Foreboding Skies In The North (Mature)

[The Helper]

LIFT OFF

"I wonder if those pistols of yours disembowels idiots..."

".. Well, certainly not idiots under my command, Kheldar, but, more rather into enemies. Why do you ask?"

But of course, he chose not to press further, as arguments seemed to rise up.. but, by the time Strong-Eye could've figured out what they were even about, he could not really care less. No offense, Arcane Academy, but, trivial matters will come and go. In the grand scheme of things, anger that may seem so reasonable at the time, will all be forgotten in the sands of time.

.. Or, in this case, the flakes of snow. He carried on inside, over to the bridge.

These were just children. Yet, he had so much faith in them. The D-13.. produced soldiers, but, also tried to give out the discipline in magics. In some ways, combining the science of modern technology with age old magic, making various variants. They had science that manipulated the already chaotic magicks, but, Arcane Academy always produced the better mages. And in cases like this, sometimes, the better mages were needed, in combination with, should he be so bold as to say, 'the better fighters'. If it was one versus the other, it would be a matter of who had the bigger guns, or who had the stronger magicks, but thankfully, this was not the case. Taking a little bit of a side step, Strong-Eye was about to crouch down, seeing the students beginning to come into the ship, but, then, thinking better of it, stood back up, facing them all, as they came on, one by one. Among the first to walk by, was the one he barely recognized to be Seig. He'd only been reading out their names, so, he had at least a loose association with who these people were, and the names that matched them. And with him.. a.. robotic machine of some sort. A.I., perhaps? He wasn't any psychic, though, no, those were left back at the home base. Resisting to spit disgustedly at the thought. Overhead, things were getting louder, as he could hear the helium compressing itself further and further, being absorbed from the outside to fill it's berth. D-13 would never forget Arcane Academy's aid in this mission, that was for certain. Something about how the Headmaster was.. heh. The students under him were extraordinarily powerful. Slowly, he went to one of the stationary computers, just a little ways from his command seat, which allowed him to see everything in the bridge with ease, in a descending order, stairs going down to the lower levels, where the pilots were preparing the finalized matters. Quickly typing in the following names, from the paper he'd written down the volunteers on, he moved the mouse, hitting 'print', and slowly waited, patiently, as request was sent through to the Headmaster. It began printing out shortly, Strong-Eye turning around to see who else had boarded. Quickly grabbing for one of the papers, he looked at an interesting profile, by the name of..

".. Ah, Junpei Taltos, I was just looking at your profile," he said in response, a light-hearted smile on his face, his right hand slowly going down, and nodding to the boy, "Is there anything that I can help you with?" But, even as he said this, he made note of the young man's strong physique. The furrowing in Junpei's eyes, as he spoke out his concerns to Strong-Eye, who listened quietly to the remarks. He had guts. Manners should use some sharpening, but, he had guts. ".. Well, Mr. Taltos," he began rather warmly, before, he was interrupted, noting a rather angry looking girl leaning against the wall, just by the door, making him pause for a moment. He moved his fist, resting it on his commanding, stationary chair, his mouth about to open to respond properly, and apologize for the pause, when.. yet another young man approached him, this one in a suit of armor. Ahh... Lanji, right? He remembered him.. a strange grin seen on the captain's face, shooting an apologetic look on his eyes to Junpei, for the further interruption. ".. Ah, well, Lanji, don't bother with that over so much now. It's up to him to make it up with his girl, but, as to what he thinks of our organization at the D-13, that's his buisness." In truth, he didn't know how to respond to the overly religious comments of 'dark magic' as the D-13, for all that they were known to do, or rumored to do was fairly meriting of such talk itself, but, he just smiled it off, resting his left hand, in its gun glove, on his hip, shaking his head somewhat dismissively, but nodding understanding the boy. "I an honored, Sir Lanji, if you truly are a knight. You have the looks of one, and a mighty powerful one at that. Please, take a seat somewhere," he said, his arms extending to the sides of his chair, as, suddenly, about thirty chair began to rise from the floor, steady just for the Arcane Academy students.

Another one walked in, and with a wave of his hand, he bid him to rest in one of the chairs. That face.. he quickly held up a hand, in pardon to Junpei for further interruptions.. but, aye.. he looked through the printing papers. Ahh.. Dark, or Drake. Either worked. Interesting character.. when a blonde-haired girl stepped. My, so many students.. this was quite the formidible force. But, from behind where Lanji stood, another voice came, an older-sounding voice. He pointed out the obvious that was to him as well as Strong-Eye: The reputation and interaction between the D-13 and Arcane Academy could've become very severed, .. IF he was really such a sensitive ass. But, he understood, the student teacher was still yet young. Undoubtly, the one.. damn, what was his name? Ethan? Ethan Yukimura? ".. 'Honor is mine, Ethan Yukimura. Yes.. a warrior? You could call me that.." he chuckled darkly, his eyes closed for a moment, as if casting out some memories. "A child? Not at all. In my mind, sure. But, Arcane Academy has always produced, or at least harbored among the best of the best: Mages. The D-13 always seems to produce great complimentary soldiers in turn. As for Mr. Taltos, again, I do not mind him, though his remarks would certainly insult my peers." As to when Ethan saluted back at him, he saluted back, a regal smile on his face. "As to you, Ethan, as to you." All the while, however, he could not help but note that Ethan.. while respectable, had a very distant look in his eye, was very reserved in emotion.But, to make comment on that would probably be rude. 'Simply put, it was not his place.

All thoughts however, blanked out, when a lovely young woman walked up to him, her pale hand extended out as a little shake. He seemed unsettled, pausing, just staring, his eye wide-open, as if he'd seen a ghost. .. What was her name?... Shea. Shea, right? Why did she.. why did she look so much like his eldest daughter, his eldest daughter before she'd gotten in that car crash? A fatherly smile came onto his face, then, his eyes winkingly smiling back at her, almost closed, as his hand took hers, holding it gently. ".. Shea... thank you. The pleasure and honor is mine, my dear." he said, nodding his head softly at her. He beheld her.. as if it was another shot at his daughter. In a sudden move, his left hand dug into his pocket, all the while, his eyes never leaving her. ".. It's my job to protect you students. The D-13 could never stand to have its allies carry its weight for it, even if they are helping. Shea.." he said, suddenly taking out a stone..

