FFX: Human Enough-The Story of the Machina Man

[SMARTAgentKC]

Hey Everyone this is a story I've been working on recently. I warn in advance that my grammar isn't the best in the world so if you over look that you find that this is a good story.

Human Enough: The Story of the Machina Man

Prologue:

In a newly reconstructed Home in Bikanel Desert, A blue eyed man about 22 sits at a console with a big screen in front of him. He’s wearing some causal light clothing suited for the desert but had a black jacket nearby laying over his chair as it was a trademark of his outfit. You could see his metallic looking hands typing on the console and it appeared he’s writing something by typing on the console and the words pop up on the screen. He seems to have written quite a lot.

An Al bhed girl about 18 in a somewhat skimpy outfit of a yellow bikini and a green mini skirt comes over in a happy manner but notices the man working on the console and gains a curious look in her green eyes as she studies the screen

The girl tilts her head “Rao KC” (Hey KC) She said in her native tongue “Fryd’c oy tuehk” (What’s ya doing)

The guy smirks and replies “E's vehymmo dygehk y lryhla du dnyhcvuns so sasuno vemac ehdu cusadrehk cesbma dryd E lyh dyga fedr sa Rikku” (I'm finally taking a chance to transform my memory files into something simple that I can take with me Rikku) It appears he spoke the al bhed language quite well and seemed to know the girl Rikku as well.

"Tuh'd damm sa ouin bmyhhehk uh mayjehk ykyeh!" (Don't tell me your planning on leaving again!) Rikku whines "Fa zicd vehecrat piemtehk Rusa. E fyc rubehk du cbaht cusa suna desa fedr oui bancuhymmo." (we just finished building Home. I was hoping to spend some more time with you personally.)

KC scoffs at this “attraction level at max huh. I’m not surprised” He mutters in English “I should have figured you of all people would be falling in love with a machina.”

Rikku rolls her eyes at this comment “You’re no Machina KC,” She says in English “you were just created differently. Sure you were originally designed by your creator almost a thousand years ago to be a fighting machine but instead he created you to look act and sound like a double of him that he could save his memories onto you and send you to a different time so that you could live a life that was different. To me that’s human enough.”

KC then blinks and says “Human enough” like it gives him an idea

Rikku looks at him and says “What”

KC types on the console and above all his writing he wrote this

Human Enough: The Story of the Machina Man

Rikku looks and blinks once “"Lydlro Dedma" (Catchy Title) Rikku comments “Cu frana tuac ouin cduno cdynd” (So where does your story start)

"Frah E vencd lysa rana" (When I first came here) KC replies "Veja oaync yku…" (Five years ago…)  

[Kaos Relinade]

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

[SophieMorita]

Yknaat. E mega ed jano silr! ( Agreed. I like it very much. Sorry if that isn't correct, I had to look online for some of them because I couldn't find them all sweatdrop )  

[SMARTAgentKC]

(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.”  

[SMARTAgentKC]

Chapter 4: Joining the warriors.

The commander entered into the room. He was in a typical crusader uniform.

“I am told by Miss Elaina that you have no memory of anything except who you are.”

Karl said “That is correct.”

The commander said “Do you have any idea on how you were able to survive such a landing as you did.”

Karl said “Not a clue. I’m told I made a big explosion like a meteor hit the ground.”

The commander nodded “That is correct. I’m also told you have Machina for hands.”

Karl lifted up his hands and said “If Machina is the same thing as Machine then yes however I have no memory on why they are like this…

The commander said “hmm, A mysterious appearance with injuries that defy understanding on how little of them you have along with a loss of memory and mysterious machina hands. I think this counts as a Sin attack.”

Karl said “A Sin attack… but isn’t Sin destroyed.”

The commander said “We have heard rumors of fiends starting to increase in number again. It is a sign that Sin has returned. We fear the calm may be over.”

Karl said “that sounds bad…”

The commander said “indeed it is. We are always recruiting those with skills as we lose many good warriors to the battle with Sin”

Karl said “Recruiting…”

The commander said “If you are fully recovered we could use all the help we can get. We defend the cities and towns of Spira from Sin and Fiend attacks”

Karl said “Defending those who need defending.”

The commander said “Correct.”

Karl said “Count me in…”

The commander said “Then I expect you at the training camp on the Mi-ihen Road just north of here at 9:00 am sharp tomorrow. You will report to me Commander Zeke. We will assess what you are capable of, and teach you how to be a crusader”

Karl said “Yes Sir.” He held his right fist in front of his chest with was the exact salute of a crusader.

Zeke blinked and said “have you been a crusader before?”

Karl said “Not that I know of sir.” He still held the pose

Zeke said “You could have fooled me Karl. At ease”

Karl said “Yes sir.” He relaxed the pose.

Chapter 5: Strange ability

Karl went to the field where Zeke was training his troops “Gentlemen” Commander Zeke said “this is Karl Christopher he’ll be training with us today. He’ll be learning the ropes of being a crusader. Now Karl we’ll start you off with some basic training fighting some fiends. I hope you’ve come prepared.”

Karl said “Thing is I don’t have a weapon unless you count my hands.”

Zeke said “I don’t…” He pulled out a tanto which was a short sword “This is all I have available now but I’m sure you can use it.”

Karl took the tanto and held it in his right hand all of a sudden his metal hands glowed and the Tanto glowed. A few seconds later the Tanto was no longer there instead his hand was now a single sharp blade like a Tanto.

Learned Weapon: Tanto (double edged)

The troops all stared in awe.

Zeke blinked “How did you do that…”

Karl waved the ‘hand’ around “Don’t know…” He said “but it’s interesting none the less. Now let’s see what I can do with this.”

*screen shatter*

A Mi-ihen fang appeared (40/40)

Turn Order
Karl
Monster A ( Mi-ihen fang)

Karl:
>Attack
>> Monster A
Items
Run

Karl dashed at the Mi-ihen fang and slashed it as he bypassed it with his right hand dealing 50 damage.

The Mi-ihen fang was destroyed (0/40)

Victory

Zeke blinked and said “Whoa… absolute natural.”

Karl posed with his blade at an angle in front of him but then looked at his other hand. “I wonder… if my other hand is the exactly the same at my right hand I should be able to do the same thing with my left hand but how do I do it… and for that matter how do I change them back.”

Zeke said “Maybe a code word something that you would tell a machina to do…”

Karl said “code word… hmm… let see if I want something back to how it was I revert it.” He looked at his hand “Right Hand Revert!”

The hand glowed and returned to normal.

Karl said “Perfect… now let’s see… I know my right hand transformed into a Tanto so Left Hand Tranform into Tanto”

Nothing happened…

Karl said “Nothing… what another word for Transform, uh change into Tanto…”

Nothing happened…

Karl said “Alter into Tanto”

Nothing happened

Karl sighed “Alright I give up… How do I change my hand into a Tanto.”

“Voice Command Conversion and choose a weapon you have learned…” came a voice from his hand

Zeke said “did you hear that…”

Karl said “I did… Left Hand Conversion Tanto”

His Left hand glowed and transformed into a Tanto.

Karl grinned “Right hand conversion Tanto”

His right hand converted to a Tanto

Karl said “Alright now.” He closed his eyes and thought “Revert to normal”

Both his hands transformed into normal.

Zeke said “they changed back…”

Karl grinned and opened his eyes “Commander. I think I’m ready for training.”

Zeke nodded “then let’s get you started”  

[SMARTAgentKC]

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

• Miss Elaina needs someone to take her to Djose Temple. You may learn a few things from her if you watch carefully.
• Do not let Miss Elaina get injured to fatal levels (Do not let opponents KO her)

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

Elaina (100/100) (50/50)
Karl (100/100) (50/50)
Monster A (Mi-ihen Fang) (80/80)
Monster B (White Element) (125/125)

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
Attack
Special
>Magic
>> Silence (5 MP)
>>> White Element
Item
Run

Karl
Attack
>Skill (New)
>> ??? (Double Strike) (10 MP) (New)
>>> Mi-ihen Fang
Special (New)
Item
Run

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

Karl
Attack
Skill
>Special (New)
>> Use (New)
>>> Bomb Fragment
>>>> White Element
Item
Run

Elaina prayed and restored 10% of everyone health

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

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.”

Victory!

Karl earned 20 AP
80 to Level Up

Earned 81 Gil

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

*Screen Shatter*

A Dual Horn appeared (625/625)

Elaina (100/100) (45/50)
Karl (100/100) (40/50)
Monster A

Karl said “Now it’s personal”

Karl has switched to Guardian Mode

Guardian Mode:

On Escort Missions against powerful fiends, the escort will take a mode that will draw most physical attacks to himself because he will automatically guard the client from attack however this is useless against targeted magic attacks or attacks that hit everyone.

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

Elaina
Attack
Special
>Magic
>> Blind (5 MP)
>>> Dual Horn
Item
Run

Karl
>Attack
Skill
Special
Item
Run

“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

Dual Horn: (575/625)

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.”

Elaina
Attack
Special
>Magic
>> Protect (10MP) *React*
>>> Karl
Item
Run

Use React?
>Yes
No

“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:

If an magic spell or ability that is compatible with Karl is used by an ally Karl can copy the attack and add it to his list of moves

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”

Karl learned Protect

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

Karl
Attack
Skill
>Special
>> Use
>>> Grenade
>>>> Dual Horn
Magic
Item
Run

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

Karl
Attack
Skill
>Special
>> Use
>>> Grenade
>>>> Dual Horn
Magic
Item
Run

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

Victory

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

Elaina giggled lightly

Karl earned 14 AP

66 to Level Up

Karl Earned 35 Gil

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…”  

[SMARTAgentKC]

Karl and Elaina would continue down the road and soon made it to a building…

“Rin’s travel Agency” Elaina identified “It’s the only rest stop before the rest of the highroad and mushroom rock… it’s usually wise to stop here if night is approaching”

Karl said “I see… Do you know how far from here it is…”

Elaina said “About a half day journey if nothing interrupts us but it could be quicker”

Karl said “How so…”

Elaina said “If we rent Chocobos”

Karl said “Cho-co what?”

