GambolMuse

Dragon Ball: Legacy (Mogtaki and Vena Sera)

They had made amazing progress as of late, and from here on out it was only up for Viral. So long as they didn't try too much at once or force anything he should do just fine with the various treatments. His overall demeanor may not have changed much, but that too was bound to budge sooner or later. Things were so much better now in fact that he was confident they could train together again, and not just in the sense of sparring; Viral should be well enough to do some pressing training, even if he didn't feel like it. "Of course I'm confident in you, and you should be able to see why. Your body is healing, you're no longer at risk, and the only thing left now is to help with what's in here," the Saiyan listed off, tapping the side of his head with a fingertip, "Which father and I will do soon enough. But good, I'm glad you're willing to try it." Nothing to lose at this point right? Even in his muddled mind Viral had to acknowledge he was getting better, even if he didn't necessarily want to admit it to himself. That would come in time though, once he was able to appreciate the positives he'd be able to see just how far he had come. "Well then let's get to it, hm? No sense in waiting around any longer than we have to," Vegeta decided as he stood up, nodding his head towards the rear of the house, "We've got plenty of space out there, and we're the only home for some time, so we can let loose and not have to worry."

Everyone had varying trying stays here at the hospital, but none more so than T'charrl. Even Viral with his numerous problems was better off, able to walk around and enjoy the city and the sights, but not T'charrl. Now that she had some free time to herself Yumi hoped to fix that and find something for the two of them to do together. Finding him sitting among a bed of flowers she called out to him with a warm smile, earnestly glad to see he was up and well again. "You're feeling better? Great, I'm glad to hear!" she responded, taking a seat at his side and crossing her legs beneath herself, "That stinks, but you're better all the same. And the soreness will go away eventually if you just take it easy. Either that or we can try finding something for it." What was good for sore muscles? A massage was never a terrible thing, to loosen up taught bits and roll the stress out as it were; without knowing just how T'charrl's body worked though it would be tricky guessing where to apply pressure to. A visit to a spring would be nice as well, except she recalled he didn't really care for water. Smiling thoughtfully she leaned down and plucked a single flower up and offered it to T'charrl, hoping he'd like to have it for himself. "Is there anything you'd like to do now that you're out? I'd be happy to join you." Training was likely out of the question so soon after leaving the hospital, but Yumi would bet T'charrl would be happy to go out for a while. Maybe enjoy the sights the city had to offer, or travel to the nearby forests and enjoy simply being out and about, whatever he wanted really.

"Yeah, I know... A lot of stuff happened then, kind of crazy to think about it even now," Takeshi mumbled, not wanting to get too into detail either. Everyone knew what happened without having to go over it and nobody wanted to make Shu have to relive it all. Besides there was other stuff to get to anyways, stuff still concerning Shu that could just as well end up upsetting him. He had no desire to do this, but if his little brother was ever going to have some peace of mind then it had to be said. "Heh... No, not exactly. We know you tried buddy, but you were going about it all wrong," Takeshi began, smiling apologetically as he rubbed at his neck, "And that's my fault. I... I've been teaching you wrong, you know? I hate to admit it, but Krom was right, I was just trying to power my way through things, you know? But it takes a lot more than that, and because of that I sort of set you up to fail, so... I'm sorry." And that wasn't all he had to share, as if being told everything you had done up until now wasn't bad enough. Stopping in his tracks after a moment he could feel a panic rising in his chest, doing his best to settle it before he even dared to speak; Krom had mentioned something about staying calm too, as his panic would only be Shu's panic in turn. Letting out a sigh he walked over and place an arm around his brother's shoulders, pulling him closer as he offered him a little smile. "And about your transforming, well... You know how you transform, into that big monkey thing? Uh... That's normal, I mean it's normal for you. That's just your Oozaru, and because it's different from other people's doesn't mean it's bad or wrong, understand? The fact you change isn't bad either..."

Dragon Ball: Legacy (Mogtaki and Vena Sera)

Perhaps he ought to stop with the hypothetical and just eat, seeing as Viral wasn't eating one way or another. It would be a shame if they got nothing out of this and the Beastman refused to eat; with the improvements he had seen as of late, one would think Viral would feel at least well enough to attempt a small meal. "You want me to eat as well...? Okay then," Vegeta said as he sliced some steak for himself, popping the food in his mouth without second thought, "It's not poisoned, in case you were wondering. Tastes fine if bland." But then he wasn't terribly hungry anyways, so it wasn't as though his meal had been ruined as a result. If a few bites on his part got Viral to eat then he'd gladly chow down on the meal before them. "You know... I've been thinking lately," he began, pausing briefly to place another bite in his mouth, "How much things have changed for us. I mean think about it, we were simply living on Earth just over a year and a half ago by now, and here we are, traveling the galaxy and seeing things most could only ever dream of." Frowning as he sampled the fish and found it to be just too fishy in taste, Vegeta set down his serving of that and instead returned to the steak, still not having the faintest idea what animal they were eating. "Kind of amazing to think about, how drastic that change is. And I've got the feeling we won't be heading back for a while yet."

"Why should I care? The time I spent with my race was lousy, and until recently I thought they were genocidal maniacs. Someone else can lead them, I want nothing to do with that," Takeshi retorted before giving a shake of his head, "Besides I'll even say it myself, I'm not leader material. You really think I'm gonna lead some planet?" Most days he couldn't even get his friends to do as he asked of them, how was he going to do something on that huge of a scale? For all he cared Krom could just take over, or his father could even stay in power if he gave up the whole ruling the galaxy deal. That still sat funny with him, thinking what his father had done had been for good; Shu and Viral would hardly agree to that sentiment, and their pain was plenty reason enough for him to remain skeptical. "I know I gotta help him, I don't know how though! If I did then I woulda ages ago!" Takeshi snapped again before scuffing his shoe against the floor, folding his arms and letting out an audible sigh, "I get it, I get it, I made things worse freaking out. Not my fault though... Last time it happened he attacked me too, and the time before that he tore off my tail..." His reaction wasn't that wrong then was it? "But fine, I'll go and see him. You just... Uh... You know, I really don't care. Do whatever, not my problem," he added, giving a dismissive wave before moving to leave the room as well.

