A Spot of Training (Zorolo)

[Mr.Man]

Mesfido’s cobalt eyes gazed down the length of the long corridor, it had been months since he last set eyes on it. At the far end of the hall his beloved Dome gardens lay in wait, inviting him to rejoin them and his training. During all his time spent travelling through the vast expanse of the Dome, the fallen angel had never felt more at home than he did in its beautiful gardens. A majestic statue of Aphrodite sat in the centre of a large fountain, it was the same fountain he had seen on that faithful day that he first met Kenjin the Encorna, his only ever true teacher. High above the plant life and sculptures lay a balcony; it was where Mesfido had spent most of his free time in the Dome. Every inhabitant of the Dome had their own room, their own personal quarters, however for some reason Mesfido had never found his, instead he had made the open air his sanctuary.

The massive fallen angel unfurled his wings, beating them with incredible strength. He lifted himself from the ground and made way to the one place in the universe, in all of existence that he could truly call home, humble though it may be. Mesfido landed gently, closing his eyes as his feet gracefully touched down on the stony surface, he felt the raw elements around him; they were so clear, so fresh here.

Opening his eyes again, the angel gazed down at the gardens below him, taking in every aspect, every detail from the tiniest ant to the most magnificent flower. A voice whispered in his ear.

“I can see why you wanted to come back here; it’s a truly spectacular place, a welcome change after years of imprisonment.” It was Lightning that had spoken; the angel and the element had developed a strong bond over the past few weeks. Mesfido found that of all his Seven Elements, it was Lightning that seemed to understand him the best.

“Yes, it is possibly the most beautiful I’ve ever come across, outdone only by the land of the Encorna. That is, without a doubt, the most fantastic place I’ve ever encountered, hopefully one day soon I’ll return there, all of you can then see its wonders for yourselves.”

Earth mumbled into the angel’s ear, his rich tones slowly forming into words. “I hope it’s a bit closer to the ground than here, you know how dislike of heights.”

“Well Earth, you’re going to have to accustom yourself, the master is an angel after all.” It was Fire that spoke this time.

Mesfido sat and leaned his back against the cool wall, crossing his legs and shutting his eyes once more, he saw the Seven Elements sitting around him in all their vivid, colourful glory. Lightning was scratching his long nose with a golden fox paw, Water was looking down over the edge of the balcony, gazing longing at the fountain of water, his form ever silent, Earth lay huddled against Light, her beautiful shining light chasing away his vertigo, Wind and Fire sat on either side of the angel’s broad shoulders, gazing blanking ahead. Dark hid in the corner by the shadows, his hands toying with some poor insect, ripping off its limbs one by one. The fallen angel thought how strange it was that less than two weeks beforehand, he hadn’t ever even heard of these amazing entities. He found that his life was richer and more fulfilling than ever now that he had their company. Water had warned him before he fused with the Seven that it would be a painful existence, sharing his essence and the space of his mind with seven other beings, but since joining with them, he had felt nothing but pure happiness. He began to think about the nature of each of his new subjects, or rather loyal friends.

“It’s odd that your names are simply what you are. It seems almost trivial, as though some lazy fate decided to call you by what you were and not by the nature of your spirits as would normally happen”

Light lifted her head, looking up from Earth whom she was comforting. “It’s how it always was, from the second we came into being we’ve had no other names.”

“It just doesn’t seem right, you’ve all done so much for me, you‘re all some much more than just elements. Without your powers I’d never have been free of Venalis, nor would I have learnt the truth of the Pact. Yet, I have done nothing for any of you.”

“Ah but you have,” Mesfido tilted his mind’s eye, looking now at a spot just above his shoulder where he now saw Wind, her wise owl eyes staring back at him. “You freed us from Vallaris, a feat that only you could accomplish.”

“Perhaps, I often wonder what would have happen if one of the other members of the group had had to face my trial. It was only because of my connection to the Pact that you seven let me pass. I don’t know if any of the others would have been so lucky.”

Lightning’s eyes flickered, gold sparks running through them, “Of course not, no one but our true master would have been able to open the final lock in Vallaris. We were put there to make sure no one could reach the depths of that temple, yet our captures never thought that the first person to enter our room would be our rightful master.”

Dark looked up from the insect he was tormenting, his dark eyes filled with dark emotion as always. “It’s strange how destiny plays out.”

“I try not to think too much of destiny. I prefer to believe that every choice is my own, without some already decided outcome.” He couldn’t stop his mind floating back to his last journey in the Encorna’s world. It had so nearly ended with the death of his beloved Jaina. The phoenix’s song still set shivers down his spine whenever he thought of it. He could remember its every verse. At this moment he thought of just two lines. “Fate has joined the game, Shall you join him?” - It’s all the same, fate, destiny. Is mine really so strictly written, so impossible to change?

The Dark Element rose from the shadows, breaking Mesfido’s silent thoughts, his eyes alight with mischief. “We came to train did we not? We’re wasting precious time idling about here.”

“Eager to begin as always, Darkness.” A hearty chuckle shook Earth’s serpent frame. “But you’re right, we should continue our training. Still we find it hard to fight united; it’s been so long since we last had to.”

Mesfido rose to his feet, facing the Seven Elements. “Soon, very soon. I need to take care of a few simple matters first. The first of which, involves every one of you.”

The angel had caught their interest. “For us to reach our full potential we must have complete respect and trust in one other. So far, as I said, you have done much for me, and I have done little for you. As a sign of my friendship, I shall give each of you a new name, one that gives you the respect deserved.”

Never in all of their existence had the Seven Elements been known as anything other than Fire, Wind, Water, Earth, Darkness, Light and Lightning. A true name, one that said who they were and not what they were something that each of them longed for deep inside.

“Fire and Wind come before me.”

The two birdlike entities stepped down from the angel’s shoulders and stood before him, waiting. Mesfido placed a hand on each of their heads; they felt his command coursing through them.

“Wind, to you I give the name Libra, to set free your spirit. To you Fire I give the name Arden, to fuel to your burning soul. Embrace your new names and rise.”

The phoenix and owl rose, circling high into the skies above. They could feel a new sense awaken within themselves, a sense of place. Slowly, they returned, taking their places on Mesfido’s shoulders, they’re heads held higher than ever.

“Water and Earth come before me.”

The pair of snakes slithered forward, lifting themselves as high as they could. The fallen angel let them place their heads in his open outstretched palms.

