Part Twenty-Two

Part Twent-Two




Misty: Ace, ready?

Ace: Ready...I had no idea SHE was the one... Shall we go to the Plateau, then?

Misty: She was the one what? And sure.

Ace: I don't think it's my place to say... They're gone. You still want me to tell you?

Naomi: Yes! What is SHE to him?!

Misty: If you want. I have to say I'm pretty interested.

Ace: Brady is not what you think...and neither am I...or Jester...Let's see...where do I start?

Misty: The beginning would be a good place... don't you think?

Ace: This doesn't have a beginning yet. *sigh* None of this was supposed to happen...*shakes head* Well, I guess I'll start by saying that though I may seem a native of Thorae, I'm not. And Brady isn't an Earth native. Well, not Earth as YOU know it.

Naomi: Wha?...

Ace: Brady...I assume you can tell by now he has powers and technologies not...of this time, right?

Misty: Correct, go on.

Ace: It was 4 years ago....no wait...354 years from NOW, that is. Earth is a technological superpower among the galaxy in this time.

Naomi: 0_o

Ace: Many other planets and colonies borrow resources from Earth...Including computer software. The computer software of this time is so advanced it can be used to develop automobiles alone now... following so far?

Misty: I think so. Continue

Ace: Right. Now in the future...armies are composed of sophisticated androids who run on complex Operating Systems...now...have you heard of the Operating System called Windows? I believe it should still be around even now...

Misty: Yes, I have. I use Windows.

Naomi: What are you getting at, Ace?

Ace: Well, the newes--

Mid-pitched, unknown voice: There they are! The rebels! Shoot them down!

Deep, grungy voice: I got him! Yaah!

Ace: *turns* Huh? The Clockwork Syndicate! They've found us!

Naomi: We gotta get out of here!

Ace: I'll finish this later! We gotta get to the Plateau right now!

Misty: What are we waiting for then?! Let's go! *runs off towards Plateau*

Ace: *running* The Plateau is a scary place! Everyone keep your wits about you!

Naomi: Don't have to tell me twice! *runs ahead of the party on all fours*

Ace: Lady Naomi! AND we've lost two great fighters. This is going to be tough!

General Leone: Surrender, inferior pests! *fires gun*

Ace: Oh man! They're shooting! Are you ready? We'll dive into this river! It runs through the Plateau!

Misty: *keeps talking while running* Does this answer your question? *dives into river without waiting for answer*

Ace: Heh! I like your spirit! *dive into river after Misty*

Naomi: *Stops in her tracks and resumes two legged position* Ah! What? Nobody said we'd have to go IN the river! I hate water!

Ace: *swimming* You've got to do it, Lady Naomi!

Naomi: What? You're crazy if you think I'm gonna--

General Leone: *fires pistol*

Naomi: Ahh!

Ace: Just DO IT!!!

Naomi: I must be insane. *jumps blindly into river*

General Leone: Blast, they've escaped into the river! Follow them on the riverbank!

Soldier: Yes, sir!

Ace: Misty! How ya holding up?

Misty: Just fine. You ok Naomi?

Naomi: Bleh! I hate water! I can barely swim! Don't talk to me, I'm concentrating!

Ace: *laughs*..... Hey, what's that sound? Sounds like...aw man, why does there always have to be a waterfall?

Misty: ... That can't be good. What should we do? How about grab that tree branch, that sounds like a good idea to me!

Ace: Well, you've seen the movies! *Snags a branch* *Rushes over to the riverbed*

Misty: *grabs onto branch*

Ace: Naomi! Grab this branch!

Naomi: *still trying to swim against the current* Silence, you insolent little... I'm doing... errgh... just fine... on my argh..... own!

Ace: There's a waterfall over there. A pretty big one! I don't want you to get hurt!

Naomi: You liar! You just... wanna... be mister hero and... brrgh... save the day!

Ace: That's not true! Now grab it!

Naomi: NO!

Ace: YOU ARE SO STUBBORN! *leaps into the water*

Naomi: WHAT are you...rrr.. trying to do?....!!! AUUHHH!!!!! *glides through the water like a motor boat to the shore* OW OW OW OWWW!!! You! You pulled my tail!

Ace: Yes, yes I did. Free of charge. Now let's get a move on!

Naomi: *Glares*

Ace: *whispers to Misty* I learned that little trick one time when I pulled her tail to make sure it wasn't cosplay. Heheh

Misty: *whispers back* I'm sure that went well. Ok, well that worked. *looks at waterfall* I thought you said it was a big water fall! This thing is more like a slide. Well, whatever I was tired of the water anyway. So where are we?

Ace: No, not that waterfall, the one after it. *points*

Misty: *looks* Oh. That waterfall.

Ace: Anyway, looks like we're just outside the desert... Hey, did it just get dark? *looks up* An airship? Probably more CS guys! And... behind it... is that another airship?...

Misty: Now that you mention it... *looks where Ace is* Umm... I think so. *studies it* But ya know, I'm not sure. What do you think Naomi?

Naomi: I don't care. Let's just get to someplace warmer!

Ace: It's a... dragon.

Misty: A what now?!

Ace: I said it's a---

Naomi: -- It's a dragon, you simpleton.

Misty: I heard what you said, but I didn't believe what I was hearing. What should we do about it?

Ace: As long as it doesn't attack us, nothing....

Naomi: Brady...? Is that you?!?

Ace: What are you talking about?

Naomi: I hear Brady's voice!

Misty: You do?! What's he saying?

Naomi: *ignores* BRAAAADY!!! WE'RE OVER HEEEEERE!!!

Ace: SHHH!!! You'll give us away! We just lost General Leone.

Naomi: You're still my subordinate. Don't tell me what to do!

Misty: Naomi, I have to agree with Ace here. We don't want to run into the CS guys again. Do you really want to jump in the water again? I didn't think so.

