Foreboding Skies In The North (Mature)

[Ethan Yukimaru]

"Indeed Taltos, you should show more manners around Strongfield, or Strong eye as he asked us to call him" A voice came from behind Lanji, obviously Ethan's. "It is our duty as students of the Academy to aid and help the warriors of D-13, to insult them would make the Academy look very bad... Especially considering you are a Student Teacher. You mustn't let your emotions could your thoughts Taltos, lest errors and problems arise.....And as for your eyes on another woman, simply shameful"

With that, Ethan went quite...his eyes piercing and dark... With cold features to them. He soon faced to turn at Lanji, nodding at him. Indeed, it was rare these days to find a man with honor to his name. While Taltos here was fine to Ethan's definition of a Everyman, he couldn't get over the fact that he was a Student Teacher and represented the school... His loose tongue could perhaps make D-13 look at the Academy in a negative light. Not only that, he let his emotions cloud his judgement... making him insult D-13. For note, Ethan found out about Junpei being a Student Teacher in the Teacher records, his name among the Staff. Regardless, he soon turned to face Strongfield, his cold eyes on him like a hawk watches it's children. In his hands he had strings ready, for this was a combat mission. To be prepared is half the battle, and Ethan didn't like to be caught off guard. Of course, the wires were concealed, as his hands were within his sleeves...

"I am Ethan Yukimaru" He began, his tone cold, yet somehow respectful. "It is an honor to work along side a warrior who had fought in two wars. Forgive the rudeness of our Student Teacher, he is after all a child and can't contain himself..."

With that, he soon stared at Junpei, his eyes still cold as before as he turned back to face Strongfield. "But i suppose in your eyes I too am merely a child. Regardless, I shall enjoy working with you"

Despite saying all of those nice things about the Captain, Ethan's body still remained stiff and unchanging, no sense of emotion on his person. His cold demeanor and expressionless gaze soon turned to face the Blimp's main area, to which he thenmoved past Taltos, Lanji and The Captain. As he moved toward the door to the main area of the blimp, his robes fluttered unnaturally with each foot step..as though signaling something wrong. While nothing was wrong, at the moment at least, he couldn't shake this feeling off. Yet of course his face remained unmoved by it all, as he turned to face the Captain. Raising his hand to salute the captain, Ethan looked a bit odd as his robes started moving, a small gust of wind coming in. That, and the fact he was doing a military salute in robes.... And that there were some string on his hands

"I salute you for your honor Captain" Ethan said quietly before he stepped inside the blimp...

With that he turned around and took the final step inside the central area of the colossal construct, passing through the gates. Inside, there were many other students...Most to whom Ethan had not seen. Yet, he didn't care.... It was the mission which mattered, and that alone. As duty for the Academy, he would give up his life, and the life of others, to achieve the goal. Call him cold for willing to sacrifice comrades, but when worst comes to worst, you have to make decisions...And saving everyone just isn't possibly. Regardless, he soon let out his hands out of his sleeves, threads of silk falling out as steel and ceramic wires were among those numbers. Leaning against the window nearby, Ethan closed his eyes as he quietly awaited the blimp to start....

[Shea]

A kiss. She had been greated at the event by a truly deep kiss by her boyfriend. She kissed him back her own emotions flowing forth across their lips sharing in the passion they felt for one another. The kiss broke and she blushed. In front of all these people she was a bit embarrassed to show so much affection but it was over and done with now. Student after student came into the same area and so many of them were strangers to the raven headed girl. She watched them carefully with her apple green eyes but so many of them were strangers.

She knew a few of course. There was the redhead from the class they had taken. Standing next to the student teacher that had taught said class. As assumed they seemed to be dating or at least together by the way his arm was around her. And there was Mayon a very close friend of hers. She gave him a wave when he finished speaking on his cell phone. She also saw Onira.. and his pet..moose? But for the most part she didn't know any of these students. But there was nothing like a battle to bring strangers together in a common goal. They would all fight. Why else would they be here and Shea was ready to put her own powers and determination to work to help in anyway she could.

The man. One Captain Strongfield came up to the podium and now he had her full attention. He was an intriguing man but.. was he staring at her. There was something about the way he looked at her that was eye catching. She smiled at him and nodded and he returned to his speech. She couldn't remember ever having met him before but it was possible considering who her parents were she could have met him among so many others and never remember. Into his speech she listened. She didn't know anything really about D13 but that didn't mean that this mission lost any importance. No in fact she was ready to fight to save the people that may or may not be alive. People suffering.. no Shea wouldn't stand for that. A firm believer in everyone deserves a chance and it wasn't going to change now.

But a base disappearing was very important. People and large bases didn't just disappear. And the word base meant that it was military related. Okay so military base gone missing.. someone is trying to hide something perhaps? She was even more intrigued now. Entire teams of people had been sent but never returned. Lovely. A bit of fear seemed to settle where her heart used to be right before it dropped into her stomach. This was bad. Really bad and she knew it. She may not be the most skilled and practiced mage but she could still put two and two together and forever it would equal four. Only one man of the multitude they had sent had come back .. and with no information. Had his mind been wiped? Or was there really nothing there to begin with. Shea chewed on her lower lip thinking about all the information for a moment.

She knew this mission was no cake walk. Students would be hurt and she would have to save up as much mana as she could to help heal them of the minor injuries that she could. She wanted to be able to help and she would probably be a better healer than a fighter but she could do both either way. She ran her hands over her jewels once more just making sure that she had them all. Check. She did. She stepped up onto the blimp ready to participate and do what she could. She saw the Captain and for some reason she wanted to introduce herself. He seemed nice. She stepped up to him and extended her pale delicate hand.

"Captain, a pleasure and an honor to work with you. I wish you luck and a safe mission." she said softly with a gentle smile at the Captain.

[Wolf, the Joker]

(Wolf heard what the Strong-Eye had to say to the group. It was a large amount of them in the area. A large number is better than none after all. He heard about the mission and why everyone was brought to the area. It was clean with the three main missions, one was to discover what happened to the base, two attempt to rescue any survivors and three being Liberate the base, if it has fallen.

The three seem to sound easy enough, but Wolf knew that there would be something more to the missions. But he would have to find out when getting to the place. But most likely there is only a 5% chance of people still alive if it was an attack.

Wolf looked at a few and saw that they was walking up to get to know the head leader, Strong-Eye and into the blimps. He sighed as he walked up into one of the blimps. He eyes matched up with the leader Strong-Eye's eyes.)

Note that I am not doing this for the school. I am doing it for the people and my own reasons.

(Wolf looked at the others that was near Strong-Eye and walked past them as he took his place in the blimps, waiting for them to go. Soon Wolf's left arm started to shake a bit. He raised it out of his long red cape and saw it shaking. It was odd to see it shake. It only meant that something was about to be fall this group.

He grabbed his left arm with his right hand to hold it still. Wolf could feel his left arm a little as if it was alive. Like something else was taking hold of it. He knew what it was, his Joker side was happy about something. An Wolf couldn't wait.)

[Robert]

Robert's dull orbs kept themselves against the ground. He didn't even glance as he heard the broken patter of feet enter one of after another in the familiar soft beat. Some were louder than others. Some were multiple at a time. Some were... intriguing. It was obvious even to the unintelligable Robert that many a different kinds were arriving. One in particular caught his interest. It was the sound of landing. An angel, he would find, if on the chance he did in-fact look. But of course, such a thing would not happen.

The cursed boy was being especially anti-social at this specific occasion. So many people. So many eyes. The more aged of which would be keeping an ever vigilant eye on their boy wonder. He was an interuption they quite honestly did not need. They had enough problems as it were, and a sudden outburt from Robert would only prove a waste of time, as well as a possible forth-coming of knowledge as to what exactly Robert was. Maybe even a sudden lifting of the curtain of blindness, exposing the many experiments that upto a month ago were very tightly locked up. Simply... annoyance.

His eyes slowly rotated to look upon "Strong-eye", the name later appearing as a mix of inspiration, annoyance, and unimportance to the students. If one were more in-tune with his senses, he could not help but chuckle. The speech was not overly funny, but the statistical mix of responses from the crowd only became fuel for the ironic science. The words of hope, as one may call them. "Nobody is the same." How true, yet still... how strange.

He listened to the large man as he completed, over-all Robert remaining uninspired. Let the man say what he liked. It did not change the possibilities, as well as the facts. They were going to go. They were going to think. They were going to fight. And chances were, they would die. Robert could only think that this might finally be the key. The final piece in the puzzle so that the door would open and let him find peace in the after-life. It was the small glimmer of hope in the ever-expanding sea of Robert's infectious depression, yet even so, maybe it could sustain itself. One day, even become reality. One could only wish for the next world.

Robert's eyes fell back to the ground, the final salut of the captain ringing in his head. If he was more perseptive, chances were that one would detect the ever-so-slight bit of doubt in the captain's voice. After all, even magical students were only students. The fact they held the lives of so many in their hands was... unsettling, to some. But, the facts remained, as they always did. The job was to be completed, and the price was death. Such a choice, wasn't it?

