Torn Pages

[Michael]

01

synchroncity

WITH ONE BREATH, WITH ONE FLOW

Our story begins like most stories do, with a man and a woman. A couple with a fate intertwined not through years but through lifetimes. Centuries upon centuries of history built upon one another. One can not even begin to truly fathom the hardships, the heartbreak, and the love they have endured together as the hands of time ticked by. Partners through war, famine, and the worst that mankind has had to offer. Through all of this and more, they have remained faithful, connected and everlasting. Or so that is the storybook picture that I would like to paint of my life with Astrid Valentine.

The truth of the matter is, it was anything but a storybook. It's hard to define exactly how my centuries with this woman of allure and beauty unmatched truly were. I'm not sure I, or anyone else for that matter, can sum up several lifetimes of experience into a single word.

I supposed that's exactly why I'm writing this. Because while I cannot use a single word to define us, I still feel as though this is a tale that needs to be told. I'm perhaps getting a bit ahead of myself, and you'll find as you read my story and absorb it and the knowledge contained within these pages. That I have a habit of such behavior. I can only imagine dear reader the questions you've already begun to ask.

The most prominent of them being just who exactly I am. A question in which there are many answers. I've gone by many names and titles over the years. To my enemies, I am the Destroyer, and to my allies, I am the Guardian. There are even some within this world that have worshiped me as a god. Which isn't too far from the truth.

I am Atticus Alderman, I'm four thousand five hundred and twelve years old but I look not a day over twenty. That is because I'm an immortal. I was not born this way but created, turned by the woman I love and made to watch as everything I knew turned to dust around me. It is a cursed existence living forever, even more so when the one you hold dear, who invited you into eternity, leaves you abandoned.

@pharaohleap

[Michael]

04

synchroncity

WITH ONE BREATH, WITH ONE FLOW

Dark...Cold...Alone

These are the earliest memories of the tiny baby wrapped snuggly into a cloth blanket and tucked inside a wicker basket. Carelessly left at the top of the cobblestone steps of the weathered monastery. He lay there clinging to life, cheeks a deep red, arms flailing in the air, and screaming as hard as his newborn lungs would allow. All while the icy winds of the Land of Iron howled and hissed around him. This was the harshest blizzard the Land of Iron had seen this winter. Yet the baby's cries carried over the winds, into the monastery, and down its hall.

He would be saved.

The iron doors of the holy template squeaked open. A mature man with greying hair peeked out from behind them. This man was Takashi Sarutobi, a former samurai turned monk. Takashi's eyes fell upon the basket and the cries of the child bundled within. The man's heart grew heavy. A burden he did not wish to bare hae been placed on his shoulder. He could not let an innocent and pure soul fade before it had even begun its journey. Quickly he grabbed hold of the wicker basket and carried it within the monastery. He and the others would raise and protect the child, at least for now. The child would need a name first, and only one felt fitting with Takashi's mind.

These are the memories of Aizen.

When Takashi first presented the baby to his fellow monks, they were skeptical. None of them knew how to properly care for a child. Several even suggested that they drop the child off at the nearest village. Takashi remained adamant that the child stay, however. He would not allow the newborn be discarded twice. Left with no other option but to let the child remain due to the blizzard. The monks agreed to let him stay until the storm came to an end. They stressed to the former samurai that it was his responsible to care for the baby. The blizzard did eventually calm but Aizen remained. He grew up under the tutelage of Takashi and the monks of Tetsu Template.

He learned from them patience, diligence, honor, & loyalty. The value of hard work and dedication was imparted to him as well. The monks would often put him to work from folding laundry, to washing dishes, and tending to the garden, and variety of other chores that needed to be done. They even taught him how to read and write. He learned their lessons, and adopted their principles as his own. It was Takashi who would have the biggest impact on his life, however. The man had not only saved him but had taken to his role of guardian with great success.

Bonding with the child and emotionally connecting quickly with Aizen as he grew. He'd begun thinking of the child as his own son. Aizen had been aware from an early age that Takashi was not his real father. This didn't stop the child from viewing Takashi and the monks as his family. Nor did it take away the questions he had about where he came from and who his family was. Aizen was not a Sarutobi, he had no surname, no clan to call his own. He was just simply Aizen. Something that made him feel isolated, alone, and foreign within his world. All things that Takashi hadn't been properly prepared to handle. So he made the choice to ignore the emotions rather than address them. Foolishly letting darkness and isolation take root within the boy's soul. With those roots, the peaceful life that Aizen had been living slowly began to crumble.

Beginning with the strangers that knocked at the monastery's door one warm spring evening.

@ no one

[Michael]

05

synchroncity

WITH ONE BREATH, WITH ONE FLOW

Dear Sarah

I've always been a distant person when it came to others. I've kept myself away from people because I told myself that it made me cool. That by pushing them away it made me more desirable to them. The logic of an angst-ridden teen at its finest. Now that I've reached the end of my journey, I know the truth behind that behavior. That I did it because I was afraid, I was afraid that they wouldn't like me for me. So afraid that they were going to leave and realize that I wasn't worth their time. It's how I thought about myself back when all this started. I honestly spent so much time comparing myself to those around me, that I never bothered to ask myself what I had to offer.

Even after the Keyblade chose me and I was suddenly thrust into the spotlight. I still couldn't look at myself in a better light. I mean, it had made a mistake, right? I was just a kid with dead parents, years of pent up anger, and a death wish. The Keyblade doesn't make mistakes though. That's something I came to realize during my journey. When it picks you it does it for a reason? It peers into your heart and sees that's there's something special inside.

A single defining factor that draws the blade towards you.

For Sora he could always see the good in people, to always open his heart to others despite the risk to himself. Riku's was his will to protect his friends and the strength to wade through the darkness even if it meant his life.

I had none of that at the start of my journey and I don't have it now either. Hell, for as much crap as we give each other I don't even think I compare to Caleb. His ability to endure, to withstand everything life has thrown at him, and come out the other side with a smile. Is something I find both amazing and believe to be something to aspire towards.

If have none of those qualities then what made my heart so special? What about me called the Keyblade forth from the depths of Kingdom Hearts?

