I do not own Legend of Mana. It rightfully belongs to SquareEnix, formally known as Square Soft.
…
Chapter Two: A Farmer and a Tavern Brawl
…
The vender seemed most pleased. This crop was much better than the last. The fruits sweeter and more succulent; the vegetables crisp, fresh and flavorful. The deal was made, and the boy received the agreed upon price, happily stuffing the payment in his coin pouch. Freed of his burden, the youth could now allow himself to peruse the market and walk among the town. It was a fine day, already close to noon, with the sun beaming high in the clear blue skies. The people of town bustling about their business. The image of peace.
The boy himself was a young man into his nineteenth spring, with a gentle, round face framed by golden-blonde curly hair, broad nose, and very kind violet-blue eyes. He was sturdy with a stocky build, only as tall as an average woman, but it paid him no distress. The youth was clad in a long red scarf, wrapping around his torso like a vest, plain, wide, tanned trousers, red gloves, and a characteristic red hat, and a bronze-hued fauld and chest plate shielding his body, revealing his compactly muscular midriff. Strapped securely to his back and wrapped in a sturdy cloth, was a deadly spear made of fine steel.
This boy was Kaleb M'avyare, and he was one of the local farmers of Domina, tending to some of the best home-grown crops, and lived just an hour's walk outside of town.
Kaleb was in a pleasant mood. Not only did the crop turn out well and he received a good profit for it, but the weather was fair, and he was going to enjoy his rare day off. He had been cooped up in his homestead for far too long, and it was nice to go out and enjoy the company of the townsfolk, the activity of the town. With a heavy, relaxed sigh, the boy stretched out his arms behind his head, ambling along.
Kaleb had noticed many things today. There was Miss Jennifer – a kind, middle-aged woman with dark blonde hair and wearing a large pink country dress – fluttering about, gossiping as she did. There was the rather glamorous fortune teller, Miss Meimei and her basket of fruits, leaning casually on her very large, very over-sized basket, fingers gently clutching a slender tobacco pipe. How she could tell someone's fortune using fruit, he'll never know.
The boy's gaze turned elsewhere to the little Sproutling meandering around without a single care in the world. There were plenty of Sproutlings in town; they all seemed to like congregating to Domina. Must be all the peace of the countryside. Or the abundance of green, lush plants. Or even other such simple things. He did hear one Sproutling talk about, on end, of counting stars. Or liking bugs. And dirt. And when moss grows. Typical of the diminutive little creatures.
As he made his way to the town square, he had noted the appearance of Duelle the Onion Warrior, and the strange, magical being known only as Teapo. The pair appeared to be in some sort of argument. Apparently, Teapo had purchased some fake jewelry from a merchant, and was most upset at being swindled.
"Oi! I be payin' a fair price fer these, that I did! Ooooh! When I see that 'ere bloke again, I'll be sure to tan his hide! Ye mark me words now, luv! Ye mark me words!"
Kaleb chuckled sympathetically. Poor Teapo. She was such a nice…living teapot woman, if he could call her that, and she really didn't deserve to be swindled. But as such was the case of magical beings like her, she was rather naive and far too trusting.
"Now, now Teapo. Please calm down! I tell you what, let us go have some tea. You'll feel better."
"Oi, yes. Yes, quite. I do like tea. Yer right. A fair lady such as m'self simply can't think straight without her lunchtime tea. But after that, I will be tanning that no good rabbit's hide!"
"Ah, so it was Niccolo again." Kaleb mused. "How typical. I should speak with him, as time allows."
Kaleb sat down on a nearby bench, stretching out his limbs and lounging quite comfortably. His spear he removed from its place on his back and leaning against the bench, angled idly in his hand. The boy could spend much time here, simply watching. On some days, he watched the clouds and the plants. On some days, he watched the various townspeople, occasionally waving or making some friendly small talk. Some days, he watched travelers and merchants move to and fro from the market, inn and tavern; a parade of different faces and peoples. Some days, he was merely content to lightly doze, his mind wandering in his own thoughts. He fancied himself observant, and as such, liked to watch and make little mental notes of the world around him.
But Kaleb wasn't here to just sit and watch the world go by. Not today. The youth had a rather curious conundrum he intended to solve, and kept a close eye out for anyone who was knowledgeable in magic. His hand went to the pouch at his side, fumbling within the confines of the cloth before he produced a rather large seed. It was a curious thing, something he had found in his orchards and gardens. The seed was large, the size of a child's fist. Its texture, very much like any other seed and yet almost completely smooth and cool to the touch. There was a metallic, pure gold sheen on its surface, with only a tiny sprout of the greenest leaves he had ever seen. A mixture of the organic and the forged, and a radiation of the purest and strongest magical energy he had ever felt. It was enough to disturb him.
