Chapter 4: To Recruit, or not Recruit
Hm~...a viable reason for the monster gang to be in their Netherworld pertaining to a big plot? Don't worry I have it all set out, and planned!
Elfie: "No he doesn't, he has no clue."
Damn it Elfie! Okay I'll think of something, but for now let's get the cast together first. Enjoy!
Battle Start! Milky's cardboard house front yard
"Firefly! Assume the position...the battle position I mean, not the fetal one you're doing now" Walker urged.
"F-f-f-fighting! I-I-I just left my h-h-house!" Firefly stammered.
"This is just one of my many steps in my step program I have prepared for you" Elfie assured.
"How much is many?" Milky asked.
"How many zeros are there in an Nonillion?" Elfie suddenly asked.
"What she needs is to feel confident in herself again! I bet if she leveled up she'll come around" Berry Melon exclaimed.
"I could have said that better myself" Elfie concurred.
"I had already planned for that from the beginning you know besides...Milky don't you have something to fight with?" Walker asked.
"Yup, I snatched this a while back, but never had a use for it" Milky explained as she equipped a Defense Gun from what seemed to be out of nowhere.
"That looks like a replica of a real gun, but better than mine...suppose we trade?" Walker asked.
"We're not allowed to trade weapons during a battle...right?" Elfie figured.
"Today losers!" Jackinson called out.
"Ever heard of strategy cowpoke!" Walker retaliated.
"Cow-what?" Jackinson muttered.
"Okay here's the plan, that Marionette has the least amount of health so obviously he's the perfect target for an ambush attack. Milky, myself, and Firefly will attack it at once, but the most important part, and this is crucial is for Firefly to have the killing blow. If the plan works she'll level up three, or more fold, and Elfie I want you to heal her at that moment while Berry Melon you just chill in the meantime, I don't want you getting too close to them just yet." Walker explained.
"I wanted to kill him...but maybe it's for the best" Milky said.
"I can't! I can't! I just g-got out-" Firefly cried out.
"-Of prison!" Berry Melon badly joked.
"-Of pri-darn it you beat me to it" Elfie pouted.
"...Yes you can Firefly I've seen your special list, and that Blade Rush of yours will just barely reach him considering how far you can move. Now let's get this debacle into motion!" Walker exclaimed
Walker moved forward, and sideways to a square four squares away from Patches while Milky moved one square behind Walker, and five squares away from Patches. Firefly reluctantly moved two square ahead of Walker with her sword dragging the through the dirt, and was two squares away from Patches. They set the attack pattern with Milky attacking first, followed by Walker with both using normal attacks, and Milky attack last with Blade Rush. Elfie moved to the square next to Walker's left hand side with Berry Melon moving to the square next to Elfie's left hand side. Though her fire spell could not reach it would still take the enemies at least two turns to reach her.
"Execute!" Walker ordered.
Milky shot first doing quarter damage despite her superior gun, Walker shot next, and did a little better thanks to the combo reducing Patches health to just less than half.
"B-B-Blade R-Rush!" Firefly stammered un-heroically
She position her sword to thrust, and in a blink of an eye she propelled herself forward stopping just in front of Patches, and back-flipping to her previous square.
Her attack was critical, and with the added combo, it was more than enough to take Patches out.
"D-didn't see that one coming...literally-hehehe-*dead*" Patches gasped before turning into an orb of life, and vanishing without a trace.
"I...I d-did it...I did it!" Firefly squealed while looking at her new level four status
"Um...we did it, and don't celebrate just yet, we're not done with our turn. Elfie go heal Firefly of her new health, Berry Melon since you're not doing anything go switch to defend, and execute!" Walker ordered
"Heal!" Elfie cried out with little enthusiasm preferring rather to spit at people for her own secret reasons.
Elfie performed heal, a small circle formed underneath her, and Firefly was surrounded by two spiraling orbs of light with shining tails, Her body was encased in tiny stars, and glitter, which ended with her health becoming full again. Berry Melon did nothing, but a yellow box with a D in it suddenly popped out from nowhere on top of her signaling everyone that she was in a defensive mode.
"...That about does it then, I end our turn!" Walker cried out
"Duh~ boss, what do we do...Patches..." Howlwitzer dumbly moaned
"Sucks to be Patches...oh well, two can play it that game, Howlwitzer my good man move all your four squares straight, until you're one square away from the mage." Jackinson ordered
"Oh I get boss! You want me there, and then you will move ahead of me, and, and we'll do that thing we do when we attack twice, guhaha~" Howlwitzer groaned
"No moron, they'll just heal the brat, we're just gonna play it nice, and slow~" Jackinson muttered
"Duh~ right boss" Howlwitzer stupidly agreed.
Howlwitzer did indeed move four squares with Berry Melon diagonally to his left hand side, and went into Defend. Jackinson moved four squares stopping to Howlwitzer's right hand side, and also went into Defend.
"*Inhale*-what's up?-*exhale*" Jackinson asked Walker as he smoked his cigar...thing, and blew smoke in front of Walker for no reason.
"Aren't you basically a straw scarecrow with a pumpkin head? Aren't you afraid of catching yourself on fire?" Walker asked
"I end my turn...dipstick" Jackinson called out
"W-Walker~ I can smell them again~" Berry Melon whined
"I hear ya, go back a couple spaces, but only towards a place where you can still hit that Zombie with fire, Milky you'll attack it next, hit it with a Tri-Burst from as far as you can. Elfie, Firefly, and I will handle the talking rot next to it." Walker instructed
The team nodded, and moved to their respective squares, Milky was four squares away from Howlwitzer's right side, Elfie was three squares diagonally from Jackinson with a bow ready, Walker was four squares away from Jackinson's right hand side, Firefly was also in the same direction, but one square away from Jackinson, and Berry Melon was two squares away from Howlwitzer. They eached prepared an attack, or special, and of course with Walker's Evility he made it so Firefly would once again strike after him during their line of attacks.
"We can't do much else from here on out, so just don't miss ladies, and guy, end turn!" Walker exclaimed
"Fire for the Fire God!" Berry Melon shouted with a vengeance.
She started things off with a fire spell which did adequate damage, but to a high HP monster like a Zombie, and adding the fact that he was in Defend, it did just less than one fourth damage much to everyone's surprise.
