Kingdom Hearts: Unwritten

[FedoraChar]

http://i333.photobucket.com/albums/m399/PowerCampGal/New%20Unwritten_zpswbhjoujz.png (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOm2fLucQ9g)

[Sign Up and Discussion (http://www.pokemoncrossroads.com/forum/showthread.php?5880-Kingdom-Hearts-Unwritten)]






Cast

Light

Rush Peterson (http://www.pokemoncrossroads.com/forum/showthread.php?5880-Kingdom-Hearts-Unwritten&p=133630&viewfull=1#post133630)(Recruit)--FedoraChar
Baltaire and Frago (http://www.pokemoncrossroads.com/forum/showthread.php?5880-Kingdom-Hearts-Unwritten&p=134012&viewfull=1#post134012)(Apprentices)--Comatose
Miku (http://www.pokemoncrossroads.com/forum/showthread.php?5880-Kingdom-Hearts-Unwritten&p=133720&viewfull=1#post133720)(Master)--Sieses
Daisuke "Die" (http://www.pokemoncrossroads.com/forum/showthread.php?5880-Kingdom-Hearts-Unwritten&p=135643&viewfull=1#post135643)(Apprentice)--Sanctus
Kokoro "Koko" Maimi and Kumori (http://www.pokemoncrossroads.com/forum/showthread.php?5880-Kingdom-Hearts-Unwritten&p=142234&viewfull=1#post142234)(Apprentices)--Winter
Celeste Piper (Apprentice) (http://www.pokemoncrossroads.com/forum/showthread.php?5880-Kingdom-Hearts-Unwritten-SU-and-Discussion&p=143758&viewfull=1#post143758)--FedoraChar


Dark

Vanessa Garrick (Master)--FedoraChar
Chase Owens (http://www.pokemoncrossroads.com/forum/showthread.php?5880-Kingdom-Hearts-Unwritten&p=133630&viewfull=1#post133630)(Ex-Apprentice)--FedoraChar
Amaranth (http://www.pokemoncrossroads.com/forum/showthread.php?5880-Kingdom-Hearts-Unwritten&p=133720&viewfull=1#post133720)(Ex-Elder)--Sieses

Undecided:

Kaiden "Ghost/Spectre" (http://www.pokemoncrossroads.com/forum/showthread.php?5880-Kingdom-Hearts-Unwritten&p=133820&viewfull=1#post133820)(???)--Saraibre Ryu




Rules:


1-Follow typical RP rules (meaning no godmodding, bunnying, flaming, teleporting, ect)

2-Follow Forum Rules, of course (no double posting, ect)

3-Please use proper grammar, spelling, ect.

4-Posts must be at least two paragraphs long

5- Feel free to create characters from any fandom, so long as it makes sense, but I would ask that you refrain from using “canon” characters, and limit yourself to three or four individuals.

6-Keep things PG-rated, meaning no excessive gore, profanity, sensual material, ect. It’s Kingdom Hearts, ya know.

7-Only sign up if you plan on being active. If something comes up where you are unable to post, please be sure to inform the rest of us. Ask someone to bunny your character if you must leave for a brief period of time.

8-Place titles above your posts that tells your character’s name, alignment, rank, and place. Something that looks like:


Rush Peterson
Light, Recruit
Everlastia, Library

9- Be courteous and polite to other RPers, and have fun.

(*Rules may be subject to change)








The Keyblade Guild
Faces and Places

http://i333.photobucket.com/albums/m399/PowerCampGal/Renders%20and%20Backups/KeybladeMap.png


The Guild is built like a series of mini castles, crafted from white marble. Circles represent towers (except for the Tree of Blessings, of course), and the left and right side of the Guild are surrounded by forest. To the north lies the Training fields, and to the South is the Journey River—which can only be crossed at the main bridge leading into the Great Hall. Down that river one can find the quiet village known as River Town, where some of the world’s non-wielder citizens live.

The Great Hall: This is the main entrance to the Guild, just across from a bridge that spans over the Journey River. Here, one finds the ballroom and the throne-like Council Room where the Elders often work. On either wing of the Great Hall building are classrooms where both Apprentices and Recruits alike are taught. Unlike modern classrooms, these studios are wide and roomy, used for both lectures and fencing practices. Here, too, one may find the Healer’s Wing.

The Library: Across the courtyard directly behind the Great Hall is the massive Library. Two stories tall, the entire building is dedicated to the books leading to other worlds. Most of its halls remain empty, still waiting for books to be crafted to fill their shelves. Currently, both floors in the middle section are full, while the west wing houses some non-magical books for the enjoyment of students. The Library’s solitary tower is strictly off-limits to students, being the private housing for the Elders.

Mess Hall: Here one can find the cafeteria, food stores, kitchens, and so on. It’s one of the newer buildings in the Guild, and lacks the castle-like design of the other buildings.

Armory: Sitting before the field students call “the Arena”, the Armory is run by—you guessed it—the Moogles. Here, weapons, armor, and such are forged for wielders young and old. The Arena is a field where students can practice sparring, though most often it is used for rivalry challenges. Other fields are cleared around the Armory, used for instructions and obstacle courses.

Dorms and the Apprentice Halls: These buildings are the housing for the students, and look quite cathedral-like in architecture. New recruits who have yet to gain an apprenticeship reside in the dorms, while apprentices live in the halls. Rooms are assigned three students apiece. Masters who stay within the Guild live within the towers, getting much more private rooms.



Rankings:



Within the Guild, wielders are separated into several different groups. New students are given the rank of a Recruit, and after becoming apprenticed to a Master they can achieve several other titles: Supporter, Locker, Seeker, Master, Keeper, or Bookbinder. The highest group is the Elders, who are basically the main staff of the Guild.

--Recruit: The entry level. Students in this category have just been discovered by a Seeker, and are new to the ways of the Keyblade. Here, they receive education on their newfound abilities and other matters surrounding the Keyblade in a formal classroom setting. Those not experienced in swordplay are given basic training in that area.

--Apprentice: The second level. Students in this rank have been apprenticed to a Master (who must formally ask the Elders permission to train this student), and are expected to learn how to apply their new knowledge. The Master personalizes the next level of teaching to his or her pupil, so that their inner abilities may be discovered or unlocked. After being through enough training, the pupil can go to other worlds to assist in locking the keyholes or seeking new recruits.

--Seeker: Apprentice or Master task. Seekers, well, seek. They are sent out to search out the worlds when a new Keyblade bearer is detected by the Elders. After finding them, they are responsible for bringing the new bearer back to the Guild. Most often newly fledged Masters who have yet to take on an apprentice are given this task, though some of the oldest, most experienced Apprentices can be picked as well.

--Master: Highest level granted by the Guild. After being examined for the Mark of Mastery by the Elders (and hopefully succeeding), these wielders get the fancy title of Master. They have been taught everything the Guild can offer about the ways of the Keyblade, and are thus able to act on their own initiative—so long as they don’t interfere with the Guild’s order. They may take on their own apprentice (they can have several at a time), or pass the key to someone they find worthy. Now and again, they might be given assignments from the Elders of the Guild to lock keyholes, seek new students, or investigate problems with darkness. A group of Masters known as Keepers stay to defend the Guild from harm, or take care of its land, or work within the Library.

--Elder: One of the leaders of the Guild. The Elders make up a council of seven who dictate and manage the many aspects of the Guild. The oldest, wisest, and most experienced of Masters, these men and women are granted authority over the Masters who stay within the Guild. They have the last say in every matter, save it be the Bookbinder’s choices.

--Bookbinder: Mysterious craftsmen within the Library. They are secretive and rarely seen, but it is they who create the books and choose Lockers. Bookbinders are usually Masters, and they can have apprentices, but usually they keep to themselves and their work.

The Library

As years passed by, the art of book-making became a well-kept secret within the Guild. Those responsible for creating those books became just as secretive—most rarely being seen by the rest of the Guild. When a new book to a new world is crafted, the bookbinder seeks out the keyblade bearer they feel is best suited for locking the world’s heart. Since they prefer to stay unanimous, most don’t actually hand the books over in person. Rather, they leave the book some place where they knew the chosen bearer will find it. On rare occasions, younger apprentices may receive a book, but the Elders never question the bookbinder’s decision (even if they don’t like it).

After the world’s heart is secured, the book is stored in the ever-increasing Library, where they can be accessed again with special permission. Most often, it is the seekers who re-enter books, though Masters are allowed to use them as they please. Nowadays, the books are being used to investigate the spread of the Heartless by bearers of all ranks. However, it is utterly forbidden for wielders of any rank to interfere with the affairs of these worlds. Indeed, they must interact as little as possible with the inhabitants. Librarians working within the library regulate the usage of the books, though are not affiliated with the binders.

The books’ magic activates as soon as one opens their pages. Anyone touching the book’s holder at that time joins them as they jump to another world. The world’s book itself travels with the bearer, and when the Keyblade wielder’s task is done it can transport him/her back to Everlastia. Bearers are warned to keep a close eye on their book, because if they lose it they have no way to return back.








_________________________

[FedoraChar]

Vanessa Garrick
Dark, Master
???


The chaos was beautiful.

All around her, the world writhed. The ground shook and splintered beneath her feet. Wind raced around her in wild gusts, blowing her long raven hair in every direction. Despite every vain attempt to set the Master off balance, Vanessa stood tall with a vicious grin upon her fair face. Above her, the sky darkened to a shade blacker than night—lacking the faintest light from the smallest of stars. Where the sun or the moon ought to be, instead smoldered an ominous red orb that radiated power Vanessa couldn’t begin to describe. Perhaps power was too great, for the world could not seem to contain it. Slowly, it was destroying itself.

Vanessa took in a deep breath and gave a contented sigh. Today had proved to have been quite fruitful. Admittedly, she might have gone a bit too far with this world—but with the knowledge she had gained, it had been worth it. She now turned her attention to the weapon she held in her hand, examining it with satisfaction.

Leviathan had undergone a fascinating transformation. Where once it had been colored with shades of blue, the keyblade was now entirely pitch-black. The tip curled around a glowing light almost akin to the orb glowing overhead.

“Perfect,” Vanessa’s grin slid into a dangerous smile as she twirled the blade experimentally. “Though I have to admit: Leviathan isn’t all that fitting any more. Now what could I name you? How about… ‘Hope’s Destruction’?” The Master laughed as if she had thought of a clever irony. “That will do just fine—and I have you to thank for, my dear…”

Her later words were directed to a duo of crumpled forms lying at her feet—one with the pale, young face of a girl no older than fifteen. She appeared to be peacefully asleep, blissfully oblivious to the destruction churning around her. Vanessa’s smile faded to a frown as she gazed at the girl. Unfortunately, she was one little mystery that remained unexplained. Why she was still here, Vanessa couldn’t guess. But either way, she could prove to be a bit of a nuisance. When they were done here, she would have to dispose of the girl.

The figure next to the girl suddenly moaned, raising his head.

Vanessa scowled distastefully. Speaking of nuisances…

The young man glanced around his surroundings bleary-eyed, but seemed unable to take it in all at once. He moved his gaze from the girl beside him, to the senseless destruction around them. Slowly, realization dawned on him. He jerked his attention back to Vanessa, his expression a mix of horror and hatred. “What have you done?” he demanded.

“A simple experimentation, which yielded fantastic results,” Vanessa’s charismatic smile returned to her face. “But unfortunately, the subjects seem beyond redemption. Too bad.”

Shakily, the other keyblade bearer climbed to his feet. “You have a sick mind, Vanessa. I’ll see to it that you get locked away for good.”

“Excuse me?” Vanessa opened her mouth wide, mimicking hurt. “A sick mind? Ouch! That’s just rude. I prefer the term, ‘gifted’.”

The young man neither laughed nor said anything in reply. Hardening his expression, he summoned his weapon in a brilliant flash of light. Unexpectedly, the ground bucked beneath him and nearly knocked him off balance. Seconds later, a burst of wind buffeted them.

Vanessa laughed, her bell-tone voice belying the madness beneath it. Placing her hand on her hip, she tilted her head at her foe. “Looks like you’re running out of time—therefore, out of choices. Either you escape with little Embry here, or you try to fight me. Either way, this world is going to fade into the darkness, and I’m going to get my way.”

He scowled, but let his eyes drift to the world around him for a brief moment. Vanessa found pleasure in the uncertainty that crossed his expression.

“Better make your decision quickly, boy,” she twirled Hope’s Destruction. “I don’t think this place will last much longer. And, you know, I have somewhere else I’d rather be, as beautiful as all this is.”

For another moment of hesitance, the young man fought within himself. What was the wise thing to do? What was the right? Vanessa waited patiently, pretty sure that she knew the answer. Perhaps this would be her easiest escape yet—but on the other hand, it’d be too bad that she wouldn’t get the opportunity to try out—

Suddenly, the young keyblade bearer lunged. Vanessa hated to admit it, but she had been caught off guard. Still, she easily deflected his blow, contorting her face in anger. How dare he! That was low! Especially for the little goodie-two-sho—

“Stopga!” he yelled, raising his keyblade in a spell.

Before she could deflect the magic, Vanessa felt her body stiffen up. Time fell to a standstill around her, and the Dark Master was frozen in place with an expression of envious surprise.

The young man lowered his weapon, exhausted by this last effort. However, another rumble from the earth below him reminded him that he didn’t have much time left. The world looked ready to break apart—and his spell wouldn’t last too long, especially on someone as powerful as Vanessa. Stumbling over to the still form of the young Apprentice Embry, he searched for their one ticket home: the book. Finding it tucked in her belt, the keyblade wielder pulled her arm around the girl and dragged her over to Vanessa’s statue-like figure.

“Hang on, Embry,” he muttered as he looped both his arm and her arm around Vanessa’s. With his single free hand, he flipped the book open and touched the pages. Instantly, the trio was transported away, seconds before the darkness finally closed in…


*****



Rush Peterson
Light, Recruit
Everlastia, Great Hall, Classroom 15B

For the umpteenth time that hour, Rush glanced at the clock. Praises be to Arceus, class was almost over. But these last few minutes seemed to drag on into eternity. The blonde-haired fifteen-year-old tried to be as patient as possible, but he had unconsciously fallen into an old habit. Beneath his wooden desk, his foot tapped to a rapid rhythm that subtly reverberated off the white marble floors. Though his neighbors casted him annoyed glances occasionally, the teacher seemed utterly oblivious to the boy’s growing impatience. The old man continued to blab on about who knows what, dragging out every word as if trying to keep his hostages as long as possible.

It’s not like Rush was deliberately ignoring him. He never came into this class with the intention of being rude. It’s just that… well, he had heard it all before. After five years of being in the Guild, he still had the lowly rank of Recruit. So many of his friends had moved on to becoming Apprentices and learned new things; meanwhile, he had been forced to retake classes as if he was some kind of failure. Maybe the Elders thought that he hadn’t really “soaked in” everything the Guild had to offer, but Rush sure knew all the technical aspects of by heart. Even now he could close his eyes and speak along with the teacher—maybe even mention a few things the Master left out.

“Now the keyblade may be passed on by this method, but true inheritance will not happen until the subject shows true strength of heart,” the teacher was saying, pointing to a symbol drawn on the chalkboard. “But what shows the true measure of a heart? Well, that’s a question for the ages, one that we shall discuss in tomorrow’s lecture. For now, we shall explore how it is that true keyblade bearers are identified.”