A tear fell from his eye, as he smiled at her, slowly putting the stone in her hand. ".. I'm sorry... but.. you remind me so much of my.. eldest daughter, before she passed away, five years ago, on this very day, the day she was to be wedded... I don't know.. but, just, keep it. If you want, give it to the one you love.." An heirloom. He smiled, at her, having just given away his family heirloom. Why did he do that? Such generosity was even kind, even for himself, and on such a grand scale. He turned around, as if he couldn't bear to look at her, but, turned and looked at her again. ".. Something just tells me.." he smiled, shaking his head. ".. That's the right thing to do." He couldn't explain it. But.. hopefully, it would be enough. He was slightly caught off guard, when Wolf told him his feelings on the mission as well. The Captain just nodded, saying, "We all do. We just want our boy's back, if they're still there." he said a little more quietly.. when, he noted the most quiet person there. Robert. ... Robert. His eyes slowly became cooler, as he watched the young boy. Quickly grabbing for the paper profiles, as the last one printed out, he sorted through them, until he found... ".. Robert." He'd keep that boy in mind. He read over the profile again and again, seeming to have forgotten about responding to Junpei. But, he then picked up all the profiles, reading through them, nodding at some, shaking his head at others.. and quietly, just quietly, he put them down.

However, it was a lit-up bullet that caught his eye. Tossed up and down, carelessly. A glowing bullet. He almost didn't catch what Darian was saying. Gawking at the bullet for a bit, he shook his head, recomposing himself, as he leaned his hand on his chair. ".. Nope. None at all. Which is precisely why we're bringing out the big guns, no pun intended.." as his hand suddenly let go of the chair, about to fall on his side, he leaned forward, quickly shifting his weigh, his finger pointing at Darian. "You guys. .. Gunmage..." he smiled. There was mutual interest. Most of the gun mages were in the D-13, to start off with, anyways. Gunmages and psychics seemed to be the D-13's forte. Quietly.. he took a step forward.. ".. Don't mind me.. just checking ya' out for somethin'.." he said, his hands going into the rather noble-looking boy's robes. Guns. Plenty of them. He smiled, as his hands went over every gun, as if he could recognize every single one of them, just by looking. "Two Glock 19's.. hell, you even have a mini-uzi." he withdrew his hands.. smiling. ".. I may have a gun or two that may need re-possessing, if you catch my drift.." came the winking reply, as he suddenly turned very serious, placing his right hand directly onto Darian's forehead, as if, summoning up something, his palm flat, his eyes.. almost glowing, his voice gruff, but seeming slightly etheral, as he spoke, saying, "Hereforth are ye, ye Gunmage of strength, ye Gunmage of wit. Blessed be your guns, and those that you protect in 'usin' them. 'Tis the right and the oath I beseech ye with, o'er the time that comes. Fire at will to protect, aim to defend, and kill when neccesary. Ye shall know the times, o' Gunmage. For when the time comes, and come many or come small, though they may.. fire at will, never show dismay. Look into my eyes, the eyes o' my soul.. for here before me stands a story of a Gunmage yet untold'."

.. His hand fell away, shaking, a look on his face, as if he'd drained something out of himself. But, he smiled, looking at Darian. There was no visible change.. but, it was there. It was there. The mark of the Gunmage was in him within him, burned onto his heart. A blessing.. all that an eldarly gunmage could do.. wasn't much, but, it would help. Courage would be found, in places where he had not yet found it. The boy, yet growing.. would become strong, no, stronger then even Strong-Eye. Ruffling the boy's hair a little, he moved onward, back to Junpei. ".. Aye, sorry 'bout that..--- Oh, aye, Mayon! 'Allo there! Yes, 'tis a trifle tad annoying.. but.. we shall make due.. we shall make due." Shrugging apologetically, his eyes suddenly caught onto the sword that was sheathed at Junpei's side.. ".. WHOA... 'tis quite a sword you got there, Laddie! Looks powerful.." he said, and he didn't just mean it looked huge or badass. He spoke, as if he knew something was strange.. as to what the full extent of the profiles he looked through were, he would not say. He smiled, but, again, he was caught offguard. Xe-XERYTH VARSON!? He stared at the psychic. He remembered that department. .. God, 'that' department was horrid. Simply 'orrid. But, first, Junpei.. But, one of the other students seemed to also take offense at what he said. His eyes suddenly noting a disappearance, when, suddenly, the butt of a rifle was suddenly rushing towards Junpei's face. .. That mask. That boy. He knew him. ... Jonathan Winters. Part of that 'project' of his 'father's'. They'd attempt to close him down, but the bastard kept on Lancaster's good side. .. This boy.. this boy.. a girl suddenly rushed up to him, pleading for them not to fight, and the Captain nodded.

".. Aye.. 'tis good merit that you show, that you know when to be submissive, boy, but.. I see you've grown, a little.." he said, smirking, his hand going to the butt of the rifle, picking it up from Junpei's hands, and putting it back in Jonathan's. "... Use this.. for when you need it." came the gruff reply, but, a kindly look at both Junpei and Jonathan. Ear-mics. The boy was courteous enough to not say out aloud what he was saying.. at least, some respect was shown. ".. Jonathan... your.. 'brother', is still in the process. We need good soldiers like you to stay around.. so fight while you can, and be a good example." He said, saluting him off. Finally, turning back to Junpei. ".. You've heard your peers, but, I don't think you've heard what I've had to say. You may ignore me, if you so wish, but then, 'tis your choice, as the Student Teacher. I respect your thoughts. I'll start off with that, boy." he said, smiling, as he sunk into his command chair, proferring up that Jupei sit to his right. Pressing one of the buttons at his side, a can of Coke appeared, and he handed it to him. "..However, 'tis us who wish to get on the Academy's good side. The D-13 have pride.. and let you not forget, it was your men, our men, hell even the Blood Society's men, who fought on that battlefield. That dragon.. did not come down by you alone. You had help. We brought it, as did your comrades from your Academy, as did the people of Babylos, as did the Blood Society. It is what you're capable of doing, yes, that I respect, and you as a person, I shall respect. So.. a tip from a friend: Men respect those who have power. Yet, they respect those who have power, yet know 'when' to use it. The markings of a true leader, Junpei Taltos.. you'll yet shine in this mission." he said, then, standing up, leaving Junpei.. as he stood at the front, the last few stragglers finally coming in. He stepped towards the middle, a sudden metal pathway grating rising to meet his feet, a large circularish platform forming, as he turned around on it, a wall surrounding it. He looked at a newcomer.. one that he didn't see. And he smiled at them all. Gravely, but he smiled.

"... This mission.. is very reliant on the capabilities of the Arcane Academy students. Which is why.. you, and not my commanding officers, shall gain control of my men." The two guards who normally stood by the Captain looked up, suprised at this, as if outraged. But, they settled down, at a light glance from the Captain, who didn't look angry at all.

"Here, I have fourty-eight men," he said, extending his arms out, as if to refer to them all. "And for thus, I am in need of four men, capable of leadership. Alpha, Omega, Delta, and Bravo. Alpha, acting as the main force that'll literally cut through enemy lines... Omega being the squad charged with artillary firepower, essentially, our big guns, Delta essentially being our 'reconaissance' group, and Bravo is going to be support, wherever we need them. Accordingly, I have picked the following leaders, and their groups (newcomer, consider yourself part of Alpha)":

Alpha:
-Leader: Junpei
-Phaedra
-Lanji
-Wolf
-Robert
-Setsuna
12 Assigned D-13 Troops (All equipped with a knife, a 7-shot pistol, with fifteen extra clips, 8 of whom have SMG's, and 4 of whom are Factory-Made Gunmages with custom handguns with 'Fire-Shot' specialities.)

