The North PacificBoard

50,400 years ago, Rhalith hath develop life on the world, alongside Falkryek, the paladin of sun, and Ulkraneryk, the missioneer of moon. Rhalith had given Blood magic to the Sycorins, a family of humans, yet only those with the sigil had the potential to take on the Darksteel form, and only those who tapped into the bloodscape (a cabal of light) could take on the Neo-Darksteel forme, a form in which the user was beyond the maximum of their power.
50.4 millennia later, in the year 2027, Alastor, currently with roommates Emily and Adora, has yet to unlock his blood magic potential, but that will change very soon... Very soon...
Redent recap
When Alastor was 19 years old, he first tapped into his blood magic potential, and over the course of several months, Alastor (and his brother Chimera) had become really powerful Blood mages. Alastor took on the Lightning Shadow, killing it, and then going into grievance of murder for a few minutes atop a skyscraper before returning to his allies.
He also took out the Ancient Cultists with the Allsoul Decimate, and met Ryx, a cosmic prankster. After years of "just friendship" Alastor and Adora broke the tension between themselves and started their relationship. Couple weeks later, Adora took Alastor to Ka, Adora's homecity. She met up with Kira, her old friend, and then introduced Alastor to her family and the two had dinner with them. The following is the later evening and beyond
(Had to split the TSF into 2 factbooks because poor NS couldn't handle going further than the 6th arc in one factbook lol)

Arc VI: Thantophobia
Narrator: Later that night, Alastor is in the guest bedroom. Alastor and Adora have decided to stay the night in Ka, and come back home to Sictarum first thing tomorrow morning. Alastor texts Chimera over the phone explaining this and then proceeds to put his phone down on the sturdy bedside table and slumps down on the bed, his stomach full from Adora's family's dinner.

Adora: *enters the room, her tail swishing slightly* "Alastor, are you okay?"

Alastor: Yeah.

Adora: *sits down next to Alastor, her expression a mix of concern and curiosity* "What's on your mind?"

Alastor: Nothin' much.

Adora: *slides closer, laying her head on his shoulder* You're thinking about your brother again, aren't you?

Alastor: Yeah.

Adora: *lifts her head to look at him* "Do you think he'll be okay without us for the night?"

Alastor: Me and Chim, we were once separated for 17 years. I think one night is going to be fine.

Adora: *nods, understanding his pain* "But you're still worried, aren't you?"

Alastor: Yeah. I know he's gonna be fine, but it's just built-in to my mind at this point.

Adora: *looks at Alastor with a gentle gaze* I know it's hard. But Chimera's strong too, and he has Emily with him. They'll manage.

Alastor: Yeah, you're right.

Alastor: Adora, I want to tell you something.

Adora: What is it, Alastor? *Her eyes searched his, the warmth from earlier now replaced with concern.*

Alastor: I love you. I really do. You make me feel something that no-one else can make me feel. You make me feel complete.

Adora: *looks up at Alastor, her eyes misty* "Alastor..."

Adora: *swallows* "You don't have to say it just to make me feel better."

Alastor: No, Adora, I really mean that.

Adora: *Her expression softens, and she places a gentle hand on Alastor's cheek* "I love you too..."

Adora: *pauses, then continues* "But what about your family, Alastor? What will they say when they know the truth about us?"

Alastor: Adora, you've forgotten something crucial. You, Chimera, Emily, even Ryx to some extent, you guys are my family. Chimera and Emily are happy for us. I've never felt better than while being with you.

Adora: *Her eyes widen slightly* "Alastor, I... I don't know what to say."

Alastor: You don't have to say anything. It's okay. You're safe.

Adora: *still processing his words* It's just... my family's always been so traditional, you know? I just don't want to disappoint them.

Alastor: *his hand gently on her cheek, as he smiles slightly. The smile is isn't a wide grin, or a toothy one, it's a soft, warm, and reassuring one, full of love and compassion.* don't talk like that, Adora. You won't dissapoint them, I trust you.

Adora: *her eyes searched Alastor's, her expression a mix of hope and fear* "But what if they don't accept us, Alastor?"

Alastor: They do accept us, Adora. I could tell back at dinner.

Adora: *sighs* "I hope you're right, Alastor."

Alastor: I hope for the same. I hope for us to find solace in each other. Adora. Do you know why I act so protective?

Adora: *swallows* "I have an idea, but I'd like to hear it from you."

Alastor: Tell me your idea first.

Adora: I... I think you're protective because you've been through a lot. You've seen what it's like to lose everything. And you don't want the people you care about to go through that.

Alastor: Yes. you're right.

Adora: *nods, leaning into Alastor's touch* I've noticed that. But what makes you say that about me?

Alastor: Say what?

Adora: I said, I think your protectiveness comes from fear of losing people. And I can understand that.

Alastor: There's a name for that fear. Thantophobia.

Adora: Thantophobia... I see. *Her eyes searched Alastor's, her expression filled with understanding.* It's like you're afraid of losing the people who've become your new family.

Adora: *nods slightly* That makes sense. But what about your actual family, Alastor? Have you ever tried to find them?

Alastor: I haven't actually thought about that. I've heard the Sycorins were last seen in Falkryek's Sanctum. But I've a question I don't think anyone has the answer for. Why does it ring a bell?

Adora: *frowns* The sanctum? That's a place of great power, but also danger. It's been abandoned since the Ancient Cultists desecrated it in 2010.

Alastor: *his gaze turns distant* I know. But if there's a chance to learn more about myself, I need to go there. Maybe Ryx knows something about it.

Adora: *Her expression shifts to one of contemplation.* "The sanctum is a place of great power, but it's also incredibly dangerous. I've heard stories, but I've never been there."

Alastor: I know it's risky, but I can't ignore the call. Maybe we could all go together.

Adora: *Her eyes widen* "The sanctum? That's... a bold move, Alastor. But if it's what you need to do, I'll support you."

Alastor: *nods* Thanks, Adora. I just need to know more about who I am, and maybe I can find peace. But we've got things to deal with than going on another vanity trip.

Adora: I understand, Alastor. But you should also consider that you might find more than just answers there.

Alastor: I know it's dangerous, Adora, but I've faced danger before. I can handle it.

Arc VII: A Glimpse into Chimera's Eyes

Narrator: Meanwhile, Back at Chimera's place...

Chimera: *sighs as he flops down onto the couch in the living room* "Man, I miss those guys already."

Emily: *enters the room, holding a tray of snacks* "They'll be back soon enough, Chim. Besides, we've got each other, right?"

Chimera: *grins at Emily* "Always the bright side, aren't you?"

Emily: "Someone has to be!" *pops a chip into her mouth*

Chimera: "You know what, Em? Sometimes I think you're the sanest one out of all of us."

Emily: "Well, I've had plenty of practice. Now, what do we do while we wait for them?"

Chimera: "Let's watch some TV or something. Maybe catch up on some local Sictarum news."

Emily: *sits down next to Chimera, placing the tray of snacks on the coffee table* "Local news it is! Maybe we'll catch something interesting."

Chimera: *flips through the channels* "Ah, here we go. 'Sictarum News at 8.'"

Newswoman Janice: "Breaking news! Reports have been flooding in about strange phenomena occurring at the abandoned Falkryek's Sanctum. Witnesses claim to have seen unexplained lights and figures moving within the ruins."

Chimera: "Whoa, hold up." *pauses the TV* "Did you guys hear that?"

Emily: *Her eyes light up* "Strange phenomena at Falkryek's Sanctum? That sounds like something we should check out!"

Chimera: "Hold on, Em. Could be nothing but a bunch of kids messing around."

Emily: "The Sanctum's in the middle of the Amaranthine Ocean, I don't think a bunch of kids messing around made their way to a place that remote."

Chimera: "You're right, Em. But we should be careful. If it's something big, we might need Alastor and Adora."

Emily: "But what if it's connected to Alastor's past, Chim? We can't just sit here and do nothing!"

Chimera: "Okay, okay, let's not jump to conclusions, Em. But if it's something serious, we'll definitely need them." *He picks up his phone, typing out a message.*

Chimera: *texts Alastor* "Hey bro, you guys watching the news? Something's going down at Falkryek's Sanctum. You guys should get back here asap."

Alastor: *Alastor hears a ping from his phone. He takes it, and starts to type.* "rly? adora and I were just talking about the sanctum lol"

Chimera: *texts back* "No joke, Al. It's all over the news here. And get this - there's talk of a powerful energy signature detected nearby. Could be related to your ancestry."

Alastor: *continues to text* does the name ring a bell at all to you??

Chimera: *texts back* "Bro, you're freaking me out. Did you find something out about us? You know, other than the fact that we're apparently descended from ancient heroes and gods?"

Alastor: *replying* nah cos I got a feeling about the sanctum. Deja vu.

Chimera: *texts back* "Deja vu, huh? That's intense, Al. We'll keep an eye on it and gather intel. Stay safe in Ka."

Alastor: *texting* will do ttyl *puts his phone down*

Emily: *looks at Chimera* "What do you think it could be?"

Chimera: "Could be anything, Em. But if it's got a connection to Alastor's ancestry, we can't ignore it."

Emily: "Chim, you don't think it could be..."

Chimera: "What, Em? Spit it out."

Emily: *swallows* "Well, what if it's someone... or something... looking for Alastor?"

Chimera: *looks at Emily, his expression serious* "Em, you know how rare it is to hear about anything from the sanctum. If it's related to Alastor, we can't ignore it. But we need to be prepared for anything."

Emily: "You're right, Chim. We should get ready to head out to the sanctum as soon as they get back. Maybe it's a sign."

Chimera: *nods* But how are we going to get there? It's too far in to just swim there. And even if we had a boat, which we don't, it's still a 3-day trip.

Emily: "Why don't we just teleport?"

Chimera: Blood Magic can't teleport people.

Emily: "But what if we ask Ryx for help? He's got all sorts of cosmic tricks up his sleeve!"

Ryx: *Floating about the place* "Sorry, Em, i can't teleport to Falkryek's sanctum. And even if i could, it would be impossible to take you guys with, as i'm non-corporeal."

Emily: *frowns* "Well, darn. I was hoping we could just zap over there."

Chimera: I guess we'll have to go down to the Sictarum Docks when they come back.

Emily: *nods* "Maybe we could find someone with a boat who's willing to take us?"

Chimera: *looks at Emily with skepticism* "I doubt anyone's going to take us to an abandoned sanctum without question, Em."

Emily: "We'll just have to convince them, Chim. Maybe offer them a reward or something!"

Chimera: *laughs* "Em, you're always full of surprises. But you might have a point. We'll figure something out."

Arc VIII: Journey to the Sanctum

Narrator: A day-and-a-half later, Alastor and Adora return to Chimera's place. Alastor knocks on the front door, awaiting Chimera.

Chimera: *swings the door open with a wide grin* "Al! Adora! Welcome back!"

Narrator: The living room is a whirlwind of excitement as Emily bounds over, her eyes alight with news. "You guys aren't going to believe what happened while you were gone!"

Alastor: What happened, Em?

Emily: You guys, you won't believe it! Something's going on at Falkryek's Sanctum!

Alastor: Well, Adora and I were actually planning on heading there.

Emily: *excitedly* "No way! That's so crazy!"

Chimera: "Well, that's one hell of a coincidence."

Chimera: "But before we get ahead of ourselves, we should sit down and go over what we know."

Adora: *Her eyes narrow slightly as she crosses her arms* "What do we know, Chimera?"

Chimera: "Only that there's something weird happening there. We should get the full story from Alastor before we jump to conclusions."

Alastor: Right. From what I studied from Kachovy's office, the sanctum used to be the home of the Sycorins, for thousands of years. Then, in 2010, the Ancient Cultists went and destroyed it. Since then, it's been a lost haven, relics probably still standing.

Chimera: *his expression turns serious* "But why now, Al? Why is it calling out to you?"

Alastor: I don't know.

Chimera: "Well, we can't just sit around here waiting for answers to fall from the sky. Let's pack up and head to the docks. Maybe we'll get lucky and find someone crazy enough to take us to the sanctum."

Adora: *Her tail swishes nervously as she nods.* "Okay, let's get going."

Chimera: "Great. Em, grab the gear, will ya?"

Emily: "On it!" *she dashes off to the makeshift armory in the basement*

Narrator: The group quickly gathers their things, the weight of their impending journey pressing upon them. As they prepare, the tension in the air is palpable.

Narrator: About an hour later, the crew of 5, find themselves on the Sictarum pier.

Adora: *Her eyes scan the horizon, a hint of anxiety in them.* "Alastor, are we really doing this?"

Alastor: We have to.

Adora: *nods solemnly* If it's what you believe in, I'll stand by you.

Chimera: *his white hair fluttering in the sea breeze* "You guys remember the plan?"

Ryx: *materializes* "Oh, you mean the 'find a boat and not die trying' plan?"

Emily: *rolls her eyes* "Ryx, don't jinx it!"

Alastor: *Alastor makes his way over to a masked sailswoman* good morning.

The Masked Sailswoman: *Her eyes peer out from under her crimson mask, curiosity lighting them.* "Ahoy! What brings you and your friends to the docks at such an hour?"

Adora: *Her eyes narrow slightly as she watches the Masked Sailswoman* "We're looking for passage to Falkryek's Sanctum. Have you heard of it?"

The Masked Sailswoman: "Ah, the ancient sanctum! A place shrouded in legend and mystery. But why would you young 'uns be looking to sail to such a forsaken place?"

Chimera: "We're...uh...historians," Chimera says with a charming smile. "We're studying ancient cultures for a school project. We heard there are some amazing artifacts left behind there."

Emily: *nods enthusiastically* "Yeah, and we heard the best artifacts are at Falkryek's Sanctum!"

Ryx: *his eyes twinkle* "And I'm their...spiritual guide!"

The Masked Sailswoman: "Spirit guides and historians!" *she chuckles* "Well, I do happen to know a thing or two about the sanctum. I've sailed the Amaranthine Ocean for years, and I've heard whispers of treasure and danger on that island."

Adora: "Treasure or not, we really need to get there. Can you take us?"

The Masked Sailswoman: "Well, I might be able to help you, but it's a risky journey. The sanctum has a history of swallowing up the curious. You'd have to make it worth my while."

Adora: *Her tail swishes anxiously.* "What kind of payment are you looking for?"

The Masked Sailswoman: "Oh, I don't need gold or jewels, young lady. I've got a collection that'd make a dragon blush. What I'd like is a promise from you all to respect the sanctity of that place."

