Chapter Two: Vengeance
/
Nacho's P.O.V.
Seeing the once bustling village shrouded in darkness filled me with both concern and anger as I knew people very well here…okay maybe not and I really hated that one lady for asking me to kill a Rathalos and Rathian couple for just pissing her off. I mean I kill monster, but I don't do it for stupid reasons. Anyway, I needed to get down there and check the status of those living inside if some haven't evacuated already. "Guy's I'm going to check to it out, but I'm going to need a lot of nulberries."
"I'm coming with you. There's no way I'm letting you go alone in there, darling." Ankha said with a determined face.
"Ankha, please be careful that cloud of darkness is made up of the scales of the monster and once you breath in those scales you will be infected by the frenzy virus."
"The frenzy virus?"
"The frenzy virus will make you feel weak and more vulnerable to monsters that do frenzy attack. At least that all it does to us humans anyway…although I heard on rare cases that it might send hunters into a frenzy as well if they are weak willed. Honestly, I'm not sure what kind of effect it will have on you, so I want you to hold onto this."
I handed over a small talisman to Ankha whom of which took it with a look of uncertainty, "How is this suppose to help?"
"Holding onto that talisman will help your body resist the virus. I exposed myself to this stuff many times, so I built up a slight resistance to it. Along with the nulberries it should be enough to make exploration possible." I looked at Ankha with a caring look as she fully understood the dangers. I'm relieved that she's taking the precautions seriously as I looked over to the Caravaneer.
"Ai, hunter we will take you two close to that shroud. To be honest I am too worried if there still some people in that village that haven't escaped yet. So if you find anyone make sure to send them our way so we can take care of them."
"Got it, let's move out."
We headed back to the caravan and with increased speed we headed down to the foot of the village where we stopped as planned. Ankha and I jumped out of the moving home while carrying small bags filled with nulberries. We only had twenty in stock, so we split them between us and have ten each, it should be more than enough to explore the entire village. Both my lover and I have our weapons on standby just in case trouble shows its ugly head when we least expect it.
"Ready, Ankha?" I said as we both face down the large wall of darkness with various unknowns beyond them.
"Ready."
Fearlessly, we both stepped into the darkness and within that darkness we were both met with a creepy new world that looked like it was under a moonless night. Obviously, the entire village looked like a ghost town from the lack of any life in the area. My first thoughts however were on Ankha as I wondered how she was doing since the moment we stepped in we became infected with the virus. Looking over to her I saw her body was trembling a bit, but otherwise she hasn't succumbed to the virus. "How are you holding up Ankha?"
"I'm fine for now, but I do feel a little tingly all over." She said slightly concerned.
"Good, that means you're still in the green. If you start to feel any worse, then pop in one of those berries. They'll slow down the virus's incubation process and if enough time passes you should develop a temporary immunity to the virus for a short amount of time."
"Okay, I'll make sure to be mindful of that. So where should we search first?"
"We should start with the hunter's hub. This place is where many starting hunters flock to in order to climb the ranks and make a name for themselves. It's also the biggest building in town, so if anybody got left behind this is the place they're more likely to hang out."
"I see, so let's get going then."
"Right." We quickly ran to the hunter's hub and while we were doing so I found myself slightly unnerved by the sheer emptiness of the village as normally it's full of hustle and bustle by various traders, shopkeepers, and fellow hunters who often become excited at the sight of the legendary hunter who took down the first Shagaru Magala. It didn't take long for us to run into the building itself, but surprise it was empty as well; this also creeped me out.
"Nacho, do you think everybody is okay?" Ankha asked me with concern.
There is no doubt in my mind they were caught in the middle of the elder dragon's attack and had to evacuate in a hurry considering that a lot of things looked turned over around here. They were caught off guard, so no doubt some of them didn't get out unscathed. But, the only thing that worried me is the entire viciousness of the attack. A few buildings were completely destroyed leaving only the familiar path I take in the village intact. But, why? It was like it was angry and vengeful.
"No doubt about it, or else we would have ran into a body right now."
"Good point. But, such frightening power…if it was able to cover the entire village in a shroud of darkness like this."
"It's abnormal...most Shagaru's tend to stay in the mountainous regions, but according to reports this one is going all over the place claiming various territories as it own."
"Then it must be far more intelligent than your hunter's previously thought."
"Maybe…we should look around a bit longer." I said as we exit the building. We wandered for a little bit as we took another nul-berry to stave off the frenzy virus. Our wandering's came up with nothing as we head back to the caravan only for Ankha to stop me short by tugging on my armor. "Found something?"
"Is it me or are those gashes across the ground look intentional?" I never really gave it any thought, but now that she pointed it out I see what she meant. Some of the gashes are curved and carefully drawn out, but what significance it holds is meaningless from we are standing.
"You're right…I wonder…" I looked around for any high places we can use until I remember the hunter's hub building is the largest in the village. "We should get to higher ground. Maybe there is more to theses gashes like you said Ankha, so we should climb the hunter's hub building to get a better look."
"Sounds like a plan, Young N" my feline lover teased.
"Was that a pun?"
