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Post by therunawaygirl on Aug 20, 2019 16:07:38 GMT -5
"Hmm..." Alice stretched a bit, while turning to face Kujo, "If there is a way to find out, I'd like to know as well. But unfortunately... Nothing on the databanks leads to a conclussive answer. I'm sorry..." "..." M'Lyn remained silent, thinking, "If we knew of a way to determine the reason of why the Heartless are so rapidly spreading... That would solve more than just this issue." "Yeah... It'd help to avoid major issues back home. And in Eorzea... If they ever show up." "We have enough with the primals..." "Huh, looks like y'all are done here."
By the edge of the corridor, Jack was leaning with a smirk, and arms crossed. Alice stood up rather forcefully, shocked to see her brother back so quick. M'Lyn, on the other hand, remained calm, and even looked stoic as for his sudden appearance. Jack tossed M'Lyn her com back, now fixed and ready to go.
"That was... Quick..." Alice said, dumbstruck. "Eh, the chip just needed a replacement" Jack shrugged, "Everythin' else was just peachy." "So? Is there something you'd like to say?" M'Lyn asked. "Not to you, that's for sure!"
Chuckling a bit, Jack regained his balance, and walked towards Kujo with a hint of glee. He hadn't heard what they were about, but he had an idea. After all, working with Kujo helped establish a few things straight, such as his constant hatred towards the Heartless. But could he blame him, when the Heartless were already a nuisance to Jack from the beggining?
"I dunno what it is you asked for and everything, but I'm damn sure that you got the answers you wanted, eh?" Jack teased, "And it wouldn't surprise me if you learnt of other things while you were at it... After all, Heartless themselves break the World Order, so nothin' to do there..." "I'm sorry... It was my fault..." "Don't be, sis. Even if you hadn't told him, I would've. It's not against policy, so long as they cooperate with us. 'Sides, wasn't a mission." "...Right..." "So, Kujo... If you got more to ask, shoot. But doesn't have to be 'bout Heartless. I did say that our info on 'em is quite limited, and we're still tryin' to find out more" Jack said as he waltzed around, "I don't mind a casual convo every now and then, y'know. Like... I wouldn't say 'friends', less you say it, but I would consider us partners."
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Post by hoodwink on Aug 20, 2019 17:11:02 GMT -5
Kujo’s face remained stoic and serious as Alice admitted to not having any information as to what was causing the abundance in Heartless in his city—er, world. Damn…so we’re at a dead end. Inconvenience was a small price to pay, though, the conversation had given him an idea. ”Huh, looks like y’all are done here.” Jack’s voice broke the conversation, causing all eyes to turn. It seemed whatever repairs had to be done were complete, as Jack gave M’Lyn back her com. He’s really handy with all this tech. Kujo had fundamental knowledge of most technology on his own world, the tech Jack was working with could be composed of anything, though.
Just where were they from, he wondered? ”So, Kujo…if you got more to ask, shoot.” It seemed the banter was at an end, as Jack brought the conversations back on track. ”I don’t mind a casual convo every now and then, y’know. Like…I wouldn’t say ‘friends’, less you say it, but I would consider us partners.” Kujo’s eyebrows raised a bit as his emerald gaze scrutinized Jack. What angle was he aiming at, here? Casual…conversation? What was the point in that, at a time like this? Being a bit too serious and literal for his own good, Kujo glanced between the trio that stood before him. ”Partners—huh?”
If they didn’t have any information on what was drawing the Heartless here, maybe he could pick their brains about what patterns they’ve noticed from other worlds, specifically their own. ”These ‘Heartless’…are they also on all of your own worlds?” His eyes glanced between the three, wondering what sort of methods their own homes may have used against these demons. Any sort of intel would help. There was a stern determination in him, one that forced him to squeeze out any bit of information he could, there was someone he had to protect here.
Regardless of the information he received, his new plan was to find whatever it was that was luring these demons to his home.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Aug 20, 2019 18:49:33 GMT -5
Jack crossed his arms, tilting his head a bit. Kujo's question threw him for a loop, that was a given. Had the Heartless been in his world? He never knew, but he didn't discard the possibility, considering the current crisis his world was in...
"At least, I haven't seen 'em back home" Jack replied, "Then again, it's been quite some time. And considering that HQ does appreciate Heartless intel, I can only guess that there have been sightings here and there... Doesn't surprise me, considerin' the state of our home right about now. Not that I'll tell ya" Jack winked, "That part, for me, is a bit too troublesome to explain, so... I'll skip details." "I never saw them in Eorzea, either" M'Lyn replied, "And being honest, we already have enough with the monsters and primals... I doubt the Twelve would even fathom to allow such a threat in our already perilous home..." "...Ya lookin' for a pattern?" Jack asked with a smirk, "Sorry to say that we lack that much. Even taking into account recent events, Heartless don't seem to have a pattern we're aware of. But there is a reason for HQ to give us added goals." "True" Alice replied, "If they're asking for us to look into it, odds are that we're either about to, or currently facing the Heartless, and therefore, they need methods to either keep them at bay or remove them completely. For now... We're doing what we can."