"Tri-Burst!" Milky shouted
Performing her attack, and expecting big points she was disappointed when her attack wasn't even enough to bring Howlwitzer to half. Elfie attacked next hitting Jackinson for low damage from her bow, one fifth was deducted from Jackinson's health.
"Tri-Burst!" Walker shouted
Performing the special Walker dropped Jackinson's health just above the halfway point, and feeling like a total wuss for not doing better.
"B-Blade Rush!" Firefly shouted with zero confidence
Her special now buffed up with both a combo, and a critical was the most impressive attack of the fight so far striking both Howlwitzer, and Jackinson leaving them with a quarter of their health. With their turn ending somewhat successfully it was now the enemy's turn to move.
"I hurt in places where it shouldn't boss" Howlwitzer complained
"Just shut up, and do as I say, go move besides the Mage" Jackinson ordered.
It took Howlwitzer all he could to get there, but he did, and just stood there while Jackinson moved several spaces, and stopping directly in front of her.
"...Crud..." Berry Melon squeaked.
"Your job is simple slow one just use Zombie Puke while I use a special of my own." Jackinson ordered.
"Boss?" Howlwitzer replied.
"What?" Jackinson asked.
"Why we stop attacking once, then they hit us next time?" Howlwitzer asked.
"I don't understand speak more intellectually" Jackinson ordered
"Why we stop hitting them? Why not keep going when turn is over?" Howlwitzer asked
"...See it's questions like those which make you the stupid one. You have your order just do it" Jackinson said.
"Right!" Howlwitzer stupidly agreed.
"Execute!" Jackinson exclaimed
"Zombie Puke!" Howlwitzer groaned
Howlwitzer pulled his head back, and began gurgling, his mouth began to stretch several inches appearing almost like a miniature barrel. He took aim, and fired a slimy ball of green goop at Berry Melon, and even though it only Nicked her it still dropped her health by a quarter.
"Jackknife!" Jackinson cried out
Jackinson leaped into the air jumping higher than necessary, and would have dove headfirst if he didn't extend his arm propelling a sharp knife in it's hand. He spun rapidly, and nailed Berry Melon square on her melon, and spun with such velocity that a red glow, and wide pulse shot out from his body, and once his spin came to a halt he jumped back into his square leaving Berry Melon just barely alive.
"H-Hah take that! I'm still alive~" Berry Melon groaned
"Oh yeah? Not for long, look up" Jackinson assured.
Berry Melon did, and was horrified to find purple bubbles coming out of her indicating that she had been poisoned.
"By the looks of it, once the poison hits her at your turn it's all over." Jackinson mockingly said
"...*Giggle~*...I guess this is it...sorry bro" Berry Melon cheerfully said
"Berry Melon..." Walker muttered
"End Turn!" Jackinson cried out
"Walker!-*Dead*" Berry Melon shouted in a panic before the poison dropped her health to zero, and she vanished in a bright orb like all the others to fall.
"No! Sis...damn, damn, damn!" Walker shouted
"Not again~!" Firefly wailed.
"I'm so sorry Berry Melon..." Elfie muttered
"I-It's gonna be alright...right?" Milky weakly assured
"No it...it won't...she's gone, a-and now..." Walker gasped
"Walker..." Elfie said
"Now it's gonna cost me even more just to revive her at the clinic!" Walker shouted in frustration.
"I know it will, but we need to be strong" Elfie cried out emotionally.
"I know what you're getting at, but nothings gonna change the fact that I'm gonna have to sink into my wallet, and bring her back! I wanted to use that to buy new weapons for us." Walker explained
"You're tearing my heart Walker! I didn't think losing so much HL would cause such a rift between our family!" Elfie went on dramatically.
"Eh~...what?" Milky awkwardly said
"I-I-I knew I wasn't r-r-ready, but I didn't l-l-listen!" Firefly stammered.
Walker chose to ignore Elfie's sudden outburst, and focused his attention back to his enemies.
"You...I'm gonna make you pay for what you've done! This next one is for my HL savings!" Walker roared.
"Uh~...what?" Jackinson replied
"Here's the plan, since neither of them is on Defend our attacks should do more damage than before, though I'm pretty sure we don't need to worry about who should attack who. However I'm still gonna issue the commands...Elfie you'll attack the Zombie, and Firefly you'll add to that with a wind spell since he's weak against it for some reason. I'll shoot Jackinson with a special, and Milky will do the same after me if it's not enough." Walker ordered.
"Got it" Elfie assured
"O-okay..."Firefly nervously replied
"No problem!" Milky exclaimed with confidence.
Elfie position herself two squares diagonally away from Howlwitzer on his right while Firefly did the same only to his left. Walker moved three squares in front of Jackinson while Milky was behind Walker, and four squares away from Jackinson, everyone all ready to attack with their instructed attack.
"End Turn!" Walker shouted
Elfie attack with her bow leaving Howlwitzer in critical conditions.
"W-Wind!" Firefly exclaimed in a panic.
A green glowing circled formed around her Firefly, and then a small electrically charged twister swirled around Howlwitzer appearing only briefly, and then dissipating.
"Zero...Uh-oh-*dead*" Howlwitzer uttered before disappearing in a orb of light.
"Tri-Burst!" Walker shouted.
His special was all it took to end Jackinson, and the battle ended in another victory.
"How? Don't tell me...Mary-sues?" Jackinson weakly muttered.
"This again...look I don't know what a Mary-Sue is, and I don't know why that irks me, but I'll take it as an insult. How are you even talking just go poof into light you rotten fruit" Walker defiantly said.
"How did you get to our Netherworld?" Elfie asked.
"She's serious? Really is she serious? The public Dimensional gate, we just went wherever that gate took us like a lot of demons here" Jackinson said.
"But why did you try to pillage my house?" Milky angrily demanded to know.
"A thief's hideout has many treasures, we would have plundered any thief's place-what? you think you were special, or something?" Jackinson said.
"Regardless we beat you, now git like all the others" Walker said.
"Oh I'll 'git', but this is only a see you later kind of farewell. My gang will bring me back, and you wouldn't like us when we-*dead*" Jackinson's last words were until he too vanished.
"We won, but at what cost..." Elfie said.
"I'm so sorry..." Walker murmured while holding his wallet.
"W-w-what's that on the f-floor?" Firefly asked in horror.
Walker walked up to it to find a sack of HL, but not much considering how much it weighed.
