Her Tale

by CrowPhoenix

This is not my story. I'm not the hero. I simply want to tell you... Please RR- Update should be a rewrite of the first chap.

1. Starting Off on the Wrong

Hello all, it's standard disclaimer time. I do not own Threads of Fate. I shall never own Threads of Fate. But my writing is probably poor enough just to sue me for that. Currently, I am a college student, taking Great Books and attempting to write. This is a proofread copy of my story "Her Tale," So expect the worst. I warn you, I'm new at this, so if there are any really bad mistakes… throw tomatoes. I finally got this proofread. I am dumb, sometimes.

NEW NOTES- Well, I'm finally finished with the planned revision. I'm not sure if it's really worth a read, but I do encourage everyone to find the pollywog scene and note the changes to Rue's absorption and use of monster souls. That's about the only thing I changed, other then Elena's clothing, which I just increased the length of her skirt because quite frankly, I don't think she'd be sending the right message with what she was wearing. Now, I have to thank SuGaR HiGh MoNkEy for her triple threat o' reviews. I have to thank Deth Star Apacolypse for pointing out one of the stupidest mistakes I've made to date and hope that he will continue to help me. Marowe, Thank you for your kind words of praise, which I feel is undeserved and has caused me to panic at times, but still it makes me quite happy. And, Kairi21, thank you for sticking with me this long.  Your words of praise lift my spirits when I become negative, and I've enjoyed watching your progression as a writer. Keep up the good work. Thanks again everyone for the kindness.

Starting Out On the Wrong…

The sea breeze tickled my nose as it filled the sails of our ship, carrying me ever closer to my destination. The ship was neither large nor small, and built to carry passengers from port to port.  I stared into the deep blue of the sea.  I'd been on this ship for a month now, and my eyes still loved the sight of cool sapphire meeting the warm azure on the horizon. I've often wondered if it was possible to catch the horizon. The goal seems trivial and most would tell you impossible, but it's no more impossible then my quest. I wished to raise the dead.

Claire.

My mind held the name and refused to release it. The thought of her echoed in my mind attempting to drive mad. I've persevered against the ghosts of my past for so long that I could feel my walls and defenses reaching their breaking point. Anger rose in me like molten lava threatening to spill out of an erupting volcano, as the memories of my 'sister's' death flashed through my mind. I gripped the handle of my weapon and swung it over my shoulder in a fit of rage.

"Whoa there, young man." A kind, yet stern voice called out.

I froze at the sound of the voice, my weapon hovering inches above the deck. A blush spread across my cheeks, as I shouldered my weapon. I bowed my head slightly and turned to face the man who called out to me.

"I'm sorry, captain." I said slowly, not lifting my eyes to meet his. The deck and his brown boots were infinitely more interesting to me then actually seeing the anger in his green eyes.

I'd nearly damaged the ship, which not only would have cost me a good deal of money to fix, but would intrude on this kind man's hospitality. I tried my hardest not to upset other people.

"Rue." He said after a few moments. There was concern in his voice, but I still could not look him in the eye.

He had become my friend over the course of this voyage, and I repaid him by trying to damage his ship. I tried to apologize but I just floundered. I deserved to be thrown off the ship. I'd nearly damaged this man's livelihood due to a stupid bout of depression.

"Are you okay?" He finally asked snapping me from my usual musings.

I was prone to depressing thoughts or trying to place the blame of a situation all on myself. It was easier to see it that way, but more self-destructive.

"I'm fine." I replied, a bit too quickly, finally raising my eyes from their task of trying to burn a hole through the deck.

I had become that way since I lost Claire. It was my fault she was gone, so why shouldn't other things be my fault as well?

"I was just thinking."

"About that girl?" He asked. His hand reached up to stroke the matted fuzz he called a beard.

"You really ought to let go of the past," his tired voice croaked out, as he attempted to pull his finger from the noose of hair that now attempted to cut off the circulation to his finger.

I wish it were possible to let go of my past, but it's one of the only things I had now. I could only remember the last five years, and three of which were spent on my quest. It wasn't much but it was all I had.

"I can't." I all but bleated out. "I made a promise that I would bring her back."

My hands were gripped so tightly that I was sure that my nails would have dug through the skin of my palm if it weren't for the gloves. I needed to relax. I was getting far too worked up. I sucked in as much air as I could and slowly let it out. I repeated this many times until finally calmed down. Now that I was no longer angry, I just felt stupid.  I had overreacted to a simple piece of advice, but I didn't want to forget. If I forgot the past then I'd forget my promise, and I always do what I promise, even if it requires me to risk my life.

"Rue, I know you made a promise, but your sister wouldn't want you to lose your life or your sanity for her." He rested his hand on the top of my hat, mashing it down just slightly. His arm was perfectly parallel with the ground, a testament to his height.

"Many would consider this a fool's errand," he said slowly.  My heart sank at that statement.

"But surely a Relic would have the power to help her." I exclaimed.

I took a quick step forward and threw my arms to the side, flapping them as if I were a bird in flight. I'm sure I looked extremely foolish, but I didn't care. I was stuck on the swelling feeling of despair that rose up from the thought of never seeing Claire again. I had to see her again.

The twinkle of warmth in his eyes and the mirth in his laugh was all that I needed to ease the tension that was crushing my chest.

"Ei, I suppose it would," he said.

"But don't you go forgetting to live while on this quest." His voice had returned to the stern, fatherly voice he used when he wanted you to do exactly as he said.

Live? But I was alive. What did he mean?

"I… I'll try." I stuttered.

I didn't really know what he meant, but I'd have to figure it out. What was the difference between being alive and living? Was there a difference? I know I was happier with Claire, but was that what it meant to be alive? Happiness?

A fist rapped on the side of my head, causing my hat to loosen enough to be blown off by the gentle breeze. The old man simply belted out a laugh as he watched me scramble across the deck, chasing my precious hat. I loved that hat! I dove to save it from being blown off the end of the ship, but I did end up with it, its flowing ribbon clutched tightly in my fist. I sighed, glad that I didn't have to dive in after it. It would've taken a long time to find it, and the damage to my blade would have been substantial.  This hat was a part of me. Like my past, it was one of the few things I owned. One of the few things Claire gave me. I'd never let it go.

"We'll be arriving in Carona in a few hours. Try to keep from killing yourself chasing after that green puff."  He choked out through his laughter as he walked back to his post.

Again, I was confronted with the dreaded reality that no one likes my hat. What's wrong with it? I sighed as I decided now would be as good a time as any to sharpen my weapon. 

Slowly, I slid down one of the masts after bringing the weapon to fore. Pulling a whetstone and a flask of water out of my pack, I sharpened the axe-like blade of the Arc Edge. The Arc Edge was a blade that had been with me since I could remember. It was pretty much a sword, but it had a large bulbous end, which lent itself to be more useful as a slashing weapon. The thick end added more weight to the slash, making it easier to hack through an enemy. A weapon of silver blade, and red handle, it was easy for me to know if someone had taken it. It had, not only a strange color, but also a strange design. It had a curved grip, which led to a lengthy back; upon which the blade was attached. I lifted the heavy piece of metal to the air and smiled as the sun gleamed off the sharpened edge.  The beam struck me in the eyes and I was forced to avert my gaze.

Blinking my eyes to regain some of my sight, I noticed movement at the other end of the ship. A girl, who looked somewhat younger than I, leaned against the railing. Her fiery red hair hung in pigtails that flit and fluttered in the ever-increasing wind. She was dressed in a large purple cloth, with black bars that ran along the edges, as a coat. The coat was worn over a tight fitting white shirt, and pressed into place by a large black belt with darker diagonal slashes running across. The coat had a matching pattern as the belt, which remained buttoned. Orange tights clung to her legs and ran into her large brown traveling boots. The attire itself was odd, but it was the strange decorations on her back that struck me as most peculiar. There rested two large rings that had been fastened to a small travel pack. I figured they weren't there as ornamentation. They were thick. I couldn't really see rings being an effective weapon, but with how thick these were, about half as thick as her wrist, they could probably deal some damage and retain their shape.

There was no denying that this girl was gorgeous, but no one like that would even acknowledge a friendly hello from me. I let out a small sigh. Besides, I still had to keep my promise to Claire. I hadn't had enough time to form friends during my years on this quest. What was the point, I'd leave soon after. Most of the time the rumors were false anyway, or I just wasn't required to spend much time conversing with others. Besides, not many people would actually seek me out. I had white hair after all. Aside from the attention that drew, I was still somewhat ignored in the larger cities I'd been to.

