The Crimson Flower & The War Ahead

(Leslie reaches into his blouse, pulls out his gifted pack of Red Vert cigarettes, walks into the hallway, and leans over to search Ted's pockets for a lighter. Once found he scruffles Teds hair with his right hand and smiles.)- "I'll be back soon..I'm going out for a smoke and....*Looks at Ted and Dr. Hule as they twitch*...both of you get off of the floor....It's not very attractive at all. Ta ta!"

(Leslie walks past the patient desk where the staff would look up and glare at him. He would look at them from the corner of his eye and turns his nose up while continuing forth. He arrives at a set of elevators just outside of the patient are and presses the down arrow.)

(The elevator arrives quickly as it was also going down and he hops in. The doors close, Leslie leans on the back wall and the only passenger on the elevator, an old man with dark sunglasses and a wooden cane, eyes him with an odd smile. Leslie catches this and glares at him out of the corner of his eye. The elevator hitches causing Leslie to fall over and the old man to land on top of him. When the elevator continues to go down smoothly, Leslie feels a pinch which causes him to go red.)

(The elevator reaches the ground floor, the doors open, and Leslie walks out dusting off his hands. He looks behind him and scoffs as the old man was twitching on the elevator's floor.)- "HMPH..Dirty old man"

(The desk lady and he lock gaze for a solid 10mins before Leslie slowly walks towards the desk counter and leans on it with hand on his chin.)- "You have a problem sweetie? You seem like you want to end up with bell bitch in the janitor's closet hmm?"

(The desk lady blinks and runs a hand over her scrub shirt.)- "No Sir..*Leslie glares*.Miss...Ma'am *Leslie's eyes narrow* .....Oh um...MADAME!...Madame?.."

(Leslie smiles and walks away from the desk and heads out the heavy double doors. Once outside, he leans against the wall, taps the pack of Red Verts, and peels off the wrapper. He gently opens the lid trying not tear or bend it at all. He flips it closed and gives it a firm tap causing two cigarettes to be presented once he reopens the lid. He puts the highest one between his lips and slowly it out, and puts the pack back into his blouse. Leslie stares at Ted's lighter which was gold plated with an etching of his initials on the side, "TJM" (Ted Jonas Mullen), and finally presses the silver button causing a flame to come up. He lowers it to just touch the end of the cigarette then, flips the lid closed while resting his head against the brick wall and allowing a cloud of smoke to roll off of his tongue. Leslie closes his eyes in sheer bliss and continues to take slow puff from a seemingly endless red papered cigarette.)

*After some time in the headmaster's office, I thought out the plan to defend against the Xias*

*Issac* "We know for a fact that as long as the cargo comes in, we will in fact be at their level. They do have some well equipped men, but we have some of the best instructors here. One being right in front of us."

*Dr. Rasmus* "We can not underestimate the Xias one bit even so."

*One of the office staff members walks in with a trusted student/lieutenant of the Garden carrying a interactive map*

*Issac* "Please, lay it on the table here, thankyou."

*Lenn* "The map covers most of our surroundings. We could have a great advantage with this alone."

*Kagome* "She has a point. With this, we can get a feel where they could be coming from. Word spreads from our allies in the north that they are sending two large armadas to attack."

"twenty degrees by sixty-five degrees. It'll be south by south east that they would mostly attack from."

*Dr. Rasmus* "Why would they..."

*Kagome* "Because the heart of the Xias corp. is in the far north."

*Dr. Rasmus* "Trying to think that we wouldn't know a rear attack. Would they actually go out of the way to do that? They would have to travel away from our radar systems to not be detected."

*Issac* "You should know better than that. These bastard would destroy the entire planet just to poke us with a damn stick."

"Issac, send some outposts to these locations. Just incase, we don't want any surprises either tonight or before anyone wakes up tomorrow."

*Issac* "Okay, you got it. Soon after the party before we announce the curfew, we'll set up all that are able to fight. We will not jeopardize the lives of those that are either too scared or can not fight."

*Dr. Rasmus* "Issac and I have planned out a special place here in the lower part of the Garden to keep those safe. If the worst should happen, they will be ejected underground and the allies shall come and recover them."

*Lenn* "We won't let that happen!"

*Issac* "Good, that's the confidence that we'll need."

*The doors open behind us and in walks Kai.*

*Kai* "I hope that I didn't keep all who was waiting."

*Issac* "Not at all. I heard that you carry an emblem of your temple."

*Kai* "Yes, well it was giving to me by my master."

*Kai comes to sit down next to the wide window.*

*Dr. Rasmus* "So we have alot to do for tomorrow. If we carry the flag at the end of all this, then the Garden will be renewed and have plans to migrate to another location. We may have do something in order to do that first."

*Lenn* "What do you mean?"

"Even if we win, they could still find out where we are."

*Dr. Rasmus hands over an old blueprint of one of the armadas*

*Lenn* "How did you..."

*Issac* "As much as you may think lesser of him. I trust him with my life. Dr. Rasmus here use to be under the Xias."

"He defected"

*Dr. Rasmus* "I wanted to help and cure the world of this monstrosity. The Xias was a lie, but I had to find out the hard way."

*Lenn* "That's where you got your limp wasn't it?"

*Silence filled the room and we all sat down. Issac walked near the window where Kai was sitting*

*Issac* "I will fall before they get to harm this Garden in any way."

*We discussed more of the plans, but at the moment planned out the Garden dance to take our minds off a bit from the war that we were about to embark on*

{Taxi driver} "Here we are, miss."

"Thank you sir."

{I had giving the driver the little chip that Wei had giving me. He took it and slid it across a flat screen in front of him. He handed it back to me and got out to run to my door}

"You did not have to do that sir."

{Taxi driver} "Please, a very pretty girl like yourself, anything."

{The taxi driver got back into the car and drove away with a wave out the window. I was in front of a large hospital. It was so tall and wide and it almost reminded me of the Xias building. I stared at it for awhile and then finally took a step forward towards the entrance of it. An automatic sliding door opened up for me as I made my way closer inside. I had passed a fairly feminine looking man. He was smoking a thin cigarette and leaning against the outside wall. I kept walking and tried not to stare. The inside was vast and roaring with doctors, nurses, helpers, councilors, patients, and even extra staff. I slowly walked up to the front desk and tried to get the woman's attention. For some reason I could not find a bell or anything to bring her head this way}

"Excuse me."

{The woman was greeted by another staff and they both were talking to each other. One of them finally spotted me and walked up to talk to me}

{Front desk lady 2} "Yes miss, may I help you?"

"I."

{Before I got the chance to say anything, the woman left with haste and ran to the door that was labeled Janitor's closet. There were odd sounds after that, so I decided to sit down at the waiting area. I hoped that someone could help me. I felt a bit tired for an unknown reason. The wide TV plasmid on the wall was showing a health channel. After some time the screen would flicker at times. I head was banging a bit and I found myself falling asleep}

(OUTSIDE OF THE CRIMSON GARDEN)


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(The friends of Madame Leslie make it to the convoy that was detailed to them by the directions that was given to them. As they had set foot upon the barrier grounds of the convoy, they were given the greeting of all that would dare pass into the territory)


(Ghloria) "This is the place?"

(Ghloria was leading another mysterious man and just a few others that worked that worked for Madame Leslie. This part of the outside of Ti'ana was foreign to her. She never knew that there was ever a bullet train that could ever pass all the checkpoints of the area. A couple of men armored to the bone approached her. Each carrying a special modified machine pistol and a large axe-like blade on their backs. The smell of smoke, hot steam, and sweat of the men filled the atmosphere)

(Ghloria) "I...I am here to be transported with these goods I have. Let me through."

(Armored leader) "You believe this shit boys? Looks like we have a cutie with a favor to get out of the city. I might actually let you through with a bit of a favor of my own."

(The mysterious man standing near Ghloria took a step forward)

(Armored leader) "Back off, you wouldn't want this pretty little thing getting hurt now would you?"

(Ghloria) "He can handle his own without me even being touched. Now, let us through please."

(Armored leader) "Fuck this, take them all, but leave the cute one for me."

(There were multiple sounds coming from an unknown direction. Ghloria was the only one who really knew where the source of the sounds were spawning from. She didn't even need to listen for them. Every time a new sound would come by her ears. Her hair would move like the most gentle breeze of wind passing through it. Even the armor each man equipped with could stand against the piercing weapon driving into them)

(Ghloria) "It could have been alot easier on you boys if you had just let us be on our way."

