Part 6 is in the groove, on the move, and in your box
Jazz
"It is time, so deal with it."
partition of the castle. One last person to see.'
Climbing the stairs to her room, Jazz knocked tentatively on
Arshes' door. "Come in." came the weak response.
Seeing Jazz s gait as he entered, Arshes knew it was time.
"Jazz, you don't...have to do this...." she rasped, trying to
rise from the bed.
"Arshes, stay in your bed. You need to heal. And yes, I do
need to do this. I'm the only one capable of it."
"Jazz...."
Looking at her face, Jazz could see tears start to form.
"Arshes, I care about you deeply. Rest now and I will see you
when I get back." said Jazz softly, approaching her bed.
"If you return..."
"Arshes, not if, when. I know I will return."
"How can you...be so sure?"
"I just know. Things will happen but I will return. I have
my reasons."
"What reasons?" asked Arshes, managing to finally sit
upright in her bed.
"The woman I love is here and that is all the reason I
need." said Jazz, getting down on one knee, looking deeply into
her eyes. Arshes could see tears beginning to form in jazz's
eyes.
"Jazz....who?" said Arshes, tears starting to form.
"You..." Jazz said softly, wrapping his arms gently around
Arshes in a hug.
"Jazz..."
Feeling a wetness on his shoulder, Jazz whispered "Yes,
Arshes. I love you. It took me a while to realize it but I do."
Kissing her lightly on the lips, Jazz once again looked into
her eyes. "I will return and these invaders shall pay for
kidnaping my friends. This I promise."
Looking into his eyes, Arshes noticed a flame of power and
determination she hadn't seen since he had last cast magic.
"Jazz, just be careful."
"I will. Now rest and get better, I will return in a few
days with our friends." said Jazz, getting back to his feet.
Before closing the door behind him, Jazz said "Rest and
heal, Arshes."
When the door closed fully, Arshes sobbed bitterly. "Oh
Jazz..." If anything happens to you, I will move heaven and
earth.' she thought, sighing.
Outside her room, Jazz slouched against the wall, wiping a
tear from his eyes. I hope I have what it takes to rescue
them.' thought Jazz, going over his list of items he had packed.
Half walking, half stumbling towards his room, Jazz thought
over his battle plan, which wasn't much. Getting inside his
room, Jazz donned a sleeveless, cutoff blouse before climbing
into his customary jumpsuit. Never know when I might need my
other form...' he thought with slight trepidation. God blessed
pool changed me but it is something I need to deal with from now
on. Why couldn't it have been something simpler??'
[Flashback sequence]
About two days after finding the crystals, Jazz worked late
into the night, redesigning the Gratan Mark II. Getting up from
the desk and chair, Jazz walked over to the vanity, hoping the
water had cooled just enough to wake him up. He opted to keep a
shard of the fire crystal in with the water so would have warm
water at anytime. Just before sun down, he had removed the shard
and set the water jug on the window sill.
Walking over to the window sill, Jazz grabbed the jug and
poured it over his head outside the window. Suddenly a strange
tingling overwhelmed his senses. What the heck?' he thought
walking back over to the vanity.
Hey wait, have I gotten taller?' he thought, having
discovered the day before that he could take more damage from
physical blows before bruising started.
Getting to the vanity, Jazz looked into the mirror. Pause
for a second. The jug slid from Jazz's open fingers, shattering
into several hundred pieces on the floor. Rushing forward to
look in the mirror, Jazz looked at his reflection. It wasn't his
face staring back at him.
My god...' he thought in shock. Raising his right hand to
touch his face, Jazz looked down into his palm, not seeing pink
flesh but a light purplish gray.
I...I'm a freaking Gargoyle...' thought Jazz, looking back
at his reflection, noticing something peculiar about the face
looking back at him. No!! I can't!!!' he thought, his mind
rebelling. Pulling out the front of his torn shirt, Jazz
confirmed the present of two, rather large bumps, or mounds,
under the shirt. A FEMALE GARGOYLE???? WHY ME!!!???!!!!!'
thought Jazz, rearing back, her wings unfurling.
Looking back at the mirror, Jazz noticed that his eyes now
glowed red. Great. Just great. Now Disney will be after me.'
Jazz pondered, willing the wings to curl around her frame.
Taking several deep breaths, Jazz made her way, with many
uneasy steps, to the window. Looking at the night sky, Jazz
whispered softly "Looks like I have to avoid cold water during
the day from now on...But why a female??"
Feeling a cold wind, Jazz wrapped her arms around herself
trying to warm up physically and mentally. Might as well as see
what I can do in this form...but first, better clothing.'
Prodding over to his wardrobe, Jazz pulled out a one piece
skirt sleeveless blouse combo that Tia often wore. Somehow it
had gotten mixed in with his laundry and he had meant to return
it but never had. Pulling off the tattered shirt and shorts he
had been wearing, Jazz eased his/her way into the garment.
Feeling an uncomfortable tightness across her chest, Jazz
guessed what the problem could be. Loosening the closer straps,
Jazz found that she could breathe a lot easier. Tia is kinda
small chested...' Looking at the mirror, Jazz couldn't get over
how much he looked like Angela from Gargoyles. Man, Disney is
REALLY gonna be after me.'
At an off thought, Jazz grabbed a brush and ran it through
her long dark hair. Picking up and strapping the forearm bracer
to her right forearm, Jazz slipped her staff into it's holster.
Time for a night flight. I guess I will have to start referring
to myself as she' from now on. Why couldn't I have wished for
something a lot simpler.' she thought, prodding over to the
window. 20/20 hindsight.'
Striking the wall outside the window with her claw like
fingers, Jazz felt them dig into the stonework. Bringing her
other hand around, Jazz slowly made her way up the outside of the
building. Getting to the roof, Jazz looked over Metallicana.
"Man, I HATE heights." Spreading her wings fully, Jazz leapt
from the roof, finding a strong breeze.
Gliding through the air currents, Jazz soon found that she
kinda already knew how the air currents would go. How in the
world? Must be instinctual. I wonder...if the turning to stone
in daylight would still apply? Better assume that it does...for
now.' thought Jazz.