Just like school at home, Rush ruefully smiled to himself. Sometimes, being in the Guild felt so surreal. It was a whole new world to him, with warriors and magicians walking the halls, but in certain ways, it wasn’t too different from where he came from. He eyed the clock hanging above the door again. Like the technology back home, it had a simple face with numbers all round the boarder, and nondescript hands pointing at 12:12. In three minutes, a bell would trill to announce lunch hour, just like home. Rush couldn’t help but feel a pang of homesickness suddenly.

“The Awakening is a Dive into the Heart,” continued the teacher. “Every wielder of the keyblade will experience this occurrence at some point in their life. Some describe it as a bizarre dream, with stained glass platforms that reflect the nature of their heart. Each symbol painted into its surface hold great significance to the heart’s owner. Connections, histories, and more… Many of you might have experienced it this way, but all of you might not be able to remember what you saw. But whatever may have happened there, you were brought face to face with yourselves. That was when you were first being examined for your worthiness… Now, many of tried, but very few managed to find their way back into this Station of Awakening—”

Just in the nick of time, the bell interrupted the last of his sentence. As one, the students sat up and gave a collective sigh of relief. The teacher blinked, seeming startled. Quickly, his eyes darted to the clock, and he stared at it as if he had been utterly unaware of the passing of time.

“Pity,” he frowned. “Well, we will continue where we left off tomorrow. Class dis—”

Again, Rush didn’t have the pleasure to hear his teacher actually finish a sentence. The boy rocketed out of the classroom before anything could detain him longer.

Outside, the halls rapidly filled with life as Rush’s fellow student flowed from various other rooms. Most were Recruits like himself, stuck with basic studies until a Master would choose them to be an Apprentice. As he waded through the crowd, Rush caught fleeting glimpses of their faces—usually belonging to someone younger than his age of fifteen. Usually, he made a point to ignore them; he would rather not have reminders of how he was one of the oldest Recruits on campus.

Some of the crowd chose to linger in the halls, gathering in close-knit groups to chatter their lunch break away. Yet more chose as Rush did to filter their way out of the Great Hall—towards the cafeteria for some grub. Stomach growling up a storm, Rush ignored the beautiful, gothic architecture that led him from the classroom hall right into the grand entrance to the castle. The ceiling arched high overhead, with sophisticated angles and arches that hinted at an era long gone in Rush’s old world. It was fascinating how well the Keyblade Guild implemented century old ways of life with newfound technology. This made it easy for students of all background to adjust to life here.

Kind of.

Rush tore through vast entrance room and quickly pushed his way out the old oak doors into the lush courtyard of the Guild. Other buildings were arranged around the circular lawn. To his left, he could see the spires of the male living quarters rising up to greet the cloudless skies. The girls dorms laid directly across from them, looking similar in design, but admittedly Rush had never dared to enter those halls (it was against the merciless rules). Directly across from where he now stood, the strong walls of the Library waited, just behind the great Tree of Blessings.

Rush stopped abruptly. A crowd of unusual size was gathered around the trunk of the Tree, staring up or pointing at the giant’s glowing boughs. The boy frowned, immediately intrigued. It wasn’t uncommon for people to hang around the Tree during lunch time, but this particular group seemed stirred about something or other. And more people were joining them all the time. Forgetting his hunger for a moment, the boy went to investigate.

Making his way across the courtyard, he moved up the right side of the tree. The sight on the other side seemed to send an electrical jolt through him.

The Tree of Blessings had always been an unusual sight for him. Its bark gleamed like silver, and its leaves glowed with a brilliant white light. But what he saw now deeply disturbed him. Now, a portion of those miraculous leaves simmered with darkness…

Blacker than night…

[Saraibre Ryu]

Kaiden 'Ghost/Spectre'
Undecided
Everlastia, Guild Courtyard


Kaiden locked the door to the café early, flipping a sign on the door that was clearly visible through the pristine glass. Inside were tables in pale greens and the walls were painted in warm, earthy tones. Windows lined the front of the store, letting in natural light and having the feeling of people outside without the terrors of rainfall or piercing winds. It had only been her second day back from her travels, and here she was sighing to herself and feeling like a lapdog.

River Town was mostly quiet, though the people who lived there were a great variety thanks to the Guild. Kaiden could see a few of them pass by and look at the ‘Closed’ sign on the door, and walk off with disappointment as she walked up the stairs to her room. The room itself had a small window and was rather sparse in furniture. There was a small, thick oak table with a pair of chairs, a desk off to the left side with an unused radio on it and a few candles. Opposite to that wall was a sofa, and to the corner of it, a side table with a bed on the other side. The only other doors were one to a bathroom and another to a closet. Shelves of books and racks of rolled up papers lined the walls between lamps and a piano with a chest next to it, was covered in ink blotted papers from top to bottom.

Kaiden pulled her black coat from the hanger next to the door, and swung her scarf around her neck with one motion. With the other hand she flipped her hair back and adjusted the glasses on her face. Somehow she always felt this moment of smug air around her when she put them on, but it always faded quickly. She had a few glasses to choose from, most of them identical replacements, but she liked these ones the most. She made sure the lavender wraps around her arms were comfortably tight before taking a deep breath, and exhaling.

Kaiden closed her eyes inside her room, and then opened them to find her on the other side of the bridge, leading to the Guild’s campus. Teleportation magic was useful, especially when she received urgent news from the Elder’s. Despite her special treatment, they were bound by word and oath and Kaien still had to do her job, as much as she preferred her freelancing tasks and research. Her steps were silent and she kept her eyes forward. With the time of day, she was no doubt going to run into the after school rush. She was left alone for many reasons, but she always heard the rumors and the muttering when they thought they were out of earshot. Kaiden didn’t mind it much; only when the assumptions were absolutely ridiculous did she make a point in correcting someone.

As Kaiden came closer to the Guild grounds, she noticed a lack of a rush that she came to know as a norm whenever she was told to visit the Guild. As she got closer, the source of the confusion became a bit clearer. There was a crowd around the tree, and everyone was looking up at something. She couldn’t tell from the angle she was at, and circled around at a distance. The brightness that was always emanating from the tree as usual, there wasn’t anything unusual about-

What is that...

Kaiden saw, and felt the dark presence as soon as she laid eyes on it. Her pace stopped dead in its tracks, knowing why there was such a group gawking at it. If people were attracted to anything, it was disasters, but this was one that had yet to happen. The woman’s eyes narrowed on it, and then on the on looking crowd. This was going to cause a mass of panic if someone didn’t say something, and she already felt herself walking towards the tree. Her pace quickened and she brought up her right hand, snapping her fingers and vanishing for a moment.

Kaiden appeared, standing on one of the thicket boughs of the tree with authority. Everyone was already looking up, so it was best to interrupt their line of sight rather than try to gain a new one. Even if she was only a Seeker to them, having the most enigmatic person in the Guild make a statement was going to turn some heads.

“The matter is being investigated, and there is no cause for panic. There Master’s and Elders are working on the matter at hand.” Kaiden spoke in a calm, yet strong voice that carried. “Please return to your activities.”

Kaiden may have lied but they didn’t know that. She may have said there was no need for panic, but there was a cause for alarm. Not many may want to listen to the Seeker who rarely showed up, but perhaps the fact she was the one saying it would get people’s attention. If the Master’s knew of this, then it was only recently, and it was no doubt the reason for why she was summoned. This wasn’t just a tree you could cut the unhealthy or half broken branch off of. This was something serious.

[[Desolate Divine]]

Baltiaire
Light, Final year apprentice
The Guild Courtyard

"Come on Bal!" Frago taunted as he dodged my third attack in a row, striking me with his keyblade in the calf, almost toying with me, "At least make it look like you want to beat me!"

We had been sparring in the Eastern Side of the courtyard for the last hour and a half. Today was the day we both had no classes, and our usual sparring day. Any tricks we had picked up in the last week would be put to the test here. Last week Frago had beaten me. And so far he was doing the same. I had to stop it. I couldn't lose to someone cocky enough that he would purposely have his sparring sessions in view of the girls dormitory.

I took a second to remember how he won last time. It was always the same. Pushing the limits of what is accepted. Honor had no place in his moral code. Just winning. I looked over my shoulder and saw a small group of female apprentices watching. They knew what a showoff he was. Time to give him a dose of his own medicine.

Frago leapt forward, swinging his keyblade overhead with his right arm. First mistake. He left his left arm dangling. As he leapt towards me, I pulled up a pillar of earth, encasing his left arm, and pulling him to the ground. I would be surprised if that didn't dislocate his shoulder. He would definitely need to visit to infirmary, and not just for his damaged pride. His keyblade dropped and bounced away, as Frago generated a bolt of lightning, shattering the earth holding his arm in place.

I swung at Frago fronthand. Without his Keyblade, he was forced to grab my forearm to stop the attack. With my left hand I tried something that he hadn't seen before. Using metalbending, I melted the blade of my keyblade, encasing it around his hands, holding them together, before heaving him over my shoulder and onto the ground.

Frago hit the ground hard on his back, and before he could attempt to get up, stone bindings erupted from the ground holding him in place. The blade of my keyblade returned to its base form as I help it to his throat.

"Okay! I yield!" Frago shouted. I let go of the bindings, and he stood up, face somewhat red, trying to avoid looking at the group of girls watching.

"You were always told that getting too cocky would be your undoing." I said with a grin. It felt good to beat him.

However Frago wasn't paying attention to what I had said. Typical. Instead he was focused on the Tree of Blessings. A crowd was gathering there, and it wasn't the good type of crowd.

"What's going on?" Frago asked me. I shrugged.

[Winter]

(This got way longer than I expected it to...)

Kokoro and Kumori
Light, Apprentices
Everlastia, West Forest

"Duck!" Kokoro did as she was told, however the command held slightly more meaning than that. The girl dropped to the ground in a crouch, planting her hands firmly on the ground just as another hand planted itself between her shoulder blades and she felt Kumori push off of her with learned gentleness. There was a loud clang as her friend's Keyblade slammed full force into Master Xin's. The impact reverberated though the air, and she marveled briefly at how Kumori didn't fall apart, as thin as he was, before rising to her feet and darting after him.

"Blizzara!" She spun just in time to see a chunk of ice hurting towards them, compliments of Master Xaya, who hung at the edge of the fight, playing Xin's backup. A smile split across the girl's face--it was an old trick with an easy counter. She waited a few more seconds before launching herself forward, Truth Seeker in hand, snapping out to slam into the ice chunk.

"Fire," she whispered resolutely. Where the chunk contacted the Keyblade, the ice exploded, and she chased it with another basic spell. "Aero."

"Xaya, watch it!" Master Xin hissed, breaking her standoff with Kumori, to deliver a series of blows in succession. Much to her surprise, the boy passably blocked each, grunting when he took on a particularly hard blow. Master Xaya, however, didn't need her twin's warning.

"Firaga!" she shouted, a ball of fire exploding from the tip of her Keyblade in time to melt the shards of ice that had been flung back at her. The ice wasn't the only thing she had to worry about, however, and she uttered a cry of surprise as Kokoro followed up her own attack in a flurry of whirling blue and brown. There was a sharp ring as Truth Seeker met Svalinn, and the impact trembled down Kokoro's arms as she fought to overpower one of her Masters. Over the silver webwork that made up her Keyblade, Xaya's gray eyes flashed with amusement. "Good, good," she murmured, and shoved off, breaking the contact.

"You're not getting off that easily," Kokoro laughed, giving chase. Kumori caught the flash of Xaya's long, silver hair over her twin's shoulder, and a crazy idea seized his mind. Snapping his attention back to Xin, he blocked two more intended blows from her own Keyblade, Gram, before backing away. As Xin powered forward, grinning, he smiled back, twisting his wrist so that Glimpse of Darkness pointed downward before jerking upward.

"What--" Pale gray eyes lit up with shock as Xin realized her Keyblade had been caught between Glimpse of Darkness' teeth and body. Her Apprentice didn't give her much more time to react before he was twisting, forcing her to release her weapon, sending Gram clattering to the ground, still hooked on Kumori's Keyblade. Kumori, however, was still in motion, reaching out to yank his Master to him, his other arm stretching out over her shoulder, reaching towards where Xaya continued to evade Kokoro. In his mind, he reached for power he'd continually felt, but never been able to use before--he had to try.

"Thun--" he had barely gotten the word out as the power, as always, recoiled. A desperate roar filled his ears, and electricity shot through his nerves, receding to a central point in his chest. What had started as the name of a spell, thunder, ended in a choked scream.

"Kumori!" Xin's arms were suddenly around him, supporting rather than fighting, however the shout had come from Kokoro. Truth Seeker disappeared from her hand in a shower of flower petals, and she sped towards where he hung from Xin's grasp, her opponent completely forgotten.

"What happened?" Xaya demanded, Svalinn drifting out of existence in a shower of sparks, soft concern coloring her voice. Xin had started to lower the young man to the ground, attempting to ask him the same question, among others, herself.

At this point, his skin and hair were almost the same color, which made him look altogether ghostly with his black hoodie. Kokoro knelt down beside him, immediately taking his closest hand in her own, worry showing in her blue eyes. "I was...so close," he whimpered, a frown slipping onto his lips.

"Close to what?" Xaya asked joining the group and assessing her Apprentice carefully.

"Magic, Thunder." The young man looked miserable. "I could feel it..." Kokoro squeezed his hand gently as Xin moved over, letting Xaya in.

"Don't beat yourself up too much, Kumori, that disarm was beautiful. Nice thinking." A smile twitched at his lips as the better at magic of the two Masters attempted an Cure spell, which brought no relief.

"You disarmed Xin?" Xaya asked, looking to her twin and raising an eyebrow. Xin nodded enthusiastically, and Xaya grinned. "Both of you did fantastically today," she started, "and you should be proud of your performance."

"I know we certainly are," Xin chimed in. "And at this rate, you two are going to grow into a pair of Masters to be reckoned with. Xaya and I look forward to seeing the day you do. For now, though, you should get some rest--sparring is over for today." Kokoro's hand tightened around Kumori's and she practically beamed, while Kumori offered a slight smile. It was obvious he was still upset by his failed attempt at magic, though the pain in his chest had dulled to a small throbbing.

With a sigh, he pushed himself up with his free hand, giving Kokoro time to stand with him. Xaya looked at the two worriedly. "You promise you'll go to the infirmary if it gets worse this time?" the Master asked, to which Kumori nodded. "I hope you won't need to." Kokoro avoided telling Xaya he likely wouldn't, promise or not--she had learned that long ago.

"Thank you for sparring with us today," she said instead, still holding onto Kumori's hand. The color was creeping back into his skin, but not fast enough for her liking. "See you again tomorrow, Master Xin, Master Xaya."

"Good day," Kumori murmured, nodding to each in turn before allowing Kokoro to pull him away from their Masters, back towards the Guild.

Kokoro had planned to simply escort Kumori back to his room in the Apprentice halls, however those plans were dashed as they encountered a crowd in the area between the Great Hall and the Library. "The matter is being investigated..." she heard a female voice call over those of other students, but her attention scattered as Kumori was clinging to her with surprising strength and a body that shook.

