Chapter 39: New Developments

(Setting: Crystal Kingdom: Royal Palace- Courtyard)

(Scene: Baku appears training with Prince Majorku)

[Prince Majorku]: *Yelling* C'mon, Baku! Break through your limits! Don't you dare give up on yourself!

*Baku appears doing a set of pushups while equipped with his Crystal Gauntlets. Despite being light regularly, the golden weapons provided more intense ways to do different exercises while also concentrating the owners Soul Energy.

[Baku Cree]: *Shouting* *Struggling* GRRR... COME... OOON!!!

*Ring! Ring! Ring!

[Prince Majorku]: And... Rest!

[Baku Cree]: *Relieved* *Panting* Uuuggghhh!!! .........

*The Crystal Gauntlets disappear in a burst of green crystal shards. Baku lays on his back, out of breath and covered in sweat.

[Prince Majorku]: *Sweating* Good job, Baku. You successfully defeated my 15-stage workout circuit... You were even able to keep up with me! Which is quite impressive in of itself.

[Baku Cree]: *Struggling* ... I-I ... *pant* ... C-can barely... *wheeze* ... Feel my arms…

[Prince Majorku]: *Smiling* That means you're getting stronger, little brother! I can see the results of your training, too! I think you're beginning to form some ab structure! *pokes Baku's stomach*

[Baku Cree]: *Blushing* Don't touch me, I'm fat and ugly...

[Prince Majorku]: Hahaha! Are you ready for the three mile run?

[Baku Cree]: *Siiigghh* ...... Let's go!

*Baku jumps up onto his feet and with Prince Majorku begins their run around the massive vicinity of the Crystal Palace. Nicolatrice and the Crystal King observe them on a patio from afar as they enjoy tea.

[King Jeremiah Cree]: It looks like Baku is improving drastically in all areas of his physical and mental training…

[Nicolatrice Cree]: *Smiling* Yes, he seems to be maturing as well. I'm very pleased with him!

[King Jeremiah Cree]: I was worried that Baku's transition into royalty would affect him negatively in terms of his morals and personality... I'm glad I was wrong.

[Nicolatrice Cree]: What do you mean, brother?

[King Jeremiah Cree]: I feared that becoming a royal would get to his head... Being born and raised in the fields and such. I can only imagine what it would feel like for a boy his age to be moved right into the Crystal Palace. After all, the pressure the world has put on him at the prime of his youth... It must be unspeakable what he's thinking right now, his mind is probably going thousands of lightyears per second... However, after talking to him one- on- one, it may be fair to believe he is in fact adapting healthily. He has a strong and bright mind, along with just and correct morals.

[Nicolatrice Cree]: I know it seems that on the outside, Baku comes off as unmotivated, unaspiring, and unassuming... But the truth is... I believe he always wanted something to spark excitement in his life... I know it's weird to say, but perhaps this is what Baku needed to find himself…

[King Jeremiah Cree]: ... Interesting... I couldn't agree more or less with your statement, sister… Also, I feel like I haven’t reiterated this enough. But on the evening of Baku’s birthday, when you two were originally brought here… I had threatened both of your lives, and for that I wanted to extend my most sincerest apologies to you formally, Nicolatrice. But I’m sure you understand more than him the reasons why I was forced to pull his leg to such an extent.

[Nicolatrice Cree]: Yes, I do understand, and I accept your apology as well, King Jeremiah. The World Guardian Ritual is a sacred and mysterious process where the Holy Goddess selects a single person to undertake the burden of the Planet Eternia’s strife and hardships. Being selected to become the World Guardian is a divine order and having one be announced is a revolutionary event that can change and affect many things on the planet below.

[Nicolatrice Cree]: Because of this, there can only ever be one living World Guardian at a time. So logically, if someone were to refuse accepting the call of the Goddess after being divinely selected… They would have to cease to exist in order for the next, hopefully more willingly, World Guardian to be chosen by the Goddess lest the planet dies out...

[King Jeremiah Cree]: That is correct... Unfortunately, this world is unforgiving in the process that selects the sole proprietor to defend it from the hatred and darkness that infects it. Honestly, it regrettably boils down to those selected to take the task, are cursed to see it to completion… So again, I’m sorry for putting the both of you through that experience, it must have been traumatic… Especially for Baku…

[Nicolatrice Cree]: Please rest assured, your highness. You had to do what was required to protect the kingdom as well as the planet. All I ask of you is that you trust and believe in Baku as much as I do.

[King Jeremiah Cree]: I shall… I promise...

*Suddenly, the Crystal Queen appears behind them.

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Excuse me, Nico. May I steal my husband from you for a moment?

[King Jeremiah Cree]: My queen…

[Nicolatrice Cree]: *Surprised* *Smiling* Oh! Of course, Ana! You can have him as much as you like!

