25.) Strife Gathering, Part 2.

As the battle continues in universe 9, and members of Strife begin to collect. We move our focus back over to the Dragon Clan as 2 days of school have already gone by for Morpheus and his friends. Their third day was well underway, and Quantums class was at a near end. 

Morpheus: "So… the study of atoms and matter will be the FIRST big focus in this class? Damn man… I'm not ready for any of that."

Amera: "Morpheus chill. You're a smart guy, I know you'll get the hang of it. Plus, our professor is a top tier Scholar amongst the 5 clans of Quadrant I."

Morpheus: "What!? Dr. Draken is THAT smart Amera?"

Amera: "Yes indeed. He's quite well versed in quantum understandings. I want to gain real knowledge about quantum studies. So I requested he be my professor for the course."

Morpheus: "Hmph. Well, I'm not against actually learning stuff, and I-I feel as if I COULD catch on fast. Plus, with the confidence you have in our professor, I feel I can pass with flying colors."

Amera: "That's more like it! We got this in the bag. I'll be helping every step of the way."

Morpheus: *Grin* "Haha. Thanks Amera, it's really great to hear you'll help out. Plus, if I flunk in any class, my dad said he'll use his leash study on me and-and-and seal my abilities away."

Amera: "… the fuck!? Your dad's scary Morpheus."

Morpheus: "Yeah… yeah he is."

Amera: "Hmm… well since this class is over, you want to go with me and the others?"

Morpheus: "Depends on what the move is before Combat Class."

Amera: "Training our elements some more. Zo sprung the idea up. He said he wants to have his skill with his element be equal to your skill as a hand-to-hand expert."

Morpheus: "Mhm! Say less. I'm there, we're there… matter of fact. Let's get there!" *Grip*… *DASH*

Amera: "Woah!"

Morpheus quickly grabs Amera and dashes to the training arena to meet with Zoshen and Malikai. All were hoping to get a little training in before the actual class was to start. They were going to be learning how to use their elements properly. 

Zoshen: "Wanted to get a lil stretch out before we started our little exercise, but I think we'll be cutting it too close if we did that."

Malikai: "Yeah brotha, I mean we're already cutting it close waiting on Morpheus and Amera."

Morpheus: "YOOOOOO!!! Zo, Malikai!"

Zoshen: "Ah, right on time as usual. Guess we can get started then."

Malikai: "Yep. Let's get this underway. Class is in twenty minutes brotha."

Zoshen: "Right."

Morpheus: *SKUUURT* "Damn. I was told about this last minute and shit. Y'all should've told me!"

Zoshen: "Our fault brotha."

Morpheus: "All good… but how are we finna start this quick little training off."

Malikai: "Easy. Me and Amera will spar. And you and Zo will spar. Seems he wants to learn a bit of your close quarters style."

Zoshen: "Yeah. I could use ut for a fighting style I'm trying to make. One based on using you element as the basis."

Morpheus: "Ooh?? I can indeed help with that."

Amera: "Hmph. Seems I get to learn how it is you Imp gods choose to fight."

Malikai: "And I get to see an Embodiment clansmen fight. Cool."

And with that the pairs began their light spars with only 15 mins until class was to begin. Zoshen and Morpheus clash with their elements wrapped around their limbs. Zoshen tries his best to catch onto some of the quick and precise movements Morpheus was employing. The quick straight kicks, piercing punches aimed at weak points, powerful free flowing blows that perfectly synced with ome another. Zoshen wanted to learn it all to better improve his own style. Morpheus on the other hand, watched for better elemental control. He wanted the amount of finesse Zoshen had. He was able to manipulate his element to stretch out and make contact whenever a strike missed. 

Zoshen: (Damn! Doing these moves fucking hurt with each one. This is true martial arts skill and movement. The pressure.)

Morpheus: (It's a bit frustrating to sit here and try to move my element's physical form while being this focused on martial arts. This aint easy at all!)

Malikai and Amera were both pretty even in Elemental influence and close quarters combat. Their goals were to learn their clan's preferred fighting styles to gain more knowledge of the teachings within their Colossaverse. Black Hole Imps/Dwarfs are very well versed in how to handle their black holes. Usually used to slightly drain enemies with, when doing close quarters combat. They used twisting and spinning strikes to better improve the draining while having kickboxing and Tiger style kung fu as their basis. 

Amera: "Hmph! (He's been eating at my stamina with every little blow he lands. And he's doing it effortlessly. True siphoners without a doubt.)" 

Malikai: "Woah! (Their control of the elements is incredible. She's actually been creating holes in herself to avoid direct hits from me. And the incorporation of the whip technique and Shaolin God kung fu is incredible. Such quick and swift strikes that don't leave pain until seconds after. Hard not to kill over and hold each spot she's touched!)" 

All four keep their slight spars going at high pace. Slowly getting more attuned to each other's fighting styles. But still so far away from actually being able to use what they've learned. While they continue their slight training, Zo'Elaniece watches in the background with the class. 