On that cue a yellow ostrich like bird and a female rider came running in and stopped at the Agency

Elaina smiled “A chocobo… Most of them have been tamed to ride though the highroads… I’m surprised that Commander Zeke didn’t tell you about them…”

Karl said “Nope he didn’t…”

Elaina approached the rider… “Excuse me.”

The rider turned and said “Can I help you.”

Elaina said “We like to rent a pair of chocobos for the high road.”

The rider said “I’m afraid most of our chocobos are out on other clients and this one needs to be fed and rest before heading out on another journey.”

Karl said “I see… do you know when it’s going to be available?”

The rider said “I would guess a few hours. It would most likely be quicker if you walked”

Karl sighed “If that’s the case…”

The rider said “I’m sorry…”

Elaina said “no it’s alright… we can handle the journey”

The rider said “if you say so…”

Karl said “Well that settles it we rest here for a bit then continue on.”

Elaina nodded “Yes…”

The two entered into the Travel Agency

An Al-bhed man was talking with a female clerk.

Elaina blinked then smiled “Hello Mr. Rin”

The man flinched slightly and turned. He smiled “Hello Elaina it’s been a while…”

Elaina said “Indeed it has… almost a year I think”

Rin nodded “Yes… I see you have grown a bit.”

Karl said “I take it you two know each other…”

Elaina said “Yes… Mr. Rin periodically comes to this store after all he owns all the Travel Agencies throughout Spira.”

Karl nodded “I see…”

Rin said “I’m somewhat surprised you did not know that Mister”

Karl said “Christopher… Karl Christopher”

Rin said “Karl Christopher… well Ed’c y bmaycina du saad oui Secdan Christopher” (It’s a pleasure to meet you Mister Christopher)

Karl said “Megafeca Secdan Rin Ed femm pa icavim du ghuf dra ufhan uv dra Dnyjam Ykahleac eh lyca E haat ramb” He said it in perfect al-bhed (Likewise Mister Rin It will be useful to know the owner of the Travel Agencies in case I need help)

Elaina gasped slightly “You know Mr. Rin language. But you’re not Al-bhed are you?”

Karl said “uh…”

Rin nodded slightly “You seem to understand and communicate it quite well almost a native speaker. He studied KC eyes for a second showing his al-bhed patterned eyes “but you are not one of my people…”

Karl said “Really…”

Rin said “Your eyes are blue and normal my people are distinct with green eyes and swirls within them.”

Karl nodded “Yes… I noticed that…”

Elaina said “How did you know how to speak Al-bhed? Karl”

Karl said “uh… good question… guess it’s something I must have remembered it must have been triggered when Rin spoke to me in his language”

Rin said “remembered?”

Karl said “I made a crash landing about two weeks ago just south of here…”

Rin said “Ah you must be the one rumored to have machina hands. The one who came in like a meteor”

Karl said “That is correct.” He showed his hands

Elaina said “have you ever seen anything like it Mr. Rin…”

Rin said “I have not… this is far beyond what the al-bhed have seen we just savage ancient machina. We knew that there was once a way to replace lost limbs with machines but never like this.”

Elaina said “that’s not all… show him Karl.”

Rin said “show me what…”

Karl said “Left Hand Right hand conversion Tantos!”

Both of Karl hands transformed into Tantos

Rin said “My word… a fusion of magic and machina?”

Karl said “I truly don’t know… it may seem like magic but I think it’s just an advanced form of technology that may not be from this world. The ability to convert machine like hands into any weapon”

Rin said “So are you saying you’re not from this world…”

Karl said “The more I remember the more I seem out of place… an alien of sorts maybe not from here this world… after all I did come out of the sky.”

Elaina said “but aren’t you human?

Karl said “Yes… at least I think so… although something tells me there more to me than meets the eye”

Elaina said “More to you than meets the eye…” She looked at Karl hands and looked up his arm. “like maybe your hands aren’t all the thing that that are machina… of course from what I saw when I was healing you. You are human…”

Karl gave her a look “What did you see…”

Elaina smiled at him innocently and said “everything except the you know what. Your original clothes were destroyed for the most part.”

Karl said “huh… I never noticed… These clothes fit perfectly”

Rin said “Mr. Karl in your best interest I suggest you keep those unusual thoughts of yourself quiet for the most part…”

Karl said “Why…”

Rin said “No offense to Miss Elaina but the temples and Yevon are very powerful and strict there are a lot of rules that you must be wary of and if someone got the idea that you are a machina in a human cover it would cause pek bnupmasc or big problems for yourself”

Karl said “Does it make it any difference on what I am?

Elaina said “To me… not really, but to others… yes.”

Rin said “however if you do find yourself in trouble because of that… remember this… Dra al-bhed yllabd druca fru ghuf draen myhkiyka.

Karl said “The al-bhed accept those who know their language… gotcha… I’ll keep that in mind”

Rin said “Anyway I hope the travel agency can serve you well… I take it you’re taking Miss Elaina back to the temple in Djose”

Karl said “Correct… and we recently ran into some heavy fiend activity. I may need a few things like grenades and such

Rin said “Well I can offer some basic weapons and items and also a place to rest.”

Karl said “Let’s see what you got”

Rin stepped aside and Karl took a look at his merchandise and bought 3 grenades restoring his stock to 5.

Karl said “Well that’s should be all I need for now I think. I’m sure whatever enemies we run into I can handle with what I got.”

Rin said “I’m sure you can Karl.”

Elaina said “So Karl we continuing on…”

Karl nodded “Yes…”

A sudden explosion occurred shaking the shop and you could hear earth moving in a landslide soon after.

Elaina cried out and held on to Karl…

“Fryd fyc dryd?” (What was that?) Rin said as he turned toward the back of the shop where the explosion seem to come from

Karl said “I don’t know Mister Rin… but I’m going to find out.”

He turned to leave and Elaina almost followed him “Elaina stay here.” He commanded

Elaina looked at him with begging eyes and said “ why Karl you could need help”

Karl looked at her in seriousness “It’s wise for you to stay inside until I figure out what that was… I won’t be gone long 5 minutes tops”

Rin said “I’m agreeing with Karl Miss Elaina, stay here; but Karl if you run into trouble.”

Karl said “I know if the going gets tough the tough retreat and regroup got it… I’ll be back”

Karl headed out of the shop and headed to the area nearby

The mountain behind the shop was smoking like something powerful had blasted it causing a landslide

Karl said “Well I know what the explosion was… but what could cause…”

A loud whistle like sound was heard…

Karl said “oh s**t…” He ran and all of a sudden a powerful explosion hit where he was a few seconds before sending him flying and crashing to the ground

Karl took minor damage (90/100)

“Karl!” Elaina worried voice called out.

She quickly appeared at his side and knelt down

Karl said “Elaina I said stay inside”

Elaina said “if you get killed who going to take me to Djose…”

Karl said “If both of us get killed no one going to Djose…”

A whistle like sound was heard again

Elaina gasped

Karl quickly grabbed Elaina and said “Shield!” while closing his eyes

Elaina held on to him and closed her eyes

A green energy barrier snapped into place around the duo

The mortar hit directly causing an explosion but the barrier held

A few second later Karl opened his eyes and looked at the barrier.

Elaina opened her eyes and looked around “Karl…” She asked “Did you do this?” She indicated the shield

“I don’t know” Karl replied “I think so… unless you somehow casted protect just in time”

Elaina said “This is stronger than any protect magic I’ve ever seen or know...”

Karl said “whatever it is it just saved our lives…”

Elaina said “Thank you…”

Karl said “For what…”

Elaina said “for saving me…”

Karl said “You’re welcome…”

The barrier faded out

Karl slowly got up and helped Elaina up

Elaina lighted dusted off her dress.

Karl said “well I know one thing something was trying to attack this area but what.”

Elaina noticed something and said “uh Karl…”

Karl said “what…”

Elaina said “I think I know what was attacking us…” She pointed to something that looked like a rusty blue armored mech with two powerful mortar like cannons for arms. It hovered and rotated it parts periodically

http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/finalfantasy/images/0/0c/YAT-97.jpg

Karl looked and a brief memory appeared in his mind of a similar mech coming out of a fire.

“Enemy data… YAT Series.” Karl responded “uses main equipped Mortar weapons for powerful long distance attacks.

Elaina said “huh?”

Karl said “Elaina stay close to me…” He activated his tantos

*Screen Shatter*

*Heartless Colleague starts playing*

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDrEBeBtT-0

*A Yat-97 appeared* (1850/1850)

Turn Order
Elaina (100/100) (50/50)
Karl (90/100) (50/50)
Monster A

Karl is in guardian mode

Elaina said “Karl we can’t possibly defeat it…”

Karl said “Don’t worry Elaina. It won’t touch you… I know exactly how to deal with this series of machina

Elaina said “You do…”

Karl said “Cast Protect on me now…”

Elaina said “Got it…”

Elaina
Attack
Special
>Magic
>> Protect (10MP)
>>> Karl
Item
Run

Elaina casted Protect on Karl

A blue shield appeared in front of Karl

Elaina said “Now what?”

Karl said “just watch”

Karl
Attack
Skill
>Special
>>Deflect (New)
Magic
Item
Run

Karl put his right arm in front of himself and said “Deflector online”

The protect shield shimmered and turned green

Elaina said “What did you just do…”

Karl said “While under a protect status I can use the protect shield and bounce an attack back at an opponent if it uses it against me however this removes the protect status afterwards.”

Elaina said “and this works on all attacks?”

Karl said “Only ones that are physical like the mortar that this punk about to use on me…”

The YAT-97 clicked it guns and fired a single blast at Karl

The mortar shot toward Karl.

Karl said “and deflect!”

The Green shield shot out and hit the mortar bouncing it back toward the YAT-97

The Mortar hit the YAT-97 for 1000 damage (850/1850)

Elaina said “Whoa… if that would have hit you even with the protect shield.”

Karl said “I’d be fatally injured unable to fight… but this machina has only two attacks one it uses in close range the other far range. The Far range is more deadly that’s why I moved closer with you.”

Elaina said “So now what do we do…”

Karl said “now all I do is use a Frag Grenade.”

