A/N: Welcome to Souls of Fire, drinking the coolaid IS the wise answer!
Alright guys, huge thanks to all of my supporters! ItsjustCrow, Azure, Theawesomess (Fooled me into thinking the world's free of his reign, dick.), Thunderwolf, Magyk, blazepanzer24, and john904! Bless you all for helping me out as always.
Now excuse me while I open this fresh package of bacon...even came with a tripwire to pu-
January 3rd 2023
"Man," Rika cheered at the table, "Business has been going great this week! Just look at our profits!"
"I know right?" I smiled, nodding in satisfaction.
500,000 Cor, all of it at our disposal. Could never dream of having so much out here, not within nearly so short a time. Could only accumulate this much due to her great skill.
The beauty of her being such a skilled blacksmith was that everyone wanted her expertise at some point. Combine that with over a week's time in sales and we had ourselves a small fortune!
"Sadly," she closed her menu, "Gonna have to spend most of that on resource investment. Agil's got good connections with mining guilds, but it's not cheap."
"S'all good." I waved, "You've built a good network yourself! Clearers sending you orders via messaging."
"That," Rika raised a finger, "and I've been considering hiring an NPC."
"Oh?"
"Yep," she finished eating breakfast, "It'll allow me to run an automated shop whenever we're on the road."
"Sounds handy!" I cheered, "Any downsides?"
"I get a ten percent income drop," she shrugged, "but considering the business, that's easy. I don't need to be there."
"The bot will emulate my current level of blacksmithing when it comes to repairs...though I still have to do it myself if I wanna improve the skill."
"Fair enough." I shrugged, "Would be kinda weird otherwise."
"As for weapon creation," she explained, "I have to make those myself. I like that though, keeps it personal."
A knock was heard, I quickly opened the door. Right outside was Argo, the whiskered info-broker. Standing there in her green cloak and forest garb, a set of claw weapons protruded from her hands.
"Morning guys," Argo adjusted her green cowl, "Not interrupting anything steamy, am I?"
This cat sure loved to mess with us, friggin five seconds in and she already got Rika fired up!
"No, no!" Rika blushed, "Come in!"
"You sure?" Argo smirked, "You're lookin a bit jumpy."
"It's fine," I defended Rika, "Just talkin' business."
Closing the door behind her, Argo rubbed her hands together, her fingerless gloves looking rather comfy.
"Okay," the Cat turned back to us, "So you paid me a while back to get any bits on PoH, right? Got a little something."
"Let's hear it," I focused, "We'll need it."
"Okay so apparently the guy's got a spy following you around," Argo frowned, "no solid on the name, but apparently he or she goes by 'The Ghost'."
"Oh nice," I chuckled, "A sheet-head. We'll see who's spooped by the end of this."
"Too spoopy for me," Rika laughed.
"That name's a bit of a bad omen, guys." Argo warned, "I wouldn't be laughing."
"But...it became skeleton!" I guffawed.
"That stole our blankets!" Rika shrieked in jest.
"Ugh," Argo groaned, "Grats Lis, you finally found someone just as headstrong as you...you ready to listen or not? Cuz I've got rounds to make."
"Okay," Rika sighed with a smile, "What's the stalker's deal?"
"It's said the ghost wanders the forests of Floor Three." Argo explained, "While it helps players out of trouble, no one's actually seen it. Worse...its taken lives too."
"So how do they know it's even a person?" Rika inquired, "There are humanoid mobs out here."
"Because NPCs make their presence known," Argo shrugged, "All I know is the fact the ghost uses a bow..."
"Great..." I growled, "an archer."
"Anyway!" Argo smiled, "figured you'll wanna deal with it. Other than that, PoH's kept a lower than low profile. Seriously, guy's slippery."
"That'll do then," Rika smiled, "Thanks for the tip!"
"Sure thing," Argo winked, "Should be goin...got Clearers to inform."
"How about a drink?" Rika brushed her hair, "Little something for the road?"
"Oh that'd be nice, cutie." Argo bowed her head, "Keep an eye on it though, wouldn't want Garr drugging this fine lady up."
