Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha Character Creation and Discussion

[Wild Goose]

Originally Posted by Tk3997

Ahh I was thinking it made him infertile, which in hindsight some might see as an advantage...

Lol Nah, it's just killed his love life... and if he had kids, he'd definately tone down the hot blood, because of the responsibility. IIRC, almost everyone with hot blood is an orphan.

Asgard tech in general is crazy they've got cloning, mind transfers, replicators, time manipulation tech, they can blow up planets, and fuck with or fix stars and after season 10 they gave all of it to earth...

If they make more Odessey-type Deadalus cruisers, the Asurans and Wraith are going to be fucked. 'Course, I hope they don't, cuz from what that vid showed, the SG:A villians are hax.

Which would probably end up basiclly being missile tubes anyway, you might even be able to make them dual purpose.

And we could say that since this DD was built by the shipyards at O'Neill's homeworld, and is not officially assigned to the TSAB, there's more deniability...

Of course Hammond is the quintessential Cool Boss, AND he can kick ass when he has too at least if you give him a spaceship of some kind.

Don't forget when he and Teal'C got into a Death Glider and flew THROUGH a Stargate to rescue SG-1...

After the first few hundred feet any further height doesn’t really matter, terminal velocity for a man sized object on an earth like planet is reached at somewhere around a 500 feet or so drop to the ground. A fall from any higher isn’t any more lethal, at least until you get SUPER high at which point lack of oxygen and extreme cold can be lethal, but that’s not a factor of impact. Anyway falling from 100,000 feet or 10,000 will net pretty much the same impact velocity.

To quote Adam of Mythbusters:
Adam: Perfect.I'll tell you what. Um, all we need is to get him up to 120 mph. That's a human's terminal velocity; we know that from upteen myths we've done about people falling.

Spoiler for Side Note:

That number holds so long as one assumes they splayed their arms and legs to gain maximum resistance to the wind, if one assumes a very precise posture speeds of up to 200+ MPH are possible in free fall, but that posture involves being basiclly a rigid flagpole arms locked to the side and feet together pointed straight back. Outfitted with special skintight suits and such even higher speeds can be attained, up to 300 MPH, but not much fruther as at this point air resistance is basiclly a brick wall for a man shaped object.

Aha, I see. *nodding* Once more I am in debt of your technical know-how!

Just go download it for free the devs released it when they made GC2, it's good shit if you have any interest in real time tactics, it dosen't carter to the stupid at all though, once you begin a mission what you have is what you get, no reinforcements, period.

Sweeeet. ^____^ Once I get tired of COD4, I'll probably play this...

Still more proof the dude is crazy.

Well, I had to do something to compensate for him passing OCS on his first try. ^__^

And it came across rather clearly I think.

Hopefully, yeah. But seeing as how the Assault Platoon are really overgrown boys who like explosions... it's probably not an accident that the Assault Platoon are all male. <.<

What it'll probably only blow their legs off, they're cyborgs that should be like a shaving cut of something!

Yes, but the Numbers fans will be screaming bloody murder at me, "How DARE you blow her legs off?" Even though I agree that it'd be a useful weapon against them..

I noticed it instantly and why did they have to intturpt the sexxoring anyway? Couldn't they have kidnapped her afterwards?

*chuckles* Actually, I wasn't sure whether to have my Blueno sexxoring some poor girl, so i decided to leave it ambiguous... as for Mao, she'd have to have pulled that SOCOM on Fem!Blueno sooner or later; Vincenza was exploring further and further between Mao's legs...which is where she'd strapped the SOCOM.

Basically shotguns just rule period.

FUck yeah they rule.

And Liingo: The name Tempest was from a Deviantart artist who created a fanon ship for Stargate SG-1. The USAF Tempest is pretty much a Heavy Frigate/Light Destroyer; while I may not use the name (For some reason, Advance under Fire and Bus to Hell seem to be attractive to me), I am thinking of using the design.

[PhoenixFlare]

Final backlog breaker of the week ...

IKUZO!

Originally Posted by USB500

THE GEMINI SISTERS II
CHAPTER 4

Spoiler for at the hall:

-snip-

Spoiler for outside Schnee Town:

-snip-

This turns out be a quite interesting soap drama. and I can already imagine the real Yutaro's attempt to dry Freya's legs.

Takeru is really protective of Frieda.

And Galatea seems to be plotting something big ...

Originally Posted by USB500

-snip-

Ah, the wife has finally come! Some huge stuff is bound to happen.

[QUOTE=Aaron008R;1264599]-snip-[/SPOILER]



Bluecheese profile! And a very good one at that!

Still, I am liking Grandis already. Badass, motivated, and dangerous, he's going to be quite an opponent for Aurion. And with his elemental spells, Aurion should be forced to fight to his fullest.

The fight for Hayate's heart hand has finally begun!

Though, Sharazad should look good with him ...

*runs*

Originally Posted by USB500

Where's everyone?

TEARS OF THE NORTHERN WIND
CHAPTER 5

Spoiler for part 1:

-snip-

Spoiler for part 2:

-snip-

Spoiler for part 3:

-snip-

Spoiler for part 4:

-snip-

I get this feeling that some of us want to kill Hikki already after reading this chapter.

*runs*

Heh, it looks like Patricia is afraid of cats. Nice going with the conversation and the children's tease.

Though, if Hikki's wife suddenly make an appearance ...

Originally Posted by FlameSparkZ

Ok, here goes

Chapter 21

Spoiler for Chapter 21 - Koji's Knighting - Part 1:

-snip-

Well, that's it for part 1

Here's a small teaser.

Spoiler for Teaser:

Altea stared at Vita.
"What are you looking at?" Vita stared back.
"What are you looking at?" Altea countered.

Their personalities are somewhat alike after all

*runs*

This is very good! Altea finally revealed, and a tsundere one to boot.

But ... did Koji just flirt with her?

Originally Posted by Nightengale

Spoiler for Side Isdera AFTER I-5 : Ende:

~Side Isdera AFTER I Verse 9 : Rondo to Ende~

-snip-

Next part will be the last! *and move on to other projects*

EPICNESS strikes again in Nighty's hands!

And the six was finally reunited in a big scene! Them saving Zest from emphysema using unconventional medical method was also detailed nicely.

Originally Posted by Liingo

Well that seems fine

Yes indeed........ I've got no clue what you're talking about now..

*shrug*


Hmmm, well that should be fine.

Thanks!

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

She'll most likely be quite frightening to behold...
At least try to make her the extremely sad-no holds barred nuker instead (crying even) of the raging eye of the storm... I somehow shudder at the thought of Hayate screaming her lungs out incessantly due to anger.

That I can do. A sad Hayate is a powerful goddess of destruction.

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

What Rein could do, Hayate should be able to do so as well.

The two are one in a way, after all.

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

Contempt.

That was unexpected.

Something must have happened to cause that, hmm ...

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

No, no. I was implying Aurion.
I did say it was fine if he got heavily injured but not killed/crippled for life.

Besides, I have to make it a point that he's in no way invincible, seeing as his portayal is admittedly leaning towards the TOO-smart mastermind opponent. Him getting hammered by something/somebody else right after finishing his fight in the last match would do just well as a motivation for Hayate to go all-out, since she considers him a most-loved family member now.

But going by my suggestion in my PM, you're planning it to be one of the Knights, aren't you? Don't worry, I won't spoil.

Er, Aurion will have his hand full against another opponent far away. The Knights, hmm ... maybe ...

The possibilities are endless.

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

Anyway...

Does Grandis even exist in your timeline?
If he does, then it looks like I might need to think about what he's doing during GuardianS like Keroko-chan and Kha... Or maybe inserting him shouldn't be so bad... Nah. The effect would be just as bad as including Keroko-chan or Kha, making it too IMBA against the enemies for good storytelling. But I have to edit the GuardianS: From the Edge chapter to include Grandis in the conversation... Hmm... And since he's an elemental-master... And then the marriage plans...

If he doesn't die somewhere (touch-wood, I don't want him dead unconditionally ), then he should be around. Though, going by this means that he's again somewhere in the universe. Since he's defected from the Saint Church, I'm not sure where to put him. Oh well, I leave it to you to decide, since he's yours. I stand by your decision.

But, marriage plans are certainly intriguing ...

Originally Posted by tshouryuu

At least you have improved. Mine are still shoddy despite my efforts. In fact, I think I actually gotten worse. That said, I have a new "My name is Tais" for you guys to maybe have a small smile.

Spoiler for The first can be embarrassing or a nasty trick:

-snip-

CC please

Did I just witness ...

... an insta-gender transformation without surgery?

Nasty stuff happened on the unfortunate Tais again.

[Tormenk]

Originally Posted by Tk3997

Just for shits and Giggles and to prove my point I’ve worked up a profile for him I think captures his skills set while not being overpowered:

Spoiler for John 117:

Name: John
Other names: Spartan 117
Age: Unknown Presumed late 20s to early 30s, but appears around 18 physically due to having been kept in “Cold storage” for significant lengths of time during his captivity when he wasn’t needed.
Birthday: Unknown
Height: 6’8
Weight: 350 Pounds
Eye color: Green
Hair color: Brown
Origin: First encountered on Non-Administered World 142
Mage Rank: A Overall, AAA Ground, D Air.
Magic Type: Mid
Magic Color: Green
Element Preference: None
Affiliation: TSAB Navy, Enforcer Division.
Position/rank in TSAB: Master Chief

History:
John was first discovered around 10 years ago during a raid on an illegal bio-engineering lab hidden on a non-administered world, though the lab held a wide range of “specimens” he was according to the labs database the most complete models it had yet produced and the most stable. He was not acutally artificial in nature rather he was a subject kidnapped from the local population for experimentation, as his number indicates he was one of many, but few others had fared nearly as well. He was so effective in fact he was to be a prototype upon which mass production of one model was to begin in just a few more years.

The TSAB raid ended this plan, but the question still lingered what to do with the liberated prisoners, most had in addition to being experimented on been drilled rather intensely for combat and where not in any psychological condition to be safely set loose back into society, further the nature of their modifications made that impossible on their home planet, never mind that the lab had carefully destroyed all records of where the subjects had been taken from. Thus it was decided they’d have to become wards of the TSAB until such time as they could be rehabilitated.

That was the plan anyway much to the surprise and consternation of the officials charged with that task most of them didn’t want to seem to be “rehabilitated”. The reason became clear in that their training had always been conducted with the understanding they’d at some point be sold to the highest bidder and expected to follow the new owners orders to the letter, they simply assumed they where now TSAB property and kept insisting they be given something to do. The attempts to make them “normal” were simply confusing them. After much effort the therapist concluded that this level of damage was not going to be fixed anytime soon and advised that they at least be used for something productive in the meantime since they seemed to want to fight anyway.

They where thus quietly formed into a special unit and began undertaking small operations here and there while attempts continued to “normalize” them. Unfortunately it seems however broke them to start with was at least as good as those trying to undo the damage as progress has been slow despite years of effort.

Skills and Abilities:
John was slated to be the template for a series of front line close combat models specialized in direct close range combat with enemy units as such he has heavy defenses and great power, but limited peripheral skills. His body structure has been subject to much study and is somewhat unique he’s not quite a cyborg, he’s not an artificial mage, and he’s certainly not a clone but he’s not entirely human anymore either. While much illegal research has centered on breeding or “building” people that can rival natural mages this particular group took a different approach and instead started with a natural mages as a base and then attempted to expand his capabilities via after the fact augmentations given his intended role in John case most of these centered on boosting his physical prowess.

His skeleton has been reinforced via lacing with a metallic composite this renders his bones drastically stronger then normal with a strength ratio nearly that of armor plating, he can survive falls at terminal velocity onto hard objects without breaking them and can punch his fists through some softer metals, it also adds about 100 pounds of weight to his frame. To support this boosted frame work his muscles have been given an extremely complex chemical cocktail that resulted in abnormally dense tissue, boosted strength of the fibers themselves, increased recovery time and abnormally high muscle growth he has the physical of a power lifter without nearly the effort that tends to entail. These enhancements give him the strength of a bear, quite literally, without his armor he can lift upward of a thousand pounds and with it he can lift a small car over his head.

This sort of raw power would be dangerous enough, but his engineers went even further they boosted his eye sight with as series of surgeries greatly enhancing his visual acuity to the point he can nearly see in the dark in all but the lowest light levels and also the ”shudder” speed as it where allowing him to perceive objects clearly that would be a blur to a normal human. This was further backed by a series of brain surgeries aimed at speeding his mentally processing capabilities, this was easily most the dangerous phase of the process, and killed or maimed most of those it was attempted on, even in production a mortality rate of at least 30% was expected, and a further 20 to 30% where expected to suffer crippling brain damage for life. For the lucky minority on which it worked as planed though they gained drastically boosted reflexes, when their adrenaline kicked in to full in combat thing seemed to go into pseudo-slow motion, the users of this referred to the effect as “Spartan Time” combined with their strength this made them extremely lethal close combatants, but oddly enough few of them favored melee combat preferring close range gunfire to physical combat.

Those selected for this program tended to have weaker then average magic potential as those with higher potential where used for other experiments, these augmentations where seen as a way to make marginal mages more effective in combat and they certainly seem to have worked.

The last bit of tech John has is his armor suit, though somewhat like a barrier jacket it’s much heavier and more complex, similar to various sorts of armors that have been encountered from time to time by artifactors and such, it’s unknown where exactly the armor came from though it’s suspected to be reversed engineered from one such sample, it’s roughly classed as a “power jacket” and fits that classification fairly well. The armor covers the users entire body from head to toe including a face covering helmet it incorporates thick armor plates over an underlying “soft” layer that provide motor assistance to the user via way of a reactive crystal layer that captures and amplifies movements made by the user.

Protection from the armor is heavy the plates proper seem to boast limited AMF properties and can repel lower level spells themselves, they’re also dense and thick and so provide protection from impact as well, and they're further still underlain with a shock absorbing gel layer that blunts impact damage even more. Even getting at these plates can be difficult though as for one the armor holds an AMF roughly on the level of a large Gadget drone able to blunt most spells below A rank and weakened others, and underlying this is an energy shield that stops both energy and impact and recharges quickly from any damage it sustains so long as the suits power supply holds. It’s noted that these systems appear rather similar in basis to those mounted on said drones and its theorized the maker of this suit and those could at least be affiliated.

This has downsides of course using the AMF effectively forfeits his own ability to use magic as well as it’s formed directly around him making use of magic for someone as low ranked as him very difficult and bordering on impossible. As such if he wants to cast anything he needs to drop the field and the underlying shield is much weaker to magical assault then the AMF thus reducing his defenses considerably when doing so. Originally the plan to get around this was simply to issue him an arsenal of conventional weapons, this is obviously not an option with the TSAB and as such he normally has to simply leave the AMF off only engaging it when he truly needs it, this forces him to rely on the weaker shield and his speed for defense most of the time.

Magic:
John's magical talent is limited it’s estimated he’ll peek at around A+ to AA with intense effort probably just enough for some limited flight though he’s yet to reach that level, it’s estimated he may in a few more years. Currently he’s rated at around B-, his overall ranking as a mage is mainly a factor of his innate abilities and his armor rather then his magical talent. He can’t fly and is restricted to walking and running to get around barring outside transports, luckily his boosted body is rather more spry then a normal human and even running he can cover ground at a rather brisk pace, even so his mobility compared to a flying mage is fairly poor. He counts on his suit for most of his defense and so his magic is limited mostly to offensive spells for attacking most of these are rather mundane and focus more on efficiency then anything else.

Device:
His device is a slightly tuned magic rifle a storage device fitted with a cartridge system it possess basiclly no AI and only one form as said rifle. The device has been reinforced though to allow it be used for parrying and striking since John tends to favor short range gun play that also mixes in a fair bit of a striking as the opportunity present itself. John has never even bothered to name the weapon nor has it bothered to request one he simply refers to it as “his rifle” and it addresses him as “sir”

Spells:
As noted above most of his spells are offensive and simple in nature tending toward the “point and shot” school and have largely been lifted from similar magic gun users.

Shoot Barret: The bog standard magic bullet power is variable to allow higher or slower rates of fire or more power in slower shots, John tends toward spamming of lower power shots at close range rather then trying to land single big hits.
Shot Blast: Discharges a spray of magical projectiles simultaneously at close range in a roughly cone shaped pattern high damage in close, dropping off very quickly also slower to cast as it takes the power of a number of normal shots to cast.
Shot Burst: A quick burst of three high speed magic projectiles discharged so fast that if one hits they all tend too, takes slightly less power then Shoot Blast, but dose less damage in close, better at range though being quite accurate and the quick high damage spike can be useful as well.
Charged Shot: Charges up a single high powered shot that homes in on its target after launch, very good against various kinds of barriers.
Flak Shot: A large magical projectile that explodes on impact with the target with considerable force, has limited homing capabilities, it can also be bounced off surfaces to hit things around corners.
Divine Buster: The standard Beam O’ death obviously not up to the likes of the ones chucked around by Nanoha, but still rather potent and his most powerful spell.

These are all basiclly ripped from Halo weapons obviously:
Shoot Barret = Assault rifle, SMG, Plasma rifle depending on how exactly it’s sued.
Shot Blast = Shotgun DUH.
Shot Burst = Battle Rifle
Charged Shot = green shit… sorry plasma pistol overcharged shot.
Flak Shot: = Rockets, Grenades, Brute Shot, etc.
Divine Buster = Spartan laser

Nicely converted into the context of the nanoverse. His classification here just got messier though. Neither here nor there or anywhere else but somewhere in the middle of it all. Other than that, MC fits like a glove.

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

"Ore, sanjou!" = "I have arrived!"

For a reference, lookie here...

I'll post the alterations/update to Grandis' profile in a few.