Naomi: Well if we'd hurry up and find Brady we wouldn't have to. He'd protect us!

Ace: *facepalm* *sigh* Whatever. Just keep it down.

Misty: *sigh* Ok, where do you propose we look?

Naomi: He's not too far from here. Probably near the Toran Plains. That's north of here.

Ace: Shall we go, then?

Misty: Ok then. *starts walking in that direction* Ace, you were trying to tell us something before we got interrupted by those CS guys. Since we will prolly be walking for a bit might as well continue. Something about Windows, if I remember right?

Ace: Oh, yes, well like I was saying, in the future there's a Windows Operating System called Axeaus. It has a program that has the power to simulate human emotions. However, it was never officially released. There are bad people in the future who illegally buy pirated copies of this system. But, upon installing the OS the computer crashes...

Misty: That's... interesting. Go on.

Ace: The thing is that even though it's called a Windows OS, it's not. It was simply developed in a Microsoft lab, by an unknown person... I... can't tell you the rest. Let's just say our mission revolves around that OS... more than you know.

Naomi: Well, that's a story that's no fun to hear for the fourth time. Hey... wait a minute. *Perks ears up* That's Brady! He's even closer now.

Misty: Ok, so I'm back to where I was... Oh well.

*Scene switch*


Isaac: Uh-oh. I think hear some military Humvees! Those must be those Clockwork guys! What are we gonna do?

Christina: Run? Hide?

DJ: *sighs* Well then, shall we deal with this Clockwork Syndicate opposition here?

EO: If you insist. But we really must attempt to find the others, or at least Lui.

DJ: Yes, I suppose you're right. Christina, are you with us?

Christina: *Energetically salutes* Aye, aye, DJ! *takes odd-looking device out of bag* Aha! Now's my chance to try out this really cool device I stole- err... borrowed from Brady. Ooooooooh, what's this button do? *presses button on device* *Nothing happens for a few seconds then a blast of electricity shoots out and hits EDJ* …whoops… heh, my bad

EDJ: Ow! What was that for?

DJ: It was an accident. At least I think so...

EDJ: Whatever. I'm going to try out a few new weapons I created during our down time. *retrieves small land mine* Heh...perhaps this will be effective against those Humvees! *activates land mine and tosses it toward the military vehicles* It works differently than normal mines, so it won't explode after I throw it. Pretty cool, huh?

Christina: *Childishly mimics EDJ* "Pretty cool, huh?" I don't get it, why are you helping us? Just a while ago, you were the bad guy!

EDJ: I don't have to have a reason to help someone, do I? Besides, we're fighting against the greater evil here. I dislike the CS just as much as you do (well, more, actually...but that's somewhat besides the point).

DJ: I'll admit that it's been somewhat strange, but enjoyable, for the most part. You're much easier to work with than against.

Isaac: Umm, guys? Are you with me? How do we beat these guys? I don't have a weapon... What do we do???!

DJ: Don't worry, we'll take care of these guys. We may not even have to do any fighting if EDJ's explosive...thing works.

Isaac: Woah, sweet! Can I have a look at that thing?

EDJ: No. You'd just kill yourself with it on accident.

DJ: Ouch...that was kinda harsh.

EDJ: ...........

Isaac: No I'm good with gizmos! Just... not weapons... PLLEEEEASE let me see it?

DJ: Come on, just let him look at it. He doesn't actually want to take it from you, I think.
EDJ: Is that right?

Isaac: Do something before those little fools see us! *mutters* Preferably by letting me see that...

EDJ: Fine. *Holds out small mine* See it? Now can we do something?

DJ: ............

Isaac: Heeey, that's not what you had befo--- *loud explosion* WOAH!! Guuuuys? I think they've found us!!

*A tall, sadistic looking man appears*

Dahlson: Well, well... what do we have here? I believe you are working with the Rebels... Now, from right to left, you are, DJ, Evil DJ,... eh don't know, skip whats-her-face over as well. BWAHAHA!! NOW I KNOW ALL YOUR NAMES! Sometimes I amaze myself...

EDJ: *draws fire sword* Who are you? Get out of the way before I destroy you!

DJ: *grabs Brave Lance* Yeah, pretty much what he said...

Christina: *To Dahlson* How DARE you?! Don't you know who I am?! I am Christina! Apologize before I use this against you! *Pulls out the device she used earlier to shock EDJ* BWAHA- ...... *Whispers to Isaac* Psst! Hey Issac, tell EDJ I'll pay him to teach me how to do the famous evil laugh.

Dahlson: I don't have time for this. You two! You're coming with me! Oh, and put those toys down. *Shoots weapons out of DJ and EDJ's hands with a strange black beam emanating from his hand* Now, COME! *Traps DJ and EDJ in a force field* As for you two... stay out of the CS's way, and I won't have to crush you!

EDJ: *sigh* Oh. No. Whatever. Shall. I. Do.

DJ: Isaac! Take Christina and find the others!

Chirstina: *With wide puppy-dog eyes* But... but what about the evil laugh?

Isaac: Me?... Ummm what can I do?

DJ: Just go! You'll figure it out!

EDJ: I dropped the mine after that explosion, can you grab it before you go? We'll work on the laugh after we take care of this joker.


Christina: Yippeeee!!! *jumps in the air* *Runs over, pick up the mine, and stuffs it in her bag* Come on, loser! *Runs past Isaac* We have to find the others!

Isaac: That wasn't very nice... *follows Christina*

Dahlson: Bah. No matter. Now, all I have to do is collect that girl and I will have a complete collection!


*Scene switch*


Isaac: Hey, don't you think it's time to let me lead?

Christina: No way, Frodo! We have to go find the others and get back to EDJ so he can teach me the evil laugh! Unless of course you teach me the evil laugh. Besides, you'll just get us lost! *Stops running and looks around* So... where are we?