I don't have a definitive answer to that question.

Throughout the entirety of my journey, I've only been able to guess at what made my heart so unique. It wasn't strong in the face of hardships. When my parents died all, I could do was cry and hate the world. When the darkness came and took you away from me, I plunged headfirst into it. I am willing to let myself become its plaything thing. I was so eager to let that malfested force consume me. All in the pursuit of the power needed to find and bring you back to me. Unlike Riku, I couldn’t take it once it took root. I instead almost let it devour me whole.

I've made so many mistakes just trying to make my way to this point. It's ironic considering it was those mistakes that gave me a glimpse into my answer.

Did the Keyblade pick me for the strength of my love for you? The only thing I can see that everything's had in common is you. All I've been through and every mistake I've made, they've been in the name of getting you back. I've kept going in the pursuit of you, always trudging along, even when my body refused to listen. Even when it looked like all that was left for me was the darkness.

I just want to see your face again, look into your violet eyes, see the smile I've been without for years. There's just one small problem, and that's the fact you're reading this letter.

You probably already know this Sarah, but I'm going to say it anyway just in case. I love you and I always have. I knew from the moment we met that you were the only one for me. I'm meant to be by your side and I'm so sorry that I haven't been. I've done so many things to get you back. I've made deals with devils, betrayed friends, I even fought in a war that brought several worlds to ruin. My quest to find you weren't all bad though. I met people who have shown me so many amazing things. I've seen worlds so beautiful that they'll take your breath away. I even made friends and forged unforgettable bonds, two things I thought I'd never have.

This is it for me though, my last fight in a life full of them and it's the most important one. It's the one that will finally bring you back. I can win it, I know that, but I don't think it'll be without a heavy cost. That's why I'm writing this. I want you to know that I loved you more than anything. That I was willing to do anything in the name of that love. Because without you I'd still be that little boy sitting in his living room crying and surrounded by darkness. There's nothing in this world or any other world that I could do to make up for what you've done for me. You saved me, even if it took me forever to find that salvation.

I love you Sarah Valentine and even in death, I will always be with you.

Always and Forever - Kaiden

@ no one

[Michael]

06

synchroncity

WITH ONE BREATH, WITH ONE FLOW

A solid two weeks had passed, two weeks and didn't feel like he was making any progress. Even with a map in hand to guide him, Bang wasn't getting any closer to reaching his destination. It was a frustrating matter for the teen. His mind drifted towards an old saying he'd once heard. That it was the journey and not the destination that made the adventure worthwhile. It should have served as a somber reminder that Bang should be enjoying moments like this. That traveling through the forest was supposed to be an adventure in and of itself. His young mind refused to see it that way though. The only thing he could think of was how that all seemed like nothing but bullshit. His real journey didn't start until he made it to the witch. Once he met with her she could undo the seal placed upon his powers. Everything before that point was just a precursor of things to come. At least as far as Bang was concerned anyway.

It just sucked that said witch seemed to live clear across the planet. A distance that was hard to travel given that Bang hadn't earned his licenses yet. Nor could he do anything like, oh, he didn't know, fly. Something he hadn't known was possible a few weeks ago. He sighed, entirely aware that the distance to the Fortuneteller's Desert wasn't truly as long as he was making it out to be. His young and overactive mind was just exaggerating the distance. If just getting to the desert was this difficult for him he could only imagine what he'd have to do once getting there. How hard was it going to be finding a specific witch in a freaking desert? Fucking difficult. Bang wasn't about to let the difficulty of his quest deter him though. No, this was far too important to just turn back. He needed the strength that his mother had sealed away from him. It was the only way he'd be able to avenge her death.

"Which won't matter if I can't get the hell out of this forest!" he shouted, feet stomping against in the ground in frustration and protest. He needed to stop thinking about the future and its problems. And focus instead on the situation he currently had in front of him. Getting unlost in this winding maze of trees. According to the map he had purchased before departing cutting through the forest was supposed to save on time. A shortcut if you will. So far it hadn't done either of those things. Perhaps he had read the map wrong? That was a highly likely scenario. Despite being used to camping he didn't have much experience navigating a map. He was a bit of a city boy in that regard. One of the many prices he paid for the 'comfort' of a normal life. He didn't blame his departed mother for her choice in sealing his powers away. She'd done it for his own safety. But that didn't stop him from wishing she hadn't done it.

A groan escaped from Bang's lips and his shoulder's slump downward. His body collapsing onto the forest path, along with the bag that had been flung around his shoulders. He was starting to grow tired. Bang wasn't sure if it was because his body actually wanted sleep. Or if he was simply just bored with being lost. He chalked it up as a mixture of both. He sighed heavily and ran his fingers through the nearby grass. "You'd think after hours in this place I'd have made some kind of progress," he muttered, his tone obviously that of defeat. Going back the way he came wasn't an option for him anymore either. He'd already taken too many twists and turns. Walked the wrong paths one too many times. That he had no idea how to even make his way backward. "Man, I wish I could fly," he spoke with another sigh. Bang's optimism had its limits. And he'd realized that this was one of them. The moment of brief depression didn't last very long for him though.

He stood himself up from the ground and flung his bag back over his shoulder. Forcing a smile onto his face. He'd just have to power through until he found a way out. "Yup, that's the plan," he reassured him, starting down the worn forest path once more. As he walked he took comfort in the fact that at least he was lost in someplace nice. It was far better than a rocky wasteland or the arctic north. Plus, being used to camping in the wilderness he wouldn't have any trouble finding food or water. Skills his mother had been sure to teach him. Especially for moments like this. It was almost like she had been preparing him for this day. In her own little way. His smile softened at that thought. A reminder that she was watching over him even now. It warmed his heart greatly.

Bang's thoughts couldn't help but wonder as he walked. First to thoughts of his mother and then eventually to thoughts of his father. What kind of demon was he? Clearly, a good one if his mother had fallen for him. But if that was the case why were others looking for him? Had he left because staying would have put the two of them in danger? He imagined that would be the answer his father would give if they ever met. It wouldn't be one that Bang would accept though. If he knew they were going to be in danger it was even more of a reason to stay. To protect the two of them from harm. He'd instead run away like a coward. Bang wasn't going to be like his father. A coward, a weakling not able to protect or stand up for what he cared about. He was certain of that fact. Once he got revenge on the demons responsible for his mother's death. He'd have to hunt his father down. Make him see how much better he was without him.