Jack stretched, and looked around for a bit. He finished by glancing at Kujo, stoic as usual. He smirked, knowing that he was like that. But a smile wouldn't hurt every now and then, would it?
"Say... Considerin' the time of day 'n' all, shouldn't you be someplace else?" he asked, curious, "I dunno your agenda, pal. And at the very least, you know ours. Wouldn't hurt to tell, would it?" "Although our agenda is nothing more than just wandering about while gathering intel..." M'Lyn mumbled. "I can always give you a spare com to keep in touch. We don't plan on leavin' anytime soon, not after what we saw. And 'sides, I'm damn sure there's plenty more to find out."
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Post by hoodwink on Aug 21, 2019 0:53:15 GMT -5
”I haven’t seen ‘em back home. Then again, it’s been quite some time.” Wherever Jack and Alice were from, it seems they hadn’t seen their own home in a while. For a moment, Kujo wondered how long they had been away, traveling to other worlds and getting into messes like these. ”I never saw them in Eorzea, either, and being honest, we already have enough with the monsters and primals…” Wherever M’Lyn was from, it seemed it was teeming with enemies outside of the Heartless. That explains her ferocity in battle… Weaponsmaster, huh? No doubt M’Lyn had gathered such skills from her own home world, then.
”Ya lookin’ for a pattern? Sorry to say that we lack that much. Even taking into account recent events, Heartless don’t seem to have a pattern we’re aware of.” It seemed his hope of connecting some dots wouldn’t work out. Kujo’s jaw clenched in irritation. These ‘Heartless’ were proving to be more annoying than he had imagined. Alice affirmed Jack’s statement, only cementing the uncertainty of it all. ”Say…Considerin’ the time of day ’n all, shouldn’t you be someplace else?” The sudden comment caught Kujo off guard, who was only too aware of the passing sun in the sky. Already dawn had broken and the morning had begun.
M’Lyn’s comment at Jack’s agenda caused Kujo to smirk, he had grown accustomed and appreciative towards these two’s banter. ”I can always give you a spare com to keep in touch. We don’t plan on leavin’ anytime soon, not after what we saw.” For some reason, Kujo felt relief knowing that Jack and his crew would be remaining on his world. Perhaps the daunting task that lied ahead had stressed him out more than he had realized? ”Sure—I’ll keep in touch.” He wondered how the com he would receive worked. Jack had tons of advanced tech up his sleeve—truthfully, Kujo was rather curious to study it himself.
”As for my agenda—“ His gaze turned towards the exit of the room, his mind made up. ”—I’ll be finding their source.”
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Post by therunawaygirl on Aug 21, 2019 14:47:49 GMT -5
The trio smiled. Jack chuckled a bit, amused, as he handed Kujo a spare com. It was nothing big or unusual, really -just a small earpiece, similar to an earphone in shape, the ones someone would plug to their phone or music player, but had a clear button as its only detail.
"These coms are all connected" Jack explained, "It ain't too hard to use 'em. Just press the button whenever you wanna reach us. That'll turn your mic on, so long as you hold it down. Since they're all connected, you can reach M'Lyn, Alice or me at any time." "And in case you find anything, let us know" M'Lyn said, "Not only I ask because of our goal, but we also want to help. It may not look like it, but we do take pride in helping." "Of course, not out of charity!" Jack finished with glee, "But M'Lyn's right: I ain't the type to sit down and watch as others may or may not need help. Ya never know!"
Alice had opened the door for Kujo to leave whenever he wanted. Thankfully, it didn't seem like anyone had noticed the Almira yet, which meant that the coast was clear, and Kujo would most likely avoid being seen.
"Well then... Whenever you wanna go, door's right behind ya" Jack said, winking, "And I'll be damned if I don't see ya 'round again, ya hear? Don't get cocky!" "Like you could even follow your own advice..." Alice muttered, causing M'Lyn to chuckle.
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Post by hoodwink on Aug 21, 2019 18:30:56 GMT -5
Kujo caught the small com device that Jack tossed, noting the small design that was easily disguised as a headphone. ”These coms are all connected—it ain’t too hard to use ‘em. Just press the button whenever you wanna reach us.” Kujo glanced over his shoulder at the guy, a small grin on his lips as he nodded. He really was reliable, he had to admit. ”And in case you find anything, let us know. Not only I ask because of our goal, but we also want to help.” Kujo listened to M’Lyn while putting the earpiece on. While Alice opened the door to the spacecraft, Kujo waved as he began to walk out of the building.