"What?!" I raised an eyebrow.
"Oh definitely," Rika giggled, "The guy's a known criminal after all! Got that whole bad boy thing going."
Bad boy? I couldn't act that way if my life depended on it!
"I'm done," I hung my head playfully.
"That's right," Argo stuck her tongue, "Sit!"
Starting to think Oran wasn't wrong about the whole 'whipped' thing. What's this woman gotta weigh, eighty pounds? Seventy? I could probably kill her with just a firm hug!
"Gonna make a plan," I nodded to Rika, "Gimmie a few."
"That's cool, Black Knight." Argo peeped.
I stopped. The second I heard that title, I was back in that grassy field...the campsite.
"Please don't call me that," I groaned.
"But the sword," Argo pointed to Ironback, "the heavy black armor, isn't that you?"
"It was meant to be a joke." I blinked, "Gonna change the color of my armor soon...gotta drop that image."
"Gonna need an [Artisan's Bucket] for that," Rika murmured, "But ya, Argo? Please don't call him that. It brings bad memories."
"Sorry," Argo shrugged, "Jus' tryin to lighten the mood. Most of us are pretty tense."
Argo and Rika enjoyed a drink while I stepped outside to plan.
If what Argo said was true, then I had to eliminate the spy immediately. If PoH keeps a supply of intel going, they could get to Rika...or Korrin and Leopon. For the sake of operational security, the issue had to be dealt with.
Korrin had to know, so I sent him a quick message on the matter. His guild apparently grew to about twenty members strong, not bad for keeping a low profile. The guild intentionally mimicked the emblem of the ALF, clever move.
Next to be informed was Asuna, since this involved Rika's safety. Told me she'd be there in a few minutes.
Laughter broke out from within the inn room, a heartwarming sound. Just hearing it made me glad I was done with the whole 'lone wolf' thing, was nothing but a risk laden cake o' disaster. Teamwork's what'll keep me going, it's just plain safer.
It's funny, hearing of a so called 'Solo Player' out there in Aincrad. What kind of an idiot just goes wandering a place like this alone? Having a death wish would be an overestimation, more like a desire to be cool. I mean I get the whole 'people suck' idea, but...we have to figure it out sometime.
The guy apparently went by 'The Black Swordsman' too. Made me twitch, both from the level of edge and the idea of fighting such a skilled player. Hope I could meet him someday, would be damn worth it!
Raising Ironback, I took time to practice my swings. A week of constant questing and Strength Training made swinging [Ultra Greatswords] a bit easier, speeding up my attacks slightly. My arms pitched forward, the great weight of the weapon still heaving me around with every slash.
The sounds, the motion, it all felt so right. Five plus feet of steel, making an audible whoosh with every swing. The spy's an archer, that meant [Ares] wouldn't save me. From my first encounter with PoH, I learned that the Unique skill in fact hurts me when it came to that.
Arrows would lodge themselves in me, just as they would anyone else. However, if I were to strike another being with those stuck in me...they'd seal the wound with the arrow inside it.
I pitched with the wide swing of [Cleave], smiling as the move yanked me around like a doll. Apparently Ultras are among the rarest of weapons used, mostly from the standpoint of having no combos, high strength needs, and really slow speed.
That's fine, I only ever needed to hit someone once!
The weapon finished its dash, its farthest end landing on the ground. The wooden planks groaned as the steel body rolled over its flat surface, squeaking over certain patches. As the Ultra pulled back, I stepped to ready my newest attack...[Brush]!
Leaning back from the first strike, I curled my arms, biceps bulging as the attack charged. An electric pulse hit me, indicating it was ready. I hollered, unleashing the swing in the open air!
The attack swung wide and to the right, the very air blasting forward like the force of a hurricane! The low hanging leaves flew off branches, who swayed violently as the wind shook their foundation. The move ended, Ironback crashing back to the ground, carving into the planks themselves!
My first AoE skill to speak of. Direct damage only occurred for those caught by the blade. Anyone caught within the gust, however, had to worry about knockback. Could imagine people stumbling or slowing from that.
"Huh," I suddenly heard, "Cool move!"
