The manor was bustling with activity as various attendants and members of the Paranormal Deliverance Force shuffled about. Egon could be seen standing next to the eastern hallway, directing familiar faces to the meeting room. It seemed Elenor had something important to say.

Mekis entered the the meeting room in the manner he often did, generally oblivious and overall joyous. Characteristics that had been given mixed reviews. Esteban followed behind, a similar feeling of cheer evident on his face. Well, not evident, but if looked closely, they woulde see a glimmer in the mallard's eye.

Kent entered the meeting room, seemingly not interested in what was going on. His mind seemed occupied recently. He seemed to be muttering something about an old friend in town, but, it wasn't important, and his eyes immediately perked up as he noticed the others.

Carmichael followed suit with the others, entering the meeting room without any kind of respnse to those around him, he simply waited for the annoncement that he was sure would come.

Jax enters the meeting room, Scruffles held up in her arms. She sits herself down in a chair and pets at Scruffles' head, while he pants, giving a big smile across the room with his ears rotating all around to listen.

Kimen had heard others in the mansion mentioning a meeting so the child went to the place she was told at the time she was told feeling a bit curious as well as a little nervous. She slipped in, looking around nervously for a familiar face and immediately saw two of them! The child frowned to herself realizing she had to choose between going to stand by Mr. Kent and Lucass. She shifted from one foot to the other, played Eenie Meenie Minee Mo, then just decided to go take a place by her new friend, Lucass.

"Ok, so when she says 'take a seat', you say "I can't! He got a leg up on me! Got it?" asked Stretch, floating next to Stinky and Fatso in a trio of chairs. The other two ghosts chuckled mischeviously to themselves as Lucass waved towards Kimen. "Hey Kimen..I guess you saw all the bustle, huh? I wonder what Elenor has in mind today..and why Oboyo isn't here."

After some time, Elenor held up her hands as a gesture to get the room to quiet down. Stretch seemed disappointed that he didn't get to say his joke. "Thanks for coming, everyone. For those who haven't heard..Oboyo was visited by the seer Leknaat while he was being held captive. There are only five weeks left until the fog ship arrives and we are in desperate need of support from other factions. Currently, we only have support from Lady Bow, Queen Antoinette, and Hastur's martial masters."
During a brief pause, Elenor was interrupted by another voice towards the back of the room. "Is that all? You humanoids are pathetic, too fearful of the interruption of your day to day activities to take a stand. It is sickening to think that such cowards once stood toe to toe against the Beast Kingdom."

Gizmo steps in, a tad late "Make that four. May I present Lord Mogusao, of the Beast Kingdom. I'm sure some of you rememeber him." she says, before even looking around to see if any of her travel mates are even in the room "I've promised him a fight the likes of which the world has never seen before. Let us hope that seer is correct then."

Scruffles' ears perk up as he stands, barking once at Mogusao. He hops down and trots over closer, sitting himself around ten feet away from the moogle, just watching him.

Mekis looked in the direction of the sudden voice, and a rage began to build in him. He was able to control it, but it continued to burn as his eyes locked on that accursed moogle lord. He still needed to challenge him. Perhaps in a few hours. Or a few seconds.

Kent turned towards the sound of the voice. "Wait, we're the cowards? I'm sorry, I can fight without needing a high-chair." Kent pulled out a cigar and lit it casually. This was the third Moogle he met that insulted him. This wasn't a good pattern.

The child nodded to Lucass with a smile, relaxing a little. He couldn't help but look curiously towards the trio of ghosts though as the woman spoke. So even ghosts were a part of this? The realization came as a relief to the kimen's mind as a few more of of his concerns about all of this seemed to be cleared up at least somewhat. New concerns however replaced old ones rather quickly as the sound of barking reached his ears. The child tensed, clutching the edge of his seat almost not daring to breathe.

Elenor shot a quick glare towards Kent, as if begging for his ego not to ruin diplomatic relatins. "I was a little worried about you, Gizmo. I'm glad that things worked out down there. I'd heard things about House Kuporo, I'm glad to see that there are those in the Beast Kingdom who don't have their heads stuck in the ground."

Lucass leaned forward curiously, glancing over towards Kimen with a look of anticipation on face. "Oh man..that's the guy that Mekis went to meet! Uh oh..it looks like Kent doesn't like him very much, huh..?" He glanced over towards Kimen, expecting either a giggle or a comment about Kent's behavior but finding her grabbing her seat. "Er..are you okay?"

"You are female. Where is the warrior who leads you? I have come to speak to him." asked Mogusao, ignoring Kent's insult. Unamused, Elenor kept a firm glare at the black moogle while folding her arms. "Oboyo left for Pedan some time ago with a few of the others. You may speak to me in his place." Mogusao glanced at the dog briefly before meeting Elenor's glare. "So be it. I need to be informed on our strategy and the steps you've taken--"

Yet another voice came from the back of the room. "Errm..Elenor? I apologize for interrupting, but we've got a problem." The voice belonged to Egon, causing Elenor to give Mogusao and the rest of the room a nod before leaving the podium and moving out of the room with Egon.

Gizmo stands over with the rest of the PDF. She refrains from commenting on Mogusao's insult. Surely after all she'd seen and done the man should have no reason to believe women can't fight. Hopefully whatever news Egon brought would be a suitable distraction.

Kent just leaned against a wall with his cigar. He looked at Egon enter, the scientist was one of the few people that didn't need magic to fight ghosts, which Kent highly appreciated. "Problem, professor?" He asked, showing more interest in him than any of the other 'leaders' in the room.

Mekis took a breath, calming himself. Speaking to Mogusao whilst angered would invite the possibility of shaming himself. He approached, standing at his maximum height. "Hello Lord Mogusao. It appears that now, we are on the same side. Odd, is it not?"

"Uh-huh!" Kimen said meekly, closing her eyes and swallowing. If she did not see it, it was not there right? Well no, that was certainly not true at all but she had to convince herself of something. She didn't want Lucass to worry. "I um... I'm sorry." Kimen started out saying slowly, but then very quickly, "Ineedtogodosomethinginmyroom!" The child stood up and turned, only to find the doorway occupied which wouldn't help her escape much. She frowned worriedly and slowly sank back into her seat.

Lucass blinked a couple of times as he watched Kimen's failed attempt to escape. "What's wrong? You look nervous.." That was a change in the norm. Usually HE was the one nervous around Kimen.

Mogusao gazed firmly at Mekis before simply stating, "So we are." He glanced towards Gizmo for a second then back to Mekis, almost as if the topic of seeing Mekis again was discussed beforehand. "I stand by many of the things that I said to you before..but you should know that the timing of your visit was unfortunate. I would have preferred a longer duel with you. Three hits is not enough to read a true warrior."

