POWER LEVEL
356,511
Tech Points
47/88
Forms
Enhanced Being [x39]
Zeni
92,117
Bio-Android
|
Mar 13, 2023 18:53:56 GMT -5
Post by Ayu on Mar 13, 2023 18:53:56 GMT -5
From the darkness, a familiar scene emerged. Scene of... Scenes? Pieces, fragments of pictures of collapsed buildings, screams, and tears. People were fighting, plants growing in frenzy, blasts fired in every direction... A mess. Chaos. Shadow was swallowing everything only to spit out another horrible stage. And in those frightful sceneries, something was breaking up, switching, crumbling. Cracking. Before she knew it silhouettes blinked in front of her eyes - people she knew, people she has never met - and an enormous shape started towering above her. A bulky, intimidating posture was hiding in the shadows... From this figure, something heavy and big came off and fell to the ground, right in front of her.
Liari's head scowled in a hateful, mocking grin before it melted into the darkness, and even then she still could feel the scornful gaze burning through her skin.
Her eyes snapped open. A gasp was immediately covered by Ayu's hands, even before she could let out any sound. The heartbeat was pulsing in her ears... Slowly fading into nothing, into this calmness that seeped through the window alongside the starlight. It was too quiet. It took her a second to realize that she was laying on something soft while breathing heavily. What she saw just now was a dream, a nightmare. In a moment of abstract panic, she frantically sat upright but the dizziness hurt her head. Rubbing her temple Ayu blinked, confused and startled. Everything seemed so peaceful it was unreal. It was like it didn't have the right to be so quiet. Her energy calmed down but it was out of control a second ago... Was it? Or was it not... Her memories were in shambles and trying to recollect anything felt like pins were stabbing her brain again and again.
Quash died. Liari was killed too and-
What happened after? Her head was heavy and this feeling of weakness in her body was nastily familiar. Slowly clenching her fist and opening her palm, Ayu gazed down at the spot of light that was falling inside through the window. Just like after the first time she lost control, she was fatigued, yet not to the point of being bedridden. Ayu narrowed her eyes, a worried frown appearing on her brown. Slowly the fog around her mind started to lift. She remembered the sensation of numbness and sanity breaking like a thin layer of glass and she couldn't recall anything else - only that her energy was claimed by the ground and absorbed by the plants. Her heart broke again. There was so much disgust, pain, and grief that it fueled the vegetation around her, twisting it horribly, her mental state resonating with every blade of grass. The thought that two people have lost their life was so painful and there was nothing she could do... Even if she could have done something with her power. Even if she could have healed them with her techniques - but no. It was a cruel joke. Liari was right.
She was nothing but a coward.
With trembling hand Ayu wiped her face, smearing the marks where old tears were. Leaning over, she pressed her forehead against her knees, curling on the covers in the silence, trying to breathe slowly. She was drenched with cold sweat and the scent of blood and dust... But this was her room at the Lookout. It was quiet. Maybe too quiet... She could sense the energies of kids in the rooms nearby, all sleeping more or less peacefully. Was Terra aware of what happened to her mother..? Ayu will have to talk with her in the morning and another sensation similar to being stabbed hit her windpipe. Everything that happened in South City was sinking into her body, words, and scenes repeating themselves at the back of her head. She wouldn't be able to close her eyes even for a second for the rest of the night anyway.
But... Callion was nearby. Ayu closed her eyes and a deep sigh raised her chest. His presence was filling the area with his enormous aura, yet at the same time, this energy was composed and calm. That... Gave some sense of security and she wasn't surprised that the children were sleeping so soundly. Ayu didn't dare call it serene, she could sense that the latest events had left their mark on him too. Would he be upset that she was in South City... That she snapped? No, it was too late to think about this. All things considered, the Saiyan made it out alive. She felt that she was guessing right, he was the one who could have knocked her out once she lost it completely... And now they both were on the Lookout. In this heartbreaking mess, this was the shred of comfort Ayu unconsciously clung to. She didn't witness his death for the second time. Still, the image of Callion succumbing to his wounds was forever burned under her eyelids. He survived. She had to remember that... He was alive and well. If something would happen to him again, Ayu didn't know what she would do.
Though at this point, in this place, after everything that happened - did she even have the right to think this way?
It took her a moment before she was able to stand up. A gentle morning glory plant appeared around her left hand, three flowers blooming with pleasant, luminescent light. With that Ayu walked to the bathroom, watching her reflection in the mirror for a minute. She looked dirty, tired, and defeated, her clothes were torn, and her hair was a mess. Any scratches and injuries were nowhere to be found - she'll have to thank Dende later. The Guardian and Mr. Popo were in their chambers - judging by their signatures and the darkness outside. It was the middle of the night... Or very early morning.
Taking her worn-out clothes off and putting them in the bucket in the corner, Ayu washed herself with cold water. The chill gave her goosebumps but the frigid temperature swept away some of the tiredness, calming her senses. She needed that. Braiding back her hair, she put on clean clothes and Ayu looked at herself in the mirror. Despite her tired face, she looked almost like nothing had happened yesterday... Almost. And that was an obvious lie.
Barefoot, using the morning glory as a guiding light, Ayu left her room. Silently walking through the corridors, she reached Terra and Cress's room... She gently opened the door and looked inside. The girls were sharing the same space because they insisted, they accepted each other as their sisters since they met. Two sweethearts. Ayu's exhausted expression softened when she entered the room on her toes. Cress as always was tossing in her sleep so she gently tucked her in, fondly brushing away hair from her face. Terra was softly breathing on her bed, holding a stuffed animal that Ayu gave her back in their old house. She leaned over and kissed the tip of her head... They both will have to face something really, really painful tomorrow - for now, she needs to sleep soundly. With a heavy heart, Ayu closed the door to the girls' bedroom behind her. After a few silent steps, she reached Celric's place and peeked in too. The boy was snoring with the covers on the ground... She never thanked him for being in South City. Or scolded him for the same. Just like she did with his sister, Ayu tucked him in, touched his cheek, and smiled a little. Since when there were so many kids around her..? But looking at their calm, sleeping faces, she felt a little better, some of the weight on her shoulder melting away.
It was a habit, she was checking on them every night she stayed up late - so doing something from that routine felt... Right.
With the light falling on the stairs, Ayu climbed up to the highest level of the Lookout, where the open area was. Every time she found herself troubled, she would leave her home, walking aimlessly in the forests for long hours. She would sit on the grass, ponder, think, or sleep, before finally finding her way back - but there was a problem here. She couldn't fly and the temple, even if it was a place she started to call her home, had limited space. There was no forest visible from her window - at least not the one that was easy to reach.
So in the darkness of the night, the flowers she created from her Ki faintly illuminated her path. Ayu walked toward the edge of the area, bare feet silently stepping on the white tiles. The cold didn't bother her, in a way it was welcomed... Taking a deep breath, she raised her head, feeling the breeze playing with her hair and clothes. It felt peaceful. The clouds, the stars, the whisper of plants that Mr. Popo so earnestly cared for... When was the last time everything around her was so calm? She stopped three feet away from the edge, looking at the darkness below... She could sense the life under, in the Korrin's Forest, the birds flying by, the dwellers of the land.
They say that calm always comes before the storm - but after the latest havoc, everything felt unreasonably peaceful. Or maybe it was only a moment like that... Or nature was trying to point her attention toward the strong signatures that descended to Earth some time ago while she was unconscious. She picked them not without worry... But with an even heavier heart and concern about the future.
Power Level - 256,968
Word Count - 1,603 |
|
POWER LEVEL
361,339
Tech Points
2/78
Forms
Full Power SS2 [x36]
Zeni
44,613
Saiyan
|
Mar 14, 2023 9:05:57 GMT -5
Post by Callion on Mar 14, 2023 9:05:57 GMT -5
"How did all of this happen so quickly..." Callion spoke in a seldom tone of his voice, he stood at The Lookout where Mr. Popo and Dende reside. The Saiyan still remained in his Super Saiyan Grade two form, feeling the wave of energy flowing all throughout his body, the muscle completely expanded to compensate for such raw power, his already spiked up and well defined even further. It has only been several hours since the death of Majin Liari where she completely turned the once bustling metropolis that was South City into rubble, where she met the demise at the hands of the Saiyans... Quash; a fellow pure-blooded Saiyan, who finally became free from her mind control and influence with Callion having spoken sense and snapped him out of it, also met his end by Majin Liari when she had entered into her Great Ape Form.