Elaina said “You only need one?”

Karl said “I hope… if I don’t nothing stops it from doing another attack”

Elaina said “Should I pray.”

Karl said “to heal and pray I’m right on predicting the outcome.”

Elaina said “Okay…”

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

Karl
Attack
Skill
>Special
>> Use
>>> Frag. Grenade
>>>> YAT-97
Magic
Item
Run

Elaina prayed “Please Yevon allow Karl prediction to come true.”

Elaina restored 10% of everyone HP

Elaina (100/100)

Karl (100/100)

Karl pulled out a Frag Grenade pulled the pin and threw it.

The Grenade happened to land in the machina mouth

A few seconds passed and nothing seemed to happen

Elaina said “it didn’t work…”

Karl said “Nah it couldn’t have been a dud… Alex said they are guaranteed 100%”

The YAT-97’s head blew clean off as the Frag Grenade did another 1000 damage (0/1850)

The machina shattered apart into fiery metal pieces.

Karl blocked Elaina from the explosion damage but none of it reached them…

Karl said “Victory…”

Victory

Karl gained 1600 AP

Karl gained four levels (leveled up at 100, 200, 400, 800)

Karl HP increased to 500 (+100 for each level up)
Karl MP increased to 70 (+5 for each level up)

Karl gained 20 stat points (5 for each level)

Current Stats
Attack: 10
Defense: 10
Agility: 10
Magic: 5
Magic Defense: 5

Increase Stats how

Offense (Atk+10, Magic+10)
Defense (Defense +10, Magic Defense +10)
Speed (Speed+8 other stats +3)
Balance (+4 for each)
>Custom
>> Select a number of points for each stats (max 10 points per stat)

Attack: +5
Defense: +5
Agility: +4
Magic: +1
Magic Defense: +5

New Stats
Attack: 15
Defense: 15
Agility: 14
Magic: 6
Magic Defense: 10

Next level at 1466

Karl gained 540 Gil

Karl sighed “It worked…”

Elaina also sighed “This has been the most exciting trip back I’ve ever been on…”

Karl said “It’s also been very dangerous…”

Elaina said “yes… but I’m glad it was also with you…”

Rin came out and said “Are you two alright…”

Elaina held onto Karl and said “Thanks to Karl… he’s simply the best to have around

Rin nodded “I am glad… I am also glad that machina didn’t do any more damage and I am sure someone alerted the crusaders to this attack by now.”

Karl smirked “I’m sure they did”

Elaina was about to say Yes “Ye…” She then blinked and noticed something “Hey Karl what’s that?”

Karl looked and a piece of the destroyed YAT’s Mortar namely it’s trigger chamber was still somewhat intact it looked like a small hand cannon.

Karl said “It a piece of the YAT mortar.” He picked it up

“Namely it’s trigger chamber…” Commander Zeke spoke up as he and the troop came into the area.

Elaina said “Commander Zeke”

“Look at this thing” one of the soldiers said “It’s a mech.”

“I’ve heard stories of the past of such things used in the great war” Alex muttered “but I thought they were forbidden by Yevon and eliminated a long time ago.”

Zeke looked at the destroyed Machina… “Karl am I giving you too much credit saying you did this alone?”

Karl said “A little much… without Elaina help I wouldn’t have been able to use a new trick I regained.

Elaina said “He saved my life by creating a protective barrier much stronger than any protect magic I’ve ever seen.”

Zeke said “A protective barrier?”

Karl crossed his arms “Shield!”

A green orb surrounded him and Karl relaxed his arms and the barrier faded out.

The troops and Zeke all stared in amazement

Zeke said “Every day you seem to pull out a new ability or move that unusual Karl.”

Karl said “Commander… I’m starting to have doubts”

Zeke said “What do you mean Karl?”

Karl said “I’m having doubts that I’m not all that I seem to be… and this new ability confirms it… I don’t think I’m human.”

Zeke said “then what are you…”

Karl looked at the destroyed Machina. “Would you believe me if I suggested that I was a machina or something similar.”

Zeke said “A machina?”

Karl nodded and said “Machina are known to take heavy weapon fire and not appeared to be that affected by damage. It would explain how I landed so hard but only had minor surface injuries and a head injury causing memory loss. It would also explain my unique abilities.

Zeke said “but you’re missing one thing Karl… if you’re a machina then how come you look act and sound like a human. Even before the great war there was no Machina capable of such a thing

Karl said “maybe because I’m not from this world.”

Zeke said “But if that’s true then where did you come from.”

Karl said “That sir is the right question and I don’t have the answer”

Zeke said “well until you have that answer it will be easier on me and my troops and most likely everyone else just to accept you as a human and mark off your unique abilities due to your hands.”

Karl said “Yes… if I am to exist in this world I must conform to that idea. I’m sorry sir I was out of line”

Zeke said “happens to the best of us Karl. You were scared that being human.”

Karl chuckled “Well Elaina you still willing to travel with me.”

Elaina smiled and said “of course but” She looked at the destroyed Machina “I’ve never been able to see a machina like this broken down. Do you know how it work Mr. Rin”

Rin said “The theory is the trigger chamber is where the firepower comes from. You place gunpowder into the chamber and a projectile like a metal shell also filled with gunpowder is set in front of it. You light the powder with a spark of the trigger chamber with is usually flint rubbed together and the powder ignites and the force of heat sends the shell flying in a blaze of fire in the direction you face the mortar however pressure is building inside the shell as the gunpowder ignites and expands when the lit shell hits something that causes it to break the result is an explosion that causes great damage.”

Zeke said “Able to cause mountains to collapse.”

Elaina said “I see… no wonder Yevon forbids machina like this… in the wrong hands it could cause great harm. As a nun and a white mage I hate unnecessary injuries caused by violence”

Karl said “in anyone hands it could cause harm. Any weapon for that matter both swords and guns have the potential to cause harm but most use those types of weapons as a matter of defending oneself. In an ideal perfect world there would be no need for weapons but to have such a world you can’t have violence and be pure of heart which I’m afraid there just no way such a level can be obtained”

Elaina said “there isn’t?”

Karl said “Not usually… from what I recollect.”

Elaina said “Then… Sin can never be truly destroyed”

Karl said “huh?”

Elaina said “Karl when we get to the temple… I have to show you something. I want your outsider view on it…”

Karl said “okay… but uh I thought I’m not allowed inside the temple because of my hands”

Elaina said “Don’t worry I’ve got an idea”

Karl obtained Key Item Trigger Chamber

 

[SMARTAgentKC]

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?”  

[SMARTAgentKC]

Chapter 11: A deadly Sin

If I was to answer that question now I would have said Sin could happen but I just wished them luck and let them continue on. Nearby two months passed after Alex Soul and Masato left and during that time I was upgraded in rank to troop assistant helping out the recruits get in shape. Elaina would nearly weekly visit and I would always escort her as her choice to be taken back however our adventures together were never as exciting as our first one. Life seemed good but then it would be shattered when the calm was officially ended. How you may ask… Well an eyewitness account of several of our own would be the bearers of bad news

Karl and a few of the other troops were practicing together when a shout of “Assistance!” sounded

Masato and Soul were supporting Alex in a dazed like state Elaina was with them teary eyed.

Karl said “Oh boy… All Troops Stand at Ease”

Everyone stopped what they were doing and focused on Karl but had relax posture. Karl approached the four that were coming. “Status Report”

Elaina said “Karl it’s horrible!”

Karl said “What’s horrible.”

Soul said “Sin… it’s back!”

Everyone seemed to flinch like a thunderbolt had hit them.

Karl said “You sure…”

Masato nodded “hell yeah man… I saw it with my own two eyes… Sin attacked Bevelle.”

Karl said “no… did he do any damage”

Soul said “Evrae and Bevelle Defenses went head to head with Sin… Sin was repelled with minimal damage to the city however a lot got affected by a toxin wave”

He looked at Alex “What happened to him.”

Masato said “Sin toxin got to him… now he funny in the head half the time he like this and the other half well let’s just say it isn’t pretty. He drools from the mouth mutters something about Blitzball and the stadium and something about the winning shot and his body is out of his control

Elaina said “I tried to have them stay at the temple so I could try to heal Alex but…”

Soul said “But we had to get back to Commander Zeke and tell him to enlist all in training. Sin could be on his way to Luca next!”

Karl said “how long do we think we have…”

Masato said “If Sin hasn’t attacked by now… I don’t know… They say you can’t predict when but you can predict where. Bevelle, Luca and anywhere else that has advanced technology or high population. I’m sure he can sense it.”

Karl said “come on let’s get back to the city. All troop continue as you were”

“Yes Sir!” came the reply

At the hotel where Karl was healed at Alex was in a bed limp Commander Zeke would be coming in a few minutes

Elaina was healing him casting Esuna then Dispel but nothing seemed to work

Elaina said “I don’t know what else to do…”

Karl said “You did your best Elaina I don’t think healing magic going to work here…”

“Buh blee blee ah…” Alex muttered “Mah ke ta…” He started to shake uncontrollably

Soul said “There he goes again… hang on to him”

Masato said “you kidding man I got my jaw punched last time

Soul said “just hold him down…

Both Soul and Masato held him down.

Alex struggled and slipped out of the grips and lunged at Karl

Masato and Soul managed to grab his arms

Karl managed to guard and his hand held Alex’s head and face back

“Mah ke ta… Mah ke ta” Alex muttered as he struggled

Karl said “mah ke ta… I think he’s trying to say Machina.”

Alex said “Mana Mah ke ta.

Karl said “what with Machina.”

Alex said “Mana Mah ke ta…

Elaina said “Mana? That’s another word for Magic

Alex said “Mana Mah ke ta… da frag me na”

Karl said “I think he telling me something about magic machina and something fragmented…”

“Fragmentation detected…” The voice from his hands responded

Energy in the form of light seemed to surge from Karl hands and stunned Alex into a stiff board.

Soul said “Alex!”

Karl said “What’s going on.”

