The Chasers: The Key to Memories Past

[Rikugurl]

Bonnie's ears bent a bit out of shape as she listened to the man, slowly finding another seat to sit down on before crossing her legs. With the way Kadaj was talking, she could understand where everyone asked HER what the hell she was saying.

She, like everyone trying to understand her dialect, had to deal and compute Kadaj's as well.

Him and Gunnar were having problems.

Unfortunately for her, she didn't know why and therefore couldn't be much of help.
"You're feeling frustrated...and lost." She sighed softly as her ears came all the way down like a floppy eared bunny as she looked up at the stars. "He's your duck and you hate seeing him narked. It's an emotion that lot of fellows feel."

She tapped her hand on the counter before looking back at Kadaj. "My pop was a human... but a pirate first. He never really taught me much about emotions, neither did my mum...but it I were in the same boat as you, I'd scurry down below and demand answers. Not just for yourself but for all us. His attitude towards everyone has be rather naff."


"Vanille?" Fuu rose a silver eyebrow before grinning some, poking her son in the side. "A girl you bumped into? Is she pretty? Do you like her~" She teased more as she leaned closer.

This is what parents do, right?
It wasn't like she knew...she never had them.


Olette couldn't help but hide her huge smile behind her hands as she leaned on the table, just watching her daughter over react. It was so adorable, especially when she held herself so high on a pedestal to be such a strong and proud leader. And she made a pinky swear in which she couldn't even tell Seifer! Oh poo.

"Alright, alright, sweetie!" She laughed playfully as she reached out and took her hand, rubbing it softly. "There are obvious signs that men and women give off when they like someone. You don't really even have to ask. There's jealousy... and then there is a wanting to be with this person at all times. A smile that's given when nothing is really even funny going on. Just being in the same room, even if nothing is sad and putting that person ahead of everyone else. I've already seen Sammy do many of these things around you so I really have no doubt that he likes you, likes you."

She couldn't help but laugh. It had been so long since she said that!

Her soft eyes looked back at her daughters before smiling. "And as for your father... he was quite the bruit and I honestly didn't want anything to do with him... but like young girls do, you like to tease boys. The more and more I teased Seifer and showed him that I wasn't scared of him or his posse, I saw the real cute things about him... and then... I just acted myself around him... even asked him on a date...and then another...until he started asking me out."

She smiled even more as she seemed to look back at those days. "We went out for awhile, getting closer and closer, starting to kiss and snuggle and...you know. That was when I realized that I really did want to spend the rest of my life with him. So, I asked him to marry me! So, I guess the only advice I have for you sweetheart is...just be yourself... He already likes you the way you are."

[Reno]

Kadaj glanced at Bonnie as she responded, his eyebrows furrowing a little. Unfortunately, he still was trying to grasp her language. Unlike the mechanics of driving the ship, or even the simplicity of sign language, pure language full of the complex levels of symbols, puns, metaphors and emotions was more... difficult for him to grasp and reuse for his own benefit.

But what he DID understand... was what she was suggesting he should do about it. "I suppose you are correct. It is time to take action." He stood suddenly and turned, walking from the weapons room without another word. He did not even inquire to where the brunette was.

He didn't really need to know that though - he could hear him even though there was three floor levels between them. He walked down the next two sets of stairs, past the item room, kitchen and pilot's seat, past the rooms, until he was on the last level of the ship where most of the maintenance took place on the thrusters, burners and boiler. He glanced around some before walking to a familiar room, hearing the noise of cursing and grunts. It he did not know better and the sounds weren't accompanied by the sound of a chain rattling and grain depressing, he would of believed he and Gunnar were fornicating.

He reached for the door, sliding it open, looking in the room unsurprised at the sight. His nose however scrunched up some. "You smell of sweat."


Tensai blinked then his cheeks reddened. "Mooooom!" He whined hiding his face. "She's just a girl I met after the concert..."

A pause then,
"But yeah she's real pretty." He said shyly.


Lucina blinked before slowly relaxing as his mother talked to her, her cheeks still red. Her mom really thought... that Sammy liked her? Sure he was around her all the time but that was... because he was nice to him, wasn't it? And... well she'd never seen him jealous. But he did smile a lot...

Her mind trailed off though when her mother answer her last question and then she smiled, giggling some. It was hard to imagine her dad 'snuggling' ever. "Okay mom..." She said softly. "I guess I could... give it a try."

[Rikugurl]

Bonnie's ears went up straight as she watched Kadaj just get up and started walking away without another word. She was the type that liked to comment on things but knowing that his hearing was as good, if not better than her own, she would keep her comments to herself.

I don't even know how those two can function together...

Chains indeed rattled as the merciless punches came left and right, jabbing it here, there and everywhere. The brunette even danced around it, slamming his fist into it. "UUGH!" He growled as he smashed his fist into it again and again, sweat running down his forehead and body, soaking his upper muscle shirt. No matter how cool the temperature was, it didn't matter to Gunnar.

There was even fist prints in the wall when he felt like he needed to punch something harder than the bag but he knew he couldn't keep that up.

That was when the door opened as he stopped, looking over his shoulder. At the voice and the silver hair, he growled again. "What do you want?" He asked before slamming his fists into the bag again.


Fuu laughed as she heard her son and pulled him close, kissing the side of his head softly. When she heard that she was pretty though, she grinned even more. "You know... we should go visit her so I can show her nude baby pictures of you in the tub~"


"Hey now, don't 'try' anything." She winked before leaning back. "Just try and be--- oh, hey Sammy!" The woman waved, seeing her daughter's face go pale.

The blonde boy was just walking by the kitchen, some books in his hand when his name made him stop and look over, seeing Olette wave to him. He waved back a bit clueless before his eyes caught Lucina's and a small smile ran over his features before he continued on his way.

Olette grinned and leaned over the table. "See what I mean?"

[Reno]

Kadaj's eyes narrowed at the completely disrespectful tone the other had. And he had thought it beneficial to save him?

"I believe I wish to... discover what your malfunction is." He said simply, walking into the room. The door shut behind him and he leaned against it, crossing his arms. "I do not care what you say, you will inform me why you are so furious."


Tensai's eyes widened with horror and he shook his head. "No! No way! No pictures!" Curse his first fathers!


Lucina blinked, but then paled when her mom said her... her crush's name. She looked over, her eyes wide as he cheeks reddened ducking low in her seat. It was him, it was him!

She blinked at the books wondering what they were for... but when he turned and smiled at her she quickly forgot everything her face getting so red that she almost started to believe she had come down with a fever.

She sighed as he left, smiling ever so faintly, her voice dreamy. "Yeah...."

[Rikugurl]

Gunnar stopped hitting the bag when he heard the other. After all the years he head been with the Chasers, Gunnar would of thought that he'd pick up some better and less....scientific speak. Guess he was wrong about THAT too.

He grabbed the bag on both side to stop it from swinging before pulling his gloves off, revealing raw skin under them. He grabbed a close towel and started to dry the sweat off of himself.
Just as Kadaj was thinking about saving him....Gunnar remembered that this man did save his life...and obviously not doing well coming up with the thought of sitting down and talk...he really was trying hard.

"You have to let your shield down too, Tiger."

The brunette let out a deep sigh before looking back up at Kadaj. He rubbed the back of his neck again, letting some steam cool as he felt the coldness of the room now that his blood was calming.
"I...." He started but sighed once more before shaking his head.
"I'm just having a hard time I guess. I mean..." He swallowed, closing his eyes.

"I thought it was be easier. I use to watch my mom and dad kiss and hug and smile and... I always wanted that. I...guess I was really foolish to think it was so easy." He paused for a second before continuing. "Lucina and I....we never got out much. We were always cooped up in the ship and it was fine with us... but in reality... we were really sheltered. We couldn't really interact with different people... we couldn't date... we couldn't...learn by watching. We were born....Chasers....and that was really....all that mattered."

He swallowed again before opening his eyes and looking back at Kadaj.
"I don't really know....what you are....or where you came from. I don't understand why your appearance never changes or why some emotions are hard for you to grasp but... I love you." He spoke softly and really for the first time ever, he had said those three words to the silverette. And... I've been thinking really hard about there is really something wrong with me but.... I always come to the conclusion that.... I want to be with you. I want to kiss, hug, laugh....just.....be with you."

