Steambot Chronicles
Hmm, yet another long delay. Of course I was busy looking for work and helping out around the house. Another little issue was trying to come up with a chapter name. I really don't know why people can't be bothered to take a second out of their life to share their own opinions on good music. Anyway, this chapter should be nice and lengthy to make up for the long absence. And as always, I'm open to ideas of how to implement the various side-quest characters (though I advise you go into detail about how to have Vanilla interact with them). I should point out that for anyone who hasn't read the story in a while to reread chapter 6, as I extended the ending of that after some people pointed out how abruptly it ends. Well enough prattling, here's chapter 7!
Chapter 7 ~ Circle in the sand
Vanilla found himself lying in a field, a serene and calm feeling washing over him like a gentle wave. A pleasant breeze blew across the field, ruffling the flowers like a the waves of the ocean. Connie laid beside him, giggling with her infectious laugh as the two stared up at the sky. It was perfect, tranquil scene, only made better because of Connie.
"Vanilla..." Connie turned to the boy with an alluring look in her eyes, her voice sounding hauntingly faint, then a thundering crack sounded and Vanilla's eyes filled with light.
"Ah!" The youth sat up right in Connie's bed, the echoing sound of thunder in the distance, an afternoon shower battering against the window as it came down heavily. He righted himself and sat on the edge of the bed, shaking the weariness from his clearing head. The room was empty save only for Vanilla and Rosemary, with Connie no where in sight. The soft 'thump' of a closing book could be heard as Rosemary laid the large tome on her bed stand.
"Ah, you're up. I guess it isn't easy when it pours like this." Rosemary said with a soft chuckle as Vanilla yawned and rose off the bed.
"Where's Connie?" He asked, confirming the girl was indeed no long in the small apartment.
"Unfortunately she had to leave for Happy Garland again. She didn't want to wake you, but she asked me to tell you that her tour with the band should be over in a few weeks." The woman said, casting a glance outside the window the rainy sky with an unsure look.
"Oh, she did?" Vanilla said, a notable hint of disappointment in his voice that caught him by surprise.
"Is something wrong?" Rosemary asked, breaking the youth from his thoughts.
"Oh, no, I'm fine. Just a shame I couldn't see Connie off again." Vanilla said, now feeling his face run hot for some reason that was unknown to him. "I have to go. Take care, Rosemary." He said as he hurried to the door and left, the burning feeling in his cheeks stinging like needles. What's this weird feeling? Why am I so concerned all of a sudden? I mean, sure, Connie is the first person I've known since I woke up on the beach... But...
Vanilla's train of thought came crashing to a stop as he collided with a figure. The combination of the sudden collision and the rain-slicked stone sent both people tumbling to the ground in a heap.
"Ow..." A voice groaned at Vanilla's feet, while he himself suppressed a hiss of pain that ran up his backside as he sat up.
"Charles?" Indeed it was, the very same timid looking man from before in the church. The man was lying face down in a puddle, a bag of bread between his flailing hands. Vanilla quickly stood up and leaned in to check the man for any injuries.
"Vanilla? Is that you?" Charles said as he pushed himself up and quickly secured the quickly soaking paper bag. "I haven't seen you since the other day. I heard about you how beat the Killer Elephants, that was amazing!" The man said, obviously impressed by the courage of his younger friend.
"Ah, well.. it wasn't too easy..." Vanilla mumbled, being modest as always. But Charles shook his head in disagreement.
"Are you kidding? I don't think a lot of guys could have pulled that off by themselves... I know I couldn't..." He said, much to Vanilla's concern. This guy really does have confidence issues. Then he recalled the discussion they had from before.
"Hey Charles. I think I might have a recipe you could use." At this the meek looking man beamed, his eyes shining with hope.
"Really? I mean, thanks!" And Vanilla quickly recited the recipe he had recovered at the hideout. Jotting it down despite the downpour, Charles copied each step onto a scrap of paper, "This sounds like something really amazing! Are you sure I can have it?"
"Sure! I promised I would help you, remember?" Vanilla said with a smile.
"Then I won't fail you! You'll see, I will make this recipe the best there is in this town, and hopefully get Sheryl to notice me!" Charles said, a passionate glint in his eyes. "I have to get supplies, see you around!" And with the man trudged off through the storm, leaving Vanilla to chuckle quietly to himself.
"He's a strange guy, but really nice." He remarked, then headed for the Inn. As Vanilla crossed the small bridge that overlooked the canal, he spotted a figure standing beneath a small tree a ways down the small street. Clad in black, a man stood resilient as he watched a building not far from where he stood.
"It's that creep from a few days ago." Vanilla said, a feeling of unease turning in his stomach. The longer he watched the man in black, the more he felt a strange foreboding. Suddenly the man turned and saw the youth staring back. With a calm tug on the collar of his jacket, the man slinked away, turning a corner without a second glance at the boy.
"That was creepy." The youth shivered, a chill coming over him that was not from the rain gradually soaking him. Carefully rounding the corner to the Inn, Vanilla saw that the man was nowhere to be seen.
"What's his deal anyway?" He said aloud, looking up to see the building the man had been lurking around, the sign read: "Vladimir Real Estate"
"Strange, looks like no one is in. Why would he be checking an empty store?" Vanilla wondered, then decided it was best to drop the issue entirely. Whatever it was, it didn't concern him and it was best to not get involved.
"Vanilla!" A voice called, and the youth turned to see none other than Connie rushing down the sidewalk, suitcase in hand. There was a look of worry in her face, as if disaster had struck.
"Connie?" Vanilla said with surprise, But I thought she was gone already. "What are you doing here?"
"There's been an accident on the rail line." The girl said, huffing and panting as she caught her breath. "They said bandits attacked or something... Oh man.. What I am gonna do?" The girl fretted, looking worried.
"Come on, let's get inside and out of the rain." Vanilla offered, leading the girl inside the Inn. The 'hum' of a heater could be heard as warm air heated the lounge. Sitting down at the counter, Connie once more resumed her worrying.
"I don't know what I'm gonna do. We have a performance coming up in 3 days!" Connie ran her fingers through her hair as she panicked. Vanilla once again found himself in admiration for the girl's selfless behavior. Ever the helpful one, he spoke up.
"I'll help you. I can take you to Happy Garland." He said. Connie wiped away a stray tear from her eye, looking positively delighted by this offer. "Really?" She said, then embraced Vanilla in a deep hug, "Oh thank you!"