Callion looked over the expanding sky and vast clouds beyond, his mind contemplated with what had happened, asking so many questions. The Sudden and drastic event that unfolded left him bewildered and questioning how everything happened so quickly. It was overwhelming to process and make sense of the events that have occurred. In his Super Saiyan Grade two form, Callion took a step back, breathe, and try to analyze the situation objectively. Yet, the sheer amount of lives lost… He knew that the only way to be able to bring that many people back to life was going to be in the aid of the dragonballs, the very mystical orbs that could grant any wish.
As he stood there, lost in thought, Mr. Popo approached him. "Callion, I know this has been a difficult time for you, but we must not dwell on the past. We must focus on the future and what we can do to prevent such tragedies from happening again." Callion nodded, understanding the wisdom in Mr. Popo's words taking the moment of clarity to clear his thought despite the dreaded feeling he was feeling at the moment. "You're right, Mr. Popo. We need to be proactive in our approach and ensure that we are prepared for any future threats. We cannot let innocent lives be lost again."
Dende joined the conversation, "I agree, Callion. We must start by repairing the damage that has been done and helping those who have lost loved ones. And we must also gather the dragonballs and use them to bring back the lives that were lost." Callion nodded, his mind set on the task at hand. He knew it wouldn't be easy, but he was determined to do whatever it takes to make things right. Callion then turned his memory of Quash… The Fallen pure-blooded Saiyan warrior… To think his last hours of his life were to have one last battle with Callion, using all his mental strength to free him of being under the Majin’s influence. “Dende… Mr.Popo… I don’t know if you knew Quash… He’s fallen in battle… Under the influence of Liari… I managed to free him, but…”
Callion gritted his teeth and sighed, his eyes closed and both hands clenched to fists, the Saiyan growled in frustration. "I couldn't save him in time. It's my fault he's gone."
Mr. Popo and Dende placed their hands on Callion's shoulders, trying to comfort him. "Callion, you did everything you could for Quash. He died a warrior's death and you done what you could to save him. It's not your fault," Mr. Popo said. Dende nodded in agreement. "Yes, Callion. You should be proud of yourself for freeing him from Liari's control. You saved him from a fate worse than death."
“No… I feel as though I have failed Liari and Quash. Liari… I failed her. When she was innocent, I could’ve kept her away from the Changelings Zero and Ryme.” Callion said with a serious look on his face, gazing at Dende and Mr. Popo. “Then Quash… Damn it all… If only I fled the West City when I had the chance, none of this would’ve even happened. This is all just a damn, poor mess.” Callion growled, placing his hands on his face, the Saiyan feeling overwhelmed with guilt and frustration. Dende and Mr. Popo exchanged a concerned look before Mr. Popo spoke up. "Callion, you can't change the past. You can only learn from it and use those lessons to shape the future. We all make mistakes, but it's how we handle them that defines us."
Dende nodded in agreement. "And Quash would not want you to beat yourself up over this. He was a warrior, and he knew the risks of battle. He would want you to honor his memory by continuing to fight for what is right." Callion took a deep breath, his mind processing their words. "You're right. I can't change what has happened, but I can use it to fuel my determination to protect others and prevent this from happening again." Mr. Popo and Dende smiled, happy to see Callion coming to terms with his feelings. "That's the spirit, Callion," Mr. Popo said. "Let's get to work on repairing the city and gathering the dragonballs."
Then the Saiyan sighed once more, there was one last thing that Liari mentioned before she passed away… There was something going on in North City, something that was about to resemble what was going on in South City, and the fact that the Saiyan had to fly from one side of the planet to the other was beyond a joke. “Before Liari died, she said that there was something happening in North City… I have no idea what she meant, but I am gravely concerned.” Callion said, his face looking dreadfully serious, his crimson red eyes that were unique to his Super Saiyan transform looked at Dende and Mr. Popo. “Do you two have any idea to what is going on in North City, at this time?” Callion asked them with a mixture of dread and curiosity in his voice, wanting to gather as much information as possible to prepare for what may come.
Mr. Popo and Dende exchanged a worried look before turning back to Callion. "We have heard rumors of something strange happening in North City, but we don't have any concrete information," Dende said. "It's best if we investigate further to find out what's going on."
Callion eyes saw a playback of the ruins of South City, as if it was a replaying before his eyes. Walking amongst the wreckage, on his way to visit the fallen Quash, the devastation was apparent at every turn. Buildings that had once housed families were now nothing but piles of rubble. The once-proud skyscrapers that had towered above the city's skyline now lay broken and twisted, their steel frames warped and twisted like so much paper. The streets themselves were barely passable, strewn with debris and wreckage. Cars lay overturned, their windows shattered and their bodies dented and mangled. The few trees that remained were dead and twisted, their branches stripped bare and their leaves long gone. The demolished buildings were a testament to the sheer force of the destruction that had taken place. The walls that had once stood tall were now just piles of rubble, and the roofs that had provided shelter and protection had been torn off and lay scattered across the streets. The skeletal remains of buildings loomed above me, the steel beams that had once supported them now twisted and mangled beyond recognition.
The once-bustling commercial district was now a maze of collapsed storefronts and abandoned buildings. The shattered remains of display cases and merchandise lay strewn about the streets, a reminder of the bustling commerce that once took place in this area. The residential areas were just as badly affected. Homes that were once filled with laughter and love now lay in ruins. Broken furniture, toys, and personal belongings were scattered throughout the rubble. The silence was deafening, as if the city itself was mourning the loss of its inhabitants. The destruction was so complete that it was difficult to imagine how the city would ever recover. The scale of the devastation was overwhelming, and the idea of rebuilding seemed impossible. It was clear that this city had once been a place of great importance and prosperity, but now it was just a memory of what once was.
The industrial section of the ruined city was one of the most heavily damaged areas. The factories and warehouses that had once been the backbone of the city's economy were now piles of twisted metal and rubble. The air was thick with the acrid smell of burning chemicals and fuel, and the ground was stained black with soot. The machines that had once hummed with activity were now silent, their gears and motors frozen in place by the force of the destruction. The assembly lines that had once produced goods were now nothing more than twisted metal and broken machinery. The industrial section was a reminder of the importance of manufacturing and industry to the city's economy. It was also a reminder of the impact that industrialization could have on the environment and the people who worked in the factories.
The very parks themselves that were within the ruined city, the once beautiful oases of greenery and tranquillity in the midst of the urban landscape. The trees that had once provided shade and shelter were now blackened and dead, their leaves and branches stripped away by the force of the destruction. The once-pristine lawns and gardens were now overgrown with weeds and brambles. The playgrounds that had once been filled with the laughter and joy of children were now twisted and mangled, their equipment broken and rusted. The fountains and ponds that had once provided a sense of calm and serenity were now dry and empty. The parks of the ruined city were a reminder of the importance of nature and the need for green spaces in urban areas. They were also a reminder of the fragility of the environment and the need to protect it for future generations. As Callion walked through the ruined city, getting ever closer to where Quash had fallen, he couldn't help but think of the lives that had been impacted by the destruction. The factories that had provided jobs for the workers, the homes that had provided shelter for families, the parks that had provided a sense of community and connection with nature - all were now destroyed and ruined.
It was only then did Callion awoke from his day-dreaming, stopping his thousand yard stare from revising the only just destruction of South City. His eyes turned to the two individuals that stood close to Callion, “Dende… Mr. Popo… South City… It’s all gone. Everything, even the people are gone. I know that the Dragonballs can bring them back, but finding them is going to take a copious amount of time, and I need to make my way over towards North City to find out what is going on…” Callion spoke to the two individual on the Lookout, unaware of Ayu being awake from after being knocked out, who was busy checking up the children that slept soundly in their rooms.
