Rise Of Zionus: An Introduction

by EternalSage

This is a story of Ragol. Zio was defeated, but his malignant spirit lingers, leading to an entirely new cycle of chaos. A new generation of hunters must take up the challenge of defeating him.

4. Ghosts in the Mirror

Ayame is kneeling in the pouring rain. Her black and purple outfit is tattered, she's disheveled and there is a fresh scar running from the top of her left ear to near the left corner of her mouth.Her purple hair is mussed and dirty. Even if she wasn't loitering in a tropical storm, her face would be soaked with the bitter tears she's been crying for what seems like an eternity. Her beloved Summit Moon is in two pieces, by now resting on the sandy floor of the bay below her.

She has a splitting headache, but the empty feeling inside her is far more painful. More than just an energy-drain headache from the technique power she recently used up to save her life, it feels as if her head is splitting in half. And still, the feeling of betrayal and abandonment is far, far worse.

Thinking back, she recalls the events that led to this:

She'd followed Zionus' energy to the surface of Ragol. Though the constant teleporting and scanning was stretching her to her limit, she had to persevere. He had hurt Uncle X, and he had to pay . If she'd thought about it, she would've realized what a novel feeling it was to 'hate' someone. It had never happened before, in her life. Some people were mean, and some people were nice. It had never occurred to her that in her career as a Force, she might have to hurt someone. Even when she was helping Uncle X, she'd never hurt anyone.

The dark rage that was flowing through her at the moment was entirely alien to her. If she hadn't been consumed by it, she would've been terrified. As it was, she wanted to hurt Zionus more than she'd ever wanted anything else. She had to make him pay... he needed to die. She'd heard Uncle X say something similar, but it never really connected in her mind that someone 'dying' could mean they were never coming back. In her mind, there was always Reverser, and the good guys always won.

Dying was an abstract concept to her, on a level with all those things that X told her "I'll tell you when you're older." She'd figured out some of the things he was keeping from her, and a large amount of them had to do with girls. The realization that X would no longer be around to tell her that stuff really drove home the fact that he was dead. There was no more coming back. No more Uncle X to protect her. The good guys weren't always going to find a way to win... With that delusion shattered, only one recourse was open to her. She realized in the very back of her mind that killing was wrong, yet at this point she didn't care. With full knowledge and acceptance of what she was planning to do, she teleported as close to Zionus' energy field as she could. Murder in her heart, she stared up at the massive Central Dome, looking for a way inside...

Gazing at the massive Central Dome, she saw a crack in the wall. It seemed to be near where the teleporter to the Dragon's Lair was before Uncle X made the dragons extinct.Walking over to it,she saw that she might be able to squeeze inside. A pile of debris was clustered around the crack, and it looked as if something had weakened the wall, then hit it with a powerful blow. Regardless, Zionus was inside. Clambering over the debris, she slid through the crack into the darkened interior, Summit Moon at the ready.

It was dark inside, and the only light inside the narrow corridor came from the weak sunlight filtering through behind her. A dim glow was visible off to her right, at the end of the corridor. Stepping into the corridor, she followed the glow. The corridor ran straight for a bit, but as she walked, feeling along the walls, it began to turn towards the left, and the glow became brighter. Drawing nearer to the source, she turned the corner and gazed into a massive room.

From Uncle X's stories, this must have been where the dragon made it's lair. The flooring was mostly dirt, with a few chunks of metallic floor paneling strewn haphazardly around the room. A dim bank of lights gleamed far overhead, and Zionus was in the center of the room, glowing with ethereal silver light.

She briefly considered trying to sneak up on him, then thought better of it. He was in the middle of a large circular room, with no cover on this half of the room. The decking plates had been piled mostly on the other side of the room, and the few that remained where too small to provide any real cover. Checking her item capsules to be certain they were secure, she popped one of her last Trifluids. As the liquid cleared the fatigue from her mind, she considered her options. She could go back to Pioneer, restock on supplies and get someone from the Guild to go with her. What she saw next drove all thoughts of subtlety or tactics from her mind.

A figure approached from the opposite side of the room. He was tall, relatively slender, and seemed to have a gigantic sword strapped to his back. She couldn't see his face from her viewpoint, since the far side of the room was relatively dark. As he came towards the light given off by Zionus, his face was revealed. It was X! He was alive.

Casting Deband on herself, she dashed from her hiding place, straight towards Zionus. "Uncle X! You're alive!"

Zionus and X turned towards the rapidly approaching Force. "X... kill the girl. I command it!"

A flicker of apprehension washed over X's face, and he hesitated for a brief second. Zionus waved his hand, and a dim glow surrounded X. When Zionus' hand lowered, X's eyes had changed from their normal green to an icy blue color. Reaching a hand back to the nodachi sheathed at his back, he stepped towards Ayame, positioning himself between Ayame and Zionus, his face void of any human expression.

"Uncle X... what are you doing? He's a bad man..."

X drew his sword and took a battle stance, as Zionus replied. "Your precious 'uncle' has been a thorn in my side for far too long, girl. I could annihilate you with a wave of my hand. But you managed to hurt me, so I'll give you the honor of being the first to die at the hands of my servant. X, destroy her!"

Ayame stopped her run, and stared at X in shock. Now that they were both under the coverage of the lights, she looked at his face for the first time. It was X's face, but neither the expression or the eyes were anything like her beloved 'uncle'. This man was a stranger. He bore a slight resemblance to Ani, but didn't have the look of malice that Ani had always shown. This X was like a soulless puppet. And Zionus was the puppet master.

Gazing at the massive Central Dome, she saw a crack in the wall. It seemed to be near where the teleporter to the Dragon's Lair was before Uncle X made the dragons extinct.Walking over to it,she saw that she might be able to squeeze inside. A pile of debris was clustered around the crack, and it looked as if something had weakened the wall, then hit it with a powerful blow. Regardless, Zionus was inside. Clambering over the debris, she slid through the crack into the darkened interior, Summit Moon at the ready.

It was dark inside, and the only light inside the narrow corridor came from the weak sunlight filtering through behind her. A dim glow was visible off to her right, at the end of the corridor. Stepping into the corridor, she followed the glow. The corridor ran straight for a bit, but as she walked, feeling along the walls, it began to turn towards the left, and the glow became brighter. Drawing nearer to the source, she turned the corner and gazed into a massive room.

From Uncle X's stories, this must have been where the dragon made it's lair. The flooring was mostly dirt, with a few chunks of metallic floor paneling strewn haphazardly around the room. A dim bank of lights gleamed far overhead, and Zionus was in the center of the room, glowing with ethereal silver light.

She briefly considered trying to sneak up on him, then thought better of it. He was in the middle of a large circular room, with no cover on this half of the room. The decking plates had been piled mostly on the other side of the room, and the few that remained where too small to provide any real cover. Checking her item capsules to be certain they were secure, she popped one of her last Trifluids. As the liquid cleared the fatigue from her mind, she considered her options. She could go back to Pioneer, restock on supplies and get someone from the Guild to go with her. What she saw next drove all thoughts of subtlety or tactics from her mind.

A figure approached from the opposite side of the room. He was tall, relatively slender, and seemed to have a gigantic sword strapped to his back. She couldn't see his face from her viewpoint, since the far side of the room was relatively dark. As he came towards the light given off by Zionus, his face was revealed. It was X! He was alive.

Casting Deband on herself, she dashed from her hiding place, straight towards Zionus. "Uncle X! You're alive!"

Zionus and X turned towards the rapidly approaching Force. "X... kill the girl. I command it!"

A flicker of apprehension washed over X's face, and he hesitated for a brief second. Zionus waved his hand, and a dim glow surrounded X. When Zionus' hand lowered, X's eyes had changed from their normal green to an icy blue color. Reaching a hand back to the nodachi sheathed at his back, he stepped towards Ayame, positioning himself between Ayame and Zionus, his face void of any human expression.

"Uncle X... what are you doing? He's a bad man..."

X drew his sword and took a battle stance, as Zionus replied. "Your precious 'uncle' has been a thorn in my side for far too long, girl. I could annihilate you with a wave of my hand. But you managed to hurt me, so I'll give you the honor of being the first to die at the hands of my servant. X, destroy her!"

Ayame stopped her run, and stared at X in shock. Now that they were both under the coverage of the lights, she looked at his face for the first time. It was X's face, but neither the expression or the eyes were anything like her beloved 'uncle'. This man was a stranger. He bore a slight resemblance to Ani, but didn't have the look of malice that Ani had always shown. This X was like a soulless puppet. And Zionus was the puppet master.