Isaac: Latitude 114, Longitude 53. Approximately. My hometown in north-north west of here, about 13 km away. The temperature is about.... 84 degrees Fahrenheit, with a heat index of 15 degrees, humidity 32%, and... hmm... I'd say a 71% chance of precipitation. Winds are facing east at around 15mph. I'd say, with these stats, it'd be most likely to rain around 6 pm tonight, lasting up to three hours with a chance of lightning, based on the humidity. So, if you don't want to get caught in the rain, let me lead you back to my place. We can restock supplies there and then scout for your friends. Whaddya say? : )

Christina: Ok... But I'm still leading! ... Which direction was it again?

Isaac: Just follow me. We'll be wandering in circles for hours with you in the lead. I'll leave any fighting to you, though.

Christina: *sigh* Fine. *whispers* Wimp

Isaac: I heard that! *glares* *walks about a minute* So... it's a few hour's hike back to town. What do you want to talk about?

Christina: Oooh, Oooh, Oooh, I know! Your name! I need to think up a cool nickname for you! Frodo, loser, and wimp don't really suit you. Hmm... what name do you want?

Isaac: Heheheheh ^_^ You know, you're pretty perky. But, aren't nicknames supposed to be given by others? You can't choose your own nickname... That's, like, against the rules or something.

Christina: Fine, you had your chance. Hmmm... Oooh, I know! Behold! The great and powerful.... Legoman!!! Whatcha think?

Isaac: *stares in an expression that just SCREAMS "lolwut"* Lego...man? HAHAHAHAHAHA That's funny. Okay, I'll be legoman. And you can be.... Well... I don't really know you well enough to give you a nickname.

Christina: How about... Christy the Tenderhearted! Oh, wait! I know, I know! Check this out... Her Royal Freshness! HA! That just sounds awesome!

Isaac: HAH! Tenderhearted? Now that's a laugh. But I like that second one! Legoman and Her Royal Freshness... You are so strange. *laughs a genuine, friendly laugh*

Christina: ... How long has it been since we started walking? Three hours?! Four?! *Gasp* We're going to wander around for days! We're going to DIE out here! We have no food! No water! I'll die without water!!! *Pulls out canteen and takes a few gulps of water*

Isaac: 0_o *glances at watch* 20 minutes. I change my mind. I've got a name for you... Drama Queen. *laughs*

Christina: Augh! How dare you call me that! I am no Drama Queen! Just for that, I should go back to calling you Frodo! Isn't there something that can get us there faster?!?!

Isaac: I like that name, thank you very much! Frodo is a big inspiration! And stop bugging me. It's not too far from here, drama queen.

Christina: That's it! I can't tell which is worse; you calling me a Drama Queen or you talking about how much you like FRODO!

Isaac: You're mean. Don't talk to me. *Marches silently and diligently*

Christina: Oh yeah?! Well, you're meaner than me! So there! *sticks tongue out and continues walking with arms crossed*

Isaac: That was the most witty, well thought out, and mature comeback I've ever heard. Congrats. *claps hands lazily*

Christina: I have my moments! ^_^

Isaac: Very... frequently... *says with teeth and fists clinched*

Christina: You're not making this trip any easier for me either, you know! So, are we there yet?

Isaac: *thinks* Man, I thought I'd get to do cool stuff when I met those guys back there. Not babysit this brat. *thinks out loud* Why do I always the hard jobs? u_u

Christina: *Thinks* I thought I was gonna be with the cool group, but noooooo. I get stuck with this Frodo wannabe! ARE WE ALMOST THERE OR NOT?!?!?!?!

Isaac: *Gets a dismayed look about his face* Yes, we're almost there. Now will you please be quiet unless what you wanna talk about doesn't involve nicknames, Frodo, or when we arrive at our destination? *Gives a huge sigh of frustration*

Christina: Hmph, I shoulda went with Romeo and goth girl.


Isaac: *Lightbulb* Hey... Christina... what kind of drinks do you like? *Bright smile*

Christina: Hmmm... *looks suspiciously at Isaac* I like the ones that aren't POISONOUS!!

Isaac: I am shocked that you would think I would poison you! Where on Thorae could I even GET poison? *quietly slips bottle of liquid Chamomile into his pocket* I guess I'll have to drink all of this ice-cold water by myself then. *Pulls out over-sized canteen*

Christina: HAH! As if I would even drink from the same canteen as you! You've got germs, dude! Eeeeeeewww!!! And... and... and I thought we were friends! Her Royal Freshness and her loyal sidekick Legoman! What kind of loyal sidekick ARE you?!?!

Isaac: I haven't drank out of this one. It's my spare. I always bring a spare. And who said I was your sidekick? What makes you so sure it's not the other way around?

Christina: Because the short ones are always the sidekicks and face it dude, you're just plain short! I liked traveling with Ember better! All she did was go around plainly trying to kill people, not sneaking around trying to poison them! TRAITOR!!!

Isaac: I wasn't trying to poison you! I wanted to put you to sleep with this. *Holds out chamomile* Now, do you want water or what? *offers water untainted with chamomile* 'Cause I don't want you passing out on me and going into a coma or something. ....Wait. *puts away the untainted water he was offering* Short?

Christina: Yes, you're short! And I don't want your poisoned water anyway! Now, are we there yet?! Wait, why don't you want me to pass out if you wanted to put me to sleep anyway?

Isaac: Even you should know the difference. If you pass out from dehydration, that's dangerous to your health... I'm just afraid you might not wake up, and then I'll be in some real trouble. Anyway, I'm not short. You're just freakishly tall for a girl of your age.

Christina: Hah! You're the one who should be worried about passing out, wimp! Besides, since everyone else is taller than me that makes you even shorter! And you still didn't answer my question! Are we there yet?!?!