The next hour seemed to pass slowly as I waited to land. I had taken to counting the holes that now adorned my patchwork green clothes and armor to keep from going insane or staring at that girl. The total had come to fifteen. Thankfully most were small and I could easily patch them, but I still had some rips from my encounter with that wolf just prior to boarding this ship. I wondered why I hadn't fixed them yet. I sighed and figured I'd just been so preoccupied with this lead that I hadn't thought about it. After all, it wasn't often that I found a clue this enticing. I doubt anyone would fault my ecstatic state in which I ran to the dock, booked passage and had been pretty much pacing the deck since we departed

Sleep was something that I liked and didn't at the same time. I enjoyed the aspect of falling asleep, as it allowed me to enter a dream world in which Claire had never died and was accompanying me on my adventures. Like some of the other books I'd read, we'd be joined by different people and rush off to save the day. I let out a small sigh. In my dreams, adventures were always something joyous and fun. But this quest was just dreadful. I hadn't been happy since I left on it, and I'd yet to meet a comrade or even make a lasting acquaintance. I doubted I'd ever see the captain after I left this ship.

The dinner bell let out its loud, tired clangs, calling us to pick up our ration of lunch. I liked lunch, and despite looking far thinner then I should, I did eat, although many an Innkeeper refused to believe me and doubled this poor urchin's serving. I had to laugh, no matter how much I ate; I was still a scrawny, gangly guy, that couldn't put any of his toil into a more robust physical appearance. Which had both its perks and flaws. If I was a little taller and better built, I could get information much easier, but a heaping serving of food is always a plus. I had been overcharged on information in the last town and had been pretty much bankrupt except for the money required to pay for my room on the ship.

After paying, I was told we had a few hours before it was time to leave. The captain said it was a good idea to 'grab a bite' before we left, as dinner wouldn't be served until the sun neared the horizon. Which meant, I had a good six hours till I could eat, and since I'd skipped breakfast to make sure I had the money for the information, I was getting pretty hungry. I decided to wonder around the town, which was a beautiful coastal town named Solus. The town itself was famous for, oddly enough, a spicy meatball dish.

I'd hoped to try some before I left, but that was now a moot desire, or so I thought. As I walked past one of the open-air restaurants, I could smell the meatballs. Their spicy, succulent aroma drifted on the air, causing me to stop dead in my tracks. I could feel myself begin to salivate. It smelled so good. I had to check, just to be sure. I removed the money purse from my belt and tipped it over. I sighed when nothing came out. I'd have to do something for some cash when I got to the next town, Carona. However, luck was with me, as a rather robust, aging woman spotted me and began to berate me in the usual manner. I took note of her curly brown hair spotted by white flecks and warm brown eyes as she asked me whether my father feed me and when the last time I'd eaten was.

She didn't believe me when I told her it was yesterday, and even attempted to make me believe that I hadn't eaten in at least three days. I sighed as she rushed back into the restaurant. I didn't like getting things for free, but my growling stomach stopped my complaining. She returned a few minutes later with a fresh plate of meatballs. Her husband followed, shouting at how that food was for another customer. She gave him one stern look and he quieted down. She placed plate and a fork in my hands and went to apologize to the customers she'd inconvenienced. I called out a thank you to her, before sitting down to enjoy my meal and then rushing back to the ship.

As I made my way to the back of the boat where the food was being served, reminiscing about the last really good meal I'd had, I began to pick up the signs of commotion. Sure enough, the cook stood, back pressed against the wall, as the red headed girl I'd seen earlier scolded him, showing her extreme distaste for the choice of food served.

"I told you already that I hate pumpkins," her grating voice proclaimed for all to hear. She continued to rattle on endlessly about the evils of pumpkins and the incompetence of the cook. Somewhere along the line I learned that her name was Mint. I wanted to laugh at the ridiculousness of this situation, most people would just accept their food and go on with their business, scrapping off or simply avoiding what they didn't want to eat. Not this girl though, she was selfish or at least, she wanted a really good meal. Which was almost an oxymoron on a ship where dried food was usually what was stored.  People normally suffered through their meals and then rushed to a restaurant for a fresh cooked meal upon arrival.  I would if I had the money, but I'd have to make do.

I'd heard from the captain about her, always demanding something that they couldn't give, then throwing a minor tantrum about it, before forgetting it completely. However, she wasn't letting up on the cook, despite his protests about not having any more meat in reserve for her. Her screeching was getting on my nerves, and I really wished she'd be quiet. The cook gave me a pleading look that begged for my help. I didn't really want to get involved, but I guess I had to now. I didn't like leaving people when I knew I could help them. I grabbed two plates of rations and move them away from the others. I didn't really like pumpkins, but I scraped them onto my plate and pushed my helping of dried meat onto hers. I was left with one plate of dried pumpkin and one plate of dried meat.

When I turned back around, Mint was telling the cook the proper nutritious diet that any girl her age should eat, listing anything from roast to curry, but leaving out anything that had to do with pumpkins. I waved to the cook and pointed to the other plate, before making a hasty retreat, grabbing my plate as I went.

"I am terribly sorry," he said in a quiet, terrified voice. "I did not mean to give you the wrong ration. There is yours at the end…"

The voices had faded from my ears after the door shut behind my retreating form. I sighed, and looked down at the strange dried orange biscuits that I was required to eat if I wanted to have something in my stomach. I sighed again, and tossed the retched food off the boat.

"I hate pumpkins."

The docks of Carona were filled with the smell of fish, sea air, and the sweat of men laboring. I was glad to be off that boat. After nearly being capsized by a strange, red blur we managed to drift our way to port. I hadn't seen Mint since the accident. I did hope she was okay, but I had to begin my quest. I had heard that in this area there might be a powerful relic, one that could revive the dead. I hoped that the story was true, otherwise who knows how many years I would have to search before I came across another solid lead. Looking down at the slowly filling hole that had been punched into the side of the boat, I told myself that I had to be positive. If the sailors can sail us into town with a hole the size of a small child in their boat's side then I would eventually find what I was looking for.

The Relic was my goal, my only goal, that infinite source of power, which was supposed to grant the holder any wish that they desired. If I could get my hands on that, then I could bring Claire back. I chuckled at the thought. It had been so long since I'd seen Claire. I wondered if she'd even recognize the person I'd become. That thought filled me with dread and I ended up taking a seat on one of the boxes in the harbor. I breathed slowly, trying to calm myself.

"Hello." A soft voice called out behind me. I turned my head in the direction of the voice. There stood a man that looked like he'd seen his fair share of hardships. He wore a yellow bandana over his gray brown hair, which was receding with age. I could see tiny bits of flesh poke out from behind the top of the wide strip of cloth. His pale green eyes sparkled with kindness, and he wore a broad smile not hindered by the finely trimmed strip of hair that ran along his jaw. He was clad in the comfortable clothes of a worker, which were ripped, dirty, and speckled by tar.

"My name is Davis," he told me, his voice wafting on the winds towards my ear. The voice and the man did not match. He was big and strong, the type of man that you could imagine wrestling a boar to the ground or killing a bear with only his hands. His voice should have been strong and deep, not weak and soft, not like mine

"I'm the ship master here. I build and repair the ships. I'm also in charge of greeting the travelers," he said. I was a bit shocked. One was rarely ever greeted on the entrance of a city. Perhaps Carona was smaller then I'd first imagined. I turned and looked out over the harbor, if one could actually call it that. The boat that I'd come in on was moored at the only real dock. There were other juts of planks that rose above the sea water, but they were so covered in boxes and barrels that they couldn't have been used for much more then temporary storage.

I had hoped this town was big enough to have a decent weaponsmith. I'd jumped onto a ship as soon as I got the clue that the Relic was around here, without even asking a few questions about this place. Hopefully, I could find the things I needed here: an inn, weaponsmith, and the Relic. The Relic was a well sought after item. So, I was sure to have so competition. That meant my blade and my body had to be in the best shape it could be, and I doubted if my clumsy sharpening skills would serve me as well as a processional sharpening.  I was shook out of my musings when Davis gripped my shoulder and pointed towards the wining slope that led towards town.

"I've never seen those two around here before," he stated. He gave me a slightly worried look, and then shook his head.

"I know it's not right to judge people, but they look like trouble," he said as he walked past me to greet some of the stragglers that had lingered longer then I had on the boat.

I probably couldn't have looked like that great a person myself. I wondered what it was that gave Davis a bad feeling about the two men.

I moved towards them, trying to get a better look. The two men looked to be a bit on in their years and definitely worse for ware. I recognized the two from the ship. They had been at the center of a few scuffles between the passengers. The taller one seemed to be losing some hair and his shirtless body was covered in dirt and grim. The shorter one, who now resembled a meatball-- my stomach growled at the thought of food-- was garbed in a plain cotton tunic. Both men were dressed in the dregs of what once were pants. The tall one wore a light tan colored set, while his companion was dressed in dark brown. Both were milling about the docks with large knives strapped to their hips. Their heads turned in all directions as if they were hoping not to be seen. I turned my head and began walking towards town. 