“Water, to you I give the name Moneo, to give your warnings new strength, and to you earth I give the name Verec, to honour your humble nature. Taste your new names and join me.”

The serpents looked at one another, and then their ancient forms crawled forth and draped themselves about the fallen angel’s legs.

“Light and Dark come before me.”

Mesfido beckoned the two human figures to him. They stood strong and proud.

“Dark, to you, so powerful and mysterious I give the name Umbru and to you Light, so wise and caring I give the name Sapia. Feel your new names and flourish”

The human forms drifted apart into shadows and light, and filled the air around Mesfido, highlighting his calm features. Only Lighting remained before the Master of the Seven Elements.

“And finally, Lightning, for your courage I name you Animo. See your new name and live it.” The fox leapt towards the angel, and faded into his chest, right where his heart belonged.

And so it was done, the Seven Elements, Wind, Fire, Earth, Water, Light, Dark and Lightning had taken their final steps in pledging themselves to their master. By accepting the new names he had give them, they embraced their new natures as Libra, Arden, Verec, Moneo, Sapia, Umbru and Animo. The respect and trust they held for their lord was surpassed by none.

“There is one final thing we must do before our training continues. I want to introduce you all to someone.”

The fallen angel launched himself from the high balcony, the Seven Elements disappeared in a rainbow of colour and flowed into the handle of the Sword of the Pact, were they truly belonged. To anyone below, it was a magnificent sight, the powerful angel lit up by the radiance of his subjects. The whispers started once more, just like they had when the angel had first arrived in the Dome. This time, they were whispers of admirations and wonder instead of fear and horror.

A single message sped through the halls of the Dome.

The fallen angel has returned.

* * * *

Jaina Alsardor sat in a dimly lit room. The dark red currents were drawn across the windowpane, a fire was alive in the stone hearth, sending an orange light flickering across the bright red carpet. The young woman held a thin quill in her delicate hands; her fiery eyes were vivid with emotion. She dipped it in a vial of rich red ink, then touched the tip to a page of parchment and began to write.

March 12th

The whisperers say he’s back. It’s been soon long since I last saw him. They say he’s changed, they say there is something different about him now. I hope not, I don’t want him to change. I loved him just how he was the last time I saw him. I wish with all my heart to see him again, just as he was when he left. I shall search for him soon but in the Dome it can take days to find someone.

I wonder if he knows what’s happened in Kenjin’s world. He wasn’t here when I found the doors had shut me off. I still haven’t found out why nor have I found another way back to the Encorna. Perhaps he knows more; perhaps he’s found something since we left Spiritus Mundi those many weeks ago. Oh how may heart aches to see him again! It’s a painful existence without my Mesfido. They say absence makes the heart grow fonder, but it would be impossible for me to love him anymore. I still don’t know how after spending such little time with him, he can have me so deep under his spell.

I long for him to take me with him on his journeys. I long for him to tell me again and again and again that he loves me.

The first thing I shall do when I next see him is to make him promise to never leave me alone again. I know he does it to protect me, but he should know I can look after myself.

I leave you here to go in search of my guardian angel.

Jaina shut her diary, closing it tight with a crimson locket. She lifted herself from the soft mahogany chair and pushed it under the wooden desk. Holding the diary in her left hand she open her dresser and placed the book in a draw with all her other most precious belongings, her twin swords and the touchstone Mesfido had given her among them.

Her eyes passed over the rune that hung from the stone. She could still remember Mesfido’s hands carefully shaping it. He had said it was a unique rune, a combination of the runes of beauty and protection. He said that it would protect her from harm. She took hold of it with her slender fingers, placing it in one of the pockets of her emerald dress.

Her eyes paused over her weapons. In the Dome, you never know what kind of danger you might find. After a moment’s thought she picked them up and fastened them about her waist.

The young maiden turned, closing over the dresser. She walked forward to her door, opening into and letting in the busy sounds of the Dome’s corridors. She glanced back briefly into her private quarters then shut the door.

Jaina’s feet made little noise as she walked across the marble floors. She knew all of Mesfido’s favourite haunts and was making haste to the gardens, where she knew he would most likely be. Her emerald dress flowed elegantly behind her, she moved swiftly but as graceful as ever.

The gardens were a long way away from her quarters, a good half hour’s walk but she was making good time, soon she saw the beautiful statue of Aphrodite looming ahead of her. It was then that she felt a hand on her shoulder. A smile lit up her face; she turned and faced the giant that stood behind her. She lifted her eyes to meet the fallen angel’s, his face was as joyful as she felt.

“It’s been too long.” Mesfido removed his hand from Jaina’s shoulder and whisked her into his strong arms.

“Next time you’re not leaving without me.” The smile still hadn’t left her face, and wouldn’t for a long time. She burrowed her head into his chest.

“Well, that depends on where I’m going.” He knew she’d have her way in the end, so he spoke with a playful, mocking tone. “Either way though, I intend to stay here for quiet sometime.”

The fallen angel smiled down at the woman that he loved. He saw the look of joy on her face change to one of surprise. She had just looked at his right arm.

“Your body, it’s changed! Oh I had heard you had, but never did I think it could have been for the better. I thought perhaps Venalis had managed to gain control again, but it seems the opposite has happened!” Jaina saw just how profoundly at peace Mesfido had become. He had a new calmness about him. No longer did his mind seem constantly distracted.

“Yes, he no longer plagues me. It’s a long story.”

The fallen angel placed Jaina back on her feet, the pair walked into the gardens. Mesfido towered above Jaina, standing nearly a foot above her auburn locks; his wings alone were larger than her petit figure. They took a seat on the bench beside the marble fountain, Jaina resting her head against Mesfido purified arm. He began to tell her all that had happened since they had last spoke. He told her the stories of the Saints and Sinners, the Legends of the Seven Archangels and the quest on which he had his friends had embarked upon. Finally, he told her of the Seven Elements and how they had freed him of Venalis.

“I woke up in the forest, miles away from Vallaris. How I got there, I don’t know. When I looked at my hands I saw that my right side had been cleansed. I searched my mind for any traces of that demon; there were barely even signs that he had ever existed. I found that my sword had transformed too. Without ever even been told it, I knew its new name – Verax.
The Seven Elements then explained to me what they had done, telling me that they had sealed him forever in the depths of my mind. I owe them much.”