“Fragmentation of memory of outside connection Alex detected. Auto ability De-fragment activated. De-fragmenting main memory sequences and repairing other mental functions. Process at 50%.” Came the response from Karl’s hands

Elaina said “keep him steady you two… Karl whatever you’re doing keep doing it…”

“Yes mam…” came the reply

Soul and Masato supported Alex and Karl held his hands to Alex’s head however he was in an awkward position with his legs bending underneath himself

“Process at 70%”

Karl grunted his legs about to give out from the strain of holding

“Process at 90%”

Karl grunted again

“Process complete!” The light suddenly pulsed sending out a shockwave.

Soul and Masato were sent backward with Alex who landed on the bed while they landed on the floor bumping their heads against it

Masato muttered a curse word

Soul grunted

Karl fell to his knees and grunted as well

Alex shuttered slightly on the bed but then became still… His eyes blinked and focused “huh?” He said

Elaina approached him and said “Alex?”

Alex looked at her “Elaina?” He blinked then said “hey what’s up?”

Elaina said “I should be asking you that… are you alright?”

Alex said “A little worse for wear but nothing a healing session from you wouldn’t cure.”

Elaina said “I think all four of ya need a group therapy session.”

Alex said “all four of us…”

Soul said “yeah man four of us…” he grunted, sat up and rubbed his head from where he bumped it “man Karl whatever that was… packs a punch…”

Masato was also rubbing his head and sat up as well and said “Yeah man next time ease up on the sudden power surge… darn thing felt like a thunderbolt”

Karl said “sorry guys wasn’t controlling it…” He slowly got up but held his left leg… “ow… I think I pulled a muscle… oh”

Elaina said “relax all four of you and I’ll get to healing… that’s an order.”

“Yes Mam…” came the reply

About a minute later Elaina was healing the four guys when Commander Zeke came in… He looked at everyone on the ground or laying down while Elaina was healing and said “Did I miss the welcome back party…”

Elaina said “no… just a healing session Alex was not feeling so well Karl tried to help me out but then pulled a muscle supporting Alex and crashed into Soul and Masato bumping their heads on the ground… turned it into a group therapy”

Zeke said “oh so that what I heard…” He chuckled “Everyone alright…”

“Sir” came the unison reply as everyone saluted including Elaina.

Zeke said “Well when you guys feel like it. I would like an explanation. All I got was that Sin was back and that he was fought against in Bevelle. I need a full report

Masato said “We’ll give you one sir however would you believe sir we saw Machina similar to the one Karl defeated and a few others as well big mechs twice the size of humans if not bigger.”

Zeke said “Where”

Soul said “in Bevelle… it’s their main defenses they have them all over the city.”

Karl said “but isn’t Machina against the Yevon religion.”

Elaina nodded “it is… but I heard from Father Dourac that they recently allowed them to defend Bevelle… in the interest of the temple of Yevon”

Alex said “If we had Machina we could protect these roads and the city heck I was always interested in Al-bhed Machina they look useful for general patrol and guarding.”

Masato said “It would save us a lot of hassle with fiends”

Zeke said “but Yevon would never allow anything like that… trust me I’ve asked Rin offered but no way Machina are forbidden.”

Karl said “Seems like there’s a lot of exceptions though.”

Soul said “You know what funny also… it was like a public secret. Everyone in Bevelle knew but no one bothered to tell anyone else.

Elaina said “and to think Father Dourac gave Karl hassle because of his hands and yet Bevelle has Machina that are much more dangerous…”

Masato said “make you wonder why machina are forbidden if Bevelle the Headquarters of Yevon can break the rule”

Karl said “I’ll bet it’s because they are the authority… ever heard of term those with power use that power… Those high in Yevon must have a lot of power…

Elaina said “and those not high are under their rules…”

Zeke said “it could be due to Sin as well…”

Elaina said “yes that could be true… but it makes me wonder what other rules the leaders of Yevon are ignoring…”

Zeke said “as long as it doesn’t affect our job. I think we can go with it for now…” He sighed “I don’t need the blessing of Yevon to do our job to protect the town or the highroad from Fiends and Sin… if Yevon isn’t pure anymore… then we won’t fight for Yevon we’ll fight for the people.”

Elaina said “but if following Yevon not pure enough anymore then how can we be truly free of Sin…”

Karl said “You mentioned something once about showing me something Elaina but I don’t think you ever did…”

Elaina said “In the teachings it is told that if we completely atone for our sins and become pure Sin won’t ever be reborn…”

Karl said “and I said humanity can never reach such purity… there will always be darkness within even if its just small fragments like a thought that quickly suppressed…”

Elaina said “but can Sin detect darkness within the heart…”

Karl said “I don’t know… to truly understand Sin… I would have to take a good look… but I doubt I will get close with feeling some sort of negative effects. I think I’m starting to sense something very wrong with this… it’s like people are trying to repent and follow rules but it isn’t enough… and no matter what happens death will occur… I wonder did Yevon create Sin or did Sin create Yevon…”

Elaina said “you know… I think Yevon was formed because of Sin…”

Karl said “So Sin appeared a thousand years ago right… does anyone know how it appeared…”

Elaina said “It just appeared after destroying the great Machina City of Zanarkand.”

Karl said “where was Zanarkand.”

Soul said “Way far to the north and west man even further then Bevelle however only Summoners travel there now.”

Elaina said “In history it used to be an enemy of Bevelle and Bevelle used Machina to start a war with them”

Karl said “then Sin came and stopped the war destroying one in the process and putting the rest of the world under a curse for something that happened a thousand year ago as punishment for letting things get out of hand?”

Elaina said “Yes… punishment…”

Karl said “hmm…”

Zeke said “You thinking of something Karl.”

Karl said “Yes… wouldn’t Sin understand that most are trying to be pure so why does it have to come back so people suffer or does Sin just react to darkness and try to wipe it out… What is Sin purpose… that’s what I like to know.

Zeke said “Well Karl…” He put his arm around Karl shoulder “I don’t know what Sin purpose is… but I do know mine. As a Crusader it is my duty to protect the cities, towns and people of Spira from Sin and Fiends and I will do that until my death which I don’t care when it is just as long as I go out fighting.”

Karl said “Sir… that’s my purpose too. I will fight to defend those who need it and no one going to stop me…”

Alex said “Or the rest of us”

Soul said “because we’re crusaders and as long as there someone who needs us we’ll defend them.”

Masato said “because that’s our purpose.”

Elaina nodded “Commander Zeke… I was wondering with the return of Sin do you need a white mage among your troops because I would like to fill that position”

Zeke sighed “As your godfather I would send you back to the temple to be protected with your mother. It would be what your father wanted but I think you are old enough to make your own decisions and as a commander of the crusaders I would gladly accept your request.” He smirked slightly “Does your mother know you are going to do this?”

Elaina smiled and nodded “When Soul and them came to the temple last night and told us about Sin returning. I asked my mother if I could… she just smiled at me and said ‘Do what I feel is right in my heart…’ So I told her I would go and ask if you need it”

Zeke chuckled “Then I’ll deliver a personal report to Father Dourac and there will be an announcement for this entire chapter explaining a few things this evening I expect you all to be there are we clear.”

“Yes Sir” came the unison reply as everyone saluted

Zeke said “Good carry on.” He exited out of the room.

Masato said “Well Elaina so you’re joining us as a medic huh sweet… means some TLC if we want it”

Elaina said “well…”

Zeke came back and leaned on the doorway after hearing Masato and said “remember boys Elaina still in training as a nun so no funny business even if she’s your friend”

Masato said “come on sir… not even a lunch date”

“Masato!” Soul Alex and Karl hissed in unison

Masato said “Alright Alright… I get it… no funny business”

Elaina giggled “Sorry Masato I have to follow the rules given to me… but if you’ll willing to treat me to lunch as a friend… I’ll be glad to go”

Zeke smirked “You know the limits Elaina” He said and exited out

Elaina said “That I do, now where were we?”

Karl said “group therapy.”

Elaina said “of course…” She continued to heal everyone

Elaina joined the Crusaders

Character Name: Elaina
Age: 14
HP: 500
MP: 70
Job Class: White Mage
Personality: Overall positive and kind, she always finds the good things about everything even if rules makes them seem bad. (I.E Karl’s Machina) She maintains a stiff demeanor when in the presence of authority but relaxes when she’s near friends. She hold the teachings close but her faith does falter when the truth shows some light.
Battle Style: Defense and Healing Magic is her thing however she knows other magic to assist in defeating fiends like Status Magic and Black Magic. She’s weak to Physical Attacks however she strong against Magic Attacks and is quite fast on her feet (High Agility, High Evasion)
Abilities:
WM: Cure, Cura, Esuna, Nul-Flame, Nul-Frost, Nul-Shock, Nul-Tide, Haste, Life, Protect, Shell, Reflect, Dispel
SM: Blind, Silence, Sleep, Bio,
BM: Fire, Blizzard, Thunder, Water, Drain, Osmose
Special: Pray, Focus, Cheer, Reflex
Overdrive: Magic Blast
Overdrive Charge: Comrade (Ally takes damage, bar charges 25% per hit)
Auto Abilities Weapon: Sensor, Magic +5%, Magic +3%
Auto Abilities Armor: Defense +10% Silenceproof  

[SMARTAgentKC]

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…”  

[SMARTAgentKC]

Chapter 13: Being Trained by the gang.

The next day Karl went to the meeting of his troop before the training.

“Alright we all know what we have to do for training so let’s keep it up. I’ll be watching. ” Zeke commanded

“Sir!” everyone responded

Karl started to walk to a training area when all of a sudden Elaina came by him and grabbed his hand. “Karl!” She said excitedly

Karl said “what’s up Elaina…”

Elaina said “come with me…”

Karl said “you know I do my training in the morning. I can’t slack now”

Elaina said “I know but Alex wants to teach you some new moves.”

Karl said “oh… that I think can be allowed…”

Elaina said “well come on”

Karl said “alright…”

He and Elaina walked over to where Alex was with some Mi-ihen fangs who looked like they were sleeping.

*Screen Shatter*

3 Mi-ihen fangs appeared (80/80) (80/80) (80/80)

Alex: 1200/1200 100/100
Karl: 500/500 70/70

Alex looked and said “shh… don’t wake the fangs up… I’m having them sleep for now”

Karl said “okay… Elaina said you wanted to teach me something.”