After some time, Elenor returned to the meeting room and stood on the podium, receiving a nasty glare from Mogusao in the process. "There's been a change in plans..I need volunteers. A former attendant of Oboyo's just arrived with bad news. Apparently..Oboyo's little brother is in trouble on Alfador Island."

"You wish to send warriors to save a child? How wasteful." commented Mogusao as Elenor shook her head. "It's more than that. The group responsible is one we're all familiar with." Elenor then turned towards the crowd in the room. "Graham and his unit are there. We can't afford for them to keep getting in our way, so we need to reach a resolution. We also need that proton gun back. Is anyone willing to go?"

Gizmo speaks up "I was unaware we had any enemies. Just what the hell happened while I was gone anyway? Did the enemy make their move early?"

Mekis smiled a bit on the inside. "Agreed. But we shall duel again. I assure you this. Anyhow, I hope you make a good an ally as you had a foe. Good day." Mekis turned and returned to his place by Esteban, debating as whether to turn right back around and challenge him now in a loud, bold fashion, or later in a similar manner.

Kent nodded, showing his interest in going. He was aware that rivals needed to be taken out. He had once been in a seige against a castle of dark knights. Hopefully, it wouldn'tlast that long this time. Kent took the cigar out of his mouth and smothered it against his palm. "When are we going?"

Kimen tried to keep his voice low so not to interrupt anyone, "Its n-nothing. I-I just thought I heard a d-dog." she admitted, drawing her legs up onto the seat she was in and wrapping her arms tightly around them. Looking about the room nervously.

"As soon as possible. Launchpad is still out with Oboyo, so you'll have to take the MKII. Egon's already at the docks asking Bronz to get it prepped. How would you feel leading this group, Kent?" asked Elenor.

A dog? Well sure, Jax and Scruffles were bound to be about somewhere. "Are you..afraid?" asked Lucass dumbly.

Mekis heard that soon they were to head out. Where exactly they were heading out to was unknown to him, but it was of little concern to him. So long as there was a quest to be had. He hoped it involved some violence.

Kent nodded. "I'll lead them if need be." He turned to look around the people that had gathered. He'd also need to keep in mind that some people had magical abilities that were unfortunately needed here. He'd accept that, begrudgedly. He turned back to Elenor, and with a promising voice of a leader, he spoke, "They'll all get back alive, I swear it."

Gizmo raises a paw "I'll join them. At the very least, I want to know what's going on. If it's someone you've run into before... well, I'd like to know damn well what to expect in case I ever run into them alone."

Demonicor steps away from the doorframe "Well then Kent, with that rousing speech, lets get moving... and for gods sake, someone bring bananas" he made his way to the dock ahead of the rest of the group.

Kimen just nodded in response to Lucass' question, a small blush of embarrasment creeping over his cheeks at having to admit it. He really wish the escape hadn't been blocked, otherwise he would be safe in his room with a blanket over his head by now.

"I recall Graham had at least four followers, there's no telling if there's more. If this report is true, then you'll find them just west of Medina. Hurry, time is of the essence. Everyone else, you're free to go." Elenor gave one last nod to everyone in the room before turning towards Mogusao, no doubt catching the black moogle lord up.

"..of dogs?" asked Lucass, mustering up enough courage to wrap an arm around his terrified friend. "Don't worry..there's nothing to be afraid of."

Kent was about to leave when he noticed Kimen cowering with Lucass around him. He waited for Lucass to make eye contact with Kent. Kent pointed at his own eyes, followed by pointing at Lucass. He left without a word to the two. If Kent came back to learn that Lucass made the kid uncomfortable there would be hell to pay. And Kent was very experienced with Hell.

Mekis headed off toward the submarine, whatever it was called. He had much difficulty in remembering it. Same with the flying machine. Esteban wondered how the the upcoming confrontation would play out. Hopefully it wouldn't be too violent.

"Really?" Kimen asked Lucass, lifting her head slightly to look at him with a still worried expression. She was almost hoping the boy would tell her she was just imagining those barks and there were no dogs here. She hadn't caught sight of one yet after all! Maybe it was just her imagination or something.

---And so Kent's group headed for Alfador Island. Meanwhile, back at the manor...---

"Yeah." is all Lucass could say. He'd only seen the dog running around a few times and his owner even less, so he couldn't say much more to put her fears at ease. "Look, everyone's leaving. Sounds like Kent's going to do something important."

Kimen looked around realizing that everyone was indeed leaving and Kent was nowhere to be seen. Had the meeting already ended? Kimen had been so worried about there being a dog in the room he had missed the entire thing. One thing the emptying room made clear at least; if there was a dog, it wasn't here now. Kimen relaxed a little, uncurling from his seat, "Where is Mr. Kent going?"'

"To Alfador Island to rescue Oboyo's little brother..and to settle the score with a traitor." stated Lucass, glancing off to the exit. "I..can't believe Elenor didn't ask me to go. I can't believe -I- didn't get up and go..I have to be there, Kimen. I'm the only one who can pacify that rune. If they kill Graham..if KENT kills Graham, he'll become the next victim of the Rune of Punishment." Lucass was nearly distraught. He had been so concerned for Kimen that he completely overlooked Graham' s presence on the mission. "B-but..maybe Elenor thinks Kent will try to settle things peacefully? Yeah, that's gotta be it.." Lucass said aloud, trying to reason with himself.'

When Lucass' words sunk in, they almost felt like a punch in the stomache. Kimen looked at Lucass wide eyed with horror. If Lucass hadn't been so focused on her the entire time he could have gone along with them. Now Kent could potentially be in danger! She looked at the door, then back to Lucass. Maybe Kent COULD settle things peacefully. But... at the same time, she knew unfortunately sometimes people couldn't be reasoned with. She had no idea who Graham was, nor what he was like, but if Lucass could help Mr. Kent, then Lucass needed to be with Mr. Kent and not comforting her! Kimen stood up, taking a hold of Lucass' arm. "Maybe we can still catch them before they leave!"'

What was he waiting for? They had to still have time. "You're right! Let's go!" There was no moment to spare. Lucass would have liked to have shown Kimen the docks under better circumstances, but Kent's life was at stake. His hand still in Kimen's, he led his friend to the ascendalator and jammed his other hand on the button. As the door opened, Carlton awaited inside giving a "Mind your own business!" before asking, "..Which floor?"' "The docks! Has the MKII left yet?!" The eccentric inventor rolled his eyes as he began to shift the device to go down. "Mind your own business!..probably. A ragtag group just went down there." '

Kimen stepped inside the ascendalator shooting a worried glance between the inventor and Lucass. "We need to get there quickly, Doctor! Its an emergency!" The child looked at the man with a pleading look in his eyes, his hand gripping Lucass' tightly. "Please."'