He looked sway slightly, his mako eyes slowly watering. "But I can't.....I can't....want this....by myself...." He swallowed, trying to blink back the tears. "I just feel....I....I don't know how I feel...." He laughed, shaking his head. "I guess.... it feels like....you're just...using me but I know...that you don't know....and I guess....I know that....you shouldn't know any better. I mean....sex isn't just to feel good, I mean, I guess it can if that's all you want.... but...it's suppose to be more... meaningful...and of course....pleasurable at the same time. It's really....suppose to be meaningful for the people that are connected by more than just....privates....and I know that you're thinking that sex is just a natural act in which mammals reproduce and nothing more but it is....for humans. There are some things that separate humans from animals...and making love is one of them..."

He looked up slowly and smiled softly. "I just want you to feel...what I'm feeling....because if you're not....there's no point for me to feel the way I do..."

[Reno]

Kadaj watched him carefully, watching his body language as if it would give him any signs of how this conversation would go. The other seemed to calm, but he was not relaxed, his muscles knotted with tension. The distracted eyes and twitching body told him he was also excited, but it did not appear to be in a beneficial way.

He tilted his head, listening to the other silently as he spoke of his parents. It always interested him how many around him connected their past and their present selves. He was unsure if that was a healthy practice considering how many flaws each of them had and almost each time they blamed this flaw on an event of the past. He wondered if it was a mental process - if they did not thing of the past, the flaw would disappear.

He remained silently even as Gunnar looking up at him, his Adam's apple vibrating as he swallowed. A nervous habit. The other started to speak, once again asking of his past, and his own inabilities but then...

I love you.

He blinked slowly, the pupils of his eyes dilating. Love... love... Gunnar loved... him.
That meant something vital, but he... he could not...

Even more shocking was the sight of saline in the brunette's eyes. Crying. He knew this well - Loz cried a lot. But he had no chance to bring that to attention as the other continued to talk, his speech broken and slow as the other struggled to find his words, much like he himself had not minutes ago.

"I just want you to feel...what I'm feeling....because if you're not....there's no point for me to feel the way I do..."

He looked at the other for a long moment, before silently adverting his gaze, unable to keep up the contact. His eyes were contemplative and ponderous once more. His mind was working fast this time knowing he needed to come up with an answer soon or Gunnar would become either invasive, impatient, or take his silent as an unspoken answer. Humans had such strange ways of thinking.

"So... I am the cause. How... upsetting." He finally stated more to fill the silence and reassure Gunnar he had been listening. Even still his voice was low and soft as if he were delivering news of the dead. He lifted his hand slowly as the other began to try and possibly refute what he had said, or just add more words to the air. He truly did not need more words, he was attempting to concentrate.

Because he was the cause of the malfunction though...

He looked up at Gunnar, "It is I who needs to be fixed." He nodded slowly even though the other was shaking his head. "You are asking a lot of me, Gunnar." He said slowly. "Most... moons and suns I do not... feel anything at all, as you know. I spend many of my contemplative hours simply exploring the idea of these feelings. This 'love' you speak of for me and wish for me to return... it is a troubling and confusing emotion, even for humans. They are unable to clearly depict it in any novel or any definition. I need to... explore myself, realize if I have the... ability to love. You must give me time."

He pushed off from the door. He hesitated before adding a word he rarely used outside of their bedroom. "Please. This is a difficult request, I realize. But I am unlike you. I must be given time to think before you can be told your answer. I wish to have you return to normal, and until I can repair myself I must be aware that you will continue to malfunction. And even if I can give you the answer you seek, I can not guarantee what will come of it." He turned and opened the door, starting to walk from the room.

There was a pause before he turned and looked back, "But I am able to qualm you of one worries. We have copulated 37 times this year. I can remember each and I do not believe I ever once paid you for your services." He hesitantly smiled. He was making a joke.



The plan was made. They would go through the trails, despite the obvious risk.

The thing that worried one son, one nephew and one husband however... was who the scapegoat was.
"We're uncertain how many of us will need to go through the trails. Maybe all of us... maybe just one." Aqua explained to everyone.
"So what do we do?" Olette asked curiously.
"Well... it is a very dangerous process and if we make even one mistake... we could cause irreparable damage to ourselves, to Dragoon... or the whole universe." Aqua explained then slowly glanced to the blonde next to her. "So..."
"As master, I will be the one leading the trials." Roxas said simply.
"What? But dad!"
The blonde smiled to his son, disregarding his lover's concerned gaze. "It'll be fine. Trust me."

The night was a hard one, for all parties involved.
Roxel and Tensai were unable to even look at one another, one feeling ashamed, the other insecure.
Kadaj and Gunnar meanwhile had a huge rift between them, all over an abstract sense of being.
Lucina, on the other hand, was slowly warming back up to Sammy though she was still dressing within the bathroom and voiding a lot of eye contact.

By morning... they had reached Dragoon. Almost everyone had to shove their breakfast down their throats, nerves setting them all on edge. Because it was a high priority mission... they all were going down to the world. It would matter little about protecting the ships if they ended up destroying the universe.

And... that is when it happened.

Around the dining table, both generations together for once, fully dressed and geared, they were eating the breakfast Roxas had made them in near silence, as if this was their final meal before they must face the executioner. Until finally, someone said what had been in the back of all their minds this whole time.

"We don't have to do this." Heads turned. Eyes widened in horror and shock.

Because of all the people they had envisioned saying those words of reason... Tensai was the last.
"...What are you saying Ten?" Seifer asked.
Luci, remembering not long ago how eager and willing the teen had been to set out and save the soul of his dad, shook her head. Why... why now? "How CAN you say that? He's you dad!"
"Tensai..." Roxas sighed.


The black-haired boy swallowed, unable to face the disappointed gazes he was sure were staring him down at this very second. "...I-I don't... I mean I know it's RIGHT but..." He started shaking a little. This was harder on him than any of them!
"Leave him be. We're all thinking it." Aqua ordered. "He is correct. We don't. We want to... but we don't have to do this at all. In fact, if Terra knew what the fuck we were up to, he would personally haunt our asses to hell. We could be putting billions at risk... intentionally for one soul."

[Rikugurl]

Gunnar watched and listened to the silverette. Even with all the years he had known him, he had never heard him speak quite like that. It was a bad blow when he finally realized that his own human flaw had been hit. All this time he just assumed Kadaj felt something but... he was wrong.

All that sex... meant nothing.
And that hurt.

For once in his life...he felt stupid and well...useless. He promised himself he would never feel this way. He was an Almasy and even if his father was an orphan, he wanted to him his father proud. To make the name proud... and he pushed himself higher. His sister was already number one... and even though he loved her with all his heart and never felt much hate for her unless they got into fights of their own... deep down inside....he still felt like her shadow.

He looked down and shook his head but the other deemed to continue.
How could he of been so blind...and now he felt like he was forcing this on Kadaj. It was suppose to be a mutual thing but before he could say anything... the silverette was gone.

That night he slept in the Cooling Chamber, his mind racing too much to even call it sleeping. He knew that they were going to be on a very big mission...and being sleep deprived wasn't going to help them any.


The two generations of the Chasers sat around the large table where Olette and Lucina had just the night before. They were all wearing their Chaser uniforms, all equipped and ready to go minus some potions and their radios.

Green, narrow eyes glanced over at his husband as he watched him eat. He couldn't... even think of what this beast looked like...but he didn't want it killing his lover in which he would do anything for.

Roxel sighed as he ate by his blonde father, putting some eggs in his mouth and much like his pyro father, glanced at Roxas here and there. What would he do if he lost his father...? What would happen with his heart...?

Bonnie seemed rather relaxed as she ate some of her pancakes though the woman next to her was shaking like a wet sheep. The bunny frowned and kicked Namine, hearing her squeak and pout. She couldn't help it!

Olette too, strangely seemed confident as she ate next to her husband. The Chasers had gone through many trails...and it did get tough but as long as they all worked together and assisted on another...she knew that they would be fine.

Sammy was obviously oblivious on what what going on and the silence never bothered him. However, in his rather tight outfit, he seemed to be worried about something far off.... and why he couldn't get a new outfit! He was out growing it! He knew it would cost some money though...and didn't complain...but what he was still fixated on was the term....prince.

Everyone stopped eating though when Tensai finally shattered the silence.

All eyes were one Tensai, especially a green and blue one of his best friend. "Ten-chan??"