Alex said “Yeah man… I showed you Use right… well those items you can’t usually get at the shops you get them by stealing from fiends…”

Karl gave him a look “okay…”

Alex said “just watch it’s easy.”

Turn Order
Alex
Karl
Monster A
Monster B
Monster C

Alex
Attack
Skill
>Special
>>Steal
>>> Mi-ihen Fang (Monster A) *React*
Item
Run

Use React?
>Yes
No

Alex went over to the first sleeping fang and with a quick flick of his wrist seemed to pull out a bomb like item and quickly ran back

Stole Sleeping Powder

Alex said “See nothing to it…”

Karl nodded “yeah…” A scanning laser scanned Alex and Karl learned Steal.

Mi-ihen Fang A is sleeping (80/80)
Mi-ihen Fang B is sleeping (80/80)
Mi-ihen Fang C is sleeping (80/80)

Alex
Attack
Skill
>Special
>>Steal
>>> Mi-ihen Fang (Monster B)
Item
Run

Alex went over to the Second sleeping fang and with a quick flick of his wrist seemed to pull out a sleeping powder and quickly ran back

Stole Sleeping Powder

Alex said “now you try it… go for the third one though…”

Karl nodded

Karl
Attack
Skill
>Special
>>Steal
>>> Mi-ihen Fang (Monster C)
Magic
Item
Run

Karl went over to the Third Sleeping Fang and stole from it however he only grabbed a potion. He ran back

Stole Potion

Karl said “hey… what gives this isn’t what you been getting.”

Alex chuckled lightly “Yeah… see my targe armor is customized with a special ability called pickpocket it’s allows me to grab rarer items without it you get common items like potions and such…

Karl said “oh really and how can I learn that ability”

Alex said “good question man… I had to customize my armor with 30 Amulets and let me tell you they weren’t exactly easy to get.”

Karl said “So now what do we do…”

Alex said “well your Fang still most likely has some sleeping powder available. So I’ll show you something else

Karl nodded “Right…”

Alex
Attack
>Skill
>>Mug (10MP)
>>>Mi-ihen Fang (Monster C) *React*
Special
Item
Run

Use React?
>Yes
No

Alex went over to the third Mi-ihen Fang grinning and tapped it lightly on the nose

The Fang snorted, woke up, and growled

Alex hammered it on the nose with his claw dealing 400 damage

The Fang barked and turned into pyrefiles (0/80)

A Sleeping Powder was left behind

Stole Sleeping Powder

Alex said “That was Mug… I steal an item and deal damage at the same time”

Karl said “I’ll take that…” He scanned Alex again and learned Mug

The other two Fangs woke up

Alex said “uh oh… we better hurry and get rid of those fangs. You can attack however you want Karl you could mug them but I wouldn’t recommend it…”

Alex
>Attack
>>Mi-ihen Fang (Monster B)
Skill
Special
Item
Run

Karl
Attack
>Skill
>>Mug (10MP)
>>> Mi-ihen Fang (Monster A)
Special
Magic
Item
Run

Alex punched the second Fang dealing 400 damage

The Fang turned to Pyreflies (0/80)

Karl went at the first fang with his blades out “Give me all you got!” He mugged the Fang dealing 150 damage and it turned to Pyreflies

Couldn’t steal anything

Karl said “Well that was a waste”

Alex said “As you steal more items from them you sometimes won’t come up with anything but the first steal guaranteed 100%”

Karl said “Alright… thanks for the moves”

Victory

Karl earned 20AP
Current AP Level 1520
Next Level at 1600

Alex said “Don’t mention it man…”

Soul walked in “You stealing from the Fangs again Alex?” He said

Alex said “Yeah… got to restock my sleeping powders somehow… anyway you see any White Elements. I need their Antarctic Winds…”

Soul said “Well I’ve think I got some…” He pointed behind himself…

*Screen Shatter*

A Raldo, (240/240) and A Vouivire, (285/285) appeared

Turn Order
Alex: 1200/1200 90/100
Soul: 1700/1700 50/50
Karl: 500/500 60/70
Monster B (Vouivire)
Monster A (Raldo)

Alex said “I don’t see any White Elements here these are just armored enemies

Karl said “hmm… I’ve heard about Armored Enemies… High defense which means physicals don’t do much to them right

Soul said “That’s right… but Armored Enemies are no problem for me…” He lifted his blade “All my blades have the Piercing auto ability which nullifies Armor”

Karl said “Piercing huh?”

Soul said “Just watch on my turn”

Karl nodded

Alex
Attack
Skill
>Special
>>Steal
>>> Vouivire (Monster B)
Item
Run

Alex went over to the Vouivire and stole from it grabbing a silver colored hourglass

Stole Silver Hourglass

Alex said “oh I’m on time now…”

Soul glanced at him “Bad joke.” He muttered

Alex chuckled “Sorry”

Soul
>Attack
>>Vouivire (Monster B)
Skill
Special
Item
Run

Soul ran at the Vouivire and cut it down though it body with his heavy blade dealing 800 damage

The Vouivire roared and collapsed (0/285)

Karl said “Nice hit…”

Soul said “If my blade didn’t have piercing I would only do about a tenth of what I just did…”

Karl said “and let me guess it’s the same for me right because my weapons aren’t that strong…”

Soul said “Well I’m not sure… Most Machina weapons can pierce armor... you learned Tantō and Katana as your weapons right?

Karl said “Yeah… but let’s see. Which one should I go for…”

Alex said “Take the Raldo the shelled one”

Karl said “Right…”

Karl
>Attack
>> Raldo (Monster A)
Skill
Special
Magic
Item
Run

Karl dashed at the Raldo and slashed however his hands bounced off it’s shell only dealing 5 damage (235/240)

Karl said “uh huh...” He tapped the raldo on the shell with his blade with just bounced off harmlessly. “Yeah… I didn’t think so”

The Raldo growled and slammed Karl for 30 damage

Karl grunted (470/500)

Alex said “Hang tough Karl… We will back you up… I’ll swipe Soul hits”

Karl retreated slightly

Alex
Attack
Skill
>Special
>>Steal
>>> Raldo (Monster A)
Item
Run

Soul
>Attack
>> Raldo (Monster A)
Skill
Special
Item
Run

Alex said “I’ll take that” He swiped from the Raldo grabbing a potion like item

Stole Hypello Potion

Alex said “Hypello Potion… hmm… that for Protection against Berserk status I think…”

Soul Attacked the Raldo and destroyed it (0/240)

Victory!

Karl gained 44 AP
Current AP 1564
Next Level 1600

*Screen Shatter*

A White Element (390/390) and a Thunder Flan appeared (450/450)

Alex said “oh boy… Jackpot! I could use the stuff these guys have…”

Karl said “Element and Flan Fiends they’re the ones that need elemental magic like Elaina knows to take care of right…”

Elaina said “uh huh”

Soul said “in a manner of speaking… yes Magic is one of the best ways to take care of these fiends however… I can handle them just as easily with another move…”

Karl said “oh?”

Soul said “Observe on my turn but help Alex swipe the items before I make my move.”

Karl said “Roger”

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

Karl
Attack
Skill
>Special
>>Steal
>>> Thunder Flan
Magic
Item
Run

Alex went over and stole two Antarctic Winds which looked like small white orbs

Karl went over to the Flan and swiped from it stealing an Electro Marble which was a small yellow orb “oh nice…”

Alex pocketed the goods and said “Yeah man these are two of the fiends that I steal from often to get my basic element items the only one I have real trouble getting is Fish Scales only Blue Elements, Water Flans and Aqua Flans hold them and they don’t appear here at all but thanks to last month trip I got tons of them now…

Soul said “Are you two finished yet…”

Alex said “Not Quite you can take out the White Element but I still want the Thunder Flan for a little bit more…”

Soul said “Very well… Now Karl this is how I deal with Elements and Flans.”

Soul
Attack
>Skill
>> Armor Break (12MP)
>>> White Element *React*
Special
Item
Run

Use React?
>Yes
No

Soul said “Break it down!” His blade shimmered with energy and he came at the White Element and swung. When the hit connected it sounded like glass shattering as he did only 80 damage (310/390)

Karl said “Whoa…”

Soul said “That’s Armor Break… it removes armor and lower defense to very low levels now the Element can be damaged normally”

Karl said “I see…” Karl scanned Soul and learned Armor Break

The White Element used Blizzard on Soul dealing 100 damage (1600/1700)

The Thunder Flan use Thunder on Soul dealing 100 damage (1500/1700)

Soul withstood against both attacks “Some days I just hate magic.”

Elaina said “Soul let me help…”

Soul sighed “Alright Elaina go for it...”

Turn Order
Alex
Elaina HP (500/500) MP (70/70)
Soul
Karl (Turn disabled due to React)
Monster A (White Element)
Monster B (Thunder Flan)

Alex
Attack
Skill
>Special
>>Steal
>>> Thunder Flan
Item
Run

Elaina
Attack
Special
>Magic
>> Water (4MP)
>>> Thunder Flan
Item
Run

Soul
>Attack
>> White Element
Skill
Special
Item
Run

Alex stole from the Thunder Flan and got nothing “Oh dang it…”

Elaina said “Move Alex.” He twirled her rod summoning up magic

Alex ran back

Elaina said “Water…”

She casted Water dealing 500 damage to the Thunder Flan due to weakness

The Thunder Flan turned to Pyrefiles (0/450)

Soul came at the White Element and slashed it dealing 800 damage turning it into Pyreflies (0/390)

Victory

Karl gained 44 AP

Karl gained a level

Karl HP increased to 600
Karl MP increased to 75

Stat Points Available: 5

Attack: 15
Defense: 15
Agility: 14
Magic: 6
Magic Defense: 10

Custom Stat Boost
Attack: +1
Defense: +1
Agility: +1
Magic: +0
Magic Defense: +2

New Stats
Attack: 16
Defense: 16
Agility: 15
Magic: 6
Magic Defense: 12

Current AP: 1608
Next Level 3200

Karl said “Well that another new ability for me… I wonder what else I can learn.”