I looked over my shoulder, only to find Asuna standing nearby. Sporting a new set of red leather armor, I caught a good glimpse of her figure. I had to admit she was easy on the eye, the hips and slender figure probably earned the commander plenty of second glances.
"Thanks," I smiled, "Good seeing ya, Asuna."
"Likewise," she bowed her head lightly, "Is Lis awake?"
"Yep," I nodded to the door, "Just busy chilling with Argo."
"Ohhh," Asuna grimaced, "Two troublemakers in one house, this oughta be good."
"How's it going on your end?" I shouldered Ironback.
Apparently the birds of Floor Three weren't amused with my recent stunt. Proceeding to flock towards me, they swarmed over, landing and circling me with fast flaps. Squawking and shrieking, they pecked away as I flinched! Man they were just going nuts, I had to have ruined a few nests by accident with practicing [Brush]!
After minutes of flailing and swatting from both me and Asuna, the birds retreated back to their branches! Crouched over, I just blinked. I mean for frack's sake, even the damn birds had it in for my ass! What the actual...
"You alright?" Asuna laughed.
"Just a bit surprised," I frowned, "...some of them left parting gifts too..."
"I told you," Argo called out, "Garr's a chick magnet!"
"Good!" I shouted back, "I need the protein!"
The inn room behind me fell silent, must've been from the proposal of eating baby chickens. I mean sure they're a bit crunchy, but isn't that half the fun? Even Asuna was giving me a look like I had just said something heinous!
"Anyyyway," Asuna diverted, "Progress's been good. Just been dealing with this new 'thing' spreading among the Clearers."
"What thing?" I tilted, "Nothing too bad, I hope."
"Kinda," she crossed arms, "Some of them are getting into fights over it. Gets really annoying when I have to break it up all the time."
"That's it," I raised a finger, "Someone insulted another's mom!"
"I wish," Asuna sighed, "That'd be easy. No it has to do with-"
The door opened, Argo stretching herself as she left the premises.
"Thanks again, Lisbeth!" She saluted.
Just as she crossed by, she elbowed me in the gut!
"No eating baby chicks," she growled, "And be nice to Lis-chan!"
"Mmph," I groaned, "But they're delicious!"
"Baka," Argo shook her head as she passed me.
As she walked by Asuna, she gave the commander a once over.
"Heyyyy Asuna," Argo winked to her, "Nice outfit!"
"Thanks!" Asuna chirped.
"Don't let Garr stare at you in that! Might give him ideas."
"Huh?" the two of us grimaced, more confused than anything.
Just like that, Argo the Cat was gone, strolling off with that smug expression. Asuna wasn't kidding when referring to the info broker as a trouble maker. That being said, I wondered what would happen if I threw a ball of yarn down a hole...would she follow that?
Looking back to the entrance, I saw Rika waiting for us. Something felt off, her smile was there...but it felt fake. Her gaze kept jumping from me to Asuna.
"Rika? You okay?" I mumbled.
"Course!" she brushed her hair, "I'm just...spacing out."
"You sure?" I tilted, "You seem...bothered."
"Definitely," she looked back to Asuna, "Why don'tcha come in, Asuna? See you've already spoke with Garr."
"Umm," Asuna blinked, glancing to me for a second. "Yea, got any of that kinefruit?"
"Heck yea!" Lisbeth cheered, eyeing me for a half second before turning back to the place.
I stood there, wondering why Rika was dismissing me. Brushing her bangs, my blacksmith led us back to the table. We gathered around the dining surface soon after, Asuna leaning back in the chair as Rika got us all drinks.
"Did I do something?" I looked to Asuna.
"Not sure," Asuna shrugged, "wait...think it had to do with what Argo said."
"Oh crap..." I widened my eyes, "Crap, hang on a second."
Getting up from my chair, I went to find Lisbeth in the kitchen spaces. She looked at me with a fierce gaze, like accosting wounds were inflicted. Her eyes hardened, but it almost felt like she was somewhere else.
"Rika? What's wrong? You've been ignoring me."
"Go," she muttered, "If you wanna look at Asuna, that's fine by me."
