(And so we return. If you would like to join up, please do so here: http://kh13.com/forum/topic/70174-kingdom-hearts-vanguard-ii-sign-ups-and-discussion/ )

 

 

{Disney Castle, exterior}

Even, Somebody of Vexen, moved to follow Severa to engage ENCOM Programs, but yelled out in pain as something hit him from behind. He fell forward, a dart sticking out of his back. More programs crowded around, trying to hem Severa in. A red dot appeared on Severa's chest.

"Drop your weapon and surrender." A voice yelled out from the same direction the laser beam. "Or die here and now. Your choice."

More laser beams aimed at Severa.

 

{Disney Castle, interior}

Master Aqua took her old Keyblade from Luna. She took in a deep breath and smiled.

"It is good to have this back, thank you." She said, closing her eyes for a moment.

She reopened her eyes and nodded to Luna.

"We had better arrange a way to get wounded in here for us to heal. Maybe a few of the Guardians could-"

"Dilan to all available forces." The former Xaldin said via a wall mounted radio. "Evacuate! Repeat, evacuate! Four more capital ships warping in!"

Aqua gave the wall radio a shocked look.

"What is this?" She hissed and made for the door.

Before she got to it, it exploded inward with Dilan flying backwards and landing in a heap in the infirmary. From the out of the dust and debries, a man in a suit shot in and wrapped an arm around the stunned Aqua's neck, putting a blade to her neck. Four more people in suits came in and pointed various weapons at the Guardians.

"Don't try anything, Keybladers." The one who had Aqua growled. "We of the Ulthor know how to beat your cursed weapons."

In the ensuing silence, there was a metallic ping. The Ulthor agent in the back flipped a coin and caught it. A tallish man with short cut blond hair, goatee and with a number of ear piercings, he noted what it had landed on and put it away. A playing card appeared in his hand and he threw it at the agent holding Aqua captive. As soon as the card hit, the man holding Aqua turned into a card.

 

{Twilight Town, Old Mansion}

Elenar, formerly Larxene, managed to dodge out of the way of the energy blasts coming in from the digital battle cruise in the sky. Most of the young Keyblade wielders gathered at the old mansion were not so lucky and were thrown by the blast and killed. One lucky Wielder was snatched by Zion and Xion before the duo with their new patient disappeared in a flash of Light. As the smoke cleared, Aeleus (Somebody of Lexaeus) groaned and tried to get up.

Elenar readied herself to added some lightning to Celas's Duel Ragnoraks against the ship, but saw a red dot on the back of Celas's back.

"Look out!" She yelled and jumped in between Celas and where the beam was coming from, erecting a Barrier in the blink of an eye. There was a loud bang and Elenar was thrown back, hitting Celas. The Savage Nymph crumpled to the ground, blood trickling out of the corner of her mouth. For a moment before it faded, there was a neat little hole in Elenar's barrier.

Above, the capital ship rearmed its weapons for kill shots, but was hit by a beam from one of the mansion's 2nd story windows. The ship crackled with energy as its guns started moving erratically.

"Get inside!" Ansem the Wise yelled from the 2nd story window as he tossed out a smoking device he had just coupled together. "It will be back online in seconds!"

Over the the city proper, more capital ships warped in over hand and started landing Program troops, causing panic and confusion from the general populace.

 

{The Castle That Never Was}

Old Master Xehanort looked over his Organization with pride. He was beginning the final stages of his plan. The puny Lights would not be able to rest dancing to his tune.

"Friends" he called out in his cracked voice. "Soon, all our work will come to fruition, and Kingdom Hearts will be-"

The old man's speech was cut short as a massive explosion shook the castle, tossing some of the 13 Darknesses out of their seats.

"What was that?" Master Xehanort demanded as he pulled himself back into his normal sitting position.

Xigbar teleported back to his chair after he left to see what was going on.

"It's ENCOM ships opening fire on the castle." The one eyed sharpshooter reported. "I thought you said they couldn't come into our world."

Master Xehanort's face hardened.

"My Darknesses, prepare to defend the Castle." He ordered.

 

{Traverse Town}

Three figures in dark suits stood on top of the Gizmo Shop in Traverse Town, crowding around a small computer they had set up.

"Are you sure the Doctor said this would work?" A tall blond woman with a beauty spot below her left eye asked.

A man with a stubble and glasses rolled his eyes.

"Yes, Helga." He answered. "I was paying attention when the mad genius gave us this."

The color ran out of the man's face as he caught sight of the glare the blond woman was giving him.

"Um, Commander Sinclair." He corrected himself.

Helga Sinclair snorted her contempt and jerked a thumb at the computer.

"Then fire up our remote control monsters and sweep the city for Keyblade Wielders." She ordered." But make sure they keep civilian casualties to a minimum."

The man with glasses nodded and saluted, a poor think to do together, and typed in commands into the computer. When the last key stroke went through, the Gizmo Shop's front door burst open and Heartless Neoshadows with some sort of control collars on them bounded out, there keen senses looking for the strong hearts that Keyblade Wielders had.

 

{Radiant Garden}

Ienzo, Zexion's true self, finished transferring files and assembling various pieces of equipment he wanted before returning to the Old Mansion in Twilight Town when he heard a loud boom and some commotion outside the castle. Dashing outside, the Cloaked Schemer stopped suddenly when he saw three capital ships hanging over Radiant Garden. To his trained eye, he recognized the pattern of the digital ship.

"How did they get programs out of the computer?" He thought.

Ienzo heard a light laugh from behind him.

"Magnificent, isn't it?" A female voice asked. "Once we found out how to transfer Clu and his troops into our world, we could finally realize your plan. And how beautifully it is working, too."

The Cloaked Schemer turned to face the uniformed woman with glasses, a sly smile on his lips.

"My dear Jihl, did you doubt me?" He asked in a mock hurt tone.

Jihl Nabaat laughed again and stepped forward to place a hand on Ienzo's shoulder.

"The Decolor is grateful for your contribution." She said.

Ienzo's smiled remained, but took on a satisfied look. It was all working like he planned.

 

 

{Enchanted Dominion}

Maleificent stormed through her old castle. She felt degraded having to come back here, but a better hide out had not been available. Plus, the Decolor wouldn't try to bother her here on her own world.

She swiped into an inner room she had given over to one of her new allies and found him tending to his patient. King Candy squirmed under his physician's care.

"Easy, my code is sensitive, ya know." He whined.

"Silence!" Maleficent thundered. "It was your own foolishness that lead to your damage. I told you to avoid the heroes."

King Candy fell silent, too scared of the Witch to say anything. The middle aged doctor chuckled slightly as he straightened up and adjusted his glasses.

"Do not worry, m'lady." Doctor Cidolfus Demen Bunansa said in a calming voice. "This digital monarch will make a full recovery with some improvements."

Candy made to say something, but was glared into silence by the Witch. Maleficent looked back to Dr. Cid.

"And the other project?" She demanded.

Dr Cid's amused smile was replaced by a look of almost religious zeal.

"Ah, yes. I believe I have made the break through we required." He answered.

This time, it was Maleficent's turn to smile.

"Show me."

The Archadian scientist bowed and lead the way out of the room.

"The power requirements were astronomical." He explained as he led the way down a corridor. "I had to practically burn out a star to generate the power necessary and a fool would have let that power to burn out the project's systems before fruition,"

The Doctor paused as he placed a hand on a door's handle.

"But I am no fool." He declared and dramatically opened the door.

Inside was a room full of equipment, but was dominated by a giant transparent tube filled with a liquid. Floating inside was a girl off about 14 years of age and multicolored hair. Tubes extended from the top of the tube and into her veins while a breath mask rested over the girl's mouth. A plaque was placed at the base of the tube bearing the inscription "Project Lacuna."

"Our Void Witch is nearly finished." Maleficent said, dark intentions in her eyes.