Such angry thoughts slowly slipped away from his mind. Replaced once more by the beauty of the forest around him. The tangy smell of dew on the grass. The brief glimpses of sunlight beating down from the cracks in the treetops. A masterpiece that only mother nature was capable of producing. Such a tranquil and relaxing place felt at odds with the world that Bang was now aware of. One filled with demons and aliens. With magical powers and the needless shedding of blood and life. A reminder that despite the dark tone of the universe. There was still beauty to be had in it. One just needed to search it out, or in Bang's case, get lost and find it.

Minutes passed and eventual Bang found himself at a crossroads. An all too familiar diverging path lay directly in front of him. Bang had been here before. Something he wouldn't have realized had he not bothered to leave a small mark in a nearby tree. He pinched at the bridge of his nose. Pushing back the anger that was pooling up from within him. "I can't keep doing this." it was starting to get late. The previous sunlight that crept through the canopy, slowly being replaced by moonlight. He was normally one to make jokes but this entire mess had left his sense of humor dry. An even more obvious sign that perhaps it was time for Bang to buckle down for the night. "You win today Forest of Mazes," he said with a huff of hot air. He stepped off the path but made sure to keep close to. He didn't want to end up utterly lost in the deepest part of the woods. Thankfully there was a rather flat area nearby that was near the path and sheltered by the trees.

Bang let his backpack fall to the ground, opening it up and pulling from it his required supplies. A sleeping bag, a lighter, a bottle of water, and a bag of chips. He went to work gathering up enough wood to start a small but controllable fire. His sleeping bag was located close enough to feel the fire's warmth but not be set ablaze. Despite settling down for the night Bang wasn't ready to sleep just yet. Rather he sat cross-legged on his sleeping bag, the bag of chips open and on his lap. He munched away at the chips, reaching into his bag to pull out his journal and pin. Bang had started keeping track of everything that had happened to him since leaving home. That way he could look back on everything in the future. Plus, he imagined that this whole adventure would make for a good book someday.

He was so focused on writing, however, that he hadn't taken notice of the fact his presence was attracting the attention of something nearby. The presence in question meant Bang no harm and hardly appeared to be dangerous. It had been nearby when Bang had begun setting up camp. All the noise he was making and the scent of his food had caught its attention.

Carefully the creature began to approach Bang from the direction of the forest path. Had the creature meant Bang any harm the young teen would have fallen victim to it. As the moment he caught of the tiny orange fox he couldn't help but melt. The sheer cuteness of the fox mixed with its small stature caused Bang to throw caution to the wind. "What have we here?" he asked in a whispered voice. The animal drew closer as Bang spoke. It's nose sniffing in the air. Bang's head titled the side in curiosity as stared at the creature. "Seven...eight...nine. Nine tails? That's certainly different." he'd never seen a fox like this before. Then again he shouldn't have been too surprised by this. He hadn't ever heard of demons before either. He couldn't help but smile as the fox approached his backpack. Sniffing at it and the food that remained within it. Thankful it was close so it wasn't able to get inside of it. The teen laughed lightly, the fox glancing at him and then back towards the backpack.

It didn't take a genius to figure out that the animal was hungry. It was a hard sacrifice to make but Bang held his bag of chips towards the pup. "Hungry little guy?" the fox was caution about approaching at first. But once it realized Bang was offering it food. It stuck its head directly into the bag. Bang watched with amusement and joy in his eyes as it munched away at chips inside. He'd have taken a picture if he'd had a phone or a camera. One of the things he'd forgotten to pack. That made the moment a little more precious though. As the fox finished eating what was in the bag it began to struggle to remove it from its head. It pawed and tugged at the bag trying to remove it. Bang laughed and reached out to aid the poor creature.

The fox fell backward as the bag came loose from its head. "You're just adorable aren't you?" he asked, and he got a small mew in reply. Well, with that out of the way it was time he lay down for bed. He motioned for the fox to shew and slipt into his sleeping bag. It didn't take Bang very long to fall asleep. In his slumber, he wasn't able to notice the fact the fox hadn't left. Rather it positioned itself closer to Bang curling into a tiny ball and nuzzling up to the back of his neck.

It would seem that Bang had made unintentional made a friend

@ no one

[Michael]

07

synchroncity

WITH ONE BREATH, WITH ONE FLOW

He could feel it radiating outward. Even from his kneeling position 15 feet away, he could feel the energy escaping from the sword. Slowly seeping out from the thousand year old steel used to craft it. The magic bestowed upon the blade by ancient mages had kept that very steel from showing signs of rust or age. The warrior's ruby eyes stared entranced at what he had searched so long for. A weapon dozens had spent a lifetime or more attempting to find. It was his for the taking if he could only pick himself up from the forest floor. Try as he might, however, his body refused to listen.

Every attempt made to force himself up was met with resistance by a strange force. It pushed itself down against his back and held itself there. He could feel his muscles straining against the power. It felt as though the weight of a hundred men and their horses were standing atop his back. It was amazing he had even managed to get himself into a kneeling position. "Curses, what manner of enchantment is this!?" he was so close, he could not allow himself to fail now. What would be the point of it all if he couldn't take the sword? He had taken the lives of many for no reason at all if he walked away empty handed. The warrior kept fighting, pulling with every ounce of strength he had in his body in an attempt to move forward........

@noone

[Michael]

08

synchroncity

WITH ONE BREATH, WITH ONE FLOW

His body tossed and turned against the rough leather of the pilot seat. The crash had knocked him unconscious and he was currently lost inside of his dreams. As each moment passed a painful pulse was sent coursing through the entirely of his body. A moan would escape from his lips as he rolled himself over. His eyes opened slowly and a blur of red coated his vision . Kaiden’s attention moved down to the cracked glass dome that surrounded his cockpit. The young man gritted his teeth and attempted to move his legs. “Good, they still work.” getting them to move had been a painful process but he’d managed. With his feet now pressed against the glass below, he took a deep breath and prepared himself. “Live.” his eyes once gold shifted to an unnaturally light green in a flash. The pain that had been coursing through his body vanished and he kicked with his full force. The glass shattered and Kaiden came falling out from inside of the ship.

