October 17th, 2020

The stillness of the Autumn Night was broken just as the bell tower struck three. However, it wasn't the bell itself that had awoken the denizens of the mansion. Instead, it was a rich and loud vibrating sound originating from the pipe organ on the second floor. No rest would be found as it continued to bellow out its mournful sounds. As the group had slowly shuffled out of their rooms and into the common hall they would find themselves greeted by Sebastian. It seemed that the new head of the staff had something in store for them, and it would not wait until the break of dawn...

Chapter 9: Cthulhu: Act One

3:21 A.M Day Four

Second Floor

Ballroom

The loud pipe organ that had been blaring once again resounded as the massive group began to pour into the expansive ballroom. The walls trembled from the sound as several of the students cupped at their ears in annoyance. There seated on the far side of the room was the Ultimate Homunculus, he sat with his back turned towards them, however, he finally ceased playing before turning to favor them with a smirk. "Sheesh what took you all so long? You're wasting the witching hour."

"Fucking hell, it's bad enough we have to be in this place, but now we're being woken up in the middle of the damn night?" Colleen groaned as she shot a baleful look at the dual-toned boy.

A hearty laugh escaped the Werewolf. "I know what you mean, there's not much that wakes me, but my ears are still ringing," he said before glancing over at the Storyteller before clapping him on the back. "Bahaha, is that you Daisuke? You really clean up well."

The Spaniard smiled a bit, as he brushed a few bangs out of his eyes. He had a genuine smile on his face, now that he was cleaned up.

"Gracias Amigo! Sonia did an excellent job with my hair. I look almost like I did back in High School." he replied.

The Angel offered him a warm smile. "You are quite welcome, and you're right. You've hardly aged a day."

"Kekeke, they just keep crawling out of the floorboards. I wonder how many other people are hiding in this mansion." Jizoku cackled with a lopsided grin.

Samuel offered the new addition with a wary expression for a moment. "I do hope someone will elaborate. This makes two new people in a short amount of time."

"Yes, it has been quite the turn around recently hasn't it? This is Daisuke Del Rio the Ultimate Storyteller, of class 77-A." Teleios explained from the Ultimate Angel's shoulder. "He was quite well acquainted with Sonia and my old master Gundham."

"I'm one of the last survivors of my class. I managed to make it through the initial wave of despair, but not unscathed. I...had to watch most if not all my friends die at Hope's Peak and hear of the atrocities committed by my classmates. I came to this place hoping to find a lead on the remaining despairs, only to end up as part of a game myself. I've been stuck in the dungeons for a while. I do hope we can get along though," the young man said, giving a polite bow to the ones gathered before him.

A peppy giggle came from behind the Storyteller as Shiro stepped into view next to him. "Whoa, good to have you back, Dais! Didn't think we'd see you again so soon. Looking really good after all you've been through at least," the Executioner mused as he looked the other man over.

"It's good to see you too Shiro...after what happened, I was worried. I'm glad that you and Mackenzie are alright." the boy replied, a small smile on his face despite the sadness that radiated in his eyes.

"Nice to see you again." Mackenzie yawned with a shortwave. "Sorry I stayed up really late trying to get my art done," the Painter explained as she was being pulled along by Shiro.

Syd scoffed as he adjusted his lab coat. "Yes, well Kuuma said it earlier and I'll reiterate it, if any of you break down any more doors there will be severe consequences. Though I'm not sure what point there is in celebrating. You've simply gone from incarceration to what equates to death row again."

"Fufufu so we had some sort of jailbreak huh? Neat!" Akeno said in a peppy manner as she offered a fangy grin towards Daisuke.

"That's right, Chase got me out. This guy is insanely strong, he broke those bars without breaking a sweat. As for what you've said Syd, I'd rather take my chances in this game than die in the dungeons. You know well enough that I scraped by last time, I wouldn't count myself out yet." Daisuke said, his eyes had shifted toward the man, a smirk on his face.

Brooke offered a muted nod as she was still covered in scales from head to toe. Her voice was raspy and guttural. "For what it's worth, it's good to see you out of that dank cell."

"BLAH BLAH BLAH. Do you think I woke you all at this hour just to introduce that loser?" Kuuma asked with an annoyed expression.