Alastor: We promise to Falkryek and swear on Ulkraneryk.

The Masked Sailswoman: "Ah, invoking the names of the old Paladins, are we? Well, that's a promise I can respect. I'll take you to the sanctum, but beware the whispers of the ancients."

Chimera: *his eyes widen slightly* "You heard the lady, folks. We've got a boat!"

Emily: "Wow, this is really happening!" *Her eyes sparkle with excitement as she clutches the bag of supplies to her chest.*

Adora: *Her gaze lingers on the Masked Sailswoman, a hint of skepticism in her voice.* "And how do we know we can trust you?"

The Masked Sailswoman: "Fair question, kitten. But if I were out for mischief, do you think I'd be telling you to respect the place? Besides, I've got a reputation to uphold. Call me Captain Iris."

Captain Iris: "Alright, let's get this ship ready to set sail! We've got a long journey ahead of us."

Alastor: *Al steps aboard, helping Chimera on as well.*

Chimera: *his eyes light up as he looks around the ship* "This is gonna be an adventure!"

Alastor: Sure as hell is.

Emily: *Her excitement bubbles over as she climbs onto the boat.* "I've never been on an adventure like this before!"

Adora: *Her expression is a mix of excitement and caution as she boards the ship.* "Let's just hope it's a journey worth taking."

Ryx: *his eyes sparkling* "Oh, it'll be worth it, I can feel it!"

Captain Iris: "Ah, youthful exuberance! It's been a while since I've seen such spirit on these docks. Tell me, are you a Cosmotosm or a Starborn?"

Ryx: *laughs* "Oh, I'm definitely a Starborn, Captain! But I'm just along for the ride!"

Captain Iris: "Ah, a Starborn! That explains the glow around you. Well, welcome aboard the Crimson Whisper. She's not much to look at, but she's fast and reliable."

Ryx: *his eyes dance with excitement* "Ooh, I can't wait to see what kind of adventure we're in for!"

Narrator: It's been about an hour, and the Crimson Whisper, now hosting Alastor and his crew to Falkryek's Sanctum. They've left Sictarum once more. Chimera forgot that he was seasick, and is lying against the Whisper's railing, trying to keep his breakfast in his stomach.

Chimera: *his face a shade of green* "Remind me why we're doing this again, Al?"

Alastor: Chim, it'll only be three days, you'll survive.

Chimera: *grumbles* "Yeah, yeah. You just don't get seasick."

Alastor: *looks at him with a glare that says ''are you f**king with me?''*

Adora: *Her pessimism temporarily fading, she offers Chimera a sympathetic smile.* "You'll be fine, Chim. Just keep your eyes on the horizon."

Ryx: *floats over to Chimera* "You okay, big guy?"

Chimera: *swallows hard, trying to keep his nausea at bay* "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a little... seasick."

Captain Iris: "Seasickness? Ah, a common ailment for those unaccustomed to the ocean's embrace. Here, try some of my ginger tea. It'll help settle your stomach."

Chimera: *gratefully takes the steaming cup* "Thanks, Captain. I've always had a rough time with boats."

Adora: *Her eyes scan the horizon, a hint of excitement creeping into her voice.* "I've never been to the sanctum before. What should we expect, Al?"

Alastor: I don't know. But it's nothing to be scared of.

Adora: *Her tail swishes nervously* I'm not scared, I'm just... cautious.

Alastor: Riiiight.

Adora: *Her eyes never leave the horizon, contemplating the words of Captain Iris.* "Do you think she's telling the truth, Al?"

Alastor: What do you mean?

Adora: I mean, Captain Iris seems too friendly, considering the reputation of the sanctum.

Alastor: She's just eager to be on the seas, that's all.

Adora: *Her expression turns thoughtful.* "Maybe you're right. But I still can't shake the feeling that there's more to her than meets the eye."

Narrator: The afternoon is relatively peaceful, Adora leaning her forearms on the railing, Chimera on the side of the deck, head over the railing, losing his lunch. Alastor's now by Chim's side, patting his back. Ryx is using his space magic to make water tricks in the sea, and Emily's watching intently, giggling every few tricks.

Alastor: There, there, Chim, better out than in...

Adora: *Her eyes flick over to Chimera, then back to the horizon.* "I don't think I've ever seen him this sick before."

Emily: *Her voice carries over the gentle splash of the waves* "Chimera's okay, guys. He just needs some time to get his sea legs!"

Ryx: *his eyes sparkling as he creates a dolphin out of water that jumps and dives alongside the ship* "Look! I've made us some companions!"

Emily: *Her eyes follow the water dolphin* "Ryx, that's amazing!"

Chimera: *his voice muffled by the railing* "Thanks, Em. Just... keep it down, okay?"

Narrator: It's been a few hours, Al, Adora, Chim, Em, Ryx, and the Whisper's crew are below deck having dinner. Al's wasted off his ass, Adora, for once, is keeping her distance from the absolutely wasted Al, Chim made the poor decision to converse with Al, which lead to some... weird dialogue... Em is just making small talk with Captain Iris, and Ryx is sulking in the corner because whenever he tries to eat anything it just falls through him.

Alastor: Chim... Ch-... bro?

Chimera: *lifts his head, groaning* What's up, Al?

Alastor: you look like a pipe.... *snorts*

Chimera: *his voice is slurred slightly as he laughs* "Thanks, Al. I always knew I had a... a certain je ne sais quoi."

Alastor: French people... neh... *laughing*

Ryx: *chuckles* "You guys are hilarious. What's so funny about French people?"

Alastor: croissant.

Ryx: *his eyes widen* "Did you just say... croissant?"

Alastor: orion nebula you ass heard meh...

Adora: *Her eyes widen slightly at Alastor's slurred speech.* "Alastor, are you okay?"

Alastor: I'm fiiiiiine.... d'worry bout it.. *coughs*

Captain Iris: "Looks like our fearless leader's had one too many, doesn't it?"

Alastor: ay, I'm not fearless... i... I'm f*cking...? arch? *snorts*

Ryx: *his laughter fading, he looks over at Adora* "Is he always like this?"

Adora: *Her cheeks redden slightly.* "Well, he's not usually this... out of it."

Ryx: *his curiosity piqued* "What do you mean, Adora?"

Adora: "It's just... I've never seen him like this before. So open and... happy."

Alastor: *hiccuping*

Ryx: *his eyes sparkling* "Alastor, are you okay?"

Alastor: *completely unresponsive*

Ryx: *his playfulness dimming a bit* "Okay, okay, let's not push it." *He looks over at Adora.* "You're right, it's not like him."

Adora: *Her expression softens.* "Let's get him to bed."

Ryx: *his eyes filled with concern* "Yeah, let's get him to bed before he ends up swimming with the fishes."

Alastor: who said shishkebab 'boutta fish?

Ryx: *his expression turns serious* "Alastor, you're not making any sense right now."

Alastor: *laughing*

Ryx: *his smile fades a bit as he looks at Adora* "You guys are so... sweet together."

Adora: *Her eyes widen slightly at the compliment.* "What do you mean, Ryx?"

Ryx: *his eyes sparkle* "I just mean, you guys have something special. It's like... you complete each other, y'know?"

Adora: *Her cheeks flush even deeper, and she looks away, trying to hide her smile.* "Thanks, Ryx."

Chimera: *his eyes still glued to Alastor* "I can't believe he's this wasted. What did he even have to drink?"

Emily: *grabs the empty bottle and reads the label* "Miraedean Whiskey."

Chimera: *his eyes widen* "Alastor, you had an entire bottle of Miraedean Whiskey?"

Alastor: iunnah. said fine sh*t on the libbel...

Emily: *reads under the main header* Huh. He's right. Says "fine stuff since 1945."

Chimera: *his voice is a mix of amazement and horror* "Since 1945? No wonder he's out cold."

Alastor: Why is the table warm...

Ryx: *his eyes twinkle* "I think it's the whiskey, Al. You had a bit too much."

Adora: *Her tail swishes as she looks at Alastor, her concern clear.* "We need to get him to bed before he does something stupid."

Alastor: *looking at Adora, in his drunken state, he's completely forgotten about the fact that Adora's his girlfriend* "You're pretty." *he says as he blinks drunkly*

Chimera: *his eyes widen, and he laughs* "Well, that's... unexpected."

Adora: *Her eyes widen slightly, and she looks at Chimera.* "We should really get him to bed."

Emily: *Her smile fades a bit, but she nods.* "Yeah, you're right."

Ryx: *his eyes flicker to Adora* "You guys are so cute together."

Captain Iris: "Ahoy, you two lovebirds! We're approaching the sanctum. Best get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!"

Alastor: di'ent it take thredays to reach sanca? Weer urly...

Ryx: *his eyes sparkling with excitement* "Alastor, we're almost there! Can you feel it?

Alastor: A-all I feel is a tingly theel in my hand...

Adora: *Her eyes dart to the abyss-blue sigil on the back of Alastor's hand, which seems to pulse slightly.* "Alastor, is that normal?"

Alastor: *suddenly sobers up* yeah, these aren't the usual pulses I get in the morning.

Alastor: *also remembers the things he said to Adora, he looks at her in horror.* Adora, did I actually say what I said..?

Adora: *Her gaze is gentle as she nods.* "You did, Alastor."

Alastor: *mutters ''sh*t, sh*t, sh*t, sh*t-'' under his breath* h-how did you feel about it?

Adora: *Her voice is calm and measured.* "I... I'm okay with it, Alastor. I just didn't expect it."

Chimera: *his eyes widen slightly* "Whoa, whoa, whoa. Did we just...?"

Alastor: just what?

Chimera: *his expression a mix of shock and amusement* "Alastor, you just told Adora she's pretty when you're wasted."

Alastor: *rubbing his forehead* Yes, Chim, I remember. *groans* never drinking like that again...

Captain Iris: *smiling broadly* "Ah, young love and whiskey! A potent combination, indeed. But let's not dilly-dally, the sanctum awaits!"

Alastor: Right...

ARC VII.V - Falkryek's Sanctum

Narrator: In about fifteen minutes, The Crimson Whisper's railing hits the sanctum soil, and Alastor, with a satchel slinged over his shoulder, walks down to meet the sanctum soil. He finds the terrain unfamiliar. The sand is unusual to Al. but he continues nonetheless, and Adora, Chimera, Emily and Ryx follow him down.

Chimera: *his eyes wide with excitement, despite his earlier seasickness* "Al, this place is incredible!"

Alastor: Yeah... *he continues trekking up the sand and later pebbles, eventually making his way up to a cobbled staircase and steps on the first step, it crumbles from the left under his feet, and he takes a step back.* that's odd.

Chimera: *his voice is a mix of excitement and caution* "Al, be careful."

Alastor: Just watch the first step. I think the rest of the 'case might be fine. As fine as fine goes here...

Ryx: *his eyes light up with excitement as he floats over the crumbling staircase* "Looks like we've got ourselves an adventure already!"

Alastor: *he breathes deep, before making his way up the staircase. There's a few small cracking noises, but no other deteriorations on it so far.* yeah, alright. It's safe, you guys.

Adora: *She follows Alastor cautiously.* "Alright, but be careful. This place isn't exactly known for its hospitality."

Chimera: *his excitement is palpable as he follows his brother up the stairs.* "You think we'll find any cool artifacts, Al?"

Emily: *Her eyes light up with excitement.* "I can't wait to see what's up there!"

Ryx: *his eyes sparkle as he floats closer to the stairs* "I'm with Emily, this is going to be epic!"

Narrator: As the group ascends the staircase, the air grows heavier with the weight of ancient secrets and long-forgotten power. The stairs lead them to an archway, where two towering statues of Falkryek and Ulkraneryk stand guard. Their eyes seem to follow the group, and the whispers of the ancients are barely audible in the background.

Alastor: *He looks at the statue of Paladin Ulkraneryk* Paladin Ulkraneryk...

Adora: *Her eyes trace the intricate carvings of the statues.* "These are incredible, Alastor. The detail, the power... It's like they're watching over us."

Chimera: *his voice echoes slightly in the archway* "They're definitely watching us, that's for sure. But I don't think they're too pleased."

Emily: *Her eyes are wide with wonder as she looks at the statues.* "They're so beautiful!"

Alastor: *he steps through the archway of the sanctum. He looks around before casting a spell and activating it's verbal trigger.* "Historia Viventem!" *suddenly, there's an illusion of what the sanctum looked like before the razing of 2010. Several dozen people, some reading books, some nursing their children, some enjoying the peace, but all of the Sycorin House nonetheless.*

Adora: *Her eyes widen as she takes in the sight.* "Alastor, what did you do?"

Alastor: Just some Blood Magic.

Emily: *Her eyes sparkle with excitement.* "Alastor, that's amazing! It's like we've traveled back in time!"

Chimera: *his eyes follow the illusionary people with fascination.* "This is incredible, Al. How did you learn to do that?"

Alastor: *Al shrugs. His eyes scan the massive sanctum before locking his eyes on a cradle with a baby in it. He makes his way over to it, and looks over to see the baby inside. The baby's short hair is white, and a small red marking on it's left hand is visible. In realisation, he looks back at Chimera, and then back at the illusionary infant. He steps back in horror. He mumbles something along the lines of ''this can't be...''*

Chimera: *his eyes follow Alastor* "What's wrong, Al?"

Alastor: Look at this. White hair, red sigil. call me mental, but I think this was you as a baby.

Chimera: *His eyes follow Alastor's gaze to the baby in the cradle.* "Al, are you...? That's impossible."

Alastor: If it's true, than that means... *his gaze is like one as someone seeing a horror unimaginable*

Chimera: *his voice shakes slightly* "But why would I be here, Al? Why in a place like this?"

Alastor: Chim, we're not from Sictarum. This is our original birthplace.

Adora: *Her eyes follow Alastor's gaze, and her pessimism momentarily fades into shock.* "What does this mean?"

Emily: *Her cheerful voice pierces through the tension* "Guys, maybe it's just an illusion! Right, Alastor?"

Alastor: This isn't any ordinary illusion, Em. It's a recreation of history.

Chimera: *his voice is barely a whisper* "Al... are you saying what I think you're saying?"

Alastor: Either that or I've gone insane.

Adora: *Her eyes are glued to the illusionary cradle, her tail flicking in agitation.* "What are we going to do, Alastor?"

