Chapter 1: Sceldrant's Comet

 

*A mature man dressed in dancer-like clothes stepped forward and glanced across a poorly lit room, staring at a few dozen people sitting in different positions.*

 

?????: *He slowly exhaled and observed the crowd, smiling at the children, teenagers and young adults in a proud-like manner.* "You all are the next generation-."

 

*The man placed his hands behind his back and slowly walked across the room, causing the people's eyes to follow.*

 

?????: "Every year, we perform The Purafetic Ceremony. Do any of you know why-?"

 

*A young boy eagerly waved his hand in the air, catching the surrounding people's attention.*

 

?????: *He looked at the boy and smiled, facing him in a curious-like manner.* "Yes, Karol?"

 

Karol: "Uhm, it's to ensure nuffing bad happens to the citee?"

 

?????: *He chuckled and shook his head as if Karol was incorrect.* "No-"

 

*A young teenager with pink hair rolled her eyes, glancing at Karol in a disgusted-like manner.*

 

?????: "You're so stupid, Karol."

 

Karol: "B-Be quiet, Trinity-"

 

Trinity: *She raised an eyebrow and looked to her side, staring at her identical twin sister with blue hair.* "I have to be quiet, Infinity."

 

Infinity: "And quiet you must be?"

 

Trinity and Infinity: "Harh harh-" *They giggled at the same time.*

 

?????: *He stepped forward, catching the twin sister's attention.* "Trinity, Infinity, that's enough. Karol is your cousin-"

 

Trinity and Infinity: "Sorry, Cortax.."

 

Karol: (Thanks, dad.)

 

Cortax: *He nodded his head and glanced across the room, watching several men in ritual-like garments walk out of the room.* (It might be tedious, but we have to ensure the doors are closed at all times.)

 

Karol: *He stared at the men, noticing dark shadows behind them.* (The moonlight is stwong.)

 

Cortax: *He watched two stone doors close behind the men on its own accord, allowing him to focus back on the crowd.* "We perform the ceremony to keep the quality of our Rostical at its highest."

 

Trinity: *She stared at Cortax, mumbling to herself in thought.* (Cortax is one of the strongest dancers in the city. I respect him a lot-)

 

Karol: "Why can't we perform the seramony too?"

 

Cortax: "You are all too young. The sheer level of Neurons will overpower you."

 

Karol: "Neurons?"

 

Trinity: "We don't have time to discuss how Rostical works."

 

Infinity: "Time we don't have." *She looked at Trinity, nodding her head in agreement.*

 

Karol: "But-?"

 

Cortax: "They're right, Karol." *He looked to his side and watched several women sway their arms in a dance-like manner, causing the walls to light up.*

 

*Glyphic-like drawings on the walls flashed, causing the two stone doors to open up, allowing moonlight outside to glow into the room.*

 

Trinity: "Can we at least watch?"

 

Cortax: "No-"

 

*A man rushed into the room and looked at Cortax in a worried-like manner, nodding his head.*

 

Cortax: (It's ready-) *He looked at Karol and smiled, before slowly walking towards the door.*

 

Trinity: "Where are you going?"

 

Cortax: "I have to begin the ceremony-"

 

Karol: "But, Dad! I-I know the seramony is important, but why did you gather us all here?"

 

Trinity: (I found that strange too. Those who are too young to perform the ceremony are usually asleep in their rooms by now, and-)

 

*Trinity looked up and observed the ancient appearing stone room in a curious-like manner.*

 

Trinity: (Why are we all kept in a Reality Marble?)

 

Cortax: "I will see you all soon." *He spoke in an abrupt-like manner and looked towards the door, nodding his head at the man.*

 

Karol: (Dad?) *He whimpered in thought and watched Cortax leave the room, causing the stone doors to close behind him.*

 

----------

 

*A teenager dressed in black clothing and dark make-up sat on a park bench by herself, watching cars drive by with an emotionless face.*

 

?????: *She tilted her head back and stared at a clear blue sky with an emotional frown.* (Everything.. Everything.. I hate everything..)

 

*The teenager looked down and stared at cut-like scars on her wrists, causing her to cover them up with her long sleeved shirt.*

 

?????: (I don't show it, but I know what everyone thinks of me, aye.. Luna's a loser, Luna's pathetic, she's a nobody..)

 

*Luna looked back up and frowned in thought, trying not to show any emotion.*

 

Luna: (I'm sick of everything bad happenin' to me..) *She looked back down, intensely staring at her lap.* (You only live to love.. Without love-)

 

?????: "'Sup?" *A man spoke in a deep voice, as he casually jogged up to the bench.*

 

Luna: "Huh?" *She looked up and stared at the man, causing her cheeks to blush.* (I-It's him! I've had a crush on him since, forever!-)

 

?????: *He stopped and stared at Luna, raising an eyebrow in confusion.* "Ah..?"

 

Luna: *She coughed and shook her head, hiding her excitement from the man.* "Carlo.. Nothin' much."

 

Carlo: *He plunked himself on the bench next to Luna, looking at her, intrigued.* "So, what are ya doing?"

 

Luna: "J-Just chillin', aye." *She spoke in a nervous-like manner, slightly avoiding eye contact.*

 

Carlo: "Well-" *He smirked and shuffled closer to Luna, causing her face to turn a darker shade of red.* "You want to go the Sceldrant Comet ball?"

 

Luna: "M-Me?!"

 

Carlo: "Yaha, yeah?"

 

Luna: *She smiled awkwardly as if she hadn't smiled in a while.* "Yes!"

 

Carlo: "Kool, I'll see ya tomorrow night then?" *He stood up, facing Luna with a smirk.*

 

Luna: "Y-Yea!"

 

Carlo: "Righto, see ya then! Don't forget, it starts early!" *He waved and turned around, casually jogging back on his path.*

 

Luna: (Ohmagawd, he spoke to me! No! He asked me to the comet's ball!-)

 

*Luna's mobile phone started to ring, causing her to pick it out of her pocket and answer it.*

 

Luna: "'Sup, Kylie?" *She covered her other ear, trying to ignore the sounds of the passing cars.*

 

Kylie: "Wanna come ova? Kerry will be comin' ova too."

 

Luna: "Tonight?"

 

Kylie: "Yea?"

 

Luna: "OK."

 

Kylie: "'Kay. Come 'round, whenever, aye."

 

Luna: "Yea. Oi! Guess wat!"

 

Kylie: "What?!"

 

Luna: "Well-" *She lowered her arm and touched the phone, causing it to end the call.* "Aha." *She smirked evil-like, as if she intended to hang up in mid-sentence.*

 

----------

 

*A woman laughed on a mobile phone before walking into a family-friendly fast food restaurant.*

 

?????: "For example.. Hello, my name is Ashton Lawyer. I'm twenty years old and I'm currently a Shift Assistant at Fast Food Enterprise and have been working here since I was fifteen. Now, what you're not allowed to ask is their marital status or anything like that. Okay, Lance?"

 

Lance: *He looked up and stared at Ashton who stood beside him.* "Yea, yea. Sorry-"

 

Ashton: "Please, say it again-"

 

Lance: *He moaned and pouted like a grumpy child.* "Gettin' trained up to be a manager is pretty exhaustin', bah."

 

Ashton: "Oh, come on, just say it exactly how I just said it to you..." *He sat down on a chair opposite to Lance.*

 

Lance: "Dear oh dear..... Ahem, hello my name is Lance Lighten, I'm twenty one years old."