Ankha only flashed me a mischievous grin as she headed off to the large building with me following after her. Although, honestly I didn't think she had in her to pull off that kind of joke on me…though admittedly it's kinda groan worthy and no doubt she knows that as well. Regardless, we made our way back to the hunter's hub and began to climb the building. It wasn't an easy climb and we had to stop midway to eat another nul-berry before continuing our climb. We eventually reached the top and after a few deep breaths I began to look around. It took a short while to locate the gashes again, but when I looked over to where I last saw them I didn't see gashes…I see a small message.
"Hunter I have returned…" I said slowly as I let the implications sink in.
"I have returned? Nacho, have you fought this same monster before?"
"It can't be…I killed it with my own two hands. There's no way the Shagaru Magala that attacked this village is the same Shagaru I fought many years ago." I continue to say this, but at the same time it makes sense. No normal Shagaru will attack a village and take it as its own territory and besides the damage shows that this thing has an axe to grind. "I think we seen all we needed to see. Let's head back." I said nearly emotionlessly as I started to climb my way back down.
I didn't hear Ankha say anything in response, but she instead followed my lead and started climbing down as well. I truly don't know what's going on anymore, but what I do know is that this thing is out for revenge and I'm its main target.
/
Ankha's P.O.V.
It wasn't long for us to be on the road again, but according to the Carvanneer we'll be taking the seas for our next destination called Cheeko Sands. Apparently, we're going there to pick someone up before heading to our real destination. Until then I did my best to comfort Nacho, for after seeing that short message he seemed troubled. As a matter of fact everybody in this caravan became troubled by the news we shared. Time passed as the sun began to set and still my lover was distracted. I really wanted to help him, but it would seem giving him his space is the only thing I can do for him for now. The dinner bell rang as the cook gave us our meals; I'm still surprised on how fast he can get such gourmet food ready for consumption.
"Thank you, cook" I said thankfully which made the smaller felyne smile and bow courteously.
He always took special care in my meals partially because I'm a guest in this caravan, but it's more likely that my own beauty played a bigger part in it. I'm flattered, but I gave my heart to Nacho a long time ago and I don't plan on betraying him anytime soon. But, I digress on the actual subject I'm focusing on; the extra plate. Cook always gave us enough to fill us up, so why would he make another plate of food? I kept an eye on him as I saw him sneak past everybody while carrying the plate. It was easy for him as everybody else save for me was distracted in their dinner.
"Hmm…"
"Is something wrong Ankha?" Nacho asked me with curiosity.
"Huh? Oh, it's nothing. I just spaced out."
"Heh, been there done that." He said with a joking smile that I couldn't help but give an amused giggle.
He returned to his meal seeing that I was fine and with that I return to my surveillance on the small cat. I almost lost him thanks to the small conversation, but I managed to get a glimpse of him walking down to Nacho's room all the while struggling with the large plate over his head. It's a miracle that he carried it all without dropping anything at all. Seeing this piqued my curiosity as I returned to my meal. It wouldn't be for another half hour until the cook showed up again, but this time with an empty plate and cup in tow as he returned it to his kitchen.
"Did he just feed someone in Nacho's room? Last I check, only Nacho and I sleep in there. Is there somebody else in there? Also the cook seems to be doing his best to keep this hidden extra person a secret. Hmm…time to set up a stakeout."
I gave a small smile as the conversation between friends happens next to me. I had a feeling about this extra person, as experience taught me well in the past. Speaking of the past…Nacho never really asked about mines despite us being in a relationship, "Maybe…I should tell him when the times right. I just wonder how's he's going take it. Ugh, focus Ankha! One problem at a time alright? Let's just find out who is the person the cook was feeding."
Now with a plan, but out of time I had no choice but bide my time for tomorrow, but waiting was something I was used to.
…
Morning came once again as I woke up again with my arms around my lover as he continues to sleep soundly. He's so cute when he's sleeping I just can't help but give off a little aw in reaction. As much as I love to keep cuddling with him in bed I had a plan to prepare for, so I quickly got the bath ready and cleaned myself for today. From what I heard from the Caravaneer we'll be taking to the seas shortly as a nearby harbor will make the transition easier. Once fully dried off I put on my new clothes for the day; a simple red Hawaiian shirt with shorts, undergarments included. I never really gave my legs much thought, but ever since Nacho told me they looked nice I decided to add outfits that really showed them off. The results…well his eyes started traveling further down my body much to my embarrassment.
"I really know how to turn him into putty don't I?" I chuckled to myself as I took out my makeup kit and carefully reapplied my signature makeup. Of course my snake themed tiara comes on last to complete my look, it's a morning chore but I turn heads all the same. By the time I was done the breakfast bell rang causing me to smirk as now it is time to put my plan into action.
Everybody came out of the caravan so we can eat together. I made sure to eat some morning dragon meat (which was surprisingly delicious by the way) so I wouldn't drag attention to myself. I excused myself to use the bathroom to which they handed me toilet paper which I wasn't going to need. Walking out of eyesight I quickly and quietly sneaked back into Nacho's room where I quickly made myself scarce by hiding underneath his bed. Like a predator I lay in wait as my prey came into view.