”I’ll be damned if I don’t see ya ‘round again, ya hear? Don’t get cocky!” Jack’s parting words, followed by Alice’s quip and M’Lyn’s laughter, caused Kujo to smile as he walked out of the Almira, though he didn’t turn around. As the door closed behind him, Kujo descended the small ramp that allowed him to set foot on the roof of the impossibly tall sky scraper he stood on. For a moment, his emerald eyes scanned the vast city, the sun of midday shining down on him. Damn—I can’t believe how much time has passed! They had been out all night and most of the morning. Surprisingly, Kujo didn’t feel tired.
Maybe it was due to all of the events and information that had transpired? Keeping his hands in his pockets, Kujo stepped off of the tall building, plummeting in a free fall passed the glass structure. During the free fall, Kujo’s face remained as calm and stoic as ever, his hands still in his pockets. Hm…I wonder where the source is… He’d have to start by finding larger sources of Heartless. M’Lyn and Alice had said they typically resided further away from people. A shining light surrounded Kujo as his Akogare appeared behind him.
Grabbing the tall man bridal style, the being of light hovered directly in the air above the sidewalk before Kujo could meet an untimely end. It’s translucent wings fluttered slightly as the muscular being placed Kujo on the ground, not a hair out of place. Brushing off the shoulders of his jacket, he glanced up towards the roof. Hopefully they’ll tell me if they find anything before I do… They were trustworthy, so he wouldn’t stress too much about it. Walking down the sidewalk and turning the corner, the sounds of cars and street carts as well as people flooded his senses.
The city was alive and awake, bustling with motion as countless individuals walked to either work, meet up with people or maybe even just running errands. Kujo had performed his stunt on the backside of the building to avoid the attention, missing the silence of the small alleyway he had appeared from already. Sighing a bit, the man kept his hands in his pockets as he shouldered his way through the crowd at his own pace. His emerald eyes were set forward, a determined fire blazing within them. He was heading towards the more desolate parts of the city, the areas he had used to know all too well.
The underground areas were teeming with darkness, after all.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Aug 21, 2019 20:36:16 GMT -5
The group watched as Kujo left, Alice quickly closing the door and turning to face her brother, while M'Lyn decided to leave for a bit in order to take a break in her room. Jack, on the other hand, sat down in his chair, and sighed with relief. Now things could go a bit smoother... Having an ally in that world that was willing to help them took a significant weight off his shoulders.
"Alright... Let's get going, then" Alice said, focusing on the ship's engine and other things, "Jack?" "Yeah -let's take off. We can't stay in this area for too long" Jack replied, "If Kujo wants to meet, we'll have to set a new rendezvous point..."
"Well, you did give him a regular com, right? Don't they have a map included?" "I mean... Ya think I'd give him a regular com? I just didn't tell him how it worked completely, 'cause, honestly, there's no need. You can just display the screen for him, can't ya?" "Hehe... True. If it becomes necessary, then sure!"
The Almira took off without a sound, and high up enough for no one to notice it. It helped that it was a white ship, meaning that it was not very visible in broad daylight. Jack displayed his screen via his com, and tapped away in his wrist's keyboard, sorting out the info he had gathered so far, and passing it to the ship's databanks. He stopped shortly after seeing the video that had been recorded while he first fought alongside Kujo, when he first saw his Akogare. The video had been recorded unbeknowst to them, due to the sudden high readings the sensor had detected. Jack's com was the most sensible of coms the Brigade had...
"Hmm... I really gotta wonder what that is..." Jack hummed. "You mean Kujo's Akogare?" Alice asked, typing away on her own keyboard, "I have to admit -it's a pretty interesting subject. But no matter where I looked, nothing even similar popped up..." "It ain't common here, and it ain't common back home, either. This thing's got something else..." "Say... It wouldn't be him drawing the Heartless' sudden attention, would it?" "Maybe... How much did you tell him?" "Almost everything we have." "...Almost everything?" "Well... I couldn't exactly move the conversation towards what people's 'lights' are able to do... Do you think he'd notice?" "If anything happens, you've gotta explain it. It ain't as simple as it may look first-glance." "I know... Oh, I know! I can just do this!"
"Hey, Kujo? There's one thing I forgot to mention to you... Do you have time?" Alice asked through his com, calm and optimistic.
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Post by hoodwink on Aug 21, 2019 22:04:01 GMT -5
A group of tall muscular men lay beaten on the pavement, all unconscious spread out sporadically. Hmph. I didn’t even use my powers on them. Kujo walked through the alleyway, dimly lit by what little sunlight it got. Already there had been countless thugs and pickpockets that tried to approach him—unfortunately none of them recognized him from his fighting arena days. Dealing with lowlives was quick work, as they typically never had too much power and skill. Already Kujo had covered quite some distance, having left the more popular areas of the city, delving into its deeper heart.