Everyone's heads turned to their leader as she walked, feeling a bit awkward. It was true...they didn't---

"Look," A strong voice made all eyes turn to another man who was at the table.
Gunnar.
"The bird thing said that we would be fine as long as we don't go any further into our memories than we need to. Obviously once we walk through the door of the trials, it will begin and he said that we will know what to do when we see it. Now I know humans do stupid things and since a majority of us are humans or half human, we just need to LISTEN to those words and no do anything stupid."

His mako eyes rolled over to Roxel, making the statement lean on the teen more than the others.
The fire head boy could only look away.
Gunnar slowly looked back at Tensai and frowned. "Besides Tensai, this is a good lesson that you should think before your heart speaks. You promised Ida that you would get her son's soul back. Her soul will never rest now if you back off on that promise. No good mother would. If you had a son and you died and your son dies as well, if his soul got lost and if your grandchild promised that he would find your son's soul, you wouldn't rest either."

He crossed his arms and tilted his head. "Don't you think Ida has already suffered enough in both her living life and dead life? I know Ven had taught you never, ever break a promise."

[Reno]

Tensai swallowed hard, a bad taste suddenly in his mouth as Gunnar spoke. Not because of his words, but because of the realization those words made him face. Listening to his heart and making promises so quickly... this must of been the kind of trouble his father Sora got into all the time that Uncle Roxas always told him about.

He sighed his eyes falling to the table as the other's reproachful gaze steered towards him. His heart had never steered him wrong before, but now it was scared. Was... he really so weak?

He took a deep breath and nodded slowly. "You're right." He whispered. "I'm sorry... forget I said anything."

Was Gunnar... not scared? At all?

Roxas glanced between the brunette, his nephew and his son who was unrighteously brought into this argument. Gunnar knew how to make a point... but he lacked empathy doing it. He sighed and reached out, placing a hand on his son's shoulder and squeezing lightly to reassure him everything was okay. Sure, his son had made a terrible mistake, but everyone did at some point. "Gunnar everyone makes mistakes. Forgive my son for what he did and leave it in the past, alright." It was a command, not a statement.

The brunette seemed to want to argue - to emphasize exactly WHY he should get his ass kicked so bad he'd be soaring to the moon by the time it was done - but the blonde just shook his head. "He's not the first to put a world in danger." He grabbed his empty plate, standing. "Now everyone finish eating. I didn't slave over making this food to watch it go to waste!"

He felt slightly at ease when he heard glasses clinking and utensils clanging. But only slightly. He breathed a sigh, placing the dishes into the sink. His hands were shaking.
He was scared too. He placed his hands over his racing heart and shut his eyes, mentally attempting to calm himself.

It wasn't until he heard steps across the linoleum and dishes being placed in the sink, clinking merrily atop his that he opened his eyes and glanced to his side, seeing a familiar face with the same concern that had been on there all night. "I know what you want to say Axel." Roxas whispered but smiled. "But you know we have to."

The red-head seemed to sigh... and long lanky arms wrapped around the small keyblader, bringing him close. Roxas sighed shutting his eyes and snuggling against the other, taking in his warmth and comfort.

But in his heart he knew... something was going to go wrong.



There was nothing left to be said. Nothing left to do.
Aqua sighed letting her eyes run over the two teams one last time, everyone ready to go, before turning and slashing into the air. A portal of swirling, computerized darkness ripped open. "Alright, let's go." She looked at her wife and smiled, taking her hand before the two walked in together.
Olette and Seifer were right behind, both of them appearing confident. Roxas and Axel followed next, walking close to one another.

Tensai stood next to his best friend, swallowed nervously. He watched Lucina walk through, holding Sammy's hand. Then an agitated Gunnar went through and - a few moments later- Kadaj followed after. Bonnie walked behind Namine, practically shoving her in.

The black-haired boy swallowed and looked at Roxel. "Xel..." Once the other was looking back at him, he smiled weakly before throwing his arms around the other in a hug. He wanted to say so much to him. How he was sorry he hadn't been acting like much of a friend lately. How he was glad they WERE friends. How much he cared about him and no matter what happened next or what happened before that that would never change.

But there was no time. So he pulled away and smiled taking his hand. "Let's go." He tugged him towards the portal before they walked through. It closed behind them.

On the ship nothing was left by silence that wasn't broken by anything but human creations. Like a home that had been abandoned and forgotten long ago.


"Wow..."
"So this is it."
"How cool!"

Eyes of varies interest and colors all looked left and right curiously. The palace stood on a large plateau, raised almost half a mile high above the ocean. One could hear the waves crashing violently into the jagged rocks far below. Those with excellent eyesight could just barely make out the surrounding lands in the distance. The castle was in the center of the world.

It shot up before them, shining brilliantly in the sunlight some of them acting like prisms and reflecting rainbows upon the ground. Clusters of crystals of all colors shot out in all angles, the points of the crystals sharp and deadly. The land under their feet was made of ancient stone, cracked under years of the sun's heat. The symbols that had been engraved into the stone had, like the tombstones of Atteris, slowly eroded away.

Their attention was drawn as Aqua started to walk forward, through a large gaping hole in the palace. Everyone hurried to follow being encased in the glittering castle and walking up stairs made of the solid, pure substance. Above them there were many random gaps in the ceiling that lead one to believe that over time, the roof had simply collapsed.

Rattle... rattle.

That was until they saw.... her.

"So you have come at last." Spoke the large majestic creature, her head raising, ancient eyes falling upon the entire group that had frozen upon sight of her. Largest of all the dragons, her body was a shining silver. Eight wings were curled up tightly against her body a powerful, thick tail curled around her body. Despite the ugly chains around two of her powerful looking legs that spoke of entrapment, she held the aura of royalty. This was her castle - her domain. And they were intruding.

Aqua took a deep breath. The last time she had been in front of this dragon it had been alone when she had sealed her back into her bonds. It had been this dragon who had predicted their return. "Yes... I expect you already know the reason of our visit?"

The eyes fell upon the blue-haired woman. "Yes. You may do as you must, your dangers have been made clear." Her head turned slowly, looking to her right were the castle became dark. "What you seek is in the Room of Echoes. Use it wisely young humans or I will be the one to end your lives."

[Rikugurl]

When Gunnar heard the blonde, his mako eyes rolled in his head. A mistake? What about the 57 mistakes he did last year alone? He opened his mouth to give him a piece of his mind. That maybe if they didn't baby him so much and said 'no' once in awhile, he's have some more discipline.
God, if him or Lucina ever even DARED to pull off the shit Roxel did....

But Roxas made another stupid point that tried to make Roxel's mistakes seem alright.
Gunnar just frowned before continuing his meal. He swore that if Roxel got them all killed, he was going to have to do a lot of haunting.

Axel looked up, watching Roxas leave to the kitchen and slowly got up, following after.
His longs legs made it easy for him to catch up with the shorter, some dishes being placed in the sink. When his lover looked at him, he could see how much his heart hurt...and how scared it was.
Well...he could feel it.

He was about to speak when Roxas cut him off much like he had cut Gunnar off. His green eyes became sad before he wrapped his arm around the blonde and held him tightly. "Roxas..." And just think....he thought being the major of a large city was hard.
His other arm wrapped around his waist before he put his chin on the top of the soft blonde hair.
"I love you..."


The Chasers stood in the launching pad, lined up and ready to go. Potions and weapons were on the side of their hips, on the edge of finger tips or boiled deep inside of them somewhere.

A woman with short silver hair, a black eye patch with Chaser symbol on it and a tight black suit, stood next to the women in front. A blue chakram was clipped to each side of her hips, the clips easily opened to allow her access to them quickly. A sense of wind came off the edges of her fingers as her hand clasped onto the other woman's.

A red eye looked up and the woman nodded before they walked through.

A confident smile ran over the features of the next woman that came up to the portal. Her hand was clasped with her husband as she wore a simple orange dress with a while design of the Chaser symbol on the bottom. On her back was strapped a rod that was pretty yet powerful.

Her green eyes looked up at her husband, making he smile even more before they walked through.

Next was a rather tall man with a rather short mate. Green eyes narrowed above dark purple tattoos. He wore a more tailored looking back coat above a tighter black outfit. On the side of one of his pant legs, a fire design was embroidered in with a burning effect of the Chaser symbol in the middle. He didn't have to worry about putting his own chakrams on the side of his hips, they were always at the edge of his fingertips as well as the blaze of fire.

His high boots clicked as he walked toward the portal. The narrow green eyes glanced down at blue and his expression seemed to soften, giving his husband some....boost of convinced as he did so himself. When they disappeared, a boy in the back sighed.