Noticing a light on in Arshes' room, Jazz swooped by the
window, landing kinda hard on the stone facing. Looking around
the edge of the sill, Jazz noticed that the light was suddenly
out. Peering further into the room, she noticed Arshes lying on
her bed. Seeing the window was slightly ajar, Jazz eased it open
and climbed over the sill slowly, her back towards Arshes.
"Hold it right there!" said an angry, female voice behind
Jazz, instantly recognizing it.
Oh Crap!!' thought Jazz, feeling a sharp pointy thing touch
in the middle of her back. I'm dead!' Standing perfectly
still, Jazz waited for Arshes to make the next move.
"Who and What are you?"
"It's me..." started Jazz, deciding on a different tactic.
"My name is Lady Jaz...mine. Lady Jasmine of Gargoyle Clan. I
mean you no harm, Lady Arshes."
"How do you know my name?? Turn around slowly."
Turning to face the dark elf slowly, Jazz wrapped her wings
down around herself. "I have heard many tales about you and
wanted to see if they were true." Seeing Arshes still pointed at
her, Jasmine continued "Please put the sword away."
"What do you want here?"
"I wish to become an ally to Metallicana."
"Why?? What do you want?"
"Because I feel it is the right thing to do. I want nothing
for it."
"Yeah right."
"Ayi-yi-yi..." sighed Jasmine softly.
"What did you say?"
"I said Ayi-yi-yi' because I thought you of all people
might believe me."
Jazz is the only one I heard use that. Where did she learn
it?' thought Arshes, keeping the gargoyle under guard. "Where
did you learn that?"
"I...picked it up with...my conversations with the one known
as Sir Jazz."
"So, he knows who you are?"
"Yes. He and I are good friends. Well, I must be going."
said Jasmine, heading back towards the window. Before Arshes
could say anything, Jasmine leapt from the window, spreading her
wings, and catching a breeze that lifted her into the sky.
After about a half hour or so, Jasmine glided back into her room,
neatly tucking in her wings while going through the window.
Walking over to the vanity, Jazz placed the fire crystal
shard in a small glass of water she had poured earlier but never
drank. Jasmine eased out of Tia's one piece before dousing
herself with the now warm water but not before looking in the
mirror. I have got to get some clothes that fit male and
female.' Jazz thought ruefully.
Living in interesting times. If Twister can deal with it,
so can I...but...there are few differences...' Jazz thought,
while trying to find another pair of shorts and shirt. Climbing
back into bed after getting changed, Jazz fell into a fitful
sleep, dreams coming rarely.
The next day, Arshes confronted Jazz on this supposed Lady
Jasmine' person/gargoyle. Kicking into full acting mode, Jazz
tried his best to answer Arshes' questions.
Besides avoiding cold water like the plague, Jazz attempted
Mission: Impossible. Getting into the garment storage, Jazz
managed to locate a few items that would work for Jasmine and not
look out of place on him.
Jasmine?? Why Jasmine??' Jazz fought over more than a few
times. Disney will surely be after me now. Good thing this is
only an anime.'
Two days later, Jazz got a large surprise. With the lack of
fighting, Princess Sheila declared a day of relaxation. Keeping
standard guards up around the castle, everyone else was allowed
to focus on other things than wartime duties.
Jazz opted to work on a few things in the library, like the
designs his teammates came up with for vehicles. Hey, we're
supposed to be the mounted knights so might as well as get a
mount for everyone.' Jazz reasoned.
Feeling a tapping on his left shoulder, Jazz turned to see
Tia, Sheila, Darschu, Gara, and Arshes. Oh boy, what'd I do
now?' thought Jazz, voicing the same.
"Jazz, it is a day of rest and fun. What are you doing down
here, again?" asked Tia.
"I am resting. This IS rest AND fun for me."
"Jazz, either come along peacefully, or else." replied Tia,
not liking his answer.
"Or else what?" asked Jazz, defiantly.
"Gara." said Tia, motioning to the Ninja Master.
Jazz noticed that Gara was holding a bucket of clear liquid.
Oh shit! Cold water. Warning, Will Robinson, Warning!!'
thought Jazz with alarm. "T..That's not cold water, is it?"
Nodding slowly, Tia reply "Either you come to the springs
with us or the springs will come to you."
"Jazz, what is it with you and cold water lately?" asked
Arshes suspiciously.
"Nothing. Just don't want to get wet right now."
"Okay. So, Jazz what's your choice? Wet now or wet later?"
asked Tia, smiling evilly.
Dammit. Caught between a rock and a hard place.' Jazz
thought, noticing that Gara was winding up to pitch the water at
him.. "I'llgoI'llgo." rushed Jazz.
"That's good. Now get ready." said Tia, looking at the
young man and shaking her head.
"Okay. I suppose you will want someone to go with me to
make sure I don't double back here?" Jazz mock asked.
"Good point. Arshes, could you please make sure he gets to
the courtyard in a little bit?" asked Tia.
Open mouth, insert foot up to the knee.' thought Jazz,
shaking his head.
"Gladly." said Jazz, a little too joyfully for his taste.
Scampering away from Gara and the bucket, Jazz hit his room
at a dead run with Arshes closely on his heels.
Pulling out a set of clothes he had retrieved two days ago,
Jazz changed over to something less restricting. (Less
restricting than a loose shirt and shorts?? It is possible.)
Jazz also redonned his forearm bracer and staff before leaving
his room.
Ten minutes later, he and Arshes returned to the courtyard
to meet the waiting troop. Going through the gate of
Metallicana, the group trudged along a path leading up a mountain
to the west of Metallicana. After several minutes of hiking,
Jazz noticed a wooden structure in the distance.
Before too long, the group of six arrived at the wood framed
building. Interesting. A bath house.' thought Jazz, gazing at
the structure, intrigued.
Seeing everyone enter the appropriate entrances, a warning
alarm went off in Jazz's head. Usually these houses have cold
water showers before hot water pools. Crap.'
"Coming, Jazz?" asked Gara, from the guys' entrance.
"In a moment. I want to take a look around."
"Okay, but don't..."
"Head back to the castle. I know I know. Tia will kill if
I did. I'll be in there in about five minutes. Okay?"