"What're you talking about?" An eyebrow raised, "I'm not into her, Rika. I'm practically head over heels about you."
"Right," she organized three cups, "That's what she said too."
"Who? This vague stuff isn't helping me."
"Just go," she growled, "I'll serve you both...just like last time."
"Last time?" I inquired, "I don't understand."
"Aiden..."
I raised hands, giving her some space. What did she mean by last time? Either way, she didn't like me being near Asuna...but why now? She was perfectly okay with it for the last few days.
During the week, Asuna would come by for visits. We'd practice dueling with a new function in the duel system. Called [Training Mode], it would turn off the damage of weapons, allowing two to train for battle. She'd kick my ass everyday and twice on Sunday...
Either way, that was all we ever did. Otherwise it was just her and Asuna going on shopping trips. I sat on a chair away from the table, I didn't want Rika getting the wrong idea. Asuna glanced to me, a worried expression on her face.
"What's going on?" Asuna peeped.
"I won't speak on it," I shrugged, "Let's just change subjects."
"Okay?"
"So something wrong with the Clearers?" I persisted.
"Yea," Asuna nodded, "It's political...oddly enough."
"Really?" I scratched, "Didn't think the Assault Team had the time for things like that."
"Apparently so." Asuna splayed, "I lead them and I've never considered it."
"Thing is, it involves home. How Japan's doing with all the things wrong in the world."
Lisbeth came back with drinks, looking at me sternly as she served. What was I doing wrong? I wish there was some guidebook telling me where I was messing up! A red beverage was placed in front of me.
"Thank you, gorgeous." I tried.
"Mhm," Lis hummed, sitting at the table with Asuna, "Why aren't you at the table?"
"Lis," Asuna persisted, "Did Argo say something? Haven't seen this much friction between you both since Garr's little secret mission."
"I mean why would I let something the dork said bother me?" Rika laughed dryly, "We're fine, Asuna. Don't worry."
Wow, Rika was even acting a bit distant with Asuna all of a sudden. Wait, wasn't there something she told me she endured before going into SAO? God, why can't I remember any of that?
"Nothing's happening between us," I assaulted the insecurity, "I'm with you, I simply glanced."
The brunette said nothing, as if she was deaf.
"Lis come on," Asuna frowned, "Don't ignore him..."
"Can we just change subjects?" Rika sighed, "I'm sorry...I'm just so...ugh."
I stepped out again to the bedroom as they discussed, had to give them privacy. Looking back at the [Rusted Bronze Ring], I considered solutions. I had to do something, but what? What was it that I couldn't remember?
Rika tried upgrading these rings we have, saying it being rusted would imply possible modification. Took only a second to realize it wasn't possible to boost its stats any further. I liked the ring though, its status effect for us being nearby was heartwarming.
Another knock came minutes later, quick and impatient. Like a true butler, I got up and answered it. Rika had been ignoring me for the entire conversation and it was already driving me crazy.
Standing on the other side was a great bearded man, nearly six feet in height. Guy had a wicked looking battle axe strapped to his back and an exterior decked in plate mail, definitely not an average person out here. A gentle smile on his face though eased me.
"Salutations, sir!" He greeted warmly, "I hope the morrow finds thee well!"
Wow, wow! Okay, I was scared out of my wits! First I had a hurt girlfriend, then I had friggin Shakespeare coming at me with a battle axe! I almost shut the door on his face with an expression like that.
"Umm, yes?" I answered carefully, "How can I help you?"
"Hark," he bellowed merrily, "I hath come hither for the lady commander. Dost thou have lady Asuna in thine residence?"
I think he asked me if Asuna's in here...though the translators in my head could've been wrong. Better ask her first.
"One second," I closed the door, locking it just in case. Not like it'd make a difference with an axe like that.
"So yea," I heard Asuna on the way back, "While the politics of it are complicated, I sort of...agree."
"Hey Asuna?" I called, "Got a guy out front asking for you. Talks like he's reading Shakespeare?"
"Oh that's just Godfree," Asuna nodded, "Don't mind the act, he just...enjoys roleplaying."