Word Count: 1,871 |
|
POWER LEVEL
356,511
Tech Points
47/88
Forms
Enhanced Being [x39]
Zeni
92,117
Bio-Android
|
Mar 15, 2023 17:16:18 GMT -5
Post by Ayu on Mar 15, 2023 17:16:18 GMT -5
They say that when you look into the abyss you can feel the abyss staring back. It was a weird saying, indeed, but there was a grain of truth in it. Watching the scarce stars hiding behind clouds, Ayu pondered for a heartbeat about the meaning hiding inside. It was unlikely to use that term to describe black, gathering clouds, but she couldn't shake the feeling that something was out there. Maybe in the dark, she was able to see the reflection of something, of someone? She tried to look at it... It didn't stare back. In Ayu's case, the deep velvety dark was glaring with a noticeable grudge, or rather, grief and regret - and with something that was missing. It was eerie but strangely it didn't alarm her in the slightest, just... It saddened her, yes, but not scared. With bittersweet calmness she closed her eyelids, listening to the gentle murmur of the night breeze. It was quiet. Too quiet.
Abyss was emptiness. Nothingness. It carried within as much meaning as she gave it - so if the pained, tearful grimace was glaring back at her she had to ask herself why.
The cool night air carried a sense of fickle peace. So high above the ground only the scent of clouds or sunshine could be felt, the smell of greenery and soil wasn't able to reach this place. A slight shiver on her back reminded her about the dropping temperature but Ayu didn't mind. Even the darkness wasn't as unpleasant, and it wasn't because of the gentle light she created with the flowers wrapped around her wrists. Since she remembered the blackness at nights always filled her with dread and suffocating sensation - but now? There were so many other things that she feared way more and this little phobia of hers felt so meaningless now. Maybe it was a sign of change. It wasn't bad, it wasn't good, yet it certainly meant not the same as before. Ah, what she was doing, getting all melancholic and reflective? The cold on Ayu's bare feet bit her skin, and the breeze on her neck send another shiver... It felt refreshing - she wasn't the one that would catch a cold so easily and it helped her to keep her mind sober. Breathing deeply, she opened her eyes, gazing at the dark sky. The humid air hinted at the rain that could fall soon from above and she wouldn't mind getting soaked while standing there in the open.
She didn't feel much different from before and said before was prior to her arrival in South City. There was no major change, nothing, just... Tired. Every inch of her being, be it soul, heart, or body, was exhausted and worn out from everything and Ayu wished for nothing more but rest. And even that was denied by nightmares that were creeping in, waiting inside the back of her head.
Looking back at everything that happened, Ayu wasn't sure where she was standing anymore.
She wasn't the only one pondering the nature of recent events while looking down at the world cloaked in the night. After a while Ayu moved from her spot, walking around the edge of the Lookout with nothing but a soft gleam of the flowers made of her Ki. Moments passed before she caught the sight of something flaring up gently in the night... The signature and aura that stood out in the dark belonged to Callion. The energy made the air around him crackle, the black lion mane turned to gold, the hue so pale it was almost silverish. The tint of his energy was melancholic and determined. The familiarity of it was in a way expected - Ayu could guess that the whole ordeal made the Saiyan only more focused on preventing similar disasters - she found some comfort in this. Exactly like on his deathbed, there was always something other than himself that he put above his well-being. A sad smile lifted the corners of her lips for a heartbeat before it quickly faded away. To know that there was someone who would be there to protect the Earth. How much of a burden was he going to carry? Not so long ago she cried on Callion's shoulder, mourning the people she killed while out of control, wondering if she had the right to be selfish and rely on someone. Now? She wasn't so sure anymore. Adding another thing to the pile that the Saiyan decided to shoulder seemed not only selfish but cruel. In the end, she wasn't someone that could give support to Liari, Terra, to anyone... And with what she could aid Callion? There wasn't any use of that wrecked energy in her, only problems. Ayu had to learn how to deal with everything on her own... Even if her eyes felt like they were burning from the tears that weren't there.
Next to the warrior the signatures of Mr. Popo and Guardian were overshadowed by the intensity of his energy. They seemed quite busy when she approached, talking at this late hour. Ayu slowly walked up to them, her bare feet soundlessly stepping on a tilted floor. In the stillness, she could hear quiet, solemn voices that were easily carried to her side. The Dragon Balls... A miraculous wish-granting dragon that could change everything. Maybe it was the right solution to the problem - or rather to the results of dealing with said issue. The possibility of restoring South City seemed like a blessing, considering the amount of damage that shook through the ground. People were left with no homes. No future. No resources to continue living, not to mention those who perished while the fight took place. All this was to satisfy the craving that was digging so deeply inside Liari's flesh that it made her furious and disturbed her mind so much that everything else lost its value. Did she really let her be swallowed by this madness?
The luminescent glow made by flowers followed her, wrapping around her hand like a guiding light. The air between the three of them felt heavy already, spiked with seriousness and remorse, and her approaching wouldn't change much. It was obvious that they were talking about what has happened in South City so Ayu wasn't going to cut into the conversation about that. Mr. Popo's black eyes looked at her with compassion though the face of her friend was troubled and upset. And Dende... The dear Guardian wasn't so wrinkled last morning. It was like he aged again with the weight of worry, by simply watching the terror of what had happened. She was out there, she knew how awful it was. It made Ayu feel even more useless - she didn't prove anything, not even to herself. Guardian in training that failed her master, a friend that believed that she will make the right choices... A family member was lost in the fight, and someone she wanted to befriend was lost too. And Callion - Ayu couldn't tell if she was more glad that he survived or worried that in some way, for whatever reason, he was upset with her. Even if he believed in her, back then the energy was ready to consume her fueled by grief and despair. There were no more glowing marks, blackness left her eyes long ago but it was clear that she wasn't able to control this power. It could have led to another disaster...
Maybe that's why she wasn't able to look them straight in the eyes.
Stopping a few feets away from the three of them, Ayu's steps changed their path and she reached the edge. The wind and gathering clouds could be foretelling the approaching rain as the air was getting colder. Maybe it was the time for the sky to cry in her stead - because Ayu couldn't bring herself to shed any more tears. Not now. Not later. Maybe a tiny bit of her got fractured and was beyond repair but it didn't mean that it couldn't be of use. After all, crying won't help anyone and she had spent enough time tormented by her own feelings.
"... Terra doesn't know yet, does she..?" the words Ayu said so quietly were less of a question and more of a confirmation. And even if there was no pain in her voice at the moment, the weight of their meaning was only growing more dreadful. If her niece only knew she wouldn't be able to sleep so peacefully at night, no... The moment of silence and troubled expression that appeared on Dende's and Mr. Popo's faces were an answer on their own. She silently nodded, turning her gaze toward the building in the middle of the Lookout, her senses again slipping there, feeling a quiet, sleeping energy down below. How is she going to tell her..? That her mother's hunger for combat was greater than everything else - including them both. And even if Liari hated and resented her, she would be fine with her broken heart... But Terra was the one who didn't deserve to lose her mum. She already missed her dearly and telling her what occurred earlier this day seemed too cruel. Too unfair. Yet Ayu wasn't able to deceive her or lie to her.
She feared the talk with Terra that was drawing near with every minute. Breathing slowly, Ayu closed her tired eyes before she turned her head away from the temple, facing the dark skies.
"Callion," she spoke after a while, carefully choosing her words. "I'm sorry if this question brings unpleasant memories but could you please tell me something?" Ayu's gentle voice lowered into an apologetic tone. It wasn't curiosity but a need that made her ask this question. She wouldn't dare pry too much into something she didn't feel right about, yet if there was a possibility... Or even a gamble with fate, she had to know. She sighed, gathering her resolve... "What happens after death?" This was something that people has asked themselves for millennia and although he wasn't the only person who was brought back to life, she couldn't ask Cress or Celric about it, could she..? "You don't have to answer me if you don't want to." She added softly, not wanting to pressure him into saying something he didn't like. The thought of experiencing death more than once was already terrifying enough. Slightly tilting her head, Ayu lowered her gaze to look at the edge of the Lookout. "... I only wish to know if there's a chance of Liari or Quash coming back," she admitted quietly.
If the warriors were able to grasp fate in their own hands, she didn't expect any less from those two.