The tree spirit of which provided much of his crops, Treant, was equally baffled. Not once had the old tree had ever seen such a thing, in all of the years Kaleb had known him, nor could the old tree recall ever witnessing anything remotely similar.
"I can't seem to do anything with this seed. It must be something special."
"What would you suggest, then?"
"Go to town. Perhaps you may find a traveler there well-versed in magic and herbology."
The youth sighed heavily, slouching over. He momentarily took off his hat and ran a hand through his hair and rubbing his face in thought. If even Treant didn't know, then he was in a bind. On top of the appearance of the strange seed, Treant and the rest of his gardens weren't producing as much crops as they once did. When Kaleb had inquired, all Treant gave was a cryptic reply.
"Mana is fading, young one. This is only a piece of the greater puzzle. What it means, I know not."
And that was when the boy found the seed he was holding in his hand.
"Ah! Kaleb! Hello dearie!" came a voice. In response, the boy sat up straight and took a much less relaxed, sprawled posture. He smiled and nodded as Miss Jennifer walked over, and allowing for her to sit down comfortably.
"Hello Miss Jennifer. How are you today?"
"Oh, I am just fine, my dear boy! And how about you? It's rather unusual to see you out and about in town today! It's not your usual market or errand day."
"Indeed. Well, I've had some crops ready, and it was best to take them to town rather than wait. Not as much as I would like, however."
"Oh?" Jennifer inquired. "How so?"
"A little bit of trouble growing this season." Kaleb replied, stuffing the seed back into his pouch. "I've asked Treant what the matter was, but I only received more questions than answers."
"Perhaps it had to do with that seed you were holding? It was rather large."
"Maybe, but I cannot be certain. I was hoping to watch for a mage or a scholar of some sort, or anyone with sufficient study into magical theory for consult."
The boy flashed a reassuring smile.
"Not to worry, Miss Jennifer. I have it all sorted out soon enough."
"Oh, I have no doubt in that! You're a smart lad, and a sweet one to boot, too! It's a small wonder why girls just don't follow you around!"
"I've never made the effort to talk to them. The fault in that regard is purely my own."
"Oh, surely you must you have some secret admirers. Oh, I know! You should go visit Rachel while you're here! I'm sure my girl would enjoy the company during her break!"
Kaleb chuckled politely, blushing faintly as he did. Ever since Rachel was old enough, Miss Jennifer had been trying to find a proper suitor for her daughter. Apparently, it was his turn. But in truth, he never was good at talking to girls – especially pretty ones. His tongue simply tied itself into knots, his mind would go blank, and all he ended up doing was standing around blankly, before muttering some excuse and hurrying off.
"Or how about Miss Anli? That girl really needs to settle down! All of her babbling about smithing and engineering and her experiments… Those will only chase a man off!"
"Now Miss Jennifer… Curiosity and enthusiasm are the hallmarks of an intelligent, if easily bored mind. I don't think what Miss Anli needs is to settle down. I think she may, in fact, be in need of the opposite. Adventure."
"Hmm, perhaps. Still, the girl is rather… eccentric. Oh, she's sweet and friendly enough, but she's always in that smithy of hers. No one in the way of close friends. And ever since Brighid died, no family either! Unless you count that odd little talking cactus of hers! Oh, more's the pity! No wonder! Talking to cacti and Sproutlings all of the time! The poor dear's mind must be addled with loneliness!"
Kaleb could only shake his head. After a moment, his gaze fell to the young woman, accompanied by a tall and handsome, if stern, long-haired man. The boy took a moment to observe the pair. With Anli, it was quite clear that the girl was most taken with the long-haired man, with the way she carried herself. All smiles, twinkling eyes and oh-so-subtle and sensuous sways of her hips. The stranger, clearly a knight of some noble standing, had to have been an Imperial, or at least have some Imperial lineage. The man towered above most men, and his expression alone could intimidate even the most hardened mercenary. But there was no irritation from him towards Anli. Indeed, it appeared that the stranger was charmed by her attention. A subtle thing, but the gleam in his eyes and his softening expression told otherwise.
He then noticed that a gaggle of giggling, gossiping young girls took an immediate notice. The group pointed, sighed and swooned. Sure enough, some of those girls would end up following the long-haired knight around like lost puppies. Kaleb roused himself enough to speak.
"Oh, and here she is now. And she has a friend."
"Another traveler she's personally escorted to town? With all of her rambling, she'll end up chasing them off. Hmm? Oh my, well he's a handsome one! That stern gaze, that physique. I don't believe I've seen a lovelier specimen! Well, save for my husband. No one can compare to my darling Mark! Perhaps he might be inclined to humor my request in speaking with my Rachel?"
"I doubt it. A man like that is a man on mission."
"Well, as long as his mission takes him to the tavern this afternoon. I, for one, wouldn't mind seeing him around more often. He certainly has attention from the local girls already!"