"Mind your own business!..we're here." noted the eccentric doctor as the ascendalator's door opened. For a brief moment, Lucass enjoyed standing in the device with his hand held in Kimen's. But he could sense her fear and desperation; he was afraid as well. As Lucass stepped out of the ascendalator, he grit his teeth as he glared at the empty space where the Gitmidur MKII normally resided. "They must have submerged..we're..we're too late.." mumbled Lucass hopelessly.'

What had he done? His affection for Kimen blinded him to his duty and now Kent would pay for it. Stupid. Stupid! Lucass resisted every urge to cry, gripping Kimen's hand tighter. Was there no other way? Launchpad was gone..wait, of course! "..the ferry! We can take the ferry! It'll take longer than the MKII, but--" Lucass stopped. The ferry to Alfador Island was in Truce, not Shrike. "..let's go to the docks! We've got to try, -someone- might help us!"'

Kimen continued holding Lucass' hand refusing to let go of it as it was the only comfort she had in this situation, even as he was gripping it more tightly now. Looking over the water, she almost didn't even feel it. Was there any hope? Lucass seemed to think so! And while there was any hope, any chance at all they needed to take it! Without a word Kimen pulled Lucass' arm again, running back to the acendalator.'

His arm pulled for him, Lucass made no objection to keeping Kimen's hand held as he arrived in the ascendalator once more. "Take us to main hall!" shouted Lucass towards Carlton, who rolled his eyes and pushed a button on the side panel. Lucass' mind began to drift as the device was set into motion. Just how long were they holding hands and how long would it last? She was clearly afraid for Kent and he wanted do everything in his power to not only save him, but to ease her fears.
For that reason, he tried to push his thoughts of affection away. It wouldn't be right to misuse the situation..and he was afraid for Kent, too. After a brief pause, he glanced over at Kimen, desperately thinking of -something- to say.

Kimen stared ahead, lips pressed tightly together and trying not to ask Carlton if the elevator could go any faster. The man had already been made aware that this was an emergency and likely the device only had one speed. After a moment of riding the child realized that Lucass was looking at him and he turned his head up, eyes locking with his with a determined expression still locked upon his face. They would make it. They had to.

The ascendalator soon came to a stop, promting the door to open leading into the main hall. With a nod and a sense of urgency, Lucass aimed to do the pulling towards the manor's entrance. Kimen had not been in Shrike for long and would likely need the guiding hand towards the docks. But when would it cease? Was he really willing to drag her all the way to the island? Oboyo's little brother was already in danger, would it be wise to put Kimen in that situation as well?

Lucass didn't want to think about leaving her behind. He didn't feel confident going alone anyway, as Graham knew who he was and what he could do to the Rune of Punishment. But a thought had been bothering Lucass for some time: Knowing that, why did Graham not see fit to eliminate him? Something didn't add up.

The acendalator doors open and Kimen didn't need to be told beyond the nod to get moving. Luckily when Kimen first arrived here Kent had insisted on the two of them taking the boat so the child had some knowlege as to where the docks were. Still Lucass ended up leading as she couldn't run quite as fast as him. She was almost afraid that he would realize she was slowing hom down and resort to letting go, leaving her behind. Could Kimen blame him if he chose to do that though?

This was her fault to begin with and if it meant Lucass reaching Kent faster then why hadn't he done so yet? Surely he didn't need Kimen to be with him and yet... Kimen's eyes fell to their clasped hands, pushing those thoughts from her mind. No matter if it was her fault or not, they were in this together.

The city docks soon came into sight as Lucass glanced around and thought about what to do next. Right, a ferry! He headed towards a desk where a lady selling tickets resided when he had a sudden realization. -He had no money-. How could he let not one but two obvious slip-ups occur? As he mentally berated himself, the lady glanced down at him and asked him a question. "Where to?" There was no time to panic, so Lucass responded. "The Island of Alfador."

Lucass wasn't sure whether or not to feel hopeless or relieved when he heard the lady's response. "..Um, there aren't any ferries that go out that way. There's one that goes to Truce and another that goes to Gold City." The lady paused for a second. "..Um, are your parents anywhere nearby?" The boy felt ready to explode. -No one- took him seriously and Kent's team would be the ones to pay for it.

Those words were among many today that Kimen didn't want to hear. He shut his eyes, trying to sound as helpless and pathetic as he could, finding it not hard at all to bring forth the tears needed for this situation. "They are on Alfador!" It was partially true at least. Mr. Kent did seem to take on something of a parental role towards Kimen. "Please ma'am, is there anything you can do to get us there?"

"Riiiight. Sorry kids, but I can't make that happen. You two run along and play somewhere else, alright?" said the ticket lady and she waved Kimen and Lucass off for an old reploid behind them seeking to get tickets to Guardia. Lucass took a few steps away and held his free hand to his forehead. What now? There was nothing they could do after all..they were just a pair of kids, unable to make proper decisions or do anything worthwile for anyone.

It was then that Lucass heard a voice nearby. "Lucass? Is that you?" asked the voice, causing the boy to turn his head in its direction. The voice belonged to Adonis Moit, the manor's expert businessman. "What are doing out here?" asked the turban-wearing man, glancing once at the pair of hands being held then back at the boy's face. Of course! Why hadn't Lucass stopped to get help from the others before rushing out the door? That was what they were there for, after all.

It was not about being too young or too weak to stand on one's own. The other stars were meant to support each other and light up the cosmos together. "Mr. Moit! We -really- need to get to Alfador Island and both Launchpad and the MKII are gone. Is there any way you can help?" Almost as if his pride was struck, Moit grinned a little before responding. "Is that it? Of course I can, who do you think I am? Wait right here."

With that, Moit approached the ticket lady and began to whisper to her, his words too soft for either of the kids to hear. Hope returned to Lucass' face as he let out a brief sigh of relief. He knew Moit better than most of the manor's inhabitants and had a lot of faith in him. "Whew..I feel so dumb, Kimen. We should asked the others for help sooner. Elenor, Egon..I'm sure they could have found us a way too."

Kimen smiled as Mr. Moit said he could help and approached the woman behind the counter. Finally something had worked out in their favor! "Under the circumstances I guess it was hard to think clearly. We are lucky Mr. Moit came by when he did" Kimen admitted, feeling a tremendous amount of weight being lifted from her shoulders. The answer seemingly so obvious now hadn't been so only a few moments ago. They weren't out of the woods yet, but now things were looking in their favor.

Lucass nodded anxiously, gripping Kimen's hand a little tighter as they waited for the results. How easily it had become to do! Hours ago, the boy only dreamt of finding a way to do so. If only it were under better circumstances. After a few minutes and handing the lady a small bag, Moit returned and performed a sacred family dance as he spoke to the kids.