(The man following close behind Ghloria walked up to a still breathing man. The man begged for his life, but that would not save at this time. A weapon raised up to the man's head and another silent shot was executed. The convoy was seized and they had stepped onto the train with their cargo. The train was set on it's course and they were on their way)

(TIME-LINE) - December the 11th / 6:37pm





(The time had come for the splendid dance to proceed. I had nodded off from time to time. Lenn had walked up and woke me up)

"Wh... what happened?"

(Lenn) "Dokuno has taken off to change for the dance. Maybe we should do the same? They mentioned that there were some fresh clothes in our rooms. I'm going to see how they fit."

"Oh, okay. I'll take my leave as well and see to that."

(Following Lenn out of the office, I caught a glimpse at the time on the wall)

"It's that time already?"

(Lenn) "Yeah, you've been nodding off and on for awhile. Time would be at a fast paste for you. I was just talking to Dr. Rasmus and Issac to pass the time."

(Lenn had been looking a bit flushed ever since we left the office. She seemed a bit happier than usually)

"Are you okay Lenn? I mean you seem to be in much better spirits than usually."

(Lenn) "I am, I haven't really ever been to these kind of events. At least not one this big."

(We had parted to go into our rooms and noted that we'd see each other again later at the dance)

{A loud noise in the distance. The sound of a child screaming. The speaker intercom announces the daily visiting hour times}

"Ah, oh my. I must have fell asleep. So much activity surrounding me. How long was I sleeping?"

{The time seemed to have rapidly changed. Quite a bit of time had passed. I noticed that the person that I had passed earlier outside at the entrance had disappeared. The unique smell of their cigarette still lingered through the front lobby to the waiting room. They must still be here and was just taking a break outside. The front desk woman came to turn on the flat screen tv}

{Desk woman} "I swear, this tv has been bothering the hell out of me since I got here. I wonder if Ronald can come and see this."

{She had turned it on to the news channel. The reporter on the screen was going through the weather and than to the critical riots that has been going on in other cities. What got my attention was what he was going to report about the Xias after the break. At this time I wanted to know what I was going to do here. I needed to get back to Wei and the others, but I didn't remember how to}

{News anchor on TV} "Welcome back, I'm Jim Towers for the report on the Xias in today's news. The Xias have been trying to clean up the streets and get to those that need any financial help in their lives. Right now they have been setting an order to help those in great need. Aren't they just the best? Moving on to the next line of news, Xias has been setting up for something big. A huge operation is said to be in order to the far east of Ti'ana. No further news has been released at this time. The Xias high director, has issued a high alert against any that oppose the Xias and will be dealt with extreme procedures. Later we'll have more on what is to come for them. This is channel 130 XXMT news, I'm Jim Towers signing off."

{The Xias is doing some operation? I wonder what is going on. I hope that Victor is alright. I wonder where he is right now? I continued to stay in place and watch the tv. It would still flicker from time to time, maybe it was what the woman had said. I have to think of a way to get some help around here}

*Stepping out of the dormitory, fixing up my suit and a rose that was left within a small vase upon the nightstand near the bed. The dance was something I haven't seen in years. I wonder what this one will be like? Anyways I need to focus on the spy that we'll seek out there. It had been awhile that I had changed my hair as well. About a good three years. Just wanted to go with something new. Everyone seemed to look at me closely... alot closely*

*Female student* "Oh my gosh! Wow! Mr. Okami!? Is that you? You are... I am sorry, I just... Please don't mind me."

*She left without any further words. She left stumbling through some other students and ladders still left by the prep crew. I made my way to the main section of where the event is suppose to take place. The staff and students already filled the area. Talk about packed. Issac and Dr. Rasmus were near the table of food and drinks. The live music was a nice touch. Everyone was still staring at me*

*Issac* "Dokuno? Dokuno Okami!? Is that you? Wow you really changed."

"Yeah the suit and the hairmix changer was a great add."

*Issac* "We usually have that for just looks. I'm happy to see that it was put into use."

*Dr. Rasmus* "You are the best looking man here, I have got to say. Nice suit."

"I take it that no one looks out of the ordinary yet."

*Issac* "Sadly nope, but lets just keep our eyes out for now. Where are your companions?"

"They must be getting ready. Kagome as well."

[i had found a dress that i wanted at the in-garden store they had. i might had to get a deep request, but the owner didn't mind it at all. i found a beautiful blue, slim, and a bit of a shine dress. i had it changed to red to meet with the garden and all. it was wonderful and i had not worn a dress since i was like ten. with the world today it never crossed my mind to wear such things]

"there we go, this looks much better. it feels great too."

[i placed a white flower in the left part of my hair and left the room. all the students must be at the dance since the halls seemed quieter than before. i received a couple of looks from some students as i came closer to the dance. upon coming to the entrance of the dance, it was just gorgeous. there was an enormous chandelier in the middle of the ceiling. everyone was dancing to the live band playing a beautiful waltzing theme]

"looks like i made it in time."

[just then, i noticed something in the the corner of my sights. a man standing near that mr. Issac and the dr. the man had bleach blonde hair, a very handsome suit that he was very relaxed in. he had a very unique necklace on and a rose inside his front suit pocket. from the back he looked a bit like Dokuno. maybe he was one of the students here? i had to see Issac anyways, so that would aid the icebreaker]

[Dr. Rasmus] "miss Lenn, you absolutely look divine. turn around please. oh you must let me have the honor of a dance with you later."

"the honor would be mine dr. Rasmus. mr. Issac, how do you do?"

[Issac] "please, just Issac thankyou, i must say that after the good dr. has had his chance, i might be able to have a chance as well."

"of course."

[Issac] "splendid, but please would you excuse me, i have to go and converse with the politics in the far corner. i take my leave miss, Rasmus, Dokuno."

"Dokuno? Dokuno Okami?"

[Dokuno] "the look confuses you?"

"......................................"

[i could not believe what was in front of me. i couldn't even get a word out. this was Dokuno? i would never guessed. it's like he had transformed. i had better say something or he'll just be starring at me]

[Dokuno] "are you alright Lenn? you look beautiful in that dress, and i like what you've done to your hair."

"t...th....tha....thank you."

[i had to get a rough cough out before continuing]

"you look very handsome, Dokuno. you should stick with that look. your hairstyle and color is very appealing. i love your rose. this is the dance? i can't believe how huge it is."

[i had to hold myself back. i noticed that i was babbling. i had to leave and get a drink]

[Dokuno] "Lenn, enjoy the event and remember to keep an eye out."

"ummm okay."

[i took interest at the side of his neck, just behind the necklace]

"hey, can i ask you something? i haven't noticed that mark on your neck before. a tattoo?"

[i shouldn't have asked, i know i should have just shut up. before making it worse, i left to the table of drinks and snacks. i never gave him the chance to explain about the mark on his neck. i didn't want to pry into it. maybe it was a real personal thing or something. Dokuno was something though, filled with surprises, especially with the new look]

"I can't seem to get this tie perfectly on. damn it, i guess it'll just have to do. does this suit seem a bit tight. no that's just me sweating and panicking."

(Right about now I was just thinking about one thing. Harmony. She had asked me to the dance and I went through at least seven different kinds of suits and ties. I finally found one and hope she likes it. Then, It just hit me like a rock to the face. I fell to my knees and looked down at the carpeted ground. I had no idea how to dance)

"No worries, I'll just have to improvise. Try not to embarrass yourself Kai, just try not to embarrass yourself."

(I practically ran out of the dorms and towards the dance event. I could hear the music and crowd get louder as my steps neared into contact with it. Two students bowed and opened the entrance doors for me. Inside was quite breath taking. Everyone was having the time of their life. I suddenly froze. My body couldn't make a move. It was against me)

"Uh oh, I can't do a thing about it. There she is, right in front of me."

(Okay, I had to pull myself together and quickly. She was wearing a deep blue dress with small frills around the collar. Her hair went all the way down her back. I thought at that point I might had been already in the spiritworld. Nothing could compare to her beauty. I was still stuck in the same place. I had to just take deep breaths and make my way to that nearby table. As I took very gentle baby steps to the table with all the delicious snacks and drinks, my body seem to give me back control of it. I noticed someone near me that was really at it with the drinks. I looked a bit closer to find out it was Lenn)

"Lenn?"

