Disney Castle, General Quarters

 

“This is General Jason Schindler, Leader of what remains of the Light Armed Forces, signing out for what may be the last time.”

 

With a click and a sigh, Jason Schindler ended his personal diary to an electronic recorder that was in his hand. A red light blinked three times on the small handheld instrument before going dark, signalling the instrument’s offline status. Not a moment too soon, the war weary leader heard a knock on the bedroom door. “General?” the muffled voice informed, “You’re needed in the throne room.”

“I’ll be there, Snider.” He coolly replied back. Looking out beyond his rather cozy and luxurious bedroom through the ornate window, the general couldn’t help but feel conflicted at the sight of the azure blue sky. It looked comforting, but he knew better; beyond the sea of tranquil blue was a hostile place, and the thought of the ever encroaching darkness only made his heart sink just a little more. His anxiousness was reinforced as he witnessed a squadron of aircraft fly past, marking the end of one watch shift and the beginning of the next. I wonder what His Majesty has in mind to turn this tide of war?

 

Meanwhile… Out in the Courtyard of Disney Castle…

The large passenger doors of the angular transport ship hissed open as the craft made a gentle touchdown in the rather beautiful garden. The warm, bright sunlight flooded the compartment, illuminating the valuable cargo inside: People. But not just any people. No, this transport was special. Within the metallic walls of the ship were some of the remaining Forces finest warriors. They had stayed back at the frontlines, fighting tooth and nail to buy their comrades the time they needed to evacuate the desperate civilians off the falling worlds of Traverse Town and Radiant Garden. These people witnessed the atrocities of the darkness first hand; some were powerless to stop innocent lives being taken away in front of their eyes, others were simply too late. Whether the sights had affected these people remained to be seen, but it was clear that many would never be the same after the traumatic events that had transpired within the past three days. It is here that we find Captain Sean O’Malley, Keyblade Master Ohr, Lieutenant Mors, and Lieutenant Armis skirting the edge of the passenger compartment, and a platoon of soldiers standing right behind them. Every single one of the soldiers had a blank expression; none of them bothered talking to their superiors during their transit from the fallen worlds to the safe haven of the castle.

 

As the engines quieted into an a low, idling drone, a tall, well built man in what looked to be like keyblade armor approached the ship. His short, blonde hair glowed in the sunlight as the short blue cape that was attached to his left armored pauldron fluttered in the downdraft of the ship. “Welcome to the Castle!” the armored man saluted to the newcomers. His piercing green eyes were quietly assessing the veterans, checking for the tell-tale signs of lingering distress. “I’m looking for some specific individuals, directly from command. If there is a Captain O’Malley, Lieutenant Mors or Armis in this transport, proceed towards the briefing room. It’s down the hall over there, directly across the door that leads into the throne room.” He noticed Ohr’s outfit, and immediately recognized what he was. “Master, as a wielder of the keyblade, you’re needed in there as well.”

 

 

Elsewhere on the Castle Grounds...

The remnants of the 7th Radiant Garden Air Force Wing, Talon Squadron finished their aerial patrols around the castle. As a replacement flight took to the skies, Talon Squadron entered the Castle Hanger and taxied to their respective holding bay. As mechanics swarmed the still idling down aircrafts, it is here where Basilia is stationed, where her skills are vitally needed and put to effective use. A short time after the aircrafts had completely shut down, several marines entered the large, cavernous room. Their heads were turning everywhere, obviously searching for something as they combed the area. Some approached the mechanics that were scattered around the hanger bay, and after being pointed in the right direction, made a beeline towards Basilia. “Hey,” one of the marines greeted, “You’re Basilia right? You’re needed in the briefing room immediately. You can follow me if you don’t know where that is.”

Edited December 2, 201410 yr by Javelin434

Ager took another swig, then looked up to the admiral. He gestured to the bottle that stood on the table. "Feel free." He said deferentially. He stood to his full towering height. The Black Swordsman grasped his blade, and hefted it onto his back swiftly and deftly. As he walked out of the room, he tapped on Alex's table. "If it means anything to you, myself and Milas don't have anything against darkness as long as your on our side. Hell, I use a bit of it myself. Just gotta stay strong right?" Ager said, his tone neutral, but his words comforting. He continued out of the briefing room, his cloak blowing slightly from behind him. What should he do? Train. Nah, he was about to go into a war zone, and as great as training was, wasn't how he wanted to spend his last hours. Sleeping? Pointless. He was well-rested, and had grown past needing normal amounts of sleep a while ago. Drinking? Perhaps. Ager stretched his arms a bit. Maybe just some wandering would do him some good.

~~~~

O'Malley looked behind him to the girls. He smiled softly. "Aye, you lasses get some rest. If we're going to do this right, ye will need your full strength! Sleep tight, and don't let the narwhals bite." He said, dismissing them. He turned again, and headed once again on his way to the bar. A good old fashioned bar fight may prove to be fun, though he probably shouldn't. No telling when these old bones will give up after all. No, he'd just get drunk, have a nice talk with some other soldiers. Maybe he'd treat. He didn't need the money anyway right?