Jaina could see just how much it meant to him to be free from his tormentor. She could only image the relief he must have felt after a thousand years of mental struggle to finally be free. She saw the peace in his face with a new found understanding.

“And these Seven Elements, they are here with you, aren’t they?”

“Yes, they and I are all but the same being. They live within my very essence.”

“Shall I ever me meet them?” Jaina was curious about the entities that now inhabited her love’s mind, body and soul.

One of Mesfido gracious smiles spread across his face, something that seemed to be happening more and more now. “There’s no time like the present, though I doubt you shall be able to see them, it seems no one but I can.”

Animo’s voice whispered in the angel’s ear. “She won’t even be able to hear us, but there is a way for us to converse with her.”

“And what’s that?” Mesfido said aloud.

“Who are you talking to? One of them?”

“Yes, perhaps you shall be able to hear his voice for yourself.”

“Relax your mind, master.” The fox spoke in Mesfido’s ear again. “Just let it go free, I’ll take care of the rest.”

The fallen angel soothed his mind, letting it fall into a deep state of silent peace, something that he never could have risked while Venalis had been present. It felt so good to be free. Suddenly, Mesfido’s cobalt eyes changed to a clear gold. The angel could see and hear what his body was saying and doing but he was not controlling it. It wasn’t anything like when Venalis had sought to control him. He still felt in command, it was just as though he was sharing his control with another. He then knew that Animo was using his body as a medium.

The angel’s lips opened, but it was the golden fox of Lightning that spoke. “It’s an honour to meet you Miss Jaina. I say it on behalf of all the Seven Elements.”

Slowly Mesfido felt Animo relinquishing his share of the power over the body. What really made it so different to when Venalis had controlled him was that the fox had only done it with consent; Mesfido doubted that any of the Seven would be able to do it without his permission. Jaina saw the clear blue streaming back into her angel’s eyes.

“They seem kind.”

“They are, but every one of them is unique. Maybe in time you shall meet them all.”

“Perhaps, oh but Mefi, I’m so glad to have you back. I know you well enough though to tell that you haven’t returned just for me. You’re here to train aren’t you?”

A deep cheerful laugh shook Mesfido’s frame, “You know me too well. I must learn to fight again. With the Seven Elements sharing my essence I’m going to have to completely retrain myself, relearning everything anew.”

“Well, you may have to do it without your teacher. It seems Kenjin has cut me off from his dojo, I would expect he’s done the same for you. I hear he has a replacement though.”

Jaina went on to explain how she had tried to return to the Encorna’s palace but had found the doors sealed.

“It’s seems I shall have to train alone then.”

Something flickered in Jaina’s memory, she remembered hearing that one of Kenjin’s other students, a man called Zorlo, had managed to graduate from the class of the Encorna’s replacement. Perhaps he could train with Mesfido?

“Mesfido, I heard that there was a student, another of Kenjin’s, who has been training long and hard in the Dome. Maybe he would be a suitable training partner? I would offer to help you myself, but we both know that I don’t have the strength, speed or endurance to keep up with you.”

“Hmm, what is this student’s name? I have meet some of the Encorna’s other students in the past. I may know him.”

“He is a man called Zorlo. I heard rumours that he managed to graduate.”

Zorlo... I remember him well even though I only meet him briefly. A man entered Mesfido memories. He had green hair, bangs reaching down to his eyebrows. Bright emerald eyes were set in his pale face. He was clad nearly purely in green armour and garments. He was strong of spirit and will. Indeed he would make an excellent sparing parent. I’m sure his skill will have increased too; he must be strong to have passed his training.

The moon was rising in the sky high above the garden. The stars sparkled into life in the night sky. Mesfido could see Jaina’s eyelids growing heavy with sleep. He picked her up in his arms once more. She gazed up dreamily at him. The Master of the Seven Elements rose from the sweet green grass, which quietly fell beneath him.

“Zorlo, tomorrow, I come for you. I need a strong opponent to help me learn to fight with the Seven Elements.” He spoke as much to the wind and clouds as to himself.

Mesfido landed quietly on his balcony and lay down against the wall, Jaina quickly falling asleep in his arms. He shut his eyes, his mind wondering what tomorrow would bring.

[Zorolo]

OoC: All I have to say is: Good damn good opening. I enjoyed reading that thoroughly. I hope I can muster up something near as good. ^_^

Also, there will be a few things that, to you and other people that are use to the theory of Heaven in the way that you, Angel and Safer are, may make little sense. Well, I'm combining several theories, namely yours with Puck's and Sakume's. This is also going to make it a little easier to set the stage for something else I've got planned in the future.

BiC: The world was silent today. The strands of aura that pulsed through nature sat firmly upon where they belonged. The trees pulsed with the aura of nature and earth. The animals pulsed with the energy and spirits that were specific to their breeds. The water even pulsated with the life from within it, setting everything as being natural and in balance.

The world seemed almost too peaceful, actually. Although in the fencer's room, everything was in order, was that true within the whole Dome? The green haired man expanded his Spectral Sight, examining the rest of the halls to see if anything was greatly amiss in the house of training. Aside from the normal training of students, no great disturbance rang out into the Aura Master's mind.

A sound echoed through the halls of the fencer's lodging. Something had just stopped briefly by in his room to leave something. The fencer stood up, grasping Sapphire in his hand and opening his eyes. The fencer looked into the deepest part of his room, what he considered the center since he knew not how vast his territory truly was, and leapt down from his perch upon a large, exotic tree and landing on the ground. The light landing spread a small bit of dirt when his feet touched down, and the green haired man began a slow walk towards his housing.

A small wooden cabin in the center of a forest that could be controlled by the fencer seemed a bit strange, but when a place was needed to rest, the relatively large cabin came in handy. However, in recent days, the green haired man had ill found need to sleep; it took near a month for him to grow naturally tired out of battle now, and even during training, he only needed to sleep every two or three weeks.

One thing had plagued the fencer's mind recently, though. How long could he actually fight before his body finally weakened and found himself unable to fight any longer. It had never really been a problem in the past. Even Johnny Bones, who the fencer had fought his longest single battle against had lasted little more then a day. So, what was the Aura Master's real limit?

Zorlo desperately wished to know this truth. A week? A few weeks? Who knew, all the green haired man knew was that he'd need a foe beyond anything he'd fought recently to help him realize his goal.