(Lenn) "WHAT!? I mean, yes Kai?"

(I had jumped back a bit)

(Lenn) "I'm sorry, I'm just a bit nervous at these things. Dances and all."

(Something seemed more to it than that, but I dare not questioned it)

"You aren't the only one."

(Lenn) "Hey, did you noticed who you passed to get to this table?"

"Who?"

(Lenn) "You just passed Dokuno."

"What? Where?"

(Lenn) "Right there."

(Lenn had pointed her right-handed index finger towards the direction of Dokuno. I really couldn't see it until he had turned around)

"Wow, now that's something. He really out did himself. You as well Lenn, I like your dress..."

(As I put my attention back to the direction of Lenn, she had disappeared)

"I wonder what that was about?"

(I took a sip of the drink in my hand. It had the taste of a very fine wine. Sweet, with a bit of dryness to it. They maybe students, but they have it going with this. I grabbed another glass and took in a deep breath. I counted to about ten, but skipped a good three numbers to get to it and made my way towards Harmony)

*The students were dancing, talking, and playing the traditional card games that were a big hit, even to this day. Looking up into the ceiling, the golden light of the chandelier would give the entire place a warm glow. The lights suddenly dimmed down as a speaker was making their way to the high stage podium*

*Student speaker* "Ladies and gentlemen, school staff, and guests. In our greatest traditions, I am honored to announce this year's official challenge Pur-ance! Today we are gathered for a test of abilities and Pur-ance skills. Please do remember that you may challenge only once to any student or staff of the Garden. You can however be challenged multiple times. In doing so, you will receive an honorable pendant of the Garden and be remembered upon the students and staff. Please take care in the challenges and move to the next open room for any Pur-ance challenge. Let the Pur-ance begin!"

*The students raised their arms up high in to the air and screamed. Each wild up for any challenge placed upon them. If I can remember, there was the accuracy challenge trial, the single card trial, the memory trial, the strength trial, and the endurance trial. That last one though was really never brought up by anyone, mainly to the fact that you had to have at least three others with you to make the challenge in the first place*

*Lenn* "Hey, hey! Are you planning to challenge?"

".............................."

*Lenn* "There you go again. Maybe I get to challenge you!"

*Multiple students* "Dokuno, Mr. Okami, challenge me please...... No! challenge me!..... Mr. Okami, I challenge you! Please let me challenge you!"

*Walking away from the crowds and moving towards the first table that I came to earlier*

*Dr. Rasmus* "Now, now, he will challenge those when he is ready, move along."

*I took a small slice of the cake sitting on the table. The taste reminded me of something, but I couldn't quite place it*

"i wonder where Trigger is?"

[that's right, i haven't seen that Trigger for awhile now. he and i were suppose to meet up. i guess he must be busy chatting up some other girl or something. guess that's just my luck. just when i was walking back towards Dokuno, a voice had stopped me. what do you know, Trigger]

"what do we have here? someone is late."

[Trigger] "hi, i am very sorry that i never met up with you. i just had to go and tell my parents about the dance and all that."

"ok, hey why did you come from the Pur-ance room? i didn't know that there was another way in."

[Trigger] "oh yeah, there are so many ways that you'd get so lost. hey would you like to dance?"

"sure, why not?"

[he had taken my hand and we walked to the middle of the dance floor. Trigger seemed very light on his feet for a dancer. i had to get the feel for this waltz. as the danced slowed down, i laid my head on Trigger's shoulder. my view was towards the direction of Dokuno. he seemed very lonely, but he must be use to it. i had this feeling, but i didn't know what it was. what Dokuno and i have gone through so far to get here. the others as well have done so much, but i really don't think i could have made it without him]

[Trigger] "Lenn? Lenn, hello?"

"what happened?"

[Trigger] "The music is done."

"oh, sorry. thankyou for the dance."

[Trigger] "hey, wait. would you like to go somewhere and talk."

"Trigger, i'm not going to be here much longer. i don't know when i'll be back, or if i'll even come back."

[Trigger] "then i'll wait. i can wait."

"how about a drink or something."

[Trigger] "i got something better for you then. i propose a challenge, a Pur-ance to you. if you win, i'll just have to wait as long as it takes. but if you lose, you tell me everything about you... say in my dorm room."

"tempting, so what is your challenge? and i thought that only anyone of the garden was to be challenged. i not really of this place."

[Trigger] "that's just specific guidelines. anyways i challenge you to an accuracy trial."

[we walked to the next room and within it was like a training field of obstacles. Trigger went to one that had targets that would stand up in front of you]

[Trigger] "how well is your aim?"

"how well is yours?"

[Trigger approached me and handed me one of his side arms. i smiled for a second and took a knee. he raised one of his eye brows up as i reached midway up my right thigh, stopping the rim of my dress just above my kneecap. i pulled out madame Leslie's handgun that was given to me. i had practiced a bit with the clip and i think i got it down]

[Trigger] "you, you always carry a gun with you?"

"you never know."

[we had a timer set on the side. everyone was watching from behind. looks like we had to kill as much dummies before the time ran out. Trigger insisted that i started first. you had to start with the clip out of the gun first. as soon as the chime went off you start shooting]

[Trigger] "ready?"

[i did a quick nod, and the chime went off loud. i quickly picked up the unique ammo clip and started it at an angle. it went in and after i shifted it forward, it slid all the way in fully until you heard the click. pulling back the golden top shaft of the gun, the first shell went into place and i aimed it at the first target. i made sure that every shot counted. changing the clips were another thing when it came to multiple targets. seconds were left on the timer that hovered to the side. the chime went off and all the targets fell back down to their original spots. everyone behind applaud]

[Trigger] "wow, 49 targets at 20 to 50 meters in 2 minutes. impressive."

[Trigger went next and got ready. the chime went off again and he fired upon each one that popped up. after he had finished, the system calculated his shots. 45 targets at 20 to 50 meters in 2 minutes]

[Trigger] "looks like i finally met my match. you won, fair and square. i hand you my last year's pendant."

"keep it, good challenge cowboy."

[i slid the gun back into the holster on my thigh and walked back to dance room. i noticed something or more like someone in the the corner of my sights. Dokuno had been watching at the door. as i got a better look, he was gone. a smile escaped me, knowing that he was watching me]

*Removing myself from the entrance to the Pur-ance trials room and returning back to the table where the Dr. was. Sipping his so-called wine and conversing with the other staff and students. I could hardly hear him over the noise, but just enough to hear him share some words about how he despised the Xias and that his work was too important to give over to the scum of the planet*

*Dr. Rasmus* "Ahhhh Dokuno! Have you.... done your...some.... dancing?"

"Dr. I think you might have had a bit too much."

*Dr. Rasmus* "Pshhh! I'm just jolly good. Rubish I say young lad... well you're not that young... or are you? Anyways where is that Makado fellow? I kinda figure he would love to spend his entire evening challenging everyone he could. Well in this case piss off every last student to challenge him, right?"

*Dr. Rasmus was indeed a bit off his rocker and heavy on the drink of his, but he was stronger than he looked. He once drove one of the Garden's hover-cycles through the hallways while completely intoxicated. Still made it to his room, even if he did put a bit of damage to the walls and floors*

*Dr. Rasmus* "Your apprentice is looking for you Dokuno. You should see what she needs and take this small advise from an old folkee like me. Learn to have some fun in your life. I know that you have a hell of a long road to journey, but do take the time to expolre the finer things in life."

*Dr. Rasmus and his words had really surprised me. I thought maybe it was the drink, but his words were actually clear that last time. I tried to make it past his unbalanced body of his and continued to the main dance hall doors where I had Kagome stationed. There I found her standing in a beautiful blood-red dress. It was long, down to her feet. The side had a slit leading just to her thigh. Her hair was put up in a long pony-tail. She had a single rose upon her left ear*

*Kagome* "Dokuno? Dokuno?"

"Yes, sorry. I was just admiring the change in you."

*Kagome* "The change in me?"

"Yeah, you've grown so much. Kagome, I wish to let you know that I really wish that you could have had a better..."

*Kagome* "Dokuno, stop, please. I have not once held anything towards you. I am grateful for what you have done. You saved me and told me the truth. You never held anything from me concerning my past. I am happy here."