~~~~

Milas sank into the hot bath with a sigh. She was fortunate that a luxury like these hot springs were still available. She smiled with closed eyes as she soaked in the warm water, feeling it wash away the stress and grime of the frontlines. The Cold Soldier ran her wet hands through her short dark hair. The thought that this might be her last bath didn't really connect. After all, she couldn't die here. Milas needed to kill Zodd with Ager. She needed to laugh and joke with Ager some more. She needed to become stronger for her friends that no longer could. Her life was not over yet. She'd come back alive, one way or another. Milas sunk further into the bath. Yes, she would. It didn't matter how much effort it took, she and Ager would get out of there alive, and mission accomplished.

Seraphina blinked a few times as she watched Etain reach just as Seraphina finished her explanation. She thought about a snarky remark, but she decided that she might as well not. She was running on three cups of coffee by then. She would need a fourth one sooner or later. In times like this caffeine was the only drug anyone would ever need. “Don’t worry. You didn’t miss anything important.” Seraphina said calmly, herself not knowing if the briefing on the ship was important or not in specific. As long as they managed to live long enough to reach Traverse Town would be nice enough. “I think everything should be in order now. We’ve got a few more hours until this thing has to go flying right? I’ll go ahead and help out with the weaponry of the other suckers who are going to end up coming along. Can’t have anyone malfunctioning in the midst of it.” Seraphina remarked before drinking what was left of coffee from her ‘Best mom of the year’ coffee mug. It tasted funny. Upon further inspection it turns out Seraphina actually just drank some oil. Lovely. “Is there anything else that you need me to do in specific?” Seraphina asked, her eyes boring to the squad members, able to make contact without much reaction, or showing much emotion. Even as she had just drank some oil by accident.