Zo'Elaniece: "Ha! See that class? That right there… is hard work. I'd expect nothing less."

Ju'Mosi: "Yeah definitely Madame Elaniece brah. I think I'll have a little go at it today."

Elaniece: "Whaat? You're actually going to jump out and fight today in class?"

Ju'Mosi: "Well of course. For one, today's subject is elements… I'm from the Embodiment Clan. And the second reason… well, to be honest Clarence challenged me so I'll dabble… brah."

Clarence: "I'm ready for it! This'll be a fun match for sure!"

Elaniece: "Ha! That's great to hear. I'll let you two be the first match after we recap on the basics. Soumd good?"

Clarence: "Hell yeah!"

Ju'Mosi: "Tsh, Haha… shyeah brah."

Zelibus: "This'll be a match even I've been anticipating greatly. Those two are… even better than Morpheus."

Class: "Oh hell yeah!"

"Those two? Oh this is def gonna be great.

"They're the most talked about besides Morpheus, his crew and the school's elite ranks."

"Nothing will be better than this!"

Ju'Mosi: "Seems we weren't keeping too.many secrets like we had thought eh, Clarence?"

Clarence: "Ha! Guess not… the whole school seems to know of our early escapades in our respective Clans. Let's give 'em a show!"

Ju'Mosi: "Don't gotta tell me twice!"

Elaniece: "Then it's settled. Good… I too, was hoping to get a look at what you wannabe slackers can do. Hmph! ZOOOO!!! MORPHEUS!!!"

Ju'Mosi: "Woah brah! She's looooud dude!"

Clarence: "Gaaah! Who you tellin'!"

Class: "Owww!!"

Elaniece: Toughen up wimps!"

Zoshen: "Oh damn! It's that time already!?"

Morpheus: "Seems so, and by that yell. I'd say we better get our asses up there."

Malikai: "Most definitely."

Amera: "Mhm hmm!"

Zoshen: "No lies being told."

Morpheus: "Haha! Alright let's go then."

Morpheus and the others quickly join with the rest of the class as the class gets under way. Elaniece begins her 5 min intro of the day which tells the students… it's time to get to it.

Elaniece: "Now then. Now that class is underway I can explain how it is we'll go about learning the Elemental part of this course. I'll actually go about explaining them and how they work. As well as how we Gods use them. Then we'll go straight into our match for the day…. They'll be our demonstrators. Sounds good!?"

Class: "Yes Madame Elaniece!!!"

Elaniece: "Goood. Now on to my little explanation. So, as most should know. Elements were actually the original power used by the inhabitants of the Omniverse before studies were found and birthrights were made. They are the one power we're truly born with besides that of Zenchi. Their potency and ability to evolve is equal to that of studies. And the manner of form they can take is just as free. From having a thing such as "Time" and its confines be your element. Or having a more simple concept. Such as one of the base elements in the omniverse, Fire. Regardless of what kind of element you have, you can use them in any way they may be useful. The only difference between them and Studies is… that elements can't have things added on to become stronger. You can only evolve and raise the potency. Also, don't get the wrong idea of thinking you pick your element. It's either random or family oriented. And unlike some studies… ALL elements are capable of taking shape to whatever form you whim. As well as do attacks and techniques that employ hax and other means of battling, that aren't of the physical nature. That'll be all O say on elements for now. We'll slowly go over it more in detail as the course goes."

Morpheus: "Hmph! That's about everything my father has told me."

Zoshen: "Mine as well. And during my private teachings with Elaniece."

Malikai: "Hmm. Yeah most of that was already known. But it's always good to get a recap."

Amera: "I agree. Quite refreshing to be taught the fundamentals again."

Morpheus: "Yeah, guess we're about to see quite the spectacle now."

Amera: "You've no idea. Ju'Mosi may not look it, but he's incredibly gifted with skill. His embodiment of his element is top notch."

Malikai: "Whats the element?"

Amera: "Ju'Mosi uses…"

Ju'Mosi: "I use metallic minerals of all kinds."

Morpheus: "Mhm!? Metallic minerals?"

Ju'Mosi: "Yeah! I can manipulate the Metallic minerals with ease. And luckily for me I've already acquired the ability to emit the minerals myself. Allowing me to create all kinds of forms with them. Even coat myself in it and I can mix and create new ones to help counter elements I've never run into." 

Zoshen: "That's pretty damn nice."

Malikai: "No cap bro!"

Ju'Mosi: "Appreciate that. I'm about to head into the arena. Wish me luck y'all."

Morpheus: "Luck? Tch! Such a modest and humble guy you are. You've got power that's higher than my own. You had better win so I can challenge you next."

Ju'Mosi: "Fighting one of THE gates? Sounds like a plan brah."

Elaniece: "Alright! I need both my volunteers to enter the arena and prepare. The rest of you enter the spectators' seats. Let's prepare for this marvelous show we're about to witness!"

