Twisted Circuitry

[nishthedish]

Well, I never thought I'd be writing a story, but here it is. This will be where I use all the characters in "Nish's Original Characters" to create the story that was slowly molding around them. Let me just give a quick synopsis of exactly what the plot is:

As part of a well-structured guild, Raz always had a great sense for helping others, but when he and his friends discover a mysterious rampaging android on a mission to save a member of a fellow guild, Raz ends up caught up in the goals of crazy scientist, meeting a rag-tag group of travelers along the way. Now it's a fight against the odds to stop this plot of world domination before insanity and evil grips the planet!

[Raevis]

Go, Nish, go!

[nishthedish]

Narrator: Hello folks, NishtheDish here! I'll be your narrator throughout this wacky adventure and will explain things if need be...as well as break the 4th wall XD...anyways, let us begin! *turns on video game console*
Prologue- A Girl of Metal
-Deep in the nearby plains of Engron, the morning sun is rising over a rather large expanse of ruins. But, it would seem there is more to this stone structure than meets the eye...the muffled sounds of machinery and people talking can be heard deep within. It would appear the inside of these ruins is actually a vast laboratory and research base. In the center of it all, dozens of scientists and researchers can be seen mulling about, watching over consoles and eying a giant, flooded capsule in the center. The lead scientist can be seen in their rotating chair, intently watching over their progress.
Mysterious Scientist: "Status report, there better not be any little "hiccups" in this creation that you've been hiding from me." *intense glare, their glasses shining in the dim light*
Technician: "Sir, things are going smoothly, we wouldn't have gotten this far otherwise. The limbs have been connected w/out any miss alignments and all weaponry has been fitted to the main body frame perfectly. Our scheduled scans have shown all systems to be running properly."
M.S.: "And that "secret" addition you've planned?"
Technician: "Unfortunately, the override mode isn't quite ready yet...we'll keep her confined until we can finish it, otherwise we won't be able to contain her, and your plans will be set back even more." *he bows in an apologetic manner*
-Within the capsule floats what looks like a young woman...probably around 18. The base of the capsule reads "Zeta".She is clearly not human, for her limbs have obvious slits in them. She lays dormant as small metal prongs and arms are guided by the researchers to construct her and put her together...it would seem she is nearly complete...but what of this override mode and why is it so dangerous? Suddenly, Zeta's body shakes, the consoles monitoring her internal systems and stability suddenly go crazy! An alarm goes off, "WARNING! WARNING! Experiment is not ready for release, activating auxiliary locks!"

-Unfortunately, Zeta's eyes open emitting an eery cyan light from her pupils...the override mode has malfunctioned, and she is in no sort of control. The fluid within becomes too agitated and pushes back the locks as the capsule breaks and she drops to the ground. As she awkwardly stands up, her body begins to twitch as it isn't quite ready for a full system boot up. The scientists quickly scatter as the mysterious scientist gets on the lab's loud speaker.
M.S. "Everyone vacate the premises IMMEDIATELY, guards, don't let her escape...I've worked too hard to let it all go to waste. GO!"
-As Zeta stomps through the the lab rooms, her only goal being to find an exit, the guards unleash a volley of bullets at her....none of which do any harm! Zeta quickly stares in their direction and raises her arms, activating the weaponry in her arms and blasts the whole platoon in one fell blow. She simply has too much power, she's mowing down the guards mercilessly w/out hesitation. Fearing she may bring the entire place down, the lead scientist quickly puts the place into lockdown as they all escape the android's rampage. As she escapes and watches Zeta attempt to blast her way out of the now secured facility, the scientist can be heard mumbling, "Quite the stunning success, wouldn't you say?"

[Gigispackles]

Good story you got going on.

[nishthedish]

Narrator: Alright, now that I have the base work down, let's get going to a day or so later in a nearby crafts town of Dengaro.

Ch.1-This Ought to be Interesting
-It was a beautiful late morning at 11:30 as Raz gave his noisy alarm clock a tired backhand off the dresser.
Raz: "Aw crap, I gotta meet the guild in 10 minutes for our mission!*stares off w/ a worried look, eventually turning into a lack of caring* Meh, they can wait, I'm hungry..."
-After 25 minutes of eating and washing up, Raz makes his way towards Dengaro Plaza , meeting up w/ his friend, Spectre, along the way. Spectre goes on about how, back at Crescent Moon Village (his hometown), his fellow guilder members would have smacked him for being so late. But he loses interest and they chat along the way, taking in the local sites. Dengaro is a bustling crafts town full of artisans, mechanics, and basically any trade possible. Many of the world's most reliable guilds come from here! Raz's father is a renowned blacksmith amongst those in his trade. Raz and Spectre's conversation is cut off by their fellow guild members who have been angrily waiting this whole time. After a minute of apologizing and question dodging, they explain their current mission to them.
MISSION: A small band of theives has been spotted rummaging about near some old ruins. This structure is rumored to hold many secrets and it would be best to stop them and find out what they know.
Spectre: You guys know the drill,explore a huge winding dungeon, fight the native creatures for no reason, and take down the bad guys.
Raz: But...we're going through a forest.
Spectre: Right, what did I say? *they all stare off for a few*
-Raz's guild confidently marched their way into the nearby forest. It was the only way to reach the nearby Engron Plains where the theives were located. Thanks to the nature of many of their recent missions, Raz and the gang were all too used to the creatures here and were able to quickly reach the plains.
Theif #1: "Are you sure the wall is weak over here?"
Theif #2: "Look, I heard there was someone in here not long ago and they somehow brought down part of the inner structure, leaving the walls weak. Now ready the bombs so we c-"
Raz: "Excuse me, folks! Would you mind not being so, oh what's the word....suspicious and creepy, and come back to Dengaro so we can ask some questions? I'm tired and really don't feel like fighting." *Thieves prepare their weapons and charge forward* "Oh, son of a-" NOW ENTERING BATTLE
-The thieves' battle styles were nothing special, but they lobbed plenty of explosives, causing the guild members to scatter and take the fight to each on separately. After 10 minutes, the thieves were worn out, but apparently one of their members set off the bombs and got inside! Raz and Spectre went in after him while the others took the remaining thieves back to town. The ruins were surpisingly new on the inside, w/ broken machinery and tattered pieces of structures and lab notes everywhere, as well as a giant shattered capsule.
Lost Thief: "Sweet Raptor Jebus, someone help me! It's gonna kill me!!!"
-Raz and Spectre follow the cries for help and find the thief cowering amongst broken pipes as what looks like a teenage girl slowly stomps towards him, an icy cyan glow in her eyes. They realize she isn't human as weaponry appears form her arms, ready to fight back against the intruders, but suddenly she begins to twitch...it seems she isn't in the best of operating conditions. Spectre takes advantage of this and uses a nice lightning spell to shut her down.
-Back at the village, the thieves claim to have heard weird noises and seeing people flee form the ruins a day ago, so they got curious. With that dealt with...the only problem now is where this mechanical girl came from and why she was there, not to mention WHY were ancient ruins turned into a hi-tech laboratory??? Raz and Spectre could only speculate as the top mechanics in town put the girl into sleep mode and carried her away to a secured area for observation. How could somehting so scary and powerful look so peaceful in a deep slumber?