(Setting: Crystal Kingdom: Royal Palace- Briefing Room)

(Scene: The Queen and King enter a dimly lit room with a bright screen and a large table with chairs used for meetings)

[King Jeremiah Cree]: What have you found, Anastasia?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: My love, take a look at this…

*The queen applies energy to a small blue crystal which projects an image to a widescreen. The image reveals pictures of the environment of the planet below beginning to deteriorate.

[King Jeremiah Cree]: *Shocked* What is this!?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: The central continent of Planet Eternia may be experiencing the genesis of its destruction earlier than we assumed it would... Trees and vegetation are dying at an alarming rate, and water along with air pollution has increased by nearly 30% since the World Guardian was announced.

[King Jeremiah Cree]: Where is the Oracle?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: He is resting in his bedroom. You don't want me to awaken him, do you?

[King Jeremiah Cree]: No, that is unsafe... We'll have to ask him about this once he does wake up again. He may be in the process of seeing something... Nonetheless, we will let him know of this discovery on our side and how it relates to the Holy Goddess’ prophecy in due time...

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: What are we going to do about the World Guardian? He still needs to be briefed on his mission, finalize his training and studying, and win the Crystal Dome Games... But at this rate, the more time we spend preparing Baku, the more the planet below is in despair awaiting for him to save it…

[King Jeremiah Cree]: I know you're right…

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Perhaps we need to crunch time?

[King Jeremiah Cree]: *Sigh* I was hoping that it wouldn’t have to come to that...

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: So... What do you think we should do? Are you going to cut the heroes studies, shorten his training, or will you either cancel the Crystal Dome Games in favor of Baku, or will you hasten the opening day for it to begin?

[King Jeremiah Cree]: Those are all the worst possible options... Baku's shown improvement in his studies, but I don't want to run the risk of ending it abruptly because he is determined to pass his classes. Shortening his training will only lead him to being less prepared for his mission on Planet Eternia... And the games... I had it be announced earlier than normal because Baku was announced to be the hero, if I change its start date, then I worry he won't be well equipped enough to win it... And if I cancel it…

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: The rest of the kingdom may be quite displeased at the sudden disregard of hundreds of year’s worth of tradition…

[King Jeremiah Cree]: *Sigh* ......... Baku's Mid-Term Exams begin next week... If he decides to study anymore, he will, but he claims to be confident, so I won't require him to be with tutors. This leaves him with more time to train physically as well as get briefed on his mission... If I do bump up the time for the games to begin, it will be right after his test are over because we'll be crunching for time... I suppose I could ask the prince how he feels Baku stands in his strength, I believe he would give me a confident and honest answer…

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: So, we are going to wait?

[King Jeremiah Cree]: Just a little longer... I don't want to set Baku up for failure, and I want to give him the chance to prove himself. Because I believe he wants too as well…

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Very well then... You will speak to the prince and make your decision based on his input, and I will speak to the World Guardian to determine where he is mentally.

(Setting: Crystal Kingdom: Royal Palace- Main Hall)

(Scene: Baku appears in the Crystal Palace after his training)

[Baku Cree]: Ah geez, every step I take hurts... I don't get how anyone can exercise that intensely multiple times a day... *Ugh* I'm so sweaty too... I haven't smelt this bad ever, and I was born in a stinkin' barn... I can't wait to take the nicest, steamiest shower, with only the finest of royal soaps and shampoos…

*Baku opens a door to a bathroom, however, walks in on Princess Savannah fully nude having just finished. Her skin was smooth and moist after applying lotion and oils to herself making her entire body glistening and as soft as silk. Her hair was still wet and wavy after being washed with violet scented shampoo.

[Princess Savannah]: ...Hm?

[Baku Cree]: *Embarrassed* H-H-H-HOLY CRAP! I'M SO SORRY!!!

*Baku slams the door shut embarrassed and afraid.

[Baku Cree]: *Freaking out* OH MAN, OH GEEZ! SHE'S GONNA FREAKIN' KILL ME!

[Princess Savannah]: *Casually reopens the door* Baku, did you need something, my darling?

[Baku Cree]: *Shielding his eyes* WHAT THE HELL!? W-WHY'D YOU REOPEN THE DOOR!?

[Princess Savannah]: *Smiles flirtingly* Oh Baku, you don't have to shy from me! We are brother and sister, after all... It was only a matter of time before we saw each other nude… However, I would say your taking our romantic relationship quite fast. You may want to slow it down; les you'll make it awkward…

*Savannah’s perfect and shapely body was a mirror reflection of the dreams and imaginations Baku always had thought it would be. Her hips were wider, and thighs thicker, without a royal school uniform hiding everything.

*A slim, healthy waist curved the shape of her upper body forming the illustrious hourglass figure sought after by models. The Princess who was ultimately unbothered, was exposed to her younger adopted brother.

*Her bare, supple chest, resembled the depictions of the angelic goddesses from mythological paintings. Soft, succulent and voluptuous. Unfortunately, Baku had to use all of his strength not to uncover his vision, as his sexy older sister stood proudly before him smiling, keen in the art of seduction.

