Welcome to Gaia! ::

It looks good so far, can't wait to see how it turns out!

(For the Al-bhed language I used a site that had a letter by letter converter)

Chapter 1: Man from the Sky

Along the Mi-ihen Road just north of Luca people walked along enjoying the peace of the Calm bought by High Summoner Braska who had defeated Sin 8 years ago. However this peace would be shattered when seemingly out of nowhere a powerful fireball like a meteor hit the fields on the west side of the road about half a mile away from it causing an explosion of dirt and a loud enough sound that the city could hear it

The people who were there instantly became panicked. A patrolling crusader ran up with his weapon out ready to fight whatever caused that explosion.

When the crusader investigated the area he found a male human dressed in clothing dubbed causal in our terms but absolutely foreign in the terms of those people these clothes where ripped but not scorched and he was out cold

The crusader went over to the guy and checked for life signs. He found there was. He immediately pointed his sword upward and shot off a spell like a flare. This flare would signal medical assistance to his location and a few minutes later more crusaders some with experience in medical came to the spot. They soon got the guy to an area where he would recover from his crash.

Chapter 2: First Moments of Memories

System Check Protocol online
Power Level:
60% and rising due to unknown outside source
Hardware Check:
General Repair for surface damage of unknown cause.
No internal damage.
Software Check:
Core Sequence at 100%.
Memory Files corrupted, initiating format sequence.
Memory Files formatted reinstall Core ID Sequence.
Program Name:
Karl Christopher
Function:
Self Preservation
General Existance with a form cover of a Human
Mission:
No Data
Sensor Check:
All systems normal
Weapon Check:
System Offline due to low power levels

Initiating Scan of perimeter

The man was resting on a bed. A young girl dressed in a nun outfit was tending to his wounds changing the bandages on the guy wounds he had several scrapes on his body on where he wasn’t covered by clothes.

Detection: One Female Human Age about 14.
Recommandation: activate system for general communication.

The guy groaned

The girl gasped slightly “Shh Shh. It’s okay.” She said

The guy eyes fluttered slowly open and adjusted to seeing clearly. He stared into the face of a tan faced girl in a red, orange and green outfit that covered her body. “Who… Who are you?” He said weakly

The girl said “It’s okay relax. I’m healing you.”

The guy said “A name… please.”

The girl said “Elaina”

The guy said “Thank You Elaina.” He closed his eyes

Data Storage: Source of energy Elaina

*System will be in sleep mode until energy is completely restored*

System Check Protocol Offline

Sleep Mode activated

Chapter 3: Fully Recovered

The man would continue to rest there for several more days it was again during a healing session with Elaina that he would wake up fully.

The man eyes opened and he let in his first deep breath.

Elaina said “You are awake. I was getting worried you wouldn’t wake again”

The man said “your concern is welcomed Elaina.”

Elaina said “You remembered my name”

The man said “Yes… it is one of the few things I remember. It appears I seem to have suffered a terrible trauma.”

Elaina said “Yes… you have. You landed with a big explosion into the Highroad almost two weeks ago.”

The man said “I did?”

Elaina said “Your injuries; however appear to be minimal in terms of what was witnessed. They say you came out of the sky like a meteor but yet you only had some physical scrapes and a minor head injury.”

The man said “Minimal damage…”

Elaina said “Do you know your name?”

The man said “my name is Karl Christopher”

Elaina said “Karl… that’s an interesting name”

Karl said “Elaina is an interesting name too.”

Elaina said “Do you remember anything else.”

Karl said “No…”

Elaina said “Well I let the crusaders know who you are so someone can find out if you have anyone who knows you.”

Karl said “Crusaders?”

Elaina said “Oh yes they are the warriors who protect the city and towns from Fiends and most importantly Sin.

Karl said “Sin?”

Elaina said “You do not know of Sin.”

Karl said “My memory is near nonexistent. All I truly remember is my name.”

Elaina said “You are lucky most would dream of the time that Sin would be forgotten by all.”

Karl said “can you tell me what Sin is.”

Elaina nodded slightly “for nearly a thousand years Sin has plagued Spira causing death and destruction. Numerous lives are taken, village nearly wiped out, it is the blessing of Yevon and the Temples and their teachings that bring Spira hope.”

Karl said “hmm…”

Elaina said “It was feared that with your appearance Sin has been reborn.”

Karl said “reborn…”

Elaina said “Several years after being defeated a new Sin is reborn or so I am told, It’s appearance told by death and destruction.”

Karl said “hmm… and it’s dead now”

Elaina said “High Summoner Braska destroyed it 8 years ago. We are currently in the time of the calm.”

Karl said “The Calm… a befitting name. So permit me another question. Where am I exactly”

Elaina said “You are in Hotel Blitz of Luca the second biggest city of Spira. I’ve have been sent here from the Temple of Djose to tend to your wounds and to care for you until you recover.”

Karl said “You have done a fine job. I feel better than ever.”

Elaina said “That is good. I’ll notify the commander you are awake however before I do. I have one question for you.”

Karl said “Ask?”

Elaina said “are these Machina…” She lightly tapped Karl hands which made a metallic tapping sound

Karl hands and his lower arms were instead of normal skin color were grayish and metallic looking and they seemed fused to Karl regular body at the elbow

Karl blinked in confusion and said “I guess…” His hands moved normally like they were normal human hands

Elaina said “It is taboo to have machina… as told by the teaching of Yevon. Anyone who uses Machina are forbidden to enter the temples”

Karl said “Forbidden…hmm…”

Elaina said “You must be careful if your hands are like that.”

Karl said “I will keep that in mind.”

Elaina said “Anyway I’ll go notify the commander”

Karl said “Thank you… again.”

Elaina said “It was my duty.”

Chapter 6: First Mission

Karl trained with the Crusaders quickly becoming quite respected for his talent in fighting at the end of the day he was one of the guys of the main troop

“Alright troops” Zeke said “It is approaching dark so we need to return to Luca for the night however I do need one volunteer for a mission tomorrow.”

“What sort of mission sir” responded a crusader.

Zeke said “our favorite nun Miss Elaina has to return to Djose Temple by tomorrow evening and she’ll need an escort the fiends are dangerous along the roads. Step forward if you wish to accept this mission”

All the troops stepped forward except Karl

Zeke smirked “I figured as such.” He noticed Karl had not stepped forward. “Karl any particular reason you don’t want this mission.”

Karl said “I don’t know where Djose Temple is Sir.”

Zeke said “You can buy a map in town it doesn’t cost that much. It pretty much straight forward just down the highroad and northward from there if you stick to the coast on Mushroom Road you’ll get there”

Karl said “Well then guess it can’t be that difficult.” He stepped forward “I’m in Sir”

Zeke said “very well then I expect you all to be here at 8 o-clock sharp. I’ll have Miss Elaina pick who she’ll go with.”


The next morning the troops gathered.

Zeke said “Miss Elaina my finest troops have accepted your request for an escort however I’m having the toughest time to pick which one I should send with you.” He smirked at her “I’d do it myself but I got to continue training the new recruits that have not passed their tests”

Elaina lightly giggled but quickly stiffened up as it was inappropriate to laugh “well Commander Zeke in that case…” She noticed Karl and smiled slightly “I would be honored to have Karl Christopher escort me.”

Zeke nodded “Karl. Looks like she picked you.”

Karl said “Yes Sir…”

“Hey take good care of her Karl” Alex one of the troop member said “she’s our favorite we don’t want anything to happen to her.”

“No worries” Karl said “I’ve got this mission covered”

Mission Start: Crusader Escort Service


Karl and Elaina headed down the road

Elaina seemed to lightly loosen up and started a conversion “So Karl has anything come back to you?”

Karl said “not really… It’s like I know how to fight but yet I don’t remember all my abilities. I barely know how to use my hands.”

Elaina said “It’s strange the teachings forbid machina but for some reason I’m somewhat glad you are able to use them.”

Karl said “Tell me more about these teachings. I’m actually quite curious.”

Elaina said “Well it’s really hard to go into detail but the teaching say that Sin is drawn to places with advanced technology or high population.”

Karl said “Advanced Technology.” Karl looked at his hands “like maybe my hands?”

Elaina said “Maybe…”

Karl said “So what is Sin exactly do you know.”

Elaina said “I don’t… all I know is that it brings death and destruction. The only ones that can defeat it are the summoners who are able to call upon the final Aeon.”

Karl said “but then it comes back right.”

Elaina said “Yes… after the calm”

Karl said “and the summoner who called the final aeon can destroy it again right…”

Elaina remained silent her eyes betrayed sorrow

Karl said “I take that as a no… and let me guess the reason… the summoner dies in the battle no matter what the outcome”

Elaina said “Yes.”

Karl sighed “how long has this been going on…”

Elaina said “I’m not fully sure… the teaching say Sin first appeared one thousand years ago after destroying the great Machina city of Zanarkand.”

Karl said “hmm… a thousand years ago… So if I would guess correctly at the rate of 8 years between the destruction of Sin and it’s rebirth and adding some time for the summoner to train before the fight say like two years then every Ten years Sin is destroyed. One thousand divided by 10 equals… one hundred summoners and I’ll bet that’s not all”

Elaina shook her head “Actually There has only been 5 high summoners who have defeated Sin recorded in history…”

Karl said “only 5.”

Elaina nodded “Yes…”

Karl said “Wow… so this Calm period is actually quite valuable.”

Elaina nodded “usually…” She turned sad “but it is usually followed by a great amount of death and destruction.”

Karl nodded slightly “by Sin.”

Elaina said “Yes…”

Karl said “must be tough to live without fear with death seemingly around every corner.”

Elaina said “Yes… but so far my mother and I are safe within the temples”

Karl said “hmm… and your father…”

Elaina said “My Father died several years ago due to Sin. He was a crusader”

Karl sighed “I’m sorry to hear that…”

Elaina said “It’s alright… Mother and I are taken very good care of by the temples and commander Zeke. He’s almost like an uncle or a second father to me as he and my dad were close friends”

Karl said “so that’s why you’re a favorite huh.”