Huh. With that put out there, I already felt good vibes from this Godfree guy. I mean, he's putting on an act just to make grumpy cats like me feel better. Wonder if he could help me find a way out of this minefield I've walked into.
"We'll talk about this later, okay?" Asuna glanced to Rika, "And don't worry. Garr's yours...trust me."
"Okay," Rika tilted her head as Asuna raced past me. "Have a good day!"
"Ah hey, Godfree!" Asuna smiled, "How's it goin? Has the lumber arrived? We need to make trebuchets...or whatever it was Bale recommended."
"Alas that would not be the case, commander." I heard Godfree grumbled, "It would seem another squabble hath erupted among thy brothers. Would thou please settle the ruckus?"
"Ugh, you've got to be kidd-" Asuna shut the door, cutting off the rest of the conversation.
"Well that...happened," I sat back with Rika.
Rika simply blinked, looking quite displeased with me.
"Rika..." I tried coaxing.
She looked away, crossing her arms and curling her legs as she showed the back of her head.
"What's wrong?" I frowned, "You haven't looked at me like that since...the Malishard."
"Just forget it." she mumbled, "I'm being stupid..."
"Why?" I looked back. "Don't say things like that. You're smarter than me for God's sake."
"You should be with Asuna..."
"I beg your pardon?" I argued softly, "All I remember was Argo saying something and now you're treating me like I betrayed you."
Rika was silent, her posture crossed and defensive.
"So how long have you been looking at Asuna? She's real pretty isn't she?"
"So what?" I looked at her strongly, "I'm not dropping an A for a C, thank you."
"Yea..."
The cold shoulder dug in, leaving me suddenly feeling parried, vulnerable. Did I misspeak? I was trying to tell her how amazing she was...she had to be thinking she's the C in this equation.
"Rika," I chased, "Please? I don't know what I did that got you like this. You're the ruby of my eye."
"Oh I understand," she smiled, "I gotcha loud and clear."
No, this was a trap. I could hear it in her voice, that fear of what happened triggering that self defense mechanism. Problem was, I had no plan...not a single lead to go on what to do. I guess...I just had to let it sit for a bit.
"Gonna deal with that spy," I stated, "Would rather deal with it now than later.
"Okay..."
"I've messaged Korrin," I sighed, "He's sent some guys to help us track down the prick. You can stay here if you want..."
She kept smiling, that fake grin. I knew with every ounce of my being that I messed something up, but didn't know what. Frowning, I slowly got up from my seat to ready my armor.
A new set of layered metal pauldrons covered my shoulders, a gift from her for Valentines Day. The plates clacked with each sway of my arms, an extra layer on my left to protect my neck. Eliminate that spy, with whatever means necessary.
Souls of Fire
The dirt bounced beneath our feet, the sky shrouded by a ceiling of yellow-green leaves. Spotlights of sun leaked through gaps, filling the foliage covered ground with mere crumbs of what warmth was to be found above. Shrubs and mushrooms contended for space, the colors sharp in contrast.
The squad Korrin deployed for us came with a pair of trackers, an archer, as well as shield and axe wielder. Our hunters led the way, their eyes practically glued to the ground.
"So you're the Black Knight?" the axeman glanced.
"I'd...rather not be called that," I requested.
"Heard some...things."
"The name was intended as a joke," I looked back, "Sadly it came up for other reasons."
"Shit happens," the archer grumbled, "I'm Pillius by the way. The axe can's Troy and the bloodhounds up front are Cail and Zek."
"Garr," I smiled, "This is Lisbeth, my girlfriend and partner."
I glanced, only to see her back to me. Ugh, what was I missing that made her so angry? Couldn't focus too hard, had a mission to complete.
"Don't those two words mean the same thing?" Cail interjected.
"Not exactly," I postulated, "one is of romantic intent. The other is someone I can trust with my back out here."
"Cool," Troy snickered.
We left the open road a while ago, our guides insisting that 'The Ghost' spends most of its time hidden in the brush. Their eyes glowed with a bright red overlay, stopping every now and then to listen for anything.