Nodding, Gara headed back into men's side.
Listening closely to the entrance to the Lady's entrance,
Jazz eased his way in when the three ladies cleared out.
Blushing largely at the sight of their clothes, Jazz quickly
stripped down. Now for the true test.' Jazz thought, with
determination. At the first touch of cold water, Jazz felt the
slight tingle of change. Looking down, Jazz blushed again,
taking in the fact that he hadn't changed to stone. I will
NEVER get used to this. I guess turning to stone isn't part of
this. Thankfully.' Lathering and rinsing off quickly, Jasmine
wrapped a towel around herself before folding down her wings.
Easing her way over to the guy's side, Jasmine quickly dosed
herself with hot water, reversing the change. Okay...now to go
out into the bigger pool...' thought Jazz, heading for the proper
doorway, staff firmly in hand.
As soon as he entered, Jazz noticed several things. A) The
females were here. B) Gara and Darschu weren't. C) The ladies
had looks of worried concern. D) The looks were aimed slightly
above his head. Instantly dive rolling to the right, Jazz heard
a splash where he had been standing.
Looking up, Jazz saw Darschu and Gara up in the rafter with
two buckets. Darschu was holding a bucket upside down. Gara in
turn was winding up to pitch the other bucket of water. Instant
change, here I come!' thought Jazz shielding himself with his
arms, his staff pointed towards the on rush water.
Or supposed on rush. Not feeling the tingle of change and
the dousing of cold water, Jazz eased out of defense slowly,
looking around. Noticing a glowing sphere around him, Jazz
looked at the wet stained wood outside the bubble. Shields??
Alll-rriiiiighty then!'
Gara and Darschu were caught by surprise. Sheila, Arshes,
and Tia figured that Gara had missed. "Jazz, how did you...do
that?" asked a disbelieving Gara.
"Let's just say I build my staff with a few tricks. Now,
let's go join the ladies." said Jazz, blushing slightly. Keeping
the towel tightly wrapped about himself, Jazz eased his way into
the pool, savoring the warmth.
Shortly thereafter, Gara and Darschu jumped in, splashing
Jazz effectively. Wiping the hair from his eyes, Jazz looked at
the two men with evil intent. Be thankful I don't have my
arsenal here.' thought Jazz, this mind thinking of his Super
Soaker arsenal. Packing the SS300(two gallon backpack), the
SS250, and the SS200, people had often called the Cave the best
armed floor on campus, especially with Jazz's contributions.
Seeing Gara and Darschu working their way over to the three
women, Jazz followed after them. As he neared, Jazz stopped dead
in his tracks. Taking a step closer, Jazz confirmed a suspicion.
The ladies were without towels, causing him to go wide eyed and
bright red.
Noting his condition, Arshes asked, with sweet concern,
"Jazz, is there something wrong?"
"NoNonothingatall. Ifyouneedme,I'llbeoverhere." said Jazz
quickly, rapidly making for the closest shore. Getting to the
side of the pool, Jazz sat on a ledge, leaning his head forward.
Trying hard to get rid of the blush, Jazz couldn't calm his mind
down enough.
Sheila, Tia, Arshes, Gara, and Darschu looked at each other
and nodded, Sheila blushing slightly. Flanking him on all sides,
Arshes said softly "Jazz..."
Hearing the rustle of water, Jazz knew someone was
approaching him. Hearing Arshes voice, Jazz willed his eyes to
remain shut, as he responded "Yes?"
"Look at me, please."
Shaking his head, he quickly replied "Uh-uh, notgonndoit
can'tmakeme."
"Jazz, please..." begged Arshes coyly.
Jazz lifted his head, opened one eye slightly, and quickly
shut his eye and rebowed his head. Trying to calm his heart rate
down, Jazz breathed deeply, multiple times.
Gara and Darschu grinned evilly and nodded Arshes to
continue on. Arshes grinned at how bright Jazz's cheeks and ears
were getting with every passing minute. Tia and Sheila looked on
with slight smiles on their lips.
"Jazz, there's something I need to ask you." whisper Arshes
breathily, attempting to take Jazz's hand in her own.
Feeling Arshes reach for his right hand, Jazz kept it firmly
in place. Steeling his nerves, Jazz looked up and opened his
eyes slowly. Focusing on Arshes' eyes, Jazz asked "Wh...what is
thy question, m'lady?"
"How do you feel about..."
Jazz's heart set a new record for speed. What is she gonna
ask me? AAAARRRGGHHH!!!!!' Jazz screamed mentally.
<Splish Splash-??>
"...getting dunked?" finished Arshes as Gara and Darschu
shoved Jazz's head underwater. Jazz came up sputtering. Looking
around at the five people with him, Jazz clenched his jaw, his
lips drawn back.
Closing his eyes momentarily and taking a deep breath, Jazz
replied finally "Not nice..."
"Yeah, so?" replied Darschu.
"It might cause me to do something like this!" said Jazz,
finishing off at yelling levels. Cupping his hands together in a
V' shape, he sent furrows of water straight at Gara and Darschu.
Before he could act further, Jazz found himself back under
water. Resurfacing, Jazz saw five people ready to pounce on him.
"Eep!!" he declared, diving back underwater and kicking off
the wall. Resurfacing 10 yards later, Jazz looked back to see
Arshes holding a piece of cloth.
"Jazz, missing something?" asked Arshes.
Blushing brightly, Jazz knew exactly what was missing. His
towel. Looking for another towel, Jazz didn't see any more and
what ones were available, Darschu and Gara had under guard.
Walking cautiously back towards Arshes, Jazz kept only his
head above water. Getting to Arshes, Jazz made a quick grab for
the towel, standing up to increase his reach, only to have Arshes
keep it from reach. To make matter worse(or better, depending on
how you look at it), Arshes stood up, very close to him. Being
that this area of the pool was just over four feet deep, Jazz's
eyes went dish saucer size at the sight of Arshes'...assets.
Jazz's eyes rolled back into his head as he turned immediately
around. Feeling something under his nose, Jazz wiped underneath
it to find a small trickle of blood.
Seeing Jazz do this, Tia replied "Jazz, you pervert."