"You're welcome." The boy said with a stutter, feeling his cheeks burning again like before. "So is there another way to Happy Garland we can take?"
"Yes. But we're going to have to cross the Sabbia Desert north-west of here. Though I've been told it's very dangerous." Connie explained rather nervously, starting to feel unsure.
"I swear I'll get you there, no matter what." Vanilla said reassuringly. Connie smiled, her spirits uplifted by the boy's optimism.
"Then we should probably leave now. We'll have to pass through Fort Raven on the way, but we can rest there for the night." Connie explained, heading for the door with Vanilla following closely behind. Thankfully the storm had let up, though dark clouds still hung in the sky, as well as the distant sound of thunder rumbling in the distance.
The two boarded the Earl Grey back near the bakery and immediately made their way for the North gate. "We'll go through Zibala hill to reach the fort." Connie explained as the two exited the town and into a wide open meadow. To the right was a narrow path that dipped down into a canal that passed through the town beneath the railroad tracks and off towards the direction of Wagtail, while a steep hill could seen be to the left and disappearing around a narrow curve. The hill rose higher and higher into a large mountain range that spanned out for several miles, and peppered with marshes and small forests.
Years ago, it was said that in the early years of the Kingdom where Nefroburg once stood, a number of traders made the hill their home, often trading with the former castle town before settling at the opposite side of the mountain, the location now known as Fort Raven. Once a former outpost for King Nefro, it now served as a critical means of providing trade between the towns of Nefroburg, Happy Garland, and beyond. Even with the technological boon and the shift towards a government based bureaucracy, the transportation of goods was still crucial for the survival and growth of the numerous towns and cities of this land.
"Have you ever been here before?" Vanilla asked as they passed a flat plain where the path turned sharply to the right and up another incline.
"A long time ago, when I was little." Connie responded with a distant look in her eyes. Though Vanilla could not see as he paid attention to the path, the girl had a look of remembrance on her face. "Back when he was here..." She whispered.
"Hmm? You say something?" Vanilla turned his head slightly to address the girl, who jerked slightly at the question and blushed. "No, nothing... Just thinking out loud." She stammered, looking away to watch a few passing trees. Suddenly a crack of thunder boomed loudly above them, as well as a flash of lightning that lit up the sky before another rumble.
"Uh oh! Looks like the storm is starting up again." Vanilla said, looking around and remembering the Earl did not have a canopy to provide cover. "We better find a place to stay." He added with urgency, feeling a few drops of water hitting his head. Connie leaned forward and pointed straight ahead. "Over there!" As she said this, the sky lit up once more, just in time to reveal a lone, cryptic looking mansion at the top of the hill. Its rusted, iron fence lending to a foreboding look in the dark, overcast sky. As they pulled up beside the house, the rain began to pour harder.
"Quick! Inside!" Vanilla urged as the two quickly dismounted, using an arm to shield Connie's head as they ran for the door of the large home. Inside, the two breathed from the sudden rush, only to then jump with fright as a voice called out, "Hello?" The two turned to see a bearded man in a worn coat sitting on a rotten looking couch. He was tall, and slightly gaunt around the face, his beard adding volume to his cheeks. He wore a wrinkled brown coat with a matching hat and tan slacks.
"Shh. Do be quiet please." The man said, then pointed up to the ceiling and adding, "The sister just got the kids in bed, so I'd advise you to not make any loud noises."
"Who are you?" Connie asked hesitantly, staying close to Vanilla with both hands holding onto his shoulder, unintentionally making the boy turn red in the dimly candlelit room.
"I should ask you the same, you're not with him, are you?" The man asked defensively, a hint of fear in his eyes. Suddenly the sound of soft footsteps could be heard and all three turned to see a nun descending a set of steps.
"Is something the matter, Vladimir?" The woman asked, her soft, yet wizened countenance betraying a youthful age of mid-twenty.
"No, Sister Kate. Just some strangers who came in with the storm." The man responded, standing up slightly as if ready to rush to the nun's side.
"Oh my. You two look cold. Please, come inside and rest until the storm blows over." The woman said as she gestured to some chairs near a musky looking table, "I apologize for the mess. I haven't had much time to clean this place since I got here." Kate explained with a kind smile.
"This isn't your house?" Vanilla asked, taking a seat beside Connie as the nun sat opposite of the them, the man called Vladimir edging closer with less urgency in his face.
"No, this house's previous owner apparently left some time ago. I came here after becoming the guardian of some orphaned children." Kate said, gesturing to the sorry look of the home. Cobwebs and leaky cracks could be seen all over the living area and even the kitchen.
"That's what he meant by 'kids' before." Connie said, looking to Vladimir, a look of recognition spreading across her face. "Wait a second, aren't you the man who owns that Realty company in Nefroburg?" She asked with a sense of familiarity. The man hesitated for a moment, then nodded.
"Yes. I am Vladimir of Vladimir's Real Estate." The man said, prompting Vanilla to recall the strange man standing outside the building near the Inn. "I apologize for my earlier outburst. You see, I'm currently on the run from a mysterious man in black." Vladimir said. Vanilla felt his heart drop, he and Connie both sharing a look of unease as they remembered the man in black. So that's why the man was standing outside the Real Estate building...
"But why is he after you?" Connie asked, nervously knitting her fingers together. Vladimir heaved a heavy sigh, as if still holding some reservation about divulging the entire truth, then cupped his head in his hands. "I was caught seeing something I shouldn't have."
"What?"
"I was scouting out a possible landscaping area near seagull beach, when I saw a blue trotmobile standing near a cliff. Curiosity got the better of me and I foolishly drew closer just in time to witness it firing a missile towards the ocean." At this Connie and Vanilla turned to look at one another. The trotmobile that attacked them at the beach! Was it possible it was also behind the attack on the ship as well?
"Is something wrong?" Vladimir asked, noticing the unnerved looks on the two youths.
"I saw the same thing. It fired at us while we were on the beach and nearly crushed us under some rocks before disappearing." Vanilla explained, balling his fists against his knees. Was it... was it possible that the pilot of that machine was trying to kill him from the start?
"I see, so you too are being targeted by those people."
"Who?" Vanilla asked confusedly.