[RJ1022]

Awesome addition to the story, I can't wait for the next installment!
~RJ

[nishthedish]

Chapter 2
----Now that the thieves have been apprehended, missions have stopped coming in. It has been 3 days since the discovery of the mysterious girl and the day has turned into evening at a mechanic workshop. The mechanics have learned that she is an android, far more advanced than anything they've ever seen. Her codename is Zeta and she appears to have countless forms of weaponry at her disposal, as well as hidden potential and what appears to be an internal program that lets her adapt and integrate new software, abilities, and such into her being.
Mechanic: "You boys are lucky, apparently Zeta was malfunctioning and in an experimental 'override mode'. Apparently she wiped out the entire security force and brought down the facility single handed with that power!"
Raz: "Guess she tired herself out by the time we got there...it would be too dangerous to wake her up now since she shut down whi-"
----Before Raz can finish the sentence, the wall behind him explodes, sending him, the mechanic, and Spectre flying across the room. At first, Raz thinks darkness is seeping into the room, forgetting that it's late in the evening. The lights have been knocked out, on account of the explosion, and a dark figure is standing in the newly blown doorway. The mechanics flee as an eerie voice comes from the gaping hole in the wall
Dark Figure: "Ugh, guess you boys didn't do a very good job of recovering that 'research project' for our mission, so I guess we'll have to improvise."
----A pair of thieves enter the room, slightly cowering. Raz immediately recognizes them as two from the ruins! As they quickly push past her, making a bee-line for Zeta, the dark figure bellows, "Hurry up you lousy excuses for servants, I want this done QUICKLY!!!" Raz is now confused as to what has happened and doesn't know what to think. He looks over at Spectre, who is still slightly stunned, and goes w/ a gut instinct and shoots his arm out like a slingshot, his hammer rocketing by their heads. The figure uses this moment to clumsily jump forward, roll past the thieves, and grab Zeta while the they go to finish off Raz. Suddenly, Spectre snaps out of his daze as Raz battles the toadies. He quickly summons up a gust of wind and sends some of the mechanics tools at them like arrows, knocking them out cold. Unfortunately all this racket gave the figure the perfect opportunity to get out of the workshop, running in an ungraceful and frantic manner. Raz and Spectre simply look at each other and give chase. Due to all the confusion, the dark figure only got as far as the the river bank on the edge of the forest before they caught up. The dark figure simply looks back w/ a smirk and lays the android down by a tree, brandishing what looks like a big scythe.
Raz: "You're gonna say something about it's too bad we have to die here, right?"
Dark Figure: "Actually, I was just going to slice you in two and be on my way!"
Spectre: "Alright fine, we'll humor you"
!!!NOW ENTERING BOSS BATTLE!!!
----The dark figure spins about like a dancer, twirling the blade like a whirlwind as Raz quickly leaps to the side and hooks his fist at her legs, tripping her as Spectre shoots fireballs. The figure regains her balance and swats the fireballs away as Spectre creates shock waves on the ground. As the figure leaps at him to counterattack, Raz springs forward and hits the figure w/ the top of the hammer and knocking the person into a nearby lamp post. Now that they see the person...they appear to be female and...she has BLUE SKIN?!
Raz & Spectre: *astonished* "Oh....my...GAWD!!!"
Blue Girl: "BIG DEAL, I'm a freak, what else do you have to say?!"
Raz: "You're Scarlet, the daughter form that amazing performing family. The ones who are master mages and magicians!!! Aw man, can I at least have an autograph before we finish?"
Spectre: "So THIS is what happened to you when you disappeared form the family? All your fans missed you crazy antics."
Scarlet: "SHUT UP!!!"
----Scarlet grows furious and rushes forward for one last attack, running straight into a hammer drop by Raz and a tornado gust form Spectre, sending the blue girl flying into the river. Scarlet is washed down the river a bit before climbing out. With her mission failed, she quickly heads away from Dengaro...she appears angry about something.
Scarlet: "Great....I still get recognized everywhere, they completely forgot how dangerous I was after that, AND I failed! The doctor is sure to be pissed about this..."

[RJ1022]

I only saw 2 errors that time. I see it's still going smoothly, well, for us reading that is. XD

[nishthedish]

Chapter 3

----Raz and Spectre do a short victory jig in celebration of completing their mission w/ flying colors. As they get funky, Spectre notices how late it is getting and suggests that they hurry up and get home. Raz begins to look around the immediate area for Zeta, finding her propped up against the exact tree Scarlet placed her against before their fight. Where could that mage have disappeared to? Raz slings her over his back and lets Spectre know he'll guard her for the night. With that, the 2 of them quickly get back to town and part ways toward their respective houses. Upon getting home, Raz props Zeta up in a chair in his room so he can be close by if anything happens while he sleeps.
Raz: *exhausted* "I hope we can wake you up soon, not really sure I like the idea of doing all your fighting for you."
--With that, Raz dozes off into a deep sleep. With no missions to do today, Raz wakes up late, but the usual silence of his house has been replaced by constant shuffling and banging. Raz sees that Zeta isn't in the chair and grabs his hammer, slowly heading downstairs to greet the punks stealing things. He leaps down the stairs only to find Zeta scrounging through his stuff!
Raz: "ZETA?! You're awake...but, how?
Zeta: *turns around form the dresser she's looking through innocently* "Sir, I must apologize for looking through your belongings, but I must get some sort of recognition for all terms w/in my data banks."
Raz: "How did you reboot? After you ran out of power, nothing we did would wake you up."
Zeta: "I have an internal battery that will slowly reboot my systems and circuitry once I shut down...I have to let the battery recharge though before it will work again. All you had to do was wait actually, not like it would've taken long.
Raz: "You mean all we had to do was let you CHARGE?! By the way, no need to be so proper all the time, my name is Raz and this is the town of Dengaro."
Zeta: *beginning to clean up and smiling brightly* My name is Zeta, as you already know, and I'm glad to have been taken in by you."

----After cleaning up and washing up, the two head out as Raz decides to show Zeta the world she has finally woken up to. As they walk, she looks around like an amazed child, greeting everyone they pass by. The first thing to be done is to get her some nice clothes. At the best clothing shop, Raz waits in front of a dressing room stall while Zeta tries on some clothes. Zeta happily hops out of the stall wearing a bright yellow t-shirt and long shorts. She seems very happy as she chuckles, pleased with the outfit. Raz simply joins her laughter.
Raz: "It's really nice, but you don't want anything more lady-like?"
Zeta: "No, this seems to fit me perfectly, more my style...I need to be able to move well if I'm with you and that Spectre friend of yours."
--The 2 laugh together and head out to meet up with Spectre. Zeta has agreed to try and explain what she can about her origins in the research facility. Spectre finally meets up w/ them in the town square.
Zeta: "So...you say you found me attacking someone in the ruins of the facility..." *she looks disappointed* "All I remember is waking up in a capsule and...there was a horrible power in me..I-I couldn't control it, I blanked out. Next thing I know, I'm in Raz's house!"
Spectre: "Crazy stuff...the override mode took control of even your mind and knocked you out. Not to mention that blue girl, Scarlet, tried to steal you under the orders of someone."
Raz: "Maybe it would be best for us to head for the next town over and ask questions about suspicious activity! Everything here happened in secret, so the resources here are dry."
Zeta: "Based on my pre-installed intellect, there is a village southwest of here deep in the heart of a highly vegetated area. Qwartu, was it?"
Raz: "...I don't know about any vegetables near it, but Qwartu has a lot of huge plants around it...almost like a jungle!"
--As Spectre facepalms at Raz's statement, the 3 quickly grab food and supplies, and head off in the direction of Qwartu. All that is left in their place is a bulletin in the town square explaining the situation and where they went. After crossing out of Dengaro territory, the trail became rockier and full of plant life, large trees wrapped in moss and vines while colorful flowers and plants pepper the ground. The plant life gets denser as one nears the village, so once the plants were big enough to eat them, Qwartu wasn't far off. As they c approach the last stretch of path along a stream, climbing over rocks strewn about, Zeta hears a rustling in the trees and motions for the boys to halt their movements. The 3 search the trees, following a slender shadow jumping at high speeds. Eventually, the figure springs a trap that wraps all 3 of them in vines., The figure pulls on a rope and drops a sack of large fruits on them, knocking them all out. As they drop to the ground, the figure leaps down and reveals herself. She appears to a dark, tanned female of 20 or so...very beautiful w/ an attractive, slender body, ample "features" and fiery red eyes, gripping her spear cautiously. She has long black hair and the ears and tail of a feline. She walks forward and smiles, her fangs showing as she purrs contently. Zeta barely wakes up 20 minutes alter. She looks up to see the same attractive cat girl.
Zeta: "Ugh...W-Who are you?"
Kagetomi: *purring in a satisfied manner* "Welcome to Qwartu friends...I'm Kagetomi, hope you're ready for a beating!