"Kumori?" she breathed, trying not to attract more attention than they already had. Aside from soft, gasping breaths, no sound left her friend's mouth. "Ku, what's wrong?"

He could barely hear her. In his head, he was hearing whispers that slowly built into a roar as they increased in number. Whispers he recognized, and never wanted to hear again. He didn't need to see what was going on--he could feel it. "...Dark," he whimpered in reply. "It's dark, darker than black, than night, than shadows, dark, dark, dark..."

"...Please return to your activities." As she tried to make sense of Kumori's outburst, Kokoro heard the female voice again, and bit back a laugh. Return to normal activities? That was unlikely.


Synna Bard
Dark, Apprentice
Everlastia, Tree of Blessings

"Hm, this is an interesting development." Synna glanced back to see Master Astrid looking at the Tree of Blessings, index finger of her right hand pressed to her bottom lip. That, Synna had learned early on, meant that she was thinking. Just what she was thinking was still a mystery to the Apprentice.

It certainly was strange though, leaves on the Tree of Blessings turning black like that. Master Astrid had told her before that they were not the only ones who were unafraid of Darkness. Surely it was the doing of one of them.

But the question that remained was whether they knew what they were doing, and had planned for this to happen, or they'd let the Darkness get out of hand. After all--

"Well, that's enough disaster watching for today, come Synna," Master Astrid ordered softly. Glancing back, the Apprentice could see someone--a Master of some kind?--had appeared in the tree itself, and was trying to disperse the crowd. Knowing better than to question her Master's orders, Synna wordlessly turned and followed after her Master's bouncing brown ponytail out of the crowd. As she did, she became certain of one thing: Things were about to change.

[Sanctus]

Daisuke "Die"
Light, Apprentice
Everlastia, Northwestern Wood > Tree of Blessings

It wasn't a particularly eventful day thus far, rather monotonous in fact. It was around noon. Die had just been dismissed from his class and was to be a guest Master Masamune's private residence. Though private, Die was quite familiar with it. It was a forty-by-forty foot, two-story "house," though in reality it was used mostly as a dojo. The roof was the residence's most prominent feature, being a rather tall, inward slope of kawara tiles in the shape of a pyramid curving upwards at the edges. The outside walls were painted a light beige with dark brown lining. The front and sides each featured a total of four windows, two per level, symetrically located around the middle of each side. On the back of the edifice there were two smaller rectangular windows vertical to one another towards the middle of the bottom floor. They were about seven inches tall and three feet wide, allowing those inside to peek outside but the eave surrounding the house retained the interal dimness. The eave spanned around the entire house, protruding away from the wall where the bottom and upper floors intersected, making the levels distinguishable from the outside. The walls were typical shōji, room dividers made of translucent paper covering a lattice of wood. Circumscribing the outside in tandem with the eave was a bamboo veranda which functioned as the hallway and made the building almost at one with nature.

Supporting the entire premises, including the protective gate surrounding Masamune's property, was a sixty foot tall monolith patched with grass at the top erected by his earth magic. A stony path spiraled alongside it and kudzu covering its side, though there were many places where it had been cleared. Die's custom was to spice up a hum-drum walk by parkouring, and he'd challenge himself to clear the kudzu with his keyblade while doing it. If nothing else, this volunteer landscaping somewhat redeemed his often unpredictable appearances.

But nothing positive can be said of what was about to become of today's visit. At first Die was just appearing for lunch, growing weary of the cafeteria food and longing for something with more sustenance. But an intended lunch had morphed into Die ransacking the Master's private quarters. Masamune was absent and Ayame, who Die sometimes playfully referred to as "the waitress," or some other demeaning feminine title, allowed him in the quarters for a meal. Fortune would have it, or depending on your perspective, Mespyerian the daughter of Hades and goddess of torture would have it, that Die would have left his armlet in his dorm today. Knowing that Masamune had a spare, Die made his way upstairs to look for his armory and borrow his. Ayame being just a visitor with no authority over the house and seeing no harm in him borrowing the Master's neglected equipment made no protest.

Die found nothing initially in the armory and thus was going through the Master's dresser which was cluttered with a bunch of disorganized items, some relevant to combat and others not. Discontented with simply moving things aside, he felt the need to empty each dresser and toss the contents behind him as he let loose gutteral growls, complaining of the Master's organization, though his room dressers were the only exception to his characteristic neatness. The household mutt, Aki, usually quite fond of Die, had been locked away in his cage opposite the room from Die as an act of discipline and was yelping loudly in order to alert the absent Masamune of the "trouble."

"What's this?" sounded the young man's baritone voice as he emptied the contents of the last dresser.

He felt around and discovered a false bottom.

"You may be a washed up old gaffer, but surely you know better. Why have you made this too easy to find?" he pondered, as he gathered up a sheet of paper with a passcode on it.

Die peered up towards the locked closet in the room which had been secured digitally. He made his way to the door, feet occasionally scraping against the tatami mats. Die started twisting the fringes of his parted black fringes, pondering his course of action for a moment.

"I could get into this anytime I wanted with the Keyblade, but now that I have a password suddenly it's irresistible," he mused aloud.

Raising his right arm, he entered the code, following which the door automatically began to open. In the twinkle of an eye, as it inched everso slightly, an unexpected noise like a wind could be heard.

"Worth i--," Die couldn't even finish his sentence before an impact quite unlike anything he had felt before jarred him so hard he was sent soaring across the room, crashing into the wall.

He wasn't sure where he had been hit, he just knew his... well everything hurt. Aki's pestiferous yelping had turned into an acheful cry, as he shrinked to the back of the cage horrified by the sight. A womanly shriek could be heard from downstairs, but Die's daze kept him from taking notice. He rather quickly gathered himself as if for dear life, coming up first to his right hand and knee, then he pushed himself upward and tried to come to his feet, but he lost his balance and fell diagonally towards the right, catching himself on his right fist and knee. He chuckled. He couldn't know for certain what had done this, but he had an idea.

"Yeah. I know I deserved that," he uttered. The words were probably much clearer in his head than they were coming out of his mouth.

After a few seconds of breathing, he slowly inched his way over to Aki's barred cage, placing himself before it with legs crossed. He opened the cage and reached into it, clasping Aki on both sides with his gloved hands, and brought him into his lap, patting him reassuringly. Aki let out a small bark as if to feel Die's pain. They looked one another in the face, Die having a self-confident, but still fazed smirk on his.

"You're the smartest one here," he said to the mutt, as if to chasten himself in penance, though aware he wouldn't earn the Master's favor by such self-inflicted stripes.

As time elapsed his senses too returned; first the smell of smoke coming to him and secondly the sound of flustered footsteps approaching towards him up the stairs.

The door swung open and yet another womanly shriek was heard.

"What happened here!?"

The young Ayame stepped in. Her ordinarily bright, kind face overtaken by anxiety at the moment.

"Ah, the voice of the angels... They sound like choral altos attempting opera!"

Ayame had no time for his droll humor. She was concerned, first that there hadn't been a murder, and second with the giant stone fist protruding out of what was once the closet of Masamune Sensei's bedroom. Getting the hint that Die was going to be okay, however, her focus became more fixed on the fist.

"How in the world did this happen?"

"My guess is Masamune Sensei put a spell on that locked door over there so that Daidarabotchi would punch whoever opened it," referring to the giant stone samurai with a sealed spirit inside it that did Masamune's bidding.

"How are we going to explain to the Master that we put this hole in his wall?" Ayame felt partly to blame for having permitted Die to snoop without contesting him.

"Look, it's not a big deal. I went looking for some lackluster gear and I happened to find a tempting passcode. I can put all of his stuff back where it belongs and I'll help him patch up this hole in the wall. I'll take all the blame and punishment. No biggie," he asserted with conviction.

He sat the dog on the ground and rose to his feet, dusting himself off. All curiousity concerning the closet had been shaken, but his pride remained intact. The young, light brown haired maiden took his attention.

"Oaf! I need medical attention! Don't let me die like this!" he yelped overdramatically with his eyes closed, Aki playfully joining his voice to Die's.

Ayame stretched her hand out, materialized her Keyblade, and cast curaga on Die, enshrouding him in a bright light with many other lesser lights in the form of petals floating around him. He received all of his strength back and felt completely refreshed.

"I'd love to stay and help you devour whatever you burned downstairs, but at this point, I'd probably better just head back to school. You take care of yourself. I'll leave a confession downstairs for Masamune in case I don't see him before he returns. You okay with that?"

Ayame nodded and sent him on his way, casting hastega on him to make his commute quicker. Die traversed the northwestern wood back to the Guild in a hurry. Usually the sound of rustling students chattering on their way to classes greeted him, but this time the mood was quite different. There was no laughter or lively banter, but a noisy commotion. There was a large, bewildered crowd gathering around the Tree of Blessing located at the center of the Keyblade Guild. The tree's once brilliant glow which had without words but visibly promised peace and certainty for the efforts of those aligned with the Light had taken an ominous look of gloom and misfortune. What's more, an elusive Keywielder assured them there was no cause to panic and directed them back to their ordinary activities.

"True," Die thought, "there are plenty of potent Keybearers here, there's no cause to panic. Still, that tree says there's cause for concern."

[[Desolate Divine]]

Frago
Undecided Final Year Apprentice
Courtyard -> Infirmary

Baltiaire provided no answer as to what was happening at the tree, and standing around for a few minutes watching proved to be useless.

"I'm going to go the infirmary and get this patched up," I said, using my chin to gesture at my dislocated shoulder. "I guess I will see you when I see you."

Baltiaire nodded, and made his way to wherever he goes after this. Usually he is the one that ends up needing the infirmary, so I had no idea what he does on the odd occasion he does beat me.

"Hey!" I yelled to him, "Aren't you going to be a good sport and shake my hand?"

Baltiaire turned around, looking surprised. We had never shook hands before after finishing a session. He extended his right hand. Big mistake.

I generated a tiny shock of electricity, which Baltiaire jumped back from the moment he felt it. He was not happy.

"If you like cheap shots..." he said. Suddenly I felt the ring on my finger squeeze. When I thought it couldn't squeeze any more it continued. Damn metalbenders. "You might want to get Celeste (@FedoraChar) to look at that, before the lack of circulation does damage. And tell her I said hi, right after you tell her I beat you to a pulp."

Baltiaire left, laughing to himself, as I walked towards the infirmary.

When I arrived, I was relieved to see that there weren't too many people. Not as many people would know about Baltiaire's sheer luck, and he wasn't the type to brag about it to anyone but me. That and less people meant less waiting time and less chance of me losing my finger.

[FedoraChar]

Rush Peterson
Light, Recruit
Everlastia, Mess Hall Winter Saraibre Ryu


Rush tried to shoulder his way closer to the Tree, wanting to see if his eyes were tricking him. His short stature, however, worked against him. No one budged to let the kid through; they merely brushed him aside and murmured amongst themselves.

“The matter is being investigated, and there is no cause for panic,” one voice rose above the buzzing of the crowd. Rush stepped away, trying to catch a glimpse of the speaker. He caught a glimpse of someone—a woman, perhaps?—had climbed up into the branches of the Tree. …Was that allowed?

“There Masters and Elders are working on the matter at hand,” the speaker continued. “Please return to your activities.”

Rather than calm the crowds, her words seemed to only stir more murmurs. Rush heard people asking each other who the speaker was—some even looked ready to challenge her authority. Glancing back, he couldn’t say he recognized her. Was she even a Master?

“As she says,” another voice spoke up, deep and rumbling with authority. Heads turned, and the crowd parted to allow a group of black-cloaked keybladers led by a silver-haired man. Rush recognized him immediately: Theron, one of the Elders. He was the picture of what Rush imagined a king to be like—solid, proud, and regal—carrying with him an air of command that demanded respect. Theron wasn’t known for being the kindest of the Elders, but he was fair. Something about him today seemed… different. He looked weighed down, weary…

“Be assured, the Council is indeed looking into this matter. As of yet, we have no answers for you, but I must ask that you please leave the immediate vicinity of the Tree of Blessings. Until we get to the bottom of this incident, this area will be off-limits to students. Lunch is still being served in the Mess Hall, and classes are to continue as normal. Apprentices, please send the message on to all available Masters that a mandatory trial will be held this afternoon following the lunch hour. As an added security, no one will be allowed to check out World Books until otherwise determined by the Council. That will be all—you are dismissed.”

The crowd lingered for a moment, letting the commands slowly sink in. Eventually, the black-cloaks stepped in, prompting those closest to the tree to vacate. No one dared to object—the black-cloaks were essentially the Secret Service of the Elders, elite Masters who did their bidding. With hushed muttering, the body of observers dispersed.

Rush stayed where he was for a moment, watching as other students brushed past. He glanced through their faces, trying to find a familiar one. He couldn’t leave just yet—he was supposed to meet someone here, by the tree, just like he did every day. She hadn’t been around the past few days, of course, but that’s because she was on a mission. She should be done soon… missions usually didn’t take this long…

“What does this all mean?” Rush muttered, shaking his head.

Glancing back up, he noticed them—a boy and a girl who had been watching the proceedings. Yet the boy was clinging to the girl, looking like he had seen a ghost. They were older than him, Rush was sure, but he still felt concern for them. Maybe he should just mind his own business, then again… that wasn’t what a Ranger would do.

He sighed inwardly, wondering why he even thought that. It wasn’t like he could be one anymore…

Regardless, he walked over to the duo and said, “Um… hey. Is everything alright?”



*****

Theron kept his gaze forward at the departing students as he spoke to Kaiden, saying in a neutral tone, “You may step down from the Tree, now.”


*****



Celeste Piper
Light, Apprentice
Everlastia, Healer’s Wing/Infirmary
(Whatever you’d like to call it ha) Comatose


“Focus, Celeste! You are not concentrating hard enough!”

Celeste scowled, her back turned to her impatient Master. As if the spell wasn’t hard enough on its own; Siros just had to hang over her shoulder, ‘observing’ every mistake she made (and he caused). Celeste knew that if he had his druthers, he’d be doing everything himself. In his mind, the only proper way was his way. However stupid and inconvenient it might be in other’s minds…

As tempted as she was to snap back a retort, she focused the center of her attention on the dummy. Master Siros had imbued it with magic for this lesson, and its featureless face pulsed with blue light. The Apprentice was supposed to be practicing the advanced “Curaga” spell on it, but so far she had had little success. She was amazed by the amount of energy it took, and yet she had seen her Master and several other Healers effortlessly use it on their patients.

But if they can do it, so can I, Celeste bolstered her confidence.

Eyebrows meeting together, she again concentrated on the dummy and raised her keyblade. The weapon hummed as she reached for the hidden power within her, the magic that could bend reality however she wished. Channeling that power through Hopeful Heart, she shouted the words that would sharpen her focus: “Curaga!”

A halo of green light appeared over the dummy’s head, looking similar in shape to a closed flower bud. For a second, it trembled in midair, refusing to spread its fragile petals.

“Stay with it…,” Master Siros urged, sounding almost pleased (if such a thing was possible with him). “Keep going…”

“I’m… trying…,” Celeste growled back in a strained voice. A bead of sweat trickled down the side of her face as she labored to keep the faint flower in existence. She met incredible resistance, either from the lack of her own abilities, or from the force of reality refusing to budge. Bit by bit, however, the petals were slowly twitching open…

“You’re doing well, keep going!” her teacher continued to encourage, eyeing the flower intently.