"It's not compensation, but I'll take what I can get." Walker said
Milky slowly walked towards the mess of cardboard, and shiny junk that used to be her home. Her stolen goods caked in either mud, or zombie sweat. She walked towards he prized pillow, it was unscathed, though a tad dirty, but instead of the familiar scent of her old teacher, it reeked of rotten flesh.
"...I-it stinks~" Milky whimpered
"Aw~ don't worry we'll wash, and it'll be smelling like roses in no time" Elfie assured
"That's not it...it used to smell like my teacher, a-and now I can never get that scent back" Milky continued to whimper.
"Besides that, what about your house it's a wreck, and I'm pretty sure in this damp forest you're not gonna be sleeping cozy, and dry tonight." Walker said
Milky didn't say anything.
"Come on team, let's bring Berry Melon back" Walker ordered
The team with their business done left the clearing, and Milky, but Walker paused briefly to turn around.
"Hey Milky you coming, or what?" Walker impatiently asked
"H-huh?" Milky called out
"I've been giving it some thought, and you did pretty good back there so if you're not doing anything, and I know you aren't why don't you join our Guild? I could always use another man around here" Walker called out
"B-but I'm a girl..." Milky weakly muttered
"Was that a yes, or a no?" Walker unable to hear from afar asked
"Walker, she's a thief, what if she tries to steal something from us?" Elfie whispered
"Then at least we'll know where she's staying. A room in our Guild would make an easier trip than a walk through the forest." Walker explained.
"S-so I can live with you guys? You're not gonna set up a tent outside for me?" Milky shyly asked
"Tent? It would be much cheaper to just have you use one of our extra rooms than to buy a tent" Walker explained
"Eek~!" Firefly shouted as a wild squirrel was spotted.
"...Well, I don't know you guys are a little too...ah! Wait come back, I'll join, I'll join!" Milky called out running as the group had already began to walk away.
"Hopefully the clinic will be open still" Elfie said
"We'll make it no problem" Walker said
"So~ what's new with you guys?" Milky asked as she stored her pillow into her inventory.
"You firstly, and with that we got a good number of members, but we need to be bigger" Walker said
"How big are we talking about?" Elfie asked
"As big as possible, I want our Guild to expand all the layers of the Netherworld" Walker explained
"E-e-e-even t-t-the-" Firefly stammered
"We'll leave the Land of Carnage alone, but basically that's our my main goal besides surviving of course" Walker said
"That's gonna take forever!" Milky complained
"Hey Firefly you were pretty high up how long did it take you?" Walker asked
"I-I suppose a-a year, or so give or take" Firefly responded
"Maybe with the help of more demons we could speed things along perhaps?" Elfie suggested
"I don't know...money is kind of tight as it is feeding three of us, and now there's two more? My gut tells me we should wait a sec before jumping the bandwagon" Walker said
"Is that how you feel?" Elfie asked
"No, I want our discussion room to be full of strong demons! I'm just thinking economical like, like my traitor of a former friend Gunslinger explained to me once" Walker said
"You really think we can become powerful?" Milky asked feeling touched
"Sure we could! We'll show everyone we're not the bottom of the barrel little guy" Walker assured
"Girl..." Milky reminded
"You really need to see a counselor about that" Walter proposed
"Yes, please stop by my room,-*giggle*- I'll take good care of you~" Elfie said
"Eh~...that's okay..."Milky awkwardly passed
"Oh shoot, well we still need sessions Firefly, my office hours is usually from open at dusk till dawn" Elfie said
"I-I really appreciate your h-h-help" Firefly weakly thanked
"You know I can't pay you for your so called sessions" Walker reminded
"they have their own reward..." Elfie said
"What the hell are you-" Walker began
"Studying different paranoia like Firefly's will make future sessions with different clients much easier because I would have a higher understanding" Elfie honestly answered.
"I see...so does that mean you'll end up leaving us?" Walker asked
"No! I'm loyal only to the Guild plus with so many different demons it will be a Mesopotamia of personalities, and issues!" Elfie explained
"Aw~ crap speaking of issues..." Walker groaned as he spotted a familiar face from a side of the forest.
A Blue Skull was slouching around the bushes, and trees looking intently at the ground beneath his feet sighing, and sulking to himself. He murmured to himself probably about something depressing that may have recently happened, and then he looked up to see Walker, and his group. His expression hardly changed, though his frown did twitch for split second of course that could have been a different reason entirely.
"You know...it's not really considered a walk of anguish if you bring a group of pretty girls with you..." Lloyd muttered in despair.
"Oh it's you, I see you haven't changed since the last...hour, or so I met you, and it's not a walk of anguish" Walker said.
"A-a-anguish?" Firefly asked herself
"A walk of it?" Milky added
"Pretty girl" Elfie repeated for herself.
"If you're not here to escape from the vise grip of reality, then why are you here?" Lloyd dully asked
"A little of this, a little of that you know how it is" Walker poorly answered
"I see...is this part of your bad luck of being poor workers too?" Lloyd asked
"More, or less though things are going to get worse before they get better" Walker said
"The better part never appeared for me..." Lloyd glumly responded
"You know I've enjoyed our man to man talk, but right now I need to visit the clinic, and bring back Berry Melon" Walker explained
"The one that was screaming in my house?" Lloyd asked
"Yeah that one" Walker answered
"I see this is one of your worst parts of your job you mentioned" Lloyd said
"Yeah, I needed that money to buy everyone some decent gear" Walker said
"More hardship coming our way, it seems like your strong enough to overcome though" Lloyd said
"Well I-" Walker began
"You were actually pretty depressed about losing the HL before we met you" Milky said after Elfie was done whispering something to her.
"Don't think I didn't see you trying to sneak a few words Elfie I know you would have said that" Walker quickly accused
"Oh Walker you know me so well already" Elfie admitted
"D-d-do we have to stay here...i-i-in the forest" Firefly stammered nervously
"I suppose if it got dark it'll be hard to see where we're going" Walker figured
"It's not a problem for me...my eyes adjusted so well into the night that I practically have night-vision...*sigh* it doesn't change how cold everything, and everyone is" Lloyd said
"I'm pretty sure that's because you're a Blue Skull. Well we're gonna keep walking now, so..." Walker said as he motion his team to keep going.
"Yeah I suppose I made things depressingly awkward, and you would want to go away~ maybe a going away poem before you go?" Lloyd asked
"*Sigh* why not" Walker groaned, but accepted nonetheless.