XD

Comedy is always great. Though Ryuki and 555 was darker in tone and lacked the light-heartedness here.

Originally Posted by Liingo

Well, that was unexpected of you...

I think that's the first time I've seen you actually write something up and posted it in here.

It's an interesting start

That was purely done for fun while taking a break from other works.
Though that wasn't really my first short here since I did write something about Katrina and Fate respectively.

Originally Posted by tshouryuu

At least you have improved. Mine are still shoddy despite my efforts. In fact, I think I actually gotten worse. That said, I have a new "My name is Tais" for you guys to maybe have a small smile.

Spoiler for The first can be embarrassing or a nasty trick:

~Log Number #1867: The bastard of the CSDB~

When I recover from this, the first thing I'm going to do is to kill that asshole. Correction, I'm going to castrate him and then kill him... Argh!!! I changed my mind. I'm going to break every single bone in that body of his, cut out his testicles with a rusty spoon and THEN kill him. Before you start thinking what Tais has done this time, let me assure you that he has nothing to do with this except leaving me alone in the CSDB while he was recovering in the Saint Church's hospital.

In order to understand my anger, we have to look at a certain incident which happened a few months ago in the CSDB. It all started when Director Tsuzuki called Tais over to his office.

*start audio file*

Tais: Yui, why do I have this feeling that something is going to go wrong.
Yui: That's because you've grown a bit smarter. Relax a little. You survived crashing into the Claudia when we are testing the Aero Dancer wizard pack. You
survived a Starlight Breaker from Captain Takamichi before that. You'll survive whatever is going to happen next.
Tais: Thanks Yui, I feel so much better now. I wish I wasn't always the only one getting the pain.
Yui: Did you mutter something Tais?
Tais: Huh? No...
Yui: Let's go see what does director Tsuzuki wants.

*pause audio file*

I regret not turning up my audio sensors. That wish of his actually came true... Urgh... Anyway, what happened at His office is that they have completed an upgrade for me which would allow me to have a physical form at last. After getting the upgrade, I just went with the default settings and materialized into the physical world. Bad mistake.

I have no idea what was he exactly thinking of when he designed the default appearance but I was disturbed to find myself appearing as a miniature 30 cm tall
version of the Lady Carim Gracia wearing only a thin, metallic silver ribbon that barely covers the essentials, wrist cuffs, bunny ears and a round fluffy tail. Tais had a nose bleed although to his credit, he did clamped his eyes shut and turn around. What was more disturbing is that Director Tsuzuki had bend down to take a closer look at me and was smiling widely while shaking his rear from side to side.

By the way, if any friends, fans or acquaintances of Lady Carim wishes to take revenge, please don't... or at least wait till I'm done. He has committed a far greater sin against me and I reserved the right to have the first shot.

I immediately dispelled myself and recreate the visual components to my liking and reappeared in the form you see now. A normal looking, red hair, green eyed woman, wearing the standard TSAB uniform with a lab coat. Director Tsuzuki was unhappy though.

*start audio file*

Tsuzuki: Eheh?! Why did you do that Yui?
Yui: Do what? Change my appearance and size?
Tsuzuki: Yes! Didn't you like the appearance I made for you?
Yui: No. That was highly insulting to Lady Gracia and it did not fit me at all.
Tsuzuki: (whining) Datei! Datei! Datei! It was so cute. Come on, change back.
Yui: No. And don't do that. Its disturbing. Tais, say something.
Tais: ... Wow. Yui looks very pretty. Although the Yui in the Lady... No. I must stop thinking of that. The only one for me is Ginga-san. Must not think of ....
Yui: See, even Tais agrees with me.
Tais: Huh?
Tsuzuki: But now you look rather plain and old.

*end audio file*

Okay, that was uncalled for. I stopped listening and decided to punch him in the face, only to find myself going through him. This was rather unexpected and frustrating. After some testing, it was discovered that while in miniature form, I was completely solid but immaterial when in my preferred full sized form. I really, really want to punch him just to wipe that smug look off his face. He was assuming that now I had no choice but to go about in miniature form. I have this feeling he wants to see many cute little unison devices flying about in the future once they have perfected my design. Just to spite him, I remained in full sized form for the next few months.

Quite a few expected me to be a chibi and younger looking and they wondered why I chose to look this way. The main reason is that I don't like the word "cute" to be used on me and if you have to deal with Tais on a daily basis for the past 2 years and trying to keep him out of trouble and failing often, wouldn't you feel older as well?

Anyway, due to my stubbornness, Director Tsuzuki eventually gave in and fixed the problem with the full sized form. I suspect that he could have fixed it earlier but chose not to, hoping for me to give up first. After the latest incident while we were fixing the EVA device again, he told me to disengage as he has something for me.

*start audio file*

Tsuzuki: Yui, stop connecting with the device for a moment. I've something for you.
Yui: What is it?
Tsuzuki: I've manage to figure out what's wrong with the full size form and I got the patch right here.
Yui: Really? And you're going to give it to me just like that?
Tsuzuki: Yes.
Yui: So what's the catch?
Tsuzuki: A strip tease! Right here, right now, right in front of everyone!
Guys:

*end audio file*

Unfortunately for him, our residential mechanic, Pinako, who was standing behind him, decided to brain him for being a pervert again. While he was still dazed from that blow, Pinako, deftly snatched the software and gave it to me. Stupidly, I used it without even checking for any surprises. An extreme oversight on my part which I'm paying for now. URGH!!!

The patch did its job as I can now interact physically with the world. But it did something extra as well which I found out today. It caused me significant abdominal pain and that bastard Tsuzuki added insult to injury by changing the menu in the cafeteria to serve only red beans and rice. Yes, red beans and rice. Yes, I'm surfing the crimson tide, receiving a visit from Auntie Flo... To put it even more bluntly, I'm having a goddamn period which serves absolutely no f***ing purpose in my case except to make me suffer!!! And I can't even dematerialize to avoid this!!

I had no warning at all. One moment I was walking, the next I was dripping blood and curl up on the ground clutching my abdomen in pain. Thankfully Doctor Ritsuko found me and brought me to her office. She explained to me what my condition is, what to expect and loan me some supplies... Even when she knew it really wasn't applicable, she still decided to give me "THE TALK"... How utterly embarrassing.

I need to end this here as the whole CSDB is planning a celebration of me becoming a woman, completely forgetting that I'm not suppose to experience this in the first place. I'm going to find a better place to rest and plan my revenge.
~End log~

CC please

Nasty prank and poor Yui to suffer like this.

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

Ok...

I editted Grandis' spell list here.

I added the respective applications of the three affinities, the spell stats (with ranges that are hopefully low enough), and his limitations on certain terrain.

I hope it came out more balanced than before.

Comments?

Grandis is supposed to specialized in melee bombardment but while the blade is charged with an element and supposedly weaker than Shidden Issen, the power is pretty high for a melee charge. Duration wise needs to be shorter too since cartridges provide only a powerful but short burst of magic that doesn't seem likely to maintain the energy needed for up to 10mins IMO. Other than that, everything else seems fine and Grandis looks set to be nasty melee fighter.

[PhoenixFlare]

And now, for the overdue Chapter Five (announced to be out yesterday) ...

When reading Leona's part in her room later, I suggest listening to >>this<<. And yes, that's one of her theme songs.

Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha GuardianS

Chapter Five—Amethyst Star

Spoiler for Scene I:

[Crusader, Escutcheon, Cranagan City] [January 22nd, MC 081] [1922 hours]

“Alert! Alert!”

The warning blared through the entire building with its monotonous tempo, crimson signals flashing with earnest urgency and casting the white walls in their ruddy hue.

Caught completely by surprise, the warning had personnel scrambling to their posts, their booted feet scrapping against the polished floor in a chaotic tramp, punctuated by confused exchanges between members working in the same area while those who were more prepared brought their comrades to man their posts. Men and women scurried along corridors and whisked around corners, hurrying to their destinations, some buttoning up their uniforms as they trudged down the path, others utterly disregarding conduct and rushing to their stations in their nightwear.

It was their first day on duty, and it was least expected that the alarm would go off so soon when placements were still underway.

In Crusader, the heart of Escutcheon’s operations, personnel were already busy managing the situation. Shario, Lucino, and several other communicators were seated on the mainframe, their fingers a blur of motion as they tried to ascertain the cause of the alarm. Verossa and Hayate, the latter who had returned to the base from the Saint Church earlier than her two friends, were watching the flow of operation with rapt attention. Griffith was standing next to the Commander, both their eyes intent on the large monitor where a flat map of a particular location was displayed. Blinking dots and radial lines ran along the network of square grids and the outline of contours as satellite scans and security sensors worked in tandem with the communicators’ hand-given orders to provide them a better idea of what was happening.

The distracting alarm ceased automatically after it was announced a minute ago, and normal lighting returned to Escutcheon. The silence that followed was disproportionately deafening.

“Shario, Lucino, situation report,” Chrono commanded, his voice calm and his mind focused. Dressed in complete uniform, he was sitting on a high-backed chair upon a raised platform, giving him the entire view of Crusader. Before him was a computer interface equipped with various intricate buttons and keys that were reserved exclusively only for his use.

Shario, the bespectacled Communications officer, turned around slightly in her seat at the front, her eyes intent. “A large energy reading was detected at coordinates –56, –168 a minute ago. The reading was similar to that of a magic spell, and apparently, it was used in the presence of several civilians!”

“What lies in the area within the coordinates?” Griffith asked.

“Laboratory 30, situated close to the Verlast Dam in the Verlast Forest,” Lucino supplied the information without turning back, her fingers working furiously with the touch-board.

Hayate frowned. “And isn’t that where …?”

Shario confirmed her fear. “Yes, it is the location where one of the Jewels of the Star is being researched. Professor Sayaki heads the laboratory.”

“Any contact with the people still inside?” Chrono asked, disliking every moment of it. The image of the torn bodies of the guards and officer that were supposed to ship the Topaz Star to its safe-house formed with vivid clarity in his mind.

“Negative,” Lucino answered. “I’ve been trying to get in touch with them for the past half a minute, but no one is answering.”

“The alarm was triggered by the intruder who tripped one of the newly installed security system,” Shario added. “The intruder went in through the main entrance. Disturbances in energy fluctuations in the area confirmed that a spell was cast before he broke through.”

At that moment, the doors to the room slid open, and Signum, Tesla, and Kratos rushed in, and all three of them giving a swift salute to the Commander, Vice-Commander, and both members of the Intelligence and Support Division. “What is the situation?” Signum began, her expression grave.

Chrono provided them with a succinct summary of what was happening. “I expected them to act fast, but this is quite a surprise. Are the squads ready?”

“Yes,” Tesla replied. “The Lieutenants are already in place at the take-off point, along with Doctor Shamal and Sergeant-Major Reinforce Zwei and Second Lieutenant Agito for back-up. Pilot Krauetta is already starting up Sky Falcon.”

Just then, several smaller screens popped up on the mainframe monitor.

“This is Justice-One to Crusader,” came a familiar voice.

“And this is Valor-One to Crusader,” another voice sounded.

It was Nanoha and Fate, their faces bordered in the screens. Both of them looked grim and serious. It seemed that they, too, had received the alarm.

“Captain Testarossa and I are still at the Saint Church,” Nanoha said. “Knight Carim of the Saint Church has given us permission to attend to the matter.”

“As expected of her,” Chrono replied, smiling slightly despite the gravity of the situation. He cleared his throat before he continued. “Then, this is the current mission: all squads are to head out and secure the location, with the priority of the mission being the safety of the civilians, undoubtedly researchers still in the laboratory. Secondary to this will be to ensure that the Lost Logia is not lost to the intruder and possibly the accomplices. Apprehend them using as little force as necessary. Limiter release is currently set to Level One.”

“I’ll go as well and provide help as needed,” Hayate offered. “Also, I think it best that we split into two groups: one going to help the civilians still inside the laboratory, while the others pursue the enemy that I’m sure will be fleeing from the scene.”

Chrono nodded. “I leave it to you to decide what the groups will be.” Then, he looked at the faces of the frontline members. “Any questions so far?”

Kratos nodded. “Commander, Captain Tyriel is still in the base. She will be he—”

He was interrupted by the doors that opened for a second time. Standing in the entrance was Leona, whose pale face was haggard and her hair disorderly. She seemed to be panting heavily, as if she had been running with all her strength to the room, which was located just three corridors away. Her chest rose and fell as she drew in deep, rattling breaths. Stranger still was that she was leaning against Aurion for support, his hands holding onto her shoulder and arm. Her own hands were trembling, beads of sweat forming on her forehead, and her eyes looked bloodshot.

Slowly, the two made their way past the threshold, and the doors closed behind them. Aurion looked up at the people gathered in the room and said, “I found her outside of the command room. She seemed as if she almost fainted, her face so white it was like chalk.”

Everyone who heard him was shocked except for the Chrono, who narrowed his eyes critically.

“Captain Tyriel, what happened to you?” Kratos asked, alarmed. Hayate and he moved forward to help her, but the Commander raised a stifling hand. Both of them became hesitant, Hayate looking utterly confused, while Kratos seethed with indignation. Even Nanoha and Fate, who were witnessing the exchange from their screens, were baffled. Verossa shot Chrono a strange look, but did not say anything.

“All squads,” Chrono said, his voice deathly cold. “Prepare to move out.” It was as if he did not notice that Leona was there.

“Wai—” Leona tried to speak, but her weak voice was overridden by Chrono’s stronger one.

And most of all, a stronger voice with all the authoritative command that broached no further questioning.

“Vice-Captain Kratos, you are to take lead of the Gallant Squad in the stead of Captain Tyriel,” Chrono spoke, his face a mask of inscrutability. “Now, all squads, move out.” The order was unmistakable, marked so by the indomitable steel in his voice.

Signum and Tesla were bewildered by the drastic change in their Commander, but they did not ask. Silently, they saluted Chrono and walked towards the doors, looking briefly at the captain without a word before making their way past the entrance. Kratos, on the other hand, appeared as if he was ready to give his superior a smack, but, with an indignant air, turned around without saluting and tramped briskly to Leona, who was still in Aurion’s hands.

“Milady, please have a rest. I will be back shortly,” he spoke softly. Leona did not reply, but weakly nodded. The simple effort seemed to be draining a lot of her strength, and she slumped backwards. Were Aurion not supporting her, she would have fallen onto the ground. Hayate looked troubled; she was torn between helping her friend and attending to her duty at the moment. A few moments later, she, too, walked out to follow the rest, but not without a sympathetic glance at Leona.

“Captains Takamachi and Testarossa,” Chrono said, turning his back to the pair at the side of the room.

“Yes?” both of them answered at once. Yet, their eyes looked with concern at their comrade, who seemed to have taken a turn for the worse after the incident back in the training grounds.

Chrono did not miss the gesture, but he continued. “The two of you are to make it to the location as soon as possible. Shario and Lucino will provide you with the necessary data.”

“Affirmative, sir!” With one final glance at their friend, they turned off the screen, heading off for their mission.

And the heavy blanket of silence fell into the room, broken only by the taps of keys and the beeps of computers. The prominence of the quiet seemed to radiate between the Commander and the Captain.

“Why?” Leona finally asked, her voice a hoarse whisper.

Chrono took a moment to reply her. Without even turning back, he answered: “I have no need for an ailing captain in the frontline, more so one who could not even make it to the briefing. A Vice-Captain works just as fine to serve the purpose of relieving a Captain ill-suited to perform her tasks.”

His words struck like a viper’s venom, the subtle poison working its dark way slowly, painfully, crushing her defenses with utter brutality, so that it could finally reach her unprepared heart and dispense its lethal consequence. Leona was muted, unable to respond. If anything, her face became whiter than before, an ashen complexion of one who had gone to the afterlife. Aurion, who was still holding on to her, felt Leona’s whole body tremble, her hands extremely cold as she gripped them with all the might that was left her, the nails biting deeply into the pale flesh.

“Professor Dauer,” Chrono said then, when they did not reply. His back was still facing them.

Aurion looked up from his observation of the distressed captain. “Yes?” he asked.

“If you do not mind, please escort Captain Tyriel back to her room,” the Commander said slowly. His voice, though still cold, now had a peculiar tinge to it, almost like … concern?

“She needs to rest.”

Spoiler for Scene II:

[Vicinity of Laboratory 30, Verlast Forest] [January 22nd, MC 081] [1952 hours]

A dark figure flitted past the foreboding walls of large trees with the agility of a cat, black cloak streaming behind him in a fluttering trail that followed him like a haunting shadow, shifting in and out of sight almost like phantoms of night. He was surrounded by darkness all over—his attire the color of deepest twilight—except for a portion of his face. His ruby eyes watched his surroundings with the keenness of a hawk, his senses alert for possible signs of enemy hidden within the folds of night’s blanket.

As a Master of the Sword, he was trained rigorously in being vigilant all the time, watchful of adversaries even when circumstances did not present such opportunities for their appearance.

A training he had chosen to endure since he became an Astral Templar.

A training that had saved him countless times against certain death.

A training to uphold their sacred duty: the protection of the hallowed Princess.

A training that I have failed utterly …

Wind whipped past Grandia’s face in biting gusts, his auburn hair snapping in the gales of night. He moved with the surety of a feline, his feet touching the ground lightly and propelling him forward, his destination being the dam some distance away from the laboratory where he had emerged from. There, someone awaited him, patiently remaining at her location for his return with the object of their assignment.

From under his cloak, he opened his right hand. Something sparkled on the palm, a beautiful, faintly purplish gem set into the heart of an elaborately-made platinum ring, the radiance pale yet mesmerizing.

The Amethyst Star—the fourth Jewel of the Star, one of the nine keys that would allow us reunion with our dearest Princess.

