*A Figure wielding a lance in high tech armor, And scoffs at what he has stumbled into and lets go his lance and it floats as he crosses his arms and looks around curiously* What has fate guided me to now.....

OOC: completely ignoring the initial post apparently

*Ruka is still sitting in the park with her boyfriend*

OOC:Sorry but i'm joining plus you said its 100% Open.

OOC: yes, just read the initial post and send me the required info, it’s not that hard. This is primarily going to involve individuals, and I cannot possibly build the scenario for you without the requested information. Thank you for your understanding “PM this account with your character’s innermost desires”. That’s why I asked you to read the initial post

OOC:What info am i supposed to send anyway?

OoC: You have your RP character. People have desires. What does your character desire the most? Send that as PM to Nex

OOC:I did @Ruka_Maaka. I'm waiting for a reply.

OOC: for some reason I haven’t received it. Perhaps try again?

OOC:I Sent it again.

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*Ruka’s boyfriend puts his arm around her and holds her close, typical couple stuff* B: really you are amazing, in every way. Who’d have thought the shy girl I once knew would become this great of a protector too? *The first thing Homura hears is a few familiar voices* V: Homura? Homura!!! Wake up silly. How can you even fall asleep like that? *when Homura opens her eyes, the first thing she sees is the smiling face of another middle-schooler. A smiling girl with pink hair and ribbons, one she’d recognize for sure as Madoka Kaname. Looking for longer and it seems that the two were resting at a bus stop in the city, a decrnt wats from home* M: if you don’t get up, we might be late to meet the others. Come on. *Madoka stands and pulls on Homura’s arm, trying to help her off the bus stop’s bench* *Akrius wakes up to find himself in a glass tube of sorts, in some hidden laboratory. He feels as though he knows the place, and knows he wants out. A few scientists are on the other side, apparently paying him no heed*

*A burst of violent rage is unleashing a psycho blast to break free and sends his lance in the air summoning apophis and having it cast panta rhei* I AM NO ONES TOOL!!!!

When have I ever been shy? *Ruka wonders*

The girl stares in shock for a moment, this place looks like home... What Happened for her to be back here? "Madoka? What do you mean the others? How did we get back to Mitakihara anyways? Last thing I remember we were in Tokyo on our own... This isn't possible right?" In spite of smiling at the other girl, she's clearly very confused as well. Oh well, hopefully it's as good as it seems! Homura nods to herself and takes Madoka's hand... Maybe following her will revel something?

*The psycho blast easily shatters the glass, it bursts outward, causing the scientists to panic and begin running. One of them trips, falling on the ground as the Phanta Rhei hits him and a few others. This scientist seems scared, but alive, cowering in the room* *Ruka’s boyfriend laughs and pats her back* B: maybe you don’t remember so well, but back when I first met you you could hardly talk to people. It was cute, really. *Madoka brightly laughs as she drags Homura behind her. She looks back with a smile as they run* M:”What do I mean the others”, how could you forget? We were going to Mami’s place. We’re supposed to meet her and Sayaka there. *Madoka slows down to a much more casual walking pace as the pair turns a corner* M:Are you sure you’re alright? You seem a little... Worried maybe.

As if! *She giggles a bit* I just lost my voice before I met you!

*I Walk out of the lab striking down anyone in my way Infuriated*

... "Is Kyoko there too? And that doesn't really explain how we got here does it Madoka?" The girl tilts her head, something seems very off here. But that can't be right can it? She shrugs and rubs the back of her head with a blush on her face "Heh, I guess I've just been kinda forgetful or something, sorry Madoka... Speaking of that, um well what happened with Walpurgisnacht?" A distrustful sort would rightly assume she's fishing for info at this point, of course if this really is Madoka that's not going to happen.

*Ruka’s boyfriend laughs with her as they watch the sunset* B: so it’s just around me then? Never would have thought that. It’s cute, in a way. *Thd one scientist in the room gets on his back and backs away from Akrius, panicked. He doesn’t seem to realize Akrius is trying to walk by, not at him* S: please, I beg of you, don’t hurt me. I.... I’ll do anything you want... J.... Just stay away. *Madoka giggles as the pair walk, occasionally waving at passing strangers. She doesn’t seem to understand the second question. * M: Well, you haven’t told me how you ended up moving here yet, but I think you’d know better than me. As for myself, I grew up in Mitakihara, been here all my life For Kyoko, well, you know how she is. Kyoko said she had something to do, but she usually shows up anyways. We’ll probably see her again. *Madoka slows further down, to the point of almost stopping thinking back on Walpurgisnacht. She looks back to Homura concerned* M: I kinda thought that one would stick at least. *Madoka smiles and strikes a Magical Girl pose, one of the passing strangers chuckles at her antics* M: you know what I keep telling you, never give up hope. Sure it was scary, but what one can’t accomplish, five can. And the world’s a much better place for it.

*Rain suddenly falls down, only to kill the mood* Dangit! It was actually getting quiet romantic! *Ruka gets all wet from the rain. Wetness. A feeling that feels new to her?*

I want you to tell me....WHAT INHUMANE THINGS DID YOU DO TO ME!? *I snarl at the scientist Wanting his blood on my lance for the malpractices and test done badly but i desire awnsers*

Homura rubs her chin in thought for a moment, Madoka seems... Perfectly normal for Madoka, which is to say entirely too nice. So maybe this is the real deal? "I see... Madoka what I really meant when I said how did we get here, we've been in some other world for a few months now. Don't you remember anything about that madhouse they called the Nexus? I can't be the only one right?" For a moment the girl considers summoning up her weapons, but then wisely decides not to on a busy street, regardless she's quite obviously very concerned about Madoka, and utterly unaware of what's going on for now... She simply looks into the other girl's eyes, Homura's face looking dead serious as she waits for an answer

*Well, it’s raining now so Ruka’s boyfriend laughs and helps her back up* B: looks like I lost track of time, my bad. Perhaps we should continue another time? I can walk you home at least. *The scientist cowers in fear of Akrius as he starts talking rapidly* I... It wasn’t much really we just.... We forced out your latent abilities, you were always a strange kid, so we ran a few tests and.... *gulp* p.... Please don’t kill me. I have a family. *Madoka looks at Homura concerned for a moment, before smiling and clapping her hands together* M: this is part of that story you wanted to tell us, isn’t it? That’s why you wanted to walk together, to fill me in so I could play along while you told Mami and Sayaka. *Madoka seems proud of herself as she laughs, finally looking aback at Homura with a twinkle in her eye* M: Alright, tell me what I need know, might wanna be quick if it’s a long one.

Mercy smiles upon you Today....

Yes, please... *Ruka things of the feeling of wetness, why it might be that she never felt wetness* Something is not right...

She looks as though the girl has grown a second head for a brief moment... Something is very obviously not as it should be here, could this be the barrier of some Witch that drains it's foes with happy dreams? Another dimension she's been tossed into, another Homura now in the Nexus having taken her place? Whatever the case it's clearly not normal. Either way she continues smiling and leans her head on Madoka's shoulder, not time to show her hand yet right? "Geez... Alright Madoka, um okay so to be quick here's the story, or at least parts of it anyways. So first thing that happened is when I got there, just woke up in some random alley in Tokyo with no clue what happened. Hung around a few days before I met you. Oh yeah I also found that other me, she was kinda the devil or something it's not totally clear frankly, um we met some people... Oh yeah I met Gamma too, a lot happened there, but we became friends in the end sorta. Also fought a bunch of Witches the usual." She takes a deep breath after going through all that, hopefully the reaction to this "story" will give some clue about what's really going on here. OOC: I'm just doing the very basic gist, uh assume she knows exactly what I said, or however much you want. Whichever is best for you.