Power Level - 256,968
Word Count - 1,800
Total Word Count - 3,403 |
|
POWER LEVEL
361,339
Tech Points
2/78
Forms
Full Power SS2 [x36]
Zeni
44,613
Saiyan
|
Mar 16, 2023 10:05:09 GMT -5
Post by Callion on Mar 16, 2023 10:05:09 GMT -5
As Ayu turned her head away, Mr. Popo and Dende shared a concerned look. They had seen the pain in Ayu's eyes and knew that telling Terra the truth would be a difficult task for her. But it was necessary, and they needed to support Ayu in any way they could. Mr. Popo was the first to speak, his voice gentle and reassuring. "Ayu, we're here for you. We'll help you tell Terra and we'll be there for her when she needs us." Dende nodded in agreement. "We may not be her parents, but we love Terra as if she were our own. We'll do everything in our power to help her through this." Honestly, with everything that has happened, it was hard to believe that Terra is the only child and daughter to Liari, something that Callion has no idea about, and even he had no idea as to what the trio were even talking about. But for now, the Saiyan kept quiet and looked away, giving Ayu, Mr. Popo and Dende the privacy that they needed to talk to one another, it was a very serious topic, something in this field that it was wise to not get himself involved in, at least either for now, or until Ayu decided to tell him about it. It was best to allow to do it in her own leisure.
Mr. Popo looked at Ayu with concern etched on his face. "Ayu, this is a difficult situation, but Terra deserves to know the truth. It's better for her to hear it from you than from someone else." Dende nodded in agreement. "Yes, Ayu. Terra is a strong girl, even for her age, and she will be able to handle it. It's important for her to know what happened and why her mother won't be coming back." If anything, the two offering Ayu the much needed council and care showed how much the trio have gotten along over the amount of time they have spent with one another, though the fact that the child had to find out the truth of her maternal figure that has happened to her in such a manner was not going to be easy whatsoever, but no doubt in their minds, Mr. Popo and Dende themselves will be there right by Ayu’s side for when she decided to talk about what had happened over at South City, for this was going to be a very difficult session to talk about, especially for a young child.
Though the two essential figures in The Lookout could not possibly blame Ayu for being in such a state, for they had both felt a sense of unease in their stomachs as they sensed the energy emanating from the ruins of South City and what had occurred there. They could tell that something terrible had happened, and their hearts sank as they realized that it was likely related to Majin Liari's recent transformation, her onslaught over the entire city, the lives lost, and her demise at the hands of the Saiyans and the brave souls involved in taking her down from the equation. As they focused their attention on the area, they could sense the residual energy aftermath of what had happened that caused such a massive battle. The energy signatures of the combatants that participated were unmistakable, and they could tell that the battle had been intense and destructive on such a scale that it could’ve very well infected the entire planet.
Dende closed his eyes, trying to piece together what had happened. "It’s hard to believe that all of this happened on our watch. To think that Liari managed to somehow transform into a Great Ape and went on a rampage in South City. To think that such an entity managed to make little Terra…" Mr. Popo nodded in agreement. "It seems that the other fighters were able to stop her, but not before a great deal of damage was done. This is a tragedy, Dende. So many innocent lives lost or forever changed. If we could gather all seven dragonballs, perhaps they can all be brought back to life. Though Terra, I child her age will find it incredibly difficult to handle all this news we are about to tell her." Mr. Popo and Dende stood in silence, their eyes closed in deep concentration, how does an adult explain such a dangerous situation to what had happened to their mother and be able to convince them in a rational matter of the consequences and loss of life that came from it all.
Then Callion heard the footsteps of someone approaching him, the Saiyan turned his head and gazed at Ayu who walked to his eyes. The man in his Super Saiyan Grade 2 form, his sharpened face, and glaring red eyes that were different the classical green looked at her with a mixture of emotions of his own. How exactly were the two going to start their conversation now after everything that has happened. Liari, Quash, South City? All of this was just a giant, heaping mess and it was only going to get worse, now that something else was going on in North City – and remarkably enough that was the last words and possibly final warning that Liari gave to the group before she melted and liquefied into nothingness. Goodness, knows just what was going on in both Callion and possibly Ayu’s mind, and this was not taking into account of the Saiyan even knows about Terra being the offspring of Liari, something which was going to be quite the unforeseen and emotional reckoning of a bombshell that would make even Callion question everything and even ask more questions then there even needs to be.
That was the moment that the Saiyan monk’s ears opened when he heard Ayu talk to him, calling the man by his name, as his eyes continued to lock onto to ayu’s face. He could see it on her face and voice that she appeared to be choosing a very carefully in her question that only made the Saiyan more intruiged…
… It was the question of Death…
Honestly, enough Callion wasn’t made or upset about it at this point. Sure, such things were not exactly great to talk about, but it was a learning experience all the same and he could tell just why Ayu wanted to ask such an important question. The Saiyan’s eyes turned back forward, facing the endless sky and clouds that gave The Lookout company, and if one were to look hard enough one could see the shimmering stars that very slowly twinkled as the hours rolled by. Callion looked at Ayu with a solemn expression, understanding the weight of her question. He took a deep breath before speaking, his voice calm and measured. "Ayu, death is a complicated and personal experience. It's different for everyone and what happens after is not something that can be easily explained or understood." He paused for a moment before continuing.
"From my experience, when one dies, their consciousness fades away into the void. It's a state of nothingness, a peaceful rest where there is no pain or suffering. It's a void that cannot be described by any words or language. It's something that you have to experience for yourself… In my experience; the void is where it all starts – the very stretch of infinity where it feels like years, centuries, eons had passed since the moment of my death. It was the quintessential form of infinity an individual could experience."
The Saiyan closed his eyes, the mind of the Saiyan monk focusing on remembering what exactly happened during his death and wanted it to explain word for word what had happened. “Then, from the longest time that I had ever experienced from my Death. I awoke… Within the dark, endless void… As I slowly turned my head and stood up, I can remember walking into something light… Well, honestly, it was a grey mist – an endless fog that I had little to no understanding to what exactly was going on.” Callion continued with his telling, motioning his hands forwards ,imitating at how the grey fog was so thick that no one could possibly make heads or tails to where one was going when an individual woke up from the long, eternal slumber of the void. “Eventually, I walked past the Grey Fog, and found myself in an incredibly long line that oddly enough resembled a walkside to a street. All around me where Yellow Clouds – which funny enough, actually tasted delicious… Don’t question me on that, that’s a story for another time.” Callion couldn’t help but chuckle at that, taking the one moment to snicker in his Super Saiyan Grade 2 form.
It was at this point where Mr. Popo and Dende both decided to listen in with Ayu as the Saiyan talked about his experience with Death and the Otherworld. “So… As I continued along this incredibly long line. I noticed that those ahead and behind me, where in fact, souls. Fiery orbs of white light about the side of both my hands together, floating infront and behind me. Meanwhile, I was standing in line with my whole body still intact. As I continued on during my walk, there what seemed to be Assistants, Ogre like individual people - remarkably enough they were smartly dressed, well organised and respectful. There were impressive, traditional oriental buildings, modernised Earthling style planes flying around…” Callion blinked several times rubbing the back of his head, no doubt the whole ordeal sounds ludicrous. “I know, it all sounds strange, but that is honestly the truth of what I saw. But that’s not all… At the Centre and when you arrive to be judge, you can see this colossal, massive, ornate structure located in the Other World.”
The Saiyan continued, describing the Palace in it’s entirety, “The palace is situated in the very Centre of the Afterlife – or what is known as Otherworld - and is surrounded by a lush, endless yellow cloud landscape. It is built in what I can only describe as a traditional oriental style with curved, sloping roofs and intricate carvings and decorations. The palace is several stories tall and is adorned with banners and flags that bear King Yemma's emblem. The interior of the palace is just as impressive as the exterior. The main hall is a massive, open space with high ceilings and ornate pillars. The walls are lined with tapestries and paintings depicting scenes from the afterlife, and there are numerous statues and other works of art scattered throughout the space. One of the most notable features of the palace is the Check-In Station, which is located in a separate wing of the building. The Check-In Station is a vast, bureaucratic complex where souls are processed and assigned to their appropriate afterlife destination. The Check-In Station is staffed by a team of assistants, including ogres and other creatures, who help King Yemma with his duties.”
