Disclaimer
If you wish, you may play music to accompany the events in this story. The suggested music tracks will be shown in [these brackets]. As this is rated for teens, it may contain content inappropriate for younger readers.
Monday 10th March
01:45 – Black Mage Village (P.O.V – Carl)
[NeCubFlyer – Night Time Crickets]
I lie in bed, tossing and turning, waiting for sleep to come.
But it doesn't…
To be fair, I'm not surprised. It's not every day your home town vanishes after all. When I came back to tell everyone, no one bought what I said, which I can understand because I wouldn't have believed it if someone told me. I still can't quite believe it. Naturally, everyone went to where Conde Petie is…sorry, was to see for themselves. The fallout was almost unreal and every member of the dwarves have been virtually inconsolable ever since; even my parents, who are usually quite steadfast seemed to completely break down over this unbelievable loss.
But something about all this is gnawing at me…
I was raised the same as the dwarves…I've lived there all my life…I've had so many good memories in that town. It's been a home to me for as long as I can remember.
So why am I the only resident of the town who isn't a complete emotional mess?
Could it be because I know I have a chance at something else?
When I arrived at Conde Petie as a baby, not only was the topaz with me, but so was a fraction of my birth certificate. It clearly stated my full name, Carl Michael Park, and also clearly had on the bottom some form of insignia, meaning it used to be an official document from…somewhere.
So could I subconsciously think that, while my friends and family have to start from scratch, that I could potentially begin my life anew in a fresh environment and escape this catastrophe?
After another little while, I decide to give up on sleeping and venture to the nearby lakeside. At least that was the plan, but it appears that the Black Mage Village is still thriving, which baffles me as none of the residents appear the type to party into the night. From the looks of things though, the only people awake are those monkey people. Maybe I should try talking to one of them…?
Most of them appear to be wandering around aimlessly, except one who is standing by the lake, where I did originally plan on going anyway. They are wearing a blue and white T-shirt with dark blue trousers, making it impossible to tell whether my target is male or female. I make my way to the lake; after all I did intend to sit there anyway.
"Hi." I say cautiously. The monkey turns towards me, almost staring straight through me. At least I can now see that it's a guy, but I'm more unsettled by the almost spooky response he gave me and at this time of night. "Mind if I sit?" I settle on, being my original intention.
"If you desire to sit, then you may," he replied, almost mechanically. Feeling considerably pressured by this guy who's much shorter and, from the looks of him, younger than me, I take a seat at the water's edge. The lake really is beautiful… The crisp clear water shimmers like glitter under the full moon, giving the water a luminescent glow.
"Nice, isn't it?" I ask, attempting some form of response from my riveting company.
"It reminds us of Terra," he informed dully.
"Terra?" I inquire confusedly, "Is that where you came from?"
"Terra is where all of the Genome's were created," he conveyed with his usual enthusiasm. So the monkey people are called 'Genome's'? What an odd name… I want to learn more about these monk- …sorry, Genomes,
So I would like to ask him…except, now I have a reason to stay awake, my body is forcing me asleep.
"Can we talk more about your race sometime soon?" I request, as my head begins to droop towards my knees before I jerk myself back to a seated position.
"If you desire to talk, then you may," he replied mechanically, "any Genome is aware of our creation, you may talk to any Genome about this and they will be able to answer you." His addition seemed almost tacked on.
I thank him and take my leave, realizing I didn't ask his name, but I'm sure it will solve itself. If all else fails, now that we've spoken, albeit briefly, I should be able to teleport to him. I wonder what the story behind these Genomes is…
01:45 – Lindblum Castle (P.O.V – Garnet)
[Yogayak – Rain on Window]
I lie in bed, tossing and turning, waiting for sleep to come.
But it doesn't…
The rain pours relentlessly as I contemplate the future that lies ahead of me. Alexandria Castle is still in a bad way, so Uncle Cid let me stay in Lindblum for a few weeks while the castle is restored to some of its glory. When I return, it will be my priority to oversee the reconstruction of the town and the country as a whole. It will be a daunting task however…maybe I should speak with Uncle about this…
I find my attention turning towards the window as the rain seems to intensify somewhat.