[Tracking] skill apparently highlighted the footprints of living entities in SAO, making the task of hunting both player and monster an easier task. The length of time the tracks remained grew the higher one's trained in such. Might be useful to learn that.
We'd pass by the occasional mobs, thankfully none of them [Roaring Wolves]. The songs of birds overhead broke the relative quiet between all of us, their tweets sweet and soft. Wish I had more to say, but I was just so preoccupied.
Like the last time we ventured here, the trees were packed far too dense for me to wield Ironback. Left me with only the mace I ordered from Rika a week ago, something I had her make during her coping day.
A fleur de lis patterned club, the steel flanges kept a uniform appearance all around. I lacked in [Sword Skills] for the weapon, but figured I'd make up for it in raw strength. Tied to my hip, it swayed softly every so often.
"So what's with the sword?" Troy piped, "Never seen any like it."
"It's an Ultra," Rika mumbled.
"Ultra?" Cail scratched his neck.
"Ultra Greatsword," Rika repeated, "it's the weapon class he uses."
"That's a thing?" Troy laughed, "Never seen people wield anything like that. See 'em with scythes all the time."
"Oh God," Rika groaned, "Don't remind me. That's...honestly been one of the top weapon requests this whole week."
"It's good money though, right?" I looked to her.
"Yea," she glanced away from me, "But I mean...why ONLY scythes? It's been a while since someone's asked me to make a mace...or an axe even. It was surprising enough to have someone ask for a staff."
"Guess there's a lot of farmers," I joked, "Seriously, what a terrible weapon choice."
"It's a video game," Zek muttered, "Let people have their fun...it's not like we're gonna die or anything."
"You're right," I nodded, "I mean...I am using a sword no human could reasonably wield."
"See?" The tracker bemoaned, "No need to be a dick about it."
"Wasn't trying to be," I groaned, "Just speaking my mind."
"Eh," Troy shrugged, "Whatever keeps us alive works for me."
Suddenly I got a message on my HUD, a flashing green envelope.
[From Nobel: Heard you're looking for The Ghost. Head southeast of the forest, most recent place it was seen.]
Who the freak was Nobel? It bothered me deeply that this complete stranger somehow knew my name and what I was looking for. Maybe this was the spy?
[To Nobel: Who the hell are you? How do you know my ign and why are you leading me that direction?]
"Who're you messaging, Garr?"
I looked to see Rika peering at me.
"Some guy named Nobel," I tilted my head, "seems to know we're after that spy."
"That's...sketchy," she raised an eyebrow, "Any specifics?"
"Told us to go southeast," I nodded, "Said it's the most recent area of activity."
"Don't respond to him," Zek suggested, "We can handle this on our own."
"I dun know," Cail sighed, "We've been wandering this forest for some time. There's not a single hint to this 'Ghost' being there."
"I think we should follow," Rika gazed around the forest, "I mean it's a clue and it's not like we're low in manpower. Let's just handle it carefully."
"Still wondering how he knew my name," I grimaced, "Not to be anti-social, I just...don't have that many friends. Not here anyway."
Zek simply nodded, the sounds of the forest returning as the conversation died. Turning southeast, we spread ourselves out, looking for anything off.
Souls of Fire
Still quiet on the eastern front, not a single clue from our trackers. Whoever this guy was, he hid his trail really well. The only thing to greet us were the possessed remains of dead saplings, ambushing us a few times as we ventured deeper. The crunch of dried leaves against my leather soles filled the air.
The sun rose past its noon roost, the rich bark of the trees flaring with their Earthy colors against the golden rays. The backs of leaves broke beneath my boots, crackling like the armor harnessed to my body.
"How the hell's this guy not leaving trails," Zek grumbled, "Something's not right..."
"Sneak skill?" Pillius exclaimed.
"Doubt anyone's had the time to train it that high," The tracker bemused, "Troy? Korrin's alerted to our status, yes?"
"Yea," Troy kept glancing, "So far no contact...heard Argo's been paid by Korrin to get further tips."
Rika suddenly stopped, looking at something.
"What's that..." Rika peeped.