It had been her worst nightmare, given form. Fighting her uncle was something she never expected to have to do. She had barely escaped with her life.

Zionus backed away from X, beginning to hover. Kill her X, and prove my control over you is absolute. I expect a good show, but don't let her live for too long. I have other plans for my loyal servant to carry out." With a smug smile on his face, the insane demi-god floated off to the dark corner of the room, and sat on a throne that had been hidden by the shadows. With a wave of his hand, he flooded the room with light from torches behind him that sprang into existence at his command.

X held his Tsumikiri J-Sword with both hands, gripped over his head. His arms were bent, with the point of the blade pointing towards Ayame. Without a word, he charged her, swinging the sword in a long diagonal slash as he came within range. Ayame barely managed to back away in time, astonished at his speed, but absolutely shocked by the fact that he was attacking her. 'That's not his sword', she thought to herself. That's a sword that I saw some of the people on Vega use. Well, before Uncle X told me I couldn't practice there anymore. I can't believe he's doing what that big meanie tells him. I'm going to have to stop him for a little while, if I can. Then I can get through to him, and show him that it's me.'

Resolving to at least temporarily slow him down, she began casting a Jellen technique on him as she turned to run away. The technique went off as she'd gotten a few feet away, but when he leaped at her in another furious slash, it didn't seem to have done much good. 'He's so fast. He makes Delsabers seem slow...' Dodging another slash, she raised her Summit Moon. 'I don't want to hurt him, but I need to stop him from trying to hit me so I can talk to him...' She cast a Foie technique as he leaped again. The massive fireball caught him in the chest, and stopped him mid-leap. He fell to the ground, and one hand went to his chest, a large scorch mark apparent on his battle suit."Oh no... I hope I didn't hurt him!'

Ayame then made the grievous error of running towards the kneeling X. Her emotions getting the best of her, she made it to within about ten feet of him before he sprang up, leaping into a Ryuenjin technique. The flaming blade barely missed her, but the heat that scorched her face was unmistakable. 'He's actually trying to hurt me. He's listening to the bad man. Why?! I'm going to have to hurt him, at least a little. I don't think I can talk him out of this one.' Using one of the techniques mister Sage had taught her, she opened her mind. She had telepathic powers, and Sage had been teaching her how to use them. One of the most useful had been how to read an opponent's mind, and determine what they were going to do.

Scanning X's mind, she was shocked. It was like a blank wall had been thrown in front of her. Even when Sage had put up his barrier,there had been a sense of 'something' being hidden. X's mind was a total blank. She felt a sharp pain in her temples that caused her to stagger and fall to her knees. Zionus' voice rang through her head, each word burning. "Well, it seems we have another telepath. X's mind is blocked, little girl. I own it, and control it. That is how I control him. And your teacher didn't teach you very well, because you aren't able to watch what you're doing while you use your powers. Prepare to die.'

Released from the horrible mental grasp that had burned as it held her petrified, she came back to full awareness. She'd been running when she initiated the mindtouch, but now she was on the ground. Her head felt as if it was burning. Looking up, she saw X running at her full speed. 'I can't beat him. He's too fast, and too strong. I'm going to die...'

As this horrible realization hit her, X leaped into the air. Raising his blade, he came down with a terrific force on the unbalanced Ayame, who had just now managed to stand. Raising her Summit Moon in a frantic attempt to ward off the blade, she felt it give and the blade pass through. Seconds later, she felt a horrible searing pain along her left cheek. "Aaah!" She screamed, as the warm blood began trickling down. She fell back, and closed her eyes, waiting for the inevitable follow up slash.'I'm sorry, Uncle X. I couldn't save you.'

Opening her eyes, and looking up, she saw X poised over her, blade held high. Her cheek was bleeding profusely, but she wondered why she wasn't dead. His entire body was trembling. She backed away and got to her feet, casting Resta on herself to heal her wound. The blood flow stopped, but the fact that her cheek was still painful was an indication of how drained she was. Looking at X, she saw an incredible amount of turmoil on his face. He seemed to be struggling against himself, fighting for control.

"Blast...me." He managed to whisper, through gritted teeth. His eyes were their normal green. "I was able to stop the swing, but I'm losing control. Blast me, and get out of here, before he notices. Now!'

"But, what about you?"

"He's too strong for me to resist. Find Sage... he can help you. Don't worry about me. And...I'm sorry."

Zionus noticed something was amiss. He hadn't been watching X's mind, because watching him kill when you knew what he was going to do next was boring. As he entered X's mind, he could see that the dominant personality had regained control. He would have to fix this...

Before Zionus could wipe X's mind again, Ayame had unleashed several techs. The Foie she cast knocked him down, and the Rabarta that followed froze him solid. Turning to run, she said "I'm sorry, too," as she bolted for the door.

Zionus' servant was rendered immobile, and that arrogant little girl was getting away. He gathered power and began blasting at her. Why won't anyone die!?! he thought, as he unleashed a furious wave of small energy blasts. With her speed, they missed. A Rafoie technique at this range wouldn't kill her, but it might slow her enough for him to catch her. He was still new to his powers, and the energy he'd been using to keep X under control still came with great difficulty. If he'd had a few more hours to get used to his abilities, Ayame would have died. As it was, the massive explosion centered on her and went off, causing her to stumble.

An incredible wave of heat washed over her, and a thousand small fires seemed to be dancing on her skin. She only had to make it outside, and she could teleport away. Survival was uppermost in her mind as she sprinted to the corridor. She made herself ignore the burns and bruises she was receiving, willing herself to continue.

At last, she'd made it outside. Teleporting away, she didn't notice the massive beam of energy Zionus unleashed in his rage. Half of the Central Dome was now dust. X was kneeling in the center of the large room, Zionus' control fully reasserted. The brief rebellion he had managed saved Ayame's life, but he had no real way of fighting back anymore. It had been too draining. Hopefully, Ayame could find help, or at least escape Zionus' wrath. That was the last thought X had, as Zionus' incessant mental grip crushed the last glimmers of free will from his mind.

Ayame was brought back to the present by the sound of seagulls. The storm had passed, and the sun was slowly beginning to peek through the clouds. She was shivering, soaked through, and hungry. Thinking about things more closely, she felt slightly better. X hadn't betrayed her, but she still felt so alone. Standing, she teleported back to Pioneer. She had to talk to Leah.

Pondering the events as she disappeared into a telepipe, she wondered what was going to happen now. I guess I'm not a kid anymore. For once, I have to help Uncle X. Hmm...it doesn't feel right to call him 'Uncle' anymore. I have to help X...

Brom's systems restarted abruptly. He was laying on a lumpy bed, covered by a shabby blanket. Throwing off the coverings, he got to his feet. His chronometer showed that it was about an hour after the Dezolian dawn. I need to try and find Sage. However, walking through the snow damaged my joints. If I hadn't shut down and let the auto-repair subroutines do their work, I'd hardly be able to move. Oh well, he can't have gotten that far. Moving silently, he approached the door of the room he was housed in. As he reached for it, his sensors picked up the soft sounds of a human sobbing.

Brom opened the door, and stepped outside. He was in a small, shabbily furnished central living area. A crude wooden door led outside, and another door was slightly ajar. The small human girl, Sana was crouched next to a Dezo Penguin in the corner of the room, hugging the creature's non-existent neck and sobbing. Stepping closer to the pair, he recognized the penguin as 'Morty', the penguin he had saved the night before, by the large white marking on its chest.

"Sana, are you..." damaged? Is that the proper term of address? No, wait...it's are you alright? That works... "alright?"

As the unkempt urchin looked up at him, she wiped her running nose with her sleeve. Grossly unsanitary. No wonder these humans have finite life spans... Brom thought.

"I'm okay, mister. It's just that... I had a nightmare. I dreamt that bad men came and took Morty."

Hmm...the human psyche is so fragile. Even when attempting to clear their minds of rubbish, they hurt themselves."Well, it was just a dream, correct? Do not trouble yourself about it. Dreams are dreams, and reality is reality. You would do well to not forget that distinction."

"Yeah mister, I guess you're right. Dreams can't hurt me or Morty, so I shouldn't worry about them."She said brightly. "What are you doing up so early? Did I wake you up?"

"No, girl. I have to find someone, and I wanted to make an early start of it. I thank you for the hospitality, but I really must be going."

"Don't you want some breakfast? It's not warm enough outside to travel yet."

Brom pondered for a moment. If walking through the frigid temperatures last night had damaged him, tempting fate again today would not be a good idea. Sage would likely be difficult to apprehend, so being in a weakened state when he found him would not be exactly wise.