 

 

(*Whew* did you see that, cause I will not be doing that again.)

Several looked quizzically at the doctor. "So your experiments would have given you the ability to track him had you been able to finish them?" Severa said, attempting to draw a conclusion from his words. "That begs the question that Neena and Locke did not ask. What were you doing to the guardian?" Severa continued, trying to get some answers at least. Doubtful such direct questions from her would get any answers, but if Ienzo backed her up, they might get somewhere.

~~~~

Neena shook her head, before remembering that she was on the phone. "I tried, but there were no traces. It's possible he's using a veil of nothingness, but a technique like that has never been proven to work in the field." Neena stated. How in the world this particular prisoner was evading her tracking was so far a mystery. "Is there anyone on the ship who might be a traitor? That is a possibility, is it not?" Neena said, proposing something she really did not want to be true.

~~~~

Mist began to encroach on Twilight Town. It fell upon the streets, covering everywhere in a white fog. Rinzler ran through the streets, though it was quickly becoming very difficult to see. A roar was heard from somewhere within the mist. "Not so fast." A voice said from somewhere near the Elite Program. Shurikens flew at him from the side. Following that, a figure dressed in white dashed at him striking with two swords.

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Vent system}

As Luminara and Nocturne crept through the vents, the pounding of feet could be heard going to and fro as guards searched for the fugitive Guardian. The sound of two people conversing could be heard ahead. As the duo got closer, it seemed to be a regular person in the suit uniform of the Ulthor hastily getting dressed as a Program explained the situation.

"And what am I to do again?" The Agent asked, sounding a little bleary.

"Reinforce the cells on world, to make sure the escapee doesn't try to release more of the prisoners." The program informed him.

"Right." The agent said as he tucked in his shirt.

He grabbed some sort of SMG from his personal locker and stormed out of his room with the program.

"Hmm, looks like we found something we need." The Graceful Assassin noted quietly. "He wireless has one spare in that locker."

 

{Twilight Town; Beach}

Aqua listened in silence to the Guardians talking, realizing she didn't understand the Guardians's structure and duties as well as she thought. She would have to rectify that later.

"Don't worry, Luna." Aqua tried to comfort. "I know how a missing friend can weigh on a mind."

She gave Ghost a look that told the Enforcer that she might be able to preform her duties with more consideration for other's feelings on future. She then turned her attention to Hawk and smiled.

"I'm doing as well as I was before." She answered him. "Thank you, Hawk."

She looked back at their captive Decolor Agent.

"I don't suppose any of you know what to do with him?"

 

~~~~

Mist began to encroach on Twilight Town. It fell upon the streets, covering everywhere in a white fog. Rinzler ran through the streets, though it was quickly becoming very difficult to see. A roar was heard from somewhere within the mist. "Not so fast." A voice said from somewhere near the Elite Program. Shurikens flew at him from the side. Following that, a figure dressed in white dashed at him striking with two swords.

[Decolor Ship, Maintenance Access]

"Great." Nocturne growled as he heard the bootsteps on the other side of the wall. "They're on high alert. Camouflage and detection avoidance will be iffy at best." His steps and breathing quieted immediately when he heard voices coming from one of the vents, to which he listened rather attentively at. His face scrunched up for a bit at he processed the new information. Other prisoners? Who? Maybe they can be useful as a distraction. On world? Then I can consider them later. 

 

"Hmm, looks like we found something we need." He heard Luminara quietly comment. "He usually has one spare in that locker."

 

After watching the agent leave the room, Nocturne carefully opened the grate and infiltrated the room. His footsteps quiet, he made his way to the locker the graceful assassin mentioned earlier. He opened the locker door, hoping that the assassin was right about keeping spares.

 

[Twilight Town, Beachfront]

 

Ghost sighed uneasily at Aqua's glare, unsure what to make of it. Why so sympathetic for her? Her performance is sub-par right now. If Luna doesn't get her act together, she'll be a hindrance for sure. What friend is she talking about? With the Enforcer lost in her own thoughts, Luna stared blankly at the ground as she walked back to her position next to Aqua, completing the formation. "Th-... Thanks, master." were the only words to escape her mouth. She swallowed hard as the thought of being the last of her generation dawned on her. 

 

Meanwhile, Sparrow looked blankly at Aqua for a moment as he stood there with his mouth slightly agape. Throughout the squabble with Luna, he actually forgot about their little prisoner of war, worrying instead about the raven-haired girl. I swear if it's because of old age... Nawww. That can't be it. I'm not that old, right? The leader quickly shook off the thought and nodded at the master. "We could always try and interrogate him. Ask him about enemy strengths, units on the field, their plans and orders. What exactly do you want in terms of information?" He motioned Hawk over to the prisoner, and the faithful rifleman was quick to follow the command as he approached the prisoner. "Waddaya want me to do with him, Sparrow?"

"Standby." He sternly retorted, reciting a carefully planned out procedure in his head regarding situations like this. "Orders, master?"

 

It was at this point that a heavy fog started to form and envelope the group. Surprised by the sudden change in scenery, Sparrow quickly called the squad to halt their efforts. "Close formation! Weapons up, eyes out! Stay close to Aqua." The squad did as they were told, quickly forming a defensive box around their blue-haired master and the prisoner with Ghost and Luna inside their perimeters. Their arrow-rifles were leveled and pointed in every direction, their eyes working hard to spot any figures in the mist that would try sneaking up on the battle-hardened veterans. Raven was the first to comment on the situation. "Visibility is just gone. Squad, switch to CQB ops." He, along with Sparrow and Kiwi, quickly slung their rifles and summoned their keyblades, leaving Hawk with the ranged duties. The rifleman whispered a rather obvious suggestion to Ghost and Luna as he reminded them, "Use your ears and your sense of touch. Trust me on this."

 

The situation rather tense, at least for Nightwing Squad, Ghost decided to continue where the leader left off. "So... I suppose interrogation still isn't out of the question?"

Edited August 7, 201411 yr by Javelin434

{Enchanted Dominion}

"I'm putting some...shackles on her abilities." Lacuna explained, looking even more tired. "She'll break them eventually, but till then, you'll have an easier time with her, in case she gets rowdy. Can't tell you what mood she'll wake up in, though she'll have a few more marbles to work with, so a blind rage is less likely."

Elenar watched Celas closely. She was worried about her friend. She also had this gnawing doubt about her opinion on Lacuna's fate. Was this how she was suppose to think, or was this still Larxene's formula for solving problems?

"Tell me, witch, why do this?" Aeleus asked, his piercing eyes on Lacuna. "Why help this...other you, and not just take control?"

The Void Witch grinned at the Silent Hero.

"Like his spikiness over there said." She answered, gesturing to Noctis. "Even monsters deserve a chance."

Her grin dimmed a little and she got a wistful look in her eyes.

"Maybe this one won't have to turn into a monster." She whispered, more to herself then to anyone else.

She then half fell forward, like she had dozed off, but those caught herself.

"Well, that's it for me. Good luck! Nice to have met you."

With that, Lacuna fell unconscious and slumped forward.

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Cid's lab}

Dr. Cid focused on Severa, sneering a little.

"I don't have to answer to an underling like you." He said testily.

"Consider Severa's questions as my own." Ienzo said politely, even smiling at the scientist.

Dr. Cid frowned at the Clocked Schemer.

"I was attempting to alter the prisoner's brain functions, which would make him more...amenable to persuasion. It, apparently, was less effective then I had originally thought."

"And why not simple say this up front?" Ienzo asked, still in a friendly tone.

"Because Locke can be squeamish about necessary science like that. And Neena might go along with him, to ensure they remain allies." The doctor retorted.

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Hanger}

Locke closed his eyes at Neena's suggestion.

"There is alway that possibility, however unpleasant." He admitted. "I am reasonably sure about some of the upper level officers in the Ulthor and I doubt many of the programs have the capability to be treacherous. That leaves lower level agents, Council members and new comers."

 

{Twilight Town: Main Street}

Rinzler was taken by surprise by the shurikans, which dealt surface wounds to the program. He tripped up, but managed to bring up his discs to defend from the new comer. He gave off a mechanical growl as he tried to kick the man off to break the lock.

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Vent}

The locker held one rather rumpled suit that served as the Ulthor uniform. It looked to be a little bigger then Nocturne. Behind the Guardian, Luminara dropped down noiselessly from the vent.

"Enough for two?" He asked.

<So, there is more prisoners.> the voice in Nocturne's head mused. <Might be interesting to help them.>

 

{Twilight Town: Beach}

Aqua brought up her Keyblade in a guard position as the fog rolled in. After a moment of nothing, she looked over to where she figured the Guardians where. She found she was feeling better with the shade the fog gave her from the sun.

"First things first, we need to find out what's going on here." She said. "Sparrow, assign some of your team to keep an eye on the prisoner. If one of you wants to start an introgation, go ahead. The rest, come with me. I might be able to track the magic behind this."

Edited August 9, 201411 yr by rikunobodyxiii

The Dark Warrior catched the unconscious Void Witch before she could touch the ground. Noctis was slightly worried, while the possibility of the young girl going mad was small, she still could be contained, but he was more worried about the Dark Warrior."She is worried," he thought. "but why? What does she see in that girl that reminds her of herself."Celas was holding the young Witch while looking at her."She is young and yet she has suffered a lot by whoever did this to her." She said. "We must make sure to take care of her."The Prince's eyes were watching the back of the Master."Motherly instincts? Maybe? She is younger than me, of that I'm sure." He though to himself. "Or something else?"Noctis shrugged and looked at the Silent Hero."I think it's time we go. Apparently the one we were looking for is not here. Or do you think we should keep looking?"

The cloaked figure flipped back into the mist. "Not bad." A masculine voice came from all around, presumably the figure's. "Maybe this will be fun. The figure came back and struck with a vengeance from behind, then retreated back into the mist to avoid a counterattack.

"Try not to have too much fun Edge." A calm and feminine voice said from the mist. All of a sudden, a large serpentine dragon came from the mist and attacked with light breath.after the attack finished, the dragon disappeared and the mist along with it. The original figure, now known as Edge stood side by side with a woman in green.

"Oh I won't Rydia. Especially now that my cover's gone." Edge replied to the girl, who smirked and shrugged a response. Edge rushed back into battle slicing with his katana and ninjato. Rydia fired off a Firaga at Rinzler as well.