Alpha began to tense his fingers together nervously. "I would assume not, however, I can tell it will be something nefarious, correct?"

"I can only surmise this is part of a new motive. You wouldn't wake us up this early if it wasn't." the Ultimate Angel said, a frown on her face. She wasn't looking forward to what the Homunculus was planning.

"That's a foregone conclusion," Alejandra said in a deadpan tone. "When has this loser had anything but trouble planned for us?"

Maya shook her head, though still with a smile. "It is rather predictable with him isn't it?"

A tick mark appeared on the dual-toned boy's face. "Zip it, fatso. I'll have you know I put a lot of thought into this. Angel girl called it too. This is a new motive. I call it the target motive."

"Target motive?" Saino questioned with a low hum. "That was the most elegant name you could come up with?"

"Don't you start with me too or I'll flay those scales right off of you!" Kuuma grumbled as he jabbed a finger at her.

Nozomi huffed in annoyance as her tail flicked back and forth. "Just spit it out already. What do you mean by a target motive?"

"Yes, I am curious myself. Am I to assume we have to kill someone before a certain time?" Ariana asked, stroking one of her many tails.

"You got it, foxy babe!" Kuuma exclaimed as he clapped his hands. "It's rather simple actually. All of you have been given a different person as a target. You will have twenty fours hours to act. Kill your target and you get to leave without a trial. Heck if you're not happy with your talent, Syd assures me he can fix that too. So I suggest you all get to plotting."

Remy formed a cross over his chest. "Not that I can even begin to comprehend your cruel intentions, but don't you revel in your sick trials? Why give us the opportunity to avoid one?"

"Not to mention this is the second time in a row you have offered us the chance to skip them," Alexander added as he stroked at his chin in thought.

"It may seem counterproductive, but trust me...this one has something going on. The moment someone acts, is the moment that person loses. I wouldn't trust it." Daisuke said, giving them a firm warning.

"Daisuke was it? I think you're right. We should just try to push any thought of this from our minds," Hana suggested as she folded her kimono sleeves. "I can't imagine anything good coming from this."

"I concur, following any motive will only lead to despair. We should disregard this entirely." Sonia said.

The alien meekly nodded along to Sonia's words. "Y-yes. While we have been given a temptation, I think we all would be best served to come together and ignoring it."

"Sabishi has heard this before. She expects if she isn't dead, she will hear it again. The cycle always continues," The Undertaker said in a monotone manner.

Sebastian's brow furrowed. "If I may inquire Master Kuuma. If everyone has received a target, and there are 23 participants would that not leave one of us out? Unless of course, you're including yourself in that count?"

"That would only be true if the targets were swapped between the same people," the Sorcerer explained. "However, that would make it very easy to know whose targeting us. Thus we could avoid the motive. I believe it's more likely the targets are random as to make us distrust everyone."

Kuuma snorted. "You got it, bucko! It's completely randomized! There's nothing quite like a nice dose of paranoia."

"Not that I'm volunteering to get my hands dirty, but how do we even know who are targets are?" Alejandra asked as she raised a single brow.

Syd cleared his throat. "You'll find that your journals have been updated. Your target's name is written in those pages. Daisuke I believe you will be needing this returned. Just in case you feel the need to punish someone," he chuckled as he pulled a small book from his coat before tossing it towards the Storyteller.

"My badge of honor, I guess now it truly begins...though I guess it never really ended huh?" the storyteller said, a dry chuckle leaving his lips

Kuuma snickered as he rose to his feet. "You got it, pal. Remember twenty-four hours is all you have. Don't waste your chance to taste freedom. It may never come again."

5:14 A.M Day Four

First Floor

Grand Library

The Ultimate Dragon could be heard speaking to someone in a low manner as she stalked through the library. However, there appeared to be no one around her. Her tail flicked back and forth before she snorted as she saw Daisuke seated at one of the reading tables. "As always you are silent as a mouse. I expect you to return anything you borrow when you're done."

"Of course, you know how much I love books. I would hate to ruin anything in this collection." the young man returned, giving Saino a small smile.