Isaac: You know what? We are. *the two walk over a green hill to find a small, yet advanced, town* Happy now?


*Scene switch*

Brady: The reason I say not to separate is because at night a dense fog covers these dunes. In the day, the dunes are blazing hot, but at night it's ice cold... anyway, the reason this fog is bad is because you can't see anything...not even your hand in front of you face. That's when a dragon-wraith seizes the opportunity to capture you and proceeds to eat you alive, after a painful incantation, that is. Sound fun? If not, stay close. If so, feel free to go get yourself killed...that is...not you, Hanna...

Hanna: *Narrows eyes suspiciously at Brady * ...I see. How long do you think it will take us to get through?

Zione: Sounds like fun. You want to demonstrate for us?

Alzymus: Why are we going along with these people anyway, Zione?

Zione: ...

Brady: Seriously, why? If you want to be helpful then why don't you go make sure DJ gets safe passage to find Lui? In fact, that's your job now, Zione. You are officially hired for that purpose. Alzymus, we didn't hire you for anything so I guess you can stay... but if all Zione is gonna do is smart remarks then we don't him here, because we have enough to worry about... Alright? *exhales deeply*

Hanna: Wow, good job Brady. I couldn't have said it better myself.

Brady: ...I guess not. The ground....it's shaking. Oh no we gotta get to safer grounds! Hanna, do we still have that rope we took from my place?

Hanna: Umm... we might... I think we do... How would rope help?

Brady: Thanks. It'll help cause I can do..... This! *tosses rope around stalagmite on nearby rock formation and uses it to swing on top of it with amazing acrobatics* ....All you guys have to do is fly, though...>_> I might suggest hurrying, also. *a tad nervously* It's getting closer... Hurry up alright?

Zione: Fine. I shall go join one of the other groups. But Alzymus stays with you two. I think that's reasonable.

Alzymus: Excuse me?

Brady: *shakes head* Whatever you want... you aren't forced to do anything you don't want...

*a huge sand explosion causes air to become fill with sand*

Brady: What?!

Alzymus: What is happening?

Zione: What, you people are afraid? Ha!

Brady: Not for my own sake, no! It's a dragon! Hey, you big lug, I'm over here! Die! *jumps on neck and stabs 5-6 times with amazing speed* Eat that!.....WHAT?! There's MORE?!

Alzymus: Wow, that is a good-sized dragon! But why are you attacking it? Aren't they friendly here?

Brady: No that's the west side of the desert. We are on the east... you see? Now..... ANYONE CARE TO HELP?!?!?!?!?!

Zione: I shall. *jumps into the fray with newly created shadow sword, slashes dragon with blinding speed*

Alzymus: Do you require further assistance?

Brady: Eh, sure. He's just about to destroy us all! Why not? Let's dance, beastie!

Zione: Yeah, slacker. Why don't you come and help out a little bit rather than just stand over there and ask questions?

Alzymus: Hmmph. *creates sword and attacks dragon*

Brady: What? *dragon flies up into the air and charges at the party* Hmph! *Jumps to meet the dragon and runs up it neck and slashes wildly* YAAAH!! *Uses dragon's back to jump off like a spring board* HOW WAS THAT YOU BRUTE?!

Hanna: *Observing the battle from a safe distance in the air* Good move.

Brady: *looks up* Hey Hanna what are you doing? .......Having fun spectating? We need some help....

Zione: What, my awesome skills aren't enough? *slashes dragon several times*

Hanna: Well, excuuuuuse me. It's not everyday I get to see a real dragon, you know... even if it is trying to kill you. *Joins the ongoing combat*

Alzymus: Sometime after we achieve our final objective, I should take you to our home world. There are tame dragons there. Would you like that?

Hanna: We'll have to see how things turn out first. Nevertheless, I shall consider it.

Zione: *rolls eyes* Less talk, more fighting, ok?

Brady: *sands start shifting under feet* What.... Guys. Shut it and listen to the ground. Can you hear it?

Hanna: *Listens closely* I don't hear anything... I wish you'd stop griping already.

Brady: ..... It's getting louder. I can't believe you guys don't hear this. *thinks* Then again, they aren't what I am... so I guess I can believe it. It sounds like this whole desert is about to explode....There. it's even louder. Can you hear it NOW?...

Zione: Are you sure you're not just going insane?

Alzymus: It does seem somewhat likely, considering all the stress the poor creature's been through...

Brady: I'll tell you one thing. I do NOT make mistakes. I don't feel stress!! I am... Axeaus. I am... the ultimate being! ....Move! *dives at Alzymus and shoves him out of the way* *a huge, white dragon with blue eyes come flying out of the sands* I TOLD you!... But this one... isn't hostile. Can any of you speak dragon?

Hanna: Nope, I can't say that I can or ever have. *Thinks to self* Ultimate being? What is he talking about?! The longer I'm with him, the stranger he becomes. Swiftly regenerating a lost limb and reversing time. Mercilessly trading one life for another, yet insisting upon my safety. It doesn't add up...

Brady: ...Fine. *begins speaking to the dragon in a language inaudible to humans* *turns to party* Well, first he want to thank us for getting rid of that red dragon from before. *begins talking with the dragon once again for a few minutes* It's all set. We'll ride this dragon across the dunes. He's an omni-dragon. One that can dwell on land, yet ride wind in the sky, or so he tells me. So you wanna come or what?

Alzymus: If you don't mind having me along, I'd like to come. Dragon-riding is one of my favorite pastimes back home.

Zione: Count me out...I've got other people to bother.

Alzymus: I don't think so. You're coming with me.

Zione: Fine. Guess I'm coming with y'all.

Hanna: Dragon...riding...? Let’s assume for a moment that I’ve never ridden a dragon before...

Zione: You've never gone dragon riding before? Poor depraved creature...