Just because someone was larger than you didn't mean you couldn't beat them, Yumi knew that plenty from personal experience. While being outsized and physically weaker certainly made it tougher all you needed was a bit of know-how to bring someone down. "Yeah, exactly. If you can get them off balance, for instance, make them miss a punch, then all it takes is one good hit from you to knock them over," she explained with a grin, thrilled that Shu seemed to be getting it bit by bit, "See, you and I are lucky because we're fast. All we have to do is avoid getting hit until we can do something, understand?" They could work on it later today even, and if they could find someone to play the part of the big-bad guy then all the better; Aito wasn't really that bulky, but he did tower over Shu, maybe he'd be willing to play the dummy for their sake? Giving Shu a little push to pick out his toys, she watched as he picked out a good many from the chests, piling them up one by one until he had a sizable bunch of them. "Those will be perfect, good choices Shu," she said as she grabbed herself one of the toys, smiling as she waggled it in his face, "Hi there Shu, ready to play with me?"

---

The fact that eating had been a success with Viral was a large milestone. No sudden transformations or becoming ill, he'd eaten a decent portion of what had been provided and seemed no worse for wear now. Such news had both Vegeta and Aito beyond excited, as this meant that his physical symptoms at least should begin to recede, and with that the mental aspects ought to improve. They would still need to guide him through that though, provide therapy as needed and perhaps even change their approach to suit what was bothering him at the time. In all though it was very promising, and it would only continue to improve from there. So confident that Viral was in good health they had even moved him from a more secure place to a normal residence, albeit one that was sparsely populated. In favor of the indoor arboretum or a medical facility, he now enjoyed the equivalent of a small home of his own, off of the rebel facility and more towards the edges of the city. Medical personnel would still make occasional rounds to replenish medicines or bring equipment by, but in large he would now be left to do as he pleased, in what they hoped would be a more comfortable environment.

"Everything is coming back with promising results, this is good," Vegeta said, unable to hide his delight as a smile sat plain on his face, "Your genes have begun to repair themselves, the injections of proteins is seeing to that, and your weight is increasing as well thanks to muscle mass rebuilding. You're no longer at risk for unwarranted transformations, and are perfectly capable of moving about on your own accord. We're slowly but surely getting there." All that remained now was to make sure he kept up on his nutrition, gradual as it may be, and to continue therapy until he was in a more comfortable state of mind. All told there was no definitive timeline for what was left, but compared to just how long he'd suffered for, a week or even a month wouldn't be too bad. Placing down the documents on the coffee table, Vegeta sank back into an armchair and raised his arms up in a stretch, yawning before rubbing at his face. "Hm... I think this means too we can get back to training, if you'd like. I considered us exercising like before, but if we're both perfectly capable of fighting then why not train?"

Play therapy hadn't been quite what Yumi expected, though it seemed to have gone well. All she had done was pretend to be any various member of their group and play with Shu, some of which she'd done better than others. The purpose of such an exercise was lost on her even now, but seeing Aito constantly jotting down notes and nodding in approval had been good signs. The little boy had since gone off to be with Takeshi again, which left her with time to visit T'charrl; their friend had finally been given a clear bill of health and released from the hospital, and with only sparse visitors with everyone being busy she figured he'd be happy to have her. It took a bit of questioning of the staff to even track him down, but eventually she'd managed to find him. "There you are! I've been looking everywhere for you!" Yumi called as she smiled, waving to T'charrl, "You look much better now, I'm glad. How do you feel though, still sore?"

Takeshi had known for a while he needed to do something for Shu but he'd neglected it. In some ways he had done so in hopes of Vegeta or someone else stepping up, feeling poorly equipped to even begin to try helping his brother. There had been a very foolish part of him to that had hoped the kid's problems may just fade with time, that he'd get better on his own and not even need the help. It was obvious now it had to fall to him, and as Krom had pointed out it should be him to do it anyways. Having since come to terms with taking that responsibility there was still the matter of how to actually help Shu. Transforming in his brother's case always seemed to be emotional, and goodness knows he was the last person who ought to be telling someone how to keep their cool. If he found a way to help Shu then he'd probably do it himself too, but that was a big if. "So uh... Training with Krom was interesting. Turns out he's a hell of a lot stronger than I thought," Takeshi began, smiling sheepishly as he itched at his nose. Before he could even consider treating Shu's problem of transforming, he first thought he should put it out there just how his condition was. In hopes of keeping the younger boy calmer he'd brought him out to the woods, and even had a small packed lunch for them to share, just the two of them. "He and I kinda talked about a lot of stuff, some of it was kind of weird, and other stuff was uh... Well tough to talk about," he continued, glancing over at Shu as he nudged him in the shoulder, "We talked about you too, buddy."

Dragon Ball: Legacy (Mogtaki and Vena Sera)

Surprisingly enough they had settled down to eat, which for a moment Vegeta was skeptical even that much would be accomplished. Yet here they were, the food uncovered and being divided out for consumption even now; Viral still had to actually eat, and overcoming that hurdle was the biggest test here. "Force feeding won't help much, I hope you know that. It was to be of your own free will, otherwise you're liable to... Reject the food." Throw it up, transform, simply gag and refuse to eat more, take your pick and it was a potential reaction. Everything they might possibly do to make this easier on the Beastman had been seen to, now it was up to him to actually eat the meal. "You should be able to do it, just don't think of it as that. If it helps don't even look at the food as you eat, just eat it. There's no flavor and the consistency hardly resembles what you'd be used to back home."