[Baku Cree]: *Covering his eyes still embarrassed* I'm not the one making it awkward! You're even trying to make this harder for me! Quit posing like that already, you crazy succubus!

[Princess Savannah]: *Smiling* Wow, Baku, I didn’t know you were the type to get so flustered like this! You’re so cute, just like Lady Yamabushi! I’m gonna have so much fun flirting with you from now on! So, how was your day today? Are you done with your training?

[Baku Cree]: *Covering his eyes* *Sigh* Yes, I just spent the afternoon with our brother, and it was intense... Uhm… Are you... done yet?

[Princess Savannah]: *Flirtingly* What’s the rush, little brother? Aren’t you excited to see your prize on the other side of the door? Besides, don’t you think you deserve me after what you’ve done for me today at school? You should learn to reward yourself every once in awhile, my love… You are going to be a hero, after all... Towel please, Sebastián.

[Butler]: *Shielding his eyes* Yes, milady.

[Baku Cree]: *Confused* What the hell!? How long have you been here!? TURN AROUND YOU IDIOT!!!

[Butler]: Yes, milord. *Turns around* I've been standing here for one hour awaiting the princess to finish her shower and grant her a towel upon her request.

[Baku Cree]: You made him wait an hour for you to finish taking a shower???

[Princess Savannah]: Yeah, because I could, and I can. Geez Baku, don't you get that royals can do whatever they want? You could make a bunch of cute maids wash you if you wanted to. *Smiling* Don't you worry, I won’t get jealous!

[Baku Cree]: *Sigh* ...You are actually insane...Did you enjoy your extra long shower, Princess?

[Princess Savannah]: *Smiling* Mmhmm! It was very relaxing... I just love the removable shower heads... Say, what are you doing for the rest of the evening?

[Baku Cree]: I'll probably be in the library studying. Why?

[Princess Savannah]: I shall join you.

[Baku Cree]: *Sigh* You can do whatever you like, I guess…

[Princess Savannah]: Very well then, I'll see you in the library in thirty minutes. Come, Sebastián.

[Butler]: Yes, milady…

[Baku Cree]: *Sigh* Okay... Wait, why are you giving me thirty minutes!?

(Setting: Crystal Kingdom: Royal Palace- Library)

(Scene: Baku appears in the library preparing to study)

[Baku Cree]: *Sigh* I really hope the princess wasn't being serious... It's hard to tell when she smiles all sexy like that… Damn it, how is she so good at messing with my head? It’s like I’m an open book to her or something... Whatever, I'm not going to let her get in my thoughts... I'm 15 years old and too grown up for her mind games.

*Baku enters the library and to his surprise is faced by not only the princess, but Queen Anastasia as well.

[Baku Cree]: *Thinking to himself* Holy crap, I'm seein' doubles! *Nervous* Uhh, good afternoon, your majesty... I hope you weren't waiting too long for me... or something...?

*The queen was as beautiful as ever, just like her daughter, wearing her favorite black sundress made of extra smooth silk. Light from the crystals that illuminated the massive library bounced off of her dress, highlighting each thread that covered her... very nice body... And suddenly, Baku had become really jealous of the Crystal King...

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: *Smiling* Hello Baku, it’s nice to see you! And there's no need to be formal with me, darling. Just call me mommy!

[Baku Cree]: *Thinking to himself* I'm not doing that... So, how are you doing this evening?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Well, I was just researching some things when my beautiful daughter appeared and told me you were to be arriving shortly, so I decided to wait for you. After all, I don't believe we've had a solid conversation yet. Everybody’s been keeping you away from me, since I’ve been so busy observing the planet… It’s simply not fair if you ask me…

*The queen said this with a seductive look in her eyes that resembled her daughters. Baku tried to not make it overly clear that she already got to him.

[Baku Cree]: *Blushing* Oh, I see… Alright, so what would you like to talk about, your highness?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: First off, I wanted to know, how do you feel about your studies? Will you pass your test?

[Baku Cree]: *Confidently* I think so.

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Don’t "think" you will, my son. You must "know" that you'll pass, Mr. Baku.

[Baku Cree]: Oh, that’s a pretty good point, I suppose. Then, I will pass all of my test.

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Are you sure? There isn't any doubt in you is there?

[Baku Cree]: No... Why would I doubt myself, milady?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Because I worry about your mental stability for the near future… What with your Mid-Term Examinations on the horizon, the Crystal Dome Games right after that and lastly, taking on the world below in the fight for your life and our survival...

[Baku Cree]: Well, thank you for the concern and the retrospective, your highness. But, I've been training and studying a lot. I've had many conversations with a lot of impactful people in my life that have helped me become confident in myself. So, I mean, yeah like, there's gonna be a lot of things coming up very soon for me. However, I'm ready for all of it... You can count on it.

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Okay, but are you truly ready to take on the whole world, Baku?