The procurement of the artifact had been smooth; Sharazad, from her vantage point and following the information provided by Trystahn, had been able to set up a barrier around the laboratory and lull the researchers to sleep. With no resistance in his way, Grandia had been able to infiltrate the lab with ease and found the location where the Star was being investigated exactly as Trystahn had described it.

It seemed that the senior research officer that was taken into questioning—a certain Provost Zakharov, whom the Magi had invited to their abode—had not been lying about the artifacts.

Yet, Grandia felt his senses warning him of danger in the strangest, and perhaps one of the more severe, way. It was a peculiar tingling sensation at the back of his mind that something was wrong with the entire scenario, yet he could not quite place his fingers on the elusive conclusion at the moment.

As much as he liked the fact that the Star was easily found, he frowned on the fact that the law enforcement officers had not been taking any action to prevent—or at least make it more difficult for—them from taking it. He did not believe that they would be so lax with the security of the fabled artifacts, with seemingly little effort to buff up the defense or update the precaution measures. It was really strange …

Perhaps they are overlooking the losses of the Stars as mere accidents? he mused. Then, he shook his head. No … this is not common among the people of this planet; they take stealing of such powerful artifacts seriously. Even the Magi acknowledged that.

Perhaps they do not understand the wonder of these Stars? But, the Provost had recognized their potentials the moment they were mentioned …

Or perhaps, they are trying to …

The final notion struck like the blow of a hammer. Grandia’s eyes widened as he realized, with the largest probability, what the enemy had in place for them.

So, they are not being lax at all.

Hastily, he contacted Sharazad. [Sister.]

There was a short pause before the reply came. [Yes, Grandia? Have you reached here?]

[No.]

[Then, what is the matter? Did one of the civilians awaken from the spell?] Sharazad asked, a little worried. She, like him, did not like the idea of hurting innocents unless it was really necessary. Even then, they were careful to restrain themselves. To them, it was absolutely pointless to kill, and more so because their doctrine forbid such an action. Sharazad, particularly, advocated the thought, because she understood that life was too precious to waste it away.

Because they did not have long to live themselves.

[No.] Grandia replied calmly. [Listen to me. We must prepare to leave immediately.]

[What?] came Sharazad’s bewildered telepathic voice. [But, why?]

[I don’t have time to explain right now. Just be ready to contact Trystahn right away once I reach you.] he said. [It is important.] Grandia added as an afterthought.

The gravity of his answer caused another short pause from Sharazad’s side. Then, she said: [All right. Will you be fine?]

[Don’t worry too much about me.] Grandia replied. [Just remember what I say.]

Sharazad did not reply, but Grandia knew that she heard him. His heart quickened slightly as the inkling of what the enemy was thinking formed again in his mind, and he hastened his pace. There was no time to lose, and the sooner he reached Sharazad, the better.

The entire forest flashed past him, dark images of oaks and maples melding into an impregnable wall of shadow, their branches intertwined with one another forming a thick canopy that blotted out the little light that was left to illuminate his path. The moon was veiled behind a thick bank of rain clouds, and the canvas of darkness stretched across the horizon unblemished, the winks of the absent stars hidden. Even the cries of the nocturnes were noticeably silent, the only sounds being the crunch of fallen leaves and twigs under his feet and the sighs of winds that rose with each passing second. In the distance, a thunder rumbled, its groan muffled within the bellies of the advancing clouds that bore with them the filled wells of spring rain.

—Snickt.—

The approaching storm was a prelude to an unexpected meeting between two opposing forces.

—Snickt.—

Fate was finally revealing they who were destined in its infinite and whimsical game of chance.

Just a little while longer before he reached the dam …

—Snickt.—

There was a burst of bluish-white light as a spear of lightning flashed, its jagged edges piercing the darkness as a strident boom exploded. The force of its thunderous clap reverberated within the forest, causing a sudden hail of dark, shadowy leaves.

And from within the blizzard of fallen leaves came the unmistakable gleam of something metal that parted the leaves in halves, as if they had been sliced by the sharpest of edge …

Yet, Grandia had already felt the attack coming even before his falcon-like eyes witnessed its appearance from within the shadows or his ears heard the sound of its approach, years of experience honed to perceive danger before it happened making him alert of the slightest changes in the surroundings that might herald the arrival of trouble. With a graceful twist in mid-leap, he whispered: “Αστραλ Αυγμεντ—Δανχε ωϕ Ηερμεσ. (Astral Augment—Dance of Hermes.)”

The winds answered his call, and with their help, he did a backflip as soon as his feet touched ground. The simple technique made his body lighter, more maneuverable, and the feat propelled him back much further than a similar reaction would under normal circumstances.

And the place where he would have stood previously was struck with a powerful blow that shattered the earth, sending debris and rocks flying in all direction.

Grandia noticed, with a passing glance as he was somersaulting, that the weapon that attacked had been a long chain, similar to a whip, except that it was linked with solid pieces of immaculately sharp metal. There was a small tearing sound: his tattered cloak had been nicked by one of the blades.

From the edge of his vision, he also picked up movement at either of his sides, shadows leaping from within the maw of the forest where the first attack had come, closing in fast for another attack. Quickly, he put both hands down onto the forest floor and pushed himself upwards, just in time to hear two distinct voices yelling “Ice prison!” and “Extreme blaze!”

Again, the ground exploded, this time in a bright incandescence of blue and red, shrapnel of shattered ice and sparks from extinguished fire leaping into the air. The momentary light revealed two small figures—both smaller than even an infant—floating in the air, looks of surprise evident on their faces at their failed attempt to catch him unaware.

Grandia landed lightly on the ground, having successfully evaded two surprise attacks. But, just as he turned around and tried to escape another way, the air around him wavered as if made of liquid, and something coalesced from the hidden depths. An arm formed, its slender fingers wrapped around a brilliant orange-colored energy-dagger, the point of which was placed below his chest.

An illusion spell! Grandia’s eyes widened.

“Optic Hide, off,” the disembodied voice of a person spoke in front of him. Slowly, the cover of illusion vanished, revealing a teenage girl with orange hair and white outfit. Her hand held the dagger in front of her steadily, while the other was clutching what appeared to be a gun. She eyes looked intently into his eyes, fierce determination radiating from her own.

“I am Teana Lanster, First Lieutenant of the Justice Squad of the Escutcheon,” she said calmly without taking her eyes off him.

Justice Squad? Escutcheon? Are those the names of the law enforcement officers that will become the bane of our existence?

“And I am Signum, Vice-Captain of the Justice Squad of the Escutcheon,” another person spoke behind him.

Grandia turned around to see, despite the darkness, a pink-haired woman with a proud and noble bearing. Garbed in knight’s armor and protective gears, she appeared to be one of the warriors of old. In her hand, she held a long white sword, which Grandia did not miss to be the weapon that had initiated the attack. With firm, measured steps, she walked towards him, her eyes looking into him with the same intensity as the one wielding the dagger.

The two smaller figures that he had saw previously flew to his side: one a crimson-haired being with bat-like wings, the other a charming girl-like creature with long silvery hair. With a wave of their hands, several magical strings formed and bound themselves around him—legs, arms, and body—preventing him from moving.

Binding spells … this is going to be troublesome.

Standing several steps away from him, she raised her sword and pointed it at him. With a strong voice, she pronounced, “Intruder, you are hereby arrested under the laws of this country for infiltrating into government facilities, stealing a highly dangerous Lost Logia, and attacking innocent civilians. I advise you to follow us without resistance, or we will have to detain you by force.”

Lost Logia? Is that what they call the Jewels of the Star?

Grandia gazed at the woman called Signum, and his mind made a quick calculative assessment of the situation. He was overpowered in terms of strength: he was one while they were four. And he was rather sure that they would not just remain in that small number; reinforcement should be on the way.

But, he could not, and would not, submit to them, because he must fulfill this one mission entrusted to him.

[Sharazad.] Grandia made a telepathic contact.

[Grandia!] Sharazad answered almost immediately. [Where are you? Preparations are already complete, but you’re later than usual. Is something holding you up?]

[Yes. The enemy forces have shown up.]

[What?] Sharazad gasped in alarm.

[The enemy outnumbers me four to one, and I am sure that they are not just the officers around here. More will probably come later.]

[Then, I will go to you immediately!] Sharazad replied.

[No!] Grandia said tersely. [Remain where you are, and maintain the spell. You can help me from that distance.]

[And let you be apprehended? I won’t do that!]

[Don’t worry, I am not going with them.] Grandia answered.

[You mean … are you going to call them out?] Sharazad gasped again. [They’re dangerous!]

[These officers look quite strong, I’m sure they can fend for themselves.] Grandia said matter-of-factly. [Remember, do not reveal yourself.]

[I am going to need some time to charge for a spell.] Sharazad spoke.

[It will not be a problem.] Grandia replied.

[Be careful, brother …] Sharazad said softly.

[I will.] And the link between them was terminated.

Grandia noticed that the Vice-Captain, the one who identified herself as Signum, had narrowed her eyes suspiciously. She must have observed something strange with his moments of silence and the almost imperceptible changes in his expressions.

“Speak your name, intruder,” she said grimly.

“It avails you naught to know my name,” Grandia replied.

“Tell us, do you have helpers or accomplices around? What is your motive in stealing the Lost Logia?” the silver-haired girl asked, her tiny voice unusually sharp.

“And you should already have your answer, little one. I would not reveal such information, even if you tortured me,” Grandia said, smiling behind the cover of his mask.

“Brave words, young man,” she scoffed. “And I am not ‘little one’! I am Reinforce Zwei, Sergeant-Major of the Intelligence Division of the Escutcheon and a Unison Device!”

“And don’t forget me, the great master of the flames, Agito!”

Unison Devices … I am going to remember them.

“Regardless,” Signum began, her eyes still gazing at the man before her, “you are going to follow us to th—”

“I don’t remember saying anything about following you anywhere,” Grandia replied calmly, but his features were hardening. His face darkened, as if another veil had just been thrown over him.

“What?” The four of them were shocked at his answer.

Taking advantage of the surprise, he called out to the night, his voice death-like and chilling.

“Creatures of death and carnage, come out and serve thy master! Minions!”

Spoiler for Scene III:

[Leona’s Room, Escutcheon, Cranagan City] [January 22nd, MC 081] [2024 hours]

Anger.

Sadness.

Those were the two feelings that were rampaging within Leona’s mind, each an equal in its own ground. They tore through her with the blistering heat of flame and the wintry chill of ice, such that she was rendered senseless by their antagonistic nature. She felt the need to scream, to release her frustration, and yet, the opposing force wanted her to let her tears out, to nurse her wounded heart with their flowing misery.

She could do both, actually, if not for a stronger voice within herself that warned her against them.

A warning against the possible ramifications that were irrevocable, irreconcilable, should she submit to her emotions.

She had seen it happen before—not once, but twice—when she lost herself in the limbo world that was her inner feelings, the strange and inexorable pull of temptation, the projection of her dark self within mortal’s realm. Her strength would magnify then, doubling, tripling, until the point that she would be able to transcend flesh and blood, the fetters of mortal-kind releasing her from their paltry binds, her might growing exponentially …

Strong enough to even escape from the poor reasons that she had kept to herself in order to remain here.

From Chrono, the one whom she had come with to know the intimacy of human life and the intricacies of their nature.

From Chrono, who did not even look at her when she almost collapsed, his back a solid wall of repulsion, his eyes the gaze of disgust, his words the wretched spears of woe.

He has not forgiven me still …

And then, she remembered her promise back two years ago. Her promise to Chrono, that she would exercise her power with discretion, that she would not go overboard, surpassing the limits of her body.

Perhaps that is why he is being so cruel …

Yet, it was not entirely her fault. Her body embodied a most complex and dangerous system of magic that had proven itself to be extremely erratic, such that, even under the best of circumstances, complications would still occur. She had restrained herself back then, trying to reduce the number of Nexus Release to the barest minimum. But, the scene back then had been dangerous; if she had not boosted Sturmreiter, she would have been caught by the full impact of Hayate’s spell …

And also, she had gambled on the chance that the release might give her a slightly better control over her power, which had happened occasionally without a backlash …

Fate is indeed a capricious goddess of fortune.

She coughed suddenly, and instinctively, she brought up her hand to stifle it. Her hand trembled with autonomous reaction then; something happened that she did not quite expect: wet ruby specks dappled the smooth skin of her palm, red globules of liquid that were unmistakably part of her life.

Blood.

Leona could not speak. She continued to look at crimson stain with her deep-blue eyes, as if by doing so she could will its existence away, to erase the evidence of her weakness. She could not, and with a grudging relent, rose from her bed. She walked a small distance, the effort of which should have been so simple, so direct. Yet, it took her a full minute to eventually reach the side of a table, her legs as heavy as lead. Leaning on the wooden panel, she sat on the chair next to it, and took a piece of tissue from its holder. With a slow motion, she wiped blood off from her hand and also from the side of her lips.

But, she did not cast the thin piece of paper into the bin located just below the table. Instead, there was a tiny glow at the end of her fingers as she conjured up mana. The paper suddenly burst into flames, which she released, and as it fell, the hungry fire ate up the contaminated piece. Within moments, it was reduced to nothing more than ash, which scattered onto the floor.

It is too dangerous, she thought silently. But, if this goes on …

She sighed and looked down at her now clean hands, the previous tremble having passed after she sat for a moment. The enigmatic Professor Dauer had offered to bring her to the infirmary for a check-up, but she had adamantly refused. As much as he was kind, especially towards Hayate and the rest, she was not entirely trustful of his intention. His background filled with its own mysteries and secrets, some of which she had difficulty obtaining through the usual means, Aurion Dauer was a man of insight and cunning wisdom. While appearing nonchalant, his mind was always alert and keen, like his very subtle expression changes back then when he had met them at the training grounds. And the looks he had given her just now, though considerate and kind, had the slightest hint of suspicion …

I could not let another person find out about myself …

“Wyrd,” Leona suddenly spoke.

<Ja?> the device spoke, indicated by the brief glimmer of the jewel on her necklace.

“Edit data setting to command X-517-16AT, scramble mode active. Also, increase personal safety control to ‘High’, and block external data intrusion with Stormnet Level 5,” she said. “If possible, attempt tracing of external access to its user.”

<Verstanden.> came the device’s reply. It flashed brightly for several times, making adjustments as per order, and then it was over.

“Thank you, Wyrd,” Leona said fondly. The jewel gleamed in answer.

Now that it was settled, Leona could focus on other things. Dwelling too much on the issue would not do any good, she reasoned, but staying put while the others were out did not go well with her. Though she could not participate in the battle, there was always something that she could do, even in the confines of her room. Moving a hand over the air, several screens came into view at once.

The screens were showing scenes from the mission that Chrono had forbid her to go.

And the first thing she heard was the call: “Creatures of death and carnage, come out and serve thy master! Minions!”

Spoiler for Scene VI:

[Verlast Forest] [January 22nd, MC 081] [2031 hours]

The summon rang out through the air, the strident voice of the black-garbed man carried far and wide by the winds of the approaching storm …

A second passed without anything happening, safe for the whispers of air through the hollows of trees and amidst the branches …

And then came the answering howl.

Nothing prepared Signum and her comrades for what happened next.

As if a piece of night had come off itself, a thick pall of shadow separated itself from the gloom enveloping the edges of the forest. The shadow moved as if alive, gaining speed and size with each invisible step taken, strands of darkness weaving themselves into something that manifested only in the darkest of nightmares.

Something fearsome …

… and hungry.

First to materialize were the rows of pointed teeth, walls of knives ready to cut its prey into ribbons. Saliva dripped copiously from the mouth, the nose a patch of blackness at the forefront of the muzzle. And then came the eyes, ruby-red orbs of crimson fire, crazed and wild. The rest of the creatures’ features were revealed, hollow bodies that seemed immaterial, surrounded by a shadow-like haze, their paws scrapping the ground, ending with tails that snapped like black tongues of flame.

These were Minions, hounds of darkness that hunted for human blood and flesh, unearthly creatures born by magic and malice.

And one of them, foremost in the pack, leapt at the group, its deadly fangs bared, drool flying from the gaping maw, its bloody eyes set on the little floating figure of Reinforce Zwei …

With a resounding battle cry, Signum struck the creature with Laevateinn. The sword cleaved the ferocious hound in twine, but no blood gushed out from the fatal blow.

Instead, the shadow of its being parted, fading slightly …

And from the remnants emerged two more such creatures, still in mid-leap, their dark claws stretched out for the Unison Device …

Yet, the split second intervention had been sufficient for Reinforce Zwei. A bright triangular shield formed in front of her, and the newly formed Minions slammed against the protective barrier with a sickening crunch, several canine teeth shattering from the impact. With a pained howl, they were thrown backward, shaken.

“Be careful, Teana!” Agito’s cry could be heard.

The orange-haired lieutenant, whose dagger was still held at the intruder, turned around to see another one of those dangerous creatures materializing behind her, the four paws clawing the ground furiously. With a quick turn, she put the dagger before her face in a defensive position, just in time to catch the Minion’s jaws in between the blade. The momentum caused Teana to stumble, her back on the forest floor, struggling against the hound. At such close proximity, she could smell the nauseating rot of its ragged breath.

Agito yelled a spell, and the Minion on top of Teana was struck by several fireballs. It rapidly caught flame, the voracious blaze spreading through the creature like liquid. Within moments, it was consumed by the conflagration, and it disappeared without a trace, as if it never existed. Stranger still, it did not form a second one when it vanished, unlike the one destroyed by Signum.

“Halt!” Signum’s terse voice sounded over the growl of the Minions around them.

In the confusion caused by the appearance of the savage monsters and with the two Unison Devices were distracted, the intruder had broken through the weakened binds and was already escaping, the edge of his cloak disappearing into the shadowed fringe of the forest. Signum started to give chase, but was forced to defend against two Minions that blocked her way.