Omega:
-Leader: Darian Dumonte
Shea
-Onira
-Mayon
-Kheldar
12 Assigned D-13 Troops (All equipped with a knife, a 7-shot pistol, with fifteen extra clips, 4 of whom have SMG's, and 4 of whom are Factory-Made Gunmages with custom handguns with 'Fire-Shot' specialities, and 4 of whom have rocket launchers, with 3 extra shots, and a grenade launcher with 12 shots each for every man.)

Delta:
-Leader: Xeryth
-Phoebe
-Excel
-Lienn
-Drake
12 Assigned D-13 Troops (All equipped with a knife, a 7-shot pistol, with fifteen extra clips, 8 of whom have SMG's, and 4 of whom are limited psychics with 4 Mana Inhalers and 1 Mana Candy per psychic. [Essentially, the medics of all 48 men])

Bravo:
-Leader: Jonathan Winters
-Madelyn
-Celeste
-Sieg
-Ethan
12 Assigned D-13 Troops (All equipped with a knife, a 7-shot pistol, with fifteen extra clips, 6 of whom have SMG's, and 6 of whom are Basic Snipers.)

"... No complaints, this is the order."

Quietly, he rested, his back on the main announcement, as all the lights only focused on him. Already, the turbines had finished heating up.. and the four escorting F-22 had taken off, ready to scout out ahead. So too, did the first D-13 blimp already begin to take off, in front of them. And slowly, they began to rise. A strange smile happened on the Captain's face. The smile fell away.. as he held up his right arm, clenching it into a fist, as he stood before them, his hair.. strangely unsettled, as if there was a light wind coming from all directions. Yet, it came from within, the power that he held, what he was capable of.. and he looked at one, he looked at all.

"It is here.. it is here we shall start off this mission. In the skies. To find out what has happened, up in the north. To the skies, we shall rise, up, up to find out and maybe help our comrades. Arcane Academy and D-13, those are our brands. Yet, when we fight together, it is then that the glory in our true potential shows, and we see that no faction is better then one another. Morerather.. it is by fighting as a unit, fighting by your comrades, protecting them, defending them, watching them die to protect you. Some have scorned me for this eye.. so many have scorned me for my deeds. We may fight to take away the lives of young men, whose mother's shall curse us. But there is no room for remorse. For our people, for the future of our people, for our friends, for our families, for our individual survival.. maybe even for ourselves. There are many reasons why we must gauge into war. And it is within all of you, as an individual, and all of you, as unit, that you possess powers far greater then my own.. why people fear to incur the wrath of Arcane Academy, why people fear the forbidden technologies of the D-13, some that we are proud of, some that we are not. The Monastary.. has yet, never failed to watch us, yet, in this time of need, they are busy, and we must respect that. The D-13, incapable of handling itself alone, with it's own talents, will not send in students of the Arcane Academy to bear our weight. We shall support you, we shall die for you, you are the future of this world..."

And with that, his hand grasped his hat violently, throwing it down, slamming it onto the console before him, a furious eye in his eyes.

"WHICH IS WHY, WE OF THE D-13, NO, I, CAPTAIN STRONG-EYE OF THE D-13 SHALL MAKE SURE THAT YOU SURVIVE, MAKE SURE THAT YOU LIVE BEYOND THIS MISSION, SO THAT YOU MAY FULFILL THE POTENTIAL THAT THE REST OF ARCANE ACADEMY, THAT THE REST OF THE D-13 HAS FAILED TO ACCOMPLISH.."

Fury in his words.. compassion, empathy, he'd lived a long live, and yet, barely, just a still fairly good age of fourty-three. Yet.. it was this, this that his men were stunned at. This that his men rallied at, crying out towards him, cheering him on, but, grew silent, as his stare slowed down.. slowly resting his eyes on Robert. It was the truth. His words spoke it. The feeling was strong in the air. And he rested his eyes, looking at every single one of his men, every single student.. resting them, again on Robert, resting them on Shea, resting them on Excel.

".. My trust I put in you.. my life I shall give for you. That is the oath I wear, as a captain of the D-13. That is what honor of the D-13, put on the line, before you. Do not forget my words.. students of Arcane Academy.. and grow stronger, as I know you can, stronger then me, stronger then my Director, stronger then even your headmaster. I have faith in your strength... because..."



".. You are strong."

[Wolf, the Joker]

ooc: Awww, I'm hurt. A newcomer?

ic: (Wolf watched as the other came in and was ready to go. Before that, he saw Strong-Eye talking to other. He didn't mind but he saw how many people was in and was ready to fight. As everyone was ready to live and sent off. He was giving out orders and the teams that was to be in place of the mission. Wolf heard his name as the Alpha team, the attack force for the front lines. He wasn't made about the team set up at all, he was more of an fighter than back up.

He looked at each of his teammates so that he would know who they are and what they looked like. He didn't want to use any of his spell cards on them by mistake. But soon Wolf felt the D-13 blimp taking flight. He could feel every inch of the ships movements as it took off the ground. His left arm started to shake wildly. But Wolf held it down with his right hand.

The arm was acting like if it knew blood was to come soon. He just hoped that one card wouldn't show up again like it did before. Because of the fact that the more he uses the card, the more he becomes the Joker.

But Wolf looked up at their head leader as he was talking to the whole group. As if everyone will die or something. This kind of talk did bug him a bit. But then Wolf stood up after Strong-Eye was done talking. His left arm was calm and with his right hand moved his hair a bit back to show his face to Strong-Eye.)
Sounds like you think we will die in this mission. That might be true. But.... We know our mission.

(With his right hand, he drew his new sword that was on his back and with his left his old one handed sword. from his left side belt. Hold them both upside down, he placed the tip of the blades on the floor.)

But with my blades and my spell deck, I place this. I won't die without give them Hell itself. What about you Strong-Eye sir? Are you willing to give them Hell before you die? Because I know I will. The I die will be the day I give them Hell.

(When Strong-Eye gave out an answer, Wolf sheathed both of his swords and looked at Strong-Eye. With a smile.)

[Ethan Yukimaru]

"As do I look forward to our Duel Honorable Dumonte" Ethan whispered back, his tone elegant, yet reserved.