His body landed against the water with a splash and an audible thud. If he hadn’t been suppressing the pain it surely would have hurt. Strands of black hair landed in front of his face as he took a deep breath. There was a moment of hesitation as he looked down at his reflection in the water. “I have too.” he muttered and closed his eyes. When he opened them again the color of his eyes had returned to normal. The pain of the situation didn't fade back in for several seconds after this. When it did, it hit him like a truck, and he couldn’t help let out a yell. “You can do this Kaiden. You've been through worse things than this.” he muttered to himself as he leaned his body upward. He brought a hand towards his sides and began to feel around, luckily he didn't have any broken ribs. Overall he was actually rather okay. Well, as okay as one could be in this type of situation. He took several minutes to regain his composure. It was only once he felt like enough time had passed that he stood up.

The task proved difficult at first; having almost fallen over several times while trying to regain his balance. His eyes darted towards the Gummi Ship, even with his vision blurry and bloody he could tell it was ruined. He’d have to worry about it later. Right now he needed to treat his wounds. He bent over and cupped his hands, splashing the water into his face. It felt good. His vision no longer obscured he looked up towards his surroundings. The world he currently found himself on was beautiful.

Tall buildings made from white marble stone that oozed with the raw talent the architect that built them likely had. He took in the beauty for only a few seconds before continuing with the task of treating his wounds. He approached the overturned Gummi Ship and tapped his hand against it's back. He had hoped the action would cause the trunk to open so that he could gather his medical supplies but it didn't. "Jammed." he muttered, this was really turning into a shitty day for him. A heavy sigh escaped from his lips, and he he began to move. This world looked empty but surely someone was here, someone that could help. If they couldn't treat his injuries then perhaps they had the materials that he needed to fix his ship and get the hell out of here. North, north was the best way to go.

@noone

[Michael]

09

synchroncity

WITH ONE BREATH, WITH ONE FLOW

His threats were ineffective but that didn't stop Scallio from continuing his attempt at intimidation. He growled in frustration, "I know the Apes began long before I was born." Scallio met Amara's glare with one of his own. "Different?" the Saiyan scoffed, "I seriously doubt they were so different my father would share leadership." Scallio's picture of his father was of a man obsessed with power. One willing to go about obtaining it through whatever means necessary. Even if that came at the cost of his son. Imagining his father as anything but was difficult if not impossible.

Eager to hear how Amara weaved together her lie Scallio remained silent. Listening intently as she recounted her history with the Crimson Apes and more importantly, Endiver.

At the start of Amara's story, Scallio gave very little in terms of a reaction. His expression remained neutral and his posture relaxed. Outside of a passing knowledge of Silver Lightning, none of what Amara said sounded familiar to him. Neither Kabage or his father had mentioned any type of partnership with the mercenaries. And when he'd assumed control of the Crimson Apes he'd found no record of such a thing. "She's lying already." that had to be the only explanation, right?

Wrong.

Amara continued her tale and bits and pieces of it began to ring familiar. "Wait, what did she just say?" He'd heard this story before, a version of it anyway, but this one was different. A lot different. It had details the one his father had told him was lacking but it was unmistakable. "No, impossible." the Saiyan's expression began to change as he connected the dots.

It was like he was trying to pick the lock on a door.

"No...

No...

Little did he know the door hid a secret he'd rather be without.

It can't be...

Anyone but...

But it was too late, he'd already unlocked the door and pushed it open.

Her..."

There was no going back now.

A tidal wave of emotions came crashing into him and he struggled to keep his head above water. Scallio's eyes widened in shock and he took a half-step backward. "M-m-mom?" there was a weakness in his tone that hadn't been present before. Accompanied by a stutter he hadn't heard since he'd beaten it out of himself. Scallio found himself feeling small and helpless like he was that little boy from a lifetime ago. It only made his difficulty in processing what was going on more difficult.

Desperate to feel anything other than meager, other than the unstable swirling of emotions and thoughts that were drowning. Scallio reached out for the only life preserver he had. It was the one thing that he'd had and nurtured since childhood.

His anger.

In a furious burst of ki that shattered the nearby trees into woodchucks. Scallio embraced his rage and began to hover several inches above the ground. "Just so I understand correctly," he took aim at Amara, "you thought it be a great idea to just leave me with that bastard? Even knowing the kind of person he'd become? How abusive and cruel he'd gotten." Scallio had seen the way she'd touched one of her scars. It was enough of a clue to know that Endiver had gotten physical with her as well. He just couldn't bring himself to care right now.

"All because you thought you weren't ready and that I'd be better off without you?" the Saiyan spat on the ground.

"Bullshit, and you know it. You left to save your own ass and were happy to toss me aside to do it. My life wasn't better without you around." Scallio's hand began to pulsate as he charged and collected energy into it. "He took all his frustrations, disappointment, and goddamn anger out on me! I endured so much...so much...hell at that man's hands." his intense glare averted from Amara and moved down.

"If not for Kabage..."

Scallio let out an angry growl and his eyes darted back up to his mother. "I proved him wrong in the end though, showed him that I wasn't weak. No, that he'd been the weak one the entire time, I killed him with my own two hands!" he seethed with anger and his aura erupted once more.

"A fate you'll soon share." Scallio got ready to unleash the energy he'd charged into his hand. "Now die, mother." a condensed beam of orange ki went streaking through the air towards Amara.

Their fight had begun.

@noone

[Michael]

10

synchroncity

WITH ONE BREATH, WITH ONE FLOW

The memory of you clings to me, it digs into my back with claws I didn't know it had. I'm haunted by these thoughts of you, thoughts of us and what once was. It's an unfamiliar sensation from a familiar place. A unique breed of loneliness and longing that has me trapped. It's overwhelming and I don't know how to cope.

I've become so crippled, blinded by your absence, that the colors of life have started to fade. I'm left seeing the world in darkened hues and empty grays. I'm trying so desperately to escape this monochrome world. I'm crawling with my nails in the dirt and pulling myself forward.