Next were two blondes, both natural from birth. Purple eyes glowed as they looked at the oddly made portal, feeling some darkness coming off it. He too wore a tight black suit with a belt that contained many pouches on it, each one having a Chaser symbol on them in white. He carried the supplies in Team 'Princess' as Namine carried all the supplies for Team 'Tiger'.
As for his weapon, he needed none for he was quite the black mage to Gen 2 shock. He could also summon strange beast for help if needed.

He didn't understand why everyone was being so silent...not knowing that this could be the last time he stepped foot onto this ship. All he did realize though was the warmth he felt as Lucina too his hand. He blinked before slowly looking at her, a soft smile running over his face before they walked through the portal.

A brunette with sharp mako eyes stood in front of the portal next, his outfit almost matching his father's except he had a black coat instead of a white. On his hip as a very mechanical gun that with the flick of a switch, could shoot out a sword as well. It was a functional gunblade.

He didn't seem to wait up for the silverette that was close by before walking through, his head help up high.

"Oh man... I don't know if I'm ready for this..." A woman shivered as she walked up close. Her suit was much like something you would see in Space Paranoids minus the wear hat like thing. It was tight and black with blue computerized lines through it. Of course on her back were lines that made up a Chaser symbol.

She too hand many pouches on her belt around her waist, carrying potions, ether and other things for aid. At the side of her hip, she held onto a white and blue blitzball that her father had given her when she was a child.

"Maybe---OOOOF!!" She yelped as she was HELPED through the portal.

Barely wearing much clothing was a tall woman with darker skin. She wore a black corset with a sheer black cloth that ran down from her hips to cover her mid. Tight Capri's came down to her knees and high heels to accommodate her oddly shaped feet. On her belt was a white symbol of the Chasers.
On her hip was a single gun but everyone outside the Chasers had no idea that she had the power to turn it into any weapon she liked.

She walked through with as much confidence as Gunnar, leaving two boys left on the ship with two lovable creatures.

A gulp could be heard as a green and blue eye looked down at the floor, a little red lion wrapped around his shoulders.
He was wearing something much like Sammy but with some more flare to it and the Chase symbol was a pattern on his belt. Fire hair fell over his eyes but it shifted when he was suddenly hugged. He was a little shocked, knowing how quiet the night had been between them.

"T-t-ten-chan...?" He said softly before smiling, wrapping his arms around the other and hugging him close too. The little red lion on his shoulders sniffed Tensai's hair before licking his cheek and yipping happily before they broke away. With Tensai's hug, Roxel got a bit of confidence. He wasn't going to mess up this time!

He turned and the two quickly raced through the portal with Jax and Moxley as well.


Once they saw the huge castle though, everyone confident started to break. Slowly they followed Aqua inside and everyone seemed to free when they saw the huge dragon.
Gunnar swallowed as he looked up at her, wondering if she knew the water bird thing. Was she all knowing as well...?

Bonnie's ears were flat on her head as Namine continued to shiver. Jax too was shivering... no wait....that was Roxel as he stared up at her in horror. A REAL LIVE DRAGON..............!? AND SHE WAS HUGE! SHE COULD GOBBLE THEM UP AND....EEEP!!

The other Chasers from Gen 1 seemed to be a bit more easy that the Gen 2... minus Sammy who didn't seem afraid at all.
Gen 1 had seen dragons before... many of them when they needed to save them. Axel had to wonder if the dragons in which Sora, Riku, Ven and Terra helped were sad that they had passed away.

Everyone however looked at the dark side of the castle where the dragon seemed to look. The Room of Echoes? Slowly the large group moved across the ancient floors to the two large doors that had no handle but only a large keyhole.
The doors were as old as the castle though nothing shimmered around it. It had dark embroidery around its frame, showing pictures of demons and clocks.

The shivering woman studied it before looking at the very peak, squeking as she pointed. "What is that! It blinked!"
Everyone quickly looked up at what the woman had pointed at and that along with the ending words of the dragon made them all shift.
It seemed to be a statue bust of a man in black rags, holding a large clock that had been broken. His features were rather frightening, looking like he had been internally burned from a black fire.

Around his eyes, lips, fingernails were all signs of a black fire, his face pale with cracked black tears also burned looking though his hair was of the palest color.
Around his next were ancient beads that were all entangled as if they were never maintained in centuries.

"It's just a bloody statue..." Bonnie whispered as rolled her eyes.

[Reno]

As they started to edge away from the large dragon towards the darker side of the castle - a feat which did not seen possible as the entire castle was of crystal. However on this part of the castle the crystals made of azurite, a purple rock like crystal that glittered like stars but was not clear, and hematite - black crystal.

They were careful as they walked away, most of them edging as far away from the dragon as possible.
Lucina tried to be brave and not hold onto Sammy as she wished too.
Kadaj was wary as he passed, his hand mistrustfully on his sword. This dragon made Bahamut look like a child.
Tensai was trying not to squeak in fear as he walked so close to Roxel there shoulders bumped. Behind him, whimpering, Moxley was low to the ground, quickly scuttling after. He did not want to be lunch!

Everyone jumped at the exclamation their eyes searching out what Namine had indicated. There eyes all fell on the grotesque almost Gothic in appearance. Upon closer study, it appeared what Namine had claimed as a 'blink' was merely some of the shimmers of azurite glinted off the eyes, mimicking movement when the seer of the object moved.

Aqua's eyes narrowed however, even at Bonnie's dismissal. "Yes it is... but it is not natural." Everyone looked at the blue-haired woman, slightly panicked.
"What do you mean?" Seifer asked.
"We are a world that praises dragons... not the feats of humans, or even the beserkers. I've never heard of anyone creating a statue for a human..." The woman stated. It worried her... that she did not recall this statue before - of course it had been in shadow and she had been too distracted by the large dragon. Rattling of chains made her look back, her eyes narrowing upon the eight-winged dragon who was watching them. "Why is this here?"

"I am not one who tells. Your answer is within, child of Regole." The Divine Dragon said back simply. "Unlock them on your own."

Aqua frowned, worriedly as she glanced back at the statue before sighing. "I suppose we'll know soon then. Roxas, you're up."

The blonde nodded before stepping away from the group. A few of the Chasers even stepped away unsure of what would happen once the other unlocked the keyhole. The more imaginative were seeing throngs of dark creatures suddenly erupted from the room or echoes of the past swallowing them in a spiral so quick they were unable to gather the light they needed.

Roxas held out his hands, twin blades appearing within them. One was a malicious black and grey with demon wings framing over the hilt and a black crown charm hanging from it. It's tip was heavy-looking obviously meant for crushing bones. The other was thinner than her counterpart, almost all pure white except for the yellow paopu symbol at the end and the colorful design at it's head. It's hilt was guarded by angel wings and the thin wire of the blade shot out in a fragile, delicate way, making a heart... and the end star-shaped, each hand like a dagger. It was made for cutting through foes.

Oblivion and Oathkeeper. He spun them both on his fingertips before raising them high above his head, the blades catching onto one another, almost appearing as one. Black and white energy radiated off the blades as Roxas pointed them both at the wall. Twin energies shot out, a mixture of two, before hitting the keyhole. The hole glimmered brilliantly, shimmering in black and white, white and black, the once shadowy area shining with light.

Everyone held their breath.
Click.
The whole area started to shake... as the wall started to move. Crystal started to break and snap as it cracked open in many directions, creating a noise that rivaled an avalanche. Many of the chasers quickly held their hands over their ears and some of them yelled but their voices went unheard over the noise.

Roxas grit his teeth, bracing his blades on the floor to keep his balance, but did not attempt to move away. He didn't hear his son and husband's worried cries. They might of believed the wall was going to topple on to him... but the wall was not falling. No... it was opening.

Soon a large gaping hole was in front of them, the crystal of the wall having folded up around the newly made threshold. Not one piece had fallen to the ground. The room within... was something only a few had ever seen before.

To Axel... it was stunningly familiar.

There were eight small platforms in the room all in a circular pattern around a stand in the middle a clear gem that glowed very faintly. The gem was levitating above the stand turning slowly on an invisible axis. In the fading glow of light, one could just barely make out the many groves in the floor, undiscerning engravings that connected between the platforms and the stand in the middle. In the corner, almost out of place, was a heap of broken and battered rock, as if something heavy had fallen upon the ground and broken it.

"What... is this?" Roxas whispered, taking a tentative step forward into the room.