"As well as Anli herself."
"Oh fie, like a man like that would pay much attention to a blacksmith who chatters too much. She's a sweet girl, but honestly, what sort of man would take an interest in such a scrappy little thing like her?"
"Right, and a man of such caliber would take notice of a shy mouse in a country inn." Kaleb thought dryly to himself. He didn't speak such a thing aloud, lest he incur the wrath of the woman beside him. Granted, Rachel was a very pretty girl; very shy and demure, and shrewdly intelligent. But Anli had a bubbling spark to her, full of energy and curiosity and drive. If it ultimately came down to it, Kaleb would honestly say that Anli was the cutest girl his age in Domina because of her so-called "eccentricities".
Kaleb listened patiently as Jennifer gossiped on and watched as the long-haired knight left to explore the town at his leisure. The boy watched as Anli stood in thought, before she turned her gaze and attention to the notice board. A curious thing, although not uncommon. Perhaps she was in need of some work around town. The boy watched quietly as she read through the notices and fliers, checking for any leads, a thoughtful pout on her lips. He watched as her hand fell to the antique sword – perhaps another project of hers – hanging off her right side. He then noticed the small round buckler strapped to her arm, and the second sword off her left side. Heavily armed, for once. Either she wanted to impress her most recent companion by appearing the warrior, although he really shouldn't presume. No matter the reason, it kindled his curiosity.
"Well, I'll have to be going now. So much to do, too little time to do it." Came the lilting sound of Jennifer's voice. Kaleb turned back to her, nodding kindly in response.
"As will I, soon enough. Good day to you, Miss Jennifer."
"And good day to you, Kaleb! Oh, and she is right there. Go ahead and speak with her instead of gazing upon her like some little lost puppy!"
Kaleb chuckled softly as the fluttery woman meandered off and shook his head. The boy never did have any luck with girls, especially the pretty ones.
…
It took a few minutes for Kaleb to consider the risks and the rewards.
It took just as long for him to gather his courage.
It took him longer still to decide that maybe it wouldn't hurt to at least try to talk to the local cutie standing just a few feet away, looming over the notice board with an air of frustration.
With a grunt, Kaleb stood, carefully strapping the spear back into its proper place. For a moment, he stood, stretching out lazy muscles glancing over his shoulder to Anli, trying to get her attention with a short glance. It didn't work. So instead, he fidgeted. Flirting was difficult.
Eventually, Anli stepped back, hands on her hips and she groaned in frustration. That was his cue.
"What is the matter?" he inquired softly. For moment, he thought Anli didn't hear him, until the girl looked up and met his curious gaze.
"What? Oh, just…frustrated. I came to town to see if I can find any work off the notice board, but no luck. There's nothing."
"Perhaps some of the merchants in the market may have some chores for you, in exchange for some coin?"
"Maybe. I was about to check the tavern next, but the market is a good bet too. I'll check by Mark and Jennifer's shop as well. Thanks for the suggestion."
Kaleb nodded in response, a soft smile crossing his lips. The boy then noticed the faint bruises on her shoulders, the small scratches on her forehead. Minor injuries, but still…
"What happened? You look hurt."
"Oh, do I still have bruises? Argh, must be some minor things Escad didn't think would be too much of an issue. Well…" now alerted, Anli checked herself over, noting the bruises and scraps. "Ah, don't worry about those. They'll heal in another day or two. Oh! I almost forgot!"
The girl leaned closer; he blushed faintly realizing their close proximity.
"Am I missing any eyebrows?"
"Uh… No. You look fine."
"Oh good! That's would've been awkward if I came to town and nobody said anything because they're too polite to point it out! The last time I mishandled bottled dragon's flame, I singed off my eyebrows! Took them weeks to grow back! I looked ridiculous! Mind you, this was a few years ago. But still!"
"Uh…" Kaleb's voice was a low buzz, eyes blinking.
"Right, anyway… Can I help you?"
"What? Oh, no. I was just, you know, making conversation. I've realized that I've seen you around many times, but I never really got to speaking with you."
"Huh." Anli rubbed her chin in thought. "You know, you're right. I've seen you around loads of times before, but I've never really talked to you either. You're Kaleb, right?"
"Yes, indeed I am." Kaleb extended his hand. Anli took it with a firm grip. "I am a farmer, no more, no less. And you're Anli the blacksmith, yes?"
"Indeed I am, indeed I am. Well, I would be a blacksmith if I hadn't blown up my own damned smithy."
"Wait…" Kaleb blinked. "You blew up your smithy?"
The girl nodded and crossed her arms. She appeared most ashamed of this fact, judging by the reddening blush on her cheeks.