"The Bloody Mantis. Supposedly they aren't real, but rumors have been spreading for the last year or so that a mysterious organization has been on the rise. People are said to vanish off the streets of Happy Garland at night and are never seen again. And I fear that we may be their latest victims." Vladimir explained, his expression paling. Connie nervously leaned close to Vanilla, both hands lightly clutching to his arm. "As I ran from the cliff, I realized I was being followed. When I got back to Nefroburg, I thought I was home free. That was until around evening, when I was closing up for the night that I saw the man idling around outside in the street, like a shark prowling the water. I panicked and went out the back, hoping to sneak away unnoticed. Then I heard the bandit breaking into the town and and I ran. Ever since, I've been hiding out here." The man finished, massaging his temples as he wearily looked back from the two teens to the rain outside the window.
"So that's what the creepy guy at the inn has been up to." Connie said, cupping her mouth as she gasped the words. Vanilla felt his stomach turn, the thought that all these events were starting to tie together so eerily was quite disturbing to put it lightly. Whatever it all meant, somehow he was, or had been dragged into it.
"So he's still in town, huh?" Vladimir asked, heaving another sigh, "I had hoped maybe he might have given up... My poor wife must be worried sick about me." He slumped down down into a chair with a heavy, exhausted sigh, taking his hat off with one hand to run his fingers through his hair with the other. Vanilla couldn't stand it, he wanted to do something, anything.
"I'll get rid of that guy, I swear." He said boldly, not even hesitating on the words. Vladimir looked up with a concerned look, reproachful.
"No, you can't. I got myself into this mess. What kind of grown-up would I be if I allowed a kid to stick his neck out for my sake?" The man frustratedly crumpled his hat in his hands.
"I'll try to trick him into leaving, maybe tell him you're somewhere else. I'm sure I can convince him somehow." Vanilla said, starting to have some doubt, but didn't want to sound like he was letting Vlad down.
"Do...do you really think you can?" The bearded man asked calmly, seeing the determination in the youth's eyes. He sighed and looked up, "Alright... You can try, but please, don't do it just yet." He added.
"huh? Why not?" Vanilla asked, puzzled.
"If you are indeed being shadowed like I am, it would likely draw suspicion if you were to return to Nefroburg and claim you 'know' where I am. And I can't allow you to get yourself into even more trouble than you may already be." Vladimir explained, taking a few breaths to collect himself. "If I have to wait a few more days before I can return home, then so be it." Vanilla wanted to object, but he could see that the man wasn't going to budge.
"Alright... I swear I'll return as soon as possible to resolve this." Vanilla said, smiling as he gave a thumbs up, hoping to lighten the mood. Outside, the rain fell softer and softer, the storm having finally moved on.
"It would seem that the worst is over." Kate said, having remained silent throughout the conversation. Though the rumbling clouds had indeed moved, the sky was already significantly darker now, signifying that nightfall was closing in.
"We'd better go then." Connie said, turning to Vanilla who nodded in agreement.
"Oh are you sure? You're more than welcome to stay." Sister Kate implored, not wishing to see the two teens go out in the night.
"It's alright, we're heading for Fort Raven anyway. But Thanks anyway." Vanilla said as he opened the door for Connie. "I promise I'll try to come back soon and help." He called back to Vladimir, who smiled hopefully.
Outside, the ground was muddy from the pelting rain, and the Earl's seat was practically drenched. Thankfully Connie had a few towels packed away in her suitcase, and one was laid over the seat while Vanilla used squeegee from the glove compartment to clear out the small puddle of water from the floor. Once it looked clean enough, the two settled in and were once more on their way. A steep hill that stretched for about half a mile lay directly ahead, where the walls of a structure could be seen along with torchlight.
"There it is!" Connie said, pointing as the Earl made its way down the slope. The area here seemed barren compared to earlier, the ground looked dried and devoid of any plant life, save for a number of skeletal looking trees. As they near the walls, which were built from heavy looking logs fashioned tightly together, the sounds of music and other mingling voices could be heard. And the smell of spices and other goods wafted through the damp air.
"WAH!" A cry suddenly sounded, followed by a loud clanging as something metal was smashed heavily. Entering through the open gate, a large crowd of people formed a semicircle around two trotmobiles that were engaged in combat. Well, one was, the other looked like it was already broken to pieces. The larger one, a red four-legged trot that resembled Ex-Boss' , only with a trident like right arm and a grill shaped like bull horns. The other was a much smaller model with a light green paint job and a shield for its left arm. With a powerful jab of the trident, the green trot and its pilot were sent flying back, nearly crashing into Vanilla and Connie as it smashed into the walls of the fort.
"Ah, come on! I thought you'd be better than that! Seriously, are all of you guys here losers?" The red pilot, a beefy looking dolt boasted. He looked like a shaved gorilla, and his mannerisms almost added to the likelihood of him being such. "Hey you!" He pointed to Vanilla, a menacing grin on his face. "You here to fight?"
"What? No!" Vanilla was quick to say, completely baffled by what was going on. But the man snickered, crossing his large arms over his broad torso.
"What, chicken?" And the sound of clucking could be heard as the man flapped his arms. Vanilla had to resist slapping his forehead in exasperation, this guy was a complete idiot.
"Ah who cares. I want a fight, and I'm getting one!" And before Vanilla could even react, the man charged at him with surprising speed, a propulsion blasting white hot flames as the massive trot closed the gap between the two.
"Watch out!" Connie gasped, and covered her head as the man fired a spiked ball at the Earl. Vanilla was too slow in dodging it and cringed as the Earl's right arm was dented and torn up by the passing attack, which exposed a heap of gears and wires, the blade piece falling off. Dashing to the side, Vanilla's thoughts were a mess of hurried ideas as he tried to come up with a strategy.
"Where do you think you're going?" The brute mockingly asked, quick to follow after the youth. Vanilla could feel his heart race, this guy was brutal, nothing like the opponents he had faced before. Either this guy was that good, or just lucky to have such firepower at his grasp. Whatever the real answer was, Vanilla didn't have time to find out as the trident was thrust at him. Throwing up the stage arm like a shield, the scrapping of metal could be heard as the sharpened tip slashed across the smooth metal and created sparks.
"Good, looks like you actually have some fightin' spirit in ya after all!" The man said, though it was hard to tell if it was a compliment or a snide comment. The red bull like trot then charged forward, skewering the Earl on it's horn and nearly piecing out the other side. Vanilla forgot all holding the steering wheel and instead held onto to Connie as the large machine throttled the Earl like it was rag-doll, shaking it violently to and fro as the man laughed derisively.