"It turns out, the ferry to Truce -might- suffer an unexpected fuel leak and -may- need to make an emergency stop at Alfador Island. -Just- a speculation, of course." said the businessman with a wink. Finally, a smile broke through the fear and desperation on Lucass' face. "Mr. Moit, you're the best. Thanks a lot!" Moit proudly waved Lucass off as he ceased dancing and gave a gentlemanly bow.

"Please, it was nothing. And you really should wave your age around next time, you'd be surprised to see how quick us cleft-borns believe such things. Have a good time!" Lucass scratched the back of his head nervously as Moit returned to his personal business. "Let's go, Kimen!" said Lucass as he headed for the ferry, the ticket lady briefly watching as he passed.

Kimen squeezed Lucass' hand back in assurance, holding it just as tightly. His expression brightening to a smile as the buisnessman returned and told them what was going on. Kimen looked happily between the young man whose hand he was holding and Mr. Moit. They might just get there before something bad could happen. Maybe everything was going to be okay! As Lucass pulled Kimen towards the ferry the child turned back to wave "Thank you Mr. Moit!" Kimen called, half running on his own and half being pulled, "I am going to bake you some cupcakes when I get back!"

Once on board, Lucass looked around for a place to sit. It hadn't been long, but all the running around had finally caught up to him. He spotted an empty spot on the deck without any other passengers nearby and crouched down to take a seat. "I guess..now we just wait." said Lucass as a voice shouted out loudly, "All aboard! Next stop, Truce!" Oh, if only they knew. At least, if Moit's plan worked.

Kimen took a seat beside Lucass, happy for the chance to sit after all of that. She wasn't going to relax too much just yet as Mr. Kent was still in some potential danger however there was nothing she or Lucass could do at the moment but sit and wait for the ferry's unexpected stop. "Thank you too, Lucass." She said to the young man, wiping a bead of sweat from her brow with her free hand.

Thank you, too? Lucass had nothing to be thanked for..the entire situation was his fault, after all. After the last boarding call, the ship's horn rang loudly as the vessel departed for its destination. "Don't worry..we'll make it. And when we get there, I'm going to stop that rune once and for all." said Lucass with determination, gripping Kimen's hand tighter as he did so. He then realized that he was still holding her hand even though the running around had stopped.
"..So, um..we ran off in a hurry before..did you have any questions about anything? I'm sure you might be a little confused.."

Kimen really hadn't been thinking of any questions during their running. He had been so worried about both of them finding a way to catch Kent and the others that he had to sit in silence for a moment reviewing what Lucass had said in the meeting room in what felt like ages ago. At last Kimen realized he had a few to ask, "Who is the traitor you mentioned Kent was going to be dealing with? What kind of person is he?"

Lucass nodded gently. That was a sensible question. "His name is Graham Cray and he's a General. He's..well..complicated. He's from a different time period in my world, along with Ms. Elenor. He was once Elenor's apprentice before the Rune of Punishment destroyed his life. Despite that, he still wanted that rune's power to himself. I don't think even Elenor knows what kind of person he really is."

"We call him a traitor because he not only stole the rune that a good man gave his life to protect, he stole a weapon that Egon worked very hard to make that the PDF uses against ghosts. On top of that, he tried to get everyone to forget about Oboyo when he went missing AND he now leads a unit working for Oboyo's father. And yet..I wonder if he really is our enemy? Oboyo didn't fight him the last time they crossed paths..it's like they just don't see eye to eye."

"It is possible. People generally do not do things without reason. If you know the reason then it is possible to understand the action, or at least that is what I would like to believe. I am sure this man you call a traitor only did these things because he felt as though it was the best choice he had under whatever circumstances. Maybe Mr. Jinsaka understands those things and that is why he seems that way." Kimen said, looking out at the water hoping to spot the patch of land that would be the island they were looking for. She was dreading her next question because then she would know what could happen to Mr. Kent if things went wrong for him and they couldn't make it in time. "What does the Rune of Punishment do and how are you going to deactivate it?"

"Well.." Lucass started before glancing off the side away from Kimen. "..it's a little different from the other 'true runes' of my world. Leknaat's and Joshua's runes for example can be used for good and don't have any detrimental effects. But the Rune of Punishment..is like a living parasite. It feeds on its host's life before moving on the next closest target. It lulls its user into using its deadly power at the expense of themselves. As the name suggests, it represents the aspects of punishment and judgement, but it is a cursed rune. And the only way to silence it.." Lucass stopped and closed his eyes. "..is for its bearer to die in isolation."

Kimen gripped his knee as all of this sunk in. No matter what happened they needed to find a way to stop the rune from spreading to another person, especially Mr. Kent! But Kimen was still a little unsure of what Lucass planned to do. "What do you... plan to do, Lucass? Does Graham need to die? There has to be another way to silence it... right?" The last word came out rather meakly. Kimen wished he had stayed in school a little longer to study runes, or at the very least asked Lucass about them before now. All of this was pretty new to Kimen and he didn't like dealing with a form of magic he did not at least have some understanding of.

If only there were another way..perhaps Sir Dusk would still be alive, Lucass thought to himself. "Supposedly, Graham cut his own hand off the last time he had that rune..but that didn't stop its transition to a new host. Honestly, I'm not sure. It takes some time before its bearer succumbs to it..maybe Graham thinks he can die in battle against the phantoms. We won't really know what to do until we get there..I'm hoping that Kent or someone else can convince Graham to stand down and come back. We're both fighting against the fog ship, so why fight each other?" Lucass really didn't know -what- he would do upon arriving. There wasn't a lot he -could- do, unless.. "Hey, Kimen..do you think we could find some sticks around here?"

"Here on the boat?" Kimen sounded confused by Lucass' question at first. Exactly where would they find sticks on the ferry? Wouldn't they have better luck finding some when they got to the island? Kimen looked around, wondering if maybe they were lucky enough to find some person traveling with a bunch only to spy a man with a fishing pole sitting in a seat not too far from them. "Maybe, if you are pretty loose on the term stick? What do we need them for?"

"I'd like to create a few catalysts out of them. Anything will do, really..as long as they are straight and can be stuck into the ground. I need at least four of them..I might be able to trap Graham or the rune in a containment field." explained Lucass, glancing about the ship for suitable objects.

"Right, Lets see what we can find!" Kimen stood up from the spot she was sitting, hand finally leaving Lucass'. She turned her head this way and that, looking around for some other potential items they could use to do this. Hopefully the people on the ferry would be willing to part with whatever possessions they had that fit the bill. She made her way to the fisherman she saw earlier, "Hello! I was wondering if you would be interested in parting with that fishing pole of yours."

"...uh..sure,I guess. Here you go, kid." said the fisherman with a smile as he handed Kimen his pole, proceeding to pull out another one from his pile of belongings. Score! Meanwhile, Lucass glanced around for onlookers as his rage rune lit up while he placed his hand on one of the railings on the side of the ship. Desperate times called for desperate measures after all, and Kimen wasn't looking. The intense heat managed to melt through it, providing the boy with a metal pole.'