Here there were countless criminals the vagabonds, all looking for a fight as Kujo had made his way through countless streets. It wasn’t that he had any special idea—he was just following his gut feeling. Something was drawing him this way, so he figured he might as well go with it. An image of his mother flashed in his mind, causing him to grit his teeth. Bang! His fist pummeled the nearest trashcan, launching it into the alleyways brick wall. Sighing with a modicum of relief, Kujo continued to press onward. She’ll have to wait and worry, damn it. He didn’t have time to stop home and feed his mother some lie. What he was doing was for her sake. She’d have to remain safe at home.
”Hey, Kujo? There’s one thing I forgot to mention to you…do you have time?” Alice’s voice rang in his ear from the com device he wore. The sudden voice had caused his eyes to dart around, searching for the source. He had almost forgotten he was wearing the thing. He pressed down on the button, his voice as serious and stoic as ever. ”Yeah—I got time.” Kujo continued to walk through the alleyway, his fists in his pockets as his vibrant silhouette marched further into the turmoil of the city. Some people lay drunk or passed out in the street, causing him to have to use his long legs to step over them. His face twisted into a grimace.
He didn’t miss this part of town.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Aug 22, 2019 7:25:56 GMT -5
"Good! Looks like the com is working just fine, too!" Alice cheered, "So, there's one thing I forgot to mention to you before -about the Heartless, and how they avoid people's 'light'? Well... There are some exceptions as to that rule... As you already know, Heartless are drawn to other people's hearts. But... It's almost as if they target specific hearts whenever they find one. I'm not making any conclusions, but you and your Akogare might be the reason as for why the Heartless are here. Even if that's not the case, they're certainly drawn towards you, because of how strong your 'light' is. I'd suggest you be careful in this regard."
Alice then began to look around through her screen, as she'd manage to pinpoint Kujo's location, albeit without 100% accuracy. Because of the incident with M'Lyn, they had been unable to draw a precise map of San Fransokyo, which would be an issue if things got rough.
"If you don't mind, I'll be tracking your com for the time being" Alice explained, "If there are any Heartless nearby, I'll warn you. After all... It's quite reckless to fight without knowing how strong your opponent is. And some Heartless are definitely no slouch." "..." Jack simply listened, with a faint frown, "If the Heartless are drawing towards him because of his Akogare, then... They'd never leave..." "But that reason seems unlikely" Alice shook her head, "Because I'm pretty sure that reports began way before that... Then again..." Alice turned to face Jack, "We don't know when exactly Kujo got this power, so..." "Well, why don't you ask 'im?" "..." Alice turned back to the screen, "Kujo? When was it that you first noticed your Akogare? It might help clearing out some options here... As for why the Heartless are in this world."
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Post by hoodwink on Aug 22, 2019 10:57:22 GMT -5
As Alice cheered over the com device, Kujo couldn’t help but smirk a bit as he skulked down the alleyway. That girl… She was certainly cut from a different cloth. Even her personality shone of brilliance. ”So, there’s one thing I forgot to mention to you before—about the Heartless, and how they avoid people’s ‘light’?” Kujo didn’t bother to nod or say anything, as it seemed Alice was starting a roll. As she explained to him how Heartless are drawn towards specific individual’s light, Kujo thought back to the fight he had helped Jack and M’Lyn in against the gigantic dinosaur Heartless. Was that why such a powerful one was there…? If the Heartless were drawn to strong hearts filled with light, then the three of them together would look like a smorgasbord.
Alice mentioned the possibility of his Akogare being a target or source behind the Heartless’ appearance as well, though Kujo knew this couldn’t wholly be the case. He hadn’t gotten his Akogare until the Heartless had arrived already. Nonetheless, she’s probably right about them being drawn to me… The thought didn’t fill him with fear or dread, but instead gave him confidence as he formulated a new plan. ”If you don’t mind, I’ll be tracking your com for the time being. If there are any Heartless nearby, I’ll warn you. After all…It’s quite reckless to fight without knowing how strong your opponent is.” Alice was quite perceptive, he himself thought along similar lines.
Back when he had been fighting for a living, one of his greatest strengths had been perceiving his opponent. Learning about them, finding their weaknesses and strengths, anything that gave an advantage. Unfortunately, it didn’t seem he could really do that with the Heartless. ”Kujo? When was it that you first noticed your Akogare? It might help clearing out some options here, as for why the Heartless are in this world.” Once again, it seemed Alice was sharp as a tac. Typically the stoic silent type, Kujo hadn’t bothered correcting her in her hypothesis. He had known it to be inaccurate, so why bother with anything else?
”Yeah—My Akogare showed up almost two years ago…” For a moment, an image of his mother laying unconscious in their old small apartment, surrounded by those demons, came into his mind. Keeping his fury at bay, he pressed the com button again to continue. ”…the first time I was attacked by these bastards.” He had finally managed to reach the slums of the city. Here the buildings were more dilapidated, the construction long forgotten with some of the equipment still lying around rusted over from time. Hardly anyone roamed these streets other than pickpockets, dealers, thieves and the homeless. Because of this, it was mostly deserted during the daytime, though one could hardly tell it was day time here. With all of the tall crumbling buildings and old construction work, much of the sky was cut off from the street level, causing an overall dimmed and shadowed environment. Looking around, Kujo wondered exactly where his heart was leading him.