There was Cadenza, but she was almost as busy, if not busier, then he was. Also, her innate element made it hard for the fencer to completely match her. There is a point in which shear determination and focus can no longer match up with an advantage such as what the gypsy has above the fencer.

Also, there was Chronos, but the metallic man never left his chambers; or, in the extremely rare times he would, wasn't intent on meeting the fencer in fair pitched combat. Thanks to the strange liquid that sapped powers, a battle with Chronos would be unfair, no matter how the Aura Master looked at it.

Then who would be a worthy sparring partner? Johnny Bones had proven to be a failure over and over again, due to the break between his emotional state and power; Tsuukai Ita had vanished, and even if he were easy to find, the Master of Shadows had the same edge as Cadenza; Nikudemon, Tsukineko and Sakuraneko had all disappeared without a trace; Aegis went about his business, making him hard to track; Rain and Raisha both had their jobs keeping them from intensive training all the time; and even some of the other warriors that had once seemed strong to the Aura Master had faded slightly since he had last met them when he had been weaker.

Who did that leave, then?

The fencer stepped into his cabin and looked upon the table that sat just past the door he entered. The green haired man transformed his room from a jungle into something a bit more fitting, at this time: a deciduous forest. The trees were all budding, meaning new life was following the start of spring. An interesting change in situation since the death in winter seemed all too fresh.

Returning to the table, the fencer's eyes trailed down to the letter that lay upon his table. No signs of whom it was from, which meant only one person could have sent it. "Wow, they are really, really slow," the fencer stated with a kind smile as he had recalled asking the Domerri almost three months ago for a report on those that had aided the fencer during his first assignment where he was to aid other students. The Aura Master had long pondered what had become of the five of them, and this letter hopefully held the answer to that question.

The fencer picked a letter opener from a nearby can and slit open the top of the letter, removing the contents, and unfurling the letter. The fencer's eyes scanned over the elegant writing, imagining the Domerri were trying to gain something by writing it as neatly and properly as possible. "Well, that explains why it took so long. They really are completely useless. Well, at least this is done." The fencer began to actually read the contents of the letter, pondering what it truly contained.

Sir Zorlo,

This note is concerning the location of certain individuals that you requested information and locations of when you came to us a quarter of a year ago. We have spent pain staking hours searching for what signs we could find.

Allow us first to say that we were most impressed to hear that you had graduated from training with the great Master Jacentar. His strength was truly great, and many of us miss him. Also, we were even more impressed to hear that you had graduated from training with Chronos, and had even met Kenjin, who allows few people into his chamber now. We simply shall say congratulations again.

Now then, onto the topic you gave us. We searched for the people Mano, Soledad, Raziya, Valion, and Mesfido. Well, here is our report, as is:

We were totally unable to find anything about the locations of Soledad and Mano. What we did find, however, is they have not been in the Dome since the ending of the mission to first claim the Black Ixix.

As for Raziya, it has come to our attention that she is an assistant to a teacher, or former teacher now since that person has disappeared from the Dome as well. Her assistance of this teacher, who's name we cannot disclose, was hard to locate, but we managed to locate one account of it.

Finally, the fallen angels, Valion and Mesfido, have been recently located. Both traveled into the upper kingdom of heaven where they, along with the assistance of former students such as Latio Scaptur, cleared trials of something most strange. The reports we have now have confirmed the Valion is still in heaven, training with new weapons he received from his ordeal. As for Mesfido, rumor has it he has been purified and now has new powers as well.

The fencer paused in the reading, resting his right hand upon his cheek as he thought about what this meant. The upper kingdom. Where the highest Archangel rule. Unlike where Selene is from, the lower kingdom, where the lesser Archangel suffer from very human like problems. Her father usurped the title of king of one of the lower kingdoms, as I recall, when one of the Archangel's was banished. That same Archangel was killed by Maria, if what Tsuukai told me is truth. Heaven is a most interesting place.

Slowly, the green haired man allowed his eyes to return to the note, and found something most unexpected.

Mesfido has recently heard of your triumphs as a student in the Dome, and now desires to meet with you for training. The reason this note took so long to finish is that we received notification of this today, when the fallen Angel, Mesfido returned. Please send notification of him, along with where your room is located, if you wish to oblige him.

The fencer smiled as he looked up from the note, not reading any further, since it seemed to all be ego feeding, something the Aura Master didn't want. "A truly powerful foe wishes to train with me. Naturally, what am I going to say but yes?" Zorlo asked himself with a smile and a laugh. "Now then," the Aura Master said with a quick whistle.

A white monkey scurried over to the fencer's table and sat down. The green haired man wrote up a quick note, accepting the challenge of the Master of the Seven Elements, and telling him where the fencer's chamber was. The best place for the two to train would definitely be in the fencer's chamber, since it seemed likely to be the easiest place to repair after intensive combat. After all, that seemed to be the only thing the fencer knew that this kind of training would be: intensive.

OoC: Okay, that post seemed to flow very well. Sorry I kinda rambled off on one or two tangents, but a lot came to mind as the flow came. Well, let us begin this grand battle. ^_^

[Mr.Man]

Mesfido woke earlier. He gazed out across the gardens at the rising sun, it was that quiet, peaceful time of day where the night ends and the morning begins. He could hear birdsong filling the air. The fallen angel gently lifted Jaina’s warm body from in his thick arms and set her down on the stony floor. He took out a crumpled piece of parchment from his trouser pocket and scribbled a quick note.

Jaina,

I’ve gone in search of Zorlo. I’ll return soon. I leave you with your love beating strong in my heart.

Mesfido

The fallen angel opened the young woman’s closed hand, careful not to wake her. He placed the note in her palm then gently moved her fingers over it. She stirred briefly, twisting in her sleep. She quickly settled back into a dreamless state. He planted a soft kiss on Jaina’s sleeping face, then flexed his huge wings and flew from his balcony to the ground below. He knew he needn’t worry about her getting back down; she was more than capable. The Master of the Seven Elements meet the ground swiftly, touching his hand against the dew coated grass to soften his landing. He set off in search of Zorlo, certain that in him he would find a worthy opponent.

Mesfido wandered the Dome’s endless corridors, hoping for some sign of the green haired man. He heard a few mentions of the fencer’s name, but nothing about his whereabouts. The fallen angel paced through the Dining Hall, he strolled through the fountain room, and he even took a peak into the Infirmary. He was just thinking that perhaps Zorlo had left the Dome for some unknown reason when a small being appeared beside him. It was a Domerri, one of the Dome’s messengers.