"Thank you sir!" Kimen smiles, clinging to the fishing pole and giving a small cheer. One stick down! The child hurried passed the passengers, keeping an eye out for similar objects. His next stop was an over encumbered man trying to hold onto an assortment of hiking gear from one of the stores in Shrike. With the large bag he held it was a wonder why hadn't tipped over yet. Kimen stood on his tippy toes to try to look him in the eye, "I noticed just now that you happen to have a hiking stick. A friend of mine is in need of one of those and since it looks like its only giving you more to carry, would you be willing to part with it, sir?" Kimen asked, trying to be as polite as he could.'

The hiker shifts his heavy load trying to look at the voice that adressed him. "I am not even sure I needed it but it was on clearance. Can't let a good deal go, you know? Was going to sell it so I could buy a canteen when I got back to Truce since I went to Shrike to get one and forgot to buy it." Kimen's shoulders sagged a little. The man grunted again, trying to find a way to comfortably hold his supplies, "Tell ya what, kid. You get me that canteen I need and I will let you have it.'

Kimen's expression brightened and the child went off to search for just that. She found a lady that had a spare one, but she needed a toy to stop her crying baby, so kimen found a little girl with a doll. The little girl wanted some candy in exchange and so on and so forth. Kimen ended up darting back and forth across the ferry going from passenger to passenger, until finally someone managed to give the child an item she needed.

Then it was a matter of going back down the list and giving people the things they wanted; kimen seen carrying everything from a heavy medicine ball, to a fish statue. At last, She handed the canteen to the hiker, "Thanks kid! But while you were running about I realized I already bought a canteen. heh. Guess you can have the hiking stick for your effort though."'

At that time, Lucass had finished fashioning his pole into a catalyst. He glanced around for Kimen and noticed her handing a canteen to a man. He began to make his way over to her, handing her the pole he finished. "See? This is a catalyst. Doesn't appear much different from the original object to the untrained eye, but it's brimming with magical amplification. Were you able to find any others? I might be able to get two more prepared by the time we get there..we may as well just grab a stick on the island at that point, too."'

Kimen made a quick study of the pole quickly coming to recognise the slight tingle that came with an object that was magically tampered with, then handed the boy the fishing pole so he could work on it next. "Do you think we'll have time?" Kimen asked, deciding to watch the boy as he worked. Maybe he could see enough to replicate the process.'

"Let's hope so." answered Lucass, getting to work right away on the fishing pole. Using the wizard rune on his other hand, he transmitted magical energies into it while weaving various patterns with the gestures of his hands. Before long, a voice rang out across the ship. "May I have everyone's attention, please! The ferry will be making an unexpected stop at Alfador Island. We apologize for the inconvenience, but rest assured that all is well! Thank you!"'

Watching gave Kimen a good idea as to how it worked from watching Lucass, and while she wanted to try it herself on the hiking stick she had to refrain from doing so for fear that she might have missed a detail. The last thing they needed was for her to miss a gesture and have it blow up in their faces. Feeling unsure of her capabilities, she handed the next stick to Lucass to watch again. She clenched her fist as the announcement came. Almost to Alfador Isle. Hopefully Mr. Kent was still okay.

As Lucass finished with the second catalyst, he glanced over to Kimen and smiled. "Two down.." Lucass trailed off as he focused his energies on the hiking stick. The ferry's horn blared loudly as the island entered their sight, quickly approaching.

Kimen drew in deep breath, trying to settle his nerves as the ferry approached the island. He couldn't help but pull his gaze away from Lucass and his work in order to maybe, hopefully spy Mr. Kent and the others safe and sound. He knew that this was unlikely, but the hope was there. He kept telling himself that the knight was probably fine and that kent was capable of handling things, but there was also the nagging fear that he was wrong. As the dock came into view, the child was more than ready to get off the boat.

"And...there! We still need one more, but..well I guess I can try a triangle formation. That's a little harder to do, though.." said Lucass as he glanced over the island. In a matter of moments, it would soon dock. He spotted an imp standing next to the pier, no doubt a native of the island. "I believe Elenor said that Graham's group was spotted west of Medina..let's ask him..or her..which way that is."'

Kimen nodded to Lucass once the boat finally reached the dock, then without another word she pushed her way passed the passengers with the sticks clenched in hand and climbed off. With so many setbacks there didn't seem to be a moment to lose anymore. She made a beeline towards the imp that was waiting there. "Excuse me, which way is Medina?" She asked it, talking very fast.'

"Hmm? Just over that hill there, to the right. Just follow the road, you can't miss it. Don't go too far north!" said the imp with a high pitched voice, proceeding to scratch its butt afterwards. Lucass nodded firmly at Kimen and held his hand out. "Come on, let's hurry!"'

---Meanwhile, back at that Gitmidur MK II...---

Gizmo waits for the vehicle to come to a complete stop before disembarking the vessel. Safety first after all. "Right, so what are we looking for from our nemesis? Volcano lair? Giant Robo-Scorpions?" she glances up to the north "Giant forboding castle? Always a classic that one."

Demonicor wandered out after Gizmo "Probably the castle. Haven't heard of Medina having much to do with the rest."

Mekis looked at the area, then looked at the giant castle in the distance. He wondered what sort of loot such a place would hold. Esteban wondered if he would be able to avoid going in there. Something about the place seemed off to him.

Kent stepped out of the submarine, his boot hitting the wet dirt of the island. "Keep your guard up. We're not the first ones here, and if Oboyo's team had trouble, I don't quite know what we're up against." emote drew his sword and shield and pulled his hood up. There was no doubt about it, Kent had no intentions of a single death on his team.

It wouldn't be long before Kent's group would stumble upon a collection of individuals along the western side of the island. A boy was strapped to a wooden post with an older man standing beside him. Sure enough, Graham and his four ninjas were there, along with another younger man. As Kent's group approached, Graham and the four ninjas stepped forward to greet them. "And so the trap is sprung..and yet, I do not see Oboyo. Does he not care for his brother?"

Kent stopped, making sure he was a few feet in front of the rest of him. Kent. In a diplomatic situation. This should go swimmingly. "I don't suppose you're just going to give up, are you? We could leave without any bloodshed."

Gizmo is a little surprised to see Graham there. Wasn't he an ally a little while ago? She gives him a little wave and a smile "Sup?" Really? That's the best she could come up with?

Mekis merely smiled, laughing a bit. "In what way is this a trap? I could easily defeat you and your minions. Plus these other people, you don't stand a chance. So I suggest you surrender now."