Ager took another swig, then looked up to the admiral. He gestured to the bottle that stood on the table. "Feel free."

~~~~

O'Malley looked behind him to the girls. He smiled softly. "Aye, you lasses get some rest. If we're going to do this right, ye will need your full strength! Sleep tight, and don't let the narwhals bite." 

 

Seraphina blinked a few times as she watched Etain reach just as Seraphina finished her explanation.

 “Don’t worry. You didn’t miss anything important.”

“I think everything should be in order now. We’ve got a few more hours until this thing has to go flying right? I’ll go ahead and help out with the weaponry of the other suckers who are going to end up coming along. Can’t have anyone malfunctioning in the midst of it.”

“Is there anything else that you need me to do in specific?” 

 

Admiral Chandler smiled at Ager’s open offer of O’malley’s ‘courage tonic.’ He quickly took the bottle and sniffed at the content. He winced, shrugged it off and gave it a small sip. A smile formed on his face as he chuckled a little. “I don’t know what liquid ‘courage’ tastes like,” he murmered to himself as he took another swig of the tonic, “but I wouldn’t mind the opportunity to supplement mine. The more the merrier I guess...”

------

Spooky Squad had decided to follow Ager, since they wanted to stay seated for as long as possible before having to stand back up again and Milas was already out of the room.  "Sir!" the leader known only as Spectre barked instinctively, "Since we've been attached to you, do you need us to do anything?” Secretly, the squad was hoping they'd get the orders to dismiss so they could squeeze in a power nap before the upcoming operation, but knew that they were at the utter mercy of their assigned superior. I hope that roughhousing was a facade. Please be an actual nice guy.

-----

Hearing O’Malley’s go ahead for their much needed rest, the leader of Aquarius Squad smiled wholeheartedly. “Thank you, sir!” Brooke weakly exclaimed as she turned around to motion her squad away to the nearby barracks, “if you need us for any reason, we’ll be in Sector 22-D.” The four girls shuffled away to their cozy alcove, where they could get their well deserved five hour vacation in dreamland...

 

Meanwhile… At the Hanger…

 

Firestorm Squad was puzzled at Seraphina’s offer of spiffing up their weapons. “That won’t be necessary,” Blaze spoke on behalf of his squad, “they’re experimental to begin with, and we’re not allowed to let anyone other than it’s operators, which would be us, hold or touch these.” As the mechanic sipped some of her special concoction, the squad noticed her mug, with Scorch ever so slightly raising an eyebrow. She’s a mother, huh? I wonder if everyone she cared about made it? We either have a woman who genuinely wants to return safely, or someone who doesn’t want to come back. Dear light, please let it be the first option…

“You’ve already carried out your orders from the top brass.” Phoenix shrugged, “I don’t think there’s anything else to do now except wait for the upcoming operation. I’m not really looking forward to it, but no point backing out now, eh?

Seraphina shrugged. “We’ve hit the point of no return since the orders were given. Otherwise, we’re all doomed.” Seraphina said as she looked around. “I think I’ll just rest around here and wait for further orders, then. I would need to answer any questions that anyone might have. Plus, I have stuff to settle before going anywhere.” Seraphina said as she stared down at her mug. She needed more coffee. “Mom!” Seraphina blinked. Was she hearing things? She tapped her head before she heard it again. “Mom!” Seraphina turned, a smile appearing upon her face. Juniper walked up to her, apparently done with his studies and on break to come visit. “Junipeeeer!” Seraphina said, trying to sound cheery, but looked and sounded exhausted regardless. The child walked over and pulled on her arm. “I have more time before I return to my studies!” Juniper said, the 13 year old glancing at the team in front of Seraphina, before hiding behind her once he noticed them. “They aren’t going to hurt you they’re just here to remind me to get ready for work.” Seraphina said as she smiled gently. Juniper stared at the group before hiding again. Seraphina turned to the group, smiling. “This is my kid! Isn’t he cute? He looks just like his dad before he was blown up to pieces.” Seraphina said rather bluntly as she rubbed Juniper’s head. The young boy indeed looked a lot like his deceased father in his younger days, but shared his mother’s skin complexion and hair color, his eyes however, were his father’s violet color. His attitude was his father’s, thankfully. Otherwise heads would be butting. Juniper felt Seraphina grip his shoulder. “Juniper say hello to the nice people.” She said. Juniper gave a nod and saluted. “Juniper Basilia, son of Seraphina Basilia, and Romeo Basilia. Nice to meet you!”

General Schindler only nodded slowly in approval as Alex acknowledged his warning. "You are to follow Snider's orders, whatever they may be. If it wasn't for him nor for the fact we lost Radiant Garden, you'd be in a lab right now." He glanced over to the ground commander, saw his predicament, and sighed heavily. "Report to Snider, and see what he wants you to do. Dismissed, Keyblader." And with that, the General returned to his post at the front of the briefing room, but now the soldiers of Nightwing and Spooky Squad were curious what the general said as they looked at Alex for a brief moment, then resumed their conversations.

 

 

Alex kept looking back at schindler with a strong composure, not intimidated by any of what he said, he simply nodded to his orders, although the lab part was quite unpleasant to hear he remained unphased, being told to report to Snider Alex couldn't help but see said man pinned to a wall by a pilot of sorts, 'So I am to speak with the general who is pinned into a wall?' he thought to himself.

 

Ager took another swig, then looked up to the admiral. He gestured to the bottle that stood on the table. "Feel free." He said deferentially. He stood to his full towering height. The Black Swordsman grasped his blade, and hefted it onto his back swiftly and deftly. As he walked out of the room, he tapped on Alex's table. "If it means anything to you, myself and Milas don't have anything against darkness as long as your on our side. Hell, I use a bit of it myself. Just gotta stay strong right?" Ager said, his tone neutral, but his words comforting. He continued out of the briefing room, his cloak blowing slightly from behind him. What should he do? Train. Nah, he was about to go into a war zone, and as great as training was, wasn't how he wanted to spend his last hours. Sleeping? Pointless. He was well-rested, and had grown past needing normal amounts of sleep a while ago. Drinking? Perhaps. Ager stretched his arms a bit. Maybe just some wandering would do him some good.

 