How long had it been, since he'd been this close to 'home'?
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Post by therunawaygirl on Aug 22, 2019 12:26:28 GMT -5
Hearing Kujo while typing away in her screen, Alice began to draw the dots. 2 years ago, Kujo had known of his Akogare.... Then the posibility of him being the cause of the Heartless' appearance was definitely not the case. She wrote it down to keep track on things, as there was a ton of information she had to process. Following closely in her line of thought was Jack, who was also curious about their current predicament.
"Hmm..." Alice hummed as he reached Kujo's com yet again, "This does lead us to a dead end... The reports begin way longer than just 2 years... Do you know if there has been any unusual activities that may be drawing the Heartless to this world? Maybe that could explain things, right?" "Heh... That wouldn't be any different than back home, huh?" Jack said jokingly, with arms crossed, "Things escalated too damn quick for us to notice... And the goddamn goverment just keeps pressing the people further and further away..." "Hence the cause for the civil war ongoing -I know" Alice sighed, "In any case... If you could point to me any activity you thought was suspiscious about 2 years ago, or anything similar... I'd appreciate it."
Alice's radar was showing no other signs of unusual power levels, meaning that, at least, Kujo was safe from the Heartless. She had to wonder, however, where he was going, as the map didn't show his exact location in the city. Then again, if she wanted to draw a clear map, she would either have to ask Kujo to allow her to record with a holographic screen, or leave Jack to do that. And neither was exactly a good option, as their focus was elsewhere.
"...Hey, can ya let me talk?" Jack said suddenly. "Ah -Through the Almira's com?" "Yeah."
Alice nodded, and Jack leaned forward, looking at the screen with a sharp concentration. He was onto something that hadn't been talked about just yet. If the Heartless weren't there for Kujo, and if there was nothing that would draw them there... Was else could it be?
"Your gut's taking ya somewhere, huh? If things get too hairy, just bail outta there, Kujo. Don't get cocky or prideful -that'll only make things worse" Jack said with a serious tone.
Alice kept monitoring the screens. What was her brother up to? Had he come up with a possible explanation to all that?
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Post by hoodwink on Aug 22, 2019 13:42:09 GMT -5
Continuing on through the desolate parts of the city, furthest from the stretching red bridge it was known for, Kujo listened calmly to Alice on the com device. It seemed they were hitting walls no matter what lead they tried to follow. Figures. He could never catch a break. ”Your gut’s taking ya somewhere, huh?” Jack’s voice entered his ear, following along with Kujo’s actions pretty quickly. ”If things get too hairy, just bail outta there, Kujo. Don’t get cocky or prideful—that’ll only make things worse.” Despite Jack’s serious tone, Kujo couldn’t help but roll his eyes a bit as he walked.
Just who did Jack think he was? Tch! Like some Heartless could get me to run away. It wasn’t in Kujo’s nature to run. Instead, he planned on simply allowing Alice and Jack to record any powerful Heartless he came across. If by some miraculous nightmare happening, he did run into one that made him sweat, he’d call for backup. The important thing was to eradicate the Heartless threat, to find where they were coming from. He wouldn’t run away. His fists clenched tightly in his pockets as he continued.
”—I’ll keep you posted.” His tone was as serious and stoic as ever. He liked to keep things a bit vague. What good would it do to argue with Jack right now? He had to stay focused. There was an odd sensation in the air he was breathing in. Almost as though it were stagnating or stale. Wondering what caused the disturbance, Kujo continued to walk in the direction he was headed, winding through the dilapidated buildings and piles of debris in the decaying streets he walked.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Aug 22, 2019 17:30:38 GMT -5
Alice couldn't help but groan. Jack hadn't made much to help her, and she couldn't help but think Kujo was just as annoyed as her. Jack was very ambitious, although it often lead to very uncomfortable sittuations, such as that one...
"Jack, just shut up..." Alice mumbled, not noticing that she was still contacting Kujo. "Fine, fine..." Jack sighed, leaning back against his chair, "Haa... Guess I'll go check somethin' real quick."
Jack was quick to left the bridge, to immediately head out to his own quarter, leaving Alice a room for respite. She kept looking at the sensors, trying to be ready in case the readings got really out of hand. In the meantime... She guessed she could keep talking with Kujo.
"Sorry about Jack... You wouldn't know it, but he's pretty bossy if his ambitions get the better of him..." Alice apologized, "Back on track, though... It's awful silent on your end... Wonder why... Are you in a busy part of the city, or not?"