[Baku Cree]: Absolutely, once I win the tournament.

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: So, you're going to be the champion of the games as well?

[Baku Cree]: Yes, ma'am. That I will.

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: ... *Smiles softly* Good, I as well as many others believe in you, Baku... Very well then, the reason why I asked you those questions wasn't to intimidate you, my son. But instead, I really just wanted to get you into the mindset that things are getting serious now. I'm sorry that we haven't had a chance to get you informed of our findings on the living planet, Baku. But we are almost done and once we finalize this information from the Oracle, we will be able to give in complete detail what to expect on your journey. Do you have any understanding of your mission so far?

[Baku Cree]: Uhhh... Not really… I’ve just been told to expect challenges from strong people and possibly monsters? It sounds nerdy and almost fantastical, but it feels like a videogame to me. The more I train with Prince Majorku, the more excited I am to meet and experience the people and places of the planet below.

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Well, at least you are excited to be our hero… As compared to how you were in the beginning, this is a positive change… So, it is like I said... We are working hard to help you gain a full understanding of the situation at hand. And yes, the living planet is a beautiful and mystical place. I’m excited for you to see the world for what it truly is…

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: The cities and environments you will experience are sure to be memorably breathtaking, as compared to what you are used to here in the Crystal Kingdom... So for now, I wanted to know, how is your Soul Energy training doing? Are you learning a lot from the prince? You made quite the display this morning... *Smiles seductively* I was impressed…

[Baku Cree]: *Blushing* Oh, you too, huh? *Thinking to himself* Aw man, it's like mother like daughter with these two…

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: I wanted to take this chance to tell you more about the Eternia Crystal around your neck, Baku. So tell me, what do you know about it so far?

[Baku Cree]: Oh well, this is called the Aventurine Crystal. I’ve been told that it grants the user Weapon Manipulation and Armor Fortification. From what I've done so far, I am able to conjure up a pair of golden gauntlets and a pair of golden metal boots, like you all have seen earlier this morning. I'm still training to create body armor, and I'm still trying to focus on creating both pairs at once.

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Once you acquire the Crystal Sword, Crystallis, you will be trained in the art of Weapon Manipulation. It may be a rushed class because we are stretching you for time, so I apologize for that. However, that will most likely be where a majority of your strength comes from.

[Baku Cree]: I see... Well, that pretty much sums up what I know about my crystal. That and we have the same name.

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Oh, that's right! Your first name is Aventurine isn't it? Would you rather me call you by that?

[Princess Savannah]: *Smiling* He lets me do it all the time, mommy!

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: How precious! You two must be adorable at school together! I bet you’re both excited for the big dance as well!

[Princess Savannah]: Oh, we sure are! Isn’t that right, little brother?

[Baku Cree]: *Under his breath* Actually milady, I'd appreciate it if you didn't. *Thinking to himself* Geez, the women in this family really are something else aren’t they…?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Anyhow, Baku. I want you to understand, as the World Guardian of the Crystal Kingdom, the crystal around your neck is not just a royal heirloom, but it is also very sacred... In fact, are you aware that it holds one of the fifteen powers of the universe?

[Baku Cree]: One of fifteen? So, does that mean…

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: There are fourteen other Eternia Crystals just like yours all together, each with different abilities.

[Baku Cree]: This is news... Are you sure you want to trust me with this one? I mean, don’t you think the power of the universe is a pretty big responsibility for a fifteen year old boy? Because, I wouldn’t… I’m an idiot.

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: You'll need all the strength you can muster in order to defend the planet below from the forces of evil... After all, your crystal has already accepted you, has it not?

[Baku Cree]: Accepted me?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: That's right. Your soul has been synced with the voice of the Aventurine Crystal. That is how you are able to harness its powers.

[Baku Cree]: That’s right… Looking back at it, during my training with the prince, it was crazy difficult syncing with my soul. I was messing up and everything... Then, after we started meditating, it felt so natural, that I barely even have to think about it… I feel like the more and more I come to peace with myself, the easier it is to communicate with my soul...

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: You are the first World Guardian in fifteen years to use this crystals powers, and it found you worthy of it. *Smiles softly* I guess it believes you’re quite special. After all, although it is rare to occur… Sometimes an Eternia Crystal is said to never be able to sync with its owners Soul Energy. Perhaps we should consider you lucky as well, Baku.

[Baku Cree]: Whoa... Awesome... So wait, where are the remaining fourteen crystals?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: That is a good question, Baku. I wish I knew the complete answer... Currently, the Crystal Kingdom Xeria owns five of the fifteen crystals. One of which is yours now.

[Baku Cree]: And what of the other four?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: *Giggles* I can see I've peaked your interest, haven't I?

[Baku Cree]: S-sorry, your highness!

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: *Smiling* It's okay, my child. Would you like to take a guess at which couple owns two of them?

[Baku Cree]: *Nervous* Oh man... What does your crystal do, milady?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: *Smiling* *Shhh* That's a secret!