Saino blew a frosty breath into the air before pressing a book back onto its shelf. "At least you are far more respectful than some that reside in these halls. Though unlike some of your new classmates, I suppose you require no research do you?"

"Not exactly, though I wouldn't mind a refresher. I do recognize some of the creatures residing here. It's a bit odd to see so many supernatural beings gathered in one place."

"Well for better or worse this is the final game of Hora Island. The AUP ran out of candidates, that's why it was decided to make this class larger than the previous two. Jibo must have realized there wouldn't be enough for a fourth game. I'm not sure if that will bring you any comfort though. If anything the stakes are only greater," the Dragon snorted as she stared intently at him.

"It doesn't...not at all. Not even learning of his death, I so longed to bring him to justice. Sadly, someone got him before I did. I hope he burns in hell for what he's done to these kids. I suppose knowing this is the final game here does put me at ease, for the most part," the Storyteller replied, his frown deepening. Though it was the final game, that only meant more casualties would crop up, before it reached its final chapter.

A low chortle escaped Saino. "Even if this game ends, it is but a drop in the bucket. More games will come in time. There have even been copycat games across the globe. If you'd taken the choice presented to you, you could have become a staff member instead of wasting away in the dungeon for so long. Though I suppose it matters little now. Death may come to any of us."

"Apologies Sai, but I wanted no part in this game. I would have rather suffered in those dungeons than to be a staff member. At least there is a silver lining, I do have two dear friends here. Not only that, but Shiro and Mackenzie are here too. I care not for what they have done, but I will get them out of here." he said firmly.

"How very noble of you, but I think you'll find that they have become the epitome of despair. Though you'll see that in time I'm sure," the Dragon grumbled as she turned and strode towards her desk. "If you need something specific to ask for me, otherwise leave me be."

"You know...I think people would approach you more if you weren't so...well...a loner. I know you like peace and quiet, but you should branch out a bit. I consider you a friend if you ever wanna talk you can approach me," he said, giving her a smile. Saino gave him a glare, remaining silent at his statement.

A few moments of silence elapsed before the doorway leading into the library opened as Alejandra made a beeline towards Daisuke. "So this is where you've been since the meeting earlier. I have so many questions. I think you can sate my curiosity." she said flippantly as she sat down across from him.

"Um...hello there, may I have your name before you assault me with questions?" Daisuke asked, taken slightly aback by the girl's enthusiasm. He could already tell Saino was pissed, due to the low growling coming from her.

The Latino girl frowned as she tapped a pencil against her notepad. "Ah yes. Greetings. I'm not very good at dealing with people. I am far more accustomed to being locked away writing for days on end. My name is Alejandra Garcia, though my new talent is the Ultimate Horror Writer. I was hoping you might offer some accounts that would be splendid for my next book."

"I suppose I could help a fellow writer out. But...accounts of what? If I might be so bold to ask?" the young man replied

"Your encounters in the previous killing game of course," Alejandra deadpanned as she twirled the pencil around in her hand.

"I'm sorry, but I'm not going to talk about that right now. It's still too fresh in my mind. We can talk about anything else, just not that." Daisuke said firmly.

The Ultimate Horror Writer visibly sulked. "...This would be a time where I am overstepping the bounds I see. You are the Ultimate Storyteller are you not? Perhaps you could indulge me with something grisly as compensation for your lack of a first-hand account."

"Something grisly? I'm not talking about the last game I was in. But I suppose I can indulge your curiosity. Are you familiar with a man named Ryusuke Fuji? A stocktrader in Tokyo?"

Alejandra shook her head though she visibly leaned in, a look of curiosity evident in her tired eyes. "I am not familiar with anyone by that name. Did this man die in some sort of horrifying way?"

"You could say that. This man always loathed what he didn't have...the fact that he wasn't able to get into Hope's Peak, while I did. He always told me, that I was a failure, that Storytelling wasn't a talent. It drove me mad...he even threw me, my little sister, and my mother, out during the winter. You could say, I survived the initial brunt of the tragedy, but he did not. He was my father." the young man replied.

"...And what became of this poor excuse of a man. You say he did not survive, but it implies you also know what happened to him," the Writer said as she quirked a single brow.