With that he took a seat down, awaiting for take off to begin. Around him students were talking and enjoying themselves to an extent, without knowing that the horrors of war lurk nearby. Some of these students were still green to the ways of war, but not Ethan.... He had seen the horror of it with his own eyes. Regardless, he just awaited take off to begin. In a few moments, The Captain suddenly came before the students, discussing his plans with the students of the Academy. Quietly listening, it appeared Ethan would be working along side a few other people. Winters he did not know, but the other three he did encounter them. Madelyn was the girl to whom he had met on his first day. To see her in battle would be a very interesting prospect at that, but he doubted her combat abilities due to what appeared to be her shy tendencies. Sieg was a man he met on one of his other days at the Academy. Passionate about machines and magic, the Nobleman would rather enjoy to see Atticus and his other machines to go into battle. As for Celeste, well, he had seen the wings to which she was given....but other then that Ethan has no ideas to her powers. Perhaps this mission shall be a good time to observe and study the magic style of other warriors....

"It shall certainly give me time to check on my opponent for Dueling Class, as well as let me see the powers of my acquaintances" Ethan began, talking in a whisper to himself.

Anyways, it seemed his team would be support team, freely able to move about and aid the other groups. Personally, Alpha team was where it would be best for him to use his skills, but Bravo team where the big hitters were seemed to better fit Ethan's fighting style on a field of war. After all, aside from simple moves, Ethan could destroy a huge amount of land with his strings. And let us not forget Gamma, to whom Ethan can easily blend in with his silent weapons...the string. Regardless, maybe that's why Team Delta is perfect for him... He can freely move about the battlefield to aid that of the other teams.

Suddenly feeling a bit of force on him, the Airship finally took off from the Hanger. Looking outside the window Ethan noticed the sky that day, and how azure it really was and how white those clouds were today. However, the man could sense blood in the air, the calling of death and destruction. War is coming, Death riding behind it.... And yet Ethan remained as usual calm and composed, never changing his stoic look for even just a moment.

"To why do we go" The man began very quietly, his tone reserved and yet regal. "Is it to slay, Kill and burn? No, it is for duty"

And with that Ethan ended his just composed Haiku, turning his eyes toward the outside of the Airship this fine day.

[Setsuna]

ooc: I think he was referring to me there Wolf

ic: Setsuna watched from his corner as the man who called himself 'Strong-Eye' gave out squad positions to everyone, placing him in the forward attacking group... 'Perfect... I'll be able to deal with the situation myself...' Setsuna took note of who looked up when the Alpha squad names were announced, paying specific attention to their supposed leader Junpei. He seemed at least semi capable of staying alive... As for the others... 'Well... At least there will be some fodder for the enemy to focus on while I get things done...' He thought, silently dismissing the other members. The blimp's engines started to rumble, an the massive beast took to the sky. It was then that the captain began to give out a long winded speech about unity, working as a team and fighting for the greater good. A speech to inspire the heart of both man and woman. 'How long is this windbag going to drone on like that?' Setsuna thought, becoming annoyed with the sound of the man's voice.

Strong-Eye threw his hat down dramatically, shouting his vigorous words to bring the moral to it's absolute peak, like a dictator rallying his troops before a war. And finally, with his compassionate eyes, he reassured the students of his belief in them. In their strength and their ability to succeed. It sickened Setsuna. So much so that he couldn't take it anymore. "You talk like you're sending us off to fight some guys with guns and magic... Another fight only bigger..." He stepped forwards from his corner, a sly grin crossing his face. "But in reality... You don't have a single clue as to what you're pitting us up against... You don't even know the basic opponent we can expect to find on that battlefield today..." His eyes rolled over the crowd... He took a sort of pleasure in this, breaking the atmosphere of general happiness and hope.

"Well... If you can't tell them... Than I will..." He said with eyes fixed on their captain. "We will not be facing any regular army... The men we fight will have no emotion... No remorse... No consequence..." His gaze once more fell across the other students, not really caring whether or not they believed what was to come out of his mouth next. "I know not what strings pull these drones... But I do know that for every enemy you fell... Just as many are likely to get back up again... We face the most despicable form of life imaginable... We face that which is known only as the undead..." His eyes then trained back up to the captain. "Now... As you were saying captain... We will fight the enemy with you... But an army with a little insight is more effective than an army blind no?" He then made a somewhat disrespectful mock bow, extending his arms as he stepped backwards, allowing everyone to deal with their situation however they saw fit.

[Robert]

Robert listened with intent to remember, yet his face seemed uninterested. His eyes were, naturally, to the ground, staring at the metal floor of the blimp. He heard the captain speak of the squads, hearing his name called quite quickly. Alpha. He would have liked to wonder if that was the correct spot, but inside, he knew it was. His skills were, so far, only useable for mass destruction. In some small way, he was happy to hear it. It would give him the chance to get that damned burning energy out of himself. It would also let him attempt his two newly-found spells, which even he would enjoy just a little bit. It gave him a sense of control whenever he hurt something. Made him feel more powerful. He knew in the back of his mind it was false comfort, but in that moment, the adrenaline gave him the sense of being needed. It was... desirable, for someone in his position.

He heard the words and soon-followed cheers of the D-13 soldiers, but it was unimportant. He got no sense of hope within those sounds. Within those noises. All he got were the facts. Something he had before the captain's speech. It still remained that they would go, they would kill, they would discover, and they may die. It was all truth. Chances were, the captain knew it as well. He just didn't wish to let on. Tried to cover it with a blanket of comforting lies. No matter.

Robert's eyes did not raise from the ground as the newcomer interupted. It seemed that the truth Robert had been thinking of only a moment ago had decided to manifest itself in this stranger. He seemed to desire quite a bit to tell everyone of what was to come, many of the facts the crowd already knowing but wishing to keep hidden from themselves. It was... more comfortable, that way.

The words the man spoke were disrespectful, but little did he seem to realize, they didn't change the facts. The obnoxious brat that existed in all children wanted to break free from the shackles of solitude Robert himself had placed. The speck of his being wished to say to this apparently honor-less swordsman; "Hey! We get it! Shut up!" A simple way to word one's oppinions, but the chains would remain. The caged boy inside the shell would stay beneath the surface, getting not even a shrug from him. Not even a slight grunt. For the time, all that would be were the lifeless eyes resting against the floor.

After a moment, Robert's mind began to stray away from the drama and into the mission itself. If in-fact an army was there, massive attack would be needed. If it was to be just continuous single attacks, and if in-fact the opponents were what this Setsuna said they were, the teams would become tired very easily. It was also beginning to loom above one's self that they had only 69 men and women. They had only 69 soldiers, and they were quite possibly going up against a force of thousands. Robert almost smiled at this. The thought broke through into his regular dull gaze, feeling evident in the orbs for only maybe three seconds as he ran it through. Maybe. Maybe.

Maybe I will finally die.