"Loved ones gone, abandoning you~
How could I have been such a fool~
The hands turn on, and on in a clock
A full basket of clothes missing one sock" Lloyd glumly spoke
There was a slow awkward applause fueled purely by sympathy.
"Another half ass poem, but I suppose I can't do any better" Walker half complimented
"And I couldn't ask for a more cruel compliment" Lloyd said
"Well...see ya" Walker said as he motion his team away from Lloyd.
"I suppose..." Lloyd glumly replied as he returned back to 'finding' himself watching the group leave him.
"So...another mental case?" Elfie asked
"I wouldn't say it like that, but yes complete mental case" Walker answered
"Me thinks he is the owner of that black house I had you guys investigate" Milky figured
"You thought right, If I were you I'd snatch his stuff while he's away" Walker said
"You have a point, you don't mind if I split with you guys for a sec?" Milky asked
"I don't care, we'll wait for you at the clinic just don't keep us waiting all day." Walker excused
Milky nodded, and made a sharp left turned towards Lloyd's house while the rest of the team scrambled their way out of the forest, eventually reaching the town itself. Exhausted, but determined they walked for several seconds until they came upon the clinic. The building itself was colored unnaturally white, cleaned, and well managed...on any other day, but the town party has left it riddled with stains, and oddly colored dirt. It's beds were all used by several demons who partied way too hard, and had everything from hangovers to broken limbs as well as food, and alcohol sickness. Despite that the nurse currently managing the public building was simply standing behind her counter waiting for the next patient to arrive to her. A dull, and inconspicuous door was seen behind her, it had no sign, no pattern, just a door.
"I guess the party's over then?" Walker figured
A quick look around showed a heavily littered single road town glowing in the bright orange of an afternoon sun with several demons still going at it. New memories, friendships, and rivals will be born today, but like all parties the events will not be remembered until the headaches vanish from the owner's head, and yet deep inside them whether the celebration was mostly good, or horribly bad one thing was certain. The party kicked ass, and it was totally worth it.
"I don't suppose you run this place do you?" Walker asked.
"Well I-" The Healer was saying.
"T-t-toga~*barf*" a Wood Golem in one of the beds groaned loudly just before puking into a nearby bucket.
"Yes I do my name is Matilda, and-*yawn* I'll be your nurse for...today..." Matilda dully introduced herself sounding utterly uninterested in Walker, and the group.
"Well you seem sanely put, I'd like to revive someone" Walker said.
"Sure I can do that..." Matilda assured as she slouched on her table.
There was a brief moment of silence.
"...Well are you gonna?" Walker impatiently asked
"*Sigh* alright...let me just grab the document..." Matilda said as she leaned to her left to open a drawer from behind her desk.
"So how does this work exactly, do I-" Walker began
"Don't worry-*yawn*-It's fairly simple, but I'll explain it the first time...I guess" Matilda dully said
"Well whoopie..." Walker sarcastically cheered
Matilda grabbed a seemingly dull yellowish folder which contained a piece of paper. Upon opening it the folder, the paper revealed a list of all the demons who have currently died in order of most recent to oldest though it's possible to magically change the organization to something easier to search with. The picture would be at the left hand side with the name of the person next to it. I a much larger city, and violent city there would be several documents holding numerous papers of countless demons, but in such a small town it's no wonder the nurse appeared bored.
"So~...who was it?" Matilda asked with a bored expression.
"That one" Walker said pointing at a small square photo of Berry Melon with a wide grin, and flashing a piece sign with both her hands. Right above her were the pictures of Howlwitzer with a stupid grin, and Jackinson with a menacing stare, and giving a very rude hand gesture.
"Alright I'll flash the price, and you just pay it, then please wait a second for me to bring her back" Matilda dully explained as if having to repeat herself for the thousandth time.
She motioned her finger around Berry Melon's picture, and the amount it would cost to bring her back started to shine next to her.
"*Sigh* alright that seems fair, here you go" Walker said in defeat while handing over the HL.
"Give me a second..." Matilda said
She snapped her fingers.
"Oomph!" A child-like grunt was heard from the door behind her.
Matilda pulled herself up her feet, and dragged herself to the door opening it to reveal Berry Melon rubbing her buttocks from the rough fall she apparently had.
"Sorry about that...it happens to everyone though the ones that keep coming back learn to land on their feet eventually." Matilda apologized
"You could at least put some pillows, or something on the floor" Berry Melon argued
"Procrastination is such a troll to us all" Matilda dully answered
"Hey guys did you miss me?" Berry Melon happily cried out
"I'll miss my HL" Walker muttered
"What! ?" Berry Melon exclaimed with puffed cheeks of pure rage.
"I said boy howdy did I ever miss you big sis!" Walker poorly acted
Berry Melon turned away from her insensitive brother, and focused her attention to the two smiling companions besides him.
"How long was I out?" Berry Melon asked
"Half an hour at most" Elfie answered
"Why did it take so long? Did you guys get lost?" Berry Melon complained
"We were...distracted by a sad poet we probably could have recruited if someone would have just invited" Elfie said looking directly at Walker
"I didn't know a poem was the new norm for wanting to join a Guild, I must of missed something" Walker sarcastically said
"S-s-shouldn't you be given them medicine, or something for these poor souls?" Firefly asked Matilda as she looked over the many sick demons
"I cure all ailments, HP, SP, and bring them back to life. The rest like food poisoning, hangovers, sickness, and bodily injury having nothing to do with battle must recover themselves. We're demons though, we can tough it out. Give them a day, or so in here, and they'll be ready to film themselves doing something stupid with shopping carts." Matilda explained
"I-I see..."Firefly awkwardly said
"I can't wait to get out of here, not because I hate my job mind you, I love my job, but this party isn't gonna last forever. I want to hit the dance floor..." Matilda complained
"I didn't think of you as a dancer" Walker said
"Us healers are trained in many ways to heal, and entertain, and basically be all around up-lifters so most of us have a basic skill in dancing to help." Elfie explained
"Yes...some like it more than others, myself included" Matilda added
"Did you know that I myself have a special dance I-" Elfie began
"No, no, no specific details we've been over this" Walker quickly interrupted
"Any particular reason why you're still here?" Matilda asked.
"We're waiting for one of us to get back, she doesn't know where our Guild headquarters is so we told her we'll meet her here when she gets back from her...task" Walker said
"That's awfully nice of you wild man" a weak, but familiar voice was heard from one of the beds.