[nishthedish]

Chapter 4

----Zeta awakens to see the same woman, Kagetomi, from before...upon looking around, Zeta realizes she, Spectre, and Raz are still tied up and now w/in some large council hall. Judging by the obvious signs of hand craftsmanship, one can assume that this village isn't as advanced as Dengaro, but still advanced in its own ways. They are atop a large stage, Kagetomi is in front of them, looking out at a crowd of her fellow villagers. Zeta now sees the people who populate this village...each and every one of them has animal traits that show themselves in different ways on their human bodies. Kagetomi, for example, has the ears and eyes of a cat, and the fangs and tail of a wolf...she has an assertive feel about her as she addresses the crowd.
Kagetomi: "My fellow Qwartuans, I bring before you 3 intruders who have dared to simply waltz into our peaceful village. The messenger from before was right, these hoodlums showed up right on schedule with the stolen automaton. This experiment could kill us all if they are left alone...we must wait until the messenger returns w/ her boss to apprehend these 3."
--With that, Kagetomi gives a battle cry and the crowd responds in the same way. Raz and Spectre wake up soon after and begin to plead in unison w/ Zeta for their freedom. Zeta explains that she escaped her creator and has no idea how her powers work, and that Raz and Spectre are noble guilds men from Dengaro. Kagetomi simply rolls her eyes and holds the head of her spear up against Zeta's neck, giving her a deadly glare. Spectre has been trying to charge enough energy in his hands to free them, but can't seem to find an opportunity to use it. Suddenly, the crowd gets loud and make a clearing in the middle of the hall...Kage spins around to see a blue haired cat-girl thrashing violently on the ground, screaming and growling like a bloody-thirsty animal. As she convulses and has spasms on the ground, everyone begins yelling about some curse. Spectre uses this moment to call forth wind blades to slice the ropes, and the 3 of them quickly rush out a window. Unfortunately for them, Kagetomi heard them and hisses angrily as she begins to give chase.

----As they run through the village, they can slowly hear the sound of running getting closer and closer as Kage gains on them. Her feline traits are not simply aesthetic. She can run extremely fast on both her feet and all fours. Raz begins to lob objects behind them as Kage begins to nimble jump, swing, and climb around through trees and on anything she can find, her razor sharp and claw-like nails (fingers and toes) breaking anything that gets in her way. Suddenly, Zeta trips over some vines on the ground and Kagetomi uses this moment to leap down to the ground...in a state of panic, Zeta puts her arm out to block, but ends up activating an energy blaster in her wrist! Her hand phases away, leaving only a miniature cannon point, firing a few blasts into the air. Kagetomi flips over the first, kicks through the second and spins her spear to deflect the third, landing on the ground and pouncing atop Zeta, her claws almost piercing the android's metal neck.
Raz: "Look Kage, you've gotta believe us, whoever came to you looking for Zeta is far from good. That same person sent someone to ambush us and steal Zeta in the dead of night!"
Spectre: "And wouldn't they have simply waited for our arrival and met us if they had nothing to hide? I can tell you're an intelligent and strong young woman, so please think about it!"
Zeta: *gasping* "Please, I don't even understand why I was created...maybe you could join us in our search?"
Kagetomi: *beginning to assess the situation* "Hmmm, I always had a feeling somehting might be up...just can't be worrying my fellow villagers. I'll bring you back to the center of the village and we ca-"
--As Kagetomi calms down and begins to act friendly, a bunch of yells can be heard from back near the council hall. A large praying mantis mech can be seen stomping about outside, fighting the enraged cat-girl from before as people run in fear...but, there seems to be a teenage girl riding atop it.
Girl: *laughing at the girl fighting* "My my, who would've guessed coming after that tin can would lead to such entertainment?" *the mantis mech pins the girl to the ground as she scratches at its leg and growls repeatedly* "Now listen up everyone! The good doctor has sent me to pick up her 'research' and I don't have the greatest of patience..."
--Eventually, the girl calms down and the mantis kicks her aside, leaving her to quickly realize what she has been doing and run off in fear. Kage, Raz, Spectre, and Zeta all slowly walk into the clearing, ready to confront this girl. She notices them and redirects the mantis to face them as the small crowd of villagers waits in fear. The mantis' eyes light up as a voice begins to talk, sounding like they person is miles away.
Voice: "It looks like you can finish the mission that bumbling, blue magician failed horribly at...ready Alice?"
Alice: "With pleasure" *licking her lips* "Please squirm a lot for me, when you get hurt..."

----Alice's eyes get a crazed look as a creepy smirk stretches across her face. She lungs forward at Kagetomi, while the mantis leaps high into the air and attempts to land on Raz and Spectre. The mantis is swiping at them like crazy and charging forward while Spectre launches earth base attacks along the ground and Raz deflects each swing w/ his hammer. Alice charges dark energy w/in her palms and sends bursts of it at Kagetomi, who quickly grabs the girl as she approaches and knocks her to the side as Zeta shoots at her. Alice quickly brings up a barrier to block the shots. Eventually, the mantis sees Zeta's attacks and the voice quickly bellows out to Alice.
Voice: "ALICE! Forget it, looks like Zeta's powers are awakening, let us retreat for now...this may be beneficial for us both."

----Alice simply nods as she leaps atop the mantis. It leaps into the air, revealing jets in its legs, and they fly out of the jungle. Kagetomi quickly addresses her people about how this messenger was simply the servant of a higher power, one who was tricking them into handing over a valuable experiment, Zeta. Kage explains ho Zeta's power is on the side of good, but those people wish to use it for evil...and that SHE will be accompanying Raz and his guildsmen in order to right this wrong. Zeta is now wondering why the person talking through the mantis knew who she was...and about her powers. As people begin to go back to their daily routines, Kagetomi purrs triumphantly as Raz and the gang welcome her as an ally, a partner, and most importantly, a friend.

[nishthedish]

Chapter 5

----As Kagetomi and the gang calm down everyone in the village, they begin to wonder where to head next. Eventually, a tired man walks up with his daughter, who appears to be the same girl who was going berserk not long ago. He tells them of a big city in the same direction that the Praying Mantis and that sadistic girl went. The man offers to give them a map, which Zeta quickly scans so she can update it as they go. Kage smiles faintly, knowing that this journey will probably be a long one...but at least she has some companions. Zeta clutches the map and has a distinct fire in her eyes. Maybe this city and those people can help her figure out exactly what her purpose is.
Kagetomi: I've heard stories about a respected institute and university there. Some of the professors there are well known, even in MY village. Should be a good place to start."
--Raz, Spectre, and Zeta all nod in tandem and the 4 of them quickly say their goodbyes, prepare for the trip ahead, and leave the village. As the make their way down the road, Spectre begins to stare at Kagetomi, who is keeping quite a distance from Zeta.
Spectre: "Uh, any reason you avoid getting close to Zeta? I'm guessing you aren't very good around extremely advanced pieces of technological mastery"
Kagetomi: "Ugh, I'm fine around most technology as long as it isn't TOO complicated to understand...don't get me wrong, I'm pretty damn smart, but it still boggles the mind how something like THIS..." *nervously points to Zeta* "...can be identical to a human w/ such ease. It's amazing how far the world has come."
Zeta: "Act...human...not be" *she lowers her head, as if ashamed* "Well, I hope you enjoy traveling w/ us! *she cheers up and bear hugs Kage who is now trembling like crazy*
Raz: "Alright, alright, don't give the woman a heart attack, sheesh." *Raz laughs and sees the city coming into focus in the distance* "Huh, guess we made better time than I thought we would!"
Zeta: "But we left Kage's village about 25 minutes ag- *she quickly turns to see Qwartu is no longer visible b/c of how far they are* "How did we get so far?!"
Kagetomi: "It's almost like we just had to walk until we had this conversation to trigger our arrival...hehe"
--The 2 girls simply stare off into space blankly, then at each other, as if they've done something beyond their world.

----They both snap out of it when they see Raz and Spectre have got farther ahead. Zeta quickly lets the nervous cat girl down, who clumsily lands on her ass and picks herself up. The 2 simply laugh and catch up to Raz and Spectre. The group read a sign that says "Greetings from all of us in Vestrin!" as they enter the city. The events in Qwartu took up most of the day and the sun begins to set, casting great shadows against the many tall and profound buildings of this modern city. Although Kage is smart, her base fear of technology she doesn't understand quickly sets in as they gaze upon the busy place.
Kagetomi: "Damn my illogical aversion! Guess I'll have to get used to this FAST..."