The town was extremely small; the main plaza consisted of only four buildings. Two paths branched off the plaza, one heading down a darkened alley, and one a lighter path. I didn't check were the two paths led. I was more concerned with figuring out what stores were at my disposal. I inspected the town, from where I stood. In the center was a fountain made of marble, with a simple design. It was just a circle with a small jutting upwards in the center. Water shot from the center, with minimal force, and flew into the air about half an arms length before returning to the basin below it. To the right of the fountain was a rather large block building. It had a small castle like appearance with two red banners running down the sides. I guessed it was the town meeting hall or some other important building. Next to it, across the dark alleyway, was a small simple wooden building, with an open-air archway on the other side. A sign of dual-crossed blades over a horseshoe told me that I had found the blacksmith. Hopefully he had enough knowledge to properly repair my weapon.

To the left of the fountain was a darkened wooden house. On the outside was a sign, which depicted a vase with a deep crack running down the side. This house was much more impressive then the blacksmith's. It possessed an old architecture of different shades of woods. The base was a darker brown then the rest of the house, which was a light tan, save for the two boards which formed an X on each open wall. Two Xs were on the front as well, separated by the front door, keeping the perfect symmetry to the building. It was a very balanced house; with windows in the proper place and two smoke stacks on either side. The sign, which might represent an antique dealer contrasted with the quality of the house. Normally the blacksmith did better business then an art dealer, but maybe it was inherited. I made a note to check that place out. It could be a valuable source of information, but the place was closed and no light emanated from within. I wondered where the owners would be during the day when shops were normally at their busiest.

Next to the building, across the better-lit alleyway, was a large but modest wooden building.  It was designed with wooden slates climbing up the two stories of the building until it reached the slanted roof. The building was mostly brown, with a few blues for the window coverings. I couldn't tell what the building was at present due to the strange dance of a woman in front of it. She was dressed in a simple brown dress with white trim and a white blouse underneath. Her blonde hair was cut short and danced with the same fervor as the rest of her body. She seemed to be shouting for help. I felt my stomach sink as I ran over.

When I arrived I was greeted in a rather peculiar way. The lady reached up with surprisingly strong hands and gripped my shoulders. She began to shake me violently. I had become an unwitting partner in her erratic dance, which was moving ever closer to the fountain. I was able to pick up, through the haze of my jostled head and quickly turning stomach, that a young girl, Elena, had gone into the forest in search of her parents. That was as much as I understood before I was deposited into the fountain. The water was cold, not surprising due to the lengthy winter we'd had before the onset of spring a few weeks ago.

I groaned as I lifted one of my hands and watched the cool water drip from my fingertips. I flicked my wrist before running my hand through my hair. Something was missing. I ran my hand through my hair again. My hat was gone.

I sighed as I rose from the water, reminding myself of a Rusulka, a spirit of a dead woman that comes to take revenge on men for her murder. I turned in circles looking quickly for my hat. My forehead could not be uncovered. One of my hands shot up and covered the offensive area. I noticed it floating next to me with its ribbon twisted around my leg. I cursed the fates and proceeded to lift my leg to get the ribbon off.  Unfortunately, a strong wind blew, catching my hat, making it slip from my hand, and propelling it with just enough force to knock me back into the water. I must have looked like an absolute fool. I scanned the town and saw many an amused expression on the faces of the town's residents. Scratching my head in frustration, I decided to simply leave the town now. Maybe the people would forget my stupidity after a few hours.

My hat danced behind me as I dragged myself through the gates of town. I was so embarrassed. I could feel the heat radiating from my face. I wanted to vanish and never be seen again by these people.

The lush greenery of the forest outside of Carona threatened to envelope me in its beauty and peaceful noises as I left the town. I walked slowly down the meandering trail that had been worn into the earth by the many people that had come this way during some point in time. The sunlight filtered through the trees, creating bright splotches of color mixed in with the dark of the shadows. The scent of flowers and freshness permeated from every nook in the area. I liked the forests. They were calming with their beauty and tranquility, but hid a dangerous nature that could surprise even the most careful person.

While I walked I wondered what I should do now that I'd left the town. I'd definitely made myself look like a fool so I doubted that anyone would take me serious. But, that lady had said something about a missing girl. Perhaps I should look for her? It couldn't hurt, and I was already outside of the town, so it wasn't like searching would hurt anything. I nodded to myself and continued on my way.

The path I traveled was just a carved nook in the ground, wide enough for one person to stand on it. It twisted around trees, and over half buried, semi-flat rocks. It ran though a wide opening in the foliage, suitable to eat a relaxing lunch in, past that was a small stream and some bushes.

I'd been walking through the forest outside of Carona for about an hour, and I was beginning to become really hungry. I had given up my lunch to Mint, and breakfast had been a very sparse meal.

My stomach growled loudly. I really needed to eat something. A quick search of my surroundings yielded a small berry bush and an apple tree. A few minutes of plucking and I sat down on the grass beneath a tall tree to eat some of my findings. The food was good, but I polished it off quite quickly and was left hungry for a bit more, but it was never a good idea to eat too much in an area that might be dangerous. Weighing myself down by gorging would only have hurt me later.

As, I sat on the ground I felt the warmth of the patch of sun I'd sat near envelope me. I closed my eyes and leaned back to enjoy it. I let out a sigh of contentment. It felt good here. I didn't want to move and give my damp cloths the opportunity to chill my now warm body. As, I reclined in the warming light; I began to wonder about the girl I had decided to look for, and the state of these woods. Were the woods dangerous? I ran my hand over the cool grass outside the sun. I plucked a blade of grass from the earth. It was so easy to break grass, and once it was gone it never grew again, at least not that blade. I looked down at the blade. I hated broken blades of grass. They reminded me of Claire. Both were fragile and beautiful, and both no longer lived.

I stood slowly and brushed the grass off my pants. They had dried out considerably since I fell into the fountain. I shrugged. Not that them being dry was any better, just meant that I had to contend with the smell of damp leather and the tightness that came with it. I stretched, trying to work out the kinks in my legs and back from sitting and the tightness in my leather armor. It didn't help much, but I did gain a little extra flexibility.

It was time to continue my search. Moving down the path, I noticed a rustle in the bushes. I felt my heart thump in my chest. I had no idea what manner of beast dwelled in these woods. I readied my blade and prepared for combat. Finally, the demonic creature made its grand entrance.

It was a pollywog. A simple little yellow ball with a tail that hovered in the air. Though they possessed a set of jagged teeth, they usually didn't attack humans. I sighed and retuned my weapon to its place. Pollywogs were normally a docile monster. I smiled at the little creature as I made my way past the oddly cute monster.

I glanced back over my shoulder a few yards down to see the little creature performing flips as it bobbed up and down in place. I assumed that the creature wasn't going to follow me and continued on my way. Eventually, the path I walked along was overtaken by a wide stream, and I knew there was absolutely no way I could jump it. I ran my hand through my hair as I tried to think of what I should do. I knew I didn't want to get wet again. Perhaps there was a drier way to cross. I looked around, taking in the foliage and the length of the stream visible to me. There weren't any trees tall enough, or wide enough to make a suitable bridge this close to the stream. Farther back were some good ones, but I lacked the strength to carry a tree so that ruled that out. I sighed, and resigned myself to getting wet.

A scream escaped my lips as I felt a sharp, unexpected pain dig into my lower back. I jerked and whirled on my assailant. I spotted the little pollywog, its mouth dripping blood. Mine. He had bitten me. Now I had to patch up another hole. I was angry now, and the pollywog was not helping by taunting me with those obscene "coos" and "ches" that it made all the bloody time. I quickly grabbed the Arc Edge from my back and slammed it into the ground, reminiscent of my previous attack on the ship, except this one connected. The two halves of the pollywog hovered for a few seconds more before they slid down the blade, leaving a trail of gore.  I swung my weapon once more to clean it.

I felt my fingers begin to tingle. My breath came in shuddering gasps and nervous grunts. The tingling slowly became a subtle warmth that spread slowly from the tips of my hands up my arms. The warmth rounded my shoulders and it split in its path, moving towards my chest and head. The farther it moved the hotter it became. I felt my chest and head burn from the inside out. I dropped to my knees gasping and struggling to keep the forming scream from leaving my lips. Then like that, I felt it burst. My head and chest froze from the inside out. I flopped backwards as I felt the two combating forces merge and vanish, leaving me panting, but fine, as if nothing had happened. I pulled the Arc Edge closer, dragging it along the ground. I lifted the blade and pushed it into the soft ground. I stumbled backwards, but was able to maintain my stance. It'd been to long since I had taken a life, and I was paying for my pacifism. The more I killed the less the fire burned, when I slacked off, it would burn brighter on the next addition. I coughed lightly, to clear my head.