Callion smirked, turning to face Ayu in her entirety. “Then there is King Yemma himself: King of all Ogres who judges the dead. Surprisingly enough a very well mannered, kind, and respectful ruler. Who I managed to get along with very quickly. He is absolutely gigantic, I am talking the size of several story tall buildings stacked together. A large, hulking, red-skinned ogre with a massive belly and a pair of large, curved horns on his forehead. He has a wide, flat nose, thick lips, and a pronounced chin with a bushy beard, eyebrows and hair all coloured black.”
Callion then turned serious for the moment. “It is he who decides who goes to Heaven or Hell. In my case, due to my heroic sacrifice over at West City – not only did I become friends with King Yemma, but was also granted an audience to become a student under King Kai himself.”
The very mention of King Kai made both Mr. Popo and Dende gasp, taking several steps backwards.
Word Count: 2,005
Total Word Count: 3,876
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|
POWER LEVEL
356,511
Tech Points
47/88
Forms
Enhanced Being [x39]
Zeni
92,117
Bio-Android
|
Mar 18, 2023 6:26:09 GMT -5
Post by Ayu on Mar 18, 2023 6:26:09 GMT -5
The previous, ongoing, and future events have left their mark. It wasn't the first time that something like this tragedy took place and certainly not the last. The disasters in the world were usually born of natural causes - there was no malicious intent behind a flood, and landslides weren't caused by hater or anger. It simply happened. The cycle of life continued, the strong preyed on the weak, not for fun or revenge but to survive. To feed, to grow, to live. Ayu saw it countless times in the forests and jungles she visited - nature was unpredictable, it could be unjust and at times cruel, but the cruelty never was intended. Unfortunate events and lack of luck could challenge even the strongest. And yet when intelligent races were involved, be it, Earthlings or aliens, the cataclysms that took place were often of different origins. More... Unnatural, caused by greed, hostility, for the need to - to do what? Fight? But if that was the nature of the warriors, of beings hungry for combat, was it any different than the flood? Than forest fire? Others were caught up in the tragedy, losing their lives, homes, and future, just like animals in the wilderness when a natural disaster took place. Even if it wasn't intended, it still happened and the suffering was spreading.
The similarity was obviously here and yet... It was something beyond regular people's control, something they had to adapt to, but in a way, it still was a choice. A very unfair choice made by a power far stronger than them. Again, strong against the weak - why were always the weak blamed for not being powerful enough while rarely the strong ones were held accountable for their deeds? It wasn't a part of nature to live and survive, it was beyond that. And the crucial difference was that the flood never mocked the lives it took. The fire never ridiculed those who fought against it and those who were too weak to escape the scorching flames. Earthquakes never shook the ground in search of a victim. They simply were happening without any ill intent behind them.
Ayu might have understood nature better than anything else but even after all this time, people's reasonings and thoughts were still too far away from her to grasp.
It didn't change the consequences that were left on the blue planet for them to deal with. Between the tragedies of the Cities and thousands of people being hurt one way or another, there was another disaster approaching - a catastrophe that was called a child's broken heart. Maybe it was harder because Terra was under her care, and Ayu still felt like she added weight to Liari's downfall. Maybe it was grief and guilt choking her, maybe it was something else... It all left her in a weird and lamentable state thundering through her heart, though the tiredness washing over her was fighting with the demons inside. The only thing that she could do was nod calmly while the others talked, offering their support and help. Callion was there, giving her enough space to think and listen. Mr. Popo did his best to show that he'd give his aid too. Dende with his assurance tried to comfort the anguish that was seething in her head but for the first time, it was like a water off duck's back. Usually, in moments like this Ayu wouldn't mind a moment of peace, a hug, a stroke on her back, and the tears to let it all out. Now? The compassion, understanding... Like she was detached from that, and for good reasons too. She did not feel like she deserved it. It wasn't about her here. It wasn't about her at all.
"I'll be fine," Ayu closed her eyes speaking in a calm tone. "Please, don't worry about me." There were more important things to do. Gathering the Dragon Balls to restore the cities, and talking with Terra, she should also check how the people she managed to evacuate were doing... The list was going on and on and Ayu had to think about what to focus on first. She knew that it was going to be difficult and that what happened was indeed a tragedy. Ayu was there, she saw it all. They did not have to remind her like that as if the memories weren't fresh in her head, playing in front of her eyes even when she was asleep. But Dende and Mr. Popo were talking about it, mourning lost lives, and poking the aching side of her heart wasn't their intention. Ayu was aware, so why..? When she opened her eyes a hurt expression flickered softly there. Her luminescent irises as always gleamed lightly in the dark. And why it sounded like she would try to avoid talking with her niece... No, no. Of course, they did not mean that. No way, she was perfectly aware of that. So why were all those intrusive thoughts messing with Ayu's head? They did not blame her so... Why it felt like this?
No matter, that could be dealt later with.
"I am going to talk to her myself when she wakes up," Ayu assured them. That was going to be difficult but the bitter pill needed to be swallowed. Out of all things, she needed to think how to lessen the shock, how to comfort Terra after their talk... She wasn't sure how the little girl would react to something heartbreaking like the loss of her mother. Would by any chance, she'd blame Ayu too..? She was there - she couldn't save Liari. And that was something that she wasn't sure she could survive. Brushing hair away from her face, she glanced at the blonde-haired warrior. Callion... Probably did not know who were they talking about. A faint, sad smile appeared on Ayu's face and her gaze turned away after looking at Sayian briefly. They have been talking about her niece and no one thought of filling him in - they all were in shambles. She lowered her head a little, looking at the dark clouds swirling under the Lookout. "Terra is a little girl that lives here with us. If you try to sense her energy thoroughly you can feel that it's similar to Liari's." Ayu explained, slowly exhaling air from her chest. It wasn't solely because the two of them were Majins but because they shared the same... Blood? Flesh? Or magic? "... She's her child after all," she finished in a softer voice. Maybe the pieces of her heart cracking were audible in her words but she had to glue them back together. For Terra's sake. "I need to break the news to her tomorrow."
That's why she needed to know how the afterlife looked... To know if Liari could come back. The warrior did and if Ayu knew anything, that was the fact that Bluebell was a stubborn and creative creature. If there was a way to get back to the living world she will certainly find it - and if not, she would make that path herself.
Ayu did not expect to hear what Callion said. She wasn't by any means religious and death was always a feared unknown that any mortal being knew and respected. The abyss, fog, and line of souls seemed like something that priests would preach about and it didn't surprise her - but the vision painted by the rest of Callion's explanation seemed far too... Abstract? She did not doubt him, how could she? She sensed his energy dying and there was no way she could even think of suspecting him of lying. Though the Ogres assisting with the afterlife matters and enormous King Yemma judging souls felt a bit odd... Anyway, it wasn't for her to judge. It seemed that the otherworld, the grey area between the worlds needed bureaucracy as any big corporation or establishment. Curious. Though the fact that Callion befriended the main person in charge there didn't surprise Ayu - he was the one who could get along with anyone. And King Kai... His identity was unknown to her but judging by the reaction of the Guardian of Earth and his attendant he was someone important - or/and feared - on the other side. But that was a question for later. For now, she focused on something else... The Hell and Heaven. Ayu wondered what will happen to Liari - will she be sent to Hell? Most likely... That thought twisted her stomach again. And Quash, who was under her influence, where would he end up? They did not deserve to die... Everything that happened was like a nightmare that should have never taken place.
"Do you think it's possible," Ayu asked after a moment, turning her head to look at Callion with melancholic but uncertain eyes... That perhaps was tinted with a shy hope. "Do you think that there is a chance that Liari could come back as you did..?"
Power Level - 256,968
Word Count - 1,490
Total Word Count - 4,893 |
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POWER LEVEL
361,339
Tech Points
2/78
Forms
Full Power SS2 [x36]
Zeni
44,613
Saiyan
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Mar 19, 2023 15:51:28 GMT -5
Post by Callion on Mar 19, 2023 15:51:28 GMT -5
Callion's face softened as he looked at Ayu. He could see the pain and uncertainty in her eyes and it made him feel a pang of sympathy. "Yes, she will return," he said gently, "My resurrection was a rare occurrence without the dragonballs and even then, such a thing will no doubt happen again with Liari." He paused for a moment before continuing, "Liari's actions were... grave. If I am correct, her soul will be sent to hell for what she has done, even though she was influenced by the changelings Zero and Ryme, whatever came afterwards... Well, you have seen it first hand." If there was a positive trait about Callion, it was the fact that he could not lie to Ayu, he no doubt understood that such news was hard for her to come to terms with the loss of someone important, very much the same as he was feeling on a mutual level. He reached out a hand and placed it on her shoulder, offering a small smile. "Ayu, I cannot stress it to you enough that we must be prepared for what is to come. Liari may have left this world for now, but she will return, stronger than ever before. In the Otherworld, I learnt the Kaioken, Spirit Bomb and even managed to transform into a Super Saiyan… Imagine as to what kind of powers she will learn in Hell of all places, along with her much growing power."