*I leave the lab ready to expect the worst to come*

*The scientist takes a breath of realized and scurries out of Akrius’s way, leaving him free to exit* *Ruka’s boyfriend looks at her witch concern. It’s still raining, and his hair seems to be getting soaked* B: what is it? Are you sure you’re alright? *Madoka watches Homura intently as she tells about her time in the Nexus, looking about as close to serious as she gets. At the end she jumps a little, stopping herself as she feels Homura lean on her* M: That sounds amazing!! How do you come up with this stuff? Was it a dream? Oh, right, you needed my help. Did you want me to act out the part of the other people when you tell everyone? *Hillock wakes up in bed at home. His codec seems to be ringing, perhaps he overslept? Regardless, it’s unrelenting* OOC: phone’s at 5% so if I die before next update We’ll continue in about 2 hours

U-Uhhhhgg... W-What is it.... I-I'm going, I'm going! *Groaning on bed, fully clothed from work, a black haired Neko slowly rolled over...* G-Geez... *beep* *Already sitting at the border, Hill took his hand to his ear, activating his codec* Y-Yeah? Wolf here. What is it?

*Ruka touches her shoulder subconsciously with no effect, and then realizes what her boyfriend said* Oh, ugh, yeah, everything is alright. I think I am just getting a cold, hence why my mind is hazy. *She grabs onto his arms* Lets walk home

Homura grins and nods, issues aside... She might as well have fun here right? And real or no this is definitely like Madoka enough to be.. Nice. "Yeah it'll be great! Come on Madoka let's go see everyone now!" She grabs hold of Madoka's hand and begins darting off for Mami's house, fake city or otherwise, Homura knows exactly how to get around it by now.

*Akrius leaves the lab, what few scientists remain scatter, he finds himself coming out on a hillside, the entrance cleverly hidden in the scenery* *Ruka’s boyfriend laughs, and the pair walks a ways back to a park shelter, where the boyfriend grabs an umbrella to protect them both from the rain* B: very well, when are you available to meet up again? I know you can be busy, but surely you can make time for me. *Hill picks up his Codec, and hears Raven’s voice on the other side* R: I was just about ready to give up. It’s been a while since everyone’s been together, hasn’t it? What do you think about a meet up, the whole investigation team, and Robin too of course. *Madoka seems a little surprised by Homura’s sudden burst of excitement, but soon breaks into a run with her, after almost running into a few people they arrive at Mami’s apartment and ring the doorbell. Mami opens it almost instantly, smiling at the two* Mami: There you two are. *Mami briefly turns back inside to speak to another* Mami: I told you there would be nothing to worry about. They were just running a little late. *Mami opens her door wide, she seems to have prepared a little tea party, per usual, with a small cake prepared to be served with the tea. There are places set for 5 people, but only Sayaka can be seen inside, already starting on her cake*

A change of scenery is a good sense to the mind....But I should Purge this place one day....That damned lab.....For good. *I roam into the forest*

*Hiill's body relaxed a lot after hearing Raven's voice, forming a faint smile as he looked down...* Oh, Rav... hehe, I guess I overlslept tonight... *Blinking his eyes a little, trying to get rid of the feeling of tiredness, Hill looked out of the window, still with his hand on the ear* Yeah, is been too long... after such month, maybe is noce to meet up woth the rest... where are you?

Homura's face turns to a sly grin, for some reason she's feeling like causing some mischief now. "Actually Mami-senpai, we got into a fight with a Witch... That's why we're so late, right Madoka?" She winks at the pink haired girl, obviously she's enjoying this whole thing too much. Heh, too bad Kyoko isn't around yet. "Yeah it was one of the toughest we've seen I'd say... But don't worry Senpai we had everything under control!" In spite of her cheerful joking, Homura still glances around looking for anything out of place... She'll get to the bottom of this regardless of if she wants to.

OOC: My apologies for the wait, phone died almost as soon as I posted *Akrius wanders into a nearby forest, its mostly unoccupied, for a long time he only finds several animals, after almost an hour, he stumbles upon a cottage out in the woods* *Raven laughs lightly when Hill mentions oversleeping before she speaks up* R: Right now I'm on my way to that cafe you mentioned frequenting. What was it called again? Leblanc? We decided that might be the best place to meet up, especially since I don't have everyone's numbers. Of course, you can invite anyone you want too. *Madoka is clearly surprised, but she scratches the back of her head, sort of recovering her composure and supports Homura* Madoka: Yeah, it was pretty big. Nothing we couldn't handle though. We've gotten a lot of practice thanks to you after all. *Mami looks down briefly, before smiling back to the girls* Mami: Well, I'm glad you're alright, you'll have to tell us about it sometime, but for now, come on in. *Sayaka looks up from her cake to wave at Madoka and Homura* S: Come on, you've kept me waiting long enough. I was just about to start on yours too. *Mami finally looks back and notices Sayaka's almost finished slice* Mami: Now then, what have I told you about letting everyone arrive? Its rude to start. And besides, now you'll have to watch the rest of us. *Sayaka blushes a little and scratches the back of her head, clearly she didn't think that far ahead*

Hmm....*I go to investigate the cottage*

(Got room for me?)

OOC: go ahead, just DM me the info from the top. Afraid I likely lost some players in that time anyways.

*Hill nodded energically, slowly waking up* Yeah, I might call some friends... is been really lomg since I saw everyone... LeBlanc you say: alright. I will get dressed and get on my way. Later Rav!

OOC: Still here mate

(Well, is 00:18 for me... could we hold mine for later? If it's not too much...)

(Or I could still participate, but with shitty wifi)

OOC: Yeah, we can easily do your tomorrow, or whenever. Get some sleep m8. you're one of the ones I assumed I lost.

(Awwww! But you didn't! I'm still ready for some Inception action! And I'd like tu see Aitome's dream too. So I'll stay here a lottle longer)

(Aye, I sent it, if you need more I can try to find something? Also am I truly that interesting? You should really get some sleep if you need it)

(Hey! I mean, is been one full month since the last time I got here! And Gamma worked really hard) (Tomorrow is going to be rough, but I want to continue a little more... I would feel bad leaving him hanging like this)

OOC: I have no problems waiting m8, we've got plenty of time.

OOC:I can wait also

(Uhhhh... well. Ok. If you say so... I still feel a little bad for Kuro and Gamma... but I guess is no use) (Tomorrow I might go to study with a friend, but I will surely come here later)

OOC: Sorry about the delay, I was lost in the land of BlazBlue. Homura giggles for a moment, her face turns to a smirk as she sits down, pointing Madoka to sit next to her. "Heh... That was just a joke Mami-senpai we didn't really get into a fight, oh good quick thinking though Madoka I'm impressed! Anyways it's good seeing you all again... Now I just need to see Kyoko again, that'll be fun." The girl behind tear I into her own cake, certainly she shouldn't get attached... But even so this world is very nice, it's nice to finally see all her friends rather than just Madoka.

Aitome awakens in the new place, rubbing her eyes and standing up slowly, talking to herself as she gets accustomed to the new place Hmm? What happened? It's not often that I get completely knocked out... I wonder what this place is?