The doors flung open with shattering force, abruptly ending their magic lesson. Her concentration broken for that small instance, Celeste watched in dismay as the Curaga flower faded out of existence…

Master Siros spun on the culprit with a howl of rage, scaring the poor, intruding apprentice senseless. Celeste couldn’t help but feel sorry for her, despite ruining her spell. “WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?!”

The apprentice—of one of Siros’ colleagues—seemed to sink into the floor several inches. “S-sorry,” she squeaked. “M-My M-master w-wanted to…”

“Can’t you see I’m busy at the moment?”

“S-she s-s-said i-it’s…”

“Stop blathering, you ignoramus! What does Kat want?”

“Urgent!” she squeaked out. “She wants to see you right away!”

As soon as she finished speaking, the apprentice retreated back out the door and out of sight with an incredible burst of speed. Celeste blinked, wondering if she had ever actually been there at the door.

Siros sighed, rubbing at his temples furiously. “There better be a good explanation for all this… Celeste!”

“Yes, sir?” she panted, still recovering from the bit of effort it took to cast the Curaga spell.

“We will pick up on this lesson another time. Keep an eye on the infirmary whilst I’m away.”

“Got it,” she grumbled back, dismissing her Keyblade. Siros cleared his throat, looking at her meaningfully. Resisting the urge to roll her eyes, she said with more force, “Yes, sir.”

“Very good. Dismissed.”

He said dismissed, although he was the one to leave the office first. After he was gone, Celeste let out the weary groan she had been holding back. Honestly, she couldn’t wait until this apprenticeship was over. Striding out into the infirmary, she glanced over the subjects in their care—though stopped once she realized someone new had entered.

Or not so new. Celeste studied the black-haired young man drifting through the infirmary, trying to discern which of the twins it was. She scowled when she thought she knew. Frago carried himself much differently than Baltaire, which she could tell even from a distance. Great. Why did she have to deal with him so soon after dealing with Master Siros? Still… her scowl turned into a smirk, realizing what this meant.

Striding up to the young man, she taunted, “Lost today, eh?”

[[Desolate Divine]]

Frago
Undecided Final Year Apprentice
Infirmary

"I was hoping I would pass for him." I said with a sly grin, "Though that is pretty hard, being the better looking of the two of us."

*Insert groan from Celeste*
I made my way to the nearest seat, and winced as I took off my shirt, exposing the dislocated shoulder.

"He somehow managed to pull my arm out of its socket." I said, "He also said to say hi. And to take a look at this."

I extended my hand to show the ring that he had squeezed around my finger. It was turning a nasty shade of purple.

"He was enough of a pain before he learnt to metalbend..."

[Saraibre Ryu]

Kaiden 'Ghost/Spectre'
Undecided
Everlastia, Guild Courtyard
ARPer's: FedoraChar

The lack of an immediate dispersal didn’t surprise Kaiden. In fact some of the looks on people’s faces seemed to want to fight back. She magically appeared in a tree and told everyone to shove off in the nicest way possible. Of course someone was going to try and tell her otherwise. Soon enough, familiar voices perked her attention elsewhere. The black coats of those ever so in charge of everything, and faces she was all too familiar with. Kaiden didn’t move from her spot on the branch, she only looked at Theron. Theron was someone Kaiden didn’t particularly like, but she didn’t dislike him either. He was on her list of beings that defined as ‘tolerable’ as did most people in the Guild. Well, to be perfectly correct, Theron to her was a ‘likeable work acquaintance’, so perhaps he was above tolerable. She couldn’t help but feel a bit of relief when Theron spoke the words ‘As she says’. If Kaiden had an ego, it would be inflating by this point. Why he looked so tired though, was a reason to raise a bit of an eyebrow at him.

As he spoke to the crowd, Kaiden remained. These coats often didn’t come out on the grounds as far as she could remember, so this had to have been something serious. It was only the middle of the day as well. Kaiden listened passively while looking around the crowd, trying to see if anyone looked suspicious. Even in the tree she had sharp eyes, though not knowing a lot of the faces, it was difficult to tell. As specific words hit her ears, Kaiden had to keep her neutral composure for a moment, waiting for the crowds to leave before she had enough space to jump down. Not simply step. Landing on both of her feet, she dusted herself off as she stood up straight.

“Step down… Thankfully you weren’t in charge of designing the Hall stairs.” Kaiden told him in an equally neutral tone.

Of course they want all Master’s to attend. Was that was the letter was for? Did they not remember my own Master’s final request before she passed on? Then again, Theron isn’t a fool… does it have to do with his fatigue? He rarely addresses me, even in general…

Kaiden’s thoughts stopped for a moment. There was a courtroom there in the Hall, but she wasn’t going to immediately just walk in. It wasn’t immediate and Theron was one of the select few that knew… wel, just knew. She hadn’t visited in months, though everything was all the same. She knew she still had her old room to check, as it was no doubt kept tidy thanks to her one Moogle friend in the Armory, Alabaster. Perhaps she should pay Alabaster a visit, maybe he had an idea to what was going on. Theron had a look on his face though, Kaiden could tell.

First a request back, now the Tree… clearly something is going on. There are plenty of other Master’s, but why do we need all of them? Who is causing a problem? Did someone try to cause a mutiny?

Kaiden began to slowly walk towards the Armory, wanting to visit Alabster who had her old room key. She had a feeling she was going to be sticking around for a lot longer than a few hours. She walked slowly enough for Theron to easily catch up if he wanted a conversation. She knew he wanted one.

[Winter]

Kokoro Maimi and Kumori
Apprentices, Light
Everlastia, Keyblade Guild, Tree of Blessings ( FedoraChar)

"Um... Hey. Is everything all right?" Kokoro stiffened as she realized she and Kumori were being spoken to. On instinct, Kumori hunched down even more, pulling Kokoro closer. She barely reacted to this, staying focused on the boy who had spoken instead. He was clearly younger than them, and dressed much like any other kid you could have found on the street in Radiant Garden or Traverse Town--hardly threatening, not that Kumori knew that at this point. Whatever was bothering him had really hit hard this time.

"It's nothing unusual," Kokoro replied, skirting around the limits of what she knew Truth Seeker would find acceptable. "My partner and crowds don't mix well, and with this kind of news on top of it all... Thank you for your concern, though." She shook her head, glancing up at where dark leaves could be seen hanging from the Tree of Blessings. Behind her, Kumori let out a quiet whine, and she patted one of his arms sympathetically. "We should be leaving. C'mon, Ku, loosen up on me a little and we'll get you back to your room."

Slowly, Kumori's vice like grip on her loosened, allowing his friend the freedom to move so that she could lead him out of the crowd. Kokoro glanced around, noting that they were attracting looks. It wouldn't be long before the whispers began. Keeping her face neutral, she looked back at the other boy and smiled. "Again, thank you," she told him before turning and attempting to lead Kumori out of the crowd.

[FedoraChar]

(OOC: Sabi and I wrote Theron's conversation over Skype)


Rush Peterson
Light, Recruit
Everlastia, Tree of BlessingsWinter Saraibre Ryu




“Oh,” Rush couldn’t help the disappointment in his tone; then again, what could he have done anyway? Recruits weren’t much help to anyone, especially him. Still, he kept up a pleasant a smile as he nodded back at the girl. “Alright then.”

The duo made their exit, and Rush turned back to the Tree, spotting the woman who had spoken up before and Elder Theron, appearing to have some kind of casual conversation. Rush felt curious as to what they were talking about, but with the black-coats staring down everyone near the Tree he felt too intimidated to approach. Instead, he dug his hands in his pockets and started towards the Mess Hall. Another no-show for Embry… Wherever she was, he hoped she was doing okay.



*****


Theron made no comment to Kaiden’s veiled back-sass, but watched as she started away from the Tree. Before she got too far, he asked, “What do you think? About the Tree?”

Kaiden moved at a pace that Theron could keep up with. She was going to at least make it look like they were having a casual conversation to onlookers, as she seemed to be good at giving people misconceptions.

"I think it could use a bit more watering." She replied. "Other than that, I say someone is trying to cause a disturbance and ruin the daily lives of those who pass by it only in a glance. Now people are staring at it and will continue to do so."

Theron nodded thoughtfully as if considering her words. “We will certainly have our hands full, trying to maintain order.” After a silent moment, he released a sigh, looking all the wearier. “Though I’m afraid that this is not the work of any one individual. The Tree of Blessings reflects the spirits of those that dwell in the Guild. If there is anyone to blame… it is ourselves.”

They were far enough from the Tree and the onlookers that Theron switched topics. Lowering his voice to a whisper, he asked, “How go your studies? Are you keeping up?”

Kaiden seemed a little concerned. If it wasn't one person then it certainly was some kind of mutiny. If there was an infectious darkness within the guild, what was it? Who was it affecting? Kaiden was always curious about the opposing entity to Light but not in the sense she would dangerously experiment with it.

"That explains the note." She thought aloud.

Kaiden's studies weren't often brought up. She worked alone and continued the work of her late Master. It was a bit unorthodox and questionable, but nothing that could be harmful in the right hands. She continued walking along at Theron's pace.

"They're going at a pace, nothing incredibly noteworthy yet." She replied. “You know my particular line of work takes some time before something waltzes into sight. Studying you over, you look as though you haven't slept in weeks. The grounds are far too clean for any recent late night scamperings."

Theron paused, taking a moment before replying, “Recent events will come to light, soon. Keep a sharp eye out, Kaiden.” In a hushed tone, keeping his gaze directed forward, he added, “I must ask something of you. There has been some… disappearances. Three Masters and their apprentices. So far we have kept this from the public eye, but I doubt we can for much longer. Trust is becoming a difficult commodity to come by. I need someone… outside of the radar to investigate. Be they willing…”

Kaiden did her best to not show surprise. Darkness and now people disappearing? It couldn’t have been a coincidence. She paused for a moment, and put her hand up to the bridge of her nose, her left arm under her elbow. This was entirely serious and as much as she didn't want to admit it, she was going to have to stick around for a while, whether she liked it or not.

"I will answer what you're asking. I'm sure there are others. Maybe even recommendations you can give?" Kaiden suggested to Theron subtly and quietly. "Anyway, I'll come by that room later on and try to be present. no promises though."

Kaiden was going to have to practice some old magic spells before even attending that meeting after lunch. First of all, she needed to organize her old room.

Theron opened his mouth as if to say more, but before he could, a black coat started walking towards them. The Elder simply nodded at Kaiden and wished her a good day before turning back to the Tree.


Celeste Piper
Light, Apprentice
Everlastia, Healer’s Wing Comatose

"I was hoping I would pass for him. Though that is pretty hard, being the better looking of the two of us."

Celeste did indeed groan—inwardly, wishing again that she didn’t have to put up with this. “No, he just doesn’t strut around like an overstuffed peacock, that’s what.”

Frago took the nearest available seat, wasting no time in taking off his shirt. More showing off, Celeste was sure. She hid her disgust as he explained his injuries: dislocated shoulder and…

Oh, lovely. His ring finger was losing all circulation. Grabbing his hand by the wrist, she held it up closer with a frown.

“Always something new, with this job,” she muttered. It was amazing how many new ways keybladers could discover to hurt each other. She made a mental note to thank Balt later. Frowning, she considered what she could do to get rid of the ring. There was probably a spell somewhere out there that could help, though Celeste didn’t know them—nor did she have the energy to after attempting that advanced cure spell.

Dropping his hand, she looked him square in the eye as she dead-panned, “I’m afraid there’s nothing we can do. We’re going to have to amputate it.”

[Sanctus]

Daisuke, "Die"
Apprentice, Light
Female Dorm Saraibre Ryu


"They seem to be on top of things," Die thought, reassured by the fact that three Masters and Elders were attending to the matter. As the crowds dissipated he followed. He shook his concerns from his mind. Why dwell on something that was outside of his control?

"You know... I need a book. Maybe I'll run into Alabaster too," the thought occurred to him as he peered toward the girls dorms where he had stowed away some of his extra books to reduce the clutter of his own.

During the day Die was able to sneak through the dorm with relative ease. Most of the students at this time were in the Mess Hall, a number of them were training or engaged in other activities. He couldn't say he had never been spotted, but he was able to explain away suspicion to many of the younger recruits -- usually appealing to having been sent on an errand by a master and providing proof with a special I.D. given to him by the crafty Alabaster. To those with more wits about them, he wasn't above making a run for it in plain sight.

He made a beeline directly for the dormitory, grabbing a hidden key in a bluebeard bush on his way. He approached the numberless door which marked his destination and unlocked it speedily, made his way into the unlit room. He flipped the lights on as he entered and closed the door behind him.

"Alabaster must be at work. Defeats half of my purpose for coming here, but I'll probably catch him at the armory some other time," he said, glancing over the rather unimbellished space as he made his way to his bookshelf.

He took a knee and ran his finger along the books on the bottom shelf as he searched his collection, making his way upwards.

[[Desolate Divine]]

Frago
Undecided Final Year Apprentice
Infirmary

"Hey, I wouldn't strut around if I didn't have reason." I said with a wink, "Actually, I probably would."

Then I heard the bad news. It would have to be amputated.

"Damn. Well there is plan B..." I said, looking up at Baltiaire's friend.

"Do you know a numbing spell and one that can heal extreme burns?" I said, as a jet of white hot flames appeared at my fingertips, "Because I am going to melt it off, and it is going to hurt like all hell..."

Baltiaire
Undecided Final Year Apprentice
Mess Hall

Soon after Frago went to the infirmary to deal with getting his but whooped, I left the courtyard after the official seeming people came. I made my way to the Mess Hall, finding a seat, and metalbending my keyblade into a pair of black vambraces. Though it wasn't a real keyblade, and therefore couldn't disappear like Frago's, I could still make it easier to carry with my abilities.

Though I was proud of beating Frago, and let him know it, I was tired as anything from the session. Before I knew it, my forehead rested on the table, and my eyes were struggling to stay open.

*Perfect spot for someone to come over and interact with him if they want.

[Saraibre Ryu]

Kaiden 'Ghost/Spectre'
Seeker, Undecided
Everlastia, Female Dorm, Kaiden's Old Room
ARPer's: Sanctus

There weren’t many people on her way to the dorm rooms, and Kaiden was a bit thankful for that. She concluded that the severity of the situation was far worse than Theron was letting on, as she was rarely asked to do anything in the Guild that wasn’t a helpful hint towards her research. She would get her key from Alabaster later, knowing that those small little tools seemed rather obsolete when it came to a place where everyone had a magical key of some kind. Alabaster was no doubt busy with some project, as he was rather nosy about Guild affairs and seemed to always have the right tool for any job. Kaiden could just warp from one side of the door to the other once she got there. If she wanted to sneak into that meeting, she was going to need something.

As usual her footsteps were silent, which is part of the reason she got her nickname. The other being that she was a rare sight, and no doubt her hair colour had something to do with it. She didn’t mind being called those names, so long as people weren’t going to be unintelligent about such things, she wouldn’t have to speak up about it. Taking a turn down into the hall, the dorms looked like a long stretch of doors, similar to the Hotel in Traverse Town, but much longer and the doors were much narrower. Part of the reason the woman kept her room here aside from emergency’s sake was a nostalgia factor.