"Hmm..this is unfortunate. Forgive me General, my plan has failed." said the younger man behind Graham's unit. "Can't be helped..you're going to have to find another way to acquire the Spirit Rune, Lord Jinsaka." said Graham towards the older man next to the boy.

"What of this group? Can they be used as leverage as well?" asked the older man as Graham glanced over everyone involved. Kent. Mekis. Gizmo. The guy who captured Oboyo for several weeks. "Perhaps..but we need one of them to return with our demands. Probably the loud mouthed moogle."

Demonicor chuckles himself as he takes in the scene "Truly, this isn't much of a trap really... you're in far too open a position."

"Loud mouthed? I may speak with great volume, but that is only because fools like you would not hear me otherwise. And I have the right to speak as I do. My voice is meant to garner respect and fear, depending on it's tone. Be wary of what you say, lest you push me toward violence." Mekis watched the group, hands ready to draw a bow or sword. Whichever was needed.

Kent was caught off guard by what was being said. Lord Jinsaka? And who was the younger man? Kent turned towards Mekis. "Calm down, Sir Mekis, nobody is going to be held for ransom. We're all getting back home." Kent turned back towards Graham. "And I mean all of us. This means Oboyo's brother. Just let us have him and we'll be on out way."

Gizmo slaps her face into her palms, grumbling to herself "Ugh... does nobody here understand the power of narrative drama? We're bound to lose with a start like this." Not that hers was much better. Nevetheless, she shifts into a fighting stance and faces the ninjas.

Demonicor chuckled somewhat "Kent, I find that unlikely without a fight. I do find it strange though, that his own father would use him as bait for a trap..." he shook his head "And here, I thought you would have more honor than that, Mr. Jinsaka."

Mekis simply stood silently, knowing this merely as a formality of sorts. It was clear to Mekis how this would end.

"I can't do that. Oboyo is not the leader that is needed to face this threat. I took up the Rune of Punishment out of necessity, but we still need the Spirit Rune in order to fight." said Graham towards Kent. The older man stepped forward, "You understand little of my family. Not even that fool who was once my son knows the truth. Tell him, A.J." The boy's ropes fell off by themselves as he stared ahead with a blank expression on his face and glazed eyes. "..Ruuuune..?"

The older man shook his head, "No, son. These people didn't bring it. I'm sorry." The boy didn't move, merely mumbling "..Ruuuuune.." over and over.

Mekis looked quizzically at the boy. "What's with him?" Esteban started backing away in order to make room for a takeoff.

"Way I see it, your lordship, it doesn't matter if I understand it or not. There's this little thing I have called 'faith.' I have faith in the people I work with, faith in myself, and faith in my god." Kent took a few steps closer. "What do YOU have faith in?"

Gizmo studies the kid from a distance "Brainwashing is my guess. I don't believe he's normally like that. Surely that would have been important enough to tell us."

Demonicor reaches into his pocket and drops a few stones around himself, shaking his head as he tsked "Nah, seems more trance-like than brainwashing. Possibly posession, in which case you're not the ones who set this trap, and you'd be idiots helping the enemy you're trying to destroy."

"Faith? Faith is a fool's tool. A man's own hands is what determines his destiny." said Graham as he began to unsheath his sword. "I have 'faith' that we'll destroy the phantoms without Oboyo's leadership. Have any of you -once- seen this 'Leknaat' he speaks of? We need proper military order if we want to survive this invasion, not a rich boy with a bunch of friends."

"There, there, A.J..just be a good boy and wait for Mr. Cray to kill your brother's lackies. He'll show up for you sooner or later, with your rune!" said the older man behind Graham's group. The four ninjas seemed to be preparing for a potential bloodbath, one of which stepped forward as the younger strategist-like man stepped back. "Heehee..the trap failed, but we can still bust them up, riiiight?"

Kent stepped in front of all of them, holding his shield but not his sword. He grabbed the necklace from around his neck. "Heavenly father, deliver us safetly..." He looked up at them again, his eyes looking determined. "You all threaten my friends, and I have offered you peace. I say so to you once more. Give us Jinsaka's brother, and fighting will no ensue." From the look in his eyes, he seemed that he was ready to cut them all down without even drawing his sword.

"...Oh shit. Shit shit shit shit, I forgot about 'that'! Sorry guys, I gotta go. Spoilers and all that!" shouted Gizmo as she turned around and ran towards Medina in a hurry, seemingly worried about some time paradox or another.

Mekis found that the time for the verbal prelude to end was soon. Still, he stood idle by, resisting the urge to draw his weapon. Meanwhile, Esteban had reached proper distance to take flight.

Demonicor shakes his head with a small tsk, not drawing his knife just yet, possibly out of some misguided chance of peaceful resolution, but he does continue to stand in the middle of his rocks.

"General, if I may..the boy provides no benefit for us. This group will serve more purpose alive as bait for the phantoms and the boy is the only reason they seem willing to fight. We can find another way to draw the Spirit Rune out to us." said the younger man, prompting the elderly man to enter a rage. "Don't be absurd! I'll not hand my son over to vangrants like them! You people serve -me- now, understand? So kill them!"

Graham remained silent for a second before gazing over the rest of Kent's group. "Let me just ask you all one thing. Why do you fight for Oboyo? How can you be sure this invasion is even going to happen in the first place?"

Kent's intense gaze broke. He came because he was offered a job, and a real place to stay. He thought that if he had joined then his skills as a hunter could help them all out with their goal. But, he always felt that they had different motives. They were going by the stars and runes, instead of looking for a true god to fight for. It was... wrong. "...I fight for Oboyo because... he offered me a home. And a family." Kent spoke with a shakey voice, and it was noticable.

Mekis responded, "He has my respect as a warrior, plain and simple. That, and he has given me an ocupation of my time that serves some greater purpose, as far as I can see. Even if there is no invasion, we are still doing good. Or at least more good then your group seems to now be doing."

Demonicor gives a small laugh at the absurdity of the situation "You want to know the basis of belief? Well, for one, I've seen stranger things in my time here in the Cleft, it never hurts to be prepared. For another, you seem to be believing it just fine. As for why I joined up, I made a bet with Oboyo." he gave a small shrug, continuing to smile as he turned his grin to Mr. Jinsaka "As far as vagrancy goes, I likely own more houses, and have more creatures who trust and swear fealty to me than you do, oh great lord of nothing.'

"Kill them already, Graham!" shouted the old man, the boy merely hanging on to his father in a dazed state. "..Jum, Hiko, Grigori, Kamus..stand down." ordered Graham, the ninjas glancing at each other and taking a step back. Graham's sword remained unsheathed however as he pointed his blade towards Kent. "What are you doing?! Kill them!" shouted the old man as Graham gazed firmly at Kent.