"Pitiful! Come on, fight back, I didn't bang up your arms that badly." But Vanilla ignored the man, all he cared about was protecting Connie as the Earl Grey continued to shake. Once it became clear to the man that Vanilla wasn't going to fight back, he stopped bucking around.
"Geez, you're no fun! And here I was thinking you actually might be a challenge." And with that the red trotmobile shook the Earl off it's horn with a jerking motion, dropping the battered machine to the ground like a mangled rabbit after being chewed on by a wolf. "I'm outta here, this place is full of weaklings." The man said, then headed for the opposite gate, disappearing beyond it.
"Are you ok?" Vanilla asked Connie as he pulled away from her. She nodded meekly, still looking frightened from the ordeal. Both looked around, and were shocked to see the state of the Earl. If it looked like junk before back on the beach, it was now officially a mess. The right arm hung loosely as the frame piece was nearly disconnected from the main body, while the torso itself leaked oil from the gaping holes the horns had perforated it with.
"It's a wreck..." Connie said, nervously chewing on her lip as she looked at Vanilla's totaled trotmobile.
"Hey, you guys alright?" A dull, meek sounding voice called. As Vanilla helped Connie out the damaged Earl, he saw a lanky looking man around his age walking up to him. He wore a pair of helmet goggles and a black leather coat. Judging by the bruises on his face, he was the very pilot of the trotmobile the man had beaten before Vanilla.
"Yea. Who are you?" Vanilla asked.
"Oh I'm Jimmy. Though most people call me wuss... or wussy... or Jimmy the big fat wuss." The guy said, his droning, shrill voice grating on Vanilla's ears. Gee, I wonder why? So this is that "Jimmy" that Dino was going on about. "I'm supposed to be a gladiator, believe it or not. But even after I got a D-rank license through years of hard work, I just couldn't handle the pressure... so I ran away. Unfortunately when I got here, that guy, Dudley, was here picking fights with anyone in a trotmobile. I tried to lay low, but he found me out and challenged me to a fight. And well, you saw what happened."
.
"Um... yea. Well are you ok?" Vanilla asked, not sure whether to feel pity for the dopey man or slap him silly.
"Yea I'm fine. Don't worry, I'm used to being beat up and picked on." Jimmy said, scratching the back of his head as he forced an awkward laugh, something that bothered Vanilla to no end. He couldn't explain why, but something about the dorky guy just annoyed him. "Well, I'll see you around, now I gotta see if I can get my trotmobile repaired... again." With that, Jimmy walked off, leaving Vanilla and Connie to stare at the busted form of the Earl.
"Excuse me, sir?" A man called out, and the two turned to see a portly looking man approaching. He wore a cloth around his head, only showing his round face and prickly beard, while a brown overcoat covered his white shirt and gray slacks. "I couldn't help but see the fight you were in, and I have to say you fought quite well." He said, his praising tone very vigorous.
"Yea... but I lost." Vanilla said flatly, casting a look to the Earl.
"Ah, but even the best of us must fail if we are to ever grow stronger." The man said enthusiastically, "The name's Delsen, president of the Deloche Emporium." The man introduced himself, holding out a hand to Vanilla, who hesitantly shook it. "I only started a few months ago, but have been hitting a snag recently. You see, I conduct trade between Fort Raven here and Alcazar de Condor, the old structure on the outskirts of Happy Garland. A group of bandits, called the Desert Hornets have been causing a stir lately. Normally they only attacked every few months, stealing a few supplies and leaving the traders alone, but recently they've been getting more violent and have even torn entire caravans to shreds." Delsen explained, his expression becoming more serious, "So you see this next venture needs to be successful. So do you think you consider helping me out?"
"I would, but my trotmobile is a wreck..." Vanilla said. Not to mention the fact that Connie still has two days now to make it to Happy Garland, can't exactly afford to get sidetracked.
"Not a worry. I can easily pay for the repairs, not to mention have some modifications made for desert travel. You're on way to Happy Garland anyway, yes? May as well earn some money along the way." Delsen said, putting on a more suave businessman kind of approach. Vanilla felt hesitant, looking to Connie for some kind of guidance.
"It's ok. Besides, we have to get your trotmobile fixed somehow." The brunette said cheerfully. At this the entrepreneur beamed excitedly.
"Then it's settled, I swear you will be paid handsomely for your services. As an extra piece of encouragement, how about I give you a bonus right now so you can get some supplies from the bazaar?" The man said, fishing out a considerable amount of money from his pocket as he gestured to the enclosed area alongside the left wall of the fort. Vanilla eyed the cash for a moment, finally caving as he realized there was little choice in the matter.
"Fantastic. I'll have the mechanics get to work immediately. They should have it ready by tomorrow morning, which is when we'll be heading out. So I'd advise you to rest up, the journey through the desert will be long so you should also look into getting a change of clothes." And with that, Delsen strolled away, a slight bounce in his step.
"Sometimes I feel like an errand boy." Vanilla quipped as he looked that money and thought over the recent events that had transpired.
"It's because you're a nice person. There's just something about you that makes people want to trust you." Connie said, giving an encouraging smile, "And that's one of the reasons I like you." She added, cutely swaying from side to side. Vanilla chuckled and nervously scratched his head.
The bazaar occupied at least one quarter of fort raven, serving as both a place for trade and other services. Along the fence that closed it in was a small series of stables for horses, most of which were either sleeping or hitched up by their owners. Stalls dotted the area, featuring everything from meats and spices, rare antiques, clothes and curios. Mats of eloquent design lay on the ground, where exotic women performed belly dances and men charmed snakes or displayed bold feats of courage with daggers. It was unlike anything Vanilla had ever seen, the smells and sounds of music all blending into something truly different from the more modern life in a place like Nefroburg.
"Oh, Vanilla. Look at this!" Connie called, pulling the youth from his idling thoughts and towards a merchant selling clothes. Hanging from both sides of the stand were two outfits, one for men, and another for women. The man's outfit consisted of a bluish top with long sleeves and white pants, both made of a light material designed for humid climates. The woman's was an eloquently crafted white blouse with a flowing red dress and a small yellow shawl. There were also shoes that oddly curled at the tips and turbans made from a heavy wrap.
"These would be perfect for crossing the desert." Connie said, taking hold of one of the outfits and examining it closely. Vanilla agreed and happily purchased the two items, along with a pair of swimming trunks that were being sold at half price.