OOC: The main reason for the wait on this one was having to fill out a FAFSA, fortunately it gave Homu time to respond *Akrius walks up to the cottage, he finds the door to be unlocked, and inside an old man is eating. He doesn't seem to have noticed the open door yet. THe cottage is plainly decorated, with very little to talk about, but it feels warm and homely* *Hillock will be delayed until when he next has time. Good luck my friend* *Aitome wakes up inside of a large, metal room. She seems to have been leaning against a wall, and wakes up to a loud clanging nearby. She's not entirely sure of the voices as her ears are still ringing* V1: Oh come on, how can you fall asleep at a time like this? Am I SERIOUSLY the only competent person here V2: We going? V1: Yeah yeah, just have to wake up our friend here. *Madoka's face almost seems to glow as she happily sits between Homura and Sayaka. Mami can't help but chuckle at the two* Mami: Alright, alright Homura-chan. I was just a little worried, after all, there haven't been as many witches around recently, I thought they may have just been hiding better. *Sayaka seems relieved that the subject has left her manners, she leans in close to Madoka and puts one arm around her* Sayaka: Its no problem Mami-senpai, you've taught us well. As long as we're together I'm sure there's no problem we can't solve. *Madoka smiles and shrinks a little under Sayaka's attention, soon she starts eating herself. About halfway through, she seems to realise something and stands* Madoka: I almost forgot, wasn't there some story you wanted to tell us Homura?

*I Walk in side then use my telekinesis to make less noise*

Aitome jumps back at the sudden blast of noise, brushing up against the wall, clearly a little frightened as she draws her shortsword, looking around for the voices and calling out to them H-huh? Who's there?!? D-dont make me hurt you!

Homura looks a bit put out at Sayaka acting so... Touchy feely? She's entirely sure why it bugs her, but considering this isn't real should she let it? The girl sighs and wraps her own arm around Madoka, it's time to start the show. "Yeah... Not that long ago I fought Walpurgisnacht, I lost just like normal. But then as time turned back, rather than waking up in an all too familiar hospital bed. I found myself in a back alley in Tokyo. I wandered for a while, took a bit to get anywhere with the kinda people I was looking for, but once I found it... Magic seemed to be all over the place, and anyone who knew anything called it the Nexus." She pauses and looks around, getting a bit more comfortable up against Madoka as she breathes in sharply. "Anyways after that I just kinda stumbled across Madoka, and another version of myself... Madoka was just like she's always been, the other me? She was the most terrifying Witch I've met. Power beyond Walpurgisnacht, all in a human form. But anyways from there I just kinda hunted and stayed alive, met a few friends. Eventually found my way into the barrier of Charlotte in fact, only it wasn't quite normal and she didn't leave a grief seed.” Homura takes a moment to consider just how much she's saying here, it probably sounds insane but even so... That's the truth. "To sum it up, after that I just kept going... Till I stumbled on another Witch like that, and suddenly as I left her barrier? I found myself waking up her next to Madoka, so mind explaining what the hell happened?" The girl's voice goes a bit lower and slightly threatening at the last part, they'd probably recognize this as her trying to sound like Kyoko in fact.

*Akrius makes his way inside the cottage, the old man still hasn't seen him, instead he's focused on eating. There's very little of note in the building, though Akrius seems to have found the old man's pantry, there is some bread and simple cheeses, its obvious that the man is poor* *Aitome finds a familiar, lavendar-haired figure standing near her in the large, metallic room to be the source of the first voice. Leaning against a nearby wall is a blue-haired figure she feels like she may never see again. He doesn't speak much. Finally, Pathic can be seen somewhere between them closer to the door* G: Oh come on, are you always like this? M: ... G: Thanks for the input. Anyways, shouldn't we be going? Kinda have to get it done sometime. *Gamma sighs and leads the group outside the door, turning down the hallway to their left* *Madoka, Mami, and Sayaka listen to Homura intently, their eyes peeled, they listen to the story, seemingly entertained.... Until the end, when their interest turns to concern. Madoka's the first to speak up* Madoka: Are you alright Homura? I thought it was... *Mami clears her throat and casts Madoka a glance to silence her before smiling back at Homura, hands clasped together* Mami: Its amazing that you were able to come up with such an intricate story, are you sure its not something from your dreams? *Sayaka on the other hand, seems rather unconcerned, she lets go of Madoka for a few moments and shrugs* Sayaka: Maybe Homura's just making it up. I mean, she did lie about a witch earlier. Clearly she's in some kinda fantastical mood today.

*I think and not take but now i struggle to ask what is my purpose*

G-gamma? Wh-what are you doing here?!? Aren't you supposed to be d- Aitome then stops herself, what could be happening here? Perhaps she shouldn't say that her "friend" is dead, that might throw everything into jeopardy, so instead she nods and sheathes her sword, taking up the rear and talking to Pathetic Say... isn't Gamma supposed to... you know... not be around? Isn't something a little strange here?

Suddenly the girl's shield appears on her wrist, and a gun loaded with wind Dust rounds rushes into her hand. The girl shows them said bullets before a blast of air bursts from her pistol. Slamming into the wall with a loud thud. "I can assure you that I did not find weapons such as these in this city Miki Sayaka, you should knew very well by now that my magic doesn't control the elements, only time and in some small ways space..." The weapons vanish as she sighs, Homura had hoped to avoid having to use such brute force means but it'll do nonetheless, time to start acting like this is what it is, a possible fight looking to happen. "Now then I ask of you again, what has happened and where am I? This is all far too good for belief so frankly... I don't believe it's true, if you can't or won't tell me what's going on I'll be forced to do so myself, regardless of this being quite nice I've got to head back soon. So please don't make a fuss out of it..." Homura sounds a bit unsure by the very end, but mostly it simply shows resolve, and a reluctant willingness to do what she thinks needs to be done.

*Not much changes for Akrius, he seems to be having an internal struggle. The old man almost seems to have finished his meal* *Pathic looks back at Aitome blankly as they proceed down the hallway* P: I'm a little surprised too, but yes, he got here just fine. I could say the same about you *soon, the group reaches a door at the end of the hallway. The door seems odd. It's metal, as all the doors are, but seemingly has no lock. A powerful force can be felt beyond the door, and you question in your mind "do you want to go on?* *As for Homura, Madoka and the others are surprised by the sudden burst of air, Mami reacts quickly, turning into her magical girl outfit, a few ribbons come out as Homura fires, but as the situation calms down, they retract, leaving Mami to stand between Homura and the others, protectively* Mami: Homura!! Stop this nonsense now. It was funny at first, but can't you see you're going too far? *At this moment, Kyoko bursts in the door, spear ready, looking around hastily* Kyoko: What's going on? I heard a loud crash and something like a gunshot, Where's the familiar or whatever the hell it is you're shooting at?

The girl sighs and laughs, her shield once more forming and the gears of and endless clock grind to a halt. Homura on the other hand dashes past Kyoko, the past few months having taught her that far is the best place for her in anything remotely dangerous. So once she's about 50 feet away the girl begins shouting to them. "Nonsense huh? I'm sorry to tell you that I'm not the one saying nonsense here Mami-Senpai... I'd love for things to be this way, but as The Incubator says. "Hope and Despair balance out to zero." So I just can't believe this is true, and it's good to see you Kyoko... But anyways I guess you really can't tell me what's going on? If not, then I really do need to figure it out myself." Homura's words are tense and clipped, it's fairly obvious she's ready to use that shield long before Mami or anyone could do something... But hopefully it won't be needed. OOC: Soul Gem, 5% dark.

Why is this happening to me!?

Huh? Hmm.. I guess you don't know either... Aitome begins to think to herself, talking to the voices in her head, wondering if she entered one of these alternate realities, perhaps she could actually change fate now, it's worth a shot, as the question rings in her head she stands her ground, yelling out Um! I don't think we should enter that door Gamma! Perhaps we should try another route? Why are we even here again?