[nishthedish]

Chapter 6

----The busy metropolis was quite the sight to behold. Thanks to there quick navigation to Vestrin, it's only early afternoon as they enter. Feeling she wouldn't get over her fears otherwise, Kagetomi suggests they sight-see for a few...perhaps they could find out where the university is along the way. Spectre looks at a clock through a nearby shop window.
Spectre: "It's only 1:30PM, so we still have a few before any schools let out, and students would be our best bet on finding out where to go."
--The group simply nod their heads and begin an hour of fun. After visiting a few shops and socializing, Kage is finally able to relax and spies 2 girls breaking away from a large group of school kids and notifies the others, who quickly follow her over.
Raz: *waving to the girls* "Excuse me, but could you 2 hold on for a second? We need some directions."
--Raz quickly introduces himself, Zeta, Spectre, and Kage. The girls smile warily and introduce themselves as Jima and Susan. As Jima bows politely, Susan begins to eyeball the entire group and laughs.
Susan: "Woah, you lot are quite the colorful crew, huh?"
Jima: "Susan please, don't be rude! I'm sorry, my best friend here speaks freely all the time, but you get used to it."
Kage: "Right....right....anyways, do you 2 go to the university here, or at least know how to get there?"
Susan: "Sorry guys, I've never been good with directions, and we're only high schoolers. Hey Jema, do you know the way?"
Jima: *giggling with Susan about her clueless nature* "Unlike you, I actually take my time and WALK around and pay attention to my surroundings instead of running about like a little kid. You ever gonna stop using that nickname? It's been how many years since we were little?"
Susan: *smirking playfully* "Not my fault I talk so fast, I had a lot of energy. Plus it's uni-"
Zeta: *loudly clearing her throat* "Kinda getting off track here..."
Jima+Susan: "Oops...our bad!"
Jima: "I'm pretty sure you can find the university a few blocks north of here...I can see in your eyes that you're disparately searching for someone." *Jima grabs at her arm w/ a far off look in her eyes*
Susan: "There you go w/ that Shi family sense...maybe some of the big professors at VU will know what you need. Actually, one of them has helped out and taught at our high school multiple times. Now, what was her name....I think it was Dr. Zhen Sai Onyde."

----Raz and the gang are puzzled by this interesting name (and it seems to have given Jima chills). After some small talk to get to know each other and quick goodbyes, the 2 groups part ways.
Jima: "I still can't get used to that name of hers. Well, good luck finding what you're searching for....I should be heading off to work now."
--Jima bows politely and walks away.
Susan: "She works at her family's restaurant. You should stop by some time, it's the only restaurant w/ big Japanese lettering on its sign and entrance."
--Susan waves and runs off to catch up to her best friend.

[nishthedish]

Chapter 7

----As the afternoon drags on, Raz and the gang have learned the location of Jima and Susan's high school, hoping to maybe catch Dr. Zhen there. There is no guarantee that anyone that could divulge more information will be there, but what do they have to lose?The school is much nicer than everyone expected. A very clean and welcoming atmosphere w/ plenty of teenagers still hanging around for extra activities. The group quickly head into the school, following directions from staff and students to reach the chemistry lab. Apparently this is where Dr. Zhen normally teaches and lectures for groups of students. Raz quickly swings the door to the lab open. The gang find themselves face to face w/ a young woman, no older than 25 who appears to be finishing up some work notes and data for the day. Dissappointed, Zeta speaks up to grab her attention.
Zeta: "Sorry for the intrusion ma'am, but we've been looking for a Dr. Zhen Sai Onyde...you wouldn't happen to have seen her, would you? It's important to me that my friends and I find her..."
--The woman puts down her pen and notes, laughing to herself as she adjusts her glasses and gets up to greet these strange folk.
Dr. Zhen: "I understand, everyone expects someone like myself to be somewhat older, but you're search is over!" *extending her hand for a handshake, her glasses shining in the sunlight* "The famous and world renowned chemist and intellectual, Dr. Zhen Sai Onyde, at your service!"
--The gang are taken aback by this as Zeta nearly jumps for joy.

----Zeta nearly hugs the chemist, knocking her glasses off in the process. The innocent android can barely contain herself, now that she has the chance to learn about herself. As Raz, Spectre, and Kagetomi get comfortable, Zeta sits beside Zhen and explains everything she can remember about her awakening. Zhen begins to tap her pen against the bracelets on her wrist and ponders the story. It would appear Zhen can't think up anything more than she has been told. Suddenly, she drops her pen as a memory flashes back to her.
Dr. Zhen: "Hold on Zeta! I think I remember something about this experiment you speak of! Yes, I remember being apart of some research team that was working on some top secret project. If I'm not mistaken, the blueprints resembled a human figure. I'm almost certain that these were the blueprints for yourself. There were quite a few weaponry systems and gadgets implemented into you. Rockets, jets, lasers, shock coils, missiles, defense mechanisms, you name it! I don't quite remember how extensive your inner workings were, but the head of the project wanted to make you a force to be reckoned w/. YOU are the only one who can tap into this power! In due time, each ability will probably reveal itself when ready, if I'm not mistaken. So my only advice is to keep experimenting w/ what you can do and eventually the truth will reveal itself. My only advice is to keep searching...in fact, why don't you search out one of my colleagues...she may be able to tell you more. Just be careful, Dr. Caroline has become a little eccentric and mad over these recent months...she's younger than me, but a bit unstable, you'll be wise to keep your guard up."

----Zeta and the gang decide to thank the good doctor and say their goodbyes. Zeta hugs Dr. Zhen tightly before walking off.
Zeta: "I'm sorry we troubled you..."
Dr. Zhen: "No problem...hell, I probably rambled on for too long!"
Zeta: "No, it was extremely helpful! Plus, it felt as if some strange force kept us into it...odd."
Dr. Zhen: "Well, I better be on my way as well, I need to make a phone call about my next lectures...good luck, my child..."
--As Zhen pulls out her cellphone and begins dialing, the gang leave the school premise...Dr. Zhen stands at the window and watches them walk off triumphantly. She smiles sincerely, the sun shining off her glasses, blocking her eyes.

[nishthedish]

Chapter 8

----Upon leaving the school grounds, Raz's stomach begins to growl...and so does the stomachs everyone else! After a few moments of wondering where to eat, Zeta remembers those 2 girls they spoke with earlier.
Zeta: "Didn't that loud girl tell us her friend works at a restaurant? Let's find the building w/ the huge lettering on the front like she said! You guys can eat and we can figure out what to do next!"
--Raz and the gang look at each other and nod in agreement. They explore the big city until they finally arrive outside the building. Upon walking inside, they're greeted by a familiar figure, now wearing a waitress outfit.
Susan: *bowing politely* "Welcome! This evening's special is..." *finally noticing who it is* "Oh wow! I was beginning to wonder if you guys would stop by, I'll make sure Jima serves your table, she'd be happy to see you guys!"

----Raz and the gang get comfortable in their seats as Jima comes by, dressed in a beautiful yukata. She hands them their meals and quickly sits down as Susan comes over to chat w/ them.
Jima: "It seems nobody else is going to show up for some food, so Susan and I have time to chat w/ you all...I'm glad our information was able to help you."
Susan: "But...that means your motley crew will be leaving soon to continue your adventure...and I really liked you guys too. Oh well, we've got our own lives to deal w/ here, so I gue-...uh oh, looks like we've got 2 more people looking for some chow."
--Susan quickly grabs her spare menus and rushes back to the entrance to greet and seat the sudden pair. One of them begins giggle as Susan bombards the other w/ admiration and constant asking for an autograph. In a fit of aggravation, the second guest quickly scribbles out an autograph and throws it at Susan as Jima scrambles over to take their orders. Raz and the gang quickly recognize the girl w/ the teasing laughter, but Spectre quickly fills Kage and Zeta in on her blue friend. Raz and the gang watched closely as Alice and Scarlet teased poor Jima as she tried to take their orders and then bring them food...Susan simply shakes her head.
Susan: "Poor Jema...we've been best friends since we were little girls and she's always been really shy. Not a very assertive girl and not the best self-esteem. I've always been the tougher of us 2...
--Suddenly everyone stops eating as Jima falls over, dropping platters everywhere and messing up her yukata. Scarlet begins to chuckle as Alice begins to yell.
Alice: "The hell is your problem, little girl?! How do you expect to please the customers when you can't even balance a damn platter?"
Scarlet: "Awwww, not gonna defend yourself? Well whatever words you choke out, choose 'em wisely if you want a tip. HAH!"