He looked upon his gloved left hand, eyes returning to normal as he trapped himself once again in his own little world. It was less risky in that world, yet much less comforting. Almost usual, in a sense. But, that was not what his mind strayed off to in it's third stop after the speech. No, now his mind was on his self. He seemed to have been thinking of all the times, by now. First he thought of the present moment. The speech. Then, he thought of what was so soon to come. The battle. And, at the moment, he was walking through the uneventful yet still gloomy path of his past. Nothing in-particular really. It just felt... right. He remembered his dreams of many multiple sleepless and well beyond emotional nights. The nightmares of the silent screams. The ones that existed only in the ears of his mind, yet still brought with them the hardest and most powerful feelings of regret. The dark and looming demons that wished for him to give her back. The ones that begged him to let her live once again. Only how he wished he could do such a thing. But then again, it seemed the moment, regardless to some of Setsuna's words, was all about hope. Was all about thinking of how to redeem or help one's self, as well as those around him. How he wished he could.

He let his hand rest without movement at his side once again, keeping eyes on the floor with his body in it's regular slouch. He was tired of thinking, now. Tired of wondering, hoping, and so many other things he was supposed to disregard. He just wanted to wait. And he did.

[Sieg]

Sieg had been so caught up in inspecting the ship he hadn't even noticed the Captain or any of the others board the ship. He had gotten a lot of information from his preliminary inspection of the on-board systems. Atticus had already compiled a full 3-D blueprint and had uploaded it to Sieg's pds. He was actually more eager to finish the mission and get back to the Academy so he could start working on a few new inventions that the blimp had inspired him to create.

Sieg was lucky that the blimp was so technologically advanced that it garnered his attention so readily. It kept his mind off the growing, gnawing pit of fear that was building in his stomach. Sieg had a feeling that this mission was going to be far from easy. He was most worried about Celeste's well-being, she wasn't a fighter she was far too frail and gentle. What kind of role could she play what would most certainly be a very combat heavy mission? Sieg didn't know, he himself wasn't much of a fighter either. As long as he could keep Celeste safe he would consider the mission a success.

"SIEG!"

He heard the shrill, happy shriek as she bounded across the blimp and threw her arms around him in a tight hug. Sieg laughed a little and wrapped his arms around her, returning the hug. While he was happy to see her again, it made the pit of fear in his stomach churn a little. God, he didn't want to see her get hurt. Sieg didn't know what he would do if he allowed her to get hurt on this mission....or worse. No, no it was pointless to be so pessimistic, he had to keep his spirits up. If he gave into the fear now, he would most certainly lock up entirely once they actually engaged the enemy. What use would he be then? Absolutely none and then he would not be able to help Celeste, his little sister. He gave himself a mental kick in the ass and collected his thoughts, calming himself down for himself and for Celeste. He had to be strong for her, if she saw he was frightened what would happen to her? He couldn't show her his fear, he had to be strong for his little sister.

"I'm fine Celeste, I take it you're doing well," he said with a grin as he watched her, "Drake's here too eh?" he asked, nodding over to her dual-personality boyfriend. Sieg quickly fell quiet as Strong-Eye started talking again. He had divided them into teams for the mission. Sieg breathed a small sigh of relief, he had been assigned to the same team as Celeste, that would make it much easier to keep an eye on her.

Then the Captain gave what Sieg assumed was supposed to be some sort of stirring, inspirational speech but it didn't help to raise his spirits. He was too concentrated on keeping himself calm to make sure he would be on his toes to keep his little sister safe. He clenched his fists slightly, the pit of fear in his stomach kept churning, no matter what he did he couldn't make it go away. Sieg had a distinct feeling that this mission was going to be a lot more than any of them were expecting, even Strong-Eye.

[Lienn~]

Lienn grinned at her french friend as they boarded the blimp. She looked nervous, though Lienn was sure that she mirrored Excel's expression. This was quite the mission they were about to embark on. 'But why a blimp?' she wondered. She imagined that something like this usually included jets or something stealthy and fast for their transportation, not a giant balloon. This thing looked as though it could be shot right out of the sky. *gulp*), the blonde girl blink in surprise as the whole lot of seats rose from the floor, enough for all of them. That was a nifty touch.She sat down toward the middle of the group of chairs, glancing at the seat next to her and then Excel indicatin for her to sit next to her.

She listened intently as the captain divided all of the students into teams. She was in tean Delta, led by someone named Xeryth. Nice name, she thought absently. Excel was in her team too! Maybe it was a stroke of luck, or maybe the captain knew about their special abilities. Either way, it was good.

((sorry about the length >.<))

[Darian Dumonte]

Darian was surprised by the exchange between Shea and Strong-Eye having not expected the man to view her as a daughter. The gawking almost caused Darian to smirk but, he instead smirked on the inside. It was nice to see there there was a mutual interest in all of this. Yes nice to see indeed. Darian gave another smile at the man in front of him. A mutual interest. The answer made him frown slightly but, he decided not to comment. This wasn't good if information was going to be low they could be rushing into the situation blindly. Then he saw Strong-Eye approach and his brows lift upwards almost in questioning at the man. Had he already caught his interest that fast? That was definantly something that he was surprised and slightly caught off gaurd by. He held Strong-Eye's gaze meeting it with one of his own. Then he felt the hands go into his mantle he blinked.

What the...

"Don't mind me..."

YES I MIND!

He was thunderstruck even more as Strong-Eye began to say the guns that Darian was carrying a few of them just by touch. Darian was good but, he wasn't THAT good. Man he really had a curiosity going on the guy. There was just something that he had to admit that Strong-Eye was good at what he did. Both of them were Gun Mages and both acknowledged each other then Strong-Eye did another unexpected act. He felt Strong-Eye's palm on his forehead and he blinked for several long moments not sure what to say. The oath. The oath snapped his attention up to Strong-Eye's gaze. Speaking in a soft and slightly shaking voice he responded to the words.

"To act not in haste but, aware in mind and soul as I strike through instinct and not decision. To protect those around me be they liked or disliked as long as they are allies by cause be decided. Though my story untold it shall be written with each step I take."

He listened to everything else half-heartedly for a moment as he then looked up with surprise. He was in charge of a squad?! Darian blinked as he gazed at the roster for a moment and then at the Captain and then at the roster. He was well surprised that the Captain would choose someone like him to be a commander for a team. He glanced at the names quickly. All of them he already knew okay that was interesting. He tapped his fingers against his side for a moment.

Why did he choose me?

Darian turned to Shea and gave a weak smile. Deep down he could probably handle the command but, that didn't mean he wasn't alittle nervous.

[Lanji Romano]

"Thou art most correct Captain I haft recently become a knight thanks to years of training under mine excellent tutor. I salute thee sir for thine dedication to thy cause and thy men it is most honorable and I shalt look forward to working with thee in this cause. For where things go wrong there most be strong and just men to take the mantle of leaderhip and lead his allies to most fortunate victory. But, the victory must also bring back as many allies alive as possible."

Banging his sword on his shield in salute he sheathed the broadsword as he headed to a seat his owl hooting softly at the possibility for action. Tacet was a healer and defender for the most part he was not a fighter however, Lanji would no doubt be able to use Tacet's abilities in this fight as well as Fait's most useful abilities. While they were both only recently trained they may be able to use this fight to learn and enhance their skills. That was the way to handle things.