As soon as she finished talking, a high-pitched alarm caused Alice to jolt. One of the sensors had picked up a large reading, blinking never-ending red. What was going on?! Without even thinking, Alice checked on the sensors, her reaction one of complete shock.
"What...?" she mumbled in disbelief, to then quickly lean forward, "Kujo, be careful! There's an insanely large reading near you! It's even stronger than your Akogare!"
Footsteps caused the teen to turn her face back. Jack was in front of the exit, holding what looked to be a prototype hover board. It took some time for Alice to notice what was going on inside his head.
"Jack, what are you doing?!" "What do ya think? Gonna take a look myself. Can ya open the door, please?" "You're insane... And isn't that just a prototype?!" "Don't worry! I'm sure it'll work just fine" Jack smiled. "Jack..." "Don't worry, sis! It'll just be another round! So... Can ya open the door for me? Pretty please?"
Alice blinked a few times, reluctant. Jack wanted to head out... Where? Where Kujo was? She couldn't pinpoint his location due to the lack of information regarding the cityscape, and yet he wanted to go? Then again... Knowing her brother, it was probable he already had an idea of what was going on.
"...Don't die on me, got it?!" Alice said, opening the door even though the Almira was hovering high up in the sky. "Heh... I ain't the type to die on somethin' like this! Just watch!"
Having said that, Jack jumped from the ramp, the hover board beneath his feet akin a skateboard, and began to make his way around the city lightning-speed. Who knew a prototype could work so smoothly in perilous situations?
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Post by hoodwink on Aug 22, 2019 22:49:46 GMT -5
Taking a corner near a crumbling and decaying building, Kujo came upon an empty parking lot. Sand and dust swirled in the slight breeze, the rust on the broken streetlights showing how truly abandoned this part of town was. As Alice apologized for her brother over the com device, Kujo’s emerald eyes scanned the area. What was this feeling he had? "It's awful silent on your end...wonder why...are you in the busier area of the city or not?" Kujo kept his eyes peeled. Something seemed wrong. "I'm on the outskirts of the city furthest from the red bridge." He tried to keep his directions short and concise. The more accurate, the less questions Alice would ask. "It's the old area of town that they had planned on rebuilding, until the newer mayor decided to fund some other projects..." It was then that Kujo halted in his steps. Something’s coming…
”Kujo, be careful! There’s an insanely large reading near you!” Almost within that same moment, a sudden presence caused Kujo’s breath to catch. It was as though a sudden weight fell through the air, causing the breaths he took to feel heavy and muggy. His intuition had proven correct yet again. ”It’s even stronger than your Akogare!” At the last comment, a rather determined and frightening look coming over him as the very wind around him began to swirl with his gathering power. Hmph. Finally something worth my time— It seemed he was being underestimated, though. ”You don’t know the extent of my powers.” He spoke calmly over the mic, as though his life weren’t in immediate danger. It was true though, even he didn’t know the full limits of his Akogare’s powers yet.
On cue, a burst of light erupted around Kujo, summoning the muscular heart-armored being he had come to rely on time and time again. Akogare hovered in the air with its translucent pixie wings, its arms crossed and galaxy gaze mesmerizing as it scanned the area for the enemy. ”Alice, where is it?” Kujo had begun to move through the empty parking lot. His hands in his pockets, he kept Akogare close to him. It’s range wasn’t far, after all. His emerald eyes stayed vigilant in searching for the oncoming enemy. There was a slight grin on his face, full of bloodlust.
”This better not be disappointing—“
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Post by therunawaygirl on Aug 23, 2019 7:53:21 GMT -5
No matter how much she tried to look into it, Alice couldn't find the source of the sudden reading. Where was it coming from?! She was getting exasperated. Not only had Jack left with almost no reason, Kujo was surrounded by a really strong and unknown enemy. It was something she'd never come across with before.
"I... I dunno where it is! I can't pinpoint it!" Alice said, nervous, "It's huge... Something I've never seen before... Please, be careful!"
Jack was making his way as quickly as he could. He had a feeling he knew what was going on, and he wasn't going to let it slide.
Amidst the sea of darkness... Reach towards your fated light...
He hoped the hover board could go as quickly as it could. He was sure that this was the time he'd dreamt of for so long. A strange dream... Following omnious voices.
"Just hang in there, buddy... I'm commin..." he mumbled to himself.
Whatever was going on... No one was ready for it... Jack had a feeling that if this was, however, solved... Then maybe things could be peaceful again.
[Battle! Countless Neoshadows]
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Post by hoodwink on Aug 23, 2019 10:42:04 GMT -5
As he made his way into the center of the deserted parking lot, the presence only continued to grow and swell. Kujo remained calm and silent as Alice tried to pinpoint the location. Seems like it’s hiding… His Akogare levitated behind him, its mystical eyes scanning the lot. Suddenly the presence grew, one that even caused Kujo’s steel heart to halt for just a moment. NeoShadows began to rise from every shadow and crevice in the area. What little sunlight there was here didn’t seem to bother them—Kujo had never seen numbers like this before. I must be getting close! A fiery passion burned through him, causing his Akogare to glow in a powerful aura as his own body glowed with his inner light. ”Pitiful!”
