I believe this is #5...i hope...

C&C Welcome

jazz
"Fugisawa Kowabunga!!"

Chapter 9     Overwhelming Odds

     "Don't think of it as being outnumbered.  Think of it as
having a very wide shot selection."
     Rerob-Undocumented Features

     "Sometimes, shit happens, someone has to deal with it, and
who ya gonna call?"
     Peter Venkman-Ghostbusters II

      BBBBBBBBAAAAAARRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!
     The explosion rolled Jazz from his bed onto the floor. 
[What the hell??!!??] Jazz thought, hoping Chiyuki wasn't doing
another late night boiler experiment.  At the time, Jazz
managed to bleed off enough pressure from Chiyuki's boiler
experiment that the boiler didn't blow up, taking the forge with
it id it had.
     Climbing to his feet, Jazz raced to the window as bright
oranges and reds danced on his walls. [Attack??  Metallicana's
under attack?] Jazz thought, seeing metal glinting "ants"
swarming over the walls of Metallicana to engage the defenders. 
[Their attacking the castle.] Jazz hudsoned.
     Taking a deep breath, Jazz's mood instant switched from a
near panic to determined anger. [You want to invade my city? 
Fine, but you deal with me when you do.] he thought determinedly,
running to his wardrobe.
     Pulling out a special set of clothes he had specially made,
Jazz pulled on the one piece, green/brown jumpsuit, zipping up
the zipper.  Pulling on the work boots, Jazz hooked his combat
belt about his waist.  Pausing long enough to look in the vanity
mirror, Jazz nodded. [Who are you going to call?] he thought,
racing from his room.
     Coming to a recently installed device, Jazz grabbed on,
wrapping his legs around it, letting gravity take over. [Man, I
love this fireman's pole.]  When it had been first installed,
Jazz and practically everyone else took many-a-trip down its
length.  Now it was serving the purpose it was meant to.
     Getting to the forge, Jazz strolled towards the also
recently completed creation.  "Is she ready to go?" asked Jazz,
commander-like.
     "Steam is at 60% pressure and rising." reported Ann, from
inside the tank.
     "How goes the battle?"
     "We are taking heavy losses but we are holding our ground."
reported Nobemaza from the lookout station/gunnery point at the
top of the forge.
     Helping Chiyuki finish undraping the cloth curtain form the
tank, Jazz picked up a hammer and did a slow walk around of the
tank.  Tapping vital areas for a clear resonant sound, Chiyuki
soon joined him.
     "Nobemaza, tell me when the battle line is directly in front
of the door and seems to be holding steady there." yelled Jazz.
     "Check.  Sir Crodyn and his troops seem to be doing about
the best against the enemy." Nobemaza reported back.
     "Bonus.  We may still have a chance.  Hopefully, this
thing," said Jazz, patting one of the six wheels, "will tip the
scales in our favor."
     "It should." said Chiyuki, as sure of anything.
     "Yes." supplied Ann.
     "Okay.  Battle plan.  When I launch, it will be up to you
two plus our look out to defend this forge."  Both Ann and
Chiyuki nodded.  "Good.  I have a few smaller surprises for you
to use that will keep the enemy at bay."  Walking over to and
opening up a large chest, Jazz continued "These are high powered
but have limited ammo."  Inside the chest were smaller sized
versions of the gatling launchers built into Sir Crodyn's armor. 
"Don't completely hose down any enemy that comes near the forge. 
Just take quick short bursts to save on ammunition."  Both
listeners nodded once again.
     "Jazz, the party's set."
     "Check." yelled Jazz in response.  Turning to the two before
him, Jazz said, half snarling "Let's rumble."
     Walking over to the tank, Jazz climbed up the metal ladder
and eased his way into the cockpit.  Looking at the controls,
Jazz thought [Darn.  I have put WAY too many controls in this
thing.  I just hope I can remember what they all do.]  Looking at
the pressure gauge, Jazz saw that it read 95% power. [That's
enough for power up.]
     Jazz flipped the first of four toggle switches.  He heard
the steam gush forth, beginning to push the connected drive
wheel.  Hearing the crescendoing whine, Jazz flipped the next
toggle switch.  Hearing a similar whine, Jazz thought fiercely
[More Power!!!  Arr Arr Arr Arr!!  I just hope things hold
together.] In an earlier test of the power plant, Jazz silently
thanked the gods for relief valves when the pressure had climbed
too fast for him to control manually.  Seeing the two dial gauges
peak to the right, Jazz flipped the last two toggle switches.  He
had learned after the first two dozen tests of the plant that as
soon as the first two motors were going, the last two could be
switched on simultaneously.  Seeing the last two dial gauges
spike all the way to the right, Jazz nodded with grim
determination.
     Going back to the doorway, Jazz yelled "Gratan Mark 2,
preparing for launch!!!"  Seeing Ann and Chiyuki scramble out of
the way towards cover, Jazz closed the hatch and climbed back
into the pilot's seat.
     Triggering the forge door opener, Jazz hit the spot lights
and eased the tank from the forge.  In a previous experiment that
Nobemaza had done, a glow was taken and had electricity rammed
through it.  The resulting flash left everyone temporarily blind
for a few minutes.  Further experiments proved that the light
from the glows could be brightened significantly with only a
little electricity.  Hitting the sound feature he built in for
the heck of it, Jazz nodded of the tune, laughing softly.