"I won't give up the boy. You have valid reasons for fighting, but Oboyo is not the leader who can see this through. Still..there's little reason for us all to fight. I wish to test you, man of 'faith'. If you can defeat me, then perhaps Oboyo is the one who can succeed after all. But if you lose, I will not hesitate to unleash the full power of this rune on your friends. What do you say?"

Kent nodded. He held up his shield in an offencive stance. "Your move then, Heretic." Kent spoke the words less of what he wanted to but as something he needed to. Graham defected. Kent didn't know if he was fighting for the right side, but he knew that he wasn't about to let them lose to him. "But, if you don't uphold your end of the bargain, I WILL kill you."

Mekis glared at the man. "Why him? If any of us should fight you, it is I! But fine. I will be acting as your second, Sir Kent." Esteban, hearing this, relaxed a bit, but still felt rather antsy.

Demonicor mutters to himself as he draws his bone knife, pressing it to his palm "While I'm enjoying the sense of fair play around here, if they try to interfere, how badly do you want the kid?"

"Don't be stupid, Graham!" shouted the older man, the ninjas nodding and stepping back. "Best of luck, General." said the younger man as Graham began to pace gradually to the right, eyeing Kent. "Do you know how to use that thing? Let's see how you handle this." Graham said calmly.

Kent put down his shield next to Mekis and took off his cloak. Kent held up his sword in front of him with both hands. "I use it to cut down those whom do not follow the right path." Kent charges forward, and, with an unorthidox attack, shoves his foot in front of his as a kick to knock Graham to the ground.
With calm composure, Graham avanced towards Kent with the intent of performing a basic slash.

Taken off guard by Kent's ferocity, Graham grit his teeth as he is knocked to the ground. "Nnngh! Eager, aren't you? That won't happen again." said the General as he rose to his feet.

Kent decided not to worry about Graham's remark. He held his sword above his head and pulls the blade down towards Graham. He wasn't about to let him get back off of his feat so easy.
Graham eyed Kent cautiously as he waited to intercept Kent's next potential desperate attack.

Mekis looked at Kent's shield a moment, before brushing off any dust that it may have gained. He considered holding it, but felt it would be a wasted effort, so he took a seat next to it. He'd lift it when necessary.

Demonicor shrugs and slices open his palm, letting it dribble to the ground around him, preparing carefully, quietly murmuring and muttering as he sent his energy towards stabilizing what was to come.

Expecting a slightly rougher attack, Graham grumbled as he felt the sword knick his skin. He quickly rolled to the side and rose to his feet. "So you -do- have a little self control. But how long can that last when you know your life is on the line?"

Kent didn't relent in his assualt. He was always told by his masters that he was too stubborn with his attacks. Kent didn't listen to them. All he knew is that he kept winning. "PRETTY DAMN LONG!" Kent turned the hilt in his hand so he was holdint it in reverse, pointed the pommel end at Graham, and attacked with it towards Graham's stomach with its blunted force. It was an unorthidox attack, but, Kent wanted to prove he could win a duel without killing.
Graham watched Kent carefully as he took a defensive posture, waiting to see Kent's move and hopefully intercept a reckless attacck.

Spotting the attack coming, Graham stepped slightly to the side and used his free arm to deflect the blow over, swiping with his sword in the process. "Hmph..so you say. But can handle this!?"

Kent was going to stop listening. It was getting on his nerves. Yes. He could. He could handle whatever was thrown at him. Kent needed to shut this guy up. Kent took his left hand, and clenched it into his fist. With that, he threw it with an uppercut towards Graham's face. For a sword fight, he was using a lot of unarmed strikes.
Graham crunched his teeth together and roared loudly as he spun around attempted to bring his sword down on Kent in full force!

Kent's fist voiced its objections, but Graham's fierce strike would not hold up. With a bloody chin, Graham took a few steps back and glared over Kent. "It's time you see why he's going to get you all killed!"

Demonicor looked up briefly at the noises of battle, ignoring it for the moment as nobody seems to have lost... yet. Continuing to focus and chant as he retrieved a bandage wrap from his duffel bag, binding his hand as his blood webbed out around him, forming boundaries between the stones, dropping a small gemlike object at his feet, feeling thankfully ignored.

Kent yells back at Graham. "Nobody is going to die, hear me? No one has to die anymore!" With a rage filled bark that made him sound hypocritical, he yelled again. "Now, SHUT UP!" Kent charged forward with his sword in both hands. Something was overcoming him. Something beyond anger. Kent's eyes seemed off a bit. His blue eyes seemed... darker.
Graham gripped his sword tightly with both hands as he shouted out with a powerful strike towards Kent!

Graham cried out as Kent's powerful blow connected, sending him helplessly to the ground. 'What the hell was that?' Graham thought briefly, his body refusing to give him the strength to stand up to defend himself. The creepy ninja in black stepped forward shouting "General!" as two of the other ninjas placed their hands on his shoulders, pulling him back. Graham breathed deeply as he struggled to stand. "Let me be clear..I will not surrender the boy until you've "won"..and you will not win so long as I breathe."

Kent held up his sword and was about to bring it down. "I WON'T LOSE!" Kent brought his sword down near Graham's throat. Then is stopped suddenly. Kent blinked. "But I won't kill you," he said, "I won because I am the better man. And the better man does not kill another out of anger. No one needs to die."

Kent's sword cut a small gash on Graham's cheek, as a simple demonstration on how he had won regardless of whether or not Graham drew breath. "You are willing to sacrifice your life for little more than making a point. I was willing to sacrifice mine to save my allies." Kent's sword gently traced its way down to Graham's throat, hovering a hairs length away. "Yield. You have lost. Only an honorless man refuses to admit it."

Kimen took hold of Lucass' hand once he offered it to him. While he found comfort in it, it was almost entirely overwhelmed by the child's urgency to reach Kent and the others before anything bad could happen. The two of them ran northward soon spotting the party on the road. Kimen's fears seemed to be becoming a reality right infront of his eyes as Kent sword at a man's throat, which he assumed was Graham. "Mr. Kent!" The child yelled, coming to a stop as they reached the group. Kent was not going in for the kill! His sword remained mostly unmoving from the man's thoat. Kimen held his breath, hoping that the knight would do the right thing and spare him.

"Honor has no place on the battlefield." said Graham, ignoring the sword on his throat and pushing it aside with his fist. "And you're wrong. I'm willing to sacrifice my life because it's my punishment..one that will become yours, 'victor'." Once Lucass and Kimen arrived, Graham's attitude seemed to change slightly as he let out a soft chuckle.
"I was wondering where you were, 'boy'..come to warn your friends what will happen if I die? Well you're too late..this softy hasn't got the guts to kill me."
The older man seemed ready to explode. "What are you fools -doing-?! Kill them! Bring me the Spirit Rune!"