----Susan begins to yell back at them as Jima's parents begin to fuss w/ the unruly patrons from the back of the restaurant. Suddenly, Scarlet turns towards Susan and ends up noticing a familiar limbless boy and his shadowy friend.
Scarlet: "Well, if it isn't Raz Raymond and his little friend. At least we can report that the android seems to be functioning properly. Alice, I believe you found that out personally?"
--Alice, not wanting to deal w/ attitude, quickly shoots a glare at Scarlet and grabs her by her hair...Scarlet yelps in sudden pain and tries not to break free, fearing wraith. Alice simply throws Scarlet forward, who quickly breaks her fall on a couple chairs. The 2 quickly get up and leave, knocking over plenty of furniture to bar the path of anyone who may give chase.
Alice: "Aw, I guess we should take our leave. Madam Caroline would have my head if we dawdled any longer. Tata, for now, worms!"

----Now having the necessary information to continue, the gang quickly say their goodbyes after helping to clean up the recent mess. As they leave the city, Susan and Jima can be seen running towards them. Jima's outfit appears to be somewhat of a yukata/kimono, yet more sporty and casual...Susan seems to be wearing what appears to be her school uniform mixed w/ basic pants and sneakers.
Jima: "Guys, it seems like somehting happened at the school and Zhen has disappeared...after what happened today, we're positive that something is going on."
Susan: "Yeah, after all this, we can't just stand by and wait for things to happen...we want to go w/ you guys and see what is going on out there!"
Kagetomi: *somewhat surprised* "Well, I didn't see that coming...I can tell you guys already tied up any loose ends before heading out, so may as well." *everyone nods in agreement*
Raz: "Sweet, we've got 2 more friends to travel with! Welcome to the team!"
Spectre: "Well then, shall we be off? It seems we now know exactly what to do next."
--As the team gets ready to head towards the city exit, Zeta quickly breaks up the introductions...
Zeta: "We may know that Miss Caroline needs to be confronted, but...we never even learned where to go to find her...did we?"
Everyone: "......................................."

[nishthedish]

Chapter After 9, But Still Not 10.....Kinda Hard to Say...It is Chapter 9.8333, Happy Now? Ah, What Do I Care, You Guys Probably Don't See the Numbers Once you see Words, in Fact, Most of You Probably Don't Even See All This up Here!

----After exchanging stares, the group of now 6 (Raz, Spectre, Zeta, Kage, Jima, and Susan) quickly scrambled around the city to find out Miss Caroline's whereabouts. Apparently, she was pretty good at tinkering w/ things and someone had recently taken up residence in the cozy little house in the Vestrin Junkyard on the outskirts of the city. It used to be a bit of a grim place to hang out at, but had recently become at least sanitary...still a filthy junkyard w/ piles of discarded items/machines/utensils, but at least non-hazardous to your health. It was a safe bet that this person living in a dank junkyard and somehow fixing things up to make a cozy (and surprisingly healthy) living out there MUST be the eccentric character Dr. Zhen wanted them to visit. Add in the fact that the dastardly Alice and Scarlet are her underlings, and you've got a definite reason as to why she may be helpful. As the sun set, our intrepid group of heroes set course for the Vestrin Junkyard!

[Raevis]

Raaaaaaaaaaaaaaid. =3

[nishthedish]

Chapter 10

----The junkyard slowly came into view as the streetlights in the Vestrin area turned on, one by one. As they searched the area, Jima began to fidget a bit.
Jima: "This place is cleaner than I thought, but it's still a filthy junk heap...let's just find that Caroline kook and move along."
Zeta: "Oh come on, she can't be THAT weird....right?"
--The group grows silent as they clamber about the loose heaps of scrap materials and old machinery. Susan scans the horizon from atop a high pile, completely oblivious to the fact that it's the DEAD OF NIGHT, and spies a quaint little housing facility a little ways deeper into the junkyard. A quick slide down the pile to alert the gang, and they quickly take off towards the house. Kagetomi quickly takes the lead and motions for everyone to hide around the front door. Using her animal instincts, Kage quickly and silently creeps around the side of the house to where her sensitive ears can hear movement w/in the walls. Kage quickly climbs up along the gutter pipe and peeks into the window. Apparently this is the kitchen, and a black haired woman can be seen making some tea, humming to herself. She's a few yrs. older than Kage and has a very neat dress style. The woman goes to open the window for some air and clumsily spills some of her tea down her chin. As she yelps, Kage grins, seeing her eyes are very cloudy, as she goes to quickly put on her glasses...they appear to be tinted yellow, probably to mask the visual difficulties. The woman balances her tea as she goes to a cabinet and grabs her favorite book.
Caroline: "Sometimes I wish things were like these books...ninjas attacking randomly, romances, getting wrapped into random adventures. Heck, I'd settle for someone jumping through the window now! Ah well, guess normal is all Caroline gets..."

----Back outside, everyone waits patiently for Kagetomi to make her move.
Spectre: "Raz, Susan, I know what you're both going to say, so I'll just remind you right now that busting down the door and having Zeta start yelling like a rouge android is the DUMBEST possible thing to do."
Raz: "Look, I understand that you've had tons of magic skills since before I knew you, but being psychic is sheer bullsh*t!"
Susan: "Yeah, and you can't read our minds either! ...wait..."
--As Jima facepalms and Zeta rolls her eyes, they quickly turn towards the door as a woman screams in alarm, quickly followed by a familiar primal hiss.
Zeta: "You said act like a ROGUE android, right?"
--Suddenly, Raz and Susan bust through the front door and roll forward, Jima and Spectre casually flank the sides, and Zeta rushes forward w/ her arm guns brandished.
Zeta: "ASSIMILA-huh? Guys, I think the job is done here..."
--The 5 of them simply stand there as Caroline whacks a pleading Kagetomi w/ a bo-staff. Kage has curled up on the TV, deflected blows w/ her spear.
Kagetomi: "Should have known the one pulling the strings would fight back...just surprised your senses are so strong."
Caroline: "Well Ms. Kitty, I have no idea what you're talking about...my sleep walking may be to blame, but I've gotten a handle on that DAMN IT! By the way, I could SEE you by the time to ninja'd yourself out of the kitchen!"

[nishthedish]

Chapter 11

----Caroline comes back from the kitchen w/ a platter of tea for her sudden guests. Kagetomi receives the first cup, an apology for the misunderstanding. The bruised catgirl accepts it quickly and the conversations start.
Susan: "Sooooo, what's up w/ the outfit?"
--Jima quickly elbows her friend in a subtly manner, but Caroline quickly laughs it off.
Caroline: "Oh don't worry about offending me, I don't mind being seen as weird. I didn't pick to live here for the neighbors, right?"
--She begins to laugh loudly to herself as everyone just awkwardly joins in, still trying to get used to her.
Raz: "So, it seems you're a pretty normal-and I use that term lightly-person. We were told by an associate of yours to come talk to you to learn more about our friend, Zeta."
Zeta: *stands up and introduces herself* "My name is Zeta and as you can see, I'm somebody's creation...we were told by a Dr. Zhen Sai Onyde that you could help clear up some info about me, but that you may be dangerous. What am I? Who made me? If I can figure that out, then my friends and I can finally work towards the bigger details."
Caroline: "I see...so Zhen is the one who got the whole idea of me being dangerous in your head. I never thought the good doctor would do that to anyone..ESPECIALLY her old assistant! But, I suppose I could divulge some info, but let me introduce myself first. I am Ms. Caroline Welkins, former mechanics student who knows her way around machinery and tinkering. I found this bo-staff of mine sticking out of a rather large heap of equipment and fixed it up!"
--Raz and the gang settle into their seats and Caroline pours them more tea as she starts her story.

!!The story behind Caroline and Zhen's former connections is in her character profile (Caroline's)!!