"Very well. I shall stay here for a while longer, at least until the temperature outside has increased."
Meanwhile, Sage and Lissandra are on the final leg of their journey to the Esper's Mansion...

The Ice Digger approached the large, pure white building slowly. It had made fairly good time, and there were no unexpected complications. Sage and Lissandra were talking inside when the vehicle came to an abrupt halt.

"So, Lissandra...what exactly am I going to have to do?"

"I've already told you what I can tell you. The Elders will have to explain the rest. I can aid you in the trials, but you're going to have to do most of it yourself."

"You say trials. Does that mean there're some tests I have to pass? I thought you said they 'chose me because I was worthy', or something like that."

"Yes, well...the Elders chose you, but you must prove that you are worthy to Rune himself before you can harness his power."

"I thought you said this Rune guy was dead?"

"He is, but his will, memories and power are contained inside the Circlet of Lutz. It's stored inside. Ah, we're here!

The Ice Digger came to a halt outside a large, ornately beautiful building. Lissandra and Sage disembarked, and thanked the driver. Approaching the door, they were hailed by a fairly tall, dark-haired man in armor and a dark gray hooded cloak. He carried what looked to be two silvery handles in holsters on his belt, and had a solemn-looking face. When he looked at them, a smile broke through the stiff facade.

"Honored Sister Lissandra! We were eagerly awaiting your return. Is this the chosen one of Lutz?"

"Yes, Yokote, it is. Are the Elders in Council right now, or can they meet with Sage here?"

"Yes, milady. They instructed me to bring you to them as soon as you arrived."

"Very well, then. Yokote, I'd like to introduce you to Jonas Sage. He was on Ragol when Zio usurped the power of the Great Light. Sage, this is Yokote. He's one of the 'Guardians' of the Espers. "

Yokote bowed, then shook the hand that Sage extended. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Sage. The fact that you survived against Zionus is a sure proof of your mettle.'

Sage shook his hand. "Uh, nice to meet you, Yokote. Should we go inside, or what?"

"Ah yes, certainly. Right this way."

Sage and Lissandra followed Yokote through the massive double doors, past a pair of stone-faced sentries dressed in the same white robes as Lissandra, and wielding Partisans.

Outside the Esper's Mansion, the owner of the Ice Digger began to make his way back to Tyler. It was only about a two hour round trip in the digger, but it would've taken several days on foot. I hope I can pick up another fare before lunch. That strange lady and her boyfriend paid fairly well. I'm glad I found this thing...it sure beats penguin raising income-wise.Little did he know that danger awaited him on his formerly tranquil path homeward.

Closer to Tyler, a group of bandits were lurking in their cave hideout. "Yo, boss!" one of the unkempt dregs of society said. "When are we gonna go after Tyler? It's filled with a lotta good loot, and the Esper's haven't been doing their usual patrols lately."

"We're waiting until that farmer with the Digger-thing gets back. He left this morning. If we have to break that thing to take it, I don't want to have to drag it a long ways to fix it. It'll really help on raids. I don't want the smoke from the village to alert that penguin-farming idiot. He should've sold it to us... he doesn't know how big of a mistake he made."

Meanwhile, inside the lair of Ragol's newest military leader, Zionus is lounging on a throne as he listens to Eriror's report.

Bowing humbly, Eriror began. "My lord, 80 of the military have seen the truth of your path, and have begged for your salvation. Mostly it's the elites and the officers. About half of your new followers are drawn from the ranks of the average troops. The rest are the majority of the upper echelon. It seems that the common soldier lacks the wisdom to see your true glory. If the military still holds their foolish aspiration of opposing us, their force will consist of the bottom of the barrel."

"What of the common people? I would not expect them all to see my way as the only path to salvation, but I would hope at least some would be pious enough to pay homage to me."

"Yes, my lord. The commoners seem confused and anxious, like the pathetic sheep they are. Your miracle of cleansing at Vega seemed to convert some of them, but the rest are frightened of the truth that stares them in the face. Given time, I would pray that they would repent before you cleanse the universe of their filth."

"Have you received a report from your operative that followed the man called Sage? I would greatly wish to know what acts of blasphemy that foul heretic is commiting. He will not escape my divine wrath!"

Eriror hesitated for a moment. Why can Lord Zionus not see? Is Sage so foul that my lord cannot bear to watch his crimes? "I am sorry, my lord. When Brom went through the warp, his communications systems seem to have been damaged. We have not been able to locate him. I fear for his mission, and hope that your eminence may see fit to reward him for his devoted service with absolution, if he ever returns."

"I would not expect him to be able to stop Sage, for he is the envoy of the beast. However, if he returns he will be suitably rewarded for his services. Go now, and oversee the building of my eternal kingdom! I expect another report in twelve hours. May my blessings follow and strengthen you, o' child of the light! Zionus waves his hands in a complicated pattern of blessing, and nods for Eriror to leave.

Eriror supplicates himself on the floor, and stands to leave. "Thank you, my lord. My heart is gladdened by your blessing. I shall continue to serve you faithfully, being the sword by which you cleanse the world." Eriror left, leaving Zionus to contemplate recent events...

Brom is pacing about Sana's run-down house. Nichole had informed him that there was a vehicle here whose owner ferried passengers across the frozen wastes outside. Before Brom had departed to kill him and claim his vehicle, he had been stopped by Nichole.

"Mister Brom, he went out on a run early this morning. He should be back in an hour or two, if you want to wait. And since you helped us with Morty, I'd be glad to pay your fee."

Uttering the android equivalent of a sigh, Brom had settled down to wait. "Do you know where he went? I'm looking for a friend of mine, and I'm not sure where he went. He mentioned something about the 'Espers'. Do you know what they are?"

"Yes, I do! The Espers are these really nice people who help protect us from monsters. Their headquarters is about a four-day walk from here. The Ice Digger can get you there in about an hour. I think that's where Tomas said he was going, actually. When I went to the spring early this morning, he was standing outside the inn, waiting on his fare. It was a small man in beige robes, and a woman that was dressed like an Esper. I saw them as I came back inside."

Inwardly, Brom was gloating. Haha, Sage...I found you. You can't escape. After I kill him, I'll have earned that final upgrade. Then I can quit this stupid military gig...
"That sounds like my friend. Thank you, Nichole. I'll wait until the man with the Ice Digger returns."

That had been almost an hour previous. Brom was getting rather impatient. Just as he went towards the door, a loud "Boom!" was heard from outside.

Stepping out the door, he saw a pillar of black smoke billowing into the sky. A large group of ragged-looking men was gathering at the entrance to town. Brom turned to Nichole. "Who are those guys?"

"Oh no... those are the bandits that tried to get the Ice Digger from Tomas back when he first found it. They haven't attacked us since the Espers cleaned out another bandit group, but I'm not sure how long that'll hold." She looked frightened. Sana came out of the house, crying. "Nichole, what's going on? Why are the bad men back...?"

"Sana, go inside the house honey. Stay there til I tell you it's safe to come outside."

Brom began walking towards the group of bandits and slowly assembling townspeople.Dammit! If those idiots damaged the vehicle, I'll never get to the Esper's Mansion. And it looks as if they plan on looting this village. I don't really like humans, but they did give me a place to stay. I'm probably going to have to kill these fools...

The leader of the bandits, a tall, broad-shouldered and hideously ugly man with a massive axe slung over his back, addressed the townspeople.

"Hey, youse sheep. We're here to do a little 'shopping'. I understand that food's been plentiful here lately, so the boys and I stopped by for our bit o'tribute. Cooperate, and we won't bust ya up too bad. Make a fuss, and... " he drew his finger across his throat in a easily understood gesture.

The town elder, a wizened old man in snow-white robes, stepped forward, leaning heavily on a cane."The Espers stopped you from taking 'tribute' before, and they'll do it again. We've earned our share fairly, and you haven't. We don't owe you a thing! If you'd do work once in your life, you might eat." Any further comments from the Elder were cut off as the bandit leader struck him with the blunt end of his axe, knocking him to the ground in a heap.

"I don't see any Espers here, do you old man? And we told you not to make a fuss. Now that you have, other people might start getting ideas. Seems like we have a choice here, boys," he said, turning to the group of surly-looking bandits behind him. "We can do this the easy way, or the hard way. This ain't no democracy, so I say we do it the hard way. Burn the village, capture the women and kill everyone else! Let's go wild, boys." Finishing his statement, he stepped over the old man. With one swift blow, the village no longer had a leader. Drenched in the elder's blood, the bandit leader turned his head to the sky and let out a primitive-sounding war cry. On this signal, the entire group of bandits entered the city, and began looting.