*Madoka runs towards Homura at first, before Mami holds out one arm to stop her* Mami: That's enough, let her go. I don't know what's going through Homura's head, but she clearly needs some time. *Mami casts a surprisingly cold glare at Kyoko before she is able to head out herself* Mami: That includes you. Just give her some time, I'm sure it'll be alright. Kyoko: You've gotta- Mami: No arguing, now, you're already here, why don't you help us put my apartment back together? Its partially your fault anyways. *Madoka and the others remain inside the apartment, straightening it up as Homura gets a good distance away. Soon she hears a different kind, almost motherly voice a short distance behind her* V: What is it that troubles you child? Is this not what you wanted? *The old man slowly turns his head upon hearing Akrius's outburst. He seems wisened by his many years, and is having a hard time trying to stand* OM: What is wrong? That's certainly a strange way to greet someone. But I don't mind. Its been so long since I had any visitors. *Gamma rolls his eyes and sighs* G: I don't have the slightest clue why you idiots are following me, but I kinda need something here. Now come on, we don't have all day. *and so, Gamma slowly opens the door and steps inside, finding a massive machine sitting in the middle of the room. It is a bulky, black, smooth, sleek mass of metal and rubber. It's "eyes", akin to car lights, emit a bright light, iluminating the path ahead of it. It's arms, bulky, cylindrical masses, emiting electricity from thick, covered wires -mocking that of fingertips-.*

Gamma you moron! *Aitome then takes a breath as she draws her sword, eyes glowing pure white, determined to change fate, as she stands at the ready, staring down the mechanical mess Okay... you got this Aitome... just don't let anybody die... easy right? Nothing to do but to change fate, should be easy... *Aitome then turns to Gamma and shouts out, her resolve unnerving Keep on your toes okay Gamma? That thing is dangerous!

Homura smirks to herself, in spite of perhaps getting a bit too worked up, at the least she's found who did this from the looks of things. "This is exactly what I want... But I don't want to live my life in some dream I didn't even work towards, we humans are funny like that, or I am anyways. If my goal isn't reached on my own then what's the point? This isn't saving the world I've worked for over and over, just having some fantasy conjured up. So what's the dammed point of something like this huh!?" Homura's face shows clear contempt, an unbecoming expression for her to be sure. But nevertheless her anger at this world being made is clear, Homura Akemi tenses up ready to deflect an attack if needed, she considers trying to drag the copies in... But they're liable to turn against her if this woman attacks so no bet there.

......What is my purpose....

*The machine roars and takes the electricity and sends it towards a giant magnetic spiky ball nearby it. The ball is lifted by the electricity, forming a chain of sorts, and is thrown in the direction of the group entering the door. Gamma forms a wall of ice in order to protect the group. Meanwhile, Pathic uses Agidyne, forming a jet of fire up from under the machine* G: I'll be fine, just stop standing there and fight it already. *Homura turns around to find a young, blond woman in a fancy, medieval high-priestess's garb. Her eyes are brown, but there's a faint blue light behind them. She is smiling at Homura, despite the harsh words. Her voice is very calm and even* P: What's the point? My poor child, do you not understand? This place is made of your wishes, your desires. It is somewhere for you and the others to live in peace and serenity, safe from the sorrows that assail you. Is that truly not enough? *The priestess doesn't seem to be ready to fight, though Homura can't help but feel a strange power from somewhere near the woman* *The old man looks at Akrius calmly, he sits back down, and gestures for Akrius to approach* OM: Child, there's no need to worry. I know life can be strange, and scary sometimes, but that's ok. There's no need for a greater purpose, just living is enough.

Heh.. good to know this one isn't much different, just stay focused! Aitome shakes her head and smiles, running behind the newly erected ice wall and standing right on the side of it, using the wall to protect herself before firing her own inferno in the form of Agidyne straight at the mechanical hazard thanks for the delet button botmaster

My purpose is to....Live....?

The girl tries to hone in on whatever that power is, she's not taking chances with magic after all the shit that she's seen up to now... In spite of this though the girl tries to put up a front of not looking hostile. "For me? No it's not enough unless I reach those desires with my own two hands, and besides. Life's not peaceful or serene for people like us, I won't allow myself to just live a lie as people in need get themselves killed by Witches and who knows what else." Homura pushes her glasses up, in spite of everything she's feeling rather calm about the events before her, hands slipping into her pockets, though with her shield still ready. Homura simply observes the person before her beyond that. "I'm very grateful that you want to help, but I'd prefer to go back to... It's not my home, but in a way I guess it is? Either way that madhouse we call the nexus is where I need to be, so please take me there and I'll not trouble you further."

*The flames scorch the machine, though not too badly, it seems more annoyed than anything. Gamma attempts to restrain the machine with his Maeigaon tendrils, while Minato has trumpeter support him and Pathic snaps his fingers, forming bubbling lava to form below it* *The old man laughs and gestures for Akrius to sit across from him* OM: That's all the purpose any of us have really, to live life and enjoy it. I mean, look at me? Do you think I have no purpose just because I can't walk. *The old man gestures to his legs, and Akrius finally notices, the chair he was sitting in has wheels* *On Homura's end of things, the young woman looks down for a moment, contemplatively, before nodding and taking out a small, falcon-shaped amulet, it seems to be one of the sources Homura noticed earlier, though there are still more on the person* P: But its not just for you, its for everyone, no one will need saving anymore.... *sigh* there's nothing I can do to dissuade you, is there? Very well, in order to leave you have to pass through me, the keeper of the dream. Do your best child, show me you have the will to go and face your sorrows. *The priestess clasps her amulet and begins to chant as the amulet begins to grow* P: Oh divine wings, descend.....

As usual, her shield clicks and a shotgun warps into her hands, the girl darts towards whoever this is and takes aim at the amulet, it's likely that'll the spread will hit the woman as well, but she can likely take it. Either way the blast flies at her and halfway through it's path time snaps back to life, hopefully she's not fast enough to dodge? "I meant you no harm miss, but even so I won't allow you to stand between myself and Madoka! If I don't get back out there who knows what could happen to her... So that's will I do whatever it takes to leave!" Soul Gem 15%.

I see now.....Failure is to be overcome....And is not a reason to put one self to death. Thank you...

*The young woman's chant is of course, halted in the stopped time. When time resumed she continues* P:..... Once more and bring ho-- *At this moment, the shots connect, striking her hands and arms and forcing her to drop the amulets.... Where the shots connect, small wounds are left behind, from which a thin, wispy-white mist comes out* P: Don't you understand? All you have to do is wait, allow me and my goddess to save everyone. Then not only will you be safe, Madoka will be safe, everyone you know will be fine. She.... *The priestess hesitates for a moment, before taking a deep breath* P: Just.... Please, stop... *The woman concentrates. In a moment, a long staff with a diamond-shaped head appears in her hands. She focuses on the staff, and it begins glowing at the end* *The machine hardly seems to notice Gamma's attempts, however, Aitome manages to force a significant amount of lava inside of it, damaging and burnings its circuits from the inside. Its outer shell seems to start melting and it lets out a pained roar which shakes the very room. It doesn't seem like it'll last long* G: Ha! Finally, looks like its time for our last push, make it flashy everyone. Shiranui, Diamond Dust Variation..... *The old man smiles at Akrius, as though they were old friends* OM: Its nothing really, I'm glad to have been able to share a little of my wisdom. Thank you for coming to me, I so rarely receive visitors.

Aitome begins to charge up an attack but then stops, looking over at Gamma for a second and realizing that something is definitely off, as she draws her evoker and stands at the ready, keeping it at her side for now, while aiming her shortsword at Gamma ready to attack or defend a strike Make it a good one! Ill be waiting!

Homura sighs, clearly the woman can't be reasoned with. So rather then halting time she simply draws and tosses a bomb right at the woman's head sets itoff quickly. those words... Tch, just like something the Incubator would say really, not a chance she'd buy into it. "You may say that, but I've got no reason to believe you! I've heard so called higher powers promising me the world before! And I've gained nothing but grief and despair from taking his words to heart, so why the hell would I think this is different!?" Homura's face shows outright rage at this point, seems how many bad memories this is stirring up does her no favors. And the once light gem grows a bit darker. OOC: Soul Gem 20% dark.