Elaina nodded

Karl said “have you ever been interested in one of the members. Or do they remind you of your dad”

Elaina smiled slightly “As a young nun of the temple I’m not allowed to marry or be distracted by men until I complete my studies which should be within a year or so but if you keep a secret there are a few that I’m attracted too. One of them being you…”

Karl said “me huh.”

Elaina smiled slightly “yes…”

Karl chuckled “I’m grateful that it was you who healed me. I’m pretty sure I owe you my life. I’ll do everything in my power to protect you from harm”

Elaina smiled but then turned scared “Karl look out…”

Karl said “What!”

*Screen Shatter*

*Ambushed!*

A Mi-ihen Fang and a White Element appeared.

The Mi-ihen Fang charged at Karl and attacked dealing 10 damage

Karl grunted (90/100)

The White Element charged up and used Blizzard on Elaina

Elaina cried out slightly and took 10 damage (90/100)

Turn List



Karl activated his twin hand Tantos “You okay?” He asked

Elaina nodded and pulled out a rod of wisdom “thankfully I’m strong against magic based attacks it’s physical attacks that I don’t do well against. It’s most likely opposite for you though.”

Karl said “I don’t know…”





Elaina said “Silence is worth gil” She used Silence

The White Element was inflicted with a Silence Status

Karl dashed at the Mi-ihen Fang and attacked twice dealing 100 damage

The Mi-ihen fang was destroyed (0/80)

The White Element passed its turn due it’s only attack Blizzard disabled by Silence.

Elaina said “That should hold off the White Element until we can destroy it somehow.”

Karl said “It didn’t attack.”

Elaina said “Using Silence I can disable any magic based attack by inflicting a Silence Status. It’s quite useful if your opponent an element or a flan as they only use magic attacks usually of their own element”

Karl said “Nice Nice…”

Elaina said “but the problem is I don’t know any black magic… otherwise I’d use an elemental attack against it. Physical Attacks are near useless against them as they are armored which gives them high defense

Karl said “Elemental attack… wait Alex gave me a few special items that he said were useful as elemental attacks all I needed to do was have the Use Special Ability”

Elaina said “and do you know it.”

Karl said “You can say I learned it from him.”




Elaina prayed and restored 10% of everyone health



Karl pulled out a Bomb Fragment which looked at a small red sphere no bigger than a marble “Now let me see here” He rolled it in his fingers and it glowed red hot “hmm…” He threw it and it exploded into a powerful fire ball that engulfed the White Element dealing 600 damage due to weakness

The White Element was over killed (0/125)

Karl said “Whoa… thing got some kick to it.”





Elaina sighed in relief “That was good work there Karl”

Karl chuckled and turned to face Elaina “you aren’t that half bad yourself… that Silence spell could be useful…”

Elaina said “I may not be able to do much damage but as a white mage I am skilled in healing and defensive magic but I have learned a few other magic spells like status magic to bind my enemies.

Karl said “So I stick to attacking and you back me up with healing.”

Elaina nodded

Karl said “Alright this trip going to be easy in the terms of battle.”

Elaina said “So how many items did you bring with you?”

Karl checked his inventory “Let’s see here, I bought two survival packs and an extra potion, so I’ve got 5 potions, 2 Antidotes, 2 Soft, 2 Echo Screens, 2 Eye Drops 2 remedies, Alex also gave me 5 each of the special element gems along with a few other items. Right now I have 4 bomb fragments, 5 Electro Marbles, 5 Antarctic Winds, and 5 fish scales. He also gave me 4 grenades and 2 Frag Grenades and said only use the Grenades if I run into something big and seem to have trouble”

Elaina suddenly became scared “like a dual horn…”

“Yeah” Karl said “uh wait don’t tell me… Dual horn coming at us.”

Elaina said “Yes…”

Karl quickly turned and met the Dual horn charge slamming his hand blades against its horns holding it back preventing the Gore attack it was going for

The Dual Horn growled at him and stared him in the eyes

Karl stared back “what are you looking at punk…” Karl growled and pushed himself off the Dual Horn







Karl said “Now it’s personal”



Guardian Mode:


Elaina said “I’ve got a few spells for this one too…”





“Your sight will deceive you.” Elaina chanted as she casted blind

A dark smoke surrounded the Dual Horn eyes inflicting it with Darkness

Karl came around with a sideswipe and attacked with a hand blade for 50 damage



Karl said “This punk tough…”

Elaina said “but now it can barely harm us… it relies on its sight to be able to attack an opponent. With me blinding it, it can’t see to attack us."

The Dual Horn lumbered past the duo and missed it’s attack.

Elaina said “See.”

Karl said “Yeah… anything else you got available”

Elaina nodded “I’ve got one more spell that will be useful. If it manages to land a hit.”

Karl said “Cast it on me…

Elaina nodded “Will do.”





“Armor of Light halt physical might.” Elaina chanted

A shield of blue energy appeared in front of Karl

Karl is reacting to the Protect Spell

Karl said “hmm… interesting”

Reacting to something:



All of a sudden something beeped on his hands

Karl said “huh…”

A scanning laser scanned Elaina

Elaina blinked “Wha… what going on.”

Karl said “It was just like when I learned Use… Alex showed me during a fight and then my hands sent out this harmless ray and it went up and down on him like it was looking at his image and just like that I learned it”



Elaina said “that’s weird.”

Karl said “and now that I know protect I can use it whenever I want but it appears to learn something I can’t attack”

The Dual Horn grunted and turned and charged at Elaina

Karl slid in front of her and braced for impact.

The Dual Horn crashed into the Protect Shield and Karl took the hit taking 25 damage (75/100) due to it

Karl said “now that was useful”

Elaina said “Now you just strike back maybe use one of those Grenades you were given.”

Karl said “Yeah…”

Elaina said “Meanwhile I’ll pray for you.”

Karl said “right…”





Elaina prayed and restored 10% to everyone health

Elaina (100/100)
Karl (85/100)

Karl pulled out a Grenade and pulled the pin then threw it at the Dual Horn

The Grenade exploded which dealt 300 damage to the Dual Horn (275/625)

Karl said “That had a big boom…”

The Dual Horn lumbered past in a blinded state and missed

Elaina said “One more time…”

Karl said “Yeah…”



Elaina prayed and restored 10% to everyone health

Elaina (100/100)
Karl (95/100)

Karl pulled out a Grenade and pulled the pin then threw it at the Dual Horn

The Grenade exploded which dealt 300 damage to the Dual Horn (0/625)

The Dual Horn was destroyed



Karl posed and said “Oh yeah… that’s what I’m talking about…”

Elaina giggled lightly





Karl sighed “Well that was fun…”

Elaina said “If this keep up we’ll have to stop at the travel agency to rest…”

Karl said “Casting those spells takes a bit out of you huh?”

Elaina nodded “it does…”

Karl said “If you need to stop let me know…”

Elaina said “I should be fine. Let’s keep going…”

Karl said “Okay…”

Chapter 7: Arriving at the temple

After saying bye to the troops Elaina and I made haste for the temple. Only a few low level fiends attacked which were quickly dispatched with my blades. It appeared that the fiends were only aggravated because of the Machina rampaging. I was curious on how a YAT machina would suddenly appear but I pushed the thought to the back of my mind. Elaina was a little more friendly to me allowing herself to be close and hold my arm above the elbow. We made it to the temple just at sunset but Elaina idea did not fully set well with me. Her idea was to use the lower sleeves of her outfit which were a separate part to cover my hands with cloth to hide the metal and hold it together with lace like strings

“I don’t know Elaina I still think I should drop you off and be on my way…” Karl said

Elaina said “Karl, please just come in with me. It will be fine”

Karl said “But I’m sure someone going to notice. I mean come on these are a part of your outfit someone going to ask questions on why your lower arms are bare while mine are covered with them.

Elaina said “Your hands were burned by a Red Element and without other material I had to use them soaked remedy potion to heal your hands.”

Karl said “It won’t work… someone bound to get wise”

Elaina said “Look we wait out here any longer you’ll fail your mission it’s nearly dark.”

Karl said “You going to pull that one on me huh… you won’t go in unless I go in”

Elaina said “yes now come on…”

Karl said “Okay okay… I’m coming” He sighed “some girls are always demanding…”

Karl and Elaina entered into the temple. A priest was waiting for them

“Father Dourac I have returned” Elaina said as she bowed and circled her hands into a round shape and did a slight bow of her head.

The priest returned the bow. “It is good to have you back with us my dear. Your mother has worried about you however I trust Commander Zeke has taken good care of you.”

“Indeed he has” She looked at Karl “Father Dourac I present to you Karl Christopher one of Commander Zeke newest recruits but with a talent in fighting.”

“Good Evening” Karl said with a slight bow of his head as to show respect as he didn’t know the prayer

Dourac looked over Karl with a careful eye and said “I trust the journey wasn’t that difficult.”

Karl said “uh a few fiends here and there nothing worth mentioning.”

Dourac looked at Karl covered hands then looked at Elaina’s exposed arms. “My Dear” He started “Maybe I ask why the sleeves of your dress are on Mr. Christopher’s hands and arms.”

Elaina said “He received some bad burns from a Red Element. I had to put a remedy potion on something and cover them before they got worse.”

Dourac said “how long ago was this…”

Elaina said “about an hour ago… I think we have to keep them on for at least another hour then I’ll change them. I know it’s against the rules to have my arms bare but…”

Dourac said “Do not worry you did the right thing however make sure you carry some spare cloth next time.”

Elaina said “of course…”

Dourac looked at Karl “So Mr. Christopher will you be joining the temple for the evening meal and for the night. It is unwise to walk the roads at night.”

Karl said “I most likely be staying for the night then heading out in the morning Father… however I feel it’s not my place to impose on a mealtime with the monks and nuns of the temple.”

Dourac said “Do not fret…” He smiled slightly “We welcome all who are willing to partake with us.”

Elaina said “Please Mr. Christopher I would be honored if you would join us.”

Karl said “Well alright… I’ll be glad to partake with you.”

“Elaina dear…” came the voice of a woman

A nun in a typical outfit entered into the main room with a casual step but as soon as she got to Elaina she quickly embraced her

“Hello Mom” Elaina said and returned the hug

“I trust your journey out to Luca was enjoyable.” The woman said

Elaina said “Yes… however I spent most of it taking care of a badly injured man.”