"Zidane…" I mutter to myself, "Where are you…?"
06:30 – Black Mage Village (P.O.V – Carl)
*thump-thump-thump*
…
*thump-thump-thump*
Go away…
*thump-thump-thump*
I swear if they knock one more time…
…
…
Ah good, now I ca-
*thump-thump-thump*
[FF9 OST – Black Mage Village]
"WHAAAAAAAAT?!" I snap. Whoever was at the door took my aggressive shriek as an invitation to enter the dimly lit box room, clearing not noting the tone of my voice.
"Get yirself up lad!" my adoptive father bellows, "ye didnae expect tae be slacking off now did ye? The lads be needin' ye." As if my bad night's sleep wasn't enough…now this?
"Fine, gods," I conceded, "just let me find a top or something". Granin nodded and closed the door, apparently opting to trust me as I hear his footsteps down the creaking floor, with each and every step seeming heavy and deliberate.
I let out a sigh as I throw on the first thing I see, a simple red T-shirt and black trousers before leaving my room in a huff.
As I exit the inn, I see my father waving me over. He is surrounded by a multitude of bodies and materials.
"Ye cannae expect tae live in the inn forever can ye?" Granin informed.
I began to look around at the various people running around, even the Genomes appeared hard at work, all the while maintaining an appearance of complete lethargy. The wheels weren't quite turning yet, I'm used to waking up later than this.
"What are you getting at…?" I ask lazily.
"If we are living wi' the pyntie-hets, we be needin' new hames!" Granin declared, "an' no son o' mine is gonna be sittin' aroon' while we work, sae get tae it laddy!" With that, everyone in the nearby area turned to me expectantly.
It's going to be a long long day…
12:15 – Lindblum Castle (P.O.V – Garnet)
[FF9 OST – Cid's Theme]
"…and while I understand your reasoning Uncle, I feel that it would be best for my people if I returned as soon as possible."
I am currently in the process of negotiating with my Uncle to allow me to go back to Alexandria to aid in the rebuilding of the kingdom. I claim that it's to show stability to the people and, whilst that is true, it's really so I have something to do…staying in Lindblum Castle with nothing to do but think of Zidane is slowly making me insane.
"Garnet my dear," Cid soothed, "I know you must be anxious, but it's for your own safety. If you were in the castle whilst construction was in progress and something happened…" Uncle Cid began to trail off, letting my imagination fill in the rest. If something were to happen, Alexandria would be without any form of monarchy, which would more than likely destroy the country once more.
"But Uncle!" I declared, "I can't rest and let my kingdom do all the work while I stand back and do nothing. If you don't let me leave, my kingdom may suffer." Stern perhaps, but I'm becoming desperate. I must get back to Alexandria.
"I apologize, but my mind is made up," uncle explained solemnly, "I promised your father that I would take care of you when you were in need; having failed to keep that promise thus far, I intend to follow through from this day forth." Wonderful…even after everything that's happened, Uncle Cid still treats me like a petulant teenager.
…Well, I am a teenager I suppose…
No! That's besides the point!
"If I cannot return to Alexandria, then there must be something I can do to speed up the process…" I affirm as I note a satisfied grin begin to creep onto my Uncle's face.
"I believe there is…" Uncle stated, producing a small stack of papers. He hands them to me, all eloquently written on parchment and I begin to read the first page to myself.
Due to a debilitating assault on our kingdom, the Kingdom of Alexandria officially requests support in the reconstruction of our kingdom. I empathize with your fervor to protect your own country's best interests, however any support you can send would be greatly appreciated. Regards...
There's no signature on this page…
...
I see what this is…
"We enlist external help?" I query.
"Indeed" Uncle states, "Any and all settlements will be presented with one of these letters and can choose to respond any way they wish."
I begin to flick through the remainder of the pages and notice that all of them are identical. I also notice that there are 7 copies of this document.