Kaiden stepped in front of her old room, which was a numberless door. All the other rooms had numbers aside from this one, and she wondered what rumors had spread about it while she had been away. The woman took a silent breath, and focused her magic. The act of teleporting was simple, or at least warping was. Between physical surfaces though, it took more concentration. It required visualization and a clear head, as too many ideas of places you could go would often result in vertigo sickness, and that was a nasty consequence that would make any other magic usage be treated like the plague for a week. Feeling the magic burning lightly on her skin, she focused on the other side of the door. She imagined her room and being on the other side of it. Her mind clung to that image until she felt the magic from her body fade away. She opened her eyes, and saw her room. The bed was still made, the desk was still tidy… something wasn’t right though.

Kaiden did not recall leaving this many books in her old dorm room. In fact she didn’t recognize most of these books at all. She remembered every book she owned and these were not hers. It couldn’t have been someone else’s room as she recognized what books were in her possession on the wall shelves. Taking her quick scan to the left side, she found something that definitely wasn’t hers.

Or rather someone and this someone was not female.

His monochrome appearance didn’t set Kaiden off right away, in fact how he was acting didn’t give off the impression of a thief. He was being far too kind to the books and if he was searching for something, he’d have made a mess. That or he was smarter than that and kept things looking untouched. He hadn’t noticed Kaiden’s entry yet, which was a perk of being able to manipulate space and time. For the sake of figuring out what he was here for, she stood in front of the door, silently, waiting for her presence to be noticed with a stern, questioning glare on her face.

[Sanctus]

Daisuke "Die"
Apprentice, Light
Everlastia, Female Dorm, Kaiden's Old Room
ARPer's: Saraibre Ryu

Die steadfastly continued to examine his books, noting carefully names and authors, a thoughtful gaze forming the substance of his expression, his eyes fastening on the words. Occasionally he'd notice that he had made an error in his arrangement and would put misplaced books in their proper position. But suddenly he felt something like a faint, looming presence behind him. It was strange in that it felt almost intangible, and there was absolutely no sound associated with it. Ordinarily one might expect that Alabaster had returned from his business, whatever that was, but a quirky moogle was far from sneaky. Indeed, this presence was not only sneaky, but almost ghastly. Die was not typically afraid of the occult, after all he had just previously been punched by a possessed golem, but for some reason he felt his hair stand up, his stomach turned and he felt queasy, a chill seemed to fill the air yet he broke out in a sweat. He tried to shake the feeling. What reason did he have to be afraid of a ghost? Besides, you only read about hauntings of that nature in books, he had been around the real thing and they were usually quite different from that. Surely all of this could be explained away logically, it was probably all in Die's head. But all laws of reason seemed suspended -- indeed, time and space themselves seemed irrelevant.

Die's extended arm he used for scanning his library began to shake. He could feel his composure slipping away. His astute countenance changed to match the brooding atmosphere that had entered the quarters. Questions Die once paid no mind to seemed to become relevant. What kind of dorm room doesn't have a number? Why was there only a moogle living here anyways? Had something happened in this room? Were there dark secrets Alabaster was not letting on about? As he pondered these questions Die couldn't pretend as if all things were normal. Something he wasn't used to had utterly seized him.

"Fear!? What kind of warrior knows fear?!" lashed the voice of his conscience.

Die gulped. He had to concede, he had now experienced a kind of terror. Greedy to get even with that ghoulish presence overshadowing him, he hastened to his feet and quickly pivoted himself. As he whirled around an unclear form entered his vision, but the first glance at the lurking presence drove the terrors back in his heart.

"She's a ghost!"

His skin turned a pale white, matching the shade of that substance which had effected his horror. He leaped backwards into the bookshelf, knocking a number of them from their proper location. The sound of the crashing books alarmed him to catch the bookshelf with his outstretched arms to keep the wooden shelf's composure, which is to say he'd do for it what he hadn't done for himself. With the shelf locked steadily in its proper place he turned his face back towards the intruding specter's position. The fear had been wiped from his face, as he noticed almost simultaneously with his scare that the unfamiliar guest was a curious looking young girl, perhaps slightly younger than he was. Her milky white hair had tricked him into believing that he was seeing some ectoplasmic substance. How'd he fall for that one?

"Uh... Hi," he directed his greeting to the spooky stranger.

[Saraibre Ryu]

Kaiden 'Ghost/Spectre'
Seeker, Undecided
Everlastia, Female Dorm, Kaiden's Old Room
ARPer's: Sanctus

Kaiden was used to people being entirely startled by her presence. She only watched him with her arms crossed behind her back, letting the books fall with only so much of an eye twitch. She knew those weren’t her books but they were books nonetheless. The Seeker waited until all the energy from the fear calmed down, staring unblinkingly at the man who was adamant on making sure the bookshelf wasn’t going to fall. Weighing out the pros and cons of it actually falling on him, Kaiden would have found her captor with the same likelihood of escaping the room without the shelf on top of this stranger. It saved her a larger mess for later.

She rolled around the comment of ‘ghost’ in her head, finding it uncommon that she was actually called one for her appearance. Kaiden wasn’t ever really certain when that nickname and the rumors had started, but she was mildly complacent about the nickname. She wasn’t one for making a false appearance for herself, or faking something just for the sake of it. Kaiden blinked just as the stranger finally stopped his assault on the bookshelf, and addressed her in a slightly confused way.

“I was very much alive last I checked, though that doesn’t stop the rumor mill from nicknames does it?” She replied flatly. “You have a brief moment to answer ‘Who?’, ‘How?’ and ‘What?’ in the simplest and most honest way you can before I start deciding consequences for this discovery.”

Kaiden didn’t have a lot of time. The meeting was soon and she liked sneaking into things ahead of time. She may have been able to manipulate time magic but she was disciplined and refused to abuse it in such a way. This stranger was going to have to wait on those consequences regardless of the answer he gave, though it did depend on the severity of the information she was about to be given. Right now she had to deal with this intrusion. Life apparently wanted to make something of Kaiden's earlier statement of 'waltzing into sight'.

[Sanctus]

Daisuke "Die"
Apprentice, Light
Everlastia, Female Dorm, Kaiden's Old Room
ARPer's: Saraibre Ryu

Kaiden had not even begun a verbal assault, indeed, her interrogation was quite tame given the nature of the situation, and yet he could tell she wasn't one to put up with nonsense. Die couldn't blame her for skipping pleasantries -- pleasant wasn't exactly the word to describe the terms of their meeting. And consequences? Perhaps she was less intimidating as a ghost. Nor could he understand her presence in what he considered to be Alabaster's room. For all he knew, she was just as uninvited as he was. That said, he recalled seeing her involved in crowd control earlier at the tree -- she probably had a valid explanation for her activities, whereas he had to admit he had very little if any justification for his reconnaissance mission.

"Please... can we sit and discuss things calmly? I nearly suffered a heart attack here. You kind of gave me the creeps," under ordinary circumstances Die was prone to be more respectful, but Die was curious about this new face and was approaching his opponent just as he would in battle: giving her some proverbial bait to feel out her style.

[FedoraChar]

Celeste Piper
Light, Apprentice
Everlastia, Healer’s Wing Comatose

Again: how many ways could keybladers find to hurt themselves?

Was he serious?

Celeste slapped his hand away before he could do himself any bodily harm. As interesting as it would be to watch, she wasn’t that heartless—nor would Master Siros be happy to hear about a patient going through such unnecessary pain.

“Don’t be an idiot. I wasn’t being serious.” She shook her head, turning away as she strode to the nearest cabinet. Calling over her shoulder, she continued, “You and Balt should both take it easier on each other; one of these days you’re going to kill each other.”

Returning with a flask of greenish liquid and a cup, she poured the one into the other and held it out. “There’s a difference between bravery and stupidity.”

“Dip your finger in this,” she commanded, swirling the solution. “It’ll dissolve the metal but not your flesh. Hope the ring didn’t mean much to you, but you should know better than to wear anything like that to a match with a metal-bender. I imagine he probably could have used it or, say, a belt-buckle to pin you to the ground.”

Baltiaire had told her a bit about their world, how people could manipulate the elements to their desire. Though it sounded incredible, Celeste could only imagine the chaos it would bring. These benders sounded like they could cause the same amount of trouble any Keyblader could.

((OOC: maybe might do something with Balt in a second))


*****


Chase Owens
Dark, Ex-Apprentice
Everlastia, Tree of Blessings Winter

Chase had been watching.

Perched atop the Great Hall in his raven form, he looked down at the crowds swarming around the Tree of Blessings. It had been interesting to observe their many different reactions—most were full of fear, some with caution… And of course, the few fools who believed that everything was just fine. None of these held much interest to Chase. Instead, he fixed his beady black eyes on a single pair of Apprentices.

That one had been an object of his interest for some time now. He usually trained away from the other students, and for good reason. Even from here, Chase could smell his darkness—strong but strange. Chase found it curious how it hadn’t devoured the boy yet, weak as he seemed. Most likely, it had to do with that nauseatingly bright girl he clung to all the time, but Chase wondered: what would happen if she was out of the picture?

What would happen, should that darkness be unleashed?

Chase wanted to draw it out, just to see. Seeing him standing before the blackened tree, quivering before it, it couldn’t be that difficult.

With the coming of the Masters, the crowds began to disperse, and the boy and the girl started to make their exit from the courtyard. Chase waited for them to distance themselves from the Masters before deciding to try something. Leaping from his perch, he flew over Kumori, letting his shadow pass over him—hoping to elicit a response from the boy’s darkness.

[Saraibre Ryu]

Kaiden 'Ghost/Spectre'
Seeker, Undecided
Everlastia, Female Dorm, Kaiden's Old Room
ARPer's: Sanctus

[All of Daisuke's part were written by Sanctus]

Kaiden only sighed. Sometimes it escaped her mind that she looked naturally intimidating when speaking in a straightforward fashion. She pushed her glasses back up on the bridge of her nose, putting her arms forward and holding either elbow in each of her hands. Time was not something she had as a necessity due to circumstances, but she needed answers and needed them quickly. The fact the stranger was honest about her being creepy she found interesting and yet redundant at the same time.

“Creepy? It can’t be that you did just state I was as of what I confirmed to be called around here…Though you wouldn’t be one if your heart really did stop.” She retorted, eyelids lowering a bit as if to say ‘really?’. “It’s a bit hypocritical to ask something that I’ve already given when you yourself seem incapable of it at this moment.”

The term ‘heart attack’ was a bit ironic in terms of those who associated themselves with Keyblades. Nevertheless, Kaiden needed to make this quick.

“Name, rank, and how did you get into this room?”

"Right... I did say you were a ghost. You got me. My name's Daisuke, though everyone calls me Die. D-I-E. I'm a mere apprentice. As for how I got into this room...? Well, I have a key and ordinarily you can just use one, kinda turn the nob, and doors open like that..." Die said, not wanting to rat out his friend Alabaster. "But what business do you have in Alabaster's room?"

Kaiden noted that this stranger was honest, and trying to be smart. Die? What kind of a nickname was that? Here she was being the one called Ghost and Spectre when this man seemed to just be asking for it. She wasn’t sure if the witty comment was something to be amused or annoyed by. She only raised an eye brow at him. Both became raised when she heard Alabaster’s name, and suddenly everything became much clearer. She brought a hand up to her nose again and furrowed her brow, sighing.

“Of course… Alabaster… This is not Alabaster’s room.” Kaiden claimed, removing her hand from her face. “This is my room. Is and was, I don’t use it often. Alabaster is not generous on details. I will suggest that you needed a place to store your literature?”

Kaiden knew which books were hers and which ones aren’t. Though memorizing every book you owned when most often they looked the same to others could have been considered an odd skill.

Die grabbed a clump of his hair with his left hand and started twisting it which constituted one of his thinking postures. Here he had gone out of his way to protect the moogle, but Alabaster had not so much as warned him that he might experience a sub-paranormal encounter. After he processed the irony briefly, he straightened his hair back up before it became knotted.

"Yeah... you know, I've been living in these small rooms for five years now. It can get a little crowded and I'm not very organized as it is. I really don't think I owe you an apology though, it's kind of Alabaster's fault," he said, grinning somewhat, as he began to tidy the fallen books. "I'll just ask, can I still keep my books here?"

Kaiden looked at Die for a moment and thought silently. She looked at the books and then at Die again. She concluded that his straight forwardness was not leaning on the annoying side of the spectrum. Alabaster was being his usual self and she would have a talk with him about it, after the meeting. She still had a bit of time left, and after scanning the rest of the room, she found nothing else was touched but the boy’s own belongings. She had ways of knowing there were to be snoops in her desks.

“It depends on what is done with the space granted, which I will need to rearrange in here. Either way, I will talk with Alabaster. You are to speak to me if you want entrance into this room from now on.” She told him. “After you’re finished Day, I’ll require you to make yourself absent as there are rules.”

After putting his books on the shelf Die turned back towards the thus far unnamed lady. He gave an informal bow of his head, his hands clasped together briefly, expressing his gratitude.

"I didn't actually catch your name. What should I call you?" Die asked.

Kaiden wasn't sure how to return his little bow, but acknowledged it regardless. As she was asked about what to be called, she turned and looked in her desk for the one object she came in here for: a small bracelet with a piece of clear quartz, polished and flawless wrapped in wire and tied together in soft cord. After making sure the magic was still fully functional within the object, she answered.

"You called me Ghost earlier. That seems to be a lingering name, so Ghost is fine. I do prefer Spectre a bit more, but either or will do." She calmly explained. "you best make yourself vacant before you run into any further unwanted consequences for your actions."

[Winter]

Kokoro Maimi and Kumori
Apprentices, Light
Everlastia, Keyblade Guild, Tree of Blessings
ARPers: FedoraChar (?)

People were starting to leave the tree behind, Kokoro noted as other guild members drifted past herself and Kumori, who still hadn't let go of her. "...So your reaction earlier, Ku," she started, but was cut off as two things happened.

First, the shadow of a bird passed overhead.

Then Kumori jerked her to a halt as he promptly froze.

"Kumori?" Kokoro attempted to turn to look at him, but couldn't. His arms had become vices, holding her perfectly in place. "Kumori, Ku, talk to me," she insisted, "please, what's wrong?"

Unfortunately, Kumori couldn't hear her. Had Kokoro been able to see his face, she'd have known that immediately. Instead of his mind being focused on the outer world, it had turned inward, trying to contain the chaos that had completely exploded within. He didn't even know what had triggered it--he'd seen a flash of darkness as some kind of bird passed overhead, and then suddenly his mind was in shambles.

Something about that bird sang to his darker side, and it had reacted, attempting to claw its way to the surface to get closer to it. Kumori, on the other hand, was struggling to keep it at bay, a task that required his full concentration to remove every foothold it might be able to reach.

"Let. Me. OUT!" his darker half screamed within the confines of their shared mind. Kumori's entire body tensed so hard it trembled.

"...please, Ku, you're scaring me..." Kokoro's voice seemed to drift in like snatches of piano heard through a door across the hall.