 

Ashton: *He silently nodded his head, as he stared at Lance in thought.* (Good-)

 

Lance: "I'm currently a trainee Shift Supervisor at Fast Food Enterprise and it's delicious."

 

Ashton: "Good grief, Lance, at least try. This is the only way we are able to work in the same store. If you get promoted then neither of us need to get transferred, since well, we have been best friends since I could remember.... Hey?"

 

Lance: "OK OK, sorry, well only for you I suppose I will do the homework. When is it?"

 

Ashton: "Wednesday."

 

Lance: "I will be ready for the manager induction with Twortz." *He rolled his eyes.*

 

Ashton: "Thanks, I'll see you tomorrow morning around eleven thirty then? I'll be present when Twortz will assess you-"

 

*A female customer walked in and brushed the wrinkles out of her skirt, as she made her way to the front counter.*

 

Lance: *He whistled with a cheesy smile.* "Oi-"

 

Ashton: "That is unacceptable!"

 

Lance: "Wat?"

 

Ashton: "Have respect for everyone, good flaming grief!"

 

Lance: "I was jokin' OK OK gee."

 

Ashton: *He sighed.* "Well my shift is about to start, I have four to twelve." *He lifted himself off the chair and tucked his shirt in.*

 

Lance: (To think a nerd is my best friend.) *He sighed.* "Well, I'm gonna go then, so later." *He stood up and started to walk towards the exit of the restaurant.*

 

*A man with many pimples on his face discreetly observed Ashton and Lance from behind a display cabinet on the front counter.*

 

?????: (Seriously-) *He watched Lance leave the restaurant, causing him to pout in a jealous-like manner.* (Why does Ashton even hang out with him-?)

 

*A woman dressed in business attire noticed the man staring at Ashton through the display fridge on front counter.*

 

?????: "Tyler?" *She spoke in a professional-like manner, slowly walking up to him.*

 

Tyler: "T-Twortz." *He quickly stood up straight and faced Twortz, awkwardly picking at one of the many pimples on his face.*

 

Twortz: "Don't you have some duties to attend to?"

 

Tyler: "Y-Yes." *He spoke with a squeal and nervously nodded his head, rushing towards the back of the restaurant.*

 

Twortz: "Don't forget to wash your hands."

 

Tyler: "R-Right!" *He squealed in acknowledgement, picking up several garbage bags.*

 

Twortz: (Tyler, he's a good worker, but sometimes, he doesn't know how to express himself.)

 

Ashton: *He walked behind the counter and smiled at Twortz, staring at her back.* "Good evening, Twortz."

 

Twortz: "Ashton." *She spoke with a smile and turned around, walking towards him.*

 

Ashton: "Before I begin my shift, shall we check on the monthly reports in the manager's office?"

 

Twortz: "Yes. As per usual, Dee Highs-" *She waved her hand across the kitchen, symbolising she spoke about the store.* "Our performance has skyrocketed."

 

Ashton: "Really?" *He slowly walked towards the office, smiling at Twortz in shock.*

 

Twortz: "What's with the shocked face, Ashton? You put a lot of work into this store, it's only obvious that it'll eventually show."

 

----------

 

*Lance dragged his feet along the pavement, enduring the scorching heat.*

 

Lance: "Hot.. Hot.. Hot.. Gah.." *He groaned on his breath, slowly making his way home.*

 

----------

 

*Cortax made his way towards an enormous courtyard, lit up by the bright moonlight.*

 

Cortax: *He watched villagers dance near different console-like objects, causing their lights to glow.* "What's the report, Victoria?"

 

Victoria: *She stopped dancing, causing a purple glyphic-like platform underneath her to disappear.* "They're almost here."

 

Cortax: "They are?" *He spoke in a worried-like manner and stared at two pillars at the entrance of the city, watching them glow blue due to the moonlight.*

 

Victoria: *She looked past Cortax and stared at a massive stone wall, harbouring many doors on different levels.* "Are all the children safe?"

 

Cortax: "Yes. They're in the Reality Marble used for practising Ougis."

 

Victoria: *She silently stared at Cortax, taking a moment to collect her thoughts.* "Whatever happens tonight-"

 

Cortax: "We may be up against the Consultants, but we, The Sacred Dancers are something to be feared!"

 

Victoria: *She hesitantly nodded her head and focused her attention to the entrance.* "I will keep everyone informed of their Neuron signature."

 

Cortax: *He looked over Victoria's shoulder, staring into the far distance.* (They're not even hiding it..)

 

Victoria: (Besides me and Cortax, we've got two other masters. Normally, an experienced Rostic Dancer can handle a captain levelled warrior.. But, to face the actual Consultants..)

 

Cortax: *He walked past Victoria and proudly took a deep breath.* "Everyone, begin your dances and incantations! I want us to be ready!" (.. Just in case.)

 

Victoria: *She turned around and stared at Cortax's back, sighing in a worried-like manner.* (We're not even sure what has sparked the Consultant's recent fascination with us, but tonight..)

 

----------

 

*Luna sat in a small room with two other teenagers dressed in black clothing.*

 

Luna: "Kerry, Kylie, wat's the big deal?"

 

Kylie: *She smirked and wiped black lipstick around her lips, glancing at a larger woman covered in dark make-up.* "Kerry, show her."

 

Kerry: "This-" *She reached into a black handbag and pulled out a small container of tablets with a medical sticker tapped on the side.*

 

Luna: "Wat's that?"

 

Kerry: "These are the pills-" *She threw the container at Luna and reached into the bag, revealing another two containers.*

 

Luna: "The pills?" *She shook the container, listening to the pills jingle.*

 

Kylie: *She reached over and grabbed one of the containers off Kerry, eagerly screwing off the lid.* "That will free us of this world."

 

Luna: "R-Really?" *She spoke on her breath, staring at the container in her hand with widening eyes.*

 

Kerry: "These are prescriptions I stole from my mum."

 

Luna: "Kerry-Anne?" *She spoke in disbelief.*

 

Kylie: *She raised her hand, staring at a small blue pill.* "With this, I can end my suffering-"

 

Kerry: "Our suffering."

 

Luna: "Yea.."

 

Kerry: *She pulled her sleeve up, revealing freshly cut lines across her arm.* "I hate my life."

 

Luna: *She placed the contained in her pocket and picked up a knife, nodding her head.* "I hate love."

 

Kylie: "I hate myself."

 

----------

 

*A bulky man holding a sword in one hand ran through a vibrant forest, lit up by bright moonlight.*

 

?????: "Get back, you warrior scum!" *He shouted over his shoulder, watching a party of warriors in black armour chase after him.*

 

Warrior: "Get back here, Nathan!" *He shouted and raised a bow, pulling on the string.*

 

Nathan: (Damn, I wasn't expecting warriors to be in that village-) *He skilfully leapt to the side and hid behind a thick tree, watching an arrow fly past.*

 

Warrior: (Missed!) *He grunted in thought, unintentionally shaking the bow in frustration.*

 

Female Warrior: *She stared at the warrior's back, noticing a number scratched on his armour.* "Thirty-Three, you missed!"

 

Warrior: *He turned around, lowering the bow.* "He's quick."

 

Female Warrior: "Who cares, let's get after him before the captain gets here!"

 

Warrior: "Sure!" *He grunted in agreement and raised the bow, focusing his attention back to the tree.*

 

----------

 

Ashton: *He cleaned the front counter and looked up, watching Tyler mop the floors.* "Keep up the good work, Tyler."

 

Tyler: "Th-Thank you." *He smiled, mopping the floors more enthusiastically.*

 

?????: "Ashton!"