Alastor: I don't know. For once, I don't f**king know. *the illusion starts to fade from above as he sits down on a stump of what was once a pillar. His breathing is heavy and ragged, he's in mental shock. His whole life has been turned on it's head. Suddenly, it all makes sense. But Al's too distraught to make sense of what adds up.*

Adora: *Her eyes are filled with concern as she sits beside Alastor.* "Alastor, you okay?"

Alastor: It's like I stared into the abyss, and it just... stared right back at me. *he looks at his own shaky palms in shock.*

Chimera: *his eyes still fixed on the fading illusion* Al, I don't understand. How can we be from here? Our entire life was in Sictarum...

Alastor: We must have been born here, but when the 2010 Calamity happened, by some miracle, we arrived in Sictarum, and- I don't know.. Chim, for once, I'm afraid of it all. It's so overwhelming...

Alastor: I-I'm not supposed to be like this... this isn't like me...

Adora: *Her voice is soft and gentle.* "It's okay, Alastor. We're all here for you."

Chimera: *He sits down next to Alastor, his expression a mix of confusion and concern.* "We're in this together, Al. We'll figure it out."

Emily: *Her eyes are filled with empathy.* "Alastor, you're not alone. We're all here to help you through this."

Ryx: *his eyes are filled with understanding* "Take a moment, Al. This is a lot to process."

Ryx: *his eyes flicker to the fading illusion* "Alastor, do you think there's something here that's supposed to be for us?"

Alastor: I think I've seen enough.

Emily: *Her eyes are filled with understanding.* "Alastor, it's okay. We can go back to the ship if you need some time."

Alastor: *Alastor mutters under his breath ''what am i?''*

Chimera: *his eyes never leaving Alastor* "Al, you okay?"

Alastor: No. No, no, no. I'm not. I'm gonna be brutally honest here, i'm not okay. The questions I used to ask were somewhat answered, but they were replaced by ones that threaten my mental grip on reality. There's more to this than we ever thought there was. There's a crack in the skies for me, a tear in my mentality. What seeps through it is the horror of existential insanity.

Chimera: *his eyes never leaving Alastor's* "Al, you're the strongest person I know. If anyone can handle this, it's you."

Alastor: *stands up, and out of this mental snap, he punches a pillar, exerting his rage unto the sanctum.* I never thought my own brother in blood and lineage would gaslight me like that. I can't handle this at all. It's too hard, even for me.

Chimera: *his eyes widen in shock at Alastor's outburst* "Al, wait!"

Alastor: *laughs, his fist still on the pillar.* Wait for what?

Chimera: *his expression a mix of concern and confusion* Alastor, you're scaring me. What's going on?

Alastor: You tell me.

Chimera: *his voice is calm and steady* Al, we're in this together. We'll find the answers. I believe in you.

Alastor: Your belief is in the wrong place. There's nothing in me worth believing in now.

Chimera: *his eyes are filled with determination* I believe in the person who's stood by me through everything, the one who's fought for me, taught me, protected me. That's the Alastor I know.

Alastor: *his fist drops from the pillar and unclenches. He's at a loss for words.*

Chimera: Al, remember what you said to me? That we're all we've got? That's the truth. We're all we've ever had.

Alastor: *he turns around to face Chimera, his rage turned to remorse before he suddenly hugged his younger brother, not wanting to say anything, he just needed comfort in a situation where it seems impossible to find any.*

Chimera: *his eyes widen in surprise, but he quickly hugs Alastor back.* "Al, it's okay. We're in this together."

Alastor: thank you.

Chimera: *his arms tight around Alastor* It's okay, Al. We'll get through this.

Adora: *Her eyes watch the brothers with a complex mix of emotions.* "Alastor, maybe we should get back to the ship. We can rest and think this through."

Alastor: *lets go of Chimera, and looks at Adora with a newfound calm.* good idea.

Adora: *Her voice is firm but gentle as she stands.* "Let's go, Alastor."

Narrator: The group, shaken by Alastor's revelation and emotional outburst, slowly makes their way back down the stairs, leaving the sanctum behind. The Masked Sailswoman, Captain Iris, watches them from a distance, her eyes filled with understanding.

ARC IX - Yakel Sycorin

Captain Iris: *Her voice is calm as she approaches.* "Are you all right, Alastor?"

Alastor: I'm good.

Yakel: *his voice is shaky, and his eyes are wide with terror* "Please, please, take me with you. I can't stay here anymore!"

Alastor: Who are you?

Yakel: *his eyes are wide with terror, and he's dressed in tattered robes.* "My name is Yakel. I've been hiding here since the sanctum was razed. Please, take me with you. I can't stay here any longer!"

Alastor: You don't even know where we're headed.

Yakel: *his voice is trembling as he emerges from the shadows of the sanctum, his eyes darting around frantically.* "Please, please, I'll go anywhere but here! The whispers, the... the memories!"

Alastor: Alright, alright. Come aboard.

Adora: *Her eyes narrow as she looks at the newcomer, Yakel.* "Why were you hiding?"

Chimera: *his eyes widen with curiosity* "Al, should we trust him?"

Alastor: Can't just leave him like that. I know "dangerous" in a person's eyes, it's not in his.

Captain Iris: "Looks like we've got ourselves an extra passenger." *Her eyes are filled with a knowing smile.* "Welcome aboard, Yakel. The Crimson Whisper doesn't judge, she just sails."

Yakel: *his eyes are filled with gratitude as he stumbles towards the group* "Thank you, thank you so much!"

Adora: *Her voice is skeptical.* "What do you mean, you can't stay here anymore?"

Alastor: Adora, just look at this place. I'm surprised he could have survived here that long.

Yakel: *his eyes dart around nervously* "It's... it's not safe here. Not for someone like me."

Emily: *Her voice is filled with cheerfulness as she tries to ease the tension.* "Well, Yakel, you're safe with us! Right, Alastor?"

Alastor: Sure. Why not?

Chimera: Alright! *He grabs Yakel's arm to help him along, his eyes filled with excitement.* Let's go!

Ryx: *his eyes glint with curiosity* "What's your story, Yakel?"

Yakel: *his voice is shaky* "I-I was a scholar here, studying the ancient texts of Falkryek. When the sanctum was... desecrated, I managed to hide. I've been living off what little I could find since."

Chimera: *his eyes light up with excitement* "Cool! Maybe you can teach us some ancient secrets, Yakel!"

Alastor: Give him room to breath, crew. He's most likely seen sh*t that's more painful than an assault-rifle wound.

Chimera: *his eyes are wide with excitement* "Al, think of the knowledge he could have! We could learn so much from him!"

Alastor: *rubbing his forehead with two fingers. Whether he's frustrated or irritated, can't be said.* I told you to back off, Chimera. Ryx, make yourself useful and get Yakel a hot chocolate or something below deck.

Ryx: *his expression a mix of innocence and mischief* "But, Al, I want to hear more!"

Alastor: I don't care. Do as you're told for once.

Ryx: *his eyes are filled with disappointment, but he nods* "Alright, Al. I'll go get him something warm to drink."

Emily: *Her smile is genuine as she looks at Yakel.* "Don't worry, Yakel. We'll take good care of you."

Yakel: *his voice is filled with gratitude as he looks around the group* "Thank you all so much. I-I can't tell you how much this means to me."

Adora: *Her gaze is still cautious.* "Yakel, why do you say it's not safe for someone like you here?"

Yakel: *his eyes dart around nervously* "Because I'm a... I'm a Sycorin. Like you, Alastor."

Alastor: *completely speechless, Alastor stammers before uttering an actually intelligible word;* how do you know- what made you think I'm a Sycorin?

Yakel: *his eyes dart around before settling on Alastor's left hand* "The sigil... it's the same as the one of my old scholars, the late Runus Sycorin."

ARC X: Adora's Birthday

Narrator: One month later, Yakel has taken quite a fondness to Alastor and the rest of them, but it's February 3rd, 2028, the day of Adora's 20th birthday, and as Adora's out for a walk, Alastor, Chimera, Ryx and Emily are setting up a surprise party at the house, but Yakel is in the dark about it all.

Yakel: *his eyes light up when he sees the decorations.* "What's all this for?"

Chimera: *smiling, while making the cake* "It's a surprise for Adora's birthday!"

Yakel: *his eyes widen with realization* "Oh! Adora's birthday! I had no idea!"

Alastor: You're still new here, I can't blame you.

Emily: *Her voice is filled with excitement.* "This is going to be the best surprise party ever!"

Alastor: Yep.

Yakel: *his eyes dart around the room, taking in the streamers and balloons, his eyes widening.* "Is there anything I can do to help?"

Emily: "Oh, we've got it all under control, Yakel! But thanks for offering!"

Narrator: As Yakel helps to prepare for Adora's surprise party, the group's dynamic starts to shift. Alastor, usually the stoic center of the group, appears more contemplative and lost in thought.

Narrator: The day of the surprise party, Adora returns home from her walk, unaware of the festivities awaiting her. The house is unusually quiet, which makes her tail twitch in suspicion.

Adora: *Her eyes narrow as she opens the door.* "Is anyone home?"

Adora: *Her ears twitch as she hears the faint sound of whispering from the living room.* "What's going on here?"

Adora: *Her steps slow as she approaches the living room, her pessimism turning into curiousity.* "Guys? What's going on?"

Alastor: *switches the lights on, which is the cue for Ryx to fire the illusional confetti cannons.* Surprise! Happy birthday!

Adora: *Her eyes widen in surprise, and a rare smile spreads across her face.* "You guys did all this for me?"

Alastor: Yep! It was the least we could do.

Chimera: *his eyes sparkle with excitement* Happy birthday, Adora!

Emily: *Her laughter fills the room as the confetti showers down on everyone.* "Surprise, bestie!"

Yakel: *his eyes wide with wonder* Happy birthday, Adora!

Adora: *Her eyes sweep over the room, taking in the decorations and the smiling faces of her friends.* "Thank you all so much."

Alastor: It was Em's idea.

Emily: *Her cheeks flush with excitement.* "We wanted to do something special for you, Adora! You've been through so much, and we just wanted to show you how much we care."

Adora: *Her pessimism fades away briefly, replaced by a warm gratitude.* "You guys didn't have to do all this..."

Alastor: Don't be so modest. You deserve this.

Adora: *Her smile is genuine as she looks around the room at the smiling faces of her friends.* "Thank you all. This is... unexpected."

Lore: 50,400 years ago, Rhalith hath develop life on the world, alongside Falkryek, the paladin of sun, and Ulkraneryk, the missioneer of moon. Rhalith had given Blood magic to the Sycorins, a family of humans, yet only those with the sigil had the potential to take on the Darksteel form, and only those who tapped into the bloodscape (a cabal of light) could take on the Neo-Darksteel forme, a form in which the user was beyond the maximum of their power.
50.4 millennia later, in the year 2027, Alastor, currently with roommates Emily and Adora, has yet to unlock his blood magic potential, but that will change very soon... Very soon...

PROLOGUE

Arc I: Study

Emily: *skips into the living room, a wide smile on her face* "Good morning, you two! Did you sleep well?"

Alastor: I guess.

Adora: *looks at him, noticing his discomfort* "You okay?"

Alastor: Yeah, I'm fine.

Emily: "What's the plan for today, guys?"

Alastor: *makes "i don't know" sound* we've not got any errands to run today.

Emily: "How about we visit the library? Maybe we can find more about your bloodline and this whole Blood Mage thing!"

Alastor: Yeah, sounds like a plan.

Adora: *nods* "It's a good idea to keep digging. Maybe we'll find some answers."

Alastor: Yeah, maybe.

Adora: *glances at the still-glowing sigil on Alastor's hand, then back at him* "You sure you're okay? That thing hasn't stopped pulsing since the eclipse."

Alastor: It's a bit tingly in my fingers, but I'm pretty sure that's just pins and needles from when I slept on it last night.

Emily: "Alastor, do you think you could try to do that lightning thing again?"

Alastor: *opens his palm, dark electricity crackling in it.* what, this?

Emily: "Yes, it's so cool!"

Adora: "It's definitely something, but let's not get ahead of ourselves. We should be focusing on understanding it before we start throwing around lightning bolts."

Alastor: *sleeping at the table, literally unconscious*

Adora: *looks at Alastor with a sigh, then glances at the clock* "You've been out for hours. What's going on with you?"

Alastor: *mumbles incomprehensibly.*

Adora: *frowns, leaning closer to him* "Alastor, are you okay?"

Alastor: *shoulder twitches*

Adora: *looks at Alastor with a frown* "You're not okay, are you?"

Emily: "Should we be worried?"

Adora: *shakes Alastor's shoulder gently* "Alastor, wake up!"

Alastor: *sits up, looking around* eh? whachyuwanst?

Adora: "You've been out cold for hours, Alastor. What's going on with you?"

Alastor: Nothin', 'dor...

Adora: *squints at Alastor, not convinced* "You sure about that?"

Alastor: yur, whuh?

Adora: *narrows her eyes* "You've been out cold for hours, and now you're talking nonsense. Did you have a weird dream or something?"

Alastor: *slaps himself in the forehead, snapping back to common sense.* Sorry, just a bit sleepy, that's all...

Adora: *studies him for a moment, her ears twitching* "You're sure that's all it is?"

Alastor: I think so..

Adora: *sighs* "Alright, but if it happens again, you're telling us, okay?"

Alastor: alright...

Adora: *continues to study Alastor, her tail swishing slightly* "Let's get some breakfast into you. Maybe that'll help."

Alastor: Yeah, that might do. *stands up, exiting the apartment and heading down to the university cafeteria.*

Emily: *follows with excitement, her curiosity piqued* "What do you guys think we'll find out about Alastor's powers?"

Adora: *shrugs* "Could be anything. Magic's a weird thing."

Emily: "It's so fascinating! I've never seen anything like it before!"

Adora: "You're not the only one, Em. This is all pretty new to us."

Adora: *walks alongside Alastor to the cafeteria, her eyes never leaving his still-glowing sigil* "Alastor, maybe you should keep that covered up."

Adora: *whispers, glancing around the bustling cafeteria* "We don't know who might be watching."

Jack (lost student): *accidentally bumps into Alastor* "Oh, I'm sorry!"

Alastor: It's fine, I didn't see where I was goin'.

Jack (lost student): *looks down at Alastor's hand, his eyes widening at the sight of the glowing sigil* "Is that...?"

Alastor: what do you mean?

Jack (lost student): "Your hand, it's... it's glowing!"

Alastor: oh, this? It's essentially just a birthmark. Don't know what's happening with it.