He was inches from smirking at his own thoughts, yet not even a glint of it reached the curface. Robert kept it in-side, merely doing as he was commanded and walking up and into the blimp. Soon they would leave, and soon it would begin. The "fun" part, as some called it. The "scary" part, as others did. The "unimportant" part, as, surprisingly enough, not just Robert apparently called it. Or so it would seem. Amidst the crowd there were several who posessed such a demeanor as Robert. Icy, almost. Like stone. But, one with a more conscious eye would detect that they seemed to posess more... confidence. Still conscious that their life, in-fact, was important. In a way, Robert's life did have purpose. But, not in the sentimental sense as others thought. They survived for their loved ones. For their fear. Sometimes merely to survive. Yet Robert had no lust for life. Had no fear for death. And had none to love him. He had no obligations to anything. It was almost unsettling in that aspect. The fact that he could go whenever he wished, and no one would care. Sure, the academy might be a little angry that their tool had been sent to the next life, but as said, it was just an annoyance.

He found a miscillaneous-looking seat and gently placed himself upon it, looking at the "floor" of the blimp. Waiting. One could only do so. Wait.

[Darian Dumonte]

He saw Shea's blush and gave a small tender smile as he kissed her forehead gently before squeezing her hand reassuringly. To Darian this battle was a test of his abilities not a trial merely a test since he had already been trained for combat. It was going to be hard he had no doubt about that there was just something in the air that said it would be. An air of apprehension and foreshadowing of what would be coming from the stern and sober expression from Captain Strong-Eye as he studied the students. Darian was curious about who all was coming along and he knew that it would be a very interesting situation indeed. There was a rushed preparation as if everyone knew that something big was happening even before Captain Strong-Eye spoke. It was the way of things. Still Darian knew the apprehension that was in the air. It was common before any battle or challenging anything that is unknown.

There is no other way to justify the apprehension in the air. The tension that one can taste as people rapidly assemble to take on an unknown enemy. Or was it an accident? Or is it something far worse? We have no information of the area no clue of the enemy's capabilities except from the body count of the investigators.

There's no other way to describe the apprehension but, let's go over the allies. Phae and Junpei he knew from the Dark Art's and Summoning Class that Darian swears up and down Junpei was trying to get him killed. Books that hit him in the face, bullets that exploded, and a request that he'd be seen another time. All in all not a good day that day was for Darian except the fact that Shea was wearing an incredible outfit. Phae she was pretty cool using a similar-style of focusing magic to a weapon. He'd have to make a mental note to ask her to teach him how to fight better with a sword. She was obviously skilled with her blade. Mayon was in as well after answering a phone call. There were times that Darian wanted to strangle the guy but, that was the way things went he supposed. Still Darian knew that he could depend on the guy in a fight.

Winters was here. Darian recognized the sniper and gave a respectful nod at him. Darian and Winters had different styles of using their guns but, Darian felt a strong sense of camaraderie with Winters. Both defended the people they cared for and their allies. It was something to be noted. Xeryth, the name was heard but, Darian didn't catch what the young man looked like yet he was another face from The Butcher's Class. Still in the chaos of the fighting he never really caught who he was. Someone who looked remarkably like Phae got on as well, Phoebe from what his hearing could determine. A girl ran to Winter's showing her name but, he couldn't see it from his angle.

Onira. Yeah Darian remembered Onira from when they went on assignment to go be servants to Master Sirius. Well Darian considered him Master anyways since Sirius called him his apprentice. It was rather useful to be the apprentice to a powerful mage like him. The small quiet boy was in there as well and then there were two people that caught his interest. The first looked like he had been reading one too many King Arthur books judging from his armor. Shimmering full plate and a large kite shield. Neither of which Darian could probably wear given the fact that stuff was heavy. The broadsword was also a wee intimidating since Darian wasn't a close range type himself. This was increased when Kheldar came in a huge-ass walking tank that made Darian blink a few times. This was the Magitech armor?! JESUS!

Overdone?

Or just yeah intimidating...

Darian noticed Excel and Leinn two students he knew from Butcher Mania's class and he gave them friendly waves as he turned his attention to another man that stepped on. Darian only knew him by name. Ethan. He was Darian's partner in an upcoming class and somehow he looked forward to it. The man had an air that Darian instantly recognized being of noble birth himself. A cool and distant air that was trained and somewhat natural to people of his and Darian's stage. Noble. Regal. This man wore it like a mantle over anything else and it intrigued Darian greatly. Very interesting indeed another kid caught his attention as he turned away from Ethan. The guy, Seig if Darian's memory served right, who came in with a mechanical golem. Darian nodded at him as Seig seemed excited at the prospect of exploring the blimp. Most interesting indeed. Still Darian couldn't help but, smile.

Even in danger there were people able to exchange smiles and good moods this showed that people were looking at this as confidently as possible. This was an important aspect. One major thing of combat was the confidence levels of you and your friends. Staying as high as possible or you wouldn't be able to make it. There were some more students Darian couldn't recognize them all nor did he see all of them since he was busy glancing at Shea now and then. Still he heard the names his hearing still rather good even though the sounds of preparation kind of made it harder to hear things. Then Strong-Eye ascended the podium and the man while imposing had warmth in his voice that Darian could instantly associate with. This man wasn't some hard-ass captain he was a grandfatherly figure in some ways like Darian's own grandfather. He noted the archaic weapons and briefly had the thought that this man might have gun magic about himself.

A Gun Mage outside of his family.

Possibly. There was always a chance. Still...

That was something that sparked his interest.

It was then that Strong-Eye began relaying the seriousness of the situation and Darian went rigid at some of the remarks. They were going into an area that over one hundred deaths had been noted from the investigations that went in. Sure the twenty-one going with Strong-Eye and his merry band were all Mages from the Academy, but, Darian couldn't help but, feel a mite intimidated by this fact. A base completely disappearing off satellite and GPS just dropping off like it was never even there. Communications completely silent? There was a foreboding aura about it; Darian felt a small sweat drop of fear trickle down the back of his neck. How were you supposed to answer that kind of call? You did it anyways yet you still had to be honest with yourself to keep yourself calm and not force any stupid actions from yourself.

This mission can kill...

Are we really ready for it?

Maybe not, but, we can try.

Orchid responded with his usual rumble in Darian's mind to which the Gun Mage only nodded. When the speech ended and people began to board he went on with Shea and kissed her cheek as he walked with her to Captain Strong-Eye. As he headed to Strong-Eye with Shea he heard Junpei shoot his mouth off and he had to resist the urge to draw a gun. This was a voluntary mission so why was this prick who stated the most disgusting opinion ever even coming along. He didn't have to come so if he so detested them why was he even coming?

Hypocrite. He ought to be gagged so he doesn't hurt relations.

This was an incredible chance to strengthen the bond between D-13 and the Academy and here Junpei was shooting off his mouth like he was god. He heard Lanji's voice bite into him with that archaic and cold tone that he was familiar with. He knew that Lanji was probably trying very hard not to do something stupid. Then he heard Ethan speak. The man's wordings were incredible. Reserved yet at the same time clearly expressed his emotions and opinions in this affair. Respectful yet, distant. A true mastery of the way anyone of noble or royal birth could speak and one that Darian appreciated being of noble blood himself. He mentally made a checkmark in his book on Ethan and he knew that dueling this man would be an interesting affair. Turning to Ethan first Darian tapped his shoulder for a moment.

"I look forward to our duel in the Combative Arts Class. You strike me as a man of honor and a capable fighter I look forward to it."

Darian said softly to Ethan so nobody else could overhear it. Out of habit his hand reached into a pocket and he found a bullet he wanted by simple touch. Nodding at Ethan he turned to approach Captain Strong-Eye as he drew the bullet into the open and began to toss it up and down out of habit. Just a simple habit the glowing bullet shimmering with imbued magic as he turned his attention to Captain Strong-Eye and nodded respectfully. This man had an aura that drew respect but, at the same time set a person at ease in the realization that he would fight to ensure their safety. Leadership to it's most true and primal ability. If you didn't have the aura you couldn't lead this was the oldest lesson in politics and command. This was why Darian notched Strong-Eye up in his book. He not only showed experience in his words but, he also had the voice of one who could be approached.

"Captain 'Strong-Eye'," Darian said in a calm and exact manner. "Do you still have information of the area before you lost communication so we have a general idea of the terrain?" He was curious but, at the same time he was mostly using that as an excuse to approach the man as he studied Strong-Eye's guns. His interest and curiosity was obvious but, it was slightly rude to ask a man's magical abilities especially someone you didn't quite know yet. If Strong-Eye told him then that would be wonderful.

[Mayon]

Mayon felt his skin crawl as he saw Darian and Shea kissing each other. He had heard they had started to go out but the fact was Mayon also had affections for Shea so it was hard to watch. He turned around and listened to the objectives. Desperate for the pain to stop Mayon continued to listen to the instructions. Mayon began to walk onto the blimp and looked at the –strong eye-.