Alzymus: *rolls eyes*

Brady: I just cope with what I can get. I've never ridden a dragon but I know how.... If you'll excuse, me I'd like to navigate. *walks past the group ever so proudly* Will you hurry up? We don't have all day... *sudden look of realization flashes across face* Oh, and Hanna... You looked a little puzzled back there... I'll explain later, once we get rid of this fool. *gestures to Zione*

Alzymus: By all means, incapacitate him. That would make my job so much easier. The only reason I haven't done so already is because he was still of use to your mission. Just don't actually kill him.

Zione: And I still am, surprisingly enough. Besides, I don't think these humans can actually kill me, can they?

Hanna: Don't push it, Zione. You've been treading on thin ice from the beginning. ...And can you back off the whole human issue? Most of my closest friends happen to be human.

Alzymus: Would you like me to put a muter on him? I happen to have one in my gear.

Zione: You wouldn't!

Brady: He should. And in case you're too dim to have noticed already, Zione, I'M NOT HUMAN. So pack off, pally, before I snap your frilly little wings off. Use that muter, would you Alzymus?

Alzymus: Gladly. *puts muter on Zione* There, now you won't have to listen to his rambling again for a while. How's that?

Hanna: Lovely. Why didn't you do that to begin with?! You know what, don't even answer that! We've wasted enough time as it is.

Alzymus: You're right. Where are we headed now?

Brady: To the end of the dunes, of course. But, then again, we still have to find Hairam. Is she really worth all this? Can't we just go straight to Lui? I mean, it is the logical choice. We actually KNOW where he is. And the longer we mess around searching for Hairam, the greater window we're giving the CS to take over the west gate completely.

Hanna: *angrily* YOU agreed to come along!! I could have handled this by myself. LOGICALLY speaking, you three should go back. As I said before, I'm only slowing you down. As much as I want to save Lui... I can't leave Hairam in this place by herself.

Alzymus: If you no longer require our help, we can leave. I'm sure there are other things that I could do. But I'd gladly help you out, regardless of your objective.

Brady: If only you understood, Hanna... it would make things so much easier. Will you have me tell you?... My true objective, that is?

Alzymus: Fine by me, as long as you can talk and walk at the same time. I hate just standing around listening to people...maybe that's just one of the downsides of being a bounty hunter.

Hanna: Pfft, some bounty hunter you are. *Directs attention back to Brady* It is entirely up to you, Brady. As curious as I am, I’m not going to press you into revealing anything you don’t want to. However do take into consideration the individuals accompanying us before you decide to reveal whatever information you deem so pertinent.

Alzymus: *points to Zione* I did catch my prey, did I not?

Hanna: Following him around doesn't count.

Alzymus: Hmmph. I just haven't taken him back to Tellius yet, that's all. It would be considered a disrespect in my country for me to bring him back before he completes his work with you.

Hanna: Fine, I'll go with the "my customs are different from yours" excuse.

Brady: ... Can't this dragon go any faster?... Listen. As anticlimactic as it is, I'm on a mission, and YOU are my target, Hanna. It's probably not how you think, though... I'm no assassin...

Hanna: I am your target?... I can see how that would be taken the wrong way.

Alzymus: Yes, it does seem somewhat odd.

Zione: *mindspeaks to Hanna* Don't believe Brady, he's not telling the truth.

Hanna: And I'm supposed to automatically believe you? *Glares at Zione*

Zione: Don't his motives seem a little odd?

Alzymus: Everything alright Hanna?

Hanna: ...and the pot called the kettle black. Now leave me alone!! Huh? *Turns to Alzymus* Yeah, sure. Everything's fine. Just a headache, that's all.

Zione: Fine. But don't blame me when he tries to kill you. I gave you fair warning.

Brady: Zione... *chuckles* ha ha...hahaha....HAHAHA *begins laughing dramatically loud* HAHAHA!! You don't know anything! You're just some lowly scum from the past!.... No. I'm not here to kill Hanna. I'm not designed for that. If I was here to kill you, you'd be dead already. *addresses Hanna* I'm here to.... to protect you.

Alzymus: Now you're starting to scare me...why were you talking to Zione? I didn't hear anything...

Hanna: You didn't hear anything because nothing was said... not verbally at least. *Stares intently at Brady* What exactly are you protecting me from?

Alzymus: Ugh...don't tell me that Zione can mindspeak too...this is an unexpected complication.

Brady: Well... from someone... who you're going to meet. Soon. He is extremely dangerous. He'd kill me, too, if I was able to be killed, but that's why I'm here. You see, I am not human. Simply put, I cannot be killed. We've still got a ways to go, so I'll tell you the full story if you want...

Hanna: By all means, clarify the situation at hand.

Alzymus: Yes...and please hurry. I may not have much time left in this world.

Hanna: What do you mean by that, Alzymus?

Alzymus: Well, as a bounty hunter, I was hired only for a certain amount of time. That time is nearly complete...or at least I think so. I'm not entirely sure what sort of correlation there is between the passage of time here and there.

Hanna: Honestly, I've lost track of time. Maybe it's just me, but time seems to be moving slower here than on Earth. I'm not even sure how long I've been here. *Thinks* Not to mention the fact that I can't even remember the last time I had a decent night's rest.

Zione: I can knock you out if you want...then you'll sleep like a baby. Hahaha!

Hanna: I told you to leave me ALONE!!! What's not clear about that?! Besides... I don't need your help... if you can call knocking someone out helping.

Zione: And I should care what you tell me? How about if I make Brady disappear for you? I know that's what you really want...

Hanna: Get real! If he disappears, where will that leave me? Now please stop your seemingly incessant babble. I don’t know whose nonstop chatter aggravates me more, yours or EDJ’s.

Zione: Of course, you'd have to let me out of this silencer, but you know how much better off we'd be. I know how much you feel threatened by him. You'd be free to continue your mission without his interference.