"She'll be the first to go, I swear it," the voice hissed, however instead of making his control shatter, Kumori's resolve to keep the voice at bay strengthened. He couldn't let it out, couldn't let it hurt Kokoro.

But he also couldn't let Kokoro know what was going on.

[[Desolate Divine]]

Frago
Undecided Final Year Apprentice
Infirmary

"Geez some healer you are." I said, slightly annoyed, slightly relieved, "Telling patients you can't help them, especially when that is believable."

I dipped my finger in the solution and the ring soon dissolved away.

"As for not wearing metal to a fight him with, by that logic, lets just throw away my armour and keyblade, because if he wants to, he could bend them as well." I said as I rubbed my finger and shook my hand, trying to get some bloodflow, "So far nothing decent has come out of his metalbending."

[Sanctus]

Daisuke "Die"
Apprentice, Light
Everlastia, Female Dorm, Kaiden's Old Room
ARPer's: Saraibre Ryu

The metaphorical flame of Die's social inquiries were sufficiently doused by the lady's haste, though he had to acknowledge the wisdom in her words. He had only managed to acquire her nickname whereas Die had disclosed his name, rank, and business, but he had to grant that she was more entitled to the information. Moreover, he had not yet retrieved a book which was the principle cause of his dorm prying. Yet under the circumstances the unexpected advent of the true dorm owner was enough to justify his otherwise wasted afternoon.

"Further unwanted consequences? I don't want to learn what exactly you mean by that..." Die approached the exit and opened the door. He turned back towards Spectre for his last words.

"It was nice to meet you. Maybe next time will be somewhat more convenient for the both of us. Tell Alabaster I said thanks for setting me up." With those words Die left the room and female dormitory, conserving his curiosity and questioning for a future encounter.

[FedoraChar]

((Again, sorry for the delay, guys! ^^'))


Chase Owens
Dark, ex-Apprentice
Everlastia, Keyblade Guild, Tree of Blessings


He felt the darkness rise… and it was satisfying. So close to breaking out, so close, and yet… It was not time, yet. But perhaps, in the future…

Chase would very much like to see what would happen if that darkness was unleashed. For now, he was needed elsewhere. Turning direction, the crow flapped towards the Elder’s Tower.

He had been summoned.

_____


Celeste Piper
Light, Apprentice
Everlastia, Keyblade Guild, Healer’s Wing @Comatose


((OOC: Quick note, actually—I don’t think that Balt should actually be able to metal-bend keyblades (except for his own), because… I’m not actually sure what they’re made of xD))

The healer’s apprentice felt a sharp pang of anger at Frago’s response, irritated at the insult to her training. Somewhere in her mind, however, a part of her wondered why she was acting like this. It wasn’t as if Frago had done anything wrong—sure, he was arrogant and rude, but he was a patient just the same as anyone else who came into infirmary. As a healer, she was supposed to set aside differences and do her job. What was her problem?

Still, she wasn’t about to admit her faults. With a derisive snort, she said, “And here I thought you didn’t take anything seriously.”

Taking a deep breath, she said with forced civility (though still with a slight edge to her voice), “Balt can’t bend any keyblades other than his own, you know that…” Putting a cork back into the solution, she walked it back to her cabinet. “I’ve heard that there’s a world out there with a type of magic like metal-bending. The magicians there actually gain their powers from different types of metal—some allowing them to push and pull metal objects away or towards themselves. Because of that ability, the ordinary soldiers there avoid wearing any kind of metal, and fight with wooden canes instead of swords or guns.”

Turning back to Frago, she finished, “But that’s just what I heard. Now, about your shoul—”

The doors to the infirmary swung open with great force. Celeste glanced over to see a group of dark-clad Keyblade wielders storm down the aisle towards them, led by a man she quickly recognized as an Elder.

Stunned by their dramatic entrance, she remained frozen to the spot until the Elder reached her.

“E-elder Theron,” she finally stuttered out. “What…?”

The gray-haired man gave her a weary look. “How are they?”

She blinked. “Th-they?”

He sighed, but not impatiently. In a kinder tone, he asked, “Where is your Master?”

“He’s…” she started, glancing over her shoulder. The door to Siros’ study was open, and through it she could see a hustle of activity. But hadn’t the Master been…?

Following her gaze, Theron noticed the open door and headed towards it without another word, his group of soldiers following obediently. Celeste remained rooted in place, a sick feeling in her stomach. The Elders rarely had any reason to visit the Healer’s Wing. Not unless…

Frago forgotten, Celeste followed the Elder. Inside, she found her Master’s office completely rearranged. His desk and dummies had been shoved away to make room for a pair of cots. In one was a young man she did not recognize, terribly wounded and half-conscious. The other…

Her hand shot up to her mouth.

Embry.

_____


Rush Peterson
Light, Recruit
Everlastia, Courtyard Winter

Rush walked dejectedly towards the Mess Hall, ignoring the sight of the Tree of Blessings the best he could. As he began putting distance between him and the other apprentices, a shadow passed over his head. A deep chill ran up his shoulders, and he looked up to see a crow flying overhead. Though apparently common in other worlds, the boy couldn’t help but think how strange they looked. Although something about this one…

He let his gaze drop, but as he did, he caught sight of the two students he had talked to earlier—and something was terribly wrong. The boy’s back was to him, but he could see the girl’s face… and she looked terrified.

An inner instinct kicked in, and Rush found himself racing back to the duo. He had no idea what he planned on doing; the girl had dismissed his earlier offer, and probably for good reason. Still, some part of him wouldn’t let him turn a blind eye to this. He had to something.

Reaching them, he could finally see the state of the boy—his body was tense, his eyes far away though fiercely concentrated. He held onto the girl tightly, so much that he had to be hurting her.

“Hey,” Without thinking, Rush jumped in and grabbed Kumori’s arm, ready to wrest it free from the girl. Immediately, an electric jolt through him—like what he had felt when he saw the Tree. His breath caught in throat, and he quickly released him.

What… what was that?






*******






Vanessa Garrick
Dark, Master
Everlastia, Dungeon Cell (Beneath the Elder’s Tower)
Affected RPers: Everyone, kinda xD


A vicious smile wormed its way onto her porcelain face, twisting its natural beauty into something both unnatural and enchanting. She had her back turned to the wall, away from the door that separated her from the rest of the Keyblade Guild. On either side, guards stood impassively by. All were Masters of notable rank, some that Vanessa had known years ago, but all did their best to ignore or avoid her attentions.

Vanessa knew, however, that they were greatly intimidated by her.

She happily kept this knowledge to herself as she tried to find a way to occupy herself. Quickly after that blasted Drysten had brought them back to Everlastia, the Elders saw fit to imprison the female Master in this dreary prison cell beneath their Tower. Here, she had remained, and would stay until some “emergency meeting” was called forth. Unwittingly, however, the Elders had sentenced her to an hour of complete boredom.

Truthfully, Vanessa was entirely capable of escaping. She wouldn’t even need to bat an eye to use her Dark powers to create a path out of these dingy accommodations. Yet she wasn’t quite done with her work here. Not yet. Besides, why would she miss out on an opportunity to say goodbye to her old teachers?

Heaving a sigh, Vanessa sat down on the miserably cold floor and folded her legs in front of her. Time probably would have gone by faster if she had some way to occupy herself while she waited. Too bad her guards weren’t interesting enough to talk to.

What was taking the blasted creature so long? He should know better than to keep her waiting, especially on an occasion like this. She hoped he wasn’t taking the time to grab a quick meal, as she knew plenty well it was lunchtime at the Guild. But then again… did that thing need to eat at all?

A flicker of movement out of the corner of her eye gave her pause. She turned in time to see a vermin crawl into her cell from a hole in the corner. Twitching its long whiskers, it looked up at her forlornly with beady eyes.

Vanessa couldn’t help but curl her lip in disgust. Did he have to come to her in that repulsive form? Though she admitted that Chase’s shape-shifting abilities were useful, she could never understand why he had chosen such a… distasteful appearance. Rats, as far as she was concerned, were the most vile creatures to ever grace the cosmos.

Well, at least he was finally here.

Fighting back the impulse to cringe, Vanessa turned to the guards and raised a hand. She grinned as she saw them tighten their hold on their precious Keyblades, but after she uttered one word—“Sleep”—their eyes glazed over and their weapons disappeared in a weak flash of light. With another wave of her hand, a barrier of writhing shadows blocked their side of the door, ensuring that no one would interfere with her private meeting.

When she turned back around, she wasn’t surprised to see that the rat had been replaced with a pale nineteen-year-old. A dark leather jacket decorated with silver studs and spikes hung over his thin frame, a complete fashion disaster in Vanessa’s humble opinion. If she had been in any other situation, she would have been loath to work with the boy, but desperate times call for desperate measures.

“About time you showed up, Mr. Owens,” the raven-haired woman patted her hands together as if shaking them of dust. “I was absolutely bored to tears down here.”

Chase dipped his head in acknowledgement, but said nothing in return. He waited patiently for the Master to continue, not looking particularly interested or disinterested for the reasons of his summoning. Vanessa frowned inwardly, wondering to herself if there was some way to unlock those lips which were usually sealed so tightly. The Keyblade could unlock many a great thing, but it seemed unfortunate that it could not unlock the secret to Chase’s speech.

“Well, let’s cut to the chase, then,” she cleared her throat, ignoring the pun she had unintentionally made. With another wave of her arm, darkness boiled up from the ground, solidifying to the point that Vanessa could sit on it like a queen on a throne of shadows. Crossing her legs one over the other, she continued, “You’re probably wondering how I got here—no, I take that back. You’re probably not, actually, but I’m going to tell you why anyway. I may or may not have been a little careless in the last world I visited, so when it became clear that I could not keep my cover any longer, I decided to perform an assortment of… experiments.”

Vanessa grinned impishly as she snapped her fingers. In an instant, her Keyblade appeared with the air around it cackling as if charged with electricity. Its blackened edges gleamed with a purple sheen, illuminated by the glowing sphere imbedded in the end of the blade. If Chase was surprised by its altered shape, he didn’t show it. However, he seemed to stare at it with curiosity—if the look could be taken for curiosity.

Vanessa waited to see if he would venture a question, but when she could no longer contain herself, she explained, “You are looking at a very rare Keyblade, Chase; one that needs special… requirements in order to create.”

She ran her finger down the shaft, towards the teeth that encased the sphere. It might have been her imagination, but she could faintly hear a muffled scream. A familiar scream—the very same one that she must have heard earlier that day. The raven-haired woman chuckled.

“I’ve decided to name it ‘Hope’s Destruction’, for now. It’s got a pleasant ring to it, wouldn’t you agree?” she held it out proudly, talking more to herself now than to Chase. “At any rate, this Keyblade gives me some unique powers which I think will be most useful for our cause… Though it seems that I will be unable to operate within the Guild anymore, given the circumstances of its forging.”

Chase cocked his head in an almost animal-like motion, though he still didn’t offer any questions.

Vanessa continued, practically talking to herself at this point, “I might have gotten away with it, were it not for that dratted pet of the Elders’. As soon as lunch is over, they’ll have me examined in court, but I don’t intend to stay much longer than the trial. But I’ll warn you now—I will be testing this weapon before I leave, and I expect it shall leave the Guild in chaos. You and the other Darklings might want to lie low for a while.”

“So you’re running away,” Chase finally spoke, his breathy voice catching Vanessa off guard. She blinked at him in surprise, though the young man remained oddly vacant.

She finally allowed herself a scoffing laugh. “Running away? What do you take me for? Of course I am not running away. I simply need time away to revise my tactics. Getting caught certainly put a stickler in our plans, but I still expect them to move forward. Which brings me to back to the reason I summoned you.”

Vanessa snapped her fingers again. Hope’s Destruction disappeared into thin air, replaced by something square and blocky wrapped in a silky-black material. With a sly smile, she snagged the item from the air and passed it to Chase. He stared at her a moment before accepting the package, but once he took it in his hands, he unraveled the silk.

“The Circle gave this to me as an assignment, but seeing as I will no longer be able to, would you be a dear and pass it along to Master Kain?”

Chase studied the object. It was a book, plain by any other standards, yet by the weight and thick binding he understood its nature. He was holding a World Book.

“The plan remains unchanged,” Vanessa told him. “Continue the work you are doing. Now you better get going, Mr. Owens. I can’t hold this spell for too long without drawing unwanted attention.”

His eyes flickered back to her, and he nodded. With a flurry of shadows, he skittered away in his rodent form, leaving a grinning Vanessa to her design.

[Winter]

Kokoro Maimi and Kumori
Apprentices, Light
Everlastia, Keyblade Guild, Courtyard
ARPers: FedoraChar

"Hey," Kokoro heard someone start, and she turned her head in time to see the boy from earlier reach out to touch Kumori. She opened her mouth to warn the boy not to do so, but it was too late--as he came into contact with her partner, Kokoro saw the boy's face change a moment before he practically jerked away. Kokoro winced--this was the last thing she needed right now, it was the last thing Kumori needed right now.

"Don't touch him again," she said, and she hated how sharp the words came out, particularly since the boy didn't seem keen on touching Kumori again anyway, but she couldn't take the risk. Instead, she went for the last trick up her sleeves.

Usually, she didn't need to use it, Kumori had rarely become that far gone. Initially, she'd unknowingly discovered the trick some years back, when he'd had a particularly bad night sleeping. Upon coming to Masters Xin and Xaya, the two had been surprised she had managed it, but quickly seemed to become convinced it only made their decision to take on both of them worth it. Something about transfers and bonds, but that was almost every lesson Xin and Xaya taught them. They were to be opposite halves of a whole, reliant on each other because they were much stronger together than they could ever be apart.

Forcing herself to stop panicking, Kokoro let out a deep breath before trying to release the tension from her body. Kumori still held onto her silently, arms holding her in place. Wherever his mind had gone, it was clearly far away if he hadn't responded to her. She tried not to let this worry her. Instead, she focused on memories--old, good memories, memories made before everything in the world had gone wrong--and she focused on hope and kindness.

All Kumori knew was that one minute he was battling his inner demon, and the next it was hissing and withdrawing its hold over him. "One day, one day," it whispered as it went, "and she'll be the first to go."

But not today, Kumori thought in reply, returning his thoughts outward. He came back to himself with a jerk and a gasp, as though he had been holding his breath the entire time, and realized immediately he had trapped Kokoro in his arms. He let go and stepped away quickly, ducking his head and practically whimpering an apology. Of course, he quickly noticed two pairs of shoes in front of him instead of one.

They had had an audience.

He shifted closer to Kokoro again--he vaguely recognized the boy, possibly as the one that had run into he and Kokoro not to long before, but his memory of the meeting was fuzzy, except for the feel of the girl's hands on his jacket. "...I..." he started slowly, but Kokoro shook her head.

"Try not to wander so far away that I have to call you back," his partner told him softly, though there was no anger there, only worry. Kokoro may not have known what was going on entirely, he was too afraid to tell her, however she did know that sometimes his mind wandered in strange places, and those places were far from safe. Sometimes he came back as someone else if they weren't careful, and that someone else wasn't very nice.

"I always do. I don't know what happened that time... One minute I was just worried, and the next... I don't know." Kumori shook his head, biting his lip. He knew he couldn't lie to Kokoro, but it seemed Truth Seeker permitted not telling the entire truth, so long as what you said was the truth.