[Baku Cree]: Geez, if I can make a pair of boxing gloves, and a new pair of shoes... You must be a badass... And I bet the king's a savage... Remind me not to get on his bad side…

[Princess Savannah]: What about the other two, mother? Aren't there supposed to be five?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Yes, that is correct. They are kept hidden away nice and safe, because of their great power. But alas, I've spoken too much of that now...

[Princess Savannah]: *Intrigued* I see…

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Would you care to guess where the remaining ten Eternia Crystals are, master Baku?

[Baku Cree]: Well, if they're not here in the Crystal Kingdom…

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: *Smiling* Yep, they're gone! We’ve lost them all! Poof!

[Baku Cree]: Geez, what happened?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Well, the Crystal Kingdom used to have all fifteen of them under our command, but after some strange event, we lost the whole set except for the Royal families five... They could be anywhere... Maybe they're scattered across Planet Eternia, perhaps they're spread throughout the galaxy... And possibly, they're lost around the known universe or even beyond that…

[Baku Cree]: Darn, that's spooky... So, they were all under the Crystal Kingdom's control at one point, and we lost them randomly?

[Princess Savannah]: And of course, we don't remember what happened or why it did…

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: That is correct, Princess. Our historians believe that an event occurred during the century our history was lost, that caused us to lose the entire set of Eternia Crystals save for our five...

[Baku Cree]: Um, milady? Just out of curiosity, what would happen if a single person were to collect all fifteen Eternia Crystals?

[Princess Savannah]: ...?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Hmmm... That's a good question, Baku... I've read in books, that ancient philosophers theorized in biblical text, it was said that if any one being were to ever control all fifteen... Then they would amass the power to defeat any opponent, man or god, from any universe that exist, will exist or has existed.

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: This state of being was called, "Crystarius-Awakening," and it is commonly phrased to be something that is incomprehensible, as humans will forever be unable to understand or grasp its true complexity… Until someone will become lucky enough to experience it themselves.

[Baku Cree]: That sounds ridiculous... Why would anybody that powerful need to exist, and why would those powers be necessary to exist anyways? Also, why are you letting me know all of this, by the way?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Perhaps the day will come, that this necessary power will be required to defeat an ever greater evil... I don't know if it will be you, but you are quite special being the fifteenth World Guardian, after fifteen years of general peace and quietness... I'm honestly quite interested to see how far you'll go if you tried to collect all fifteen, also I just wanted to plant that little seed in both of your little heads... *Smiles softly* How childish of me…

[Princess Savannah]: Mother, from what you’ve researched so far, what can you tell us about what Baku will be faced with on the planet below as the World Guardian?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Well, I wouldn’t normally release this type of information to those without the need to know… However, since Baku is the first hero in both of our lifetimes, perhaps I could show you a couple of things I’ve found in some books regarding the World Guardian Ritual.

*Queen Anastasia reveals a decrepit history book. The cover was made of black leather that was so old that it was beginning to chafe, and the pages were also becoming yellow with age.

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: My children, what you two learn in history class concerning the World Guardian at school is only half of the whole truth… The journey of the World Guardian is the least bit easy, and the 14 who saved the planet before you, Baku, have undergone what surmounts to truly dangerous and world threatening task against foes of great evil… What I am referring to right now, is not taught in your entry level classes, but only studied by the most esteemed scholars. These, are the World Destroyers…

*Queen Anastasia opens the history book to a random page. Drawn on it were pictures of demonic creatures, symbols and monsters that neither Baku nor Savannah never would have imagined ever existed at any point in the living planet's history.

[Baku Cree]: *Shocked* What the…!?

[Princess Savannah]: What are those creatures mother?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Baku, when you first appeared to us on your birthday, you shown slight understanding of what the previous World Guardians faced on the planet below, you offhandedly mentioned a sea monster and an insect-like demon, correct? Well that is indeed true, and those types of creatures do in fact exist...

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: However, you also stated that those challenges took place hundreds of years ago, in times that were essentially prehistoric… The truth is, unfortunately, that those monsters are nowhere near as threatening as the World Destroyers, the true enemies of the World Guardians…

[Baku Cree]: Your highness, what is a World Destroyer…?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Are you prepared for what I am about to tell you?

[Baku Cree]: *Deeply Inhales* … *Knods*

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Very well then… You see Baku… Mother Eternia, the Holy Goddess, in which we praise and worship, has a sister... The goddess of darkness, Hecate. She was the one that cast a curse on the Planet Eternia at the beginning of its creation which lead it to undergo a 1000-year long war.

[Baku Cree]: *Freaking out* What!? I’ve never heard of that!?

[Princess Savannah]: Why isn’t this explained in school, mother!?