The assembled banditti behind him drew their weapons, and began to move through the town, threatening inhabitants, taking whatever caught their eye, and cutting down anyone that resisted. One bandit fired his rifle at a nearby building, and the side he hit burst into flame. Brom rushed inside the building from his hiding place, and rescued Sana and Morty from their burning home. Commending them to the care of the terrified Nichole, he threw off his robes. He was dressed in a grey bodysuit over the synthflesh that covered his android body. "I'm going to take care of these bandits. Find a safe spot to hide."

"Mister Brom, there're too many of them."

"I can handle it. From the looks of it, they destroyed my ride. I really...miss my...friend. So they have to pay. Now go and hide!" Stupid humans. If they didn't need those stupid 'nutrients', the bandits wouldn't have raided. Damnable fleshbags... I'm going to enjoy killing them. I needed that Ice Digger.

Drawing his Imperial Pick, he set off towards the nearest group of bandits. Though they were armed with guns, the outcome was never really in doubt. A few slashes later, and there was a gutted, hacked up pile of human trash lying between the buildings. Brom continued on his mission of pest extermination.

As Sage and Lissandra were led past the guards, Sage was taken aback at the sheer size and beauty of the building he was in. When she called it the Esper 'Mansion', she wasn't kidding... this place is incredible.

Walking over the pristine white marble, Yokote led them down a long, narrow corridor., passing by various Espers and statues of a woman holding a sword.I wonder who that woman is... Sage thought. Before he could ask, Yokote had led them into a large square room, where a group of several older Espers were standing in front of a much larger copy of the statues Sage had seen throughout the building.

"Greetings, Sister Lissandra! It seems your mission went well. Let us thank the Lady Alis for your safe return." Lissandra gave a small bow in the direction of the statue. Yokote and the Elders followed suit. "Elders," Lissandra said. "This is the man that you sent me to get. He has the potential within him to become the new heir of Lutz and Rune, as you foretold! I present to you Jonas Sage." Lissandra motioned for Sage to step forward.

"Well done, Lissandra. You and Yokote are dismissed for now. We must speak with Sage."

"Very well, Elders. Good luck, Sage!" Yokote and Lissandra replied. They turned to leave. "Remember Sage," Lissandra said. "Trust in yourself, and you'll do fine." With that, they left the room, leaving Sage with the group of Elders.

The bald, white-bearded old man with the bright blue eyes that had addressed him first spoke again. "Greetings, Sage. I am the the head Elder, Jadrek. We brought you here to enable you to claim the power to defeat Zionus. I'm sure Lissandra has informed you of that, but you probably have many other questions. Is there anything you wish to know before we take you to meet Rune?"

"Yes, there's actually quite a bit. First off...why me? How can I have the power to defeat a god? And is the Rune you're referring to the same one that died trying to seal away the Profound Darkness?"

Jadrek smiled. "I did not realize that Lissandra had left you so poorly informed. When we instructed her not to reveal everything to you, it seems she was more close-mouthed than we realized. No matter. All will be revealed. But first, let us get more comfortable. This has the potential to be a long conversation. "With a wave of his hand, Jadrek transported the five Elders, Sage and himself to an entirely different room, furnished with wall to wall bookshelves and large, over-stuffed chairs.

Two Espers appeared at the door. "Would you like tea, Elders?"

"Yes, we would. Thank you, Stefan. Would you like tea, Sage?"A tall, ethereal looking woman with white hair asked, as she settled her robes about her in the chair.

"Um...sure. Thank you." Sage said. Wow, I didn't even realize I was being transported... and now I'm here. These Elders are amazing.

Moments later, Stefan and Joni had reappeared with tea, and bustled out just as quickly as they came.

"Now that we're a bit more comfortable, let's discuss your questions." Jadrek began. "First of all, you asked 'why me?' The answer is rather simple, actually. Rune chose you."

"But why? What's so special about me?"

"You have the gift of telepathy, meaning you can communicate with him. You've seen firsthand what Zionus can do. You have a natural 'likeability' which seems to draw people to you. Additionally, whether you like to admit it or not, you're a good leader. You've seen enough tragedy to know when to commit your people, and when to retreat. That, combined with your ability to inspire people, makes you well-suited for the task we are about to set before you."

"But every time I try to lead, people get hurt. I don't like being in a position of leadership, but people always seem to nominate me..."

"That's because they can see that spark of greatness within you. At this point, the only thing holding you back is your fear of failure."

"But... how am I supposed to defeat a god?"

"You yourself are not going to defeat him. At least...not alone. You are to gather together a group of Hunters, and lead them to battle. With your guidance, and the powers of Rune and Lutz which you will channel, they will triumph over Zionus."

"But he can obliterate us with a wave of his hand!"

"Yes, but we Espers have certain artifacts that can protect you when he invokes his pure divine power. With those, he will simply be an extremely powerful wizard. He will be unable to channel the power of the Great Light against you. Thus, you will be able to defeat him."

"I don't mean to be disrespectful...but why don't you do it yourselves? You Espers are far more powerful than any group of scrub Hunters I could pull together, and you actually know what you're dealing with."

"We are prevented from drawing arms against the Great Light, no matter if it's power has been usurped or not. As servants of the Light, we are bound with a geas to aid the Light, and do nothing to harm it. We can only offer indirect assistance, and knowledge. Lutz can intervene directly, but the power needs a host. We need your help as much as you need ours. If Zionus is not stopped, he will usher in a rule of tyranny across the universe. Once he discovers how to harness the full extent of his powers, he will be unstoppable. Any that oppose him will be purged. We must stop him before that happens!"

Sage sipped his tea. After hearing what Jadrek had to say, he was rather worried. I don't think I can do this... they're asking me to lead a group of Hunters against a god!

"I can see that you are worried, Jonas. Do not worry, Rune's power will aid you. We will also teach you to use your powers to their full extent. You have been going about it all wrong. If you do things the correct way, you will be exponentially more powerful, even without Rune's added strength. You are more capable than you allow yourself to believe. Are you ready to begin? Time is of the essence..."

Sage set down his cup, and stood. I guess I have no choice. I'd better hurry up and do this. At least when I fail... they'll know they have the wrong guy. Then they can find who they were really looking for. "Sure, Jadrek... let's go."

With another wave of his hand, Jadrek and Sage were transported to a snow-filled courtyard. Several evergreen trees are planted here and there, lightly covered with snow. Various statues and fountains are strewn about. Amazingly enough, even though there is snow everywhere, the water in the fountains is not frozen. It's a beautiful winter tableau. Snowbirds are flitting about in the bright sunshine, and a few rabbits are hopping around. Sunlight is beaming down gently upon the tranquil scene. Sage and Jadrek are near an ornate building that is sitting low to the ground.

"Inside this building is the Telepathy Orb, and the Circlet of Rune. You must go inside, alone. There is a test you must pass before you can be admitted to the inner sanctum. None can help you in this, because your opponent is your own fear. When you can conquer it, you will have proven yourself worthy. If you did not have such doubts, this would not be necessary. Believe in yourself, as trite as you think that sounds. Good luck, Jonas."

"Alright, Jadrek. Thanks. And...call me Sage, please?"

Jadrek smiled. "Very well, Sage. Enter the building, and begin your trials..."

Meanwhile, on Pioneer 2...

Ayame is approaching the apartment that Leah shares with X. Her heart is heavy with trepidation. Leah has no idea what has been going on, and she is dreading having to break the news to her. As she presses the call button, the door is opened almost immediately. "X!?... Oh, it's you Ayame. What the hell is going on?"

"I"m sorry, Leah. X was captured by Zionus, and he's being held under his control. I went after Zionus, 'cause I thought X was dead. It turns out he wasn't, but he's being controlled. He attacked me... and almost killed me."

Leah ushered her inside. Ayame was on the verge of tears. I saw that Zionus guy's broadcast with X. I wanted to think it was some kind of sick joke, but apparently it wasn't. Ayame looks awful... but she seems to have changed somehow. She's not referring to us as 'Aunt' and 'Uncle', anymore.

"Ayame, what happened. I saw the broadcast with Zionus, and I saw X. I though it was some kind of joke. We killed Zio. How did he return, and how did he get control of X?"

"He tapped into the power of some 'Great Light' thing. I'm not exactly sure what happened. An android got killed by him when Sage and X went to investigate."

"Do you mean your teacher, Sage? And where is he?"

"Yeah, he's my psychic teacher, that Elly assigned to me. Have you met him?"