Jazz's mouth hung open in shock. Bowing his head and
closing his eyes, Jazz tried to emulate an anti-stress kit with
the water's surface. Man!! I walked right into that
one...literally. Though, Arshes does have nice, pert...stop
those thought RIGHT now!' Jazz thought, trying to prevent his
mind from going off on many tangents, many of which being ecchi.
"Arshes, please give me my towel back please."
Jazz's blood pressure suddenly skyrocketed as Arshes brushed
up against him from behind. Jazz found that his nerves went into
instant twitching mode as he tried to reign in his emotions.
Tensing his muscles, Jazz stopped the twitching. Smiling at the
effect she was having on him, Arshes actually started to believe
what Darschu had said about Jazz's mindset and upbringing. Like
you say yourself, Jazz, sometimes the best way to fix something
is with a mallet.' thought Arshes, with a slight smile.
Wrapping her arm around Jazz's neck and hugging him close
from behind, Arshes felt him suddenly stiffen(not like that, you
hentais) before she whispered in his ear "You mean this towel?"
Notgonnathinkaboutuh-uhnotgonnathinklikethat.
Putitinthehappyboxgottaputitinthehappybox. Whymewhymewhyme??
Gottathinkpurethoughts. Whyisshedoingthistome.
Where'sasupersoakerwhenyouneedone??' Jazz thought rapidly,
feeling the warmth of Arshes' proximity on his back. Too match
the speed of his heart, he started to pant softly, taking short
shallow breaths.
Cracking his eyes open, Jazz saw the towel in question
clenched in Arshes hand and nodded slowly. "Then you just have
to take it from me." challenged Arshes.
I gotta catcher her off guard...Hentai side, what would
catch her off guard the most?' asked Jazz of himself.
A good fondle or grope is always good. A kiss might work.'
responded Jazz's ecchi side.
I'll opt for the kiss...groping and fondling aren't quite
for me.' said his logical side, starting a plan.
But you'd enjoy it...you have always wanted to do that...'
shot back his ecchi side.
"Okay..." replied Jazz softly, blinking a few times slowly.
True, but not now...later, much MUCH later...'
Arshes prepped herself for whatever he might do. Jazz
slowly turned around and looked Arshes straight in the eyes.
Calming his heart down, Jazz wrapped his arms around Arshes,
drawing her close, his hands firmly on her back.
"Jazz..." was all Arshes could get out as Jazz kissed her
deeply and fully. Jazz opened up his emotional floodgates,
pouring all he could into the kiss. After about thirty seconds
and feeling the towel near his shoulder, Jazz broke the kiss and
took the towel from Arshes' slackened hand.
"Thank you..." whisper Jazz, edging away from her as he
wrapped the towel about himself. Looking at the other four, Jazz
asked "What?? Haven't you seen a guy and girl kiss?"
"Not with that intensity." replied Darschu, with Gara
nodding in agreement. "I think the temperature rose a little in
here because of it."
Sheila and Tia were still kinda wide eyed. Looking back at
Arshes, focusing solely on her face, Jazz felt his heart skip a
partial beat as she slowly opened her eyes. Looking at him,
Arshes asked softly for only Jazz to hear "Jazz, where did you
learn to kiss like that?"
"Nowhere...just did what came naturally..." replied Jazz
just as softly.
Looking back the four would be dunkers, Jazz said, with
slight annoyance while heading to the side of the pool near the
changing rooms, "I'll be outside if you need me."
"Jazz...sorry...we didn't..." tried Sheila.
"Sheila, I know...I just need to work a few things out."
replied Jazz, minimalizing the turmoil of his emotions.
Climbing from the pool, Jazz entered the men's changing area
and quickly got dressed. Going out on the porch, Jazz sat on the
edge, looking at the greenery and whatnot around him.
I can't believe I actually did that.' thought Jazz.
You did, but...' replied another section.
But what?' asked the first.
You enjoyed it and it was necessary to get the towel back.'
Thinking back on the kiss, Jazz smiled slowly, sighing
contentedly. Yeah, I did...'
Sighing again, Jazz's thoughts returned to the beauty around
him, as he soaked up as much sun as he could, as several Enya
based melodies crossed his mind. Dozing slightly after several
minutes, Jazz failed to hear the others enter the porch from the
changing rooms.
"Jazz..." whisper Tia, attempting to waken him.
Rubbing his eyes, Jazz looked up to see his five friends.
"Yes??" he asked groggily.
"We have something for you..." said Darschu, grinning evilly
and holding something.
Jazz's mind went to instant light speed. "Darschu, don't."
"Why?? You don't have your staff to protect you."
Looking in horror, Jazz realized he had set his staff down
to recharge in the sunlight. Looking to his left, he saw his
staff lying on the porch fifteen feet away.
Turning back to Darschu. Jazz took in the sudden movement of
a bucket toss. Jazz slid under the porch railing and ran around
the corner of the building. SPLASH!!!!!!
Jazz felt the cold water hit, triggering the change.
SHIT!!!' she screamed mentally.
Looking down at her clothes, she found nothing but a
tattered array of rags. Damn! One of my favorite outfits.'
Hearing the rustle of feet approaching, Jasmine dived behind a
tree and tried to get dressed quickly when another realization
hit. I didn't turn to stone! I guess I'm not a full Disney
Gargoyle. Thank the goddess.'
"Jazz? Where are you?" called a voice she instantly
recognized as Tia.
Hey wait!! Damn, if I had a brain, I might hurt someone.
I didn't change before why would I change now?? If brains were
dynamite...' trailed off Jasmine.
Pulling on the tank top and belting the skirt about her
waist, Jasmine loosened the bindings on her forearm bracer,
letting it fall to the ground. Don't want to give them a clue
to my true identity.' thought Jasmine. Breathing deeply, Jasmine
stepped out from behind the tree, coming face-to-face with Tia.
Two seconds passed, before Tia screamed and backpedaled,
scampering back to the rest of the group. "M...Monster!!"
Jasmine heard her scream.
Chuckling softly, Jasmine whispered softly, still trying to
get used to her voice change, "Time for performance 101. I just
hope they listen before attacking."