“Nice to meet you sir.”

Mayon turned and walked onto the blimp. It had been a few minuets and Mayon noticed that Shea was talking to the captain. Mayon did want to get on the captains good side. Also despite all that had happened Shea was still Mayons friend. Mayon approached the two but noticed that Darian had arrived as well. Dammit was the only word that came into Mayons mind as he noticed the others around. They were all different in their own ways but Mayon only knew a few of them.

Onira was one of them. Mayon met him in an Academy mission. That wasn’t a long mission but it did show Oniras personality. A stuck up guy who couldn’t keep his mouth shut. The guy had to fight a bunch of rats and was pretty much picked on in that mission. That made Mayon smirk a little lightening his spirit. Mayon continued to look around.

There was that girl he had met at the “So you want to learn how to kill people” class. She was the second one there, Mayon being the first, and she had completely freaked out right away. Mayon had laughed on the inside when that had happened. But she seemed like a nice girl and she was very young so he couldn’t blame her. He laughed again in the inside. It was quite funny. The memories he had.

There were a lot of people on this trip and Mayon wanted to meet them all. He had to admit that he didn’t know many of them. But then he saw that little boy again. The one he had seen when he first met Shea. But the boy hadn’t stayed around for long and Mayon didn’t get to talk to him so Mayon knew nothing about him. It was too bad that he never got to talk to him that day but maybe during this mission he would be able to.

This blimp was very large and had a couple rooms. There was seating and soldiers all around. Mayon still wanted to talk to the captain and Shea. Even if he wasn’t sure Mayon guessed that Darian wouldn’t want that. Darian was an all right guy of course except for that one time he shot Mayon. That kind of hurt. But if Darian tried to keep Shea away from Mayon that would just be cruel. Darian wouldn’t do that though. Would he?

Mayon walked up. He talked to the Captain in a normal tone.

“Hello Captain. It is nice to meet you and I would just like to say that I am going to try all I can to help out. But we don’t even know what is going on down at the D-13 base so it may be a bit difficult.”

Mayon then looked at Shea then at the ground.

“Hey Shea. Nice to see you.”

Mayon murmured as he scratched the back of his head.

[Xeryth Varson]

Xeryth stood quietly, at attention, casually watching all the people reporting in, all volunteering for the mission. Some he knew, most he did not. Truth be told, Xeryth was quite the hermit these days. He had been before he met Phoebe, and after their ‘falling-out’ of sorts, the boy had set himself even deeper into seclusion. His stutter had even gotten worse, relapsing back even harder than it had been originally, despite the leaps and bounds he had made on self-composure and confidence. Not to mention, the events in Der Metzgermeister’s class had instilled within him a certain paralyzing fear of himself and the horrific acts done by his very own hand. That day, it was like another entity had taken hold of him and guided his actions, though Xeryth knew that was not the case. He had been fully aware of what he had done, he had made each and every conscious decision to kill each and every man he had. This fact, the simple fact that Xeryth was so capable of dealing death, both physically AND mentally, weighed heavily upon his mind ever since the bloodbath had come to a close. Shaking his head, Xeryth released a sigh, watching the students go by once more, attempting to clear his inner turmoil by overloading it with other sensory information. Into the landing port strode first Onira, followed by a silver elk. Xeryth raised an eyebrow quizzically at this, staring over at him as he reported for duty.

What... what is that creature with him? It looks like... an elk? So strange... but that’s Onira for you.

Despite himself, Xeryth smiled somewhat, his mood brightened a bit by seeing the happy-go-lucky friend of his entering. The next slightly recognizable person was one Darian Dumonte, the gun-user Xeryth had only briefly met in Der Metzgermeister’s classroom hell. There was nothing to say to him, so Xeryth said nothing, allowing him to stand at attention, and greet a rather beautiful girl intimately as she entered as well. At this, Xeryth turned away, not wanting to see their public display of affection. It was not as if such things bothered Xeryth in general, he was still too new to the world to really know what was truly considered in decorum or not. However, this affected him on a more personal level.

It reminded him of Phoebe.

Closing his eyes and squeezing them shut, Xeryth tried to block out all the thoughts of the girl, the remorse he felt for doing what he’d done to her threatening to cloud over all logical thought. Inside his mind, Xeryth fought with himself, trying to get a grip.

Xeryth! Calm yourself! There’s a mission imminent, and you need to be on top of your game for it! People might end up depending on you, and you can’t let them down! Just breathe. Breathe...

A few long, deep breaths later, Xeryth opened his eyes again, mind clear for the moment. He rolled his shoulders to loosen them, and additionally, himself in general, up, and continued to halfway notice the new people entering. He paid them little heed, until a certain soul entered the landing pads that caught Xeryth’s attention more fully.

One Jonathan Winters.

It was not him specifically that called out to him, however. Rather, it was the realization that came with it. Professional as always, the D-13 sniper strode up to the Captain, whom he apparently recognized, and flashed his dog-tags. It was at about this time that it hit Xeryth exactly who he was dealing with for this mission. His eyes widened considerably as he stared at the Captain in charge. Captain... Captain... Bardy? Xeryth shook his head, the memories flooding in, blurry as always. He may have been right with his guess, he was most likely not. Regardless, it wasn’t important at the moment. What WAS important was that he had willingly signed up to aid the D-13, the very Department that had taken him in at birth and crafted him to be the perfect psychic soldier. Xeryth, aside from his fear of himself, also had a hidden fear of this Department as well, constantly thinking that any day, they would storm the Academy and demand their soldier back, and Xeryth would be locked back up. Xeryth knew this would not happen; however, that didn’t seem to quell the bad dreams.

The fact of the matter was this: D-13 and the Academy were on fairly good terms at this moment. The two worked together to ensure magical security throughout the world, and tensions were rather low, generally. Naturally, however, the magical realm was full of enough intrigue and deception to keep any established organization of magical persons relatively cautious of the others, and this kept a complete and utter peace from being achieved between them. As far as Xeryth was concerned, the boy had been ‘rescued’ from his captivity by an unaffiliated third party, and had come to the Academy on his own free will. As far as Xeryth felt, however, the D-13 had treated him appropriately well, but the freedom he felt at the Academy could never be matched by anything they had given him.

Again, a series of long, slow breaths brought Xeryth back into reality. He mentally noted to try and remain more focused on the matter at hand. If he were to keep slipping like that, falling off into mental tangents as he was doing, he would not be ready for the mission at hand, and would easily find himself, or someone else, dead as a result of his inaction. This, Xeryth could not have. Remaining silent and contemplative as ever, Xeryth looked on. The student volunteers continued to show up.

I wonder what each truly seeks to gain from this. It very well may be dangerous, yet, so many students continue to show up. Why, I wonder, does the D-13 seek our help, when they have their own perfectly capable contingent of magic and psychic soldiers? It doesn’t make sense...

Xeryth mused quietly, not losing his focus this time, until a certain student suddenly decided to show up. Xeryth blanched, turning paler than a sheet as Phoebe Weiss stepped onto the scene, and their eyes met. It was bad enough that she was here, something Xeryth had completely not expected, but... she looked absolutely stunning. Dressed in what looked to be an official uniform of some sort, Xeryth presumed from her old swordsmen’s school in Italy, the girl looked quite beautiful, causing Xeryth to bite his lip so hard, a trickle of blood seeped forth from it. She stared at him as well, and Xeryth could feel she was just as surprised, nervous, and worried as he was. Sparing him a single nod, Xeryth quietly raised a hand, awkwardly, trying to smile past his bleeding lip, giving a slight wave. She scurried off, going to stand next to her twin Phae and Junpei, but Xeryth continued to stare off into space, biting his lip and looking over at where she was just standing, his hand still raised stupidly in the air. It seemed as if the mere sight of Phoebe had reduced Xeryth into a catatonic state. For the life of him, the boy simply couldn’t will himself to move, fear, shock, and embarrassment played together to paralyze the boy where he stood. He remained this way, standing completely still, the only movement on him the blood occasionally dripping from his lip. The only thing that could, and did, jar him to his senses was the voice of the captain, suddenly deciding that the volunteers reached an acceptable number, and began the briefing. Xeryth shook his head, snapping back to reality, and listened intently as Captain Bardy Strongfield (Bardy! I knew it!) began to fill in the students on what exactly had gone down. As he did, Xeryth mused over it in his own mind, weighing the odds and his chances.

So... a D-13 base goes missing, completely and entirely, and all forces sent that way don’t return as well? This sounds potentially dangerous. We’ll be sending the D-13 troops, as well as our own Academy volunteers... they must be wanting to use the wide range of powers and spells each student here possesses as a catch-all. If they need something during the mission, one of the twenty-something of us is going to have it, right? Between that, and the soldiers they’re sending along... this should be a feasible mission. Regardless... I’m keeping my guard up. Something about this doesn’t sit well with me just yet. The D-13 has their own magical forces, doesn’t it?