Within the blink of an eye, Kujo had launched forward, hands in his pockets as his Akogare began to unleash a torrent of fists against the nearest enemies. ”Alice—there are countless Heartless here, that’s why you couldn’t pinpoint it.” Despite the combat going on around him, Kujo’s voice was steady and calm. ”I haven’t seen their type before…can you see what I’m seeing?” He had to be careful to avoid damage to his head. He couldn’t afford to lose access to the com device at a time like this. ”Tch, you’ll need more than numbers to beat me!” Kujo felt a fury overwhelm him as an image of his mother flashed into his mind. He would protect this world from these demons. I’ll send you all to Hell!
Kujo’s hands emerged from his pockets, his fists clenched so tight blood began to trickle down from his palms. While Akogare began to unleash its own attacks, Kujo assisted with his own fighting expertise. He had seen Jack fight the Heartless barehanded earlier that day, so why not help? If his Akogare was hurt, he would get hurt as well, he had found that out through a few hard lessons. Rather than feel fear at the fact, it was because of this he felt comfortable throwing himself into the fray—as well as the knowledge of his Akogare’s true powers.
It wasn’t just a good fighter, after all.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Aug 23, 2019 12:45:14 GMT -5
"C-Countless...?"
Hearing Kujo's assertions only made Alice worry even more. Just how many Heartless...? Hearing the boy ask if she could see what he was seeing, Alice remembered the detail Jack mentioned about Kujo's com: it wasn't a regular com. Could her brother have given him a more high-tech one without noticing? Or had he planned it.
"I can. I just need to run the scanner on your com!" Alice informed, "I'm sure you've seen Jack's com displaying a screen in front of his eyes, right? That's the scanner. I'll turn it on right now!"
Alice began to work. In front of Kujo's eyes, a holographic screen displaying all sorts of useful information appeared, pinpointing the many Neoshadows before and behind him. Thanks to that, Alice could see what sort of enemy Kujo was dealing with.
"Alright... Those are..." Alice began to look through the databanks, soon finding a mark, "They're Neoshadows! They're like regular Shadows -the ones that can suddenly move through the ground- but they pack a stronger punch. Don't get careless, especially with this many of them surrounding you!"
The hover board soon began to fail, but Jack was already where he wanted to be. He jumped from the hover board down to the ground, rolling at the end to avoid major issues. The dark alleyways around him were omnious and damp, releasing a silent stench that Jack couldn't help but grimace about.
"This ain't good at all..." Jack said, shaking a bit, "Still, doesn't look like I got a choice here... Let's get to work."
He enabled his screen yet again, analyzing his surroundings with caution. He could see the power levels rising to their peak and then dropping to 0, which didn't mean any good at all -there was definitely something amiss in that area.
Thump, thump, thump. Was that the sound of footsteps, or the sound of his own heart, trying to get out of his chest? Jack couldn't tell anymore. He had to admit that it was somewhat scary, but he wasn't going to give up.
He aimed to find the meaning behind his dream. He had to.
"Alice" Jack said through his com, "Code White. I'm taking this one on my own, got it?" "You're nuts! What the hell do you want to do!?" "Alice... Code White" Jack repeated.
After a moment of silence, a sharp beep echoed through Jack's ears. Alice had disconnected his com from the communication.
That meant that no one's voice would reach Jack now. He was taking things into his hands.
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Post by hoodwink on Aug 23, 2019 13:40:31 GMT -5
Kujo’s Akogare was a swift and powerful force, barraging the NeoShadows around Kujo with armored fists. Kujo himself stayed vigilant in taking advantage of the openings made by his Akogare, thankful once the screen appeared before his eyes. The info displayed about the Heartless and they’re locations was a priceless advantage. ”Thanks, Alice!” Kujo kept his guard up around his head, ensuring the com device wouldn’t take damage as he dodged and weaved between the NeoShadows attacks. Small wounds had begun to make their way up his muscular arms, though none of them were deep at all, seeing as how most were dealt to his Akogare.
Though he himself took damage when his Akogare did, Kujo knew that the being of light was stronger than himself—typical attacks weren’t as powerful against such a force. All in all, the small wounds did nothing to deter his concentration or fighting spirit. They were like paper cuts to him. ”I’ve dealt with way worse—you’re pathetic!” His Akogare and him continued to pummel through the horde, though Kujo couldn’t help but think back to Jack and M’Lyn. ”Alice—“ Though his tone was a stoic as ever, there was a slight urgency to it that wasn’t normally there. ”I don’t need you to pinpoint my location! Don’t let Jack or M’Lyn come here!”