     <Imperial March: Star Wars> on calliope.  Imagine if you
will.

     Everyone on the battle field stopped in mid motion to look
at the large, metal bug roll from the half forgotten building. 
Keeping their eyes on it, the bug rolled to the exact middle of
both sides, turning towards the side that had the orcs, goblins,
half-giants, and whatnot.
     Suddenly a voice boomed, nearly deafening the front row of
the invaders.  "LEAVE NOW OR BE DESTROYED!!!"
     The invaders looked at each other, at the bug, back each
other and shrugged.  Rushing towards the bug and the defenders
with new vigor, the bug said "DON'T SAY I DIDN'T WARN YOU."
     Suddenly the bug shot forward with incredible speed, running
over and through the invaders.  Two cylinders on the front of the
creature folded out and extended, crushing the enemy that
happened to be in it's path.

     Inside the bug, Jazz was having a blast.  Trying another
toy, Jazz selected the correct key card, slotted it, and played a
short note on the miniature keyboard.  Suddenly a turret elevated
on the back of the carapace of the bug.  Pulling down the
targeting goggles, Jazz target the invaders invasion tools and
fired.  Seeing the tools go up in a large clout of smoke, Jazz
swept the cannon over the masses of invaders.
     Seeing three giants attempt to team up on Sir Crodyn, Jazz
stomped on the accelerator while slotting up another key card;
this one with twin extensions coming from the middle of the tank. 
The two doors opened on either side, and the robotic arms
extended forward.  Yelling, Jazz grabbed one of the giants from
behind and tossed it several yards, crushing more invaders.
     One of the other giants turned to face the bug that had
tossed it's friend.  Gripping the giant in a game of uncle, Jazz
knew he had built the Gratan well but not that well.  In
desperation he pulled a lever and hit a chord on the small
keyboard.  Suddenly the Gratan rose up on it's four extendable
cylinders, coming nearly eye-to-eye with the giant.
     Looking into the face of the giant, Jazz yelled "FIRE!!!!"
as the cannon sent a shell up the giant's nose.  The giant
released the tank, trying to get the object from it's nasal
passageways.  BBOOOMMM!!!!  Jazz watched as the giant's head
exploded in a spray of bone, muscle, and other unknown parts. 
[Grenade up the nose.  Not a pleasant way to go.] he thought,
slightly repulsed at the carnage.
     Focusing his attention back on Sir Crodyn, Sir Crodyn
finished the last giant with little problem.  Giving Sir Crodyn a
thumbs up with one of the mechanical arms, Jazz turned to the
next set of opponents.  Sir Crodyn returned the gesture and also
went looking for more invaders.
     Seeing several more invaders and siege equipment on the
bridge, Jazz aimed directly towards it.  Engaging the battering
rams again, Jazz cleared the bridge easily, knocking invaders
into the moat.  [It's the Samson Maneuver all over again.]
thought Jazz with a laugh.  Hearing multiple *pings* against the
hull, Jazz looked around for the archers.
     Throwing several switches and pounding on the keyboard, the
Gratan leapt from the bridge into the moat, switching over to
Nautical mode.  [It's works!] exulted Jazz as the propeller
kicked in.
     Pulling another lever, two more openings revealed themselves
on the back of the Gratan.  Using the targeting goggles, Jazz
opened fire with the gatling launchers, raking the archers badly.
     [Taking pot shots at me, eh?  I don't think so.] thought
Jazz, doing several trips around Metallicana, firing everything
at the would be invaders.
     After several hours of combat, the invasion force retreated
past the castle walls, into the mountains.  Returning the Gratan
to his forge, Jazz released all steam pressure and helped Chiyuki
retrieve the fire crystal from its housing.
     "YES!!  We beat them back." shouted Nobemaza.
     Nodding slowly, Jazz said with a disheartened sigh,
"Yeah...but how soon till they return?"
     This seemed to bring a sense of gloom over the forge. 
Suddenly remembering something, Jazz asked "Nobemaza, did you see
Darschu, Arshes, or Gara out on the battlefield?"
     "Now that you mention it Jazz, no I didn't."
     [Oh shit.] thought Jazz, closing his eyes.
     "Someone's approaching at a dead run!" called down Ann from
the lookout tower.
     "Friend or enemy?" called Chiyuki.
     "Looks like Sir Crodyn.  His armor is messed up something
fierce." replied Ann.
     [Crap.  Another problem.] thought Jazz, rushing to the door,
meeting Sir Crodyn.
     Seeing the doorway open, Sir Crodyn powered down his armor,
leaping from the cockpit.  "Jazz, we have a problem."
     "No shit.  Your armor's messed up and our high magic users
are not here."
     "That's just it.  Arshes has been poisoned.  Gara looks like
he has been gone over by a legion of orcs several times.  That
and Tia, Geo, and Darschu are missing."
     Raising his fists in anger, Jazz yelled, looking skyward,
"FUCK!!!!!!!"  Hearing his swear, the four people present, Ann
having come down from the tower, stepped back involuntarily.
     Looking back at Sir Crodyn, Jazz asked, his face drawn in
anger, "Where's Arshes?"
     "She is being looked at by a healer in the Church."
     "Take me there, now please." commanded Jazz.
     Leading the way, Jazz followed on Crodyn's heels like a