Shrugging, mostly to himself than anyone else, Xeryth marched up into the dirigible, until a sudden raised voice caught his attention, causing him to turn back towards the source, curiosity overpowering his judgment and driving his eyes. Sure enough, there was his so-called ‘big sister’ and twin of his ex-girlfriend, Phae Weiss, yelling at Junpei for... Angel Girl? Who?

Xeryth saw her, then, the girl with the angel wings. Was Junpei ogling her?! Xeryth’s eyes narrowed in anger. He cared a lot for Phae, and this wasn’t the first time Junpei had done her wrong. Xeryth turned fully, every intention on going over there and talking (read: smacking) some sense into him, but the sight of Phoebe, also standing nearby, caught his footsteps and turned him around again, damn near instantly. Instead, Xeryth humbly walked up into the airship, coming to rest on a pile of boxes off to the side, sitting upon them and watching everyone else enter the blimp. Many of them immediately walked up to Captain Strong-Eye, beseesching him for information. Xeryth, meanwhile, did no such thing. He, being a bit more perceptive than most thanks to his psychic strength, could feel that Strong-Eye was feeling heavy concern for all those involved, as well as a set determination to see this mission through, so much that he almost felt detached from the rest of the world. No, Xeryth would not bother him, he would let the others speak to him if they wished. Xeryth, on the other hand, would give him his space. He really didn’t feel the need to talk to anyone at the moment, honestly. He was trying to focus on the upcoming mission himself, after all.

Junpei walked into the blimp as well, and spoke in plain tones, but harsh words to the Captain. Now, staring at another girl was one thing, but insulting the CO in the same day? Within the same hour, at that? Xeryth may not have been a member of D-13 any more, but some things stuck with you, such as a respect for those above you. If you respected them, they respected you, and a healthy line of command was reached. Otherwise, all fell into chaos. Xeryth opened his mouth to comment, but it seemed that quite a few other students, students Xeryth had never met, beat him to it, telling Junpei either exactly what they thought of him, or generally chiding him for his remarks. With those over, Xeryth simply closed his eyes, and spoke to Junpei on a more personal level, within his mind.

“Hey Jun, there’s nothing else I need to say that hasn’t already been said by those jerks, but... watch yourself, alright? We don’t need a broken chain of command already. You may have your opinions, but its not worth it to go projecting them all over everyone else. Believe me, I’m sure no one could care less. ...Sorry.”

Xeryth apologized, almost as an afterthought. Regardless of how stupid he could be at times, Junpei was still Xeryth’s best friend and he didn’t feel like tearing into him too harshly. With all that said and done, Xeryth leaned back, resting against the only slightly-comfortable stack of boxes and awaiting the liftoff. If anything, this was going to be an interesting mission indeed.

[Jonathan Winters *Deceased*]

Somehow, this all seemed like such a familiar scene. Behind the podium, there stood twelve D-13 soldiers, equipped, ready to fight, ready to die for the organization. Jonathan looked around, recalling memories, which was.. odd, considering his E-Killers were active, at that moment. Briefly, his thoughts travelled back.. back to when he was still in the D-13.. back to when.. he was just released from.. 'Mutter'. His eyes blanked out, underneath his mask.

* * * * Twelve Years Ago.. * * * *

"Prepare for procedure 2242." "Yes, professor."

In the murky greenish-yellows of what may or may not have been water, possibly some experimental fluid, No. 04 roused his eyes choking for a moment on the mask over his mouth and nose, from which the tube that went to his small lungs were, feeding air. A short array of white, longish hairs protruded from his head, going around in the gently swirling waters, with the flow of the water. Warm. It was always warm inside Mutter. Strange thuds fluids entered his throat. Mutter was feeding him, never failing, always once a day. Thank you Mutter. His stomach churned, resisting to regurgitate Mutter's kindness. He had done so, once before, and Mutter starved him of precious love for three days, before Mutter was cleaned.

His eyes wandered around to the few scurrying men in white coats, outside of Mutter, some toing about to various places on the walls to tinker with one of the glowing buttons, experiment with various fluids on set tables, and some using their fingers on boards to press down on them in various ways, in various patterns, but, no matter what, the buttons always came back up. Often, ever since his eyes had been recently replaced by bio-technologically advanced ones, he'd often watch their fingers intmately, whenever they were performing this exercise. This time.. he wanted to do something different. Bringing his hands before him, having them fight against the current of water that flowed around him, he watched one of the 'scientists' that sometimes would go up to him, and wave, before being yelled at. Quickly his eyes began to follow the finger movements, his fingers starting out slowly, akwardly.. before becoming faster and faster.. the man looked up... his jaw dropped. "Professor! Professor! Look! Look at what No. 04 is doi-" "ENOUGH." came the boom. 'Vater' was angry.

Waving his hands, as if to dismiss the statement, Vater came walking through, among the scientists, always with his rifle on his back, not in one of the coats. "PROFESSOR... please ignore 'IT'. He's just observing you. Get back to work, Stoudmire. Funding is only because I permit it, and you know that." "But he's basically your clone-" "Now, Stoudmire, or I WILL have your wife killed." Vater said in a eerie voice, slamming his fist down onto the nearby table. Nodding silently, S-toud-mire... Stowd-ire.. S-stout-m-mire... Stoudmire, went back to work. No. 04 resounded the name over and over again in his head. No. 04 watched, feeling pity, but not knowing what pity was. As Vater scowled once more, under his long, white beard, while Stoudmire returned to typing, forming tears at his eyes, No. 04 shook his head, recalling howe every night, Vater would bring 'Mrs. Stoudmire', it would seem, before him and Mutter to watch, when all the other scientists left, 'teaching' him many techniques, that he displayed on the tightly bound woman, 'educating No. 04 how to violate women.

Despite the face that No. 04 had only formed four years ago from when 'Vater's' sperm cell was spliced, and made to form No. 04, No. 04 nodded at these little 'lessons'. "The right bio arm, codename 07643A2." Mutter's arms descended from above, No. 04 watching, his eyes just gently on it it, as the metal clamp went over to his arm. With a sudden tug, his right arm was torn off. It took a moment for the shock to wear off. No. 04 screamed into his air tube. Screamed louder, though no one but Mutter could hear him, as metallic linens and pieces were fitted into his arm, as his arm was torn apart, his nerves feeling everything, as his nerves were still attached to the decapitated arm. Tears mixed with the fluids around him, as the fluids stopped swirling, blood clouding his vision, his eyes struggling to see it, but other metal clamps already holding tightly onto his left wrist, and at his shins. Pain. It was pain. And he'd gone through it, so many times. For an hour, he spent crying, as they mutilated his arm, implanting various things into it.. until finally, as one of Mutter's metal clamps held tightly onto his stub, it slowly refitted, as the electronic-made micro-organisms slowly swimmed the arm back into place, a jet-blue flame searing thing, slowly going to his arm, making him cry out louder, though no one could hear him, though his body would writhe, until finally, the pain stopped, and his arm was back on, fused back on, good as new.. ".. Better then new. Well done.. everyone, well done." Vater waited, waving good-bye to all the scientists, then..

.. Hours passed... where the lights were dimmed, but the glowing inside of Mutter never ceased. No. 04 turned his head, suddenly, recognizing the strange, but familiar noises.. another lesson. Mrs. Stoudmire. Right. He wouldn't forget that name. But it looks like there was no need. "...Messen Zeit zu... beendet diese schändlichen Lektionen. Die Nützlichkeit ihres Ehemanns ist schließlich an einem Ende, als Sie, Frau sind. Deshalb während ein weniger, von nicht arisch, das ist Coup de Grace Wird für Ihres passen.. vorläufige Dienste. Abschied." The woman screamed as Vater suddenly took his rifle off his back, stomping on the woman's neck, to keep her from moving, as he slowly shifted the barrel of the gun to the struggling woman's mouth. "WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING, WILLIAM!?"

*BANG*

".. Ze name is.. William Sommer, Stoudmire Mclachlan." Sommer... the German word for Summer. The door behind the frothing Stoudmire, not to reveal another scientist.. but five D-13 soldiers, all with their masks on. No. 04 watched as they stood at attention. There was... a sense of loyalty. Loyalty so deep, irregardless to reason. Something to fight for, that was worth fighting for. One lowered down their rifle.. and fired on Stoudmire. .. The time before Jonathan knew what was morally right or wrong.. that was No. 04.