Karl stepped forward slightly “which I am deeply grateful that she was able to heal me.”

Elaina said “Mom. This is Karl Christopher, Karl this is my mother Alisha,”

Karl bowed his head slightly and said “Your Daughter is quite the healing mage. Mam”

Alisha nodded “She is I know… it has come like a natural skill to her.”

Dourac coughed slightly and said “If I may interrupt, Dinner will be served within the hour until then we can discuss everything over it… I trust we’ll have the many rumors that have befallen my ears to be cleared up.”

Karl said “if you so wish…”

Mission Complete: Crusader Escort Service

Chapter 8: A cold discussion over a hot meal.

The dinner was set for 8 around a small hand carved table, Elaina, her mother Alisha, Father Dourac, and 4 other female nuns. Karl had good manners at the table eating calmly.

“So Mr. Karl I have heard several rumors about you. I would like your thoughts on them.”

Karl said “Yes…”

“It was described that you came from the sky like a meteor crashing into the earth like a giant bomb” Father Dourac said

Karl said “Yes that’s correct… from what I gather”

Elaina said “You’ll have to forgive him Father Dourac… He had a head injury lost almost all his memory. He barely knew who he was”

Dourac said “I see… well then I assume you don’t know remember any of the temples’ rules.”

Karl said “That is correct. I hope I’m not breaking any of them”

Dourac said “As a matter of fact you are…”

Alisha made a put off face and said “Father Dourac must you really discuss rules at dinner? I’m sure Mr. Karl didn’t do it on purpose.”

Dourac glared at her slightly “Yes I must Alisha,” He responded “because I would like for Karl to understand that his hands are not welcome in the temple. They are an abomination to the teachings of Yevon.”

Alisha gave him a look of confusion “How can a pair of hands be an abomination to the teachings.”

“They are Machina.” Dourac stated

The nuns gasped

Alisha said “Really…”

Dourac said “undo those cloths Karl and show them. Your poor excuse for burned hands does not fool me… metal does not burn”

Karl sighed “as you wish…” He undid the cloths and showed his hands

The nuns started whispering to themselves

Elaina said “Father Dourac please understand…”

Dourac said “Silence!”

Elaina gasped slightly then turned solemn

Alisha glared at him “Father Dourac I will not have you yell at my daughter. Go ahead Elaina”

“It was my idea to bring Karl into the temple…” Elaina said in a sad tone “He knew the rule about Machina because I told him.”

Dourac looked at Karl “So you did know that rule.”

Karl said “Yes… I was resistant on entering because of it”

Alisha said “Karl how did your hands become this way?”

Karl said “I truly don’t know… I can only speculate.”

Alisha said “hmm… so they imitate how real hands work and you can control them like you would normal hands?”

Karl nodded slightly “that is correct.”

Alisha said “and they are necessary for you to live?”

Karl said “without severe physical limitations yes.”

Alisha said “can you take them off without complications”

Karl said “No mam… they appear to be fused to my elbows and I can feel them so if they were removed I’m sure it would be very painful…”

Alisha said “I see… if that’s the case there’s no problem with them being here.”

Dourac said “But Alisha the teachings…”

Alisha interrupted “allow certain Machina that are necessary and a pair of hands is necessary.”

Dourac said “but it is rumored they are swords as well. They can transform at his will you tell me that necessary?”

Alisha laughed slightly “don’t be ridiculous.” She said “Hands turning into swords? Whoever came up with that rumor must have drunk too much wine.”

Elaina said “actually Mom it is true… Karl hands can transform into a pair of tantōs … it what he uses to fight with… it’s what he’s used to destroy the fiends that attacked us.”

Alisha said “really…”

Karl said “Yes…” He transformed his right hand into a tantō.

Dourac said “I knew it…”

Alisha said “If you pardon the expression… that must have been handy.”

Karl chuckled lightly “it was…” He transformed his hand back to normal and resumed eating

Dourac said “Woman are you seriously accepting that these machina are allowed.”

Alisha said “I have read once that Machina is only as bad as the user. As they are not living things with a soul they can’t think for themselves and if Karl is as honorable as my daughter told me he is I trust he’ll only use his machina for the good of Spira and I’m sure Commander Zeke shares my views.”

Dourac sighed “It’s thoughts like that, that’s going to destroy us all…”

Karl said “no actually it Machina like the YAT Series Mechs that will destroy us… after all one of them appeared on the Highroad today. Nearly killed me and Elaina”

Alisha gasped slightly “Elaina is this true.”

Elaina nodded “Yes…”

Dourac said “YAT Series Mechs? What are those?”

Karl said “a large machina that main weapons are powerful mortars as arms.”

Dourac blinked “oh… those Machina… wait… those haven’t been in use since the great war that nearly a thousand years ago”

Karl said “Well one of them was on a rampage on the highroad today… It was shooting off its mortars at anything that moved.

One of the Nuns said “I heard the explosions Father… it was at Noon high. It was rumored to have caused a landslide just north of the old road

Elaina said “Mr. Rin and all his workers can be a witness as well… They were there when we were attacked. Commander Zeke and his troops were picking up the pieces of the mech after Karl destroyed it.

Dourac said “I must send a message to Bevelle at once…”

Alisha said “I’m sure the crusaders will send a report after all it is in their jurisdiction as the sworn protectors of Spira. The Luca chapter is one of the best chapters in the land.

Dourac said “Yes Yes I know… but I will still send a message.”

Alisha glared at him “You know where that Mech came from don’t you”

Dourac sighed “I have my thoughts…” He glared slightly at Karl “which I won’t share with those who don’t fear Yevon wrath.”

Karl said “I’ll listen to the rules and obey them to the best of my abilities but don’t mind me if I question or break certain rules especially if it means life or death.”

Dourac said “In other words a troublemaker… one who disturbs the balance and order of the way of life here in Spira.”

Karl grinned “To seek the truth sometimes you just got to tip the scales in your favor especially when the scales are weighted unevenly”

Elaina almost giggled at Karl’s wit but quickly drank some water to silence herself.

Dourac glared at Karl “You’ll find yourself a lot of trouble with that attitude. As the head of this temple I warn you to watch your mouth while staying here.”

Karl said “my apologies. Father Dourac”

Dourac said “You’re forgiven however may I ask another question… you said you destroyed the mech. Last I heard they were near indestructible.”

Karl said “it’s armor was covered in rust weakening it’s defenses it happens when you mix air and water with metal…”

Dourac said “I see… So your hands were able to pierce it’s armor”

Karl said “No… I didn’t touch it…”

Dourac said “Then how did you destroy it…”

Karl said “I used its own mortar blast to damage it by sending it right back at it”

Dourac said “Your hands copied it’s attack!”

Karl said “No it took a shot at me… I put up a reflective shield created from a spell that Elaina casted on me and sent it right back… its weakened armor was no match for its own fire power creating a hole in it main body. All I had to do was throw a frag Grenade into it and the frag grenade destroyed the fragile hardware inside and it was over the mech self destructed when the hardware was destroyed.”

Dourac looked at Elaina with amazement in his eyes “Elaina I didn’t know you were capable of such a powerful magic spell…”

Elaina smiled “I have been studying Father…”

Alisha said “that’s my girl…”

Dourac nodded “so in truth it was both you and Elaina that destroyed it.”

Karl said “correct… as a team”

Dourac said “Praise be to Yevon that you were able to defeat it…”

Karl said “Elaina did pray to Yevon… so yes… a little credit is due to Yevon… whoever that is”

Dourac said “what did you say?”

Karl said “I said…”

Dourac said “I know what you said you dismissed Yevon as someone unknown!”

Alisha said “Father Dourac… before you jump down Karl throat I’ll remind you that he has lost his memory. That would include not remembering about Yevon and its teachings”

Dourac looked at Elaina with a slight glare “clearly someone would have reminded him.”

Elaina looked down slightly “After the battle we talked about other things besides Yevon.”

Dourac said “Other things like what…”

Elaina said “just causal conversion.”

Dourac glared at her in anger

Alisha came to her daughter rescue and said “My daughter knows the limits Father Dourac. I’m sure she’s told Karl that she is not to get to attached until she completes her studies…”

Karl said “and I have no plans on interfering…”

Dourac turned to Karl still glaring “Yes… for your sake I hope so. I fear she’s already had enough bad influence thanks to her link with Commander Zeke. Some of those escorts that Commander Zeke send with her… I wonder how…”

Alisha glared at him “Father Dourac do you want me to remind you how much the crusaders have done for this temple including my husband.”

Dourac sighed “no I don’t…”

Alisha said “then drop it!”

Dourac said “okay…”

Alisha said “thank you…”

Karl sighed and looked at his plate. He was no longer hungry… “Excuse me…” He sat his folk down and got up.

Elaina said “Karl…”

Karl walked away as he was leaving he could barely hear the words “Now see what you’ve done.” Being spoken in a harsh tone by Alisha.

Chapter 9: The black sealed scrolls

Karl had retreated into the room that the temple had setup for him. He was laying on the bed mind thinking over the thoughts about how Elaina and Rin had warned him about the problems he could run into.

A light tapping was heard…

“You can enter” Karl said

Elaina followed by Alisha came in. Elaina was carrying a pitcher of water and Alisha was carrying a hand woven blanket “That old goat had no right to suggest the Crusaders were a bad influence on Elaina…” Alisha said “and he had no right to talk about your friends like that Karl…”

Karl sighed “but he was right wasn’t he? I know at least one of them that has an uncontrollable mouth and I’m sure Commander Zeke sent him with Elaina once…”

Alisha said “without the crusaders Luca, this temple and a lot of other places wouldn’t be here. Father Dourac thinks that everything people do should be by the teachings no matter what even though the teachings are to teach and guide not to overpower free will.”

Elaina sighed and placed the pitcher on the table “Forgive my mother Karl…” She said with a half smile “she get a little vocal when Father Dourac steps out of line.”