"Yes I did. I was cleaning and organizing my smithy. Got intrigued by a new project." She pointed to the antique sword safely in its sheath. "Got distracted, and before you know it, I bumped a bottled of dragon's flame. Didn't have the time to throw it out, so part of the roof collapsed in on me, and I was out cold. Lucky for me, Escad has good timing."
"Escad?"
"Aye, Escad. The long-haired man I was with earlier. He's a Holy Knight from Gato, and he was lost. He found me and patched me up. In exchange, I escorted him here."
"So I see." The boy replied thoughtfully. "If I see him, I shall thank him. It would be a shame if our local blacksmith was injured."
"Ha, right. Most folks couldn't care less. Like Miss Jennifer. She can't keep her damn mouth shut if her life depended on it." A trace of bitterness and hurt. Kaleb blushed with shame. "Although, he was nice enough to not be offended by my, er, ramblings."
There was more fidgeting, more shuffling. Anli shifted her weight from one foot to the other, while Kaleb absentmindedly rubbed his nose. Having run out of one topic of conversation, both youths puzzled over a new one. Somehow subconsciously, both started fidgeting with their respective tokens – Anli's hand on the hilt of the antique sword, and Kaleb's in his pouch, hovering over the surface of the peculiar seed he found. Both items filled to the brim with an ancient and immense power, and neither one of them were certain of what was to come.
Loud feminine shouting came from across the way, and several people were staring at the unfolding scene. Kaleb looked to Anli, who could only shrug.
"OI! NOW DON'T YE DARE COME BACK 'ROUND 'ERE YE HEAR ME?! BLOKES LIKE YERSELF OUGHT TO BE ASHAMED HARASSING FINE LADIES LIKE MESELF!"
"How dare you stop me from getting what I need! Just tell me what I need to know!"
"THE ONLY THING YER GETTIN' IS AN ARSE-WHOOPIN BOY! NOW GET OUT! OUT! OUT!"
"I AM OUT! NOW HELP ME OR GET OUT OF MY WAY!"
A tall and lanky, handsome young man was fighting and arguing with Teapo and Duelle. He was around Kaleb's age – perhaps nineteen or twenty – with tanned olive-hued skin, dark green-blue hair and piercing indigo eyes. His manner was dress was more akin to the wandering desert tribes than any simple traveler: a rich blue sleeveless tunic lined with gold trimming, a tanned sash and leather cords and belts, blue and brown trousers and a flowing green hooded cloak, with a decorative medallion on his head. But most striking of all, was the pale blue and white crystalline right arm, and the curved shamshir at his side.
While Anli appeared ready to jump into the fray, Kaleb took another moment to observe the young man. While the stranger carried himself with the air of a confident swordsman, there was an explicit fear gleaming in his eyes, and the aura of desperation. This man likely would not be causing any trouble if he had no reason to. Indeed, perhaps the youth was looking for something, and was becoming more and more hysterical as options began to run out. More than anger and frustration, the young man was afraid. But of what?
Before anything else happened, the man in the green cloak turned and stormed towards the tavern, before Duelle had to the nerve to call out.
"Hey… HEY! I said give us your name!"
The youth paused, momentarily appearing much calmer, before turning and grumbling out his reply.
"…Elazul."
With that, Elazul went into the tavern. That was when Kaleb saw something very unique and telling about Elazul, a feature that no one else seemed to notice.
Embedded right in the middle of his chest, was a lapis lazuli stone. It shimmered with an organic light, faintly pulsing and clouding over with the taint of anxiety. This man was a Jumi Knight.
Once more, there was the sound of arguing and yelling coming from within the tavern. When Kaleb turned to face Anli, the boy saw that she was already storming her way after the stranger.
"Anli! Miss Anli! Wait! You don't know of whom you're dealing with!"
The boy barged right on past Duelle, who grumbled and shook his head, muttering curses under his breath and trying to hold back his own temper.
…
The scene inside the tavern was a distressing one. Normally a very lively place, with a cozy and welcoming interior of finely crafted rustic wooden walls and floors, chairs and tables, and happy patrons enjoying hearty meals and drinks, the focus was on Elazul as he stormed about shouting at patrons with the fervor and ferocity of a cornered predator. There were no warriors or mages of an equal caliber to stand against him: just a collection of shocked peddlers. Things only became more distressing when Elazul turned his attention to the shy barmaid, Rachel. The petite ebony-haired teenage girl with the soft dress and the translucent wings cowered at the sight of the warrior towering over her.
"You! Tell me where she is!"
There was no answer. Anli had entered the tavern, taking only a moment to observe. Kaleb soon joined her side, watching with a mute horror. An intense rage bubbled and coiled inside of Anli. Rachel was a sweet girl, and it was an insult to see her treated so shamefully.
"Speak up! Where is she?!"
"Ugh, this is bad. We need to– Anli? Anli!"