"It is the Room of Echoes. Long ago, before the war of Dragoon tore apart the dragons and forced it upon us to guard each separate region we had created this room to archive the wisdom of the ages." The Divine Dragon answered. "Before, only myself and my fellow dragons could unlock the mysteries of the past. But it has become intertwined with destiny that this ritual be broken for humans. The day, I knew, was sure to come. Necessity and balance of the World Beyond demanded such."

Slowly, moved by the dragon's words, the other Chasers started to walk towards the room, fanning out in all directions. The crystal within was made much the same as the shadowy spot behind them, the walls but there was no longer any azurite. Instead all source of light came from the gem in the middle the clear swirling light glistening off the black walls.

"This is a trial for eight of you. However the choice is not yours but ours. If a dragon fails to choose, than your trial will not occur." The dragon said, her eyes piercing them from afar. Then... her mouth opened.

Aqua's eyes widened. "EVERYONE DUCK!"
The Chasers all spun and cried out, splitting in all directions and many of them just fell to the floor, as a blast of silvery light was breathed out unbeknown to them all, it was harmless. It flew into the room, brightening it further and making the air stir. The blast hit the crystal and the energy was sucked up in the small marble-sized gem.

Everyone looked up just in time... as the room exploded in colors. Red, blue, purple, green, gold, white, black and silver flashed along the floors and hit the platforms, colored respectively. And then upon the platforms...

"Whoa..." Roxas breathed, steadily getting to his feet, as did the others, their eyes wide and curious. Roxel and Tensai started to grin and Namine giggled. Olette practically squealed.

Because upon the platforms were eight little figures - eight dragons to be exact. Their were miniature forms of the eight dragons of Dragoon - all of them standing, some of them roaring - though they sounded small and quiet like little chirps - and some of them flying around in little circles.

"Let us begin. Dart, choose." The Divine Dragon said, her voice soft, a slight purr in her voice. The fire dragon spread his wings and a gave a soft purr of his own - the noise little and cute - before he soared from the platform with quick and decisive ease and landed atop the shoulder of who he had chosen long ago. He started to jump up and down much like what had been down to him years ago.

Everyone's wide eyes fell upon Axel.

"Flurry of Flames, Dart had chosen you long ago. He has seen within who you are and what your stolen heart desires. He honors your purpose. Take his guidance now."

The little dragon gave a small roar before flying off the other's shoulder and fluttering over the platform and looked back, indicating for Axel to follow.

Roxas looked back at his lover, the whole scene somewhat scary to him, but he smiled to his husband, reaching out and taking his hand. He squeezed the other's fingers. "Go on. It'll be okay..."

Axel seemed still nervous, but after a little more encouragement, he took the first steps to the platform. He seemed to stare at it for a long time, scrutinizing it for danger before he slowly walked up the few crystal stairs to the top of the platform, the little Dart hopping back so as not to get stepped on.

Around Axel on the platform a wall of silent fire rose and shot up to the ceiling, warming the room but the red-head was still easily visible from within as if the fire was as thin as mist. Unseen and ancient symbols suddenly glowed a brilliant red under Axel's feet before the light seemed to spill over and fill the lines that had been almost unseen in the darkness. Three lines of red suddenly filled, flowing like liquid lava as it quickly waved towards the center stand, merging and crawling up one single engraved line. The clear crystal hovering and twisting above turned a clear red.

The little Dart jumped from the platform flying through the wall towards the crystal. A prism of light shot up and the dragon crashed into it... and suddenly as if they were watching a movie-sized TV screen the prism began to reflect a scene to them. A large dragon rose from lava deep in a volcano, seeming to smile as he threw his head back and roared the noise echoing loud and fierce around them... until the scene disappeared.

[Rikugurl]

Purple eyes looked up at the statue in question and much like Aqua had noted, it wasn't natural.
However, unlike Aqua, he wasn't confused about why a human was made a statue of. This was no human... A sense of unnerving death radiated off the statue.

Whatever it was...the statue was just it's seal.

He was about to sign when Roxas walked up to the wall and his keyblades were called. Even if everyone had seen these keyblades before, no one had ever seen them used quite like this. Everyone except Axel of course.
They watched as the two rays opened the walls....and the whole world seemed to shake.

"WAAA!!" Bonnie cried as she almost toppled over before her leg shifted to catch her, the woman by her side not being so lucky. Namine fell right on her butt and winced. Gunnar blocked his eyes as he held his ground, Roxel holding his ears as he stayed close to Tensai.
"AAAAAAH!!" Olette cried as she held onto her husband and Axel kept his eyes on his husband, not trusting what was beyond the door.

However, when the next room was revealed, Axel gasped. This place looked all to familiar. It had been the place where he and Terra had ended up when they went to save the dragons. At first they had no idea what this place could be, not knowing that it was in the Divine Palace but now he knew it was...

"It is the Room of Echoes."

Everyone listened to the wise dragon and Namine was helped up by someone she would of guessed last. Gunnar.
"Thanks..." She whispered before looking back at the dragon.
World Beyond? What was....that?

She shook her head as everyone slowly started to walk through the gap in the wall, not noticing the 'blinking' eyes above.
"Wow..." Roxel looked around, seeing the eight pedestals. This place looked rather fun! AND COOL!
He frowned though as he kicked those thoughts to the back of his head. This was serious!

However, before anyone could think much more, their leader called out a quick and sudden order.
Without thinking, everyone ducked, not even asking why. Their eyes all widened when they saw that if they didn't, they wouldn't be having heads left!
"ACK!" Olette's hair went flying over her face from the power before she slowly stood up straight, her husband's arms around her.

The whole room became colorful, taking the breaths away from each and every one of them.
Was this....really happening?
Red, blue, purple, green, gold, white, black and silver glowed throughout the room as the gem continued to float in the center.

Gunnar shook his head as he looked around, understanding what the dragon had said only a moment ago.
Only eight of them would be going through the trials? That meant six of them....wouldn't.
His mako eyes glanced over at Roxel who was suddenly grinning widely next to Tensai. He could only hope that a dragon wouldn't pick him...but being a keybladers...

His eyes slowly shifted as he heard Namine giggle and looked out to see what everyone was looking at. Little....DRAGONS!?

A large smile ran over Sammy's features as he saw the little dragons. They were so....cute!

A silver dragon was laying on the silver platform, her scales beautiful as her wings were different from those around her. Unlike being webbed, they were of features. She was much more calmer than the others as well.

Above her was a black dragon who seemed to coil around himself. He was a jet black dragon with the tiniest wings and a fierce little roar of black smoke.

Olette was about to rush over, to scoop them all up before Seifer grabbed a hold of her and made her pout. They would be so cute playing around the ship!
As of Jax, he didn't like them so much as he growled against Roxel's neck.

The Divine Dragon spoke once more and everyone slowly looked at the dragon who seemed to be responding. A little red one.
Axel quickly smiled as he saw the dragon he had saved quite awhile ago call out and started to fly towards them.
What he wasn't expecting though was for Dart to.....LAND on him!

He couldn't stop laughing as he looked up at the dragon bounce around, Jax getting rather jealous as his claws dug into Roxel's shoulder.
"Ouch!" He cried as slapped the lion's paw.
The young teen however wasn't all too thrilled.
His father...had been the first to be chosen for the trials!
"Daddy...?"

Axel watched the dragon fly back but when he realized what was going on, his legs felt like they had a ton bricks on them. He couldn't move. His green eyes looked down at Roxas. He felt his husband's warmth...and didn't want to let it go.
Roxel too was holding onto Tensai tightly, watching his fathers look at each other, seeing their lips move but... couldn't hear them from where they were standing.

Axel finally swallowed before he leaned down and gave Roxas a kiss on the lips before pulling away and...started towards the platform. His boots clicked as his hips moved in his steps. Being this old, he was still shocked that he had such nice hips!
He came up to the red disc and glanced at it mistrustfully, seeing the small dragon look up at him as if asking 'well' and moved over.

A determined look ran over the pyro's features before he looked back at his son...and gave him a soft smile before stepping on the red surface.
"Daddy!" Roxel called out in worry but he couldn't let go of Tensai as he saw a wall of fire wrap around his redheaded father.

Everyone gasped but didn't move as Axel didn't seem to be hurt or alarmed. He only looked around, standing tall and ready for anything.
All eyes watched the lines of red power before a sudden screen was displayed before them. Those who had never seen the red dragon of the Fire Region all gasped in awe as they saw how powerful he seemed on the screen.