The Saiyan never meant for his words to sting and be so blunt with the truth and honesty, and even if they were purely formed from his own assumption to what may very well be the fate of Liari, Callion recognised the severity of the situation and knew it was important to tell Ayu everything. "It won't be easy, Ayu," Callion continued, his voice sombre. "But we can't let our guard down, not even for a moment. We have to keep getting stronger, keep pushing ourselves beyond our limits, so that we can stand a chance against Liari when she returns." He paused, considering his words carefully. "And as for Quash... I do not know what will happen to him. He was under Liari's control, but he still played a role in the destruction of South City. It is possible that he will be sent to Hell as well, but... I can't say for sure." He let out a heavy sigh. "All we can do is wait and see what fate has in store for us. But in the meantime, we have to train, and we have to be ready." Callion gave Ayu's shoulder a gentle squeeze before removing his hand. "I'm sorry if my words are not comforting, Ayu. But I believe that it's important to be honest about the situation we're in. We can't afford to sugarcoat things, not now." He offered her a small smile. "But we'll get through this. Together."
He removed his hand from Ayu's shoulder and turned to face the edge of the Lookout, his gaze drifting towards the horizon. "I have no doubt that Liari will return with greater power than before, but we will be ready for her," he said, his voice steady and determined. "We will train harder, become stronger and make sure that we are prepared for whatever challenges come our way." Callion knew that the road ahead would be difficult, but he was determined to face it head-on. He had been given a second chance at life and he wasn't going to waste it. He would do whatever it takes to protect those he cared about and make sure that they were safe.
Meanwhile, Mr. Popo and Dende stood atop the Lookout behind Ayu and Callion, their eyes focused on the horizon as they allowed the two individual to discuss the recent events, along with the conversation in regards to death, Otherworld, and the possibility of revival. "The destruction caused by Majin Liari was catastrophic," Dende spoke softly, his eyes filled with sorrow. "We were lucky that the warriors were able to stop her before she caused any more harm." Now, with Ayu and Callion both dealing with their own grief and trauma, Mr. Popo and Dende were left wondering how they could help.
After a few moments of silence, Mr. Popo spoke up. "Dende, I have been thinking... The Hyperbolic Time Chamber may be of use to either Ayu or Callion. It can be a safe place for them to train and improve their skills, away from any outside distractions." Dende nodded thoughtfully. "Yes, I agree. And with the power that Liari possessed, we need to ensure that they are both prepared for her eventual return. But which one should we send in? And for how long?" Mr. Popo stroked his chin in thought. "Ayu has been through a lot recently, and the loss of Liari has affected her deeply. I think she could benefit from some time alone in the chamber, to process her feelings and improve her skills. As for how long, perhaps a whole day might actually be sufficient."
Ah yes; The Hyberpolic Time Chamber… The training facility located in Kami's Lookout. The chamber is said to be designed to simulate 1 year of training in just 1 day, and is used by characters in the series to prepare for battles and increase their power levels. The Hyperbolic Time Chamber is a large, empty room with white walls and no windows. It is completely isolated from the outside world, with no external distractions or influences. Inside the chamber, time flows differently than outside. One day spent inside the chamber is equivalent to one year outside of it. This means that a person who spends a single day inside the chamber will have experienced a full year of training. The chamber is designed to be a harsh environment, with intense gravity and high air pressure. The gravity is said to be ten times that of Earth, which puts a significant strain on the body and makes it more difficult to move. The high air pressure also makes it harder to breathe and adds to the physical stress of training. The chamber's ability to compress a year's worth of training into a single day makes it an incredibly valuable tool for fighters looking to increase their power levels quickly. However, the harsh conditions inside the chamber also make it a dangerous place to train, and characters who are not physically prepared for the environment can suffer serious injuries.
Dende considered this for a moment. "And what about Callion? He has also been through a lot, and his resurrection has left him with many unanswered questions. Perhaps he too could benefit from some time in the chamber?" Mr. Popo nodded in agreement. "Yes, I believe so. It could give him time to reflect on his experiences in the Otherworld and learn more about his newfound abilities. As for how long... Perhaps the same amount also?"
Just before the two could continue talking, Callion lifted his head up to look at Mr. Popo and Dende, raising an eyebrow. “Wait, what is this Hyperbolic Time Chamber?” The Saiyan asked seriously and with a mixture of curiosity. While he may have been familiar and at an acquaintance level at best with Dende and Mr. Popo, he never really knew about the Hyperbolic Time Chamber itself, and he wanted to hear more about it.
Mr. Popo cleared his throat before answering, "The Hyperbolic Time Chamber is a unique training ground located in a different dimension, where time passes at a much faster rate than the outside world. One year in the chamber is equivalent to one day outside. It's a powerful tool for training, allowing individuals to gain months, even years of experience and growth in just a few days."
Dende added, "It was originally created by the Kami of Earth as a last resort to train against the Saiyans during their invasion. But now, it's become a valuable resource for any warrior seeking to increase their strength." Callion listened intently, his mind already running wild with the possibilities. “It was then famously used during the time of Cell in order to make the Original Z-Fighters on Earth strong enough to handle him. The very Same Z Fighters that you, Callion, are trying to rebuild.” Callion was silent for a moment before asking the two iconic figures, "So, you're saying that I could potentially train in there and come out stronger, in just a few days?"
Mr. Popo nodded, "Yes, it's possible. However, the chamber can be dangerous if used incorrectly. It puts a lot of strain on the body, and if you stay in there for too long, you could risk never coming out." Dende added, "And the chamber can only be used once every year. So it's not something to be taken lightly." Callion nodded, understanding the risks involved. "What about Ayu?" he asked, turning his attention to her. "Could she use it too?" Mr. Popo and Dende exchanged a glance before nodding. "Yes, it's possible. But like I said before, it can be dangerous. You both need to be careful and prepared before entering the chamber."
Word Count: 1,531
Total Word Count: 5,407
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POWER LEVEL
356,511
Tech Points
47/88
Forms
Enhanced Being [x39]
Zeni
92,117
Bio-Android
|
Mar 20, 2023 17:02:54 GMT -5
Post by Ayu on Mar 20, 2023 17:02:54 GMT -5
Hearing from Callion that there indeed is a very clear possibility for Liari to come back to life felt... Well, it certainly wasn't a sensation she expected to have. Ayu couldn't tell what emotions those words sparked - fear or relief? One side of her heart felt warmer than before while the other part froze with pain. Did she fear her so much or did she miss her..? Perhaps it was a worrying amalgamation of both, and maybe she couldn't help feeling this way after everything that has happened. What was inside her head and heart was already in shambles and processing everything needed time - though could she afford to have it? Even if Majin told her that she doesn't want to see her ever again, Ayu was glad knowing that Terra still could get her mother back. She needed her... And at the same time, something tied her stomach in a knot, because Liari coming back could mean history repeating itself. Was it comforting? Was it terrifying? She missed her dearly, she wished she could talk to her, to apologize, but... Would she be even able to do anything for her, a coward like her..? In the end, it turned into something bitter, into a tragedy that maybe in some way could have been avoided. Even if Ayu wished or cared, it was no different from doing nothing - because it didn't change anything.
She could only nod when Callion placed his hand on her shoulder.
The information about Liari's possible resurrection didn't finish sinking in when Callion mentioned training. Right. Fighting. More fighting. And this training deal that was always on the back of her head resurfaced. She needed to polish her energy control. Ayu needed to learn more and more and... She was so sick of that, it was nauseating.