* * * * End of Flashback * * * *

These thoughts were interrupted, however, the moment a pony-tailed, collared-buttoned down blue shirt, and the most beautiful pair of violet blue eyes that he'd ever seen in his life ran up to him, as he caught her in his arms, hugging her, suspending her above the air, as a forced smile crept across his face, behind the mask for her. As he held the only one who seemed to destroy the effects of the E-Killers, she pecked his neck, and he managed to widen the smile. "Be careful. Be safe. I love you." she whispered to his ears. A nod was her only reply.. aside from the look in his eyes that showed through the green visors. He was happy to see her again, as she jumped down from his grasp. He couldn't kiss her, not with this mask on.. so, reaching back, he pulled out a little mic-ear piece with his left hand, his right hand heading to the side of her face, gently stroking by it, feeling, even through the glove, he hoped, as he slowly moved the mic to his right hand, and put the mic into her right ear, activating it. *Wink* "Y-you t-too." Winks. His right hand went away from his own mask's built-in responding button. That strange 'winking' sound that came from the mics, that was gentle enough to only be heard by whoever was listening in.. he smiled. It was such a familiar sound.. he hadn't used that since.. his face slowly became emotionless. Ever since that masacre of the second Beast Revolution. But, that thought left his mind, as she leaned back into him, his arms going around her waist, holding her firmly against him, but not to the point where it would cause discomfort. This was a dangerous mission. If only a coalition force with the D-13 and Arcane Academy could defeat whatever they were up against..

His eyes swiveled around, checking to see for familiar faces. Almost immediatly, his eyes caught onto Rosenrot. Immediatly, she too caught sight of him, waving to her. Nodding at her, for the lack of emotions that he could feel, his right hand loosened its grip on Madelyn, so that he could wave it a little at Phae, among those who really seen Jonathan in his mask before this. But, his grip came back quickly onto Madelyn, hugging her a little closer then usual, that thought reminding him. Because Junpei had left her, he'd seen that Rosenrot Phae wilt.. God, how long had it been, since then? But yet, as it were, he could never forget that time. He'd never felt so afraid before in his life.. and over someone else. Among the first of social things that he began to learn. He.. 'managed' to get her to sleep, but, in the end, she still ended up bed-ridden. It hurt his heart so much, that he couldn't do more for her.. and she'd given him a journal to write with, which he kept in his backpack, even if he couldn't use it. His right hand went over Madelyn's. He.. never wanted to do that to Madelyn. Never. Simply put, he couldn't fly without her.. they'd bonded on such a deep level.. and even on that first night they met. There was a lesson to be learned from abandonment.. he would not leave Madelyn to suffer a similar fate. He'd never forgive himself for it. His grip over her hand tightened slightly, as he snugled his head to her side, as best as he could, trying not to make her uncomfortable, with his mask on. But.. as this mission was already underway, and seemed to ask for utmost responsibility of the participants.. he simply just wanted to be ready at all times.

But there were others.. there were others--- ...

... Was that a moose? Or.. was that an elk? His eyes kept staring for a while, perhaps even rudely, but, never in his life had seen someone bring onto a mission some livestock. Food on the run, perhaps? That could feed about... well.. he looked around again. That white.. 'moose' he guessed, probably incorrectly, was probably enough to feed everyone about one ration, all at once, including the twelve D-13 soldiers standing at attention. But, his eyes then caught onto a long-haired kid, who seemed familiar. However, he'd never caught his name, he believed. .. Wait. He'd met him, before. But, he'd never answered his question. Why were his eyes purple...?? Emotion was still devoid on his face, but, the questions came up on his face again. Right.. that guy.. he met him in "The Master Butcher's" survival class. .. Der Metzgermeister... this kid.. seemed to radiate and attract strangeness. There was a hippy dancing around him, after all, in class. Couldn't honestly say how he felt for his comrade.. but, he'd make sure to watch out for him. Maybe he could learn his name in the process. But, that didn't matter now, as more official orders were in buisness.. his eyes wandered off again, to check his fellow classmates..

.. And it appeared as though many of whom he was familiar with were here. Lienn... last name he regretablly couldn't remember. She was.. to say the least.. a very capable student. He'd first met her in the 'Unlocking Your Magical Potential' class, or at least... 'saw' her. Quite incidentally, the long-haired blonde was the only one to step up to his 'sniper' challange. .. Damn.. she was good. Nevermind the fact that the enviroment was against him. He'd been too careless, or else he was way out of his league, against her. Pscyhics.. among his weaknesess.. whi-

Xeryth. Now, that was a face he remembered. .. But, where did he remember him from? His eyebrows furrowed slightly, as he took a breath, his eyes closed for a moment, gently resting his head towards Madelyn, but not enough to knock her over.. like on the piano bench. There was a bed. He remembered, hearing about Phae's condition, about how she was stuck on a feeding tube. Ahh... the young boy who confronted him, saying, "I don't want to come back!" He'd figured back then there was relation to the D-13, but, as to how.. he didn't know. Quietly, he noticed that he looked a little distraut. After what Jonathan could guess, but only guess to be perhaps, a first.. well, he'd seen people become very affected, after killing one man. To take the life from someone else, to know that you had helped in their death.. he'd heard somewhere that.. everytime you kill a man, a part of your soul dies. .. Probably a reason why some men retired early, while others who'd lost their souls completely, would rise up to be great generals. But if that was true.. Bardy.. well, nevermind that for now.

Wrapped up in a bundle of clothes of navy slacks, black sneakers, dark blue shirt and a open cotton jacket. He was.. familiar. But, only barely. His face struck him, as he recognized a little of Der Metzgermeister's class.. but, he hadn't really been able to see what was going on, defending Madelyn, as it was. But, for him, it looked like yet another young man who enjoyed being quiet. Quite the shy group, this was almost starting to look like, himself included.

Capabilities.. the red-eyed gun mage. This man.. had shown quite a lot of his.. 'capabilities' in Der Metzgermeister's class. A respect for a fellow gun user. Life to be taken away in one shot. Of course.. he'd gotten a less impressive display of him in the Dark Arts class, but.. then again, neither did he. It was.. 'akward'. Something he'd never mention to Madelyn. If he wasn't so busy holding Madelyn, he would've nodded towards him, but.. he.. seemed to be kissing a long-black haired classmate, anyways. The girl he'd also seen in the German's class, who almost got raped. .. Wow, there.. were a lot of people from Der Metzgermeister's class.

Little girl. What was her name? He could recognize her, undoubtly from the same class, but, she was.. .. would she be a fallability? Young. It was rude, yes, but, the thoughts of her live compared to her skill was definetly being weighed. .. But it was a volunteer mission. He made a mental note to watch out for her. For anything.. Arcane Academy had always suceeded in suprising him. .. Maybe this girl...

So.. Xeryth, little girl, the strange boy, the red-eyed gun mage, his evident girlfriend, the boy with too much clothes.. labels and names that he didn't particular like, but, he didn't know any of them personally. At any rate, he'd have to commit their faces to memory. It would be rude, otherwise. There were a few others.. some that Jonathan knew he wouldn't have to worry about, such as the man with his robotic device/pet/friend, the man and his giant suit, who you could barely see, in his gigantic cockpit, a rather religious (almost fanatically so, reminding him a little of 'The Order'.. Another one of his classmates from Der Metzgermeister came into view. Shouldn't stare, though, he was on the phone. Quickly lifting his gaze.. he suddenly remembered..

Phae!

Smiling to himself he stood up a little, finally releasing Madelyn from his grasp, as his left hand took Madelyn's right. He should introduce the two.. but, Phae suddenly began.. screaming at this other boy..

That.. guy.

That guy who bumped into him, as if he were a piece of trash, something he wasn't really bothered with, but the one way he recognized him by. His name was.. Junpei.

Right.. Junpei. Rosenrot Phaedra Weiss's fiancee. The one who left her, to such a state, where Phae couldn't get any sleep, or eat anything. .. That guy. He had a.. 'respect' for him. Felt as though he knew him from somewhere, before he had arrived in Arcane Academy, but, why was Phae..

What? His ears.. he tuned up his mic to hear his surroundings a little better, with a few flicks.

"Why don't you talk it over with Angel Girl. You seem so innately interested in HER."

.... WHAT!?