“Sir Mesfido, I’ve been looking for you since I heard you had returned.” The small creature seemed to speak through its nose; its voice was truly unpleasant and annoying. “Zorlo, another student of the Dome, asked me to search for you and several others. I’m here simply to inquire as to whether you shall be staying in the Dome for long or not.”

Finally - someone that knew the elusive Zorlo.

“Yes, I plan to remain here for several weeks. In fact, I was just looking...” The Domerri had vanished as quickly as it had appeared. Mesfido was left standing alone, talking to the air like a fool. It seemed that the fencer was searching for him as well. Maybe it would be better to wait for Zorlo to come to him. With that Mesfido turned back along the way he had come, making for one of the Dome’s public training rooms. He may as well do a bit of training while he waited.

* * * *

Mesfido parried left and right, swinging the mighty form of Verax up to block a wild slash from one of eight training dolls. Another leapt forward, its tough wooden sword smashing into the angel’s side, only to shatter into a thousand splinters as it collide with his thick skin. Mesfido twisted his body and sent his knee crashing into the doll’s chest, causing it to burst into a cloud of dusty smoke. One down, seven to go, thought the angel. This is too easy. I haven’t even had to use any of the Seven yet.

The fallen angel felt a rush of wind behind him; he jumped quickly out the way of yet another charging dummy, whipping the Sword of the Pact into the frail being; Verax tore easily through the oak frame, leaving behind a pile of ash. Two more of the dolls sped towards the angel. This time he would use one of the Seven Elements. He felt for Verec’s presence in his being, the Earth element quickly leant him his power. Mesfido thrust his free hand out before him, blades of solid rock burst out from beneath the dolls, piercing them each right through their hearts. He had barely even used a fraction of Verec’s power.

The last four training dolls formed a circled about the angel, slowly moving around his form. They rushed at him as one. At once a solid wall of stone surrounded Mesfido, protecting him from harm on all sides. He heard wood bones crunching as the dolls crashed against the hard rock. The stony shield sank back into the floor, leaving no sign that it had ever been there. The dolls lay crumpled on the floor. Mesfido had been right; the Dome’s normally training facilities weren’t nearly up to his high standards.

He didn’t feel even the least bit tired or drained, after all the Crimson Blood let him fight at full capacity without even breaking a sweat, with its powers he could regulate his heart beat, control every fibre of muscle and sinew in his body, even monitor his vital body functions such as breathing and sweat production. Since awaking its powers he hadn’t made a single unnecessary movement, everything about the way he fought was precise and exact, not a single molecule of energy was ever wasted without need.

Mesfido ambled over to one of the benches that lined the walls of the training room. He sat and watched as others, mainly new recruits battled against the training dolls, many fighting for their lives against the wood creatures. One or two seemed more experience, taking one several dolls at a time just as Mesfido had done, though none could dispose of them as easily. The other fighters seemed to regard the fallen angel with awe.

“I hope this Zorlo proves to be more of a challenge than these pitiful dolls.” Mesfido heard Umbru’s slimy voice in his mind.

“Don’t worry dark one, I promise you it shall be a good fight. I know how much you long for one.” At Mesfido’s words, the Dark element faded back into silence, like the rest of the Seven.

The fallen angel scanned his mind over each of his loyal subjects, trying to somehow gage what each was capable of. He paused at every one of them, calling forth one power at a time, just tiny pieces of them. With the help of Moneo he filled the room with rain, with Arden he built a small fire, with Libra a powerful breath of wind, with Umbru he built a creature of shadow, with Sapia one of light, and finally with Animo, he created a spear of lightning. To think that each of these feats are accomplished with only a tiny percent of their abilities. It shall be interesting to see what they are really able to do.

Something prodded Mesfido’s side; a little finger poked his ribcage. He looked down and found a white monkey, its big eyes gazing up at him. It hopped back a foot or so and then held out its hand, a brown envelope sat in its open palm. It shook the letter at Mesfido.

“I take it this is for me.” The fallen angel took the envelope from the monkey, opening it with the nail on his baby finger. Inside was a thin piece of parchment.

Mesfido,

I hear you’re looking to train with me. I would be more than happy to fight with you; it should be an exciting test of my skill and endurance. You should come to my room. I think it would be the best place for us to battle. Look for a door marked with a pair of crossed rapiers.

Zorlo

Finally, the angel could begin the next stage of his training. Kenjin may have vanished but even without his teacher, Mesfido was eager to do what he could to improve his skills.

The small white monkey turned and scurried out of the room, the fallen angel quickly rose to follow.

The animal was quick, light on his feet too, but Mesfido was just as swift. He followed the monkey through spiralling corridors and across wide halls. After a sharp corner, a door appeared, a pair of rapiers crossed on its surface. He lowered his hand and twisted the sabre hand guard door handle, opening the heavy door.

Time to train.

[Zorolo]

I wonder what's taking Armond so long? He normally does what he needs to do in a short time. It's been nearly a day, and I've had naught to do since he left. Well, I must be patient, the fencer thought to himself as he sat in meditation. His aura remained quiet and calm. He felt his powers shifting about, the anxiousness becoming a bit of an annoyance, but not really anything else.

A strong wind blew through the forest, and the fencer opened his eyes enough to see that something was going on. His guest had finally arrived. "Took a little while longer then I assumed, but whatever, he's here now," the Aura Master whispered as he rose and placed Sapphire upon his belt, behind Apollo. The green haired man willed his room into a jungle, a fitting place to train intensely, and felt the rush of the temperate heat come forwards. A relaxing heat, really, that allowed the fencer to fully feel alive.

For the Aura Master, the time to train intensely came with every real battle, so he hoped this would be one of those real battles. They were, as he noted again, few and far between. And it had been a short while since the green haired man had survived the encounters of Chinatown.

The circumstances behind that were entirely different though. This time, something different was afoot. The fencer closed his eyes and allowed his Spectral Sight to guide him to where Mesfido had entered into his chamber. The swirl of seven different elements flowed freely around the fallen angel, and made the fencer smile. Although the Aura Master had not seem Mesfido's aura prior to his change, the green haired man could tell this power was new.