She was a Bio-Android with enormous power and many capabilities - but she never wished for that. Why can't she just stay at her home by the forest, away from all this mess, leaving fighting to people who are better at it than her? The only thing that people are talking about was her power level. The cursed Ki changed everything. It caused Liari to despise her, it made Guardian reach out to her and ask for her help, it made powerful warriors wary of her, and... And she never wanted that. She never asked to be made. But what choice she had when the universe did not care what she wanted? Shivers danced down Ayu's spine and she could feel herself closing her eyes. Life could be taken away so easily to the point it scared her so much and she couldn't oppose if the training was meant to stop another tragedy. Her opponent won't ask how she feels about fighting either. It was just cruel. It's not like it would do any good to just avoid it... But if there were people she wished to keep safe, she needed to break through that invisible wall that was still standing in front of her.
Alright, if she had to, Ayu was going to train. But it didn't mean that she was going to like it.
Though the implication here she decided to lay to rest. She wanted to be ready but not because of Liari. Whatever did happen to Quash was a mystery but most likely Bluebell was sent to Hell and could return more powerful than she was before. Why it felt wrong to wish for her to be back, knowing what it could cause? At the same time, Ayu's head dropped. Be prepared. Be ready. Be mindful of the future. She could understand Callion's worry but it didn't make her feel any better. Why did it sound that the only thing that Liari was, was the danger drawing near? When did she let this happen..? If Ayu had to get stronger, why like this? She refused. First and foremost there was something else she needed to do - and she had to do this alone.
Maybe for the first time in her life, she felt frustrated. It was a weird, burning sensation, this awareness that things could have been different - but weren't. And there was no one else to blame but herself. Maybe Ayu should fall to the ground and cry to let it all out but she couldn't move an inch, barely raising her hand to stroke her forehead.
"Don't apologize," Ayu said gently and placed her hand on Callion's when he took it away from her shoulder. When did his hand become so wide and big... She could barely hold three of his fingers with one hand and could feel rough skin and calluses created after years of rigorous training. Her eyes softened. Maybe she lacked knowledge about what he was doing in the past but fighting, dying, fighting again and almost meeting with death once more... Well, it wasn't something that would leave anyone's mind intact. If anything, she admired the iron-like resolve and the burden he decided to carry. He was way better at it than her, no doubt, but it didn't mean that he asked to be the Earth's defender. "I'm sure it's hard on you too," she lowered her voice, her hand slipping away from his as she took a step back. "And I'm sorry. I wish to, but I can't think of anything to say that could make what happened a little less heartbreaking."
There were no words of comfort that could ease the pain. Even the thought of Liari's coming back came with both relief and fear. The Earth could be very well in danger and who knew how many powerful beings were out there - be it on the blue planet or in the universe?
Maybe that's why, in the quiet moment of grieving over bad choices and mourning the loss, Ayu didn't pay attention to what Dende and Mr. Popo were talking about. Not until she heard Callion mentioning the Hyperbolic Time Chamber. Right... She knew about it, did she? Trying to remember something, she pressed the back of her hand to her lips, her eyes focused. Her mind pointed her toward the rooms filled with scrolls and old books, where she used to stay when the days were gloomy and rainy. There was so much to learn and maybe-
"I think... I have read about it in the books in the library here," Ayu tilted her head, looking for confirmation on Dende's face. The Guardian nodded slowly. Outside of regular training here, she was studying on her own and the first thing Ayu did was to dig through frail and ancient tomes hidden on various levels of the Lookout. What she did not understand, she asked the Namekian to explain. Her knowledge increased though some of the information and meanings were lost in time or translation... Ayu's eyes gleamed a little when she tried to remember every detail about the Hyperbolic Time Chamber. "Only two people can enter at once," she said calmly after a moment, remembering the page with a small building standing between two hourglasses. "One year inside equals one day outside and any given person can enter it only twice in their lifetime... It originally was meant to be used for training sessions that lasted a year, so staying inside for two days straight counts as two uses." She was able to recall what she knew after a second of thinking. "If anyone stays even a second longer, the doors shut down and cannot be opened anymore."
This was a very delicate matter. The Chamber was a godsend, giving them time to prepare but the risk there was calculated - so was the improvement they could gain from it. And something was familiar about this talk like she heard something about the Hyperbolic Time Chamber before. In fact, she did, though her memory was a little hazy, and the voices of Dende and Mr. Popo were blurry that day. That day when the pressure on her body grew too strong again.
"... I think, i-if I recall right..." Ayu spoke up with a serious but mellow tone, but something on her face told them that she was concerned. "I was to be placed in the Chamber before the seal was put on me, right?" she looked at Dende and Mr. Popo, she could see them exchanging worried glances. Ayu raised her hands in a calming gesture. "No, I do not mind that. Just the memory resurfaces, the one of hearing the name of the Chamber while-" she hesitated for a second, "-while I wasn't at my best." Because there was this moment... Ayu wasn't long on the Lookout and she reached yet another growth spree. This wasn't about her body, only her energy increasing seemingly out of nowhere and maybe if things would go back the Lookout would be no more. Mr. Popo did amazing work repairing every hole and crack that raging roots did.
Dende had no choice but to put a special seal on Ayu so her mind basically drifted away into her subconscious where she could freely meditate and focus on controlling this unwanted Ki. Only when it was safe for her the seal could be broken and she needed like two months to reach that point. And still, her control wasn't so perfect...
"That was the idea at first but we didn't want to risk worsening your condition," Dende explained though something in his wrinkled, kind face reflected a faint sense of guilt. "Your energy was going into a frenzy again and I decided it would be better to keep an eye on you here," he placed his hand on her shoulder. "Besides, entering the Hyperbolic Time Chamber should be a conscious decision."
"I... Understand." Ayu agreed, lightly nodding her head. What they did for her was already more than she could ask... If left on her own, her power would probably consume her and that would be the end of it. She could feel Dende's hand patting her shoulder before he turned to Mr. Popo.
Ayu glanced at Callion - he seemed lost in thought, thinking about the future training. She took a deep breath and slowly exhaled the air.
"I need a moment before I can make this decision," she admitted. The Hyperbolic Time Chamber would be a great help - but she wasn't sure that she was ready to spend the whole year there. And if both of them would go inside, there be no one to watch over Terra, Cress, and Celric. The chances were small that something could have happened to them in the span of twenty-four hours but it's not like it was impossible.
And Ayu wasn't going to repeat the same mistake of not being there when some needed her.
Power Level - 256,968
Word Count - 1,792
Total Word Count - 6,685 |
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POWER LEVEL
361,339
Tech Points
2/78
Forms
Full Power SS2 [x36]
Zeni
44,613
Saiyan
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Mar 23, 2023 18:13:19 GMT -5
Post by Callion on Mar 23, 2023 18:13:19 GMT -5
Callion nodded understandingly as Ayu expressed her need for time before making a decision about the Hyperbolic Time Chamber. He knew that it was not an easy decision to make and that it required careful consideration. "Of course, Ayu. Take all the time you need," he said, giving her a small smile before turning to Dende and Mr. Popo.
"Thank you both for everything you've done for Ayu and me," he said, bowing respectfully to the main Namekian. "I'm going to start preparing myself for what's to come. Please let me know when Ayu has made her decision." Dende and Mr. Popo nodded, their faces serious as they watched Callion leave the Lookout. The Saiyan made his way down the winding path, his mind focused on the task ahead. He knew that whatever was going on in North City was serious, and he needed to be prepared for anything. With that, he made his way towards the edge of The Lookout, preparing himself for the journey ahead.
Before Callion had left, as he stood at the edge, looking out towards the horizon, Callion couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding. Liari's warning about something happening in North City weighed heavily on his mind. He knew that he had to be prepared for anything that may come his way. Whilst he remained standing on the edge of the Lookout, Callion paused for a moment, looking out over the vast expanse of the planet. He could sense the energy of those around him, the pulse of life that flowed through everything on Earth. And he knew that he needed to be strong, to be ready to protect this world and its inhabitants.