Alisha said “and step out of line he did. I demanded he apologize for his harsh words but that old goat was even more stubborn than ever.” She walked over to Karl with the blanket “It’s going to be cold tonight young man these old bones can feel it I would hate to have you get a head cold”

Karl said “Thank you…” He took the blanket.

Alisha said “if you and Elaina want some alone time don’t worry about anything. You have my permission.” She leaned close “Treat her nicely alright…” She muttered

Karl blinked and said “uh sure…” A slight blush formed on his cheeks

“Mom…” Elaina whined slightly

Alisha said “bye dear…” She made a hasty retreat just leaving Karl and Elaina.

Karl coughed slightly and quickly recomposed himself. “well that was interesting”

Elaina sighed “Mother can be interesting when she gets like this.”

Karl said “I take it she’s done this before.”

Elaina said “yes… nearly every time Father Dourac steps out of line she becomes rebellious to infuriate him. She allows me to break the rules if I want to but… most of the time I don’t.”

Karl said “most of the time…”

Elaina smiled slightly “I may get a little closer to certain people then Father Dourac wants me to but don’t worry unless you want my company tonight. I’ll leave you alone.”

Karl said “You can choose what you want to do… I don’t mind”

Elaina looked at him with bright eyes “Then can I stay in here with you tonight?”

Karl said “Sure…”

Elaina nodded “I’ll go get a mat to sleep on…”

Karl said “if you want the bed I can take the floor”

Elaina said “Don’t worry I’ll be fine.”

Karl said “if you insist.”

A few minutes later Elaina had setup a comfortable mat for her to sleep on for the night… she had changed into an nighttime dress had also bought a couple of books and scrolls. Karl had also taken off his crusader armor and was just dressed in a simple shirt and shorts for the evening

Karl said “So what ya got there…”

Elaina said “The materials I have to read to be able to become an nun and a white mage. The scrolls are various spells that are required to be learned varying from the healing magic Cure, to defensive magic like protect, shell, and reflect. The books are mostly written down history and the rules we have to study.

Karl said “hmm… looks like a lot of material to cover…”

Elaina said “it usually takes about 2 years of study and 2 years of training on the field. Commander Zeke has been my main source of training for that as I come over and heal his troops or other injured people like I did for you…”

Karl said “So you’ve got about a year left.”

Elaina said “Yes… I’ve also learned a few other scrolls on my spare time. I kinda want to learn black magic but Father Dourac won’t let me touch those scrolls. He’s actually hidden them”

Karl said “Do you know where”

Elaina said “somewhere in the temple I know that much.”

Karl got thoughtful… “hmm…” A small smile crossed his face

Elaina said “you aren’t thinking of looking for them are you… that would get you in so much trouble.”

Karl said “But what if I want to learn black magic… you said they were powerful elemental spells useful against flans and element fiends.”

Elaina said “yes… that is true…”

Karl said “well then I don’t see why he should not allow it to be taught to me. I’ll be right back.”

“Out of the question!” Father Dourac responded when Karl asked if he could see the scrolls to learn from them.

Karl said “may I ask why not?”

Dourac said “The black magic scrolls are only to be given to those undertaking to become black mages and I’m not allowing anyone to undertake that course here”

Karl said “Why not…”

Dourac said “because it was bad enough Elaina got into the status scrolls. I don’t need her to learn black magic as well and I’m sure once your done with them you’ll give them to her.”

Karl said “is there a problem with her learning just the basic black magic.”

Dourac said “I just don’t want her to learn them.”

Karl said “I see…”

Dourac said “Now unless you need anything else…”

Karl said “no I was just asking… anyway are there any books you recommend to remind me about the teachings of Yevon.”

Dourac blinked then nodded with a small smile “There are several books in the study room.”

Karl smiled slightly “thank you…”

Karl headed back into the study room and noted there were a lot of scrolls and books however something caught his eye several scrolls with a black diamond seal on them were mixed with other scrolls.

Karl grinned “I’ll bet these have something to do with black magic…” He thought. He took the scrolls and then a history book.

Karl took his bounty and headed back to his room.

Elaina noticed the scrolls and said “Father Dourac gave them to you?”

Karl shook his head “nope… I found them mixed in with other scrolls.”

Elaina said “you sure they are the black magic scrolls?”

Karl said “I don’t know…” He pulled out the scrolls and laid them down on the ground.

Elaina said “Yep that’s the symbol of black magic.”

Karl grinned then looked around “shh… let’s keep it down…”

Elaina nodded then whispered “right…”

Karl said “So what do you want to learn first…”

Elaina took the first scroll and opened it by sliding off the seal. She unrolled it then looked at it and suddenly gained a confused look.

Karl said “something wrong?”

Elaina said “This scroll this isn’t for black magic…”

Karl said “But the seal the black magic seal right…”

Elaina said “Yes… but this talks about something else…” She gained a worried look and quickly rolled up the scroll. “Karl where did you find this scroll.”

Karl said “mixed in with the others in the study room why?”

Elaina said “I must show mother this…”

Karl said “what’s the scroll?”

Elaina said “it talks about how to use another person soul as a form of power. It’s a forbidden magic.”

Karl said “forbidden?”

Elaina nodded “Yes…” She looked around and then said “I told you about the summoners right…”

Karl said “They are the only ones who can defeat Sin right…”

Elaina nodded “Yes… and that’s due to this type of magic.”

Karl said “huh?”

Elaina sighed “Deep within each temple there a chamber called the cloister of trials at the end is a place called the chamber of the fayth, the chamber contains a statue with a spirit of a human trapped inside. It’s called a Fayth and by gaining the Fayth power the summoner can call upon a powerful being known as an Aeon by summoning it”

Karl said “hence the name Summoner.”

Elaina said “yes… but to create that fayth requires the magic hidden within this scroll but that’s not all it can be used for…”

Karl said “What else can it be used for…”

Elaina said “it could turn living beings into pyreflies and the user can gain their power by absorbing them”

Karl said “turn into pyreflies? the same things that fiends become when defeated”

Elaina nodded “It kills the person it was used on and they can never return to being human…”

Karl said “dang…”

Elaina said “That’s why it’s forbidden magic…”

Karl said “So if it’s forbidden then why keep a scroll with that information. Personally I’d burn the scroll.”

Elaina said “I don’t know that’s why I want to talk to my mother…”

Karl said “hmm… why don’t we not for now… maybe this is why Father Dourac didn’t want you into the black magic scrolls… because he hid this with them and disguised it with the black magic seal…”

Elaina said “I guess so…”

Karl said “anyway let’s pretend we didn’t see it and keep our heads cool he doesn’t ask we don’t tell got it…”

Elaina nodded slightly “yes…”

Karl said “So anyway let’s see what we got here.”

Chapter 10: Getting to the next plot point making the long story short

Long story short, I helped Elaina learn a few black magic spells she learned Fire, Blizzard, Water and Thunder black magic which was the basics and two other spells called Drain and Osmose which would drain either hit points or magic points from a fiend and give it to the user. We decided that would be enough and to only practice it on the field when Father Dourac wasn’t looking. She was grateful as it allowed her to fight flans and element fiends when she was traveling in exchange for escorting her she taught me some basic white magic by using them on me. I learned Cure, Esuna, Shell, Reflect, Dispel and Haste which were good. She warned me that Shell reduced magic effects and reflect sent magic spells away from me and to others and dispel removed all magic effects including reflect.

After studying we spent the night in the same room and rested. The morning after I returned all but one of the scrolls back to their proper place. I took the forbidden magic scroll and stored it inside my bag something about the scroll told me I should keep it out of the temple because if it was forbidden like my hands it shouldn’t be in the temple. It sounded right to me… Anyway I headed back to Luca to meet up with the troops and continue my training under them however I ran into several of them coming back.

Karl was walking down the highroad when three of his crusader friends, Alex, Soul and Masato were coming toward him.

(General Battle Data is below)

Character Name: Alex
Age: 16
HP: 1200
MP: 100
Attack: 20
Defense: 25
Magic: 15
Magic Defense: 20
Speed: 40
Evasion: 40
Accuracy: 20
Luck: 15

Job Class: Thief/Chemist
Personality: Easy going, generally friendly and relaxed but can turn serious when trouble brews or on a mission.
Battle Style: The speedy, Item getter of a group wielding a claw like weapon, only attacking if he uses Mug or a regular attack, if alone he’ll make sure the enemy can’t attack him by inflicting sleep via items like sleep powder or dream powder then swipe their items before hitting them with damage. He also heals himself and others when in need. (Use).
Abilities: Steal, Use, Mug, Entrust, Bribe, Cheer, Flee
Overdrive: Mix
Overdrive Charge: Victor, (Party wins battle bar charges 20%) (5 wins per overdrive)
Auto Abilities Weapon: Initiative, Alchemy, First Strike
Auto Abilities Armor: Pickpocket, Sleepproof, Auto Med,

Character Name: Soul
Age: 18
HP: 1700
MP: 50
Job Class: Samurai
Personality: Somewhat serious and even headed but can be friendly. He usually the guy that gets someone else out of an awkward situation by changing the subject or other things. He keep Masato and Alex in line.
Battle Style: Straight up attacker using his blade to do heavy damage somewhat weak against magic based attacks but that’s why he’s learned Silence Attack and Magic Break to power down or disable those moves. He hates Aerial fiends as well which is why he tolerates Masato
Abilities: Power Break, Armor Break, Magic Break, Mental Break, Dark Attack, Silence attack, Sleep Attack , Guard, Sentinel, Entrust
Overdrive: Bushido (Dragon Fang, Banishing Blade)
Overdrive Charge: Warrior (deals damage, charges bar 10% for regular hit, 20% for critical hit)
Auto Abilities Weapon: Piercing,
Auto Abilities Armor: Berserkproof Confuseproof,

Character Name: Masato
Age: 17
HP: 1500
MP: 70
Job Class: Ranger
Personality: A bit unpredictable he’s sarcastic, loose on the lip not minding his words, and get angry in a flash and uses that anger to make his point known. He is also a ladies man flirting with any girl his age or anyone that cute and if someone doesn’t like his mouth, tough.
Battle Style: Distance is his forte, he wields a circular blade like weapon that he can throw at opponents like a boomerang or a Yo-yo to hit multiple times or multiple enemies and he’s usually accurate enough to hit anything even if they are moving targets he periodically uses elemental attacks with these moves as well
Abilities: Aim, Boomerang, Yo-Yo, Flame Tongue, Ice Brand, Liquid Steel, Thunder Blade, Entrust
Overdrive: Barrage [Elemental (similar to Element Reels) [Power (Similar to Attack Reels)]
Overdrive Charge: Warrior (deals damage, charges bar 10% for regular hit 20% for critical hit)
Auto Abilities Weapon: Sensor
Auto Abilities Armor: Darkproof

“Yo Karl” Alex called out as they headed toward him

Karl gave them a slight wave “Hey guys where you going”

Alex said “Heading to Bevelle with a full report on that mech you fought.”