Angel girl.. Jonathan's eyes flicked up to.. a girl with angels. His left hand tightened over Madelyn, not too much to hurt her, but, his eyes were staring at Junpei. He was glad that he was wearing this suit. He could.. feel himself visibily seething underneath his mask. .. How dare he... HOW DARE HE!? One should always honor their partner. 'Twas the natural way of life. His right fist suddenly clenched, tightly.. and he knew this feeling. Rage. .. How dare he.. betray his.. fiancee's... trust..!? He looked at Madelyn, as if to gain support. He'd bonded with Madelyn. And in no way, no way shape or form would he ever give up that bond. It was the job of one to resist desire. And.. to betray Phae as such with such a casual glance at another girl?! The E-Killers.. just weren't working.His right foot lifted, about to stomp.. but then.. he slowly, slowly put it down. No, no.. rage wasn't the answer. It would feel good, but.. that wasn't the answer. .. Besides, he needed to be open-minded. Perhaps he was just noticing something about her, and may have ment good intentions.. but.. his eyes looked into Junpei's. He couldn't read it. Therefore... he didn't trust it. But, he would fight alongside him. Shaking his head, he waited a little bit, cooling himself down, fighting off the emotion, as the E-Killers almost seemingingly floated back into action, and he felt slightly empty again. There.. there... ---

He snapped to, saluting suddenly, his hand dropping Madelyn's, as he momentarily forgot that he wasn't in the D-13. Taking his eyes off of Junpei, for the moment, anyways, but, because he already was saluting, he didn't move. Was he checking off their names, doing a profile check? Their names resounded, one by one, the name of those he knew were associated with, and some of which he did not. .. But he couldn't help but notice. Such warmth. Not the warmth that could only be given from Madelyn, not the warmth that he felt inside Mutter.. it felt.. like a parent. His voice instilled in his mind a feeling of.. trust. This man had gone through much. Experiance rang out in his voice, he was patient, he was patient, but in his remaining eye, there was a sign of skill, and the knowledge of how to use it. This man was no fool, this man would was one of the honest ones. Realization dawned on Jonathan.. THIS is the man all of them were talking about. This is the man.. Captain Strong-Eye.. And thus began the review. Granddaughter? Excel? Who could be young enough to.. his eyes travelled over to the littlest girl, and he nodded, quickly hearing out Strong-Eye. Here, here was the knowledge, the briefing he was so used to. The situation? A D-13 base vanished, clean off the map, untraceable, no contacts, a hundred investigators vanished, one man to return, and without any information. As a soldier, he had no right to opinion, no right to thoughts. Only the right to obey orders, and carry them out, to the best of his ability, to the benefit of his comrades, and the same to him. Perhaps not everyone shared that mentality.. but, after working in teams for so long, it was good to be back in one. The E-Killers were truly shining, he'd gotten that old mentality back.. if only slightly altered. He had no qualms. Soldiers had to make split-decisions in combat, and to follow orders, even at the risk of their lives. It was worth the investigation. They had a sizeable force, the magnitude of such a combine in coalition forces truly being something to be seen and beaten, if whatever it was could.

".. And thus, we have sent for you, combined with our own forces. Our mission is this:

1.) Discover what has befallen the base.

2.) Attempt to rescue any survivors (yes, we're assuming the worse, now).

3.) Liberate the base, if it has fallen.

To himself, he went 'at ease'. And almost immediatly, his eyes shot back to Junpei, despite telling himself he'd give him some doubt. .. Rosenrot.. But, he ignored it, for the last few moments, as the Captain then, bid them at their own choice to follow or not. He looked at Madelyn, nodding at her. She'd come. So.. they'd do this together. He kept his steps slow, so that she could walk beside him at ease. He had to give off a feel of being at peace with himself, even if he wasn't truly, even if his own mind was wracking itself. Into the corridor, onto the steps, into the three-story section of the blimp that carried God know's what. Honestly.. he didn't like the fact that he had to fly. He was a ground soldier. But, orders were orders, and if he liked them or not, was not up to him. But he stopped for a moment, letting go of Madelyn's hand, letting it fall away. .. He had to make sure.. had to make sure his wings were safe. It went sliding across her back, onto her side, and down to her hip, walking closer to her, and gently pushing her to him. 'Stay close' he thought, 'stay close so I can look out for you'.. The walk through the metal corridors was.. not exactly homly, but it wasn't horrid, either. A few minutes walk's worth.. until finally, following the captain, they arrived with the rest of the students, some of the others nearby. On purpose, he rested Madelyn and himself nearby Rosenrot. She looked pissed. 'Coudln't blame her. Never letting go of Madelyn, to show where his affections were, his right hand went up to Phae's shoulder, and gave it a gentle squeeze to let her know that it was okay to feel that way, before reaching back, into his backpack, and pulled out a mic, slowly using his hand to stroke past her hair, letting it fall back into place, holding the mic up in front of her, to show her what he was going to do, and then, putting it into her left ear, nodding at her. *Wink* ".. H-hang i-in th-there." came the whisper, but also patched in, so that Madelyn could hear what he was saying. He looked at Madelyn, squeezing her in tighter to him, stepping closer to her, to show his affections. ".. G-give h-him th-the b-benefit o-of th-the d-doubt. He-He'd b-be in-insane t-to l-lose h-his fia-fiancee, th-the wo-woman he-he lo-loves, un-unless he-he's a-a co-complete id-idio---"

"It seems I'm to report to you know. Allow me t formally introduce myself. Junpei Taltos, Student Teacher at Arcane Academy. I understand fully the weight of this situation and I hope you know, I will be watching over each and every one of those students myself. I will tell you know that I don't care for D-13, nor do I care for the majority of the people within it, although recent experiences have told me otherwise. Please sir, I have to know, what do you personally think the chances of all those students walking away from this are?"

...

WHAT WAS THIS INSUBORDINATION!?

His eyes flared.. the E-Killer's seemingly quickly having passed through his body from the range of emotions he was supressing. No respect. Where was the respect? As a student-teacher, people respected him.. so why should he not respect his superiors? It only spoke dirt of how he thought of others.. it.. it... he throws his title around in front of someone who could easily arrange it for someone to take it away. He says he doesn't care for the D-13... an ALLY. SO MUCH dirt coming from his mouth.. his eyes went down, hiding them away from Madelyn, his fists curling up into tight clenches, as he turned around, hunched over. INSUBORDINATION TO A SUPERIOR. UNACCEPTABLE.

[Jonathan Winters *Deceased*]

..INITIATING. CODENAME: "GHOST". CODENAME: "SNIFF". CODENAME: "MUTTER".

Rapidly, everything went blue, as he stomped over, angrily, his own feet not heard, but the rattling heard in the places he stepped at, the steps disappearing as for a minute, they went away from Junpei.

.. When suddenly, an ear-mic was shoved into his ear, the butt of sniper rifle rammed towards Junpei, just stopping inches from his face. Staring back at him, was the furious eyes of Jonathan, ignoring all insults that were being thrown at Junpei.

"..Pl-Please, M-Mr. T-Taltos, p-pay r-respect a-as a-a re-represenstive o-of o-our f-faction t-to th-the re-representitive o-of o-our a-ally f-faction. Wh-What th-the people behind you say, you may not agree with, but it is the duty of a-a l-leader n-not on-only t-to l-lead, b-but t-to l-listen."

His voice rang.. but only in Junpei's ear, to save him any further trouble. Jonathan's voice, was.. suprisingly cool. E-Killers. So.. he only imagined he was angry.. regardless, what he had done was unacceptable. Quickly right-side-upping the rifle, he put the butt of the rifle in Junpei's hands.

".. W-What I-I d-did w-was w-worse. I-I w-will gl-glady t-take m-my p-punishment t-to r-redeem m-myself i-in y-your e-eyes, S-Student T-Teacher J-Junpei, s-so I-I sh-shall t-take m-my b-beating o-of r-rifle b-butt wh-whiplashing o-on m-my p-person."

Truly.. he was sorry. What he'd done was wrong, and worse. He was suprised at himself.. he usually stayed so calm. Quietly, he keyed in his words to Rosenrot Phaedra Weiss, apologizing, "Vergeben Sie mich zum Bedrohen Ihres Freunds, Rosenrot Phaedra Weiss.. hält ihn nicht auf, ich, diese Strafe zu verdienen." He stepped back, ready to take the blows.

[Onira]

Onira could only stand and think. A fairly irregular thing for himself to be doing, but even so, the moment just seemed to call for it. What the hell had he gotten himself into? First, he had gotten eyes from... a lot of people. None seeming to voice their opinions of his companion (as he could see). One could only ask themselves if that was a good or bad thing. Something said Saisho wouldn't care whether comments go this way or that. He was just that kind of elk. Not generally lazy, but like Onira. Relaxed.

He tapped his other arm slowly. The soundless beat. So gently he pounded his own arm with the appendage, his expression speaking for itself. He had is arms crossed at the moment, and had been in the postition since the speech had begun. Captain Strong-eye seemed fairly confident at the start. His expressions, many only slightly, but still visibly, changed quite a few times as the words were spoken. It seemed the captain had his own doubts about the chances. Mixed emotions, as it were. But, that wasn't surprising. He was sending about twenty kids into an attacked base that could quite possibly not even be there any more. If they died - which even Onira had to admit was a possibility- Strong-eye was suspected to have quite a guilty conscience.

Onira had listened to the somewhat reassuring salut given by the captain, and as it was, that seemed to be when the drama was being heard. The tapping on his arm had stopped, and the student couldn't help but smack his forehead with his palm. The thought of causing a concusion was already forming in his mind. It would be fairly easy to transmute himself into the world of unconciousness, but that was cheating.

"Why did he have to screw up now?"

Onira lowered his hand back down to his side, turning to look at the already improving drama that was Junpei's mistake. So many opinions, only a few detectable by the five senses. If he had a sharper eye, then Onira may have been able to figure out the cause. But, that seemed not so. He could only see it unfold. And a few were not helping the matter.

"Son of a..."