Jack (lost student): *swallows hard* "A... birthmark that glows? That's pretty cool."

Emily: *quickly jumps in* "Yeah, totally a cool birthmark. Nothing to worry about."

Jack (lost student): *nods awkwardly and scurries away*

Adora: *watches Jack leave with a suspicious gaze* "You sure you're okay, Alastor?"

Alastor: yeah, I think.

Emily: *whispers* "Okay, let's sit down before we attract more attention."

Alastor: Yeah. *grabs a chair and sits down*

Emily: "What do you guys want to eat?"

Adora: "I'll grab us some breakfast. You two keep an eye out for anyone else who might get too curious."

Alastor: A'ight.

Emily: "What's the matter, Alastor?"

Alastor: I'm nervous, Em. What if I don't get to my...potential? What if I screw up?

Emily: *pats his back* "Don't worry, Alastor. We're all learning together. And if you do mess up, we'll be here to help you fix it."

Adora: *returns with a tray of food, her eyes scanning the room before sitting down* "You're not the only one with a secret to hide."

Alastor: What do you mean?

Adora: *lowers her voice* "Look, I know I've been grumpy lately, but I've got my reasons. We all have our secrets, right?"

Alastor: what reasons?

Adora: *sighs and sits down, setting the tray of food between them* "Let's just say I've got some...baggage. I don't like talking about it."

Alastor: It's alright if you don't want to talk about it.

Adora: *nods* "Thanks, Alastor. I appreciate it."

Alastor: No problem.

Adora: *looks at Alastor, her gaze lingering on his hand* "But seriously, we need to figure out what's happening with that sigil of yours. It's not every day someone becomes a Blood Mage."

Alastor: No, but I have a theory. In the Rhalithian tomes, i read about Falkyek and Ulkraneryk, the paladins who gave the blood mage their sigil. Apparently I've got the sigil of Ulkaneryk, which has an abyss-blue color, which apparently represents the darkness of the night, and the glow is the light of the Moon. It's also said that the person who holds the sigil of Falkryek is a separate person, and that the sigil is crimson, representing the sun's heat.

Adora: *nods thoughtfully* "Interesting. So, what happens when the two are together?"

Alastor: I don't know, but I have a hunch that someone nearby might have the sigil.

Emily: *gasps* "The sigil of Falkryek? Here, in our city?"

Alastor: yes, but it's just a hunch.

Emily: "Oh my gosh, that's so cool! What could it mean if you two were to meet?"

Alastor: It's said that when the light of the two sigil combine into one at exactly the right angle, it creates the sigil makes the Eclipse of Tevranite, the secret third paladin who represents the balance between the two.

Emily: *stares at Alastor with wide eyes* "That's incredible! Do you think it's possible?"

Alastor: it might be.

Arc II: Chimera

Chimera: *suddenly appears behind them* "I heard you guys talking about the sigils. Mind if I join in?"

Alastor: Not at all.

Chimera: *his white hair shimmers in the artificial lights of the cafeteria, his red eyes seemingly piercing through the bustle of students* "Alastor, right? I've heard a bit about you. You're the one with the sigil of Ulkraneryk."

Alastor: Yes, I think so. What about it?

Chimera: *slides into the seat next to Alastor, a casual smile playing on his lips* "Just that I've got the other half of the story, so to speak. The sigil of Falkyrek."

Alastor: The sigil of Falkryek? We've just been talking about it, what... convenient timing.

Chimera: *chuckles* "Call it fate, or call it a stroke of luck. But I've been looking for someone like you."

Alastor: *suddenly, his sigil starts to crackle with dark electricity.*

Chimera: *his eyes widen as he feels the sudden surge of power in the room, his own sigil reacting to Alastor's* "Whoa, what's going on?"

Alastor: I think it might be the two sigils interacting.

Chimera: *holds up his hand, showing the crimson sigil on his palm* "It's definitely the sigils. This is wild, man. We're like... destined to be together or something."

Alastor: Wait, if you don't mind me asking, what is your surname?

Chimera: Oh, it's Sycorin, why?.

Alastor: holy crap. That's my surname, too.

Adora: *spits out her drink* "Sycorin? As in, the same as Alastor?"

Chimera: *nods casually* "Yeah, man. It's a pretty cool coincidence, right?"

Alastor: It can't be a coincidence.

Chimera: *laughs* "I know, right? It's like we're long-lost cousins or something."

Alastor: if we play a little game of connect the dots... *thinks for a few seconds* the last Blood Mage is actually Two blood mages!

Chimera: *smirks* "Or more like two sides of the same coin, wouldn't you say?"

Alastor: That... actually makes a lot of sense.

Chimera: *nods, his eyes alight with curiosity* "So, what do we do now?"

Alastor: I think we have some training to do.

Chimera: *grins* "Training? You bet your ass we do. We've got to harness this power before it harnesses us."

Adora: *nods, wiping her mouth with a napkin* "First things first, we can't just start flinging spells around in the open. We need a safe place to practice."

Chimera: "How about my place? It's got a pretty cool basement, lots of room to mess around without anyone noticing."

Alastor: sounds good.

Chimera: Alright, cool. Let's grab our things and head to my place.

Alastor: Alrighty, then.

Emily: *clapping her hands* "This is going to be so amazing! We're going to see Alastor and Chimera become the most powerful mages in the city!"

Narrator: The group of friends leaves the cafeteria, their conversation a mix of excitement and tension.

Narrator: As they walk through the crowded halls of the university, the two sigils on Alastor and Chimera's hands seem to pulse in unison, a silent acknowledgment of their shared destiny.

Emily: "This is so exciting! I can't believe we're going to see history in the making!"

Adora: *rolls her eyes* "Yeah, yeah. Just remember, we need to keep this on the down-low."

Chimera: "Don't worry, I've got the perfect spot for some secret mage shenanigans."

Alastor: "Lead the way, Chimera."

Narrator: Chimera leads them through the bustling streets of the city to a quaint, unassuming house on the outskirts.

Narrator: Upon arriving, they make their way to the basement, which is surprisingly spacious and filled with various mystical artifacts.

Chimera: *flips on a light switch, illuminating the basement* "Welcome to my humble abode, the Chimera Cove."

Alastor: Looks nice, Chi.

Narrator: After 5 months, the trio, now quartet, have made striking developments in their training and have also upgraded the basement, which now has a dining table, a couch which faces a flat-screen television, drilled into the wall, and a combat practice area to boot. Outside of the basement, Sictarum has made pledges to improve the city, and has even begun production of the world's first space hotel. As for progress on the blood mages, they've become highly skilled, Alastor even knowing how to enter his Darksteel form.

Arc III: The Lightning Shadow

Alastor: *in the training area, striking several targets in a chain of dark lightning.*

Chimera: *sitting on the couch, sipping a soda and watching the training* "Not too shabby, Alastor. You've really got the hang of it."

Alastor: Thanks.*throws a dark lightning shuriken, bullseye at the target.*

Adora: *watching from the side, her eyes narrowed* "You guys have been practicing a lot, huh?"

Alastor: Yeah. *creating a blade of pure light, and throwing it at the roatating target board, hitting the top one at exactly the right angle. *

Adora: It's crazy to think you guys are actually blood mages.

Chimera: *laughs* "Yeah, it's a trip, isn't it?"

Alastor: Well said, brother.

Chimera: *slaps Alastor on the back* "Couldn't have done it without you, Alastor. We make a pretty badass team."

Alastor: Thanks.

Chimera: So, what do you think about this whole Darksteel and Neo-Darksteel thing?

Alastor: I think I've already got a hang on the Darksteel form.

Chimera: *stands up and walks over* "You think you can handle Neo-Darksteel, though?"

Alastor: Hmm, I don't know. Maybe with a couple more weeks practice, though.

Chimera: "Take your time, man. The Neo-Darksteel is no joke. It's like turning into a living supernova."

Alastor: Yeah.

Chimera: *smirks* "I've got a feeling we're going to be the talk of the town soon enough."

Alastor: Yeah. Alright. You guys should probably stand back, I'm going all Darksteel.

Chimera: *nods, moving towards the edge of the training area* "Just don't blow the place up, okay?"

Alastor: Okay. *takes a deep breath, and concentrates all his energy into becoming one with the Darksteel form. An orb of dark and light swirls around him temporarily before dissapearing to see Alastor, in his Darksteel form. He has the wings of a dragon, blades on his forearm and even retractable claws.*

Emily: "Wow, Alastor! That's so cool!"

Chimera: "And a bit scary, but mostly cool."

Alastor: Yeah, take a look at this. *sends ten arrows of pure light at a target, all hitting bullseye.* normally I could only do up to four at a time.

Emily: "That's amazing, Alastor!"

Alastor: Thanks.

Chimera: *whistles in amazement* "I knew you had it in you, man. But we've got to be careful. The more you use that form, the more we're going to draw attention."

Alastor: But look at these sick as hell wings! *unfurls the dragon wings, a wingspan of 3ft.*

Chimera: Dude, I know. They're like something out of a video game.

Alastor: Oh, I think I've found something. *a little dragon head, on a wire-like neck leading into the back. There's two of them.*

Chimera: What is it?

Alastor: I don't know what it is, but I think it's something that comes with the darksteel form. *the two heads pop up, a few inches off each of the shoulders.*

Chimera: *laughs* "Looks like you've got yourself a couple of new buddies there."

Alastor: Oh, yeah. *scratches one of the heads, it shudders a little, but in a cute way.*

Chimera: "Those little guys are something else, huh?"

Alastor: *one of the small dragon heads open their mouth, a little orb of light floating out of it.*

Emily: "Look at that! It's adorable!"

Emily: "What can they do, Alastor?"

Alastor: I mean, they're a part of my Darksteel Form, so...

Chimera: *laughing* "Well, I can't say I saw that coming."

Alastor: *exits the darksteel form.*

Adora: "You're definitely getting more comfortable with that."

Alastor: I guess so.

Emily: "Alastor, do you think Chimera's sigil has something like that?"

Chimera: *shrugs* "I haven't really looked into it too much, but I guess it's possible. Maybe I'll try to find out more."

Alastor: If i can do it at will, you definitely can, brother.

Chimera: *grins* "Maybe it's time we unlock the full potential of our sigils, then. But first, let's grab some grub. I've got snacks upstairs."

Emily: "I'll go with you, Chimera! I'm starving!"

Alastor: Yeah, count me in.

Adora: *watches them go, then turns to Alastor* "So, what's on your mind?"

Alastor: nothing much, to be honest.

Adora: *frowning* "You don't seem too sure about that."

Alastor: It's fine, Adora.

Adora: *narrows her eyes* "You can tell me if something's bothering you, you know."

Adora: *picks up a random book from the shelf and starts flipping through it* "It's not every day someone discovers they're a blood mage, after all."

Alastor: We've been doing this for five months. five. You remember when everything was still calm? When i didn't know my sigil was a-an ancient Paladin's?

Adora: *looks up from her book, her eyes meeting his* "Yeah, I do. It feels like a lifetime ago, doesn't it?"

Alastor: Yeah.

Adora: *sets the book down* "You know, Alastor, you've come a long way since then. And we're all here for you."

Adora: *walks over to him, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder* "You don't have to deal with this alone."

Alastor: Thanks...

Adora: *smiles gently* "You're welcome. It's what friends do."

Alastor: Adora, these last few months have been really challenging and full of different things, good and bad. But you've had my back, you always have. I can't thank you enough.

Adora: *smiles* It's what friends do, Alastor. But remember, we're all in this together. We've got each other's backs.

Chimera: *enters the room with Emily, both with snacks in hand* "What's up, you guys?"

Adora: *quickly pulls her hand away from Alastor's shoulder, clearing her throat* "Just catching up."

Chimera: *grins, handing out snacks* "Looks like we missed the love fest."

Alastor: shut up. *he says in a satirical tone*

Chimera: *laughs* "It's all good, Al. We're just teasing."

Adora: "Yeah, we're all just a little on edge with everything that's been happening."

Chimera: "Speaking of which, have you guys noticed anything weird around the city?"

Alastor: No, not really.

Adora: *nibbles on a cookie, her gaze thoughtful* "You know, I've noticed some odd whispers around the university."

Alastor: What kind of whispers?

Adora: there's this rumor of the Lightning Shadow. They say he's known for hunting down people of the arcane...

Chimera: "The Lightning Shadow?"

Adora: Yeah, apparently he's been spotted a few times around the outskirts of the city.

Alastor: and he hunts down people of the arcane?

Emily: "That's terrible! Why would someone do that?"

Adora: "I don't know, Em. But it's definitely something we should keep an eye on."

Chimera: "Could be someone who doesn't appreciate our kind of... hobby."

Narrator: Meanwhile, The Lightning Shadow interrogates Jake, a person who's seen Alastor around.

The Lightning Shadow: "Where have you seen him?"

Jake: "I-I don't know what you're talking about!"

The Lightning Shadow: "Don't lie to me. The one with the abyssal sigil. The Blood Mage."

Jake: *sweating profusely* "I-I don't know any Blood Mage."

The Lightning Shadow: "Don't play dumb. I know what I've heard. You've seen him at the university, haven't you?"

Jake: *whimpers* "Okay, okay. Yes, I've seen someone with a blue hand. But I don't know his name."

The Lightning Shadow: "Describe him to me."

Jake: "He's got dark hair, and... and he's always with his friends. One's got blue eyes, and the other's got a tail and cat-like ears!"

The Lightning Shadow: "Aha! That's all I need to know. Thank you for your...cooperation."

Jake: *whimpers as The Lightning Shadow leaves, the door slamming shut behind him.*

The Lightning Shadow: *his eyes narrow as he processes the information* "The Blood Mage is with a catgirl and a girl with blue eyes. How... peculiar."

The Lightning Shadow: "Your secret won't be safe for long, Alastor Sycorin."

Narrator: back at Chimera's...

Emily: "Alastor, do you think this Lightning Shadow might be a good guy or a bad guy?"

Alastor: He's hunting down the Arcane, which includes us.

Chimera: *frowns* "That doesn't exactly scream 'good guy' to me."

Emily: "Yeah, it sounds pretty scary."

Adora: *swallows hard, her grip tightening on the cookie* "We need to be careful, guys. If he's after people with magic, we could be in real trouble."

Emily: "But we're not doing anything wrong. Why would someone want to hurt us?"

Alastor: Chimera, have you learned how to enter your Darksteel form yet?

Chimera: *nods, popping a chip in his mouth* "Yeah, took a bit of a toll at first, but I've got it down now."