Karl said “what did the Commander write on the battle”

Alex said “pretty much that you and Elaina teamed together casting a powerful barrier spell that sent its attack right back at it weakening its armor and then you popped a frag grenade into it and destroyed it”

Karl said “That’s accurate enough”

Alex said “Yeah… so anyway we won’t be back for at least a month.”

Karl said “a month huh?”

Soul nodded “That’s right… Two weeks there two weeks back if we don’t get held up” He glanced slightly at Masato

Karl said “Held up huh…”

Masato snickered “I happen to know that there are some beauties in Bevelle so we’re considering a week’s stay after we drop off the report.”

Karl gave him a look and smirked “and Commander Zeke authorized it?”

Masato said “no but he didn’t say we couldn’t stick around”

Karl said “uh huh…”

Soul said “Masato volunteered to go alone but Commander Zeke wouldn’t have it…”

Karl rolled his eyes “Gee I wonder why…”

Soul said “I made the deal we would stay for a week maybe two if Masato was on good behavior on the trip plus Masato said he’d hook me up with girls that like my style”

Masato said “speaking of girls did Elaina pay you for saving her”

Karl said “She taught me some white magic.”

Masato said “that’s all. Gee and I thought she would do more for you the way she was acting like you were her hero” He grinned “come on man you can tell us we’re your pals. It’s not like we haven’t…”

Soul punched him in the shoulder cutting him off and glared at him for suggesting that situation “hey man she isn’t like those Luca Goer girls you played with. She has to keep to the teaching to be a nun.”

Masato grunted and rubbed his shoulder “Right…”

Karl chuckled “She wasn’t that close to me… she just a friend for now”

Soul said “well we’re off… see ya around Karl.”

Karl nodded “Yeah… be careful out there.”

Alex said “no worries. What’s the worst thing that could happen?”

Chapter 12: The plan of action

That Evening Commander Zeke and the other commanders gathered the troops of Luca.

“Gentlemen and ladies of the crusaders,” Zeke started, “It is no doubt you have heard rumors that Sin has returned and attacked Bevelle. I regret to inform all that those rumors are true three of my own personal troop one of which temporary affected by Sin’s Toxin reported to me that these events have occurred. Now we are gathered here to announce our plan of defense against a potential Sin attack against Luca. We have no official word that Sin on its way here however as Luca has been one of the main targets of Sin in the past we have developed a near death-proof plan of the people of Luca. This plan also allows us to minimize the loss of life among our own. Here is how the plan is going to work…” There will be three groups of Crusaders, the troops that have been training with us for the past year or so and those seasoned for battle will be group 1 these are the people who will be posted and stand their ground at the Stadium, the docks, and the sphere theater only retreating only at the commands of commanders like myself who will also be in the front lines. Group 2 are the medic group they are a group of medics with troops that have little battle experience but are still able to fight… They will join with group 1 when Sin appears and help the medics assist the wounded to be able to retreat, Group 3 will be those who will evacuate the city of Luca directing everyone to the highroad then at the border of the city we will make a final stand where we will give it our all to defend Luca. However there is one possible difference to this plan. I have been notified that Sin can control the oceans around it causing it to become a tidal wave… if such a tidal wave occurs and heads toward Luca all are too retreat making sure everyone is out before them we will not throw away lives just because. Buildings and homes can be rebuilt however lives can not return so our top priority is to the people of Luca, then our own lives. We know that we all have a chance of losing our lives when Sin appears however… I believe our chance is small due to one of us having a unique ability, an ability that if used could save lives however it will be against the teachings due to the fact it is a machina based ability however before anyone speaks out upon going against the teachings hear me out… I have received word that they used Machina against Sin at Bevelle and approved it in the name of Yevon I have sent a message to Bevelle notifying them that if they can use Machina so can we.

“But Sir… we don’t have Machina like they do.” A Crusader called out

“That’s not fully true… we do have someone with a powerful machina weapon and abilities at his disposal.” Zeke said

“Who sir…” another Crusader called out

“Karl Christopher” Zeke said “Karl would you please come forward”

“Yes Sir” Karl replied his hands at his side

Zeke said “Karl’s hands have the unique ability to take any weapon and transform his hand into it. Now with what we had, we only had short swords and long swords both of which Karl has learned and can use however that’s not all he capable of. He has an ability to generate a protective barrier stronger than any protect or shell magic is able to create able to nullify damage by absorbing it however it does have limits the shield can only be created if Karl holds his position and crosses his arms and says the word shield!”

Karl crossed his arms and said “Shield!” and his shield surrounded him

“The minute he puts down his arms the shield will fade out and I’m sure it can be shattered or dispelled like any other shield of magic.” Commander Zeke explained as Karl released it “however a variant on that is if someone in is direct danger like a mortar blast Karl has to cover them and shout shield and the barrier will protect both of them from harm. Karl used this to save himself and a nun he was escorting back to the Djose Temple. I’m thinking with training that Karl can use this variant to protect a medic from harm while they heal the wounded.

Karl said “that is possible sir…”

“If he’s so powerful with his machina weapons and abilities then why don’t we just send him to fight Sin…” a crusader called out.

Zeke said “Because we are not going to fight Sin, Our job is to protect the people and town of Luca from Sin and Fiends. I may not agree with some of the rules but Yevon has stated a direct battle with Sin is not our fight… no matter how many we could send against Sin it would be futile. I have seen a lot of lives destroyed by Sin some by foolishness. I lost one of my best friends because I was stupid enough to think I could handle anything Sin aimed at me he died saving my hide”

Karl noticed that Elaina wanted to say something but she kept silent and a tear rolled down her cheek. Karl instantly knew that Zeke was talking about her father.

Zeke said “I learned a lesson that we do our job and we do it right by sticking to the plan so no heroics by battling a sinspawn; just heroics of rescuing your fellow crusader or a civilian, just don’t do anything stupid. You will all be assigned positions I expect you will keep those positions no matter what happens. Are we clear?”

“Yes Sir.” The crusaders responded

Zeke said “Good… you all are dismissed for the night… report to your unit 9:00 tomorrow sharp to continue training that is all”

“Sir!” Everyone responded and saluted

The troops slowly dispersed

Karl walked over to Elaina who causally wiped a tear from her eye and tried to hide she had cried.

Karl smiled at her “You okay?”

Elaina nodded “Yeah… it’s just tough to see Commander Zeke blame himself for my dad death… I don’t blame him for it.”

Karl said “come on let’s get back to town.”

Elaina nodded

Alex and Masato was with a cadet named Gatta, Zeke had been training him along with another with another Crusader Luzzu

Gatta said “hey is that Karl guy friendly toward that new medic girl?”

Masato said “oh didn’t you know man… that girl’s Elaina the nun that Karl saved from the mech. They won’t admit it but I’ll tell you man… They are an item”

Gatta said “really… I thought nuns aren’t supposed to get into relationships like that…”

Alex said “Masato lying slightly. Karl and Elaina are close but not that close. He’s only keeping his distance out of respect for what Elaina has chosen as her path. She needs just one more year then she’s free from her restrictions and I’m sure she’s going to end up with him you can tell it in her eyes.”

Soul joined them having overheard the conversation and said “if he survives Sin’s attack something tells me once Sin attacks Luca everything is going to change”

Masato said “come on man, I know Sin a powerful force but I don’t think he can control fate…”

Soul said “He’s been controlling it for the last thousand years what makes you think he’ll stop controlling it for Karl and Elaina. I like to be positive about it but… well we almost lost each other in the Bevelle attack”

Alex said “Yeah you got that right Soul… but who knows Karl a unique guy maybe he’s a key to defeating Sin once and for all…”

Gatta said “how can a machina wielder be a key to anything Machina against the teachings.”

“Yeah…” Masato said “tell that to Bevelle they got tons of Machina ones they used from the great war and they are all authorized by Yevon”

Gatta said “You’re kidding…”

“Dude” Alex said “we were there, we saw them when Sin attacked, It’s totally unfair”

Gatta said “Totally crazy what is Bevelle thinking.”

Alex said “I don’t know it makes us think that Yevon at least in Bevelle isn’t exactly pure anymore…”

Gatta said “What do they use them for anyhow.”

Soul said “They used them against Sin and repelled him with hardly any lives just a toxin wave hit them even with the plan I’m sure we going to lose people to Sin.”

Gatta said “hmm… I hope Luzuu and I can survive”

Soul said “like commander Zeke said “Do your job and do it right.”

Gatta said “Right…”

The group ran toward the flare launch point and saw a couple of rookies attempting to escape several fiends

Soul said “Oh great… some fiends left Mushroom Rock.”

Karl said “Well let’s go people we should be able to do something about it.” The group ran toward the fiends

*Screen Shatter*

2 Gandarewa (148/14 cool and one Red Element (450/450) appeared

Soul growled “man… why does it have to be these guys”

Karl said “what’s up…”

Soul said “These Gandarewas are aerial fiends the only type of fiend I can’t hit no matter how hard I try.”