*I decided to let the subject go and change it*

"Anything out of the ordinary?"

*Kagome* "No, not a soul has passed the internal-student detector. Each had not giving me a reason to think them suspicious."

"This spy is one hell of a..."

*Lenn* "Hey! Dokuno, Kagome, I won my first Pur-ance. Even though I wasn't a student, I made it with no problem. That Trigger was a good shot though."

*Kagome* "Trigger?" Dennis, the Trigger, Gonavich?"

*Lenn* "Wait, his name is Dennis Gonavich? He said that his name was Miles Conner, or what his friends call him, Trigger."

*Kagome* "Dokuno, he's not in my system that passed through here. He must had another way in to bypass this system."

"Don't jump to conclusions, but we must find this Trigger."

*Lenn* "Are you saying that Trigger might be the spy we're looking for?"

"We aren't too sure, but he is a student and he'd have to come through here in order to participate in the dance."

*Kagome* "The system was to make sure that each student had finished their weekly assignments and, or not have any detentions. If in that case, they would not be allowed to be here."

"Kagome, Lenn, spread out and search for the others. We can not take the chance of letting him go. If you find him, you come get me. Go now, and keep it as if he dosn't know that we know."

*Each took off with haste and headed into the great dance hall. I made my way back to Dr. Rasmus. He was now accompanied by Issac who had returned. I made it seem like everything was fine. I gave both the signal that I had known something. Each came to me and was notified without any alarm.*

{The feeling of endless time had passed. minutes? Hours? What could it be? I couldn't understand why it was taking so long for anyone to assist me. I wanted to get up and just leave. I had no other way of getting back to the others. I didn't want to bring too much attention to myself either}

"Oooh I feel like I could just scream."

{Man in suit with a sharp, black fedora} "Even if you do, It'll won't bring anyone to help. These lazy asses couldn't assist you even if they were professionals. Ah the world as we know it. Nice buildings, fancy lobbies, great looking nurses, but no satisfaction what so ever."

{Who was this man? I didn't even notice him come in. I swear he wasn't there when I came in or after i had awaken}

{Man in suit with a sharp, black fedora} "I must apologize, my name is Harald, Harald Spencer. I'm a lawyer. My client seemed to come here after being hit by a huge Voxi car. Frankly I'm quite surprised to hear from them after that hahah."

{I was unaware to be cautious, or trusting of this stranger. He wore a fancy stripped business suit with a silk tie. His brief case set down next to his right leg. He wore a golden watch with a mark of an angel on the side. He had a foreign accent to his speech. His face was clean, sturdy and strong. His grin was odd, but he seemed to have what was it that they call it when you eye does... ah that's it, he seemed to have a lazy eye}

{Harald Spencer} "Don't talk much, do you? I'm sorry if I had bothered you."

"No, I'm just not familiar with such strangers to just start talking to me within a place."

{Harald Spencer} "It's perfectly fine. I can relate. I just thought that you could use to company to move time along. You look as if you've been here for quite some time now."

"Yeah, you could say that. I'm kinda lost and wish to seek some aid."

{Harald Spencer} "Maybe I could be of some help."

{I wished that I could have asked for his help, but I still have no idea where this man is from. From what I learned from Wei, no one could really be trusted}

"I'm sorry, I'm actually just waiting for someone that I know to help."

{Harald Spencer} "Ah, very well. I'll leave you at that and be off. I hope that you find some help and get back home soon miss. Remember, never forget on what you're really looking for. Trust in yourself on finding the man with the promise."

"What!? What did you say!?"

{The man had gotten up and walked to the front reception desk. I could hardly see him for the lobby was filled with incoming people. I got to the desk only to find busy aids and nurses getting to those that were screaming at them for assistance. I ran to the entrance doors, then to the nearest bathrooms. He just vanished. I walked back to the seat I was at first and noticed something. The man didn't take his brief case. Why did he leave it here? How did he know about the man with the promise?}

The face of a different coin - The man known as Dennis, the Trigger, Gonavich.



----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


"Looks like I finally met my match. You won, fair and square. I hand you my last year's pendant."

(Lenn) "Keep it, good challenge cowboy."

"Hey wait, I..."

(Friends of Trigger) "hahah. The great Trigger-happy, womanizer got his ass kicked and then handed back to him by a chick... hmmm a very sexy chick, if I might add."

"Shut up, all of you."

(Friends of Trigger) "Hey, we're just teasing you man. What are you going to do now? You going to the after party... party? Come on, you should go. Lots of women for you to harass there right? Hey where are you going?"

(Moving along the left side of the trial room's wall. Making a way back to the rear part of it. Leaving not from the front entrance, but the back. A secret hole that would close from the other side. The next area was dark and damp, leading to the hallways. Continuing to the hallways of the garden and heading towards the dorm rooms. Someone comes running from behind. So fast I draw out a weapon)

(Guy in formal uniform) "Hey, whoa! Easy, easy man. I'm just here to tell you that a cute girl is looking for you. I do believe its the girl you challenged and lost. She said that she wants to challenge you this time. Guess you can call it a rematch."

"I don't have time, I need to get some rest."

(Guy in formal uniform) "If you asked me, I'd say it was a little more than just a rematch, know what I'm getting at, huh? Huh?"

(Walking away, quickly, but steadily to the dorm room. The door closes from behind. Inside, packing clothes and extra ammunition. Notes fall out, but quickly caught and returned into the large bag. Walking to the bathroom to splash water on face and then to come back and change out of the formal clothes that were worn to the dance. A black and blue jacket that was light and dark blue jeans. Ready and willing, grabbing the door knob and opening the door. As I closed the door shut, looking forward only to see the same weapon that was used in the trial. Gold and silver shaft, the cold hard steel of it pressing close to the forehead. It didn't shake, which meant no hesitation to the hand wielding it. The bag dropped. A sweat drop escaped my left brow. This was it, at long last, the traitor known as Dennis, the Trigger, Gonavich was caught)

[the moment was tense. i was staring into the eyes of the one that i thought was good in this world. he was a traitor, a spy for the Xias. i just wanted to punch him in the face for this. after i had brought him in, they placed him into a room that looked a little like the ones at actual holding complexes. concreted, see-one-way pane of glass to observe. i was within the room that observed]

[Kai] "are you okay Lenn?"

[i didn't want to sound rude or was ignoring Kai. i just didn't have anything to say at that time. this guy was going to be punished for his crime. he was part of the Xias. they even found a Xias mark on his lower back. Kai stayed quiet and left me to my thoughts. Issac, dr. Rasmus. and Dokuno entered the room that Trigger was in]

"i can't believe i ever interacted with this spy."

[Kai] "hey, you didn't know."

"i should have known!"

[Dokuno asked some major questions to the spy. each one seemed to make the guy sweat more and more, but still not breaking. my hands balled up tightly and i closed my eyes as i kept hearing the lies come from his mouth. i took off out of the observing room and into the room the spy was in]

[Kai] "Lenn, where are you going?"

[i barged into the room with fire in my eyes. everyone knew it. the spy above all. i slowly calmed down and walked in between Issac and dr. Rasmus]

"what were your objectives here at the garden? why did you even become my friend?"

[Trigger] "its what i do best, i..."

[without warning, i pulled out madame Leslie's gun and pistol whipped him across the face. i then quickly placed the barrel up to his chin and pulled back the golden hammer. Issac and the dr. were nervous and trying to calm me down, but Dokuno settled them down and not me. i looked into the eyes of the spy and saw fear in them. he had never been this close to pure death. the cold barrel of the pistol soon collected the sweat drops of fear from him]

[Trigger] "i was suppose to get as much intel and map locations of this garden and the next."

"...and the next?"

[Dr. Rasmus] "yes, you see the note that Dokuno wanted me to see were locations of the gardens around the planet. asking any that would aid us. all of them are very secretive and have never shown themselves without good reasoning."

[i looked back at the spy]

"you bastard, you were just going to hand all of us over to the Xias!"

[i raised the pistol high and once more was about to whip him across the face again, until a hand had stopped it midway. as i turned to see, Dokuno looked into my eyes and waved his head to me. i tried my best to give him a solid nod and left out the room. from outside i could hear Issac's voice raise louder]

[Issac] "you're lucky she didn't kill you right here and now. Dokuno knows best, he knew that you sensed fear with her. she was quick to know how to use a student to locate your whereabouts. take him away to the brigs. we show mercy to all prisoners, but you will be trialed after the conflict of the garden and the Xias."