Looking her direction, I saw an 'X' carved into the tree. Rika approached, buckler raised as she moved to inspect. Something didn't seem right, I moved behind her, checking for anything suspicious.
The trees stood only a meter or so apart, masking everything in a wall of lumber. I kept glancing around the marked tree, until I saw a funny looking branch. Wait, why was there rope? There's no civilization anywhere near us!
I grabbed Rika, yanking her back!
"Hey!" she shouted in surprise, "What the he-"
All her shouts stopped, the sound of a wire being tripped reaching our ears. The second it snapped, great logs swung, slamming into each other with tips sharpened like pikes! They crashed with a loud crack, the bodies splitting from the colliding force! Bouncing back, they swayed into eachother.
We stood there, staring at what would've been Rika's demise. The great trees swayed, lowering themselves as the trap fell limp. All the hours of cold distance were gone, Rika clinging to me with shaking hands.
The songs of birds were replaced by the flapping of desperate wings. Scattering in fear of the sound, avians left in panic. Rika turned to me, her eyes soft with shock. Releasing my hand, she entrapped me in her arms.
"Shhh," I hugged back.
"The hell was that?" Cail raced in, "Oh...nice. Check it out, Zek!"
Zek stepped towards the trap, examining the device carefully.
"I can't appraise this crap," he murmured, "but I can speak for how old it is. This trap was erected about...twelve minutes ago."
He pushed one log, examining the rope.
"This guy's not happy about us following him..."
He glanced to Rika.
"You're lucky," he sternly spoke, "Keep close."
She nodded, easing herself away from me. Man, to think that everything would've ended so soon. We'd just pretend it'd never happen, that we weren't in a world that'd kill us any moment. Seeing those logs crash, then the image of Rika's head splattered like a watermelon? The imagery haunted me.
As the shock wore off, a rushing tide of anger swept in. This "Ghost" nearly killed her...he's lucky he's hidden somewhere in this goddamn forest. If I could, I'd burn down the place just to get him.
Another hour passed with no changes. The men grew weary, the long hunt taking its toll on their patience. To make matters worse, it started raining...
The raindrops fell thick, the result of leaves dropping pooled resource. I quickly pulled out my cloak, wrapping it over Rika's shoulders.
"What about you?" she looked to me.
"I'll be fine," I answered tiredly, "I've got a helmet to keep my head dry."
"No good," Zek sighed, "Once the ground gets wet enough, it'll wash off whatever tracks the guy may leave. The rain's gonna muffle whatever movement he makes too."
"Yea man," Troy shivered, "Think we should fall back for today...[Hypothermia]'s gonna be a problem too."
"Shouldn't be too bad," I grumbled.
"Your arms are exposed, Garr." Zek argued, "you're at greater risk than the rest of us."
"I'll keep going," I muttered beneath my close helmet, "Can't let him go."
Feeling the moisture run down my arms, I shivered softly. It felt so cold, trailing past the forearms before dripping off my hands. The water tapped as it struck my helmet, our surroundings shrouding with fog. As brave as I wanted to sound, the situation was getting worse.
No, people had to be led by example. Turning back to our path I marched on, my boots squishing against the softened dirt.
"I'll take point," I responded, "You guys got my back?"
"This is a stupid idea," Cail whined, "The fog's too thick. He could be hiding anywhere!"
"We'll hear him," I assured, "You and Zek are trackers...this stalking stuff ends here."
Just as I announced this, I felt a denser pile of leaves compress under my left foot...
Suddenly a loud snap rung out, a sharp crack and a gnawing sting enveloping my left leg shortly after! Screaming, I fell to the ground, greeted only by something wet squelching and tearing as I dropped!
"Garr!"
The pain surged through like a rising flame, oh God what happened? I couldn't think, my body shook madly as nerves from my leg fired like a salvo of cannons! Falling onto the wet ground, I felt my clothes soak, the soil clinging to my clothless arms as I rattled.
I pulled my leg desperately, only to hear a clack. A sharp pull caused me to burst into tears, crying out as I felt splinters spike through the meat of my knees! I lashed out at everything, trying to dull the sensation wracking through me! Leaves, rocks, I punched and scratched!