Stepping around the side of the building after wrapping her
wings about herself, Jasmine saw everyone draw back slightly and
Tia just about to enter hysteria once again. "I'm not that ugly,
am I?" Jasmine asked hoping to lighten the mood, running a hand
through her hair.
"What did you do with the young man that came around the
side of the building?" asked Gara, stepping forward.
"Oh him? He looked terrified about something and headed
back to the castle." Jasmine replied.
"Jasmine??" asked a tentative Arshes.
"Yes, Lady Arshes?"
"Arshes, you know this monster?" whispered Gara at Arshes.
"Lord Gara, please get it straight. I am a gargoyle, not a
monster. I wish to be a friend and ally."
"Yes. Supposedly, she is a friend of Jazz's."
"How did you meet?" asked Tia, noticing the femininity of
the creature before her for the first time. "What are you
exactly?"
"I am a *pause*female in my clan of gargoyles. I was sent
out to investigate the war that was going on. A vile creature
injured my wing as I approached Metallicana a while ago. The one
known as Jazz was out in the woods with a woodsmith I believe,
looking for a proper piece of wood for project he was working on.
He found me and healed my injury. I am forever in his debt."
said Jasmine, formulating the story on the fly. "He and I became
good friends and he informed..."
Jazz awoke from his thoughts by a knock on his door.
Opening it, he found Nobemaza, Chiyuki, and Ann standing in the
hallway. "Come in." he said.
"Jazz, we hear that you will be leaving today." said
Nobemaza, formally.
"Yes. It is time."
"Why are you going alone?" asked Ann, a confused fear in her
voice.
"I'm going because, a single person will have a better
chance of getting in and back out than an army. How goes the
construction of your vehicles?"
"They have been completed and named." said Chiyuki, still
not liking the idea of their leader going off on his own, to do a
rescue.
"And what, pray tell, did you name your vehicles?"
"I have named mine the Iron Rhino." said Nobemaza.
"Golden Condor."
"The Metal Griffin." replied Chiyuki.
"Interesting names. It is now up to you three to help Sir
Crodyn defend Metallicana. Nobemaza, the Iron Rhino still has a
lot of the systems I used in the Gratan. If a large fire breaks
out, Chiyuki and Ann, I need you to cover your partner from an
enemy attack. Nobemaza, with a fire, I want you to take the
Rhino into the moat and throw the lever marked with a blue drop."
"What will that do?"
"The cannon on the top becomes a directional water cannon.
Any help you can give to the castle's people in fighting the fire
would probably be appreciated."
Seeing Nobemaza nod, Jazz finished off "Things will get very
hectic during the upcoming battle. Sir Crodyn will most likely
be launching something to help shift the balance of the conflict.
But you three will also have a part to play." Why do I suddenly
feel like Zordon?' asked Jazz of himself. "If things look REALLY
bad, inside each vehicle there is a button labeled with a C'.
Hit it but make sure all three of your vehicles are near each
other."
"Why?" asked the three confused techies.
"Let's just say it'll be a surprise...for the enemy."
replied Jazz, grinning and chuckling softly.
"Jazz..." started Ann.
"Just trust me. I'll be down to the forge in about ten
minutes, could you please make sure my project is ready for
launch." said Jazz, kicking into full business mode.
"Sure." replied Chiyuki, ushering the three of them from
Jazz's room.
Time to finish getting ready...' thought Jazz, regretfully.
<When Johnnie Comes Marching Home:Die Hard 3 Soundtrack>
Jazz walked over to his wardrobe and pulled out his work
boots. Lacing them up, Jazz stood up and clipped his combat/tool
belt around his waist. Clomping over to the vanity, Jazz ran a
comb through his hair, straightening it out.
Slipping the guard over his right forearm, he tightened it
up before securing the staff in it's confines. Picking up the
large black sphere from the vanity, Jazz caressed it. What are
you??' Jazz asked.
Just before he set it back down, Jazz swore he heard a
*miya* come from the egg. Man, I have got cabbits on the brain.
Can't worry about it now. Have to rescue my friends.'
Looking towards the window, Jazz looked at the horizon,
thinking Karlos, Abigail. Prepare yourselves, because there is
a locomotive headed your way and it's name is Jazz.'
Striding from his room with grim determination, Jazz closed
the door and slid down the firepole to his forge. Arriving in
the shop, Jazz yelled "Status report."
"Power at optimum." called out Chiyuki.
"Weapons fulled loaded. Extra ammo in storage bins." called
out Nobemaza.
"Controls primed and set." called Ann.
"Good. Prepare for launch!!" shouted Jazz, climbing into
the cockpit of his vehicle.
"Aye." came three responses.
Slowly the doors to the forge opened. Climbing back up so
his head was outside the hatch, Jazz cried "Gunnery Utilizing
Never Humbled Enhanced Drive system going for launch!!"
"Mark!!" shouted Chiyuki.
Easing down on the gas pedal, Jazz edged the low slung,
highly armored, highly armed vehicle from the forge and out
through the gates of Metallicana. Good luck everyone. I shall
return with those who have been captured.' thought Jazz as the
sight of Metallicana faded from sight.
Chapter 10 INCOMING!!!!!!
"Outnumbered, definitely. Outgunned, maybe. Outclassed,
never."
DigiCom-Otaku Arising II
Shaggy-Serendipity II
"You have to ask yourself Do I feel lucky?' Well, do ya,
punks?"
Harry-Dirty Harry
Stanley Ipkiss-The Mask
Jazz rumbled through the countryside, towards his
destination. I just hope I piece it together correctly from the
anime. Of course, I could have ordered the orcs sieging
Metallicana to take me there.' thought Jazz.
On his way out of Metallicana, Jazz opted to do a full
weapons test on the sieging force. Between the gatling guns,
autocannon, grenade launcher, and mortars, the forces nearest the
bridge didn't stand a chance. At least I bought Crodyn and
Talon a day at most. Every little bit helps.'
Opening the throttle up to full power, Jazz transversed the
countryside at just under 50 mph. Using his staff as a divining
rod, Jazz checked his course several times and made corrections.
Crossing over into a darker, nastier realm, Jazz knew he was
getting close. Using the telescope he had created, he saw the
castle he was looking for in the distance. Soon Karlos, we will
have that rematch. Your magic versus my technology. Wanna guess
who will win??'