Walker quickly turned around to the sound of the voice to see a Archer class he apparently had previous business with. She poked her head from under the white covers of her blanket.
"We've met before haven't we...just this morning right? I'm only asking since Archers look a like" Walker said
"Are you saying I'm not the only Archer who has called you a wild man before?" the Archer said
"Nope you're the first, but what the hell happen? You look like you've party way too hard." Walker teased
"How rude! I am far too sophisticated to partake in such a rowdy celebration, and you don't make a lady mad, you'll give her wrinkles. Fore every wrinkle I get I'll curse you a thousand fold...and I won't share my tea with you either." the Archer said
"Sorry, sorry didn't mean to get you upset...wait a minute...I'm apologizing, how did you make me do that?" Walker asked
"I bring the best in all demons with my rich etiquette, dignifying stance, courtly demeanor, and polished voice." The Archer self complimented
"I don't suppose that's normal for Archers is it?" Walker asked
"Some have more civility than others, but each of us have some basic understanding which make up for our...flaws" The Archer said
"What do these 'flaws' includ-" Walker began to ask
"My we've had such a long conversation yet we haven't even introduced ourselves yet-*giggle*! Well my name is Kimberly" The now named Archer quickly introduced
"Okay I see where this is going. Fine we'll play it your way, my name is Walker my comrades behind me are Berry Melon" Walker began to introduce
"Is your hair okay! ?" Berry Melon quickly asked
"A little ruffled from my recent accident, but I was assured it will make a full recovery" Kimberly happily assured
"Elfie" Walker continued
"What accident exactly?" Elfie asked
"I was returning home after purchasing some fresh tea leaves when I was suddenly bumped into by a ruffian Wood Golem wearing a man dress. What do they call those again...togas?" Kimberly explained
The Wood Golem was too unconscious to respond though he did murmur in his sleep.
"He collapsed on top of me, and when I woke up here I was, but don't worry my tea leaves are still in tact" Kimberly concluded
"-Our recent recruit Firefly" Walker added
"H-h-hello...s-sorry I get n-nervous with meeting n-new p-people" Firefly nervously stammered
"Dear you mustn't stutter when you speak especially when you are introducing yourself to someone of high class. It is uncouth in many cases, but I can see your not use to speaking so I'll excuse you this one time" Kimberly said
"S-sorry..." Firefly apologized nervously
"We also just recently recruited a thief by the name of Milky...strange boy that one is" Walker concluded
"Thief...boy? My I've never seen a male thief in these parts of the Netherworld" Kimberly said
"Yeah, we've seen some monsters outside our Netherworld just recently, but I guess they'll let anyone in those public dimensional gates these days" Walker added.
"I concur, but I am not one to ostracize demons who wish to travel someplace else. So long as they don't cause me any trouble" Kimberly said
"You, and me both" Walker agreed
"Matilda there's something weird about your list" Elfie called out
"Oh that brown spot is merely a coffee stain from this morning" Matilda dully explained
"I see, but that's not what I wanted to mention, it's about the patient at the very bottom of this list" Elfie said.
Elfie pointed at a piece of the paper that was unlike the white clean top portion with the single coffee stain. The last patient had a rectangular yellow hue, and felt rough to the touch, and seemingly ancient.
"I guess I could explain...see when we have the dead marked on a list we keep until someone comes, and revives them. It is not uncommon to find an old piece of parchment as the one you see there, but it's only found in the oldest of cities. That one particular case was here before I opened shop a long time ago, before this town was given a name even. I merely fused her to that piece of paper using magic. Of course magic is so convenient, I use it to add, and remove entries, but I've only had to use one piece of paper during my entire career. There's no telling how long that patient has been waiting to be revived, it's possible that whoever was responsible simply forgot about her, and just left her here. The name is worn out, but as you can see from the picture she is a Shaman so I suppose that's part of the reason she's been abandoned" Matilda explained.
"Why's that?" Berry Melon asked
"Shamans are nothing, but trouble to whoever they are loyal with. They believe curses, hexes, and enchanting are good for their leader, and bad for their enemies. Not only that, but they are notorious pranksters, doing bad things for the sake of being bad, and in some cases doing bad things to appease their manager." Elfie explained
"They are unwelcome even in the most violent districts of the Netherworld for their cursing. So after getting fired from their employer, or ran out of town from a mob they spend most of their free time hexing their former neighbors, and bosses rather than making amends. Next to thieves they are the least wanted in a household for their horrid chanting, and appalling voodoo they are apparently so fond of" Kimberly added.
"So she's been stuck there for a long time huh...hey Walker!" Berry Melon suddenly called out
"No" Walker bluntly said
"But why~" Berry Melon sadly moaned
"Tell me something Berry Melon...did anything of what Elfie, and Kimberly said about a sorcerer a positive thing? What gave you the hint that having someone like that on our team would be beneficial to have on our Guild?" Walker said
"Well-I...see I thought..." Berry Melon stammered
"I already risked having a Thief join us, and now you want the second worst thing to come with us as well?" Walker added
"If we just gave her some time she might actually be helpful! How much will it take to revive her?" Berry Melon quickly asked
"More than you" Matilda answered
"Exactly, unless you can come up with some extra HL right now there's no way I'll consider-" Walker began
"Hey guys sorry I'm late! I wanted to pawn the stuff I stole before I got here" Milky suddenly cried out as she jumped from the roof of the clinic, in front of everybody, and startling Firefly into yet another catatonic state.
"I'm still hesitant" Walker admitted
"About what?" Milky asked
"Berry Melon saw some sort of Shaman no one has revived, and she wants us to revive her with our HL" Walker explained
"I see...well I was gonna give you some of my earnings for saving me back there. So if you want-" Milky began
"Too late closing time anyone not in a bed must leave" Matilda quickly said before jumping over the counter, and running towards the nearest party house.
"So is she just gonna leave me like this! How rude!" Kimberly proclaimed
"She did seem so hell bent on partying" Elfie said
"Really?" Walker questioned
"It's part of being a Healer, we sound neutral most of the time whether happy, or sad." Elfie explained
"This won't do! I can't share a room with so many...boys!" Kimberly shyly complained
"I'm surprised you can tell the monster's gender like that...I'm always a bit puzzled, and disturbed considering some don't even wear clothes" Walker admitted
"Even the slimes?" Berry Melon asked
"That's debatable" Walker said
"I can't stay here, but I can't walk back to my house either, and there's no way I'm crawling! I will not degrade myself with such a action" Kimberly went on
"Well sorry to hear that, but our business is done here, let's go team" Walker said
"W-wait! Maybe you can help me" Kimberly said
"...I'm listening..." Walker said sensing another job opportunity.