bloodhound tracking a scent.  Getting to the church, Jazz walked
towards the alter like a man on a mission.
     Seeing the feverish, seizure impaired Arshes, Jazz's heart
broke within his chest.  Biting back a sob, Jazz's lips tightened
as he asked "How is she?"
     "She is better than what she was but she is still in
danger." replied the head healer beneath Geo.
     His breathing becoming harder, Crodyn, Nobemaza, Ann, and
Chiyuki noticed that Jazz's head started to vibrate as the
knuckles of his clenched fists turned stark white.  Falling to
one knee, Jazz attempted to drive his fist through the floor of
the church. [DAMMIT!!!!  Why couldn't I have protected her?] he
thought furiously.
     Taking a deep breath, Jazz got back up and slowly took
Arshes' right hand.  Bending over her, Jazz held the hand to his
cheek, as a single tear rolled down his cheek, from his clenched
closed eyes.  Cracking his eyes open to look at her, Jazz noticed
his staff, in it's usual forearm holster, was glowing slightly.
     "What poison is in her system?" Jazz asked softly.
     "It is one designed for use against dark Elves." said the
healer, looking somewhat fearfully at the young man.
     "And since she is half Dark Elf, it is affecting her system
in strange ways."
     "Yes.  We have tried the usual methods to deal with the
poison, but they are barely working."
     Nodding, Jazz stood back up.  Pulling the staff from it's
holster, Jazz placed the staff in her hand, wrapping her fingers
around it and holding his hands around hers.  Concentrating, Jazz
willed the staff to start healing her.
     Everyone looked on as a greenish glow began to surround
Arshes, results showing immediately.  Leaving the staff in her
care, Jazz turned to the head healer, saying "I have done a
little to help your healing.  Just, please, keep a careful eye on
her.  And make sure that a ray of sunshine falls upon her during
the day."
     Turning back to the people who were with him, Jazz commanded
"Sir Crodyn, get all of the unit officers, especially Bonjovinia
together in the dining hall in one hour.  Nobemaza, help him. 
Ann, Chiyuki, I want you to go and get all of the smiths from
their shops, forges, and what not.  We have a war council to
convene and we will need everyone there if we are to defend this
castle."
     As one, the four people nodded, heading out for on their
tasks.  Sighing softly, Jazz looked around at all the injured in
the church.  [How many more will die before this is done?] he
thought, going philosophical.  Sighing once again, Jazz headed
for the dining/meeting hall after looking at the now peaceful
form of Arshes one last time.
     Jazz wandered about the castle, inspecting various damage
sites.  Matching his physical body, Jazz's mind wandered also. 
Why had the cape of command fallen onto his shoulders?  He wasn't
a combat tactician and strategist.  He was only a steam power
technician in command of a small group of techies.  He wasn't the
right man to lead the troops of Metallicana.  He tried to figure
this out for a few minutes.  [I don't know why the King did this
to me.] thought Jazz, his mind roaming back to a declaration the
King had sent out to all the commanders in Metallicana's forces.
     Getting a look at the declaration, Jazz immediately stormed,
which was the best word to describe his gait, up to see the King
about the declaration.  Jazz had been put into the command
structure even after asking to be left out.
     Seeing his door slam open, the King said without looking
towards the door "I take you are here about the declaration I
sent to all the unit commanders."
     "Yes." replied Jazz curtly.  "Why?"
     "Jazz, you are one of the best people to lead Metallicana."
     "Your Lordship, I can't command troops effectively.  Geo
even labeled me as being strategically challenged.  I can't
lead."
     "Jazz, you may not know how to lead, but you know how to get
your commands carried out."
     "How do you mean?  With a compliment and a kind word.  That
doesn't do much in time of war."
     "Jazz, it goes a lot further than you realize.  There is
also a resource you have forgotten about."
     "And what's that?" snipped Jazz.
     "Your friends."
     "My friends?"
     "Yes.  You have connections in with the craftsmen and with
the soldiers.  You may not be the best at tactical planning, but
you know people who are.  Use them."
     "Okay...but I'm not comfortable with this."
     "Jazz, I know...but I have been hounded to see where you
would fit in."
     "So...I am in command directly behind you and Sheila??"
     "Yes.  You have skills and knowledge most of the command
staff here doesn't.  With your knowledge of...what do you call
it...technology, you have united the craftsmen and the military. 
You seemed the best choice."
     Sighing heavily, Jazz said "I will do my best..."
     "Jazz, that is all I ask of everyone inside Metallicana. 
Now get going, I believe you have a lesson with my daughter.  If
I remember correctly, I think the lesson is how to address
royalty properly and court ettiquette."
     Jazz cringed at the thought of having addressed the King
improperly.  Seeing the cringe, the King chuckled softly.  "Get
going before my daughter sends out the guard after you."
     "Yes, sir." replied Jazz, turning to go.