It wasn’t an act of selflessness. Truthfully, Kujo felt excitement rushing through his blood. His heart pounded in his chest, though his breathing remained calm and steady as his body moved. This is what he had waited for. A chance to test out his Akogare’s abilities without worrying about collateral damage. Readying himself, his Akogare ceased its attacks, hovering back to be right beside Kujo—it almost looked as though the two had melded together for a moment. ”Giro—!!” Kujo and his Akogare slid their leg back in tandem, muscles on both rippling as a swirling aura of power surrounded them.
”—chin!!” Within the blink of an eye, Kujo’s leg hovered in the air before him, smoke smoldering from his shoe. A bursting pressure of air gusted out from all directions due to the sheer force, blowing back debris and dirt as well as any weakened Heartless. Akogare stood beside him in the same pose. A single slash, faster than the speed of light, was the only visible sign of the attack. The guillotine like slice waded through the crowd, hopefully taking out most of the closest surrounding enemies.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Aug 23, 2019 17:14:24 GMT -5
"About that... Not only can I not pinpoint your location since we lack an actual layer of the city, but..." Alice struggled to talk a bit before continuing, "Jack isn't with me. He... He left on his own, and ordered me to cut communication with him. I can't contact him no matter what -his com's completely disconected..."
Saying that hurt. Alice didn't want anyone to get hurt. At least, Kujo had fighting experience and his Akogare besides him, but Jack... She had to say it -he was helpless on his own most of the time. She didn't want her brother to get hurt, or worse, die on her. What would she do then...?
"...I doubt M'Lyn will even ask about your location. I don't think she can tackle more than that... Miqo'tes do have some weaknesses..." Alice explained, "But Jack... I dunno where's he's going or what he'll do..."
The allewyways were as dark as night. Looking around for any possible threats, Jack found himself in unknown territory. Although it didn't frighten him, he was worried for his crew, and Kujo. Then again... He was taking matters on his own because he worried about them. He just hoped his gut was leading him the right way...
Neoshadows were eager, and relentless. No matter how much he ran, the pesky Heartless ambushed him at any given opportunity. It seemed as if that area was drawing them the strongest, and Jack couldn't help but frown. Why were they so excited? Was there something there that caught their attention?
Jack managed to see a glimmer of light -a faint, little glimmer. He tried reaching towards it, but was tossed aback by a sudden force. He was tossed against a crumbling wall, and the impact caused the wall to fall over, with Jack in the middle of it.
"Oww...." Jack groaned, trying to soothe the pain.
A huge tide caught him off-guard. It kept going around, looking for something -or rather, someone. It took immediate notice of Jack, laying there amidst the rubble, and Jack froze in place. What was that?! The readings were so high... Was that the cause of the Heartless gathering in San Fransokyo?
Without a word, Jack stood up. Amidst the sea of darkness... Reach towards your fated light... The echoing voice spoke once more. While he was weaponless, Jack could still fight. He wasn't going to give in to a massive tide of Shadows.
"...Alright. Bring it!" he yelled, in order to give himself confidence.
Little did he know, but Kujo wasn't too far off his location. But the countless Neoshadows assaulting from every corner made it barely possible to move.
[Countless Neoshadows, 1 Demon Tower]
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Post by hoodwink on Aug 23, 2019 21:12:39 GMT -5
Kujo cursed aloud as the NeoShadows continued to appear and forward the onslaught. There’s no end to these bastards!! No matter how many Heartless he sent back to oblivion, more took the fallen foes place. He needed something powerful enough to wipe them out—a huge amount at once. The muscular armored being beside him began to shimmer in light as its fists burst in a brilliant radiance. ”WAKERU!!!” Kujo’s hands thrust forward in front of him, Akogare appearing beside him as it unleashed a torrent of impossibly fast punches. The overall effect of the attack caused an eruption of power to surge forth from both the being and the man, the wind around Kujo whipping around like a tornado as the power was unleashed.
His hope was to obliterate any Heartless surrounding him, providing some breathing room. Alice’s voice broke the din of battle over the com: ”Jack isn’t with me. He…he left on his own, and ordered me to cut communication with him. I can’t contact him no matter what—“ Kujo straightened, his pulse quickening as he searched frantically around the area with his emerald eyes. He left?! What the hell was that guy thinking?! Tch! Hopefully he’s far away from here… Though his powerful attack had boughten him some breathing room, he had to continue the offensive.
Focusing while taking in a deep breath, Kujo readied himself as he and his Akogare continued to fight their way through the parking lot. Already they had almost reached the opposite end. The NeoShadows had continued to swarm and gather, but Kujo had been able to gain some ground inch by inch. With a smirk on his face and a gaze full of malice, Kujo eyed the oncoming forces as he and his Akogare charged forth yet again.
Pummeling at the nearest foes, Kujo kept an eye out for any sign of Jack.
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