"Who do you intend to send these too?" I ask, concern beginning to grow. My first thought is Burmecia. Alexandria did technically start a war with them and, despite our camaraderie during the battle with Kuja, relations must be sour between the two nations. My second is Conde Petie who are probably at a complete loss of what to do right now; while Alexandria has been decimated, at least it still exists.
"Lindblum is one, although it's more of a technicality," Uncle remarked, "the others are Treno, Dali, Burmecia, Esto Gaza, Daguerro and the Black Mage Village."
Just as I feared.
"I'm not sure Burmecia is the best idea right now…" I address, displaying my concern.
"Well these documents aren't signed yet, "Uncle pointed out, "if you are so adamant about that, then you can choose not to sign." Uncle hands me a nearby quill, which I tentatively take and I begin to sign my name onto the documents. I signed 6 of the 7 documents effortlessly, but find myself stalling on the seventh; is it really worth risking a hostile reaction? But if I didn't ask for help and there isn't a problem, could that illicit a negative reaction too?
…
…
I sigh deeply before signing the final document and handing the collection to Uncle Cid.
"Very well," he announced, "Mogki!"
Wait…he isn't seriously…
Just as my thought trailed off, a moogle floated into the king's chamber, appearing through the main entranceway.
"What's wrong? I was sleeping, kupo!" Mogki sternly snapped. Uncle Cid handed the papers to the confused looking moogle before turning to scribble something else onto a discarded piece of parchment.
"Take these document's to these places," Uncle Cid ordered, "and waste no time doing it! I don't want a repeat of the Dead Pepper incident!"
"T-That was an accident! I swear!" Mogki stammered ineffectively. Uncle Cid cleared his throat vehemently, basically booting the moogle out of the room with all his might. I actually found it's over the top reaction somewhat amusing, causing me to break into a small smile.
"Now then," Uncle said, reclaiming my attention, "now that that's dealt with, shall we take brunch?" I hadn't even thought about breakfast so I had become very hungry, a fact that my stomach rumbling loudly didn't hide. My eyes shot up to my Uncle as I felt my cheeks begin to redden with embarrassment. "I'll take that as a 'yes' then." We both exchanged some stifled laughter before heading to a much required brunch.
Tuesday 11th March
15:30 – Lindblum Theatre District (P.O.V – Garnet)
[FF9 OST – Lindblum]
The air cab pulled into the Theatre district with a snap jerk as it almost felt like the driver hadn't intended to stop, causing some of those standing to fall comically. I stifle a giggle and immediately feel horrible as one of those to lose their footing was only standing because he vacated his seat for me. After checking he was well, I ventured out of the station and into the district proper.
"Yo, queenie!" a gruff, yet smooth voice shouted. I look up to see Blank waiting for me, leaning on the wall and seemingly waving me over.
"Hello there Blank," I greet, forcing a smile, "were you waiting for me?"
"Oh no," he claimed, "I was just watching this paint dry, it's really interesting you should see it what the hell do you think I'm doing here?"
"Sarcasm!" I say, planting pain into my voice, "how could you use such a vile weapon against me?!"
"…wow," He stated flatly, "you sound a lot like Zidane, you know that?"
"I highly doubt that," I reply bluntly.
"Well, yeah, you use bigger words than he does," Blank responded looking thoughtful, "but the way you talk is still kinda the same. Makes sense seeing how you spent so much time together on the road."
"I suppose..." I concede. I'd been forcing myself to talk like a commoner for so long, it almost became instinct; I even find myself speaking very informally when I really shouldn't; I'm grateful that the people in Lindblum Castle have been so supportive rather than being judgmental. I know the nobles back in Alexandria will not be as kind…
"Yo! Anybody home?"
"Sorry, pardon?" I gabbled.
"You zoned out on me," Blank stated directly, "should we head to boss now?"
"Yes, let's," I respond eagerly. I and Blank continue to exchange pleasantries in the short trip between the station and Tanatalus' home base.
"Welp, home sweet home," Blank proudly stated.
"Oh?" I query. In turns out, the Tantalus' secret hideout is in no way secret. In fact, it's a quaint little clock tower plainly obvious for all to see; it makes me wonder how this thieves guild has gone undetected from the authorities for so long; however, as soon as I wonder that, I remember that Uncle Cid and Baku, the head of Tantalus, are acquaintances so any accusations against them may be excused.