A wave of grief washed over me, and I sank back down, landing on my knees and staring at the dead pollywog. I felt tears rise to the corner of my eyes, the burning always brought with it the tears; the tears to cleanse my soul. Many people said monsters didn't have souls, but I knew better. I felt them constantly. The souls of the dead filled me. They ebbed and flowed within me like the tide, a tide of grief. A lone tear fell onto the body of the dead pollywog. Just like all others, I'd eaten his soul. I was a monster, just like this poor creature. I sighed and stood up.  I quickly cleaved off the tail of the pollywog, before pushing its two halves off the path and sprinkling some dust on them. A semi-burial was the least they deserved for feeding my demonic nature.

I picked up the tail of the pollywog. Despite the anguish I felt over the loss of the pollywog, I still needed to eat. I frowned at the long tail, still dripping blood, that I held I my hand.  If there was a monster hut or a place that bought monster parts around here, I could sell this piece and make earn a few silver pieces, maybe even a gold piece. It was a barbaric business, but monster parts had many uses. For instance, the tail of a pollywog, when dried and ground into a fine powder, could be used as an ingredient that caused swelling of a wound to decrease, which made the dressing of a wound easier for the town healer. Still, it didn't seem a fair way to earn money, but it was the only way I had. I didn't have the time to try and get a job or even to raid a few of the more lucrative ruins, so this was my only option. I tucked the tail into the pouch on my belt that was used for storing the parts I scavenged from the dead.

It was useless not to kill the monsters I met. It had been several months since I'd last had to slay one. I bent slowly and dipped my still slightly warmed hands into the water, in an attempt to wash off the dirt, blood, and guilt. I didn't like killing them. It was always disturbing to know that was sentencing them to an eternity trapped within my body.

I rubbed my wet hands on the front of my semi dry shirt. I felt my stomach churn. Whether, it was from the berries I'd eaten, or from the anger of those I'd 'digested,' I didn't know. A wave of nausea passed over me, causing me to have to sit down. I did so slowly, and the wave passed. I hated the first kill. It was always the most painful and the hardest on my conscious.

I placed my hand on my stomach, and rubbed it The first symptoms of my nature were always the hardest to deal with, but the more I killed, the less they came. It was a terrible flaw in me. Pacifism brought only pain. I had to kill, to make sure I could when I needed to, for hunting a Relic was dangerous, and there were always monsters. If I couldn't, then what if I needed to protect someone. I was doing it for Claire, and for those I might have to protect. At least, that's what I told myself.

But there was another reason to kill. It was more unsettling to me, and filled me with doubt about my own humanity. I could merge with their souls and take their form. I could become them. I hated it. I hated this power, but it had its uses.

I placed the Arc Edge on my back and sighed. I mumbled my thanks to the pollywog, before closing my eyes. I pictured the pollywog. Slowly I felt movement, deep within my stomach. It was a twisting sensation, which spread throughout my entire body. I felt myself begin to curl in on myself. My eyes open slightly, and I gasped out in pain. Though the pain was small, it was sharp. A pink light filled the area around it, but in an instant it was gone, and with it, the pain.

"Che, " I cried out testing my new voice. It was high pitched and whiney much like my actual voice. I would have cringed at the sound had I had shoulders. I turned around, taking in my surroundings. A cool burst of wind jostled me, causing me to float with. I felt nothing but the wind. It was an odd sensation, and one that I quickly wanted to have leave. A gust of wind blew again. I fought against it and ended up swaying. I felt dizzy. I tried my best to shake it off, but having no real stable point, all I did was end up making it worse.

The dizzy feeling wouldn't leave me until I was back in my own body, or my own form at least. I saw the bank on the other side and knew that I had to make it over there before I could allow myself to change back. So, despite the dizziness, I tried to move forward. I tried to shift my bodyweight to propel myself forward. The force did cause me to move, but it didn't send me forward. Instead, I spun in place. Eventually, I would stop spinning. I felt an intense wave of nausea wash over me, and I felt my body begin to sink towards the ground. I flicked my tail to try and stay balanced on the ground. One roll had been enough for me, but to my surprise the swish of my tail moved me forward.

"Che!" I cried excited that I'd figured out how to move in this body. I began to wag my tail, propelling myself across the stream. I made it across easily, but I was still learning to control the body of the pollywog. I found out quite painfully that I was not in proper control when I slammed into a small tree. The force of the impact jolted me from my transformed state. I gingerly touched my hand to the top of my head, wincing as my fingers made contact with the ginger flesh

"Next time," I groaned. "I'll just get wet."

The area beyond the large stream was covered by the ruins of what looked to be an ancient temple. Though not much of the temple still stood. Ancient walls crumbled around me. Columns stood decaying in the air, feet from slabs they once supported. In the center of the ruins, next to an ancient tree that had grown quite large during its life, was an enormous stone carving of a head. The tree had grown up through a thick slab of stone. Its roots ripped through the stone, jutting out in random places. Some even curled around the slab taking the easier route the earth it craved. This area could have once been where the ruler of an ancient tribe addressed his people, before his empire crumbled to dust. Now the brick decayed and moss covered the stonewalls he built, but it was still a beautiful place.

"Hand over your gold," a sudden gruff voice said behind me.

I gasped and jumped forward slightly. I felt a strong hand grip my upper shoulder and a piece of sharp metal dig into my back. I let out a pained grunt, as the weapon was pressed a little deeper. I froze in place. He had the advantage.

"I don't have any money," I said slowly, trying to force an air of calmness into my voice. I felt the blade dig a little deeper. My arms trembled, and my eyes began to water.

"It's not right to lie," the voice spoke again.

I felt another hard surface being placed along my back. Slowly it worked its way up my shoulder. I felt the chord, which allowed me to carry my blade on my back, being lifted. Suddenly, both weights were gone and I heard my blade crash into the ground. It was followed by the sounds of grunting and scrapping metal against rock. I tried to turn my head to see what was happening, but another slight stab, sent my head back to looking straight ahead.

"Now, now," the voice said.  "In due time."

I felt something snag on my belt, before it ripped through. I felt my money pouch fall from my belt, fluttering to the ground like worthless cloth. I heard the voice curse. I felt a sudden new pressure on my shoulder and I was pushed forward. I stumbled, but managed to keep my balance. I turned sharply to face my assailants. It was the two men Davis warned me about on the dock. I narrowed my eyes at them, as I rubbed my shoulder, which had grown slightly numb from the one's tight grasp.

"I wouldn't advise doing anything stupid," the tall, gangly one told me.

A wicked smile stretched his stubble covered chin. He brandished his dagger and slashed at me. It was a wicked blade, long and curved, thick enough to add enough weight to slash trough flesh like it was a leaf on a tree. The fat one was busy examining my weapon, running his pudgy fingers up the length.

I shuddered in anger. That was my blade. He wasn't allowed to touch it.

I started forward intent on reclaiming my blade, but I caught sight of the others dagger. I backed down, but not with out glaring at the larger bandit.

"Hey brudda. How much ya think this worth?" He asked, shifting the blade and making it gleam in the thin beam of light that penetrated the trees. "It's real heavy. I bet it's worth a bunch."

"The Arc Edge is mine," I told him.

"Not any more," the thinner one said. An amused smirk formed on his lips. "It's ours now. Or at least the profit we're gonna get from selling it is."

"Return my weapon," I demanded. I would die before I lost the Arc Edge. 

I gestured towards the large one.

"Looks like your brother's having some trouble lifting the blade," I called out. "Maybe he's just not quite strong enough?"

"What did you say?" The thinner one asked. His voice cracked in anger.

His teeth were bared in a soundless growl. He looked feral and wild, and the dirt that covered his shirtless body only added to the wild man image. He pointed his knife straight at me and took a step forward. I could see the gleam from the sharpened edge, and I knew it could cut. I still had slight wound in my back from it. I took a quick step back.

It looked like the thinner one could be angered easily. Maybe I could get him angry enough to attack in a stupid way. I was semi-confident in my fighting ability, but he did have a knife. And that gave him an advantage. I had to take that away

"I said your brother's weak," I replied, forcing as much bite into my words as I could. If I was lucky, I could coax him into making the first move, and then I just might be able to pull off a successful counter.

"What are you going to do about it, pal?" I goaded, trying to make him angry.

"First off you, white haired freak," the man said before spitting a large wad of saliva onto the ground. "The name's Blood. And my brother, Smokey, ain't weak. He's just tired. He hasn't eaten anything in a while."

I began to tremble in anger. I knew I wasn't human, but to have that truth shoved in my face. I wanted him to attack.

"Second," he said, licking the blade of his knife. "I'm going to kill you."