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Your father and I work hard to separate religion and school as so they don’t interfere with your teachings. So, like I previously stated, entry level classes such as the ones the two of you take do not dwell on the existence on the Unholy Goddess, because that subject matter is strictly forbidden to be taught in schools and instead kept in religious teachings in the church. This is similar as to the reason why I normally wouldn’t share this information with you guys, especially you, Princess…

[Princess Savannah]: Tell us more, mother…

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: Only if Baku wishes to learn more…

[Baku Cree]: *Gulp* … Please continue, your highness…

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: You aren’t getting afraid, are you, Baku?

[Baku Cree]: *Shaking his head* No… Just curious…

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: As you wish… I shall continue sharing my findings with you, les you wish for me to stop… So, the curse Hecate cast on the Planet Eternia is written in this book and described as follows… As long as Planet Eternia lives, a powerful being of destruction known as the World Destroyer will appear in an attempt to sicken the planet with an evil curse and fill it with hatred and dark influences in order to bring the living planet back to an era of war and destruction… So, as I’m sure you both could tell, in order to defeat the forces lead by Hecate, the World Guardian system was a plan to elect a hero from one of the nations of Eternia to battle against the World Destroyer…

[Baku Cree]: ………

[Princess Savannah]: This puts a lot of things in perspective for you, doesn’t it, Baku? A being divinely created similar to you with the complete intention to oppose your goals of defending the living planet, with the soul purpose to destroy it...

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: This is what you will be up against, Baku… Just as the heroes before you did more than hundreds of years ago... Expect to face demons and monsters similar to those found in this book, for as far as I can tell, the enemies fought throughout history have become increasingly more wicked and destructive…

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: So after 15 years of peace, there’s no telling what exactly you’ll be up against in the future. It is your destiny, however, and your duty as the World Guardian to do so. Because of this, I ask you… No, I beg of you... Baku for the sake of all of us and the world in which we live… Protect us…

[Baku Cree]: *Heart Beating* ………

[Princess Savannah]: Baku already promised that he would protect me. So, I know he will save the world from any evil sent his way. There’s no need to be afraid, little brother… Because I believe in you.

[Baku Cree]: Princess… *Deeply inhales* … Well, this is what I’m training for, aren’t I? To protect my friends and the ones that I love, right? That is what I vowed to do, so I gotta do it… *Smiling* Or else I’ll look like a huge chump, huh? I can’t have that now, can’t I?

[Princess Savannah]: *Smiles flirtingly* ......

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: *Smiling* I knew you would have the mettle to be a true hero, my child. The courage you display now will go extremely far in your adventure on the planet below as the fifteenth World Guardian. Mother Eternia made an excellent decision by selecting you to fight against her sisters followers, and I know it is safe to say that we are in good hands thanks to you, Baku the Cree.

[Baku Cree]: *Smiling* Thanks, your highness! I promise to do my best!

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: I am sure you will, my child.

*Suddenly, a bell rings announcing that dinner is ready.

[Queen Anastasia Cree]: *Smiling* Oh, looks like it’s time to eat! Will you two be going me?

(Setting: Crystal Kingdom: Royal Palace- Dining Hall)

(Scene: Baku enters the large dining room along with the princess and the queen)

[Butlers]: *in unison* Now presenting, young master Baku Cree, Princess Savannah Cree, and her highness Queen Anastasia Cree!!!

[Baku Cree]: *Smiling* You guys try too hard! Y'all should relax a little!

[Butler]: You need not to worry, milord. Our burden is your pleasure...

[Baku Cree]: *Confused* Uhh, okay... You may continue doing as you please then…

[Butler]: Excellent, milord. I hope you enjoy tonight's meal. I'm sure you'll find it quite delightful.

[Baku Cree]: Hmm... We shall see.

[Nicolatrice Cree]: *Smiling* Good afternoon, young master Baku! Arth thou havingeth a greateth dayeth?

[Baku Cree]: *Sigh* Geez Mom, you are such a queen... I thought I said you don't have to talk like that to me, okay? Anyways, how are you doing today? I feel like I've been so busy with my training and studying that we haven't spent any time together in a long while.

[Nicolatrice Cree]: I've been doing just fine, sweetheart! I've been to a couple of high class tea parties with other royal families, so that's been pretty fun. They're all such nice people too! And you need not to worry about me, Baku. Just keep on working hard and training! So how are you feeling about things?

[Baku Cree]: Well, I just figured out that I'm potentially the strongest being in the universe. So, that's cool, I guess...

[Nicolatrice Cree]: *Smiling* Oh, how... umm... Interesting!

[Butlers]: *in unison* Now presenting, Prince Majorku Cree and his father King Jeremiah Cree!!!

[King Jeremiah Cree]: Good evening, family. I trust everybody had a great day?

[Princess Savannah]: *Smiling* Hello daddy, hello big brother! Me and Baku had a wonderful day at school today!

[King Jeremiah Cree]: Oh, is that right? Baku, did you truly have a wonderful day like your sister claims?