Brady: You know, Zione, I can hear you too. If she felt threatened by me she'd tell me.... Right, Hanna?

Hanna: ...would I? ... That is beside the point! Zione, I'm not letting the likes of you deceive me. Not again. Brady, you may continue telling me.... whatever it was you were telling me before chatterbox over there distracted me.

Zione: Now you tell me...why don't you take this muter off so we can talk like normal...humanoid creations of various types.

Brady: Because that's no fun, now is it? Now, where was I? Oh yes. In case you can't tell, I'm -- *turns around* How did they find us here? Everyone, hang on! *dragon dives abruptly* They have an airship! Blast! Hanna! I'm making use of this fool! Take Zione's muter off!

Alzymus: Clockwork Syndicate? Or something worse that I haven't been informed of yet?

Hanna: That doesn't matter right now! Alzymus, can you take the muter off Zione?

Alzymus: I suppose, as long as you think it is necessary. *takes muter off Zione*

Zione: Ha! I knew you wanted to talk...but now's not the time, unfortunately. Let's deal with whatever Brady has conjured up for us to fight first.

Brady: Yeah... it's the CS alright.... *glances around* ! *takes backpack off and pulls out a small silver pod* Here. *presses a button on the pod and it transforms into an aero board* Take this and go distract the pilots of the airship. I don't care if you can fly, you'll need this. They won't know what it is and they're more likely to be distracted. Also, the board has lasers built in, and I stole all your weapons from Alzymus who stole then from you. Now GO and make sure you come back. Understand all that?

Zione: I somehow doubt that you actually want me to come back...but alright. *takes aero board and summons laser shield* *leaves to distract CS*

Alzymus: And what would you have me do, Brady?

Brady: Use your wings to find us a landing spot further ahead, okay, Alzymus?

Alzymus: Alright. *flies into the air to scout*

Hanna: Brady, I hope you aren't planning for me to simply sit here.

Brady: ... Well if you put it that way, of course not! Go help Alzymus, as I'm sure there will be CS soldiers there.

Alzymus: *returns to Brady* I saw one of the other groups!

Brady: Could you tell who they were?

Alzymus: I think it was Ace, Misty, and Naomi. But I didn't really get a good look at them.

Brady: Okay then. On second thought, you fly this thing, Hanna. I'll be riiiight back. *Hurries to the edge of the dragon's saddle* *turns head toward Hanna* Catch ya later. *winks* *Leaps off dragon and flies through the air head first towards the ground*

Hanna: *scowls disapprovingly* I’m going to clobber that little arbitrary, offhanded, overbearing, and reckless humanoid being when he gets back! Till then, Alzymus, how do I fly a dragon?!

Alzymus: Ah, you're going to really enjoy this! Let me show you quickly, because I have to go help as well. *shows Hanna the basic control commands* Now, if you'll excuse me... *jumps off dragon and summons his wings*

Brady: *Now on the ground* Ace, you'd better answer me. Ace! Ace, can you hear me? .....*no reply*..... ...! I forgot to tell Hanna to steer that Dragon to the south, not the north! She doesn't know our course has changed! Now they're heading right toward that airship! *Tries contacting Zione* Zione, you still with us?

Zione: I can hear you. What is it?

Brady: Have you infiltrated the control room yet?

Zione: Working on it. *smashes open door on the airship and looks around for control room*

Brady: Once you do, assuming you know how to pilot an airship, steer that thing east. We need clearance for Hanna to steer the Dragon.

Zione: Got it. I'm sure I can figure out how to work this thing...

Brady: Just... don't blow it up.

Zione: Aw...but...never mind. I'm sure we can put this piece of junk to some use.

Brady: Again I say, do whatever you want, just don't damage it in the process.

Zione: Awesome. *enters control room* Haha, I found it! Die, evil...whoever you are. I have need of this ship! *attacks airship technicians*

Brady: Alright, now that you're in, land that thing on the Toran Plains, that vast expanse of green in front of you. We'll attempt to regroup there.

Zione: Got it. *walks over to controls of airship* Let's see...this doesn't look too hard. Heh...

Brady: ? Who's there? *looks around* If it's more of CS guys I'm gonna pound the life outta you! *Summons sword* Grrr.... ....... ? Ace?... Is that you?

Ace: Brady! Naomi was right! Here he is.

Misty: Hey! How did you find us here?

Brady: How could I not find you here? With all the yelling my name and such. That would be, Naomi, correct?

Misty: Yes, but I thought ya'll went one direction and we went the other... what happened? I'm confused...

Brady: Actually, the river you followed rounds to this point.

Alzymus: *returns to Brady's group on the ground* Who are these people?

Zione: Aargh! I can't get this thing to work right! Wait, is this the descent button? *presses button, and suddenly the airship starts free-falling* Oops...that wasn't right. Brady! You might want to move your people out of the way, this thing's coming down!

Brady: On it. Uhhh..... Okay everyone, help me out! That airship is falling directly toward us. There doesn't look like there's any way to avoid it...

Alzymus: What did he do? I told you that he couldn't be trusted...

Brady: He's trying to get us all killed, that's what! Thank God Hanna isn't here. Well, looks like all we can do is.... RUUUN!

Alzymus: *sighs* I'm going to kill him after this... *starts running*

Zione: Umm...I need to get off this thing, and now! *runs to the emergency exit door* Hopefully I don't crush too many people here... *jumps off airship*

Misty: *takes off running* Who is he anyway?

Alzymus: You mean Zione? He's a rogue assassin from Tellius. I was sent to capture him, but we somehow got caught up in this fiasco here.

Misty: I see...

Zione: *flies down from airship toward group* Hey, does anybody now how to stop that thing? It's still useable, if we can rescue it in time.