 

Ashton: *He focused his attention to the kitchen.* "Rachael?"

 

Rachael: "Ashton, please."

 

Ashton: "Coming." *He quickly walked down a production line containing different types of freshly cut ingredients in stainless steel containers.*

 

Rachael: "A-Ashton, there's something wrong with one of these machines." *She sounded preoccupied, as she focused all her attention on the back of two sundae machines.*

 

Ashton: "What's wrong?" *He watched Rachael move around the machines as if she was trying to listen to something.*

 

Rachael: "One of them is making a horrible screechy sound."

 

Ashton: "Screechy sound?" *He walked up to Rachael, inspecting the side of the machine.* "It's the fan."

 

Rachael: "The fan?" *She leant closer to Ashton, causing his cheeks to blush.*

 

Ashton: "Yes. Sounds like there's stuff inside." *He spoke in a casual manner as if it was normal.*

 

Rachael: "I thought it was designed so it blows away all types of debris in the air?"

 

Ashton: "Although that is true, some dirt can still get inside it."

 

Rachael: "How? The fan blows out." *She placed her hand on the machine, feeling the wind blow through the cracks of her fingers.*

 

Ashton: "From experience, I've noticed certain types of soft dirt-like dust bypass the fans."

 

Rachael: "But, Ash-" *She coughed and shook her head.* "I mean, Ashton. I don't understand how that works?"

 

Ashton: "Well, it's hard to explain-"

 

Tyler: *He mopped the front counter floors and placed the mop in the bucket.* "Almost done-"

 

*Tyler lifted the mop out of the bucket and accidentally hit the sundae toppings behind him, causing a tub to roll off the machine.*

 

Tyler: "O-Oops!" *He gasped with a squeal, covering his mouth in shock.*

 

Rachael: *She watched the tub roll off the machine in the corner of her eye, causing her to instantly react and catch it with one hand.* "Gotcha-"

 

Ashton: "Good save-" (Must be from her Hapkido.) *He watched a wave of topping sway into the machine, causing it to screech.*

 

Tyler: "S-Sorry, guys!"

 

Ashton: "It's okay, Tyler. Continue the floors, we got it here."

 

Tyler: "Alright!" *He spoke over the sundae machine and exhaled slowly, continuing to mop the floor.*

 

Ashton: *He reached over Rachael and placed the tub back into the dispenser.* "See?"

 

Rachael: *She looked at Ashton with blushing cheeks and stared at the machine, watching the cookie dust-like topping jam in the fan.* "Wow. How?"

 

Ashton: *He smiled at Rachael in a caring-like manner.* "It's the texture and density of the debris. It sort of cushions itself from the swirling fans, while being too dense for it to be repelled back."

 

Rachael: "Th-That's intriguing." *She spoke on her breath and smiled, as if it was hard to breathe.*

 

Ashton: *He coughed and stepped back, acting in a professional-like manner.* "Tyler, could you please ensure all the registers are logged out and Rachael, could you please ensure that all windows are locked."

 

Tyler: "Yep."

 

Rachael: "Yes, Ashton." *She blushed with a slight smile.*

 

----------

 

Cortax: *He looked across the courtyard, noticing glowing glyphic platforms underneath each dancer.* "Okay-"

 

Victoria: *She paused in mid-step, suddenly gasping with widening eyes.* "C-Cortax!"

 

Cortax: *He quickly turned around in an urgent-like manner, intensely staring at Victoria.* "What's happening?"

 

Victoria: "They've approached the city."

 

Cortax: *He gritted his teeth and frowned, glancing to each side.* (Lehi and Valentine aren't here yet!-)

 

--

 

*A warrior in platinum armour walked down an ancient-like road, closely followed by a woman wearing glasses and a man with short black hair.*

 

?????: "Cassandra, are there any Remenistal traps?" *She spoke with a smirk, pushing up her glasses with one hand.*

 

Cassandra: "No, ma'am."

 

?????: "Isn't this exciting, Ridley?"

 

Ridley: *He looked to his side, noticing the moonlight shine off her glasses.* "Yes, Kath."

 

Cassandra: (I am but a mere captain, and I'm travelling with both Consultants.)

 

Kath: *She noticed two glowing pillars in the distance, causing her to squint her eyes in determination.* "Is that the entrance?"

 

Cassandra: "Yes, ma'am."

 

Kath: "Finally."

 

Ridley: "On the contrary, I quite enjoyed the night stroll from Sorrowprax."

 

Kath: "Hmm." *She grunted in acknowledgement, glancing at Cassandra's platinum armour.* "Captain, you understand the severity of this mission?"

 

Cassandra: "Y-Yes, ma'am. This is an S classed mission-"

 

Kath: *She raised her hand, causing Cassandra to prematurely stop what she was saying.* "Excellent. That's all I wanted to know."

 

Ridley: *He smirked, covering one of his eyes in excitement.* (Even with my power, I will need Kath by my side to take down these master dancers.)

 

--

 

Victoria: *She swayed her arms in a dance-like manner in front of her face, causing two small glyphs to rotate in front of her eyes.* "I see, three of them." *She spoke in a military-like manner, staring at Cassandra, Kath and Ridley with heightened vision.*

 

Cortax: "Everyone, the last thing we want is to start violence, but be on guard!"

 

Men and Women: "Yes, sir!" *They spoke at the same time, watching Cassandra, Kath and Ridley step into the courtyard.*

 

Cortax: *He puffed out his chest and faced Kath, Ridley and Cassandra with a proud facial expression.* "Consultants-"

 

Cassandra: *She stepped forward, catching Cortax's attention.* "Don't speak to the Consultants like that!-"

 

Kath: "It is fine." *She spoke in a carefree manner and stepped forward, causing Cassandra to look confused.*

 

Cassandra: "Ma'am?"

 

Ridley: "Stand down, captain. This will be a fight out of your league."

 

Cassandra: "F-Fight? But I thought we were just-"

 

Kath: "Hmm? Questioning a Consultant?"

 

Cassandra: "N-No-"

 

Kath: "Do you want to be terminated?"

 

Cassandra: *She gritted her teeth and lowered her arms in a defeated-like manner, as if she knew her place.* "..."

 

Ridley: "Well?"

 

Cassandra: "My apologies." *She lowered her head and shuffled back, watching Kath and Ridley walk further into the courtyard.*

 

Ridley: "Now, let's talk business, Cortax Upper-"

 

Kath: *She stood by Ridley's side, glaring at Victoria in an evil-like manner.* "And, Victoria Stranger."

 

----------

 

Ashton: *He flicked all the switches off on the power board and made his way to the front counter. Tyler and Rachael spoke to themselves as they waited for his return.* "What's the time?"

 

Rachael: "Quarter past twelve."

 

Ashton: "Well all procedures are completed, let's call it a night then?"

 

Rachael: "Yeah." *She smiled, which caused Ashton to smile.*

 

Ashton: "Thank you both for your good work today."

 

Tyler and Rachael: "You're welcome."

 

*Ashton locked the restaurant and the party made their way to Ashton's silver car.*

 

Rachael: "Did you guys hear about Sceldrant's Comet?"

 

Tyler: "Of course!" *He opened the door and jumped in the back seat.*

 

Rachael: "Melinda won't stop talking about it, she's got me all excited about the event."

 

Tyler: "Who's Melinda?"

 

Ashton: "You work with her-" *He turned the key and the engine roared.* "She works on front counter?" *He looked in the mirrors and drove out of the car park.*

 

Rachael: "You know Mel? Melinda? Melinda Hambridge?"