The violet-eyed student walked into the blimp that so many others had. Being on the blimp sort of ruled out tansmutation. As well, Onira was not a negotiator in any sense of the word. He could not give "Diplomatic Advice", as it were, mostly because his own train of thought was flatter than a dead man's heart rate monitor. Not good, as it seemed. One had even resorted to coming dangerously close to smacking Junpei with the butt of his rifle. This day was just getting more and more fun by the minute, wasn't it?

Slowly he approached ground zero. As he got closer, his footsteps became shorter, and his mind was on it's own terror alert red. He was nearing the threshold, his heart skipping more than just one beat. Ever so slightly he got closer, his hand beginning to move. He didn't even know what he was going to do. What could he do? But, that didn't matter. Not if one had not even a speck of hope to body in-tact.

"Ahh!"

Onira's body was stiff. His posture was like that of a statue. And he payed. Instantly he fell flat on his face between Junpei and Phae, looking at the ground now. He could onlypush out the pitch-blending words.

"Pelayes duon't fieeght..."

Under better circumstances, the sound would probably be funny. However, one was still ready for evil stares. So he hoped.

[madelyn]

Embraced by her love. It was the most wonderful feeling in her life. His strong arms wrapping around her small frame holding her up and to him as if she was the most important thing in the world. It was amazing. She didn't mind the mask she knew who was behind it and no matter whether he hid it or not the same wonderful man would always be there. She revelled in his touch. His scent everything about him was pefect. Her angel was here and now his wings had arrived. Together they made a team. They had worked together during the The Butcher's class and she found that together they worked well whether fighting or dating together they were strong.

She slipped down out of his arms and she smiled up at him for a moment. His right hand came up to touch her cheek and her eyes closed. The fabric that covered his hand didn't matter. It didn't stop the sensations of his touch from running through her. With one touch .. conveyed in it were the kisses he could not give her and the feelings he could not say here. She opened her eyes slowly as his touch disappreared and she saw in his hand a small device. Looking up at him she nodded gently. Even her past was something only Jonathan could over come completly. In his gaze, in his arms her past had no bearing. Her fear of men. Her fear of being hurt by them had no place when she was with him. He placed the device in her hear and she smiled her eyes wide and bright when his voice came through. She giggled despite the serious situation because it .. was special. To her .. this gesture so she could hear him. He was the only one that had ever heard her speak in eleven years whether he knew that or not. And he spoke the most to her even if it wasn't words his eyes.. oh yes those pools of emotions that never ceased to speak.

Turning around she leaned back against him his arms came up around her waist and instantly.. safe. She was safe here with him. Not because he could protect her. Because she knew that he could. Those muscular arms and his skill with his weapons she knew that he was a force to be reckoned with. But that was not what made him safe. It was his love for her and her for him. This is what protected her. From everything. A bond stronger than anything. A new song had formed from that bond a new spell. She was ready to help her fellow students. She was ready to support those she didn't know. Her eyes looked around at the scene all the students waiting for their orders. Waiting the tension was high as they waited.. for the inevitable. Jonathan's arm loosened and he waved Madelyn following his gaze to the redhead. Ahh.. Phae.. yes the friend that had been a bit.. huggy during the class that all three had taken together. Madelyn didn't wave to the redhead, no instead she nodded with a smile. It was as good as a stranger got. She would have to get to know this Phae better. Such an important friend to Jonathan a man who barely opened up to anyone was surely worth the effort. His arm came back around her hugging her even closer and she smiled. It was as if he was telling her that he loved her not the redheaded girl. She was who belonged to him and she was not stepping down for anyone. She felt him grip her hand and snuggle into her. Her eyes slipped closed as she nuzzled back into him returning the affections. She could not imagine a day without this man. Though they didn't see each other every day she would often leave him little notes just to remind him that she thought of him daily.

Madelyn did not know these students. The silent girl barely got out and when she did her silence tended to keep people at bay instead of welcoming. She didn't like the fact that the sole person who truly tried to get to know her was the one currently holding her close to him. Not in the instance that she had found love, because nightly she was on her knees praying to the God above for his gift to her. But she knew no one else. She did recognize the man from the courtyard dressed in finery was none other that Ethan. He had been kind if not somewhat distant and had left as if she was not interesting enough to spare the time since she could not speak. Yet, she did spare him a nod and a smile the same courtesy that Phae had received because she did recognize him and though they were not friends she still felt that he deserved that. But he rest.. her eyes roamed over them and she recognized so very many from the class she had taken the one where their own personal hells came to haunt them in the most brutal fashion imaginable. But she did not know their name and therefore silence remained with Madelyn.

She felt Jonathan move and stand taking her hand her back now chilled from the lack of his warmth. She looked up at him to see what he had in mind but his gaze was elsewhere. Her.. the redhead he was looking at her. Madelyn looked between the two and heard Phae yelling at the man beside her. Jonathan's grip tightened and she looked up at him. He really did care for Phae she could tell it. In his very body language he was tense. Something was wrong. She moved to comfort him by placing her arms around his waist hugging him gently letting him know that she was here. That she understood and that everything would be okay.

When Jonathan saluted she knew that it was time to listen. His old habits kicking in but Madelyn did not let go of her love. Instead she clung to him still. If he needed support let him take it from her because she would willingly give it to him. She knew that he was from D13 and with an entire base missing and the search parties as well it would hit him hard. She could tell from the instant salute that he still had loyalties in D13 and she didn't blame him. She was here to help him in anyway she could. She would do what she could though. To support him, to support the academy, and to support the students here. That was her job. Support and she nodded internally she was willing. She would sing if she had to. Her hand moved down to absently pat her flute as if to double check it was there.

Jonathan began to lead them towards the blimp and she followed walking easily and happily. Yes, this was a mission and truthfully it was going to be hard. But she was with Jonathan and right now she felt like she could face the world and come out on top. Was it love that made her over confident? Most likely. And it was true that when the time finally came and she truly saw what she was up against she would become much more fearful. But Madelyn didn't think of the future she did not know of yet. Yes, it would not be pretty. Yes, she knew it would be hard. But she would prepare when the time came.

His arm slid around her back and pulled her closer to him and she went willingly liking this protective side of him. She would do her best not to become a burden on him because that was the very last thing she wanted to do. She would do her best to keep up, to help out, and to do her very best. In the blimp she began to look around her eyes wide as she took in her surroundings. She huddled into Jonathan a bit more as there were so many.. men here and in such a small space.. small compared to her comfort zone anyway. She knew that with Jonathan there was nothing to fear yet still the trembling.. trembling came as she looked around. So many men. So very many. They ended up near Phae and Jonathan held her to him tightly and she nuzzled into him softly as he placed a mic in her ear too. Madelyn said nothing but she did smile at the redhead. She listened to what Jonathan said to the girl and looked up at him as he cut himself off. His demeanor changed and she knew something was wrong. She heard the lines the boy that had been standing next to Phae had spoken and her eyes widened. She tried to calm him with a touch or keep him there but he wouldn't be stopped. She grabbed his hand but no.. no he was angry and she knew it.

Wincing as the butt of the rifle found it's way into the boys face. She had never seen Jonathan mad and she was thankful it was not directed at her. She watched as he seemed to converse with him but yet she did not know what to do. She felt bad she felt helpless in a way. Madelyn stood taking all her courage every last mote of it .. this was a battle of another kind. She walked to where her love and Phae's love stood facing each other. She reached up and took Jonathan's hand gently and lay her other hand on Junpei her eyes looking up at him begging him to be rational begging him to be kind and to forgive her love. She looked up at Junpei and then let her eyes roam to Phae's direction. She let go of Junpei as she pulled out her pad and wrote.

-For her. For me. Please, do not fight. We are here for a common goal. Let us not squabble.-

She looked at the both of the pleading them both to let it go. Pleading the boy to go to his girlfriend to make ammends to her because she would need to know of his love before entering battle. It would give her peace of mind. She leaned into Jonathan gently waiting for them both to make a decision. She hoped they would be rational. She knew that fighting among themselves would only create tension and this was not a time for tension.. but unity.

[Phoebe]

Pheobe didn't miss that Xeryth had waved and she smiled brightly at the attention. Mostly because she hadn't anticipated anything of the sort but.. then he waved and her heart melted. She waved back as she stood next to her sister and her fiance'. She still had issues with Junpei. The way he had hurt Phae was beyond forgiveness in her book but she was playing nice for her sister's sake. But Junpei had yet to talk to her like he was supposed to have wanted to and in her mind since it had now been quite some time he had just assumed he was forgiven. Well, he wasn't because he hadn't even tried to remedy the situation and had only come back in pushing Phae back into the roll she had apparently once lived. Which truthfully, Phae seemed to enjoy and from Phoebe's stand point it was fine as long as Phae was happy.

Watching a bit as the other students continued to arrive one cute blonde girl with bright eyes running up into the arms of a man with a mask on. Phoebe felt a pang of remorse as she really missed Xeryth. Her eyes continually flitted over to him because.. she loved him. There was no way getting around it but those three words had scared him off and now every morning and every night she regretted ever saying them. Because at least before she had they had been together and happy if not both shy. But she had ruined it that night. Everything she thought had been perfect but no... Xeryth had not been ready and with three simple yet so deep words she had ruined the bond that had grown between them. And now all she had left was the memories and the loss. He had asked her for time but she didn't know how much but she would wait. He meant that much to her. That sweet and shy boy was special.