     Jazz's mind wandered back to his current surroundings.  [WHY
ME??!!] he screamed internally.  Seeing that his time was almost
up, Jazz headed down to the meeting hall.

     An hour later, Jazz called the session to order.  "Ladies
and gentlemen, we have fought a fierce battle.  We did well, but
some of our heavy hitters have been taken out.  Lady Arshes Nei
is fighting for her life in the church.  She has gotten better
than when the healer's found her.  Lord Gara is recovering in his
room from a savage attack on his person, but it will be a while
before he is able to fight again.  High Priest Geo, his daughter
Tia Yohko, and Dark Schneider have been kidnaped."  Waiting for
the despairing sounds to die down, Jazz continued "Supposedly,
whoever staged this attack, managed to reactivate the seal
trapping Dark Schneider back in the body of Luche Ren Ren."
     Suddenly a voice in the back cried out "With those people
out of commission, what chance do we stand?"
     Breathing deeply, Jazz said, using his commanding voice, "We
are set at a disadvantage on the magic front, true.  But there is
a way we can overcome it."
     Several shouts of "How??" echoed in the room.
     "We have technology on our side.  Many of you saw the tank
that fought on our side during the last battle I trust?"  Seeing
several nods, Jazz said "I was the one at the controls.  I and my
team have been busy these last few weeks."
     "How many more tanks do you have?"
     "I only have the one..." started Jazz, being interrupted by
several people yelling about it not being enough.  Trying to keep
his anger in check, Jazz tried "But if we work..."
     Suddenly the same voice erupted "That's all good for you,
but what about us?"
     Jazz yelled, his lips drawing back in a snarl, "GODAMMIT! 
Each of us has a God blessed role to play in this.  I may not be
able to supply everyone of you with tank but DAMMIT, listen
before you fucking pass judgement on me."  Jazz breathed hard
several times, before noticing that the room had grown completely
silent.
     "Sir Crodyn and Sir Bonjovinia, you will direct the armed
forces in the best way possible.  Lord Talon, I want you to take
command of all the craftsmen.  We need to defend this castle with
all means possible.  Everyone here, you will listen to these two
men until this crisis is over with." said Jazz, talking to each
person or party directly.  "I will be in my forge.  If you have
questions, talk to Sir Crodyn, Sir Bonjovinia, or Lord Talon."
     Looking at the three men mentioned, Jazz said "If you two
will come with me, we have plans to discuss."