"Through faith we shalt be granted victory,"

Lanji whispered as he turned his attention to the foreboding skies. As if foreshadowing the chaos that was to come. He heard his assignment and he was...displeased to say the least that Taltos would be the one that was leading it.

[Xeryth Varson]

Xeryth should not have been surprised, yet, however, he was absolutely terrified and shocked out of his mind when, all of the sudden, as he was trying to keep himself straight and sane for the mission, Phoebe Weiss found herself within close contact of him. Moments ago, when she was only within waving distance, Xeryth could barely control himself, and found himself paralyzed by fear. Now, with her almost on top of him, Xeryth began to tremble rather visibly, his wide, unblinking eyes staring straight at her as she came up, wetted her handkerchief, bent over, and... and... and...

And cleaned the blood from his face.

Xeryth’s eyes looked like they were going to burst from his head as she nursed him, lovingly and so sweetly tending to him. Xeryth, for the life of him, suddenly started to relax. But... I’m scared of hurting her again... yet I feel so comfortable here like this... I don’t understand...

Phoebe finished patching up his self-inflicted wound, and she pulled back, looking at him, almost as if surveying her own work. Xeryth had stopped trembling and simply looked up into her eyes, looking about as sad as she felt. He could feel the sadness, the longing, and the love for him rolling off her in droves as she leaned in, hugging him gently and quickly. Xeryth suddenly felt his own need, his own urge to reach up and hug her as well, to hold her tight and never let go, but he couldn’t. He forced his hands to remain at his sides. He didn’t know what was going on with him, but he had no intention on influencing things further by acting on these strange urges. She retracted, and a single tear fell down her face as she gave him the handkerchief, placing it directly in his palm and wished him luck, turning away from him. Suddenly, Xeryth reached out with his other hand, taking Phoebe’s in it.

“Ph-Phoebe...”

He tugged on the hand a little, causing her to turn around and regard him quizzically. Not allowing himself to think, not allowing himself to double-check himself, Xeryth rose to his feet, his hand still holding onto Phoebe’s, and closed the already-limited distance between them completely, his lips meeting hers in a long, slow kiss. After what felt like hours but was only mere moments, Xeryth’s lips parted from Phoebe’s, and he looked at her weakly, oh-so-weakly. The poor boy looked as if he was going to faint, he was paler than usual, but the smile on his face, tough weak, looked about as real as any smile could be.

“Be safe... and be strong... we... we’ll do this together.”

Xeryth released her hand from his grip and wrapped his arms around her completely, embracing her warmly for what seemed like the longest time, until Captain Strong-Eye’s commanding voice suddenly spoke out, regaling the ‘troops’ and causing Xeryth to break the embrace and face him, but not before another weak, warm smile to Phoebe, and sat back down upon his boxes, even as chairs came up for them. He leaned back and listened attentively as Strong-Eye listed off the details of the mission. Apparently, there were to be four different squads, each serving their own purpose in the coming battle. Alpha, naturally, would lead, and Omega was to provide heavy support. Delta would reside as the Recon group, which Xeryth secretly hoped he would find himself being placed into. After realizing the horrifying potential of the boy’s powers and training in Der Metzgermeister’s class, he had hoped beyond all hope that he would not have to see TOO much action during this trip. After all, he had managed to pull himself back to his usual self back then, but he had no idea if he would be able to do so again. All in all, a reconnaissance job sounded just fine to him. Rounding it out, it seemed the Bravo squadron was to reside as the group’s ‘jack of all trades’, dealing in wherever they were needed most. Captain Strong-Eye then began to list out the names of all those participating, and which group each would find themselves in.

First, Alpha, led by Junpei, (Of course, Xeryth thought, proud of his friend,) and rounded out with other strong melee fighters, or so it seemed from the looks of them, Xeryth considered. Phaedra, as well, was to be in this group, another sound choice in Xeryth’s mind. The others, Xeryth was not as familiar with, but assumed the Captain had made a sound choice.

Omega squad was listed off next, mostly students Xeryth was unfamiliar with. Their captain, however, looked to be loaded with guns, which could only bode well for a squad whose main task was artillery and the ‘big guns’. Onira was in the group, who seemed at first to be a bit out of place, until Xeryth remembered the big gun he had made in their spar once long ago, and knew that, with his alchemy and creative mind, he had, indeed, been placed in the right section. While these two squads had been listed off, Xeryth silently thanked Strong-Eye, with no outward expression of it, that he hadn’t been put into any of those two groups. They would likely be doing the most of the fighting once they landed.

Delta squad was next, and their captain was to be...

Xeryth’s jaw dropped, he was barely able to hear the rest of the names. Him? Xeryth Varson? The young, inexperienced psychic was to LEAD an entire group of four other students and twelve whole crack-shot, experienced D-13 troopers? Xeryth was little but a product of D-13 himself, he wasn’t fit to lead them now, was he? The only part of this that calmed his spirits at all was that Phoebe, his newly-reunited girlfriend, was placed in the group as well. Perhaps they could keep each other safe. Also, Excel, the young girl he had met and instantly enjoyed the company of, was also within, and the other psychic, Lienn, that he had only vaguely and briefly met through Der Metzgermeister’s class, was as well. The last one Xeryth knew not, but could hardly focus on that at the moment. His eyes were wide and his jaw was practically to the floor. He didn’t even get a chance to hear the Bravo squad, other than the fact that their leader was to be the ever-capable Jonathan Winters. Had anyone in Delta squad not known who their Captain was, or his face, at least, the look on it would signify anyone that he was the one who was to lead them as the operation’s Reconnaissance... for better or for worse.

Strong-Eye stood down, allowing the students to converse about the situation themselves. Some spoke to Strong-Eye, others to other members of the congregation, and one, the stranger who hadn’t been among the boarding party, yet had found himself on the zeppelins regardless, spoke out to the entire group, somehow having gained insight into the mission. More specifically, who and what they would be fighting. The undead. Mindless soldiers with no intent but to kill and maim for their master. Xeryth shook his head, worried all over again. With no mind, Xeryth had little to play with inside their heads. This battle would not be fought by him, at least not in that particular theatre of operations. His recon would have to come in some other form. Regardless of all of it, Xeryth, upon realizing who all the captains were, realized he had one more task to perform before they landed once more.

Junpei, he was Xeryth’s best friend. Darian, Xeryth had met once, and had no ill feelings towards. Jonathan Winters, on the other hand, was a different story. The two had not gotten off on the right foot at all, and Xeryth intended to correct that, here and now. Standing up, he held up a finger to his girlfriend. “A moment...” he said quietly, striding over to where Winters stood.