As on cue the cook came into my view holding today's breakfast over his head. "Now let's see who you been taking that food to…" With a few small kicks at Nacho's storage chest I heard something unlock and mysteriously the chest opened. I was at first confused at this until I saw someone I thought I wouldn't see in this adventure; Isabelle. She looked a little worse for wear physically, but mentally I can tell she's suffering. I've seen it all before in the past and seeing her like this filled me with a sense of dread as I saw the end of that path. Slowly, I crawled out from underneath the bed as the two sat next each other in front of it. It would seem the cook is lending a figurative shoulder to her voiceless problems.
"Time to make myself known."
Carefully, I position myself behind Isabelle and almost immediately I pounced and by that I mean covered her mouth to prevent her from screaming while restraining her. She immediately freaked out from the sudden attack, but I held strong as the cook himself stood in shock. I struggled with the canine for a while until she finally realized it was me that assaulted her. The poor girl's heart rate was going into overdrive as she herself tried to calm down.
"Relax…relax…it's just me Isabelle. It's just me…" Slowly I take my hand off of her as she gave me a downcast expression showing that something died inside of her. Once I got off of her she immediately enveloped me in a hug all the while crying her eyes out. I didn't really do much else as I patted her back gently. It actually took some time to calm her down finally, but of course by then the cook and I were expected to be back by now, so I had to make our encounter brief.
"Goodness…Isabelle how long have you been hiding in that chest? More importantly how did you managed to get on the caravan?"
"I-I…just ran…I d-don't remember h-how I did it…please don't tell the mayor I'm here!" She ended almost frantically, but I quickly calmed her down.
"Shhh…its okay I won't tell him, but you'll have to come out and greet him eventually."
"I know…"
I can hear the deep sadness in her voice which scared me internally. This is definitely reminding me of…her. But, I shouldn't think about past right now; I need to help my friend, but first, "Isabelle I need to leave you right now since the other's are expecting me back by now including you cook."
"Err…right…" The felyne said nervously in response.
"In the meantime enjoy your meal and stay out of sight. We'll meet again at night and when we do I want you to wipe away those tears and tell me everything, okay?" I said gently as the canine girl gave me an understanding nod. "Good, I'll be off."
"Um…why are you taking the window out of here?" The Street Cook said with a confused tone.
"Because…I told everyone I was using the bathroom and walked out into the distance, so it would be suspicious if I came out with you out of Nacho's room."
"Er…right…never mind."
I shook my head at his stupid question as I exited the room and made my way back like nothing happened. Of course Nacho asked me if I was okay since I was gone for a while, but of course I told him I was fine so there was nothing to worry about. I handed over the toilet paper back and like that the rest of the day went smoothly. The entire caravan reached the docks and transformed again into a boat. The Caravaneer's plan is to sail during the night to shorten the length of our trip to Cheeko Sands.
Like that we were on the seas again with the moon shining in the distance. Of course the time for sleep came in and Nacho decided to head for bed. I told him I'm going to stay up for a little bit to which he said not to stay up too late before giving me a small kiss. Some time passed before I walked into my lover's room to find him already asleep. I gave a small yawn as sleep was starting to become tempting right about now, but I promised the gentle canine to meet up with her a night. No doubt she's still in the chest that Nacho hasn't used at all during our time on this trip.
"Isabelle? It's me." I whispered after giving a few faint knocks onto the chest. In reaction the chest unlocked and opened slowly as the familiar yellow figure popped out with tear stained eyes which cause a twang of pain in my heart. She slowly stepped out of the chest before I beckoned her to follow me outside. We found a nice secluded place for us to sit down and chat.
"So tell me Isabelle…why did you stowaway on the ship?"
The girl immediately flinched as I started with my first question. She was nervous and was debating with herself mentally from what I gathered by watching her movements. Finally, she settled on her next course action and began to speak, "Promise me that you won't be mad?" she said shakily.
"I promise."
"Okay…here we go…the reason I stowaway on the ship was because of…of….the mayor…" she said slowly and painfully. So, that's it…I simply gave a sigh before giving her my response.
"So, that's it…I was afraid of that." I said with a hint of annoyance.
"I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I know that you two are in a relationship, but I…I…" Already Isabelle was ready to cry as tears began to build up in her eyes.
"Take it easy Isabelle, I'm not mad…as a matter of act I kinda figured that was the reason."
"Wh-What?!"
"Nacho told me you were being distant to him a long time ago. He didn't know why, but I had an idea what could be the reason. You fell in love with him too and seeing him with me must have sparked a feeling of jealously, envy, sadness, and depression. Am I wrong?"
Isabelle sat speechless as I easily hit the nail on the head. It was just like before when I lived in ancient china…ugh history is repeating itself again, but this time I have a chance to change the ending.
"N-No…you're right it's just…how did you know?"
"Isabelle, we're friends and in addition to that as a fellow woman I have experience with these things."
"Oh…"
"Regardless, just what is your plan anyway? You know Nacho is going to be upset that you left the town as well now leaving it without any leaders."
"To be honest, I was running on my emotions when I saw you guys leave. Everything was a blur and the last thing I remembered was waking up in the chest in the mayor's room. Honestly, I don't even know what's going on anymore…"
"Oh right…the cook must have explained to you haven't he?"
"He's the first one to find me in the chest…he was surprised greatly, but I begged him not to tell anyone I was there. He must have felt sorry for me since he's the reason I haven't starved to death on this entire trip. He even went as far to clean my clothes and giving me the time and privacy to take a bath and keep myself clean."