I don't even get close to the technicolor forests at the edge of my monotone wasteland. Before your ghost drags me backward and further into the badlands.

Why won't you let me go?

@noone

[Michael]

11

synchroncity

WITH ONE BREATH, WITH ONE FLOW

I can't trust anymore, the line between the truth and the lie, reality and fiction, it's all become hard to see. It's like everywhere that I look all I see is demons. I feel surrounded by people with fake smiles who make nothing but synthetic promises. All because you took my trust and shattered it against the ground. A betrayal on two fronts and the damaged that's been caused is irreversible.

Romanticized or dramatic, call it whatever, but it changes nothing that you did.

You took my warmth, the fire that burned within my soul and filled me with passion and a sense of purpose and you extinguished it. You smothered that flame, trampled over it with your boots until the embers couldn't keep themselves alit any longer. Without it, I've become distant and numb to the world and the people around me. Things I once cherished and that kindled my fire no longer allow me to burn. My body has turned cold, each beat of my heart pumps ice through my veins, and eventually, I will freeze because of it.

Frozen and empty on the inside.

I've become a shell of the person I used to be.

@noone

[Michael]

BATTLE OF BEASTS

Aced had been waiting impatiently for the three of you to arrive. She'd been pacing back and forth, mumbling something you couldn't quite make out underneath her breath. You were hesitant to greet her at first, as you could tell she wasn't in the best of moods. Perhaps she'd been taking these attacks on the union members more personally than you'd thought.

Whether you remained silent, waited for her to take notice of you, or greeted her yourself she'd respond the same. "Finally, it took you long enough to get here. Do you know how long I've been waiting?" Aced would frown, "You know what, never mind, it doesn't matter. The important thing is the three of you are here now." the Keyblade Master would then examine each of you closely. Her arms folding against her chest. The intensity of her emerald eyes scanning you up and down would perhaps leave you feeling uncomfortable and like you were on trial. You could hear the sound of her finger tapping against the metal of her armor.

After a moment of silence Aced would speak again, but more to herself than either of you. "The three of you will do just fine." she'd clear her throat, "Alright! I'm not gonna bother explaining the details, I don't have either the time or the patience. Plus, I'm sure you're all aware of where we're going and what we're doing." how could you not be? It's the only thing anyone's been talking about since those union members came back barely breathing.

"Just stick close to me and follow my orders, and we'll have this finished in no time." her confidence was inspiring but you'd expected something like that from a Foreteller. They were the best of the best after all.

Her speech finished Aced would turn away from you, her eyes closed and her hand outstretched. Particles of light pooled in the air in front of her and you quickly recognized what she was doing. Since joining the unions you'd become quite familiar with the summoning of Corridors of Light. They were how you and the others traveled between the worlds.

You watched the light gathered in front of Aced suddenly expand and a large golden portal of swirling energy take shape before her. She stepped inside without a word, and you quickly followed behind her. When you stepped out on the other side of the portal you'd arrived at your destination.

The world of Beast's Castle.

You stood on the cobblestone bridge located outside of the castle's courtyard. Directly in front of you, sealed shut is the large metallic gate that leads into the courtyard itself. The darkness of night and the lack of a light source nearby makes it difficult to make out much else. It's cold, the wind is howling and nipping at any skin left unprotected by clothing. One of you suddenly realizes something important.

Master Aced isn't with you.

ADDITIONAL INFO

• Your current objective is to find Master Aced.
• Proceed with caution.
• While it's encouraged that you cooperate and stick together, you're free to venture away from the rest of the group. Just be aware that you do so at your own risk.
• You can continue to post amongst yourselves and progress through the world without having to wait for staff to reply. Should staff require you to wait, they'll reply with Hold It!.

[Michael]

13

synchroncity

WITH ONE BREATH, WITH ONE FLOW

Dusk was falling rapidly, covering the northern badlands in a blanket of orange and grey. The rocky expanse, normally vacant and void of intelligent life, was trembling violently. It shook with a ferocity that could only come from an unnatural source. Emanating from deep within, the cause of the quake was a single individual. A lone saiyan adorned in battle-scarred armor and enveloped in a wild aura of brilliant orange. His muscles bulged and his veins pulsed as the power flowed out of him. The ground beneath his feet was shattered and cracked, caved in from the weight of his ki.

"Aaaah!" the bloodcurdling scream carried itself across the wastes for miles. Sweat beat down from his forehead, only to quickly evaporate moments later. This wasn't enough, he was going to need more, far more. "Come on! he could feel it, the power, it was lying dormant and untapped within him. If he could just reach further inside and grab hold of it, even for a moment, he knew that he'd be able to pull it forward. "Come on Scallio!" he sunk further into the ground, dark clouds beginning to swirl in the sky above him.

"I can do this!" he gritted his teeth, and dug deeper than he ever had before. Then he felt it, a surge of power he'd never experienced before began to bubble up inside of him. "Yes." he reached for it, "Yes." lightning streaked across the sky and the wind grew heavy and violent. "Just...a little..." there was a flash and Scallio's aura flickered from orange to gold. "More!" his hair began to lighten, a faint shade of yellow replacing its black and red. Then, suddenly, just as he'd begun to near the apex, to surpass his limits and move to a new height.

It left him.

His aura vanished from existence and his knees buckled as he collapsed to the ground. Holding himself up on his hands and knees, Scallio's chest heaved up and down heavily. His entire body trembled with exhaustion and pain throbbed inside his muscles. "No!" he said, frustrated and panting angrily. Scallio slammed his fist against the ground, "No goddamnit, I was so close!" again his fist hit the ground.

"Why, why can't I reach it?!"

@noone

[Michael]

14

synchroncity

WITH ONE BREATH, WITH ONE FLOW

It's a sombre evening in Veilstone City. The citizens have their heads held low as they traverse the cobblestone streets. All flocking towards the same location, a recently built stage positioned next to a towering skyscraper.

The building in question is heavily guarded, men and women in purple outfits stand positioned next to the building doors. Wandering eyes will find that they are also positioned near and on the stage. With several of them standing attentively near a podium and microphone located at the front edge of the platform. In front of the stage and pointed up towards the podium are several cameras and lights.