Brady: *still running* No, it pretty much looks like were going to be crushed.

Ace: What did you even do?!?

Zione: Beats me...I've never flown something like that before. Remember, I'm just a simple assassin.

Alzymus: *rolls eyes*

Naomi: Emphasis on simple. *huff* *huff*

Ace: I *huff* can't believe after all this... this is how it ends.

*Everyone continues running*

Brady: Hey, does anybody know if Hanna is still in the sky?

Zione: Beats me...I left while she was still with you people. Weren't you supposed to watch her, Brady? ......wait, who are you? I know Brady, but not these other two.

Alzymus: I think she's still up there somewhere. By the way, did you notice that the CS soldiers aren't following us anymore?

Ace: Hey, I wouldn't be following us if I knew we were doomed to be crushed by an airship.

Brady: .... Looks like I've failed.

Naomi: Brady....

Zione: Ok, cut the melodrama...you'll be just fine. Seriously, I've been in worse situations than this before. We just need to figure out a plan...

Alzymus: Such as...?

Brady: If the ground was deeper, I'd have Naomi dig us a shelter. If we could run fast enough, I'd have us get out of the way. You have any better suggestions, Harvey Birdman?

Zione: I know what I would do if you people weren't here as well...I'd fly out of the way. But that won't help you three non-fliers, will it?

Alzymus: Well, at least you're staying to help and not leave them here.

Zione: Wait...I have an idea!

Misty: Ok, good. And that would be?

Ace: Really? Do tell before we're squished.

Brady: Surprise me.

Zione: I might be able to transport us to Tellius before the airship crushes us.

Alzymus: But I thought you were never going back?

Zione: Shush...that doesn't matter. Besides, it's just until the airship crashes. After that, I can warp us back here, just not under the wreckage. Sound good to you?

Misty: Tellius? Where's that? And ok, I guess it's fine with me.

Zione: It was my homeland, before I was banished.

Alzymus: That's only half-true.

Zione: Whatever...

Misty: Ok, so what's the other half?

Brady: I don't think that matters right now. Just do it.

Naomi: What are we doing?

Zione: Are you ready? *opens portal* Now, I have to be the last one in, or it doesn't work.

Naomi: *In blatant surprise* Wait? What? I wasn't paying attention! Where did this portal come from?

Brady: *says to Zione as he walks past him into the portal* You're wasting more of my time than I can afford. *Goes through portal*

Ace: MORE portals? Fine. *Proceeds into portal*

Naomi: *folds ears back* I'm so confused.


*A good 10-15 minutes before the airship starts freefalling*


Hanna: *ringing noise is heard* Huh? That can’t be…? *takes out cell phone and stares at it* Wow, I forgot I even had this with me! How did the battery last so long?! *Phone rings again and she answers it* Hello?

Voice on phone: Hanna! Do you know how worried I’ve been?! Where are you?! I’ve been trying to reach you for ages!

Hanna: Anna?! I’m surprised you were able to reach me at all. How’s the team back on Earth?

Anna: If you mean the frightened group of girls with superpowers that’s missing a member and has a leader that frequently abandons them to go on long solo missions to hunt down the enemy instead of waiting for them to appear… I’d say they’re doing just fine. Oddly, there hasn’t been much evil activity as of late. I take it you’re no longer on Earth.

Hanna: … um, the situation’s changed drastically since I first went after DJ’s evil other.

Anna: Oh, is that who you were after this time? Your sudden disappearances are becoming habitual. In fact, I actually waited a few days to start trying to reach you. Are you all right? You sound kind of stressed.

Hanna: I’m fine! Just… *sigh*

Anna: Riiiight, of course you are. Nothing’s ever wrong with you when you’re fighting evil. It’s when you come back that you collapse with exhaustion due to lack of food, water, energy, and sleep. You’ve done it plenty of times before. You really shouldn’t push yourself so much.

Hanna: If I don’t, THEY win! SHE wins, and everyone I care for dies!

Anna: …she got out again, didn’t she?

Hanna: Once, she almost got out a second time as well.

Anna: I see. Was it as bad as when you betrayed the team?

Hanna: No. Now please stop bringing that up.

Anna: I just think your teammates deserve to know who really caused that building to collapse on them.

Hanna: It’s not like I let her out on purpose! I didn’t know how strong she was then! They’ll hate me if I tell them what happened!

Anna: Maybe, but you don’t know that for sure. The least you could do is be honest, Miss I-act-like-I-don’t-have-friends-and-act-like-I-hate-making-new-friends-to-keep-them-all-safe! In any case, I’ll tell them not to worry and that you’re still alive.

Hanna: …thanks…I guess.

Anna: You are coming back… right Hannavas?

Hanna: …… *sees the airship start to fall* Uhh… Listen, I really have to go now, so if you’ll just let me hang up on you…

Anna: Aww, but I wanted to tell you about the upgrade I recently made for your pendant and about the awesome battle I had the other day! You see, I have this friend named Jack and he was being chased by these two evil people. So I used the upgrade and he called some friends of his and then we were in this awesome battle with elements, swords, and sound! And there was this one guy named Jaron and he- *phone dies*

Hanna: There goes my first, last, and only phone conversation I’ve had in what feels like an entire week here... Even so, it was nice hearing from my original again… *Directs dragon toward the ground*


*Scene switch*


Brady: *Appears in vast, windy plain* *walks a bit* This is Tellius. Why didn't you tell me I'd have to come here?! *no answer* Oh well. Now... where am I exactly?... Okay. Got it. Now... where is everybody? It's cloudy out, but there's plenty of visibility. I don't see them anywhere... Well, I'm not even supposed to be here. I'd better get back to Thorae. Ace can take care of everyone else here, I suppose. They were beginning to get in the way, anyway... *Softly* Be safe, Hanna. For your sake this time... not mine.