Soul said “Well stick around and I’ll teach ya some more. Armor Break is one of my best abilities however there are a few others you may want to know.”

Karl said “Let’s do it…”

*Screen Shatter*

A Bomb (850/850) and A Dual Horn appeared (1875/1875)

Elaina said “A dual horn…”

Soul said “Easy Elaina don’t get panicked”

Turn Order

Turn Order
Alex: 1200/1200 90/100
Elaina: 500/500 66/70
Soul: 1500/1700 38/50
Karl: 570/600 65/75
Monster B (Dual Horn)
Monster A (Bomb)


“Alright we’ve got two enemies here.” Soul started “First we have our Dual Horn a hard hitting low defense Fiend that can easily be avoided if blinded. A Bomb which to most beginners is a bad fiend to engage alone as it self-destructs after it gets hit three times and has moderate stats however both are susceptible to two of my abilities. I’ll first deal with the bomb… Alex put the Dual Horn to sleep…”

Alex said “oh come on Soul the Bomb got Bomb Fragments I want to steal them besides once you hit it. It will wake right back up”

Soul sighed “Alright fine… Elaina blind the Dual Horn so that it doesn’t bother us for now.”

Elaina nodded “Right”

Alex
Attack
Skill
>Special
>>Steal
>>> Bomb (Monster A)
Item
Run

Elaina
Attack
Skill
Special
>Magic
>> Blind (5MP)
>>> Dual Horn (Monster B)
Item
Run

Soul
Attack
>Skill
>> Silence Attack (5MP) *React*
>>> Bomb (Monster B)
Special
Item
Run

Use React?
>Yes
No

Alex swiped the Bomb and got three Bomb Fragments “Nice!”

“Your Sight will deceive you” Elaina chanted as she casted Blind on the Dual Horn

The Dual Horn eyes were covered in smoke as it was inflicted with Darkness

“Quit your rambling!” Soul shouted at the Bomb his blade shimmered then he slammed the bomb hitting it with 500 damage and a Silence status (350/850)

The Bomb shook slightly then grew in size. (two hits to Self Destruct)

Karl said “Looks like you inflicted a Silence Status and attacked at the same time.”

Soul nodded “That correct now that it’s grown once it can only use Fire Magic now… it won’t attack until the status wears off. Now both enemies can’t hit us we are good thanks to statuses. I also have ones that inflicts Darkness, or Sleep”

Karl said “So besides adding damage is there any difference between Silence and Silence Attack”

Soul said “Status Attacks only inflicts the status half the time while the Status Magic guarantees the effect unless the fiend immune or is reflected… for you I would take the attack. You’re not that big of a user on magic are you?”

Karl said “Not really… for some reason I was only able to learn White Magic like Protect and Esuna but not Black Magic or anything else magic based that I attempted to learn these past two months… it’s like I just couldn’t learn it”

Soul said “hmm… well can you learn Silence Attack?”

Karl said “I think so…” A scanning laser scanned Soul again and Karl gained Silence Attack “yep… I’ve got it…”

Soul said “Good… alright people let’s move here comes the dual horn”

Everyone moved and the Dual Horn rumbled past the group missing them.

The bomb held it position and passed it turn due to magic being silenced.

Soul said “now Karl watch this next move. Alex Elaina you two take out the Bomb Karl and I will handle the Dual Horn.”

“Got it” Alex and Elaina responded

Alex
Attack
Skill
>Special
>> Steal
>>> Bomb
Item
Run

Elaina
Attack
Special
>Magic
>> Blizzard (4MP)
>>> Bomb
Item
Run

Alex Stole from the Bomb and got Two Bomb Fragments

Elaina twirled her Rod slightly “Ice” She chanted

A Blast of Icy Wind hit the Bomb dealing 400 damage and the Bomb turned to Pyreflies (0/850)

Karl said “Nice job Elaina”

Soul said “Now Karl with the Dual Horn in a blind state it can’t attack that well but just in case it does attack us. I’ve got another move.

Karl turned his attention back to Soul and said “yeah…”

Soul said “it’s called Power Break”

Soul
Attack
>Skill
>> Power Break (8MP)
>>> Dual Horn (Monster B) *React*
Special
Item
Run

Use React
>Yes
No

Soul said “You will not hurt anyone.” He charged at the Dual Horn and swung hitting with Power Break and dealing 800 damage (1075/1875)

Karl nodded slightly “Okay…” He scanned Soul and gained the Power Break ability

The Dual horn lumbered past and missed everyone

Soul said “Power Break lower Physical attack power it’s double your defense if you pair it with Protect especially if you’re in big trouble however not every enemy can be affected by power break different fiends are immune to various statuses. Some are immune to Darkness, some are immune to Silence and some are just plain immune to every status in the book”

Karl said “I see… what about us can we be affected by statuses”

Soul said “Yep… but you can either buy armors or customize them to be immune to various statuses… Myself I’m immune to Confusion and Berserk. Alex is immune to sleep, Masato immune to Darkness. Elaina immune to silence.

Karl said “and I’m not immune to any of those statuses huh…”

Soul said “I think so, your equipment pretty basic.”

Alex said “but if you need some help customizing them just talk to me. I’ll help you out man.”

Karl nodded “Thanks Alex”

Soul said “Now let’s finish off this Dual Horn.”

Karl nodded “Right…”

Alex
Attack
>Skill
>>Mug (10MP)
>>>Dual Horn
Special
Item
Run

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

Karl
>Attack
>> Dual Horn
Skill
Special
Magic
Item
Run

Soul
>Attack
>> Dual Horn
Skill
Special
Item
Run

Alex mugged the Dual Horn taking a Hi-Potion and dealing 400 damage (675/1875)

Elaina prayed and restored 10% of everyone HP

Alex: 1200/1200
Elaina: 500/500
Soul: 1670/1700
Karl: 600/600

Karl attacked the Dual Horn dealing 75 damage (600/1875)

Soul attacked the Dual Horn dealing 800 damage (0/1875)

The Dual Horn roared, collapsed and turned to Pyreflies

Victory!

Karl gained 64 AP
Current AP: 1672
Level up: 3200

Soul chuckled “Well that took care of those fiends”

All of a sudden a yellow flare shot into the air.

Soul said “uh oh… Fiend trouble somebody bit off more than they could chew”

Elaina said “Let’s hurry someone could need help!”

Alex said “Right behind ya!”

Karl said “come on!”  

[SMARTAgentKC]

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…”  

[SMARTAgentKC]

Chapter 14: The memory of a machina.

Karl and the group took a lunch break then headed to the Sphere Theater

Alex approached a pair of short statue beaked red outfitted creatures with big eyeballs that kinda looked like humanized woodpeckers. “Excuse me which one of you doing movie spheres of memory?” He asked

“That would be me” The first one said in a fast tone

Alex said “I got a friend here who lost his memory we’re thinking though it’s still in there somewhere can you help him out…”

“Oh yes yes but to turn them into a sphere it’s cost 5000 gil per sphere…” the first one said

Karl flinched “I don’t have enough…” He muttered

Alex said “no worries man I got it…”

Karl said “if you say so…”

Alex said “anyway here’s the guy…”

“great great” the bird said “this way if you please.”

We walked over to a chair with a helmet like machina piece connected to a console with a sphere

“are these Machina?” Karl asked

“yep yep, they are allowed by Yevon. Memories are good, they allow things that happened before to be seen again.” The bird said “now just sit down relax and close your eyes.”

Karl sighed sat down and relaxed.

The helmet came down on top of Karl head and pulsed lightly…

Karl went into a state of unconscious for a few minutes like he was sleeping

The computer found several memories from when Karl first woke up to the battle with the mech and a few things after however there was one memory that was time stamped before he was in Spira

After the search Karl opened his eyes

“We have a total of 3 possible collections of memories to fully recorded into spheres.”

Karl said “can you give me the approximate time they were created I’m looking for something created before 3 months ago…”

The bird looked at the screen… “hmm… yes I have one collection that matches that requirement however it’s not that much… it is only a few minutes hardly worth making a sphere out of.”

Alex said “we’ll take it.” He pulled out 5000 gil and handed it to the bird

The bird said “okie dokie just give me a minute to make a sphere…” He typed on the console and a sphere was created “Done”

Alex took the sphere and held it out to Karl. “Well Karl you ready to see what your own head hiding.”

Karl nodded and took it “yes… let’s hope it will give me some answers”

The group went into the theater and Karl inserted the sphere and started to play it…

It showed a dim lighted underground room that looked heavily metallic. A wall in the room like a small closet held a chamber of sorts and within it a metallic humanoid being that had the same build and look of Karl was there you could see that the being was equipped with powerful blasters as its hands then the scene ended

Another scene appeared this one showed a man about 25 working on at a desk he kinda looked like Karl except he was older slightly and he was writing something.

“Project Notes Zero One Zero Five.” A voice of a male spoke while the notes were written “I’ve managed to create a mech with human like features with hands capable of transforming to any weapon they are programmed with. I fear that with as little funding as I get from the counsel this is the best I’ll do however my secondary project just in case this one get cut is coming along smoothly. I’ve designed a sensory and communication system that mimics the same as my own… I’ve been alone in this world for so long it will be nice to have something to talk to that will understand my knowledge and maybe be able to help me out with my research without using more funding then I have now.”

The scene faded out

“Pause it Karl” Alex said

Karl paused it

Soul said “What did we just see… a metallic being that had a weapon like Karl has only it was formed into a gun instead of knife blades.”

Elaina said “it kind of looked like him too, the build and body was similar but like a machina.”

Masato said “yeah… but that guy in the next scene looked like Karl as well. I didn’t see the eyes but the skin color and the hair was definitely Karl colors he looked a little older though”

Karl said “so shall we continue”

Alex said “go for it…”

Karl continued to play the sphere.