Glancing around, Kokoro noticed that people had gathered, and she took Kumori's arm before turning her attention to the boy. "You should probably come with us," she told him quietly before starting to tug Kumori towards the boy's dorm again.

Synna Bard (and Master Astrid Kain)
Dark, Apprentice
Everlastia, Keyblade Guild, Underground Training Space
ARPers: FedoraChar (?)

Another snap rang through the dimness of the training space, and Synna fought back the urge to swear as more shadow constructs stepped into the ring. A glance up told her Master Astrid wasn't even looking at her now--they had been at this for days. Synna still didn't know what she was supposed to be accomplishing, other than mowing them down as quickly as possible.

The Elders or any other Master would have had a fit if they had seen Astrid's personal training space. She claimed it had once been a storage space, however it had been cleared at her request because of her Apprentice's knack for fire magic. After all, no one wanted the forest burnt down in an accident, and she wanted a personal place to train. At least, that was what she told the Elders. As such, it sported stone walls and floors, as well as a single metal storm door set in the ceiling for entry and exit. When training, that door remained closed and locked. Master Astrid claimed she had spells set to alert her of someone's approach as well, but Synna wasn't entirely sure about the truth behind that one. The only thing in the room that appeared to suggest it was used for training was what appeared to be a large chalk circle. What it was actually made of, or supposed to do, she still didn't know.

The light in the room was provided by a few balls of electricity hovering near the ceiling, courtesy of Master Astrid. She had tried having Synna provide the light in the room, but the flames she produced had a tendency to go out while her thoughts were focused on fighting--there had even been a few occasions in which she had subconsciously tried to use them as weapons. Eventually the other woman had taken it upon herself to provide the room's lighting instead. As such, the space seemed to be filled with flickering and pulsing that Synna still hadn't entirely gotten used to. This fact was pushed to the side as one of the six constructs that had been summoned lunged for her.

Synna tightened her grip on Grimoire before lunging as well, meeting the creature with ease. She was tired from the last round, but refused to show it--she had to prove that Master Astrid hadn't made a mistake in choosing her as an Apprentice, that she could be the best.

She didn't even get a second blow before the construct she had been fighting and the five others disappeared. "What--" she started, but she was interrupted.

"Aero," the other woman whispered, and the circle on the floor disappeared as a strong wind tore through the room. Only when this was done did she provide an explanation. "Drill through fire magic, from basic Fira techniques to more complex Firaga techniques. Something tells me we are due a visitor soon, and it's nearing the end of lunch anyway. Our little friend who caused the the incident with the tree is going on trial."

So that was what that other Master had pulled Master Astrid aside to tell her earlier--they had been waiting by her training room door when they got there, but that was a small detail compared to what Master Astrid had just told her. Another dark wielder was going on trial--this was what happened when you got caught. Synna gave her a nod before starting up a battle with imaginary enemies, summoning up fire to defeat a good many of them.

This was just getting more and more interesting.

[[Desolate Divine]]

Baltiaire
Light Final Year Apprentice
Infirmary
Affected RPers: FedoraChar

After finding myself bored in the mess hall, I decided to visit the infirmary and see how Celeste was doing, as well as to bask in my victory over Frago. I made my way to the infirmary and saw the usual. Sick and injured people. Over one end, I saw my brother sitting on one of the benches shirtless. The ring was gone, but his shoulder still was dislocated. Celeste was nowhere to be seen.

I walked over to Frago, who didn't look very pleased to see me. As I got closer, I saw what he was doing. He was trying to put his shoulder back into place, however every time he felt a bit of pain he would pull back. I walked over to him. The chance to justifiably put him into a little bit of pain was too rare to let slip by.

"Think quick." I said to him. Before he could respond, I grabbed his arm and pulled it back into place. I felt it click as Frago screamed.

"F***!" Frago screamed, before punching me with his now properly located arm.

"You're welcome." I replied, "Anyway, where is Celeste?"

"In the office." Frago replied shortly, "She went in there after she almost had me melt the ring off my finger."

I couldn't help but laugh. "Only you would think to melt a ring off your own finger."

Out of habit, I checked my watch. It was one of a kind from an inventor in Ba Sing Se. Instead of the time, it showed which day of the Lunar Cycle it was, making it perfect for tracking the date. I usually checked it frequently. However today was different. 23rd day of the second month of summer. Though my world didn't use the same dating system as here, the watch made it possible to track the date back home.

"Today is it." I said solemnly, "The day Mum and Dad died."

Frago suddenly turned silent. I knew that it would hit him hard. Him and Dad were especially close, both being Firebenders.

"Just thought you should know." I said quietly. Any cockiness I had from beating him was now gone.

"No, it's fine." Frago said, "When was the last time we visited them?"

"Hell, I can't even remember." I replied, "Now would be a good time to visit, if the world books weren't off limits. What the hell is even going on with the Tree of Blessings anyway?"

"I don't know. But I reckon we can get a World Book if we tried. Off limits just means that we can't go about it normally." Frago said, "Leave it to me."

Before I could say anything, Frago jumped up, grabbing his shirt, and walked towards the door.

"Don't do anything stupid." I said, knowing that he wouldn't listen. Truth be told, I was kind of hoping he would do something stupid. At least if he did, we could go visit. I knew that it was somewhat stupid of me to want to do it, but I couldn't help but feel bad at how long it had been since we visited their graves.

I sat on one of the chairs, as I waited for Celeste, trying to listen in to the commotion in the office.

[FedoraChar]

Rush Peterson
Light, Recruit
Everlastia, Courtyard Winter



Rush was still trying to figure out what happened when the girl sharply reprimanded him. He flinched at her words, though felt more confused than ever. What had he done wrong? What was even going on between these two? Baffled as he was, he could only watch on in dumbfounded silence as the girl held on to the boy, taking a deep breath and concentrating hard on him.

In time, the boy seemed to snap out of whatever spell had seized him. Seeming to realize what he was doing, the boy released the girl and took a step backwards. The two muttered an exchange Rush didn’t really follow, though the girl spoke gently—not at all scared or angry.

To Rush’s surprise, the girl turned back to him and said, “You should probably come with us.”

He blinked a few times before realizing that others had been looking on. Lunch was coming to a conclusion, and many students were wandering into the courtyard while their Masters gathered for the trial. Feeling a bit embaressed (and still a heck of a lot confused), he obediently followed after—not really knowing what else to do. Still, walking awkwardly beside the duo, he felt as if he should say something. Problem was, he didn’t know whether he should apologize or what.

Eventually, he stuttered out, “I… I thought he was…”

He couldn’t quite bring himself to finish: I thought he was going to hurt you.




Chase Owens
Dark, ex-Apprentice
Everlastia, Underground Winter

It pleased Chase to remain in rodent form. Not only was it convenient for slipping into the secret passages of the Guild’s underground, it made him nearly invisible. Most would overlook his inconsequential size; others wouldn’t think to give a vermin a passing glance. None would think that a rat would be watching and listening to everything he did.

It was in this small form that the shadows welcomed him most.

Granted, there were a few small spells that even a rat couldn’t slip past—and Master Kain had a few of these up and around her secret training facility. At the very least, he wouldn’t have to knock.

Slipping into the room the way only vermin would know, Chase fell from the ceiling onto the floor, landing as a man. The shadowy fallout from his transformation billowed out from his body like a cloud of smoke, snuffing out Synna’s last fire spell.

Chase straightened, looking across the room at Master Kain without saying a word.



Celeste Piper
Light, Apprentice
Everlastia, Infirmary Comatose


Embry. Celeste couldn’t believe it. Here was one of her friends—one of the first she had ever met in the guild. Despite being younger, the dark-haired girl was a capable Keyblader, being skilled in magic with a profound sensitivity to light and darkness. Celeste hadn’t seen much of her since she became apprenticed to Master Siros, though they had a brief conversation just the other day. Embry had been chosen for a keyhole quest, and she was supposed to be exploring a new world with her Master, Vanessa, and a fledgling Master.

She had been happy—excited, even.

“What… what happened?” Celeste stuttered out.

The others in Siros’ office finally took note of her, glancing up with startled expressions. Siros, however, looked irritated.

“Celeste,” he growled with forced patience. “Leave this office immediately.”

She shook her head, “No, I—”

“You’re too close to this situation, Celeste. You have a history of letting your emotions interfere with your work. I will not have you in here. Leave, now.”

“But she’s my friend!” Celeste raised her voice. “I can—”

“Celeste Piper,” a soft voice interrupted her. She turned to see the gray face of Elder Theron staring at her solemnly. “You should listen to your Master. This is a matter that concerns the Council.”

Celeste was shaking now, her horror completely replaced by anger. “She’s my friend,” she reaffirmed, tone flat. “I have a right to know what happened to her.”

“You are an Apprentice,” Siros scowled right back at her, “and if you do not listen to your Master’s orders, you will be subject to disciplinary measures.”

The healer’s apprentice opened her mouth, but a hand on her shoulder cut her off. She looked up to see one of the black-cloaks holding her firmly. Though he said nothing, the look in his eyes told her that he would intervene, if he had to. Celeste wrested herself from his grip, but stayed in place, giving the inpatients another glance. Looking over the young man’s injuries, she finally noticed the tell-tale signs: his wounds were caused by dark magic.

“You are dismissed for the rest of the day,” said Siros.

She shot a glare in her Master’s direction. Turning on her heels, she made to leave, though the black-cloak had one last word with her:

“Tell no one what you saw here,” his deep voice echoed out from beneath his hood.

Celeste shook him off again, her sharp-as-knives glare never faltering. Slamming the door behind her, she stormed out of the office into the quiet infirmary. Halfway down the aisle, she stopped—and let out a scream of frustration, hardly realizing that someone else was still there.

[Winter]

Kokoro Maimi and Kumori
Apprentices, Light
Everlastia, Keyblade Guild, Courtyard
ARPers: FedoraChar

“I… I thought he was…” Kokoro heard the boy speak up, and Kumori stiffened. Clearly the boy was embarrassed, however he didn't need to say everything. His earlier actions and tone now made it clear.

"I would never," Kumori started quietly, but the words were surprisingly resolute, "hurt Kokoro." In the back of his head, his other half chuckled.

"But I would," he flinched at the mental words, and Kokoro shot him a look of concern.

"I'm sure it looked questionable," Kokoro replied, looking back at Rush, "but Kumori..." The girl stopped, shaking her head before looking back to her partner. "We all have our demons. Kumori's like to torment him more than most, but we're old friends. I'm used to it, and I know he wouldn't hurt me." The boy stumbled but caught himself before he could fall. Kokoro shot him another look, but Kumori gave her a shy smile.

"You always were better with words than I was," he answered. Kokoro laughed in reply before looking to Rush again.

"We're not...normal. We won't claim to be, and we're not trained to be. We're just...we're a team, two halves of the same whole. We trust each other, and that trust has never been misplaced," she said, flashing a brilliant smile.

Synna Bard (and Master Astrid Kain)
Dark, Apprentice
Everlastia, Keyblade Guild, Underground Training Space
ARPers: FedoraChar

Their visitor dropped from the ceiling without warning, and halfway between his point of entry and the floor, what Synna had thought was a rat morphed into the figure of a man. Shapeshifting? Synna hadn't seen shapeshifting magic in years, not since she'd been studying under Wizard Arthur in Ingary.

Whatever spell he had used produced a puff of smoke in its wake, and Synna allowed it to choke out the fire spell she had been in the middle of using. The new arrival didn't speak, instead he looked across the room at Master Astrid, who was now staring back at him.

"It would have killed you to have actually used the door, wouldn't it, Mr. Owens?" The question fell a bit flat, and there was an obvious note of annoyance in the woman's voice. Master Astrid prized professionalism above all else, Synna knew, and that was why they got along. It was also why Master Astrid got along with very few others.

Finally, she broke her glare to adjust the pair of wire frame glasses perched on her nose. "Regardless, you would not have come here without reason. I can take a guess at who sent you, but frankly, I'm more interested in why." Synna looked back and forth between the two warily. Master Astrid's displeased tone had faded to one of polite interest, but the Apprentice could tell she wasn't happy.

[[Desolate Divine]]

We PMed this conversation to spare you guys.

Baltiaire
Light Final Year Apprentice
Infirmary
Affected RPers: @FedoraChar

Celeste emerged from the office, but something was wrong. She wasn't herself. I watched as she let out a scream of frustration (really wish I could have said something else but it is too early for me to articulate), and stood up.

"What's up?" I asked her as I walked over, "And don't say nothing. Any idiot could tell that's not the case."


Celeste jumped at the unexpected voice, though she eased slightly when she saw its owner. "Balt?" She blinked in a moment of confusion. "What are you doing here?"

Then she remembered: Frago. She glanced around, but didn't see the other twin anywhere. Truthfully, she felt a little relieved that he had left. Finally answering Baltiaire's question, she grumbled, "Everything. Let's just get out of here."

Without waiting for his reply, she stormed out of the infirmary.


"I figured you could use some company, especially if dealing with Frago." I said, "Somewhat my fault you have to deal with him so figured I owe you that much."

Celeste walked out, so I jogged to catch up.

"So seriously, whats got you down?"


Right--their sparring match. Celeste wanted to congratulate him on his win, but her thoughts and her emotions were all over the place. The more distance she got between her and the Healer's Wing, the more the anger ebbed away--only to be replaced with worry and confusion. Only when they reached the doors to the Great Hall did she slow down. Blatantly ignoring the order the black-cloak had given her, she was ready to tell Baltiaire everything she had seen.

"Something happened," she said, keeping her voice low. "They brought two people into the Wing--and one's marked up with Dark magic. The other... The other is an old friend of mine, and she's... she was unconscious, and..." She shook her head, trying to regain some control of her emotions. As her thoughts turned to her Master, however, her anger made a reappearance.

"I don't know. No one would tell me what was going on. I wanted to help, but Siros told me to leave. And he's just so..." She let out another growl of frustration. "I hate it. I hate being here."

She took a minute to breath. Realizing she had been ranting, she tried to collect herself. "Sorry," she muttered. "I... have a lot on my plate right now."



(As a side note, I feel awful that Celeste is ranting about all this stuff but has no idea what day it is for these guys xD/Dx Also, also, no worries about what you said earlier--you can edit your parts as you like before posting this ^^)


"Dark Magic?" I said, "How did they get involved in that? I mean, isn't Dark Magic strictly controlled around here?"

Though I had been at the guild for a few years, there were still things I didn't quite understand. Knowing that your world is one of many, and is one of the least technologically advanced kinda makes a person feel small.

I looked at the watch again, and tried to dismiss the thought of my parents.

"Come on, lets find somewhere to sit down." I said, trying to take her mind off it. Without realizing I looked at the watch again.


Celeste nodded numbly, then let Baltiaire lead her. Having vented some of her frustrations, she finally took the time to think about the situation in the Healer's Wing--how would those two have gotten mixed up with Dark magic?

"Something... or someone attacked them," she hazarded a guess. "Not a Heartless--they don't cause burns, like what I saw. And... Elder Theron was there. The Elders hardly ever come to the Healer's Wing, unless it's urgent."