----Caroline finishes waxxing about her experiences w/ Zhen, letting everyone take it all in before moving on.
Spectre: "Wow, you're a pretty accomplished young woman..."
Jima: "So you USED to be blind, but your sight is coming back...what ever happened to the experiment subject?"
Caroline: "I lost touch w/ Zhen after that...I'm sorry I can't enlighten you about anything else, but I can say that Zhen had some ideas about creating humanoid beings. I wouldn't be surprised if Zeta were connected and Zhen's endeavors."
Zeta: "So she pretty much lied to us and threw us off...."
Kagetomi: "I bet the clown and that little banshee are w/ her...they claimed to be working for you, taunted us, then ran off."
Susan: "That lady is hiding somehting big...ugh, I hate backtracking though..."
Caroline: "If it's not asking too much, would you mind if I joined you? I'm not the best fighter, but my brains could come in handy w/ transportation, equipment, anything!
Raz: "Glad to have you on the team! Just, uhhh...could you explain the outfit you have on?"
Caroline: "Oh, this? I just kind of threw it together last time I went shopping...yeah, people tend to avoid me at times, heheh..."
--The awkward laughing eventually becomes playful as Raz and the gang finally see her as a new friend.

[nishthedish]

Chapter 12

*Meanwhile, in a nearby section of the junkyard...*
----Alice and Scarlet crouched quietly in an unlit area beside Ms. Caroline's house...nobody ever really went past her house to the back corner of the junkyard, so lights were never installed there...it provided the perfect cover.
Scarlet: "Ugh, that little magic signature you put on the jittery waitress must be buggy, our earpieces aren't picking up anything..."
Alice: "SHUT UP, I had to think fast...besides, we should easily hear fighting by now...they probably asked her to spill some information and she she should be retaliating!"
Scarlet: "WAIT! I hear something now!"
--The 2 reluctant spies listen closely as the earpieces pick up the last bit of the conversation...hearing Caroline join them and help out..the girls frown. Within the next few minutes, They spy Caroline revealing a sort of...car. With this, the team will be that much more mobile! They quickly prepare themselves, hop in and make trails for the next destination.

----As they leave Alice quickly calls there associate and leader on her holo-communicator. A small image of a quiet boy meditating and a familiar female scientist appear in front of the girls.
Alice: "I'm sorry to report this, but it would seem Ms. Caroline is on their side now..."
boy: "Well, it was always a possibility that you'd fail...best not to mope around and get on w/ the show, no?"
Scarlet: "Oh shut up, Cecil! We aren't all as calm as you!"
--The boy responds to this and stands up.
Cecil: "Well, I've learned well form being around Madam Onyde...you 2 could use a bit of anger management, honestly..."
Alice: "Well, excuse us for trying to catch these brats!!! We wouldn't be here if blueberry butt had stolen the android...I was hoping to 'play' a bit, maybe hear what they each scream like in pain"
--Alice begins squirming in place and giggling to herself as Scarlet gives her an unamused look.
Scarlet: "Pfft, not like I could have gauged their power anyways. That was more of a way to get our feet wet and learn what we're up against. Besides, I didn't see you helpin! Little Miss 'My powers are unstable and I treat Zhen like mo-'"
--Scarlet's snappy comeback is cut short as a furious Alice clutches the girl's little blue neck in a suffocating grip! Once Scarlet's taunting smirk turns to sheer terror, Alice quickly lets go and grabs her brown/black lockes (it's a mixture of both, making a near black color, but still having shades of brown). Scarlet begins to wimper and squirm, hoping to get free as Alice gives her the most horrifying death stare ever witnessed.
Zhen: "Alice, I believe you've shut her up, come back to base and we'll figure out what to do about all of this. Scarlet.....I WILL NOT tolerate such disfunction amongst associates, please see that you stop acting foolish and get along w/ our little Alice."
--Alice simply smiles innocently as she turns off the communicator. Once it is put away, she quickly morphs her face back into that familiar scowl, swinging Scarlet by her hair and tossing her against a tree. As she sits up, Alice comes over and stomps her foot onto the poor girls chest, stopping her movement. Scarlet tries to object, but she can't get enough air to say a thing.
Alice: *giggling and speaking in a soft innocent voice* "Aww, better luck next time blueberry butt...of course, if you do pull that kind of stunt again..." *her voice becomes almost demonic, yet still feminine* "then becoming blue for the rest of your life will be the LEAST of your troubles...I'll CRUSH you!"
--Alice lifts her foot and begins walking as Scarlet gasps for air. Shaken and terrified, she quickly and clumsily gets up to follow behind her...master.

[nishthedish]

Chapter 13

----As the team heads out for the next destination, Caroline begins to speak about how big of a name Zhen has for herself and how talented and intelligent she is. The chemist and mechanical dabbler is surely a force to be reckoned with. As they travel, Raz and the gang slowly begin to ponder exactly why every place they go to seems to be so close to each other, despite how radically different they are. Kagetomi quickly interjects w/ a statement about how the next area has a large archive of important events and such. Maybe their answers are in there! The next big town slowly comes into view...a quaint castle town of great magic technology, a true testament to how each place differs in it's applications of magic and technology as one, as well as the varying cultural styles (this one being a more modern medieval feel). Suddenly, they are stopped at the gates by a large force of troops. A young man dressed almost like a contemporary knight and stylish girl both walk up to the vehicle.
knight: "I'm sorry, but at the moment, our fair town cannot simply LET strangers in unchecked. You all seem to match a little description."
girl: "Yes...on behalf of the people of Trinaea, we must take you all into custody right away. I'm sorry, but a certain someone needs everyone to be on the lookout for dangerous individuals."
--Everyone already has a good idea of exactly who made such a request. Raz quickly tries to plead innocence.
Raz: "Come on, you guys don't SERIOUSLY think we're bad, do ya? I have no limbs! How could I wreak havoc lookin as goofy as this?!" *quickly spinning his head like a top and juggling it*
Jima: "Please! You must reconsider! We have reason to believe your source of info is simply looking out for themselves and ulterior motives!"
--The young man quickly brandishes a mighty axe, showing his authority.
knight: "Now we've got more reason to do this...all right, get moving! I'd rather not use this on anyone other than the monsters in the area. Although, that feisty one in the back may be a-"
--Kage quickly glares and hisses at him...
knight: "...nevermind"

[nishthedish]

Chapter 14

----Deep in a Trinaean prison, the knight from the front gates calmly guards the cell our heroes are kept w/in. He is leisurely polishing his axe and making small talk w/ Raz and friends.
Zeta: "I'm quite surprised...my previous image of a knight and axe weilder in my memory banks were that of a burly sort of man. You are but a boy no older than us..."
knight: "Yeah, I get that a lot...honestly, I pride myself on my scrawnier look. I practice my fighting style frequently, so I'm pretty strong, but I've just never had a very strong physique. Btw, my name's Crystin...the axe blader! *pumps his fist triumphantly*
Susan: "Awesome...I'm more of a sword girl, myself, but axes are pretty cool. A little heavy, but I've never gotten a hold of a real sword before."
Crystin: "Let me guess, you watch a lot of action movies too and hope to trade that bat of yours in for a real sword soon?"
Susan: "How...How did you know?"
Crystin: "People tell me I seem like I can read minds...must be true, heheh."
--Everyone simply groans while Spectre asks who it was that said they were dangerous.
Crystin: Ah yes, that dude...he looked blind and had these weird mantis arms! I thought it was awesome, but my sister, Crucible....yeah, she kind of wrecked the mood and started asking his reasons for being in Trinaea. The guy called himself Cecil and spoke of a group of hoodlums going around trying to cause uproar in every town they came to. He said that his master, Sai, urged that we stop you at all costs. Honestly, you guys seem pretty damn nice, so I'll see what I can do to at least hear you guys out, alright?"
Kagetomi: "That would be pretty damn helpful! I'm sick of this cell already..."
--Crystin simply laughs and heads out to make his daily rounds through town.