[Baku Cree]: Hm? Oh yeah, it was great... *Under his breath* I learned a lot about your daughter… Including stuff I never in a million years thought I would experience... *Thinking to himself* And your wife is just like her…

[Butlers]: *in unison* Dinner is served!

*The butlers and chefs lay out a massive spread of delicious foods.

[Baku Cree]: *Excited* Holy crap! This all looks great!

[Butler]: I hope you like your steaks well done, milord.

[Baku Cree]: Well done indeed, dude!

[King Jeremiah Cree]: Excellent, now that we are all here... And that isn't including the Oracle this time... There have been some developments for this next week. This mostly concerns the World Guardian.

[Baku Cree]: *Chewing food* Hm?

[King Jeremiah Cree]: Baku, this may sound displeasing to you, but circumstances have caused the Crystal Dome Games to be moved to the end of next week.

[Baku Cree]: *Gulp* This Friday?

[King Jeremiah Cree]: That isn't going to be a problem for you is it?

[Baku Cree]: Uhh no, I guess not... It's just gonna be a big last shebang after a week of my Mid-Terms... May I ask why this is happening, your highness?

[King Jeremiah Cree]: I spoke privately with your older brother, and after some careful consideration and debating, we came to the conclusion that you are ready to participate in the Crystal Dome Games.

[Baku Cree]: *Nervous* Uhh... You really think I'm ready bro?

[Prince Majorku]: *Knods* Yes, I do believe in you. I always have, and I'm sure I'm not alone. If you want to squeeze in a final training session with me beforehand, you know where to find me.

[Baku Cree]: Okay... But what circumstances made this decision have to happen?

[King Jeremiah Cree]: Things on the planet below are taking place faster than we expected. We're not sure what to take with this information, so we're hoping that the Oracle will tell us very soon... He is currently napping, so when he wakes up again, he will tell me what he sees in his dream, and that information will be relayed back to you in a final briefing, so you'll have complete understanding of the mission. But it is imperative to move your training along quicker than we'd like to…

[Baku Cree]: I see… *Thinking to himself* Is this because of the World Destroyer?

[King Jeremiah Cree]: So, the tournament is at the end of the week, along the way you have your test to take... Are you ready for those?

[Baku Cree]: … Huh? Oh! *Confidently* Yep, I'm surely gonna pass my test! I even finished my history research paper!

[King Jeremiah Cree]: Good. So, then everything should work out. Very well then, this week Baku and Savannah will complete their Mid-Term Test, and on that Friday, the Crystal Dome Games begin. I highly suggest you two get as much studying done as you can, and Baku, try to fit in more training in your schedule... Until then, I wish you all a good night and a great rest of your week.

[Princess Savannah]: *Smiling* Good night daddy, I love you!

[Baku Cree]: ………

(Setting: Crystal Kingdom: Royal Palace- Virtuareal Training Simulation Room)

(Scene: Baku appears training in the simulator)

[Baku Cree]: Crystal... *Shouting* GAUNTLET FIST!!!

*Baku lands a powerful punch on a sort of machine using his golden gauntlets.

*BAM!!!

[Power Scanner]: *Beep beep boop beep* Soul Energy Reading... 1500.

[Baku Cree]: *pant* *pant* ... Is... that good?

[Prince Majorku]: Considering that last week you were putting out just over 500 on your Soul Energy Reading for that attack... Yes, that is quite an improvement.

[Baku Cree]: So... This machine is measuring the amount of energy I output per attack?

[Prince Majorku]: That's right. The Power Scanner is essentially a punching bag that absorbs the energy coming from any of the users attacks and reads out how much destructive capability that attack does... Roughly…

[Baku Cree]: Oh really? What your highest numbered attack?

[Prince Majorku]: Wouldn't you like to know?

[Baku Cree]: *Sigh* Typical... Anyways... Alright, let's try this... Crystal... BIG FOOT!!!

*Baku lands a mighty roundhouse kick on the machine using his golden boots.

*BAM!!!

[Power Scanner]: *Beep beep boop beep* Soul Energy Reading... 1200.

[Baku Cree]: *pant* *pant* So like... Are these numbers... big?

[Prince Majorku]: Oh, it's nice... for a noob…

[Baku Cree]: Aw man…

[Prince Majorku]: You're coming on strong, Baku. So don't think too hard about the numbers. This is just a scale after all, and since you've just started training at age fifteen, you don't need to hate yourself by comparing to someone whose been training all their life and twice your age. Of course, they'll have a higher number than you... Roughly.

[Baku Cree]: *Hmph* I know one thing's for sure. If I knew about this Soul Energy concept back when I was in the fields, I'd be freakin' untouchable... That dumbass Julio would've never dared mess with me or my friends. I bet I could kick his ass now too... Hehe, I'd be the badass of the school instead of that idiot!