Karl said “Really…”

Soul said “notice they float… they can dodge most any sword or claw based attack with ease”

Karl said “any sword and clawed based… okay… that looks like it takes out most of us except Elaina who uses magic…”

Elaina said “but they’re resistant to magic… I should know I’ve faced several”

Karl said “Great means we use items to take them out huh…”

“coming though! Aerial master Masato to the rescue”

Masato ran in with a circular blade in his right hand

Soul said “perfect timing Masato take these fiends out” He traded spot with him

Masato said “no problem”

Turn Order
Alex (1200/1200) (80/100)
Elaina (500/500) (57/70)
Masato (1500/1500) (70/70)
Karl (600/600) (75/75)
Monster A (Gandarewa)
Monster B (Gandarewa)
Monster C (Red Element)

Alex
Attack
Skill
>Special
>> Steal
>>> Red Element
Item
Run

Elaina
Attack
Special
>Magic
>> Osmose
>>> Red Element
Item
Run


Alex stole from the Red Element snagging two bomb fragments

Elaina said “Care to share your thoughts” She used Osmose and drained 130 MP from the Red Element restoring her Magic Points to maximum

Karl said “That was Osmose wasn’t it… I’ve tried learning that and failed… I heard Magic Points are hard to recover in mid battle…”

Alex said “there only a few items known to restore Magic Points and they are not sold in stores and only a few types of fiends carry them… that’s why if you’re a heavy skill or magic user you got to have some way of getting them for most of us Lancet is the best way to go…”

Karl said “Lancet huh? Anybody know it.”

“Nope” Soul replied
“Sorry Man” Alex said
“I don’t know it.” Elaina said

Karl sighed “man…”

Masato
Attack
>Skill
>> Boomerang (5MP)
>>> Monster A
>>> Monster B
Special
Item
Run

Karl
Attack
Skill
>Special
>> Use
>>> Antarctic Wind
>>>> Red Element
Magic
Item
Run

Masato said “Check this move out Karl” He threw his blade like a Frisbee and sliced though both Gandarewas dealing 400 damage to each and causing both to turn to pyreflies (0/14 cool (0/14 cool and he caught it with ease

Karl said “whoa… you took them both out… with ease”

Masato nodded “Yep! That’s my style. Multiple Aerial or Distant Enemies I got a weapon made for them”

Karl said “hmm… well looks like this red element left I may not be a magic user but I do have something for this fiend. He pulled out an Antarctic Wind which was a small white orb… “Hey Hot stuff take a chill pill.”

He threw the orb and an explosion of ice hit the Red Element with 600 damage

The Red Element turned to Pyreflies (0/450)

Victory

Karl gained 96 AP
Current AP: 1768
Level UP: 3200

Soul looked at the rookies “everyone alright.”

The rookies nodded “Yeah…” one of them said “however those weren’t the fiends we first ran from…”

Soul said “Then what was it…”

Masato said “Soul! Garuda at 12 o clock incoming”

The rookie said “that’s the fiend we were running from…”

Soul growled “let’s do this!”

*Screen Shatter*

A Garuda appeared (4000/4000)

Karl said “whoa that a big bird…”

Soul said “Yeah… although I’ve heard on Biaknel island there are even bigger bird fiends called Zu

Karl said “uh… hate to face one of those…”

Masato said “thankfully they all got the same weakness”

Alex said “And I got it covered, with Karl’s help, Karl whatever I steal you use”

Turn Order
Alex
Elaina
Masato
Soul
Karl
Monster A (Garuda)

Alex
Attack
> Skill
>> Mug
>>> Garuda
Special
Item
Run

Alex went the Garuda and hit it for 400 damage (3600/4000) and stole two black bombs “heh heh… got him covered”

Stole two Smoke Bombs

Alex went back and handed both bombs to Karl “use one of these on your turn Karl… you’ll do 5 times the amount of damage you do now and hit him with Darkness

Karl said “oh so there are items that do status conditions”

Alex said “yep… smoke bombs inflict darkness”

Elaina
Attack
> Special
>> Pray
>>> All
Magic
Item
Run

Soul
>Attack
>> Garuda
Skill
Special
Item
Run

Masato
Attack
> Skill
>> Yo-Yo (10MP)
>>> Garuda
Special
Item
Run


Elaina Prayed and restored 10% of everyone health restoring them to full health

Soul attacked and dealt 800 damage (2800/4000)

“Yo-Yo” Masato said “Coming at ya” He threw his blade at the Garuda and it spun in place when it hit hitting 3 times for 1200 damage (400*3) (1600/4000) The blade came back and Masato caught it.

“That’s a pretty interesting blade Masato” Karl commented

Masato said “I know… I wanted something different so I took the same metal that they made swords out of and made this people were confused on why I wanted a blade like this but when I showed them that I could use it to take down fiends with ease by throwing it like a frisbee then a cool mage enchanted my blade allowing it to return to me every single time some of the skills I use are thanks to that magic

“Nice…” Karl said

Alex said “Yo Karl throw a smoke bomb before that Garuda attacks!”

Karl said “oh right sorry.”

Karl
Attack
Skill
>Special
>>Use
>>> Smoke Bomb
>>>> Garuda
Magic
Item
Run

Karl threw a smoke bomb and it hit with a critical explosion dealing 1600 damage for a overkill and the Garuda collapsed and turned to pyreflies (0/4000)

Alex said “Whoa!”

Soul said “It must have hit a critical point”

Karl said “Yeah…”

Victory

Karl gained 255AP
Current AP 2023
Next Level: 3200

A long sword was left behind

Masato said “oh cool it dropped a weapon.”

Karl said “Fiends drop weapons?”

Alex said “yeah… and armor as well it’s quite nice…”

Elaina said “It is said that fiends are dead people that are not sent to the farplane and they are vengeful against the living… it could be what was their weapon was before they died”

Karl said “uh… so we been killing human spirits?”

Soul said “not really see fiends are made out of pyreflies when you destroy them they turn into pyreflies and vanish only to return at a later date.”

Elaina said “they lost everything human of them when they gave into dark emotions and turned into fiends.”

Karl said “I see…”

Elaina said “however… if ones bond was strong enough they could remain on this world as a spirit in a human form called an unsent… they would look, act and sound human”

Karl said “can you tell the difference between an unsent and a regular human?”

Elaina said “The Guado can smell the difference... they are keen to the scent of the farplane where the dead are sent to rest in peace”

Karl said “Interesting… so there is no other way to tell…”

Elaina shook her head “not that I know of. Personally I’ve never seen an unsent”

Karl said “huh… I wonder”

Elaina said “what?”

Karl said “nothing…”

Elaina said “come on tell me…”

Karl said “nah it ridiculous weapons can’t turn into Pyreflies

Alex said “yo what?”

Elaina said “what are you saying…”

Karl said “I thought that if fiends can leave behind equipment then that equipment is somehow stored within the fiend and if the fiend made of pyreflies the weapon or armor could be stored as pyreflies only forming when the fiend is destroyed”

Soul blinked “you know that kind of makes sense…” he said

Karl said “but I know you can’t turn a weapon into pyreflies.”

Soul said “yeah. We know that… Weapons are made of metal or other things”

Karl said “unless…”

Soul said “unless what…”

Karl said “unless what I’m assuming is one thing is something else entirely…”

Masato said “dude make sense will you…”

Karl walked over to the sword touched it with his hand…

The sword shimmered and vanished into pyreflies only for them to gather on Karl hand and disappear into it

Karl learned auto ability piercing all learned weapons now have the piercing ability

Elaina said “oh my Yevon…”

Alex said “Karl… you just…”

Karl said “Absorbed a weapon… now I understand… I didn’t learn the weapon I absorbed it into my hands…” He looked at his hands. “My machina hands can absorb weapons and learn how to be that weapon by converting to that form and I think that ray I send out when I’m learning abilities from you guys has a similar effect. Instead of just absorbing you like a weapon I copy the pyreflies from you and learn it…”

Masato said “because everything is one way or another made of pyreflies… from human souls to weapons”

Karl said “and I can learn anything those pyreflies can become…”

Soul said “which means you can learn anything you want.”

Karl said “almost it appears I can’t learn some magic…”

Elaina said “maybe you’re not strong enough in magic to learn it right now. Some people never learn magic in their lives”

Soul said “like the crusaders we focus on using items and other things for healing and rarely use magic.”

Karl said “then how come I can use White Magic.”

Elaina said “Simple White Magic like Cure, and Esuna are easy to learn however the higher in level you go the longer it takes to practice and learn it… unless you have natural talent like I do I pretty much just learn the spell and can perform it with ease but I can’t learn some of attacks that you all use. It took me a few months to learn the status spells and protection spells those I use in defense but I don’t know any of the skills that Masato or Soul has”

Karl said “and the other magic I learned is used for defense and just improving oneself… boosting speed, defense against both physical and magical, maybe I’m only learning magic that is for defense because maybe that my style… I defend and only fight when I’m protecting myself.”

Elaina said “like when fiends attack… or something worse.

Masato said “like Sin maybe?”

Karl said “maybe… but if Machina been forbidden since Sin appeared how did they get developed to do this… it’s must have been a time when Machina was still in heavy use…”

Soul said “like maybe a thousand years ago?”

Karl said “Who knows… because I wish I knew someone who did…”

Alex said “hey Karl… you know what else pyreflies can mimic…”

Karl said “what.”

Alex said “Memory… you know like past history… you know the clerks at the sphere theater can create spheres from your memory and you can play them at the theater”

Karl said “but I don’t have any memories of my past just what’s happened in the last two months.”

Elaina said “if that’s true then how did you recognize the Mech we fought. You blinked and then said ‘Enemy Data, YAT series,’ then gave an description of what it’s abilities were It’s like you knew that Mech the first minute you got a good look.”

Karl said “You’re right… I did…”

Elaina said “then maybe just maybe your memory in your head somewhere you just can’t remember because well you hit your head.”

Karl said “Hmm… maybe I should check it out…”

Alex said “after lunch before our patrols we can go there.”

Karl said “sounds good…”

Masato said “before then I’ve got some moves I want to show ya…”

Karl nodded “Let’s have them…”

*Screen Shatter*

A Mi-ihen Fang appeared (160/160)

Turn Order
Masato
Karl
Monster A

“So Karl you know about the elements right…” Masato said “and how various items and magic can use those elements”

Karl nodded “Aye… but both require something like use or a magic spell.”

“True…” Masato said “however there is a way for us that don’t know either to use elements as well.”