"I sense a great peace, similar to my own, has entered my chamber. A calmness of mind and body. Not something you see very often, eh?" the fencer asked Armond, who now stood next to him. "Gave him the slip, did you?" The albino monkey nodded and scurried off. That meant it was time to get to work.

The fencer leapt from the perch he had taken and jumped from branch to branch, moving at great speed near where the angel was. After all, it wasn't a very courteous thing to do, keeping your guest waiting. This kind of guest may be dangerous, but not at this moment. After all, he had only just arrived, and it wasn't like the Master of the Seven Elements had made any kind of dangerous movements yet. The training hadn't yet begun.

The trip took a few minutes, but by the time the fencer arrived at his destination, it seemed to be entirely worth it. The green haired man skidded to a stop in front of the massive angel and peered up, smiling as normal. "Greetings, and welcome to my home. I'm sure you recall me, but I am Zorlo, the Fencer of Tasogare, and Aura Master, and it has been a long time, Mesfido. I briefly recall meeting you before that thing with the Encorna's daughter. It is good to see you again."

The fencer paused, allowing the fallen angel to take in what he said, before deciding to continue his thought. "I'm sure you have many questions, since you've been gone a very long time, so I shall answer them for you, if I am able. I'm sure you have a great many questions about who has replaced Kenjin, what has become of Kenjin, and countless other Dome related questions."

"Also, I am aware I am speaking like a teacher right now, but I know how it feels to return here after having been gone so long and so much is changed. I am simply trying to help. When you are content with my knowledge of what is going on, we can begin. So, please, ask away," the fencer said in an absolutely relaxed and cheery voice, smiling up to the giant figure before him. After all, unlike Kenjin's presence, Mesfido's was much more relaxed and not nearly as overwhelming. Anyway, it wasn't like before extreme training couldn't have some questioning. After all, since meeting Kenjin, the fencer now understood a good deal about what in the world had happened, even if it was only limited to his observations.

[Mr.Man]

Mesfido stepped into the vast realm of Zorlo’s room. He was surrounded by nature and a sweet fresh air. The angel looked around for any sign of the albino monkey but it seemed he had disappeared. Not to worry.

The Master of the Seven Elements strode forward, heading towards what seemed to be the epicentre of this world. He took in the beauty of the place as he walked. It was indeed a wonderful room, vivid and alive with colour. He couldn’t help but be reminded of Kenjin’s world, though compared to that, this place was nothing. Suddenly, the room began to change. Gigantic winding jungle trees grew out of the ground, forming a thick canopy of foliage high above the angel. He felt the jungle heat descend upon him. It had a dense humidity to it. Mesfido could feel his body relaxing in the new temperature. That was far from what he wanted; he needed to be aware and awake for the coming battle. He quickly lowered his body heat, feeling a cool wave rush over him, sharpening his senses.

Mesfido heard a rustle travelling through the high tree tops. Quite suddenly the green haired fencer, Zorlo, landed on the soft ground before him.

“I am Zorlo, the Fencer of Tasogare, and Aura Master. It has been a long time, Mesfido,” The fencer paused briefly. “I'm sure you have many questions, since you've been gone a very long time, so I shall answer them for you, if I am able.”

The fallen angel shut his eyes, there was but one question that he needed answering. Was Zorlo up to the challenge?

Mesfido felt for the elements around him. Earth and light formed the shape of a human, a great abundance of the latter. The Master of the Seven Elements couldn’t make out any other elements in the fencer’s presence. That was unusual indeed, generally warrior had some kind of innate mastery over at least one element, but it seemed Zorlo did not. That however did not lower Mesfido’s opinion of this man; the abundance of light element suggested someone completely pure of heart and mind. Something else seemed to radiate from Zorlo, not something elemental, something that Mesfido had never before encountered. He could not see it, but he knew that something powerful was there. The gigantic angel opened his cobalt eyes once more.

“Any questions I may have shall answer themselves in time. I’m sure Kenjin will someday explain to me why he has closed me off. As for his replacement, I have my suspicions as to who it is likely to be. I believe I’ve met him in the past.”

Zorlo replied, still ever smiling. “His name is Chronos - I trained under him for quite some time.”

“Ah, I thought as much. I have been in his presence once before. He was a rather silent, withdrawn man I thought. Though, enough of that now, we both know why I’m here.”

The fencer’s smile grew even bigger. It seemed he was as excited by the prospect of a good match as much as Mesfido was. “Alright then, Mesfido, I accept your challenge.”

Both warriors leapt back, the cover of the jungle trees quickly swallowing them up. The pair took up their battle stances, waiting and watching.

[Zorolo]

The fencer unzipped his jacket, resting his right hand upon the length of the handle of Apollo and looking at the fallen angel. The question now stood as followed: who would make the first move? The cautious warrior wouldn't barrel into a fight not knowing what to expect, but the brave warrior wouldn't simply wait for the foe to do something that couldn't be stopped. A balance between caution and valor had to be met in order to make the proper first move. That was the secret of battle.

The Aura Master lowered his body, moving his right hand onto the sheathe of his sword; slowly, the fencer moved his left hand onto the handle of Apollo, and quickly, he vanished, bursting forward in an offensive. Mesfido moved quickly, drawing his sword and blocking the high speed strike of the fencer. The fallen angel's sword pointed downwards as it fended off the horizontal strike of the green haired man, who's emerald eyes stared up at the cobalt gaze of the angel.

A powerful force echoed through the trees as the two broke the sword lock, creating a large pulsation that echoed through the forest. The fencer did a quick backflip and skidded to a stop, the only oddity about it was he landed on thin air. Mesfido seemed a bit shocked at what the Aura Master was doing, but the Master of the Seven Elements didn't ask. Anyway, now that the initial attack was out of the way, the battle could truly begin.

The green haired man stood up to his full height, swinging his sword to his left and zipping up his jacket. Despite the fact the fencer sensed his titanium chain mail wouldn't be able to stop the angel's sword, it still felt better to have the armor then to not have it. The fencer looked at his feet and noticed he had, almost unknowingly, created dense enough air that he could stand on it. Although he hadn't planned on that, it worked all the same.

The fencer rubbed the back of his head with his free hand and laughed a little bit, about to explain what in the world was going on, but before he could, the fencer moved his sword quickly, blocking an oncoming vertical slash from the fallen angel. The swords sang out their songs as they clashed and pressed against one another; the Aura Master's body sailed backwards through the air, but quickly, the fencer stabilized enough air beneath him to allow him to slow and eventually stop them.

