“I’m sorry, it’s just… There is no precedent for a living Arbiter in modern times. It’s just been used as a posthumous award, not meant for anyone to actually use any of the real power that is still tied to the position. So, I can’t possibly support that.” The man laughed nervously, gesturing to those around to illustrate that he wasn’t the only one who felt that way. “Hah, ha-ha. Amusing, but complete foolishness.” None of them signaled that he was incorrect in his dismissive assessment.

As the current group of dignitaries surrounding her dissolved, Samara was left alone to flounder in the harsh, open waters of the city hall’s expansive ballroom while her motivation to approach another group quickly drained away…

Ever since she was a child, Jade always knew she wanted to create music. Though, the word wanted doesn’t quite illustrate just how deeply rooted her passion ran. Even saying something such as she had a ravenous desire, only paints a somewhat clearer picture, but in actuality… It was more than that. You see, for her it was more than just a life goal. Striving to improve in every waking moment of her conscious existence was everything…

I awake in darkness. Panic grips me with rough, calloused hands. Choking, I blindly feel around for a way out or something to reveal my location, only finding harsh resistance in every direction. Where? What? How? My desperation intensifies, fists lashing out at my confinement until I grow fatigued. As feeling slowly returns…

My stomach rumbled, exacerbating my current situation. Disastrous times these were. Oh, what serious woes had befallen this poor, hard working member of society. Missing multiple meals just to pursue a task that had, yet again, ended fruitlessly. Not to mention…