Surprised by Ager's words Alex couldn't help but raise a small smile in appreciation, "Thanks, I mean it" he said to him as he saw the hulking mass of a man leave the room. It was tough having to deal with darkness, specially one you awakened soon after you gained posession of the keyblade, everyone think he is a monster everywhere he goes, at least most of the time, only a few rare occasions where strangers don't mind and actually support him, it was harsh mastering it with so many prying eyes, and knowing that he wasn't even wanted in this operation to begin with just gnawed at him even more so, but in the end he conquered his inner darkness and bound it to his will during all these years in training...or at least thats what he thought anyway.

 

---------

 

Alex had waited a bit, hoping the pilot would Release Snider, but nothing happened during the time he waited, which were just a few quick minutes at best, but it was enough to leave him a bit impatient. He soon got up from his position and headed to where Snider was, there he noticed a red haired, quite beautyful woman who he assumed to be in a squad of sorts, not that he knew of course, he simply gave her a quick nod with a normal expression on his face as he approached Snider who was pinned to the wall. "Excuse me" he said, pulling the pilot back with relative ease and locked eyes with said pilot, Alex faced him with a dead stare which would send chills down one's very soul, given his general tough and aggressive appearance which his master used to comment on, this an actual asset to him, even though he never liked using it. "Im sorry but I have important manners to discuss with snider, urgent Keyblader business, would you mind speaking to him later?" he asked the pilot with a polite but serious tone as he was still staring at him. 

{Sam}

With a smirk, Sam pulled one of her MagSecs from her thigh holsters, and twirled it around so that she was holding it by the barrel. In a second, she was behind the pilot and bringing the butt of her pistol against the back of the angry pilots skull in a rough manner, but carefully enough to ensure that he would actually wake up later. As the pilot folded up, Sam flipped the gun back around and holstered it.

"Didn't he get the whole 'end of everything as we know it" memo?" She asked casually, gesturing to the knocked out pilot.

 

(Ohr is still in, but I want to give Oath time to catch up. If he hasn't responded when we are ready for drop, I'll have Ohr ready to go.)

Alex's eyes widened in surprise as he followed by a small sigh at Samantha knocking the pilot out cold with the butt of her pistol, he was fully expecting to at least get the pilot to back off so he could speak with Snider, not have the poor sod end up in the receiving end of a pistol whip to the back of the head as he was distracted with him, either way he could easily speak with Snider now. He let out a small chuckle at Samantha's comment "I guess he just didn't know better" he casually said in response while looking at her with a small smile on his face, "Well I hope you didn't cause any serious damage to the poor guy though..." he said shrugging before looking at Snider. 

"Commander snider, my name is Alex Danner, I believed you called me here?" he asked him with a polite tone of voice.

{Sam}

Sam looked down at the unconscious pilot and shrugged.

"No, he should be good in a few hours, after the pain meds kick in." She replied to Alex.

She looked up and grinned.

"And if he wants payback, he better hope I come back alive. Always good to have something to come back to."

“They aren’t going to hurt you they’re just here to remind me to get ready for work.”

“This is my kid! Isn’t he cute? He looks just like his dad before he was blown up to pieces.”

“Juniper say hello to the nice people. Juniper Basilia, son of Seraphina Basilia, and Romeo Basilia. Nice to meet you!”

 

 

Alex had waited a bit, hoping the pilot would Release Snider, but nothing happened during the time he waited...

"Excuse me... I'm sorry but I have important manners to discuss with Snider, urgent Keyblader business, would you mind speaking to him later?" 

 

{Sam}

"Didn't he get the whole 'end of everything as we know it" memo?" She asked casually, gesturing to the knocked out pilot.

 

(Ohr is still in, but I want to give Oath time to catch up. If he hasn't responded when we are ready for drop, I'll have Ohr ready to go.)

 

"Commander snider, my name is Alex Danner, I believed you called me here?" he asked him with a polite tone of voice.

 

{Sam}

Sam looked down at the unconscious pilot and shrugged.

"No, he should be good in a few hours, after the pain meds kick in." She replied to Alex.

She looked up and grinned.

"And if he wants payback, he better hope I come back alive. Always good to have something to come back to."

[Alrighty then. That's very kind of you rikunobody ]

 

"Excuse me..." Alex's voice caught the pilot's attention. "I'm sorry but I have important manners to discuss with Snider, urgent Keyblader business, would you mind speaking to him later?" The pilot turned his head around to see just who had the guts to politely tell him to buzz off before offering his own advice. “Does it look like I care about who you are or what your business is?” Fortunately for everyone, Sam’s rather blunt solution quickly disarmed the situation. "Didn't he get the whole 'end of everything as we know it" memo?"

 

“I’m sure he did,” Snider, now freed, calmly replied, “but I really don’t blame him. The Air Force falls under the Navy, so had Chandler given the order, he’d be fine and dandy. Well that, and I’d be pissed too if my only weapon against the darkness was dismantled just because some top brass said “because I said so.’ Poor guy.”

 

Snider carefully brushed the scuffs off his uniform as he addressed his saviors. “Thanks you two,” the commander snickered, “and judging by the way you took care of him, Sam, I’d say you are good to go.” It only took a moment for Snider to realize the new face that was standing next to him. “Hey!” he exclaimed, “you’re... uh…”

"Commander Snider, my name is Alex Danner-”

“Right!” he quickly interjected, grinning sheepishly. “You’re that guy! I can’t help but wonder what’s so classified about you to have everything but your name and class blacked out on your service record. What did you do?”

“-I believed you called me here?"

“As a matter of fact, yes I did!” After adjusting his tie and straightening out his coat, the commander continued. “I’m not sure I spotted you during the briefing. You were here when it happened, right? Or will I have to go over the entire operation plans with you? If I have to, stand near the platform over there and we’ll get started. If not, great! report to the hanger in… well… an hour.”

 

Meanwhile… At the hanger

 

Juniper’s sudden entrance came as a welcome relief to Firestorm Squad, as was evident by their collective smiles. Thank the Light, it’s the first option… Blaze mentally remarked, sighing quietly as he watched the exchange between Seraphina and her daughter.

“I have more time before I return to my studies!”

“They aren’t going to hurt you they’re just here to remind me to get ready for work. This is my kid! Isn’t he cute? He looks just like his dad before he was blown up to pieces.”

What tiny semblance of happiness that any of the squad members felt was immediately obliterated thanks to the remark. “I’m so sorry to hear that.” both Etain and Phoenix sympathized instinctively.

“Juniper Basilia, son of Seraphina Basilia, and Romeo Basilia. Nice to meet you!”