----Meanwhile, w/in the Victorian walls of the central castle, Crucible can be found practicing strong magic in the courtyard. The spells are formidable light magic, and the girl's dress simply sways in the breeze as she daintily steps about, flinging spells about. She finishes up and calmly walks over to her parasol, ready to go see to her people. Suddenly, a mysterious guest walks in, calling out to Crucible. Not recognizing the voice, the fair princess reaches down to what appears to be a detachable bottom to her parasol...she has a small blade concealed w/in, just in case she needs a second weapon to compliment the sturdy parasol itself.
mysterious guest: "I was told by your staff that you would be here at the moment. My associate here recently warned you of those hoodlums, and it seems they've passed by recently.
Crucible: "Thank you for the information, they are w/in our custody as we speak! I'm sorry, but who are you?
Cecil: My friend here is named Alice...it is a pleasure for us to formally make your acquaintance. We have another partner, but she's currently back at our base of operations...she was "injured in intense training exercises and Sai is patching her up.
Alice: "Well, she's been rather sloppy recently, so I had to knock some diligence into her...not my fault she's so brittle...at least Sai had a "special" concoction to heal her up fairly quickly!"
--Crucible becomes slightly uncomfortable as Cecil gives off a faint smile and Alice chuckles menacingly.
Crucible: "I've heard tales of a scientific endeavor that might protect us all in the future. Apparently, it is the very reason for this whole "special zone" that all these lands are w/in. Once it is perfected here, we may all spread back to our true homes and we'll all be that much safer.
Cecil: "As a matter of fact, our master is in charge of the whole project. Those ruffians you captured are out to stop us for unknown reasons."
Alice: "That green haired girl w/ them has crucial information on our operations...she could easily tear us down from the inside out like a filthy parasite!"
Crucible: "Then my job is clear...I will retrieve her for you and keep the rest in custody. Perhaps I can lend you a division of our town's soldiers? They'd be a great asset!"

----With that, Cecil and Alice take their leave to go inform their master of a job well done. Back at HQ, Zhen is busy giving Scarlet some odd injections containing what she claims to a healing agent and small antibody device to help against future problems...the former is correct, but the latter is a device of Zhen's ulterior motives...Scarlet is retold that failure is NOT an option. Back in town, Crystin returns to the prison cell, ready to let Raz and co. out! Although, he is accompanied by his sister Crucible. The princess scopes out Zeta and binds her in a powerful incantation... she then has some soldiers seize the disabled android quickly.
Crystin: "Sis, what the hell?! These guys can't be as bad as that mantis dude claims, I can feel it!
Caroline: Please, we're simply trying to figure out that poor android girl's true purpose! My college, Dr. Zhen Sai Onyde, should be able to shed some light, we're not evil!"
Kagetomi: "Exactly, my people and I were once told by some demonic brat named Alice about Raz, Spectre, and Zeta being dangerous people, but turns out her master just needed these guys for something bigger. If they've tricked you too, then she can't be up to anything good.
Crystin: "Wait...Alice? Sai? Crucible, you met w/ an Alice earlier! She and that Cecil guy are underlings of that Sai person, right?"
Crucible: "Y-Yes...they said Zeta had crucial information and that Sai needed her in their hands...my goodness, that must be THE Zhen Sai Onyde! But, what would such a well known mind need a random girl? Ms. Caroline, could you enlighten me?
--In a panic, the siblings trade info w/ our heroes in order to get the whole story. Apparently the reason for all these different realms being so close is b/c they're all w/in a large virtual zone, so to speak. This whole giant zone was made specifically to test big scientific endeavors such as Zhen's newest project...one which Zeta has to do w/. The reason everything seemed so normal was b/c everyone who came from their respective realms to be apart of this experiment simply have to live their lives, some people, like Raz and the gang, have no true recollection of ever moving into the zone. Zhen and her group needed some subjects to be as normal as possible, unaware of where they were. For that to happen, they were immediately taken by the science group to have their memories modified...the only thing altered was the removal of when they entered the zone, that way, they'd stay themselves w/out knowing where they were.
Jima: "I can already sense that this isn't going to end well. Now we KNOW that Zhen is up to no good! We have to rescue Zeta, NOW!"

[nishthedish]

Chapter 15

----Although Zeta has been taken away, all is not lost. Crucible reassures everyone that Zhen is sending another subordinate to go keep an eye on their precious cargo prior to her arrival to pick it up. Although said person will be accompanied by the very soldiers Crucible gave to Zhen, they still have a chance to succeed! Unfortunately, this still isn't much time, so the team, along with their 2 newest allies, Crystin and Crucible, must make preparations ASAP.
Crucible: "I feel awful for not thinking things through, so I'd like to offer you all some weaponry...well, I guess most of you don't need it...except you 2..." *she points to Jima and Susan*
--Susan's eyes light up more than when she and Susan saw the best action sequence imaginable in that kung-fu movie she saw w/ Jima.
Susan: "Y-You mean...I finally get a real....AWESOME!"
Crystin: "Damn skippy! Heads up!"
--Crystin tosses her a sword and Jima starts to congratulate her best friend.
Jima: "Um, if it's not too much trouble, could I maybe have a weapon? I've learned plenty of hand-to-hand combat, but I've always wanted to use....oh, what were they called...tonfa?"
Crystin: "Oh right, I just call them elbow blades...here, I picked some up last time I was out!"
--Crystin hands Crucible the pair of weapons, who then hands them to Jima. She and Susan both high five each other and immediately devise their favorite fighting stances for the new weapons. With this, the whole gang is ready to start their deal breaker!

----After an hr. or so to plan things out, the 2 siblings quickly lead their new friends off towards the warehouse Zeta is being held in, but the messanger has already arrived. Kagetomi hisses under to herself upon seeing who showed up.
Kagetomi: "Ah damn it, it's that blue magician again!"
--Scarlet quickly turns around, along with her little troop, and quickly starts an exchange of words.
Scarlet: "Well, I was wondering when the motley crew would pop up to rescue their metal friend...guess you guys enlightened the 2 Cs over there, huh?"
Raz: "Look, you can either give up now, OR..."
Spectre: "OR, we turn your ass into a blueberry punching bag again!"
--Scarlet is taken aback by the rebellious nature in the air and quickly orders her battalion to charge. The team spreads out to take on the magician and her soldiers separately. Susan and Crystin rush forward and start parrying every blow sent their way, spinning their weapons from person to person and standing back to back. Crystin body slams a group of soldiers and drops his axe into the ground, causing a small earthquake to topple them. Jima is holding up the outer rim of the pile up w/ Caroline. Jima uses her close quarters training to grab the soldiers as they come in too close and throw them into each other, coupling this w/ rhythmic dodges and blows to the body and joints, disabling the poor fighters. Caroline is mostly using her bo-staff to keep the distance b/w her and her opponents. She then proceeds to hold it like a bazooka and send energy blasts out the end of it into the crowd, dropping bombs and various traps everywhere in her path to create chaos!

----Back near Scarlet, Raz leaps forward, rocketting his hammer carrying hand off in her direction. The girl quickly uses her scythe to deflect it and pole-vault towards him., pushing him away in the end. Spectre quickly brings up a veil of darkness to protect his buddy, while Crucible launches spear like rays of light at Scarlet, slicing right through the darkness. Scarlet is caught off guard, flips away and quickly throws her scythe at them like a boomerang. As it comes back, Kagetomi makes her move and pounces at the mage! As she reaches out to grab her scythe on the return trip, Kage swings her spear and whacks it out of the air, following it up by pouncing on top of Scarlet and pinning her to the ground! With her troops all defeated, Scarlet is at the mercy of the enemy.
Scarlet: "Damn it...I'm not done yet...I won't lose."
Kagetomi: "HAH! At least you aren't new to failing..bet Zhen is gonna be THRILLED to hear th-"
--Scarlet's eyes go wide as she begins to freak out.
Scarlet: "NO! I WON'T SAY IT! I CAN'T GO BACK AFTER THIS! I'll be ruined! You...you don't know what will happen."