"Thank you, sir. If you're in need of a place to change, just use the booths near the rest area." The seller, a woman in a white gown, said as she gestured to a line of cots running along the wall by the fort's exit gate. Two booths could be seen, simple three paneled boxes with green curtains. Taking their new clothes underarm, Vanilla and Connie each entered one of the booths. Vanilla inwardly was glad to have a change of clothes, having been wearing the same outfit for who knows how long. Thankfully the new outfit was just his size, though a little baggy around the pants, but that was compensated by the swimming trunks which he wore like briefs.
It's very light, and comfortable. He thought to himself as he left the booth, his old clothes bundled together in a ball. He then heard the rustle of the other booth curtain and turned to see Connie.
"How do I look?" She asked, a bit of uncertainty in her voice. Vanilla was speechless, absolutely captivated by the alluring way the garb fitted on the girl's petite form. It was almost too hard to describe with words.
"Very pretty..." He stammered, pretending to clear his throat when he realized his slip up. Connie giggled, "Thanks, Vanilla. You look pretty dashing yourself in that get up." She added, making the boy feel red in the face for the third time that day.
"Um.. I'm gonna go for a walk." Vanilla nervously said, trying to change the subject.
"Ok. I think I'm gonna turn in now, it's been a long day." Connie said, yawning as she sat down on a cot and then lied down. "Good night." She said sweetly, another yawning interrupting her speech as she drifted off.
"Sweet dreams, Connie..." Vanilla whispered as he quietly stepped away from the rest area to explore the bazaar. Things had significantly quieted down as the traders closed shop for the night and many of the performers had retired for the night. Yet a raging bonfire burned in the center of the area, where various people sat in a circle, trading stories of life. As Vanilla walked through the dusty ground, he tripped over a small wooden tripod, an easel belonging to a startled painter.
"Ah!" The youth cried out as he tumbled to the ground and rolled onto his back, just in time see a canvas falling towards him. Holding out his hands he caught the rectangular object, much to the relief of the artists, a young man wearing a beret and greenish blue smock.
"Oh, thank the stars. Are you alright, sir?" The man asked, taking the canvas in one hand and helping Vanilla with the other.
"Yea.. I'm fine." Vanilla groaned, rubbing his side from the sudden soreness inflicted by the tumble. "Sorry about that."
"It's ok. Thankfully I'm not quite done yet, so it's not like anything serious would have been damaged." The artist said as he set the canvas back on the easel. "I'm Pablo, by the way." He added, holding out a hand.
"Vanilla." The youth said kindly as they shook. "So you're an artist? That must be exciting."
"It is... it's been my life's dream to be a famous painter." Pablo started with great enthusiasm, opening a pouch and showing off two portraits, one of his face and another depicting the square from Nefroburg. Vanilla was stunned, surprised by the masterful detail and almost lifelike quality. "However... I haven't been doing too well lately..." He added, his voice suddenly dour.
"Why's that?" Vanilla asked, finding it hard to believe this guy wasn't already a popular sensation.
"Well, I've yet to find anyone who's really into my works. Most people these days are either obsessed with trotmobiles or fossils. Don't get me wrong, I'm not in for the glory, I just want to know if my works can touch people's hearts the same way music or a book does." Pablo said, a hopeful glint in his eye. He then cleared his throat, a rather rough cough hitting him.
"Are you ok?"
"Ah, yes. It's nothing, I think I caught a bit of a cold from walking through that storm earlier on my way here." The artist said, putting on a nonchalant smile. He then used a pencil and began drawing on the canvas. Vanilla stood beside Pablo for a better look, and was amazed to see a sketch of the bazaar, it was like a frozen frame of the bustling market.
"It looks really good, so far." Vanilla said, beyond impressed.
"Thanks, it's good to hear a compliment or two, however rare." Pablo nodded, switching to a brush to add a shade of brown to the 'ground'. His hand strokes were precise and without flaw, making a believable texture of soil from the paint.
"I should have this one finished within a day. Then I'll probably be making my way to Happy Garland." Pablo said, keeping his focus on the canvas as he spoke.
"By yourself?" Vanilla asked.
"Well, I'll probably tag along with a caravan or maybe some travelers." Pablo said reassuringly. "If not, I know I can find some way. I always have."
"You travel a lot?"
"Mostly, yea. I grew up on a small farm by the Shrike River, near Martlett Falls. I set out on my own a few years ago, you see. Ever since, I've been traveling the land, drawing what I see and hear." Pablo said, a look of remembrance on his face.
"I bet your family must miss you." Vanilla said, inwardly wishing he could remember more about his own family. Did he have any brothers? Sisters?
"You're probably right... though I just don't think I can face them yet, not after having accomplished nothing of value." Pablo stated.
"That's not true. I'm sure they'd be happy to know you've been following your dream." Vanilla exclaimed, which surprised the painter for a moment.
"Hmm, perhaps you're right. My mother was always one to worry." The young artist said, "Then I'll be sure to see her once I've made it to Happy Garland." He said happily, now switching to a dark blue for the skyline. "Well I enjoyed this little conversation of ours. I do feel it's always nice to have a chat with a stranger from time to time, really opens up your perspective of the world each time." Pablo said as he set down the brush and used the pencil to adjust a few lines.
"You too. Take care, Pablo." The youth said, turning to head back for the rest area, feeling sleepiness finally washing over him.
"So long, Vanilla. I hope to see you again, some day." The artist grinned, holding a brush much like one offering their cheers with a drink. Back at the cots, Vanilla finally settled down beside Connie, who slept peacefully. As Vanilla fell into a deep slumber, he smiled as the memories of the day flashed before his eyes.
"Hey Vanilla! Wake up!" A voice called, and Vanilla opened his eyes to see Connie looking over him. Sitting up, the blonde yawned and shifted his feet to the ground. The sky was a light shade of blue, the sun already making its ascent into the sky above.
"It's almost time to meet with Mr. Delsen." The girl explained, shifting through her suitcase and placing her and Vanilla's old clothes inside. They then headed for the gate, where a line of six strange trotmobiles stood. The one in front looked like an armless trot with a 'crane' like neck, while the four behind it looked like metal palettes with legs heavy tarps tied over top of them, the one was at the rear was similar to the first but loaded with crates and had the seats facing backwards. Delsen was speaking with a man dressed in a heavy cloak near a camel as the two approached.