Class: "Yes, Madame!!"

Zoshen: "Welp. Let's go y'all."

Morpheus: "Indeed."

The class heads into the stands as both Ju'Mosi and Clarence enter the arena. The atmosphere instantly thickened as both their essence signatures began to rise.

Morpheus: "From what I can tell, they're both 9s."

Zoshen: "Yeah, thats what I'm getting as well."

Amera: … 

Malikai: "If they're that even in stats, it'll come down to skill and Clarence is known for having it."

Amera: "As well as my cousin, Ju. This'll be fum to watch indeed."

Elaniece: "Now that both our combatants have entered the grounds we can begi- er… What!?!"

Morpheus: "Ngh!… N-no way!"

Malikai: "Huh? (Both Madame Elaniece's and Morpheus' essence levels have skyrocketed. What's going on?!)"

Zoshem: "What the!? Sis, Morpheus!? You guys good??"

Amera: (What's gotten into them?)

Elaniece: "N-no damn waaaaay! It's really happening!?" *PEW*

Morpheus: *PEW* "It's… it's him."

Zoshen: "Who!?"

Amera: "Yeah, who!?"

Malikai: "Hmm?"

Elaniece: "Your level of essence perception is very dull, so you wouldn't be able to sense what I and Morpheus can. This signal is… DEATH! Amongst other powerful foes."

Zoshen: "DEATH!?"

Amera: "No way…"

Malikai: "Well now… that's quite the surprise. Death!?"

Ju'Mosi: "No way. (D-death!? I wonder…)"

Elaniece: "Yes. I can feel his presence. It seems the rumors are true. Lady Amiyama kept her word… she's reviving Death II by force."

Morpheus: "So this is Amiyama's signature I can feel. It's insanely more powerful than the last time I saw her. Hmm. (I've gotta go! He's calling me directly. I can bet it's the same for my brothers. Seems one's already there and Vashjai's close!) Madame!"

Amera: "Hmm?"

Zoshen: …

Elaniece: "What is it my boy!?"

Morpheus: "I'm going! Death's signature is literally grasping me and calling for me. I must go to him!"

Elaniece: "Yes, I know Morpheus. I'll be going with you."

Zoshen: "Wha- The fuck! BRUH! I'm going too!"

Malikai: "Shiiiit… me too my guy."

Amera: "Shit, me too then!"

Morpheus: "… pfffft! Hahahahaaa! I love y'all man, alright then. Let's go see Death's revival."

Ju'Mosi: … 

Clarence: … 

Zelibus: "Hmph!"

Elaniece: "Zaira!"

Zaira: "Watch the class?"

Elaniece: "Yes ma'am. Thank you!"

Morpheus: "Let's go, NOW! *LEAP* *FWOOOO*

Zoshen: (I'm… going to meet Death!?) *FWOOO*

Amera : "This'll be quite the extravaganza." *FWOOO*

Malikai: "This is… crazy. My dad's gone be jealous as shit."  *FWOOO*

Elaniece: "Hmph! I get to meet all five gates in one go. Hahahaaaaa. Lets get it!!!" *FWIP*

Class: "Death!? That's insane."

"I've gotta ask 'em how it goes."

"That's crazy man. I wonder if he'll come here after reviving."

"They lucky as fuck!"

"Man… you ain't never lie bro!"

Zaira: (She's gonna challenge them. I can already fucking tell.)

And with that… Morpheus and his friend's headed for universe 9 using a gateway Zo'Elaniece knows about. Its a warp gate straight to universe 12. They'll dash the rest of the way. But while they're flying off, the group at Annihilo Sect began to make their leave. 

ZeeArc: "So you guys should be well rested by now right?"

Zo'Elgor: "I am for sure. I can leave whenever."

Dwayne: "Same here brotha."

ZeeArc: "Then we can leave indefinitely."

Kishin: "Yeah… we must!"

Dwayne: "Why the hurry all of a sudden!?"

Zo'Elgor: …

Kishin: "I'm sure ZeeArc can feel it too. Death is calling out to me, not only that but I can feel all three of my brothers are nearing his location. My youngest brother is with two signatures that feel similar to Zo'Elgor's."

Zo'Elgor: "Hmm? (My siblings?)"

ZeeArc: "Yeah… he's slowly calling Strife to himself. And the signature is strong as hell. Yeah, we've gotta go!"

Dwayne: "Right! My brother's getting close to that ominous signature. Lets leave!"

Kishin: "Alright, then let's go!"

Zenki: "Not without me you don't. Amir will be coming as well."

ZeeArc: "Right. Then everyone's here."

Amir: "You know it, babe." *Smooch*

Kishin: "Good. Let's go see this spectacle."

Everyone: "Right!"

Morpheus, Kishin and their squads head for Death's revival spot at full speed. Strife is collecting as the war continues. Death II is almost here!

Next Chapter: Strife Gathering Part 3.