I was surprised by this information as I thought the Street Cook was simply a normal cook who just happens to try to woo females he fancies, or is that just me? Anyway it's good to see there's a big heart in that small cat. "I see then he must have told you about Nacho's other job as a hunter."
"Yes…I never knew until now. So, that's what he's been doing during those weeks he was gone. I still remember sending a request to Val Habar for a hunter to send in supplies to help with our festival in the past. Shortly, a day after sending the request I was told it was completed by a hunter named Ohkan. I sent him my thanks and after that nothing else happened. To think it was our very own mayor that was supporting us while he was gone."
"Yeah it was a surprise to me too."
"Ankha…when did you learn of the mayor's second job?"
Hearing this question nearly had me choking on words as I couldn't tell her that Nacho is a secret agent, but maybe I fib my way out of this through a white lie. "Well he told me during the whole zombie attack fiasco. Honestly, I was surprised as well when he told me, but his skills in dispatching those unsightly monsters proved me otherwise."
"R-Really? I wished I saw more of him in action, but you know…I was kidnapped by that bat creature." Isabelle shuddered at the memory despite the terrifying experience has long since passed.
"Yeah…my heart stopped when he fell off the bridge. Truly, I thought he died from the fall considering the water he fell into turned red."
"I've saw that too. Seeing the water turn red made me want to die as I couldn't think of our town without the mayor."
Hearing this brought a twang into my heart as a flash of a horrible memory appeared in front of my eyes, "You know that Nacho wouldn't want you to kill yourself over him, he would have wanted you to live your life."
"I know…it's that bad isn't it?" Isabelle said ashamedly.
"Erhm…borderline obsessive if you ask me."
"Oh…"
"However, I do know where you're coming from. Nacho has done more for me than any friend I could have made in years. Isabelle, I once lived a lonely existence as I always pushed away those who tried to get close to me."
"Why?"
"It's…complicated…let's just say I'm carrying more baggage than the items I buy at the store. But, to make a long story short I was unhappy with my life, however, I refused to change my routine. Meeting Nacho is the main reason why I stayed in our town indefinitely as despite my best efforts to keep him out of my life he continued to worm his way through my walls. He listened, he understood, and he responded to my requests without delay. It got to a point we're getting too close and I tried to push him away one last time and move, but…"
"But…?" Isabelle said with curiosity and intrigue.
"Despite my efforts he found me…I knew if he found me I wouldn't have the heart in me leave, but at the same time I wanted him to show up and stop me. So seeing him made me the happiest cat alive and of course I canceled the move. We continued to grow closer after that and after the zombie fiasco that's when we officially became a couple."
"Wow…you two have been through a lot together…the only thing the mayor and I done together was figuring out the plans for public projects and sitting next to each other during important events. But I guess it wasn't really that meaningful as I thought it was…"
"Don't think that way! Nacho does care about you and those times you spent with him do hold a special place in his heart."
"You're comparing an ember to an inferno Ankha…its small compared to the times you two spent with each other."
Well she isn't wrong, but that's not the point I was trying to make, "Stop selling yourself short! Nacho relies on you more than you're willing to admit."
"But all I did is my job…"
"While that's true Nacho admitted to me that without you to help guide him through the process of being the mayor he truly would have been lost and the town wouldn't be as great as it is now."
"Really? He said that?"
"He even thought of giving you a long vacation for all your hard work."
"Wow…he does care…"
Now we're on the right track, "He does…that's why he's worried about you right now."
"He is?"
"Before we all left on the ship he told me himself how much he was worried about your well being as you started to become distracted in your work or straight out refused to look at him."
Isabelle looked away for a brief moment in shame as she probably knew she was acting foolishly in her emotions which I couldn't help but laugh mentally at the situation. "Yeah…I'm not too proud of that…" she said with embarrassment lining her voice. Honestly, its kinda cute to see her act this way as that's one of her charms that drag men to her whether she's aware of this or not.
"So all in all, you shouldn't worry about losing Nacho from your life. We may be dating, but he'll always be your friend."
"Oh…a friend…*sigh*…"
Oops…I probably shouldn't have said that as her mood definitely took a hit at the word, "Sorry, I didn't mean to offend you."
"It's okay…but these feelings…are still bubbling within me. I-I need to tell him how I feel, so I can at least have no regrets during this trip. However, since I left the town without anyone to watch over it I'm afraid what the mayor has to say to me about that."
"Unfortunately, there's no doubt he's going to berate you for that, but it just shows how much he cares for that town."
Isabelle gave a few half heart giggles, "Yeah…a town we raised together…" she gave a wistful sigh.
"Don't think about too hard Isabelle. I'll help buffer the impact of your reveal to him and stand there with you when he berates you."
"Thank you Ankha…you're the bestest friend a girl could ask for." She said with a warm smile, but I could have sworn I saw a slight blush on her face. However, I don't think it's anything worth worrying about as I patted her on the head.
"You're welcome Isabelle. Now let's go get some sleep, we have a big morning to prepare for tomorrow." I get up from my spot and turn to leave with Isabelle doing the same.
"Yeah…" she said as she followed me back to Nacho's room with the man himself soundly asleep. Isabelle giggled at the sight, "He's so cute when he's asleep."
"I know right?" I said as I picked up a blanket and pillow before handing it over to her.