Karl said “oh… how so…”

Masato said “They are called the element strikes. There are two ways you can do it… you could either forge a weapon with that element as an auto-ability which would have it always on or use an ability to charge up the weapon with that element for one attack. We’re going to be using that second way. Now this fang here weak against Fire and Water.”

Karl said “how do you know that…”

Masato said “my disc has the auto ability Sensor it’s allows you to view enemy data unless they are immune to it… and that usually only super powerful fiends which are few and far between.”

Karl said “So the fang weak against Fire and Water… so a spell of Fire or Water would damage it heavily.”

“not fully true…” Elaina spoke up “All wolf species fiends are resistant to magic.”

Karl said “I see…”

Masato said “however if you smack them with an elemental strike they are weak against well let me show you…”

Masato
Attack
>Skill
>> Flametongue (2 MP) *react*
>>> Mi-ihen Fang
Special
Item
Run

Use React?
>Yes
No

Masato threw his disc and it burst into flames and hit the Fang causing 800 damage due to weakness overkilling the fang (0/160)

The disc shot back not enflamed and Masato caught it.

Karl said “hey that was pretty neat…”

Masato said “that’s Flametongue the fire strike ability.

Karl scanned Masato and gained Flametongue.

Masato said “that’s only one of four we got three more…”

Karl said “Let’s see them…”

Masato said “got to find some more fiends that have high resistance to magic but are still weak against the elements”

Soul said “I’ve got some here they are.”

A Garm, (240/240) A Bite Bug, (200/200) and a Gandarewa appeared (148/14 cool

Masato said “ooh… these are some that only appear on Djose Highroad or Mushroom Rock… nice find Soul these are perfect

Karl said “oh boy… so each one of theses has different elemental weaknesses?

Masato said “The Garm weak to Fire like the Mi-ihen fang but instead of water it’s weak to lightning as well… The Bite Bug weak to Ice both magic and physical and the Gandarewa is weak to water. Now let’s get to fighting I’ll need three turns of your time”

Karl said “you can have them.”

Karl is in Auto React Mode for three turns

Auto React Mode: When in some serious study Karl will automatically react to a move per round however if no move is available to learn Karl will be defending for that turn. Use this mode carefully.

Karl said “so which one are you going for first.”

Masato said “well the Bite Bug carries Poison in it’s attacks and we don’t want to waste time healing the status… even though we do have Elaina on hand…”

Karl said “Yeah… so let’s see some Ice”

Masato
Attack
>Skill
>> Ice Brand (2 MP) *react*
>>> Bite Bug
Special
Item
Run

Masato threw his disc and it became an Ice Discus and hit the bite bug for 800 damage overkilling it and turning it into pyreflies (0/200)

Karl scanned and learned it

The Garm lunged at Masato but he dodged it making it miss

The Gardarewa used Thunder on Masato inflicting 100 damage (1400/1500) it then made a noise like a chattering monkey

Masato said “Yeah yeah… I’ll get to you… just hold your chocobos.”

Masato
Attack
>Skill
>> Thunder Blade (2 MP) *react*
>>> Garm
Special
Item
Run

Masato threw a disc and it crackled with electricity and hit the Garm for 800 damage due to weakness causing an overkill (0/240)

Karl learned it

The Gardarwea used Thunder again and chattered again

“Yeah Yeah I know…” Masato said “your next” (1300/1500)

Masato
Attack
>Skill
>> Liquid Steel (2 MP) *react*
>>> Gardarewa
Special
Item
Run

Masato threw his disc and hit turned into a spiral of water and hit the Gardarewa and overkilled it with 800 damage.

Karl learned that ability as well

Masato said “and there you have it Karl, Fire Ice Lightning and Water hope you enjoy playing with them.”

Karl said “Thanks Masato”

Victory!

Karl gained 280 AP
Current AP: 2303 AP
Next Level at 3200


Karl sighed “Well guys this has been fun… thanks to you all I’ve got a lot of moves.”

“and now it’s time I put you though a final test Karl.”

Commander Zeke walked in wielding a powerful blade.

Karl said “commander” He saluted

Soul said “A final test Commander you sure he’s ready.”

Zeke said “I am sure.”

Karl said “I welcome the challenge sir… but may I ask a question what is the goal of this final test.”

Commander Zeke said “to be sure you are ready to unleash your full potential Karl you need to know how to activate your overdrive… this final test will allow me to see if you are capable of doing so”

Karl said “Overdrive Sir?”

Soul said “allow me sir… Karl everyone has a latent power within themselves however to use this power you have to have your energy focused and can do that many ways. This is called charging your Overdrive. Commander Zeke Masato and I charge it by being a warrior which every time we damage an enemy we get more and more focused. Alex charges his by winning battles every five battles allows him an overdrive. Elaina focuses hers when her allies take damage. Depending on your battle style there a correct one for you… however everyone starts with Stoic which means every time you take damage you get more and more focused…

Karl said “but what is an overdrive…”

Soul said “There are quite a few out there but they are most often linked to the weapons you can wield. Katana has Bushido which allows me to use various powerful techniques from stabbing the ground and shooting out towers of fire known as Dragon Fang to a powerful swing known as Banishing Blade which inflicts every single break status.”

Masato said “My disc has what is known as Barrage it’s can either be a power barrage which I fire a rapid number of discs at opponents or an elemental barrage in which I choose an element and fire two discs of that element at each opponent

Alex said “My overdrive is known as mix. I can take two items and mix them together resulting in a bunch of different combinations like if I take a Bomb Fragment and a Smoke bomb and mix them together I can use Brimstone which hits 3 times with fire damage and inflicts poison, sleep, silence and darkness on all enemies… and let me tell you the rarer the item I mix the bigger the bang I get…” He chuckled “sometimes I feel like a mad scientist when I’m mixing”

Elaina said “My overdrive is known as Magic Blaster which allow me to cast a barrage of magical energy at opponents doing heavy damage I think it’s a form of Holy but I can’t be too sure.”

Zeke said “and I have an overdrive as well known as Berserker’s Fury instead of a single attack My strength increases for the remainer of the battle at the cost that I get inflicted with a Berserk Status which makes me attack an opponent without control however I’ve got the perfect armor for defense. SOS Protect which reduces physical damage when I’m in trouble, Auto Reflect which blocks magic and send it’s back at the user, SOS Regen which slowly restores my energy when in trouble and Ribbon which blocks all statuses including self inflicted so I’m just powered up. The only way to take me down is to KO me which I’ll most likely be taking you down with me”

Karl said “hmm… these powerful moves I wonder if I can learn them from example. I doubt it though… Overdrives seem more than just simple abilities… although you did say weapons are linked to them… so if I learn your weapons I could most likely use them… and since I already have a Katana I may be able to use that weapon overdrive bushido… although my favorite weapon so far is the twin tantos… anyone know that weapon overdrive…”

Masato said “I think it’s something like oh what’s the name… it’s speed something or other…”

“Quick blade” Alex said “the basic one of that is known as rapid slice”

Karl said “rapid slice… hmm… now how can I tell when my overdrive is ready to be used…”

“You will feel it” Zeke said “trust me…” He shifted his blade “now Karl the final test consists of you facing me are you ready.”

Karl said “Elaina? Could you help me.”

Elaina nodded and chanted “Heal us…”

A healing spell was casted on Karl restoring him to full power.

Karl said “Yes Sir… I am ready… do not hold any punches”

Zeke said “I won’t…”

*Screen Shatter*

*Cooperation starts playing*

Commander Zeke appears (2500/2500)

Turn Order
Karl (600/600) (75/75)
Commander Zeke

Karl
Attack
Skill
Special
>Magic
>> Protect (10MP) (65/75)
>>> Karl
Item
Run

Karl said “Defensive Measure A online”

A blue shield surrounded Karl

Karl is now under a protect status.

Zeke hit Karl with a blow that did 100 damage due to protect (500/600)

“Very good Karl building a defense is wise at the start of a battle” Zeke complimented

Karl said “that is only number one sir… wait until you see number two

Karl
Attack
Skill
>Special
>> Deflect
Magic
Item
Run

Karl said “Defensive Measure B Online”

The Shield shimmered and turned green.

Zeke smirked slightly “I wonder what that does.” He came at Karl and swung his blade

The Blade bounced off and Zeke hit himself for 200 damage (2300/2500)

Karl smirked “now you know Sir.”

Zeke said “Indeed I do… a nice combo if I do say so myself but don’t think I’m going to fall for it twice.”

Karl said “I wasn’t excepting you to Sir…”

Karl
Attack
Skill
Special
>Magic
>> Haste (8MP) (57/75)
>>> Karl
Item
Run

Karl said “Speed Booster Online”

Karl casted Haste upon himself

Karl can now attack twice in one round

Zeke charged up his blade with black energy “Cripple” He said. He swung and his blade hit heavily damaging Karl by 250 which was half of his current HP (250/600)

Karl grunted “I know I said don’t hold any punches Sir… but that hurt.”

Zeke said “But do you feel it yet…”

Karl said “I don’t…I think it’s time I switched to a different style”

Turn Order
Karl
Karl
Commander Zeke

Karl
Attack
>Skill
>> Mug
>>> Zeke
Special
Magic
Item
Run

Karl said “hey commander got anything good”

Karl mugged Zeke dealing 80 damage (2220/2500) and stole a Black Gem like object

Stole Shadow Gem

Zeke said “Hey... that’s what Alex did he battled me.”

Alex said “Karl you steal an item you give one right back…”

Karl said “of course

Karl
Attack
Skill
>Special
>>Use
>>>Shadow Gem
>>>>Zeke
Magic
Item
Run

Karl said “and you can have this back” He threw the Shadow Gem

A powerful Gravity Spell hit Commander Zeke dealing 1110 damage (1110/2500)

Zeke chuckled “not bad… but you just triggered my SOS auto abilities”

A protect shield and a Regen spell activated

Zeke said “but in any case… this fight is over…” He came at Karl and swung

Karl took the hit taking enough for it to be fatal (0/600) and was sent flying

Defeated

Karl crashed to the ground and ate dirt

Zeke said “Sorry my boy looks like I win”

Karl said “It appears so Sir… oh I’m going to feel that tonight…”

Zeke said “but no overdrive... usually by the end of Cripple you’re usually focused enough to use an overdrive.”