~~~~~

Neena nodded, thinking over Locke's words. "Ah, I don't pay much attention to the agents. Do you think there is anyone capable of such treachery?" Neena asked.

~~~~~

Severa thought this over. She was glad that Ienzo had ended up backing her up. The doctor's words certainly made enough sense, but she still felt like he was hiding something. Severa took a couple steps back, letting Ienzo take the full front of the investigation. All she really needed to do was look threatening anyway, right?

{Echanted Dominion}

Aeleus was watching Celas and the young Lacuna as well. The connection the Dark Warrior apparently had with the young witch could prove valuable, if reciprocated.

"We may not have found Maleficent, but are mission was not a failure." The Silent Hero answered Noctis.

He looked over at the captured King Candy, who was contriving to look as innocent and friendly as possible.

"Are digital friend here was reported as a possible early test for the system that transported the ENCOM programs into our physical universe. I'm sure he will be willing to tell us all sorts of things about it."

Candy nodded furiously, the look on his face indicating he would be all too happy to spill his guts on the subject.

"If you will excuse me, I need to contact some compatriots to see where is safe enough to go for us to move our prisoner...and guest."

Elenar sighed. She didn't want to go against Celas on this, but someone had to be the "bad guy" here, and Aeleus wasn't being help in that department.

"And we're just going to buy that this Lacuna is going to be less powerful and less homicidal then before?" She asked, then gave Celas an apologetic look.

The Silent Hero stopped as he headed out of the room and eyed the Savage Nymph.

"Yes." He said simply. "And if she turns out to be deceiving us or goes out of control, we might be able to get Lacuna and the Decolor to go after each other."

With that, Aeleus stepped out of the lab. Leah looked around the room at the others and cleared her throat.

"Sooo...is this a usual situation for y'all?" She asked.

Elenar gave the young Keyblade Wielder a tired look.

"Close enough to normal, I suppose." She answered.

"Ah."

After a few more seconds, Aeleus came back in the room.

"Dilan has said that the Decolor on Twilight Town are being pushed off." He reported. "He is directing us to appear inside the Central Train Station. From there, we can plan."

Aeleus opened a portal and kicked King Candy through.

"Elenar, if you could see the rest of the team after me?" The Silent Hero asked, and stepped through his portal before she answered.

 

{Twilight Town: Main Street}

Rinzler was hit and went sprawling by Edge's second attack, but was back on his feet within seconds, in time to hear Rydia's voice. Using the sound, he anticipated where an attack would come from, but not size. He was force to do a back flip to fully get out of the way of the dragon's breath weapon. When he recovered, he eyed his newly revealed foes. The dark eye visible behind his cracked helmet glare at Edge and Rydia as he came to a decision. Without the fog to blind him, the elite program was ready to fight. He spun around, deflecting Edge's strikes with his discs. He launched himself into the air to avoid the Firaga spell Rydia had cast, and returning the attack with a thrown disc of his own before he landed on the other side of Edge.

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Hanger}

"We screen agents carefully, but some bad eggs get through." Locke answered. "Rolud, case in point."

He paused a moment as he recalled something about the Gambler's recruitment.

"He was brought in by another agent. Helga Sinclair. Word was that they were close. And she has been on board after a mission to Traverse Town. Might be worth an interview."

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Cid's Lab}

"Ah." Ienzo said.

And he though the Organization's internal politics could be tiresome.

"But how does that make him easier to track?" The Cloaked Schemer asked, getting back on target.

Dr. Cid turned his back to Ienzo and Severa to fiddle with something he was assembling.

"The process should have left an energy signature inside the prisoner, but I have been unable to detect it." The Archadian Scientist said, a twinge of annoyance in his voice.

Ienzo noted the twinge. He was about to bring it up when Jihl Nabaat swooped into the lab.

"Pardon me, gentlemen, but we need to ensure that the prisoners in the castle remain secure. Doctor Bunansa, I need your help to install some new security measures."

Dr. Cid turned and gave Ienzo a smile.

"Excuse me, Ienzo." He said politely, if a little smugly.

Ienzo smiled back and stepped out of the way. Cid and Jihl left, heading for a transport to the castle, leaving the Schemer scratching his chin.

"So...not only did the good doctor's new procedure fail to meet his expectations, something else went wrong with it." He mused.

The Prince looked as the Silent Hero left before Elenar spoke. Celas looked directly at the Savage Nymph with a small smile on her face."Think about it this way." She began to say. "If something goes wrong...you can blame me for my stupidity."Celas slowly tried to put the unconscious Void Witch on her back, but it proved to be fairly complicated. Noctis huffed at the Dark Warrior's attempt and crouched in front of her."I'll take care of that." He said. "Put her on my back."Celas nodded and slowly placed Lacuna on Noctis' back. Her body slightly tired from recent event."Thanks." Celas said. "For standing up for her. I know we can help her be a good person.""We can just hope. For now, let's try our best." Noctis commented.At that moment Aelues came back with their new destination."Dilan has said that the Decolor on Twilight Town are being pushed off. He is directing us to appear inside the Central Train Station. From there, we can plan. Elenar, if you could see the rest of the team after me?"Aeleus then opened a portal and kicked King Candy through before going inside. Celas looked between her companions before stopping her eyes on the Savage Nymph."Let's keep doing our best on this mission." Celas said to Elenar with a smile.

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Cid's lab}

Dr. Cid focused on Severa, sneering a little.

"I don't have to answer to an underling like you." He said testily.

"Consider Severa's questions as my own." Ienzo said politely, even smiling at the scientist.

Dr. Cid frowned at the Clocked Schemer.

"I was attempting to alter the prisoner's brain functions, which would make him more...amenable to persuasion. It, apparently, was less effective then I had originally thought."

"And why not simple say this up front?" Ienzo asked, still in a friendly tone.

"Because Locke can be squeamish about necessary science like that. And Neena might go along with him, to ensure they remain allies." The doctor retorted.

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Hanger}

Locke closed his eyes at Neena's suggestion.

"There is alway that possibility, however unpleasant." He admitted. "I am reasonably sure about some of the upper level officers in the Ulthor and I doubt many of the programs have the capability to be treacherous. That leaves lower level agents, Council members and new comers."

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Vent}

The locker held one rather rumpled suit that served as the Ulthor uniform. It looked to be a little bigger then Nocturne. Behind the Guardian, Luminara dropped down noiselessly from the vent.

"Enough for two?" He asked.

<So, there is more prisoners.> the voice in Nocturne's head mused. <Might be interesting to help them.>

 

{Twilight Town: Beach}

Aqua brought up her Keyblade in a guard position as the fog rolled in. After a moment of nothing, she looked over to where she figured the Guardians where. She found she was feeling better with the shade the fog gave her from the sun.

"First things first, we need to find out what's going on here." She said. "Sparrow, assign some of your team to keep an eye on the prisoner. If one of you wants to start an introgation, go ahead. The rest, come with me. I might be able to track the magic behind this."

 

 