With a mighty slash, Laevateinn tore through the creatures’ open jaws. And they faded slightly, like the first, and returned as four. Signum impeded their attacks with Panzer Schild, then leapt into the air.

What manner of creatures are these? They keep multiplying when killed! she thought furiously. Looking below, she saw that they were surrounded by at least three dozens of such creatures, some lurking in the forest, waiting for the perfect moment, the evidence of their presence being the blood-colored hue of their eyes. If this continues, he’s going to escape!

Then, a new voice sounded amidst the chaos: “Watch out! Solaris!”

<Flare Stream.> a female mechanical voice spoke.

A jet of magical fire gushed forth from within the forest, striking a Minion that was trying to attack Agito from the back. The moment it was caught by the fire, it spread across its body, within the few seconds of which it disappeared without leaving even ashes behind.

A man appeared from the direction where the jet of flame had come, two large circular rings—chakrams, Signum corrected herself—floating around his hands, one of which was smoking. He was dressed in a white uniform with red trimmings, his rust-colored hair wild as he ran towards the Unison Devices and Teana, the latter whom had risen from the fall after Agito saved her.

It was Gabriel.

A Minion descended upon him the moment he appeared, trying to take him on by surprise. Yet, from behind the lieutenant emerged a larger person, as dark and as deep as twilight, an ebony scythe firmly in hand.

“Diablos,” he said calmly.

<Raven Shot.> the device answered. A blast of purple energy flew from the scythe and struck the Minion squarely in the head, blowing it cleanly off the body. And it, too, vanished, following the partner it wished to avenge.

A wolfish grin spread across the face of the dark-haired man. He was Xeno.

“You should be more careful next time, lieutenant,” he said, smirking.

Two more figures approached, this time from the sky. Silver-haired Kratos, garbed in his white Barrier Jacket and his silver wings spreading from his back, flew alongside Tesla, her midnight blue hair almost matching the black outfit she was wearing and her device at the ready in her hand.

“Signum, is everything all right?” Tesla asked as she reached the Blazing Flame General.

“The intruder is escaping. He summoned the creatures he called the Minions to cover his trail,” Signum replied quickly, pointing at the hounds below.

“Then, the two of you better go after him fast,” Kratos said urgently. “I cannot match any of you in terms of speed, so I’ll handle the creatures with them.”

“Are you sure you will be all right?” Signum asked.

“I will,” Kratos answered. “Besides, General Yagami is on her way.” Tesla nodded as emphasis.

“Then, let’s go, Tesla,” Signum said. Without so much as a word, she flew off in the direction of the intruder, followed by Tesla, the two becoming streaks of pink and blue light, respectively.

When they had disappeared from his sight, mere winks of light in the distance, Kratos returned his sight to the battle below. “Now, to deal with some pesky canine problem …”

* * * * *

Grandia fled.

For the first time in his life, he fled from a battle.

For the first time in his life, he was forced to secure his escape through surprise and ambush.

And for the first time in his life, he was forced to rely on the Magi’s questionable beasts to escape.

He felt tainted, weak. He felt dishonorable, disgraceful.

Not only had he failed in protecting the Princess, he had also violated the principles of an Astral Templar.

There is nothing more shameful than descending into cowardice.

Yet, he had no choice. He—no, they—needed the Jewels of the Star if they were to fulfill their divine oath. And the Magi had promised to call the Princess back should they be able to find all nine Jewels. The possibility was too great to let go of it so easily, even when they knew the action was wrong.

We desire nothing more than the chance to see the Princess again, to tell her how apologetic we are for abandoning her.

Grandia sighed. He was not so sure if he knew which path to follow anymore, not since the Magi allowing the Minions to kill the Topaz Star’s guards, not since the appearance of the officers that were set to detain them.

And he continued to run, his only destination being the dam, where Sharazad was waiting for him …

He burst through the wall of dark trunks and came out on the other side, a small clearing in the heart of the forest, and …

<Blitzschlag.>

Had he not been focused enough, he would have been dead by now. There was the crackle of energy from above—an attack being launched—and he turned just in the nick of time to block five small, but amazingly fast, bolts of electrical energy with a hastily raised shield.

He was surprised; the shield shattered, unable to absorb the attack effectively, and the aftershock jolted him and caused him to stagger. He was unharmed, the leather outfit mitigating most of the electrical energy, but the impact of the attack had caused his hand to become sore and numb, remnants of the energy flashing from his fingers. A thin white smoke spiraled out of the affected hand, burnt by the attack. He winced from the sharp pain.

Two figures stopped in front of him. Slowly, he raised his head to regard them.

One was the pink-haired vice-captain, Signum. The one standing next to her was a newcomer, a blue-haired lady with serious emerald eyes, clothed in a dark uniform. Somehow, Grandia had the strangest feeling that the two were sisters.

“You cannot escape, intruder. Surrender now, or we’ll be have to take you out by force,” Signum said, holding her sword at the ready. The one accompanying her raised her weapon—a glaive—as well, and at once, several bolts of lightning surrounded the curved blade.

So, she was the one who attacked me … Two against one, I have no choice …

His decision was set. “Signum, what do you say to a duel?” Grandia said.

“What do you mean?” Signum asked, eyes narrowed in suspicion again.

“A duel, one to one, between you and me,” Grandia repeated. “If I lost, I will let you arrest me without resistance and return the Amethyst Star.”

I would not let it happen, even if I have to fall deeper into disgrace … For the Princess, it will be worth it.

The winds danced between them, their whispers eerie as they whistled through the trees. Time seemed to have stopped as the two opponents gazed at one another, the decision unannounced.

“I accept,” Signum declared.

“What?” This time, it was the blue-haired officer who spoke. “Signum, you cannot possibly believe that he is to be trusted?”

“Don’t worry, Tesla,” Signum replied, her eyes never leaving the figure of the man before her. “He is also a warrior as I am, bound by the honor of his words.”

“But—” Tesla tried to protest.

“With Laevateinn at my side, I will not lose,” Signum said before the one called Tesla could continue. The sword gleamed as if in answer. Her voice was steel; it seemed that she had made up her mind as well.

Tesla looked as if she was about to speak again, but then decided against it. With a grudging nod, she lowered her weapon, and the bolts disappeared. She walked backwards some distance away from Signum, her eyes also intent on him.

“Laevateinn,” Grandia spoke. “Is that the name of your blade, Signum?”

“Yes,” she replied. She opened her legs and assumed the battle stance of the Ancient Belkan warrior, the sword raised to the side of her face, the tip of the white sword pointed towards him.

“A fitting name for a sword,” Grandia praised. “I guess my partner will be very glad tonight as well.”

As he said so, he flung his black cloak apart, revealing his right arm, the gloved hand seemingly grasping vacant air. Signum watched his movement intently. Where it was empty previously, the faint outline of something solid began to form, the air wavering as if it was an illusion. Thin, red lines traced the silhouette of Grandia’s weapon, trailing along the contour like liquid fire. Then, there was a burst of bright flame as it was completed.

A long golden sword was in his hand, the flat of the blade emblazoned with the motif of a wave of fire.

“Laevateinn,” Grandia called. “Meet the Sword of the Sun, Helios.”

[PhoenixFlare]

Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha GuardianS

Chapter Five—Amethyst Star

Spoiler for Scene VI, continued:

=Continued=

It was pandemonium back where Kratos and the rest were in their battle against the Minions.

Nobody seemed to understand how the creatures vanished without a trace or multiplied when damaged. And, in the course of the battle, the deadly hounds had grown in number, from three dozens to at least sixty, close to seventy. And they did not relent in their attacks, their paws raking at their defenses, their jaws snapping ferociously.

Kratos was fortunate that he was able to fly, out of the hounds’ reach, but his comrades were trapped below, surrounded by the beasts of the night. A purple barrier was erected by Xeno, encircling a small perimeter around Teana, Gabriel, and him, all three of whom were sticking close together, back to back. They had suffered some damage, their Barrier Jackets torn in places, and Gabriel even had a bloody gash across his left arm, Teana’s exposed lower legs bleeding. The barrier was weakening fast with the hounds continuous assaults, and they were in danger of being overwhelmed by sheer number soon. But, the trio dared not attack for fear of increasing their numbers unnecessarily.

Agito and Reinforce Zwei had also taken to the air, both panting, their energy nearly exhausted.

“Have you found anything yet, Kratos?” Agito yelled, her voice hoarse. She had been fidgeting restlessly ever since she went up with Reinforce Zwei. Her inability to help her companions must be frustrating her.

“I’m trying!” Kratos replied tersely. It was not like he was going to abandon them to these bizarre monsters. But, it was really difficult work to ascertain the Minions’ weakness, if they had any at all. The strangeness of their nature was baffling him as well.

He shifted his gaze, his eyes glowing white. He had been using Eye of Truth since he came here. The spell allowed him to read magical residues, unravel illusions, and unmask invisible units, and he had already determined that the hounds were not illusions at all. The task now was to find out how in the world were they to kill the Minions without causing them to divide into more, a nigh-impossible undertaking with the confusing amount of interfering residues from their previous attacks saturating the air. That, and coupled with the hounds’ tendency to move around, was not making his task any easier.

Something crossed his mind that he could not quite place his fingers on about the peculiar characteristic of the Minions. Their ability to duplicate upon death, he noted, seemed to have something to do with how the attacks affect them …

There was a loud crash as five Minions leapt upon the trio at once, their fangs gleaming in the darkness, only to be repelled by the barrier.

“Kratos …” Xeno called slowly, his forehead beading with sweat from the strain of maintaining the barrier.

Kratos did not seem to hear him. Instead, he closed his eyes, his mind beginning a rewind to the previous fight; fire had been particularly effective against the Minions, they disappeared when they were touched by the flame. Yet, they had become more wary now, skipping around the fire spells Gabriel and Agito threw at them …

Another crash. Eight Minions attacked the barrier with fervor.

“Kratos!” Gabriel cried. “What are you spacing out for now?”

And, when they were cut, regardless of location, they almost always seemed to form new ones …

A third crash sounded, and this time, there was an audible crack. Xeno’s barrier was failing, and already, jagged lines were beginning to appear on the protective spell.

“Kratos!” Xeno shouted now, alarmed.

Back then, when Xeno had killed one of the hounds with a spell, it had not multiplied, but perished instead. And the place where the spell hit—where was it again? Ah, yes, the head …

And their eyes, the bloody orbs of red ruby, were dense with magic, so much denser than the rest of their body, like a matrix to hold their forms …

Sensing victory and eager for the taste of human flesh, twelve Minions rushed the barrier, their feral features naked with insatiable hunger …

Kratos’s eyes snapped open. “The eyes!” he shouted. “The eyes! Their weakness is their eyes!”

And there was a shattering crunch as the barrier was breached, the hounds devastating momentum breaking the spell apart.

Fortunately, Teana, Xeno, and Gabriel had reacted in time, escaping certain death by ducking low and rolling to their sides. As they did so, Teana attacked.

<Variable Barret.> Teana’s device, Cross Mirage, intoned.

Three bright orange magical bullets were fired from the device, homing with unerring accuracy at the Minions. There was a bestial howl of fury when they struck the creatures’ eyes, and then they faded out of existence, their ululating cries a dull echo that vanished with the rush of wind.

“Good work, Kratos!” Xeno shouted triumphantly, grinning as his scythe caught another Minion in the left eye, which also did not multiply.

“Now, we will finish them!” Gabriel said, sharing in Xeno’s mirth. One particular hound leapt at his fallen form, but the sharp edge of his chakram sliced cleanly through the beast’s crimson eyes, killing it instantaneously. Raising himself up quickly from the ground, he put both hands forward such that the chakrams—both in the shape of a sun, but one in deep red, while the other was purple—were close together. “Gemini Solaris, Burst Shards!”

<Load cartridge.> the response came in a female mechanical voice. Mechanisms turned and sounded as red chakram ejected one cartridge from its system. Then, in a female voice, it said: <Burst Shards.> It began to revolve in his hand. As it did so, six spheres of brilliant white fire began to form, moving in the same motion with the chakram.

<Boost Up: Double Burst.> the purple one spoke with a strong masculine voice, and also started to turn. A Mid-childan sigil formed, and energy seemed to dance from the serrated edge, which was channeled into its counterpart. The red chakram revolved even faster, and more spheres appeared around it. Now, twelve flaming spheres spun around the circular ring, forming a bright halo.

With a great cry, Gabriel shouted: “Strike!”

And the halo erupted in brilliant trails of fire, each sphere speeding off towards their targets. Twelve Minions howled as they were hit by the burning orbs of white flame in the eyes, their moment’s worth of death cry piercing and sharp.

“Lieutenant Graymist!” Teana called loudly. She was still attacking, her fingers quickly pulling the triggers of Cross Mirage while she ran, trying not to be in the same location for too long and risking herself to the hounds’ vicious attacks. She grimaced, the pain from her movement aggravating the wounds on her legs.

If anything, the creatures were becoming wilder than before, with their only weakness discovered and their numbers decreasing instead of the converse. The Minions’ deadly survival instinct was finally beginning to show, their main objective now to dispose off their enemies before they were decimated completely.

“What is it?” Xeno asked roughly. He swung his scythe around him with a grim smile, the keen edge of the curved blade slashing through the shadowy creatures’ weak spot with uncanny precision. A deep growl to his right caused him to turn, the hound’s bone-white fangs gleaming, the jaws opened for a vicious bite.

There was a flash of blue light, and the raving creature was suddenly encased in ice. Then, a crescent-shaped weapon—a boomerang—flew past, shattering the Minion’s head. Not even its cry was heard when it vanished. Xeno looked up to see Reinforce Zwei’s hand extended forward, a Belkan triangular sigil on the front. The weapon returned to Kratos’s right hand. The vice-captain had apparently decided to join in the fray, his white-and-black Barrier Jacket billowing in the wind, two boomerangs ready in his hands.

<Twin Dance.> Archangel spoke as Kratos channeled his mana to empower the device. Wrapped in white energy that made its edges as keen as a blade’s, Kratos sent the crescents down, which spun rapidly until they formed a flat razor. Two unfortunate Minions were caught in their trajectories, the spiraling weapons slicing through the crimson eyes like a hot knife against butter, and promptly returned to his hands. There was a grim satisfactory smile on Kratos’s face.

Xeno flashed them a grin. Remembering what he was supposed to do, he ran towards Teana, Diablos whirling around him like a protective barrier. Within a couple of steps from the girl, whose guns kept churning out bullets of compressed energy that struck the Minions with an unsurpassable accuracy at their weak spot, he asked, “What is it, girl?”

There was a tinge of anger on her face at being addressed at such, but she ignored it. “I want to finish—” She was stopped halfway when Xeno forced her to duck, and with a great slash disposed off two Minions that were trying to attack her exposed back. “—these things off with a single attack,” she finished her sentence when she rose again.

“And?” Xeno asked without looking at her, his eyes wary of their surroundings.

“I cannot move around, so buy me some time,” she said quickly and simply. Xeno looked at her with incredulous eyes for a second, then made his signature grin.

It was all she needed.

Shutting her eyes, she began to summon her powers. Teana was now fully vulnerable to the Minions’ attacks, but she was trusting her life to the dark-haired lieutenant. There were the occasional battle-cry in the distance and also the fanatical howl of the bloodthirsty hounds, whip of invisible winds lashing against her face as Xeno wove a razor barrier around the two of them with his ebon scythe.

“Cross Mirage,” she said. “Begin target count.”

<Yes, sir.> the device replied. There was a moment of silence before the answer came. <Current targets numbering at thirty-four.>

That’s quite a lot, Teana spoke to herself. If only they are reduced more …

<Enemy count decreasing.> Cross Mirage told her a second later. <Thirty.>

This is good news! Teana thought happily. “Begin wide-area target lock, main aim at their eyes.”

<All right.> A few moments later, Cross Mirage spoke again. <Targets acquired and locked for attack, twenty-eight total. Eyes targeted and maintained while they are in motion.>

“Good!” Teana said. “Now, let’s begin, shall we?”

As she finished, a large orange Mid-childan sigil appeared below her. Holding Cross Mirage in front of her, she began to form her attack. Several spheres of compressed magic began to emerge around her, hung inert in the air as they waited for the launch. Five … twelve … the number of magic bullets kept increasing, until there were twenty-five of them suspended in the space. Sweat beaded on her forehead as she increased the number of energy spheres around her.

“Whoa, girl!” came Xeno’s cry from her left as he noticed what had happened. Teana smiled despite not being able to see his surprised expression.

“Thank you, Lieutenant Graymist,” Teana spoke without opening her eyes, still concentrating at maintaining the bullets. “This will be quick.”

Drawing a deep breath, she said slowly, “Crossfire …” The moment was still not right.

<Targets now numbered at twenty-five.>

Now! Her eyes flew open at that moment. “… Shoot!” she finished as she flung her arms outwards. And the bullets rushed out in a crisscross of orange streaks, seeking their targets according to Cross Mirage’s direction.

There was a chorus of frustrated shriek from the Minions, a sound that was more piercing than the screech of ravens, when the remaining hounds were all struck by Teana’s spell without fail. They wavered momentarily when they were hit, torn pieces of darkness that hung between the dimensions of reality and illusion, and finally faded from sight, leaving behind the echoes of their madness and bloodlust to sing their lament in the nightly winds.

Teana slumped onto the cool forest floor, blades of spring grass jabbing the wounds at her legs, but she could not care less to register the pain. The strain of firing multiple targeted shots was enormous, yet she managed to pull it out nonetheless. Back when she had just learnt the attack, she could only maintain a maximum of ten bullets at any one time and fire them forward without being able to control their targets. It seemed that five years of training had not gone to waste; she just used twenty-five targeted attacks, an accomplishment that she could be proud of.