 

Tyler: *He leant slightly forward, as Ashton drove over a speed bump.* "Oh, now I remember, yeah what about her?"

 

Rachael: "Well, we have Twortz's permission, and she'll even be attending." *She spoke with excitement, as she stared out the window.*

 

Ashton: "Twortz's permission for what exactly?"

 

Rachael: "Me, Mel and Twortz are going to watch the comet on the roof at work, would you both like to come?"

 

Ashton: "Of course, I have to see what all the commotion is about."

 

Tyler: "I have a late shift so I will be there anyway."

 

Rachael: "Sweet, sounds great."

 

*Ashton pulled up into a driveway and Tyler unfastened his seatbelt.*

 

Tyler: "Th-Thank you for the lift, so I will see you both Wednesday?" *He smiled, as he got out of the car.*

 

Rachael: "Yep."

 

Ashton: "We will see you then, goodnight." *He watched Tyler enter his house.*

 

Rachael: "I live just down the street so-" *She grabbed the door handle.*

 

Ashton: "No that is unacceptable, I will not allow you to walk at night."

 

Rachael: "But-"

 

Ashton: "It's not like we're kids anymore, how we could just play around on the streets at night."

 

Rachael: "I know, okay. You know I'm nineteen, I'm only a year younger than you so you don't always have to look out for me."

 

Ashton: "It doesn't matter how old you are, there are a lot of bad people out there."

 

Rachael: "Yes." *She smiled at Ashton.*

 

Ashton: *He smirked, as he drove up to Rachael's house.* "Okay, see you Wednesday."

 

Rachael: "Thanks, Ash."

 

Ashton: *He watched Rachael walk inside her house with a smile.* (It was good working with you Rach-)

 

*Ashton pulled out of the driveway and shook his head with satisfaction.*

 

Ashton: *He yawned as he drove towards his house.* (So this is my life... For the past few years, I've watched this once peaceful suburb, turn into a fearful criminal town.)

 

*Flames flickered in several bins on the street, catching Ashton's attention.*

 

Ashton: "People lack respect these days." *He grumbled to himself and sighed as he turned down his street.* (No respect at all-) *He pulled up into his driveway and walked inside the house.*

 

----------

 

Nathan: *He jumped past several trees and ran into a clearing, noticing an orange sky from the rising sun.* (Damn, who are they trying to impress?! They should've given up by now-)

 

Warrior: "Oi!" *He jumped into the clearing and ran towards Nathan, raising a rusty sword above his head.*

 

Nathan: *He faced the warrior and tightened his grip on his long sword, readying himself to attack.* "Looks like I have no choice but to use my Azure Bursts-"

 

Warrior: "Be quiet, you scum!" *He stepped into striking distance, quickly holding the sword with both hands.* "Harh!"

 

Nathan: *He frowned and focused, causing his body to glow a shade of blue.* "Double Slash."

 

Warrior: *He gasped with widening eyes and quickly jumped back, watching Nathan swing the sword twice at incredible speeds.* "An Azure Burst?!"

 

Nathan: "Stand back!-"

 

*An arrow shot through the forest and into the clearing, soaring towards Nathan.*

 

Nathan: "Double Slash." *He quickly sliced the sword downwards and across, causing a spark to flash off the arrow's head.* "Ha! Blocked it!"

 

Warrior: *He watched the arrow spiral in the air, landing next to Nathan's feet.* (He's skilled-)

 

Thirty-Three: *He staggered into the clearing and lowered the bow.* "How-?"

 

Warrior: "You two are late." *He grunted, watching a female and male warrior stagger towards him.*

 

Female Warrior: "We're the only ones out of our entire platoon that was able to keep up."

 

Nathan: *He smirked and raised the sword, ignoring the sweat which dripped off his chin.* "Any more takers-?"

 

*A man suddenly appeared in front of the three warriors, landing on one knee.*

 

Nathan: "Who-?"

 

Female Warrior: "A flashstep?"

 

Warrior: *He noticed the number nine scratched on the warrior's platinum armour, causing him to quickly bow to one knee.* "C-Captain!"

 

Nathan: (Damn! A captain!) *He gritted his teeth and stepped back, watching the captain slowly stand up.*

 

Captain: "Who's this, dirty lamp?!" *He chuckled like a mad scientist.*

 

Female Warrior: "Dirty lamp?" *She whispered on her breath.* "Captain, that's a disgusting word to use-"

 

Captain: "Zayden doesn't care what anyone says!"

 

Nathan: "A captain that swears? Have the Consultants become desperate-?"

 

Zayden: "Shut it, dirty lamp!" *He reached over his shoulder and pulled forward, causing a swirl of sparks to scatter around a large spear.*

 

Nathan: *He stared at the spear in Zayden's hand, causing him to frown.* (A captain classed warrior has the ability to conceal their weapon inside special Astragon pockets.. And depending on his ranking, he may even be able to use Rostical-)

 

Zayden: *He chuckled and licked his lips, pointing the spear at Nathan.* "Should I slit your-?"

 

Thirty-Three: "All respect, captain. The Consultants have requested him alive."

 

Zayden: "Tssk." *He spat to the side in disgust, as if he was displeased with the information.* "Why?"

 

Thirty-Three: "They wish to know more about Scoldrant Users."

 

Zayden: "Those feral things-?"

 

Nathan: "Are we going to fight, or not?" *He shouted, pointing the sword at Zayden.*

 

Zayden: (That dirty lamp.) *He discreetly frowned in a serious-like manner, causing his eyes to glow an eerie yellow colour.*

 

Nathan: (His eyes-?!)

 

Warrior: (What a fool.) *He looked up, staring at Nathan in an unimpressed-like manner.* (He may be skilled with the sword, but to challenge a captain-?)

 

Zayden: *He stepped forward and flashstepped behind Nathan, causing two slash-like sparks to scatter off his sword.* "Bring him to Sorrpowprax immediately!"

 

Thirty-Three: *He noticed Zayden standing behind Nathan.* (Wow-)

 

Female Warrior: "But he's still stand-?"

 

Nathan: "Fast-" *He dropped his sword and suddenly fell to his knees, collapsing face-first into the dirt ground.*

 

Zayden: "Now!"

 

Thirty-Three, Female and Male Warrior: "Sir!"

 

Nathan: "Damn.." *He mumbled under his breath, slowly falling unconscious.*

 

----------

 

*Every sound echoed inside a large warehouse which sounded like a sport's hall.*

 

Ashton: *He walked inside the warehouse and noticed Lance standing with other people, forming a line.* "So what did I miss?" *He walked up to Lance and smiled, joining the line.*

 

Rachael: *She walked in front of the line, facing them in a curious-like manner.* (I have a feeling this will be another awesome paintball fight.)

 

Lance: "You have an option of pickin' three items, one is a sword, shooter and a shield. All of 'em are over there." *He glanced at Ashton and pointed to a table, drawing his attention towards it.*

 

Ashton: *He walked over to the table.* (So it seems all the shooters have been taken and only one person took the sword.)

 

Rachael: *She discreetly watched Ashton lean over the table with a smile.* (Ash..)

 

Ashton: (And nobody touched the shields. Looks like I have no choice then.) *He grabbed one of the shields lined at the far right and walked back into line.*

 

Lance: *He looked down and noticed the shield in Ashton's arms.* (A shield? Seriously-?)