~~~~~

Neena nodded, thinking over Locke's words. "Ah, I don't pay much attention to the agents. Do you think there is anyone capable of such treachery?" Neena asked.

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Hanger}

"We screen agents carefully, but some bad eggs get through." Locke answered. "Rolud, case in point."

He paused a moment as he recalled something about the Gambler's recruitment.

"He was brought in by another agent. Helga Sinclair. Word was that they were close. And she has been on board after a mission to Traverse Town. Might be worth an interview."

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Cid's Lab}

"Ah." Ienzo said.

And he though the Organization's internal politics could be tiresome.

"But how does that make him easier to track?" The Cloaked Schemer asked, getting back on target.

Dr. Cid turned his back to Ienzo and Severa to fiddle with something he was assembling.

"The process should have left an energy signature inside the prisoner, but I have been unable to detect it." The Archadian Scientist said, a twinge of annoyance in his voice.

Ienzo noted the twinge. He was about to bring it up when Jihl Nabaat swooped into the lab.

"Pardon me, gentlemen, but we need to ensure that the prisoners in the castle remain secure. Doctor Bunansa, I need your help to install some new security measures."

Dr. Cid turned and gave Ienzo a smile.

"Excuse me, Ienzo." He said politely, if a little smugly.

Ienzo smiled back and stepped out of the way. Cid and Jihl left, heading for a transport to the castle, leaving the Schemer scratching his chin.

"So...not only did the good doctor's new procedure fail to meet his expectations, something else went wrong with it." He mused.

[Aboard a Decolor Ship]

 

Nocturne growled quietly as he rummaged through the locker and only found a not so crisp uniform. "Negative," he calmly replied to Luminara, "just one suit." He had hoped for some sort of communication device to eavesdrop on the agents and get live feed on their whereabouts, and more importantly their alert levels throughout the ship. "I can't fit into this. Disguising my way out is no longer an option." He turned to face the assassin. "Not sure if you can fit into this. Since it's apparent that sunglasses aren't a standard part of their outfit, then it was a waste of time for me to try this." He knew it was risky enough to escape while in the heart of this new adversary, and it would be even more risky with his restraining lens off had he tried a disguise. "I'm going back through the vents." The idea of blasting his way out of here was starting to look like more appealing than before to the captive Guardian, but knew it was still suicidal to try. 

 

<So, there is more prisoners. Might be interesting to help them.> His visible right eye twitched slightly at the musing inside his head. New directive acknowledged. Escape this place, then attempt to help prisoners. Conflict: high risk of re-capture. But... I can't... just ignore this. The guardian sighed quietly as he made his way back to the vent, this time aiming for the hanger section of the ship...

 

[Twilight Town]

 

Sparrow listened intently to where Aqua's voice was coming from. He started a slow walk towards the direction of the voice, and finally caught sight of her. Raven's voice seemed to come from nowhere out of the fog as he gave an assessment of the eerie landscape. "Visibility: one point five feet. This is bad... Real bad." Hearing vocal acknowledgements from Hawk and Kiwi somewhere nearby reassured the leader that his squad was still intact and around him as he turned to face the woman. "Understood, master. Raven! Hawk! Secure the prisoner! Kiwi! With me!" 

 

Sparrow became dead quiet as the entire squad listened to each other's bootsteps. Surprisingly, the two squadmates assigned to take the prisoner managed to find him, and through the fog, Sparrow managed to see Kiwi, Ghost, and Luna advancing towards him. "I'll stay with the prisoner and see what I can do." The Enforcer suggested. Luna only stared at the leader with fear in her eyes, having never trained for situations like this. Sparrow gave the shaking girl some reassurance. "Relax. I know what your rank is capable of. Just stick close to Aqua, ok?" The fifth Guardian silently nodded and did what she was told. 

 

With everyone within the Guardian Corps assigned, Sparrow once again turned to face Aqua. "Lead on, miss. We'll try our best to keep you safe." It was at this point that the mist suddenly disappeared just as fast as it appeared not too long ago. With the visibility now returning to normal levels and everyone able to see each other, Nightwing Squad collectively breathed a sigh of relief and eased up on their tensions. "Ok. We can definitely keep you safe now." the leader reiterated, glancing over to Ghost and Luna to make sure they were still ok.

Edited August 24, 201411 yr by Javelin434

[Aboard a Decolor Ship]Nocturne growled quietly as he rummaged through the locker and only found a not so crisp uniform. "Negative," he calmly replied to Luminara, "just one suit." He had hoped for some sort of communication device to eavesdrop on the agents and get live feed on their whereabouts, and more importantly their alert levels throughout the ship. "I can't fit into this. Disguising my way out is no longer an option." He turned to face the assassin. "Not sure if you can fit into this. Since it's apparent that sunglasses aren't a standard part of their outfit, then it was a waste of time for me to try this." He knew it was risky enough to escape while in the heart of this new adversary, and it would be even more risky with his restraining lens off had he tried a disguise. "I'm going back through the vents." The idea of blasting his way out of here was starting to look like more appealing than before to the captive Guardian, but knew it was still suicidal to try. <So, there is more prisoners. Might be interesting to help them.> His visible right eye twitched slightly at the musing inside his head. New directive acknowledged. Escape this place, then attempt to help prisoners. Conflict: high risk of re-capture. But... I can't... just ignore this. The guardian sighed quietly as he made his way back to the vent, this time aiming for the hanger section of the ship...[Twilight Town]Sparrow listened intently to where Aqua's voice was coming from. He started a slow walk towards the direction of the voice, and finally caught sight of her. Raven's voice seemed to come from nowhere out of the fog as he gave an assessment of the eerie landscape. "Visibility: one point five feet. This is bad... Real bad." Hearing vocal acknowledgements from Hawk and Kiwi somewhere nearby reassured the leader that his squad was still intact and around him as he turned to face the woman. "Understood, master. Raven! Hawk! Secure the prisoner! Kiwi! With me!" Sparrow became dead quiet as the entire squad listened to each other's bootsteps. Surprisingly, the two squadmates assigned to take the prisoner managed to find him, and through the fog, Sparrow managed to see Kiwi, Ghost, and Luna advancing towards him. "I'll stay with the prisoner and see what I can do." The Enforcer suggested. Luna only stared at the leader with fear in her eyes, having never trained for situations like this. Sparrow gave the shaking girl some reassurance. "Relax. I know what your rank is capable of. Just stick close to Aqua, ok?" The fifth Guardian silently nodded and did what she was told. With everyone within the Guardian Corps assigned, Sparrow once again turned to face Aqua. "Lead on, miss. We'll try our best to keep you safe."