"I don't have much, but I'll give you fifty HL if your team helps carry me to my house...and if it's not too much trouble tuck me in my bed as well." Kimberly explained
"Sounds easy enough Elfie, Firefly help her up, have her arm around your shoulders, you can move your feet right?" Walker asked
"Y-yes I can, just my back hurts mostly" Kimberly explained
After carefully standing her up Elfie placed Kimberly's left arm around her shoulder, while Firefly placed her right arm around her shoulder. They stayed like this as they began to walk, but Kimberly despite the kind gesture had some complaints she wanted to express.
"I don't suppose I can have those two shoulder me can I?" Kimberly asked as her face was being pressed by against Elfie's, and Firefly's chests.
"I suppose those two are a little too tall" Walker figured
"...Yes-o-of course that's it!" Kimberly quickly said hiding her feelings of being small between them.
After a quick switchover Berry Melon shouldered Kimberly's left arm while Milky shouldered her right arm.
"Much better, let's be off now" Kimberly allowed.
They began their trek with the light of the sun had just faded away, and the glow of the moon, and stars gave the town a tinted bluish glow. Lanterns adorned in colorful patterns glowed across both sides of the road as the party continued, and those remaining would not see the light of day...tomorrow because they will be too busy passed out in the floors of the their homes to see it.
"You do remember where I live do you?" Kimberly asked
"Who could miss the single brick house?" Walker dully said
"Well I never really had any intentions of making it out of brick, it was suppose to be modeled after a house I saw in a catalog of vintage Victorian decor, but... a sudden decrease in wood, and patience had the house turn out like this. I still love my little house, but there is always room for improvements." Kimberly said
"You mentioned before that you enjoy rare tea leaves, but how exactly do you afford them?" Walker asked as if wanting to know for a long time.
"Well I was given a hefty inheritance from an ancestor a while back, she's moved on of course, and as her only pupil, and close family at the time I was given her life savings. I chose this place because a small town would make the least amount of commotion...occasionally, but I've always wanted to live in a much higher class society, though in the Netherworld those are usually just populated by boasting demons who have just plundered the most than the majority." Kimberly said
"Uh-huh..." Walker mumbled trying his best to not look like he does not care.
"What product do you use for your hair?" Berry Melon curiously asked
"I'm afraid that's a secret, but if you come visit, I'll give you a dashing new hair style I know that works great with bows" Kimberly promised
"Can we keep her! ?" Berry Melon happily cried out
"Pardon?" Kimberly gasped
"Don't mind her she just trying to-hey I think I see your house over there" Walker quickly changed topics.
"Oh? We're here already? Funny I guess I spoke a little too much, I didn't get to learn a single thing about any of you" Kimberly said
"I might tell you too much" Elfie admitted
"I-I'm too...frightened of my past..." The traumatized Firefly uttered
"And I just became a Red Mage!" Berry Melon blurted out
"Come back when my Guild becomes legend, and I'll have a story, or two." Walker said
"I've snagged a couple of stories in my time...their not personally mine, but you get the idea." Milky said
"Well thanks again for the-" Kimberly was about to say
"Oh for crying out loud!" Walker exclaimed as he saw a familiar face coming their way.
"I take it that wasn't a happy greeting was it? Who am I kidding of course it's not..." Lloyd glumly said
"I also take it you two know each other?" Kimberly asked
"Unfortunately yes" Walker, and Lloyd both answered simultaneously
"Woah~ you guy are so in sync! It's almost as if you'll make a perfect team in some sort of Guild, or Guild like community of some kind!" Berry Melon hinted
"Haha-no!" Walker said
"I don't suppose you've told them my name have you...then again why should they care, it is of little concern after all..." Lloyd dully said
"*Sigh* fine, real quick-like his name is Lloyd, and as you can see he's constantly depressed." Walker introduced.
"I see...wait! Before we go any further to my house I would like Walker to switch places with Milky was it? No offense it's just...you know, being a thief, and all.
"Use to it..." Milky said already planning on sneaking in much later anyways.
"Yeah sure I'll switch with ya, the rest just stay here until we get back" Walker ordered
"I suppose I have frightened you with my constant dreadful appearances, but believe me, I'm not stalking you...fact of the matter is none of us are really worth that sort of idolization, depressing I know." Lloyd said
"We'll be back..." Walker awkwardly said after he, and Milky switched places, and Walker was now helping Berry Melon shoulder Kimberly.
"Did you know I've just finished writing another poem...It's about the glow of the moon, and no matter how beautifully it glows, the darkness horrifies it's good intentions...*ahem*." Lloyd began
"Oh glowing orb of wondrous light~
How hard you push the noble fight~
Yet here you are a speck in the night~
Your deeds misguided by such blight~" Lloyd spoke in such a sad tone.
He turned towards Walker's direction to hear his response only to see a shut door, apparently Walker had left to carry Kimberly to bed half way through his poem, and could not be bothered to stand still any second longer.
"Oh~" Lloyd gasped in angst.
"Well since Walker has introduced you to us, I feel it is only fair that I rate your performance with an honest critical review" Elfie said rather motionlessly.
"Why do I predict I will be crying in my sleep tonight..." Lloyd said to himself as Elfie was taking in a deep long breath for what could be quite a review.
At Kimberly's Bedroom
"So are we done here, or what? You're all tucked in, comfy bed, privacy, and what-not" Walker impatiently asked
"You should feel honored! You are the first boy to be allowed in my house, let alone my bedroom...eek! Y-you're in my bedroom! While I'm in my bedroom! And while I'm in my bed no less! And when it's night out even!" Kimberly suddenly began to cry out her face turning red
"Whoa there miss you're making me sound like some sort of sleaze ball here! Just give me the HL, and we'll keep right on going" Walker said
"Yes, right of course the HL...will it be okay if I payed for your serviced tomorrow afternoon?" Kimberly shyly asked.
"...Why?" Walker asked doing his very best to stay calm.