Alzymus: *steps through portal*

Zione: Ha! Finally, I'm rid of those lackwits! *closes portal* Now, to stop the airship... *pulls out remote control device for airship* They really fell for that one.

Alzymus: Hey guys, welcome to Tellius! Zione should be appearing anytime now.


Brady: Now to just create my own portal out of here.

*Switches scenes to Ace*

Ace: Something tells me he's not coming, Alzymus. You think he ditched us?

*portal from Thorae disappears*

Alzymus: Apparently. Great...now I've got to catch him again.

Naomi: *pops up out of nowhere* I'm surprised you were bright enough to catch him the first time.

Ace: *sweatdrop* Well great. Now what?

Misty: ... I can't believe that he did that! Alzymus, what should we do now?

Ace: Well, at least the CS can't chase us here... I say we make the best of it and live here.

Naomi: LIVE here? Are you absolutely, positively, complete and utterly NUTS?! I can't live here. We've got to get back to Thorae! What would Jester think?

Ace: Jester?.... Oh yeah, him. Umm... Well I guess we shouldn't just leave him hanging like this. What do you think, Misty?

Misty: I'm still trying to get used to the fact that you just said we should live here. I can't believe that you of all people would be ready to give up! No, I think we should find a way to get back. And... hey, *looks around* where's Brady? I thought he had said something about him making portals too. Where is he?

Ace: Believe me. There really isn't much we could do even if we did make it back to Thorae. I've done my job to serve Brady. And I'm sure he's just fine. He'll make it back to Thorae.

Misty: Yeah, that's easy for you to say, but I live there. And there are... *thinks then says* reasons, why I have to go back. Now, are you going to help me or not?

Ace: I supposed I have no choice. But I think it would give me more reason to take you back if you told me those "reason" why you must live there.

Misty: hmmm... I see your point. Where should I start... Well I used to live on Earth, but my evil other kinda got lose and went all over the place. So I moved to Thorea to keep track of her. Make sense so far?

Alzymus: Interesting. I can take us back...but I don't know about Zione by this time. He's probably gone off doing something evil.

Naomi: Well, looks like you'll just have to catch him again! Now, take us back. Ace: I would imagine the airship has crashed already... right?

Alzymus: Probably.


*Meanwhile, back with Zione*


Zione: *lands airship safely* Heh...this was almost too easy! Time to take over this piece of junk. I'll just fly it somewhere safe and remodel it a little. *boards airship*

*A strange figure is seen flying in the sky. It looks like a person. The mysterious figure lands on the airship deck and enters it*

???: Wow, these guys have impressive machinery. But they need it. They're weak.

Zione: *senses new presence on deck and walks over* Hello...can I help you?

*The man just stares at Zione with a blank and bored expression*

???: I take it Ace and the others aren't here.

Zione: Who? Oh...you must mean those losers from before. No, they aren't here. But I am. Can I help you? Otherwise, I'm about to launch the airship again.

???: Heh, that's what I was gonna do. Anyway... yeah. They are losers. And that trick you pulled on 'em was pretty clever... So, kudos for that. Unfortunately for you, those losers are my comrades.

*Vigorously throws hood off revealing Jester, but with a much needed costume change. He is clad in tan dark pants, a gray, complex shirt, and a short, tan and black hooded jacket over it. He is also wearing headphones that go around the back of his head.*

Jester: I'm afraid you're using your evil for the wrong side... and that side is... er... evil! If that makes any sense! Now... I believe someone ordered a fight! Comin' right up! *All five elements swirl about him in a raging dance*

Zione: Great...just what I needed right now, another wacko. But I didn't order a fight, I just left your people in Tellius. Right about now, Alzymus should be getting the greeting I had arranged for him...too bad I have to be fighting you while it's happening. I had other plans for right now. But since you're in the way, I might as well vent a little anger. *darkness emanates from Zione* You really don't want to mess with me! *re-creates dark sword*

Jester: I don't believe we've had the pleasure of meeting. Allow this to be my greeting. *Sparks of plasma begin to flash down around Zione* Nobody around has been sufficient practice. I apologize if I'm getting a bit rusty. *Summons flame whip and hacks at Zione several times*

Zione: *creates diamond shield and blocks flame whip* Ah, the pleasure is all yours, I'm sure. Hopefully we can keep it short, because I do have other, more important things to be doing. I'm sure you understand. *creates and throws shuriken at Jester*

Jester: Shuriken? What is this, Japan?

*Creates a wind current to pick up the shuriken and throw them back at Zione*

Jester: And I wanted this to be nice and long. Don't pretend to have a more important agenda then everyone else!

Zione: *uses gravitational force to slow shuriken and catches them* I don't normally act holier-than-thou, but in this case......it's true. So I'm justified. Now please, let me be on my way, and I won't destroy you.

Jester: Tell me what you're up to, and maybe. *Shoots a huge beam of lightning from his hands*

Zione: You know, just stealing airships from people less deserving of them. Nothing you haven't done before, I'm sure. *shoots blast of water at lightning to create a small explosion*

Jester: Well, I've stolen an airship before. But, uh, not like THIS.

*Jumps over Zione's head and runs through the door and shuts and locks it*

Jester: That guy's no idiot. He'll find a way in sooner or later. I'd better hurry to the control room.

Zione: *disappears off deck* Heh...this'll show him who's boss. *reappears in control room* Oh Jester? Where are you?

Jester: *voice comes out of thin air* Not there! I'm in the control room, you fool. That would be... er well... a hallway. Hahahahahahahaa! *Imagery of the "control room" fades out and a hallway melts into view.* You didn't think I'd make it that easy for you, now did you? Where's the fun in that? HAHAHAHAHAA!

Zione: *growls* You really do live up to your name now, don't you? Just wait until I catch up to you...the king is unhappy with the Jester. And you know what that means...