This is the Immortalis headquarters, a former Team Galactic base repurposed and expanded upon. Immortalis has called the citizens of Veilstone City away from their normal everyday lives. They will be making an announcement, one that will be broadcast on every channel and station. A message for all of Sinnoh, no, for all of the world to hear.

Within moments the people of Veilstone City have the area in front of the stage surrounded. The citizens find themselves pressed shoulder and shoulder with each other. The quiet whispers of thousands turning into an uproar of voices. All of them curious as to what exactly their almighty overlords have to say.

It would be several minutes before anyone of importance arrived on the scene.

She made her way towards the front of the stage, the echo of her heels on metal lost in the swarm of voices. As she arrived at the podium she readjusted the mic. She then placed a closed fist on her lips and leaned into the microphone, clearing her throat as she did so.

"Ahem! May I have your attention please?" a command in the form of a question.

A hush quickly fell over the crowd.

"I know you all must be wondering why we've pulled you away from your homes. But before I answer that, I must first ask you a question. Do you know what today is?" she paused, but despite this, not a single person dared to utter a word. "It's November 19th, 20019. It's been exactly ___ years since the horrible flooding of Hoenn. Yes, that's right, today is the anniversary of the day we lost so much. A tragic event caused by horrible rebels attempting to play with powers beyond their control." she lowered her eyes away from the crowd.

"Rest assured that on that day all of us wept for Hoenn."

She looked up from the podium and down towards the crowd once more, "I know for a lot of us today is a day of sadness, of tragedy and of loss. Immortalis wants you to know that we feel your pain. We feel it so deeply and so strongly that we have gathered you here to today to make a very special announcement." the woman turned to the side, outstretching an arm towards the back of the stage. As she did one of the lights that had previously been focused on her moved in that direction. It highlighted a thick white curtain, held by looped rings that obscured something from view.

"From now on the anniversary of Hoenn will not be a day of sadness but a day of remembrance." she finished and the curtain dropped to reveal a large black marble monument. The rectangular monument had several ornate designs etched along its edges. Directly at the top-center of the monument and written in fancy lettering were the words, Remembering Hoenn. Below this were several hundred names, all belonging to those who had lost their lives during the flooding of Hoenn.

If one inspected the monument closer they'd be able to see that it was made with a great deal of care. Someone had clearly poured a lot of their heart and soul into the construction of the monument.

The woman hadn't finished however and she positioned herself so that she was facing the crowd once more. "In addition to this lovely monument, crafted by one of Veilstone City's own citizens. We have yet another announcement to make to all of you around the world. You see not only will November 19th be a day of remembrance but it will also be a day of hope." her hands gripped the sides of the wooden podium tightly.

"Hope for the future! As Immortalis is proud to announce that starting immediately we will begin work on the restoration of Hoenn!" she shouted loudly and at the top of her lungs.

The thick layer of depression that had previously gripped the crowd was quickly replaced by an air of celebration. The crowd roared with joy and excitement as they began to soak in the possibility of hope.

She waited, gave the citizens their moment of celebration before she continued.

"For those of you who'd like to assist in our efforts please know that Immortalis is looking for workers. Brave men and women who are willing to work alongside us in returning Hoenn to its former glory. All you need to do is head to Canalave City and board one of the boats dock at its harbor." she smiled at the crowd.

"All hail Immortalis."

@noone

[Michael]

00

synchronicity

WITH ZERO BREATHES, WITH ZERO FLOW

I am the number zero, a digit with no value. I add nothing to my partner and I take away the same. Even when I'm multiplied my sum remains the same. I am the number zero, a lonely little digit jealous of the ones and twos. I have no equal in my world and no equal in any others. I am the number zero, a digit all alone.

@noone

[Michael]

17

synchroncity

WITH ZERO BREATHES, WITH ZERO FLOW

I'm sorry. I'm sorry that I'm cold and that I close myself off from you. I'm sorry that even when I am around I'm still a world away. I'm sorry that I'm broken and I've no idea how to piece myself together again. I'm sorry because I know you care and I can't seem to show you it's appreciated. I'm sorry that you have to see me like this, damaged and lacking the will to live, that you have to worry about waking up tomorrow to find that I'm no longer alive. I'm sorry because I don't know if it's going to get any better and I know that hurts you on the inside. I'm sorry.

@noone

[Michael]

18

synchroncity

WITH ZERO BREATHES, WITH ZERO FLOW

You ever feel lost? I imagine that everyone has at least once in their lives. I only ask because that’s how I’ve been feeling for most of mine.

Where do I belong?

What's my purpose?

Who am I?

These are things that a majority of people have figured out by this point in their lives. And I just have nothing, I’ve got nothing to show and nothing meaningful to share.

I’m lost and I don't know what role I'm supposed to play. I just want purpose, I want meaning for a life that’s felt meaningless for years. I want an escape from this depression and the weight it brings. I'm so tired of wandering aimlessly.

Can someone please just find me?

@noone

[Michael]

19

synchroncity

WITH ZERO BREATHES, WITH ZERO FLOW

At some point I had to realize that it was all going down hill. There had to be a moment where I noticed I was walking down a dead-end road. I passed a sign somewhere along the way and instead of taking it seriously I dismissed it. But when, when did I see it and why didn’t I care?

When did the color really start to fade from the world?

I wish I knew the answer, because nobody wants to know more than me when it all started to not matter.

@noone

[Michael]

20

synchroncity

WITH ZERO BREATHES, WITH ZERO FLOW

Busy working like always, Scallio hadn't gotten the news of Narissa's recovery until his returned to Kayen's ship fifteen minutes ago. "Finally." he'd thought, "Finally she's better." the weight from weeks of worry felt lighter against his chest. Excitedly, he dashed down the ship's long corridors on his way to the medical wing. His heart was beating so fast it felt like it might beat right out of his chest, but he wasn't focused on that. The only thought on Scallio's mind as he raced toward her, was what he was going to tell her now that she was awake. The list was long but at the top of it was an apology for all the things he'd done to put her life in danger. After that, well, he'd finally tell her that he loved her.