By now Takeshi was reluctantly accepting the reality that he was inferior here. All of his big talk amounted to nothing, and for all of his strength he was about as threatening as a baby against Krom, what a humiliating revelation to have. If strength meant next to nothing then he'd wasted years just building up strength for nothing; in effect he was just like Shu now, completely hapless when it came to a fight and more a liability than an asset. "Tch... I don't care about being a Prince, that doesn't mean anything to me," Takeshi replied with disdain, reaching up and itching at his nose, "Even if all the stuff you said is true, the Saiyans have still done shitty stuff. I want nothing to do with that, even after all of this ends." Someone else could be a Prince for all he cared, he was fine with just being Shu's brother and friends to the others around them. Shifting uncomfortably at hearing Krom speak about Shu, the older boy had to grab at his own sides and shift his weight to try and relax. The idea that there might be no helping Shu made him nauseous beyond measure, and he couldn't fathom telling his brother as much. "So what do we do then? What the hell do I do? I hate feeling this useless!" Takeshi snapped, scowling before looking back at Krom, "And I have been called a monster before, plenty of times. I don't care though, people can call me whatever they want, it doesn't make me one."

"Beating big people is easy, you just have to know how," Yumi said knowingly, a mischievous smile playing on her lips, "Big people are usually slower, and even if they're not, they aren't as flexible. If you can figure out where to hit someone where they can't hit you back, then size doesn't mean a thing." Plus there were ways to deflect powerful strikes and use their momentum against them, things she'd been taught when sparring with larger students over her years. Someone like Krom who was a good head and a half taller than her could probably defeat her handily, but that was only if he could actually hit her. Maybe she could track down that man later and get him to show Shu just what she meant, if he would be willing to play along. "Fruit and cuddle? Fine by me, I'd be happy to do that. And how about we try training together, would you like that too? I'd be happy to train with you." She hadn't done terribly much herself as of late, and training with someone like Shu, someone who wouldn't take it so seriously, was a pretty good way to ease herself back into things. Waiting for Aito to let them into his office, she only took a brief glance around before Shu rushed over to the toy chest, smiling endearingly as he began looking through them. "Pick whatever ones are your favorites Shu, it'll be more fun that way!"

Adelon: Steeling the Faith [Open!]

Ethan wasn't thrilled to be lying to Amuné again, but he wasn't terribly keen on sharing his own case just yet. His reason for travel was a fairly grim one, the potential outcomes even more so and little chance of a truly happy ending. He knew all of this even if only subconsciously, yet he had to try. If he just let Cedric be taken and do nothing for it then he'd be plagued by guilt the rest of his life; he used to idolize the guards growing up, and what guard would let a captive go without even trying to help them? He knew he wasn't a guard, or even a well-trained soldier, he was just some kid who had managed to steal a sword and could use it, that was all. A Magi too, he supposed, one who was essentially going on a suicide mission by rushing headlong into the cities. Ethan knew all of this and was still persisting, then at least he could say he tried. If it ever got particularly bad then he'd leave these three and go on his own, having no desire to put any of them in harm's way. None of them should have to suffer for his crazy mission.

Camp had to be set up while there was still some light left, and the tent pitched just in case there was any rain tonight. On top of that they needed to catch some food still, and should probably come up with some sort of plan as to where they were going tomorrow. A lot had to be done, and Ethan wasn't quite sure how they should accomplish it all. "I know, I know... I just kind of forgot was all. But I can catch fish without a rod, no problem!" the white-haired boy said, beaming as he rolled up his sleeves, "Even if we don't need it, better to set it up and not need it than need it later, right? Besides, if it does rain then Cecil should be kept out of it, so he can use the tent with you and Wyth." He and Nymira could stay outside and make some sort of shelter if worst came to worst, though he was sure they would be alright. Leaving the tent up to Amuné and Cecil, Ethan slipped off his shoes and started for the river only to stop when the Machina asked about the tent. "Huh...? No, tents aren't dangerous. And I don't know why she's over there, maybe she just wants to be alone," he remarked with a shrug, glancing down the shoreline towards Nymira, "Far as I know she isn't ordering us, I just figured we should do it just in case. Maybe see if she can help though?"

Such ridiculousness, being questioned about giving orders. What attendants questioned their master? While those three were not her true attendants and were doing this as a favor, Nymira was plenty used to having her orders be met. Should these people obey what she said? Maybe not, but then who would? Was she supposed to do it all herself? What a bothersome journey this was so far, even a Machina was refusing to do as she asked. Letting out a sigh she closed her eyes briefly, only to open them again and look to her left when Ethan approached, bearing one of his idiotic smiles. "What is it, Muran? I'm busy."

"Er... Yeah, well I was kind of hoping you could give those two a hand," Ethan said sheepishly, pointing back at Amuné and Cecil over his shoulder, "I'm going to get us some food, so I'll be busy too. It will be quick, then you can get back to... Uh... Whatever it was you're doing."