G: Frozen Slasher *Gamma makes use of the metaverse enhancements to leap backwards, he forms more tendrils and attached them to the roof, swinging towards the wall to evade the blades before kicking off towards the machine itself. A super-sharp blade of ice forms on the back of Gamma's right wrist as he attempts to use it to slice through the machine's right arm, landing behind the monstrosity. Pathic launches another stream of fire at the creature, while Minato seems to be very focused on doing nothing. The machine creates another piece of scrap metal, to block Gamma's attack. However, the machine digs its feet into the ground, in an attempt to resist the impact of the other attacks. It gets backed into a corner, with nowhere to run. In what was either a last ditch effort or a spiteful attack, it wraps hundreds of thick wires around Gamma's arms and legs, restraining his movement.* G: What the..... *Homura's bomb blasts the woman off her feet, interrupting her attempted cast. Reality seems to bend in the air around Homura, its hard to describe, but she feels as though its important. Meanwhile, the young woman gets to her feet* P: Nexus is..... *She looks back down at the ground, thinking for a moment, before standing and walking towards the rift* P: I don't know anymore.... I... I've tried to help, but.... Perhaps... Perhaps she cannot save everyone? *The woman seems uncertain, she looks around, almost as though afraid of being caught, before turning back to Homura* P: If you so wish, you can go through the chasm, that will lead you out of the dream, back to reality... Or... If you prefer.... I could.... Shift you. To another dream, another dreamer. There are all sorts of people in here. If you can think of one, and there's a connection, I could take you to them. Otherwise, I can simply bring you to someone at random...

The girl seems to ponder things for a moment, she might as well help someone out... Not like there's anything that pressing going on, as far as she knows. "Alright, I guess just send me somewhere, uh if you think I'm especially needed anywhere I'll do that? I'm just looking to help as I can ya know."

Time seems to slow for Aitome as she reviews the choices in her head, she could save Gamma or let him die, on one hand she knows that something is off about this whole situation, but she can't deny the wanting to save a life, even if its not the real one, she then shakes her head and speaks Not on my watch! Vestal! Trinity Shield! Aitome spins around and draws her evoker, shooting herself with the gun as a golden bell toll behind her, sending a pale barrier in front of Gamma, deflecting the strikes he would take to Aitome instead hopefully protecting him You are not allowed to die just yet!

*The machine launches a fierce blade at Gamma, just in time for Aitome's barrier to pop up, the force shakes her, and knocks her to the ground, but overall it doesn't seem as bad as she'd have though. Gamma slashes with his blade, cutting through the wires around him* G:I.... I didn't.... *sigh*, whatever, you're mine now asshole. *Gamma takes a deep breath and pulls out a card, it begins to glow with a faint blue fire* G:Forgotten Legend: Lantern Dragon's Passing. *Almost at once a spiral of freezing blue fire surrounds and constricts the machine, it enters the circuits and freezes them, causing the machine to cease any and all movements.. Instead, it collapses to the ground while the rest of the ground stands there. Gamma sighs and walks over to Aitome, offering a hand* G: I... *sigh* Look, thanks for back there, just... Take care of yourself too, alright? *As for Homura, the priestess smiles before concentrating on her staff. She almost seems to be searching for something. Though her eyes remain close, in a little while she speaks* P: Well, it seems there is a connection for you. You're in someone's dream.... I believe you mentioned having met them in the Nexus? Something about a witch. Regardless, allow me to shift you to them. Just come over here, grab my staff, and I'll be able to take you with me.

Aitome falls to the ground with a yelp and stares at the nearby destruction, sighing a breath of relief and slowly getting up with a bit of help, smiling even though she got hit pretty badly Heh... hehe... perhaps I finally did something good, even if this Gamma isn't the real one... Aitome then responds to Gamma with a step in her voice, being a lot more cheerful than usual Hehe! You be careful as well! That strike could have been deadly! I can take care of myself fine if I know that you'll be okay as well!

*Gamma sighs and shakes his head, looking around the room* G: Yeah.... I know. But there's really no reason to worry about me, is there? I... I'm just fine on my own after all. *The others look at the wreckage for a moment, apparently satisfied, though if anything Gamma seems dissappointed* G: I bet that thing is totally trashed now. Too bad, I was hoping to get something out of it at least. Oh well, no use crying over spilt milk I guess.

Aitome shakes her head and sighs a happy sigh, knowing Gamma this was to be expected, however, a part of her still wanted there to be a bit more You know! There are people who care about you! Me included! Even if you try to keep us away we'll just crawl back! Even Leader care a great deal about you! Besides, you wouldn't have helped him out in the strange light area if you didn't care for him either! Aitome then looks away for a second, reminding herself of what happened last time, staring at the blade in her hand and back at Gamma I saw you die in another time you know.. I don't think I can handle seeing you die again... but...

OOC: sorry about this, but well it’s getting pretty late so I’ll have to continue this another time. When are you available for me to bump this?

(No problem at all! just @ me on discord when you are on tomorrow and we can make it work! Im usually on after 12pm PST tomorrow)

I am currently not really busy, so I have plenty of time

OOC: a brief reminder, this thread can be entered at ANY TIME so long as you send me the prerequisite information from up top. Now then, it seems a few have gathered so I will begin typing an update once more. If there are any who have already completed theirs around, there’s still more you can do of course.

*Raven laughs a little and speaks brightly* R: of course you will, I look forward to seeing you there Hill. *and with that, the call is cut off.* *Ruka’s boyfriend laughs as they reach her home. His voice is confident and positive* B: alright then, Is the same time tomorrow alright? That’s around when I get off of work, I should be able to meet you then too.

Alright! *Ruka now being at home looks for stuff that might have her boyfriends name on it. After hours of search, she finds his schoolbag. She searches it thouroughly and finds the books with a pale look on her face* They... They are all blank, no name anywhere! *She found multiple things that should have his name on it, yet it was all blank* This has to be a joke! Why don't I know his name? Is this a dream or something?

*Over in Aitomeland Gamma looks down at the wreckage and sighs. He picks up a few broken off pieces and tosses them away, his back still turned* G: Look.... It’s..... Kinda hard for me to say. Its.... Its not that I don’t care... *there’s a long pause at this point. Gamma? seems to be struggling to say something* G: I do... I just, don’t know how to say it I guess. *he doesn’t seem to have heard Ai’s last sentence. Instead he remains kneeling near the wreckage*

Aitome stares at her blade once again, questioning herself, this is what she wanted right? To change an unfortunate fate, then why did it feel so halfhearted? Don't know how to say it? I don't really understand. Is there something wrong? You can trust me! I trust you after all! Aitome then slowly walks over to Gamma, blade in hand as she points the sharp end right at his back, doubts floating in her head, which was the right choice here? Perhaps it's fine that this Gamma wasn't completely real?

*Gamma sighs and stands he doesn’t bother turning around. He just looks on past the wreckage* G: it’s ok Aitome. You can do whatever you need to. It’s fine. As long as it makes you happy. *a faint smile seems to spread across Gamma’s face, though it’s hard to tell while his back is turned* G: that’s good enough for me.

*Being confused, Ruka goes to sleep to clear her head*

.... whatever makes me happy? Aitome then raises her blade slowly, preparing for a singular strike, heart rate quickening, breath growing shorter, eyes starting to go wide, before slashing the blade down, just missing Gamma and putting it away with a spin, turning her back to Gamma No... I can't... one person shouldn't have all this power... I should leave this place and head back to my own reality, perhaps the Aitome in this world will be better than me, but I have to accept this death. Aitome then begins to walk away slowly, sniffing a bit as she leaves the room, leaving this Gamma to his own devices

*Aitome leaves the room and walks out into the palace’s metal hallway. Soon, she feels a familiar hand on her shoulder, and hear’s Gamma’s voice again* G: there is no other you, no deaths. You don’t want to leave me alone again, so don’t. It’ll be easy. *soon, she hears another voice, that of her precious Leader* L: here, there’s no need for tears, no loss. You can truly be happy.