Enough was enough. Without a care or second thought to the safety of her own person, Anli marched right up to Elazul, yanking him roughly by the cloak and wheeling him around.
"HEY! You leave her alone, Blue Boy!" her tone was far angrier than she had realized, high in its pitch, and trembling slightly. But not from fear. Even though Elazul was easily a head taller than she was, angry indigo eyes piercing into her own, the blacksmith had seen much worse. On a better day, she might've found him attractive. But now, she was angry, and only wanted to tan his hide and hand it back to him on a silver platter.
"SILENCE!" came his bellowing reply. Kaleb instinctively moved closer, gently ushering Rachel away. "And you!" the Jumi wheeled around, facing Kaleb and jabbing a finger at the boy's chest. The gentle soul startled. "Do not interrupt!"
Elazul forcefully shoved Kaleb away from Rachel and continued his tirade.
"I told you to speak up, girl! Now tell me where she is!"
Rachel only cried and hid her face in her hands.
"Don't make me angry…"
Once again, Anli yanked him away, causing the taller man to nearly tumble back as she did. He whirled around.
"Get away from me! This doesn't concern you so leave us be!"
Something within Anli snapped, and the only answer she had for him as pure, righteous anger.
"NO! Now get the fuck out of this tavern and leave this girl alone before I hand your sorry ass back to you on a silver platter!"
There was a moment of silence. Kaleb moved once more to usher Rachel away to relative safety. Anli spent that moment staring down the Jumi, who in turn breathed slowly and heavily. Elazul then learned forward, his voice a low snarl.
"I would like to see you try."
There was a motion, and an unearthly cry as Anli swiftly kneed him in the crotch. Stunned, Elazul nearly buckled to the ground, stumbling back and grasping hands fumbling to catch onto a chair. Instead, he made an undignified roll backward, but then recovered as he righted himself on his feet, glaring at her from underneath his hood.
It was immediately apparent that Anli was good brawler, socking him in the gut, kicking at his shins and an another hand grappling his shoulder. She landed several slaps and punches about his face, neck and torso, and threw in another kick to the groin for good measure. Adrenaline kicked in. While she was easily half his weight, Anli used her small size and her agility to bob and weave around him, grappling and punching, and using the Jumi's force against him. One hand grappling his shoulder, tangling limbs together, the other slapping his neck, an open-palmed strike stunning him.
It was also immediately clear that Elazul was the much more experienced fighter, and the brawl would soon turn to his advantage as he used his height and his lean strength against her. Not to be outdone, the Jumi used his crystal arm to grasp her waist, a foot encircling around her ankle and another hand grabbing a fistful full of hair. In response, Anli braced a knee against his torso, and an arm against his throat, and the two wrestled each other to the ground. She cried out, however, as he punched her the eye, enough to send her reeling. In response, she kneed him in the torso. Elazul had her pinned to the floor.
But as soon as the Jumi had gained the upper hand, he had lost it when Escad, previously unnoticed and drawn by the cacophony, was upon him. Elazul was heaved off of the small woman, limbs and hands disentangling and Anli tucking herself into a ball before sitting up. As she checked her new bruises and running a hand through her hair, the two men grappled with each other. Escad clearly held the advantage, swift blocks and even swifter counters deftly casting aside Elazul's punches. While Elazul had the gains of years of fighting for survival, Escad had the benefit of lightning-fast reflexes and superior training, as well as a solidly-built muscular frame and several more inches' height. The Holy Knight then shoved the Jumi several feet right into the wall of the tavern, prompting several echoing cheers from patrons. Stunned, Elazul turned, spitting to the ground and wiping a split lip. He lunged with an infuriated cry.
Escad cocked a fist back and punched the Jumi Knight square in the face.
Elazul crumpled to the floor.
Anli, dazed, stumbled to her feet, only to be caught by the Holy Knight with a single, solid arm.
"Thanks."
"You owe me."
After a moment, Elazul groaned loudly, stumbling up off the floor and rubbing his head, sporting a black eye. Judging from the glare, he wasn't done. With another cry, he lunged forward, and Escad moved in front of Anli. Kaleb got to him first, holding the leaner man in place with his solid, compact strength.
"That's enough!" when Elazul resisted, the boy pushed back harder, arms and legs locking into place. "I said, ENOUGH!"
The Jumi breathed heavily, glaring ineffectually at the pair before him. Escad, tense and body made rigid, coiled into a stance and ready to strike again. Anli right behind him, just as tense, fists clenching. Nearby, some patrons leaned in, listening and watching intently. Rachel herself had partially ducked behind a table, and was just now getting out of hiding. The owner – a stern-faced middle-aged woman – decided to go and comfort the girl.
Elazul closed his eyes and sighed. When Kaleb was satisfied that there would be no more brawling, the Jumi was let go, and he slumped in a nearby chair. The image of defeat. He buried his face in his hands and groaned warily.