Again, the two warriors stood, blades locked and unable to move forwards. "Well, just when I was about to explain how I can do this," the green haired man stated as he smiled in his normal, nonchalant nature.

"I'm sure I'll find out eventually," Mesfido stated as he pushed his sword forward with a great burst of strength, pushing the fencer forwards and shooting him into the nearby distance.

Branches and bark shattered as the Aura Master sailed through the air, breaking through everything that managed to find its way into his way. The green haired man stopped himself after a little while and stood himself upwards, resting his sword upon his shoulder. Save for a few scratches, the fencer hadn't taken that much damage. Zorlo smiled. He would have to fight this a bit more seriously then normal.

[Mr.Man]

The fallen angel watched as Zorlo sailed through the foliage. He could just make out the fencer as he brought himself to a sudden stop. He didn’t look too badly damaged. It was incredible that this green haired man, who was nearly a foot shorter than Mesfido, and under half his weight was matching him blow for blow. He had been right - Zorlo was the perfect opponent.

There was only one major problem that Mesfido could see then and there; the battlefield. The trees and plants covered the arena in a dense cloud of obstacles. For someone as large as the fallen angel, it would be difficult to manoeuvre in such tight confines. He’d have to do something about it eventually. Mesfido refocused his attention on the fencer. He was gone.

He’s quick. The Master of the Seven Elements shut his eyelids tight, searching out with his Elemental Vision for Zorlo. The elements formed in his mind, the jungle coming to life in a new, elemental sight. The tall trees were winding poles of russet and lime, the leaves a mixture of emerald and cherry red. Amid the forest colours he spotted a figure, lit by bright light element. The green haired man leapt from a nearby tree, racing through the air at the angel.

Mesfido spun, Verax blocking the fencer’s slender rapier without a second to spare. Zorlo vanished for a second time before the angel could retaliate, backflipping into the cover of the tree tops. It would have been an effective tactic against most but in his mind, Mesfido could see the figure clearly, that strong glow of light element giving him away. He waited till he could see the green haired fencer readying himself to attack again. With his back turned to Zorlo, Mesfido felt for the power of Arden, the Fire element within him. He formed a blazing fireball in the palm of his left hand, gripping Verax with his right.

Zorlo charged again, his rapier held high. Just before the fencer was upon him, the angel twisted, launching the fiery orb straight at the human’s armoured chest. It was a direct hit, it was near impossible to dodge an attack in midair at that range.

OoC: I know Zorlo can normally nulify fire element but seeing as Arden's power is made of true element, not raw element, I doubt he could nulify this attack, or at least after reading Zorlo's profile that's what I'd guess. Of course, correct me if I'm wrong.

[Zorolo]

OoC: I met that quandary with the four elements Mesfido has that Zorlo's immune to, however, although Zorlo can't nullify or control these kinds of elements, his aura can still redirect them. I met the same problem with Johnny Bones and his fire and lightning, and pretty much, Zorlo can redirect the elements that, in nature, he can manipulate.

BiC: The flames, they were close. It had taken a few moments for Zorlo to prepare a counter measure, but luck held very well. A thick layer of green, flame like energy surged from the Aura Master's body, and the flames collided with his aura, being scattered around the fencer. The flames had been stopped, even if just barely, and had worked well to stop the green haired man himself from moving.

The fencer placed his foot on Mesfido's chest and kicked hard against it. At the range, the attack probably did no damage, but that didn't matter, the green haired man only wanted to put a small bit of distance between himself and the fallen angel. The fencer needed a moment to understand what in the world he had just met himself with. The magic felt so different from normal fire, and brought back memories of a prior battle.

Just like Johnny's lightning. I couldn't nullify or control it, but I could redirect it to make it less dangerous to me. I'm assuming all the other elements he has are exactly similar to his fire, meaning that I can't rely on the fact that wind, fire and lightning are all completely wild, and I'll have to focus on simply redirecting them away from me as best I can. The fencer smiled and spun his sword around his index finger by the hand guard. After all, it has been a very long time since I've been burned, or shocked, or cut by air. The only one I can't guess at what the effect will be is light. That worries me.

Unlike defending against solid matter, it took a smaller amount of aura to displace fire or wind then it took to displace earth or water. The world of magic worked very well in tuned with the fencer's aura, since half of the elements were more along the lines of nonphysical, and the other half were physical. The only two that were neither of these traits were light and darkness, who had their own, distinct attributes. That was why those two elements were so extremely powerful, the fencer guessed.

The green haired man stopped his sword and stepped forwards, gathering up aura into his blade and threw a single blade of aura. "Aura Slash!" the fencer yelled as he released the crescent wave towards the fallen angel. The Aura Master had been given his test, now it was his chance to test the angel.

[Mr.Man]

OoC: Redirecting would require some control over the elements, perhaps deflecting would be a better word?

BiC:

Through his Elemental Vision Mesfido watched in surprise as his fireball was scattered. He hadn’t the faintest idea how Zorlo had stopped his attack. All he had seen was the slightest ripple in the air at the moment when the flames should have connected with the fencer’s chest. It seems he has a few tricks of his own. This power that he wields... it’s definitely not elemental. I may well have to rely on my mortal vision for this fight.

Mesfido’s eyes flickered open, a shout entering his ears as his eyelids lifted.

“Aura Slash!” A wave of pure energy was heading straight towards the angel. At such short range, not even the angel’s lightning quick reactions were fast enough. The energy wave was nearly upon him.

A wall of light sprung to life, shielding the fallen angel from the blast. His own reflexes may have been lacking, but the Seven Elements’ weren’t. Thank you, Sapia.

When you can’t protect yourself, we will always be here to defend you, came the Light element’s reply.

And so Mesfido learnt yet another new piece of information about his mysterious subjects. They would always be there, ready to help, not matter the situation. Unless the fallen angel could figure out just what it was that the fencer was using to attack and defend with, he could end up in a truly dire position, where not even the Seven could help him.

“It seems you’re more than capable of keeping up, Zorlo.”

“I always do my best, no matter how strong an opponent I face.” The green haired man was still smiling. Mesfido couldn’t remember ever having seen an unhappy look cross the fencer’s features.

“I can see that,” Mesfido paused for a second, he had thought of something. Once more, he felt for Arden’s power inside him. “But what I really don’t understand is just what fuels your power. I intend to find out.”