Scallio rounded the corner to the medical wing and his pace began to slow as he neared the door of Narissa's room. The courage and excitement he had seconds ago suddenly sunk to the bottom of his stomach. Scallio stopped a few feet short of the room's entrance, an uncertainty in his eyes as he stared at the door. What was this sudden feeling in his chest? Scallio frowned, this wasn't like him, he didn't get nervous like this, not anymore at least. "Not since...." he didn't finish the thought but took a deep breath instead.

What was he so nervous about in the first place? That Narissa wouldn't love him back? Of course she did, she wouldn't have stuck around through all of this if she didn't feel the same. Neither of them had said it in words before but her actions proved she felt something for him. "Let's do this." Scallio swallowed and took a few extra seconds to steel his nerves before stepping into the room.

"Narissa, I-" he froze, the automatic doors closing shut behind him as he walked into an empty room. "....." he didn't understand, if she wasn't here then where would she be? Scallio glanced from the vacant medical bed to the left and right of the room. Narissa was nowhere to be seen. Maybe she was using the restroom? He moved to the bathroom door on the right side of the room and knocked on the door. Several seconds past and there was no response. Scallio pressed his ear to the door listening for any sounds of movement but he heard none.

His heart sank in his chest and he took a step back from the door. The confusion Scallio was feeling inside had started to show on his face. "She should be here." if she wasn't then there had to be a reason for it. It wasn't like Narissa to just up and leave without a word.

You do it all the time.

Perhaps someone from the medical staff had moved her?

Come on now, you know Kayen told them inform you before moving me.

That's right Kayen had and even if she hadn't, Scallio's men would have told him the moment Narissa had been move. The fact that neither had could only mean something else was going on. His mind raced with a thousand different scenarios, all of them bad and all of them extremely unlikely. Yet that didn't stop the panic or the pressure against his chest from getting heavier than it had ever been before.

It doesn't feel good does it? Not knowing where I am or what's going on.

He needed to get control of himself, if he didn't calm down and start thinking about this rationally he'd get nowhere. His chest raised and fell with another deep breath as he tried to calm his nerves. If it had worked or not he couldn't tell but he'd already begun to distract himself by searching the room. Almost immediately his eyes fell onto the envelope laying on the pillow at the head of the bed. Picking it up, Scallio examined it closely and while it had nothing written on the back of it, the front had his name on it. Scallio could recognize that handwriting anywhere. He'd seen it countless times over the last few years, signed on mission reports, supply requests, and so much more. "Narissa...." he muttered with a melancholy tone, suddenly very aware of what was going on.

For several minutes he stood next to the bed staring at the envelope silently with trembling hands. "Control it." his voice quivered as he struggled with the emotions swelling up inside of him. Feelings that had once been easy for him to contain and repress stabbed at his chest.

You can't can you?

Scallio gritted his teeth, "Remain in control." he repeated but the battle he was fighting was one Scallio couldn't win. So he fell back on old habits and replaced the sadness and grief with something else. The envelope dropped from Scallio's hands and floated gently downward. The envelope's moment of contact with the floor synced perfectly with the Saiyan's explosive transformation. "RAAAAH!" the room buckled under the weight of his power, the porcelain floor cracked, and furniture was sent flying into the walls. With grief fuelled ferocity Scallio lashed out widely. He slammed both his fists down onto the hospital bed forcing it to crumble in on itself. His tantrum continued, fling chairs and medical equipment with little to no regard to their importance or value around the room.

"You!" he shouted, slamming his fist into the wall "You!" he hit the wall again, "How could you?!" Scallio bellowed with another punch.

Say it Scallio, don't shy away from the question now. How could I what?

His fist hit the wall one last time and with it, his hair flattened, and the golden shine left it. The Saiyan collapsed onto the floor with his head hung low. "How could you leave?" the words escaped from Scallio's lips with a sadness that far outweighed his anger. "How could you leave me?" but her voice never came with the answer. He looked to the envelope, left deliberately untouched on the floor next to him. Scallio reached for it and took it into his hands. He clutched it tightly and he pressed it against his chest. The desire to cry became an almost irresistible urge but he forced himself to keep it together.

Standing up from the ground and tucking the envelope into his pocket he made his way out of the room.

Several hours later and just outside Earth's atmosphere, Scallio still hadn't managed to open the envelope. No longer aboard Kayen's ship but his own, the Rusted Wrench. He sat on the bed in his quarters, his back pressed against the room's only window. Normally he enjoyed the beautiful and vast view of the stars that it gave him. But Scallio couldn't bring himself to look at them tonight, however. He was far too sad and drunk to find any type of pleasure from stargazing.

Narissa's envelope laid on his lap and he'd been staring at it silently for the past ten minutes. "Pathetic." he frowned, "You can a kill man but can't read a goddamn letter." he sighed in frustration. "That's why she left." but he couldn't know that for certain could he? Not unless he stopped procrastinating. "Screw her, why's it even matter that she left? I didn't need her, I don't need anyone but myself."

You don't mean that Scallio.

He wished he did, he wished from of the bottom of his heart that he was as cold and heartless as he played himself off to be. "Truth is I care," he whispered "I care so much." Scallio looked to the ceiling and closed his eyes. Once again fighting back the torrent of tears that wanted to stream down his cheeks.

"It's not something everyone sees but you saw it didn't you? You've always seen something great in me, even when I couldn't see it myself. That's why I've kept going all these years. Because I'll be honest with you, this life has never been something that I've wanted. It's just something I've grown accustomed to after having been raised in it my whole life. Mercenary wasn't my dream job." he chuckled sadly.

"I don't think I ever told you this but I wanted to be a planetographer. Growing up with all those planets passing outside my window it made wonder how many undiscovered worlds were out there. Thousands? Millions? I wanted to be the first person to discover some of them and introduce the people on them to the stars. But you know my father, we've talked about him a lot, he wouldn't allow it. 'We conquer and fight' he'd tell me, 'Nothing more and nothing less.' so I gave up on it."