Kratos, Reinforce Zwei, and Agito flew down to join the trio, the crimson-haired Unison Device whistling in amazement as she fluttered to the ground. Apparently, she was impressed with Teana’s prowess. Even Reinforce Zwei and the three men that she barely knew seemed to share her sentiment. Teana smiled inwardly.

“Good going, girl!” Xeno was the first to voice it out, giving her a hard slap on the back. Teana grimaced at the force he applied, but she was quite content to show her happiness.

A communication screen flickered into view then, and Hayate’s face was shown. Her face looked concerned. “I’m sorry about the delay, but Shamal, Alto, and I have just finished transporting the unconscious researchers aboard Sky Falcon five minutes ago. Is everything all right here?” she asked.

“We’re fine. There are some minor injuries, but we’ve managed to defeat the enemies. Vice-Captains Signum and Tesla headed off to apprehend the real intruder,” Kratos reported.

“Where did they go?” Hayate asked again.

“Slightly northeast from our location,” Kratos answered.

Hayate frowned. “The dam. And Shario just informed me that a huge energy reading was detected at the same location.”

“You don’t mean …” Gabriel let his words hang ominously.

“Yes,” Hayate answered for him, nodding for emphasis. “I’m sorry, but if you don’t mind, I’ll be heading for them at once. Will you all be fine?”

“Don’t mind us, General. We’ll take care of ourselves,” Xeno replied. “We’ll signal Pilot Krauetta and Doctor Shamal for help.”

Hayate smiled slightly. “Thank you, Lieutenant Graymist,” she said appreciatively. “Then, I’ll go to the dam now.”

The six of them nodded, and the screen disappeared promptly.

And then came the first drop of rain.

Spoiler for Scene V:

[Verlast Forest] [January 22nd, MC 081] [2056 hours]

The air vibrated with the sound of clashing metal, thin flashes of silver and gold carving the space when they met moments before they parted again for another attempt.

The struggle between two warriors, one man, another woman, their blades whistling through the night before the sharp pitch of grinding metal could be heard. White sword encountered golden edge, the din of their clash like the shriek of banshees as sparks of white and blue danced from the crossed swords.

The two warriors withdrew once more, a draw between them in terms of skill and strength, their will and determination afire with their own cause. At least forty blows had been exchanged in the past ten minutes, each step guided by instinct and knowledge, each stroke calculative, provocative, and each parry measured and resolute.

“Once more!” the black-cloaked male yelled as he turned around, brandishing his golden sword with both hands.

“Take this!” the woman answered in kind, her long pink hair lashing as if a whip, the silver blade struck in a wide slash.

The meeting between the two was inexorable, unavoidable. Just as their hands wielded the sword in their grip to accomplish their purpose, their heart was put into the action driven by their desires, both encouraged by the hidden motivation of their silent duties.

The clash was like the meeting between two warring gods, the metallic clamor shatteringly acute, the burst of fire refulgent and deadly. The single witness to the battle between the two had to clamp her ears from the strident screech.

When the flash of fire had vanished, blown away by a rising draft, the two warriors were afloat some distance away from one another, their blades held at their sides, their eyes meeting the other with a cool and dignified manner.

They were no ordinary warriors.

One was Signum, commonly known as the Blazing Flame General. The other was Grandia, entitled honorably as the Master of the Sword.

The duel between them remained at standstill, with none gaining an upper hand. And so far, none had deign it important to reveal the techniques of their blades.

Leaves swirled in the silence between the two, spring grass bending from the sweep of winds. The banks of storm clouds raced against one another, their burden heavy and readily disgorged at any time soon. Rumbles of thunder could be heard within them, horizontal flashes of white at the periphery of the dark clouds heralding their approach.

“You’re an excellent fighter, Signum,” Grandia said at last, impressed. He had not expected such skilled warriors to pursue them, less so a woman.

“As are you, who refuse to identify yourself,” Signum replied as calmly as she could. He has not shown his true powers yet, and already, he has proven himself a difficult adversary.

“I ask for your forgiveness, Knight Signum,” Grandia answered, his black tattered cloak billowing as a stray wind blew. “My name prefers the solitude of secrecy, since it holds nothing but a passing identification of a person whose life is as ephemeral as the flame of a candle.”

“You hold such distaste for life?” Signum asked, her long pink hair ruffled by the night breeze.

There was silence from the swordsman, whose face was suddenly hidden in a darkness that was not part of the night. “My former self does not,” he replied slowly. “Now, it does, with the Princess gone …”

Signum started at the mention of the name. Princess?

Silence returned, this time more deafening than before. Signum was wondering if it was such a coincidence that the warrior before her was involved in the search of the dangerous artifacts known as the Jewels of the Star, intricately woven with the warning by Knight Carim.

A coincidence that the unnamed man, who she had come to believe was honorable and valiant, was sounding so desperate, so anguished, so yearning, for a person he called Princess.

A coincidence that she would rather not have, for it reminded her of the regrettable past with Zest.

Leaves swirled around them again, playing a requiem for their fateful meeting …

… and also their parting.

“I am sorry, Knight Signum, but our conversation ends here,” Grandia continued solemnly. “The Star must be delivered if our wish were to come true.”

“Wai—” Signum tried to stop him, but he had already begun.

With a liquid move, Grandia made a perfect circular motion with his sword, end to end. His movement created a distortion in the air, as if something living was pulsing. Suddenly, it was ablaze, a brilliant halo of red fires that danced wildly, casting bloody hues into the velvet darkness.

As the first patter of rain fell, he cried:

“Αστραλ Ηελιωσ—Ατηενα’ Δραγωνσ. (Astral Helios—Athena’s Dragons.)”

* * * * *

[I am ready.] Sharazad told Grandia.

[So am I.] came her brother’s reply.

She knew what that meant: he was going to use an Astral technique. No matter how powerful a Templar or how weak a technique was, resorting to drawing Elements from the surroundings had its consequences. Vestrell was a good example, her arm badly damaged by the feedback of violent energy that nearly exploded within her. Yet, this was the only option available to them.

For their survival.

And for the Princess.

A pearlescent harp was held in her long fingers, silver strings gleaming faintly in the almost lightless night. The thunderheads had reached the forest some time ago, the first signal of its imminent release being the first drop of water from the heavens.

Sharazad was hovering above a huge lake filled with mirror-like water. It was a dam, constructed by human hands to harness water as a source of energy. Though such technology had been obsolete some time ago, its service to the human race had been vast. And they had not deemed it necessary to dismantle the construct that was impeding the flow of life.

A large blue sigil formed at her feet as Sharazad opened her arms, the harp suspended before her without falling into the dark pool beneath. Then, she closed her eyes, letting her senses feel her surroundings.

Her right fingers twitched slightly, and the first tune escaped from the strings of the silvery harp.

“Vagrant breeze of the sky, thy lord summoneth thee …”

And the wind answered. Sharazad played the harp with her fingers, harmonizing each pluck of the string with the wind’s rhythm, urging them on, teasing them forward. Willful and wanton, the strands of winds rallied together to her call, merging into stronger gusts, until they finally rushed and raced instead of merely dancing around aimlessly. The gales rose maddeningly, the howl of their fury rattling the trees, their breaths heavy and forceful. Below her, the water swirled and undulated, eager for release.

“… At the command of thy master, let loose the purifying storm …”

Her fingers moved more vigorously now, the harp producing somber and deeper tones. The clouds above crackled, jagged bolts of white lightning rippling across its shadowy surface. Then, it began to pour, the heavens emptying their content, pounding sheets of needle-like rain fell upon the earth with merciless fury. Sharazad’s cloak and hair billowed in the onslaught of wind and water, a nymph from ancient legend, though she did not feel the vehemence of their attacks.

“… I call upon thee, o’ serpent of the deep, ariseth from thy slumber and show men their folly!”

At that moment, Sharazad opened her eyes, which had turned startlingly frightening. The pupils seemed to be radiating an eerie glow, and energy danced from within their depths. She looked up into the darkness, and in answer, a brilliant spear of lightning came down.

Yet, it did not strike her. Instead, it engulfed the stone dam with its seething embrace. A large section of the structure exploded in a blast of rubble and boulder, which promptly began their descent, the imprisoned water rushing out in a powerful surge. Then, a huge wall of water from the destroyed dam rose into the air to surround Sharazad, its strong current sweeping broken pieces of the dam with it, drawn to her summon.

It was an awesome display of nature’s wrath, water and water whirling around the singular figure of an elegant woman. With a final motion, Sharazad plucked the strings with force, producing a single piercing note as she cried:

“Αστραλ Λετω—Λωρε ωϕ Πωσειδων. (Astral Leto—Lore of Poseidon.)”

And they rushed forward in a single column, a destructive flow of angry water and furious wind empowered by the strength of the Sage of the Harp, rampaging through the forest, bringing in its ferocious wake broken trees and shattered boulders.

Brother, you must be safe …

* * * * *

Silhouetted by the cloud-veiled moon, the circle of fire traced its perfect shape, as if it was a solar eclipse. But, the clearing was suddenly as bright as dawn as the circle exploded in a radiant burst of orange-gold flame.

From the fiery depths emerged the roaring shapes of mythical creatures from the age of old: dragons.

Five such flaming beasts reared its serpentine necks, their large maws opened, as they closed in to attack the two women. The cool night was suddenly heated, the temperature rising drastically. And the bellow of the dragons reverberated through the forest, strong enough to be heard from far away.

Signum, the nearest to the attack, quickly raised her sword to defend herself. A dragon crashed upon her, the jaws of fire clamped onto Laevateinn’s sharp edge without damaging itself. And Signum was thrown backward by the momentum of the dragon’s rush, landing noisily on the forest ground and churning up a cloud of dirt.

Gritting her teeth, she dug her heels into the earth, and launched her full strength into the sword. With a loud battle-cry, she threw the dragon backward, which slammed into another one behind it. There was a dazzling eruption of embers and sparks as they roared. With a final sputter, the dragons burst and vanished.

However, remnants of their flames flew around haphazardly, swept by a stormy wind, and began to light up the trees around the clearing. Even a patch of grass had begun to catch fire, spreading quickly such that Signum found it impossible to stamp it out before the entire clearing was aflame.

I hope the rain comes soon, Signum thought. This fire is going to be difficult to contain.

Much to her surprise, it really came as she wished for. The heavens opened up, and from the dark bellies came a heavy downpour. A blinding torrent fell mightily, dousing the fire with its watery rush. It did not take long for the fire to be extinguished, thick white smoke being the only evidence of its former presence.

Signum looked up, and saw that Tesla had not suffered any injury as well. Apparently, the dragons were smothered by the sudden rain as well …

Wait, something is strange! Signum’s alert mind screamed. If that was really meant as an attack, then it shouldn’t be …

Quickly, she scanned her surroundings for the dark-clothed man. But, there was already a thick wall of white smoke forming, and her sight was further impaired by the sleet.

Damn it! It was a ruse to cover his escape!

[Knight Signum.] a male voice sounded in her mind. It is the intruder!

She turned around, trying to determine his location. [Where are you, coward?] she replied contemptuously.

[Coward?] There was a slight hint of sadness and amusement in his tone. [Perhaps it is the right word to use for one such as I …]

His acquiescence startled Signum; she had not expected a man of his caliber to be speaking in such a way. A warrior, admitting that he is a coward? Honest, if not desperate … But, Signum had her duty to perform, and she could not let her emotions control her action. Her eyes swept the surroundings, trying to find a glimpse of the black-garbed man, the rain falling incessantly and drenching her.

[I am sorry that it must end this way, Knight Signum. My hand is forced to beguile your warrior spirit, and for that, I, Grandia Estrediel Paladien, apologize for sullying your pure intention.]

So, he finally revealed his name …

[Until we meet again, Knight Signum …] His voice was getting fainter.

“There!” Tesla suddenly cried, and looking up, Signum saw that her finger was pointed towards a far end of the clearing. In the hazy veil cast by the smoke and rain, Signum saw the last wisp of a dark cloak vanishing behind an arch of trees.

Signum’s face became grim. “Laevateinn!” Signum called her blade. She brought her scabbard up, placing the pommel of the sword at the interface of the sheath.

<Bogenform.> it spoke, and the two melded together, forming a pristine white bow.

Taking aim, she drew the bowstring until it was taut in her fingers. Perhaps your apology was not necessary …

“Soar forth, my falcon!” Signum cried.

<Sturm Falke.> Laevateinn answered.

There was a sharp burst of energy as Signum released the bowstring. An arrow constructed of condensed magic was fired, and whistling through the rain-filled air, flew towards its target. It blasted through the layers of tree, the flare of its passing momentarily lighting up the night, homing towards Grandia …

If there was any indication that the man was struck by Sturm Falke, it was overwhelmed by the sudden explosion from the same direction. There was a harsh noise from within the forest, a discordant sound akin to the stampede of a thousand beasts, the cracking of a thousand whips. Where Signum stood, she could feel the ground shuddering, the thunder of the unknown becoming louder as it approached. Tesla landed beside her, unsure as well. It sounded as if the whole forest was groaning, nature becoming irate …

What emerged from the darkness moments later was something they did not expect.

Foremost to announce its arrival was a rush of wind, the tempestuous gales bursting through with the force of a hurricane. Signum and Tesla had to stabilize themselves by digging their heels into earth, the blast of wind threatening to throw them off-balance. Their hair snapped in the ferocious burst, rainwater becoming a cascade of daggers that pelted them in the storm.

Behind the maddening wind came the flood of water. A section of the forest was suddenly ripped apart by its violent force, the wall of trees fell with a resounding crack as they splintered. With a single great surge, it rampaged towards the two females, a towering wave three times their average height, a serpent of foam and debris and the elements intent to savor its meal …

Signum and Tesla could not move in time to escape from the all-consuming water, and being battered by the full force of the wave could very well be fatal …

<Panzer Schild.>

A large white shield formed instantaneously as a white-clothed figure descended in front of the duo, black wings stretched out behind her.

It was Hayate.

And there was an explosive tumult as water met shield, the violent surge lashing out with its entire strength and momentum. The wave battered the shield mercilessly, the rushing flood mindlessly devouring everything in its path. Not only that, large rocks and the broken halves of trees caught in the fierce currents also slammed brutally against the shield.

It was a furious struggle between magic and nature.

Hayate was pushed backwards by the catastrophic force of the wave, her boots forming a shallow trough in the grass-covered clearing. But, she refused to yield, her left hand still held in front of her, the white shield protecting all three of them. To release the shield would mean the end for them …

From within the swirling maelstrom came a huge piece of stone slab that crashed violently into the shield. “Tch!” Hayate grimaced as she was pushed backwards again, the strain of maintaining Panzer Schild against the momentum behind the slam draining her strength rapidly.

“Meister!” Signum and Tesla cried at once, worried. They moved forward, trying to help her, but she stopped them with her right hand, the fingers grasping Schwertkreuz firmly.

“Do not come …” she said as she turned slightly, her voice barely audible in the din. Her face was pale, rain and sweat mingled together. “I am all right …”

“But …”

Hayate did not give her a reply. Instead, she turned back to her front, the wave still pounding the shield.

“You …” she said slowly, her expression unreadable. “… shall not pass!”

As she finished, she raised Schwertkreuz as high as she could before slamming it into the ground.

There was a vehement quake as the staff struck, and from the point erupted white geysers of energy.

And the two opposing forces met in one final struggle …

Something tells me that the Greek letters went awry, I'm going to rectify them later.

And hopefully, the crack was fitting.

Now, I'm going to escape from TK's Physical Mortality Orbital Bombardment on Sharazad's attack ...

[Tormenk]

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

And now, for the overdue Chapter Five (announced to be out yesterday) ...

When reading Leona's part in her room later, I suggest listening to >>this<<. And yes, that's one of her theme songs.

Spoiler for Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part One):

-snipped-

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

Spoiler for Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part Two):

Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part Two)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

=Continued=

It was pandemonium back where Kratos and the rest were in their battle against the Minions.

Nobody seemed to understand how the creatures vanished without a trace or multiplied when damaged. And, in the course of the battle, the deadly hounds had grown in number, from three dozens to at least sixty, close to seventy. And they did not relent in their attacks, their paws raking at their defenses, their jaws snapping ferociously.

Kratos was fortunate that he was able to fly, out of the hounds’ reach, but his comrades were trapped below, surrounded by the beasts of the night. A purple barrier was erected by Xeno, encircling a small perimeter around Teana, Gabriel, and him, all three of whom were sticking close together, back to back. They had suffered some damage, their Barrier Jackets torn in places, and Gabriel even had a bloody gash across his left arm, Teana’s exposed lower legs bleeding. The barrier was weakening fast with the hounds continuous assaults, and they were in danger of being overwhelmed by sheer number soon. But, the trio dared not attack for fear of increasing their numbers unnecessarily.

Agito and Reinforce Zwei had also taken to the air, both panting, their energy nearly exhausted.

“Have you found anything yet, Kratos?” Agito yelled, her voice hoarse. She had been fidgeting restlessly ever since she went up with Reinforce Zwei. Her inability to help her companions must be frustrating her.

“I’m trying!” Kratos replied tersely. It was not like he was going to abandon them to these bizarre monsters. But, it was really difficult work to ascertain the Minions’ weakness, if they had any at all. The strangeness of their nature was baffling him as well.

He shifted his gaze, his eyes glowing white. He had been using Eye of Truth since he came here. The spell allowed him to read magical residues, unravel illusions, and unmask invisible units, and he had already determined that the hounds were not illusions at all. The task now was to find out how in the world were they to kill the Minions without causing them to divide into more, a nigh-impossible undertaking with the confusing amount of interfering residues from their previous attacks saturating the air. That, and coupled with the hounds’ tendency to move around, was not making his task any easier.