“Firestorm Squad.” Blaze stately nonchalantly “It’s nice to meet you, Juniper. Seraphina, since we have an hour before the operation formally begins and you’re finished with your assignment for now...” the leader nodded towards the teenage boy. “Why not spend some time with him? I’m sure the brass wouldn't mind.”

 Alex wasn't amused by snider's comment about his profile being blacked out, most likely to hide any suspicion about his power, "I've done nothing but help, yet I still keep getting shunned wherever I go to help" he said with a serious tone "simply because of my power which i think you know what it is." he said. He had helped in the defense of Olympus and the defense of Radiant Garden, yet he could still feel the uncomfortable and stares around him at all times, he was used to it sure, as it was understandable considering his darkness powers.

Alex smirked on Snider's comment about not seeing him during the briefing, even though he was around and watched it all before getting approached by Chandler "I was around, and I know of the keyblader's mission to close off the keyhole in Travese town".

"But I was approached by Chandler and...well...'advised' by him and ordered to speak with you about my assignment, now what is it that you'l have me do? help the keybladers or something else? I'd rather know now so I can get prepared" he asked snider with a serious yet polite tone as to not show disrespect. He was threatened by Chandler after all, specially the part about the lab which wasn't exactly something he would like.

Edited February 15, 201510 yr by Scrapmaster

 Alex wasn't amused by snider's comment about his profile being blacked out, most likely to hide any suspicion about his power, "I've done nothing but help, yet I still keep getting shunned wherever I go to help" he said with a serious tone "simply because of my power which i think you know what it is." he said. He had helped in the defense of Olympus and the defense of Radiant Garden, yet he could still feel the uncomfortable and stares around him at all times, he was used to it sure, as it was understandable considering his darkness powers.

Alex smirked on Snider's comment about not seeing him during the briefing, even though he was around and watched it all before getting approached by Chandler "I was around, and I know of the keyblader's mission to close off the keyhole in Travese town".

"But I was approached by Chandler and...well...'advised' by him and ordered to speak with you about my assignment, now what is it that you'l have me do? help the keybladers or something else? I'd rather know now so I can get prepared" he asked snider with a serious yet polite tone as to not show disrespect. He was threatened by Chandler after all, specially the part about the lab which wasn't exactly something he would like.

 

Snider's sincere smile slowly eroded away into his usual neutral face as he listened in to Alex's mini-rant. "I've done nothing but help, yet I still keep getting shunned wherever I go to help."

"What do you mean?" the commander asked, tilting his head off to the side. 

 "...simply because of my power which i think you know what it is."

"Um... I hate to be blunt with you, but service records exist for a reason you know. I can remember most service members and a little about them, but for Light's sake, I can't remember everyone."  Snider's tone became a little more serious as he gazed intently on the keyblade wielder. "What kind of powers are we talking about here, Alex?"

 

The commander's curiosity lingered as Alex continued. "I was around, and I know of the keyblader's mission to close off the keyhole in Travese Town."

"Great! That saves me a couple of breaths!"

"But I was approached by Chandler and...well...'advised' by him and ordered to speak with you about my assignment, now what is it that you'll have me do? help the keybladers or something else? I'd rather know now so I can get prepared."

Snider paused for a bit, factoring in the new keyblade warrior's report and possibilities. "Chandler? The admiral? I don't know what he would be advising you about, since ground units like you and me fall under my domain, and anything that doesn't touch the ground goes to him. So, what was he telling you? Oh, and on that note, I'm tempted to have you be a part of the keyblade team, but I think they should be good as they are. How about you stay with me and provide support for everyone? All you and I have to do is take care of everything behind everyone else and establish a sort of safe haven for everyone to fall back into if we push too hard. Unless you prefer the front lines, in which case, there's a girl named Seraphina who could use a keyblade wielder. She's just a mechanic, and could use someone like you to protect her."

 

Before giving Alex the time to properly respond, the commander squeezed in one last request. "We have less than an hour, so pick a role and prepare for it. If you're tired, go grab a cup of coffee or ask one of the wielders here to zap you with a thunder spell. Trust me, it hurts, but it really helps to wake you up."

Edited February 18, 201510 yr by Javelin434

Juniper’s sudden entrance came as a welcome relief to Firestorm Squad, as was evident by their collective smiles. Thank the Light, it’s the first option… Blaze mentally remarked, sighing quietly as he watched the exchange between Seraphina and her daughter.

“I have more time before I return to my studies!”

“They aren’t going to hurt you they’re just here to remind me to get ready for work. This is my kid! Isn’t he cute? He looks just like his dad before he was blown up to pieces.”

What tiny semblance of happiness that any of the squad members felt was immediately obliterated thanks to the remark. “I’m so sorry to hear that.” both Etain and Phoenix sympathized instinctively.

“Juniper Basilia, son of Seraphina Basilia, and Romeo Basilia. Nice to meet you!”

“Firestorm Squad.” Blaze stately nonchalantly “It’s nice to meet you, Juniper. Seraphina, since we have an hour before the operation formally begins and you’re finished with your assignment for now...” the leader nodded towards the teenage boy. “Why not spend some time with him? I’m sure the brass wouldn't mind.”

 

Seraphina thought about the offer. "That actually sounds like a pretty good idea." Seraphina admitted, setting her coffee mug down. She smiled. "Well then, I'll see you within an hour then." Seraphina then turned to Juniper. "Hey Juniper, did you see what I helped build?" Seraphina asked as she pointed at the modified vehicle. Juniper's gaze followed and his eyes gleamed in curiosity. "No way! That's huge!" Juniper said in awe as Seraphina started to walk with him, wrapping an arm around his shoulder. "Yes way!" "It looks like a metal monster! Or a dragon!" "That's for defense and offense." Juniper turned. "Wait, does that mean, you'll be riding on that with them?" Seraphina paused, noticing the tone of worry in Juniper's voice. Her smile never wavered. "Yeah. You see, it turns out, we're going to try to fix a world, and when we finish doing that, maybe we'll be able to start advancing and recusing other worlds, and one day we will be able to see home again. Our real home." Seraphina explained. "Maybe after we're done fixing and rescuing, I'll take you out to see it." "Really?! You would?!" "Of course! But for now," Seraphina said as she walked closer with Juniper. "Want me to explain what this can do?" Juniper nodded with excitement. "Yes please!" Chuckling, Seraphina started to give Juniper a small tour, making sound effects and situations to keep the attention of the boy from straying away. She had to return. She had to. Otherwise to Juniper, being swallowed by the darkness wouldn't be so bad.

 