Nymira narrowed her eyes in irritation at Ethan, and for a good moment she looked like she might tell him off for even asking. Instead she exhaled before reluctantly rising to her feet, dusting some sand off of her pants. "Very well... I suppose I can't expect a child to do everything, that would be unfair. And the Machina barely seems to know how to dress himself, let alone prepare a camp," she remarked, giving Ethan another glance as he continued smiling. "Your optimism annoys me, go catch some fish will you? And don't come back smiling or I might be too ill to eat." Watching as he wandered off into the water she rolled her eyes, trudging across the sand to where the tent had been taken out, its components now strewn across the ground. "Let me see... So we just have to set up a tent, yes...?" Nymira asked as she leaned down, taking two poles and glancing between them curiously. She knew what a properly fixed tent should look like, but how exactly did you accomplish such a thing? There were about six sticks in all to be used, plus the canvas and some weights, though she wasn't entirely certain what those were for either. "Cecil, was it? You must know how to make a tent don't you?" she added, her cheeks flushing slightly as she dropped the poles back in the pile, "I... Have never done it myself."

Dragon Ball: Legacy (Mogtaki and Vena Sera)

Vegeta had tried to reassure Viral his solutions would be invasive, yet the Beastman was still having none of it. There may well be a more organic, biological solution to his weakness and yet that was not within his expertise; their father would have to develop a "natural" resistance, doing such a thing was beyond him unfortunately. Relenting for the time being he pressed no further on the matter, nodding once to show his understanding before changing the subject to their meal. "I know it's going to be difficult, but just trust me here, okay? We'll take it slowly and in small portions, no reason to rush this," Vegeta explained as he began slicing apart the steak, setting the small chunks on one of the spare plates. "And we'll only eat until we don't feel the need to anymore, it doesn't have to be finished either. So don't feel compelled to have every little bit." Setting the plate with the well done cutlets before Viral, Vegeta helped himself to the other half of the steak itself, slowly slicing off pieces and testing it for himself. Certainly well done, no seasoning and a bit rough. Not his most pleasant of meals, but then it wasn't made for him now was it? Bland, well cooked and simple, just what Viral needed.

"I get it, I get it... Strength isn't everything," Takeshi grumbled as he folded his arms over his chest, sniffing indignantly as he turned his head away. So he'd just have to work at it more, what of it? Though he really wouldn't want to train with Krom still, he'd rather see if someone like Aito could make time to do it. Given how busy that guy was though the chances of him helping were slim to none. Shooting Krom a silent glare when he said they might be similar, the Prince shook his head once but said nothing, knowing for once speaking would only put himself further in the hole. Whatever similarities they might have didn't make them nearly enough alike to be on good terms, that much he knew; nothing was going to put him on good terms with Krom, not after everything that had happened. Having Shu brought up in conversation was never a good thing for him, bringing the inadequacies he felt over handling his sibling's situation bubbling to the surface. Letting out a sigh he acknowledged the problems the younger boy was facing, even asking Krom what he thought they should do. "So... Tell him it's not normal, but there's a way to help it...? I... I mean I figured he was happier thinking it was normal, you know?" Then again Shu did seem upset about it a lot, like he knew it wasn't the truth. Was getting mixed messages the reason he was so upset then? If that was true then it was all his fault Shu was such a worried mess, only furthering his guilt over the matter. "I should tell him..."

Yumi smiled with amusement at the conversation over muscle, catching just the tail end of it all. "Right, a lot of Saiyans just build up muscle to look tougher, it's to boost their egos," she added teasingly, raising one arm and placing a hand on her modest bicep, "But I can still fight them, big as they are! Know why? Because all the muscle in the world's pretty silly if you can't do much with it. I used to train against guys like that, they built up tons of muscle and were huge, but then they couldn't move fast or had no clue what to do with it, so I'd kick their butts every time." Besides she just couldn't imagine Shu being all muscled out and buff, he'd frankly look silly! Really though who of their group was all that muscled? Before he got sick Viral was probably the most toned, and even then he'd not been so strong solely because of that. Smiling as Aito began towards his office once more, Yumi grabbed Shu's hand in her own to pull him along, glancing back at him with an offer of fruit. "I thought you'd like that, fruit it is! We'll get some fruit and go outside to eat, sound good? Just you and me, we haven't had time to relax in a while."

Definitely a good thing Yumi was here, she seemed to have a wonderful calming effect on Shu. She'd prove to be invaluable then during the therapy, and perhaps afterwards he could track down Viral and check his progress. Hm... Before that though he should go and see T'charrl again, check to see how he was getting along. Not only that but he should see June as well, knowing she had gone into the city to lend a hand with relief efforts. So much to do and not enough time in the day, now he remembered the hassles he used to face back on Earth. Smiling to himself slightly he shook his head with a chuckle, coming to a slow stop as they had finally arrived at his temporary office. "And here we are Shu, hopefully you don't mind it too much, I've had to track down what I'd need and it's a bit of a mess." Opening the door revealed a spacious room beyond, with a plush carpet covering the floor, a desk at the head of the room with a window at its back, papers and folders stacked high in a clutter. Bookshelves with numerous volumes of Uuonian history, culture and medicine coupled with his own books from the ship were sorted along the walls, and two chests full of toys sat beside the shelves. Aside from a few tables here and there the room was markedly bare, nothing on the walls to decorate it. "Feel free to find a few toys you'd like, they were all donated by the locals here you see." He had seen a fair number of children since coming here, helping to explain and cope with the events of the latest attack. Most had fared well it seemed, having amazing support at home, but there were a few who would be repeat clients for some time.