[the door opened and two high guardsmen in red and deep blue uniforms had the spy in cuffs. he was taken away and first Issac left, than the Dr. and finally Dokuno last. he stopped and didn't look at me]

[Dokuno] "we all have gone through terrible things. i am proud that you did not become one of those terrible things."

[as he walked away, Kai came to my side and kept me company. tears escaped me and then i got up and followed Dokuno back to the office]

*Issac* "We have what we need. The information that he has given us and above all, we flushed him out. All there is to really do is to announce to the entire Garden that tomorrow will be a day of survival. These students and staff knew that a day like that would come. Each has had just enough training."

*Dr. Rasmus* "Issac, do not underestimate the Xias. We still have to prepare them for tomorrow. The dance and activities are still moving. Shouldn't we wait a bit?"

*Issac* "You're right. Though I still think that the sooner the better. It'll be best. Dokuno?"

"..................................."

*Issac* "There, that settles it. I'll return as soon as I have made the announcement."

*Leaving both the Dr. and I to announce to the Garden students and staff of what is to come. Issac has been one to not hide anything from the Garden and sooner might actually be best. Lenn and Kai entered soon after he had left*

*Kai* "Are we ready?"

"Not just yet. We still need the cargo from Madam Leslie and get confirmation from the others."

*Lenn* "You mean the other Gardens?"

"...Yes"

*Lenn* "You make it sound like they won't come to the call."

*Dr. Rasmus* "Miss Lenn, you see... the Gardens consist of four families of the major peace Lotus. The first is the Dark House of Lycos Garden, created to keep balance in the world. Only to make an appearance if needed, of course. Even with the Xias around, they still may not intervene. Second is the Rock of the West Garden, created to defend themselves of anything that may bring them harm. They have not been seen for a nice decade now. They say that they come and recruit students by hand. Third is the Jade Leaf Garden, they are special elves that hold the ancient ways of the mage arts. They still accept other races if worthy enough. Finally the forth..."

*Lenn* "The Crimson Flower Garden."

*Dr. Rasmus* "Specializes in the major arts of all styles of fighting and defense tactics. Also the main intelligence of all the Gardens."

*Lenn* "So they have to help us in our cause!"

*Dr. Rasmus* "Not so fast. Even with seeking out their help, they may not even think about coming. A long time ago, the Gardens formed a vow to protect this world. All also vowed not to come to another Garden's aid unless critical need."

*Lenn* "This is pretty critical Dr.!"

"It may not even matter. Even if they did hear the call and reply, they would have to leave immediately just to get here on time. I got a short signal earlier from them, but that's all it gave me really. A nice maybe."

*Lenn* "Damn it! I guess we'll just have to defend this place with all we got!"

*Issac had returned from the announcment and sat down in one of the large nearby sofas*

*Issac* "That will about do it. I have made it clear to everyone that tomorrow will be a great day and to be at their best. The staff will start on taking names on those willing and fully prepared*

*Kagome now enters the office and looks to all of us*

*Kagome* "The students are still being checked and registering for tomorrow. Most are not afraid. Some already left to get some rest for tomorrow. I had to let go of those that are either not ready, or not even sure if they can fight. We may not be able to win this war with just the number of the students that we have."

"This isn't even a war. No, this is just a battle to part of a war. There is still much to do after this is over."

*Dr. Rasmus* "Let's just get tomorrow over with shall we? Worry about the damn war later."

*Walking to the center of the office and looking into each and everyone's eyes. Looking deep into their souls. I see anger, I see fear, I see compassion, and I see hope. For some reason, the hope came from Kai as I looked at him as he was staring out of the large window*

"Then let us begin and prepare for the face-off tomorrow. Dr. Rasmus, prep as much beds and medicine for the students. Prep like you have never before."

*Dr. Rasmus* "Of course Dokuno."

"Issac, plan all the routes and vantage points for the Garden and the inside of the Garden as well. We need to place certain areas with weapons and backup."

*Issac* "On it!"

"Lenn, I want you and Kagome to be the first and last defense. If placed in a vantage point against the enemy, you both will also be the great offense with the students and staff. Check your weapons and ammunition before you go to bed tonight."

*Lenn* "I won't fail, I'll protect this place!"

*Kagome bows and follows Lenn out of the office to go and plan out their positions and stratagy for tomorrow*

"Kai, I need you to aid Dr. Rasmus. Other than that, it's not just because of your age, I need you to stay at a safe range. Don't go being a hero. You may seek to only aid the students in reloading and bring them meds."

*Kai* "Dokuno, I wish to do more!"

"You must not go out and be more than what I have given you!"

*Kai* "I..I understand. I can give Dr. Rasmus some herbal recipes that my master has taught me. I shall go and help him right now."

*Walking towards Issac, standing next to him to help plan out the vantage points*

{It was time to leave. I had been here long enough and I needed to get back to Wei. I hope that I did not worry him and the others. At the corner of my eye I had spotted that same person that was outside when I had gotten in here earlier. I wonder who they might be and why they are here. For some reason I felt as if i knew them. As I walked out the double sliding doors, the scent of perfume and maybe cologne at the same time? It was strange at first, but then it was taken over by the smell of smoke. Thick strands of smoke, trailing towards them. A corner came and as I peeked around it, no one was there. That can't be, someone should be here}

{Male voice} "You shouldn't go following people you don't know little girl."

{I slowly turned to see who was behind me. Sure enough, there he stood. He gave me a blank facial expression. Taking a long drag from his cigarette and then tossing it to a nearby outside ashtray}

"I... I am sorry Mr...."

{Male voice} "Madame!"

"E..Excuse me..."

{Male voice} "Madame... Madame Leslie, young one."

"Madame Leslie."

{I took a bow and a hard swallow, that felt like a fish bone stuck in my throat}

"I... I am sorry to bother you. I was just wondering if you could help me. I am lost and need directions to a place that I really can not explain or describe. I just know that it's a radio station."

{Madame Leslie} "Young girl, I am a bit tied up right now and you don't look like one that could ever be lost with that youthful skin. Actually, you look like you could work for me hahah. Mind you that it will be very hard work and with a long contract. We may need to find a way to hold up that long hair of yours."

"Wait, wait... I am not looking for a job. Not like that anyways!"

{Madame Leslie} "Ah, shame really. Oh you'd prolly never make it anyway with that figure. Get some nutrition for that body girl. I see that you aren't amused. Very well, I have never heard of a working radio station around here. I can't really help you anyways if you can't explain it to me."

{I was at a loss for words and was indeed simply lost. I can't get back to Wei. Before I knew it, I was pulled behind a wall}

"What's going on!?"

{Madame Leslie} "Quiet!"

{I was pointed out that there were a row of cars across the street. Black and glossy. The windows tinted to a shade you could not see through. An armored vehicle drove by and parked right next to them. Men with heavy suits ran out the back and lined up. Each with guns as long as their arms. Each wore a mask that contained a visor that glowed a deep green}

{Madame Leslie} "Shit, what the hell are they doing here? Little missy, come with me. If they spot you with me, then it'll be hell to pay. Now come!"

{I was dragged away back into the hospital. We returned to the lobby and I stood behind Madame Leslie. One of the heavy-suited men was walking this way. They were making their way in here. I was tugged without warning through the hallways and into an elevator. In the elevator I took a look at Madame Leslie. He looked as if he had dealt with them before. I asked myself something... Weren't those the Xias?}

"Are they after you?"

{Madame Leslie} "Hell would I know? I just know that I can't bring attention to myself right now, unless I really need to."

"Are you part of a rebel group against them?"

{Madame Leslie} "Girl, who the fuck isn't in this time of crisis?"

{I remembered what Wei had shared to me about them. I didn't know what to believe. I just needed to find answers. To do that, I needed to go with this Madame Leslie. Maybe he might know some answers}

{Madame Leslie} "Hey! snap out of it. My floor is here. I gotta make sure that you don't do anything stupid. Last thing I need is to put someone else in jeopardy. What is your name anyway?"

"Its...Its Tatiana."

{Madame Leslie} "Tatiana huh? Well come on, you're staying with me, at least until I know that these bastards are gone from around here. Damn it, I need to figure out why they are here."