Alex kept a normal expression throughout Snider's comments and explanations, he was surprised Snider didn't know what his power was and that made Alex sigh as he looked around them to check if there weren't any prying eyes. "The Reason Chandler spoke to me is because I use the power of darkness, and he has warned me that in the case I end up using that in battle, I might be considered a target by the forces, that is why he sent me to you" he said shrugging as he finished speaking.

"As much as I'd love being alongside the keyblade team or being in the front lines, if Chandler's warning is anything to go by, i'd rather avoid getting fired on by my own allies." he said sighing, "The darkness has no control over me anymore, i've mastered it, But it is still feared by some, in turn, I'd choose to be in the keyblader's team, that seems like the less troublesome as I won't be seen by the soldiers and run the risk of being considered a threat" he said with a serious tone.

Snider's eyes widened as Alex confessed to his darkness related powers. His lips quivered, wanting to notify the others of what was standing before him; all he had to do was yell, and everyone around him would take care of the situation with extreme prejudice. As he mentally tried to process the news, his body was instinctively reacting as his right hand slowly extended off to the side, going through the motions of calling in his keyblade. You... you're one of them...

 

Schindler, who was watching Alex after the confrontation, quickly sprinted over to the ground commander, knowing he had seconds to react before the entire castle became a devastating battleground. Did you just do what I think you just did, Alex? The general's fears were confirmed as he saw Snider's chest expand rapidly and his mouth opened wide. "HE'S ONE-" Fortunately for everyone, the general immediately covered the commander's mouth, muffling the message he was trying to communicate. Every single squad in the room focused their attention on the commander, general, and Alex. Their gazes hardened as they tried to analyze the sight. "He's one what?" someone from Nightwing asked, the only remaining squad in the room since Ohr and Sanya decided to linger around for the entire time.

 

Fortunately, the general anticipated the moment, and offered an immediate, yet calm reply. "He's one of the keyblade wielders. Isn't that right, Snider?" The commander glared at Schindler with rage and confusion evident in his eyes. "All remaining squads and personnel, please evacuate this room. I need to have a talk here with the commander. That means you too, Alex. Go on and prepare. Everyone will report to the hanger in about half an hour."

 

It was at this time that there was a noticeable increase of activity all around the castle. The halls of the castle were slowly filling up with soldiers and runners as everyone started their final preparations for the operation. Shouts from sergeants trying to assemble their squads echoed within the halls, and the occasional drone of the air patrols now became a continuous, albeit distant sound of thunder as more squadrons took to the skies. Within the hanger, it quickly became a lot louder than it was moments ago as more aircrafts and gummi ship engines were brought online. Another squadron entered the bay for hot fixing, and several exited to replace them. Fortunately for Seraphina and Juniper, the transports were well out of the way of the main operations section of the hanger despite sitting right in the middle of it. Popping out from behind a taxiing fighter craft came Polaris Squad, zeroing in on the modified transports and making a beeline to the area, somehow managing to not get run over in the process. "Seraphina?" the leader addressed upon seeing the mechanic, "Polaris. We've been assigned to you for the operation? Sorry for not being here. We needed a break. Hope you don't mind!"

Edited February 25, 201510 yr by Javelin434

Seraphina paused and turned over to the Polaris squad, waving slightly. “So you’ll be accompanying me over through the mission? How wonderful! Seraphina said, sarcasm poisoning her words but at the same time, being rather grateful. This meant more chances of her not getting killed. Juniper gripped Seraphina’s hand tighter while staring at the squad. Seraphina turned over to him and then reached into her pocket, taking out a beat up, yet surprisingly still working pocket watch. Looking at the time, she clicked it closed. She had to send him off. They would leave soon. “Juniper. You should return to your studies. Thanks for coming by though.” Seraphina said as she rubbed Juniper’s head. Juniper seemed to about to object, but instead gave a nod, hugging his mother before starting to walk away. He paused, turning to the Polaris squad and pointing at them. “You better bring my mom back alive.” Juniper hissed, a notable anger mixed with worry in his eyes. With that, he ran off. Seraphina sighed. If someone was to threaten anyone it should be her. She looked over at the team, smirking a bit. “I’m glad to hear you guys will be coming with me. I’ve been tasked an optional objective that I aim to accomplish.” Seraphina said. She moved her hand to her neck, taking out to show her dogtag necklace with a flashdrive hanging from it as well. “I need your help to reach the headquarters once we land. The sooner I manage to reactivate the system, the less people will get killed while cleaning out the town.” Seraphina said as she hid her necklace within her clothing again. She crossed her arms. “You don’t happen to know where exactly we’re aiming to land once we reach the place, do you?” Seraphina asked while tilting her head to the side.

"Aye, no problem lasses. Sleep tight and don't let the narwhals bite, ah?" O'Malley waved the girls of Aquarius Squad away. He smiled softly as they walked away. He did not care, he would do anything it took to get them back home. Too many young ones had died already, he wasn't about to let these children die when they were so close to him. He felt the weight of his battleaxe on his back. Yep, with that, he was most certainly not going to let anything so disastrous as deaths occur. Suicide mission? Pssh. Not everyone needs to die on a suicide mission. Just a few. O'Malley headed towards the outside. He enjoyed fresh air most days, and though sea air was of course the best of all air, he doubted he would get any of that here. O'Malley sighed, a little sad that he would not be able to enjoy one last ride on his old ship, maneuvering the sails to catch the wind, keeping his knots tight, hearing the call of sea birds and feeling the splash of ocean foam. He smiled and closed his eyes, enjoying the memory for what it was, and what it would be forevermore. A memory.