Dragon Ball: Legacy (Mogtaki and Vena Sera)

"Well then... Consider the alternative? Nothing changes and you remain susceptible to those kinds of attacks. Which realistically speaking everyone has a weakness, and trying to eliminate the weakness often times opens new ones. All I'm saying is that there is a chance to minimize this single one, if you wanted to," Vegeta responded calmly, not exactly moved by Viral's frustration, "If you don't wish to use it then we won't, that's fine. I was just making it known that it's an option." Really it was a theoretical option as things stood anyways, he had yet to develop the technology they would need for it. It was possible of course, much in the same way one could erect a field to nullify most Ki based energies, but nothing like it had ever been created before. Viral would then be using the prototype of a new technology, and that was never exactly something which instilled confidence on the battlefield, test-running a new device. "I wouldn't say I'm always right... Just most of the time," the Saiyan joked, smiling slightly as he cut across the field in the back of the facility, "In all seriousness though I'm not always right and you know that. I would say I'm more confident than I am correct, certainly more fitting that way I'd think." Just like he was confident Viral would eat today, and confident that the Beastman would begin to recover in earnest now. Now that they had found a suitable location as well, a small alcove tucked away in the shade of some trees, they could try enjoying their meal. "Here we are, this ought to suffice," Vegeta noted, glancing around before nodding and taking a seat at the trunk of a tree, "Care to join me?"

Why was there such a big gap between them? He'd been fighting almost non-stop since leaving the military, he'd trained with Shu plenty often enough, so why? Why was Krom able to knock him around like this? He couldn't follow the guy's movements, his strike did nothing and he was getting absolutely pummeled just by one or two hits. It was humiliating frankly, he was completely unable to do anything against this creep right now. After venting some frustration he climbed back to his feet, feeling awfully dejected as he didn't even look at Krom when spoken to. "Great... So all of that doesn't matter now, that's wonderful," Takeshi grumbled as he rubbed at one of his arms, looking anywhere but at the Elite; it frustrated him quite a lot that Krom was being proven right here and he was in no position to make the man see it otherwise. "Fine, fine, I'll do what you say. If I can't even hit you then I'm screwed fighting other people..." Boy was it unpleasant to admit as much, but that was the truth of the matter wasn't it? When was the last time he had handily beaten someone by himself? Maybe the soldiers back on Kaesstra, but then they were basically primitive by comparison, what pride was there in defeating them? "About Shu... Should we tell him it's normal to change? That every Saiyan goes through it...?" Takeshi asked uncertainly, frowning as he finally looked up at Krom, "I don't want him to be so afraid, but I don't know what to do to help. Should we tell him that?"

"Well... You said Yumi was stronger than you, remember? But she doesn't look very muscular now does she? You don't need a lot of muscles to be strong, it's all about how you use what you have really." Again that notion of control and precision, being able to direct your strength. A physically weaker fighter could win with better training, as all it took was one decisive blow to bring down an opponent. He had seen it happen many times in the World Martial Arts tournament in years past, and even in his own experience of watching June fight. Sheer, raw physical power didn't determine the victor, rarely did it ever nowadays. "Shu, just raw power doesn't guarantee you'll win a fight. I'm not sure how you've been taught, but it's all about the way you fight, and how well you can adapt that makes a good fighter." Aito would have gone on if not for Yumi's sudden appearance, something which notably lifted Shu's spirits. Timing couldn't have been better on her part, he mused with a smile. The fact she wished to come along for the play therapy made it even better.

No complaints on Aito's part, not that she expected any, and Shu seemed more than happy at having her tag along. Having been busy with her own business lately she'd not seen much of the little boy, not nearly as much as she'd like to anyways; any chance to spend time with Shu then was nice, and he seemed to think so too. Smiling kindly as he expressed his worries, she reached out and placed a hand on top of his head to try and comfort him. "It won't be scary, it's really simple. Even I know what play therapy is," she explained, crouching down before playfully prodding Shu on his stomach, "We'll play with toys and make-believe we're doing something, and Aito is going to just watch and see how we play, that's all. No scary machines or hard questions or anything like that." She'd done similar exercises as a child and they had stuck with her, knowing personally how relieving it was to be able to do such an exercise. Springing back up to her feet, Yumi grabbed one of Shu's hands in her own and began pulling him along gently, letting Aito lead the way back to his office. "Maybe after we finish play we can go and get some fruit, how'd you like to do that?"

A Grimm War [Vena Sera & Scout]

Team SOUL

Soren Tatsu

Name: Soren Tatsu

Age: 15 (19 in image)

Appearance:

Soren

5'7" upon entering the Academy, 5'11" upon graduation. Has a tattoo of a dragon spiraling along his left arm, starting at his wrist and its head coming to rest on his left pectoral.

Weapon:


Semblance: Electricity - Can discharge electrical currents through physical contact, or channel it through his sword, albeit for reduced potency.

Background: A resident of Vacuo, a harsh, desert-like region of Remnant. Growing up posed any number of challenges for Soren, even with modern amenities readily available. Droughts and food shortages were common in his early years, yet he was lucky enough to survive through to his teenage years. Once he was old enough to join, he traveled to the Orion Combat School in Vacuo's western districts, doing fairly well despite having no prior training. After finishing at Orion, he would travel to Beacon Academy to further his training. He is currently attending with hopes of making some kind of name for himself, to be able to provide for his family and younger siblings back home.

Ulyssa Jove

Name: Ulyssa Jove

Age: 14 (18 in image)

Appearance:

Ulyssa

Weapon: Short, curved blade as shown in her picture. Depending on her Semblance, it can gain different effects.

Semblance: Drawing from her Dust Cards strapped to her headband, Ulyssa can create any number of effects in a fight, ranging from Dust imbued attacks to herself or allies, to things like temporary speed boosts. She is only capable of drawing 3 cards, they come at random, and each effect lasts 90 seconds.

Background: Hailing from Mistral, Ulyssa has more or less been raised and trained to fight Grimm. Having both a Huntsman mother and father, and being an only child, she was instructed on how to fight from an early age. With her unique Semblance, she even managed to fight Grimm prior to ever enrolling in a combat school, albeit at the side of both of her seasoned parents. When she finally enrolled in the school, she was ahead of the other students and graduated with top marks, much to the delight of her parents. Now she's at Beacon Academy though, surrounded by plenty of other able-bodied students. She wants to make her parents proud and excel, but can she do so here?