We enter the clock tower and I see a random assortment of tables and beds, along with a few treasure chests here and there, a couple of random bags and boxes and a surprisingly well made chair, which Blank makes a point to avoid.
"Boss ain't in now, so you ok you hang here for a bit?" Blank quizzed.
"Well, I have nothing major to do, so I can wait," I remarked, taking a seat in the very grand looking chair. I hear Blank inhale as I do, before sighing; I'm sure Baku wouldn't mind if it's me. "Do you know where he is?" As I ask, I notice Blank's expression drop quite sharply, almost as if I uncovered some dark secret.
"He's…" Blank stammered; he let out a sigh before continuing, "he tries to hide it from us, but we can tell. He's bummed out that Zidane didn't come back." He diverts his attention from me and begins to stare at the floor, sensing my unease with the topic. "Sorry for bringing it up…"
"It's quite alright…"I sigh.
"How you holdin' up?" Blank asked.
"I don't know…" I respond. "I guess I'm ok for now, but what if he takes too long to come back? What if he DOESN'T come back?" Great. I'm beginning to make myself depressed again…
"He will come back," Blank reassured, "he's an idiot at the best of times, but he's never done something he isn't capable of. Dunno how long he'll be, but he'll be back." I'm grateful to Blank for reassuring me like this; who knows what I'd be doing if I didn't have something to keep me busy. "Soooo…when he does come back…when's the wedding?" I feel my blood run cold.
"What?!" I snap, "T-There's no wedding!"
"Oh, sorry… I thought you liked him." He stated bluntly.
"I-I don't know what you're talking about!" I stammer, "me and Zidane wouldn't…we aren't…I…" I begin to notice Blank stifling laughter. "Are you mocking me sir?"
"Who me? No no, just enjoying the sight of seeing your face turn bright red." Blank acknowledged. I hadn't even noticed until he said it, but I could feel my cheeks burning up. Gods darn you Zidane Tribal! Even when you aren't here you still managed to get me flustered.
"You enjoy this? I'm offended Blank." I retort.
"Wounded even?"
"Hurt Blank!"
We exchange some small laughter before settling into a rather nice conversation about the business and life in Lindblum. I'm glad to hear that they have something akin to a base in Alexandria, which means they could easily visit. Maybe Zidane could wait there for me…?
Wednesday 12th March
14:45 – Black Mage Village (P.O.V – Carl)
[FF9 OST – Black Mage Village]
The last few days came and went like a blur…it all merges into a miasma of building, lifting, hammering and general construction, literally nothing else sticks to mind…I wish there was a way out of this…
"Mikoto's back!"
"What?! She's home?!"
"Yes! Yes! She's home! She's home!"
Every black mage and Genome around us dropped whatever they were working and eagerly wandered to the entrance of the Black Mage Village, leaving a very confused group of dwarves in their wake. While most of them continued working, curiosity got the better of me…
"Where ye goin' lad?" I overheard someone shout in my general direction.
"Goin' check this out," I respond, "back in a sec."
I follow the innumerable hoard of pointy-hats and blonde heads until I reach the entrance to find…another blonde haired Genome. If the grand introduction didn't tip me off, I'd just think she was just another Genome, however as I look at her, I see her begin to scan the environment and the sea of bodies in front of her, before looking towards me…
In fact, she's looking straight at me…I wonder if she wants to talk to me about something…
"Lad! Get back over 'ere!" a voice bellows.
I turn towards the voice, then turn back to see Mikoto's analytical glare before retreating…little did I know I'd be seeing much more of her…
23:00 – Black Mage Village (P.O.V – Carl)
[NeCubFlyer – Night Time Crickets]
After another long day of slave labour, made only slightly noteworthy by the welcoming party for that girl earlier, the aches and pains begin to creep in. My arms, my abs and my legs; oh my holy hilgigars my legs! I thought the hijinks of getting everything unpacked to come to this village was bad, but my past self is looking at me now and laughing. Stop laughing at me you smug bastard!