~~~~

Ager glanced behind him. Right. They had been assigned a squad. He turned back around, and waved them off with a casual gesture. "Do what you want to make yourselves comfortable and prepared. This could very well be a one way trip. Dismissed." Ager said quickly, and began to walk away. The Black Swordsman did not like to have subordinates, it made him uncomfortable to be responsible for others while on a battlefield. But... This was a special case. He stopped in his tracks, and looked behind him again towards Spectre and the rest of Spooky Squad. "Try to have a bit of fun. You don't want your last day to be full of grief, right? Whatever you do, put it on my tab. Worst comes to worst, I'll have to ask Milas for munny. Now, get going." Ager finished, and then turned a corner down another hallway. Those were going to be his last words to his squad before the mission. He was glad they were what they were.

{Sam}

Sam watched in amused silence as Alex and Snider talked. As someone who got her record rubbed in her face often enough, it was fun to see someone else freak out about it. Though, she wasn't sure why. Keybladers were pretty white washed, as far as Sam had seen. What would they-

"...I use the power of darkness..."

Oh.

Sam screwed up her face as she processed this new info. She was a little more...radical in her ideas, and was all for fighting fire with fire. But, few agreed with that stance.

"Well now." She said, trying the unfamiliar role of peace maker. "This mission sounds fun. Shall we mosey on?"

She placed a hand on Snider's shoulder, to serve as a comfort and a warning, in case he felt inclined to more violence before the drop.

[Thought I would forget about this? NOPE! School got in the way though, but that's over for now 8D]

 

Within the hanger… [seraphina]
 

The leader of Polaris Team, Squad Leader Arcticus, stared blankly at Seraphina’s son as he tried to think of something tactful to respond back. He would have quipped ‘no promises,’ since it was what he has always been telling others for as long as he could remember being in the service, but seeing that it was a child made the leader think twice about his actions. “We’ll see what we can do.” he cautiously reassured; it was about as neutral as he could think of without sounding somber.

“I’m glad to hear you guys will be coming with me. I’ve been tasked an optional objective that I aim to accomplish. I need your help to reach the headquarters once we land. The sooner I manage to reactivate the system, the less people will get killed while cleaning out the town. You don’t happen to know where exactly we’re aiming to land once we reach the place, do you?” Arcticus cocked his head to one side, trying to remember what the commander said during the briefing. “We’re supposed to land in the 1st district, since collateral damage is apparently a thing now.” The flash drive caught his attention, but the leader kept a straight face. “Make a beeline towards the system computer, and let you work your magic. Simple right?” He heard a chuckle from Blaze. “Nothing is simple in war, mate. You should know this better than anyone…”

Within the briefing room… [sam, Alex, Maybe Ohr and Sanya]

Nightwing Squad had exited the room, having been instructed by the general just moments ago. Whether Ohr and Sanya had left as well was anyone’s guess, and the two commanders were focused on entirely different things to notice. The general glanced over at Alex and smirked, only to have it disappeared when he noticed Sam. “Looks like you now know some classified intelligence, Sam,” Schindler chuckled, “and I would appreciate it if you can keep this quiet. Now as for you, Snider, I need you to stand down and take a few deep breaths.” The lieutenant did as he was told, still suspicious of Alex.

Well now." Sam added, This mission sounds fun. Shall we mosey on?"

“Not yet. I owe him an explanation.”

The ground commander finally asked his question. “What’s going on here, Schindler?”

The general cleared his throat before starting his explanation. “His records have been blacked out for a very crucial reason. You didn’t need to know that he wields the power of darkness; his actions on helping the light seem to negate the stigma. You called him into this mission because of that. It would be wrong to hurt an asset like him just because of his unique abilities, right?”

Snider could only stare at the general in silence, unsure if he should feel betrayed, or scared.

“Look. Had he not told you about his powers, all of this wouldn’t be happening. What he did was a courtesy for you, and quite frankly, I think you owe him an apology for your reaction.”

Snider sighed in defeat; the general did have a point, and Sam was... well, being Sam. “Alright. I’m sorry, Alex.”

“Good boy. Now, suit yourself up and get ready to roll out. Cast that fear away, and focus on the mission instead. At a time like this, the last thing we need is in Internal Affairs issue...”

Over at Ager…

"Do what you want to make yourselves comfortable and prepared. This could very well be a one way trip. Dismissed."