Outside of the room, a single black feature faded to existence next to the statue.

[Reno]

Roxas breathed a slow sigh as everything seemed alright with his husband, his heart beating quickly. Slowly he stepped over towards his son and nephew, noticing how Jax had his haunches risen and his teeth bared. He reached over, taking the little Moomba off his son's shoulders holding him against him. "Enough." He mumbled softly to the small lion.

Before anyone had time to really recover otherwise however...

"Regole. Choose." Came the Divine's Dragon's voice.

The small water serpent rose her head before jumping from the platform. Despite not have wings or enough feet she seemed to jump through the air as she had been seen to do many times from the ocean.

Aqua watched her curiously, tilting her head. She wondered only for a few short seconds on how such a feat was possible. Oh of course. Water Vapor, Regole you really are ama- Her stunned thoughts came to a frozen halt at the feel of scales brushing along her hands. She looked down seeing the small serpent dragon wrapping around her wrist, the blue head raising and giving asoft chirping roar. She rose her hand so she and the dragon were eye level, her eyes wide. "Me?"

The little dragon could only nod.

"Regole has seen you child for many a year and respects your struggle and heart. To her, there is no one more worthy to take her place than you, water keyblader."

The Divine Dragon's words made Aqua blink away sudden tears of happiness and she smiled. "Thank you." She said softly to Regole. the dragon seemed to purr, rubbing her head against the other's cheek before curling off the other's wrist and jumping back to the platform with ease, waiting for her. Aqua took a breath than looked at her worried wife, smiling confidently before hugging her. "This'll be easy, don't worry." She gave her a kiss and walked to the platform.

"Mom..." Tensai whispered with worry, but like Roxel was unable to approach his mother, too afraid to let go of his friend.

Aqua stepped upon the platform. Exactly like Axel, the symbols under her glowed except these were blue. A similar engulfment came around her platform, but it flowed like a waterfall or like the phoenix's body, shiny and clear like the bottom of a pool. The small form of Regole jumped from the platform to the gem. In the picture the large body of a blue dragon emerged from a sea, giving a familiar cry over the ocean water. Even though many Chasers had seen her before from the shoreline, up-close she was truly stunning.

"Hatchel."

The dark purple dragon was flying around his platform impatiently. At the call of his name though he broke free of his and started to skirt between all the chasers and the two animals. Sparks cracked from his body and a few of the Chasers, yipped and yelped in surprise though the pain was minimal - with the effect of nothing more than a static shock.

"Ow! What's he doing?" Lucina replied as she felt a small shock to her leg.

"Studying." The Divine Dragon explained, "Hatchel can mimic the electrical impulses in a brain, and this allows him to never be incorrect of a person's character or nature."

"YIP!" Moxley yelped as he got shocked on the ear, jumping five feet in the air. He started to growl at the flying snake, his teeth bared. Tensai leaned over to calm him only to get shocked on his hand, wincing. "Ow!"

"Before you inquire, even your pets are being considered for trial."

Hatchel floated along the side of Roxel's wrist hearing the other jumping in surprise, then he paused. He looked up at the dual-colored haired teen before flowing around him three times and settling upon his head. Everyone's heads jerked in surprise while Roxas had to hold Jax even tighter, his own eyes full of concern. First his husband, now his son.

"Xel..." Tensai whispered, worried as well.

"He has chosen you, Nobody of two hearts. Hatchel understands what it is like to have conflicting natures within yourself. He admires your battle, and wishes for you to take his place."

The purple dragon roared a little roar of agreement, before flowing off the other's head and circling his platform. Ten looked at Roxel who seemed to be just as shocked as anyone. He shock and through his hands around the other. "I'll be right here rooting for you, I know you can do it!"

Once Ten had let him go, Roxas hugged him instead, kissing his cheek. "Everything's gonna be okay. You can do it son." The two gave him encouraging smiles and, without much choice, Roxel went to the platform. Like before the symbols glew under him, this one a amethyst purple and flowed to the center piece. The shield that came down around him was one of lightning bolts, connecting to the edges of the platform and jumping and jittering in a perfect electrical flow, leaving gaps in-between so Roxel could still be seen.

Hatchel flew to the centerpiece and like before he appeared life-size. He was a large Chinese-styled dragon who appeared very wise. He corkscrewed through the cloudy sky and gave a roar as well electricity shimmering off his body.

"Freybrand." The smallest of the dragons and a brilliant green gave a chirp of joy as he absolutely shot off his platform and zipped between the chasers, a small but strong breeze picking up making everyone clothes flow and hair kick up in his wake. His chirping laugh was easy to hear over the commotion.
"Hey!"
"What are you doing?!"
"Aaah!"

There was a growl from the inner chamber were the Divine Dragon still was and the chuckling green dragon stopped his antics, looking somewhat reproached by the leader dragon. He whined softly large wings flapping around his small body before he more careful flew between the Chasers. He tilted his head at one that caught his eye and chirped happily landing upon a silverette's shoulders, and nipped playfully at her hair before he jumped off and flew back to his platform doing joyful somersaults.

"To Freybrand you are his opposite - wise and serious, of little words but with much meaning. You exemplify what he wishes to one day be, artist of the wind. Take his guidance." The Divine Dragon spoke.

"Fuu..." Came a soft whisper from Regole's platform and Aqua was smiling lovingly at the other woman. A dragon of her world thought her wife worthy! She always told Fuujin she was something special now even a ancient dragon of her times was telling her that!

"Mom..." Tensai ran to his mother, hugging her tightly. Why were all the people being chosen his family members?! "Be careful..." He pouted up to her. Once they had let go he watched her take her place. The symbols glew green under her and a twister of wind much like a low level Aero spell came around her, barely stirring the area. Little Freybrand chirped and took off to the gem and suddenly he appeared much larger - though still the smallest of them all. The dragon gave a chirp-like roar and dove from the sky towards his healing lake, doing a fancy flip right over the water making some of the water fly up in the air around him artfully before his picture disappeared.

"Kongol, it is your turn."

Everyone's breath held as their eyes fell to the largest of the dragons - minus the Divine Dragon. His choice was something everyone was curious to see; who would take the place of Terra's element?

The gentle dragon, golden scales hidden under a layer of dust and dirt, slowly rose his head his large wings spreading. He lumbered off of the platform slowly, not even bothering to fly before he stopped and laid down upon someone's black polished shoe.

Everyone's mouths gaped open and they stared upon his choice. even the one who had been chosen could not help but raise an eyebrow. Finally it was too much and someone (Luci) just had to shout -

"KADAJ?!"

"....It appears so." He said staring down at the dragon who, if he did not know better, had fallen asleep on his foot.

"Yes. Kongol's first choice had been Terra because the blader had an intricate yet gentle knowledge of the lands of many worlds. He sees that knowledge and the knowledge of Life Blood imitated within you, young clone. Take his place."

Kadaj nodded obediently, though his mind was curious of her words. He lent down, picking up the slumbering dragon within his hands and walked over to the platform without much of a look back at anyone or even much of a word of encouragement. Under him the symbol glowed in gold and flew to the marble. Around him kicking up a thin layer of dust twisting around like a sandstorm.

From his hands the land dragon spread his wings and flew over to the gem, moving with ease despite not having flown before. His small form disappeared, and he appeared even larger than ever. He opened one eye and gave a soft purring growl before he turned his head, tail curling around him as if to fall to slumber once more.

His picture fell away.

"Damia, you may choose now."

[Rikugurl]

Jax's tail continued to swirl around as he continued to growl. He didn't like these little things!
He whimpered though as Roxas pulled him off the teens neck but started to purr when he was held close and cuddled. He nuzzled the blonde's neck and closed his eyes.

At the sound of the next dragon's name, everyone knew in their heart who Regole would find worthy.
The beautiful water dragon made her way towards them and it was no shock to whom she hand wrapped around.
Aqua.

A soft smile came from the woman standing besides her. Saix would be proud if he knew. She couldn't help but feel a sting of worry, knowing that Aqua would have to go on a trial by her own... after all they had been through together. She felt like she wouldn't be picked to aid her wife.

The silverette wrapped her arms around the other, giving her a strong and loving hug before she closed her eyes, feeling the lips on her own. She let go gently and watched her wife through the only eye she had left, sighing softly as she saw the water falling around her as she stepped on the platform.