----Kagetomi is worried out by Scarlet's panic and lets her up. Raz and the gang gather around as Scarlet tells her tale. When she ran away from home, she stumbled into this virtual zone and ended up joining Zhen's personal forces. Every since the beginning, Scarlet has been abused and tormented by Alice. Every moment back at base tends to have underlying tension, ESPECIALLY after Scarlet's recent failures. Alice is put in charge of the punishment.....she gets close to the poor girl and acts almost sweet and very affectionate, then beats her up mercilessly. Scarlet's body is now tougher from it all, but her spirit is broken.
Crucible: "How horrible! Scarlet, it's obvious that you're on the wrong side of this conflict! I can tell you have talent, please help us."
Scarlet: "Honestly, I've been wondering if I've been all wrong about this lately. Well, I don't have anything to lose now that my life is forfeit if I go back to that crazy doctor! I'm gonna make up for this! I'm gonna make this right! I understand if you guys aren't fond of me, but I'm willing to earn my keep...and hopefully become your ally."
Kagetomi: "Wow...you've got a serious self-esteem and courage problem, but I'm impressed you've gone through this much...I probably like you the least here, but I'm alright w/ having you around..we won't go easy on ya though!"
--With that, the group quickly gives a nod of approval and welcomes the blue magician as their 3rd new partner since coming to Trinaea. Quite some time has passed since Scarlet's arrival...Zhen, Cecil, and Alice have arrived for their cargo: Zeta. Scarlet gets a major chill upon hearing Alice mockingly call out her name. Apparently, Zhen used an aircraft to get here, and slowly walks out to great Crucible.
Zhen: "Well, it seems we made better time than expected. Of course, it always looks like things didn't go smoothly, did they Scarlet?"

----Scarlet gets nervous as she begins to explain the situation, considering Zhen is showing great dissatisfaction at how her lackey is w/ the enemy! Cecil has gone off and already retrieved the android, causing Raz and company to attack! Alice pushes them all back, while Scarlet finally works up her courage and leaps towards Zhen herself.
Scarlet: "Madam Onyde....I'm done w/ this whole thing! Screw all your plans and crazy schemes, I'm not making a fool of myself anymore! These guys actually give a crap about me...I'll do everything in my power to help them put an end to this!"
Zhen: "My my, aren't we strong? I had a feeling you'd do this...remember that injection I gave you the other day?"
--Scarlet steps back, wondering what Zhen is up to.
Zhen: "Remember the antibody? Yes, quite a nice little device...course, I never told you its real purpose. I wasn't just bluffing when I said I wouldn't tolerate failure again."
--Zhen begins to chuckle and pull out a small switch. Scarlet panics and raises her scythe, ready to swing, but she suddenly stops short as Zhen hits the switch. W/in the poor girl, the "antibody" releases immense energy pulses into her heart. Everyone stops as Scarlet drops her weapon and clutches her chest in extreme pain...she can't even scream out in anguish.
Alice: "Awww, looks like blueberry butt couldn't quite make the grade...oh well, I enjoyed using you as a toy while I could."
--Cecil quickly rushes by w/ Zeta onto the aircraft as Alice laughs to herself and follows. Zhen gives a quick smirk and moves the switch as far as it can go. Scarlet lets out a gasp and collapses...Zhen simply shakes her head sarcastically and makes her exit. The team is in shock...one friend is in the hands of the villians...and another's heart has been silenced by the same people. Everyone rushes to Scarlet's side, Kagetomi surprisingly leading the way
Kagetomi: "Hey, magician girl! Snap out of it! Come on! Damn it, I won't stand for anyone skipping out on what they need to do! COME ON!"

[Raevis]

Owwwww. I feel bad for Scarlet.

<_<
>_>
Crystin. <3

[nishthedish]

Chapter 16

----Jima quickly steps up to Scarlet and checks for any life signs. To the girl's surprise, Scarlet's spirit can be felt! her heart has stopped, but her spirit is still reachable! Jima quickly stands and addresses the situation, demanding they take her somewhere more comfortable before she says anymore about her newest idea...Crucible promptly leads everyone to her chambers back at the castle. While there, Jima quickly explains her idea.
Jima: "Considering Scarlet's spirit is still there, maybe we can find some way to contact her....y'know, let her know we need her here!"
Spectre: "Only problem is, how do we get in there?"
Susan: "Thanks to all that martial arts training, jima's gotten the Shi art of a higher mental state, but even she can't project us into someone's mind, ESPECIALLY if said person would be considered dead!"
Crystin: "BUT, and I never got around to mentioning this, my sister here is trained in the arts of light magic."
Crucible: "Indeed...of course, this entitles healing arts, so I can probably uses my magic to enhance Jima's mental prowess and get you guys into Scarlet's body. But, that means I can't work on trying to heal the body and keep it holding on."
Crystin: "How about I do CPR while you guys are in there? That should easily buy you some time..."
--With the plan in order, Crystin got in position while Jima and Crucible worked there stuff...Jima held her hands out over Scarlet's head and closed her eyes, channeling energy to start connecting herself with Scarlet. Crucible noticed her que and began quietly chanting spells. A warm glow enveloped her and Jima as the aura surrounding Jima grew even larger, almost like a portal!
Jima: *opening her eyes* "I figured the aura would grow, but a PORTAL?! This makes things easier and tougher...you guys don't have to use your will alone to be in there, but now if we lose her, you'll be trapped...good luck."
--With that, Raz, Spectre, Susan, and Kagetomi leaped in to go have a little talk with the blue magician girl.

----Deep w/in Scarlet's subconscious, the recovery team stumbles upon a very gloomy circus tent. The 4 of them agree that this must be where Scarlet is, w/in the vision of her old life as part of her family's performance group. Pushing through the entrance flaps, they walk to the middle of a lonely stage...the stands are filled w/ chuckling shadows, all focused on poor Scarlet, who sits huddled in the lone spotlight of the stage. Raz yells out an abrupt greeting and waves happily.
Scarlet: "How come you guys are in here?! Don't tell me you actually care that I'm dead..."
Raz: "Why wouldn't we?"
Scarlet: "I just figured that this was my punishment for being such a weak fool...I've been on the worng side for so long and finally did the right thing...so I figured this was just a way of saying I finally got it, now to get out of the way..."
Kagetomi: "You dunderhead, like that is how crap works around here! The only reason you're in this pathetic feeble stance is b/c of that two-timing b*tch, Zhen."
Scarlet : "But, you heard her....she did that b/c I can't seem to do ANYTHING right! I'm always failing!"
Spectre: "Don't forget, that usually means what you're doing isn't what you're meant to do..."
--Scarlet dries her tears and looks up, attentive.
Susan: You stood up to your boss and gladly agreed to fix what you did in the past! Every stop to think that may have broken the trend?"
Scarlet: "You have a point...I've never had much self-esteem..."
--Scarlet goes on to explain her reasons for running away and exactly WHY her skin is forever blue. *READ IT IN HER CHARACTER BIO!!!*
Kagetomi: "So, you just lost your nerve and ran away...well, can't blame you completely."
Spectre: "Nobody wanted to see you do something new, they just wanted the same clutzy act over and over again...so you just got fed up and walked out..."
Scarlet: "Ever since then, I've had a fragile self-esteem..."
Kagetomi: "See, THAT is your problem! If you keep believing you suck, then you'll never get over it...it won't be easy, but we'll help you...I'LL help you!"
Raz: "Kage's right, admitting what you did and attempting to kick some doctoral ass is one HELL of a start down the road to improvement..."
Susan: "Honestly, we all think you're a genuine person, and we want to help ya...you're gonna be our teammate and buddy, so how about we get out of here?"
Scarlet: "Right...thanks guys! Oh but, Zhen could easily use that device on me again...wait, where did the catgirl and shadow mage go?!"
--After a few minutes, Kagetomi returns on the scene w/ a busted antibody device in her hands.
Kagetomi: yeah, about that, Spectre kind of thought of that a little while ago and we headed down towards your heart to take care of it...souvenir!"
Spectre: "Speaking of the heart, ever seen CPR from INSIDE the body? Trippiest thing I've ever seen..."
--After a good long laugh, the group heads back to the physical world. Jima, Crystin, and Crucible let up as Scarlet begins to stir and sits up.
Scarlet: "It feels good to be part of the team, guys..."

[Spyke]

Oct 17, 2009 21:44:42 GMT -7 nishthedish said:

Spectre: "Speaking of the heart, ever seen CPR from INSIDE the body? Trippiest thing I've ever seen..."

pffffffffffffft I bet