He rushed towards me suddenly, slashing wide with his dagger. I jumped back. I glanced over towards Smokey. He didn't seem like he'd be joining in the fight. He was staring at us like a lost animal. I was glad I only had to take on one.

Blood slashed again. I jumped to the side, before stepping back quickly. Blood turned quickly and charged. He thrust his dagger at me. I reacted quickly. I grabbed his wrist with one hand and pulled. Twisting my body, I slammed my elbow into his chest. Blood stumbled back onto the ground. He gasped for air and grabbed his chest.

"You got lucky today," he growled at me as he stood. His breathing was ragged and labored, and he wasn't able to fully stand. He turned and staggered of. "Come on Smokey!"

"Hey!" Smokey called, chasing after his brother as fast as he could. "Wait for me!"

I flopped onto the ground, and placed my arm on one of my knees. I sighed in relief. I had won. My Arc Edge still sat where Smokey had left it. I gathered my blade, removing the strap that had been cut in half, and replaced it with the spare I carried. I slipped the new strap over my shoulder and turned to the path that headed deeper into the woods. I could make out a mountain in the distance. I figured that would be a good place to get my bearings and possibly spot a location I could explore.

The climb up the mountain was tough, but just starting the climb had been tougher.  The path leading to the base of the mountain was closer to a monster den then I would have hopped. Along the path had been a rather tall cluster of shrubs. As I passed they began to shudder violently, and three blooms appeared. They were large plant-like creatures with a thick steam leading to a circle of petals around the mouth. The creatures moved towards me by shifting their short roots.  They moved slowly, due to the small size of the roots. One swiveled towards me, bending its small golden petal covered head and fired a seed at me. I jumped to the side quickly, pulling the Arc Edge off my shoulder. Another round was fired by one of the blooms. I dodged again, but not fast enough. The seed grazed my arm. I rushed to the side.

They turned slowly, and I rushed forward hacking away at the blooms, sending plant bits everywhere. The defeat of the blooms left me gasping and panting on the ground. The pain wasn't as pronounced this time, but I could feel it. I remained on the ground for some time, allowing my breathing to calm. I was almost ready to move on, when a growl sounded behind me.

The growl had come from a wolf, which attacked quickly. Luckily I was able to dispatch him and continue on my way. At the top of the mountain, I was shocked to discover another person standing at the opposite edge looking down. She seemed to be well over twice my age and had shoulder length bright pink hair. She wore a white knit shirt and blue pants covered in light armor. At her side hung a short sword. I was curious as to why she was up here, and why her expression was becoming increasingly more worried. I approached slowly. I hoped she was ok.

"Are you Okay, Ma'am?" I asked hesitantly.

She spun around quickly grabbing her chest. I frowned. I hadn't wanted to startle her.

"Oh, Thank goodness," she sighed as she moved towards me.

She grabbed my wrist tightly and dragged me over to the cliff's edge. I tried to resist, but she was too strong.  She pointed over the ledge.

"My husband fell and has injured himself," she exclaimed.

Looking over the edge, I saw a man clutching his ankle. He was dressed in a purple shirt with black and tan patchwork pants held up by suspenders. He had brown hair and on his face were a pair of glasses. I scolded myself. This wasn't the time to be noting someone's attire. The man was hurt. I should help him.

"Think you can hold me up?" I asked, looking at the woman. A confident smirk spread across her features.

"A scrawny thing like you? No problem." She grabbed my weapon before I had a chance to say anything and tossed it off to the side. It landed with a thud next to a small boulder. I gave her a confused look. She smiled and nodded, before bending over grabing my ankles and shifting my weight. I fell forward.

"Ack," I cried out as I slammed into the rocky, yet smooth surface of the cliff face. I was surprised when the man looked up at me and smiled. Quickly he stood up and gripped my limp, hanging hand in his and shook it. I felt my head rock back and forth from the force of his handshake, and I began to become a little woozy.

"Hi there, my name's Klaus," He told me in voice that showed no hint of the pain he seemed to have been experiencing. "The beautiful woman gripping your ankles is my lovely wife, Mira."

"Hello," The voice said from above me. This was the oddest introduction I'd ever been a part of.

"Rue," I said.  It was the best my poor, battered brain could come up with. I was having difficulty concentrating due to the blood rushing to my head. There was a pronounced ringing in my ears that was hindering my ability to hear. I felt Klaus stop his handshake before clamping his other hand over my wrist.

"Now hold on to me," he ordered. I did as I was told, gripping his hands with my other. He nodded at me and shouted for Mira to drag us back up. I felt a swift jerk at my ankles, followed by the sensation of my body scraping against the stone. I groaned lightly once Mira had pulled Klaus and I onto the top of the cliff.

Mira practically trampled me so that she could check on her husband. Upon diagnosing his injury as merely a sprain, she clocked him on the head and told him never to worry her like that again. Klaus smiled and took his wife's antics in stride. She's a very interesting woman. I hadn't had someone fuss over me like that since Claire was killed. I remember the reprimand I got when I stayed out all night hunting for some venison for stew. She yelled at me for an hour solid, and refused to make the meal. I sighed. That was the last time I'd had the opportunity to eat her stew

"So, what brings you to this area, Rue?" Klaus asked. I walked over to the Arc Edge and picked it up.

"I'm looking for the Relic." I answered calmly. I didn't really want to tell them that I was out to revive the dead. Some people were opposed to my quest. And I didn't want to offend anybody just yet. Besides, they might be able to help me.

I watched as Klaus moved to sit next to a burnt group of logs that had once been a fire. He flopped down hard on the ground. He was obviously still having difficulty walking. I felt sorry for him.

"We'll that's…" he began.

"Mom! Dad!" A voice cried, interrupting klaus. I jumped slightly. I hadn't expected it. I turned to look in the direction of the voice.

"Elena?" Mira exclaimed in confusion.

If I remembered correctly, Elena was the name of the girl that had gone looking for her parents. So, that means that these people were defiantly the shop owners. A smiling face popped up over the edge over the cliff. The girl had bright pink hair much like her mother. She struggled to get over the edge. Mira rushed towards the edge. She extended her arm down and pulled her daughter up into a tight hug.

"You know you're not supposed to follow us," Mira mumbled into her daughter's hair. I was glad Elena was ok. I sighed. Claire hugged me once. It was one of the happiest moments of my life. She hugged me the day I returned from hunting through the night.

"I won't, Mom," Elena said as she stepped back. Elena was a very pretty girl. She was dressed in a tight sleeveless black, knit shirt and a long, plaid blue skirt. Plain brown traveling boots covered her feet. Her dark brown eyes were half closed as she smiled at her mother.

"Elena, what are you doing here?" Klaus asked, worry evident in his voice. Elena's smile melted away as she turned to face her father. 

"What am I doing here? You haven't been home for five days! I was so worried about you!" She shouted. Her piercing voice filled the sky and echoed throughout the resounding canyon on the other side of the cliff. I backed away from the noise and put one hand over my ear in an attempt to muffle the sound.

It was then that I noticed that there was another person behind Elena. It was Mint. She never looked in my direction.

I heard a gasp of pain and I looked quickly towards Klaus. He'd tried to stand and his ankle had given out.  Elena's expression shifted from exasperation to worry as she observed her father's ankle. She moved quickly to his side

"Dad, what happened to your ankle?" She asked, sinking down next to her father. Worry filled her dark brown eyes. Klaus just smiled. His honey eyes twinkled.

"Oh, It's nothing," he replied. His voice was calm and soothing, like that of a doctor assuring his patient that they would be all right. " I just twisted my ankle a little. I can still walk."

"Thank goodness," Elena exhaled, reaching up and clutching her chest.

"I'm sorry, darling," Klaus said. He reached out and pulled his daughter into a hug. "I guess I became too caught up in my research again. I can't believe you came here by yourself. Are you all right?"

"Actually," Elena said sheepishly. She pulled back and looked between her father and mother. "I almost got mugged by these brutes, but Mint helped me. They were really mean… and dirty."

"Oh, my poor daughter," Mira exclaimed as she ran over and fell on her daughter, smashing Elena between her parents. I felt a twinge of jealousy rise up in me. I'd never had parents, or at least that I could remember. I frowned. I wished I knew what they were experiencing.

I glanced over at Mint, who had a faint smile on her face, yet sadness filled her eyes. I sighed. I wondered what she was thinking about. The touching yet melancholy scene began to come to a close as the family split and sat smiling at each other. I frowned slightly and turned away from the scene. Elena was very lucky. I shook my head slowly.

"Oh," Elena exclaimed, as she jumped up and rushed over to where Mint was, she gripped her arm and pulled her over to her parents, nearly causing Mint to fall. I doubt Elena would have stopped had Mint fallen. From the excitement she was showing she'd probably drag Mint across the ground.