 

Ashton: *He noticed a sword by Lance's side.* "I see you're the one that got the sword, haha aren't we the odd ones out?" *He lifted up his shield with an awkward smile.*

 

*A few guys at the end of the line laughed amongst each other, as they pointed towards Lance and Ashton.*

 

Rachael: "Okay, so the rules for today are standard, are there any new people in the group? If so, please raise your hand."

 

*Nobody raised their hands, causing Rachael to nod her head.*

 

Rachael: "Okay, there are thirty-three combatants. There are two ways of winning, when twenty minutes are up, everyone is to line back here and whoever has the least amount of paint wins."

 

Player: *He raised his arm before speaking.* "Is that all?"

 

Rachael: *She shook her head.* "Or, if everyone is covered with paint before time is up, then the last person wins. Any questions?"

 

Teenager: "Yeah, why is a hot little chick like you running a place like this?"

 

Rachael: "Why are you here? Do you have a permission slip from your parents or guardian?"

 

Teenager: "..." *His friends giggled at him, causing him to look away in a defeated-like manner.*

 

Rachael: "Alright, there is a first and second winner prize. We will issue out these white shirts." *A man started to hand out white shirts to everyone.* "And one last thing, play fairly. You all have thirty seconds to get ready after the buzzer. You will get disqualified if you leave the boundaries."

 

Lance: *He squinted his eyes and stared at Rachael with confusion.* "Isn't she that chick from our work?"

 

Ashton: "Yeah, Rachael has two jobs, she works here every Tuesday-"

 

Lance: "Why?"

 

Ashton: "Because her dad does office work, so she comes out to cover for him."

 

Lance: "Wateva."

 

Rachael: "Could I get all of you to position yourselves outside. Each person will be supplied with one litre of black paint, and don't worry it's user-friendly."

 

*All the players started to walk outside, causing them to scatter across the arena to hide.*

 

Rachael: *She noticed Ashton and Lance.* "Hey, Ashton." *She walked up to them and smiled, brushing her hair back.* "And.. Lance."

 

Ashton: "Hello, Rachael."

 

Lance: "'Sup?"

 

Rachael: *She noticed the sword and shield in their hands.* "Too bad guys."

 

Lance: "Ah wateva." *He rudely grunted and walked outside.*

 

Ashton: "Lance usually fails sometimes-"

 

Rachael: "Fails sometimes? Hehehe."

 

Ashton: "Haha, but when it comes to these type of things.. I always end up underestimating him."

 

Rachael: "Okay." *She giggled and blushed.*

 

Lance: *He glanced across the arena and noticed different shaped blocks.* (Where to hide?)

 

*Speakers which were placed high on poles started to play music loudly.*

 

Rachael: *Her smile faded, as she became alert to the music.* "You better get in position it's starting."

 

Ashton: "Okay.. Oh and Rachael, thanks for letting us in." *He raised the shield, as he walked outside.*

 

Rachael: "Hehe, of course." (Good luck, Ash.) *She pushed a button on a control box and a loud buzzing sound echoed throughout the arena.* "Begin!"

 

Ashton: *He ran up to Lance who hid behind a stack of multi-coloured boxes.* "Are we teaming up?"

 

Lance: "Was that even a question?"

 

Ashton: "Okay it was, it will be better-"

 

*Two teenagers ran across the opening and were shot from all angles.*

 

Rachael: *The speakers which played the music, faded into silence.* "Out." *Her voice caused the two teenagers to walk back into the waiting area, as the music started to play again.*

 

Ashton: (Their shirts were completely saturated within four seconds.) "Lance, what are you doing?"

 

----------

 

*Luna walked into her bathroom and slowly closed the door behind her, glaring at the mirror as if she was afraid.*

 

Luna: "I-I hate lookin' at myself." *She whispered to herself and walked up to the mirror, staring at her image with an emotionless face.*

 

*Luna slowly grabbed the bottom of her shirt and took it off, instantly revealing the numerous cuts all over her body.*

 

Luna: *She threw her shirt onto the floor and leant forward, placing her hands on the side of the sink.* "No matter how many times I wax or shave, I'm always hairy! A girl shouldn't look like a gorilla!"

 

*Luna started to heave, causing sweat to run down her forehead.*

 

Luna: "And I always sweat. I'm so disgusting-"

 

?????: "Is everything alright in there, hun?"

 

Luna: "Yes, mother." *She grunted on her breath and turned around with watering eyes, walking up to the shower.*

 

?????: "Are you sure-?"

 

Luna: *She twisted the taps, turning the shower on.* "Yes, Kairi." *She grunted in an annoyed-like manner, stepping into the shower.*

 

Kairi: "Okay. Let me know if you need anything."

 

Luna: "Wateva." *She lowered her head under the water, hiding her tears.*

 

----------

 

Rachael: *She observed the paintball field from the roof, watching Lance being surrounded by five players holding shooters.* (Lance has a sword with paint, while the other team members have shooters-)

 

Player: "Let's get him-" *He smirked in a smug-like manner and pulled the trigger, causing the other members to shoot at Lance.*

 

Lance: *He swayed to the side, closely avoiding the first barrage of paintballs.* "Aha, pathetic, aye-"

 

Player: "Shut up!" *He squinted one eye, shooting black paintballs at Lance's head.*

 

Lance: *He sliced the sword around him, causing strings of black paint to splash away from him.* (This is for Ash!)

 

Rachael: *She watched Lance skilfully avoid the continuous barrage of paintballs, while slashing each player.* (Wow-) "Out... Out... You're out." *Her voice echoed and sounded static, due to the poor speakers inside.*

 

*The players on the bench in the waiting area all looked up and stared at the next announcement.*

 

Rachael: "The game is now over! Everyone to the waiting area and the winner will be announced." *She walked down metal stairs from the roof, closely followed by the staff.*

 

Staff Member A: "Have you seen a guy move like that before?"

 

Staff Member B: "No, he was obviously determined, huh?"

 

Staff Member A: "Sure was. I wonder who over?"

 

Rachael: "Thank you all for playing." *She spoke to the players inside the warehouse and looked outside, watching the remaining players walk in.* "They're coming now."

 

Ashton: *He waited on the bench with the other players, mumbling to himself in thought.* (I wonder how Lance went?)

 

Rachael: (How did he do that?) *She thought to herself in shock.*

 

*Five players walked in with black slash marks all over their shirts.*

 

Ashton: *He closely observed the smear marks on the player's shirts.* (Was that from Lance?)

 

*The players on the bench started to chatter amongst themselves until Lance trotted in.*

 

Lance: (Too easy-) *The players noticed no trace of paint on his shirt, causing them to gasp in disbelief.*

 

*One of the five players took his shirt off in anger and threw it on the ground.* "It was five against one and we all had shooters." *He looked at the four players.* "You're all pathetic." *He stormed out of the warehouse.*

 

Lance: (Pathetic alright.) *He chuckled to himself, as he walked over to Ashton.* "Let's go, I'm gonna head home 'n' get changed."

 

Ashton: "Okay, let me quickly talk to Rach for a sec."

 

Lance: "Wateva." *He rolled his eyes and took off the shirt.*

 

Ashton: *He slowly walked up to Rachael, as she bent over a table and shuffled papers.* "Hey."

 

Rachael: "Oh, hey." *She faced him and blushed.*

 

Ashton: "I know Lance somehow won, but he-"

 

Rachael: "He's bored and wants to go home?"

 

*They smiled and awkwardly giggled.*

 

Ashton: "Well, I better go-"

 

Rachael: "Bye." *Her face became redder.*

 

*Ashton and Lance casually left the warehouse, covering their faces due to the sunlight which shined in their eyes.*

 

Ashton: "So, how did you do it?" *His car lights flashed, as he unlocked the car.*

 

Lance: "Do wat?"