"Huh? What's this for?" she asked me confusingly.
"Isabelle, you're not going to sleep again in that cramp looking chest again. This time you'll be taking one of the hammocks tonight."
"But, what if the mayor see's me?"
I flashed her a smile before responding to her concerns, "Don't worry Nacho's usually very drowsy when he wakes up, so as long you don't make yourself too obvious he won't notice you."
"Okay and thank you Ankha. You've done so much for me today."
"You're welcome, but thanks aren't necessary because this is what friends do." I said flashing a warm smile.
"Yes…friends…" she said hiding her blush this time with the blanket I handed her. I was slightly confused by the gesture, but regardless I helped her into her hammock and like a mother tucking in her child I made sure she was comfortable.
"Good night" I said gently before I made my way to Nacho's bed in order to settle in with my sleeping lover.
"Good night…" I heard Isabelle said before we both drifted to sleep and leave tomorrows problems for the next morning.
/
Nacho's P.O.V.
"Land ho!" a loud yell shouted in the darkness of my vision as I woke up in surprise from the sudden noise. I gave a low grumble as I slowly got out of bed, but that was easier said than done as Ankha's body was wrapped around my own. I slowly and carefully wiggled out of her grasp, but of course when I did her body started to reach out and try to grab onto something similar to my body. Thinking quickly I grabbed my pillow and placed it within her range as she suddenly took it and hugged it tightly.
"Well that solves that problem." I said as a tired sounding yawn came followed after. With this routine done I made my way to the deck as the bright sunlight blinded me temporarily until my vision return to me. "Carvy, how close are to shore?" I said loudly. However, my question was responded with a snore as the sound shocked the sleep out of me as I quickly made my way to steering wheel only to find the old man snoozing on the floor he once stood on.
*Snore….*
"Are you kidding me?!" I shouted as I quickly took hold of the wheel and saw that we were on a direct course with the shore of Cheeko Sands instead of the port. Thankfully the sails were taken down before hand, so we're slowing down but I rather not look for materials to fix this ship during our visit. With a few quick spins I managed to line us up to the port as we slowly slid into the wooden dock effortlessly like a glove. I gave a sigh of relief as I just prevented disaster from happening under my watch. Of course I wasn't done yet as I quickly got off the boat and tied it to the docks, so the entire ship won't drift away in the wind.
No sooner when I got all of this done I heard a voice right behind me, "Meow, need a hand hunter?" I smiled as I turn to greet the source the of the voice, an orange yellow felyne dressed in Rathalos armor greeted me with a smirk as he walked over to me before giving me a light punch on my shin guard.
"Ferno! How's an ace palicoe like you doing these days?" I said with a bright smile as my little friend gave a small fit of laughter.
"Doing great! It's nice to get some R'n'R and ever since you retired I needed a vacation spot to relax before doing some hunting of my own. So, I asked your friends to drop me off at Cheeko Sands and boy…let me tell you." My old friend gave a few glances around him before signaling me to come closer. "Things got a little heated between me and the Headwhiskress if you know what I mean?" he said with a snide smile.
"Oh…you." I said with a smile of my own as we give each other a fist bump.
"Anyway what brings you here hunter? Last I check you're retired."
"Well…have you heard of the recent Shagaru Magala attacks?" I asked.
"Now that you mentioned it yeah. This thing has been kicking G rank hunter's rears left and right and has been spreading it's terror to various lands. The chief herself is worried that it might target Cheeko Sands one day, so I've been training myself and other palicoes to their absolute limit incase that thing shows its ugly mug around these parts."
"I'm not sure that's going to be enough."
"Enough to stop it from destroying this paradise? Maybe not, but with the small army we have over here we should be able to send it packing."
"Well I got something that will help improve your chances."
"What?"
I smiled a large smile as I gave a small spin before revealing nothing but myself, "Me! I came out of retirement to help out with this disaster."
Ferno said nothing for a while, but then he began to give a snarky grin as he looked up at me, "Well well well! I hope you haven't got rusty during your retirement hunter! Speaking of retirement…what have you been doing all these years?"
"Well…long story short I became the mayor of a town and currently having a happy relationship with my girlfriend who is also on the same ship I came out of right now." I summed up my entire experience into one sentence…well only the normal parts of my life.
"Get out, you becoming the mayor of a town? How the heck did you manage that?"
"It was mostly an accident, but I have a very dependable secretary who helped me out with the entire process."
"Neat. So what about your girlfriend? Where did you meet her?"
"In the same town…as odd as that sounds."
"Well that's interesting to say the least."
"I'll give you more details when everybody else wakes up on the ship. Besides its more fun that way."
The next ten minutes of the morning were spent with both of us talking about the Shagaru problem and a possible plan of attack we can do to deal with it. Truthfully, the conversation got dark quickly as we both knew how dangerous this thing is especially when I told him about what happened to Val Habar and its current situation. His expression grew grim as he told me his theory on monster. He explains that the monster has it out for me specifically and is destroying and covering places I been to in order to get my attention. Now for the question that this monster being the same one I killed years ago he doubted since the remains of the Shagaru have been processed for the village it was killed in, but he said that it might be possible that it could be an offspring of the Shagaru seeking vengeance for its deceased parent. I doubted that's the reality of the situation, but saying it was resurrected was even more out landish.