The young man let out a chuckle as he lay back in his seat. He brushed some hair out of his eyes, briefly glancing at Saino. While annoyed, she did look a bit concerned for him. He closed his eyes, remembering the memories of those early days of the tragedy. He slowly opened them, his focus on the Horror Writer before him.

"If you must know, there is a debt that all men pay. He had a debt to pay and someone had to collect it. Years of abuse can do that I suppose, so when the tragedy broke out, I figured it was time to collect. So...I killed him." he replied.

Alejandra's expression remained impassive as she tapped her pencil against the notepad. "Hm, I don't suppose I could get you to elaborate on any specifics? When it comes to gore, readers enjoy the detail in their literature."

"Details? Hmm...I strapped him to a chair and bashed his head in with a baseball bat. I'll let you use your imagination." he replied firmly.

"Imagination is my area of expertise, though this has been helpful, gracias," the Horror Writer replied. She jotted something down onto her notepad before slowly rising to her feet.

"Listen...I know you're curious but...asking about the past games is a bit...hard for some. It's still too fresh, maybe one day I'll be able to speak about it. I promise you'll be the first one I tell okay?" Daisuke said, giving her a small smile.

Alejandra offered a small nod in response. "Yes, I look forward to that. I apologize for being...tactless. I recall being more in tune with my emotions before the experiments. I'm not sure if it's a byproduct, but I feel nothing. All I can recall is the emotions I used to feel. Though my only concern is being able to express something with my work even if I can't feel it anymore."

"I see...I guess it makes sense. As a writer, you tend to pour your heart and soul into your work. So your emotions are reflected in your writing. But...not feeling anything as a person...I'm sorry for what Jibo did...truly I am," the boy said, his voice sympathetic.

"I am not. It is merely a challenge I have to overcome, but I could not ask for a better setting for a horror novel. I just have to live to see it to fruition," she mused with a slight shrug as she turned away. "If you feel like sharing any more of the macabre, I will always be fascinated to hear it."

"Likewise, I don't mind helping fledgling writers. Feel free to approach me whenever you'd like. I do hope you have a good day, Alejandra."

A smile that didn't quite meet her face spread across her lips. "Excellent, well I hope you don't die in a brutal manner in the next day. That would be a waste of good information," she said as she strode towards the exit.

"Sheesh...she has quite a way with words huh?" Daisuke muttered as he cast a glance over at Saino.

6:33 A.M Day Four

First Floor

Sanctuary

The Ultimate Spirit Channeler cast a glance over her shoulder as she wrung at her hands nervously. She silently lead Sonia and Teleios into the Sanctuary. "I apologize for disturbing you both so suddenly. I guess like many of the others I was having trouble going back to sleep. When I was just about to nod off, something awoke me. It's hard to explain, so I appreciate you both for accompanying me."

"It's quite alright, I wasn't doing anything at the moment. Though...what exactly was it that awoke you?" the Ultimate Angel asked, giving the Channeler a look of concern.

"I suppose you could say that it was less of a something, and more of a someone, a spirit. At first, he was speaking in such a strange manner, I could not understand what he wanted. However, after a few minutes, he made it clear that he wished to speak with you and Teleios. You said he would drag me to the underworld if I didn't help. I'm not sure if he possesses such an ability, however, I didn't wish to tempt fate."

Teleios' eyes widened as he stared at the woman. "You... you don't mean that... that Lor-" The familiar cut his sentence short with a shake of his head. "Are you telling us that Gundham has made contact with you?" He asked in disbelief.

"Please, is it truly him?" Sonia asked, in a similar state of disbelief. Her heart started pounding hard in her chest, her hands grabbing her dress tightly.

"Believe me, there is not mistaking it," Hana said with an assuring smile. "I prefer to channel spirits in a holy space because it serves to keep some of the more rowdy ones in check. The last thing anyone needs is for me to be possessed," Hana said as she approached a circle of salt that had already been drawn. "Please you may touch me when I'm channeling your friend, but please whatever you do, do not break the circle of salt nor disrupt any of the candles," she warned as she carefully took a step inside the circle. "Let me know if you both need a moment. I realize this can be difficult for some."