This is a matter that concerns the Council, he had said. Celeste frowned. Where was Vanessa in all this?

She glanced back at Baltiaire, and noticed him glancing at his watch. "Sorry, do you have someplace to be?"


I wanted to say something but didn't know what. Then Celeste asked if I had somewhere to be.

"It's nothing..." I said, before realising she would see through the lie, and pursue it until I broke. "It's just... It's the anniversary of my parents death."


"The anniversary of..." Celeste slammed her hand into her face. "Gads, I'm an idiot. Balt, I'm so sorry. I shouldn't be bothering you with this..."


"Don't be." I said, "They're gone. I did what had to be done. Moping about it isn't going to bring them back."

I paused, trying to think.

"I just wish I could visit them sometime." I said, "But the world books are off limits."


Celeste fell silent, not quiet knowing what to say. In a way, she had lost both of her parents--though not quite in the same way. She never cared for her mother; in her eyes, she had been a coward to leave her family. Her father, however... They had been close, especially since, for the longest time, it felt like it was him and her against the world. He was gone, but he wasn't dead (or so, Celeste firmly believed). Celeste knew she could never relate to what Balt and Frago had to go through.

Having not known about the temporary ban on World books, she innocently said, "We could get something arranged, couldn't we? Maybe your Master or..." she paused, knowing her Master would never support the idea. "...Or an instructor or someone could borrow it for us?"




((You could probably go ahead and post this if you'd like--Sabi's character might do something with this conversation ;) ))

[Saraibre Ryu]

Kaiden, AKA Ghost/Spectre
Seeker, ???
Keyblade Guild, Female Dorm -> Healer's Wing
ARPer's: None directly, though this indirectly affects Comatose and FedoraChar

Kaiden said nothing more to Die, she had work to do. While she left the stranger's book's be, she shuffled through her own and reorganized them, clearing space on her desk enough to find a compartment. In that compartment was a particular wrist cuff with a clear quartz gemstone in a silver setting. Snapping it onto her left arm, she adjusted her glasses on her face with her free hand before bringing her scarf around her mouth and just over the tip of her nose.

Kaiden inhaled, and exhaled. She heard nothing while the scarf was over her mouth. Luckily for her, she was able to have some specially made equipment, courtesy of Alabaster. Melding magic to physical objects was one of his many talents, and thankfully having Silence fused with her scarf just made her task all the much more easier. Now it was time for the gem sewn cuff to do its job.

Evanesce.

Kaiden was a rather skilled mage, and few had mastered the task of being able to cast spells without verbal audio. She was one of them, as it helped when your opponent didn't know what kind of magic was about to come at them, though most people didn't have the reaction time to properly counter; only to dodge or deflect. As Kaiden walked back towards the door, her body became transluscent, and began to fade away. As she met the door frame, and muttered one more thought of a Warp spell, her body's appearance had become one with the air. She was now completely invisible. While the Seeker knew this only hung more weight on her spiritual reputation, she didn't much care. Stealth was one of her forte's, as if people couldn't see her coming while she was visible, this would ensure absolute secrecy.

Her steps were ever more silent as she paced briskly towards the great hall, knowing her presence would be required by Theron and unknown to everyone else. Kaiden preferred this method of work above all others. Anyone who happened to pass or nearly bump into her would only feel a slight breeze or a soft touch of fabric. Kaiden would not admit to seeing how far she could get away with contact while unseen, and she was not in her right mind to do so in the future.

As the Seeker almost floated through crowds, she meandered slowly towards where a trial was about to be held. Normally she would arrive obnoxiously early and take note of everyone's seating habits before anything started, but something else caught her eye. Masters and Theron were walking towards the one place in the Guild she had least expected them to rush down to.

'The Healer's Wing...?'

Not needing to walk back to the Great Hall, as a quick warp spell would suffice for catch up, she briskly dashed to the Guild's medical facilities, a place she had seldom been. Kaiden walked past, seeing a couple of boys that had no doubt thought a bit too much of themselves, as well as a distraught looking healer. She listened to the group speak just outside the doors, sauntering just behind them. By the sounds of it, there were two admitted to the wing, and it had Theron and his people in a tiff about it. Whoever the girl's friend was, she was badly injured.


Kaiden processed the information; first the tree, and now this girl. Someone was trying to send a message, someone was boasting and she did not like it. Be it an ego or a warning, someone was trying to show off power, induce fear and panic. She wasn't sure on what level, but she would soon find out. Kaiden would have left immediately, if it wasn't for someone mentioning getting a book.

When it came to books, one could say Kaiden may have been a bit of an over protective parent when it came to them. If there was a tear, Kaiden would fix it, and bad luck would come upon the person who did it, so long as it was intentional. Mistreatment meant a regular habit of the sharpest paper cuts, and all graffiti and vandalism was greeted with a swift bit of karma. While she was around, no one would step, kick, damage, mistreat or use a book for anything other than what books were used for. Especially the world books of all things. If someone so much as sneezed on one, Kaiden would promptly educate them on lifting their arm up to cover their splay of germs.

However this time was different. Upon listening more, the intent was not a malicious one.

'A funeral anniversary? That's hardly a mischievous cause, but being caught without permission will render any reasoning of good will invalid. Still, it would be amusing to see them try.'

Kaiden would have to think more on it later, right now, she had other snooping to do.

Moving back towards the healers wing, the Seeker slipped through the sparsely open doors, making no noise and no commotion. She had a feeling she knew where the Elders had gone, and it was time to live up to her nickname. Upon reaching the door, she noticed it was closed, but not locked. Going through it normally would prompt attention she didn't need, but Kaiden merely scoffed in thought at the door.

She thought for a moment, and blinked.

Kaiden, now on the other side of the door, fitted herself into a corner, making sure to not even brush the side of an Elder's cloak, for the paranoia in stealthy action was at an all time high. Side stepping everyone silently, she looked between the biggest gap of Elders, peering at the two injured down below. Kaiden examined the one with the dark burns carefully, while comparing her to the other next to her.

There was a raw, severity to the damage. This wasn't just a message, this was a warning. This was a statement of power, and someone was eager to flaunt it off. Whoever it was, be them incredibly bold or incredibly stupid, with Kaiden leaning toward the latter, this was a very critical situation. There was something that was bothering Kaiden though, and she did not have the ability to ask that question before the trial.

'Does Theron have you properly detained...?'

[FedoraChar]

Chase Owens
Dark, ex-Apprentice
Everlastia, Underground Winter


Ignoring Master Kain’s first remark, Chase nodded and withdrew the book Vanessa had given him.

“Master Garrick’s detained,” he said, holding it out for her to see. “She trusts that you will see to this in her stead.”

His eyes flickered briefly to Synna, finally acknowledging her presence.


Rush Peterson
Light, Recruit
Everlastia, Courtyard Winter


Rush glanced between the two. He finally had names to put to their faces: Kokoro and Kumori—two halves of the same whole. Glancing down at the ground, he tried to decide what he thought about all this. With the small explanation, Rush wasn’t sure he understood. Truthfully, no one could probably ever understand what these two were going through, or at least, that’s the sense that he got. Looking at Kumori now, Rush saw nothing but pain. In stark contrast, Kokoro seemed full of light.

“We’re not normal…”

Rush frowned, wondering what he had just gotten into. In his mind, nothing was quite “normal” in the Keyblade guild. People didn’t summon swords or magic from nowhere. They didn’t fight in suits of armor with giant keys. Rush had come to accept that anything could happen in this bizarre life, if not without longing for what he once knew.

Besides, the Elders wouldn’t allow someone dangerous on campus, would they?

“I’m… not sure I understand, but,” he started, finally glancing up from the ground, “I’m sorry if I jumped to conclusions too quick. I’m… not exactly the sharpest key in the Guild.”

_____

((Woooooow, this post is small :x))

[Winter]

Kokoro Maimi and Kumori
Apprentices, Light
Everlastia,Courtyard
ARPers: FedoraChar

"I’m sorry if I jumped to conclusions too quick. I’m… not exactly the sharpest key in the Guild.” Kokoro frowned as the boy spoke again, and slowed Kumori to a stop before turning to look back at him.

"Look, you thought you saw one kind of situation, and it wasn't that at all, but no one else knew what was going on and they just watched. You at least did something," she told him, smiling. Kumori was still for a moment before giving a weak nod.

"You thought Kokoro was in danger, and you tried to help...thank you for that," he whispered, glancing at Rush before looking down at his feet.

Synna Bard (and Master Astrid Kain)
Dark, Apprentice
Everlastia, Underground Training Space
ARPers: FedoraChar

Synna watched in surprise as Master Astrid took in the newcomer's words and the book he held, and actually allowed a look of what might have been disgust flash across her face for the briefest moment before it was gone, though the balls of electricity keeping the room lit hissed like a group of angry cats. "Of course Master Garrick would get herself detained doing heaven knows what before she finished her assignment," she said tightly before motioning from Synna to the boy. "However my presence is requested at her trial. Synna, would you so kindly take that world book from Mr. Owens and promptly lose it on the way back to the library?" Synna blinked, confused by the request.

"Pardon, Master Astrid? Lose it?" she asked, mentally cringing. Master Astrid hated repeating herself. Surprisingly, the woman's expression didn't betray more annoyance or anger.

"Yes. Lose it. I don't care how you do it, but make it look like an accident, or better yet, like a Binder left it, and if you're a smart girl, you won't open it. If anyone asks, a Master, you don't remember who, was headed to the trial and asked you to take it back for them. I will explain further later, understood?" Synna nodded quickly before moving to Chase to take the book.

"Yes m'am, understood," she replied, and was surprised once more when Master Astrid spoke again.

"Repeat it to me. This is of the utmost importance."

Synna started slightly before answering. "Take the book from Mr. Owens, lose it on the way to the library in some way that looks accidental, or better, as though it were left by a Book Binder. Don't open it, and if anyone asks about it, a Master whose identity I don't remember asked me to return it in their stead because of the trial."

"Good girl," Master Astrid told her, turning her attention to Chase. "Allow my Apprentice to take the book, she's a capable girl. now if you'll excuse me, I have a trial to attend."

OOC: Okay, I was wrong. Koko and Kumori's was shorter than expected.

[FedoraChar]

Affected RPers: Saraibre Ryu

With the apprentice gone, Theron turned his attention back to the healer. “Your prognosis, Master Siros?”

Still scowling, Siros gestured to the young man. “The boy will be fine. The dark spells worked on him left only superficial damage, though they will leave lasting scars, as they always do… Recovery will be a painful process, but he will survive. The girl, on the other hand…”

His scowl dissolved into a wince. “What ails her is not so easily reparable. I’m afraid it lies outside my field of expertise.”

“You are our head physician, Siros,” Theron said with a frown. “What would lie outside of your knowledge?”

“Matters of the heart,” the healer sighed. “This much I can discern: the girl’s heart has been damaged, and she is fading.”

The Elder glanced down at the young woman. “…I was afraid of this.” Straightening, he said, “Siros, The Council is meeting for a trial within the hour. Would you be able and willing to share your diagnoses before the court?”

Siros lifted a brow, but replied nonetheless “As you wish, Elder. My assistants can see to the rest, though we have done all that we can.”

“…Another thing… Allow no visitors. This is… a delicate situation.”

“It goes without saying, Elder,” Siros’ tone was even; clearly, he was finished with this conversation.

Theron nodded. Giving the patients both one more glance, he turned and left the Wing.

In the Great Hall, the masters were beginning to assemble. Soon, the trial would take place.


*****

Chase Owens
Dark, ex-Apprentice
Everlastia, Underground
Affected RPers: Winter

Master Kain had an… interesting idea for giving away the book, but Chase had no objections. It was not his concern what the master did with it; he was merely fulfilling his end of the job. He would not deny, however, that he was curious to see what an apprentice would do with such a task. At Master Kain’s request, he held out the tome for the girl—at the same time, sampling her scent. Like the other apprentices in the cause, she had that stench of darkness, which would make it easier to track her down later.

_____

Rush Peterson
Light, Recruit
Everlastia, Courtyard
Affected RPers Winter

Rush blinked. They were… commending him? Kokoro had sounded so angry before, and Kumori… He was actually thanking him? The boy didn’t know what to say to all that. He dug his hands into his pocket, looking away.

What now? he wondered.

A bell sounded. Looking up, he realized that lunch was drawing to a close. His stomach complained rather loudly, letting him know that he had missed out on food.

___________


((OOC: LOOK GUYS I DID A THING 8D continues to procrastinate on long posts I'm hoping with my next post we can finally get through this stupid trial I've been building up to :P))

[Winter]

Kokoro Maimi and Kumori
Apprentices, Light
Everlastia,Courtyard
ARPers: FedoraChar


Both Kokoro and Kumori started the ring of the bell in surprise--had time passed so quickly? "Well, there goes lunch," Kokoro sighed, and Kumori hung his head.

"I'm sorry," Kumori whispered, "I wasted too much time--"

"Nonsense," Kokoro replied firmly. "I don't think anyone was really thinking much about lunch today anyway." It was true--she hadn’t really seen many Apprentices carrying food or joking like they usually did. The discovery with the Tree of Blessings seemed to have upset everyone, not just Kumori. “Besides, we were headed to your room--what was that at practice, anyway?” she asked. “You know you have bad luck with magic…” Kumori hung his head.

“I could feel it, Kokoro, for a second I could. I thought I could do it that time, but...clearly I couldn’t,” the young man sighed, shaking his head. “And as always, it recoiled at the last second.”

“I’ve never seen you get backlash like that, though, most of the time it’s just that you can’t, not that it physically harms you,” Kokoro replied, biting her lip.

“Normally I don’t reach that hard for it,” Kumori replied softly.

Synna Bard (and Master Astrid Kain)
Dark, Apprentice
Everlastia, Underground Training Space
ARPers: FedoraChar, Comatose (Kinda)

Did he...had that boy just sniffed her? Synna wondered as she took the world book Mr. Owens held out to her. Synna could swear he had, and shifted uneasily away from him the moment she had the book in her grasp. She glanced over to Master Astrid, who had moved over to the training room’s door and opened it, extinguishing her magical lighting as she did so.

“As I said before, I have a trial to attend, and it’s about time I get going,” the woman called as Synna followed after her. “‘Turn in’ that world book as quickly and efficiently as possible. The less liklihood of it being connected to either of us, the better.” Synna scrambled up the wooden stairs after her, clutching the book under one arm, before Master Astrid could close it.

“Understood, Master,” she breathed as she passed.

“Good girl, once you’ve completed your task, you are free to do as you please for the day. I am unsure of how long this trial will take. If I need you, I will call for you,” the woman told her.

“Good day, Master,” Synna replied before heading off in the direction of the library. After she had put some distance between herself and Master Astrid, she paused to finally look down at the book she had been given, and smiled. It looked like a magic tome from her homeworld--thick and heavy, with a rather plain leather cover and uneven pages. The only things that really defined it were its shape--almost squarelike--and the four symbols that appeared to represent four different elements stamped into the cover. Had it not been for Master Astrid’s warning, she would have been tempted to take a look, however if she were that adamant on her not opening it… Synna shook her head, tucked the book under her arm again, and started to look for a place to dispose of her package.

OOC: FINALLY got time to sit down and work on this! Have fun, guys.