Demonicor stepped out of the circle as the air between the stones crackled and tore asunder with a noise akin to twelve large leather bound books being ripped apart, the man throwing his knife spinning through the air toward Jinsaka "You're just a coward who can't admit when he has lost." the knife began to disintegrate a few feet away from him, whirling wildly about as its form becomes dust on the wind, all that's soon left of it is a gem, still tumbling through the air in the general direction of the older man.

Kent slashed at Graham's hand that pushed his sword away, creating a gash, then put the sword back to Graham's throat. "I will ask you one more time, Graham. If you do not yield and admit defeat, I will kill you." Kent placed a boot on Graham's chest and pressed down until a crack could be heard. "Choose your words carefully. I've killed men who've insulted purity less than you have."

Mekis glared at Graham. "No place on the battlefield? Honor has no place on the battlefield!? How dare you say such a thing! Honor has every place in battle. It is what seperates a glorious battle from the common scrapping of beasts. SO you are a fool to say such things. You bring great shame to yourself in this statement, as you have just placed yourself in the same category as a rabid dog."

Kimen squeezed Lucass' hand tightly, shaking her head. There was a sort of pleading in her voice "Don't kill him Mr. Kent. Don't let his goading get to you. No good ever came from killing anyone and that especially goes in this case!" Kimen looked between Graham and Kent, "Mr. Graham's rune is a very bad rune. Its a parasite and you'll obtain it next Mr. Kent if you kill him. And I know you know deep down that man doesn't need to be killed. Don't fall for his trap."

The older man cowered back and threw his hands in front of his face, only to feel a gem hit him instead. Realizing he hadn't been impaled by a knife, the man lowered his hands and glared hatefully towards Demonicor. Infused with rage, the elderly man left A.J.'s side and approached Kent with a knife in his hand. "Kent!" shouted Lucass as he held is left hand out, the rage rune glowing a bright red before summoning a fireball and launching it at him.

"YYeeeeaarrrgh!" shouted the older man as he dropped his knife and fell to the ground, rolling around to put the flames out. That ninjas glance at the older man then at each other before looking over to the younger man. "..General, with all due respect..the situation has changed..perhaps it's time we rethink our possibilities. Please, don't let yourself die for these men. We can come up with another plan." he said, gesturing towards the older man and Kent.

"How else will you find atonement?" Graham remained silent for a moment as he continued to gaze up at Kent. "..I've already told you..atonement is beyond me. But..perhaps we do need a new plan." said Graham softly followed by, "So be it..you've won."

Kent moved his boot off of of the broken man below him and sheathed his sword. "If atonement is beyond you, then you and I are one in the same, Graham. The difference is I seek it regardless." Kent backed away and bowed before his opponant. He turned to Jinsaka Sr. "You. We had a deal. I don't know what you did to your son, but, we were sent to find him. There is a healer in the manor who will help him. Do not sacrifice your honor more than you have."

Demonicor smiled as the gem was simply left alone, and vanished. Appearing in the blink of an eye beside A.J. and taking the young man's arm "Come on, lets go get you back to your brother's house."

Mekis stood, wanting to add something more, but hearing what Kent said, he believed that no more needed to be said. For once, Mekis didn't say much. Instead, he hefted up Kent's shield in his arms and walked to his side. "Your shield, Sir Kent."

Demonicor nodded to the ninjas as he began to lead A.J. away from them "You guys don't seem to mind, or do you? I really can't tell."

With Kent sheathing his weapon, all of Kimen's fears and worries were lifted. The child smiled a small smile at Lucass then ran for Kent, throwing his arms about the knight and letting himself cry freely. "I-I was so-so scared for you, Mr. Kent!" The child said in between sobs, squeezing the man tightly despite the armor "I am so glad you are okay! When I heard about the rune.."

Jinsaka Sr. wasn't really in much position to object, so A.J. went along with Demonicor while whispering softly to himself, "Ruuuune..." Lucass let out a deep sigh of relief, "Guess we didn't need those catalysts, huh..?" he said to Kimen, who had already run off to assault Kent with hugs. The ninjas and the younger man left their positions to help Graham up. "General, in light of your condition, I must insist on taking executive control of the unit. It is henceforth my decision that we should at least visit the younger Jinsaka's manor. After all, I suspect that we are no longer welcome with the older Lord Jinsaka. This is assuming, of course, that these fine fellows are accepting of this? Consider it a surrender." Graham seemed to mumble something inaudible, but made no move to object.

Demonicor snapped his contingincy portal shut as he walked past, watching as the blood and gem used to form it turned to dust or crumbled within the stone circle "Tch, waste of materials... Ah well, I'll see if I can find you some runes to play with. I doubt they'll be as elaborate as the one your father wanted to get for you though." he made his way to the submarine ahead of the others.

Kent took the shield from Mekis and fastened it too his back without a word, somewhat angrily as he heard the title he refused to accept. Of course, Kimen attacked him shortly after. Kent tried to pry him off, but to no avail. "I'm glad you show concern, Kimen, but, it was still very dangerous." He turned to the ninjas. "You all can come, though, as soon as you all show betrayel, I stand by what I said. I will not hesitate to kill you to defend my allies."

Kimen let go of Kent, wiping the tears from her eyes with the sleeve of her shirt. "I am sorry Mr. Kent." She said in a quiet voice, "Lucass was supposed to come with you but he got left behind because of me! H-He could have told you about the rune Mr. Graham had and then your life wouldn't have been in danger. I'm sorry!"

"Very well then. My name is Rodger, by the way. I am General Graham's tactical advisor. This is Jum, Hiko, Grigori, and Camus." said the younger man, pointing at each ninja who performed a bow at the mention of their names...except for Jum, the eccentric one in black. He seemed to stare eerily at Kent before turning away to cart Graham off. Once the flames were put out, the elderly Jinsaka shouted words of revenge before fleeing towards Medina.

Lucass scratched the back of his head as he watched the group of ninjas carry Graham. "H-hey now, it's my fault too, so don't blame yourself! But um..are you sure about this, Kent?..I guess Elenor will know what to do with them when we get back, huh?"

Mekis smiled. He had great respect for Kent, so he found it something of an honor to return his shield. He was sure he was given a similar respect by Kent. Mekis turned to go, bu then noticed a small gem on the ground. He scooped it up and took it over to Esteban, giving him a small pet on the head. He placed it in a saddle bag. With that, Mekis and Esteban left for the sub, considering what to do with the gem.

Kent got on his knees as he looked at Kimen and Lucass. He pulled out his book from its pouch on his belt. "While they might not recieve it, every soul is deserving of seeking redemption." He smiled, book in hand. "I have often preached the word of my god. I need to live by it as well." He got up on his feet and looked near the sub. "Let's get going, shall we?"

Kimen nodded and smiled, taking hold of both Kent and Lucass' hands. He was more than ready to head back to the manor and get some rest. It had been a very trying day.