"I've… I've wasted my time." No anger, no fury or frustration. Just a tired acceptance, and the bitter edge of fear.
"Good." the tavern owner finally said, once Rachel had been sufficiently consoled. "Now get out. And If I see you back 'round here, I'll be the one tanning your hide. And trust me, you're lucky they got to you before I did. No one messes with my girls and lives."
Elazul didn't argue. He stood and stumbled out burning in shame. Anli couldn't help but let out a final retort.
"And don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out!"
Concerned, Kaleb paused momentarily before following after the defeated youth, paying little attention to Anli and Escad looking on.
…
Domina's church was a modest, quaint building. Just a simple country chapel, dedicated to the worship and prayer of the Goddess. A cozy place, with sunlight streaming in through the windows, colorful, fragrant flowers lending to the air of peace, and a small statue at the altar. The kindly Reverend Nouvelle watched the bruised young man slumped in the back carefully. The younger man met his gaze, only momentarily, then looked away in shame.
Elazul sighed, hands cupping his face. Having made a fool of himself, the young Jumi Knight was left without any other option, save for apologies. Beyond that, he had no leads and little hope.
Pearl.
He had to find her. She had to be alive. She had to be safe. Damn it all. He felt like a failure, and that within itself was cause for distress and pain. Pearl, I'm so sorry. Try as he might, he was losing hope, and all he could do was pray to the Goddess, the Spirits, or whatever was benevolent enough to listen for help.
"Ah, there you are. I was looking for you, Sir Jumi Knight. I had trouble catching up with you."
Within an instant, Elazul was on his feet, wheeling around so fast he nearly made himself dizzy, a hand falling to the sword at his side ready to fight to the death if needed. They know I'm a Jumi. If have no choice…
Kaleb raised his hands, as if to pacify him.
"My apologies. I did not mean to startle you so. I only wished to talk."
"Talk?" Elazul did not move, still poised to leap to his defense, or flee for the nearest exist as fast as he could. The blonde boy nodded, with a soft smile crossing his face.
"Yes. Talk."
Still with a calm smile, Kaleb sat down on one of the benches, almost casually. For additional assurance, the spear he carried had been left by the door. Elazul still stood, fidgeting and fingers brushing against the hilt of his sword. For a while, the two men stared at each other in silence. Kaleb quietly sitting on the bench, the very picture of calm and exuding a soothing essence, while Elazul remained as rigid as a cat on the hunt, ready to pounce or bolt from perceived danger.
"How?" the question finally came, hollow and quiet. Kaleb almost didn't hear it.
"Hmm?"
"How did you know that I was a Jumi? And a Jumi Knight, at that?"
"Oh," Kaleb leaned back, stretching out his hands. "I simply noticed your core. It's what I do. I notice things others usually don't."
Elazul's hand sheepishly brushed against the Lapis Lazuli stone embedded in his chest, before he jolted it away. A Jumi's Core was their life-essence. If the Core was removed, a Jumi would die. And since all Jumi Cores were precious or semi-precious stones, metals and alloys… It made them a target, and they were nearly hunted into genocide. A dying race, a dying people, and a dying culture with no hope for the future, and no home. Elazul pinched the bridge of his nose, trying to dispel the thought of the grim truth.
"There is no need to be afraid. I am not going to allow any harm come to you. Nor do you any reason to be afraid in this town. The people are simple folk; they are not inclined to harm a Jumi. And most travelers that come through here are much more concerned with their own business."
"I wish I could believe that."
"It is the truth. At least, here."
"Nowhere is safe. And there isn't anyone I can trust."
"Perhaps that is true. Such wariness and cynicism often serves well for survival. But it doesn't have to be the reality of your life."
Elazul gave a barking laugh.
"And what? Trust a complete stranger of whom I was brawling with not too long ago? Look at me. I can't befriend anyone now, especially since I was just in a bar fight with a girl half my size and her angry boyfriend."
"That is true, if you wish to look at it as such. However, you won't be able to make amends if you don't apologize."
"What?! Honestly? Just walk up to them and say 'I'm sorry'? Are you joking?"
"I am perfectly serious, Sir Knight. The mark of character is when we own up to our mistakes and take responsibility for our actions, instead of wallowing in shame and being afraid of another person's judgment."
A wary sigh. Elazul sat, slumped down on the bench facing opposite to Kaleb.
"I wasn't afraid for my safety. I'm more than capable of handling myself. I've lived and survived on my own for at least sixty years."
"You're afraid for someone else."
"Correct."
A pause.
"If I may, shall we return to the tavern and the town square? I believe you have a few apologies to make. If it will comfort you, I can serve as an escort."
"Really? What, you want to hold my hand or something to that effect as I go around making nice?"