{I was led to a room where a girl laid in a hospital bed. Maybe a relative? Madame Leslie closed the room's door behind me}

{Madame Leslie} "This is my little sister, Nessa. I would give you a proper greeting, but as you can see, she is in a state of a coma at this time."

"I am sorry to hear that. If I may, what happened to her? Sorry, you don't have to..."

{Madame Leslie} "She was attacked. Attacked by a fucking prick of the Xias. I made sure to put him in his place. He attacked all of us. We had lost one and the rest was pretty critical. Nessa was the only one that became like this in the end."

{This Nessa looked as if in a deep sleep, filled with nightmares and never to awaken for dear life. Was the Xias this bad?}

{Madame Leslie} "Since I just shared that to you, where do you hail from?"

"I..I'm from a village that is no more than a forest of dreams right now."

{I knew that he would not understand. It was better than sharing where I had really been from}

"You mentioned that you and others were attacked. There were more with you?"

{Madame Leslie} "Yes, I did. A little nuisance of a monk, A trigger-happy girl, and a still-mysterious fellow that seems to be good with a blade. That last one is a hand full though, don't get me started. There were two extras, but we had barely met. They were guides through a hellish forest."

{I walked over to the same window that Madame Leslie was staring at and gave him a look. A look that even he knew. Before anything further happened though, A doctor came in for their hourly checkup rounds}

{Hospital Doctor} "Hmmm, That's odd!"

{Madame Leslie} "What!!!?"

{Hospital Doctor} "Oh nothing really big or bad like that. Just that Nessa's readings and stability are better than ever. She may still be under a coma, but she looks to be sleeping better than usual. Her fever is gone too."

{Madame Leslie} "Damn it, don't scare me like that! She has had enough damn sleep! At least someone is getting better rest around here though."

{Madame Leslie really has love for his sister. He turned to look back at me and smirked}

{Madame Leslie} "Now, sit down and be prepared to be amazed of my story and how I came to be here. Since we have some time to kill, I fill ya in."

(Leslie started to pull out his pack of cigarettes then quickly remembered exactly where he was then put them away again. He started to give his monologue and would occasionally glance at the girl as she nervously wrung her hands and stroked her hair behind her ear.)

(Outside the room Ted had just returned from aimlessly roaming the whole of the 8th floor with a strong scent of smoke radiating from his clothing. He walked slowly in a straight legged march while whistling a tune of ¨ Can´t Catch Me¨ by the Stallworth´s band. Ted was finally about to round the corner when Dr. Hule, in all his height and leanness, pushed past him and through the doorway. He stood there dumbfounded and off balance at the blur, then scrambled in after Dr. Hule.)

(Ted with his hands on the wall of the narrow doorway)- ¨Fucking hell!...Give some warning next time!...*Walks further into the room and spots the girl*....Who.....is she?¨

(Leslie whipped his head around as Dr. Hule stood there with his hands on his hips, then glanced at Ted right behind him)-

¨ Ted...MUST you come in with such a scene?...And have manners...She´s *looks her up and down* A lost and fragile girl...Who damn near got caught by what looked like the Xias....had I not pulled her away...*looks at Dr. Hule*....Why are you standing there looking like a pissed off customer at close out sale?? Speak up!¨

(Dr. Hule reached up embarrassedly and fiddled with his tie. He glanced at Ted, then back to Leslie who was now tapping his heel)-

¨Actually that´s what I wanted to ask you about....Why the hell are they here swarming the goddamn surrounding streets? What did you do?!¨

(Leslie quirked a brow and narrowed his eyes while standing to his feet. Ted saw his hand lowering and quickly ran over to stop him.)-

¨Leslie no!...He didn´t mean it...itś just a...Hey wait a minute......Xias are *points towards the window* Here?!¨

(Ted runs to the window, nearly loses his balance and smacks into the window. Leslie jogs over to him and slaps him upside the head.) -

¨Be the fuck careful dammit!...You´re lucky to get away with me slapping the shit out of you!....*Looks out the window and mumbles* I don´t need a splattered ex....¨

(Ted rubs the back of his head and gazes momentarily at the floor before turning his attention to the window. He grabs the handle and lifts up with too much force and sends the window flying backwards just missing Leslie´s head. He looks back at the now shattered glass and then looks out to see black swat trucks spotted around the streets a few blocks away)-

¨They seem to be moving away from the hospital now....but I have a feeling it won be long before they make there way around here again.... *Turns to be face to face with angry brown eyes*...............Uh...um..Heh,,....Le..le...Leslie......Yea about that...Sorry...

(Leslie grabs Ted by the neck *surprisingly* and tosses him right back through the door into the hallway. His face flushed a soft red as he pushed past Dr. Hule and goes to town on the now cowering Ted.)

(Dr. Hule tilted his head, then looked over to see the girl blinking with a confused look on her face. Before she could utter a word, he cupped the back of his head and winced)- ¨.....y...Yea.....Iḿ starting to realize that this is *flinches again as he looks out the door* normal..... behaviour.....Heh .....Soo,,,,,,..uh......whatś your name?¨

(Tatiana sat there a moment then jumped back to her senses)- ¨Oh.....uh...What did you say again?...Oh my... name of course....Tatiana........is my name.....Yes ¨

(Dr. Hule smiled sincerely)- Nice to meet you...*looks into the hall one last time*... Uh....Welcome to Hell Tatiana....heh¨


[THE SHIPMENT]

(Ghloria sat in the backseat of a huge black van, with arms folded and head bowed in a deep sleep. The lights cast strange shadows on the escort next to her and all that could be seen is red glow from his dwindling cigar. He takes a long drag causing the cigars to finish the tosses it out of the van window. Ghloria wakes up in a coughing fit, waves the smoke away then rolls down the window.)- ¨Wow...you too?! I get enough of that when Leslie´s around me ....¨

(The escort turns towards her with a gleam reflecting off of his metal eye patch, and makes a soft groan of disapproval. He sits back against the seat and exhales the last bit of smoke through his nostrils.)- ¨And...?¨

(Ghloria looks away and shrugs. An hour later the van stops at gate. A card was exchanged between the driver and a shadowed figure, soon the gate went up and they continued forth. The escort sat up and pulled a gun from behind his back, checked the clip, then returned it.)

(The car rolled to a stop in what looked like a small shelter. The driver hops out and opens the rear door))- ¨Alright guys we´re in the all clear.....Follow this guy here he´ll take you inside. We´re going to help with the setup....Oh and uh Welcome to the Garden!¨

*The halls were empty, the lights were dimmed. Only the sounds of footsteps from the hall monitors and mechanical sensors rolling about. Taking a deep breath and moving along the hallways towards Lenn and Kagome*

*Lenn* "Dokuno! Here is what we got."

*Lenn gave valuable information about the situation and how to evade the Xias in certain places of the Garden. She seemed to know what she's doing. I didn't question anything about her methods*

"Everything is set for this location?"

*Kagome* "Your companion is very reliable when it comes to battle plans and expert gun handling."

"This will be a lot different from what we have faced."

*Lenn* "You're telling me that after what we've been through? Damn Dokuno, we went up against those creepy creatures and this is worrying you?"

"The Xias are bit more stubborn."

*Lenn* "That's why you're here, hero."

"................................."

*Lenn* "See, that's what all heroes do. They stay quiet and mysterious."

*Garden security* "Mr. Okami sir, There is a woman here to see you. She says that she carries a cargo from a Madame Leslie."

"Escort her to the main lobby."

*Garden security* "Yes sir!"

*Madame Leslie's shipment arrived. Not that I had lost any hope, Just surprised that it arrived this soon. The rest of us will be able to retire for tonight. Lenn and Kagome were finished and followed close behind as I made way towards the main lobby of the Garden. Stepping into the elevator and descended two floors down. The lobby just around the corner and seeing Ghloria standing next to a tall man with a neatly made leather trenchcoat. He had a fedora-like hat, but wider than normal. Black and what looked like a hidden blade within it. His arms folded and the way they were positioned I knew that this person was not unarmed. The pungent odor of cigar smoke lifted into the air. The hat seemed to cover what looked like a not so normal eye-patch*

"Ghloria, I don't even want to know how he talked you into being the one to deliver the shipment."