That night, he arrived within walking distance of Karlos'
castle. Concealing his chariot in a tight rocky formation, Jazz
offered up a small prayer of thanks that he had kept it true to
it's original color scheme of gun metal gray.
Extracting a large metal backpack from a storage bin, Jazz
pulled it on and cinched it tight. Checking his tool belt one
last time for everything he thought he might need, Jazz pulled
out one last thing from the cockpit before shutting the chariot
down completely.
Managing to array himself in a cloak he had taken from the
cockpit, Jazz knew that he know looked like a hunched over
beggar. Taking out his staff, Jazz willed it into full size and
began to make his way to the castle.
Forty minutes later, Jazz drew up to the drawbridge. One of
the orc guards looked at the hunched over figure approaching the
bridge and called out "What do you want here, old man?"
"I want to see Karlos."
"No one sees Lord Karlos."
"I am different."
"Yeah right." said the guard, motioning his friends to
approach the cloaked figure from behind.
"Don't move any closer, any of you, or else."
"Or else what? You couldn't possibly hurt us." said the
guard, advancing in the cloak figure.
"Okay, don't say I didn't warn you." said the cloak figure.
Swinging the staff around, the cloak man caught one guard just
above the knees, knocking to his feet. (Okay, we all know who
this is. -author) Jazz whirled the staff around, blocking twin
sword strikes. Dancing out of the reach of the guards, Jazz
willed his staff to do something he hadn't tried before. A
section of bridge exploded in a blaze of fire.
It worked. Thank God.' thought Jazz, looking at the know
terrified guards. "You will take me to see Karlos now."
Nodding, two guards led the cloaked figure to Karlos'
private chamber. "Lord Karlos', we have a visitor who...wants to
see you." said one of the guards fearfully.
"I am not to be disturbed." said Karlos, casting a freezing
spell at the guard who spoke.
"Tsk tsk, Karlos, I thought you would want to see me." spoke
up the cloaked figure.
Karlos stepped back involuntarily, hearing and remembering
the voice. "Y...you..."
The figure stepped forward, pulling back his hood, Jazz
said, half snarling, half mocking, "Yes, it is me. You wanted a
rematch. Well, here I am."
"GUARDS!!!!!" yelled Karlos. As the guards came from the
many entrances, Karlos yelled "Surround him!"
Jazz looked at the guards surrounding him up to three guards
deep, most of them being orcs and trolls. "What's wrong, Karlos?
Afraid I'll bring this castle down around your ears."
Karlos made to cast a spell at Jazz, trying for a target
lock. He suddenly stopped and began to chuckle softly, gaining
volume. "You are no threat to me. Without magic, you are
nothing."
Flipping a switch on his backpack, Jazz tried to retain his
bravo. "If you do not release Geo, Tia, and Luche, I WILL bring
this castle down."
"Right. Guards, imprison this upstart." commanded Karlos.
As the guards began to advance on him, Jazz roared at the
top of his lungs while throwing off his cloak. Hitting another
switch on the backpack, Jazz felt twin cylinders click into place
on his shoulders. "Eat flaming death!!!!" he yelled, opening up.
The assemblies inside the cylinders began spinning at a high
rate. Suddenly twin streams of lead spewed forth, holing the
advancing guards. Karlos ducked behind his throne as Jazz set a
stream of lead his way.
As soon as it had started, it stopped. Damn, should have
brought more ammo.' thought Jazz. Seeing that Jazz no longer
fired his death stream, Karlos motioned his guards, what
remained, to imprison Jazz.
When Jazz had been stripped of his backpack, tool belt, and
forearm bracer, Karlos sneered "I don't know how you did that but
you won't do it ever again. Throw him in the dungeon."
Jazz was carried away and tossed into a lower level, if not
the lowest level, dungeon, but not before having the tar stomped
out of him by the guards. But the lowest level dungeon also
happened to be up in a tower.
"Jazz?" he heard a voice ask softly.
"Tia??" asked Jazz, trying to rise from the wooden cot.
"Jazz, what are you doing here?" asked Geo.
"I...I came to rescue you." said Jazz, knowing they were
next door, but unable to see them.
"Some rescue." replied Tia.
"Tia...we WILL be getting out of here. I...I just need to
rest." said Jazz, going back to his cot.
"Rest now Jazz. I just wish my magic worked here." said
Geo, with slight regret.
"Geo, don't worry about it...Just be ready to make a break
for it..."
"Okay..."
"Geo...question, how often do the guards came through here?"
asked Jazz, trying to formulate an idea.
"Every two hours or so."
"Okay...thanks..."
"Jazz??"
"Geo...trust me."
"Jazz, I hate it when you say that." spoke up Tia.
"Sorry...rest now..."
Reaching into the top of his boot, Jazz pulled out two small
vials. Hot and Cold water anyone?' he thought, finalizing his
plan.
When the next guard patrol passed by his cell, Jazz popped
the cork on the cold water. Stripping down to the clothes he had
worn under his jumpsuit, Jazz splashed the water in his face.
Feeling the strange tingling sensation, Jasmine prodded over to
the pile of clothes, fetching the belt and boots.
Opening the heels of the boots, she extracted several lumps
of gray, malleable material. Taking the belt, she pulled out
some more of the gray material and several small metal boxes with
two prongs out the bottom. Putting everything into a pouch,
Jasmine prodded over to the window and literally pulled the bars
from the window. Climbing outside the window, Jasmine dove into
the air, catching a breeze.
Getting a general layout of the castle, Jasmine dove through
the air currents to land on top of a low lying tower. After
wrapping her wings about herself, Jasmine made her way cautiously
down the stairs.
Reaching where she figured center point of the tower was,
she pulled off a small hunk of the plastique. Rolling it in her
hands, she placed it as if she were filling in a crack. Taking
an electronic sensor, Jasmine placed it with great care, hoping
it wouldn't discharge.
Turning to go back up the stairs, a deep gutteral voice
behind her said "What we got here?"
Looking back to see three orcs, heavily armed, Jasmine
backed away, up the stairs. "None of your business." she said,
fearfully.