"Doodle…who are you talking to?"
"Meow…are we there yet?"
"*Yawn* Good morning everyone…"
Three of my friends decided to wake up. The Guildarm, Street Cook, and Wycoon apparently overheard my conversation with Ferno although it seems out of all three of them, only the Wycoon got a good night sleep. "Morning sleepy heads! While you were napping I was chatting it up with an old friend."
"How are yah guys?" Ferno said with a hearty smile and wave.
"Oh hey it's Ferno! Hey Ferno!" The Guildarm said gleefully as she finally woke up and waved back.
Due to all the commotion eventually the others woke up as well with The Man and Little Miss Forge giving the biggest yawns I ever heard. Ankha was the last to appear and upon seeing her Ferno knew that this was the girlfriend I mentioned to him earlier in our conversation. Initially he was surprised as he immediately starting pointing from her to me and so on and so forth.
"Holy hairballs, I didn't know Felynes grew to be so tall where you're living and she's quite a beauty too." Ferno lightly punched my left arm. "I think all that time you spent with us must have made you a babe magnet." He joked.
"Sure…like it has nothing to do with my personality or my winning charm."
"Charm? Please…I'm pretty sure my Ace Palicoe pheromones must have rubbed off on you."
"Hey…I can attract chicks with my own pheromones. It's just I already found the one I wanted to be with."
"Sure…sure…" we both sat quietly for a few moments before busting out with laughter at our own ego boosting antics. I'm pretty sure I heard Ankha laughing as well, and to be fair it is pretty ridiculous and funny to watch us go at it back and forth.
However, the fun died as we finally got to business. We came to this island to pick up Ferno and a few other palicoes for the upcoming battle. The Cheeko Sands chief was there mediating the entire situation as she added her opinion here and there. The Headwhiskress was less than pleased to have her boyfriend leave her for the call of duty, but she understood.
"Hmm…okay. I'll join you again hunter for this dangerous hunt, but make sure to keep up your end of the work because the last thing I want to do is carry your large sorry sack back to camp."
I gave a chuckle, "As long you don't run with your tail between your legs." He gave his own laugh before we gave each other a handshake in friendship.
The others gave their own sighs of relief now that the negotiations were over. I don't know what their problem was since it is an old friend, so there wasn't anything to worry about.
However, as if the universe wanted to prove me wrong a distant roar was heard coming from the Primal Forest. I recognized the roar as it belonged to a Gore Magala, but something was off about it. "That can't be good…" and to prove my point a louder roar was heard as I saw a dark cloud began to form in the distance. Now this is really bad, I needed to get over there as soon as possible. Quickly, I got up and ran for my room as fast as possible. I equipped my armor as fast as possible while getting some items for the possible fight ahead of me. Potions, Mega potions, Max Potions, Ancient Potion, Nul-berries, whetstones, well-done steaks, herbs, and a couple of traps. For those who are asking how I'm carrying all of this stuff…well I have deep pockets and let's leave it at that.
With everything ready on my person I ran out of my room in a hurry, only for Ankha to stop me in my tracks, "I'm coming with you." She said with concern in her eyes. I can tell she's only wants to tag along to ease her own worries but I cannot allow her to come, it's far too dangerous even with her combat experience.
"Ankha…I'm sorry, but no."
"Excuse me?! Nacho, you know I can fight as well right? I can help you!"
"But you haven't fought what I fought for all these years. For your safety, please stay here with the others…I don't what I'll do if you were to get hurt…or worse." My feline lover's eyes looked like they were breach the floodgates as her angry glare sent a shiver down my spine.
"No! I refuse! I'm not letting you go out there just with a small pali-whatever to cover your back!"
"Hey!" Ferno said in protest.
"Quiet you!" Ankha said with her intense glare still at full force causing the normally brave and fearless Ace Palicoe to shut up completely.
"Ankha, you don't understand. The Gore Magala is a dangerous creature I had my fair share of close calls with those things and I don't want you to be in harm's way."
"I rather be there with you than stay here wondering if there was something I could do!"
This conversation is getting me nowhere, and where is all of this anger coming from? Judging from the way she acts it sounds like she's saying this from experience, but she never told me about her past in full. Ugh…I hate to do this, but I can't waste time anymore. Looking at my lover straight in the eyes I removed my helmet and in a quick motion I brought her mouth into mines as I kissed her deeply in order to calm the raging beast she is before I do the one thing I know she'll hate me for. Breaking the kiss, she looked more relaxed as she tried speaking to me.
"N-Nacho….I'm sorry for shouting it's just…it's just…"
"I'm sorry too…" I said softly in her ear as I brought out a small bomb and exploded on her back; it was a tranquilizer.
"Ah! Ah…what's happening?...Little N…." she said drowsily before passing out in my arms.
I only gave a deep sigh as I picked her up and carried her to my room. I laid her gently on my bed before brushing her hair softly with my hand, "It hurts me to do this to you Ankha…but even if I just left you would have followed me into danger anyway. I know you're a warrior at heart, but the Gore Magala not a good starting point for one without knowledge or experience of fighting such giant monsters. I just pray…that you hold back a bit on the scolding and possible beating when you wake up." With nothing else left to say I walked out of my room and on the way out I picked up my helmet and placed it back on my head.