"I think so... a long, long time ago. Anyway, where is he?"

"He went with this lady to find a way to beat Zionus. I can barely sense him, but I know he's alive. He'll find a way to beat Zionus, I'm sure of it!"

"Ok. What happened with X? And is that why you look so beat up? Did he give you that scar?"

"Yes. Zionus has complete control of his mind. X managed to stop himself right before he would've killed me, but I think Zionus punished him for it. I barely managed to escape."

"Are you okay, Ayame? I should've been there..."

"It's ok, Leah. I'll be fine. I just realized that I'm gonna have to grow up sometime. If you'd been there, you might've gotten hurt. You haven't practiced in years."

"Yeah, I guess you're right. I am a bit rusty. I wish I had Elsydeon again...that hunk 'a metal would come in really handy."

"Not this time, it wouldn't. Zio is filled with holy power. It wouldn't hurt him. We have to find another way..."

"Yes, I suppose you're right. Some android named Labyrinth is starting up a 'Resistance.' Maybe we should meet up with him. But anyway hon, that can wait. You look exhausted. Get some rest. You can stay here, if you want."

"Okies. Thank you, Leah. you cut my hair? I know that sounds odd, but it got all burned and stuff when I was fighting X."

"Sure, hon. And your spare clothes are upstairs in my room. Those look rather beat up."

After a nap,a bath, a haircut and a change of clothes, Ayame felt much better. Dressed in a red, black and blue full body suit, with a hat perched upon her now-short purple hair, she descended the stairs.

"Thanks, Aunt Leah. I feel a lot better now."

"Yeah, and I didn't charge you 10,000 meseta, either. Get some food, and we can see about getting in contact with Labyrinth and his 'Resistance.'

Sage stepped towards the ornate door of the building in front of him. He could see nothing inside it but darkness, but still he pressed onward. As he passed through the door, the light from outside fade, as the door seemed to disappear. Darkness filled his vision, and a cold finger of fear ran up his spine.Relax, you shouldn't be afraid of the dark, he told himself. The room began to gently glow, as hundreds of tiny runes scattered throughout the room began to give off a soft blue light. The light became reflected off of embedded crystals in the floor, walls and ceiling, filling the room with light. Within seconds, the room was lit as bright as day.

Sage could see a pool of clear bluish water contained in a stone basin inset into the floor in front of him, a few feet away. As he approached it, he could see his reflection in the pristine, glassy surface. Stepping closer, ripples began to pass through the water. His reflection looked up at him, then crossed its arms and regarded him with a smirk of derision. He was standing there, dumbfounded. His reflection seemed to have a mind of it's own! He backed up almost involuntarily, as something began to arise from the middle of the pool. Within seconds, what appeared to be his exact duplicate was hovering over the pool. It moved to solid ground, and descended with a muffled thud as its feet hit the ground. It appeared to be solid. Puzzled, Sage began to ask a question. Before he could open his mouth, his duplicate spoke for him.

"Hello, Sage. I am you. Well...I'm the you that you don't let out. I'm everything about your personality that you try to subsume, to control, to hide...I'm tired of your whining. I want Lutz's power, and I plan to get it. With that power, I could bring those Espers, and everyone else to their knees. I'm better than they are, and they know it. They just don't want to admit it...I just have to kill you, first. Then I can take control of our body, and go from there. Get ready to die, self!" The duplicate of Sage raised his hands and began charging a Foie spell. Without a word, he cast the ball of flame at the hastily dodging Sage.

"Why are you doing this?!"

"Because, you fool! You have the power and ability to rule over whatever you choose. You cripple yourself with self-doubt and your stupid morals. I'm tired of it. Now be a good boy, and die. People only exist to be used. You have the ability to use them, yet you deny it. Your inefficient use of resources is going to doom us all. So, I plan to fix the problem. By killing you." Sage's alter ego began casting a Gibarta technique, which Sage was barely able to avoid.

"I don't want to fight you."

"You have no choice. Kill me, or die. I'm not going to make this easy on you..."

I suppose I have no choice. I'll try a mindtouch. Sage thought, as he reached out with his powers. As his mind contacted the mind of the duplicate, he read feelings of hatred and a kind of despair. Pushing slightly, he enforced his will upon the doppelganger. Show your true self! You aren't real! Within seconds of his telepathic command, the clone disappeared, to be replaced by a floating ball of reddish light.

"Well done, Sage. I am an amalgamation of your negative emotions. You must pass my test, and master your emotions, before you are worthy to meet with Rune. Get ready, for this next test will be more hazardous!"

The ball of light transformed into Dante. "Why'd you let me fight Eriror, when you knew that I'd lose? Why'd you let me get hurt? I needed your guidance, and you let me down. You're a failure..."

"No, you're wrong! You are your own person. You should've been able to realize that fighting him was a mistake. I'm not your babysitter. Now begone! The real Dante has been telling me that for years. I just never let it sink in, because if I felt like I had to watch out for him, it made me feel important. He is my friend because he wants to be, not because he thinks he 'needs' me. You're going to have to do better than that!"

The amalgamation had drawn a sword and began to advance on Sage, yet his words drove it back. It dissolved into the red ball of light, but changed shape again.

The Dreamchasers stood before him, holding their weapons. "Well, it's nice to know you are a good babysitter. You still suck as a hunter, though. You only made it as a hunter because you had those two meatshields Dante and Eriror. You couldn't fight your way out of a paper bag. Let's show this fool how weak he really is!" Axios said, as the trio drew their weapons.

Sage's hastily erected telekinetic barrier managed to deflect Nova's first volley of gunfire, but before he could go on the offensive, Axios and Kiara rushed him. Pulling his staff from a capsule on his belt, he opened his mind. Reading the thoughts of his two attackers, Sage telekinetically guided his weapon to block the blows from Axios' Rokujou and Kiara's twin Kamuis. Wow, I didn't realize I could do this. I probably won't be able to keep it up for long, but...wait a minute! Yes, I can! I just have to relax, and let their thoughts guide me. If I can sustain a intergalactic psychic communication with someone with no gift for almost an hour, I can do this with no problems.

Unfortunately for him, his Striker did not hold up nearly as well. A strong hit from Rokujou sliced it in half. Weaponless, he backed away as Kiara and Axios closed in for the kill. Stepping to the side, he wondered why Nova hadn't continued firing. He has the ability to aim around his comrades. So why hasn't he? Looking to the side, he saw why. Nova had disappeared. A burst of gunfire from behind him showed his location. He had retreated into the shadows in an attempt to snipe him. The bullets barely missed him, putting a hole through the trailing sleeve of his robes.

As he stood, shocked, Axios leaped at him. Activating the capsule that he almost never touched, he drew his fake Agito from it's sheath. Dante had endeavoured to teach him swordsmanship, but had never gotten very far. With his newfound confidence in his mental abilities, he finally relaxed and let the attacks flow from a place deep within his mind. Seconds later, Axios' headless corpse was disappearing in a puff of smoke. Wow, I'm lucky these doppelgangers don't actually have the skill levels of their counterparts. I'd already be dead. Turning to Nova, he focused telekinetic energy with his free hand, and slammed him into a wall with all his might. He hit the wall and slumped, unconscious.

A Zonde bolt from Kiara hit him a split second later, temporarily paralyzing him as his muscles spasmed in protest. He slumped to his knees, unable to defend himself. As Kiara drew back her blades, he telekinetically seized her hands, slowing the cut as he burned out the pathetic copy of her mind the doppelganger created with a surge of psychic energy. Mindless, she managed only a shallow cut on his face before she too disappeared into a puff of smoke.

By this time, Nova had recovered from the telekinetic hit he had taken. He reached for his guns, and stood. "Well done, Sage. You're better than you let on. Why do you hide your combat abilities?"

"Because, I don't like to see people get hurt. However, sometimes it's unavoidable... I realize that now. I can't stop all violence, but being afraid to defend myself gets me nowhere." With this, he sheathed his 1983 Agito, and returned it to its capsule at his belt. "So, I'm assuming you want a duel? You never get to do that anymore, because everyone realizes you're too good."

"Very well. Ten paces, turn and fire. Let's do it..."

Nova and Sage met in the center of the room, and stood back to back. Each started walking, and when they'd counted off ten paces, they whirled simultaneously and fired. Nova's bullets scarred the wall, as Sage had used his telepathy to throw off his aim. His Red Handgun blast caught the fake Nova between the eyes, dispelling the illusion instantly.