Something crossed his mind that he could not quite place his fingers on about the peculiar characteristic of the Minions. Their ability to duplicate upon death, he noted, seemed to have something to do with how the attacks affect them …

There was a loud crash as five Minions leapt upon the trio at once, their fangs gleaming in the darkness, only to be repelled by the barrier.

“Kratos …” Xeno called slowly, his forehead beading with sweat from the strain of maintaining the barrier.

Kratos did not seem to hear him. Instead, he closed his eyes, his mind beginning a rewind to the previous fight; fire had been particularly effective against the Minions, they disappeared when they were touched by the flame. Yet, they had become more wary now, skipping around the fire spells Gabriel and Agito threw at them …

Another crash. Eight Minions attacked the barrier with fervor.

“Kratos!” Gabriel cried. “What are you spacing out for now?”

And, when they were cut, regardless of location, they almost always seemed to form new ones …

A third crash sounded, and this time, there was an audible crack. Xeno’s barrier was failing, and already, jagged lines were beginning to appear on the protective spell.

“Kratos!” Xeno shouted now, alarmed.

Back then, when Xeno had killed one of the hounds with a spell, it had not multiplied, but perished instead. And the place where the spell hit—where was it again? Ah, yes, the head …

And their eyes, the bloody orbs of red ruby, were dense with magic, so much denser than the rest of their body, like a matrix to hold their forms …

Sensing victory and eager for the taste of human flesh, twelve Minions rushed the barrier, their feral features naked with insatiable hunger …

Kratos’s eyes snapped open. “The eyes!” he shouted. “The eyes! Their weakness is their eyes!”

And there was a shattering crunch as the barrier was breached, the hounds devastating momentum breaking the spell apart.

Fortunately, Teana, Xeno, and Gabriel had reacted in time, escaping certain death by ducking low and rolling to their sides. As they did so, Teana attacked.

<Variable Barret.> Teana’s device, Cross Mirage, intoned.

Three bright orange magical bullets were fired from the device, homing with unerring accuracy at the Minions. There was a bestial howl of fury when they struck the creatures’ eyes, and then they faded out of existence, their ululating cries a dull echo that vanished with the rush of wind.

“Good work, Kratos!” Xeno shouted triumphantly, grinning as his scythe caught another Minion in the left eye, which also did not multiply.

“Now, we will finish them!” Gabriel said, sharing in Xeno’s mirth. One particular hound leapt at his fallen form, but the sharp edge of his chakram sliced cleanly through the beast’s crimson eyes, killing it instantaneously. Raising himself up quickly from the ground, he put both hands forward such that the chakrams—both in the shape of a sun, but one in deep red, while the other was purple—were close together. “Gemini Solaris, Burst Shards!”

<Load Cartridge.> the response came in a female mechanical voice. Mechanisms turned and sounded as red chakram ejected one cartridge from its system. Then, in a female voice, it said: <Burst Shards.> It began to revolve in his hand. As it did so, six spheres of brilliant white fire began to form, moving in the same motion with the chakram.

<Boost Up: Double Burst.> the purple one spoke with a strong masculine voice, and also started to turn. A Mid-childan sigil formed, and energy seemed to dance from the serrated edge, which was channeled into its counterpart. The red chakram revolved even faster, and more spheres appeared around it. Now, twelve flaming spheres spun around the circular ring, forming a bright halo.

With a great cry, Gabriel shouted: “Strike!”

And the halo erupted in brilliant trails of fire, each sphere speeding off towards their targets. Twelve Minions howled as they were hit by the burning orbs of white flame in the eyes, their moment’s worth of death cry piercing and sharp.

“Lieutenant Graymist!” Teana called loudly. She was still attacking, her fingers quickly pulling the triggers of Cross Mirage while she ran, trying not to be in the same location for too long and risking herself to the hounds’ vicious attacks. She grimaced, the pain from her movement aggravating the wounds on her legs.

If anything, the creatures were becoming wilder than before, with their only weakness discovered and their numbers decreasing instead of the converse. The Minions’ deadly survival instinct was finally beginning to show, their main objective now to dispose off their enemies before they were decimated completely.

“What is it?” Xeno asked roughly. He swung his scythe around him with a grim smile, the keen edge of the curved blade slashing through the shadowy creatures’ weak spot with uncanny precision. A deep growl to his right caused him to turn, the hound’s bone-white fangs gleaming, the jaws opened for a vicious bite.

There was a flash of blue light, and the raving creature was suddenly encased in ice. Then, a crescent-shaped weapon—a boomerang—flew past, shattering the Minion’s head. Not even its cry was heard when it vanished. Xeno looked up to see Reinforce Zwei’s hand extended forward, a Belkan triangular sigil on the front. The weapon returned to Kratos’s right hand. The vice-captain had apparently decided to join in the fray, his white-and-black Barrier Jacket billowing in the wind, two boomerangs ready in his hands.

<Twin Dance.> Archangel spoke as Kratos channeled his mana to empower the device. Wrapped in white energy that made its edges as keen as a blade’s, Kratos sent the crescents down, which spun rapidly until they formed a flat razor. Two unfortunate Minions were caught in their trajectories, the spiraling weapons slicing through the crimson eyes like a hot knife against butter, and promptly returned to his hands. There was a grim satisfactory smile on Kratos’s face.

Xeno flashed them a grin. Remembering what he was supposed to do, he ran towards Teana, Diablos whirling around him like a protective barrier. Within a couple of steps from the girl, whose guns kept churning out bullets of compressed energy that struck the Minions with an unsurpassable accuracy at their weak spot, he asked, “What is it, girl?”

There was a tinge of anger on her face at being addressed at such, but she ignored it. “I want to finish—” She was stopped halfway when Xeno forced her to duck, and with a great slash disposed off two Minions that were trying to attack her exposed back. “—these things off with a single attack,” she finished her sentence when she rose again.

“And?” Xeno asked without looking at her, his eyes wary of their surroundings.

“I cannot move around, so buy me some time,” she said quickly and simply. Xeno looked at her with incredulous eyes for a second, then made his signature grin.

It was all she needed.

Shutting her eyes, she began to summon her powers. Teana was now fully vulnerable to the Minions’ attacks, but she was trusting her life to the dark-haired lieutenant. There were the occasional battle-cry in the distance and also the fanatical howl of the bloodthirsty hounds, whip of invisible winds lashing against her face as Xeno wove a razor barrier around the two of them with his ebon scythe.

“Cross Mirage,” she said. “Begin target count.”

<Yes, sir.> the device replied. There was a moment of silence before the answer came. <Current targets numbering at thirty-four.>

That’s quite a lot, Teana spoke to herself. If only they are reduced more …

<Enemy count decreasing.> Cross Mirage told her a second later. <Thirty.>

This is good news! Teana thought happily. “Begin wide-area target lock, main aim at their eyes.”

<All right.> A few moments later, Cross Mirage spoke again. <Targets acquired and locked for attack, twenty-eight total. Eyes targeted and maintained while they are in motion.>

“Good!” Teana said. “Now, let’s begin, shall we?”

As she finished, a large orange Mid-childan sigil appeared below her. Holding Cross Mirage in front of her, she began to form her attack. Several spheres of compressed magic began to emerge around her, hung inert in the air as they waited for the launch. Five … twelve … the number of magic bullets kept increasing, until there were twenty-five of them suspended in the space. Sweat beaded on her forehead as she increased the number of energy spheres around her.

“Whoa, girl!” came Xeno’s cry from her left as he noticed what had happened. Teana smiled despite not being able to see his surprised expression.

“Thank you, Lieutenant Graymist,” Teana spoke without opening her eyes, still concentrating at maintaining the bullets. “This will be quick.”

Drawing a deep breath, she said slowly, “Crossfire …” The moment was still not right.

<Targets now numbered at twenty-five.>

Now! Her eyes flew open at that moment. “… Shoot!” she finished as she flung her arms outwards. And the bullets rushed out in a crisscross of orange streaks, seeking their targets according to Cross Mirage’s direction.

There was a chorus of frustrated shriek from the Minions, a sound that was more piercing than the screech of ravens, when the remaining hounds were all struck by Teana’s spell without fail. They wavered momentarily when they were hit, torn pieces of darkness that hung between the dimensions of reality and illusion, and finally faded from sight, leaving behind the echoes of their madness and bloodlust to sing their lament in the nightly winds.

Teana slumped onto the cool forest floor, blades of spring grass jabbing the wounds at her legs, but she could not care less to register the pain. The strain of firing multiple targeted shots was enormous, yet she managed to pull it out nonetheless. Back when she had just learnt the attack, she could only maintain a maximum of ten bullets at any one time and fire them forward without being able to control their targets. It seemed that five years of training had not gone to waste; she just used twenty-five targeted attacks, an accomplishment that she could be proud of.

Kratos, Reinforce Zwei, and Agito flew down to join the trio, the crimson-haired Unison Device whistling in amazement as she fluttered to the ground. Apparently, she was impressed with Teana’s prowess. Even Reinforce Zwei and the three men that she barely knew seemed to share her sentiment. Teana smiled inwardly.

“Good going, girl!” Xeno was the first to voice it out, giving her a hard slap on the back. Teana grimaced at the force he applied, but she was quite content to show her happiness.

A communication screen flickered into view then, and Hayate’s face was shown. Her face looked concerned. “I’m sorry about the delay, but Shamal, Alto, and I have just finished transporting the unconscious researchers aboard Sky Falcon five minutes ago. Is everything all right here?” she asked.

“We’re fine. There are some minor injuries, but we’ve managed to defeat the enemies. Vice-Captains Signum and Tesla headed off to apprehend the real intruder,” Kratos reported.

“Where did they go?” Hayate asked again.

“Slightly northeast from our location,” Kratos answered.

Hayate frowned. “The dam. And Shario just informed me that a huge energy reading was detected at the same location.”

“You don’t mean …” Gabriel let his words hang ominously.

“Yes,” Hayate answered for him, nodding for emphasis. “I’m sorry, but if you don’t mind, I’ll be heading for them at once. Will you all be fine?”

“Don’t mind us, General. We’ll take care of ourselves,” Xeno replied. “We’ll signal Pilot Krauetta and Doctor Shamal for help.”

Hayate smiled slightly. “Thank you, Lieutenant Graymist,” she said appreciatively. “Then, I’ll go to the dam now.”

The six of them nodded, and the screen disappeared promptly.

And then came the first drop of rain.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The air vibrated with the sound of clashing metal, thin flashes of silver and gold carving the space when they met moments before they parted again for another attempt.

The struggle between two warriors, one man, another woman, their blades whistling through the night before the sharp pitch of grinding metal could be heard. White sword encountered golden edge, the din of their clash like the shriek of banshees as sparks of white and blue danced from the crossed swords.

The two warriors withdrew once more, a draw between them in terms of skill and strength, their will and determination afire with their own cause. At least forty blows had been exchanged in the past ten minutes, each step guided by instinct and knowledge, each stroke calculative, provocative, and each parry measured and resolute.

“Once more!” the black-cloaked male yelled as he turned around, brandishing his golden sword with both hands.

“Take this!” the woman answered in kind, her long pink hair lashing as if a whip, the silver blade struck in a wide slash.

The meeting between the two was inexorable, unavoidable. Just as their hands wielded the sword in their grip to accomplish their purpose, their heart was put into the action driven by their desires, both encouraged by the hidden motivation of their silent duties.

The clash was like the meeting between two warring gods, the metallic clamor shatteringly acute, the burst of fire refulgent and deadly. The single witness to the battle between the two had to clamp her ears from the strident screech.

When the flash of fire had vanished, blown away by a rising draft, the two warriors were afloat some distance away from one another, their blades held at their sides, their eyes meeting the other with a cool and dignified manner.

They were no ordinary warriors.

One was Signum, commonly known as the Blazing Flame General. The other was Grandia, entitled honorably as the Master of the Sword.

The duel between them remained at standstill, with none gaining an upper hand. And so far, none had deign it important to reveal the techniques of their blades.

Leaves swirled in the silence between the two, spring grass bending from the sweep of winds. The banks of storm clouds raced against one another, their burden heavy and readily disgorged at any time soon. Rumbles of thunder could be heard within them, horizontal flashes of white at the periphery of the dark clouds heralding their approach.

“You’re an excellent fighter, Signum,” Grandia said at last, impressed. He had not expected such skilled warriors to pursue them, less so a woman.

“As are you, who refuse to identify yourself,” Signum replied as calmly as she could. He has not shown his true powers yet, and already, he has proven himself a difficult adversary.

“I ask for your forgiveness, Knight Signum,” Grandia answered, his black tattered cloak billowing as a stray wind blew. “My name prefers the solitude of secrecy, since it holds nothing but a passing identification of a person whose life is as ephemeral as the flame of a candle.”

“You hold such distaste for life?” Signum asked, her long pink hair ruffled by the night breeze.

There was silence from the swordsman, whose face was suddenly hidden in a darkness that was not part of the night. “My former self does not,” he replied slowly. “Now, it does, with the Princess gone …”

Signum started at the mention of the name. Princess?

Silence returned, this time more deafening than before. Signum was wondering if it was such a coincidence that the warrior before her was involved in the search of the dangerous artifacts known as the Jewels of the Star, intricately woven with the warning by Knight Carim.

A coincidence that the unnamed man, who she had come to believe was honorable and valiant, was sounding so desperate, so anguished, so yearning, for a person he called Princess.

A coincidence that she would rather not have, for it reminded her of the regrettable past with Zest.

Leaves swirled around them again, playing a requiem for their fateful meeting …

… and also their parting.

“I am sorry, Knight Signum, but our conversation ends here,” Grandia continued solemnly. “The Star must be delivered if our wish were to come true.”

“Wai—” Signum tried to stop him, but he had already begun.

With a liquid move, Grandia made a perfect circular motion with his sword, end to end. His movement created a distortion in the air, as if something living was pulsing. Suddenly, it was ablaze, a brilliant halo of red fires that danced wildly, casting bloody hues into the velvet darkness.

As the first patter of rain fell, he cried:

“Αστραλ Ηελιωσ—Ατηενα’ Δραγωνσ. (Astral Helios—Athena’s Dragons.)”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

[I am ready.] Sharazad told Grandia.

[So am I.] came her brother’s reply.

She knew what that meant: he was going to use an Astral technique. No matter how powerful a Templar or how weak a technique was, resorting to drawing Elements from the surroundings had its consequences. Vestrell was a good example, her arm badly damaged by the feedback of violent energy that nearly exploded within her. Yet, this was the only option available to them.

For their survival.

And for the Princess.

A pearlescent harp was held in her long fingers, silver strings gleaming faintly in the almost lightless night. The thunderheads had reached the forest some time ago, the first signal of its imminent release being the first drop of water from the heavens.

Sharazad was hovering above a huge lake filled with mirror-like water. It was a dam, constructed by human hands to harness water as a source of energy. Though such technology had been obsolete some time ago, its service to the human race had been vast. And they had not deemed it necessary to dismantle the construct that was impeding the flow of life.

A large blue sigil formed at her feet as Sharazad opened her arms, the harp suspended before her without falling into the dark pool beneath. Then, she closed her eyes, letting her senses feel her surroundings.

Her right fingers twitched slightly, and the first tune escaped from the strings of the silvery harp.

“Vagrant breeze of the sky, thy lord summoneth thee …”

And the wind answered. Sharazad played the harp with her fingers, harmonizing each pluck of the string with the wind’s rhythm, urging them on, teasing them forward. Willful and wanton, the strands of winds rallied together to her call, merging into stronger gusts, until they finally rushed and raced instead of merely dancing around aimlessly. The gales rose maddeningly, the howl of their fury rattling the trees, their breaths heavy and forceful. Below her, the water swirled and undulated, eager for release.

“… At the command of thy master, let loose the purifying storm …”

Her fingers moved more vigorously now, the harp producing somber and deeper tones. The clouds above crackled, jagged bolts of white lightning rippling across its shadowy surface. Then, it began to pour, the heavens emptying their content, pounding sheets of needle-like rain fell upon the earth with merciless fury. Sharazad’s cloak and hair billowed in the onslaught of wind and water, a nymph from ancient legend, though she did not feel the vehemence of their attacks.

“… I call upon thee, o’ serpent of the deep, arose from thy slumber and show men their folly!”

At that moment, Sharazad opened her eyes, which had turned startlingly frightening. The pupils seemed to be radiating an eerie glow, and energy danced from within their depths. She looked up into the darkness, and in answer, a brilliant spear of lightning came down.

Yet, it did not strike her. Instead, it engulfed the stone dam with its seething embrace. A large section of the structure exploded in a blast of rubble and boulder, which promptly began their descent, the imprisoned water rushing out in a powerful surge. Then, a huge wall of water from the destroyed dam rose into the air to surround Sharazad, its strong current sweeping broken pieces of the dam with it, drawn to her summon.

It was an awesome display of nature’s wrath, water and water whirling around the singular figure of an elegant woman. With a final motion, Sharazad plucked the strings with force, producing a single piercing note as she cried:

“Αστραλ Λετω—Λωρε ωϕ Πωσειδων. (Astral Leto—Lore of Poseidon.)”

And they rushed forward in a single column, a destructive flow of angry water and furious wind empowered by the strength of the Sage of the Harp, rampaging through the forest, bringing in its ferocious wake broken trees and shattered boulders.

Brother, you must be safe …

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Silhouetted by the cloud-veiled moon, the circle of fire traced its perfect shape, as if it was a solar eclipse. But, the clearing was suddenly as bright as dawn as the circle exploded in a radiant burst of orange-gold flame.

From the fiery depths emerged the roaring shapes of mythical creatures from the age of old: dragons.

Five such flaming beasts reared its serpentine necks, their large maws opened, as they closed in to attack the two women. The cool night was suddenly heated, the temperature rising drastically. And the bellow of the dragons reverberated through the forest, strong enough to be heard from far away.