"Hunter, do you think that was a good idea?"
"She's not ready to face a monster such as this yet. It's for her own good…as much as it going to put me under hot water."
As we're about to leave the Cavaneer stopped us for a moment, "Kindred hunter, you're a lot braver than I if you were willing to do that to somebody you love."
"She's not ready…"
"Ai…" he said putting a hand on my shoulder. "Make sure you come back in piece yah here? I don't want to hear her grieving."
I simply nodded in agreement as I ran out the path laid before Ferno and me, heading straight into danger not knowing what was happening to the monster ahead of us.
…
The Primal Forest…a normally beautiful environment was now starting to be covered in a shroud of darkness. Ferno and I knew that we needed to kill the source creating the darkness, but what unsettled me is that the Gore Magala never stopped roaring. Thankfully that made tracking it down much easier as it sounded like it came from area three of the forest. So wasting no time me and Ferno headed straight to the camp and jumped into a nearby hole in order to reach the area quickly.
A trained experienced hunter I am, but finally meeting up with the creature face to face…let's just say I wasn't prepared for what I saw next. I landed into the watery area only to see a battle between monsters as the Gore Magala; badly injured and beaten was trying to molt as a much larger and fully grown Shagaru Magala was spreading a much darker frenzy virus onto it.
"No way…this is unreal…" I said in horror as the Shagaru Magala was violently forcing the Gore to breath in its scales. As much as I want to help…it was already too late as the Shagaru stopped spreading the poisonous scales and finally notices me. With another beat of its mighty wings it landed before me as I drew my weapons ready, for the upcoming fight. But, to my surprise it didn't even react to my weapons. My eyes managed to scan the beast as I noticed it's scales is much whiter the normal Shagaru and its normally piercing red eyes has turned glowing violet.
"Hunter….we may be out of our league here. A Shagaru and a Gore at the same time? I don't like our chances…"
I didn't respond as I stared into those violet eyes full of seething hatred. It felt familiar, but it couldn't be THAT Shagaru can it? As if to answer my question I swear I saw the elder dragon smile as to my horror it brought one of its claws to its forehead and traced the same scar line I remembered so many years ago.
"No…it can't be…how are you alive!?"
"What's wrong hunter? You know this thing?"
"It's THAT same Shagaru I killed at the Sanctuary. But, how? Its body was processed a long time ago after I killed it." If a dragon could laugh I certainly now know the answer if somebody asked me that question as the Shagaru simulated it with its bellows. To my surprise the elder dragon didn't approach me as a warped roar came from the poor Gore as I turned to look at it and was horrified to see that the Gore failed to molt and is now a horrible cross between its juvenile and adult form; it has become a Chaotic Gore Magala.
I heard one more fit of dragon laughter from the Shagaru next to me as it suddenly took to the air and out of the area leaving Ferno and I to deal with the monster.
"Did that thing just leave us to deal with its dirty work?" Ferno said in shock as the Chaotic Gore suddenly lunged at both of us forcing the two of us to get out of the way as it crashed into the rock wall.
"It's toying with us…by forcing us to fight for its entertainment."
"That's insane! No normal monster exhibits that kind of behavior!"
"Word being normal…" I said I drew my weapons and ready myself for the fight against a poor victim of a greater evil.
*RRRRAAAAAA*
Quickly, I made some distance between me and the creature as I tried to form a plan of attack as I heard the creature give another pain filled roar as I heard it charge at me once more. Turning around I was stunned to see the corrupted dragon already closing the distance between us as its malformed ripclaws crashed into the ground violently with each running step.
"Hunter! Use this!" Ferno shouted as he quickly threw out a trampoline. Seeing the out of place object brought me comfort as I quickly ran towards it and jumped onto it in order to jump over and slash the back of the beast. I managed to get a few good cuts in, but since the beast was going wild the attack didn't even faze the Gore as it short hopped to face me as I landed onto the ground and retaliated by smacking me across the area with one of its winged arms. I force of the attack nearly caused me to empty my lungs, but I resisted the pain and got back on my feet.
"Hunter! You alright?!"
"I'm fine!" I said all the while trying not to cough on air. However, the Gore had other plans and started firing a volley of frenzy fueled fireballs at me. I managed to dodge them, but the radius of the frenzy pools is large enough to catch me as I became infected by the virus. Unlike the usual doses my body became accustomed to this brand of frenzy is much stronger as I can already feel my body tingling from it.
In response to this I popped in a nul-berry and continued fighting as the beast charged at me once more. Thinking fast I decided to slide on the ground, using the thin watery surface to extend my distance a little as the beast tried to stop to slam me, but couldn't stop itself in time as I managed to get underneath it and cause some serious damage to the belly area as I attacked it. But, unfortunately for me…my ride stopped short near its tail as it again smacked me across the area from the pure force behind it all. I rolled and crashed across the water until I hit a stony wall causing me to grunt in pain.
"That's not good…" I heard Ferno mumbled as he took out his blade. "Pull yourself together hunter!" he said as he charged into battle most likely trying to take the heat off of me so I can heal. Well I'm not going to waste that chance. Hurryingly, I took out a mega potion and down its continents and in a short amount of time my body felt invigorated and stronger as the healing properties kicked in.