Using the Fire element’s strength the Master of the Seven Elements summoned a dozen fireballs, launching them straight at Zorlo. Just as he expected, they burst into a thousand pieces before even touching the fencer’s skin. This time, with his normal sight, he saw just how the fencer defended himself. A green flame like substance had shielded him from the blast, but just what was it?

It may look like fire, but it’s certainly not any form of element. It seems more like some kind of invisible force that Zorlo can tap into, spiritual energy perhaps. The fallen angel was thinking to himself, but his mind was never private anymore, not with seven other beings sharing it.

An unexpected answer came to him in the form of Animo, the Lightning Element’s voice. It’s an aura. I’ve seen fighters like him before. You should be careful - aura masters can use their power in thousands of different ways. You may know what is power is, but that does not make him any less dangerous.

[Zorolo]

OoC: True, sorry about that. Deflecting sounds fine to me.

BiC: Zorlo smiled as he smiled towards the fallen angel, his smile unchanging and calm. Still, the only thing that was even remotely unstable about the Aura Master was the fact that he was thinking about something. Something that had been distracting him since he had deflected the first fireball, and continued as he deflected more. The thought, naturally, was over the fact that Zorlo was an Aura Master, and one of the few, if not only, living ones left in the world.

"It's a sad truth," the fencer began as the Master of the Seven Elements looked at the green haired man, "knowing that you're one of the only people left in all existence with your power. Yours is unique, even though I know little about it, but I know that destiny probably has chosen you for something, as it did with Kenjin, but..." the fencer stopped with a slight sigh, however still smiling.

"However, my destiny may have awoken my knowledge of my power, but still, I'm the last person of my art. At one time, when beings were more spiritually aware, I'm sure many Aura Master's exist, but, to my knowledge, I am the last living one. That means when I die, there will be no more Aura Master's in the world, unless there are more that haven't realized their powers yet. Still, as is true with Aura Master's that could be alive now, the odds of finding our power is rare. I think I would be content to die as the last one, if only to know that I had helped the world," the fencer stated as his ardent fervor came back to life, following the formation of his aura into the physical plane.

"This is my Natural Aura." The spiritual energy in the form of emerald flames fizzled out seconds later as the fencer held his rapier ready to strike. "I think you're the first person I've told about my findings into what I am and my full understanding that to be an Aura Master isn't to be something more then a person's race, but to be spiritually aware. I've finally found everything I could, and I am happy you've listened to me."

"However, I think it is about time we get back to work," the fencer stated, laughing a little and smiling as he burst forwards into an initial attack, intent on starting the training up again. The Aura Master quickly moved to the Master of the Seven Elements' side and lunged, leaping into the air as the fallen angel had moved to block. The blade came streaming down in a slash as the fencer moved into the offensive, but quickly found a strong clash of blades with Mesfido.

With a slight move, the angel threw the fencer off of his sword and onto the ground. The fencer skidded to a stop and smiled. "Now, let's get this game going," the fencer said as he cast a relaxed smiled to the Master of the Seven Elements, getting ready to continue this battle.

[Mr.Man]

It seemed, now that the two fighters had some understanding of each other’s power, the true combat could begin. Mesfido was curious to see just how far he could push Zorlo’s aura skills. He had never encountered anyone with such unique abilities. The fallen angel dashed at the fencer once again. The two swords beat out their song, filling the jungle. After another fierce clash, the pair of fighters broke apart, each ready for the next attack. Neither one looked the slightest bit phased or tired.

The Crimson Blood was the secret to Mesfido’s endurance. With its powers he was capable of using his energy with godly efficiency. Every swing of Verax would drain any normal being, but each rise and fall of the gigantic blade used hardly even a molecule of the fallen angel’s strength. He would never make an unnecessary movement – every action was precise and exact. His heartbeat was always steady and calm.

Zorlo’s stamina appeared to be an equal match to the mystic powers of the red gem. Unless one of them gained an upper hand soon, the fight would most likely go on for days, becoming a test of endurance and willpower.

Mesfido focused his blood flow, pouring extra energy towards his thick, muscular arms. He leapt at Zorlo again. His strike was swift but the fencer sidestepped, pressing away the vicious blade with the tip of his rapier. The fallen angel felt his arms gaining new vigour as the blood rushed into his fingertips. He swung yet again at the fencer, this time following it up with a barrage of slices, slashes, thrusts and sweeps. Verax moved like a blur. Zorlo’s arm wove through the air like lightning, thwarting nearly everything the angel could throw at him, escaping with nothing but a few light scratches. Sparks flew as metal clashed against metal. Finally, Mesfido felt something soft collide with the flat of his blade. The Sword of the Pact crashed against the side of Zorlo’s head, sending the warrior staggering to his left. The fallen angel flowed up quickly, sprinting at the unbalanced fencer. He hardened the muscles around his shoulder, and slammed into Zorlo’s armoured chest.

Mesfido stepped back, letting his blood flow return to normal. He gazed into the fencer’s emerald eyes, who had hardly even stumbled. Zorlo smiled his brilliant smile, saying just one thing, “Nice shot.”

[Zorolo]

The fencer smiled and leapt back slightly, rubbing the back of his head. If anything, the blow was more annoying because of the buzzing noise in the back of his head then anything, but once that faded, the Aura Master was fine to continue this fight. The shoulder had stung a little bit, but the pain dulled into nothing. Scratches healed in seconds as the fencer's aura weaved through his body, and he slowly, move for move, saw everything that had just happened in an almost slow motion replay.

Perhaps that was what made it fun about this battle. The fact that every move played a small part of the bigger idea. The fencer stood up straight and began channeling energy into his blade, the sword starting to glow a faint green. Time for my newest technique. Hopefully it works. If I can get it right once, I can formulate a way to make it more energy efficient and take less time. This one, however, is my test run. Just like when I used Hurricane for the first time against Johnny Bones, only this attack is a bit less... destructive, I suppose. hard to say.

As far as Zorlo knew, so long as Mesfido didn't find out the fencer's tragic weakness in the elemental tree, then the green haired man wouldn't have to worry about being overwhelmed just yet. The fact that the Aura Master's aura was disrupted by darkness meant that the chance of it being used was a danger, but one the fencer would have to be ready for. Now then, the fencer felt the need to take the offensive, now that his foe had finished his.

"I'll give you one word of advice: don't follow the green light," the fencer said as