(Hey man, fog's gone. Visibility is back up to 100%)Severa smiled a little. They had done a good job seemingly. "I wonder what went wrong, and if it had any other major effects on his body." The Wanderer thought out loud. She glanced around just to make herself feel more secure. "Alright, so we need to visit Even next?" Severa asked, ready to follow Ienzo.~~~~~Neena tapped her foot. She was getting anxious. "So she could be our leak, if we have one. Has Helga had any other major impact on the organization?" The Assassin asked.~~~~~Rydia struck the disc with a bolt of lightning, deflecting if away from her. Edge turned quickly and jabbed at his opponent with a kunai. Rydia cast a Blizzara at the two, nearly hitting Edge as he dived out of the way. "What are you, trying to kill me?" Edge exclaimed, though he sounded more playful than angry. Rydia shrugged with a slight smile. "Come now your highness, I would never do such a thing while we're working." The Summoner replied. The Ninja grunted satisfactorily, tossing a boomerang at Rinzler.

Edited August 26, 201411 yr by Emerald Sustrai

{Enchanted Dominion}

Elenar only snorted at Celas's quip about taking the blame. Ths whole caring thing sure was a pain.

"Well, people, let's get out of here before the dragon lady decides to come back." She said after Aeleus had left.

She gave Celas a tired smile back.

"Let's just hope we can hold out that long."

Leah, not in favor of meeting a dragon at this time, stepped toward the portal. She gave Xion a tentative wave before jumping through.

 

{Twilight Town; Train Station}

Leah ended up sprawled on the floor of the TrainStation floor with Aeleus and Dilan standing over her.

"Um...not that use to portals." She admitted.

"I can tell." The Whirlwind Lancer commented dryly.

Leah got up and looked around the train station, seeing civilians a random assortment of weapons.

"You were saying?" The Silent Hero prompted Dilan as he reached down and pulled Leah on to her feet with one hand.

"When the fleet arrived, Rolud, the local Wielder and I took on some commander types here. Seeing us fighting them must have inspired the locals, cause the started fighting on our side."

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Dormitory}

Luminara made a face at the luck of finding a Decolor Agent who didn't fit either him or Nocturne.

"Fine." He said sourly as he followed the Guardian back into the vents. "Though, we can't dawdle much longer. We either need to try for another subterfuge or make a break for it."

<Don't worry, little guardian.> the voice whispered, sounding smug. <You're not alone. You have me.>

 

{Twilight Town: Main Street}

With the Guardians duties assigned, Aqua gave Sparrow a nod, then ran for the city. She went along the Main Street, seeing Zion dealing with a few Programs. The sound of another battle drew the Keyblade Master down another street where she saw Rinzler fighting two unknown people.

Rinzler deflected Edge's attack with his remaining Disc, then flipped back to avoid further strikes and to catch his other disc. He leaned back to have the boomerang to miss him by centimeters.

"The fight like friends." Aqua thought as she made up her mind about the two new comers.

She slowed to a stop several yards from the fight and called down a series of Thunder strikes around Rinzler, trying to pin him down.

"Glad to see some possibly friendly faces." She called out to Edge and Rydia. "Sparrow, help me pin this program down."

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Cid's Lab}

"I'm not sure." Ienzo murmured, raising a hand to is chin.

For a moment, he looked worried. He then turned and smiled at Severa.

"Indeed. He will hopefully be in a listening mood."

The Cloaked Schemer walked out of the lab, and towards the detention center. A few guards eyed Ienzo and Severa, but apparently knew they were authorized. Ienzo finally stopped outside a cell and hit the door button. A sour looking Even glared out.

"Well?" He demanded.

Ienzo sighed.

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Hanger}

"She's been on a few sensitive missions, but I haven't noted any problems with her work." Locke answered. "If she is a security problem, she has picked her timing."

Noctis watched Elenar for a couple of seconds before he made sure that the young Void Witch was safe on his back."Let's go. I don't want to stay here just in case the enemy comes back."Celas looked as Noctis went through the portal and smiled. The guy could act distant and sometimes colds towards people, but she was sure that he cared."I guess even people like him have a tender side." She whispered.Celas noticed Elenar smiling at her and she smiled back, she then slowly made her way into the portal. A few seconds later she appeared in the Train Station of Twilight Town and saw Aeleus helping Leah."What happened?" Celas asked Noctis."Apparently the locals started fighting on our side." He answered.

"She sure has," Neena muttered, chewing on a loose lock of hair. This could be a problem, one that they would have to deal with. But first things first. "Alright, I'll confront her later. For now we must deal with the prisoner. If he manages to get to his friends, then the intel he has received by being in proximity to us could be problematic. Do you have any ideas?"

~~~~

Severa peered in on the cooped up scientist. She smiled and waved. "Hey Even! How are you doing?" Severa couldn't resist taunting him a little bit. "I'm still not completely sure what's going on, so I'm going to let Ienzo do the explaining." Severa concluded, stepping away from the cell doors.

~~~~

Edge flipped back next to Rydia to stay away from the blanket strike of thunder magic. The Ninja King nodded towards Aqua. "Happy to see someone who can actually use magic." He said with a completely straight face. Rydia frowned and zapped him. "Ow! Geez, just can't take a joke can you!" The Last Summoner smiled sweetly.

"Let's focus on the job now Edge." She said, her sugary tone clearly sarcastic.

"Hmph. Hypocrite." Edge muttered, leaping back at Rinzler, slashing and stabbing with twin ninjato. Rydia began to cast a spell. Right before she finished, she yelled out.

"Electric Wave!" Rydia called to Edge. Edge leaped skyward. A huge serpentine dragon appeared behind the Last Summoner. Leviathan flew forward, a huge wave amassing behind him. Edge landed on top of the Eidolon. The wave crashed down onto Rinzler, and when it did so, Edge used the Blitz ninjutsu, electrifying all of the water. Leviathan disappeared, and Edge landed next to Rydia again.

"I still think we should call that move, 'Toaster in a bathtub.'" He mentioned.

{Twilight Town: Train Station}

Dilan gave Noctis and Celas a curt nod.

"So, I see you managed to come back with multiple prisoners." He commented.

Leah glanced around and noticed no Cybug.

"Where is that Candy guy?" She asked.

"He's resting comfortably." Rolud said, walking over from a train car the looked guarded."a little two dimensional, but still comfortable."

Dilan pointed at Lacuna on Noctis's back.

"Will she be requiring accommodations?" He asked.

"She is...a guest." Aeleus answered.

Dilan snorted, with the Gambler chuckling.

"And I thought our days of collecting strays was behind us." Rolud joked.

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Hanger}

"The ship is locked down and we are watching the ways he can get off." Locke answered Neena. "I've got teams sweeping the decks."

He paused as he looked at some of the fighters in the hanger.

"We may need to take the ship out into space. That will further limit his options."

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Holding Cells}

The Chilly Academic gave Severa a look befitting of his title.

"Oh, I'm fine." He said nastily. "Just captured by a possibly fanatical group."

He switched his attention to Ienzo.

"You know they have Bunansa here, correct? I've always admired his work, but his methodology can be rather alarming."

"Yes, I now that Dr. Cid is a member of the Decolor." Ienzo said, nodding. "With his help, I hope to ensure the Decolor's plans come to fruition."

Even gave The Schemer a sharp look, who returned it with a pleasant smile. After a few seconds, Even chuckled.