"This is Mint," Elena said with a smile when she'd brought Mint in front of her parents. "We met in the forest. She's really nice, and she even helped me look for the two of you."

I had to strain to hear everything that Elena said. She spoke quite quickly. Elena smiled brightly at her parents. Klaus and Mira both smiled back at Mint. Klaus took her hand in his and shook it lightly.

"Thank you so much for helping my daughter," Klaus said, before releasing her hand.

"Oh," Klaus began. "We haven't properly introduced ourselves. My name is Klaus, and I live in Carona with my family."

Klaus swept his arm behind him and gestured towards Mira before saying, "And that is my lovely wife, Mira."

"Hello Mint," Mira said as she walked forward and stood beside her husband. She smiled warmly at the young girl, which Mint returned. "It would seem that you helped my daughter through some tough times. Thank you."

"It was no trouble," Mint said, her smile quickly became a smirk. "Those bandits were nothing I couldn't handle. But, Klaus, there's something I would like to ask you."

"You want to know about the Relic, right?" Klaus asked. He smiled as Mint jumped slightly.

"How did you know that?" She asked. She looked slightly unnerved by his response.

"That's the same thing that that young man just asked me about," he said, pointing towards me.

"Young man?" Mint asked turning to face me. I nodded a greeting at her, but she didn't return it. She was too busy staring at the top of my head. People always gawked at my hat, but I liked it. I didn't really see anything wrong with it. But even if I did, it was better then the stares I'd get if I didn't wear it.

"My name is Rue," I told her. I turned my head slightly and nodded at Elena, she waved back and smiled. I turned to look at Mint. Her eyes narrowed at me, as she flipped her hair back.

"So, you're looking for the Relic too?" Mint asked. Her voce was cold and accusing. I felt like I'd committed some grievous crime against humanity. I simply nodded in reply to her question.

"Rue got here a few minutes before you did," Mira said with a smile. She turned to her daughter. "He helped me pull your father back up the mountain."

"Really?" Elena asked. She turned to me and bowed. "Thank you."

"It was no problem," I said slowly. I hadn't expected to be thanked. I was just doing what anyone would have done, and it wasn't like I had a choice in the matter. Mira pretty much forced me to help. There wasn't a reason to thank me.

"Alright then, lets talk about the Relic," Klaus said, clapping his hands to draw everyone's attention back to him. I was glad to be out of everyone's line of sight, but I was more excited about learning more about the Relic. I hoped this would be a good lead.

"Now," he began. "I've been looking for the Relic for several years, and I've visited many ruins in my quest to learn the exact location of it. In those ruins I've discovered many manuscripts, however most had been a complete waste of time."

I sighed. This didn't look like it was going to be very promising after all. I could see Mint's shoulders slump and her eyes gain an almost malicious glint to them. She shook her head and rolled her eyes.

"He likes to play around," Mira said, making a small joke at her husband's hobby. Klaus reached up and scratched the back of his head. A whimsical smirk graced his features.

"Pretty much," he said. "Looking for the Relic is basically a hobby of mine, one that I've been enjoying for years."

"But you haven't found anything substantial yet, have you?" Mint asked slowly. She seemed to be losing interest in this conversation. It didn't bother me. If he didn't have any leads, at least he could tell me where not to go. I would like to at least limit my options.

"Nothing solid," he said. "But I did locate a book that told me that the Magician that lived in the Atelier of Carona forest was researching the Relic. Can you imagine that? I've lived so close to a clue for years."

Klaus chuckled slightly at the irony that life was presenting him. I wonder if I could laugh if something like that happened to me. No, I couldn't. If I found out the Relic was near my old home, I'd never forgive myself for not finding it earlier on.

"So," Mint began. "You're saying the clue's in a magician's workshop?"

She was beginning to get excited; a small smile was spreading across her lips. Her burgundy eyes were alight at the possibility. I pulled my eyes away. It wasn't proper to stare.

"That's right," Mira said. She folded her arms across her chest. "Supposedly, about a hundred years ago, a powerful magician lived in this forest, and there's a good chance that he might have discovered something to point us closer to the Relic"

"Really?" Mint asked, her excitement had reached a high point, and I was shocked to see her begin to hop up and down, clapping her hands together in an odd little dance. I found my eyes trailing her pigtails as the jumped and swayed.

"Where is it? Where's the Atelier?" She demanded in a lighthearted way. Her excitement was becoming infectious. I felt myself growing excited at the possibility of finding the Relic.

"Well…" Klaus began before trailing off. He scratched the back of his head and looked towards the cliff. So, that was why he'd gone down there.

"You mean, you don't know?" Mint asked. She sounded annoyed. She let out a little groan and stomped her foot on the ground.

"Mint," Mira said, motioning for Mint to come closer to the edge. "Can you come over here for a moment?"

Mint and Elena both moved to the edge of the cliff. I walked over to the edge as well, but I remained away from Mint and the others. Peering over the edge, I saw the straight drop, save for a few jutting ledges here and there that I'd already seen when Mira and I helped Klaus. It would definitely be difficult to get down this side of the mountain.

"If the legend is true," Mira began. "There should be some kind gate at the bottom that will lead to the Atelier."

I looked back over the edge of the cliff. The ledges weren't too far apart, and their difference in height didn't seem like it would too disastrous to try and hop from one to another. I bet I could do it. I'd probably sprain an ankle, but I should be able to make it to the bottom.

"But as you can see," Klaus said, hobbling over to me. He gripped my shoulder and looked over the edge. "The cliff is so steep we can't make it down there."

"I tried to make the attempt before either of you got here. Rue here knows that," Klaus said.

He chuckled lightly and lifted his foot. I could already begin to make out the swelling that was beginning to form. If I'd gotten here a little earlier maybe I could have made the first attempt. I sighed.

"You can see how well that turned out," he chuckled. He placed his foot back on the ground, wincing in pain as it touched the earth. "I slipped on the way down and twisted my ankle."

"Dang," Mint said. She was kneeling at the edge of the cliff. She bit the side of her lip. She looked like was considering doing something. "This is insane, but…"

"See ya," Mint shouted out as she leapt from the edge.

I let out a loud gasp and rushed for the edge. Mint landed gracefully on the first ledge, before hopping to the next. I watched as she made her way quickly down the mountain. I shook my head slowly. She was crazy.

"Well," Klaus said slowly. "I hope she'll be alright. There are monsters all over those cliffs."

I let out a soft groan. I really wished he had mentioned that earlier. I was pretty sure that Mint could handle herself, something about her just gave me that impression, but if I didn't make I'd never sleep well again. Claire wouldn't be happy with me either.

"I think she'll be alright," Mira said. "Now Elena, I don't want to see you ever do anything like that."

"Yes Mom," Elena said. She was still looking towards where Mint had disappeared. She had a worried expression on her face. I sighed.

"I'm going after her," I said. Elena turned and gave me a warm smile. I walked over to the edge where Mint had been standing. I was poised over the closest ledge.

"Wait," Klaus called out. "We'll go with you."

"But," I protested. "You're injured."

"I'm not going to let some silly injury keep me from my dream," Klaus said. He hobbled over to me and smirked.

"Can you give me a hand?" He asked. I simply nodded. Mira and Elena both made there way over to help me get Klaus down the cliff face. I hoped this wouldn't turn out badly.

Getting down the cliff face had been challenging, especially considering that we were helping Klaus. We made our way down the mountain in a specific pattern. I would hop down onto the next ledge, and then Mira and Elena would lower Klaus down to me. Once I'd made sure that Klaus was steady on the ledge, Mira would lower Elena down, before jumping down herself.

I shook my head as we made our way down the mountain. The way we were moving it was a good thing that Mint had already gone through and cleared out all of the monsters, or at least most of them. There was an occasional hedgehog, but those were easily dispatched. We were getting closer to the bottom of the mountain. I was glad, making sure that Klaus was ok and that everyone got down safely was tiring work.

"Hey Rue," I heard Klaus call out as I helped Elena down. I turned to look at him. "Why exactly are you after the Relic?"

"I," I began.

I turned towards the forest and sighed. How was I supposed to tell them I was out to revive the dead? That's not something anyone is supposed to be able to do, but I had to.

"I made a promise," I said eventually.

"You need the power of the Relic to accomplish a simple promise?" Mira asked as she hopped down onto the ledge after us. I gaped at her. I shut my eyes and turned away.

"Yeah," I replied. "It's not a promise one can easily keep."

"What kind of promise?" Elena asked.

I turned to look at her. Her eyes were bright and filled with curiosity. I wanted to answer her question, but I couldn't. I've had people withhold information once they found out what my quest was.

"I," I stuttered. I looked to Klaus and Mira. They both were searching me. I looked away. "I can't."

"But why," Elena asked. She grabbed my arm and turned me towards her. The curiosity hadn't left her eyes, but the brightness had faded. She seemed sad. I looked away again. I couldn't stand to see that in her eyes, in anyone's eyes.