     Ten minutes later, Jazz, Talon, Crodyn, Bonjovinia,
Nobemaza, Chiyuki, and Ann met in Jazz's forge.  "Sorry about the
outburst before.  I'm just not at ease talking to a large group."
said Jazz, looking slightly sheepish.
     "No problem.  I would have snapped also." said Talon.
     "Okay.  Planning time.  Crodyn, Bonjovinia, I want you to
direct the troops we still have to the best defense of this
castle.  I suspect they are after Princess Sheila again so that
Anthrathrax can be released finally."
     Nodding solemnly, Crodyn said "Right."  Bonjovinia echoed.
     Turning to Talon, Jazz continued "Talon, I want you to head
up the craftsmen.  We need to improve the defenses of this
castle.  I also have designs of anti-invasion weaponry that I
would like to see built."
     Nodding in turn, Talon said, pointing to the Gratan, "Are
they anything like that?"
     "No," replied Jazz, "They are a lot simpler to build."
     "Okay."
     "I will need you two to work closely with each other to
defend this castle."
     "Jazz, it sounds like you won't be here."
     "I won't." said Jazz softly.
     "WHAT???" shouted the five people present.
     "Someone has to rescue those who have been kidnaped and I'm
the only one who can be spared.  All of you are necessary to
defend the castle."
     "But why?"
     "I have a debt I must repay and this is the best way.  I
have faith in all of you to deal with things appropriately."
     "Okay...but how do you plan to pull this off?" asked Crodyn.
     "That's where a special project of mine comes into play."
said Jazz, with a slight grin.
     "What's that?" asked Talon.
     "Does it have to deal with the tarp covered thing outback?"
asked Ann, making a connection.
     "Yes.  Nobemaza, you have expressed an interest in the
Gratan.  It is now yours to pilot.  I believe you already have a
few changes in mind for it."  Seeing Nobemaza nod, Jazz said "The
parts you need for the changes have been crafted already.  They
only need to be installed."  Rising to his feet, Jazz commanded
"Sir Nobemaza, kneel before me."
     With a question look, Nobemaza kneeled before Jazz, his head
bowed.  Taking a makeshift pipe wrench in hand, Jazz tapped
Nobemaza on each shoulder saying "Sir Nobemaza, I promote you to
Captain.  You shall lead the M.A.S.K. team in my absence from now
until you decide to elect another.  Rise, Captain Nobemaza."
     Getting back to his feet, Nobemaza looked at Jazz with open
appreciation and pride.  Ann and Chiyuki clapped Nobemaza on the
back.  Glancing over at Crodyn and Talon, Jazz saw both man nod
their heads slowly. [Good luck, Nobe, you're gonna need in the
next few days.] thought Jazz with a slight smile.
     Looking at his other two charges, Jazz said "You two also
have vehicles already in mind, correct?"  Seeing twin nods, Jazz
said "I and some helpers have started the process to fashion
those vehicles for you.  Both are already about 45 percent
complete thanks to the help of our squires."  Seeing their faces
brighten, Jazz smiled slowly.
     "Squires??" asked Chiyuki.
     "Hai.  Squires, front and center." yelled Jazz into the
rafter of the forge.  Suddenly a team of six boys and three girls
descended from the upper reaches of the forge.  "These are the
squires who have been helping us so mysteriously."
     Nobemaza, Ann, and Chiyuki reared back, laughing as they
made the connection.  They has noticed a lot more getting done
they thought they could handle.  Now they knew Jazz's secret.
     Jazz turned to the head squire saying "Tenchi, I trust your
team is up and ready to assist the rest of M.A.S.K.."
     The tallest boy said confidently "Aye, Sir Jazz, we are
ready and willing."
     Clapping the youth on the shoulder, Jazz said "Good.  They
will need your help."
     Suddenly, a knock echoed at the door of the forge.  Nobemaza
went over and answered it.  Ushering in the messenger, Jazz
recognized her immediately.
     "Father, the craftsmen are getting restless." said Felicia,
pointedly ignoring Jazz.
     "Jazz, is there anything else?" asked Talon.
     "No.  Good luck."
     As Talon and Felicia walked away, Jazz asked hesitantly,
"Felicia, can I please have a moment of your time?"
     "What?  Why?" asked Felicia, staying where she was.
     Turning to the other five people and nine squires, Jazz said
"You are all dismissed.  Though Crodyn, could you please stay for
a little bit?"
     Two minutes later, the forge was clear of everyone except
Jazz, Crodyn, and Felicia.  Jazz started pacing, staying out of
reach of Felicia.  "Before any of you say something.  I know you
two are to be married."
     "How?" asked Crodyn and Felicia, slightly taken aback.
     "I maybe naive, but I'm not completely stupid.  I just
wanted to say...I'm glad.  You two will make a wonderful couple. 
I'd better be invited to the wedding." said Jazz, keeping his
emotions in check.
     "Why are you doing this?" asked Crodyn.
     "I felt it was necessary and there is more info I need to
give to you two before I leave."
     "Leave?" asked Felicia, her brow furrowing.
     "Yes.  I am going after Geo, Tia, and Darschu."
     "Why?" she asked
     "I owe those three a lot and I seem to be the only person
that can be spared at this time." said Jazz, with a sigh.
     "But you don't know where they are." said Crodyn.
     "I have a strong hunch as to where they are."
     "At least let me send a regiment with you."
     "No, you will need all the troops here to defend the castle. 
Besides, one man can travel faster and do what I must.  But
enough of that, the reason I asked you two to stay is related to
what I found."
     "What is that?" asked Crodyn.
     "In the library, I found a secret passage that led to a
large door."
     "Yeah so?" said Felicia.
     "To open the door, two people who have a special bond need
to place their hands into a set of hand prints in the door. 
Behind the door is something that will turn the tide of battle."
     "Then let's go get it." said Crodyn.
     "No.  I want it saved as a last short desperation move, sort
of an ace in the hole in case we need it.  Besides, I'm not sure
if it is even operational."
     "Why us?" asked Felicia.
     "Because...let's just call this another hunch I have. 
Crodyn, if the battle looks like it is really going bad, I want
you and Felicia to go down to the library, follow the painted
line on the floor, and get the device out and start
jolly-stomping the enemy."
     "Jolly-stomping?" asked a confused Crodyn.
     "Yeah, destroy whoever and whatever is attacking the castle
with any means necessary."
     "Okay..." said Crodyn, nodding.
     "Now, I have a rescue ploy to plan." said Jazz, looking away
from the two and sighing.
     Crodyn and Felicia left the forge hand in hand.  A single
tear rolled down Jazz's cheek as the door closed behind the two. 
[Felicia, I'm sorry for having hurt you...] he thought with
remorse. [But it is better this way.]
     Stepping over to his work bench, Jazz got to work, preparing
a few surprises for the invasion force. [Invade my land, kidnap
and hurt my friends, and make me angry.  I DON'T THINK SO!  You
shall soon learn what it means to piss off an engineer.] thought
Jazz with grim determination.