The gyrfalcon nodded solemnly as he hopped off of Sonia's shoulder and landed on the nearby pew. He started down at Hana quietly before looking back up at the Angel. "I believe I'm ready. Even after I have reunited with you Sonia, I wasn't prepared to get to speak with him again," Teleios explained lowly, still seeming lost in thought.

"I never thought I would speak with him again. There's a lot I left unsaid...I think I'm ready too," the angel said, taking hold of Hana's hand.

"Very well. I will open the door, I hope you both may find some solace in this reunion," Hana replied as she shut her eyes a moment as the candles around the circle flickered a moment as the atmosphere in the room began to noticeably shift.

Suddenly without warning Hana's eyes snapped open as her brown eyes had shifted to a grey tint, a proud smirk spread across her face as her hand gingerly squeezed Sonia's. "This is not how I the great and powerful Gundham Tanaka, Supreme Overlord of Ice intended to return. However, the underworld has been kind to allow this reunion." the voice was now deeper though still clearly belonging to the Channeler.

Teleios landed just outside of the salt circle. He deftly reached up and took off his crown. He placed it next to him as he stared into the Channeler's fiercer looking eyes. "Before anything else, allow me to make my final report," Teleios stated with a bowed head. When he didn't hear anything he continued. "My lord, I completed the assignment you gave me. All of your animals were freed and I found them shelter from the tragedy. In regards to your kin, last I saw of him, Emizel was safe. However, as a potential ultimate, he is still in danger of being targeted." The gyrfalcon sighed as he finally looked up to meet the other's eyes. "I believe that was all you left me with. I am sorry I could not be by your side when you needed me the most, father."

"What are you apologizing for my beloved friend? You've served the Tanaka Empire dutifully. I may no longer be one with this realm, but what I cherish most still is. Knowing that you, Emizel, and my Dark Queen are still in this realm brings me peace," he chuckled before his gaze returned to Sonia once more. "Though I suppose you are no longer a Dark Queen are you? You've been reborn has something else entirely. I searched the underworld for ages looking for you, I am pleased that somehow you've defied the gates of oblivion."

"I'm sorry. I'm sure you wanted me to live, after what we went through in that academy. Yet, I was killed by what fascinated me the most. It's been so long...I feel that I failed you, I should have lived for you. But...I just fell victim to despair as well," Sonia replied, looking away from him, holding back tears.

The possessed channeler squeezed the Angel's hand. "...Your apologies are not needed bright one. You could have not foreseen what would happen. You have been given what few have though. You have a chance to forge a new path. Do not let the failures of the past decide your future. The world as it needs Sonia Nevermind. Consider it my final request that you survive this place without succumbing to it. Consider that order from me to both of you."

The Familiar chuckled as he carefully picked up his crown. He looked over it idly in his talons rather than putting it on. "In that case Gundham. If- when I find myself free of this place. I will seek out the Devas, as well as any other remaining members of the Tanaka Empire. So that all that you've left to this world will be remembered," Teleios promised as he fit the headgear back onto is the proper place.

"I shall humbly accept your request, only if you indulge one of my own," Sonia replied, tightening her hold on the Channeler's hand. She sniffled a bit, wiping the remainder of her tears away with the back of her hand.

"I believe the Devas are in good hands with Kyoko Kirigiri, but I welcome your worthy cause Teleios. Perhaps the Tanaka Empire can flourish with or without me." Gundham mused before his smile softened slightly at the sight of Sonia's tears. "If it is within my great power, I will see it done my queen," he paused a moment as his demeanor seemed to slip. "Please do not cry, Sonia. I believe that is the one thing more painful than death."

"Then perhaps destiny does favor me. I already made a promise to one of those claimed by this game that I'd seek Kyoko out anyway," the gyrfalcon mused.

"I will not cry anymore. However, my request is simple...would you allow me, just one more kiss? Before you leave?" she asked, sounding a bit bashful. She bit her lip, trying not to break into tears.

A smirk returned to the channeler's face as she extended a hand before gently cupping Sonia's cheek. "I would never let my queen's request go unanswered. Our conduit is running out of energy to anchor me, I can't think of a better use of my last moments," Gundham said he pulled the blonde closer before his mouth sealed against her in a searing yet tender kiss...