Aitome swings around at the sudden touch, very confused and bewildered Wh-what? But this isn't my world! Gamma your supposed to be dead! Even if this is a different time it isn't my time! It's a fate that I'm not supposed to have! Even if I have the power... Aitome then sees Leader and takes a step back, confused at why he would be here, he's not supposed to be here, something is very off L-leader?!? What are you doing here? I don't remember seeing you since you disappeared again... what's going on... Aitome then racks her brain for answers, none of this is adding up, but, does it have to make sense? Gamma is alive, Leader is here, what more could she want? N-no... I have to go back.. this is not real...

*Gamma sighs and shakes his head* G: of course this isn’t real L: but does that really matter? *Lux? Steps closer to Aitome, his metal feet clanking against the floor* L: it is real enough. G: all you have to do is stay. *Aitome hears another, calm, motherly voice behind her. She sounds as though she is trying to be patient with an unruly child* V: can’t you see? There’s no need to struggle, no more need for sorrow, for pain. All it ever does is make people miserable, hurt. Why fight serenity? Just remain here, in peace.

So it is not real. Why should I care th- Aitome then gets cut off by the voice, turning towards the voice she begins to speak again, putting her hand on the hilt of a katana, a faint light seems to glow from the blade as her hand meets the shaft Why should I fight this? That's a good question.. it's fake thats why, I can't cloud my vision with false images, or else its simply empty, and I never want to be empty ever again, thats why I'm sorry for this, even if you are fake... Aitome then draws the katana and fire seems to blade from the blade, lighting up the area with a red glow before Aitome slashes Gamma and Leader, a pained look on her face forming, putting the blade away on her back again she as breathes deeply Maybe staying here would make me happy, but life is nothing without pain or death, it makes you appreciate the things you have at the moment, thats why I'm not content here...

(Beep?) (How are things, Gamma? Think you can take care of one more dream)

*Aitome’s Blade passes through Gamma and Lux easily, a short ways into them they seem to burst into a faint white mist. The calm motherly voice from behind them continues speaking* V: it’s only natural for people to seek happiness and avoid pain. Even now, you’ve been avoiding something, haven’t you? An unpleasant thought, an unpleasant idea. *Soon, the mist coalesces once more into the shape of Gamma, he smiles at Aitome* G: but that’s fine, there’s no need to worry anymore. *as with Gamma, so too does Lux reappear* L: but don’t cry, after all Both: soon there will be no more sorrow. OOC: of course I can, first round I ran 4 in detail, recently I ran 3, 2 is nothing. Just respond to post 93 up there

Wh-what..? Aitome stares at the misty figures, confused once again about how this is possible, listening to the strange voices and standing there, completely stunned I've been avoiding something? What do you mean? I've faced myself multiple times now, I dont think there is anything to hide. Aitome then puts her hands together and flames erupt from them, not doing anything with them just yet but waiting No more sorrow? I don't understand... how can you do that? People aren't so easily dictated...

*Gamma’s figure chuckles, he pulls out a card, it’s long and etched with Japanese characters, though it’s illegible, Gamma? Holds it up for a moment before putting it back* G: I don’t mind, after all, no reason to dwell on anything so unpleasant MV: Already much of the world is wrapped in the Almighty’s embrace, just as you are. L: And soon, they all will, and the day of salvation will come. All three: the day when the world’s sorrows are extinguished forever. *the person behind Aitome steps forward and puts their delicate, feminine hand on her shoulder* MV: anything is possible as long as you call upon a miracle. Rest easy child, your struggles are over.

(Sorry, back here!) Call ended. Taking his time to really wake up, Hill didn't noticed how he was fully clothed. He didn't really minded, though. Is been a long time since he could see everyone...

The almighty embrace? What do you mean? Everything seemed to be the same to me.. *Aitome looks towards the voice as it places its hand on her shoulder, speaking up and attempting to fight back against the will to give up, the flames slowly softening to an orange wisp, But what my friends? Their stuggles are my struggles as well! I can't rest knowing that they are in need...

*for convenience sake, I’m going to assume that, after a while, Hill decides to leave his home in order to meet up at the familiar cafe. He navigates the city streets and soon he finds Gamma standing outside the doorway, tossing and catching a shard of ice* *Aitome turns around to find a young woman with long, blonde hair. She’s dressed in an old-fashioned priestess’s robe and holds a long staff, with a diamond-shaped end. On each corner of the diamond is a small amulet, depicting a falcon, one showing a fierce executioner, another showing a young man in a tornado, and finally, a tall being with long-flowing robes and a skull for a head. The woman smiles at Aitome* W: Many of your friends are already within the dream. Their struggles are over, as can yours. Soon, Salvation will come for all, and the world will know peace.

!! Hey, but if it's Gamma! Heh, is been so long, wonder how he i- ?! Hill suddenly felt a bitter pain on his head... like a light headache... something wrong here, Gamma was... but... U-Uhhhg... no... it couldn't be... was it a bad dream? Shaking his head, Hill regained his smile, as he aproached Gamma Hey Gamma! I'm glad you got here! Is been a pretty long time...

They are already in the dream? I guess I don't need to do anything else then, if the world is okay and my friends are safe then my work is done... Aitome then closes her eyes and sighs, the flames disappearing completely however she then opens her eyes and stares into the mist But still... I feel so... hollow, as if I never did anything, how can I live like this?

*Gamma sighs and turns to Hillock still catching his ice* G: yeah, it has been a while, hasn’t it? I was going to enter, but it seems there’s already quite a party here, isn’t there? I.... I’ve never been too great in a crowd. *The young woman looks at Aitome with concern. There’s a faint blue light in her eyes, and.... Something else. Fear? Doubt?* W:W.... What do you mean? Surely you can find peace here.... Yes? She cannot go wrong. Just accept this new reality, and there will be no more pain ........ No more fear. No more sorrow. Can’t you do this?

Hill nodded, leaning on the wall at Gamma's side Yeah, sorry about that... with the hurry, I couldn't fill you on the details: Raven decided to call all the FIS members. I also called a few friends, and you of course! I should have thought about it a little more, sorry... Hill looked down for a little, in silence, before talking again So... how have you been?

Aitome frowns and looks back at the figure, seeing the blue light Sure I could find peace, but that won't fill this void... No... if I want to fill this void I'll have to obtain this peace with my own power, I think somebody said once that the journey is better than the destination, perhaps that applies here? I'm not sure myself, but I know that I can't sit here, Aitome then gives the person a smile as hey own eyes light up a bright white, determination filling her soul as she casts away any doubt So I've made my decision, I won't accept this reality, I'm sorry, but I won't, no I cant feel that hollowness anymore!

*Gamma hardly moves as Hillock approaches him. He takes a deep breath and puts away the shard* G: I’be been doing alright I suppose. Guess I’m a bit bored if anything. Been peaceful for a while now. *shrug*. Still, I guess I can’t complain. How about you? *The young woman looks down, her hands are starting to turn white from how hard she clenches her staff* W: I..... Understand...... Truth is, you’re far from the first person who found no peace here. I....... I don’t know why. Nexus is supposed to be all powerful.... *A single tear escapes the woman’s left eye as she looks back at Aitome* W: Why is it so hard? E.... Not even I’m sure anymore.

Hill smiled upon hearing Gamma's report, sighing relieved as he relaxed Good... never thought I would her the word "peaceful" and "Nexus" on the same sentence... that's nice... Oh, abott myself... let's say I was too busy with work. You know, the organization and all... although, I'm afraid that's confidential...