Slowly she made her away towards her son who looked upset as well. This was tough on both of them. However....seeing the picture of Regole in her ocean...made her smile, remembering their wedding as if it was yesterday and the song she had sang for them in celebration.

Outside, another black feather faded in next to the other.

At the sound of the next dragon's name, everyone looked up, seeing the electric dragon fly up and towards them. Who would this dragon choose? No one was really a master of electric majick except for maybe Roxas and Sammy... but they weren't the true element.

That was when the shocking happened.

Sammy jumped as he was zapped, Jax growled and yipped, his paw reaching out to bat the mean thing away.
"Yeeeeee!!" Bonnie pulled her ears down as they were zapped along with Namine who got zapped in the butt. "YAOW!"

No one could believe that the dragon landed on someone's head...and especially not that of the boy who was perched on.

Mako eyes twitched at the realization that they were now officially doomed.

Roxel.

Green and blue eyes looked up, blinking in disbelief. "W-what...?"
Axel shifted as he stood, looking through the fire at his son. Why...?
The answer was given by the wise dragon as the Chinese style one corked away back to the platform.
Roxel was still in shock when Tensai hugged him. His eyes widened as he was still speechless but slowly hugged his friend back, his eyes closing tightly.

"Ten-chan..." He whimpered. He didn't....know if he could do this....
He pulled away from his friend, reluctantly, but before he could cling back on, another pair of arms wrapped around him and he was drawn into his father's warmth. "Dad..." The boy smiled nervously as his dad kissed him on his cheek and looked back at Tensai. Before he could turn though, he felt something wet on his fingers and looked down, seeing Moxley nuzzle his nose against him.

A smile rose from the teen star's lips as he leaned down and hugged Moxley, kissing his forehead before giving Jax a scratch behind the ear.
Slowly he turned though...and walked towards the pillar. However, like his father before him, he froze before stepping on it, looking back at not Tensai nor his father but....Gunnar.

Their eyes met and Roxel frowned before puffing out his chest. "I can do this!" He proclaimed before jumping on the pillar....but yelped as the electricity came down around him.

Doomed.
Gunnar put his palm in his face.

Another feather faded next to the second, the row almost complete.

Eyes were turned to a little green dragon next, seeing how...happy it seemed to be. They all realized soon enough that they would need to start ducking again as the little dragon raced through them and around, pulling at their hair and clothes.

Wind, the element of the late Ventus.

Some eyes quickly turned to Fuu...and smiled as the dragon landed on her shoulder.

A red eye widened, feeling the weight suddenly on her but...it was a....fantastic one. She looked over, laughing as her ear was tugged on. "Alright~~" She cooed before the dragon flew off. Hearing the Divine's words though....made her smile. Everyone believed in her...why did she still have....doubts about herself....even at this age.

Her eye widened though as she heard a soft voice of her son and turned to him, giving him a kind smile. "Tensai..." She spoke softly as she held him close, running her fingers through his hair. She pulled away, placing a kiss on his forehead before gently pulling away.
"I will." She assure him before slowly turning and walked towards the platform.

She smiled as she felt the familiar wind, closing her eyes and letting it wrap around her like a second skin. How she loved the wind...

Another feather appeared next to the third and a shimmer ran across it, sealing them as one wing.

The tension between the last standing started to grow. Anymore...it could be anyone.
Namine was kind of crossing her fingers in hopes that she wouldn't be next!

The earth dragon was called upon and looked went around the group. However, deep inside a brunette's heart...he knew where the rather lazy dragon seemed to be going. Someone collected with the earth. The life stream....

His mako eyes looked up at the silverette by his side and everyone seemed to jump when his sister seemed to call out. Sammy looked her over, making sure she was ok.

"Ka..." Gunnar spoke but was cut off as the silverette just walked away, not even looking at him. The brunette swallowed and looked down, shifting in place. Clone....?
"Be careful..." He whispered, knowing the other would be able to hear him.

Another feather on the opposite side of the wing appeared as the sand blew around the next silverette.

When Damia's name was called, the calm, relaxed silver dragon spread her white and silver wings, the feathers fanning out before she stood. She flapped her wings, gracefully flying towards the team that waited to be judged.

As she flew around them, a soft breeze hit their cheeks and a sweet smell of flowers could be smelt. Her feathers flapped and she too landed on the head of a blonde. She shrilled happily before she lowered her wings, covering blue eyes playfully.
Jax however growled and was about to pounce onto the silver dragon but she flew away just in time, heading back to her platform.

"Dad!" Roxel cried happily as he saw his father picked. His whole family was worthy!
However, his eyes became sad as Jax was handed over to Tensai.
"Ten-chan..."

"Damia saw the beauty and kindness in Sora's heart and soul alike. Knowing you are his very soul, she chooses you to take her place as your own person, knowing you are one of a kind."

They watched Roxas saying his last goodbyes before going to the platform. He was suddenly surrounded by light, shimmering brightly. The silver dragon spread her wings and flew towards the gem, her own picture on the screen of her walking through a field of flowers, a flower ground around her horns and children playing by her side.

Another feather appeared next to the first as the screen blew away.

"Zieg, your turn."

The little black dragon roared a squeak before he flapped his little wings and zigzagged towards the two standing closet to each other. He flew around the two before landing on a blonde's shoulder, puffing out black smoke.

Purple eyes widened as he looked down at the black dragon on his shoulder. A dragon...chose him? But what about...?
His purple eyes slowly looked towards the other blonde by his side as the dragon flew off back to his place. Sammy's eyes grew sad as he slowly held Lucina's hand.

[Reno]

Kadaj shut his eyes and bowed his head even as the sand swirled around him, hardly noticeable really. Be careful, he had said. Why did Gunnar worry of him so much?

Roxas sighed, standing close to Tensai as the next dragon was called. He wondered who would exemplify light. Namine, maybe. She was the daughter of a princess of heart - she was pure. Or Olette even she was confidant but sweet, motherly and caring. A perfect compliment for the dragon of the light region. If only Sora were here...

A pleasant smell of flowers came upon him and he blinked some when he felt something... on his head. No way...

His blue eyes widened even as they were covered, hearing a happy noise above him. He laughed softly taken completely by surprise - him? To be the light? There was nothing more complimenting... than hearing that.

He grabbed Jax by the scruff when he attempted to attack and Damia fluttered off. At The Divine's Dragon's words his heart lightened even more. One of a Kind, huh? His whole family... they were all something special. They all should be proud.

He lowered the small pet into Tensai's arms letting the boy hold onto the Moomba.
"Good luck uncle." Tensai said almost tearfully.
Roxas smiled and hugged the boy comfortingly. He knew he was scared - his whole family both distant and close - was now in the trial. It must be scary for him. "Don't worry Ten... everything is going to be fine."
The boy just nodded, holding Jax close.

Roxas had to travel far around the circle to each the pedestal but once he did light came around him reminding him of many mornings when the clouds are broken and rays of light shined through. He grinned upon seeing the beautiful dragon long ago he had helped save alongside his... his Other, once more enjoying the flowers and people.

That was when Zieg went next. Everyone already chosen, and those still waiting, waiting with bated and nervous breath. Many seemed nervous to be chosen by a dragon of darkness... because that was what they fought. What would that mean about themseleves to be chosen?

However, it was with some shock that... Sammy of all people was chosen. Why him? Many of them thought.

Tensai looked on calmly, smiling softly and glancing at Roxel who once against had that apprehension, suspicious look on his face. However... instead of it proving what Roxel believed it proved, he thought this was good evidence that assured him that Sammy WAS on the side. Even the dragon of darkness was still a protector - just like his daddy Riku, or King Mickey! One could wield darkness for good purposes... they just needed to know how.

Sammy knew how, didn't he.

"Little prince, Zieg sees in you what many have often misunderstood. He is equal to you in that way and emphasizes with your struggle. He believes you are the one who can take his place." The Divine Dragon said softly.

Luci's eyes were wide as well, looking at the calm black dragon who seemed so certain of his choice, than to Sammy. Her cheeks heated some - a dragon of Dragoon had recognized him. That was... that...

She couldn't even get her mind in order before the other was looking up at her with these sad, sad eyes and his hand clasped in hers. She smiled. "It's alright Sammy..." She squeezed his hand then tugged him along, walking around the circle of pedestals until they reached the one the black dragon was on, she let go and hugged him instead. "You're going to do great." She kissed him on the cheek, smiling. "For good luck."