[Prince Majorku]: ......... What the hell are you going on about? Baku, you idiot, Soul Energy isn't a concept that you can harness to beat up the people you don't like. Soul Energy is used to fight and defend an individual's cause. I'm not training you to fight some petty bully, you're preparing to defend the planet. Mastering control of your Soul Energy isn't going to magically make your life better, Baku. From this point forward, you'll be faced with endless walls to overcome, foes to defeat, and people to defend. If your biggest concern as a World Guardian is how some douche in high school used to pick on you and how'd you like to get revenge on him by beating the crap out of him like some geek writing a manga or comic book. Then you should really reconsider your thoughts and your future…

[Baku Cree]: Um... Alright... Sorry, I guess…

[Prince Majorku]: You may resume training if you'd like, or if you are done for the day, you may leave. Your twelve hours a day is up.

[Baku Cree]: *Deeply inhales* … Okay.

(Setting: Crystal Kingdom: Royal Palace- Library)

(Scene: Baku appears in the library with the Princess and her friends)

[Halenday Medellon]: Okay lovelies, who can tell me the sum of 500 yoodles and 700 sloopdoops?

[Mitsune Akamiko]: *Raises hand* 1200 blip blops!

[Halenday Medellon]: Correct. Now what is 400 ring dings divided by 100 blabber knackers?

[Baku Cree]: *Raises hand* 4 diddly diddles?

[Halenday Medellon]: That is correct, darling. And now our last question, what is 700 gizmos multiplied by 7000 niptips?

[Princess Savannah]: *Raises hand* 4,900,000 hurplesnurples.

[Halenday Medellon]: On a Monday?

[Princess Savannah]: *Thinking* Umm?

[Baku Cree]: *Raises hand* On a Monday, the answer will be divided by 3 flabber knackers. So, is it 1,633,333.333 repeatedly through space and time, right?

[Halenday Medellon]: *Impressed* That's correct, young master Baku.

[Princess Savannah]: *Smiling* Nice catch, little bro!

[Mitsune Akamiko]: You're going to own that Math test, dude!

[Baku Cree]: Thanks guys, you've all been a great help with my studies.

[Halenday Medellon]: It's always been my pleasure, I enjoy spending time with you…

[Mitsune Akamiko]: Yeah! Besides, this is the least we can do for you. Since y'know, you're about to go save the world and all that stuff. I just wish we knew you were gonna be such a badass earlier on, then I probably would've dated you!

[Baku Cree]: Oh, so it would've been that easy right? Well thanks for letting me know now, Lady Akamiko.

[Princess Savannah]: Well, I wish we had the chance to spend more time with you, Baku. I'm sure we're all going to miss you... Isn't that right, Lady Yamabushi?

[Ayurielli Yamabushi]: I'm not going to miss you specifically; I just wish to see you in combat on the planet below…

[Baku Cree]: Oh man, well I'll try not to be gone for too long, milady. I'll be sure to write in a journal and draw pictures of all of my adventures so you can read them like a story, Lady Yamabushi. How does that sound to you?

[Ayurielli Yamabushi]: Hmm... That seems swell... I suppose…

[Mitsune Akamiko]: Well, hold on! Baku, if you gonna bring back souvenirs then I want you to bring me the most beautiful and expensive piece of jewelry you can find on the entire planet!

[Baku Cree]: *Nervous* Uhh... Okay, anything else?

[Halenday Medellon]: *Blushing* I just want you to come back home safely…

[Baku Cree]: *Smiling* Oh well, thank you Master Medellon. I appreciate your concern for my safety! Princess, would you like me to bring you anything?

[Princess Savannah]: Baku, I just want you to bring me a book. I don't care what is written in it, as long as you think about me when you see the front cover.

[Baku Cree]: Hm. No problem, I can totally do that for you, sis!

[Princess Savannah]: Thank you, love... You know guys, I have an idea now... We're asking so much of you, Baku, but we're not giving you anything to remember us by…

[Baku Cree]: Oh, I don't need anything special, Princess. I'm fine!

[Princess Savannah]: Nonsense, little brother, I wouldn’t be able to sleep at night, knowing you were all alone down there, with nothing to remind you off your friends... Now, everybody write your name and a message to Baku on this paper, please?

*The four friends proceed to write their signatures and a small message directed to Baku on a piece of paper. The princess folds the decorated sheet into an origami crane, then kisses it softly while whispering quietly to it. Savannah ties a string through the craft and hands it to Baku.

[Princess Savannah]: Baku, this is from us... to you... So that you may remember where you came from and never feel alone because we will always be thinking about you... We wish you luck and strength on your adventure as the newest World Guardian on Planet Eternia.

[Baku Cree]: ......... Damn... You royals really know how to make a guy feel at home... Thanks everyone, you're all great friends...

[Princess Savannah]: You're a good friend and an amazing little brother Baku, and I'm sure we can all agree to that. This paper crane symbolizes our love for you and our wish for your protection while on your adventure... Well, that was quite emotional... I say it's getting pretty late. It's important that we have a good night’s rest before our test. Good luck you guys, let's kill it tomorrow!