The man one, Captain Strong-eye came up to the podium and began to list everyone's names. Many students she didn't know only a few she did. To say the least she really didn't get around much her circle consisting of; Xeryth (though not as of late), Junpei (whom sometimes she just wanted to kick in the shin), and Phae her twin. Which was pathetic.. she really needed to get out more but she just lacked the determination and happy go lucky attitude her twin did. It was so easy for Phae to make friends for her to just walk up to someone and introduce herself. But for Phoebe she would rather just stay in the back ground. It seemed a base was missing and to Phoebe a base meant military add the fact that Arcane was afiliated with D13 and you had that part taken care of right away. Troops had been sent and never returned. Well that was never a good sign at all. A pit opened in her stomach as she stood there listening to what the mission entailed. Her hand absently went down to the intricate hilt of her rapier as if to just double check that it was there. Sure enough the soft smooth metal of the guard met her hand.

WHAT!!! She heard her sister tear into Junpei and she turned quickly looking at the both of them and then seeing the object of discussion. One white haired, blue eyed, winged girl that Junpei seemed to be staring at. WHY THAT LITTLE... ohhhh he was pushing her limits fast. First he leaves causing her beloved sister to spiral into a deep depression and nearly kill herself and then oh yes then he comes back and pretends nothing really happened at all! Phae despite Junpei's assumptions was still healing and still fighting with her trust issues things that she only confided in Phoebe. But now.. oh now!! To stare at another woman with Phae right there was bad.. really bad. Death worthy.. she had to calm herself or she was going to do something rash. Phae was definatly a quiet girl and she was shy but to do that to her sister while she was standing right there was just appalling. Did the guy have no sense!! She was losing any gained respect for the man at an alarming rate. She put a hand on Phae's shoulder and when her sister stormed off into the blimp she too followed.

She saw another man, a blonde come and hug her sister. Just how did Phae meet all these people.. did the girl know the entire school? Once again Phoebe was reminded of her seclusion yet she didn't mind. Xeryth came onto the scene and since Phae was busy she moved to her boyfriend/ex boyfriend/friend/whatever. She saw the blood on his chin and frowned a little. She reached into the shoulder of her dress where a small pocket on each side held a hankerchief that she could use to clean her blade. She pulled one out and the logo of her academy was on the corner. She stuck a small piece of it in her mouth for a moment as she smiled at Xeryth before taking it out. She stepped up to him and cleaned the blood gently and lovingly off his chin. Every now and then her eyes would dart up to his as if checking on him. With the blood gone she folded up the hankerchief and placed it in his hand.

"Just in case you need it. Take it." she said softly.

She looked up tears welling in her eyes but she fought them back. She missed him so much. Cared for him so much. That to be without him hurt and to see him like this hurt too because she longed to be with him. Longed to be supporting him side by side telling him that she would help him she would be with him through this fight. Like the other couples. The cute blonde and her boyfriend. The black haired girl with the jewelry and her boyfriend. Even Phae when she forgave Junpei in the next five minutes. Swallowing hard she fought back the tears once more and leaned in giving him a gentle hug. She didn't let it stay for long because too long and she would never be able to move away. She missed him. A single tear fell but she wiped it away before it had a chance to go anywhere and she pulled back.

"Good luck Xer. Be safe for me okay." she said softly and tucked his soft platinum lockes behind his ears in her favorite move of all time before turning reluctantly another tear falling as she brushed it back so he wouldn't see it. She wanted so badly to make her stand at his side. Yet, he wanted space and she had probably already violated that with what she had just done. Yet, love didn't fade away in a week. No it took a long time and so .. it was still so very strong for her. She found a seat luckily by a window and sat down placing one leg over the other as she gazed out the window trying not to cry.. trying not to think of Xeryth.. and trying to be strong for the battle she knew was ahead.

[Celeste]

She felt Drake pull her in and she turned looking up at him as he placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. She blushed slightly and smiled before giving him a happy hug letting it hold for a few minutes before moving away and entwining her fingers with his. She looked towards the man at the podium when he called her name.

She looked at him and listened but truthfully it was all babble to her. She had never heard of D13 nor what a base was. She needed to do more reading. She made a note to find what she could about D13 and it's counterparts upon return. For now though she would do her best to support her teammates. Not only did she have healing spells but she could definatly fight if she had to.

With the briefing over she and Drake walked into the blimp where she let go of his hand and sat down in one of the chairs gently. She looked around the blimp with wide eyes and smiled it was so amazing. Her eyes absorbed everything it could until she spotted..Seig!!

"Seig!!" she exclaimed and ran over to him giving him a big tight hug. "How are you big brother?"

[Excel Esprit]

Excel listened silently, giving a soft giggle as Strongfield called her 'cutie pie Excel'. She didn't know why, she was just not used to compliments that hadn't been from her own parents. Compliments from strangers and others were...well...nice! Her bright eyes scanned through the students present here, whilst of course, listening to Strong-Eye's words. D-13? What was that? Honestly, she had no knowledge of the place. Perhaps because she had never been informed about it from anyone. She made a note to scurry something up about it. However, it would seem she'd find out soon enough seeing as how it was them who needed their help.

1.) Discover what has befallen the base.

2.) Attempt to rescue any survivors

3.) Liberate the base, if it has fallen.

Excel wasn't too sure what to do. She was young and such tasks asked upon her were difficult. If she hadn't been with many others, already she would have been completely lost in what to do. Thank God for the others. She'd just follow along and do what she could to help. That IS why she was here after all.

She bit her lower lip, looking towards the Junpei fellow who seemed to be harrassed by the other students around...for...looking at another girl? 'He's prolly got a girlfriend...' Excel thought, not having really payed much attention to that. No, instead, her eyes searched for the ones she had grown to call 'Friends'. Closer friends. The ones she had actually spent some ammount of time with.

Surely enough, when the time came for entering the blimp, Excel was greeted by one of them. "Lienn!" she squeaked happily, smiling braodly and nodding at her statement. Yes of course! Their Astral Prejection could surely serve a purpose! And their bodies...some of the students could surely keep an eye on them.

She followed like a small puppy, into the blimp and hugging herself gently. This was going to be scary for her. She knew it...but, heck, she had been in a class to learn how to kill and from the scary sights there...this would be a field of flowers. Well...she hoped.

"This'll be...quite a different experience." Excel said, looking towards Lienn and smiling gently. "Let's do our best."
Her eyes closed softly, Excel exhaling all her air then taking in a deep breath and exhaling again. She was calm. And she hoped she wouldn't lose her cool anytime today.

[Setsuna]

"So... It's finally happening..." Setsuna sat cross legged high atop a building in Babylos, his sword resting against his shoulder. Gripping the scabbard tightly, he stood and cast his gaze over the masses who now lined up to enter the two blimps that sat ominously at the docking ports. "Insects... Rushing to their demise..." He took a second to himself, as he cracked his neck and rotated his arm. "Damn this accursed body..." He spat on the roof, disgusted with the human shell he was entombed in. "It seems however... That the death I've been sensing was more than just some morons deciding to slaughter a few inuits... I smell the work of the undead..." Taking a few steps, he hopped off the top of the building, falling four stories before catching himself and compacting his legs, absorbing the shock.

He casually moved towards the destination the voice blaring out through the speakers was directing everyone to. The sound of the siren was beginning to bug Setsuna, but there was nothing to be done about it. He just had to keep pressing on, avoiding the urge to short out the speaker system with his lightning. "Idiots... Such an obnoxious noise..." He grunted. Looking out, there seemed to be many people about who were not actually going to participate. Rather, they seemed to be there simply to see what was going on. "Curiosity... Such a pointless emotion..." Slipping past the masses unseen, he approached the nearest blimp to him. At the entrance, there stood a guard who seemed to be handing sheets out to the various students who passed him. No doubt an order sheet. 'I have no interest in their mission... I want only to deal with the plague that is building in the north...' Knowing this, he scanned the vehicle. And it was then that he noticed it. The emergency exit sat just slightly ajar from it's hinges. 'Perfect...' He said with a smirk.

Slipping around the side, he slid the door open and climbed in. Another door separated him from the area in which the students were. An airlock of sorts it seemed. So, closing the exit behind him, he entered the main cabin silently. Looking about the room, he saw a number of familiar faces. Most notably to him were Ethan Yukimaru, and Darian Dumonte. Both students he had met in the training grounds recently. 'So... Even one of the Yukimaru clan is interested in such matters...' He observed silently, taking his place in a quiet corner of the room. 'Even in this mortal coil... An unlife infestation will be a simple task to deal with... I will send them back to the pits of hell, where the dark lord will punish them for their arrogance...'