The angel stiffened a bit at the contact, but slowly melted into it, wrapping her arms around Hana's neck. Despite her saying she wouldn't cry, the tears still flowed, falling down her pale cheeks. It had been such a long time since she had felt this bliss, her heart nearly exploding from the overwhelming feelings. She slowly pulled away, staring into the young woman's eyes.

"Thank you. I know this will be hard...but you'll be forever in my heart," she said softly.

"I will carry on in your place, father. Now take your rest, and may we be reunited again when it is my time." Teleios gave a deep bow as he said his goodbyes.

Gundham offered a rare smile. "You both shall remain in my soul regardless of what world I walk in. Our souls are bound to this accursed place, but perhaps one day we shall find peace. I hope one day we shall be reunited, but may that day be far from now. I sense my cousin is in grave danger, please save him if you can. He is the last flesh and blood I have in this realm. Look out for one another, I will see you both when you're ready to join the Eternal Tanaka Empire..."

"I promise...I'll make sure your cousin is safe when we get off this island. Goodbye Gundham." the angel replied, hugging the Channeler tightly. Teleios nodded, saddened by the departure of his father.

Wide brown eyes stared back at the blonde in shock as Hana was squeezed tightly. Her face flushed a deep scarlet color. "T-This is all so sudden. What is going on?" she stammered before realization returned to her. "Oh, that's right. I was channeling Gundham," she paused feeling the somber tone in the room. "...I hope that your reunion gave you both peace. Everyone handles those kinds of meetings differently."

"Oh um...my apologies Hana. Thank you for doing this for us...I think we both needed this." Sonia said, releasing her hold on the Channeler.

"Indeed, you have my thanks as well. It was closure I was convinced I would never get," Teleios added in a somber tone. His eyes cast downward, appearing lost in deep thought.

The Spirit Channeler offered the pair a sympathetic smile as she adjusted her kimono. "You're quite welcome. If you don't mind though, I was already exhausted and channeling a spirit leaves me drained. I think I'm going to get some rest." she said as she offered a formal bow.

7:32 A.M Day Four

Outside

Courtyard

The light through the dense forest had just begun to break casting a warm glow over the courtyard as dawn arrived. It was at this time shortly after curfew had been revoked that Ariana and Alexander found themselves crossing the expansive area. The only sound that could be heard upon their arrival was that of the nearby fountain and the occasional rustling from the nearby woods.

"Thanks again for helping me with this Alex. You have no idea how much this means to me." the kitsune said, giving the young man a playful smile.

The Sorcerer turned his head to regard Ariana and gave a wink. "Of course dear. I could never pass on the opportunity to help a beautiful woman like yourself. Especially when magic is involved." The pair came to a stop near the middle of the stone courtyard. "So what exactly do you want help with?" Alexander asked with a smirk.

"Well...kitsune naturally have fire magic. I'd like to learn to use it...especially with this new motive. I'd like to be able to defend myself, and...maybe Nozomi too," Ariana replied, a slight flush on her cheeks.

"I'd gladly give my time to help such a sweet endeavor," Alexander explained as he gently patted the Kitsune's shoulder. "So do you have any knowledge on how magic works, or are we working with a fresh mind?"

"Sadly, I don't have much knowledge of magic. I felt it course through my fingers when I got mad. But I can't exactly control it that well." she replied.

The Sorcerer nodded as he raised a clothed hand. After a moment an orange ball of flames appeared floating just above his palm. "That is understandable. To make it as easy as possible you need to do two things. One keep your focus, and two keep your emotions from getting too extreme. Whether it be happiness, sadness or anger, too much of that can make magic unstable."

"Okay, that sounds simple enough. Just remain calm, and I won't explode, gotcha," Ariana replied with a wink, giggling slightly at his expression.

"Yes Ari, you wouldn't want to expend yourself in one burst." Alexander coyly grinned. "Now try to quiet your mind for a moment and focus on making a ball of fire, just like I have here." The Sorcerer caused the orb to float a bit closer to Ariana to look over.

Ariana nodded, taking a deep breath. She closed her eyes, focusing on nothing but being calm. Her ears twitched slightly, picking up every single sound around her. She could hear the bugs buzzing, some of the local birds chirping. She wiggled her nose a bit, becoming more and more annoyed. She let out a growl of annoyance, huffing angrily.