"Well after you told me about your Guild after you left this morning I gave it some thought during the entire day, and I came to the conclusion that you may be able to help me with a problem I've been having. I'll pay you for your services tonight, and for the job I'll give you tomorrow afternoon, and that is a lady's promise" Kimberly explained.
"I've never had a lady's promise given to me before, so you don't mind if I'm skeptical" Walker said.
"Don't be like that Walker, just look at her hair! That totally means she's legit!" Berry Melon defended.
"Well that doesn't really explain it, but thank you anyways...so Walker are you interested?" Kimberly asked
"Hm~...I haven't declined an offer, and I don't intend to do so now. You got a deal, we'll come back here tomorrow afternoon" Walker said.
"I'll have tea, and cake ready for you when you do" Kimberly happily assured.
"This is already gonna be our best job ever!" Berry Melon happily
"Now I must ask you to leave...it is very late, and I must wake up early to begin fixing my future bed hair in the morning." Kimberly said
"Good night!" Berry Melon cheered
"Night..." Walker mumbled
"Yes, pleasant dreams to you too" Kimberly called out as they shut the door behind her.
Walker, and Berry Melon left Kimberly's home while making sure to lock the door behind them.
"Which is how I feel it is equivalent to Parmesan cheese" Elfie apparently just finished ranting.
"Team, we're going let's move out" Walker said not wanting to know what the hell Elfie was talking about just now.
"Well I enjoyed our talk we should do this again sometime 'kay?" Elfie happily said to a very surprised, and possible devastated Lloyd who for some reason was unable to move from his standing spot.
"I guess we'll be seeing you then Lloyd...damn it why'd I go, and say a foolhardy thing like that." Walker muttered
The team walked away.
"I-is he gonna be okay?" Firefly asked
"He'll be fine, if all else at least he'll know where to go for counseling." Elfie said
"Really? Does he know, or did you spend your entire time mocking his half ass poem?" Walker asked
"The latter" Milky said
"Should have known" Walker said
"It'll be alright... if anything with your luck he'll come to us" Elfie said
"Don't jinx me" Walker said
"Do you really hate that guy?" Milky asked
"Not particularly no, but if he's not giving me a job, or looking for one, then why bother wasting my time with him?" Walker said
"So~ how long do you think it'll take for her to be in a deep sleep?" Milky asked
"Kimberly? Give her an hour, or so" Walker said
"Gotcha" Milky said.
"I still don't know why you don't ask them to join us..." Berry Melon mumbled.
"It's not an employer's job to look for candidates they are suppose to come to us" Walker explained.
"Yes, take Firefly for instance, she volunteered her services for the team, and so far has been very helpful. A step in the right direction thanks to my program" Elfie said
"Are you just showing off again?" Walker said
"It isn't showing off if it's the truth" Elfie said
"C-can we go home any faster please...i-it's really dark here" Firefly timidly asked
"Hang on I see our dirt trail a little further ahead. Make sure you make a note of that Firefly, and you too Milky, just follow the road, and you'll eventually make it to our Guild" Walker explained
"Okay!" Both Firefly, and Milky simultaneously said
"While walking through this path it is imperative that one must discuss random topics that are not related to the Guild" Elfie added
"No it isn-" Walker began
"Okay!" Both Firefly, and Milky simultaneously said
"That is not protocol it's just dumb coincidence is all!" Walker argued.
"It makes the trip faster, and fun I say!" Berry Melon said
"I-I could go for a faster, and fun t-trip" Firefly said as she glanced at her surroundings
"I can't wait to see what your Guild looks like! Am I really gonna have my own room?" Milky asked.
"Yes you will, empty, but yours." Walker answered.
"Do we have a anthem?" Elfie suddenly asked.
"What-no!" Walker exclaimed.
"*tsk-tsk* It's just not complete without an anthem" Elfie disapproved.
"You don't need an anthem for a guild! Lot's of organizations have no anthems" Walker explained.
"Only the ones no one cares about" Milky added
"...Crap, I can't argue with that...but who are we to make an anthem for our Guild?...I can't believe I'm actually agreeing to this" Walker groaned.
"W-w-what about that B-blue skull?" Firefly added
"Like we need something that will drive people away! For now we're doing fine without one, we'll discuss this later!" Walker said
"Oh by they way! Kimberly gave us a job tomorrow!" Berry Melon announced
"I was gonna ask you for a day off on that day too" Elfie said
"Why? What could you possibly be doing on your day off when you were previously a beggar?" Walker dully asked
"I'm a female, you're a male that alone should be enough of a reason for you not to ask" Elfie bluntly said
"Um~ no it isn't actually" Walker declared
"Fine I'll work, if only to repay you for your generosity" Elfie said in defeat.
"Hey it wasn't generosity, it was just obvious recruitment potential I saw in you that's all!" Walker quickly defended
"And here we go again~" Berry Melon moaned
"Suppose something were to happen to your stuff back at your house Firefly...you wouldn't miss any of it would you?" Milky suddenly asked
"...I-I have no personal treasures with me. Besides some clothing I should really-eek! W-what was that!" Firefly said, then shouted as she heard rustling from one of the bushes to the side.
"Relax it's probably just a critter, or something" Walker figured as the halted the team to let whatever creature was in that bush to come out, and cross the road.
He didn't have to wait long however when a Catsaber monster suddenly jumped from the bushes sniffing at the air, and ground until staring at the random demons before it.
"Aw~ it's so cute~!" Berry Melon squealed.
"*Mew-mew*!" The Catsaber meowed
"Any idea of what that critter just said?" Walker asked
"I think he wants to say hello" Milky figured
"You think? Aren't you the one with the cat gear?" Walker asked
"That doesn't mean I speak cat! You don't see me going *nya~* after every sentence do ya?" Milky quickly argued
"*Meow!*" The Catsaber continued
Translation: "Who dares disrupt my ceremony of a thousand souls?"
"...I think he wants us to pet it!" Berry Melon figured
"Me~ow!*
Translation: "You would all make decent virgin sacrifices!"
"Maybe i-it's scared of something?" Firefly added
"*Mew-meow*"
Translation: "Then again you are not fit to waste my time I must bring about the apocalypse alone!"
The lone Catsaber crossed the road with squeaky steps, and left the group.