"If it in the castle, it be our business." said the second
orc, bringing his club down on his upturned palm, threateningly.
The three orcs continued to advance as Jasmine back up the
stairs hastily. Reaching the outside, Jasmine turned and leapt
into the air, hoping to get away.
Not being used to this body, Jasmine found herself hauled
from the air by one of the orcs in mid leap.
"Oh, female." said the third orc, starting to drool.
"Let go of me!" screamed Jasmine, trying to slash at the orc
holding her leg. The orc caught her arm easily. Trying her left
claw swipe earned another orc capturing her arm.
Both orcs holding her arms painfully brought a foot down on
each of her feet to keep them on the ground, earning a scream of
pain from Jasmine. "You can't get away. It be long time since
we have woman." said the third orc brokenly.
"Now we have one." said the orc holding Jasmine's right arm.
She looked on with horror as the orc in front of her reached
out, grabbing the front of her tank top with one hand, the other
fondling one mound beneath the cloth. Giving into the panic,
Jasmine began to struggle fiercely, her eyes glowing red. "Don't
touch me!!" she screamed.
Tossing the orc holding her right arm, she claw slashed the
orc holding her left arm in the face. Using her tail, she
whipped the orc directly in front of her, knocking him back a
couple of yards. The orc, she had tossed earlier, came charging
back only to earn a side kick with toes extended.
Melee combat lasted a few short moments with the orcs
deciding that the option of living wasn't worthwhile anymore.
Leaning up against the wall, she panted shallowly, trying to
regain her breath. They tried to...' she thought, trying to
banish the thought of the r' word from her mind.
After about ten minutes, she climbed shakily to her feet.
I have got to be more careful.' she thought, reprimandingly.
Looking around carefully, she hoped they wouldn't find the bodies
too soon as she once again took flight.
For nearly an hour, she glided around the castle planting
little globs of the gray material and one of the small metal
boxes in several key locations. A medieval version of
plastique. Karlos should get a blast out of this.' she thought,
placing the last glob of the plastique.
Avoiding several more guards, Jasmine made it back to her
cell, and changed back to human just before the guards came
through on a round. Okay...now to wait for the right time.' he
thought, just as sleep claimed him.
The next morning, Jazz awoke to a spear being pointed in his
ribs. "Wake up slave."
"Up yours." replied Jazz, sleepily.
"Maybe you need another lesson in manners."
"Whatever. I am awake now."
"I'll be back later to teach you proper manners." said the
guard, continuing with his round.
Time for a jail break.' he thought, getting up stiffly from
his cot. "Geo, Tia, up for getting out of here?"
"Yeah."
"Hold on then." said Jazz, finding his boots. Pulling out a
small pouch of black powder, Jazz poured the powder on the lock
of his cell door. In one stroke, he blew the lock out with a
minor explosion. Crap. That will bring the guards arunning.'
he thought, working on the other cell door.
In thirty seconds, Tia, Geo, and Luche were free. Working
their way along the hallway, Jazz concentrated hard, trying to
make contact with his staff.
"Jazz, where are we going?" asked Tia, keeping an eye out
for the guards.
Stopping before a door, Jazz said, shoving the door open,
"In here, quick."
Jazz managed to close the door just before an onrush of
guards went by. Looking at the three would-be prisoners, Jazz
said "Okay, now we have to get out of here."
Looking around, Tia said "At least we now have weapons."
Walking to a pile of kibble, Jazz rummaged through, finding
his tool belt and backpack. "Yes. Everyone arm up. We have got
to keep Luche safe." Lacing up his fore arm bracer with staff,
Jazz continued "I have a score to settle, but first we gotta get
you three outta here."
"Okay, how do you plan to do that." asked Geo, having picked
up a staff and a mace.
"Right through the front door."
Geo and Tia looked at Jazz as if he were crazy and said as
much.
"No, I'm not. Come on." said Jazz, opening the door and
working his way down the hall.
Four minutes later, the four escapees arrived in the central
courtyard, heading for the draw bridge. Suddenly a bolt of
lightning erupted around them, causing them to stop in their
tracks. Turning to face the source, all four noticed Karlos with
a legion of soldiers.
"Where do you think you're going?"
"Outa here. You WILL let us go." said Jazz, hitting the
power switch on his backpack.
"And why should I let you leave?" sneered Karlos.
"Because if you don't, I will bring down these castle
walls." responded Jazz defiantly.
"You don't have the power to do that."
"You wanna bet. Taste my power." yelled Jazz. Under his
breath, Jazz said "Be ready to run."
All three nodded slightly. Throwing a switch on the
backpack, Jazz began chanting in low tones, getting louder with
each passing moment. "Chiso Nekoba Grata Mipo, Zist Boom Ba,
Old One Old One Ra Ra Ra, Brain Brain Dead, Anime Squa Red, Nana
Hey Hey, Mikra Barada Niktoo, Macho Macho Duck." Jazz threw in
everything he could draw on, trying to make it sound impressive.
Reaching a feverish crescendo, Jazz ended with "Ah heck,
enough with this crap." Pointing at different towers, Jazz
yelled "BOOM!!!!" while hitting another button on his backpack.
Suddenly, the plastique blew up in an interesting array of
reds, oranges, and yellows. Turning to the three kidnapees, Jazz
yelled "Follow my lead." Running towards the main gate, Jazz ran
rampant through the orc and troll forces, gaining the bridge.
The four cleared the castle as Karlos tried to get
everything back under control. A few minutes later, Jazz led the
posse to his combat chariot. "Climb inside. I made the cockpit
large enough to fit all of you inside." ordered Jazz.
"Jazz, aren't you coming with us?" asked Tia.
"No."
"Why Not?" Tia practically yelled.
"If Karlos isn't stopped here and now, he will keep coming
against Metallicana until he awakens Anthrathrax. I can't have
that happen."
"Okay...but how do you drive this thing?" asked Geo, looking
at the controls.
"Okay, the steering wheel turns the wheels. Steer right,
the vehicle goes to the right. Steer left, vehicle goes to the
left. On floor, there are two pedals. The one on the right is
the gas which makes the vehicle move. The one on the left is the
brake. It will stop the vehicle when you want to."