As she let him go, she noticed how he blushed, so uncertain about something. Maybe her mom was right... maybe he really... really DID like her too. "I'll stay right here." She promised, even if she was unsure if it was possible.

Sammy didn't seem to want to leave her then, but somehow he knew he was supposed to and slowly turned and walked up the pedestal. The black glow glew under him and shot towards the center and he was surrounded by a thin black mist like watching rainfall from the distance.

Zieg left Sammy's side as well, floating to the gem and disappearing. He appeared on the larger pictation in a large dark cave. What was strange about this shot - especially to Aqua who knew that cave was nearly bitch black - they had no trouble seeing the large dragon within as if lighted by glowworms or something of that sort. It wasn't natural... it must of been the power of the Room of Echoes.

After that that only left one pedestal open. The Divine Dragon's. The miniature dragon, an exact replica of the one in the other chamber, spread her eight tiny wings and fluttered off of it. Being the largest she was about the size of a medium sized stuffed animal.

Everyone swallowed nervously. Would... she really pick someone? She was somewhat of a leader of dragons... maybe Luci. Than again she had destructive powers - maybe Gunnar for the Mako within him, or Seifer for his past. What about Bonnie, for her uniqueness? Or Namine for her blood of royalty? Or Olette possibly for her strength? Tensai maybe, for being a keyblader? It was hard to imagine Moxley or Jax being chosen.

She did not pause in her swift flight, her many wings taking her across the room in seconds. She landed at the foot of her chosen one, and looked up. "You, young one." Came the voice of the dragon.

"M-M-Me?!" Tensai stuttered, having the hold Jax in a tight grip so the little lion didn't go pouncing out of arms and onto the dragon who was nearly his size.

"Yes. You are the essence of time. Both you and I know the art of creation and destruction this dimension brings." She explained walking around him in a circle, tail flicking to hit Moxley in the nose ("Yip!!") when the fox tried to get close to her. "And... there is something 'Divine' about you as well."

Tensai blinked in confusion watching her started to pace away from him. Was... he like Samual maybe? A prince? "W-What do you mean... by that?"

The small head turned to look back at him. "It is something neither I nor the phoenix can speak of. But, if you are lucky, you will discover that answer. Come, it it time to begin." Her wings spread and she flew off.

Something... what...?
"Go Tensai go!" He heard his mother encouraging. He shook his head, snapping out of his trance and set down Jax beside a moombacle. "Take care of him, okay Mox?"
Moxley whined, tail wagging as he was pet on the head.

The boy straightened and glanced back at the others who were left. Gunnar was giving him a look almost similar to the one he had given Roxel earlier. His eyes narrowed determinedly and then sighed, turning around and running off around the circle. Moxley had to bite Jax on the scruff and hold him down so he did not go running after the boy.

Tensai sighed nervously as he paused in front of the pedestal, glancing at Lucina who was watching him as well. He swallowed nervously, then slowly stepped up onto the pedestal. He was the last. A silvery glow shimmered underneath his feet and went to the gem, the little marble turning from black to silver as he was surrounded by slow falling stars that could mimic snow. The little dragon flew off.

In the prism like screen, the Divine Dragon appeared, identical to the picture just outside the room. She threw her head back and roared - the double echo loud enough to shake the castle some. It made some of them tremble before her picture disappeared.

"Begin. The rest of you may watch but do not interfere." The dragon spoke to them before her head laid down on the stone ground. Silence fell, the Chasers all staring nervously at the center of the room as if expecting the whole universe to come crumbling down on top of them.

"Well..." Aqua said, her voice echoing in the silence and making a few chaser's jump. "Let's do this."
"How...?" Roxas asked.
"I uh don't-" She started to say but then her voice fell away as the blue lines connected her and center glowed... as well as the ones between Roxas and the gem. The marble turned from silver to a mixture of white and blue.

The prism lit up... and some of the Chasers gasped in surprise as Roxas and Aqua showed up on the screens - both younger. And after a few minutes, they realized where the two were - the kitchen of the old ship... the one Rant and Rave had destroyed.
"So, how old is he?" Aqua asked, leaning against the counter, watching Roxas as he careful designed a very elaborate cake.
"Forty. But don't mention it to him, he's kinda upset about it." The blonde chuckled. "Axel's worried he's getting too old."
"Well if age and stupidity go hand-in-hand..."
"Shut up. Ah, done!" He stepped away, setting down the frosting with pride. "How's it look?"
The frosting of the cake was white, edged with red, orange and yellow flames designed all over it and in big blue letters it said 'HAPPY BIRTHDAY AXEL' in a fancy script. It had some strawberries placed delicately on top.
"You better keep it away from the kids." Aqua chuckled.
"Oh they won't touch it." Roxas said as he picked up the cake carefully and set it on the counter.
"Can't believe you spent three hours making a cake."

The scene suddenly shifted in a dizzy sort of way revealing Aqua and Roxas in the kitchen one more, but this time some time had passed. The blonde was staring down with an open jaw at a cake that looked like many grubby hands had just come in and smashed it down, revealing the yellow cake mix and strawberry filling within.
"♪I toooold youuuuuu♪" Aqua sing-songed.
Roxas blinked then snarled, one of his keyblades appearing as he spun and ran out of the kitchen. ".... I'M GOING TO KILL THEM ALL!"
Aqua's laughter followed him.

And then the scene disappeared.

The blonde frowned and then growled, remembering that day.
The so called 'guilty kids' all pretended to be completely innocent even as Keyblade Master took his turn glaring at each and every one of them.

"How did... you do that?" Seifer asked to break the mood. Were they going to... have to learn as they go?
"I'm... not sure." Aqua said her eyes wide with worry. They were going to have to figure out how to make this thing work... and fast!

[Rikugurl]

Sammy swallowed as he nodded, hearing Luci's words before they walked off together towards the platform in which Zieg was waiting. Roxel watched with curious eyes, frowning some. Ok so maybe....he was wrong after all. Maybe Sammy really did just want to help...

The two blondes stopped at the platform and the purple eyes looked back at the girl. They widened when he felt the sweet kiss, feeling his cheeks heat up for some reason before his eyes became sad again. He...didn't want to leave her... but he knew he must.

He leaned in and gave her a soft kiss on the cheek as well before their hands slowly detached and he walked up the steps slowly before stepping on the dark surface.
The purple eyes glowed as the black wisps swirled around, making him look around but sighed. This was it.

Another feature appeared next to the third as the unnatural view from the cave disappeared.

Everyone caught their breath as the Divine Dragon flew towards the last ones standing.
It could be...anyone.
Namine seemed to hide behind Bonnie who just crossed her arms. Olette stepped closer to her husband as her son shifted uncomfortably.

Jax... just growled down at the dragon when she stopped at Tensai's feet.
Gunnar sighed and looked down, shaking his head. Roxel AND Tensai. Oh yea. So doomed.

He crossed his arms as he watched the dragon fly off, frowning quite a bit. His parents nor his sister were chosen by a dragon. Were they laughing at Almasy's pride? Was no one in his family worthy of these trials?

The baby moomba yipped as he was placed next to Moxley, suddenly jumping on the crossbreed's back and chewed on his ear as Tensai walked to the last platform.
"You can do it!" Namine cried, SOOOOO happy that she wasn't picked! Even...if she was a princess!

Everyone watched the display on the screen and before anyone could ask... a comical memory was played out on it. So...this was how it was going to work. Axel tilted his head as Roxel bounced with excitement. This was going to be more fun than he thought! AND HE TOTALLY REMEMBERED HOW YUMMY THAT CAKE WAS....oops....

The last feather came to existence and a flash went through them, creating a second wing.
The wall around the statue rumbled slightly before the scripted wings BURST out of the molding, making the gravel fall onto the floor and large black wings of features swooped down, covering the gap in the wall like a shield.

"W-WHOA!"
Namine grabbed onto Bonnie as she heard the sudden noise and looked back, seeing that their only exit... was blocked off!
"HEY!" She cried before rushing towards it and noticed it was made with back feathers. She frowned before pushing on them but...it wouldn't budge.
"LET US OUT! HEY! CAN ANYONE HEAR ME!?" She cried... but not even the Divine Dragon called back.

Were they...on their own now...

Olette looked back before sighing, realizing that indeed...the rest was up to them. A sudden coldness made everyone shiver before she shook her head.
"Alright well... maybe you should do it from....the beginning. You need to find a light right? Going all the way back from the beginning would be the best start so you can't miss anything!"