With that, Callion turned to leave the Lookout, his mind already focused on the upcoming battle in North City. He needed to prepare himself mentally and physically for what was to come. As he walked down the winding path, he thought about the training he would need to undergo to become even stronger than he was now. He would need to push himself to his limits, to unlock new levels of power that he didn't even know existed. Callion knew that the fate of the world was resting on his shoulders, and he couldn't afford to fail. The Saiyan gritted his teeth as he thought about the upcoming battle. He knew that it would be tough, but he was determined to emerge victorious. With a fierce determination burning in his heart, Callion continued his journey onward once he left the Lookout ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
Callion had always been a warrior at heart, driven by a need to protect those he cared about and to fight for what he believed in. And now, as he prepared to face a new threat, he could feel his Saiyan instincts kicking in, filling him with a fierce determination to succeed.
Dende and Mr. Popo watched Callion leave the Lookout, his back straight and his face determined. They knew that he was preparing himself mentally for the training to come. "It's good that he's taking the initiative," Dende said, watching as Callion disappeared from view. "He's a strong fighter, but he also knows that he needs to keep improving if he's going to face the challenges ahead." "I hope so," Mr. Popo replied, his expression grave. "He's been through a lot already, and he's taken on more than he can handle at times. But he's got a good heart, and he cares deeply for his friends. That's what makes him a strong warrior."
Dende nodded in agreement. "Yes, his strength comes from his compassion. But we need to make sure he doesn't burn himself out. He's been pushing himself too hard lately, and I'm worried it's taking a toll on him." Mr. Popo sighed, "I know, Dende. But there's only so much we can do. Callion is a grown man, and he's made his own choices. All we can do is support him and guide him as best we can." Dende sighed. "I just hope Ayu will be ready to enter it soon. She's been through so much, and I don't want to rush her into anything that could harm her."
"I understand your concern, Dende," Mr. Popo said, his voice gentle. "But you know Ayu better than anyone. She's strong and resilient. And she knows the risks involved." Dende nodded. "Yes, you're right. It's just that... I can't shake this feeling of unease." Mr. Popo placed a hand on Dende's shoulder, offering comfort. "I know, my friend. But we have to trust that Ayu will make the right decision for herself. And when she does, we'll be there to support her." Dende smiled, grateful for Mr. Popo's support. "Thank you, my friend. You always know just what to say." Mr. Popo chuckled. "It's my job, Dende. Now let's go prepare the Hyperbolic Time Chamber for Ayu. We want everything to be ready for her when she's ready to make her decision."
As Callion flew through the air towards North City, his mind raced with thoughts of what could be happening there. He knew that if Liari had mentioned it before she died, it must be something serious. He gritted his teeth and clenched his fists, determined to do whatever it takes to protect the innocent and stop whatever evil was brewing in North City. He knew that whatever was happening there, it couldn't be good. His heart was heavy with the memory of Liari's passing and the weight of responsibility that now rested on his shoulders. But even in the midst of his grief and worry, Callion felt a sense of hope. He knew that Ayu was a strong fighter, and that with the right training, she could become even stronger. He hoped that she would make the decision to enter the Time Chamber and take advantage of the opportunity to hone her skills.
Meanwhile, back on the Lookout, Mr. Popo and Dende were preparing the Hyperbolic Time Chamber in case Ayu decided to enter. They worked tirelessly, making sure that everything was in order and ready for her should she choose to take on the challenge. They knew that she needed all the help she could get to control her growing power, and the chamber was the perfect place for her to hone her skills. One thing was clear, both Mr. Popo and Dende also shared an opinion with Callion, as the two held onto a glimmer of hope. Ayu had the potential to become even stronger, and if she chose to enter the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, she could train for a year in just a day. They knew that she needed time to make her decision, but the two couldn't help but feel anxious for her.
All that awaits was Ayu’s decision.
[EXIT]
Word Count: 1,135
Total Word Count: 6,542
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|
POWER LEVEL
356,511
Tech Points
47/88
Forms
Enhanced Being [x39]
Zeni
92,117
Bio-Android
|
Mar 24, 2023 18:22:30 GMT -5
Post by Ayu on Mar 24, 2023 18:22:30 GMT -5
The first conversation after the events of South City wasn't the easiest one. Ayu knew that it marked them all heavily, filling their hearts with worry about tomorrow. The wounds were too fresh, the seeds of foreboding taking root... She could already tell that Callion's mind was starting to focus on something else, slipping away from the talk about the Chamber. Maybe his attention shifted to what was happening in the North, on the possibility of new enemies appearing... Or on the need to train. It seemed that in the end, this world was about strength and who would devour who. It didn't sit right with her, not at all. Ayu's expression softened a little with melancholy when she nodded at his reassurance. The Hyperbolic Time Chamber could wait for only a little for her decision and she had to make it soon. It might have been of great help if she were to use it and grew stronger - but what if the power would increase but her control over it would not? She wasn't able to voice her concerns, it wasn't the time for that. Callion didn't respond much to her attempt at comforting - honestly, it wasn't much of a consolation if anything - his eyes pensive and looking at the horizon. As if feeling that he was about to leave, for a short moment Ayu placed her hand on his arm and without a word, she took a few steps back.
The night wasn't going to end anytime soon. He stood there for a long while... And like that, Callion raised in the air and flew away, disappearing between the dark clouds.
... He always did leave quickly, even when they first met. It wasn't her right to complain but Ayu silently wished that he would stay a little longer - but that was just selfishness trying to dance with her anxiety. Slowly shaking her head at her own thoughts, she moved away from the edge of the Lookout. Callion was taking an enormous burden on himself already, seeking the power to fight to protect the Earth, trying to form a group of fighters that would share his goal... Ayu had to be strong enough to not rely on him like that. She couldn't allow herself to do so. Even when back then, after her first energy meltdown, she thought that it would be okay to be a little egoistic to seek comfort in the warrior - or anyone - she couldn't rest on this memory anymore. Maybe such closure wasn't exactly for her. Things have changed. They changed so much that it just didn't feel right anymore.
Maybe being a part of this group that protects the Earth would be a good idea... But before Ayu masters her skills she won't be of any use to them. She needed to train.
Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes. The chill of the night and cool breeze were helping her mind to stay sharp, though the pit in her stomach couldn't be so easily forgotten. She could hear the hushed conversation between Dende and Mr. Popo, though she wasn't paying attention at this point. The future, the past, and the present. The only thing she could feel now was the cold tiles under her bare feet, the sound of the wind, and the taste of the rain drawing near. It was weird that through the pain and fear swallowing her the faint numbness that wasn't leaving her mind was comforting... Or perhaps she was just so tired from feeling everything so much, too much, that her emotions themselves were worn-out. It didn't feel so bad, though this stinging, burning as an acid sensation at the bottom of her mind was still there. The guilt, grief, hate... No, Ayu wasn't able to hold a grudge toward anyone and strong negative feelings like that were only saved for one person. For her. Maybe a seed of self-loathing was starting to sprout - she felt it. She needed to fight it, she needed to get stronger, and she had to be so much more than she was now.
Ayu was calmly standing there before she turned away, walking toward the lower levels of the Lookout. She decided that she was going to train in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber soon... But she needed to do something else first. She needed to prepare as her energy still wasn't stable... If anything happens to her while she would train there, they might have been unable to open the door again and she wasn't going to steal the opportunity to grow from other warriors. And being left alone, for a whole year with nothing but emptiness and her own thoughts...
... She could handle it, right?
She might not have a choice. But it wasn't about her anymore, no, it was about Terra, Liari returning, about Callion, her home planet, and the people living here. It felt ridiculous to think that a year ago she was worried about passing the entrance exams to East City University. Now?
Being better as a person, as a future Guardian, and as an aid to those who were putting their life for the sake of peace.
That was her resolve.
End of Thread
Power Level - 256,968
Word Count - 865
Total Word Count - 7,550 |
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"Only A Failure Abandons His Principles And Pride."
Administrator
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Mar 24, 2023 19:54:31 GMT -5
Post by Admin on Mar 24, 2023 19:54:31 GMT -5
Ayu:
Previous PL: 283,929
PL Gained: 4,983
New PL: 288,912
+1 TP
Previous TP: 53/71
New TP: 54/72
Previous Zeni: 95,596
Zeni Gained: 3,322
New Zeni: 98,918
Callion:
Previous PL: 254,730
PL Gained: 4,318
New PL: 259,048
Previous Zeni: 12,857
Zeni Gained: 2,878
New Zeni: 15,735
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