Team RAVN

Noriko Kade

Name: Noriko Kade

Age: 21

Gender: Female

Appearance:

Hider

Weapon: Despite her small stature of 5'4", Noriko wields a lance that equals her in height. With two curved blades on either side of the weapon, she is also capable of releasing a wound up cord within the staff of the spear to use the heads as retractable projectiles, ideal for pulling herself to her or herself away from an enemy. The body of the weapon can retract into itself and the cords exposed, creating a sort of sansetsukon-nunchaku in place of the spear.

Semblance: Noriko's semblance allows her to summon a familiar to her side in combat. The initial summon isn't terribly taxing, but the longer it is materialized the higher the drain on Noriko. Affectionately named "Spearmint" by her, the familiar is adept at deflecting attacks, having a deceptively strong skin. She is also capable of having her familiar take her injuries for her in combat, though she loathes to use this ability.

Background:What's a girl to do when she feels more at home with animals than people? Born to a Faunus father and a human mother, Noriko's world from birth has been difficult. Born in Vacuo in the town of Aria, one of the few oasis spots in the dry realm, she grew up constantly having to hide her heritage. Racist wouldn't be a far cry as a label for her treatment by others, and fairly quickly she learned to conceal herself when in mixed company. Because of her unwillingness to defend herself or express pride even other Faunus disliked her, leaving her with very little in the way of friends or companionship. Her only socialization early on were the animals of Aria and the surrounding plains.

Perhaps it was a desperate plea to try and make friends, or maybe just a curiosity for what lay beyond her own home, but once of age Noriko opted to try and enroll in the combat school, Shade Academy. She did so and passed with reasonable marks, though it was often noted how reclusive and quiet she was, rarely working with other students. Socialization skills aside she managed to graduate and progress to becoming a Huntsman, seeing it as the easiest way to travel the world, and perhaps avoid the ridicule of others. If she was a successful Huntsmen, she argued, people would look up to her and respect her.

Now in her final year at Beacon Academy she has garnered some respect for herself, and her status as a successful Huntress is well known. While she still in large hides her identity as a Faunus there are some, such as Ozpin, who know of it and embrace her for it. She is not yet comfortable enough to be wholly outward with who she is, but she is certainly in a better way than in days past, being ostracized as she was back home.

Rayne Braun

Name: Rayne Braun
Age: 24
Gender: Female
Appearance:

Rayne

Weapon: In her youth Rayne carried around a guitar for the sake of her semblance. Once she learned how to transmit her ability through her own voice however she left the guitar behind, only ever using it for gigs. Nowadays she carries around a set of standard firearms, semi-automatic that fire rounds specifically made for slaying Grimm. If the situation calls for it she'll still break out "Betty", she named her guitar that, but otherwise she's content to fire off rounds at will.

Semblance: "Rock your socks off!" So aptly named by Rayne herself, she cranks her proverbial amp up to 11 and plays her instrument. By utilizing her aura, often shown off in a bright green hue, she can manipulate the sound waves that her instrument emits for various effects. High pitched squeals for paralyzing anyone within earshot, concussive waves to knock enemies away, or even waves specifically designed to throw off an enemy's sense of balance and direction, among others.

That used to be how Rayne's Semblance worked. Now she is capable of channeling it through her voice, producing all of the effects from before in addition to a few new ones.

Background: A native of Mistral, a star student at Beacon Academy and a member of the renowned Team RAVN, Rayne is a young woman with plenty of accolades already. Shame she couldn't care less about any of that. Rather than go off and fight for glory like some Huntresses, or stay inside the cities, Rayne prefers traveling among the wilds and helping out where she can. Part of that has to do with her habit of stirring up trouble wherever she goes, and while she gets leniency for who she is she still can't stay in one place for too long. Sparsely keeping in touch with the other members of RAVN she keeps herself busy both with her life as a Huntress and as a performer on the side. Many small taverns and inns have been "graced" by her presence over the years and she's loving the life she's living, she has no intention of stopping any time soon.

Her latest adventures have taken her to Atlas, and with the events unfolding in Vale she's found no shortage of work. Refugees have been coming in from northern Vale in droves and following them have been plenty of Grimm. Fighting alongside Atlas' military though more often by herself they have been securing the southern border, making sure no "unwanted visitors" make their way into the kingdom. The pay is good, she gets to travel, and there's always a crowd to entertain, what more could she need?

Dragon Ball: Legacy (Mogtaki and Vena Sera)

"Then we replace it, I don't see what's so bad about that. Scouters break all the time yet they're used because when they work, they work well. Machinery and gadgets breaking are a facet of life, it's why people are employed to fix them," Vegeta said indifferently, not quite understanding Viral's complaint, "It would be a small, unobtrusive device that could make a big difference in your fights, I fail to see a downside to that. And if transforming is the concern then I can work around it. Apply the device to a band made of the same material that Saiyan armor is crafted from, so it expands and retracts when you change. No tearing and the device remains on your person at all times." What was the big issue with that? The potential benefits of having a resistance to his weakness should be plenty to spring for the option, yet the Beastman seemed abhorrently against any such idea. It would be a situational item as well, something which would only be needed when fighting an enemy they knew could cause him great harm. Out of Viral's view he rolled his eyes, as though his tendency to lean towards engineering work was ever in question; it was his passion in Capsule Corporation as CEO, his passion growing up and still remained so now, hence his willingness to develop these technologies for Viral's sake. "Let's just focus on eating for now, hm? We can discuss potential solutions later," Vegeta said, redirecting Viral briefly before leading him outside the building and into the open space beyond the facility. There was plenty of open ground out here, and once they were past the benches and tables it was a little more natural and isolated, just how Viral liked it.