     Six days passed, a sense of building tension in the air. 
During the time, Jazz prepped himself and visited Arshes many
times, staying with her for hours on end.  Seeing the castle
defenses coming to near completion, Jazz knew it was about time
for him to go save the three people who had been kidnaped.
     Walking through the central courtyard once last time, Talon
waved Jazz down to give him an update.  "Everything seems to be
working together.  A couple of the craftsmen rebelled a little
but soon joined in after a little persuasion."
     "That's good." nodded Jazz solemnly.  "How goes the
construction of the catapults and other artillery pieces?"
     "We have three catapults done with four more just about
there.  The bastillas have given us a little trouble but by
tomorrow morning, we should have five up and running."
     "That's good.  Talon..." said Jazz, looking at the
blacksmith with slight regret.
     "It's time, isn't it?"
     Jazz could only nod in response.
     "Jazz, I do not envy what you are about to do.  But by the
gods, I wish you luck.  Are you sure you don't want any one to go
with you?"
     "Yes.  It will be easier to travel alone."
     "God speed." said Talon, grasping Jazz's forearm in a grip
of comradery.
     Return the gesture, Jazz said "I'll need it.  It is now up
to you and Sir Crodyn to defend this city as best you can.  I
shall return as soon as I can with those who have been kidnaped."
     Nodding once, Talon replied "We shall do our best."
     "I can hope for nothing less.  I will try to stall our would
be invaders to give you as much time to get ready as I can."
     "Thanks.  If we succeed, we will owe you a debt of
gratitude."
     "Talon, not if, WHEN we succeed.  I don't deserve it.  The
people of Metallicana deserve the gratitude.  Take care, my
friend."
     "Take care." said Talon, before turning back to oversee the
construction of the last pieces of artillery.
     [Why do I feel like Ash from Army of Darkness all of a
sudden?] thought Jazz, looking at everything around him one last
time, as if trying to commit it to memory.
     Sighing, Jazz headed for the soldier's barracks, he sought
out another person he needed to see before leaving.
     Finding him drilling the soldiers in various combat moves,
Jazz approached Crodyn slowly.
     Seeing the young man approaching, Crodyn surmised what was
going through the man's head. [It must be time.] he thought
grimly.
     "Sir Jazz, I take it that it is time."
     Nodding, Jazz replied "Aye.  Sir Crodyn, it has been an
honor working and serving with you.  Metallicana couldn't be in
better hands with you and Bonjovinia commanding."
     Gripping forearms, Crodyn looked deep into Jazz's eyes. 
Finding a heavy heartedness, Crodyn knew that Jazz was in for the
fight of his life.  "It has been an honor working with you also,
Sir Jazz.  When you return with the prisoners and we will finally
win this war, once and for all, there will be a great
celebration, all thanks to you."
     "Crodyn, I...I don't deserve it.  I just hope I can pull it
off..."
     "I know you will, Jazz, You said it yourself.  Everyone has
a different role to play.  My role is different than yours, but
yours is just as important."
     "Yeah...going into a strange land, facing thousands of
enemies by myself, with nothing but technology on my side."
     "Jazz, you said it the other day that technology can often
times be confused with magic.  You know what the spells can do,
but the enemy doesn't know what the power of technology is.  You
do and can use it to your advantage."
     "Thanks Crodyn."
     "For what?"
     "Giving me hope again.  Maybe I will pull this off."
     "Jazz, quoting you.  Do or do not, there is no try."
     Chuckling, Jazz smiled slowly.  "Yes, oh wise one.  Defend
this castle.  I shall return."
     "That, I don't doubt.  God Speed."
     "Good luck then, you'll need it."
     "Same to you." said Sir Crodyn, turning back to watch the
troops.  Nodding slowly, Jazz headed back towards the main
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.