Alastor: Good. If The Lightning Shadow is hunting us down, we need to be prepared for a confrontation.

Chimera: *swallows* "You guys really think he's going to come after us?"

Alastor: He might do.

Chimera: "Well, if he does, we'll be ready for him. We've come too far to let some vigilante ruin our lives."

Adora: "But we can't just sit around waiting for him to come to us. We need to find out more about him first."

Emily: "What if he's just misunderstood?"

Alastor: Actually, I've been noticing some dissapearances in some of our classmates.

Adora: *looks concerned* "Disappearances? Have you mentioned it to anyone else?"

Alastor: No, I've only brought it up just now.

Adora: We need to be careful, Alastor. If he's connected to these disappearances, we can't underestimate him.

Alastor: Yeah, I suspect 4 of our classmates, may have been taken and possibly killed.

Adora: *pales* "What? That's... that's terrible. We have to do something."

Alastor: Yes, and I've noticed who. Hikari Sato, went missing around the same time the lightning shadow first popped up, Kai Smith went missing around ten days later, Rachel Burgundy went missing 4 days later, and Jake Ryan went missing recently. Notice how almost all these occurrences happened between 7:15 PM and 4:55 AM. the only one who didn't go missing in that time frame was Hikari Sato.

Adora: *swallows hard, her tail twitching anxiously* "That's... eerie. And it definitely points to the Lightning Shadow being involved. We need to tell Professor Kachovy."

Alastor: But wait, I have a theory. Hikari Sato went missing, to become the Lightning Shadow.

Adora: *Her eyes widened.* "What? Hikari? No, that can't be right."

Alastor: C'mon, Sato went missing around the same time the lightning shadow first showed his face, and Hikari was also the only one who didn't go missing in the time frame i talked about earlier.

Adora: *Her eyes narrow as she considers Alastor's theory.* "But why would Hikari do something like that?"

Alastor: I don't know, she was always top of her class, always kind and compassionate, but always a bit... quiet.

Chimera: *looks thoughtful* "Well, everyone's got their secrets, I guess. But if she's the Lightning Shadow, we can't just ignore it."

Alastor: We should tell Kachovy about it. Maybe he knows something.

Adora: *nods solemnly* "You're right. We can't just let this go on. If Hikari is the Lightning Shadow, she might be in trouble herself."

Alastor: Alright, but it's really late, we'll go to Kachovy first thing in the morning.

Adora: *nods, visibly relieved* "Good call. We don't want to jump to conclusions without talking to him."

Alastor: Right, well if that's the plan, then I think I'm gonna hit the sack now.

Adora: *sighs* Yeah, me too. It's been a heavy day.

Emily: "You guys are going to bed already?"

Chimera: "Yeah, it's been a long day, and we've got a big day tomorrow."

Emily: "Okay, goodnight everyone!"

Narrator: The next day, the four make their way to Kachovy once more, Alastor knocking on the office door..

Kachovy: "Ah, Alastor, Adora, Chimera, and Emily. What brings you here today?"

Alastor: Have you heard anything about the Lightning Shadow?

Kachovy: *looks up from his desk, a hint of concern in his eyes* "The Lightning Shadow? What's your interest in him?"

Alastor: You see, I've been noticing some dissapearances out of our classmates. And i have a theory, Hikari Sato might be the Lightning Shadow.

Kachovy: "The Lightning Shadow, huh?" *Professor Kachovy strokes his chin thoughtfully.* "I've heard whispers, but nothing substantial. Tell me more."

Alastor: The Lightning shadow has been hunting down people who are in or related to the arcane. Hikari Sato went missing around the same time the Lightning shadow emerged.she was also the only one who didn't go missing between the hours of 7PM and 5AM.

Kachovy: *his expression turns serious* "This is indeed troubling news. Hikari was a promising student, and I had hoped she would find her place in this world without succumbing to such a dark path."

Emily: "But Professor, she was so kind!"

Emily: "I don't want to believe it's true!"

Kachovy: "While it's hard to accept, we must consider the evidence you've presented. This isn't a matter to be taken lightly."

Adora: *nods solemnly* "We just want to make sure we're not jumping to conclusions."

Kachovy: "Understood. But we must also be prepared for the worst."

Kachovy: "Tell me, Alastor, how have your powers evolved since we last spoke?"

Alastor: We've come very far in the last 5 months. Chimera and I have even learned how to enter our Darksteel forms.

Kachovy: "Your progress is quite impressive, but beware, power brings responsibility and danger. The Lightning Shadow is a force that must be handled with caution."

Chimera: "We're ready for whatever comes our way."

Kachovy: "That's the spirit, but be prepared for the unexpected."

The Lightning Shadow: *shadowy figure on the rooftop of a nearby building* "Alastor Sycorin... the time has come for us to meet again."

Alastor: *looks directly up.* The Lightning Shadow.

The Lightning Shadow: *Her voice echoes faintly through the air* "I've been watching you, Alastor. I know what you are."

Alastor: Then why don't you come down here and fight me?

The Lightning Shadow: "Why, Alastor. I didn't realize you had such a taste for confrontation."

Alastor: You've been kidnapping and killing people. Innocent lives with families. Mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters. I despise you, Lightning Shadow.

The Lightning Shadow: "Innocent? They're all corrupted by the very essence of the arcane! They're a threat to this world and must be cleansed!"

Alastor: NO! I AM THE DESCENDANT OF RHALITH, SHADOW! AND I'LL SHOW YOU WHY THE ARCANE SHOULD LIVE!

The Lightning Shadow: *Her shadowy form descends from the rooftop* "Very well, I will show you the error of your ways."

Alastor: *enters his darksteel form, his wingspan even larger than before, claws sharper than before, Power surging even more. Alastor attacks the lightning shadow, dealing a massive pain to the Lightning Shadow, through the force of a center-hitting punch.*

The Lightning Shadow: *The Lightning Shadow grunts, stumbling back. Her eyes flash with anger as she charges up a bolt of electricity.* "You think your ancestry makes you untouchable?"

Alastor: *his eyes stare her down, a silent fury in his eyes* Hikari. You're better than this.

The Lightning Shadow: *Her eyes widen in surprise, dropping the bolt of electricity* "Alastor, it's not what you think."

Alastor: What is it then. *still in his Darksteel form.*

The Lightning Shadow: "I'm not the monster you think I am, Alastor. I'm just trying to protect the world from what you don't understand."

Alastor: Hikari, you're not a hero. You- no. I'm not putting up with this crap. You've been taking lives, all because you want to drive a sword into anything different.

The Lightning Shadow: "Alastor, please. You have to trust me. I'm not just doing this for fun!"

Alastor: *turns to his side, his palm opening up pointing his arm at the Lightning Shadow , a golden light shimmering in it. He closes his eyes, thoughts racing in his mind, but one thing is clear. He needs to kill.* I'm sorry, Hikari. But I have to do this. *a striking beam of light turns The Lightning Shadow to dust.*

Chimera: *stares at the dust, shock etched on his face* Alastor...

Alastor: *walks out of the building, then takes flight, not being able to handle the pain and guilt of having just murdered someone.*

Adora: *rushes outside after him, her heart racing.* Alastor, wait!

Alastor: *but alastor's gone. He's off, to Rhalith-knows-where.*

Emily: "What just happened?"

Kachovy: *his expression grim* "The path of a Blood Mage is never an easy one."

Chimera: *swallows hard* "What do we do now?"

Hikari: *suddenly, a gust of wind sweeps through the area, swirling the dust into the air. A figure forms, and it's Hikari, standing in the place where the Lightning Shadow once was. She looks around, dazed and disoriented.*

Adora: *runs up to Hikari* Hikari! Are you okay?

Adora: What happened? Why did you attack us?

Hikari: *looks around in confusion* "Adora, it wasn't me. I-I don't know what's going on."

Emily: "But we saw you fighting with Alastor!"

Hikari: "I don't remember that... I just remember waking up here."

Emily: "What do you mean, you don't remember? Did you hit your head or something?"

Narrator: Meanwhile, on the roof of a skyscraper, Alastor looks up, still in his Darksteel form.

Alastor: Rhalith, was what I did... right?

Rhalith: *A deep, ethereal voice resonates in Alastor's mind* "Alastor, the path you walk is your own. I guide, but you must choose."

Alastor: Can i ever go back? Back to them?

Rhalith: *The voice is calm and wise* "The choices you make define your journey. Return to your friends with the truth, and together, you may find a way to mend the path you've torn apart."

Alastor: I didn't want to kill her, Rhalith. but I felt like I had to.

Rhalith: *The ethereal voice remains calm and understanding* "You did what you believed was necessary at the time. But remember, power without wisdom can be a destructive force."

Alastor: Yeah, thanks. *takes flight once more, heading to Kachovy's office. He touches down, exiting his darksteel form.*

Hikari: *still dazed* What's going on? Why am I here?

Emily: "Hikari, we thought you were the Lightning Shadow."

Hikari: "The Lightning Shadow?" *Her eyes widen in horror.* "I would never do something like that!"

Adora: "But we saw you, Hikari. You were fighting with Alastor."

Hikari: *shaking her head* "I don't remember that at all. It's like... it wasn't me."

Alastor: *enters the building again, a neutral expression in his face.*

Adora: Alastor! Are you okay?

Alastor: Yeah, I guess.

Adora: *studies Alastor's expression* "You don't look so good."

Alastor: Being in that darksteel form so long, really drained me.

Hikari: *still confused* I-I don't understand. What's going on here?

Hikari: *Her eyes widen as she sees Alastor* Alastor, what happened? Why did we fight?

Alastor: *his face pales a bit* let me explain. 3 weeks ago, there was this thing called the Lightning Shadow that popped up, you had become it. We don't know how, or why, but then people started going missing, three others, then, we figured it out. The Lightning Shadow had corrupted you, to the point that there was more of it than you. We had a battle. I... killed it. I never meant to, or wanted to in the first place. I was so guilty and pained, that I ran away.

Hikari: *Her eyes well up with tears* "But I'm still here. Does that mean..."

Alastor: *it clicked inside of his head.* when I killed it, I thought it took you, too. But I only killed the Lightning Shadow, the corruption that turned you into it. Not you, not Hikari Sato.

Hikari: *Her eyes searched Alastor's, looking for any trace of doubt.* "But... why? Why would something like that happen to me?"

Alastor: We... don't know.

Hikari: *sniffs, trying to hold back her tears* "I-I need to sit down."

Alastor: I don't blame you.

Adora: *looks at him, her eyes full of concern* It's not your fault, Alastor. We all thought it was the only way to stop her from hurting more people.

Alastor: Yeah. Thanks.

Adora: *sits next to Hikari* Are you okay, Hikari?

Hikari: *nods, her voice trembling* I-I think so. It's all so confusing.

Hikari: I need to know who I really am now.

Alastor: You're Hikari Sato.

Hikari: *slowly nods, a hint of relief in her eyes* "Thank you, Alastor."

Alastor: No problem.

Chimera: *slumps onto the floor, his expression a mix of shock and disbelief* I can't believe what just happened.

Hikari: *whispers to Adora* What did I do? Did I really hurt people?

Adora: *gently* It wasn't you, Hikari. It was the corruption that controlled you.

Alastor: Hikari, you should know something. But you have to keep it an absolute secret.

Hikari: *looks up, her curiosity piqued* What is it?

Alastor: Me and my brother Chimera. We're mages. Blood mages.

Hikari: *Her eyes widen with shock* Blood mages?

Alastor: Yes, but, for my sake, and for the safety of my friends, I need you to keep it a secret. No-one else should know it.

Hikari: *nods, looking at her trembling hands* I-I promise. I won't tell anyone.

Alastor: Thank you, Hikari.

Chimera: *slowly gets up* "Okay, so we've got a lot to deal with here. But first, let's make sure you're okay."

Hikari: *nods weakly* "I think so. I just... I can't believe any of this."

Alastor: I completely understand how you feel, Hikari.

Adora: *whispers to Alastor* Are you sure we can trust her with this?

Alastor: She has the right to know, Adora.

Hikari: *still looking shocked* "What... what kind of magic are we talking about?"

Alastor: It's... hard to explain. Blood magic is powerful. Extremely powerful. And only a few people of the Sycorin family, like me and Chimera, have the power to control it.

Chimera: *nods in agreement* Yeah, it's intense stuff. But it's nothing to be scared of.

Hikari: *swallows hard* I-I'm not scared. Just surprised. I had no idea...

Adora: It's okay, Hikari. We're all here for you.

Alastor: *nods in agreement*

Arc IV: Cosmos and Cultists

Narrator: A couple of weeks later, an Ancient Cultist, Kark, is facing off against Alastor in a fight.

Kark: "You dare to oppose the will of the Ancients, Blood Mage? You shall feel the wrath of the true purge!"

Alastor: *insanely grins* Oh, this will be fun... *claws emerge from the tip of his fingers. In thirty seconds, there's screaming. And not from Alastor.*

Kark: *thrown to the ground with a thud, scratches and deep cuts all over Kark's body.* ach...ow...

Alastor: *walks out of the building, entering his Darksteel form and taking flight back to the base.*

Alastor: *lands on the porch, going back to his human form in the process of entering the base.*

Adora: *looks up from her book, noticing Alastor's return* You're back early. How did it go?

Alastor: Easy. I took out the head cultist in 33 seconds.

Chimera: *enters the room with a casual stride* "Hey, Al, that was quick work. Did you leave any of them standing?"

Alastor: Ha, no.

Chimera: "So, Al, what's the plan now that we've got the info on the cult's next move?"

Alastor: *laughs* that's the thing... they're not gonna make a next move.

Chimera: *looks surprised* "What do you mean?"

Adora: *sighs* "Well, that's one problem solved, I guess."

Narrator: Three days later, nothing eventful happens. Chimera and Alastor are alone in the basement while Adora is out getting groceries and Emily taking a nap.

Chimera: *going through an old, beat-up looking box* so, Al, what's up with you and Adora?

Alastor: What do you mean?

Chimera: *grinning* "Oh come on, bro, it's written all over your face. You've got a crush on her."

Alastor: What? No i don't! What's your proof?

Chimera: *laughs* "Oh, it's all in the way you two look at each other, man. Plus, the way she's always worried about you and all that."

Alastor: *sighs* fine. I might have a little crush on Adora. But you can't tell her, okay?!

Chimera: *winks* "Your secret is safe with me, Al."

Alastor: Thanks.