Karl said “I guess I just don’t have an overdrive even with the weapons equipped.”

Zeke said “very strange…”

Karl said “I guess that means I don’t have any latent power to rely on…”

Alex said “maybe you do Karl you just forgot how to use it… maybe you don’t have an overdrive but something else.”

Karl said “huh?”

Alex said “I’ve heard that there are other forms of latent power… some that are not triggered at will… even with focusing you can’t use it”

Karl said “but then how does one use it…”

Alex said “I don’t know… it’s triggered somehow but how exactly I’m not sure.”

Karl sighed “Well… if and when I find out how to trigger it… you all will be the first to know but for now… I think I got to take a break... I’m beat”

Masato looked up at the sky… “It’s noon high… guess it’s time for lunch.”

Karl said “lunch, sounds good…”

Chapter 15: Seeking forgiveness

Karl couldn’t find Commander Zeke until that evening when the troops were gathered for role call however Elaina was absent, after roll call the group gathered

Soul said “where Elaina?

Alex said “in her room at the hotel she won’t talk to anyone… I think her feelings were really hurt…”

Masato said “I tried to say I was sorry but I don’t know if she accepted my apology…”

Karl said “It’s not you that needs to say sorry it’s me… I’ve yet to apologize”

Commander Zeke came over “Is there something going on I should know about boys.”

Soul said “Well sir at Lunch today…

Karl said “We went to sphere Theater to see if I could recover any of my memory and I did however it isn’t exactly something I should show the world especially Yevon.”

Zeke said “That bad huh?”

Karl said “I have evidence to prove what I said a few months ago…”

Zeke said “I see… so what happened with Elaina…”

Karl said “I let it slip that I borrowed a scroll from the temple containing forbidden magic and hid it”

Zeke gave him a look “borrowed sound more like stole if you ask me”

Karl said “If it’s forbidden like my hands it had no place inside a holy temple… that what was going through my head at the time. So I hid it and now I put the sphere where I hid the scroll”

Zeke said “I see…”

Karl said “Elaina begged for me to give the scroll back telling me that it’s needed for training summoners and I told her I won’t allow a temple to produce living sacrifices because it’s inhuman.”

Alex said “one thing led to another and tempers flared slightly on Masato part because he agreed with Karl saying it was unfair that the innocent was punished for someone else crimes and Elaina ran off crying.

Masato said “I tried to apologize but… she’s still crying…”

Zeke nodded “I see…

Karl said “I was a little rough with my standpoint but…”

Zeke said “but it is how things are done here in Spira Karl…”

Karl said “I know…but sir it’s”

Zeke said “We may not agree with it but we must not allow opinions to ruin friendships and destroy the fragile peace.”

Karl sighed “Yeah… peace… how can there be peace when the leaders of Yevon bend the rules which makes the innocent suffer because of Sin.”

Zeke said “because those with power can abuse that power… it may be a pointless fight to fight them but remember the Crusaders fight for the innocent defending them from Sin and Fiends even if the fiends are human.”

Karl said “hmm…”

Zeke said “Karl I ask you to give Elaina the scroll… I can turn it into an order though if you refuse.”

Karl nodded “Yes Sir… I’ll get it… and I’ll apologize to Elaina too…”

Zeke said “give her some time… she’ll come around… I think she crying partly because you were right… She hold to the teachings quite well however if someone point out a fact she can be swayed which shakes her faith… and if her faith shakes she could fail the mission she given herself…

Karl said “and a failed mission always leaves a bitter aftertaste… because you don’t know the true cost of it”

Zeke nodded “Aye…”

After leaving Zeke and the group Karl headed to Elaina room and knocked lightly “Elaina?”

Elaina sniffed “Yes?”

Karl said “can I come in…”

“Sure…” came the response

Karl entered into the room. Elaina was laying on the bed curled up slightly her tears had stained the pillows

Karl sighed knowing that it was his fault she was like this… He went over to the bed and placed the scroll next to her. “I’m sorry…” he said quietly. “I shouldn’t have made an outburst like that… I hope you can forgive me”

He turned to walk away

“Karl” Elaina said

“hmm?” Karl said as he stopped

“Don’t go…” Elaina said

Karl turned around and Elaina was facing toward him.

Elaina said “you don’t need to be forgiven, you were right. I was just”

Karl said “overwhelmed… right… Commander Zeke told me that your faith shakes when someone points out a different viewpoint that could be true and it scares you sometimes”

Elaina nodded

“I know… it can happen.” He walked toward her and sat down on the floor near the bed. “Faith in something you think is true can be shook when another fact shakes the ground” He explained “I was out of line when I suggested something that I had no proof on”

Elaina said “but you did have proof… Alex Soul and Masato saw those Mechs in Bevelle like you said if the leaders can overlook a rule its means they are corrupt.”

Karl said “but I don’t know if Sin is because of that.”

Elaina said “I think it is… like you said the world can’t obtain such purity and therefore there is no hope…”

Karl said “there is hope… Sin isn’t eternal it’s dies and is reborn that means it some sort of mortal creature… if someone can prevent Sin from being reborn once someone kills it. It won’t return.”

Elaina said “the teaching say the only way to destroy Sin is though the Final Summoning.”

Karl said “but is there a way to prevent it from being reborn once the final summoning is done.”

Elaina said “You know… I don’t know… the teaching say that atonement is the only way…”

Karl said “hmm… that’s can’t be true… there got to be another way… I just know it…”

Elaina said “I think the only way you can find out is if you either become a summoner or become a guardian to a summoner however both are deep into Yevon.”

Karl chuckled “and according to Yevon,” he pointed to his right arm “I’m” he pointed to his left arm “not” He held both his arms up “qualified” He grinned

Elaina giggled slightly “That’s true… although if I chose to become a summoner I would pick you as a guardian. They say a guardian is someone a summoner can trust with their lives… usually a family member or a close friend is the best one…”

Karl sighed “Do you know anyone who is a summoner or is training to be a summoner…”

Elaina said “I know someone… however she just finished a few day ago.”

Karl said “I see...” He blinked “wait I thought you said you needed this scroll” He pointed at the scroll he laid on Elaina bed.

Elaina said “Actually the scroll is for the monks teaching the history behind the fayth. Father Dourac memorized it though.”

Karl said “I see… well best return it I would hate to have him pull a muscle in his brain.”

Elaina said “Next time we go there I’ll return it to Mother…”

Karl nodded “Right…”

“Karl can I ask you something personal?” Elaina said

“What’s up.”

“What are you?” She said in seriousness

Karl said “I don’t know… I don’t know what I am… I look human… I sound human… heck I act human but everything about me including my memory suggests I’m a machina and if I’m a Machina then... what is my purpose, what was I built to do… am I truly meant to exist at all.”

Elaina said “Humans make their own purposes their own stories. Maybe that’s what you are to do… you are a machina who makes his own story.”

Karl said “makes my own story huh? How can I do that?”

Elaina said “You have been doing it… you just survive and go through a day taking them one day at a time… and how you live that life is how you define yourself.”

Karl said “how I respond to certain things defines me and allows me to figure out how I live.”

Elaina said “One thing for sure Karl… I know who you are…”

Karl said “yeah?”

Elaina kissed him on the cheek “You’re my hero.”

Karl chuckled gaining a blush but all of a sudden the door fell open and Soul tumbled in…

Elaina gasped

Masato and Alex entered with various grins “Sorry” Masato said “It appears Soul leaned too hard on the door.”

Soul said “You pushed Masato wanting to see Karl getting kissed by Elaina”

Masato said “So I knew it. I knew they were an item.”

Elaina blushed “since when have you three known that I’m attracted to Karl?”

Masato said “come on… Elaina, I could see your blushing cheeks from a mile away. I suggested you two shared a room at the temple the night that Karl saved you from that Mech. Soul didn’t want to believe it though…”

Soul glared at him “Hey you were suggesting more than a shared room”

Elaina blushed even deeper and said “well it’s true we shared a room.”

“but that it” Karl said “I thought I told you guys We’re close but not that close”

Masato grinned “admit it you two are an item I know Elaina was always picking you for an escort back. You two are always seen together in town and now she kissed you… that’s three strikes man. You either admit it or you’re out”

“Never…” Karl said in mock disobedience.

Masato scowled “Then you’re out! You just lost my respect man”

Alex chuckled “Don’t worry Karl… Soul and I still back you up. We know why you are keeping your distance… you don’t want Father Dourac to think that you’re interfering with Elaina’s studies. Masato doesn’t quite see that what Elaina is doing. He thinks that girls shouldn’t be so stiff.”

Masato said “They ought to be loose and live a little especially with Sin around.”

Karl said “maybe you’re forgetting Masato Elaina chose her path and maybe it’s good how she does things. She gets me inside information… information I normally won’t get thanks to my hands.”

Masato said “yeah about that Karl… do you think you still know how to make your hands into those guns we saw in the sphere. I know they are machine and forbidden but hey you might as well go all the way.”

Karl said “Guns would do well against aerial fiends but… if people start seeing me flash guns around as my hands you think that would make me stand out defying Yevon openly…”

Soul said “and where would he get guns anyway they’re forbidden weapons and can’t be sold in shops”

Masato said “Rin might have some.”

Alex said “he doesn’t I know trust me… the last thing I saw that had any gun thing at all was mechs similar to the one that Karl took out and those were mortars big guns…”

Karl said “Mortars… hmm…”

Elaina said “what is it Karl…”

Karl said “well I may have a way to gain that but it’s in my room…”

Elaina said “You keep that trigger chamber didn’t you…”

Karl said “Aye… I did…”

Masato said “perfect get it and learn that weapon who knows… maybe you’ll get some more firepower you’ll need it man the fiends will just get stronger and stronger and if Sin comes we need all the power we can get.”

Karl said “eh I don’t know if I start pushing it someone higher up bound to push back… I would hate for it to reflect Commander Zeke authority”

Soul said “then get his permission.”

Elaina said “Yeah… Commander Zeke open minded like that.”

Karl said “I’ll ask him tomorrow…”