Wow, these fakes are a lot weaker. Nova never just aims by eye, and his mind's immune to my telepathic suggestions. I think they're meant more as training tools than deadly challenges, though.

"So, what now? You don't seem to be that dangerous..."

"I am only as powerful as the control you let your emotions have over you. You seem to have found a new resolve. I salute you. Only a few more tests, now..."

Seconds later, the scene had changed to the familiar clearing in the forests of Ragol that haunted Sage's dreams to this day. His newly won confidence in himself evaporated. Oh no, not this... I can't beat Eriror. He's far too strong. I'd have to release all the limits on my powers. I might end up killing him if I completely let loose. No! I can't be afraid. If I fear the extent of my power, I'll never be able to control it.Besides, this is just an illusion. Lissandra was right. I have to trust myself. This illusion can be a useful test of my abilities.

Steeling himself for the inevitable, he watched the familiar figures of Dante, Eriror and the Dreamchasers fade in. The Dreamchasers were unconscious, and Dante was missing an arm. Eriror stood over him, holding the blood-stained Zanba. There was a feral look in his eyes, making him look more animal than man.

"I'm going to kill you, Sage. And you're powerless to stop me. Prepare to die!" With astonishing speed, Eriror raised his stolen blade and ran at Sage.

The scarlet glory of a brilliantly setting sun bathes the clearing in a reddish haze, making the leering visage of Eriror look all the more menacing as he approaches Sage, sword drawn. Sage is fighting two battles, one with his own emotions and one with Eriror. He's mostly dodging and blocking as the clumsy doppelganger stalks him.

I have to face him. I've ran from the responsiblity of my powers for long enough. Ever since I was a kid, I've held myself on a tight rein, afraid to learn the limits of my powers for fear I'd abuse them. I thought that if I just ignored them and blocked them away, I'd never inadvertantly hurt anyone ever again. But I was always placed in circumstances where I had to use them.

Sage dodged a swing that, if delivered by the real Eriror, would have cleaved him in two easily. He cast Jellen, then drew his katana. I have to end this soon. He's getting stronger as my doubts increase. I've kept him weak by not accepting this as real, but it is. If I can't beat him, I won't ever be able to believe I can do anything. I have to get past my failure.

He stabbed at the inferior copy as it whiffed another swing, and it dissipated.

"You did not fully face your fears, Sage. This trial will be restarted, and you will not run this time."

"Very well. I'm ready to face the real thing now..."I rationalized using my powers by saying I was helping people, but all the time I was only doing that so people would like me. I was constantly looking for approval from others, because I hated myself. I felt that if other people liked me because of my abilities, that I didn't have to hate myself. It's like I had to justify my existence against some external standard. I realize now that that's wrong. I'm going to see what I'm really capable of. Only then can I learn to control it.

An image of Dante appeared out of the pool. This one was as solid as the Dreamchasers, and seemed to be at full power.

Hmm...why isn't it Eriror?

"Hello, Sage. You've dreaded going back to the clearing, haven't you? It's not because you are afraid of Eriror, but because you are afraid of me. You're scared that if I'd thought about it, I wouldn't have saved you. You think that I hate you as much as Eriror did, huh? You're right. Prepare to die!"

Sage's worst fear had been revealed. As his best friend barreled towards him with murder in his eyes, Sage was frozen. He'd slipped up, and allowed the doppelganger to get too deeply inside his head. This memory could kill him...

Ayame was standing outside an rundown elevator. Her companion Lucca was working at the control panel, trying to get it to work. Ayame thought back on how she'd ended up here.

Leah and Ayame walked into the headquarters of the Resistance. Labyrinth greeted them, and ushered them back to his office.

"So, Labyrinth...you got our message?"

"Yes, Ms. Leah. You're interested in joining us, correct?"

"Yes. Zionus must be stopped... that madman is the last person that needs to be flinging around divine power."

"Yeah! He hurt Uncle X, and I barely escaped."

"You must be Ayame. I've heard that you fought Zionus on two separate occasions, and came out relatively unscathed. That's impressive for anyone, but for a little girl? Amazing!"

"I'm not a little girl! I'm sixteen..."

"That's...odd. You have the exterior of someone much younger."

Ayame blushed, and Leah looked furious. She's just a late bloomer...how dare he? Leah thought. Before she could open her mouth, Labyrinth spoke again.

"Ayame, have you heard of a man named Dr. Wimberline?"

Ayame had frozen at the sound of those words, as memories jumped unbidden to her mind. I remember the tube, and the nice man. He told me to leave, so I wouldn't get hurt. I don't remember much after that, until I woke up in the orphanage.

"N-n-n-never heard of him..." The nice man told me that the Doc wanted to put me back in the tube. I didn't want to, though...

"Hmm...anyway, we have discovered a lab where Dr. Wimberline carried out his research. There might be information that is valuable to the Resistance there, as he was researching advanced techniques. Would you accompany Lucca to check it out, Ayame?"

"Sure, Mr. Labyrinth. If it'll help defeat Zionus, I'll go." I wonder if the nice man is still there?

Leah spoke up, looking concerned. "I'm going to go too. I don't want anything to happen to you, Ayame."She looks terrified. I wonder what meaning that name has to her?

"It's ok Aunt Leah. I'll be fine. It's just an old lab. Besides, Lucca will be with me. She was the one who helped Mr. Sage when Zionus first appeared."

"Ok Ayame, but be careful."

"I will!" Ayame said brightly, as she left with Lucca, who had been standing behind Lab's desk researching the location of Wimberline's lab.

"So, what do you want me to do, Labyrinth? Is there any kind of strategy to defeating Zionus, or what?"

"We badly need combat instructors for our new members. Their fighting 'skills' are atrocious. I'll set you up with a training area and a class now, if you're ready."

Leah followed Lab out of the room, wondering why Ayame had looked so frightened at the mention of that name.

In the present... Lucca had suceeded in opening the elevator door. As she and Ayame stepped onto it, they were carried to a subterranean laboratory in a run down part of Pioneer 2.

"So, Ayame..." Lucca began. "Have you been here before?"

Before Ayame could answer, they were approached by a frazzled looking man in a white lab coat. Lucca had drawn a bead on him with her handgun, but lowered it as Ayame let out a squeal of glee and leaped at the man, embracing him tightly.

"Hahn! You're still here. I missed you so much. So much has happened..." she began to ramble on. The man known as Hahn interrupted her.

"Ayame, it's very good to see you. But we don't have time right now. Zionus is on his way here. We have to unleash your full potential. Without it, you won't stand a chance against him. Come with me, hon."

Ayame followed docilely behind as he led her to a large, transparent cylinder in the corner. The words 'Loranna Project' were engraved on a metallic band that circled the cylinder. Lucca watched them warily, as Ayame continued to chatter away.

"Ayame, step into the capsule please."

"Ok, Hahn." Ayame stepped lightly inside the open door, and it closed around her. The capsule filled with an amber liquid, and beam projectors studded at the top and bottom began to glow.

"What are you doing to her?" Lucca asked, a look of suspicion on her face.

"Ayame is a newman that was created to be the ultimate technique user. She was created in this lab by my former employer, Dr. Wimberline. She's come back several times throughout the years for treatments to keep her powers in check. Each time, we've released a bit more of the locks. However, we don't have the time to wait any longer. She needs her full power now, to stop Zionus. He's on his way here..."

With a loud hum, the machinery seemed to switch gears, as the capsule started to fill the room with soft amber light.

Lucca stared at Hahn, astonished.

"How did Zionus find this place? And what does he want with it?"

"Zionus controls the military. We are a project that has been closely observed by the military. Zionus is trying to wipe out any possible resistance to his rule."

"So, you said Ayame has had blocks in place this entire time. Why?"

"Because her power is incredible. If she can't control it, she's a danger to herself and others. We found that out the hard way..."

The capsule that Ayame is in is surrounded by a metal ring with an attached armature, and the energy projectors around the inside of the ring has begun to light up, as the entire apparatus moves up and down the capusle, seemingly irradiating Ayame.

Lucca followed Hahn over to a computer console. Glancing over his shoulder at the computer she began reading the information displayed there. It read:

----- Loranna Project Model 003 Designation: A Y A M E
Blocks: Currently at 60 and declining. Full block removal in progress.
Physical Status: Adolescence will begin when genetic block removal is at 50 block level. Mental capacity blocks will be removed at the same time. Adolescence has been delayed due to the increase in physical ability in entails.
Mental Status: Rapid conditioning in effect. Subject has shown acceptable resistance to violent urges. Advisable to release majority of blocks, with continued gradual conditioning.
Technique Status: At reaching of 50 block level, accquired techs will be purged for acquisition of advance level techs.