Aitome then puts a hand on the womans shoulder, speaking softly in order to try to calm them down I... I dont know either, I can only speak for myself but.. you can't take away sorrow and give a person everything they want and expect them to be happy all the time, sorrow is a part of life, and if you take that away they aren't living life, they are a living an illusion, and some people can't accept that, myself included. Aitome then offers the woman a smile, trying to reassure her and possibly herself It's not your fault really, some people just won't accept it, I know my idiot brother can't, and alot of my friends would rather face the harsh reality, it's hard to say why, it's just something heros do I suppose.

*Gamma sighs and shakes his head, peeking in the window before leaning back* G: Is that why its been so calm recently? forcing all the work on yourself. *Gamma faintly chuckles* Honestly, you should learn to relax more. I'm sure they can get along without you for a while. *The woman faintly laughs, its something between laughing and crying* W: I.... For the longest time I've looked down on the world and saw its people suffering. I.... I've always wanted to do something about it... And... I... I thought I found a way to do it, but.... Can no one really find peace?

Huh, is not like I took care of everything! They were probably dealing with rougher times... I shouldn't have left so abruptly. Although, woth their power... I doubt they had any problems dealing with... whatever happened this month... Hill kept stared at the floor, giving his back to the party inside LeBlanc... But... yeah... some resting wouldn't be so bad now, wouldn't it? I've been working so much lately... maybe now I can catch up with the rest... with Raven, with Kuroumi...

I dont know, but you can't do a one size fits all solution, the world can't accept something collectively, but I think its better to help people one by one, even if it doesn't fix the world I'm okay with that, just changing someone's cruel fate is alright with me, slowly but surely I will change the fate of everyone, even if it takes my entire life.

*Gamma sighs and turns away, remainging outside the door* G: Go on then Hill, you know you want to see them. I'll just be around. You know how I am after all. *The young woman sighs and looks down. She seems to have decided something, and turns back to Aitome* W: You need to leave, don't you? It..... Its fine. There's just one thing.... I.... *sigh* As the keeper of the dream, you must go through me first. *She turns back and steps away, clasping the bird amulet tightly* W: Let us begin, and get this over with. Oh holy wings, descend upon this earth once more to bring peace to the faithful. *The amulet glows as the woman chants, and in seconds, it shines brightly. ONce the light fades, a large, golden-feathered falcon appears, perched on her shoulder. It eyes Aitome warily*

Hill looked at Gamma, aighing a little No, I have very few chances of seeing you... ever since the hospital, I couldn't find you. And then I had to leave... Guh-! Another memory striked Hill down, getting his hand to his forehead suddenly and kneeling a little, trying to lean on the wall

... we don't have to fight, you can simply let me out can't you? Or if you can't then what's holding you back? I'm not going to fight you without a good reason. Aitome simply stands there unmoving, smiling still, having her hands at her sides and awaiting what happens next

*Gamma looks over to Hill, he steps forward, and puts one hand on his shoulder* G: Are you sure you're alright? I get you're overworked, but this is getting pretty bad. Maybe you need to lay down a bit man. *The young woman shakes her head as the falcon spreads its wings and hovers slightly in the air, flapping to gain some height* W: Unfortunately that's not how the dream works. Rituals like these.... You must show me you can face the sorrows that await you, otherwise the way forward will not open. Now, let us begin. *The woman grasps another of her amulets, that of the man in a tornado, and holds it, uncertainly. Meanwhile the falcon, finally taking its orders, divebombs Aitome, armored claws stretched forward. The woman begins to chant* W: The prayers of the righteous reach out to the heavens.....

U-Uh? Hill decided to take a few deep breaths... the headache slowly disappearing, smoatly because of Gamma's cold hands... it sure helped with pain... N-No, don't worry... sometimes I get quite the headaches... B-But... this is weird... ... ... *Hill kept panting a little, slower now... using a hand to help himself get up, leaning on Gamma's shoulder* ... hey Gamma... you sure... nothing bad happened to you, right?

I understand... I guess this was inevitable... Aitome then draws a shortsword and jumps into the air, using some ice magic she begins to create a slope to slide using the slope to slide past the falcon and hopefully deliver a kick straight at the women

OoC: Waiting for new stuff'n'stuff

*Gamma flinches at first, but remains leaning against the wall, allowing Hill to lean on him* G: Of course not, I've been bored out of my mind the past few weeks. Honestly, this is the most exciting thing to happen to me since that Robin incident. *The falcon, being above Aitome, is able to intercept her as she tries to jump up, scratching her arm and leaving a small wound in it. Its claws begin to dig in to her arm and it flaps its wings in her face in an attempt to disorient her. Meanwhile the woman continues chanting* W: The heavens remain silent, until the people's desperation becomes a storm to reach the Earth OOC: Honestly Ruka, I don't even know what to do with you anymore. Especially since you ended up just going to sleep.

O-Oh... ok... Hill nodded, without noticing Gamma's tic. Holding on the window, he seemed to regain some of his composture... but his expresion was still worried, darker than before Y-You see... this happened before too, when I saw you waiting... But... I have the feeling of... no, more like a memory... of hearing that... ...

Argh! Blazing Star! Aitome then begins to charge energy within her hands, glowing brighter and brighter until she explodes in a shockwave of holy flames, scorching the falcon, however it also melts whatever ice is left over, Aitome then drops to the ground, checking her wounds before turning to gaze back at the woman

*Gamma looks over to Hillock, a bit confused, he sighs and pats Hill on the shoulder* G: Hearing what? I'm pretty sure keeping secrets is supposed to be my job. I'm the anti-social one after all. *The several of the falcon's feathers are ablaze as it attempts to fly away from the explosion. It has rather little success, and seems unable to do more to escape. Meanwhile, the woman finishes her chant as the amulet glows ever brighter* W: The storm becomes a gale to part the heavens and bring forth a new judgement. *The amulet glows with an almost blinding light and a sound like shattering can be heard. Once the glow subsides a young man in blue armor stands between the woman and Aitome. He has short, white hair with long bangs, and a unique set of gilded blue armor that leaves his legs and shoulders completely free, it seems to have been designed to allow maximum mobility. In his left arm is a lengthy spear that he holds unusually near the tip. The man gazes at Aitome, as though bored*

Okay then.... lets tr- Aitome is interrupted mid-sentence as tries to cover her eyes against the blinding light and after a few seconds blinks away the flash and glances at the new opponent, summoning forth a card and crushing it in her hands Nine Tailed Fox! Brave Blade! A giant white fox with 9 flaming tails appears and runs up against the man in armour and attempts to tackle it, if successful pinning it down and slashing away at it with razor sharp claws as Aitome keeps her shortsword near to her chest, ready to block a strike

The white-haired man moves faster than one would think of a human, meeting the fox with his lance at every turn. He seems to be getting more and more excited, even laughing as their clash goes on. M: Haha! Now this is more like it. I see you brought forth a challenge worthy of the Mad Cyclone. I, Grimnir shall be your opponent. Let us see your worth, if you should fail this task, your life shall be..... The young woman interrupts Grimnir at this point, almost laughing at his boast W: No one's dying here, its simply something that must be done, now, don't hold back, but remember, we're here to save them, not hurt them. Grimnir sighs and continues fighting, his battle style is full of whirling and twisting, using his gauntleted arms almost as much as his actual lance to begin pushing the fox further and further back

Aitome sees the fight going poorly for her persona so she recalls the fox and instead swaps the card for a mask, taking it off and throwing it into the air as it evaporates into blue flames, a giant blast beast appears in front of the man, cooling the air around it as it emits a black fog Tormention, Endless Pain. Tormention then begins to spread a layer of ice along the ground, hoping to trip up the man as Aitome walks in front of the man, taking another shortsword off her back as she stares the man down with red eyes

"Grimnir" Runs towards the black figure recklessly. He ends up tripping over the ice, catching himself by digging his lance into the ground, and flipping towards Aitome Grimnir: Come on, fight me head on. I love a good challenge. You'll regret the day you faced off against a war god. Grimnir attempts another of his fancy whirling slashes as he approaches Aitome, only to fall on the ice again, this time failing to catch himself. The young woman sighs watching the spectacle W: Believe it or not he is every bit as competent as he claims.... Just overconfident a bit G: Overconfident? I'll show you, none are a match for me.