*Ghloria* "What? Can't a girl WANT to come and see her favorite hero?"

"You look like you've had a very long trip. We'll place you into a protective room when all of this is going down."

*Ghloria* "Ha! Fat chance that happening! I'm staying and fighting."

"I don't think I can allow that, I couldn't or wouldn't explain all of it to Madame Leslie."

*Ghloria* Hey! I can take care of myself!"

*The tall man gave Ghloria a jab to the side of her head with his elbow*

*Ghloria* "Well, I also got him too!"

*I Walked up to the tall man and scanned him up and down. Looking down at me and then taking one big step forward closer to me. Hearing the deep breathing sounds coming from his nose alone was strong and clear*

*Lenn* "He looks like he could be a great help. If he wanted to that is."

*Ghloria* "Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to introduce to you Tra'han Brasseaux! He can be a great help too."

*No more than a few grunts and moans from the man was shared. I had some one escort both of them to their guest rooms after I had thanked Ghloria. I had this Tra'han Brasseaux person come and seek me out after he is situated*

"Lenn, Kagome, I want you both to retire. Get rest."

*Lenn and Kagome* "We can still."

"Now!"

*Both power walked away and down one of the hallways. I made my way to the cargo bay to relocate the shipment*

(After both Ghloria and Tra´Han had been escorted to their rooms, they began to get comfortable.)

(Tra´Han entered the left door first, He was met with a bright and clean room with a twin sized bunk-bed. The sight made him smile. He soon he stripped off his trench coat and hat, then sat on the edge of the bed with a groan-like sigh)

(Ghloria now was in her room to the right. Glances here and there wee cast at the lopsided bed and a huge out of date GotchaBoy poster. Ghloria took a few steps towards the poster and began trying to mimic model. She rose her right arm over her head, a left leg stretched out behind her. She then struck a pose , that wasn´t on the poster, and landed on the floor. Embarrassed, she scrambled up to her feet, rearranged her black and purple coloured hair, then headed out the door into Tra´Han´s.)

(Tra´Han had drifted into deep thought and failed to notice Ghloria standing right in front of him. She knelt down, looked at his bowed head and started to tweak his nose, pull his ears, then untied his ponytail allowing his long hair to flow over his shoulders. When he didn´t budge she huffed and started to head out the door before his hat caught her attention. Giggling she picked up the huge hat, put it on her head, and reached for his trench coat. Ghloria slid the coat over her back but her height caused it to drape on her arms and around her feet. She started snooping around until her hand touch something odd. She gave it a squeeze which caused some type of liquid to coat her fingertips))- ¨Shit..¨

(Ghloria was about to pull her hand out when suddenly Tra´Han grabbed her wrist. He looked her dead in the eye and spoke in a gruff tone)- ¨I...dohn´t think ya wannah do that.......¨

(He released her hand and folded his arms)- ¨I.....suhggest you dohn´t go rubbin ya eyes...*He turns and faces the doorway*..I learhned that the hard way.....¨

(Ghloria watched the subtle glint of his eyepatch as he headed out the door and down the hall. She sat there for a moment like a child in over-sized clothes, placed them back in their proper place and jogged after him.)- ¨Hey!...Yo... wait!....TB slow down!¨

(Tra´Han growled softly as she said the on name he hated. Ghloria caught up to him)- ¨What did you mean by that?,,,,Back there huh?¨

(Tra´Han continued on with his arms folded, while Ghloria began tugging at his elbow)- ¨Hey!....Don go silent now....What did you mean? What is that stuff I touched?....*shakes him*...Come ooooooooon!!!¨

(Tra´Han)- ¨Saht´a-sen¨

(Ghloria cocked her head) ¨ Saht´a-sen?...And that is....what exactly?¨

(Tra´Han groaned for a moment before finally speaking)- ¨ It´s ah chemically enhanced Jalapeño pepper. The spice has a fohrced mutation gene that only activates when in contact with eyes, inner nose or inside the body via blood stream or digestion....¨

(Ghloria walking in thought)- ¨So basically the sensitive parts of the body.....And activated by involuntary human action of smelling or the rare few who taste?¨

(Tra´Han)- ¨Sohrta....The only way they would eat it is if appropriately prepared as a spicy dish. Chili being my ultimate fahvorite...though most potent....In fact i use that only in dire situations......I suhggest you wash your hands.......I have someone I have to meet...¨

(TIME-LINE) - December the 11th / 10:43pm

(Darkness falls upon this day. The moon slowly showing it's pale brilliance to the naked land. I've wasted so much time on this planet. Tatiana, where did run off to? Come back to me and help me find our Eden. My hands, cold as ice. My face flustered and dreary. My presence here is long overdue. Surrounded by all the incompetent and ignorant Sack of flesh of those known as the Xias. These soldiers can not help me find what I am searching for. I should off them right here and now. But wait, if I do that, then I can not sacrifice them for my glorious day)

(Xias solider) - "Sir! We have traveled all around Hilifax. I don't think she's here."

- "That's where you have a problem soldier, see with your instincts, not with eyes."

(Xias soldier 1) - "Well then, my instincts say that she isn't here, Sir."

(I can only imagine what maybe going through this young, poor man's mind as he stands there, looking as if he was very confident in his ways of sniffing out the source like a mangy dog on a chain. First step forward, he looks down and then away. Second step forward, he looks straight into my eyes. Does this man know fear? Does he fear death? Does he find it in himself to know that there maybe no possibility of return after choosing his path? I could only guess about a couple of inches off the ground, his feet dangled. The sweet, candy smell of red liquid pouring from his mid-body section. My blade collects every drop. Absorbing his essence as he looks down to see his fate. Was this what he was looking for? Do you think that he foreseen this when he woke up this morning? Only as you look at the ground while the street lights shared our shadow's story, His shadow became two)

(Xias soldier 2) - "My god!... W..what would you have us do sir?"

-"What you're good at, sniffing out what I need like good little dogs you are."

(This Hilifax is mass, but I will not give up. I can sense you somewhere here Tatiana. Even if I have to burn everything around me, I will find you my dear. The hours that had passed, I have been thinking of ways to let you know how much we need to change this world)

(Xias soldier 3) - "Sir, Mr. Falson wanted to let you know that they are ready for tomorrow's plans and that you should retrieve the girl as soon as possible. He would like to talk to you right now. sir."

(I feel my hate growing immensely out of control for Merick. I truly hope that he drowns in his very own blood, looking up into the darkness. This war only feeds my need to make my dreams come true)

(Unknown Hilifax Civilian) - "Hey, why don't you get the hell out of here! Who the hell do you think you are? Bunch of dumb-asses that just come and parks in the middle of the road and dressed all in black. You and your damn crooked bastards need to get."

(Xias soldier 3) - "Shut up and move the hell along!"

(Unknown Hilifax male civilian) - "Screw you!"

(Unknown Hilifax female civilian) - "John, please lets just go."

(My eyes suddenly target the young women. Like a transparent ghost moving through the air. At such speed, standing right next to the window of this annoying and unfortunate couple's vehicle)

(Unknown Hilifax male civilian) - "What the...!"

(My hand breaks the through the window like nothing. The shattered pieces of glass fly inward, scaring the girl half to death. My hand grips around her neck and pulls her out like a worm from of the soil)

(Unknown Hilifax male civilian) - "Please man, don't do anything to her. Just let her go!"

- "Let her go, you say? Did you hear that miss? He wants me to let you go."

(The man shares a sweat drop from his brow. His eye-glasses fumble down to his nose. He panics and tries to calm the girl down. He thinks he is brave. He thinks he can save this little girl. I wonder, does this man fear death? I bring the girl closer to me and whisper into her ear)

- "Young miss, do you fear death?"

(Her eyes start to roll back as she slowly runs out of air. I loosen my grip and hear what she has to say. She faintly replies...)

(Unknown Hilifax female civilian) - "Please don't hurt me."

(I let go of girl. She drops down onto her knees. She cries and instead of the man running to her, he decides to run towards me)

(Unknown Hilifax male civilian) - "I'll kill you!"