"Ugh! I can't focus, I can hear everything, it's so annoying!" she exclaimed.

"It's alright, I'm sure with your ears you can hear quite far too." Alexander placed a finger against his chin. "For now if you can't blank out your surroundings, don't bother with closing your eyes. Instead study the flames before you, watch how it so elegantly dances and flickers about. Then try to recreate it in your mind."

"Okay, I can do that," Ariana replied, focusing on the flames before her. Her vibrant eyes traced the magical fire, seeing every single movement. She could hear the soft crackling and feel its heat.

Taking another calming breath, she envisioned the flames in her mind. Holding her hand out before her, she focused on the fire burning within her. She could feel the warm energy flowing through her, swirling around her palm. Ever so slightly, a tiny flame flickered to life, much to her surprise.

Alexander gave soft applause as he stepped toward the Kitsune. "There, you got it. Now I want you to focus on envisioning the ball slowly growing. And don't be shy, whatever size it stops at is nothing to be ashamed of," the mage mused as he looked towards Ariana's palm expectantly.

"Mmm, I think I can picture some balls in my mind," she said playfully licking her lips. She focused on the flame in her mind, picturing it as a larger ball of fire. The small flicker began growing in size, turning into a swirling sphere of blue fire. It wasn't much bigger than a Cantaloupe, but that size was enough for her.

"Hey look! I'm doing it!" Ariana cried out, a look of awe on her face.

Alexander's eyes lit up as he happily looked over the conjured flames. "Impressive, and a lovely color to it as well. Alright, next you're going to try to have it disperse as harmlessly as possible. Focus on the idea of it fading away."

"Fading away, I think I can do that," the kitsune replied, turning her eyes back to the flames. She envisioned a lighter in her mind, the flames slowly weakening until they disappeared entirely. Similarly, the flames in her hand died down, until they were gone entirely.

The Sorcerer placed his hand on the woman's shoulder. "My dear Ari, you have just done better than I did my first time using magic, oh so many years ago." Alexander's other hand traced along the burn on his face.

"Fufufu, it helps that I have an incredibly handsome and talented teacher," she replied, giving him a smile in return.

"Well you charmer, let's work on your endurance shall we?" Alexander smirked as he lifted his hand away and brushes a few strands of hair off of the Kitsune's face. "Make another fire, however big you want it, and try to keep it going."

Ariana nodded, the flames coming easier this time around. She decided to make the ball of fire a bit bigger this time, using both her hands. She could feel her magic straining a bit, feeling the energy flowing into her hands.

"Ugh...it's a bit harder than before," she said, her voice sounding a bit strained.

"It's usually wiser to walk before you can run, sweetheart. If you want to get better at sustaining them, maybe try something small," Alexander explained watching the woman begin to struggle. "If you feel like you may lose control, try your best to dispel the fire first. It can be very troubling to have it slip up"

"Okay." the kitsune replied, focusing on making the flames a bit smaller. She found herself being able to control it a lot easier. She still felt a bit of strain, but not as much as before. "How long should I keep them up for?"

"For now just see how long you feel like you can. Try to figure out your limit, alright?" He answered looking her over for any signs of beginning to tire out.

She gave him a nod, her eyes returning to the flames before her. She could feel the fatigue in her system but wasn't going to let it bother her. Even though she had already used quite a lot of magic, she could still feel some magic within her body. It made her wonder just how strong her magic could be with training.

"I think...I'm at my limit," she said. Her arms started feeling heavy like they were about to give in at any moment.

Alexander moved around to her side and leaned in towards her ear. "Are you sure that's all? Will it be enough to protect Nozomi? That's why you want to get better, right? Or is it to impress her?" He whispered with a devilish smirk.

"It's to protect her of course! Ha, as if I would give in now," she replied, the strain she felt before almost disappearing.

"Ooh, are you feeling a bit sensitive about our resident Succubus? You usually seem ready to pounce just about anyone," he mused as he briefly noticed her tightening focus with a smile. "Say, Ariana, you wouldn't happen to have developed feelings for Nozomi have you?"