Aitome prepares to block the next strike, however its wasted energy when she sees that the "War God" has fallen on the ground, sighing as Tormention disappears Right... well then.. how about you just stay in this cage for a bit... Aitome then raises her arms and spreads the glowing ice to enclose upon the man, trapping him within the ice Okay... now don't try to break out of that, trust me, it's only blow up in your face. Literally. Aitome then happy with the capsule turns her attention to the woman, keeping a singular shortsword at the ready

Almost as soon as the words leave Aitome's mouth, the man is able to shatter the ice, it bursts around him in a mixture of nuclear and ice, but in spite of his light armor, he hardly seems affected G: Come on, you're supposed to provide a challenge, not a warm-up. I want to really be able to let loose, you hear me? Give us a show that'll rattle this illusion. Grimnir leaps into the air almost instantly, getting between Aitome and the woman, he charges Aitome, lance held loosely to his side, and begins to spin, aiming not to pierce Aitome, but rather smack her with his arm. The Young woman merely shakes her head and watches the conflict, as though eager to watch it get finished

Aitome seems surprised at the sudden explosion and prepares to block the lance, however she doesn't expect the sudden smack and gets hit across the face leaving a bruise, reeling backwards Aitome shakes off the hit Huh, I underestimated you, okay, no holding back now. Aitome then takes both of her swords and sticks them into the floor, glowing bright red as 2 pillars of flames erupt from underneath the warrior, circling around him to try to burn and prevent passage

*Ruka had a strange nightmare where she forgot the name of everyone she knew, and every person she met had a blank face. It was in the morning when she woke up, bathed in sweat with a pale face*

Grimnir smiles as he backs away from the pillars of fire, his armor is scorched and his skin is marked, but he seems to be in much better shape than he should be G: That's more like it. Show me more, prove to be a worthy foe. If not, my tempest shall judge you. Grimnir wheels backwards, spinning dramatically with his lance out. It seems to whip up a breeze in its wake, soon, the breeze grows into waves of air that whip out through the fires, bringing some of them along with the wind as it whips towards Aitome

Aitome seeing the breeze begin to grow, quickly erects a wall of hard light, the wind and fire ripping into it, however it holds on just barely and Aitome sends the rest of the energy at the warrior in the shape of a spike, Sheesh.. talk about fancy, it's almost like you care more about if this looks cool or not.

Grimnir laughs at the approaching energy and knocks it aside with his lance as he spins around..... Or rather he tries to, the spike gets deflected somewhat, but manages to strike his other arm as he spins, sticking into his unarmored shoulder. His movements begin to slow down, but he acts unphased by the injury G: Come on, step it up. Show me everything you have, if not, how can you expect to face the sorrows that might await you? W: That's surprisingly wise coming from you G: Oh who asked you anyways? Just because you called doesn't mean I have to like it. Grimnir whirls towards Aitome, twisting around the pillar and attempting to close in on her again, this time aiming to strike her with the long handle of his spear

Aitome is still recovering from the wall of energy she had to build and is completely defenseless from the hilt strike, doubling over and backing over, as she slowly recovers Argh... not done just yet! Here we go! Aitome then closes her eyes for a second before she opens them again, a blazing red flares as she lights herself ablaze, holy flames run amok around her as she begins to run towards the figure, delivering an uppercut, powered by divine fire

G: Don't make this easy on me!! You're hopeless if you can't eve...... Grimnir's boasting prevents him from properly reacting to Aitome's charge. He continues spinning as her uppercut knocks him high into the air.... He fades away in a faint white light, leaving his amulet to clatter to the ground near the woman. She slowly bends down to pick it up W: Very well, I.... Suppose that's good enough. Reality almost seems to bend in a point near Aitome, its difficult to describe, but she feels as though it leads elsewhere. She looks around, nervously, as though scared of being caught W: If you so wish, that will take you outside of the dream. Or, if you'd prefer... I can.... Shift you. To another dream, another dreamer. If that is your desire. As Keeper I have.... Special privileges.

Heh.. hehe... I hope I didn't hurt you too much! Aitome then picks up the blades she left in the ground and breathes a sigh of relief, putting her hands into the sky and releasing an aura of a soft green light mending all the recent wounds, before turning to the woman Well, I suppose I wouldn't be much of a hero of I simply left now would I? I'll help out some other people! Although I have to ask you a question, what do you want exactly? Are you trying to make this place better?

THe young woman looks down in thought, she holds tightly to her staff, and brushes a few stray hairs from her face W:I.... I wanted to be able to save everyone. The world has always been full of nothing but sorrow and despair, and so, I..... I wanted to be able to stop that. But, even now.... It seems my dream may be out of reach. Not even the almighty could help you, or that man with the tophat, or the boy split in two.... Even you... You sought serenity, yearned for it..... Yet still you arrived at sorrow instead.

Aitome listens intently, narrowing her eyebrows at the mention of a top hat man before responding again I think your forgetting something, I think that you forget that sorrow is apart of life, without some pain, serenity would just feel bland, it must be earned to obtain happiness, even if I end in sorrow I won't stay there forever, I'll eventually pick myself up and move on, life is all about its ups and downs.

While it is clear Aitome meant to cheer her up, the young woman merely looks down, nervously. W:So then, there's nothing to be done about it, is there? I'll simply have to watch the cycle of suffering over and over again.... I.... Maybe it is better this way....

Aitome then begins to scratch the back of her head, it's clear that she isn't use to cheering people up, but she will try again anyways Umm! Well look at this way, life is more fulfilling if you feel everything there is to feel! People want to laugh with others, cry when they get hurt, love another person, sure the bad things are bad but its apart of what makes life, life. No good thing lasts forever unfortunately, but that makes it even more special when it happens!

The young woman sighs and parts her hair. She looks over to the distortion, it seems to be shrinking W: You've given me much to think about, but it seems you might not have long. Unless you want to face Grimnir again you might want to make your decision quickly. There's no need to worry about me, I'll be fine.

Aitome takes a look at the distortion and nods her head, speaking again with bright white eyes, Okay then! I choose to help others! That includes you! I wouldn't be much of a Wandering Changer of Fate otherwise! If you need anything ill be glad to help! You can trust me on that one!

The young woman nods and focuses for a moment, as though searching for something after a while she smiles, almost chuckling to herself W: Interesting, it seems there's someone quite familiar to you in here. Someone you may care for deeply. Now, grab hold of my staff, and I should be able to.... Shift you over there with me.

Aitome moves forward a small amount and grabs ahold of the staff, smiling along with her Someone familiar to me huh? I wonder who it could be! Well, I'm ready whenever! Take me away!

The woman concentrates and a faint blue glow seems to cover both herself and Aitome. It grows brighter and brighter, until Aitome is unable to see much of anything. When the glowing subsides, they find themselves near a forested clearing, The young woman steps back W: This is as close as I dare go. There's a lake near the clearing, that's where you'll find the dreamer. Good luck... But remember..... Not everyone wishes to leave

Aitome takes a look around at the new setting, rubbing her eyes from the flash It's okay! Nobody said it was going to be easy! Ill change this cruel fate with my own power! Aitome then begins to walk up slowly to the lake, making sure to watch her surroundings for the dreamer