 

Ashton: *He opened the door and placed his hands on the steering wheel.* "How you were able to take them all out?"

 

Lance: "I dunno, it's just a game."

 

Ashton: "They all teamed up against you."

 

Lance: "I know." *He spoke on his breath as if he didn't care.*

 

Ashton: (Lance being Lance.) *He sighed and started to drive towards Lance's house.*

 

----------

 

Cortax: "What are you doing here? We aren't due for tax for another three weeks."

 

Kath: "Actually, we're not here for tax." *She smirked in an evil-like manner, listening to the trees move in the cool night's breeze.*

 

Ridley: "Do you think a Consultant would bother themselves over something so petty?"

 

Victoria: "Then why?"

 

Ridley: *He looked at Kath and waved his hand around Cortax, as if he was implying something.* "Would you like to go first?"

 

Kath: "Indeed." *She stepped forward, drawing all attention towards her.* "This visit is about your abilities."

 

Victoria: "Our abilities?"

 

Kath: "The way you channel Neurons and Astragons, we know this can also be done through Radiatons."

 

Cortax: "Radiatons?" *He spoke in confusion, slowly shaking his head.*

 

Ridley: "Don't take us for fools."

 

Cortax: "How do you know about Radiatons?!"

 

Ridley: "Hmm? I don't know much about my colleague's past, but, shouldn't you recognise her? This is The Ruins of Estel, right?"

 

Kath: "No need to press on any further. It would be very unprofessional to bring up the past." *She smirked and pushed her glasses up with one finger.*

 

Cortax: "What about the Radiatons?"

 

Ridley: "You see. Your powers are something to be feared-"

 

Victoria: "Feared?"

 

Kath: "Do you honestly not know the power you wield, or do you seriously take us for fools?"

 

Ridley: "This entire city has the potential to ruin our plans-"

 

Kath: "Therefore, we must eradicate the problem."

 

Cassandra: (Eradicate?)

 

Cortax: "Problem? We've had no intentions of causing you problems!"

 

Ridley: "If you're struggling with a question, take out the problem, and the answer becomes quite clear."

 

Victoria: "What are you saying?"

 

Ridley: "The folly, can't you understand yet?"

 

Kath: "This is no longer discussable."

 

Cortax: "You haven't told us anything! We can't read your mind!"

 

Ridley: "Maybe you can? Your powers may be unethical to Remenistal Users or Elementalists, but your potential is unimaginable."

 

Victoria: "So, we're a threat?"

 

Ridley: "Ahh, not as half-witted as I originally thought."

 

Cortax: (If they plan to attack, a fight of such magnitude could destroy this entire city!)

 

Kath: "Unless you have furthermore questions, actions speak louder than words." *She formed fists, causing her hands to burst into flames.*

 

Victoria: *She gasped and stepped back, quickly hiding her intimidation.* (Her Neurons! She just released her Neurons and I've never felt something so powerful in all my-)

 

Ridley: "Shall we dance?" *He chuckled in a condescending manner and focused with squinted eyes, causing swirls of shadow-like darkness to envelop his hands.*

 

Cortax: (My worst fear!-) "Everyone!" *He shouted, queuing everyone to start dancing.*

 

----------

 

*Luna anxiously waited on a long silver bench in the middle of the park and looked up, staring at the stars.*

 

Luna: *She exhaled nervously and wrapped her arms around her stomach.* (Every person who seemed to care for me turned out to be false..-)

 

Carlo: "'Sup?" *He smirked, slowly walking up to the bench.*

 

Luna: "Carlo-" *She smirked and quickly stood up, causing Carlo to chuckle.*

 

Carlo: "So."

 

Luna: "So.."

 

Carlo: *He noticed Luna's ball-like dress, causing him to smirk in an impressed-like manner.* "About the ball-"

 

Luna: "We should go-"

 

Carlo: "Well, maybe I was thinking we could skip that."

 

Luna: "Skip?"

 

Carlo: "Well, yeah."

 

Luna: "Why?" *She spoke in confusion.*

 

Carlo: "Well, you're good looking."

 

Luna: "Wait, wat?"

 

Carlo: "Yea, I was wondering if we could, ya know."

 

Luna: "Ya know? Ya know wat?"

 

Carlo: *He grabbed Luna's waist and smirked, slowly stepping forward.* "Fun?"

 

Luna: "Didn't you want to go to the ball?"

 

Carlo: "We can have fun other ways?"

 

Luna: "I-I've liked you for ages-"

 

Carlo: "Cool, so, where do you wanna go?"

 

Luna: *She shook her head, instantly looking sad.* "I'm goin' home-"

 

Carlo: "Huh?"

 

Luna: "This is what you wanted the whole time, right?"

 

Carlo: "Yea? Aren't you into that stuff?"

 

Luna: "I've never-" *She spoke with quivering lips and pushed Carlo back, instantly running away.*

 

Carlo: "Fine-" *He frowned in disgust, as if Luna was in the wrong.*

 

Luna: (I knew it.. I knew it!)

 

Carlo: "That stupid slag." *He sighed on his breath, as if he no longer had any plans.*

 

Luna: (I hate...) *She ran with a tensed up body and scrunched her eyes shut, causing tears to run down her cheeks.*

 

*Luna ran across the street and straight towards her house, angrily opening the fly screen.*

 

Luna: (Why can't I find anyone?!) *She stumbled into the house, catching Kairi's attention.*

 

Kairi: "Hun-?"

 

Luna: "Gah!-" *She screamed with emotion and started to violently rip off the dress' accessories.*

 

Kairi: "What's wrong-?"

 

Luna: "Nothin'! Just stop!" *She sniffed, storming into her room.*

 

Kairi: "..." *She awkwardly smiled to herself, before focusing her attention back into the kitchen.*

 

Luna: *She sobbed, dropping to her knees.* (I can't believe this...)

 

*Luna fell to her side and stared at the wall with an emotionless face, ignoring the tears which streamed across her face.*

 

----------

 

*Lance's room was as messy as a teenager's. There were clothes scattered on the floor and cables tangled from his electronics. He had stacks of DVD's and games. He also had a wooden table with all sorts of crystals and piles of spiritual magazines. The room was dimly lit.*

 

Lance: *He sighed and sat on the end of his bed.* (There's nothing to do.) *He looked around with a bored expression and his stomach growled.*

 

*An hourly alarm beeped, causing Lance to moan with boredom.*

 

Lance: *The bed squeaked as he leant up and walked to the living room.* (I shouldn't have come home so early-) *He jumped on the couch and changed the channel on the TV.*

 

Anchor Man: "And now Mrs. Hambridge will be giving us an update on Sceldrant's Comet."

 

Mrs. Hambridge: "Thank you. Now that Sceldrant's comet is closer to Earth we're able to grasp more information from it, we have also gathered the most intelligent meteorologists and have found some interesting findings relating to the comet."

 

Lance: "Not the news again."

 

Mrs. Hambridge: "Firstly, I have been receiving emails asking the same question and well let me tell you all, that there is no chance of the comet actually hitting us. Next, we believe the comet may cause some disturbances in the weather as the comet emits an abnormal energy signature our computers can't register."

 

Kairi: *She made noises in the kitchen, as she took the roast out of the oven.* (Almost ready-)

 

Mrs. Hambridge: "We also have pinpointed that the comet will be viewable around ten 'o clock at night, local time."

 

Lance: (At ten, aye?)