"Well, no hand-holding, but I can help put the people's doubts to rest, and assure them that you are sincere. And, perhaps, we may even be able to help you."
Elazul hesitated, biting his lip and considering the offer. After another moment's worth of fidgeting, he stood, striding towards the door, puffing himself back up in a show of pride.
"Alright. Come on. It was your idea."
"Aye," Kaleb chuckled, collecting his spear at the door. "But you were the on who was at fault."
"Heh." Elazul paused. "I am called, Elazul. I am Jumi of Lapis Lazuli."
" Ah! My name is Kaleb, by the way. Kaleb M'avyare. It is a pleasure to meet you."
"Mm-hmm."
…
Anli felt the cooling sensation of the healing spell radiating through her body. Her aches and pains mercifully faded as she sat in a nearby chair, and the Holy Knight did another brief examination. His main concern was her eye, blackened and bruised, and the girl gingerly nursed it with a free hand. Rachel hovered nearby as well, glancing over her as the bruises and scrapes faded with the Holy Knight's magic.
"I was not aware you were a healer as well as a warrior, sir."
"A Knight, actually. And as I've told Miss Anli earlier, such spells are useful."
Escad gave her a questioning glance, and the girl nodded, moving her hand away from her injured eye. Gently, he prodded before making an approving nod.
"It's just a black eye. Can you see?"
"I can. It's just sore."
"Good. I'll see what I can do."
One callused hand cupped her cheek, and another hovered above her blackened eye, a soothing healing spell banishing away the hurt and subsequent injury. Escad checked her again, and then nodded, pleased and relieved. The girl was fully healed, with not even a faint scratch remaining.
"I thought you said you didn't make a habit of rescuing damsels." Anli couldn't help herself but tease as he was done. There was a soft giggle from Rachel. The corners of Escad's mouth barely twitched.
"I still don't." he deadpanned.
Anli stood, dusting herself off whereas Escad nearly jolted at the sudden, feather-light poking of his arm.
"Uh… Um…" came the soft voice of Rachel, blushing as she averted her gaze. "T-thank you. Both. So much."
A curt, stoic nod from Escad came as the reply. Anli was thoroughly amused: it seemed that Escad had gained yet another admirer. She couldn't blame the shy girl.
"Anli?" a large hand clapped on her shoulder. "No more picking fights. Agreed?"
Anli smiled again, much softer and more open.
"Well, I won't make any promises… But I can try."
"Good enough."
The girl sighed, rolling her shoulders and stretching out any remaining kinks and aches.
"Ugh, first blowing up my smithy, then getting into a fight with some dumbass Jumi and having my own skinny ass handed to me both times… What next, rogue mages? Rescuing damsels? This day keeps getting better and better."
The Holy Knight shrugged.
"Honestly, it could be much worse." He paused, realization dawning on him. "Wait, did you say Jumi?"
"Yes I did. It was something I noticed literally at the last minute, just before he left. It was right after he gave up the fight. That was when I saw his core."
"Why didn't you see it before?"
"I was too pissed off at the time. More focused on trying to wring his neck than starting up a lovely discussion about Jumi physiology."
"So I've noticed." Escad deadpanned.
"Then you can go ahead and ask me all of the stupid question you'd like." Came a voice. Much to the displeasure of many patrons, as well as Anli, Escad and the timid Rachel, Elazul had returned to the tavern. By his side, giving a reassuring nod, was Kaleb.
"Alright then, I'll take you up on that. Let's see, let's see… Oh! I know! Why you are back here?! Didn't you already get your ass handed back to you?"
"I'm here," Elazul stressed, eyes narrowing, and arms crossed. "To apologize."
"Oh I see. Wait, what?"
"Please, Miss Anli, we don't need any more tavern brawls. I would ask that you trust him, if only for a moment. A little bit of faith can go a long way." Kaleb raised a warding hand.
Ignoring the increasingly ill-tempered blacksmith, Elazul turned to Rachel, of whom shrank back behind Escad's arm.
"I am sorry, miss, for the trouble I have caused you. I was in a great deal of distress myself, however that was no excuse for my behavior earlier. I will try not to cause any further harm."
The only response from Rachel was a curt nod, still wary, and went back to work. The patrons soon became bored.
"I have made my rounds to the others I have harassed. That one woman though… Rather boisterous."
"Teapo? Yes, she is. But she seemed pleased. I would say the matter has been resolved." Kaleb nodded. Anli glanced to Escad, of whom only shrugged. Elazul sighed.
"I suppose I owe an explanation."
"Indeed you do, Blue Boy."
Elazul glowered at that, before continuing.
"As you may already know, my name is Elazul. I am…" he paused, choosing his next words carefully. "I am a Jumi, a Knight to be more specific."
"We know." Escad curtly stated. "Anli was the one who pointed that out to me."