Block Release: Scheduled for complete block removal, over a gradual period. Genetic markers for ability blocks are currently being exposed to a certain frequency of energy that deactivates them.
------------------------------
"Well...she missed her last treatment, so I'm going to let her make that up, then release her for a bit to get accustomed to it. Releasing all the blocks at once would be rather disturbing to her. Are you a friend of hers?"

Hahn turned from the computer, and walked to a heavily reinforced door set into the wall. Removing a silver, metallic case, he set it down on a nearby table.

"Yes, sort of. She's helping us fight Zionus."

"Good. He's a pyschopath."

"So, Mr. Hahn. What's in the case?"

"We have been developing techniques that far surpass the normal levels currently in use. Under the current ranking system, the techniques we've developed would be classified at around level 50. When she's done with her treatment, I'm going to let her use these. "

"Why haven't these techniques been mass-marketed?"

"Because, no normal being could assimilate and use them. Ayame is special. We created her to be the ultimate technique user."

"What do you mean by that? And...didn't you say Zionus knows where you are? Shouldn't you hurry...?"

"Haha. First of all...Zionus' forces won't be here for at least another hour. By that time, all evidence from the project will have been destroyed, and Ayame will be fully-powered. As for the meaning of 'ultimate technique user... we used genetic material from a legendary being named Loranna. We altered it, combining it with what we new about energy manipulation, and created a prototype named Danielle. Unfortunately, the sheer power available to her drove her insane. She ended up killing herself, nearly destroying many people in the process."

"Wow, so how did you get Ayame from this...?"

"We cloned Danielle before she was destroyed, and added in genetic blocks during synthesis. We also developed a training and conditioning program to minimize the homicidal urges. We began to release the blocks at set intervals. Ayame's physical and emotional growth was tied to the growth of her powers. This is why, even at 16, she looks and acts several years younger. She will likely be different-looking when she steps out of the capsule. The fluid inside there is a hyper-nutriitive, and the beams of energy are releasing the blocks. The green pulses of energy that follow the yellow are a growth-accelerating beam. She is basically maturing seven or so years in a matter of thirty minutes. Her transformation should be complete soon..."

Just then an alarm sounded.

"Oh no! That's an alarm hooked up to a surveillance system located in Zionus' stronghold. His troops are on the move. I have to speed this up. Ayame at half power won't stand much of a chance."

"I'm going to contact the Resistance. We may need her power, and they can help us."

"I'm going to release the blocks on her powers. I hate to do this, but we don't have the time to let her grow into her powers. She's going to need to be able to defend herself. I can only hope that she's learned enough self-control to not snap..."

"Can't you move the equipment to our base?"

"There's no time! The only copy of the equipment is here. All the plans are stored on the computer, and it's set to wipe itself in an hour. It's protected against copying."

"So there really is not choice? Very well. I've contacted the Resistance. Backup should be arriving soon."

"Alright. I'm going to release all the blocks, but I don't have time to speed-mature her. She's going to have to grow up normally from now on."

Hahn walked back to the computer, and began typing in a complex series of codes. Lucca looked at the screen:

WARNING! HIGH-LEVEL ACCESS REQUIRED!

----- Loranna Project Model 003 Designation: A Y A M E
Blocks: Currently at 50 and holding.
Physical Status: Adolescence has been reached.
Mental capacity blocks up to approximate age 16 have been removed.
Mental Status: Rapid conditioning completed. Mental strength currently at 1.5 times the normal maximum for a Female Newman Force.
Technique Status: Learned techniques purged, barring Anti, Ryuker and Reverser.

Block Release: Completed.

Password required for further block release.

Password accepted.

Enter command:
------------------------------

The computer screen is now flashing an angry red.

WARNING!
The command just entered will result in the release of all blocks on the power of the subject. Are you sure you want to continue? Y/N

Yes.

Status: Blocks on power of Project Loranna Subject-
A Y A M E being released. Accelerated growth will not occur, due to conflicts with the self-destruct timer. Subject will mature physically normally. Block release will be completed in 30 seconds...

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"Ayame should be released from the capsule in approximately 30 seconds. I need to prepare the techs for her."

Hahn walked over to the case, and began to remove several red boxes.

"They look like the 'rare-class' equipment found from Pioneer One."

"Yes, we thought it was fitting. The techniques on these disks are far more powerful than the 'rare-class' weaponry."

"What techniques are there?"

"Simple and Strong Level techs, from the Foie, Zonde and Barta series. We skipped making intermediate level techniques, because the other two levels are more efficient. The simple techs (Foie, Zonde and Barta) are for single targets, and the Ra(strong) level techs are for multiple targets."

"What about the Gi-level series?"

"Ayame doesn't like them, and channeling this much power into an area-effect spell causes it to be very efficient. The Ra-level techs manage to distribute the power without a loss in efficiency, but trying to focus them at the Gi-level causes them to be either far too slow to cast, or uncontrollable. It's more a preference thing."

"Oh, that sort of makes sense. Is it just the elemental spells, or what?"

"We also developed powerful versions of Grants, Megid, Shifta, Deband, Jellen, Zalure and Resta. Since most technique users can hold up to 16 techniques, we developed three unique ones."

Just then, an alarm near the capsule went off.

"The releasing of the blocks is finished. We just have to wait for her to wake up."

"What are the three unique techs?"

"The three unique techs are Hex, a technique that lowers energy resistance to elemental damage by about a third; Curse, a technique that causes various status ailments on an enemy, and Shadow Flare, a powerful blast of energy that does non-elementally-alligned damage."

"Sounds interesting. How long will it take for Ayame to wake up, and how long will it take Zionus to get here?"

"About a minute, and about fifteen minutes, respectively.

"Ok. The Resistance can moblize in about twenty minutes. Should we just vacate the lab after Ayame wakes up?"

"Yes, because the self-distruct is going to be activated in twenty-five minutes. I can't stop it at this point."

Ayame began to stir inside the capsule. It is difficult to see more than a vague silhouette through the opaque yellow plastic.

"She's waking up. Do me a favor, and grab those tech disks." Hahn produced a Trimate and a Trifluid from his pocket, and headed towards the capsule.

The door to the capsule opened with a soft 'hiss' of escaping gases. Ayame reached out her hand, then used it to pull herself from the restraints inside. As she stepped out, the changes that had been wrought were readily apparent. She was a bit taller, and in general more adult-looking...in all areas. Her clothing was stretched to the breaking point in certain places, due to her suddenly adult body. Hahn grabbed a capsule from the table, and tossed it to her.

"There's a change of clothes in there. AFter you change, I'm going to show you the new techs."

"Alright. I have a question, though... I knew I was going to grow up, but why are my clothes so much tighter around my chest and hips than anywhere else?" Her voice has changed, from a high-pitched little-girl squeak to a slightly husky alto.

Ayame walks behind a curtain, and presumably begins to change.Seconds later, a shriek is heard.

"Aaah! I look like Auntie Leah. I have those bumps on my chest like her, and my waist is really small, yet my butt's bigger. My legs are all long all out of proportion, and I have hair growing in funny places. Is this normal?"

"Yes, Ayame. We accelerated your growth in the capsule. You went through puberty while you were in there, and that's why your body is differently proportioned now. You are also quite a bit stronger physically, too. And the blocks on all your mental abilities have been released."

"Yay! Now I can beat up Zionus. But wait... I can't cast any of my techs. What happened?" As she said this, she stepped out from behind the curtain, dressed in a black miniskirt,shorts and bodice with blue and purple trim.Black stockings and black platform shoes complete the outfit. Her hair is long, and a slightly darker shade of purple. It hangs freely down her back.

Hahn handed her the technique disks, and with several bright flashes of energy they were activated and assimilated.

"Wow, thanks Mr. Hahn! I can't wait to try them out. I feel kinda weak, though..."

"You are drained from the transformation. Use these, and it'll help you regain your strength."

He hands her the Trifluid and Trimate, and seconds later she is restored to full capacity.Luckily for her, because the far wall of the lab suddenly bursts inward, propelled by a loud explosion. Zionus' troops were ahead of schedule...

A group of 15 soldiers armed with Rifles and garbed in white uniforms bursts into the laboratory. At the head of the group is X, strolling confidently through the hole in the wall. He opens his mouth, and Zionus' voice can be heard, as the demi-god speaks through him.

Infidels! You have attempted to defy me, and now you will be judged. Soldiers, kill them all, and take what you can from the lab. X retreats backwards to observe, moving at a sedate pace as his every move is controlled by Zionus.

