over it's shoulder.

Before Janos stood Death.

The Lion Captain had been forced to bear several things in his months at Arcadia. He had fought against teacher, monsters, led his house to victory against legends, and by his lonesome fended off a monster attack on the southeast wing of the school. Every time he had stood his ground, no matter the odds. He would face it head on, as was his duty, without fear.

He felt his knees quivering, though verily disembodied and disorienting, and in his heart he felt a sinking feeling.

"...well, that's interesting," he said flatly,"That son of a bitch actually did it. What a way to go..."

[KamenRaida]

"Yes, I managed to have a peaceful nights sleep so I am doing well myself." Tamiko smiled, then glanced over at Xing, "When you went off on your own, in the battle, I was worried about you, Xing. I am glad that you survived."

Xing laughed softly, "Yes, I admit, I was being... rash back then. But, don't worry, I'm fine now. Perfectly fine." Xing smiled reassuringly, "But really, I'm quite impressed at your skill. Who taught you to wield a weapon like that?"

[Chrosis]

OOC: YOU!

Let us finish this! I only have 20 min left!:p

OOC: Post your response, quickly! Death scene is my top priority! People only die once every 2000 pages in this RPG!!!

[Yun Lao]

The Lion Captain had been forced to bear several things in his months at Arcadia. He had fought against teacher, monsters, led his house to victory against legends, and by his lonesome fended off a monster attack on the southeast wing of the school. Every time he had stood his ground, no matter the odds. He would face it head on, as was his duty, without fear.

He felt his knees quivering, though verily disembodied and disorienting, and in his heart he felt a sinking feeling.

"...well, that's interesting," he said flatly,"That son of a bitch actually did it. What a way to go..."

OOC: I get the feeling that Janos is going to be very pissed at Kekowa when he returns.

[GrampaGen]

OOC: I get the feeling that Janos is going to be very pissed at Kekowa when he returns.

OOC: Actually he came to terms with what drove Kekowa as the final punch landed. Even so, this could be the thread that unravels Kekowa's sense of morality ;)

[Ghost]

"Yeah. When I woke up, she went back to sleep, if only for a little bit. I guess you can thank my sister for that."

Alexia stopped.

She cursed herself when she realized that she had let something important slip.

OOC: I think I'll need to stop right now. There's a delicious cake waiting for me in the kitchen, and I'm pretty tired.

OOC:
http://img528.imageshack.us/img528/2159/motivator4921555bo3.th.jpg (http://img528.imageshack.us/my.php?image=motivator4921555bo3.jpg)


IC:

Rhia's eyes narrowed. "Angelique?"

Then she shook her head and pulled Alexia into a hug. "You know what? I don't care. It doesn't matter. I'm just glad to have my Lex back, okay?"

[GrampaGen]

This was a startling revelation. Ever since she started picking up mental feedback from her mind, Natalie had assumed Rhia's older brother was someone she held on a pedestal, an inspiration and someone for her to reach. If that was only a recent development, it seems that even the sunny-faced princess had a few skeletons in her closet.

"...ja? Why is that?"

Natalie took one of Rhia's hands in hers, setting her eyes downcast so as to keep her appearance nonjudgmental.

*kicks post*

[Chrosis]

The Lion Captain had been forced to bear several things in his months at Arcadia. He had fought against teacher, monsters, led his house to victory against legends, and by his lonesome fended off a monster attack on the southeast wing of the school. Every time he had stood his ground, no matter the odds. He would face it head on, as was his duty, without fear.

He felt his knees quivering, though verily disembodied and disorienting, and in his heart he felt a sinking feeling.

"...well, that's interesting," he said flatly,"That son of a bitch actually did it. What a way to go..."

Death was motionless.

"If you have nothing else to say, come..."

A swirling vortex to what seemed like oblivion opened behind Death. He turned, one arm outstretched, beckoning Janos to follow. The other appeared to be sustaining the portal.

"...and walk with me."

[Chrosis]

OOC: C'mone, he's Janos. He has to at least try to not pass on. He's not just going to resign himself to his fate, is he?

[Ghost]

*kicks post*

OOC: I already replied. Page 1875.

[Silver Knight]

OOC: I get the feeling that Janos is going to be very pissed at Kekowa when he returns.

OOC: He's pissed! Im pissed! GG how far back did you plan this? Is this why you didnt want Kekowa to follow Janos and heal him?

OOC: Actually he came to terms with what drove Kekowa as the final punch landed. Even so, this could be the thread that unravels Kekowa's sense of morality ;)

Well good on the first part and no frekin duh on the last part:eek:

[GrampaGen]

Death was motionless.

"If you have nothing else to say, come..."

A swirling vortex to what seemed like oblivion opened behind Death. He turned, one arm outstretched, beckoning Janos to follow. The other appeared to be sustaining the portal.

"...and walk with me."

Janos smirked. He had heard of Death by many different names, and the legends were al the same. A dark personage of fear, unstoppable and inevitable in his strength. Frankly he found it odd that the real deal was so concise and to the point.

He gazed into the portal. It was almost as if he could hear a wall of screams behind it.

What the hell? Is that the thing the magicians see between the planes or whatever?

He rolled his shoulder back and cracked his neck.

"And if I refuse?"

[GrampaGen]

OOC: I already replied. Page 1875.

My bad :o let me dig that up

[FalconX2000]

Rhia rolled her eyes.



"After a while, I just gave up. I stopped taking my training seriously, because why bother to train when even my best accomplishments paled compared to his?"

Rhia nodded slowly. "Yeah..."



"I see," Rhia said. She scratched her head and frowned. "But how do I accomplish that?"