“Um... J-Jonathan...” Xeryth began, looking a bit ashamed of his actions all those months ago. Sure, it was such a long time ago, and should have been water under the bridge by now, but Xeryth had a hard time letting such a gross injustice to the innocent Winters slide. “I... I’m sorry... about all those days ago... I didn’t know... and I... I want to thank you for... for what you did for Phae... she’s important to me too. C-c-congratulations on becoming Captain of Bravo Squad. Y-you’ll do well there. Good luck, let’s... let’s get everyone out in... in one piece... right?”

Xeryth smiled meekly, and held out his hand for Jonathan to shake. Afterwards, he would remain in the area, beckoning Phoebe to come over as well, if she so desired, with his eyes alone.

[Phoebe]

The longing and sad Phoebe never made it to her destination, the chair by the window. Instead, her heart leapt as a hand caught hers. For a moment everything seemed to just stop. She didn't know what this meant but for once she wasn't going to rush things. He was probably only going to tell her that space was for the best for them. That it was her fault she had ruined the relationship by developing strong feelings for him.

But her name. Oh her name, crossed his lips in that sweet voice that beloned to none other than the one she wanted most to hear it from. She turned when he pulled on her hand. Looking down at him wondering why he had stopped her. Surely, he couldn't cause her more pain. Aside from physical seeing your ex boyfriend, whom's relationship you ruined in one night no matter how perfect you had tried to make it, just didn't seem likely. Phoebe began to shake. Visibly and internally she shivered wondering what in the world he was going to say once finally risen to his feet. She didn't even notice his own shaking as it mingled with her own.

A kiss. Suddenly there were his lips and tears sprang to her blue eyes as she kissed him back. So many nights, a month, had passed and she had not been able to touch or kiss him like this. Granted they were in public, but right now she didn't care. Xeryth, was kissing her and right now he was all that existed in this world. Her hand, the one he was not holding, came up to his face and cupped his cheek gently. How she wished this kiss would not have to end. Yet, it did. She looked up slightly at Xeryth her face blushing as a bright smile crossed it.

She had honestly not thought she would ever feel his lips on hers again. Sure, he had only asked for space. But in the world of relationships, as far as she knew, asking for space tended to have a more permanent seperation attatched. Yet, here was Xeryth to prove her wrong. And she couldn't be happier that she was wrong at all.

"I missed you." she said softly and in a whisper before he hugged her.

And so today, she had not only gotten a kiss but a hug as well. In open public, in front of her sister and all those to see. Xeryth and Phoebe were back together and proving it. Relief and love washed over her and onto him like a tsunami headed for the shore. She wouldn't say it, not yet, it wasn't time. She did love him but she had only just gotten him back and for now she would be careful. Walking on eggshells so to speak she couldn't lose him again. She hugged him back tightly her arms around his neck as she lay her head on his shoulder. Closing her eyes she breathed in Xeryth's scent, the sweet and shy scent that he carried the one she had missed so very much,

As Strong-Eye spoke the hug was broken and she smiled back at Xeryth as they listened. The group being broken up into teams. She listened carefully for her own assignment. Junpei, the leader of Alpha, was a good choice and with Phaedra by his side they would do well. Phae could indeed be ruthless if necessary and these students would likely see a different side to her than they ever imagined. Including Junpei. Personally, she knew no one on team Bravo but that didn't mean they weren't good people, it mainly meant that she didn't get out much which was normal. However, with Xeryth back in her life she may..MAY, venture forth once more. Then Delta. Xeryth, as leader and she took his hand gently giving it a gentle squeeze of support. She knew he could.. what? She was in the same group! Releif once again washed over the young redheaded girl because now she could help him and fight along side him. She would be stronger with him close rather than worrying about him from afar. She smiled. As for Omega, she only knew the Jonthan Winters, the one she had threatened with a sword for even thinking about taking Xeryth away and they hadn't even been dating then.

And so the stage was set. All the players were given their parts and now it was time to wait. She heard Xeryth's voice and she let go of his hand only her eyes to follow him for what he wanted to do. She heard him apologize and she felt that she too needed to do the same. That day, for some reason even before she and Xeryth had really known anything about each other, she had wanted to protect him. And in that moment she had almost drawn her sword at a student.

When Xeryth was done he looked to Phoebe and she smiled at him. Walking gracefully she moved back to his side. Taking his hand in hers she looked up at Jonathan.

"I should apologize as well." she said in her very soft and shy voice. "I jumped to conclusions and tried to protect someone. Someone special. Forgive me."

She blushed as she said 'someone special' as she knew Xeryth would hear. Probably not believe it. But he would hear it none the less because that's who he was. Someone special. And she was ready to fight for that. For him. For this school. Newly reunited with the love of her life she seemed filled with courage. But her courage, lay with the boy holding her hand, someone.. special.

[Celeste]

Seig had been just about the first person she had met after coming to the Academy. There, despite Hadrian's beliefs, was not a mean bone in his body. He was always so lighthearted and happy. They had spent a lot of time together he was teaching her mechanics and she was having fun. They made a good team together and Celeste was a quick learner.

She really didn't feel any fear. Mainly, because she had never fought in a battle like this before. Sure, she had to fight to escape from Nephilim but a battle on this scale was only something she had read in books or seen on movies. She had never experienced one before and truth be told the way Celeste was created she was excited. Excited to learn what a battle was really like, how you fought, how the team members worked together. It was what was important to her, Knowledge.

The Captain began to speak and she silently moved back over to Drake taking his hand. She was only really worried about him. She had never seen him fight and she just wanted him to be safe. Though, they were still trying to get close it didn't mean she wanted him to die.

She was not empowered by the speech as some might have been. Perhaps it was because she lacked that battle experience she would need to understand half of what he said. Yet, she was ready to protect the others, to fight, to heal, to win.

The Captain, called out their assignments and while sad she had to leave Drake she was happy at least she got to be with Seig. She didn't like being with people she didn't know. And two, here had excepted her for the angelic creation she was. She looked up at Drake and stood in front of him. She cupped his cheek as her blue eyes looked right at him.

"Stay safe for me, you're one of my only friends, and you mean so very much to me." she said softly. "And Mister Dark, you stay safe too. Don't let Drake get hurt. You both mean a lot to me, okay. So please, stay safe... love."

She whispered the last word as she kissed him gently on the lips. It was not one of those, lets go find a private room, kinda kisses. It was just a soft and gentle kiss that was ripe with feelings but only they could tell. She pulled back and touched his face one last time.

"I believe in the both of you."

[Shea]

Shea was beyond touched. There was never a time that something had touched her as greatly as the man that was standing in front of her now. He handed her a small purple jewel. Something she had never seen the like of. Why was it this jewel was a family heirloom she would probably never know yet she took it and closed her hand around it.

She looked up at the Captain her eyes soft and large showing just how touched she had been. His daughter had died, and she apparently looked like the poor girl. Shea felt bad. Why did she have to look like the dead daughter. Not that she didn't want to but it was sadness for the man that had given her the stone. He didn't deserve on today of all days to be reminded of such a memory. Yet, perhaps it could be a good thing. Maybe, it would spark the fight in him, that fighting spirit it was called. Maybe it would make him fight like he would see his daughter again at the end and keep him safe.