"Bye bye kitty!" Berry Melon called out
"What a cute cat" Elfie commented
"Huh...didn't it look like it was wearing a costume?" Walker suddenly said
"No that's just how all cats in the Netherworld look like" Milky explained
"Really? I haven't seen one until now, but I could have sworn it looked like a-" Walker began
"It's just a regular cat monster, there are some that are surprisingly powerful, and can rival even Overlords" Milky explained
"Really? Those things can be as strong as overlords?" Walker asked
"Well I wouldn't say that exactly, but I heard legends" Milky said
"I still think your making it up" Walker said
"I'm a Thief Class, not a Fibber Class" Milky argued
"Elfie what can you tell me?" Walker asked
"I think it had adorable little paws" Elfie said
"...This is getting us nowhere, let's keep walking" Walker said taking the lead as they continued their trek.
"I-I'm still a little n-nervous about moving in somewhere suddenly..." Firefly admitted
"A little, or a lot?" Walker dully asked
"We can share my room if you want" Elfie invited
"Elfie you're really starting to make this awkward" Walker said
"I see...well then you could share your room with her" Elfie said
"Actually if it's alright, I'll just stay in my own-" Firefly was saying
"Would you quit putting me in situations I don't want to be in" Walker argued
"I hardly think you wouldn't want to" Elfie said
"Well be too busy earning cash, and realizing our life goals to think about anything else!" Walker explained
"Life goals?" Elfie suddenly questioned
Everyone now stared at Walker who suddenly felt ostracized for some reason.
"W-what? What is it?" Walker asked growing impatient.
"You have a life goal?" Milky asked almost teasingly
"Well yeah...why did you think I was doing all this for!...Of course it's only been two days, but still!" Walker said
"Life goal...as in a dream?" Elfie said
"I know they sound very similar, but let me assure you-" Walker began
"Walker has a dream! Walker has a dream!" Milky teased
"Damn it don't go acting like a kid! I need a man!" Walker argued
"D-d-dreams are dangerous t-they can get you killed!" Firefly warned
"I told you it's not like that! It's just a honest demon's ambition!" Walker explained
"Not for a Gunner I can tell you that much!" Berry Melon said
"Look I see our Headquarters let's not get talk about this again, ever!" Walker ordered
"Huh...maybe because it's so dark outside, but it doesn't look half bad" Milky noticed
"Thank you" Walker accepted
"Hang on my eyes have just adjusted to the dark, and it actually looks horrendous" Milky added
"...Should have seen that one coming, I really should have" Walker mumbled
"Can't wait for tomorrow! We've got a lot of demons to recruit" Berry Melon said
"You mean work for Kimberly, and not recruit unless it's necessary" Walker corrected
"But we have so many candidates" Berry Melon argued
"Are you going to say that about every demon we meet?" Walker asked
"But we don't even have enough for a full roster!" Berry Melon complained while waving her arms every which way.
"Don't you start a tantrum-o-ow!" Walker exclaimed as one of Berry Melons fist struck Walker.
"I want more friends! I want more friends!" Berry Melon argued
"Alright, alright! If I say I'll consider them would you shut up!" Walker surrendered
"Yes!" Berry Melon cried out instantly perking up.
"You're such a softy" Elfie said
"That better be your first lie Elfie" Walker warned
"Well we better go in now, it's getting rather chilly inside" Elfie said ignoring Walker.
"I don't like it when you don't answer Elfie..." Walker muttered
They went inside with Milky admitting to herself that it did look better on the inside.
"Well do this quick, the dining room/meeting room is on that double door, and the door next to it are the rooms we'll be staying." Walker quickly said
"Best tour ever" Milky dully said
"Sarcasm, hardy harr-harr" Walker dully said
"Well technically it is in my case. I've never had to share a house before, I'd usually just camp out somewhere" Milky explained
"Firefly, are you sure about this? I mean you have a house already" Walker asked
"I-I wouldn't want to be l-late for a meeting with you guys. S-so yes..." Firefly said.
"Well then let's show you to your rooms...well technically you can choose whichever room you want so long as it's not occupied, but take your pick." Walker said as he opened the double doors.
Walking among the many doors Milky chose a particular door next to Elfie, while Firefly chose a room on the opposite end of Berry Melon's.
"Now that that's all settle let's get some rest because tomorrow morning we're looking at another job ahead of us" Walker announced
"Good night everyone!" Berry Melon quickly said
"Yeah, g'night" Walker muttered
"Good morning" Elfie said
"Why?" Walker asked
"It's always morning somewhere" Elfie answered in a mysteriously dark tone.
"*Yawn~* good night" Milky said putting a lot of emphasis on her yawn for some reason.
"I-I hope I don't get nightmares t-t-tonight as well..." Firefly muttered
"Well good night to you too" Walker dully said
"Go to sleep everyone!" Berry Melon cried out
Without saying another word to each other they retreated to their rooms before they could get caught up in another long conversation. After quite a long day it was good to see that they were too far away from the town party to be disturbed by it though I'm sure the same can't be said about certain others currently residing in that town. After what seemed like an hour, and the light of the sun still not reaching the town, Milky suddenly woke herself up, and grabbed a satchel with her as she prepared to go out into town to take care of some unfinished business. She opened her door carefully so as not to disturb her roommates, but something moving to her right peaked her interest. Her eyes already adjusted to the dark she whispered loudly to the familiar face attempting to open a door.
"*Psst!* Berry Melon" Milky whispered
Berry Melon grabbed at her mouth to stifle a shriek, and relaxed when she realized it was only Milky.
"What are you doing walking about so late...and didn't Walker already take that room?" Milky asked
"Well...what are you doing awake so late too...and carrying a bag?" Berry Melon answered with a question.
The two girls stared at each other for a brief moment.
"...This meeting never happened" Milky suddenly whispered
"Agreed" Berry Melon whispered back.
After that was taken care of Milky left the building, and briskly jogged towards her destination hoping to return before anybody else woke up. After all she did spend quite a bit hiring Walker, and his group to spy on the inside of the houses, and she was determined to win back her HL, and make a little more in the process. Tomorrow promises to be another day, though it will be a bit awkward for Milky to return to a possible scene of a crime, she would have to do her best to hide it, and keep a good impression on her new employer. The party now almost entirely over with some small cliques of demons laughing amongst themselves as they recollected the better parts of their celebration.
End of Chapter
Sorry for the late entry, there were some last minute script changes to be made, and when you have responsibilities, twenty four hours just aren't enough to write this. However I will try to bring these on time, and any help, or suggestions will be heard, appreciated, or even utilized. Thank you for your patience!