It showed the Karl guy still sitting at the desk however the camera made a sudden move forward like someone just made a step while walking with a camera

“Creator” A voice similar to Karl’s said

“Yes KC?” the guy replied while looking at the camera

“I’ve been looking at the fiscal data on your computer and I fear it’s not to your standards.” KC reported

“I know” the guy said “It’s most likely going to stay that way… soon we’ll have a lot more to fear then just money issues”

“Fear… I detect no danger within range to cause an emotion like that…” KC said

“I know you don’t it’s a type of fear that only comes when you sense the future. It’s called fear of the future.” The creator replied

“If something is coming I would be able to detect it…” KC said

“then you know that Bevelle Machina army could be coming any day now, coming to destroy this city and those that live in it” the guy asked

“and when they do… I will protect you creator even at the cost of my own life.” KC responded

“I know KC but I wish I could do more than just saving my own hide”

“I have noticed you been writing a lot of letters to the counsel however I haven’t seen any responses from that counsel… have they received your letters…” KC asked

“They have…” came the reply

“They do not respond why” KC asked

“Because they think Magic going to save them… and refuse to accept my offer”

“Magic?”

“they think that summoning creatures via the forbidden arts will protect them from anything they see… how little do they understand… those forbidden arts should have been erased a long time ago. They are inhuman”

“however those forbidden arts have allowed you to create me correct.” KC said

“Yes… they had their role the idea is similar but yet different”

“So then I’m forbidden and should be erased…” KC said

“No No KC you’re different. I didn’t trap a soul within you… I created a blank soul one that would learn from everything it senses and you have done much better than a summoned creature would ever do… because you fuse magic and technology with the soul of a human. You are my final project… the Omega Version.

“The Omega Version” KC said then the scene faded out.

Karl stopped the sphere

Masato said “Bevelle’s Machina Army… that’s during the great war…”

Soul said “summoning creatures via the Forbidden Arts.”

Alex said “hey that sounds kind of familiar…”

Elaina nodded “it should Aeons… Summoners… the Fayth…”

Alex said “how’s that forbidden? It’s the main thing of the temples.”

Karl said “but it is forbidden… at least the use of the magic itself…”

Alex said “how?”

Karl said “because of its potential uses for evil.”

Elaina said “Karl and I found a scroll within the Djose Temple telling of that magic and it’s uses… and some of it was very very evil… it’s forbidden to be even seen by most”

Soul said “how evil…”

Karl said “how would like it if someone used you like a power source.”

Masato said “what are you talking about man…”

Karl said “Remember when we were talking about how my hands can absorb Pyreflies from weapons

Masato nodded “Yeah.”

Karl said “Well using that magic you could use the pyreflies or soul of another by killing them and add it to your own making your power double than normal you would learn all their abilities and their strengths. If you take enough souls… it would make you near immortal…”

Masato stared “dam…” He muttered “you could literally kill for power…”

Karl nodded “and the thing is once your absorbed your existence is erased completely never to return to a human like form again not even in spirit.”

Alex said “s**t man that is evil… why do we use anything like that… just like that guy said it’s inhuman.”

Karl said “I’m not sure…” He looked at the sphere “hmm there seems to be one more piece.” He played the sphere

The screen was black but you could hear fire raging it appears there was no picture just sound

“Creator!” KC voice rang out… “Creator We must Hurry!”

“Yes… I know…” the creator voice said “we don’t have any time left. I just hope I have this set correctly.” A humming sound was heard… “Alright… Time chamber online… let’s”

A sudden explosion occurred as the sound seemed to cut out for a few seconds but then it came back on

“Creator? Creator…”

“uh…”

“Creator you’re losing too many lifepoints you won’t make the transfer…”

“It’s better this way… with only one going though the stream it will make sure that they’ll make it in one piece… Go KC… it’s my time…”

“No… Creator I must get you at least inside…”

Dragging is heard followed by a door closing sound as the noise is silenced

“We’re in creator…” KC said

“Good…”

KC said “where do we go from here…”

“The process will complete itself in a few minutes. Soon KC you’ll be sent though time… I hope that whenever you go… you will be in peace…”

“But what about you…”

“Me… heh… I’ve got nothing left… my project complete… my memory saved all that left is for me to die… and if I’m going to die I might as well die in style… KC activate your Omega Sequence use it on me”

“I can’t do that sequence to you… you’re my creator…”

“and as my last gift to you as your creator I’m giving you who I am… KC you are now me Activate Omega Sequence”

A sound of energy surging was heard then another sound of something traveling though a warp was heard.

The sphere ended.

Everyone was stunned silent…

Alex said “Well so much for answering any questions… now I’m confused on what happened...”

Karl said “I can only guess Bevelle attacked and wherever KC and his creator lived was hit, fatally wounding the creator and the creation used some sort of Omega Sequence to take the creator life…”

Elaina gasped “and giving it to himself… Karl… the Omega sequence it’s the same as the forbidden magic…”

Karl blinked “holy s**t… you’re right… the creator must have been absorbed into the creation… giving the creation the same form as his creator…”

Alex said “and if this memory is in your head… it means you were there to witness it and it seems you were a part of it”

Karl said “which I can safely assume as the creation… well looks like this is the evidence I need to prove the truth about myself

Elaina said “Karl we best not let anyone else see that sphere… If the authorities of Yevon got hold of it…”

Karl said “Yeah…” He pulled out the sphere from the console “I best store this where I put that scroll that way no one can see it”

Elaina said “What scroll?”

Karl said “oh uh…”

Elaina said “You took the forbidden scroll didn’t you… Father Dourac was looking for it a few weeks ago… he asked my mom about it and she asked me. I told her we saw it two months ago but that was it…”

Karl sighed

Elaina said “Karl how could you steal from the temple… that’s scroll needed for a summoner’s training every temple is supposed to have one scroll of that magic on hand.”

Karl said “how do you know that…”

Elaina said “My mother told me… after getting Father Dourac to spill the information”

Karl sighed

Elaina said “Where is it…”

Karl looked away “I… can’t tell you” He said

“Karl please…” Elaina begged “that scroll is needed if Djose Temple is going to train summoners…”

Karl said “so that they die defeating Sin… I don’t think so… I’m not going to willingly hand over something just so a temple can produce living sacrifices. It’s inhuman.”

Elaina said “but Karl. Summoners bring hope to Spira. The hope that Sin will one day be gone.”

Karl said “It won’t be gone.”

Elaina said “how do you know that…”

Karl said “because the world can never attain such purity. A few individuals may be able to with vigorous training and atonement but never the world. Those with power can be corrupted by that power.”

Elaina said “But are they corrupted Karl? You don’t know that!

Karl said “Bending the rules is a sign of corruption. I believe that Bevelle and the heart of Yevon has not changed in a thousand years which is why Sin keeps coming back.”

Masato said “you got to admit Elaina he’s got a point. Here we are trying to behave while the leaders ignore the teachings and who pays for it the innocent who believe in the teachings.”

Elaina said “It’s not like that…”

Masato said “It is… Sin is judging us for the crimes that other people committed and I think it’s unfair.”

Soul said “hey why don’t we just all calm down…”

Alex said “Yeah… don’t need to be at each other throats just because we have an opinion.

Elaina sniffed and said “I’m sorry…” She ran from the theater crying.

“Elaina” Alex said

Soul sighed “You see what just happened Masato… you made Elaina upset.”

Masato grunted “there I go again shooting off my mouth… uh… Soul give me a good one will ya.”

Soul slammed Masato on the back of the head with his palm

Masato grunted again “Thanks…”

Karl said “I deserve one to… I shouldn’t have made an outburst like that…”

Soul said “You should talk to Commander Zeke Karl.” He sighed “If you really did steal from the temple… you could be in major trouble”

Karl said “Aye… I should…”  

[SMARTAgentKC]

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…”  

[SMARTAgentKC]

Chapter 16: A weapon different than the others

The next morning Karl approached Commander Zeke.

Zeke said “Karl what can I do for you?”

Karl said “Sir with your permission I like to test out a new weapon.”

Zeke said “You know you have my permission to use any weapon you can get your hands on…”

Karl said “I know sir but this weapon different…”

Zeke said “how so…”

Karl pulled out the Trigger Chamber and held it in his hands

Zeke gained a knowing smirk “Ah… so that’s where the Trigger Chamber went…”

Karl nodded “Aye… kept it as a sort of a reminder on just what I’ve been through so far… a keepsake of sorts sir.”

Zeke said “first time I’ve seen someone keep a machina as a keepsake but I think it fits for you…”

Karl said “with this I think I can learn the mortar weapon.”

Zeke said “and that’s what you want my permission for…”

Karl nodded “I know it’s forbidden by Yevon sir… and most likely against the rules”

Zeke said “Yes… it is against the rules to use a weapon such as that… however…” He smiled slightly “Rules are meant to be broken.”

Karl sighed “Indeed Sir… someone always does break them…”

Zeke said “Karl call it a gut feeling but I think you will be the crusaders strongest asset in a time of need. I want you to learn everything you can any weapon any ability and I want you to master usage of them. Gain experience away from people if you need too… Mushroom Rock Valley is a excellent area to train in civilians rarely enter into the valley itself as they stick to the beach”

Karl said “I’ve learned enough to defend myself from attack but when do I cross the line from switching from a defense mode to an attack mode.”

Zeke said “As long as you control your abilities you will always be on the defense but once you lose control…”

Karl said “that’s when I become dangerous to anyone even my allies.”

Zeke said “Indeed.”

Karl said “So do I head to Mushroom Rock to train today Sir…”

Zeke said “If you wish… I’ll excuse you from patrols”

Karl said “Alright. I’ll head out there today. Thank You Sir”

Zeke said “No problem

Karl headed down the highroad.

Alex Soul and Masato saw him “Hey Karl where you going?” Alex asked

Karl said “some personal training… I’ll be gone all day to the valley

Soul said “Not without support your not… the valley a dangerous place fiends can ambush you”

Karl said “I think I can handle it… alone”

Masato said “yeah… and what if you run into trouble… who’s going to back you up? Everyone focused on Luca and stuff no one really going to be patrolling the valley the beach yes but not the valley.”

Karl said “I’ll be fine… I need to be away from others anyhow for this training”

Alex said “What are you going to be doing…”

Karl said “Blasting every fiend in sight… with powerful weapons”

Soul said “Blasting… oh right… Mortars… you’ll going to learn and practice with Mortars.”