She didn't even think. Before he could even move on to Darian she move and hugged him tightly. She placed her arms around his neck and hugged him. For several long moments she stood there just letting him know, in a rather physical way, just how much this all meant to her. She pulled back and gave the man a kiss on the cheek.

"Thank you, it means so much to me. I will give it to the one I love most in this world. Be safe, Captain." she said with a smile as she stepped back.

She watched as the man opened Darian's mantle and she could see him steaming. Though carefully contained, she hadn't spent as much time as she had around Darian not to know when he was fuming silently. She couldn't help but chuckle as the man 'felt up' his guns. It was rather amusing Darian was a bit of a hot head when it came to some things and this.. oh yes this was terribly funny.

The Captain finished and began his long speech. She leaned into Darian knowing he would most likely put his arm around her waist. If not he was still comfy and she was going to stay there. Bella was curled up still on the floor with Orchid and Shea didn't mind so long as they weren't underfoot. Later Bella would be of more use. But not right now.

She had been assigned to Darian's team and she smiled. He was captain and she couldn't have been prouder of him. She saw the look he gave her and she chuckled. She touched his face gently so his eyes would look up into hers.

"You know you'll do well. I'm sure the Captain didn't pick anyone light heartedly. They all have that leadership quality, as do you whether you believe so or not. Recal, you are noble. You are meant to lead. I am behind you and I will be there through the whole thing. Do your best, because that is all we need." she said finished up her inspirational speech, if that's what you could call it.

She ended by leaning in and kissing him gently on the lips. A very soft kiss. Just one to tell him that she cared before she pulled back and took his free hand in hers.

"I want to give you something." she said softly as her pale green eyes looked into his gaze. She opened her hand and pulled out the jewel that the Captain had just given her. "He told me to give it to the one I loved. Well, I believe we've covered the fact that it's you so.."

She turned his palm over and placed the jewel in the center of it. She kissed the back of his hand before she took her hands away from it and just stayed leaning against him gently. She closed her eyes silently readying herself for the battle ahead. She didn't know what exactly was ahead. But she had a feeling it wasn't going to be easy. But with this much talent behind them, they surely had a chance.

[Phae]

Phae was still fuming. Screw Junpei. Damnit. She knew that her trust issues weren't resolved. They had never worked on them. He only tried it once and yeah he had came back in the right time but since then he had assumed that things were good with her but they weren't.

She hardly slept anymore. Laying awake in Junpei's arms through most of the night getting maybe three to four hours instead. While he slept contentedly. She rarely ate anymore. Eating only enough to keep Jun off her back and no more. She skipped meals and worked out as much as ever if not more than before. She spent a lot of time out of the room trying to find things to do meeting new people and just trying to keep herself busy. She didn't know how to resolve them and Junpei had jumped right back into the normal life they had been living before but for Phae, it just wasn't working.

And she couldn't trust him. Normally she might have been a little ticked but now she was easily hurt and easily pissed where it concerned him. She felt warm arms wrap around her and the blonde hair signified him as Khel. She hugged him back for a moment and nodded to his comment.

"Sorry.." she said as she looked down at him as tears rolled down her cheeks.

She squeezed Khel's hand gently as she walked past him not really having anything to say at all. She sat down in one of the provided seats and leaned against the wall of the blimp. She just stared at the wall the tears rolling down her face and she still fuming.

She listened half heartedly admittedly. She heard as the teams were given out and she sighed. Pulling her legs up to her chest gently and wrapped her arms around them. She put her head down on her knees and just closed herself off for now. She was in Junpei's group. And when the time came to fight she would but that would definatly come later. For now, she was just living in her own little world. She would come out when it was time and that time was not now.

[Onira]

Onira layed there for a moment. So much was going on around him, but it always remained so disconcerning. He didn't care too much for many of the people around him. Not emotionally, anyway. He didn't particularly love any of them. Hell, a lot of them were still unknown to himself. But, even at that, he knew his job was to protect them as best he could. Even if he did not know them, sleepless nights were sure to follow if one got even seriouslyt injured. Sure he could heal cuts and bruises, even open wound. However, he could not regenerate limbs or anything that severe. That was illegal by science's laws. Nothing could be created, nor destroyed. It could merely change form. But, that moment was not for thinking of science. It was for getting onward.

Once Phae left the little spat, Onira found himself slowly getting back to his feet. If it was done, then there was no reason to just sit there. He could get to what he was supposed to do. Which was, apparently, support. Ahh yes. The artilery. As strong-eye so abbruptly put it. He was one of the big guns. Of course, how to adapt to this would be fairly easy. He already had a few answers. Of course, in the back of his mind, he wanted to be in the front-lines. Something about using a weapon and just... fighting. It was such a gratifying experience. But, somewhere in his head, the truth was there. He could do more damage with explosives, guns, and maybe even cannons if the time came. Mass destruction, if one were to go that far.

Ooo...

Quickly he snapped from his thoughts to hear another couple speeches. First was a somewhat uplifting one from strong-eye. It was obvious he wanted his troops morale to be high, but that was to be said. Although it was a little corny, Onira couldn't help but salut. It just seemed right. But, no sooner did strong-eye finish that the newcomer began. Apparently, it seemed he wanted to get everyone in the slumps. Seemed to defeat the purpose though, really. All that could do was depress people or make them fearful. Ultimately, that weakened one's ability to fight, and could in-fact be the deciding factor when the battle came forth.

"Oye! What the hell is wrong with you? Sure this information may be new, but it doesn't really change nothin'. Maybe they don't mind killing us, but whether they're living soldiers or not, we have to kill them. That's what we're all here to do. So, don't go spouting information all cocky and crap. Either way we're fighting, as are you!"

Onira could tell right off the bat that his words were not particularly inspirational. Hell, they were down right blunt. But, it was true. They were all fighting the same battle. He knew that whether they were up against zombies, ghosts, dragons, or nessie, that they were going to destroy many of them. Simply put, it was the truth.

With his speech now done, Onira turned his attention to the sword in his hand. It seemed that for the time, a sword was not needed. Something more artillery would work better. So, without missing a beat, he quickly let the alchemic light show again. He touched the grip of the sword, and almost as quickly as it started, it was over. Proudly he twirled the stone handgun around his finger, the safety on. Yes, he had gone that far as to even put in safety. He like dthe new weapon. It was fairly light. It was damn well sturdy. And there was still a ball of stone left over if one falt the need to use a shot gun instead. Yes, it would do it's job well.

Now that the task of creating a suitable weapon was completed, Onira led his companion silver elk deeper into the blimp. When they stopped, Saisho was quick to lay down, as was Onira quick to sit next to him. They were on the floor, but that was fine. They were still quite comfortable.