"Ah, just in time. I was just speaking with my assistant here, he's an expert on navigating the desert. The plan is like this: it'll take us about half a day to head north, there we'll set up camp at an oasis and resume the following morning." Delsen explained, giving a nod to his friend as he lead Vanilla and Connie away from the caravan. "And as promised; here's your trotmobile, all fixed up."
"Wow..." Vanilla was speechless as he looked upon the Earl as it exited from the garage station. Any signs of damage were completely gone, the torso having been replaced with a newer model, one that was significantly larger than the original. The legs had also been swapped, now a large mechanical abdomen with four spidery legs. The blade arm was repaired, featuring a longer, slide mounting. As an added touch, a retractable sunroof had been adorned over the drivers seat.
"It's like a brand new machine." Vanilla was in awe, Connie equally as impressed by the Earl's dramatic make over.
"We thought it was a good idea to give your ol' ride a few upgrades, the desert is a harsh place, and you're gonna need all the right equipment. So, are you ready?" Delsen asked, lightly tugging on the fringes of his coat.
"Sure thing, sir." Vanilla said.
"Excellent, get settled in and we'll be on our way." And with that Vanilla and Connie boarded the new and improved Earl, marveling at it's sleek new cockpit and plush seating. "This is amazing! I never thought he'd go to this much trouble." Vanilla quipped, buckling himself into the driver's seat as he started up the trotmobile. Connie nodded in agreement, playfully bouncing on the new seat which was far softer than the old one.
"Alright, let's move out!" Delsen could be heard up ahead. The gate was then raised by two people pulling ropes, and the caravan lined itself up, with the Earl behind the rear cargo trot. One by one the caravan trots exited through the gate and into a narrow passage surrounded on both sides by jagged rocks. Walking ahead to Delsen's trot, the businessman waved over to the two teens.
"Here we are, the Sabbia Desert!" He gestured with both arms. Vanilla whistled, mesmerized by the vastness that spread out before his eyes. Rolling dunes of sand stretched out as far as he could see, and howling winds constantly blew thick shrouds of sand that spiraled about like the dancers of the bazaar. But the thing that surprised Vanilla the most was the heat, though not suffocating, it was considerably warmer than anything the youth had ever experienced to the best of his memory.
"Just stay close and keep an eye out for the bandits. They like to attack when the sand storms get really fierce, makes it easier for them to hide and sneak up on the cargo bots." Delsen explained, then motioned ahead for the caravan to begin moving. The new roof proved to be quite useful, keeping most of the blowing sand from getting into the cockpit.
"It seems so, empty." Vanilla thought, looking around at the desert.
"It's definitely not like any place I've been to." Connie said. Suddenly there was a cry of surprise from the caravan, which came to a halt.
"It's... the Desert Hornets are coming!" Vanilla looked around, but could barely see anything. Then, in the distance from his right, he saw the three shadows in the whirling sands. Vanilla just barely raised the stage arm in time as the orange light of gunfire was seen, the shots blasting the sand and whizzing past him and the caravan. Then the shadows charged forward, emerging like wolves from the bush. They were much like the Killer Elephant's trotmobiles, chicken legged, but with slanted 'wing' shields and the canons were mounted on the front.
"Watch out!" Connie said as the leding bandit, a red machine with two riders, a man and woman lead the charge. It stood a few yards short and opened fire, the blast echoing in the wind. Vanilla swung with stage arm, connecting right on with the shot and sending the shell careening into the sands where it smoked pitifully. Two others, both of a leafy green paint job flanked him, encircling the Earl as they paced around.
"Time to see what this baby can do." Vanilla said, dashing back just as one of the bandits was closing in from behind. The Earl slammed into it full force, sending the lighter trot tumbling down a hill of sand, the rider jumping with a terrified yelp. His companion swooped by for him to hop in before firing off a barrage of shots at Vanilla. The spider legs worked incredibly well for dodging, Vanilla easily gliding to the side and avoiding the shot. Sliding forward and swinging the blade arm, the Earl cut through the barrel, leaving the two bandits stunned and stupefied.
"Yo, kid!" A voice called, and Vanilla turned to see the red bandit pacing from side to side as it fired at the caravan. One of the tarps tore and the shredded remains blew away in the wind, exposing the boxes of goods on the mobile platform. Folding the stage arm, Vanilla glided over the sand, carefully making his way towards the helpless traders.
"Leave them alone!" He called, using the full force of the stage arm's fist. The blow connected with the red bandit's trot, violently rocking it as a massive dent appeared. The woman turned and narrowed her eyes at Vanilla, the rest of her face obscured by a shawl. Tapping the driver on the shoulder, the woman said something before making a gesture towards the other bandit trot. Vanilla watched tensely as the red hornet then slowly backed away, before fully turning and charging off, the remaining green one following behind. As soon as they vanished beyond the veil of sand, Vanilla turned back to Delsen and his group.
"Is everyone all right?"
"Looks that way. That was mighty impressive work you did. I was right picking you for this venture." The portly businessman said heartily. Glad to hear that, Vanilla resumed walking beside the caravan, carefully scanning the sandy dunes for signs of another attack. About an hour later, the sun was now bearing down heavily overhead, things seemed fairly quiet. The winds had died down, which was good in that the sand no longer was cutting drastically on visibility, but it also meant the heat could now be felt more than ever.
"I hope we can stop soon, I'm starting to get thirsty." Connie said, her voice sounding a little dry. Just then, as the caravan cleared another tall hill, an almost otherworldly sight came into view.
"Aha, there it is; the Kharija Oasis, we've made it!" Delsen said with glee, pointing to what looked almost like a small tropical island in the middle of the several low dunes. Tall palm trees reached into the sky, surrounded by lush green vegetation. It almost seemed too good to be true, but there it was, a slice of paradise amidst the harsh and unforgiving world of sand.
"We'll make camp here and set out in the morning." Delsen spoke up as he addressed Vanilla and the other members of the caravan. Once the cargo had been checked and accounted for, everyone disembarked from their machines and entered the oasis.
"Whoa..." Vanilla and Connie both exclaimed with wide-eyed astonishment. A beautiful, glistening spring of clear water stretched out before them. It curved around a small islet that jutted out from the surrounding land, while the ground curved around and towards a few small huts that overlooked a small dock. A few settlers could be seen, mingling with travelers who had also stopped at the oasis.
"It's beautiful." Connie said, walking over to the edge and looking down, seeing her reflection in the water's surface. She sat down and gently cupped a handful of water to splash over her face and drink to quench her parched throat.