Nodding, Geo still had a hard time understanding what Jazz
said but accepted it all on faith. "When you get started, I want
you to keep the gas to the floor until you get to Metallicana."
"Okay, but will happen to you?"
"Nothing, if Karlos wants to loose his castle. Just when
you get to Metallicana, look after Arshes for me please." said
Jazz, looking back to the castle.
"We shall return with reinforcements." said Tia,
determinedly.
"Tia, no. I don't want to put anyone else at risk. If I
walk away from this, I will. If I don't, so be it."
"Jazz..."
"You three better get going. I'll be fine and see you
soon." said Jazz, climbing down from his creation.
Watching the low slung vehicle drive away, Jazz turned to
face the castle. Karlos, I hope you have life insurance because
it will soon be time to cash in your claim.' thought Jazz, almost
murderously.
Climbing from the valley, Jazz approached the castle. The
guards that stood watch on the drawbridge drew back in fear.
"You have nothing to fear from me as long as you do not interfere
with my quest."
Jazz passed the drawbridge and entered the central
courtyard, seeing the guards and Karlos, frantically trying to
put out the fires.
Seeing Jazz, Karlos cursed and flung a low level spell at
the young man. The spell hit Jazz like a ton of bricks, sending
him flying into a stone wall.
Smiling slightly, Karlos had Jazz taken prisoner once again,
by guards that were more than a little intimidated by the once
wizard. After having the snot thorough beaten from him, Jazz
found himself in an underground dungeon cell. So much for an
air escape attempt.' thought Jazz, as his mind registered all his
aches and pains.
Jazz fell into a fitful sleep on the hard, wooden cot. His
dreams were not the most pleasant sort. Images of war, knights,
monsters, and other assorted evil invaded and took up residence.
The next morning, Jazz awoke to a prodding in his ribs.
Brushing away what was prodding him, Jazz woke up sharply at the
pain in his hand. Looking at it, his hand oozed a little blood
from the shallow cut.
Looking towards the doorway, he saw several guards having a
good laugh at their prisoner. "Finally awake?" taunted one
guard.
"And what would you like for breakfast?"
At the sound of breakfast, Jazz's stomach gurgled, much to
the enjoyment of the guards. Suddenly, a large lump of something
hit Jazz in the bed. "Here's you're breakfast. Hope you enjoy
it." said another guard sarcastically.
Finding it to be a very stale chunk of bread, Jazz carefully
broke off small hunks slowly chewing it. Man, what I wouldn't
give for a real breakfast.' thought Jazz, thinking of Metallicana
in the morning.
Several hours and a couple of guard patrols passed before a
clicking sound rattled on his door. Jazz woke up from his nap to
stare into the face of Karlos. "What do you want?" asked Jazz
with open hostility.
Motioning the guards forward, Karlos said "I have something
to show you."
Jazz found himself being dragged upright behind Karlos back
up to the central courtyard. Karlos stepped to the side to allow
Jazz to see why he had been brought up. His vehicle was there
and so were Geo, Tia, and Luche, all looking a little worse for
wear. Jazz's anger welled up as he tried to get at Karlos.
Jazz sudden found himself flying backwards into a rock wall.
Damn...' thought Jazz, as his world faded into black.
Opening his eyes slowly, Jazz took in an overall stiffness
in his limbs. Trying to move his arms, he found them to be
shackled tightly. Trying his legs, he found the same thing.
"Wake again are we?" sneered a voice to his left.
Looking at the source of the voice, Jazz suddenly wished he
hadn't. Hideously deformed, the figure was horribly scarred.
Jazz also noticed several instruments on the wall, instruments of
pain.
Trying to shackles again, the figure said, with a laugh,
"You can't escape. No one ever has and no one ever will."
"I may just be the first."
"I don't think so." said a second voice in the room.
Looking at the source, Jazz said "Karlos, release us or
else."
"Or else what?? You are powerless and Metallicana will soon
fall. And shortly thereafter, Anthrathrax will be free to create
a utopia where I will lead."
"Broad dreams, but there are a obstacles in your path."
"You are nothing. The forces at Metallicana are nothing."
"If they're nothing, why have we kept you at bay for so
long?" asked Jazz defiantly.
"We want you to think you actually had some hope. With
Arshes Nei, Dark Schneider, and Gara, Metallicana might have had
a chance. But those threats have been dealt with."
"Just how did you re-enact the seal on Darschu?" asked Jazz,
banishing thoughts of Arshes' poisoning.
"I'll just say the church in Metallicana is the key, as if
that will do you any good. Now, you will tell me how you did
what you did before."
"Yeah right, as if."
"Chief Torturer, do you worst. I want all the secrets he
has." said Karlos with a hand gesture.
The deformed figure reached over to the wall and pulled back
a long metal rod, laced liberally with spikes. Jazz tried to
draw away but was held firm in place by the shackles.
Pain lit up Jazz's neural network and the rod hit him
multiple times. "Not gonna talk?? Maybe we should work on the
one known as Tia. Oh by the way, nice stick." said Karlos,
holding Jazz's staff, in compact form, in his right hand.
"Don't you dare." threatened Jazz, fighting the shackles
with renewed vigor and attempting to call his staff to him.
Karlos felt a sudden pull on the stick in hands. Casting a
quick spell, he said "I can't let you have this. You might try
to escape. There will be no escape for you until you tell what
you did earlier."
"Up yours!!" shouted back Jazz.
Pain overloaded his senses once again as the torturer took
up another rod, similar as the first, and began to beat him
repeatedly. Screaming in agony, Jazz left this reality as
unconsciousness claimed him.
Stopping, the torturer put his tools away and turned to face
Karlos. Karlos dismissed him with a gesture, while trying to
come up with a plan to break the man. Your secrets will soon be
mine.' thought Karlos, leaving the chamber.
Jazz awoke abruptly to a female scream. Trying to move,
Jazz immediately discovered he had been shackled to a upright T'
formation. Tied me to a crucifix?' thought Jazz, trying to see
all that was around him, and not liking it one bit.
Geo and Luche, clothes torn and bleeding from multiple cuts,
were chained to a far wall. The sight of Tia nearly broke his