"I suppose joining the winning side would be prudent at this stage." He concluded.

"Indeed." Ienzo agreed, giving Severa a wink.

 

{Twilight Town: Main Street}

With the odds adding up against him, Rinzler decided to go with his original plan of a tactical withdrawal. He jumped and bounded up a wall to get away, but was cut off by Aqua's Thunder spells. He vaulted off the wall, and managed to parry Edge's weapons with his own. As the ninja flipped away, Rinzler tried to press his advantage and threw his discs after Edge, but the bounced harmlessly off Leviathan's hide. The Program craned his neck to look up at the summoned creature, there fore didn't have time to avoid the wave. He tried to ride the wave away from his enemies, but was stopped by the arching electricity. As the water disappeared, the program was left twitching on the ground.

"Well done." Aqua commented, walking up to the stunned Rinzler.

(Hey man, fog's gone. Visibility is back up to 100%)

 

Severa smiled a little. They had done a good job seemingly. "I wonder what went wrong, and if it had any other major effects on his body." The Wanderer thought out loud. She glanced around just to make herself feel more secure. "Alright, so we need to visit Even next?" Severa asked, ready to follow Ienzo.

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Dormitory}

Luminara made a face at the luck of finding a Decolor Agent who didn't fit either him or Nocturne.

"Fine." He said sourly as he followed the Guardian back into the vents. "Though, we can't dawdle much longer. We either need to try for another subterfuge or make a break for it."

<Don't worry, little guardian.> the voice whispered, sounding smug. <You're not alone. You have me.>

 

{Twilight Town: Main Street}

With the Guardians duties assigned, Aqua gave Sparrow a nod, then ran for the city. She went along the Main Street, seeing Zion dealing with a few Programs. The sound of another battle drew the Keyblade Master down another street where she saw Rinzler fighting two unknown people.

Rinzler deflected Edge's attack with his remaining Disc, then flipped back to avoid further strikes and to catch his other disc. He leaned back to have the boomerang to miss him by centimeters.

"The fight like friends." Aqua thought as she made up her mind about the two new comers.

She slowed to a stop several yards from the fight and called down a series of Thunder strikes around Rinzler, trying to pin him down.

"Glad to see some possibly friendly faces." She called out to Edge and Rydia. "Sparrow, help me pin this program down."

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Hanger}

"The ship is locked down and we are watching the ways he can get off." Locke answered Neena. "I've got teams sweeping the decks."

He paused as he looked at some of the fighters in the hanger.

"We may need to take the ship out into space. That will further limit his options."

{Twilight Town: Main Street}

With the odds adding up against him, Rinzler decided to go with his original plan of a tactical withdrawal. He jumped and bounded up a wall to get away, but was cut off by Aqua's Thunder spells. He vaulted off the wall, and managed to parry Edge's weapons with his own. As the ninja flipped away, Rinzler tried to press his advantage and threw his discs after Edge, but the bounced harmlessly off Leviathan's hide. The Program craned his neck to look up at the summoned creature, there fore didn't have time to avoid the wave. He tried to ride the wave away from his enemies, but was stopped by the arching electricity. As the water disappeared, the program was left twitching on the ground.

"Well done." Aqua commented, walking up to the stunned Rinzler.

[Within a Decolor Ship. Maintenance Access.]

 

Despite the restraining lens covering his left eye, Nocturne actually started to feel a little bit frustrated with the current predicament. His gamble of trying to disguise his way out of the ship failed, and knew that his window of opportunity to escape was quickly closing. Hoping that the figurative window wasn't already sealed tight, the captive guardian glanced around the narrow confines of the access. He was looking for either a ship-wide directory, or for the usually required labels that should be on the wires that were lining the access corridor. The lack of light made it already difficult to read anything that may be there, but what little light that did filter through the grates was sufficient for the nocturnally-adapted protector to pick up on any words or signs that can lead him to the hanger. It was by sheer luck that he found a conduit that was labeled "Hanger," and immediately he started to track it down the corridors. Glancing back every now and then to see if Luminara was still following, Nocturne weighed the possible options that were now available given the time that had passed, from the still stealthy escape to the complete last resort option of blasting his way out of the ship. 

 

With the time that had passed, they're either doing a full sweep of the ship, or believe that I have escaped and are now conducting ground options. I'll inevitably be discovered by the complete sweep, and if they dispatched ships to search the area around the ship, then the hanger doors would already be sealed. Looks like I have no other option but the hanger route and hope that the doors are still open. If they're closed, I better find the terminal to open it, or cut off power and try manual override.

 

The voice within Nocturne's head gave him thoughts of reassurance. <Don't worry, little guardian. You're not alone. You have me.>

True. However, possible defection by Luminara will negate any possible advantages. The face and the Graceful Assassin's sour reply to his actions finally registered. Defection: Highly probable. Better start planning for that scenario too.

 

Meanwhile... In Twilight Town.

 

Sparrow, Kiwi and Luna followed Aqua closely as she made her way into the town. With the two squadmates of Nightwing Squad keeping their heads on a constant swivel and scanning for threats, Luna was quietly eyeing the blue-haired master. Aqua's words of reassurance gently echoed in the girls head as she tried desperately to remain focused and strong for the ongoing mission.

 

"Don't worry, Luna. I know how a missing friend can weigh on a mind."

Missing... Missing... Maybe. Maybe he's still out there. Maybe he's still around.

"Farewell, Luna. Dad will take good care of you."

He sounded so... Sure of not coming back. But there hasn't been any sudden bright lights in the sky. Maybe he really is still around. Maybe he hasn't gone Nova yet. Or... Maybe he was already slain by the new enemies.

 

Luna was torn between the fleeting hopes and grim realities, and it wasn't until the group walked in on a fight that she was jarred out of her thoughts. "Glad to see some possibly friendly faces." The master addressed to the newcomers. "Sparrow, help me pin this program down."

"Understood." The leader replied back, advancing towards program with his rifle leveled at the enemy. Before he could do anything however, Edge and Rydia had already finished the task. Sparrow stayed put and secured the area as Aqua approached Rinzler. Luna stayed some distance away, not really trusting to get too close to the newcomers.

 

Meanwhile...

 

Hawk and Raven were with their captive prisoner after dragging him towards the sands of the beach. "Alright then," Hawk started, balling up his hands into a fist, "Easy way, or the hard way." He leaned in closer to the prisoner. "Who are you, and what Organization do you work for?" Raven stayed quiet, knowing full well that the best and most unstable interrogator would be a father wanting to know more about what happened to his son. Don't go too hard, Hawk. We need information, not for you to vent your frustrations and execute your vendetta.

Edited September 9, 201411 yr by Javelin434

"But wasn't collecting strays the reason why the Organization exist?"Celas said said before she waved her hand from side to side and a small smile on her lips."You know, besides making Xehanort vessels out of Nobodies and all that. In any case...what's the plan? Maleficent was nowhere to be found."Noctis in the meantime saw a bench and went towards it. He slowly put the sleeping Void Witch on the bench."How interesting that someone so young could be so dangerous. I hope we can take her along the right path." Noctis thought. "I wonder if I'm capable of that."

Neena nodded to herself. "Whatever you think is best. I'm just the scary one right?" Neena said, slightly joking. Politics were seriously not her forte, but without her the Council would be full of a bunch of twits who wouldn't lift a finger against the menace that was the keyblade. Well besides Locke. He was the only one to garner respect from her thus far. Ienzo could be a valuable ally though. "I'll scan the ship again. Give me a heads-up if you find anything."

~~~~

Severa looked between Ienzo and Even, before finally shaking her head in confusion. "I don't even know what's going on, I'm just trying to get through life without dying. Of course then I could just marry a nice peaceful farmer far far away. But that would be so boring." Severa said, talking mostly to herself. She looked up and smiled at Ienzo. "So I'm in with whatever you guys have brewing."