Signum, the nearest to the attack, quickly raised her sword to defend herself. A dragon crashed upon her, the jaws of fire clamped onto Laevateinn’s sharp edge without damaging itself. And Signum was thrown backward by the momentum of the dragon’s rush, landing noisily on the forest ground and churning up a cloud of dirt.

Gritting her teeth, she dug her heels into the earth, and launched her full strength into the sword. With a loud battle-cry, she threw the dragon backward, which slammed into another one behind it. There was a dazzling eruption of embers and sparks as they roared. With a final sputter, the dragons burst and vanished.

However, remnants of their flames flew around haphazardly, swept by a stormy wind, and began to light up the trees around the clearing. Even a patch of grass had begun to catch fire, spreading quickly such that Signum found it impossible to stamp it out before the entire clearing was aflame.

I hope the rain comes soon, Signum thought. This fire is going to be difficult to contain.

Much to her surprise, it really came as she wished for. The heavens opened up, and from the dark bellies came a heavy downpour. A blinding torrent fell mightily, dousing the fire with its watery rush. It did not take long for the fire to be extinguished, thick white smoke being the only evidence of its former presence.

Signum looked up, and saw that Tesla had not suffered any injury as well. Apparently, the dragons were smothered by the sudden rain as well …

Wait, something is strange! Signum’s alert mind screamed. If that was really meant as an attack, then it shouldn’t be …

Quickly, she scanned her surroundings for the dark-clothed man. But, there was already a thick wall of white smoke forming, and her sight was further impaired by the sleet.

Damn it! It was a ruse to cover his escape!

[Knight Signum.] a male voice sounded in her mind. It is the intruder!

She turned around, trying to determine his location. [Where are you, coward?] she replied contemptuously.

[Coward?] There was a slight hint of sadness and amusement in his tone. [Perhaps it is the right word to use for one such as I …]

His acquiescence startled Signum; she had not expected a man of his caliber to be speaking in such a way. A warrior, admitting that he is a coward? Honest, if not desperate … But, Signum had her duty to perform, and she could not let her emotions control her action. Her eyes swept the surroundings, trying to find a glimpse of the black-garbed man, the rain falling incessantly and drenching her.

[I am sorry that it must end this way, Knight Signum. My hand is forced to beguile your warrior spirit, and for that, I, Grandia Estrediel Paladien, apologize for sullying your pure intention.]

So, he finally revealed his name …

[Until we meet again, Knight Signum …] His voice was getting fainter.

“There!” Tesla suddenly cried, and looking up, Signum saw that her finger was pointed towards a far end of the clearing. In the hazy veil cast by the smoke and rain, Signum saw the last wisp of a dark cloak vanishing behind an arch of trees.

Signum’s face became grim. “Laevateinn!” Signum called her blade. She brought her scabbard up, placing the pommel of the sword at the interface of the sheath.

<Bogenform.> it spoke, and the two melded together, forming a pristine white bow.

Taking aim, she drew the bowstring until it was taut in her fingers. Perhaps your apology was not necessary …

“Soar forth, my falcon!” Signum cried.

<Sturm Falke.> Laevateinn answered.

There was a sharp burst of energy as Signum released the bowstring. An arrow constructed of condensed magic was fired, and whistling through the rain-filled air, flew towards its target. It blasted through the layers of tree, the flare of its passing momentarily lighting up the night, homing towards Grandia …

If there was any indication that the man was struck by Sturm Falke, it was overwhelmed by the sudden explosion from the same direction. There was a harsh noise from within the forest, a discordant sound akin to the stampede of a thousand beasts, the cracking of a thousand whips. Where Signum stood, she could feel the ground shuddering, the thunder of the unknown becoming louder as it approached. Tesla landed beside her, unsure as well. It sounded as if the whole forest was groaning, nature becoming irate …

What emerged from the darkness moments later was something they did not expect.

Foremost to announce its arrival was a rush of wind, the tempestuous gales bursting through with the force of a hurricane. Signum and Tesla had to stabilize themselves by digging their heels into earth, the blast of wind threatening to throw them off-balance. Their hair snapped in the ferocious burst, rainwater becoming a cascade of daggers that pelted them in the storm.

Behind the maddening wind came the flood of water. A section of the forest was suddenly ripped apart by its violent force, the wall of trees fell with a resounding crack as they splintered. With a single great surge, it rampaged towards the two females, a towering wave three times their average height, a serpent of foam and debris and the elements intent to savor its meal …

Signum and Tesla could not move in time to escape from the all-consuming water, and being battered by the full force of the wave could very well be fatal …

<Panzer Schild.>

A large white shield formed instantaneously as a white-clothed figure descended in front of the duo, black wings stretched out behind her.

It was Hayate.

And there was an explosive tumult as water met shield, the violent surge lashing out with its entire strength and momentum. The wave battered the shield mercilessly, the rushing flood mindlessly devouring everything in its path. Not only that, large rocks and the broken halves of trees caught in the fierce currents also slammed brutally against the shield.

It was a furious struggle between magic and nature.

Hayate was pushed backwards by the catastrophic force of the wave, her boots forming a shallow trough in the grass-covered clearing. But, she refused to yield, her left hand still held in front of her, the white shield protecting all three of them. To release the shield would mean the end for them …

From within the swirling maelstrom came a huge piece of stone slab that crashed violently into the shield. “Tch!” Hayate grimaced as she was pushed backwards again, the strain of maintaining Panzer Schild against the momentum behind the slam draining her strength rapidly.

“Meister!” Signum and Tesla cried at once, worried. They moved forward, trying to help her, but she stopped them with her right hand, the fingers grasping Schwertkreuz firmly.

“Do not come …” she said as she turned slightly, her voice barely audible in the din. Her face was pale, rain and sweat mingled together. “I am all right …”

“But …”

Hayate did not give her a reply. Instead, she turned back to her front, the wave still pounding the shield.

“You …” she said slowly, her expression unreadable. “… shall not pass!”

As she finished, she raised Schwertkreuz as high as she could before slamming it into the ground.

There was a vehement quake as the staff struck, and from the point erupted white geysers of energy.

And the two opposing forces met in one final struggle …

Something tells me that the Greek letters went awry, I'm going to rectify them later.

And hopefully, the crack was fitting.

Now, I'm going to escape from TK's Physical Mortality Orbital Bombardment on Sharazad's attack ...

EPIC BLUECHEESE from Jack again.

And first thought in mind after finishing the chapter is:

GARYATE

Solid action maintained throughout. Kratos spacing out to analyze the situation and Tiana going in for a tactical finish was a brilliant move. The clash of swords, though short, was nicely done too. Leona's introspective was well done too and did not feel out of place or break the pace amidst the switch.

Looks like chapter 6 is set for an explosive start.

[Aaron008R]

Originally Posted by Tk3997

And all of said capabilities are pretty much just what he has in canon… Spartans from the novels are MEAN motherfuckers and the Master Chief was their leader and arguably the hardest of all of them. His enemies didn’t start calling him a Demon in canon for nothing afterall…

So THAT'S Master Chief from the Halo series.
No wonder he became one of the top eight mostreknowned game characters.

Originally Posted by Erio

Good to know. Still, he has what is needed to handle any situation before him, given that he has time to prepare his affinity, something that is very handy.

Not all of it.

Though in my case, I was not thinking of a completely versatile character ala Aurion. Instead, my characters might need more.."utility spells" you could say. As it is now, none of my characters, bar maybe one, can beat Grandis, even though they are specialists.

That sounds good.

Originally Posted by tshouryuu

At least you have improved. Mine are still shoddy despite my efforts. In fact, I think I actually gotten worse. That said, I have a new "My name is Tais" for you guys to maybe have a small smile.

Spoiler for The first can be embarrassing or a nasty trick:

*snip*

CC please

Despite the lewdness of the joke, Tsuzuki's ability in making such a body imitate even menstruation is awesome!

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

Bluecheese profile! And a very good one at that!

Still, I am liking Grandis already. Badass, motivated, and dangerous, he's going to be quite an opponent for Aurion. And with his elemental spells, Aurion should be forced to fight to his fullest.

Thanks!

The fight for Hayate's heart hand has finally begun!

What fight? Grandis is the only contender. And he'll obtain Hayate's heart primarily thru her captivity. Damn, that sounded SO wrong.

<cough!>

>.>

Anyway, it's Stockholm Syndrome in a more romantic setting.

Though, Sharazad should look good with him ...

*runs*

Another reason for the Hayate vs. Sharazad faceoff?

That I can do. A sad Hayate is a powerful goddess of destruction.

Just like, and almost exactly like Reinforce...

Er, Aurion will have his hand full against another opponent far away. The Knights, hmm ... maybe ...

The possibilities are endless.

Yep.

If he doesn't die somewhere (touch-wood, I don't want him dead unconditionally ), then he should be around. Though, going by this means that he's again somewhere in the universe. Since he's defected from the Saint Church, I'm not sure where to put him. Oh well, I leave it to you to decide, since he's yours. I stand by your decision.

Maybe I'll just have him enter in the ending parts of GuardianS, apologizing that he wasn't there to help due to his missions. Proposal, anyone? BTW, he'll be part of TSAB by that time.

But, marriage plans are certainly intriguing ...

I'm wondering whether to have Hayate married by 25 or 26.

Originally Posted by Tormenk

XD

Comedy is always great. Though Ryuki and 555 was darker in tone and lacked the light-heartedness here.

Truth.

Grandis is supposed to specialized in melee bombardment but while the blade is charged with an element and supposedly weaker than Shidden Issen, the power is pretty high for a melee charge. Duration wise needs to be shorter too since cartridges provide only a powerful but short burst of magic that doesn't seem likely to maintain the energy needed for up to 10mins IMO. Other than that, everything else seems fine and Grandis looks set to be nasty melee fighter.

Ah, but the elemental blades are sustained by just him, the cartridges just provides boosts of power to the already present charge; as such, melee bombardment. But I realized I need to cut down the length of these charges. Thanks!

Now...

Fire: 5 minutes
Ice: 8 minutes
Lightning: 3 minutes

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

And now, for the overdue Chapter Five (announced to be out yesterday) ...

When reading Leona's part in her room later, I suggest listening to >>this<<. And yes, that's one of her theme songs.

Spoiler for Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part One):

*snip*

Awesome first part!

Trust Signum to accept the duel.
Even though Tesla's the tactician, she still stood down. A testament of Signum's position as leader of the Wolkenritter.

BTW, typo check.

Spoiler for typo:

she wiped blood off from her end and also from the side of her lips.

Should be,

she wiped blood off from her hand and also from the side of her lips.

And now commencing, intelligence and counter-intelligence gathering with Aurion and Leona .

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

Spoiler for Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part Two):

*snip*

Something tells me that the Greek letters went awry, I'm going to rectify them later.

And hopefully, the crack was fitting.

Now, I'm going to escape from TK's Physical Mortality Orbital Bombardment on Sharazad's attack ...

Hayate FTW!
Hayate's finally given the chance to show her awesomeness! WAHOO!!!
Opposing Mother Nature head-on is a testament to her prowess!

Anyway, to the other parts as well.

The fight between Grandia and Signum was wonderfuly detailed, Kratos and the other's fight was very good, Teana scores 25 awesome hits! Tsundere gunslinger FTW!

EPIC BLUECHEESIUM!!!

[Kagerou]

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

And now, for the overdue Chapter Five (announced to be out yesterday) ...

When reading Leona's part in her room later, I suggest listening to >>this<<. And yes, that's one of her theme songs.

Spoiler for Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part One):

*snip*

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

Spoiler for Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part Two):

*snip*

Something tells me that the Greek letters went awry, I'm going to rectify them later.

And hopefully, the crack was fitting.

Now, I'm going to escape from TK's Physical Mortality Orbital Bombardment on Sharazad's attack ...

My god.
That was epic.

[Reiji Tabibito]

Originally Posted by FlameSparkZ

Oh, I see, there was something similar in Shuffle! too, but I thought it was like a 'good luck charm'

Ah - well it is also, kinda, in DC universe.

Originally Posted by Melodius Trueheart

Can you give me a brief synopsis of Fangwang?

<laughs> I'm not really the person to ask about that - Kha or Saint X would give you a better description. But, I'll tell you what I can.

Fangwang is essentially a multidimensional criminal searching for the "power to cross dimensions," and he is one MEAN mofo - he's destroyed dimensions in pursuit of his quest. What's more, he has exceedingly high-powered henchman (inspired by Bleach's Arrancar and Espada) to do his dirty work for him.

The best info I can give you would be his REAL identity...

Spoiler:

which is Fei Wong Reed of Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicle.

That alone should give you plenty of info to go on - I think.

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

Spoiler for Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part One):

~SNIP~

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

Spoiler for Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part Two):

~SNIP~

Fairly well done for a first writing...not that I can speak any better.

Your posts are LONG... ever considered breaking them up in more than just two parts...?

And normally, I'd complain about the lack of 82nd presence, but not for this story... the heroes and villains seem fairly well matched, and adding six more mages, three of them Dunamists, all of them at least AAA rank, and having at least five years real combat experience under their belts would DEFINITELY unbalance things... though you might want to give them a cameo here and there - possibly providing info that most of the cast wouldn't be aware of...

Just a thought.

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

I'm wondering whether to have Hayate married by 25 or 26.

<whistles> Hayate's 19 now... so she'd be married in 6 or 7 years... I just got inspiration for a possible scene...

...BTW, what would you think of writing a scene where Arcas and Aurion argue over which one of them walks Hayate down the aisle? (I personally don't care about who wins, I just think it'd be a REALLY great/funny scene)


NEW MATERIAL!!!!


So, I just watched Ninomiya-kun EP 8, and all I can say is...

GO WATCH IT!!!

You'll NEVER look @ cooking the same way again...

[Aaron008R]

Originally Posted by Reiji Tabibito

And normally, I'd complain about the lack of 82nd presence, but not for this story... the heroes and villains seem fairly well matched, and adding six more mages, three of them Dunamists, all of them at least AAA rank, and having at least five years real combat experience under their belts would DEFINITELY unbalance things... though you might want to give them a cameo here and there - possibly providing info that most of the cast wouldn't be aware of...

Just a thought.

We're not even sure if the 82nd xists in the GuardianS universe. And even if they do, they were never part of the plan to begin with, so I see no reason why you should complain.
As far as things go, GuardianS is a different timeline from NBC. Somewhat like an alternate universe. For my characters...

Agito only meets Aurion now. In NBC, she meets him long before this.

No mention of Tyrfing. This is because it is never finished here.

The inclusion of Orphenoch at a late date. In NBC, it's already there since two years after StrikerS.

No Vivio in this universe.

And so on.

<whistles> Hayate's 19 now... so she'd be married in 6 or 7 years... I just got inspiration for a possible scene...

...BTW, what would you think of writing a scene where Arcas and Aurion argue over which one of them walks Hayate down the aisle? (I personally don't care about who wins, I just think it'd be a REALLY great/funny scene)

No competition. Hayate would pick Aurion.

And I'm also currently running some simulation of the Grandis vs. Arcas match. And I think I'll follow your suggestion. Arcas actually going for the kill.

[Reiji Tabibito]

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

We're not even sure if the 82nd xists in the GuardianS universe. And even if they do, they were never part of the plan to begin with, so I see no reason why you should complain.
As far as things go, GuardianS is a different timeline from NBC. Somewhat like an alternate universe. For my characters...

Agito only meets Aurion now. In NBC, she meets him long before this.

No mention of Tyrfing. This is because it is never finished here.

The inclusion of Orphenoch at a late date. In NBC, it's already there since two years after StrikerS.

No Vivio in this universe.

And so on.

<claps hands> Oh - okay. If this isn't part of NBC, then you're right, Arcas, the 82nd, Dunamists, hell, the RAF might not exist.

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

No competition. Hayate would pick Aurion.

<nods> I know she would - but that wouldn't stop Arcas from trying...

...though his method of 'trying' would essentially be to glomp onto Hayate and wail "PLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEASE!" as loud as he could, in conjunction with the infamous Puppy Dog Eyes going full bore.

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

And I'm also currently running some simulation of the Grandis vs. Arcas match. And I think I'll follow your suggestion. Arcas actually going for the kill.

If you want to go for maximum effect (seeing as how Arcas isn't going to be in a position to kill anyone in LegendS until the very end), have a few of the characters mention/emphasize three things:

1. One of Arcas' biggest fears is that he'd do something that would make one of his 'little sisters' hate him.

2. Whenever Arcas has used a potential killing attack (either Blazing Arrow Ray Storm, Burning Over Storm Breaker, or Crusade), he ALWAYS pulls the effect against living opponents.

EDIT

3. EVERY time Arcas has killed somebody, he's only done so after giving his opponent at least an opportunity or two to surrender the fight.

[tshouryuu]

Originally Posted by Nightengale

Yay, finally, an update. Tackling backlog later...

Spoiler for Side Isdera AFTER I-5 : Ende:

- snip -

Next part will be the last! *and move on to other projects*

Nighty is the MASTER I love all your works.

Originally Posted by Reiji Tabibito

Well, here is the latest 82nd short.

Enjoy, and belated Thanksgiving!

Spoiler for She's a...:

- snip -

LOL! nice job.

Originally Posted by FlameSparkZ

Ok, here goes

Chapter 21

Spoiler for Chapter 21 - Koji's Knighting - Part 1:

-snip -

Well, that's it for part 1

Here's a small teaser.

Spoiler for Teaser:

Altea stared at Vita.
"What are you looking at?" Vita stared back.
"What are you looking at?" Altea countered.

Their personalities are somewhat alike after all

*runs*

Koji is gaining a rather nice harem

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

Did I just witness ...