Xellos smiled,

"I'm sure you can think of that."

he got up and patted her shoulder,

"meanwhile, I've got a company to run and a girl's heart to steal."

[Chrosis]

Janos smirked. He had heard of Death by many different names, and the legends were al the same. A dark personage of fear, unstoppable and inevitable in his strength. Frankly he found it odd that the real deal was so concise and to the point.

He gazed into the portal. It was almost as if he could hear a wall of screams behind it.

What the hell? Is that the thing the magicians see between the planes or whatever?

He rolled his shoulder back and cracked his neck.

"And if I refuse?"

Death turned back so it was facing Janos. It made no effort to reach for its weapons.

There wasn't a single breeze, everything motionless for as far as the eye could see.

The sun didn't glare, almost shrinking back into itself.

It was as if everything on the plane that had seemed at all vibrant, had suddenly gone silent.

"...then I will make you come."




OOC: Death isn't going to outright say, "You get to fight for your soul!" Or anything. If Janos runs, Death will chase, etc.

[Ghost]

Xellos smiled,

"I'm sure you can think of that."

She sighed, but smiled back non the less. "Thinking isn't really my strong point, you know. I'm more of a 'gut feeling' kind of girl."

he got up and patted her shoulder,

"meanwhile, I've got a company to run and a girl's heart to steal."

"Don't let me keep you then," Rhia said. "And, well, thanks for the advice."

[Silver Knight]

Death turned back so it was facing Janos. It made no effort to reach for its weapons.

There wasn't a single breeze, everything motionless for as far as the eye could see.

The sun didn't glare, almost shrinking back into itself.

It was as if everything on the plane that had seemed at all vibrant, had suddenly gone silent.

"...then I will make you come."




OOC: Death isn't going to outright say, "You get to fight for your soul!" Or anything. If Janos runs, Death will chase, etc.

OOC: Is it an Odd thing I actually want Janos to get out of their:o

[GrampaGen]

"Why indeed?" Rhia said. "After all, what's there not to love about him? He's so strong and kind and powerful and talented."

She shrugged. "...Maybe 'hated' is the wrong word. I mean, I never wanted him dead or anything. But... some days I did wish he was never born."

Rhia looked up at Natalie and smiled sadly. "Nat, have you ever had to compare yourself to someone who is perfect in every way? That's what most of my childhood was like. He was always better and more important then me. Shamra, the great genius, heir to the throne, the young prince everyone loved. Next to him... I was nothing." She shook her head. "After a while, I just gave up. I stopped taking my training seriously, because why bother to train when even my best accomplishments paled compared to his?"

"I resented him. That's the truth." Rhia bit her lip, and her eyes turned moist. "And then the big fool went and almost got himself killed just to save my life. Me. The lazy, useless, spoiled idiot princess who resented him!"

"...I felt so ashamed. So very ashamed."

Natalie touched Rhia's hand softly as she let the anxiety out, twisting her lips as she did so. She couldn't exactly say that she understood completely the extent of this, but the witch could certainly sympathize.

"There there...," she cooed, "I've heard of this sort of problem before, ja? But being a princess, with the throne of the kingdom looming over you...the weight, the distance must have felt crushing, ja?"

She let a quick breath escape suddenly, not quite a sigh, then continued.

"Adler says that between siblings the second born finds her place in the first child's shadow, that she will succeed where he fails and earn her own niche. But with somebody like Shamra, that must have been very hard to do," she said, very matter of fact, and oddly distant, then her tone warmed,"but you know, Rhia, you're not alone."

[GrampaGen]

Death turned back so it was facing Janos. It made no effort to reach for its weapons.

There wasn't a single breeze, everything motionless for as far as the eye could see.

The sun didn't glare, almost shrinking back into itself.

It was as if everything on the plane that had seemed at all vibrant, had suddenly gone silent.

"...then I will make you come."


No weapons. No terrain. Caught at a disadvantage between the nexus and the void.

It seemed as if Janos Tantalus had been running into these situations more and more these days. Almost as if it were a cruel joke, Death appearing before him seemed to strip away the boundaries of what he fought against each day.

So he said to Death what he did every other time he had come for a piece of him.

"Fuck you."

Disembodied, but still full of fire, he ran towards Death cackling madly, flaring with a blue aura.

[FalconX2000]

OOC: np

IC:
Natalie nodded and brought out the other mallet and played a small scale tune, singing a short lyrical verse.

"...Unpredictable as weather, she's as flighty as a feather, she's a darling, she's a demon, she's a lamb~!"

She held the last note for a while, then stuck out her tongue playfully.

"Ilsa took me to a playhouse when I was younger," she shrugged,"I always liked this one."

Xellos smiled enthusiastically,

"Perhaps you could teach me the song. It sounds so mischievous."

He sat at a piano,

Mum, dad, it's been a while. Hope you don't mind another in the audience today. This girl here is Natalie. Please make her feel welcome.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=krvf3UT1gio&feature=related

[Ghost]

Natalie touched Rhia's hand softly as she let the anxiety out, twisting her lips as she did so. She couldn't exactly say that she understood completely the extent of this, but the witch could certainly sympathize.

"There there...," she cooed, "I've heard of this sort of problem before, ja? But being a princess, with the throne of the kingdom looming over you...the weight, the distance must have felt crushing, ja?"

She let a quick breath escape suddenly, not quite a sigh, then continued.

"Adler says that between siblings the second born finds her place in the first child's shadow, that she will succeed where he fails and earn her own niche. But with somebody like Shamra, that must have been very hard to do," she said, very matter of fact, and oddly distant, then her tone warmed,"but you know, Rhia, you're not alone."

Rhia had to chuckle. "Oh? I hope you're not suggesting there are more of him out there? I don't think this world could handle more th