I'm about to try to drift off to sleep, when I hear a knock at my door. I'm not expecting anyone this time of night, so I hesitantly light a nearby candle and stumble through the darkness, making sure to grab some appropriate night attire for my unexpected guest. After scrambling into a miscellaneous T-shirt and some shorts, I open the door and, surprisingly, am greeting with a blonde haired girl.
"You are different to the others…" she stated bluntly. I recognise her pink and white outfit from earlier in the day, this must be…er…what was her name again?
"Yeah…," I reply lazily, "did you come all this way to tell me that?" I probably shouldn't have been so rude, but I don't think the Genomes mind all that much…
"No, follow me," she asserted, before turning and walking away.
"H-Hey…!" I sputter, to no avail. Before I even notice, she has walked out of the dimly lit inn into the night sky. I'm fortunate it hasn't rained yet since I got here, but even so I've been worked like a dog the last few days! Can't a guy get some sleep around here?!
My complaints aside, the girl leads me outside before motioning towards an airship parked around the back of the village…
Wait…airship?
Where did that come from?
[FF9 OST – Soulless Village]
"It is the Invincible," she remarked lethargically, "I requested the mages of this village to cast a cloaking spell so none can see or enter it."
"But…I can see it…" I falter.
"I had a spell cast on your evening meal," she reasoned, "it means you can also see and enter the Invincible."
"You what?!" I bark aggressively. As I do, I hurriedly clap my hand to my mouth, realizing that I wouldn't want to wake anyone.
"I had a spell cast on your eve-"
"(I heard you the first time!)" I whisper forcefully, "(what I want to know is why you spiked my lunch?)"
"I intend to construct a laboratory inside this airship," she remarked, "I require someone to gather and transport materials, assist with maintaining my machines and such. Since you seem larger than the others I assume you are the most physically capable."
"I-I'm not the strong…est…" I stammer. How come virtually everyone thinks I'm so strong? Maybe I actually am stronger than I give myself credit for…but even so…'construct'…I'm fast beginning to hate that word; thinking about it though, I'd much rather be building something in peace and quiet rather than in total chaos and this girl appears to not be much of a conversationalist, meaning I can work without distractions. Maybe I can find out more about the Genomes at last, as every attempt has been foiled thus far… "yeah fine, I'll lend you a hand…er…"
"…"
"…"
"…" Doesn't she get what I'm hinting?
"Sorry, I didn't catch your name."
"The name I was assigned is Mikoto." 'Assigned'? What does she mean by that?
"Carl." I reply; it seems fair at least to tell her mine if I know hers.
"I am already aware," she responded. Well…so much for decency, but most of the Genomes appear quite 'out there' so I take it with a pinch of salt.
"Well, if that's all you wanted I'm going to bed," I divert; I turn on a dime towards my dingy room in the inn and begin to walk off, before a dainty yet firm hand grabs my shoulder.
"Your room is now on board the invincible," she corrected, "I will have your things brought to you by morning. You humans require sleep to function, correct? I would suggest you go to sleep as soon as possible when you get on board." I glance up to the airship, which is easily the largest structure I've ever seen, apart from Conde Petie of course.
"Well, how do we get in?" I enquire. Wordlessly, she wanders off, motioning me to follow. We continue to stroll across the edge of the lake towards the airship. I wonder if she chose this location for her laboratory so that she could see the lake at night? I remember being told that the lake reminds the Genomes of their hometown, Terra. It isn't long before I find myself under the ship, underneath some form of circular dome, still wondering how to get in.
"Close your eyes." Mikoto said. I oblige, expected some kind of trick that I am never allo-
"Open your eyes." I hear her say. I open them to see the inside of a very dark room, which I guess is the inside of the Invincible. I'm about to ask a question about the inside of the room which is pure blackness, before I am assaulted by a blast of powder.
"Gah!" I squeal, "what the *hack-hack* hell was that?!"
"Dream Powder," Mikoto stated bluntly.
"Why are you thro- *cough* -wing it at me?" I enquire, "I was going to sleep any-"
ZZZZZZzzzzzzz