"I never went through it, so how does it happen to all Saiyans? And even if it does that doesn't help him with his problem any," Takeshi retorted, frowning as Krom continued talking, "Just shut up and do it already. We're not here to talk about Shu right now." He knew what he had asked for, and he was bracing for whatever the Elite had to offer him. They had fought Krom before though and other Elites, they had beaten all of them too, so how bad could it be? Well as it happened it could be very bad. He wasn't even able to see Krom move at first, barely following his Ki before he was struck across the face, nearly doubling over after when he was punched in the gut. Trying to throw a punch of his own he smirked when it connected, only to have the smirk wiped clean immediately when he saw landing the blow did absolute nothing. Grunting then when he was punched in the chest, Takeshi stumbled back and tried to guard, only to be kicked in the side and sent bouncing across the floor, hitting the wall soon after and collapsing in the corner. Damn it, why wasn't he able to hurt Krom?! He'd hit him clean and everything, yet the guy hadn't even budged! "Damn... Damn it damn it damn it!" he cursed, pushing himself to his hands and knees and punching the ground with every iteration, "I can't be that weak! I can't be..." How was he going to keep Shu safe if all he could do was make Krom flinch at best, or the others for that matter? Had he seriously been neglecting training that badly?

Aito wasn't going to comment whether Takeshi was right or not, having no desire to make either boy seem at fault here. The only thing that was clear is both boys lacked disciplined training, they had substance in regards to strength but no way of directing it. Calling the two of them almost berserk wouldn't be too far fetched, and indeed when Shu transformed it appeared as though he became precisely that. "The others have been trained to fight though, you haven't, not much. All the power in the world is pointless with no control of it," the doctor said carefully, glancing back at Shu before smiling slightly, "You're powerful Shu, I am certain of that. You only need to learn how to use that power is all, and you will. But before we worry about that, let's focus on making you feel better, hm?" Happiness should come before all else, lest whatever else they did feel empty as a result. Viral was a prime example of why someone should be happy, as even in his accomplishments he no longer found satisfaction, no optimism. Shu wasn't that bad still, but there was a very real concern he could be if not checked.

T'charrl was healing pretty well now, that was a relief. And with Haku keeping him company he ought not be too lonely, assuming those two got along okay. Kai and Choi were goofing off last she had seen them too, and goodness only knows where Kabocha had slithered off to. It was surprisingly difficult keeping track of everyone here on Uuonoe, everyone had gone off on their own it appeared and were doing their own thing. Yumi hadn't seen Vegeta or Viral all day, nor had she seen Takeshi or Shu for that matter. That quickly changed however as she stepped out of one of the facility's washrooms, spotting the younger boy and Aito coming towards her. Smiling cheerfully she finished drying her hands off on the sides of her pants, giving the pair a wave as she approached. "Well there's a sight for sore eyes, I was beginning to wonder where you had vanished to," she said as she stood before Shu, leaning over and reaching out to tap his nose playfully, "And where are you off to, hm? Is Aito being nice to you?"

"I assure you I'm taking every step necessary to be kind to Shu," Aito answered, smiling meekly when Yumi glanced up at him accusingly. "Honest, I've only offered to help him is all, we're heading to my office now for just that. And before you ask Takeshi is training, he'll be along before long I would imagine. I just figured it might be a good time for Shu to take a moment to practice some play therapy."

Hm, so Takeshi was off training and leaving Shu on his own huh? Typical, that knucklehead was more concerned with getting stronger it seemed. "To your office? That sounds great, I think I'll come along and help," Yumi said firmly, making it clear her joining was not up for discussion. Smiling again at Shu she reached out and placed her hands on his shoulders, getting eye to eye with him before laughing cheerfully. "Shu doesn't mind if I tag along, do you Shu? I can help make you feel more comfortable if you'd like."

Avatar: The Price of Freedom

Katsu bit his tongue and refrained from snapping at Siku, not at all appreciating her taunting behavior. His life hadn't been easy, not that he expected her to know, and the fact she was joking about it annoyed him to no small end. Did she know what it was like to not eat for days on end? To sleep on a bench in the park in the pouring rain? He doubted it, yet he wasn't going to sit here, get on a box and cry his troubles out to the world; she could go on thinking he was just complaining, he didn't really care enough to correct her. All of that was behind him anyways, and even on the run now his life was better than it had been. Rolling his eyes at the complaint about the restaurant, Katsu smirked slightly amused and gave a dismissive shrug, just to egg on Siku.

"Food sucked anyways, too overpriced if you ask me," he responded calmly, looking away as though he were disinterested. Heh, two could play at that game, he'd rile her up just as she had him. When asked about whether he'd practiced other elements or not he answered honestly, a bit ashamed to say he hadn't yet seeing no reason to hide it. There was no need for him to, it wasn't like there was some great war or anything going on; aside from his problems with the Lotus defectors the world was in a relative time of peace, there was next to no reason for an Avatar to even exist. Seriously, if he only learned fire and nothing else then he should be perfectly fine!

Heh, water princess, he figured that was a pretty good one. Obviously he didn't mean it and made it in jest, but given Siku's sometimes haughty nature it fit. Chuckling to himself at her expense, Katsu gasped when he suddenly felt his support leave him, and soon was knocked to his knees with a rather angry Water Bender looming over him. Blinking just once when she began threatening him he glanced at her dao silently, doubtful she had any real intention of using it but not wanting to test his luck. Watching as she retracted the weapon and left him be, the Avatar breathed a sigh of relief before climbing back to his feet. "Jeez Siku, someone sleep on the wrong side of the ground last night?" he joked, rubbing at his neck before grinning at her cheekily, "You're kinda hot when you're mad though, anyone ever tell you that?" He really didn't know better it seemed, or maybe he was calling her bluff with her weapon being drawn, who knows.