~~~~

Edge tapped the program with his foot. Rydia walked forward and stood next to him, looking down at the defeated program.

"Tell me they aren't all like that." She muttered.

"I'm pretty sure that one was better than most of them. Pretty sure. Otherwise we're in big trouble." Edge replied. He glanced up at Aqua, and the soldiers behind them. "So who're you guys? I mean, I'm glad for the help and all, but you guys are the ones trying to save the world right?" Rydia nodded, as if agreeing with Edge's question.

"But let's not be rude. You have no reason to trust us right? Names are a good first move. My name is Rydia of Mist, and I'm a summoner. Extremely gifted in black magic and can summon strong beasts like Leviathan. And this is..." Edge pushed his way in front of Rydia.

"I am Edge, the Ninja Prince of Eblan. Specialize in swift strikes and gifted in stealth. I can use some ninjutsu as well. Glad to meet all of you."

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Vents}

<Well, that would make things more interesting, wouldn't it?>

Luminara gave Nocturne sour looks as the Guardian looked back.

"So, what's your plan?" He asked, keeping his voice low.

 

{Twilight Town: Main Street}

Aqua bowed slightly to Edge and Rydia.

"My name is Master Aqua." She introduced herself.

She hasitated in saying more, but the felt confident that the new comers were world travellers themselves.

"I am a Keyblade Master investigating the people behind attacks like this one."

She respectfully gestured to Sparrow.

"This Sparrow and his friends, Kiwi and Luna."

She left off their occupation, feeling it was up to them to decide who to tell. Aqua eyed Luna for a moment, wishing she could do more for the girl.

 

{Twilight Town: Beach}

The Decolor agent looked up into Hawk's eyes, a look of anger and defiance in his eyes.

"How about we go with the third option, where you lay down your arms and surrender." He said, an odd confidence in his voice. "If you do that, I can get my superior to treat you fairly and with respect. That is the promise of the Decolor."

 

{Twilight Town: Train Station}

All three former Organization members reacted to Celas's mentioning Xehanort's plan for the Organization in different ways. Dilan's face tightened, anger and hate easily seen in his eyes. Aeleus normally impassive face gave away a glimmer of disappointment. And finally Rolud, who looked surprised.

"So, he was sizing us up for a take over?" The Gambler asked, looking at his old colleagues.

"Yes." Dilan answered, his voice clipped and short. "It was his plan all along."

The Silent Hero put a hand on his friend's shoulder to calm the Lancer before he turned his attention to Celas.

"With King Candy in our custody, we should be able to get some of the answers we seek from him." He explained. "If what Rolud heard is correct, Candy could lead us to where the ENCOM Programs are coming out of their digital world."

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Hanger}

"Understood." Locke replied to Neena. "You do the same if you find our guest before I do."

With that, he hung up and took a deep breath. The plan had been good. He just wished he had more like Neena who understood what needed to be done. He walked over to an intercom and hit the button for the bridge.

"Take us up to high orbit." He ordered.

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Holding Cells}

Ienzo and Even shared a look and sighed. They were so use to subterfuge and plots that it was hard to remember that not everyone was.

"I'll explain later." Ienzo promised.

"So, you are going to get me out?" Even demanded, annoyance back in his voice.

The Schemer gave the Academic a reassuring smile.

"I'll talk to the other members of the council." He answered. "I'm sure they will be delighted to have a scientist of your ability join the cause. Oh, and you might as well start thinking of ways to help. The Decolor have captured the majority of the Lights and Darknesses, while orders have been sent out for live capture of those left. Perhaps you could help concocted what to do with the wielders?"

There was a long stare between the two former Organization members.

"I shall look into it." Even finally said, nodding.

Ienzo smiled again.

"Excellent." He said. "Someone will be by later to let you out. Come, Severa."

The Cloaked Schemer walked out of the holding Area.

Celas looked at the three former Organization members and sighed."I thought that...Oh nevermind. In any case...Candy is our ticket to the enemy's base."The Dark Warrior turned her head to watch Noctis and the sleeping Witch."We need to get answers from that annoying cyber-bug quickly. Who can say if the enemy knows that Candy was captured and is going to be interrogated in order to extract their whereabouts."Once again Celas' eyes returned to the former Organization members."And who is going to have the honor to question our guest?"

{Twilight Town: Train Station}

"I would guess Dilan here would like that honor." Rolud said, doing a flourished gesture to the Lancer.

"I have experience in such matters." Dilan snapped. "I also know his profile."

"The rest of us will need to ensure that the Decolor are pushed off this world." Aeleus added.

"From everything we're hearing, it sounds like that is well underway." The Gambler said.

"Then it should be an easy assignment." The Silent Hero finished.

He gave Celas a quick look. He had noticed some of her acting oddly.

"If someone needs a rest, stay here and rest up." He added to the group in general. "There will be plenty to do later."