     <Happy Together:Turtles>

     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 for 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, finally managing to 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 the flame of power and
determination she hadn't seen since he had last cast magic. 
"Jazz, 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 and 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 as well?] he thought, having
discovered the day before that he could take more damage from
physical blows before bruising started.  When you take a steam
driven hunk of metal in the gut and can still walk, you kinda
figure you are tougher.
     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 tannish brown.
     [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 uneasily 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 female??"
     Jazz's mind suddenly clicked. [The murel...the funeral... 
I...I...the gargoyle being paid homage to.  Oh no...] thought
Jazz, bringing a hand up to her face in concern.
     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 tightly closed
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 a gargoyle from a certain Manhattan
clan. [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 instinct.  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 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 had 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 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 close 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 up, Jasmine felt odd sensations
assault her mind.  Rinsing off quickly and blushing, Jasmine
blushed brightly at the thought of what triggered the sensations
and 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 rafters 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 of water.  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 built my staff with a few customized
tricks.  Now, let's go join the ladies." said Jazz, blushing
slightly.  Setting his staff on a nearby table, Jazz plodded
lightly over to the pool stairway.  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 sunken 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 second.  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 dragged back
under the water.  Resurfacing, Jazz saw four 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, sweetly.
     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 thoughts 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 dipped her
slightly 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, brought her back upright, 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 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 grabbed his staff, 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 this time."
     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 too.] 
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.
     Gara, Darschu, Arshes, Tia, and Sheila backed up a little at
the sight.  Standing at about 6' 7", Jasmine's face was roughly
ovoid shaped with small ridge like horns on her forehead along
her hairline.  Her tan skin, pointed ears, and long brown hair
glistened in the sun from the impromptu dousing from Darschu. 
Her two piece beige outfit showed a little bit of moistness.  Her
dark brown wings were wrapped about her, the wing claws latched
in the front.  A smooth tail whipped about slowly behind her. 
The five people had never seen her and were obviously slightly
surprised at the sight.
     "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's 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, 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, extremely 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 and the sight of the enemy
encampment drew near.