"Hunter! I need some back up here!" I heard Ferno shout out desperately as I found him pinned in place by the beast's left claw. Acting fast I charged at the beast and jumped off from a nearby ledge in order to do a vertical spin attack that hit home and knocked the beast down. Following up with the assault I jumped onto the back of the beast and began stabbing it as it got back up and flailed wildly. Staying on the wild dragon was a feat in itself as it continued to thrash about trying to throw me off as I tried to continue my own attack. I managed to get a few more good hits in before actually be thrown off and landing hard on my back with the dragon already upon me and raising its winged clawed forelimbs in order to crush me.
However, my saving grace came from Ferno as he threw an explosive barrel at the creature's face causing it to lose balance and fall over. Taking advantage of the situation Ferno and I went to town on the defenseless dragon further damaging its belly as poisoned frenzy infused blood began to spill out. The beast eventually managed to get back on its feet, but it was now gravely wounded and was beginning to slow. I popped in a regular potion and another nul-berry as the beast gave another agony filled cry. The poor thing is suffering and this entire battle is only amplifying the pain.
However, there is nothing else I can do, but give it more pain until it finally expires. Essentially a mercy killing as the poor Gore was already beyond the point of no return. It gave another roar as it charged itself for its next attack. My eyes widen as I've seen this attack before I don't plan on being a part of it when I remembered to point its attack somewhere else entirely. Setting my leg in motion I could feel my stamina running low as labored breaths started to mess with my breathing entirely, but it was worth it as the beast was more focused on me then my partner.
Suddenly, in a sharp stream the Gore released the attack firing a large concentrated beam made of the frenzy as small explosions followed the travel path. "That's new!" I shouted as I'm pretty sure that the attack it just did wasn't a beam originally.
I'm sure Ferno wanted to add a few choice words, but didn't get the chance as the beast lunged at me and forced me to go back on the offensive. I had to dodge to the side as the dragon once again lunged but this time adding a swipe to the mix. But, it crashed into the wall after missing me. After that was done the creature struggled to get back up, but managed to do so despite its injuries. "I shall release you from your suffering…" I said softly as the beast and I charged one last time at each other, but thanks to its slow movements I quickly launched myself upward as the beast did the same. Twisting myself quickly I dodged the attack and then my opening was revealed to me. I plunged my sword into the back of its neck and used gravity and force to pull it down. I felt a spray of blood splash out as both I and the beast fell to the ground. With a small splash I laid on top of the slain beast as it gave out a whining groan.
*Gronnnn…..*
"I'm sorry it has come to this…but death was your only way out."
*Gronnn….*
"Don't worry…I'll avenge you. That monster of monsters is going to pay in blood…"
*Mrrr….*
With a small whimper the beast finally was freed from its suffering and passed away peacefully from this mortal coil. Getting off from the body I carved off all the parts I can carry and put it into my pockets, "With your parts our strength will be one, but for now…" I looked upward to see the Shagaru descending from the sky and landing before me.
"You're going to pay…monster…" I growled as it landed between me and Ferno, its burning eyes never lying off my form. It growled in anticipation as both our stares pushed against each other. I never felt so angry before and if Ankha was caught in the same situation as that Gore then my rage would reach new heights. This thing needed to die and I plan on cutting its ambitions here and now. "Demon mode engaged…" I muttered as I swung my swords a little bit before a flash of red emitted from my body.
The Shagaru looked on with interest its body not reacting to the threatening aura I was giving off. Instead, its claws dug deeply into the ground as it smiled. I had enough of this thing…
"GRAHHH!" I roared as I lunged at the monster in front of me as I let my rage take hold as I slashed and carved into the flesh of the beast. Each of my hits landed as intended as I felt spray upon spray of blood touch my face through the helmet. But during my carnage I swear I thought I could hear someone yelling…someone shouting. But my mind was too focused to care as I continued to make mincemeat out of its scales. I wanted this thing dead badly and right now I was straight up murdering it…or so I thought. With one last strike into the heart I backed away from the creature to see my handy work as the demonic rage faded.
I was at utter shock at what I witnessed…
"W-what?! How?!" I shouted in disbelief as the Shagaru was perfectly fine. Not a single scratch on it. The beast looked at me and reveled in my surprise as it leaned back and showed me something that made me go wide eyed. On its chest is a large ankh symbol and it glowed violet with power as the beast returned to its original position and started laughing. My utter disbelief dropped my guard…a mindless decision that was my greatest mistake. No sooner I stepped back the Shagaru was already upon me as its winged hands took hold of me and slammed me into the ground mercilessly before sending me flying straight into the air and blasting me with a powerful beam of some kind as I felt my armor become looser from the impact.
It was overwhelming…it wasted no time taking advantage of my surprised state in full. And now…I can feel my own life slipping away. After that assault I felt another hard impact then another before hitting the ground hard. I swear by now my entire armor is destroyed as I felt a little lighter than normal until I couldn't feel anything at all. Ankha…Isabelle… my friends…I don't want to leave all of you like this…but I made a mistake…and it may have just ended me.
"hUnt…."
I barely heard a voice in the distance as I saw the blurred form of the creature standing over me. I knew what was coming and braced myself for what came next as it charged up its beam attack and fired. After that…everything went black…