... an insta-gender transformation without surgery?

Nasty stuff happened on the unfortunate Tais again.

You didn't. This time A.I Yui was the victim. Tais wasn't even around in the CSDB when this happened. The instant gender transformation one was another log.

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

And now, for the overdue Chapter Five (announced to be out yesterday) ...

When reading Leona's part in her room later, I suggest listening to >>this<<. And yes, that's one of her theme songs.

Spoiler for Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part One):

Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part One) - snip -

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

Spoiler for Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part Two):

Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part Two) - snip -

Something tells me that the Greek letters went awry, I'm going to rectify them later.

And hopefully, the crack was fitting.

Now, I'm going to escape from TK's Physical Mortality Orbital Bombardment on Sharazad's attack ...

Long post but epic nonetheless. Wish I had a fraction of yours or nighty's skills.

Hayate tanking the wave is very awe inspiring. It shows how powerful really she is if you consider how much force that much water can generate. I'm no expert but it shouldn't be possible even if she wasn't under limiters.

[Aaron008R]

Originally Posted by Reiji Tabibito

<nods> I know she would - but that wouldn't stop Arcas from trying...

...though his method of 'trying' would essentially be to glomp onto Hayate and wail "PLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEASE!" as loud as he could, in conjunction with the infamous Puppy Dog Eyes going full bore.

Heeeh~, can't let go, huh?
Anyway, the others will talk him down.

If you want to go for maximum effect (seeing as how Arcas isn't going to be in a position to kill anyone in LegendS until the very end), have a few of the characters mention/emphasize three things:

1. One of Arcas' biggest fears is that he'd do something that would make one of his 'little sisters' hate him.

2. Whenever Arcas has used a potential killing attack (either Blazing Arrow Ray Storm, Burning Over Storm Breaker, or Crusade), he ALWAYS pulls the effect against living opponents.

EDIT

3. EVERY time Arcas has killed somebody, he's only done so after giving his opponent at least an opportunity or two to surrender the fight.

I'm also using Arcas little desperation schtick as a reason to take the battle to ridiculously dangerous heights. Can Crusade be set for Magic damage?

And after the match, when the both of them are being attended to by an upset (VERY upset) Hayate, an exasperated Mel and a concerned Shamal (for healing), maybe I can put in this line...

Arcas: Fine... But if you ever do something to make Hayate cry-
Grandis: You're stupid duel idea is the reason why she's crying right now, you clingy bastard!

I don't expect them to get along all too well even after that.
The two Knights bashing heads like rivals every time they meet should be a good laugh.

[Reiji Tabibito]

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

Heeeh~, can't let go, huh?
Anyway, the others will talk him down.

<nods> Good enough.

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

I'm also using Arcas little desperation schtick as a reason to take the battle to ridiculously dangerous heights. Can Crusade be set for Magic damage?

If you want it to....... though keep in mind that it would require Arcas to use Full Drive on Ascalon, which looks something like THIS...

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

And after the match, when the both of them are being attended to by an upset (VERY upset) Hayate, an exasperated Mel and a concerned Shamal (for healing), maybe I can put in this line...

Arcas: Fine... But if you ever do something to make Hayate cry-
Grandis: You're stupid duel idea is the reason why she's crying right now, you clingy bastard!

I don't expect them to get along all too well even after that.
The two Knights bashing heads like rivals every time they meet should be a good laugh.

For more input:

A probable reply -

Arcas: I'm NOT a clingy bastard, you money-grubbing jerk!

(Arcas, a crusader at heart, doesn't exactly approve of Grandis' profession as a merc)

After the battle -

Mel would first see if Arcas is in okay shape.

If he is, then she'd get that huffy-tsun-cute and whack him over the head a la Cagalli, saying something to the effect of "How can you be so insensitive to a young maiden's feelings?!"

If he's not, then she'd STILL get huffy-tsun-cute, but say something like, "Why are you ALWAYS this stupid when it comes to duels?!"

And Arcas/Grandis as rivals is APPROVED!!

[Aaron008R]

Originally Posted by Reiji Tabibito

If you want it to....... though keep in mind that it would require Arcas to use Full Drive on Ascalon, which looks something like THIS...

Thanks. Tyrfing's Full Drive is also looks somewhat like that sword in the pic, except that the outside blades are longer than the internal. Opposites, eh?

For more input:

A probable reply -

Arcas: I'm NOT a clingy bastard, you money-grubbing jerk!

(Arcas, a crusader at heart, doesn't exactly approve of Grandis' profession as a merc)

Noted. Take a look at the scenario plan I'm planning at the bottom of this post.

After the battle -

Mel would first see if Arcas is in okay shape.

If he is, then she'd get that huffy-tsun-cute and whack him over the head a la Cagalli, saying something to the effect of "How can you be so insensitive to Hayate-chan's feelings?!"

If he's not, then she'd STILL get huffy-tsun-cute, but say something like, "Why are you ALWAYS this stupid when it comes to duels?!"

Noted.

And Arcas/Grandis as rivals is APPROVED!!

And here's the continuation.

Arcas: Fine... But if you ever do something to make Hayate cry-
Grandis: You're stupid duel idea is the reason why she's crying right now, you clingy bastard!
Arcas: I'm NOT a clingy bastard, you money-grubbing jerk!
Grandis: Money-grubbing- You damned multi-timing siscon! You looking for a fight?!
Arcas: That's my line! Want another go at it?! <picks up Ascalon>
Grandis: Damn straight I want to! <readies Tyrfing>

Hayate & Mel:

*Hayate and Mel smacks Grandis and Arcas on the head with Schwertkreuz and Esperacchius*

Shamal: Oh no! Their injuries got worse!

[PhoenixFlare]

Originally Posted by Tormenk

EPIC BLUECHEESE from Jack again.

And first thought in mind after finishing the chapter is:

GARYATE

It was supposed to have that effect.

Originally Posted by Tormenk

Solid action maintained throughout. Kratos spacing out to analyze the situation and Tiana going in for a tactical finish was a brilliant move. The clash of swords, though short, was nicely done too. Leona's introspective was well done too and did not feel out of place or break the pace amidst the switch.

Looks like chapter 6 is set for an explosive start.

I was struggling badly to maintain the pace. >.> I couldn't write well a protracted battle between the two, so I did a time-skip.

I should take up apprenticeship with Nighty some time ...

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

What fight? Grandis is the only contender. And he'll obtain Hayate's heart primarily thru her captivity. Damn, that sounded SO wrong.

<cough!>

>.>

Anyway, it's Stockholm Syndrome in a more romantic setting.

Well, an uncle can be very protective of a niece, so well, you know, he might reject Grandis as his favorite niece's husband.

And Stockholm Syndrome it is then.

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

Another reason for the Hayate vs. Sharazad faceoff?

Chapter Five was supposed to set the feel, maybe the other reason was ... Grandis falling in love with Sharazad?

*runs*

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

Just like, and almost exactly like Reinforce...

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

Maybe I'll just have him enter in the ending parts of GuardianS, apologizing that he wasn't there to help due to his missions. Proposal, anyone? BTW, he'll be part of TSAB by that time.

That would be nice, but I think he's strong enough to be killing Scions on his own. Sharazad's power would pale in comparison to his.

And he really did join TSAB? That would be after the fateful spar, right?

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

I'm wondering whether to have Hayate married by 25 or 26.

A difference of one year is negligible. Just make it fast!

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

Awesome first part!

Trust Signum to accept the duel.
Even though Tesla's the tactician, she still stood down. A testament of Signum's position as leader of the Wolkenritter.

Actually, with Tesla's ranged attack, the two of them would take him down easily. But, Grandia was experienced, so he knew Signum would not reject a duel. It was meant to reduce the chances of him getting outclassed by number.

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

BTW, typo check.

Spoiler for typo:

she wiped blood off from her end and also from the side of her lips.

Should be,

she wiped blood off from her hand and also from the side of her lips.

Whoopsie! Edited, thanks!

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

And now commencing, intelligence and counter-intelligence gathering with Aurion and Leona .

Now, what will the first game be?

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

Hayate FTW!
Hayate's finally given the chance to show her awesomeness! WAHOO!!!
Opposing Mother Nature head-on is a testament to her prowess!

Anyway, to the other parts as well.

The fight between Grandia and Signum was wonderfuly detailed, Kratos and the other's fight was very good, Teana scores 25 awesome hits! Tsundere gunslinger FTW!

It looks like any reference of Hayate in action will make you excited. A true Hayate-fan indeed.

Still, the shield would have broken if Hayate continued on to tank. On the spur of the moment, the Gandalf-Hayate came to mind.

Originally Posted by Reiji Tabibito

Fairly well done for a first writing...not that I can speak any better.

Your posts are LONG... ever considered breaking them up in more than just two parts...?

Er, I usually break them up according to character limit. In-story breaks are indicated by "* * * * *" or "~ ~ ~ ~ ~".

Originally Posted by Reiji Tabibito

And normally, I'd complain about the lack of 82nd presence, but not for this story... the heroes and villains seem fairly well matched, and adding six more mages, three of them Dunamists, all of them at least AAA rank, and having at least five years real combat experience under their belts would DEFINITELY unbalance things... though you might want to give them a cameo here and there - possibly providing info that most of the cast wouldn't be aware of...

Just a thought.

I don't mind, you're actually free to write a side-story if you like and think it is appropriate, like Aaron and (possibly) Kha.

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

No Vivio in this universe.

I'm still trying to "borrow" Vivio from Nighty before her eventual death.

Originally Posted by tshouryuu

You didn't. This time A.I Yui was the victim. Tais wasn't even around in the CSDB when this happened. The instant gender transformation one was another log.

BIG WHOOPSIE!

Sorry about that, it's just that the story of Tais being the unfortunate one made me think that it was going to be him again.

But still, it's nasty stuff to make him ... "suffer the red tide and go through 'The Talk'".

Originally Posted by tshouryuu

Long post but epic nonetheless. Wish I had a fraction of yours or nighty's skills.

Hayate tanking the wave is very awe inspiring. It shows how powerful really she is if you consider how much force that much water can generate. I'm no expert but it shouldn't be possible even if she wasn't under limiters.

She would have been overpowered if she didn't go Gandalf-style. The drain of her magic to tank that much force was very rapid, even with Limiter Level One released.

[Reiji Tabibito]

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

Thanks. Tyrfing's Full Drive is also looks somewhat like that sword in the pic, except that the outside blades are longer than the internal. Opposites, eh?

I know - I've seen the pictures.

Originally Posted by Aaron008R

And here's the continuation.

Arcas: Fine... But if you ever do something to make Hayate cry-
Grandis: You're stupid duel idea is the reason why she's crying right now, you clingy bastard!
Arcas: I'm NOT a clingy bastard, you money-grubbing jerk!
Grandis: Money-grubbing- You damned multi-timing siscon! You looking for a fight?!
Arcas: That's my line! Want another go at it?! <picks up Ascalon>
Grandis: Damn straight I want to! <readies Tyrfing>

Hayate & Mel:

*Hayate and Mel smacks Grandis and Arcas on the head with Schwertkreuz and Esperacchius*

<claps hands> Perfect! I can just hear the girls now...

Hayate & Mel: BOYS!!! Enough!!

Arcas & Grandis: Yes, dear...

[Aaron008R]

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

Well, an uncle can be very protective of a niece, so well, you know, he might reject Grandis as his favorite niece's husband.

Nah. The story progression would ease that tension.

And Stockholm Syndrome it is then.

Yep.

Chapter Five was supposed to set the feel, maybe the other reason was ... Grandis falling in love with Sharazad?

*runs*

Not on your life.
Grandis only has eyes for Hayate.

That would be nice, but I think he's strong enough to be killing Scions on his own. Sharazad's power would pale in comparison to his.

He's pretty much Hayate's counterpart in style. Heavy-hitting, explosive melee strikes instead of nukes.

And he really did join TSAB? That would be after the fateful spar, right?

Maybe just a contract mage.

A difference of one year is negligible. Just make it fast!

Sure.

Actually, with Tesla's ranged attack, the two of them would take him down easily. But, Grandia was experienced, so he knew Signum would not reject a duel. It was meant to reduce the chances of him getting outclassed by number.

Now, what will the first game be?

I'll wait for the next chapter before starting on my next piece.

It looks like any reference of Hayate in action will make you excited. A true Hayate-fan indeed.

Any chance to see her in proper action of course pumps me up with excitement! Seeing how badly she was shafted in StrikerS, I'll take what I can.

Still, the shield would have broken if Hayate continued on to tank. On the spur of the moment, the Gandalf-Hayate came to mind.

Of course. Attacking the force head-on is easier than tanking.

She would have been overpowered if she didn't go Gandalf-style. The drain of her magic to tank that much force was very rapid, even with Limiter Level One released.

There're still limiters, eh?
BTW, I'll also tackle that issue in the next chapter from me.

Originally Posted by Reiji Tabibito

<claps hands> Perfect! I can just hear the girls now...

Hayate & Mel: BOYS!!! Enough!!

Arcas & Grandis: Yes, dear...

Not that kind...

[Liingo]

Belated post hours later since my net died a few hours ago...

Originally Posted by Erio

LOL Dusting it off after I bought it almost a year ago.

And yup, Kha is preparing such powerful blecheesium attack apparently.

This made me lol. The real culprit here is the eye candy shown in the anime. Somebody explain to me what's with that smoke that comes up every time two combatants hit each other with their powerful attacks? The spells are supposed to be magical, where the hell does the smoke come from? There is not that much dirt in mid air. Or is it Magical Smoke?

Of course it it..........

Seriously, with all the crap that they;ve introduced, I don't think even thte scriptwriters have any clue what's going on any more...

Originally Posted by tshouryuu

At least you have improved. Mine are still shoddy despite my efforts. In fact, I think I actually gotten worse. That said, I have a new "My name is Tais" for you guys to maybe have a small smile.

Spoiler for The first can be embarrassing or a nasty trick:

[*snip*]

CC please

It's more since you haven't touched the writing for a while..

I very much feeling like running away from Yui right now... especially after her openining lines....

Tsuziki isn't getting any better that's for sure

Originally Posted by Reiji Tabibito

It takes me a while to get things done too.

Perfect Example: LegendS EP1 - "Break In". The chapter itself will be about 4,000 words, which translates to 8-10 hours writing; but I've been working on it for the past 2 weeks just planning out the EP.

I've got plans down for
1) Isamu's backstory
2) The Assault on the Niddhogg
3) A rival in love? (working title) starring Tais
4) the last part of A visit to RF6.

The only problem is, that i don't go into these with a specific wordcount in mind.... Crack doesn't help writing either since that made me drop everything to write up the plan to (3), which I'll get around to writing soon...

Good thing I'm on holidays, thats for sure...

Originally Posted by Melodius Trueheart

@ thread:

How workable for the OC thread would it be to introduce a multi-dimensional threat that would require that the TSAB et al throw all their collective resources into addressing, and then temporarily focus the actions of the OCs around this threat?

I don't know if it will work, but I'm just putting that out there.

Like Reiji said, we have a few of those already... just that most of them were thought up before the arrival of TK. I'm not sure if the authors of the collaborative projects still have the will to go on after being wounded by his blunt commentry on the haxx that was flying around.

Originally Posted by Wild Goose

And Liingo: The name Tempest was from a Deviantart artist who created a fanon ship for Stargate SG-1. The USAF Tempest is pretty much a Heavy Frigate/Light Destroyer; while I may not use the name (For some reason, Advance under Fire and Bus to Hell seem to be attractive to me), I am thinking of using the design.

Oh, I'm not worried about the design... Just the name Only the name

Originally Posted by Tormenk

That was purely done for fun while taking a break from other works.
Though that wasn't really my first short here since I did write something about Katrina and Fate respectively.

I must have missed it then since I can't remember reading it...

Grandis is supposed to specialized in melee bombardment but while the blade is charged with an element and supposedly weaker than Shidden Issen, the power is pretty high for a melee charge. Duration wise needs to be shorter too since cartridges provide only a powerful but short burst of magic that doesn't seem likely to maintain the energy needed for up to 10mins IMO. Other than that, everything else seems fine and Grandis looks set to be nasty melee fighter.

I didn't really have a problem with it... although if it's bad we can always nerf it down to 5 mins. *shrug* Or maybe it was just because I was reading it at 1 in the morning and didn't comprehend everything..

@ Phoenix
Very nice chapters. Good action, that while doesn't go into as much detail as fantics like myself, is descirptive enough to give us an overview of what was happening.

Hints of what caused the rift between Leona and Chrono are starting to appear, although chances are I won't be able to piece them togther for another few chapters.

I can't say that I appove of the duel taking place.. Sure it's cool and all, but Tesla for one I feel should have protested more loudly. Defeat is a loose term that can be interpreted in different ways, so there was no guaraentee that he would be talking. *sigh* Obviously she didn't learn anything about the tag team attacks that were inflicted on her in Part 7 of my work.

I can't see TK having any problems with the attack since she's really not doing much( unless I missed something) Blowing up a dam is an excellent attack that has no problems associated with the discusiion that took place earlier on in the thread.

[Kyral]

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

And now, for the overdue Chapter Five (announced to be out yesterday) ...

When reading Leona's part in her room later, I suggest listening to >>this<<. And yes, that's one of her theme songs.

Spoiler for Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part One):

*snip*

Originally Posted by PhoenixFlare

Spoiler for Chapter Five—Amethyst Star (Part Two):

*snip*

Something tells me that the Greek letters went awry, I'm going to rectify them later.

And hopefully, the crack was fitting.

Now, I'm going to escape from TK's Physical Mortality Orbital Bombardment on Sharazad's attack ...

Wooot!

It's EPIC and BLUECHEESY and GAR!

The few german words are good und its great you use Greek letters even though I have no idea about greek... ok I can say "cheers" in greek