"Indeed it is, miss. This here oasis has been a popular haven for people to come to on their way through the desert. Some call it the "Gem of Sabbia" due to its presence as a pivotal source of water and fish. It's even a great place for swimming, as the desert sun and the natural spring the water rises from keep it at a pleasant temperature." Delsen said knowingly, leaning down and scooping some water into his hand for a drink.
"That sounds lovely." The girl said, then turned to Vanilla. "Wanna take a dip?" She asked the boy as he leaned over and peered into the water. The forward nature of the question startled the boy that he nearly fell over into the spring.
"Huh? Ah, I mean... uh sure!" He stammered, unable to believe his ears.
"Ok, I'll just go behind that tree there to change." Connie pointed to a large palm tree, just wide enough for a person to stand behind and out of sight. "Just no peeking, alright?" She said cutely, sticking out her tongue as she went behind the large trunk, carrying her suitcase. Vanilla shook his head as he felt his cheeks burn a little, then found a similar tree to stand behind. Removing and folding the garb, he laid his clothes and shoes down on the ground in the shade, along with his pendent.
"Hey, you ready?" He heard Connie call. Stepping out, Vanilla felt his jaw almost drop. Standing by the water was Connie, in a pink bikini. While very practical, Connie's own natural looks simply accentuated the bathing suit in ways left the boy's heart pounding faster and faster.
"Yea..." Vanilla said, simply stunned by the girl's appearance. She's beautiful! He thought as he walked up to her. Connie smiled as she always did, that soft grin that could melt the woes of a thousand broken souls. "Let's go then!" She chirped, then giggled as she dived into the water, splashing Vanilla with a cool blast of water.
"Come on, the water's fine!" She urged, waving with one hand while kicking her feet to stay afloat. Vanilla had to hand to her, she knew how to have fun. With a grin, the youth took a stance.
"Ok, here I go!" He said, then dashed forward and leaped into the air, curling into a ball as he landed in the water heavily. Connie's infectious laughter could be heard under the water as water splashed her. Breaking the surface with a gasp, Vanilla beamed widely as the girl swam closer to him.
"I'd give it a 9." She said teasingly. The boy nearly sank to the bottom as he face faulted.
"A 9! Come on, that was a 10 and you know it!" Vanilla pretended to be upset, splashing the girl playfully.
"Hey!" She faked pouted, doing a backstroke while kicking more forcefully to splash Vanilla's face. Swimming after in the girl in a mock rage, Connie laughing and giggling as she splashed and pretended to 'stay away' from the pursuing boy. Time soon flew by as the pair splashed around, dived, and generally drifted about on the water aimlessly. Before they realized it, the sun had sank into the distance, replacing the blue sky with a shade of purple.
"That was fun!" Connie exclaimed with a gushing laugh as they two climbed out and went back to the trees, Vanilla smiling brightly in agreement. After cleaning and redressing, the two sat around the campfire Delsen and his crew set up for dinner. As they ate, Delsen told stories of his earlier years apprenticing under another trader. Of course Vanilla and Connie had to suppress laughter as the man boasted about selling various and absurd objects before he could finally make it on his own.
"Well it's getting late. Best to turn in early." Delsen said as the moon rose high in the sky. Uncurling several straw mats, everyone turned in.
Except Vanilla, who suddenly found himself in a state of unrest. No matter how hard he tried to left himself be taken by slumber, his mind felt murky, making it difficult to sleep. With nasally sigh he rose from the mat and stood up. He then took a small walk, stopping by the edge of the spring and sitting down. Staring up into the sky, Vanilla found himself transfixed by the twinkling stars, the cloudy feeling in his head diminishing a little.
A lot has happened lately... He thought, trying to focus his circling thoughts. In a flash, memories of his encounters with the Killer Elephants, meeting Dr. Nutmeg, saving the town, reuniting with Connie, and traveling into the desert rushed by. In little over a week, he had gone from waking up on the shores of Seagull beach to becoming a hero, saving the town from misguided ruffians who only sought to travel to the moon, to becoming a hired hand in protecting a caravan.
"And it's all because of her..." Vanilla murmured as a vision of Connie appeared, her radiant smile warming his heart. Placing a hand to his chest, he could feel it beating faster and harder, as though it would burst. For a moment Vanilla listened to his pacing heart, a look of realization slowly dawning on his face.
So is that what I'm feeling? Have I really fallen for her? He thought wordlessly...
"Can't sleep either, huh?" A voice said, and Vanilla turned to see Connie approaching. She sat down beside him, heaving a heavy sigh.
"The group is probably mad at me. I ran out without a second thought after I heard the news about Nefroburg. We have a concert coming up, and yet I took off without warning." She said, regret in her voice. "But if we can reach Happy Garland tomorrow, I'm sure it'll work out."
"I bet so, too." Vanilla said, grinning reassuringly. Connie smiled back, happy for the encouragement.
"Mind if I ask you something?"
"Hmm, what?" Vanilla asked, a little surprised by the sudden change in subject.
"Well, it's about that pendent you have." She said, pointing to the necklace around Vanilla's neck. Grasping it, Vanilla briefly remembered his meeting with Dr. Nutmeg and how a boy named "Mallow" may have been the original owner.
"This belonged to Mallow, didn't it?" He asked, startling the girl. It seemed as though the name struck a bad chord with her.
"How do you know that name?" She asked.
"When I visited Dr. Nutmeg, we talked about the pendent and I was able to recover a memory. In it, there was a boy, and Nutmeg said he might be someone you knew called Mallow." Vanilla explained.
"I see..." Connie said, her voice quieter, unsettled almost.
"Who was he?" Vanilla asked, desperate to find out something, anything about his past.
"He's the son of a well known doctor from Happy Garland. You could say he was a friend of ours." Connie began, obviously struggling to speak about the boy in question. Vanilla could see that there was some kind of bad history. "He did make fun of Dandelion and Chicory though..."
I've heard those names before...
"Who were they, Dandelion and Chicory?" Vanilla asked. Connie seemed to tense up, a sullen expression crossing her face. He recalled how Connie seemed to quickly change the subject back at the carpet mill when Marjoram had said the name Dandelion.
"They were friends, way back. They were brothers who used to play with the Garland Globetrotters, with Dandelion as the leader. But about 3 years ago he left to open an instrument workshop." Connie explained. Suddenly the picture from the shack flashed through Vanilla's head, was that them?