Edited September 22, 201411 yr by rikunobodyxiii

"Sure thing. Some rest would be good."Celas felt Aeleus' eyes on her for a split second. Slowly she made her way to Noctis and the Witch."Any changes?" she asked."Nothing." Noctis answered. "She is still sleeping. Give her some time and I'm sure she will be fine."The Prince the turned around and stared at the Dark Warrior."What about you?" He asked."What about me?" Celas tilted her head and raised an eyebrow."Our little adventure took its toll on you. Your breathing pattern in irregular---""What are you looking at, Nocto?" Celas asked with a smirk before resting her hands on her hips."that means your body is taking more time than usual to heal itself." Noctis said without paying attention to Celas' attempt to change the topic. "Also there is the fact that the power surge you had. I can also tell that you're sick."Celas took that as a sign to look away, something about the guy in front of her scared her, she felt that he could see directly into her soul."Look, Noctis, it's true that I'm sick, but like I said to Elenar, it doesn't matter. I will fight and there is nothing you or anyone can do to stop me."

~~~~Edge tapped the program with his foot. Rydia walked forward and stood next to him, looking down at the defeated program."Tell me they aren't all like that." She muttered."I'm pretty sure that one was better than most of them. Pretty sure. Otherwise we're in big trouble." Edge replied. He glanced up at Aqua, and the soldiers behind them. "So who're you guys? I mean, I'm glad for the help and all, but you guys are the ones trying to save the world right?" Rydia nodded, as if agreeing with Edge's question."But let's not be rude. You have no reason to trust us right? Names are a good first move. My name is Rydia of Mist, and I'm a summoner. Extremely gifted in black magic and can summon strong beasts like Leviathan. And this is..." Edge pushed his way in front of Rydia."I am Edge, the Ninja Prince of Eblan. Specialize in swift strikes and gifted in stealth. I can use some ninjutsu as well. Glad to meet all of you."

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Vents}<Well, that would make things more interesting, wouldn't it?>Luminara gave Nocturne sour looks as the Guardian looked back."So, what's your plan?" He asked, keeping his voice low.{Twilight Town: Main Street}Aqua bowed slightly to Edge and Rydia."My name is Master Aqua." She introduced herself.She hasitated in saying more, but the felt confident that the new comers were world travellers themselves."I am a Keyblade Master investigating the people behind attacks like this one."She respectfully gestured to Sparrow."This Sparrow and his friends, Kiwi and Luna."She left off their occupation, feeling it was up to them to decide who to tell. Aqua eyed Luna for a moment, wishing she could do more for the girl.{Twilight Town: Beach}The Decolor agent looked up into Hawk's eyes, a look of anger and defiance in his eyes."How about we go with the third option, where you lay down your arms and surrender." He said, an odd confidence in his voice. "If you do that, I can get my superior to treat you fairly and with respect. That is the promise of the Decolor."

[Decolor Ship. Ventilation System. En-route to Hanger Bay]

Nocturne's left eye glowed slightly as Luminara asked the ever pressing question. "So, what 's your plan?"

The captive Guardian quietly sighed as he explained to the curious assassin. "With disguising my way out no longer an option and the enemy on high alert, I have no choice. Defaulting action is to un-restrict rules of engagement and consider making my way out via blunt force." He looked back at the pink haired... guy? "The last saving grace would be examining the hanger and from there, plot the best execution of exfiltration." He hated the idea of direct confrontation, but the circumstances gave him no other option. As Nocturne approached a vent ahead, the guardian could only hope that the opening would be on the ceiling of the hanger, giving him the perfect observation point for plotting his escape.

 

[Twilight Town, With Master Aqua. Main Street.]

Hearing Aqua introducing the group to the new strangers, Sparrow and Kiwi nodded quietly at the strangers when their names were called. Luna slowly advanced up to the strangers, but stayed put when she was near Aqua. The fifth guardian waved at the strangers, not sure what to make of them. Sparrow and Kiwi knew what the master was trying to do, and approved of her thoughts. "Nightsparrow One," the old guard reciprocated back towards the strangers, "Squad Leader of my team. I used to specialize in asymmetrical squad tactics and defense."

 

'And I'm Kiwi!" the other guard finally piped up, "I can eat cookies really well!"

Sparrow sighed as he chuckled slightly. "He specialized in reconnaissance, evasion and acquisition of forward intelligence."  Glancing over to Luna, Sparrow decided to speak for her. "Luna over there is... A protector of sorts. She specializes in defense." Returning his gaze to Rydia and Edge, Sparrow nodded in acknowledgement of their introductions. "Nice to meet you both. I'm assuming you have something against them too?" He pointed at Rinzler and the floating Ships above. 

 

[Twilight Town. Beachhead. With Captured Program]

"How about we go with the third option," the captured program retorted back at Hawk, "where you lay down your arms and surrender. If you do that, I can get my superior to treat you fairly and with respect. That is the promise of the Decolor."

Raven gulped as he glanced up at the ships floating above rather omminously. "Maybe he's on to something, Hawk," the medic advised, "But something tells me that those are empty promises that you are saying."

Hawk sighed and started dragging the prisoner towards the waters of the beach. "I have been trained in several interrogation techniques, several of which are banned on some worlds." With the waves of the beach gently lapping his armored boots, the angry father gripped their prisoner by the collar and growled, "If you leave me with no choice, I will not hesitate to go to extreme measures to extract information out of you. Now, what is the purpose of your organization, and where is my son?"

"Control yourself, Hawk." Ghost warned to the old guard. She knew he had every right to be angry, but with a possible source of valuable intelligence being handled by the angry father, Ghost was feeling conflicted about whether to exercise her authority and put Hawk in his place, or to let him continue his interrogation...

Edited September 27, 201411 yr by Javelin434

Severa watched Ienzo walk out of the holding area. She looked back to Even. "Have fun!" She said, teasing him slightly. She turned and made her way out of the holding area. When she was next to Ienzo again, she asked him a question. "So what's next? We've helped Nocturne, seen Cid and Even, what's next on your super secret agenda?"

~~~~

Edge nodded to all of the others. Master Aqua, Luna, Sparrow, and Kiwi. Okay then, he should probably keep that information around. "Yeah, they struck our world by surprise and took it over. There was not much we could do there, so Rydia and I came seeking the heart of the problem." Edge said, explaining their own motives.

~~~~Edge nodded to all of the others. Master Aqua, Luna, Sparrow, and Kiwi. Okay then, he should probably keep that information around. "Yeah, they struck our world by surprise and took it over. There was not much we could do there, so Rydia and I came seeking the heart of the problem." Edge said, explaining their own motives.

[Twilight Town. Main Street]

 

"Yeah, they struck our world by surprise and took it over. There was not much we could do there, so Rydia and I came seeking the heart of the problem," the old guards heard Edge explain. Sparrow gulped hard while Kiwi merely cocked his head to the side, both trying to digest the information. "Well..." the leader Sparrow started, "you're on the right track. We have a good feeling where the heart of this problem is, but we're not too certain." He looked over to Kiwi, who was merely staring at the distant warships, and concluded that the scout was not going to be of any help at the particular moment. "We're just trying to survive and stand a chance against them. Got any ideas on how to take them down?" Thinking really hard about the situation, Sparrow glanced at Rinzler, trying to come up with ideas on the best approach to survive and see the next sunset with his family once again...

{Twilight Town: Train Station}

Aeleus nodded his approval of Celas's decision.

"I am going to check on the battle outside." He said. "I shouldn't be long."

With that, the big man left the Train Station. Rolud shook his head.

"I'm not use to seeing Aeleus taking point like this." He commented. "Seeing people after they get their hearts back is certainly an experience."

Dilan gave a derisive snort and went into the room where King Candy was being held. Leah, who had kept quite to avoid notice, let out a relieved sigh. She had been running from fighting for so long, she didn't want to be drawn back in. To take her mind off it, she turned to look at the unconscious Lacuna. What was so dangerous about her? She didn't look much older then Leah herself.

"Isn't staring rude?" Lacuna's said without opening her eyes.

Leah started and tried to sputter an answer.

"Though since you all seem to be taking turns at it, staring must have some other meaning I wasn't taught."

 

{Twilight Town: Main Street}

"They've been busy, then." Aqua said, digesting what Edge had said. "I wouldn't have thought there was a force powerful enough to take Disney Castle, yet this Decolor has done it and several other worlds."

She looked up at the aerial battle that was going on over head. What remained of the ENCOM ships were in full retreat. At least the Decolor hand's taken this world.

"Finding their home might be imperative if we are going to see an end of this threat."

Master Aqua gave Edge and Rydia a nod.

"If you are willing to help, we can begin working towards that goal together."

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Vents}

"The direct approach might be the simplist, but it usually leaves you simply dead." Lumiara said as he followed after Nocturne through the vents. "Is it the Keyblade that prevents you people from thinking in complex plans?"

<Wow, rude.> the voice commented.

The voice was beginning to sound like Nocturne's own in his head, but more immature and mischievous.

Next time hat emo guy suggests a traveling companion, ignore him,please.

"Now, if we were to make for the top of the ship, we should be able to find a hatch and jump to the ground from there." The Gracefull Assassin continued, unable to hear the voice in the Guardian's head.

<Booooring. I mean, if you're a wimp, sure it sounds...okay. But come on! A battle in the hanger would be super epic.>

 

{Twilight Town; Beach}

The Ulthor Agent returned Hawk's gaze with defiance, but he wasn't a fool. Nothing was to be gained from not answering simple questions that could find out on their own. Plus, the answers might set the proper tone.

"I work with the Decolor." He said in a calm voice. "A group of concerned people who think you Keybladers have been running around, messing with the world's for too long. We know it was Wielders of that weapon that destroyed the world as it was long ago. We're not going to wait around for you to do it again."

The Agent considered blowing of Hawk's other question, but he decided honesty was his best option.

"Since I don't know much about you, I can't say much about your son, as I have no idea who that is."

 

{Disney Castle: Decolor Ship; Corridor}

"First step is to not refer to it as a 'super secret agenda.'" Ienzo answered, with a little humor in his voice. "Labels like that attract too much attention."

The Schemer paused a moment to let a patrol of programs go past.

"Our next step after that is figure out what else is going on. I got the impression from Jihl that more was going on then the simple straigem that I was aware of."

At the first sign of activity from the Witch, both Noctis and Celas turned around."I'm sure that sometimes it qualify as rude, but other times it is to express concern for someone, you just need to know what to look for in a person's face."Noctis looked at the Dark Warrior for a split second."I'm surprised to hear that coming from her." He thought."But never mind that." Celas said as she got closer to Lacuna. "How are you feeling?"The Prince was taking turns to look between Lacuna and Celas and give quick glances towards the room where Dilan and Candy were.