Chimera: No prob, Al. But seriously, you should tell her. I mean, she's obviously into you too.

Alastor: wait, what?

Adora: *walks in the door with groceries, looking a bit tired.* Hey, guys. How was it today?

Alastor: Eh, normal. Just been catching up.

Adora: *puts down the groceries* "Alastor, can I talk to you for a sec?"

Alastor: Yeah, why?

Adora: *sets down the book she was reading and looks at Alastor seriously* I've noticed something about you, Alastor.

Alastor: What have you noticed?

Adora: *sighs* I know you've been keeping things from us, Alastor. I can see it in your eyes.

Alastor: What do you mean?

Adora: *crosses her arms* "You've been distant, even for you. And it's not just since the whole Lightning Shadow ordeal. It's like you're hiding something."

Alastor: Yeah, you're right. I've been holding back in combat. I've developed new techniques, even new variations of my Darksteel Form. But i haven't been using my fullest.

Adora: *looks at Alastor with a mix of concern and curiosity* New variations? Why haven't you shown us?

Alastor: Because I've been afraid. Afraid of hurting you.

Adora: *looks skeptical* "Alastor, you're the strongest of us. Why would you hold back?"

Alastor: Because I'm afraid of going too far.

Adora: *looks at Alastor, her eyes searching for the truth behind his words.*

Alastor: I can't place my finger on it, but it's something like, what if I overexert myself? What if I become, y'know, dangerous?

Adora: *Her eyes soften.* "Alastor, we've been through a lot together. If there's something you're keeping from us, we need to know."

Chimera: *walks in, hearing the conversation* "What's going on, you two?"

Adora: "We were just... talking about things."

Chimera: *grins* "Ah, the lovebirds, finally sharing their secrets."

Alastor: Fack you mean?

Chimera: *chuckles* "Relax, man. I'm just saying, you guys have this whole 'will-they-won't-they' vibe going on."

Adora: *rolls her eyes* "Chimera, that's not what's happening here."

Chimera: "Oh, come on, Adora. You guys are obviously into each other. Why hide it?"

Emily: *walks in, rubbing her eyes sleepily* "What's going on down here?"

Adora: "We were just discussing...stuff."

Emily: *yawns* "Well, I'm up for some juicy gossip. Did I miss anything?"

Chimera: "Just the usual, Em. Alastor here is being all mysterious and brooding."

Alastor: I am not.

Emily: *grins* "Well, if you guys are just sharing secrets, I want in!"

Adora: *sighs* "Fine. Alastor, tell them about the new forms you've been hiding."

Alastor: Alright, so you see, I've developed new... techniques, with my darksteel form. Not just Darksteel and Neo-Darksteel, much more advanced techniques, one's called Assault Darksteel, which is essentially Darksteel but more cybernetic and effective, one's called Hyper Darksteel, which is warp-speed Darksteel, and a few others.

Emily: *perks up* "Wow, Alastor, that's amazing! Can we see a demonstration?"

Alastor: Well, yeah, I can show you what one of my forearms looks like in Assault Darksteel. *holds out his arm, transforming the forearm into a small, but intricate electric cannon. The upper arm became armored with deep-black steel color.*

Chimera: Whoa, that's insane, Al!

Alastor: *his arm returns to normal.* I can't hold that form for long, it's really heavy.

Emily: *her eyes widen with amazement.* "Alastor, that's incredible!"

Alastor: Thanks.

Emily: "It's incredible, Alastor! How did you come up with these forms?"

Alastor: *shrugs*

Narrator: A few hours later, it's the middle of the night, and Alastor is laying on top of the roof, stargazing.

Alastor: *staring off into space, his grey and white hoodie keeping him warm*

Ryx: *A sudden gust of wind swirls around Alastor, and a ghostly figure forms beside him, made entirely of stars and cosmic dust.* "Oh, hello there."

Alastor: *realising he's not alone* whuh?

Ryx: *The starry figure giggles* "Surprise! It's me, Ryx!"

Alastor: Who?

Ryx: "Ryx! The cosmic prankster! I've heard tales of your exploits, young Blood Mage. Quite the legend you're becoming."

Alastor: Prankster? seriously?

Ryx: "Yep! The one and only. So, what's a guy like you doing up here all alone?"

Alastor: I'm not alone. This is my brother's place.

Ryx: "Brothers, you say? How delightful!" *His starry form glitters with excitement.* "Well, I'm sure your brother won't mind me crashing the party for a bit."

Alastor: *his expression is a tired one, fed up with this.* goddammit...

Ryx: "Why so glum, chum?"

Alastor: Look, dismantling cults and what-not is enough on my plate. I don't need a mischievous spacian under my feet.

Ryx: *his starry form winks playfully* "Don't worry, I'll be out of your hair in no time. But first, I've got a little... surprise for you!"

Alastor: Is it the death of me?

Ryx: "Oh, no, no, no, Alastor! It's not like that! I'm more of a... friendly surprise. Promise!"

Alastor: *slides off the sloped roof, and lands on his feet on the ground.*

Ryx: "Wow, that's quite the dismount! Ever thought of joining the circus?"

Alastor: Ever thought of facking off?

Ryx: *laughs* "Alright, alright, I get it. You're not in the mood for a surprise. But I just couldn't resist! You're the first Blood Mage I've met in eons!"

Alastor: and you'e the most annoying little tyke I've had the displeasure of meeting in my 20-year life.

Ryx: *his starry form twists into an exaggerated pout* "Ouch, harsh words from someone who's supposed to be a legend. I'm hurt!"

Alastor: suck it up, I'm going back to bed. *walks back into Chimera's house, and closes the front door.*

Ryx: *his starry form follows Alastor into the house* "Aw, don't be like that! I just want to be your friend!"

Adora: *from the kitchen, hearing the commotion* "Alastor, is everything okay?"

Alastor: If you see a spacial little twerp floating around, ignore it.

Adora: *peeks her head out from the kitchen* "Who's that?"

Alastor: Some sort of alien prankster who apparently goes by "Ryx".

Ryx: *his starry form floats into the kitchen* "Hi there, pretty kitty!"

Adora: *squints at the starry form* "What the hell is that?"

Alastor: that's what I want to know.

Ryx: *his starry form flutters around Adora* "I'm Ryx, the cosmic prankster! But don't let the title fool you, I'm actually quite friendly!"

Adora: *swipes at the floating starry form* "I don't know what you are, but if you don't stop flying around, I'll swat you like a fly."

Ryx: *his starry form giggles and dodges* "Oh, you're feisty! I like that in a catgirl!"

Emily: *runs downstairs, hearing the noise* "What's going on, guys?"

Adora: "We have a...visitor."

Emily: *rubbing her eyes* "A visitor at this hour? Who could it be?"

Ryx: "It's just little ol' me, the cosmic prankster, Ryx!" *his starry form zips around the room, leaving a trail of twinkling light*

Emily: "Wow, Alastor, what's with the glowing friend?" *she tries to touch the starry form, but her hand passes through it.*

Chimera: *enters the room, rubbing sleep from his eyes* "What the...?"

Ryx: "Oh, hey, Chimera! Fancy meeting you here!" *his starry form waves cheerfully*

Emily: *laughing* "He's like a little glowing puppy!"

Chimera: *rubbing his eyes* "Al, what did you bring into our house?"

Alastor: It's not my fault that little whatever-it-is decided to show up!

Adora: *sighs* "Alastor, maybe we should just hear him out. He seems harmless."

Ryx: "You guys are so serious all the time! Lighten up! Let's have some fun!"

Alastor: Ryx, it's 2 in the morning.

Ryx: *his starry form spins around* "Is it? Time flies when you're having fun!"

Alastor: We're not having fun, you're driving me up the wall.

Chimera: *yawning* Alright, alright, let's hear what he's got to say. Maybe he can give us a break from the doom and gloom.

Ryx: "So, what's the deal here, folks? You all seem like a bunch of party poopers!"

Adora: *rolls her eyes* "Look, it's late and we've had a long day. Can you tell us why you're here, please?"

Ryx: "Oh, I just thought I'd stop by and say hello! I haven't met a Blood Mage since Ciel's days!" *his starry form flits around the room excitedly*

Chimera: *squints* "Ciel's days? Who's Ciel?"

Alastor: An Ancient Archmage. About 2600 years ago, he fought in the First Mage War. He was on the side of the Hybrid Mages despite not being one himself.

Ryx: *his starry form stops its erratic movements and looks at Alastor with a mix of awe and curiosity* "Cool! So, you're like, the last of your kind, huh? That's so epic!"

Alastor: Me and Chimera.

Chimera: *chuckles* "Alright, Al, if he's not causing trouble, maybe he can stick around. He might liven things up a bit."

Adora: "Look, if he's not going to be a problem, I guess he can stay." *she glances at Alastor with a hint of skepticism.*

Emily: "Yeah, I'm kind of curious about him too." *she giggles as the starry form hovers around her.*

Alastor: Fine. *mumbles something under his breath*

Adora: *firmly* Alright, Ryx. If you're going to stay, you need to behave. No pranks, no messing around with our lives. We're dealing with serious stuff here.

Ryx: *his starry form bows dramatically* "Your wish is my command, beautiful catgirl!"

Alastor: *mutters something under his breath, which sounds threatening towards Ryx.*

Ryx: *his starry form flickers innocently* "Oh, come on, Alastor! I'm not that bad, am I?"

Alastor: You are a pain in the left side of my back.

Ryx: *his starry form giggles* "Oh, come on, Alastor, don't be so grumpy! I promise to be on my best behavior!"

Emily: "Well, if he's going to be good, then I say we should show him around Sictarum tomorrow!"

Alastor: *does a backwards peace symbol and disappears*

Emily: "Alright, Ryx, if you're going to be part of the team, you'll have to keep our secrets safe."

Ryx: *his starry form nods* "Oh, I'm the king of secrets! They're like my little treasures!"

Adora: *sighs* Alright, Ryx. But remember, you're a guest here. Don't cause any trouble.

Ryx: "Oh, I promise, Adora! I'll be the best guest you've ever had!"

Narrator: The next morning...

Adora: *snuggled deeply into her blankets, her tail twitching slightly in her sleep.*

Ryx: *his starry form flutters gently beside Adora's ear* "Wakey wakey, pretty kitty!"

Adora: *Startles awake, slapping at the air* "What the...!"

Ryx: *his starry form giggles* "Good morning, Adora!"

Adora: *swipes at the starry form again* "Ryx! What the hell are you doing?!"

Ryx: "Just waking up my favorite roommate!" *his starry form giggles again, floating away from her hand.*

Narrator: Meanwhile, in the middle of the city, Alastor and Emily are running from Ancient Cultists.

Ancient Cultists: "There he is! Get the Blood Mage!"

Emily: *panting as they sprint through the neon-lit streets of Sictarum* "Alastor, where do we go?"

Alastor: Emily, get behind me. *stopping to face the cultists, in front of the city's fountain plaza*

Emily: *nods, her eyes wide with fear but her resolve firm* "I'll be right here!"

Ancient Cultists: *The cultists, clad in their crimson robes, close in on Alastor and Emily, their eyes gleaming with malicious intent.*

Ancient Cultists: "We've found you, Blood Mage!" *The leader of the group, a man with a scar across his cheek, sneers.*

Kark: "Alastor, you're making this too easy," *his crimson eyes gleam as he unsheathes a sword of pure energy.*

Alastor: *he starts chanting under his breath, performing a spell that has not been seen for several millenia; the Allsoul Decimate.* Davnak Esira Dra Ugvan... SEMPER AVNARZEK SICTURUS! *a powerful golden serpent energy dragon rises from the ground around Alastor. It coils in the sky before striking down Kark, knocking him out.*

Kark: *his crimson eyes go wide with shock before the dragon's energy slams into him, sending him flying.*

Ancient Cultists: *The remaining cultists stumble back, their eyes filled with terror at the sheer power of the Allsoul Decimate.*

Emily: *staring at the unconscious Kark* "Alastor, what was that?"

Alastor: The Allsoul Decimate. This was the first time in several millenia that it was activated. Ach- *falters to one knee, gripping his side*

Emily: *rushes to Alastor's side, worry etched on her face* "Alastor, are you okay?!"

Alastor: Yeah, that spell just took a lot out of me.

Newswoman Janice: *A reporter rushes over to the scene, her cameraman hot on her heels.* "Are you the one who did this?! What's your name?!"

Alastor: A-Alastor...

Newswoman Janice: *Her eyes light up with excitement as she approaches the exhausted but triumphant Alastor.* "Sir, are you okay? Can you tell us what happened here?"

Alastor: *stands up* I'm fine...

Newswoman Janice: "Alright, tell me everything!"

Emily: *quickly steps in front of Alastor, placing a hand on his arm* "Let's not give too much away, okay?"

Alastor: Fine.

Newswoman Janice: "Witnesses say you're the one who took down the notorious Lightning Shadow! Is that true?"

Alastor: Yes.. I did destroy the Lightning shadow.

Adora: *watching the news on the TV in the living room with Chimera, her eyes widen* "Chim, come look at this!"

Chimera: *walks over, his curiosity piqued by Adora's urgent tone* "What's up?"

Newswoman Janice: "Alright, Alastor, can you tell us more about the battle with the Lightning Shadow?"

Alastor: It was honestly quick.

Newswoman Janice: "Quick? How did you manage to defeat the Lightning Shadow, who has been terrorizing Sictarum for months?"

Alastor: Took my darksteel form, guilt, two punches and one destruction curse.

Newswoman Janice: "That's... astonishing! And who exactly are you?"

Alastor: My name is Alastor Sycorin.

Adora: *stares at the TV in disbelief* "Alastor?!"

Chimera: *looks from the TV to Adora* "Yeah, that's him alright."

Ryx: *his starry form darts into the room and stops in front of the TV* "Wow, Alastor's on the news!"

Newswoman Janice: "Alastor, can you tell us about the other members of your group? Are they involved in your heroic efforts?"

Alastor: For the safety of my allies and companions I can't disclose that information. I'd rest easier knowing they're not constantly poked and prodded by microphones and cameras.

Newswoman Janice: "I understand, Mr. Sycorin. Thank you for sharing your story. The citizens of Sictarum are surely in your debt."

Alastor: They don't owe me anything. It's not about what I have to my name, or any fancy title. It's about the honor in being able to protect my friends and the innocent in the first place that drive me.