(My blade wasn't hungry at that precise moment, but it got something out of him. As he ran from the front of his vehicle, he came right beside the girl. His running slowed down. He stood there like he was out of breath. His eye-glasses split in two. His dress-shirt's buttons popped off. All I can say is that he must of had a serious splitting head-ache. The cries of the young girl became louder. A Xias soldier tried to force her away. This world is so imperfect. I will be the hand that brings true order)

*I was located in one of the storage bays of the Garden. It was where I had the Cargo relocated. Everything seemed to be here. Looks like Leslie gave me everything to not just survive one, but two wars. There were weapons here that should be strictly deported and destroyed by most of the Xias Corp. eradication department. Some that I myself have never even witnessed before. Since the cargo had a Minos-tera device on it, it wasn't too much trouble getting it here. The device was use to greatly defy the weight of the cargo. What you would think was fifty tons was actually just eight-hundred pounds*

"Great way to bypass those extra taxes Leslie"

*The sounds of heavy foot steps down the halls. It would suddenly lighten up, as if not walking closer, but further away. A dark and tall figure soon stepped out into the bright lights of the room. The man known as Tra'han Brasseaux*

*Tra'han Brasseaux* "You wanted me to seek you out, correct?"

*His deep, french-foreign accent was very thick, but still able to understand. His tall stature over came mine greatly. A dim to almost deep glow within his metallic eye. With the light's aid, I could see a bit of a tan to his skin. This man's face has seen many great battles. He knows far more than the eye can judge*

"Tra'han Brasseaux, The warrior of shadows and even light. The man that you would not even consider being a man, but an animal with a gun. Alot of guns if I might add."

*I threw him a rifle, but not just any. A two-piece rifle. He knew exactly what it was as he slid the rifle apart in two. A blade came out of each of the pieces and became duel wielding weapons*

*Tra'han Brasseaux* "And you, Dokuno Okami, of the great Heal-ling Forest. You took some of my work back in the day. I too was an assassin for hire. Now just a humble chef with great tastes."

*It was quite hard to believe he was a chef. Something tells me there was much more to it*

"Hired hand from the right offers I take it?"

*Tra'han Brasseaux* "This one was more of a favor. I am usually just a cook living an honest life. I never knew that I going to be escorting someone to see the one and only flesh and blood, Dokuno Okami. You were taking in by the great monks of the eternal healing temple. Yes, I know all about you. Trying to take on the Xias?"

"Protecting, to protect against the Xias. The war started with them. I thought it was just because people didn't want to live under their love and protection, but it was far from it. The Xias was using the people to experiment on."

*Tra'han Brasseaux* "You still have alot to learn. You are about to face something that is nearly not as important as what is to come."

"What are you talking about?"

*Tra'han Brasseaux* "There is one that will try all their might to stop you. To stop all of you. He is from the Xias, and then he is not from the Xias. He is his own. He cares not for the Xias, but uses them to get closer to the end."

"The end of what?"

*Tra'han Brasseaux* "Why, the end of life."

*He seemed to know a great deal of info about what is going around. Now wasn't the time to think of that. We had to prepare for point at hand. Tra'han helped with the equipment. Sorting out every last weapon and accessory in groups for tomorrow. Time was not on our side and we had to expect every possible attack the Xias was going to throw at us. Tra'han didn't seem like he sleeps much and he made everything go a little faster and smoother with this cargo*

"The Garden and the Xias."

*Tra'han Brasseaux* "Fight or die."

"War is upon us."

{Madame Leslie was walking back and forth from the far left side of the hospital room to the right side. A long, narrow, and pure black with a single white line near the lit end cigarette placed within his mouth. Walking, annoyed of the lights that would pass our room's window from time to time}

{Dr. Hule} "Honestly, my god this is ridiculous. These people have no manners or respect what so ever for the well-beings of this hospital!"

{Dr. Hule walked to the window and brought down the long blinds. The light could barely be seen now}

{Dr. Hule} "That's better."

{Just then, the sounds of sirens and the soldiers were talking on the megaphones down on the streets below}

{Dr. Hule} "What the... aww hell!"

{Madame Leslie} "Good old Dr. Hule, Please refrain yourself and your volume before I put my heel deep down your throat."

{Dr. Hule} "My sincere apologies."

{Suddenly I felt something. Something deep down in my chest. It felt hot, as if burning. It would slowly cool down and visions came to me. I see a man with a silver blade and others with him. I see fire and destruction all around}

{Madame Leslie} "Hey, little miss muffet. Come back now. Tatiana!"

"I...I...I'm so sorry. What happened?"

{Madame Leslie} "You're burning up, that's what is happening right now. You're sweating bricks young lady. What's wrong?"

"I..I'm alright, I'm just a bit warm."

{Ted} "Warm hell! You look like you just worked your last sweat drop out."

{Madame Leslie} "Ted, oh Ted."

{Ted} "Yes?"

{Madame Leslie} "You're still here. In front of me, In this room. Why?"

{Ted} "Excuse me, what? I shouldn't be here?"

{Madame Leslie} "Go and get this girl something to drink and a towel! Well get going!"

{Madame Leslie grabbed at Ted's ear and gave it a nasty twist. Pulled him out the room and gave his behind a quick, but mean kick out into the hospital hallway}

{Madame Leslie} "Ted, retrieve me something diet as well, if you don't mind. and see something about the temperature of this place. It does seem a bit warm."

{Ted} "But the damn Dr. is right there. Ask him."

{Madame Leslie} "Don't you dare talk back to me, Ted!"

{Ted} "Going, going!"

{Madame Leslie fully returned into the room. I had thanked him and gave my attention to a nearby bathroom. I got up from the chair and walked in it. I looked into the mirror and then turn on the faucet to splash some cold water on my face. What was the vision I saw? What did it mean? Who was the person my vision was showing me? So many questions. I came back to the chair, refreshed. Madame Leslie peeked past the blinds and gave a small snark at the streets below}

{Dr. Hule} "One of the nurses gave word that a huge commotion happened outside. Said that there had been an innocent couple driving on the streets and stopped to talk to the group down there. One of the group members then attacked one of them through their car and then killed the other. These people aren't to be trifled with."

{Madame Leslie} "Pigs, no lower than that. Creatures beyond descriptions."

"You mentioned that they were Xias? Are all Xias horrible?"

{Dr. Hule an Madame Leslie looked at me with the most confusing faces}

{Dr. Hule} "Young girl, where have been? Xias itself is the scum of all. They take and take, and take. Draining every life force out there. Commanding, destroying, and dictation every last major news. If the news talk greatly about them, then they are under their paychecks."

{Ted had returned after awhile with a cold bottle of diet Ofela for Madame Leslie and a cold bottle of this beverage called Ice-cona tea for me. I think he may have forgotten about the towel, but I really didn't need it anymore. I had never heard of or tried this before. I had thanked him and tried to open the glass bottle, but it would not budge. The metal, cap-top didn't come off. I tried to twist and pull, but nothing. Madame Leslie, Ted, and Dr. Hule all looked at me with their heads kinda tilted to the side. Madame Leslie walked up to me with his cigarette in his hand and handed me the cigarette, while swapping for the cold, glass bottle}

{Madame Leslie} "Hold that."

{He slowly ran his right hand index fingernail down the side of the glass bottle and then back up to the cap-top. The cap released a small, thin, silk, blue ribbon and the cap came right off. He handed back the bottle and took back his cigarette}

"Thank you."

{Madame Leslie} "There is still much to learn about you young lady."

{Madame Leslie walked over to Nessa's left bed-side and sat down in the chair. He popped the top off of his bottle and before placing his lips upon it, he took it to his forehead. Using the cold condensation dripping on the side to cool down}

"This is really tasty."

{Dr. Hule} "I can see that you have a lot to try in this world. Where do you come from?"

{A loud beeping and then pulsing vibration came from his side belt}

{Dr. Hule} "Gee, sorry, I can't stay and hear it. I'll be back to though. I must go and continue the rest of my rounds. I'll be back. I'll go and double check with the nurses about the temperature too."

{The Dr. had left us and I had finished my bottle. It was really refreshing and tasty. I was feeling a bit tired. My eyes could barely keep open}

{Madame Leslie} "You should get rest, Tatiana. I get the feeling we have a huge day tomorrow. I still need to figure out some things. Like on how to work out a way out of here."

{I had taken Madame Leslie's advice and slowly closed my eyes. I wonder what will happen if I stick with Madame Leslie. Just to find some answers and maybe get closer to what I am searching for. My vision feels as if it hasn't happen just yet. Maybe it was the future. It still doesn't explain who or what it was}