"Elena," Klaus called out. "It's not our place to pry."

"But I don't understand," Elena complained.

She looked sad. I didn't mean to upset her. Klaus tapped his daughter on the shoulder and shook his head no. Elena looked back at me with that same curious sadness. I felt like a heel for not telling them, and they were already helping me.

"I promised I'd save a friend," I told them. I looked out across the landscape. Over the mountain there was more forestland. The green trees seemed to stretch on endlessly.

"From what?" Elena asked.

"From the worst prison imaginable," I told her.

Everyone grew silent. The only sound was that of small rocks breaking off of the ledges from the breeze and tumbling towards the ground.

"Let's move on," Klaus said as he clapped me on the back. He smiled at me and I nodded, before we began to move down the cliff.

I rubbed the sweat from my brow after my feet touched down on the soft grass of the meadow at the bottom of our climb. I scanned the area quickly. I could see no sign of Mint or of any monsters. 

"Rue," Klaus called out from above. "Is it safe?"

I turned to look at him. He and his family were looking around the area from their perch on a higher ledge. I shrugged slightly before saying, "I'm not sure. I'm going to look around the area for a little bit."

The meadow wasn't very big, and it didn't take me long to make my way to the center, where a pair of short walls stood parallel to each other and a mere two feet apart. At the opposite end of the meadow from where I climbed down was a large wall. I walked over to it quickly. It was engraved with different pictures: winged people, stairs, a giant dog, a magician, and a puppet on strings composed the characters of whatever story it was telling. It didn't make much sense to me.

I shook my head slowly, and turned away from the wall. At the far end of the meadow was a small pool of water. I walked over to it quickly and took some quick sips. The climb up and down the mountain had made me quite thirsty. I wiped the excess moister from my lips and walked back to where I had left Klaus and the others.

"I didn't see anything," I called out. Klaus nodded his head and began to make his way towards the ledge. He began to climb down until Mira jerked him back.

"What's going on?" I asked, confused.

I looked at Klaus and Mira who just stared into the meadow. I looked quickly at Elena. She was trembling, her hand quaking as she pointed behind me. I swallowed hard and turned, gasping after I did so.

The beast was huge. Its horse like head bared a wicked set of fangs, as it snorted hot air onto me. It swayed from side to side, lifting its large pawed feet, before dropping them back onto the earth. The creature was huge and midnight black. The creature was huge, bigger then me by at least six fold. I stepped back slowly, trying to put some distance between the beast and me. 

It reared up on its hind legs, kicking them out, as a piercing wail screeched from its throat. It slammed down hard on the ground. I felt myself jostled and I began to stumble. I pulled the Arc Edge from my back and readied myself for combat. I stared fixedly at the creatures piercing yellow eyes, which seemed to glow with anger. The claws on the creature's paws curled, digging into the ground. It lowered its head, emitting its piercing whine, before rushing forward. I stared at the creature in scared stupidity. I hadn't expected this.

"Rue!" I heard someone shout.

I shook my head and dashed to the side, barely dodging the creature's paws that had lashed out at me. I could feel it gaining on me. The telltale pounding of its monstrous feet onto the ground were the only indication I needed. I had to think of some way to adequately attack. I turned sharply and dashed to the side.

My turn was taking me to the ruined wall. Maybe that could help me. I rushed forward and jumped. I felt my front foot connect with the wall and I pushed. The push spun me in the air. I brought the arc edge around hard, and slashed at the creature. A screech escaped the beast's mouth. I landed and ran, not even taking time to look at what damage I'd done.

I moved quickly, trying desperately to escape, but I hadn't hurt the creature enough for that. I'd only succeeded in making it angry. The high-pitched screech had changed, becoming a deep growl. The creature was right behind me. It was close enough that I could feel its hot breath on the back of my neck.

Suddenly, the creature lashed out, its front paw catching my side. Its claws scrapped my skin, before I was tossed into a nearby tree. I impacted with a hard thunk, and I sank to the ground slowly. I ground softly. My vision had blurred and it hurt to keep my eyes open. I grabbed the back of my head, but a sudden searing pain shot up forcing me to pull my hand back quickly. I tried to stand. I pushed hard, using the tree to balance but my legs wouldn't cooperate and I sank back down. My head slumped forward and another groan escaped my throat. I shut my eyes against the bright blur. Everything hurt.

I expected to be killed then. I'd fought pathetically, but I couldn't give up. I had to save Claire. I tried to force myself to stand again, but the pounding in my head wasn't lessening. I opened my eyes. I could see a hulking mass of black even through my blurred vision.

"I'm sorry," I whispered to Claire, lowering my head.

It looked like she'd stay lost. I heard a scream rip through the area. My head shot up. The blur was standing on its hind legs.  It appeared to be pawing at something. Elena? Was it after her?

"No," I said, pushing myself back up the tree, I stumbled forward, but I caught myself.

I would not let anyone else die. I'd seen it too often for my taste. I bent down and gripped the Arc Edge, before righting myself. My legs quaked slightly, and my vision had begun to clear. I could see Elena and her family backed as far back on the ledge as they could, Mira attempting to fend off the creature with her blade, but it wasn't reacting to the blows. The creature seemed to be playing with them, pawing at them in alternating patterns of fast and slow jabs. Its high-pitched whine filled the area.

"I'm over here," I shouted.

Everyone's head turned towards me. Elena, Mira and Klaus' faces were filled with more relief then I'd expected. It was the creature that wasn't fond of my return. Slowly, it lowered itself back down onto the ground. The deep growl that came out of the creature when it was angry had returned. Its head lowered and it advanced on me slowly. I readied the Arc Edge. I wouldn't run this time.

The creature charged, its paws kicking up the dirt as it ran. I jumped to the side as it passed. I slashed out. I felt my blade catch on the creature. A wail escaped the creature's throat as my blade ripped through its flank. Blood oozed down my blade and down the creature's side. I leapt backwards as the creature slashed at me. Again and again the creature lashed out, I dodged quickly each time, countering with blows of my own. The creature was bleeding profusely from the deep wound on his side. Though there were other wounds nothing compared to that blow. It was slowing it down considerably.

I leapt back after another of the creature's attacks. It growled and reared up on its hind legs attempting to crush me, but I was able to react. I rushed forward, lashing out with my own blade. I caught the creature in the stomach, and sliced through. It fell onto the ground, and began to thrash about. It was dieing slowly. I felt sorry for the creature. I raised the Arc Edge for one final stroke. I sliced through its neck. It died almost instantly.

"I'm sorry," I said slowly as the burning sensation filled my body. I closed the creature's eyes, before stroking the top of its horse like head.

"Well done," I heard Klaus call out from his place on the ledge.

I looked up and saw him sitting at the end. He was waiting for my help. I rushed quickly over to offer my assistance. When Klaus was on the ground he proceeded over to the monster.

"It's not every day that you see an Avenger," he said, as he studied the creature.

"What's an Avenger?"  I asked slowly. I'd heard of the Guardians of an Atelier, but I'd never heard of an Avenger.

"An Avenger," Klaus began as he moved onto to studying the claws of the beast. "Is a mythical beast that was quite popular as a defense mechanism several centuries ago. They were always used with a Guardian. They were a sort of last resort to stop any would be thieves, but as they were in use less they seemed to stop recognizing their masters. Several magicians were killed in this way. So, the beasts simply became too risky "

"I see," I said as I looked at the creature.

I guess it could be thought of as a trained guard dog, protecting his family from robbers, but a guard dog that is really loved. I sighed and turned away. The creatures became unstable when they were left alone for too long. I felt horrible. I had just killed a creature that one could make a case for it being simply a lonely pet. I'd been alone; I'd been lonely for the past three years. I could relate to the creature.

"Klaus," I said slowly pointing to the place that had consisted of only two short walls. "Look."

I watched in amazement as a set of stairs began to form in between the two short walls. They glittered as beams of light passed through their crystalline steps, casting various colors around the meadow. Up and up the steps climbed, forming one at a time in rapid succession. They were supported by nothing and seemed to go nowhere: nowhere but up. I tentatively walked over and placed my foot on the step. The stairs were solid and easily held my weight. I stomped down hard. They didn't shake.

"Come on," I called.

I turned to see Klaus and his family rushing towards the steps. Klaus pushed past me and began a quick accent up the steps with Mira following close behind ordering her husband to be careful. Elena grabbed my arm and began to pull me up the steps.

"We don't want to miss out on the fun," She said.

---*---*---*---*---

I panted hard as I reached the top of the steps. I had no idea how high we'd climbed. My legs felt weak and tired as I walked out onto what appeared to be a small floating island. Blue skies filled my sight for as far as I could see. A gentle fresh breeze brought the scents of the sea and of meadows, blending them together in a very relaxing aroma. I sank down onto the ground, felling the soft abundance of over grown grass crumple beneath me.