"When I killed him I suppose I could have just left this all behind but then what about all the other Apes? None of them were strong enough or smart enough to lead. They'd have struggled if I had turned my back on them and they're family. I couldn't just walk away and leave them to the wolves." Scallio frowned and opened his eyes, lowering his head and moving a hand through his hair, he sighed. "Why am I saying all this? You're not even here to hear any of it in the first place." he picked the envelope up from his lap and ran his thumb along Narissa's handwriting on the front of it.

"Seeing you like that on Mount Frappe finally made me realize that I needed to change Narissa. I wanted to tell you that I loved you when you woke up but you weren't there. Now you'll never know. You walked away before being able to hear me say it and I'm so pissed at you for it."

Scallio didn't put it off any longer, he tore open the envelope and unfolded the letter inside of it.

"Scallio
This isn't how I wanted to do this and it's not how you deserve for this to happen either. I'm sorry that I have to tell you goodbye in a letter but I couldn't look at you and say it. I wouldn't be able to commit and I have to walk away. You're dangerous, reckless, and while I love you despite your flaws if I stay they're going to get me killed. I've tried, I've tried so hard Scallio to get you to be the person I know you're capable of being. You're just so caught up in all of the things done to you, so angry about them, and burdened by your past. That I don't think change is something you're capable of right now.

I know all I've done is add another notch to that growing list of problems. But I have to think of myself at some point Scallio and I'm not sorry for that. I am sorry that this is going to hurt you. I don't want you to think that I left because I didn't love you Scallio. Because I do, I love you so much and leaving is one of the most difficult things I've ever had to do. You're probably gonna want to look for me after this Scallio, but please don't. Let me go, don't make this any harder than it has to be on either of us. Be great and live up to all that potential I know that you have. I love you and I'm sorry.
        - Narissa"

His face remained stern but Scallio could swear that his cheek felt wet.

@noone

[Michael]

22

synchroncity

WITH ZERO BREATHES, WITH ZERO FLOW

He was lost.

Not in a physical sense either, he knew where he was going in that regard. It was more like his soul was lost. It was a crisis of an emotional nature. The only way he knew how to deal with it was by throwing himself into his work. Well, that and partaking in some less than desirable habits. He inhaled deeply at that thought. The cigarette between his lips decreasing significantly in size. With a smooth exhale that he'd executed a thousand times before, a stream of smoke exited his lips. His eyes opened, and they fell upon the plump man walking ahead of him. Kaiden had barely been paying attention to what the warehouse worker had been going on about. Only giving the occasional 'uh-huh' in response whenever he needed to.

The PI's eyes drifted towards the night sky as they walked. There was a lot on his mind, well no, that wasn't entirely true. The only thing on his mind was her. He couldn't get her out of his head, she'd done nothing but plague his thoughts since she'd left. What she was doing, how she was feeling - had she forgotten him already?

He took another drag from his cigarette.

Why did this have to be so hard? The better question, why did he have to be so attached? He silently laughed. "Because you loved her you, idiot." it sounded so cheesy, but it was the truth. He sighed the full weight of his depression heavy on his soul. He'd have spent even more time lost within his thoughts if they hadn't finally arrived at their destination.

Kaiden unenthusiastically examined the warehouse door. The numbered keypad next to the door handle told him two things. That it belonged to someone with money and that they didn't want anyone getting inside. Out the corner of his eyes, he could see rays of light pouring out from the windows on the warehouse's sides. Whoever it belonged to was home. Annoyed, Kaiden flicked his cigarette to the ground and crushed it beneath his boots. He then turned to the now nervous-looking worker. "Thank you for your assistance, but I can take it from here." the worker looked like he wanted to protest. But Kaiden flashed him a rather intense look that sent him walking.

It was for his own good. If this warehouse belonged to who he thought, the guy was better off not sticking around. He cracked his knuckles and reached into his backpack to grab hold of a skull-shaped mask. He put it on and then quickly tossed the hood to his jacket up. He approached the warehouse door with an outstretched hand. The metal of the door was cold to the touch, but it didn't last for long. He focused on his powers, on the heat that burned within his chest and willed it outward. Within seconds black flames began to expand from Kaiden's hands. They metal away at the door until a hole big enough for him to slip through had formed.

This type of thing wasn't typical of him - this level of heroics. He'd likely have avoided this place altogether on an average day. But...he was working, and he'd do just about anything for his clients. Even piss off a criminal Kingpin. Of course, it probably helped that Kaiden was pretty sure the jackass had kidnapped an innocent little girl. The girl's parents having hired Kaiden to find her. Everything he had managed to dig up had pointed him to this place, so here he was breaking in like some kind of vigilante. "Wouldn't Annalyse be proud," he muttered to himself as he stared blankly at the hole in front of him. He could already tell this was going to end badly for him, but that didn't stop him from stepping inside.

Hopefully, no one had just seen him breaking and entering.

@noone

[Michael]

23

synchroncity

WITH LOVE ONLY A MOTHER GIVES

The way in which I love you is difficult to define.

I could tell you all the reasons, prattled from a list, but it wouldn't be enough and we haven't got the time.

So instead I wrote a story, a poem if you will, about a little boy and this mother that I knew. A peculiar tale of sorts, one that ought be familiar but I'll share it all the same.

My story of this boy and his mother oh so brave.

With his father not around and her family far away, she raised him on her own and she did it with no frown. A hefty bit of weight now placed upon her shoulders. She carried it in silence but he noticed all the same. A struggle tho it was, he never went without and he thanks her for it deeply, even when he pouts.

He knows life's not easy and he's often quite the pain, but she loves him when he's difficult and he wouldn't have that change. In her debt forever for the things that she's done, he loves his mother deeply and would give her the sun. 

And so ends my story, a poem written just for you. I know it's not enough for all the love that you've given but I hope it paints a picture and helps you understand.

That even when it's dark, you'll always be my light.

@noone

[Michael]

24

synchroncity

IN A PAINTED WORLD

Infectious desires and broken hearts, together they paint pictures of the macabre. Gloom filled moments captured in a sketch, tragedy forever preserved.

Am I the artist, my brush dipped in despondent blues? Or am I the subject? A skeleton amongst the living, masquerading in tired skin and crumbling to dust.

@noone