"I...I might have...yes. She's been so supportive you know? Especially when Kit and Hikky passed on. I don't know why, but whenever she's nearby, my heart beats really fast. With everyone else, it's a playful joke, but with her...it's different." she replied, trying her hardest not to blush.

"Well, it's very heartwarming to see darling. You can disperse that flame now." Alexander nodded as he took a step back from her. "Controlling the elements works better when you're feeling certain things. It may sound corny, but using fire is easier when you're quite literally burning with passion. So I'm happy to see that you so genuinely care for Nozomi."

"Hmm...I could say the same to you. I can tell just how much you like Akeno, especially if you chose to be her mortal servant. Have you kissed her yet? Because she's an amazing kisser." she replied, allowing the flames to disappear. The ability had come easier now, almost like turning off a switch.

Alexander chuckled at her words. "That she is. Quite the dancer too. We probably should have actually looked around the ballroom, but neither of us could resist." He ran a hand through his hair. "I've always been more of a free spirit when it came to things like love, but I can't seem to help myself from thinking of her."

"Have you perhaps told her this? I believe she might like you back. You might as well...we aren't granted a tomorrow on this island." Ariana replied, a deep frown on her face. She crossed her arms, trying not to think about the horrors on the island.

"I've been avoiding it, to be honest. I've never felt so strongly for another person, it's usually nothing more than a passing fling. But not with her." He sighed before lightly shaking his head. "Akeno also seems to enjoy her freedom, and I'd hate to feel like I'm smothering her. Especially after I was with Jana so casually."

"I see," she replied, glancing away from the young man. She bit her lip slightly, not exactly knowing what to say.

The Sorcerer started to smile seeing the Kitsune's reaction. "It's kind of you to want to help, but you don't have to worry. I will figure myself out, the last thing I want to do is hurt her."

"I suppose that's true...I have my own issues admitting my feelings. It's a bit odd, Nozomi has been feeling distraught. She wants to know if her brother is truly still alive. I made her a promise, that I would be there when she checked out the Gallery. However...I think my promise came out different. At least that's what I feel."

"Then we both have some things to work through. What do you say we try to meet again tomorrow, to continue working on your training? If nothing else having someone to confide this in is quite the relief," he said as he placed a hand on his bare chest.

"I would be delighted too. With a bit of practice, I might just be able to beat you. Well...if we ever have a magic duel," she replied, giggling at the thought.

Alexander smirk at her words. His hair began to slowly animate as it glowed brightly orange. Several balls of flame the size of the Sorcerer appeared floating around them. "I'll be ready whenever you are dear."

"O-on second thought, I think I'll keep practicing," the kitsune said, backing away slightly from the sorcerer.

Alexander laughed as he dispersed the fire. "Well, at least you learned your lesson about walking before you can run."

16 Students Remain / 8 Staff Members Remain [24 Survivors Remain]

*AN* I wanna thank Petty and Celestial for all of their help bringing this chapter to life and for beta reading it. You guys rock and I love ya!

Also speaking of those two, the three of us have started a new SYOC set in this universe called: Oasis of Hope. Submissions will be going on till Feb 14th so please come join us in the merciless game that awaits!

Review Section:

Blazerxz

I'd say that Jana/Kiyomi are a special case. Not all executions will result in that.

Raz The Giant

Yeah it was the reason why I also split this chapter up. I thought that larger scenes with more times between each character was a better plan.

ThePLOThand

Hey you never know! Anything is possible my friend =)

StoryProducer214

Yes. Yes I did ;)

pokemansuperallstar

Haha I'm glad you enjoy the inclusion my friend. I had such a great idea with Daisuke that I couldn't resist.

bellatrixshine

Yeah I thought it would be interesting to make some of the staff more likable even if they're crazy as shit lol.

PettyPunk

I know we all teared up a bit at the reunion in this chapter, but I'm also super pleased with the scene between Alexander/Ariana. Top notch!

doomqwer

Lol I don't know about nukes in this one bud.

JCW18

How bout another reference bud?

The Celestial Sky Dragon

We've really knocked it out the park recently. Thank you both so much for all your help =)

MudkipOfDespair

Yeah growth between murder is important in these games hah.