Klaus had already disappeared into the only building on the island. It appeared from the outside to be a small church of gray brick and ivy. It was a very quaint place. A few stain glass windows dotted the outside, depicting a mage and a walking puppet. I stared at the puppet, its strings and controller dragging, still attached to its body.  The picture fascinated me, much more then the stories Elena had told me on the way up.

The climb had been long and Elena, having grown bored, began to tell me stories of a friend of hers. His name was Drake, and he possessed the strange quality of being a human-like duck. In all of my travels I'd never heard of anything like Drake, and I'd heard of quiet a few odd creatures. I've been told tales of werewolves, vampires, merpeople, even the occasional cat person was supposed to walk the plains of Shantea. If that many strange creatures existed, maybe a man-duck did too.

And in a strange sense, I hopped he did. Drake was a very cruel person, who seemed to derive much pleasure from Elena's apparent gullibility. It wasn't that I liked what Drake did, or that I even thought it was funny. But if it was all in Elena's mind then she might not be quite as happy as she seems.

I stood up slowly and began to wander around the small island. Carefully, I approached the edge of the island and gazed out across the land that seemed to stretch out below us. In the distance, I could see the many roofs and the waters of Carona and her bay. I slowly traced my trek through the forest to the mountains, not far from the city. The mountains stretched out towards the north, and continued for quite awhile. In the distance I could see the rim of a small volcanic mound.

The sound of rustling and snapping grass caught my attention, and I turned to see Mira walking towards me. She moved quickly through the grass, stopping next to me and watching the horizon.

"It's a wonderful view, isn't it?" She asked after a few moments of blazing random trails across the landscape with her eyes. She turned and smiled at me. I turned my head back to the view.

"Yeah," I said slowly. I bet Claire would have loved this place. She was always talking about taking a trip the beach, and just watching the waves. She loved to take it easy and enjoy the peace and tranquility of life and nature. "It's a beautiful view."

"I'm really glad we were able to make it all this way," she said slowly. "I don't know what Klaus or I would have done against that beast."

I watched as a puff of smoke rose from the volcano. It curled in the air before fading out of existence. I was glad that I had been a help to Klaus and Mira. I shuffled my feet.

"It was all thanks to your abilities that we were able to get here," she told me. I rubbed the back of my neck and shook my head slowly.

"I didn't do anything," I told her.

"You defeated that monster," she replied. I looked down.

"Yeah," I said softly.

I murdered a creature that might have been a pet. It had bread to serves mages. They were nothing but over sized guard dogs, and even guard dogs can be friendly if taken care of properly, but this one had been without a master, without a friend, for so long. How lonely an existence was that? I'd been lonely for years, but even during that time I had interaction with others. Was that monster able to have the same with the other creatures of the forest? I sighed.

"Rue!" Elena shouted from the door of the Atelier, ending my conversation with Mira. She waved. "Daddy wants you to help him for a little bit."

"Ok!" I shouted back, waving to make sure she knew that I understood.

I made my way quickly to the entrance and stepped inside. The scent of mildew and old books mingled with the smell of the breeze from the outside. I had entered into what seemed to be a gigantic library. Rows and rows of books littered the floor and even more were fitted tightly into the bookcases that covered every inch of wall space, save for what appeared to be an opened vault. I had no time to study my surroundings as a large load of books was almost thrown into my arms. I recoiled a bit from the sudden additional weight and the force of the impact, but I quickly regained my balance.

"You ok Rue?" Klaus asked. I turned so that I could see him and nodded. He smiled. I heard a few low grunts and the sound of shuffling feet.

"How long do you want me to stand here?" Mint asked, annoyance clear in her voice. She backed up slowly. Her arms were weighed down with just as many books as I was. She smirked at me.

 Klaus walked over to the table and picked up an aging book. The pages had turned yellow during their long wait. On the outside, printed on red leather, was flowery golden sprawl. I tried to make out what it said, but Klaus tucked it under his arm before I was able to even decipher on letter.

"Time to go," he said smiling. He patted the book as he hobbled over to the door. "I can't wait to get home and dig in to these books."

"I can't wait to get to town and dig in to some food," Mint said. 

I followed behind Mint as we made our way back to the steps. As we climbed Mira fell into step beside her husband and Elena walked with Mint. The conversation shared between the pairs was lighthearted. I shook my head slightly. Listening to the conversations made me miss Claire more. My arms began to get tired at that moment and I was forced to concentrate on keeping the books balanced the rest of the way down. Hopefully we'd take a break there.

I stretched my tired muscles as I watched the shadows move across the ground as the sun began to set behind the mountains of Carona. The trip back from the mountain had taken a little longer then the trip out there. Luckily, Klaus and Mira know of a path that led to an easily crossable section of the river. We had gotten back about an hour ago, and I had immediately been dragged down into the basement to help Klaus with the books. I was then given the task of organizing them.

It had taken a little work, but I had managed to finish. I glanced at the sun, which had almost completely ser. The soft glow painted the clouds a bright shade of orange.  I heard my stomach growl lightly. I was beginning to become hungry, and it dinner would have begun being served at the inn about an hour ago. I reached into my money pouch to check my funds, when I felt an arm grip mine ad begin to drag me towards the inn.

"Hey!" I shouted startled.

"Come on Rue," I heard Mira say, as I stumbled along behind her. I reached up and gripped my hat, making sure it didn't fall off. "It's time to get you checked in at the inn. After all, you don't want to miss dinner."

"But I don't know if I have enough," I protested as she released me at the door. She gripped the handle of the door and chuffed at me.

"We're paying for your room," she told me as she opened the door and walked in. I followed quickly the door banging shut behind me.

"I don't want you to pay for my room," I told her as she approached the blonde haired lady behind the counter. She was dressed in a brown dress and wearing a red and white checkered apron. She smiled warm and wide. The wrinkles in her features pushed deeper as she continued to smile.

"Nonsense," Mira said as she waved her hand at me. She brought out a few gold coins and gave them to the woman.

"This is Rue," Mira told her. "He's the one I told you about earlier, Mrs. Cartha. We'll be paying for his room as long as he's here."

"I really don't want you to pay for me," I repeated, hoping that I could get her to withdraw her argument. I didn't want to take Mira's money. I was fine out in a field or in the woods. "It's just a place to sleep. I'll be fine somewhere else."

"Now see here boy," Mrs. Cartha said, wagging her finger at me. "My rooms are not just a place to sleep, and you didn't even mention my food. I won't take an insult like that sitting down."

"I'm sorry," I said bowing my head and looking down. I hadn't meant to insult her inn. I should probably leave.

"I'll say your going to be sorry," Mrs. Cartha said. I could hear her move across the room. "After you try my food you're going to be begging to stay here. Now get over here and sit down before I have to slap you in the back of the head."

I moved quickly and sat down at one of the tables in the dinning room, but I didn't lift my head up. I had insulted this ladies establishment. I should have been asked to leave. O felt a hand on my shoulder, and I jumped.

"It's ok Rue," Mira said with a smile. "Mrs. Cartha is just having a little fun. And Rue, we're not taking pity on you by paying for your room. It's my way of thanking you for helping my husband."

I just nodded as a plate of food was placed in front of me. I felt Mrs. Cartha standing over me. She had cooked up some roast and some seasoned potatoes.

"We'll?" She asked suddenly. I jumped slightly and looked at her. She was smiling. "Are you just going to sit there? Eat!"

I grabbed my fork and knife, which were on the plate of food and began to carve into the meat. I quickly brought it to my mouth. Her cooking really was good, but it wasn't Claire's. I nodded and told her it was good before taking another bite. I paused when I heard laughter on the stairs. When I looked, I saw Mint watching me; her face was straight and serious. Then she stuck out her tongue at me, before retreating up the stairs.  I scratched my head, wondering why she had done that, before continuing to eat my meal.

When I was done with dinner I got the key to my room from Mrs. Cartha, and began to make my way up the stairs. One of the doors to a room was ajar, and as I walked passed, I could hear snoring. It wasn't a loud sound but it came at odd intervals. As there were only two rooms, I assumed that Mint was staying in there. I shook my head slowly and continued towards my room.

The room was simple and plain, with just a bed, dresser, and small stand, but it had a certain feeling of home to it. I sat down on my bed and sank deep into its downy softness. I flopped backward. Today had been a very odd day. I sat contemplating my day for a few moments. The people I'd met today were all so full of energy. I shook my head and sat up; looking sideways I noticed something in the mirror that I hadn't seen in years.

I was smiling.

***---***---***---***

Well, that was fun. Have I improved over the first one? I hope so. See you next time. And please review.