"You said it, I don't care to master them. Why should I when I can use two already?" Katsu asked in turn, placing his hands into his coat pockets as he strode along. At least Asha was plenty supportive and not at all being a pain in the neck, unlike some women of the group. Seriously, two days thus far and Siku had already threatened him twice, what gives? If she was going to draw her weapon on him every time they spoke then he'd just leave her be, see if she preferred that! She could have a pet rock if that was better for her, then he'd not be at risk of getting shanked for speaking.

Adelon: Steeling the Faith [Open!]

"Hm, Jorvind huh? I think it's a great name!" Ethan said cheerfully, though internally he questioned it a little. Jorvind huh, was that Ydran for something? He couldn't ask because it would make Amuné suspicious, what with having her think he was one of her kind and all. The horse didn't much seem to mind it, giving a satisfied whinny as it was pet by the young girl. That just left the other horse without a name, and until they found out whether it was a boy or girl naming it would have to wait. "A break is never a bad idea. If we just worked all the time then we'd burn out, and then we wouldn't be helping anyone now would we?" the Magi spoke with a nod, smiling again as he held up a finger as he made a point, "If we can't help ourselves then how can we expect to help others? Makes sense when you think about it." He'd been told that time and time again by Kinsgrove's guards, how sometimes you couldn't help because it meant putting yourself in danger. There was risk and then there was being reckless, they'd say, and if you ended up in trouble then who rescued the rescuer?

Ethan was ecstatic at the idea of sharing a hearty meal with everyone, forgetting even for a moment there may be no chance of it happening. It would be so nice to have everyone gathered around a table together, laughing, eating, sharing stories, he could imagine it already. "I know, but you can come for the company! Plus there'd be all sorts of story telling!" the Magi answered back, smiling as he addressed Cecil, "Plus you'd get to meet Amuné's parents, wouldn't that be fun?" He thought so, it was always nice getting to meet new people... Most of the time. Glancing down at the Ydran girl when she spoke to him again, Ethan's face fell slightly when his reason for traveling was questioned. Glancing straight ahead again he put back on a smile, trying to not let his worry or uncertainty show. "I'm going to meet my friend in one of the cities, he's waiting for me there," the Muran replied with a chuckle, closing his eyes as he broke into a sheepish grin, "I just forget where he is, and I don't have any way of getting in touch, so I've been having to look. He got in a bit of trouble I guess, so I'm going to clear him and take him home with me." And he would too, it didn't matter where he was being held or who had him. Ethan would grovel if that's what it took to see Cedric home safely, or even trade himself in turn; everyone loved and knew the old man back home, so seeing Cedric returned mattered more than himself returning.

"Hm... Is that right? So your problems were forced on them?" Nymira asked for clarification, frowning before nodding to herself, "I see... They're good people then. Anyone can turn a blind eye to someone in need, but they helped. They're honorable and have good hearts, that much I can tell now. Even if he might be a bit of an idiot." A well intentioned idiot at that, but an idiot nonetheless. From hereon out she'd be having more of a say in their decisions without a doubt, just to offer some common sense into what was done here; though she herself was still relatively new to these other cultures Nymira thought herself more worldly than the rest, and thus better able to make decisions. Besides that she knew how to handle diplomatic meetings and how to appease even the toughest of people, leaving her in a far better position than Ethan.

"Listen... From this point on I will be making decisions, it's only right that I do. Not only am I of a higher rank than those two, but I know what I'm doing. I need you to support me when I tell the others later, understood?" Nymira asked, glancing back at Cecil sternly, "I will not take no for an answer. It sounds like we all have a lot to do and no real direction to do it. If you want to find your answers then just follow my lead." Ethan would be useful for his knowledge of the land, perhaps Amuné as well, but she'd limit their guidance to that. They were in essence her attendants, meaning they weren't meant to tell her what to do or where to go; she'd accept ideas and suggestions, but if they thought they were going to be able to order her about...

As the sun had begun to set and the sky darkened the group had finally settled on a place to stop along the road. Splitting off from the main stretch was a path leading down a hill, and at the bottom of the hill was a river which ran from some place beyond the road and well past their field of view. Its rapids were not terribly loud meaning they could keep an ear open for any potential threats. The river seemed deep too, giving them a natural buffer from the other side of the banks, leaving them pretty well protected on that end. After leaving the horses along the banks to graze and roam a bit, the group had set up their camp a bit further inland. Ethan had begun setting up a fire pit before anything else, managing to find some fallen branches and twigs that had washed up along the shore. Lighting them was no easy task, but after plenty of attempts he managed to get a fire going, illuminating the immediate area with a warm glow.

"There... We... Go! Fire's all set, now to get the tent put up!" Ethan announced as he dusted his hands off, satisfied with his handiwork. Lighting wet wood was always such a pain, but if you managed to find those few fibers that were dry then it was still possible. They had probably best consider getting some food as well, and with luck they could catch a few fish in this river without too much trouble. But who to ask? Amuné probably was too small to wade in far, and Cecil wasn't waterproof. Nymira might know how, but seeing her sitting off by herself and not offering to help any didn't instill much hope. So that left fishing to him then did it? "Man... Guess I'm on chow duty as well," he mused silently, smiling as he pushed himself back to his feet and stretched out, "Hey Amuné, know how to set up a tent? Maybe you and Cecil can do that while I fish?"