 

Mrs. Hambridge: "Once again, you'll be able to see all of the comet's glory if you pop down to the local library or public schools, as we're allowing people to freely use the telescopes!"

 

Anchor Man: "Thank you Mrs. Hambridge, we will continue the interview after a short message."

 

*A mysterious advert caused the screen to glow aurora colours, catching Lance's attention.*

 

Kairi: "Din-Din's ready, hun." *She sliced the roast onto three separate plates.*

 

Lance: "Shh this kool show is on!! I'll be there in a second!"

 

Kairi: "Okay, please make haste before it gets cold." *She walked over to the table and placed the dishes in their respective places.*

 

TV Advert: *The advert showed pictures of products and a map on how to get there. It played on a continual loop with a voice over.* "Don't miss our one-day-opening! Spirit attachments, curses, unwelcome guests, we specialise in all that stuff. We will be opening at eleven in the morning to one in the afternoon. If you're into this type of stuff, this is a must see!"

 

Lance: *He sat on the edge of the couch due to excitement.* (I really want to go, but Ashton's stupid manager thing is on tomorrow-)

 

Kairi: *She noticed Lance stare at a blank screen, which caused her to look curious.* "Lance?"

 

Lance: *He unintentionally ignored her, as he grumbled deep in thought.* (I always feel like I can sense strange things and all that stuff so, I want to check this out. I don't even want to be a manager, I'm only doing it for Ashton.) *He sighed to himself with frustration.*

 

Kairi: "What was all that about, hun?"

 

Lance: "Some stupid thing." (Sorry Ashton but I really want to go to this store.)

 

Kairi: "Lance, it's getting cold." *She sat down and grabbed a knife and fork.*

 

Lance: "I'm comin' far out." *He got up and hobbled to the table as he plopped himself onto a chair.*

 

Kairi: "Luna, come on! It's getting cold!" *Her voice caused the sounds of a door opening in response.*

 

Luna: "Sorry, mother." *She walked out of her room dressed in all black and covered in dark make-up.*

 

Lance: (That thing is my sister-) *He watched Luna drag her feet to the table.*

 

Luna: *She noticed Lance staring at her, which caused her eyebrow to twitch.* "Wat are you lookin' at?!"

 

Lance: "Did ya take so long 'cause you were cuttin' yourself a little longer than usual?"

 

Luna: "So, Lance, have you seen any more ghosts lately or tryin' to summon a character from one of your stupid games?" *She smirked.*

 

Lance: "Wow, was I wrong? You took so long because you had to glue your face together because it broke when you tried to smile?"

 

Kairi: "Lance, enough!"

 

Lance: "What about her?" *He pointed at Luna like a child.*

 

Kairi: "She is five years younger than you, you should know better-"

 

Lance: "Yeah thanks for dinner, I'm off to bed, aye." *He pushed the chair back and made his way to his room.*

 

Kairi: "But you haven't eaten anything?" *Her voice slightly echoed down the hallway.*

 

Lance: "I'm not hungry anymore." *He slammed the door behind him and took a few steps into his room and yawned.* (Looks like I used more energy at that paintball thing than I expected.) *He yawned again and lay down on the bed. He fell asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow.*

 

----------

 

Luna: *She frowned in anger, intensely staring at herself in the mirror.* (That stupid idiot!)

 

*Luna rubbed her left eye and dropped her arm in a defeated-like manner, smearing black makeup all down one side of her face.*

 

Luna: (Maybe I'll join Kylie and Kerry-Anne tomorrow, not like anyone will care..) *She whimpered and dragged her feet to the bed, collapsing face-first into the pillow.*

 

----------

 

*Nathan slowly woke up, noticing he was bound by thick rusty chains.*

 

Nathan: "Huh-?" *He glanced across a jail-like cell, listening to the sounds of chains and moans echo in the background.*

 

*Nathan squinted and opened his eyes wider, finding himself chained to a stone door.*

 

Nathan: (I've... I've finally been captured?)

 

----------

 

*Ashton and Rachael stood on the roof of Fast Food Enterprise, watching the cars drive down the street.*

 

Rachael: "It wasn't cool what Lance did."

 

Ashton: "He did a no show on the day he was meant to do his manager's induction."

 

Rachael: "How did Twortz react?"

 

Ashton: *She wasn't too impressed, but I was able to cover for him."

 

Rachael: (Ash is so sweet.) *She looked at Ashton with blushing cheeks.*

 

Ashton: "Thanks for today." *He smiled and held Rachael's hand, causing her to giggle.*

 

Rachael: "Why're you thanking me? We just talked after your shift-"

 

Ashton: "No matter what we're doing, I'm always grateful for the times we spend together."

 

Rachael: "Hehe, Ash."

 

Ashton: "No. I mean it, Rach."

 

Rachael: (I can see why a lot of girls are jealous of me now, he's a wonder-)

 

Ashton: *He looked up and watched the stars flicker, causing him to smile.* (I find the good in everyone, but with Rach, I don't even need to try. She is just amazing-) "Excuse me, Rach?"

 

Rachael: *She looked up, admiring the stars with Ashton.* "Yeah?"

 

Ashton: "How come you never complain or ask why I'm Lance's friend?"

 

Rachael: "Why should I question who you should be friends with?"

 

Ashton: "Ha ha, that's what I like about you." *He smiled and shook his head, as if it didn't matter.*

 

Rachael: "Oh? So you only like me because I don't question anything about you?" *She spoke in a playful-like manner, looking at Ashton with a smile.*

 

Ashton: "Ha ha, you got me." *He stepped back and swayed his arms, as if Rachael was right.*

 

Rachael: "Hehe, sure did, arsehole." *She smirked and playfully turned away, folding her arms.*

 

Ashton: "You're amazing, Rach."

 

Rachael: "That's Rachael to you."

 

Ashton: "Oh, sorry. Ahem. You're amazing, unacceptable face."

 

Rachael: "Hehe! Unacceptable face?" *She turned around and faced Ashton, trying not to laugh.*

 

Ashton: "Ha ha, that's the best I got. Leave me alone."

 

Rachael: "You halfwit." *She smirked, causing Ashton to turn red.*

 

Ashton: "All you do is pay me out, jeez. Give me a break."

 

Rachael: *She smirked, stepping forward.* "Sorry?"

 

Ashton: "Acceptable." *He smirked and leant forward, kissing Rachael on the lips.*

 

----------

 

*Luna, Kylie and Kerry-Anne drank from alcohol bottles, watching the sunrise.*

 

Kylie: "This feels like a public holiday."

 

Kerry-Anne: "Sceldrant's Comet.. It kinda is."

 

Luna: "Yea." *She grunted in agreement and violently rocked the bottle up, taking a sip of alcohol.*

 

Kylie: "We've all been hurt, so why do we seriously continue to rot?"

 

Kerry-Anne: "Wither and waste our parents' money?"

 

Luna: (Wasting our parents' money? She's right! I never thought of it like that-)

 

Kylie: "It would be easier to end it.."

 

Kerry-Anne: "Damn right." *She spoke in a sorrowful-like manner, taking a sip from the bottle.*

 

Luna: "Such a waste of space and resources, aye."

 

Kerry-Anne and Kylie: "Damn right."

 

----------

 

*Lance stood outside Fast Food Enterprise and sighed, before opening the door.*

 

Lance: *He stepped inside and instantly felt cool air brush past him.* (That's better.) *He noticed Ashton standing with his arms folded and his face filled with disappointment.* (He doesn't look happy-)

 

Ashton: "Lance! I will not accept this." *He stormed across the dining room and up to Lance.* "I was made to look like a fool in front of Tyler and Twortz."