Masato said “man won’t that shake up Djose… Father Dourac will have a fit with all that noise”

Karl said “Djose a good 10 miles from the valley. I don’t think I’ll make that much noise…”

Alex said “hey when that mech was rampaging they heard it all the way to the city… and that’s about an equal amount of distance…”

Karl said “hmm… I don’t think my mortar will make that big of a bang though. The mech mortars were huge”

Masato said “Bet ya a thousand gil someone from Djose hears you…”

Karl said “Alright you’re on. I’ll see you guys this evening.” He walked off.

When Karl was out of earshot. Masato grinned “Hey guys who feels like taking a stroll on the beach.”

Soul said “we can’t slack off Masato…”

Masato said “I didn’t say slack off I said take a stroll that means training.”

Alex said “well I’m for it… I could use some items from a few fiends… especially the Fuguars.”

Soul said “I guess we could no harm no foul.”

Masato said “well then come on let’s go…”

“and where you three going…” Zeke’s voice sounded

Commander Zeke and Elaina were walking toward them.

Alex said “commander uh we were going to the beach at Mushroom Rock to do some training”

Elaina said “gee that’s where Commander Zeke and I are going…”

Masato said “What for.”

Elaina said “I recommended it… Commander Zeke been so stressed because of this training I suggested a stroll to relax him… and the beach as always been our favorite spot…”

Soul said “Commander you know Karl going out for personal training today right he’s going to be in the valley…”

“Yes” Zeke replied “I authorized it…”

Elaina said “you did… what’s he doing there…”

Zeke said “mastering his Mortar weapon…”

Elaina said “oh… I see… well I guess we could always go somewhere else. I’m sure it going to be loud”

Zeke shook his head “no… I want to be there just in case something comes up.”

Elaina said “If you say so Commander.”

Karl went into the valley and learned how to use his mortar weapons

*Tutorial*

Mortar Weapons
The Mortars are special weapons that require attack items (I.E items like Grenades and Element Gems) to be loaded as Ammo (Level of Item = number of shots per reload). The damage of each shot is equal to Karl’s strength times 10 times the level of the item plus 1. Mortars cannot miss but is weakened by the protect status on opponents.
You can set Ammo types in the main menu one for each mortar. Note there are special statuses settings and skills with this weapon as well. (Skills learned is not available)

Statuses
Low Ammo: Careful you’re running out of shots (shown when 10% of ammo is remaining)
Reload: Take a turn to reload set items into the Mortar (Cost another set of items)
No Ammo: Mortar cannot not be fired (Seen if Mortar cannot be reloaded with the item selected)

Settings:
Ammo Type: Sets type of Ammo and how many of the same item you want to load (level 1: 4 max, level 2: 2 max, level 3 and special: 1)
Auto Reload: If activated ammo will automatically reload at the end of the battle when the mortar is out of ammo. However if there is no item for ammo then there will be no reload.

Skill
Wild Mortar (50MP): Uses up all ammo remaining in both mortars and let’s off a powerful multi-hit (number of hits = ammo remaining divided by number of enemies rounded down minimum one per enemy) attack to all enemies it’s useful if in a critical situation but remember you’ll need to reload on the next turn

Here’s a list of what could be used as ammo, what level they are, and any effects you’ll see with that ammo. (Normal rules apply to effects)

Items
Level 1: 5 shots per item
Grenade: No special effects
Bomb Fragment: Fire element
Antarctic Wind: Ice element
Fish Scale: Water Element
Electro Marble: Lightning Element
Sleep Powder: Sleep Status
Silver Hourglass: Slow Status

Level 2: 10 shots per item
Frag. Grenade: Armor Break
Smoke Bomb: Darkness status
Silence Grenade: Silence status
Dream Powder: Sleep Status
Poison Fang: Poison Status
Gold Hourglass: Slow Status
Purifying Salt: Dispel
Bomb Core: Fire Element
Arctic Wind: Ice Element
Dragon Scale: Water Element
Lightning Marble: Lightning Element

Level 3: 15 shots per item
Fire Gem: Fire Element
Ice Gem: Ice Element
Water Gem: Water Element
Lightning Gem: Lightning Element
Blessed Gem: Holy Damage
Candle of Life: Zombie Status
Shining Gem: No special Effect

Special Ammo
Farplane Shadow (1 shot per item 60% chance of inflicting death)
Farplane Wind (1 shot per item hits all 80% chance inflicts death to all)
Petrify Grenade (5 shot 75% chance of petrify status)
Supreme Gem: (10 shots Level Bonus = 10)
Dark Matter: (10 shots Level Bonus = 20)

Advice for weapon:

Steal is your best friend for this weapon… most of the ammos you can use are only available though that ability be careful however you must plan ahead for various fiends are either immune or resistant to the ammo.

Best Ammo for mortars?
Grenades. They can be bought in shops for decent price (300 gil) and they have no special effects which means they are good for any fiend or boss (Wild Mortar popular with this one)
Status Item: Guaranteed Success unless immune or noted in special ammo
Purifying Salt: You hate positive statuses on opponents this will clear them up.
Supreme Gem/Dark Matter: Powerful plain and simple

Meanwhile in Djose Temple Father Dourac was reading over some documents in his chambers studying the teachings when all of a sudden the building shook.

Father Dourac ignored it but then it happened again within about a minute then again within another minute

Father Dourac looked up from his work. “What in Yevon name.” He walked out of his room.

Alisha was walking out of the study room. “Father Dourac what is that shaking.”

Father Dourac said “I don’t know Alisha but I’m going to find out…”

Alisha said “Allow me to come with you.”

Father Dourac growled slightly “alright…”

Father Dourac and Alisha were walking down the Djose Highroad toward Mushroom Rock following the pulses and soon heard explosions in sync with the pulses

Father Dourac growled “Someone is clearly using Machina to make that noise and I bet I know who.”

Alisha said “Now Dourac it could be just someone using grenades or other explosives for training…”

Father Dourac said “no grenade has that much force. It’s feels like a mortar keeps going off…”

Alisha said “you don’t think another one of those mechs are on the loose.”

Father Dourac said “not one of those mechs one of his mechs.”

Alisha said “his?”

Father Dourac and Alisha entered into the Valley to see Karl shooting down fiends with his mortars. It was Karl shooting that made the noise

Father Dourac said “Karl Christopher!”

Alisha said “I see… hmm.”

Father Dourac said “MR CHRISTOPHER!”

Karl flinched slightly and turned “uh” He bowed slightly “Afternoon Father Dourac. Mrs. Alisha lovely day for a walk isn’t it…”

Father Dourac glared at him “It would be if I didn’t have to hear your blasted Machina. It’s one thing to make a single explosion but to keep shooting them off.”

Karl said “My apologizes I didn’t think you could hear outside of the valley… I’m just doing some personal training”

Father Dourac said “using forbidden Machina…”

Karl said “it’s the same Mortar that the YAT’s use in Bevelle and that allowed.”

Alisha said “You have to admit Father Dourac he is right.”

Father Dourac said “Just no more after sundown. I would like a peaceful evening I could hear it all the way to the temple”

Karl said “of course Father. I was planning on leaving in about an half an hour… I’m running low on items to use as ammo.”

Alisha said “Items to use as Ammo?”

Karl said “yeah… I load a special item and I can use it as ammo gives me 5 shots per item”

Alisha said “interesting…”

Dourac said “Alisha don’t encourage him.”

Alisha ignored Father Dourac and walked over to Karl “Karl would you mind showing me how these Mortars works.”

Karl said “I can give you a demo Mam…”

*Screen Shatter*

A Funguar appeared (540/540)

Turn Order
Karl
Monster A

Karl said “As of right now I have a bomb fragment loaded as my ammo in one mortar giving me 5 shots of fire. While in my right I have a regular grenade for 5 regular shots. I can choose to shoot a mortar or not”

Alisha nodded slightly

Karl said “Allow me to show you…”

Karl
>Left Mortar
>>Shoot (5/5)
>Right Mortar
>> Wait (5/5)
Wild Mortar
Special
Magic
Item
Run

Karl took aim with his left Mortar “Fire!”

A blast of fire shot out of his mortar and hit the Funguar for 640 damage destroying it (0/540)

Victory

Karl gained 44AP

Alisha nodded “very good…”

Dourac shook his head “So a fire spell can do about as much damage as that and doesn’t cause as much noise. Kids these day all flash and noise”

Alisha said “Not all Crusaders use Magic… Father Dourac… and I’ll have you know a lot of fiends are resistant to magic these days because of its overuse.”

Dourac said “I’ll bet you I can take down any fiend with just magic right now…”

Karl said “okay then you can take that Garuda that coming up behind you…”

Dourac said “What?”

*Screen Shatter*

A Garuda appeared (4000/4000)

Dourac pulled out a staff “Very well.”

Turn Order
Dourac (3000/3000) (500/500)
Monster A


Dourac
Attack
Special
>Magic
>> Flare (54MP)
>>> Garuda
Item
Run

Father Dourac raised his staff “Be Gone!”

A powerful magical explosion hit the Gaurda dealing 5000 damage destroying it (0/4000)

Victory

Karl said “impressive Father Dourac clearly you are an master of black magic. I hope one of these day you’ll teach Elaina how to be as strong as you in such skills”

Dourac said “She is a white mage not a black mage… and I’m not going to teach her any black magic.”

Alisha said “You may not but I did…”

Dourac said “What…”

Alisha said “With Sin’s return I gave Elaina a few of black magic scrolls for her trip I told her to learn from them”

Dourac said “How many did you give her…”

Alisha said “two… the element scroll, and the drainage scroll. I trust she’s learning them well.” She looked at Karl and gave a slight wink

Karl said “Yes… she’s been able to use the first level element spells quite nicely… along with Drain and Osmose”

Dourac said “Ignoring my authority again woman…”

Alisha smiled slightly “Old Goat… I choose what my daughter can or cannot learn. She’ll need those abilities to defend herself now that she is a medic of the crusaders”

Dourac huffed then walked off muttering something about the crusaders always ruining the purity of white mages.

Alisha said “It was nice seeing you again Karl… tell Elaina I send my love…”

Karl bowed “Of course mam…”

Alisha walked off