Newswoman Janice: "Your humility is truly inspiring, Mr. Sycorin. The people of Sictarum will surely sleep easier knowing there are guardians like you among us."

Narrator: Back in the living room, Adora's jaw drops as she watches the news broadcast.

Chimera: *chuckles* "Looks like Al's going for the hero angle."

Ryx: *his starry form bobs up and down* "Is that your brother on TV, Chimera?"

Chimera: *his eyes are glued to the TV, a smirk playing on his lips* "Yeah, that's Alastor alright. Man's come a long way."

Alastor: *back in the basement* oh hey look, I'm on tv.

Adora: *glares at the TV, then at Ryx* "You did this, didn't you?"

Ryx: *his starry form shrugs innocently* "What? I just woke you guys up! It's not my fault your buddy's a celebrity now!"

Alastor: I'm not a celebrity. I bet in a week this will all be forgotten.

Adora: *crosses her arms and sits on the couch, watching Alastor with narrowed eyes* I'm surprised you didn't tell us about your little rendezvous with the cultists.

Alastor: Like I wanted to be chased down by hyper-religious murderers.

Adora: *sighs heavily* I guess I can't argue with that.

Emily: *pours a cup of coffee for Alastor* "You know, you're pretty amazing, Alastor."

Alastor: Thanks.

Emily: "It's incredible, the way you handle all this."

Adora: *snorts* "Incredible, huh? More like he's got a death wish."

Alastor: *mutters "not my fault i was born to a lineage of blood mages" under his breath*

Adora: "You know, for someone with the power to end the world, you're pretty... grounded."

Chimera: *laughs* "That's one way to put it, Adora. Al's got more layers than a seven-tiered cake."

Adora: *glares at Chimera* "I'm not in the mood for your jokes."

Ryx: "What's up, Adora? You seem grumpier than usual." *his starry form floats closer to her*

Alastor: Ryx, I wouldn't if I were you.

Emily: "He's not that bad, Adora. I think he's kind of cute!" *she giggles, blushing slightly.*

Chimera: "Cute? He's an interdimensional prankster. Could be dangerous."

Alastor: he's been with us for a day. Singular. We can't jump to "murder now before it's too late" just yet.

Chimera: *laughs* "Cute? Maybe if you're into that kind of thing, Em."

Emily: *giggles* "Well, I've never met anyone quite like him before!"

Chimera: *smirks* "I've got to admit, he's got a certain charm."

Alastor: I need sleep, if anyone needs me I'll be in bed.

Adora: *watching Alastor ascend the stairs* Alastor, hold up.

Alastor: *looking back* What?

Adora: *follows Alastor up the stairs, her eyes never leaving his back* I just... I don't get it, Alastor. Why do you keep pushing yourself so hard? You always overexert yourself, and you never stop. Why?

Alastor: Because... I'm afraid of failure.

Adora: *stops at the top of the stairs, her eyes searching his* Failure? But you're so powerful.

Alastor: If I fail, it's gonna be your lives at risk. And if it's your lives at risk, I couldn't live with myself.

Emily: *watches them from the living room with a warm smile, her optimism shining through* They're so sweet together.

Chimera: *joins Emily on the couch* "Yeah, they're an interesting pair."

Adora: *follows Alastor into his room, her tail swishing* You're not going to burn out, are you?

Alastor: Adora, I promise you, I won't burn out.

Adora: *looks at Alastor for a quick second* "..thank you." *exits the room, closing the door behind him.*

Narrator: The next day...

Alastor: *wakes up, rubbing his eyes with his forearm, then getting up out of bed. He makes his way down into the basement, where Adora is making coffee for herself, and Emily and Chimera are watching some sort of game show.*

Emily: "Alastor, you're up! Did you sleep okay?" *she asks, turning to face him with a bright smile.*

Alastor: Yeah, I slept well. What you guys watching?

Emily: Oh, just some game show! You know, the usual morning thing. *laughs* How about you, Al?

Alastor: Just waking up.

Adora: *still in her pajamas, she glances up from her coffee maker* "Morning, Alastor. Did you manage to get any rest?"

Alastor: Yeah, think I got a good 7 hours.

Adora: *hands Alastor a steaming cup of coffee* "Here, black, no sugar. Just how you like it."

Alastor: Thanks. *smiling, taking the coffee in his hands.*

Chimera: *glances over from the couch* "So, what's the plan for today, Al? More training?"

Alastor: Yeah, sure. *sipping coffee*

Narrator: A couple of hours later, Chimera and Adora are talking.

Chimera: So, Adora, what's up with you and Alastor?

Adora: *rolls her eyes, leaning against the kitchen counter with her arms crossed* What do you mean, Chim?

Chimera: *grins* "Come on, don't play coy with me. You obviously have a thing for him."

Adora: *blushes slightly, her tail swishing* I don't know what you're talking about.

Chimera: *winks* "Oh, I think I know exactly what I'm talking about. You guys are so adorable when you're all awkward around each other."

Adora: *sighs heavily* Alright, fine. I'll admit it. I do... I do have feelings for him.

Chimera: *his eyes widen slightly* "Ah, I knew it. But why keep it a secret?"

Adora: *swallows nervously, avoiding eye contact with Chimera* "Because... I don't know how he feels about me. And if he doesn't... I don't want to mess things up.

Chimera: Y'know, Al feels the same about you, believe it or not.

Adora: *stiffens, her eyes snapping to Chimera's* What? How would you know that?

Chimera: 'Cause he admitted it to me the other day.

Adora: *blinks rapidly* He... did? *she takes a deep breath, her heart racing.*

Chimera: Yeah, he's not the best with expressing himself, but it's pretty clear he's got it bad for you too.

Adora: *her cheeks turn a deep shade of red* "He... he does?"

Chimera: *nods* "Yeah, he does. You guys are so obviously into each other, it's like watching a sitcom romance unfold."

Adora: *her tail twitches nervously* "But what if... what if it doesn't work out?"

Chimera: "You guys are both worriers. Just be honest with each other, and you'll figure it out."

Adora: *her eyes flicker to Chimera, then back down to the floor* "You think so?"

Chimera: "Trust me, Adora. You guys are like two peas in a pod. Just tell him."

Adora: *Her eyes dart to Chimera, and then back to her coffee* "But what if... what if I tell him and he doesn't feel the same way?"

Chimera: *his smile fades a bit, becoming more earnest* "Look, Adora, you can't control how Alastor feels. But I've seen the way he looks at you. It's not just friendship."

Adora: *swallows hard, her tail wrapping around her leg* "But what if I say something and it ruins everything? We're a team. We can't afford distractions."

Chimera: "Adora, you can't let fear dictate your life. Besides, you guys are already a pretty tight team. A little bit of romance might just make it all the more interesting." *winks*

Adora: *sighs* "You're right, Chim. I guess I'll just have to talk to him."

Narrator: Meanwhile, Alastor is in the basement, lost in thought as he looks over ancient texts.

Adora: *enters the basement, her tail swishing nervously* Alastor, can we talk?

Alastor: Sure, what do you wanna talk about?

Adora: *nervously fiddles with the hem of her shirt* It's about... us, I guess.

Alastor: Like, the entire group or the two of us?

Adora: *swallows hard* The two of us.

Alastor: Alright, so what do you want to talk about?

Adora: *takes a deep breath, her heart racing* I just... I just wanted to get something off my chest. I've been feeling this way for a while now, and I can't keep it in anymore.

Alastor: Uh, alright. Not sure where this is going, but okay...

Adora: *takes a step closer, her eyes meeting Alastor's* "Alastor... I know we've been through a lot together. And I've noticed the way we've been getting... closer."

Alastor: What do you mean by that? *stands up from his desk*

Adora: *her tail stops swishing and wraps around her leg* "I... I have feelings for you, Alastor."

Alastor: That's not much of a surprise, Adora. We're allies. Comrades in arms.

Adora: *her eyes widen* You know?!

Alastor: What? I thought you were saying that in a "just to let you know we're still good" way like you usually do!

Adora: *stammers, her cheeks growing redder* N-no, I mean... I have feelings for you. As more than a friend.

Alastor: Oh, like that... well, I guess I can tell you now... it might be a mutual thing.

Adora: *her eyes widen and her tail loosens from around her leg* "Really?"

Alastor: Yeah... I mean, if it's true, maybe we can try it out... see how it goes.

Adora: *swallows, her tail swishing nervously* So... so you do have feelings for me?

Alastor: Yeah.

Adora: *her voice is shaky with excitement and relief* Really? Alastor, I've been so scared to say anything because I didn't want to mess things up.

Alastor: Me neither. If I knew you felt the same, I would have talked to you about it sooner.

Adora: *smiles shyly* I just didn't know how to bring it up without it being weird.

Alastor: So, we're a thing, for real now?

Adora: *nods, her eyes shimmering with hope* Yes, Alastor. If that's what you want too.

Alastor: It is. It's honestly a relief you felt the same way.

Adora: *laughs nervously, her eyes shining* I just didn't want to mess things up. But now that we've said it, it feels... right.

Alastor: Yeah. But, how do we tell the others?

Adora: *looks down at her coffee, a soft smile on her lips* I'm not sure. Maybe we should just... let it happen naturally?

Alastor: *holds her hands in his* sounds good.

Adora: *squeezes his hands tightly, her paws slightly trembling* Thank you, Alastor. I'm just so nervous.

Alastor: Don't be. Everything's fine.

Alastor: I know my brother. Chimera's gonna be completely fine with it. And you know Emily, she's gonna be glad we're a thing.

Arc V: The City of Ka

Narrator: Two weeks pass, Emily found out about Alastor and Adora. She's honestly ecstatic that they're together, even calling their couple name "Alastadora".

Narrator: Chimera's busy taking classes, Emily's out getting ice-cream, Adora's overseas for a family reunion, and Alastor's with Adora.

Adora: I haven't been home in years. It's weird to think about seeing everyone again.

Alastor: Yeah?

Adora: *whispers* "You know, I've never told anyone this, but sometimes, when I look at you, I wonder if you're really okay with all this. Being the strongest, the center of attention, the one everyone expects to save them."

Alastor: *doesn't reply*

Adora: *studies Alastor's expression, her own anxiety rising* Did I say something wrong?

Alastor: *snaps back to reality* oh, no, sorry, just.. disconnected.

Adora: *looks at Alastor with a hint of concern* You okay? You seem... distant.

Alastor: Yeah, I'm fine.

Adora: *sighs in relief* That's a relief. I know we've all been through a lot, but I just want us to be happy.

Alastor: Yeah, me too. So, what's your family like? Just so I know what to expect.

Adora: *laughs softly* They're a bit... intense. You know how cats are with their pride. They're going to want to know everything about you.

Alastor: I bet they are.

Adora: *smiles slightly* They're going to love you, though. Just be prepared for a lot of questions about your... *gestures to his hand*

Alastor: The sigil. I know.

Narrator: The plane lands in the city of Ka, where Adora hails from.

Adora: *as they step off the plane, she looks around nervously* Alright, so, remember, my family can be a bit... much.

Alastor: Yeah, I'm just amazed by this city. This is where you come from?

Narrator: As they navigate through the bustling streets of Ka, the stark contrast to the high-tech Sictarum is evident. The air is thiick with a mix of spices and the chatter of a diverse population.

Alastor: *taking in the sights, completely and utterly mesmerised by the city.*

Adora: *guides Alastor through the crowded streets, her tail swishing as she points out various landmarks and shops* "This is the marketplace where I used to hang out with my friends."

Kira (Adora's old friend): *spots Adora from afar and waves excitedly* "Adora! You're back!"

Adora: *smiles and waves back, pulling Alastor along with her* "Hey, Kira! This is Alastor, my... boyfriend."

Kira (Adora's old friend): *runs over to them, her eyes lighting up* "Oh my gosh, Adora, you're here! And who's this handsome fella?"

Adora: *blushes slightly* "Kira, this is Alastor. He's a... a friend of mine."

Kira (Adora's old friend): "Oh, just a friend? *winks playfully* He looks like more than that to me!"

Adora: *laughs nervously* "Well, Kira, he's definitely more than just a friend. This is Alastor Sycorin."

Kira (Adora's old friend): "Sycorin? As in *the* Sycorin family?" *her eyes widen in a mix of awe and excitement.*

Kira: "Oh wow, Adora, you're dating a Blood Mage!"

Adora: *laughing nervously* "Well, Kira, when you put it like that..."

Kira: "Oh, I didn't mean to put you on the spot! It's just, you know how the rumors go around here. So, what brings you two lovebirds to Ka?"

Adora: "It's okay, Kira. And actually, Alastor's never been to Ka before, so I wanted to show him around."

Kira: "Well, you're in for a treat, Alastor! Ka's got more history than you can shake a stick at. And the food~" *Her eyes glaze over in a food coma daydream.*

Adora: *chuckles, nudging Alastor* "You're going to love it here. Just remember, no using your powers unless absolutely necessary."

Alastor: Got it.

Kira: "So, Alastor, tell me, what do you think of our little city?"

Alastor: it's amazing.

Kira: "You're too kind, Alastor! But seriously, Adora, you've got to show him the best parts of the city!"

Adora: *smiling* "I will, Kira. We're actually on our way to see my family right now."

Kira: "Oh, you're going to introduce him to the folks! Good luck with that! They can be a handful!"

Narrator: Adora and Alastor eventually arrive at her family's home, a beautifully maintained building with a small garden out front.

Adora: *nervously knocks on the door* "Here goes nothing."

Luna: *swings the door open, her eyes wide with excitement* "Adora! You're back!" *she wraps her arms around her sister in a tight hug*

Adora: *stiffens slightly in surprise, then returns the hug* "Hi, Luna."

Luna: "And who's this?" *she pulls back to look at Alastor with curiosity, her tail swishing.*

Adora: *swallows* "Luna, this is Alastor."

Luna: *her eyes light up as she takes in Alastor, her smile growing wider* "Alastor! Oh my stars, Adora, he's gorgeous!" *she squeaks and pulls them both inside* "Mom! Dad! Adora's home and she's brought a boy with her!"

Kane: *his gruff voice echoes from the back of the house* "What's all the commotion, Luna?"

Luna: "Adora's back with her boyfriend, Dad!" *she squeals, her excitement bubbling over as she leads Adora and Alastor into the living room.*

Adora: *whispers to Alastor* "Just try to be yourself, okay?"

Alastor: *nods*

Kane: *his voice booming through the house, he enters the living room with a stern look that quickly softens upon seeing Adora* "Adora! Welcome home, darling!"