Every member of Spooky Squad except the leader gulped hard at the cold reality of this possibly being their ‘final’ deployment. Spectre nodded in acknowledgement, then rallied his squad. “Alright boys! Rest up! Double time to the barracks! The faster we get there, the longer we can rest!” The squad members smiled as they started jogging off, hoping that there were still some available beds open what with all the ‘hot-racking’ that has been going on the last few days. Fortunately for them, they found some available beds, and were soon dozing off, all except for Spectre, who slept for six hours and spent the remaining two at the pub in the basement of the castle. Fortunately for Ager’s wallet, the leader stayed light on the alcohol consumption, knowing full well that he would need to be in somewhat peak condition for the upcoming battle.

 

-----

It was at this point that a klaxon alarm rang throughout the entirety of the castle. It wasn’t heart-stoppingly loud, but loud enough to get everyone’s attention, mainly Aquarius and Spooky squad as they were rudely awoken from their time in dreamland. If no one was able to hear it, the strobing red lights that dotted the ceilings, hallways, and rooms would definitely grab their attention, mainly everyone who were still in the briefing room. “All units,” an electronic, stern, yet reassuring male voice echoed throughout the entire complex, “battlestations. Repeat: All units, to battlestations. Operation Blind Cobra is now underway. All core critical personnel, report to the hanger immediately for departure. Best of luck to all of you.”

 

Back at the hanger, Commander Snider finally showed up at the transports, clad in his keyblade armor and carrying a plain, silver briefcase. The place was a lot quieter thanks to the lack of gummi ships, but several were waiting patiently for the transports to take off at the rear of the bay. Whether Sanya and Ohr had followed the commander was anyone’s guess, but aside from the keyblade wielders, all of the other squads had regrouped at the area as well. When all of the respective operatives arrived, the commander cleared his throat and got down to business. “Righto then. Three transports, modified thanks to Seraphina. Captain O’Malley, you pilot one, Seraphina, pilot the other. I’ll take the last one. Operatives, before picking your coffins, take one of these please.”  The officer placed the briefcase down onto the floor and opened it, revealing several electronic earpiece communicators. “These have been tuned to allow us to stay in contact with one another as we complete our objectives. Squads, tune your headsets to 8.791 EHF for squad frequency."

 

“Dibs on the prettiest one!” a member of Nightwing squad squealed as he pointed at a transport, “well, with the master’s permission of course..” After waiting for everyone to pick up their earpieces, Snider climbed aboard the transport that he had called for himself and went through the start-up procedures.

All of the squads now waited for their operatives to choose their transports. When one of them chose, the squad would embark alongside them. Within the cockpits, orders were relayed to the onboard computers. It was relatively straightforward: Survive the trip to Traverse Town, then carry out the objectives. The radio was abuzz with chatter from the orbiting Task Forces high above as they were doing a final inspection of wings and marines before starting their leg of the mission.

{Sam}

Sam relaxed a little with the tension between Snider and Alex alleviated. She gave Alex an "all good" thumbs up before moving on to gather up the rest of her gear. She had a grunt put a locker with what she needed into it. Putting into the passcode on the lock, Sam opened the locker and started assembling her rail gun. She hadn't had much time for sniping back before this crazy war, but it had grown on her over the missions. There was something immensely satisfying about feeling the kick of the powerful weapon and seeing a Heartless head disappear.

She lovingly slid a mag into the rail gun, then primed the weapon before flipping the safeties on. Setting the rifle aside, Sam filed a back pack with extra mags. She was fully expecting this to be the last mission anybody went on, so she wanted to make sure she took as many Heartless with her as she could.

Slinging the pack and her rail gun on her back, Sam waited at the entrance of the hanger till Snider walked in. She immediately fell instep behind him as he made for the transports. As soon as the commander opened the briefcase, Sam's hand snaked in and grabbed an ear piece.

"Nice." She said, sticking it in her ear. "So, which coffin am I in? I forgot."

Seraphina picked up the earpiece, adjusting it to herself and setting on the right frequency. Now was the moment. No turning back.  She turned to the two transports left and picked one at random, leaving the other one for the captain. “Whoever is following me, we’re going in this one!” Seraphina said, making sure that the squad that was assigned to her knew. She climbed right in, making sure the squad was following right behind. She walked around, starting the procedure to get this damn thing ready to go up and flying. If they made it to the world to begin with, they had a chance. A small one. But a chance, and things wouldn’t be ending there, as she had to start up the security systems once they did land. She and the squad got as ready as they could to get their ship ready. Seraphina walked over to the seat, looking down at the controls. Though she wasn’t one to like teams to do stuff…she would make an exception. “Seraphina and Polaris squad are ready to go. If there’s anything that needs fixing or that needs to be answered regarding the repairs you better ask now because there’s no way I’m moving away from this wheel until we land on the world.” Seraphina said as she glanced down at a clipboard she had, glancing over at certain codes she would memorize in case any worse case scenario came through. For once, in her entire career, she felt anxious. What if she didn't come back? What would happen to Juniper. No. She would come back. She had to. Even if it meant that she had to build a ship out of pieces of their dead comrades. She wouldn't leave Juniper all alone. Not yet.