The soldiers crowd into the room, and level their rifles.

"Surrender, and your deaths will be painless. Resist, and they will not."

Ayame raises her hand, and rapidly casts a Jellen spell on the group of soldiers. The powerful spell weakens most of them to the point where they cannot hold up their rifles. As their weapons clatter to the ground, she steps forward, her body fairly glowing with technique energy. Another wave of her hand, and Lucca, Hahn and herself are filled with strength as her super-powered Shifta and Deband spells take effect. One soldier that had been able to hang onto his rifle managed to get a shot off at Hahn. It hit him, but with the combined power of the Jellen and Deband spells, it did nothing.

Seconds later, that unfortunate soul was the first to taste Ayame's boosted Foie technique. His body was consumed in flame for a second, and he dropped to the floor.

Oh, wow...I didn't mean to hurt him. My techniques really are boosted. I need to be careful.

"Lucca, Mr. Hahn... you need to get out of here. Go back to the Resistance and tell them what's happening. I'll take care of these guys."

"But Ayame, you may need our help." Lucca protested.

"I'm sorry Ms. Lucca, but you don't stand a chance against Uncle X. The only reason I'm even here is because of the power boost I just got. I have a score to settle with him. Oh, and don't try to telepipe out. The lab, and the surrounding block is shielded by an interference generator. When the self-destruct goes off, that will go away. If you still need to telepipe out when that goes off, though...you won't be here. It's going to be a massive explosion. Now run, you guys. I can hold them off for now!"

Lucca and Hahn quickly escaped out the rear door of the lab. The soldiers stepped forward menacingly, but recoiled in fear as Ayame began to charge up.

"You know, I'm glad you guys showed up. I needed to test out my new powers."

With that, she cast her new technique, Hex. A wave of eldritch blue energy flowed off of her body, coalescing into a ring that spread through the room. Mystic symbols appeared under each soldier's feet, glowing faintly.

"Ha, little girl...what are you trying to do?"

"First off, mister...I'm not a little girl anymore. I have chest bumps like Auntie Leah, and that makes me at least a teenager now. Second...I've lowered your resistance to energy. You get to pick which way you want to get blasted. Fire, lightning or ice?"

"Hah, get her!"

Three of the soldiers drew Gladiusi, and charged her. One was turned into a pile of ashes with Foie, one was electrocuted to death with Zonde, and the third managed to swing at Ayame before he was turned into a solid block of ice with Barta. As he was swing was slightly unbalanced, he fell to the floor seconds after he was frozen, shattering into myriad pieces as he made contact.

"Oops! I'm really sorry about that. These new techs are more powerful than I thought."

The remaining soldiers closed in, readying their weapons.

Ayame is really enjoying herself. The soldiers seem to have gone to the cliche-bad-guy academy of ineptitude, as they continue to attack her in small groups. As the next group of three attempt to attack her with Rippers, she casts Razonde, dropping tehm to the ground. The massivesurge of electricity is not quite enough to be lethal, but they are immobilized as every muscle in their body seizes up. Small sparks of electricity run off of their bodies as the remain helpless on the ground.

X is watching with a blank stare on his face. Zionus is observing the situation through his eyes. Hmm...my troops are not as skilled as I was told. That mistake will have to be rectified. This girl is incredibly powerful. I did not think she was a threat when X failed to kill her. Apparently, I was wrong...

Zionus observes Ayame blasting another group of three soldiers with Megid. The humongous ball of roiling purple smoke passes through them with a dull thud, dropping them instantly to the ground as their bodies are shut down.

The next group of soldiers shows a bit more coordination, but they are swiftly blasted into oblivion by a superpowered Rafoie tech.

She casts as quickly as a one who is trained in barehanded casting. Females typically are much more efficient in channeling energy through a weapon. She truly is the 'ultimate tech user'. I will have to have X kill her. She could be very dangerous.

Ayame hits the next three idiots (oops, I mean soldiers) with a chilling blast of Rabarta, freezing them solid.

"I'm sorry. You'll thaw out eventually. Eventually being in a couple of days. However...with the self-destruct timer going, you may not be able to. You should have thought of that before you joined up to kill people for a wannabe god."

The last four regular troops and their leader decide to make a concentrated effort, and all attack Ayame at once. Boosted by her spells, she blocks the first attackers Partisan swing with her bare hand, and retaliates with a kick to the temple that drops him to the ground. The second manages to swing his Calibur once, narrowly missing her as the familiar sparkles of light that signify a coming Grants technique gather around him. As he prepares his second swing, arrows of light blast him, and his body is consumed in a beam of light.

he two remaining soldiers cower by their leader, frightened by the effortless defeat of their comrades. The leader produces a Diska of Braveman, and sends a energy blade at Ayame. It grazes her face as it passes, leaving a tiny cut.

"Ow, you big meanie! That hurt!Before she can retaliate, one of the remaining troopers draws a pair of mechguns and begins blasting at her. To his shock and amazement, she begins deflecting his blasts bare-handed.

"Hey, this is fun!" Focusing her energy, she reaches telepathically into his mind. Controlling his aim, she commands him to fire. A telekinetic redirecting of his blasts ensues, and the energy is returned to him at full force. He drops like a stone under the energy onslaught.

One soldier, the lieutenant and X are left standing. The grunt can't take it anymore. He had come to serve his god, and had ended up fighting a demon. He gets three feet before his body is consumed in a wave of dark energy that emanates from an arcane circle formed under his feet by Ayame. "Shadow Flare!" she cries, as beams of dark energy form a cage around him. Crisscrossing beams of purple energy shoot from one 'bar' of the cage to the other, lancing through him. It appears to cause him no pain, but the explosion of purple light that is centered on him a second later is accompanied by a horrendous scream. As the arcane circle dissipates, a pile of ash is all that is left.

The lieutenant steps forward, but Ayame raises her hand to stop him."I'm tired of having to hurt people. Curse!" A bright flash of purple energy comes off his body, similar in all but color to Anti. As the dark power consumes him, he is paralyzed, poisoned, confused, slowed and shocked, rendering him harmless. His mind is destroyed, and he curls up into the fetal position on the floor, whimpering softly.

I don't really like these new techniques.They all seem rather mean...

X approaches her, drawing his sword menacingly. Zionus speaks through him, "Girl, you escaped the first time. This time however...you die!"

X stabs at Ayame viciously with a lightning-enhanced sword, using his trademark Raitonken attack. Ayame dodges, and reacts by blasting him in the face with Foie. He slides backwards, but is relatively unharmed.

"Fear me, girl! I have rendered him immune to your pitiful attacks. Your demise is at hand."

"Oh yeah? Well...eat this!" Ayame casts Shadow Flare, imprisoning X within a cage of arcane energy."The backlash from your link with X will hurt you, and that's pure darkness energy. What you are weak against... You wanna break the link now, big guy?"

Gah, foolish mortal! I am still too weak to be spuriously taking damage. X's abilities alone should be able to defeat her.

Zionus released the link, and X was immediately consumed in a wave of dark energy. When it subsided, he looked a bit worse for wear. Unfortunately for Ayame, the upper part of his clothing had been destroyed. The lower part was miraculously untouched by the dark energy, but his upper body was seemingly scorched.

Oh, great. Uncle X always gets really mad when his shirts are messed up. Usually, he beats the crap out of whoever did it. I may have a problem...

Ayame begins to blast various forms of elemental energy at the now shirtless(-power boosted) X. A furious battle ensues, with each combatant taking as good as they give. X's strikes are less damaging than Ayame's techs, but he connects far more often. The battle rages throughout the room, until Ayame makes a fatal error. She stops to glance at the self-destruct timer, having forgotten that the lab around her was due to explode soon. Two minutes, oh no! I need to..."Aah!"

The "Aah" was brought about by X dashing over to her in the split-second that her concentration was broken. A searing pain erupted in Ayame's chest, and she looked down. X's sword was embedded in her chest. She suddenly felt very cold, despite the warmth that was gushing out of her very rapidly. Before she could cast Resta, Zionus clamped down on her technique powers savagely, draining her of her energy. As the world around her went black, she slumped to her knees. X withdrew his sword, and stood over her with a pained look on his face.

"Uncle... you...stabbed...me. Why...?" Ayame lost consciousness, falling onto her back, her limbs splayed out like a rag doll as her life's blood pumped from the hole in her chest.

The timer on the self-destruct read a minute and a half as Zionus commanded X to leave the lab. Sheathing his sword, he slowly turned and walked away, leaving Ayame's limp body inside the doomed lab...