"And Chicory?"
"He's... a friend." The girl said, almost in a whisper. For a moment she closed her eyes and heaved a sigh, her expression still gloom. Obviously there was some history with these people, history that deeply affected Connie in ways Vanilla couldn't imagine. As much as he wanted find out about Mallow and his past, he couldn't bring himself to push the girl any further, at least not now.
"I'm sorry..." He said, looking down into the water. Connie forced a wry smile, shaking her head.
"No... I'm the one who should apologize. I thought maybe I could help you with your memory." She started, frowning. She was now rubbing her hands, completely unsettled. But Vanilla stopped her, taking her into a hug.
"It's ok. You don't have to talk about it if you don't feel like it. My memory can wait." He said, feeling the girl sigh heavily once again before releasing her.
"Thanks. I promise, I want to help you, Vanilla. I want you to get all your memories back, no matter what." Connie leaned back, a look of determination on her face. Vanilla smiled, glad to see her returning to her cheerier self.
"Anyway. I also wanted to ask you about the harmonica you have."
"What about it?" Vanilla asked, retrieving it from his pocket. Looking it over, he could the fine etching of his name on one side. It looked fairly old, but still functional.
"Well, I thought maybe we could play together, if that's alright with you." Vanilla suddenly tensed, making a funny "I don't know how to play though." face.
"It's ok, I can show you a copy of the lyrics." Connie said, getting up and running back to her suitcase. After a moment she returned, a sheet of paper in hand. On it were the musical notes for the song she had performed the night of the attack. Vanilla took the sheet nervously, still unsure about the idea in general.
"Don't worry, I'll hum it first, that way you can try to get an idea of the rhythm." She explained, then cleared her throat. After a pause she began to hum slowly to that same tune she sang before. Vanilla hesitated, then placed his lips on the harmonic and began playing. At first he could barely keep a beat, often stopping and starting again when he missed a note or didn't get the pitch right, all the while Connie smiled sweetly as she continued humming.
"Keep at it, you're getting there." She said encouragingly. And Vanilla had to admit, he did feel it becoming easier. Closing his eyes, he could suddenly see the music each note playing out, as though the tune were a visible stream. Stopping, Vanilla grinned, the memory of playing his treasured harmonica, a gift from long ago. He played it often, every day almost. Day, night, he would jam to any little tune he could imagine.
"Vanilla? You ok?" Connie asked when she noticed the boy had ceased playing. Turning to nod, Vanilla opened his eyes, a wide smile on his voice.
"I think I just figured it out." He said, a knowing look on his face. "Go ahead, sing." He added as he once more placed the harmonica to his lips. Connie smiled, then began to sway gently from side to side as she opened her mouth.
When you're sad and blue
Vanilla chimed in with the harmonica, pulling off an impressive tempo that added a depth to the last two words in Connie's verse.
Look into the blue sky. And your blueness might be soaked into the sky
Vanilla continued a soft rhythm as Connie sang the verse.
When you feel like nobody. Just look at the stars
Two beats sounded, emphasizing the end of the verse.
And remember they are twinkling for you!
Connie turned, smiling to Vanilla as he perfectly nailed another note.
In your eyes I see a pond of troubles; You've been hiding from us all the time
Vanilla caught each note on the words "Pond of troubles" and "hiding from us all the time." with near expert precision. Really picking up the pace.
But you can't keep all in forever. Can't you see that we all right here for you?
Their harmony was near perfect, as if they had been playing for ages.
Now let me tell you one thing, we are all right here for you and only you
Nothing else seemed to matter, they absorbed entirely in the beat of the music.
We will always sing for you. So why not sing along with us?
Let go of all your troubles; Be free of your mind and let it go!
It's funny how things turn around. Just by singing out loud!
Silence followed, neither one able to speak as the success rolled over them.
"That was perfect! You were amazing!" Connie finally said, gushing as she loaded praise after praise unto Vanilla. "How did you get so good?" She couldn't help but ask.
"I don't know... I just suddenly remembered how to play..." Vanilla said, honestly amazed that he could be this good with the small instrument. For a moment the two basked in the glow of the moon, enjoying the peace and serenity of their performance.
"That was fun. But it's late now... Good night." Connie said, standing up and returning to her mat. Vanilla smiled, happy to have shared that moment with Connie. Maybe he didn't much about this Mallow kid, but he did discover one thing; he could kick butt with the harmonica. Finally, he returned to the campsite, where Delsen and the caravan riders slept. Connie was fast asleep, looking peaceful.
"She looks happy." He thought, then leaned in. "Sweet dreams, Connie." But instead of a sleepy response, the girl groaned.
"Chicory... I'm sorry." Vanilla frowned, a bad dream? Deciding it was best not to fret over it, Vanilla lied down on his mat, finally feeling sleep washing over him. Soon he slipped away into dreamland...
"AHHH!" A voice cried.
"Huh? What?" Vanilla mumbled groggily as he sat bolt upright, his vision blurry from sleepiness. Rubbing his eyes, he sat up just in time to see a strange figure, a bandit. But it was what the man had slung over his shoulders that made Vanilla's blood run cold. Connie, kicking and thrashing, was being hauled off by the tall bandit, dressed in heavy cloth that covered him from head to toe.
"VANILLA! HELP!"
TO BE CONTINUED
(In Your Voice; instrumental version plays)
Connie is tied up and being taken away by a bandit, Vanilla desperately trying to follow after.
The past can be like a beast, a roaring rampage of hatred and bitterness
Vanilla is escorted by Delsen's assistant to a large hideout, the moon shining high above them.
The boy finds himself facing the beast head on, an unknown anger being hurled at him
Vanilla suddenly finds himself surrounded, bandits coming from all sides.
However, the words of the girl soothe the beast
Connie is seen singing a song, a look of passion in her face.
"Next time, on Steambot Chronicles! Impossible!"
Yep, another cliffhanger. I had already planned on ending it here, not to mention it nearly six in the morning here! XP (I just had to finish this, as I was getting annoyed at myself for pushing it back every time I tried to write it). Anyway, I feel I outdid myself with this chapter, though I am a bit unsure about a few things; like the encounter with Vladimir and the conversation by the spring. I do hope to maybe find someone eventually who could proofread the chapters, though I may hold off on that until I've fully completed the story and then go back to fix and revise any mistakes I may have made.
Please review! It's always appreciated. And stay tuned for chapter 8, I swear I'll try to get it out soon.