 

Lance: "Why does it matter?" *He spoke as if he didn't care.*

Ashton: "It matters because I'm the one who suggested promoting you. I really don't know why you are my best friend sometimes!"

 

Lance: *He picked up several napkins to wipe the sweat off his face.* "So wat, I ain't gonna get promoted?"

 

Ashton: *He sighed and looked away.* "Lance-"

 

Lance: "Well?"

 

Ashton: "Well luckily for you Twortz said, since you are our best worker Ashton, I will let this no show slide. If he wants this position to let him know that myself and a few other employees will be here tonight. We will begin the assessment then."

 

Lance: "OK-"

 

Ashton: "You are so lucky."

 

Lance: "I'm sorry, Ashton."

 

Ashton: "One of these days I won't forgive you.. What flaming fudge were you doing anyway? I was calling non-stop?"

 

Lance: "Ah, I, umm? Overslept. I'm sorry, man.... And thanks for sticking up for me." *He threw the napkins in the bin.*

 

Ashton: *He sighed and adjusted his belt.* "If you don't turn up tonight I won't forgive you." *His voice was stern and his face filled with seriousness.*

 

Lance: "Yea, I will."

 

Ashton: "Well I have rosters to do so I'll be on the computer all day. Come back at around nine thirty?"

 

Lance: "Yea kool, I'll see you then."

 

*Ashton nodded his head and quietly walked back behind the counter to the office. Lance turned around and walked to the door.*

 

Lance: (Oh no-) *He stopped and sighed, realising he had to walk all the way back to his house in the heat. He opened the door and hot air engulfed him.*

 

Tyler: *He eavesdropped on Lance and Ashton's conversation, as he spied through a display cabinet.* (Why is Lance Ashton's best friend?)

 

Lance: (I suppose this is karma.) *He sighed and braced himself, as he took a few steps outside.*

 

Tyler: (He always hinders Ashton's performance....)

 

----------

 

*A man and woman in dancer-like garments ran through an ancient forest with their arms swaying behind their back.*

 

?????: *She looked at the darkly tanned man, frowning in a worried-like manner.* "I'm worried, Lehi."

 

Lehi: *He looked at the woman with red hair, shaking his head.* "We have to get to the city before they do."

 

?????: "But-"

 

Lehi: "Don't worry, Elizabeth. Victoria, Cortax and the others will be there."

 

Elizabeth: "But, Holy Neurons, the Consultant!-"

 

Lehi: "We'll worry about that when we get there."

 

Elizabeth: "Okay." *She frowned in determination and started to run faster, causing her robes to rapidly flap to each side.*

 

----------

 

Luna: *She sat on the end of her bed, listening to the crickets sing in the night's breeze.* (I can't believe I passed out and slept for the entire day!)

 

*Luna moaned and looked up, watching Lance step into the bathroom.*

 

Luna: *She looked down and held her head up, listening to the shower turn on.* (I even left my door open? Gah.. I can't believe-)

 

*Lights suddenly spiralled out of the bathroom, instantly catching Luna's attention.*

 

Luna: "W-Wat the-?!" *She unintentionally screamed in shock, intensely staring at the swirling lights.*

 

Kairi: *She power walked down the hallway and looked at Luna, catching her attention.* "Hun?"

 

Luna: "Th-There's lights!" *She pointed behind Kairi, causing her to turn around.*

 

Kairi: *She stared at the bathroom door with an unimpressed expression on her face.* "There's nothing-"

 

Luna: "I-I saw lights!" *She rubbed her eyes, ignoring the smeared black make-up on her face.*

 

Kairi: *She took several steps into Luna's room, instantly sniffing the air.* (Alcohol...) "Let's go to the couch."

 

Luna: "But-"

 

Kairi: (Why does she do this to herself?) *She grabbed Luna by the arm and gently lifted her up.*

 

Luna: "But-? Gah!" *She frowned in pain.* (My head-)

 

Kairi: *She walked down the hallway and gently placed Luna on the couch.* "There-"

 

Luna: "No! Just check the effin' bathroom!"

 

Kairi: *She sighed in a defeated-like manner and turned around, walking towards the bathroom.* "Lance?"

 

Luna: *She awkwardly looked over the couch, staring at Kairi with anticipation.* "What if there're aliens-"

 

Kairi: *She knocked on the door, ignoring Luna's suggestion.* "Are you okay in there, hun?"

 

Lance: "Wateva, go away." *He shouted with an echoing voice, stepping into the shower.*

 

Kairi: "Okay."

 

Luna: *She shook her head, watching Kairi walk back towards her.* "I'm freakin' serious, all these lights spiralled out of the door."

 

Kairi: "Shh, it's okay." *She walked up to Luna and hugged her.*

 

Luna: "It's not OK. I know what I saw."

 

Kairi: ".. Are you taking drugs again?"

 

Luna: "Drugs? What? No."

 

Kairi: "Maybe Lance played a trick on you?"

 

Luna: "My stupid brother doesn't have the intelligence to play a trick like that."

 

--

 

*Lance stood in the fogged up bathroom and listened to the cheers outside, which filled him up with excitement.*

 

Lance: *He chuckled and shook his head.* (Stupid crazy old fart.) *As he changed, he gazed upon faded crystal-like purple stone with a guilty face.* (I will show Ashton the cool crystal.. I will tell him the truth about the no show.)

 

*Lance opened the door and walked down the hallway, catching Kairi's attention.*

 

Kairi: "Where are you going?" *She spoke in a curious tone.*

 

Lance: "I'm off to work." *He walked past her, blatantly ignoring Luna.*

 

Kairi: "I thought it was your day off?"

 

*Lance ignored her and slammed the front door, as he jogged his way to work.*

 

Luna: "It came from the bathroom.." *She grunted on her breath and started to watch TV.*

 

Kairi: *She looked at Luna and sighed, causing her to slowly walk into the bathroom.* (Huh?)

 

*Kairi stared at the fogged up mirror, noticing glyphic-like hieroglyphs on them.*

 

Kairi: (He is twenty-one and he still writes on the mirror?) *She sighed again and reached for a cloth.*

 

*Firework-like rumbles echoed outside, followed by cheers of excitement.*

 

Luna: *She frowned, tapping the remote on the side of her head.* (They're too noisy.)

 

Kairi: *She switched on the bathroom's fan and started to wipe off the glyphs on the fogged up mirror.* (Wait a minute.. These glyphs!?!) *She gasped and stepped back.*

 

Luna: *She heard Kairi gasp, causing her to mute the TV.* "Wat's wrong?"

 

Kairi: "I-I need you to get Lance now!"

 

Luna: *She frowned in a rebellious-like manner, as if she didn't want to.* "Excuse-?!"

 

Kairi: "Go, now!" *She shouted out of character, causing Luna to slowly stand up in shock.*

 

Luna: "O-OK?" *She spoke as if she didn't know what to do.*

 

Kairi: "He's headed for work, go!"

 

Luna: "Umm, OK..?"

 

----------

 

*Excitement filled the atmosphere, as if it was a holiday at Dee Highs.*

 

Lance: *He looked up and squinted his eyes, staring at the night sky.* (No signs of that damned comet yet.)

 

*There were posters, bulletins, newsstands, radio adverts, mostly all media outlets, advertising the arrival of Sceldrant's Comet.*

 

Lance: *He walked past a group of kids holding glow sticks and shirts with the words 'Sceldrant's Comet' on them.* (The store's closed a little early tonight-)