Adora: *swallows hard, her heart racing as she steps into the room with Alastor* "Hi, Dad."

Kane: *his stern gaze shifts to Alastor* "And who is this young man, Adora?"

Alastor: Oh, hi. I'm Alastor.

Kane: *his smile fading a bit* "Alastor Sycorin, I presume?"

Alastor: Yeah.

Kane: *his eyes narrow slightly as he assesses Alastor* "You must be the one with the sigil. The rumors have reached us, even here. There are hundreds, if not thousands of legends from your lineage. It's a real shame there are only a few of the Sycorin left. One of your ancestors once defended the city of Ka."

Adora: *swallows hard, her tail flicking* "Yes, he is, Dad. And he's been helping me a lot."

Luna: "Oh, how romantic!" *she squeals, her eyes glittering with excitement.*

Adora: *nervously chuckles* "It's not all that, really."

Kane: *his gaze remains on Alastor, his expression unreadable* "Rumors say you're the strongest Blood Mage alive. Is that true?"

Alastor: I mean, my brother's pretty strong too, but you could say that.

Kane: *his expression remains unchanged* "Interesting. And what brings you to Ka, Alastor?"

Adora: *swallows, her eyes darting to Alastor for a moment before speaking* "Well, we're just here for a visit. I wanted Alastor to meet the family."

Kane: "Ah, I see." *He looks Alastor up and down, his expression unreadable.* "Welcome to our home, Alastor. I hope you enjoy your stay."

Alastor: Thank you.

Luna: "So, Alastor, tell us about your life in Sictarum! It must be so different from here!"

Alastor: Well, there are massive, towering skyscrapers, as far as the eye can see, hyperrails faster than you could imagine, and technology and medical advances that seems like it exceeds itself every other day. But it's not all glitz and glam. In my 21-year life, near 19 of which lived in the city, I had to fight off a demonic corruption of what seemed to be one of my classmates, which manipulated lightning, and I was at threat by these "Ancient Cultists", that were so persistent it got under my skin.

Adora: *Her ears flatten slightly, listening to Alastor's words, her tail flicking in agitation* "But you've always been so... distant about your life before we met. What changed?"

Alastor: I didn't always know I was a Sycorin. It was a struggle to put together a life for myself as a kid. I'm lucky and grateful I lived to my college years, because before the recent sharpening of Sictarum's economic and political structure, you were either dirt-poor, or living it up. And the chance of being able to complete the latter? You'd either have to either be born into royalty or kill and slay your way to success.

Luna: *gapes* "Wow, that's... intense, Alastor. I can't even imagine what that must have been like."

Alastor: I always had to keep moving. Sometimes I would have to walk barefoot across entire run-down districts just to be safer.

Luna: *Her eyes widen in shock* "But you're so powerful now, Alastor!"

Alastor: Because it was the struggle and fight that the environment I was in gave me character. It gave me grit, as some call it. Others call it tenacity, moxxie even. The only thing on my mind back then was "how am i supposed to survive"?

Adora: *Her tail sags slightly.* That sounds... really tough, Alastor. I had no idea.

Alastor: It's okay, Adora.

Kane: "Survival is a powerful teacher, Alastor. It shapes us into who we are today. Adora, you've done well bringing him here."

Adora: *looks at her dad with surprise, then at Alastor with a soft smile* "Thank you, Dad."

Kane: "I can see that you two are quite close."

Adora: *looks at Alastor, then at her father* "Yes, we are. And Alastor is... special to me."

Kane: *his sternness fading away* "I can see that. And Adora, you know we're always here for you, no matter what."

Adora: *swallows* "Thank you, Dad."

Luna: "So, Alastor, do you have any cool Blood Mage tricks to show us?" *Her eyes sparkle with excitement.*

Alastor: I promised to use my powers as a last-resort in self-defence only while i'm here.

Kane: *his gaze lingers on the sigil on Alastor's hand for a moment before he nods* "I understand. But if you ever need to, don't hold back. We stand with you."

Alastor: Thank you.

Luna: *Pouts* "Aww, no magic show?"

Kane: *chuckles* "Let him be, Luna. We'll have plenty of time to learn from him. Alastor, tell us more about your life in Sictarum. What's it like living in such a place?"

Alastor: Sictarum's like a beating heart of progress. The lights never die, the sounds of the hyperrails echo through the night. It's a place where you can be anyone, do anything, if you're willing to fight for it.

Nieth: *pokes his head out of his room, his curiosity piqued by the unfamiliar voice* "Adora? Who's that?"

Adora: *turns to Nieth, her eyes widening slightly* "Nieth, this is Alastor. He's a... friend of mine."

Nieth: *his eyes light up with curiosity* "Alastor, huh? It's nice to meet you."

Alastor: It's nice to meet you too.

Luna: "Nieth, don't be so shy!" *she pulls Nieth into the room* "This is Alastor, Adora's boyfriend!"

Nieth: *his eyes widen and he blushes slightly* "B-boyfriend?!"

Adora: *swallows hard* "Yeah, Nieth, Alastor and I are... dating."

Nieth: "Wow, Adora! That's... unexpected!" *his eyes dart to Alastor, then back to Adora* "But you guys seem... happy together?"

Adora: *laughs nervously* "Yeah, Nieth, we are. Alastor's been a... big help to me."

Nieth: *his expression a mix of shock and curiosity* "Wow, that's... that's great, Adora!" *his gaze shifts to Alastor, a hint of suspicion in his eyes* "So, Alastor, what do you do in Sictarum?"

Alastor: I-I'm a Mage.

Nieth: "A Mage, huh?" *his ears perk up with interest* "What kind of magic do you do?"

Adora: *swallows, watching Nieth carefully* "Alastor's a Blood Mage, Nieth. One of the strongest there is."

Nieth: *his eyes widen even more* "A Blood Mage? That's... that's incredible, Adora! How did you two meet?"

Adora: *laughs nervously, her cheeks flushing* "Well, it's kind of a long story. But we met when we became roommates in college."

Luna: "College roommates to lovers, that's so romantic!"

Nieth: "I-It is? I didn't know Adora was interested in... mages." *his gaze lingers on Alastor's sigil*

Adora: *her eyes dart to Nieth, a hint of concern in them* "It's a bit complicated, Nieth."

Kane: "It seems you've made quite a name for yourself, young man. The last Blood Mage was a legend here in Ka. Your ancestor, Lucas."

Adora: *looks at Alastor with a hint of pride* "Alastor's pretty amazing, Nieth. He's saved the known world a few times already."

Alastor: *blushes* I mean, I wouldn't say the entire known world, but I have done one or two good things.

Nieth: "I-I've heard of Blood Mages before, but I've never met one. It's pretty cool!" *his eyes wander to Alastor's hand again* "Does it, uh, hurt when you use your magic?"

Alastor: Not really.

Nieth: "But I thought Blood Magic was... dangerous?"

Alastor: only if the user does it irresponsibly or recklessly.

Nieth: "I see." *his eyes light up* "Can you teach me some magic, Alastor?"

Alastor: Unfortunately you can only learn blood magic if you have an affinity for it, and the only ones who do have it are me and my brother, so, sorry, but no.

Nieth: *his curiosity piqued* "Affinity? Like a... a special connection to the magic?"

Alastor: Yeah. For pyromancers and electromancers, it's in the breath, and for blood mages like me, the affinity comes from something in the veins called Sempraxyn, a thing in the blood that allows a person to control the magic, and it's only found in Sycorins, like myself.

Nieth: *his gaze lingers on Alastor's hand, his curiosity unabated* "I see... But what does it feel like to have that power? To be so strong?"

Alastor: I can't really put it into words, if I'm being honest.

Nieth: "I bet it's incredible!"

Adora: *smiles gently at Nieth* "Why don't we show Alastor the rest of the house?"

Nieth: *nods eagerly* "Yeah, sure! This way, Alastor!"

Alastor: *follows Nieth, looking around the house with a sense of wonder* It's a beautiful home.

Nieth: *proudly* Thanks! It's been in our family for generations.

Nieth: *his eyes light up as he shows Alastor the family's ancient artifacts* "These are relics from when the Sycorins protected Ka from the last great threat."

Alastor: what was the last great threat?

Nieth: *his eyes take on a distant look* "The last great threat was the Famine of Ka, in the early 1700's. There was a typhoon that took out the farms and there was no food whatsoever. Lucas Sycorin, the Emporor of Ka at the time, lead Ka back to prosperity. That's why we call him the Savior of Ka."

Nieth: "But let's not dwell on the past! Let's show you the garden! Mom keeps it looking amazing!"

Alastor: Right.

Nieth: "So, Alastor, what do you think of our little garden?"

Alastor: Looks amazing.

Mana (Adora's Mother): *tending to the garden, and notices Nieth and Alastor* Hi, Nieth! *looks at Alastor* and who might you be?

Nieth: This is Alastor! He's Adora's boyfriend, and a Blood Mage from Sictarum.

Mana: *stands up, brushing the dirt off her hands* "Welcome to our home, Alastor. It's a pleasure to finally meet the young man who has captured Adora's heart."

Alastor: Thanks...

Mana: *smiles warmly at Alastor* "It's quite alright, dear. Adora has always had a penchant for the mysterious. Tell me, what brings you to Ka?"

Nieth: *his eyes widen* "You guys are dating?!"

Alastor: *looks at Nieth awkwardly* Yeah, we are.

Mana: "It's a beautiful garden, isn't it?"

Alastor: Yeah... love what you've done with it.

Mana: "Thank you, Alastor. It's a labor of love. But tell me, how did you discover your Blood Mage abilities?"

Alastor: I don't know. It just came to me one night of the eclipse last year, and suddenly I was connected to my affinity.

Mana: *Her eyes sparkle with interest.* "Ah, an eclipse awakening. That's quite rare and powerful. How have you been managing your powers since?"

Alastor: I've gotten really powerful in the last few months.

Mana: "Indeed, it's not every day we see an eclipse awakening. And you've been managing it well, from what Adora has told us. Your family must be proud."

Alastor: Well, about that... see, the only biological family I have right now is my brother.

Mana: "Ah, I see. And where is your brother?"

Alastor: He's back in Sictarum right now.

Mana: "Ah, I see. Well, I'm sure he'll be here soon enough to meet us. Now, Alastor, tell me, what do you know about our family's history with the Sycorins?"

Alastor: Not much, I'm afraid.

Mana: "Ah, well, I'll be sure to fill you in then. We've had a long history with the Sycorin family, you see. Your ancestor, Lucas, was quite the hero here in Ka. He's why we have this garden, actually."

Nieth: *his eyes wide with excitement* "Really, Mom? Can you tell us the story?"

Mana: "Of course, dear. It's always a good time to share our history with someone new. Alastor, would you like to sit and join us?"

Alastor: I don't see why not.

Mana: "Thank you, Alastor. Now, the story goes like this..."

Mana: "Once upon a time, in the days of the great Ka famine, your ancestor Lucas Sycorin was a young man, much like yourself. The land was barren, the people desperate. Lucas had just discovered his own powers as a Blood Mage, and he was unsure of what to do with them. But when he saw the suffering around him, something changed in him. He used his power to bring forth a bountiful harvest from the scorched earth."

Nieth: "Wow, that's amazing, Mom! I didn't know it was that serious!"

Mana: "Indeed it was, Nieth. And the legacy of the Sycorins lives on in every leaf and bloom here. Alastor, I'm sure you've felt the connection to this place."

Alastor: A little bit, yeah.

Narrator: A couple hours later, Mana, Adora, Luna, Kane, Alastor, and Nieth are at the dining table, having dinner.

Mana: "So, Alastor, tell us about your brother. What's his name again?"

Alastor: His name's Chimera.

Mana: "Ah, Chimera. Adora has told us about him. A Blood Mage as well, right?"

Alastor: Yeah.

Adora: *picks at her food, lost in thought*

Luna: *giggling* "Alastor, tell us a funny story from college!"

Alastor: Alright. This one time, I was busy taking notes when someone spilt their drink on my paper. They apologised, of course, but I still had to rewrite the entire thing from scratch.

Luna: *laughing* "Oh, that's too funny, Alastor!"

Mana: "It seems you two have quite the bond. Adora, how did you and Alastor first meet?"

Adora: *swallows a bite of her food and takes a deep breath* "Well, we met when we were assigned as roommates in college. I wasn't the friendliest at first, but Alastor... he just had this way about him."

Adora: *continues her story* "He was persistent, and eventually, we became friends. And as we got to know each other, I started to see the kind of person he really is. Strong, brave, and... well, he's just amazing."

Alastor: *blushes*

Adora: *looks up at Alastor with a gentle smile, her eyes sparkling* "It's okay, everyone, Alastor's just being humble. He's saved my life more than once."

Kane: "Ah, a protector, are you?"

Alastor: Yeah. I have my reasons why. My friends... nah, they're not just my friends, they're my family. And they're all I've got.

Kane: "Your dedication to those close to you is commendable, Alastor. It's something we all strive for."

Alastor: Thanks.

Adora: *smiles warmly at Alastor* "You're too kind."

Mana: "It's clear you two have been through a lot together. Tell us about your first mission as a Blood Mage, Alastor."

Alastor: It wasn't much of a mission, but I still remember it like it was yesterday. It was the day we met Chimera. Me, Adora and Em, we were in the cafeteria, talking about things, when we ran into Chimera. One thing lead to another, and by the time I realised how much we've gone through, with Chimera on our side, we'd already done so much.

Mana: "Ah, so you met Chimera at college as well. What was he like when you first met?"

Alastor: Chimera was chill as ice. There was something about him that really stuck with me. Something that gave me good vibes.

Mana: "That's quite the first impression. It seems fate had a hand in bringing you all together. What was it that made you decide to form your... little supernatural club?"

Alastor: Well, Chim had what all of us didn't, his own house. A house that also had a really big basement. We fixed up the basement and in return, Chim didn't charge rent for the 3 of us.

Mana: *laughs warmly* "Ah, so you turned it into your own little headquarters. How resourceful."

Adora: *looks over at Alastor* It was more than just that, Mom. We had to keep our identities hidden, especially after we found out about Alastor's... lineage.

Alastor: *laughs* yeah, I even sometimes even use a couple alternate names for some of my deliveries.

Mana: "Ah, the trials and tribulations of the modern mage. It's a wonder you all manage to keep your identities secret."

Adora: *sighs* "It's not easy, but we manage. It's all for the greater good, right?"

Alastor: Yep.

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