"Then I suppose I should take better care to conceal myself. Moving on to the point, a friend is missing."
Elazul breathed heavily, eyes down cast with worry.
"Pearl. She's… She's my Guardian, and we were separated. I've been looking for her ever since, and I… I'm afraid."
The youth looked the image of the lost and newly humbled man he was.
"She's precious to me. We're close. I–I am worried."
There was a pregnant pause. Escad didn't appear to be convinced.
"And, if Pearl were to be recovered, how we will know that you're not the real enemy here? I hail from Gato. My home is the Temple of Healing. I have seen many women and children enter its halls with haunted faces, desperate to escape men exactly such as yourself. Your ilk make a convincing sob-story, and than once you find the one who got away, the violence only escalates."
"You mean to accuse me of hurting Pearl?! Never! I would never think of hurting her!"
"I would better believe you if you hadn't bullied a young woman, and assaulted another. How am I to believe that you yourself are as honorable as you claim?"
Even Kaleb seemed hesitant. Anli seemed poised to strike out at Elazul again.
"Look, I… No, you're right. You don't know. My actions earlier were inexcusable, and I acted rashly, in with a clouded mind and out of fear. Pearl would be ashamed of me, if she were here. I just…"
"You lost control." Anli said, as she placed a hand on her hip, edging near her lucky sword.
"Yes."
"And now you're going to have to work to gain other people's trust again, and to prove you aren't a danger to Pearl, or to anyone else." Anli's voice seemed bolder now, but more empathetic than the cautious gaze of Kaleb, or the intimidating and disapproving glaring of Escad.
"Yes, exactly."
"Apologies are nice, but if you want people to trust you, you'd best put some action into those words."
"I will. I swear to you by my title as a Jumi Knight, I will."
"Rather quick to make oaths and promises, aren't we?" Anli drawled.
"It's the only thing I can offer."
All three of the men's eyes were on Anli, as she seemed to consider the next course of action. Somehow, the final decision fell to her. In a way, Escad was right. They had no way to prove that Elazul genuinely meant to find, rescue and protect Pearl, and was truly remorseful for his earlier outburst. On the other hand, perhaps Kaleb was right to have some sort of good faith in the Jumi Knight, as the youth had already made the effort to personally apologize to the people he harassed.
As for Anli, she wanted to believe that people were inherently good. But her experience as a blacksmith, with less than savory customers who tried to take advantage of her, taught her otherwise.
Then again, Escad could've been just as unsavory, yet he proved to be nothing but trustworthy thus far. As did Kaleb. And from Elazul, she didn't sense any malice or evil from him. Just desperation, and the need to be heard, to be believed at his word.
The most loyal of your friends will be the ones you will aid without question, and they in turn will reward you in kind. It was a lesson her Aunt Brighid taught a long time ago.
Anli pinched her nose.
"Right then, what does your friend look like? Pearl, I mean."
There was a visible wash of relief crossing Elazul's face, and he smiled in gratitude.
"She has long, light-brown hair, and wears a white dress. She's a Jumi, like myself, and has a core of white pearl. She's very quiet and shy, but once you get to know her, she's… She's incredible." There was a ghost of the purest, most raw affection as he spoke of Pearl, genuine and true. The gleam in his eyes was a lover's spark, nothing like the platonic bond of deep friends or siblings, and the way he spoke told of a deeper bond, a feeling of mutual trust.
"I'm sure she is. When was the last you saw of her?"
"Near the Mekiv Caverns, outside of town, to the northwest. If we hurry, we can find her and be back by sun-down."
"Then we'd best get going, Blue Boy."
Kaleb shifted the spear on his back. Escad lowered his guard, but kept a watchful eye on Elazul, not quite trusting of the Jumi.
"Wait, together with me? You'd help find Pearl?
"We're not going to find her standing around talking about it." Anli retorted in an as-a-matter-of-fact tone.
"Having an extra pair of eyes and ears will make the task much easier. I'll go too." Kaleb volunteered. Escad said nothing, before edging towards Anli and giving the Jumi Knight a distrusting glance.
"I… I would be grateful. Thank you."
The four of them left the tavern. But before anyone else could speak, loud girlish shouting cut through the air. A Pelican girl came barreling through the main square, charging past Kaleb and nearly toppling over Anli as she dashed into the tavern.
"P-pumpkins! Pumpkins have taken over the outskirts of Domina!"
As soon as the words were uttered, a large group of enormous, plump and very hardy pumpkins, each with cackling, carved jack-o-lantern faces, came slithering through the town square on bright green vines, lashing out and lunging at anyone unfortunate enough to come too close.
Escad scoffed and rolled his eyes.
"Great. Attack pumpkins. Joy."
…
End Chapter
Y'all have no idea just how cathartic it was to write the scene with Escad punching Elazul in the face. :D