My hands scraped mud, my yells turning to growls as the burning continued. Raindrops fell through the slits of my armor, chilling my frenzied body further and further. I kept pulling myself away, only to be stopped by a tearing scratch!
I heard footsteps racing towards me, hands grabbing me by the wrists.
"Oh my god!" Rika panicked, "Someone help!?"
Speech was impossible, communication unfeasible past groans and yells. The burn of an open wound was evidently clear, the agonizing sting. Every second it softened, the raindrops would fall on it, prolonging the splintering sensation.
"Christ," someone cursed.
Biting my own arm, I screamed out all the energy I had. Forcing my gaze down, I looked to see what happened. It was when I saw it, was when I felt truly stupid.
In my inattentiveness, I stumbled upon a delightful metal device, known as a bear trap. The unforgiving steel teeth of that contraption bit through my iron shinguards, tearing through my leg like tissue.
The fall only made it worse, the jaws clamped on like a vice. Left with only bare ropes of red, a No Mass Land formed between the shreds of meat and the rest of my leg. Make matters worse, [Hemorrhage] effect loaded.
"Jesus Christ!" Rika shouted, "J-Just stay still!"
"Where is he!?" I shouted, "I just-"
Groans ended my efforts at speech. My hands shook, my wounds exposed to the cold rain filled air, my back to the soaking forest floor. The sweat and heat on my face, the racing of my heart, my HP dropping fast.
"Shut up!" Zek growled, "Whoever set that's already heard you!"
It all hurt so bad, it felt almost self replicating in its burning touch. Who's the asshole that put that here?! Ugh I wanted to kill him! Wanted to rip out his heart and squeeze it till it popped!
"Zek!" She decried, hugging me softly, "He's bleeding out!"
"Hang on!" Zek pulled out some healing potions, "I can fix that!"
"Won't work," Rika shook her head, "He needs..."
She stopped...directing her gaze to me. Her brown eyes suddenly locked, focused on a new task as she opened her menu. Suddenly a duel request emerged, her frame glowing blue.
"No," I choked, "I won't..."
"I can heal after," Rika argued, "You're going to die if you don't!"
"I'm not going to hit you!" I decried, "I can...walk it off!"
Troy tried forcing open the bear trap, succeeding only in pulling the wound open! Screaming again, I hiccuped, drinking the mix of tears and rain as I coughed haggardly.
"Wow hang on!" Pillius waved, "What're you doing?"
"Trying to heal him!" Rika yelled.
"I'm not gonna do that," I coughed, "If I did? I'll..."
I coughed, hacking up the borrowed water. As my eyes opened up, her shadow bloated out the cloudy sky.
"I'm sorry about this..."
Grabbing my shaking hand, she forced me to pick [Half Loss]! I kept crying, begging her not to do it, but she wouldn't listen. Unholstering the mace I kept on my hip, she shoved it in my cold grasp!
"Rika please!" I begged, "Don't do it!"
"You're bleeding out!" she shouted back, "Just stay sti-"
Wait. If she recovered my leg...it'd grow back in the trap! I dropped the mace, but drew my hatchet instead. I was tired of the pain, the burns had to stop! Aiming at the shreds of me still attached to the limb...I dropped the edge like a hammer.
"No!" she shrieked.
The hatchet cut...a soft squish filling my ears as the nerves rebelled. My stubbed leg tore free of the trap, a red mess of meat. Unfortunately, full [Limb Loss] had occurred, furthering [Hemorrhage].
My HP drained like a hose, my body going cold. Vision started to fog, but the pain stopped...thank God. Closing my eyes, I breathed...hoping to take a small break.
Something fell in my hand, the mace. Before I could react, Rika raised the bludgeon, triggering the one skill I knew...[Batter].
The downward swing crashed against her shoulder, knocking her down on top of me with a single swing!
"No!" I choked, her warmth pressed on me.
Her injury fueled me, her suffering brought me life. The leg began to seal, the bleeding stopping. As the limb healed, it demanded I keep going...to keep feeding. Biting my cheek, I dropped the mace and listened to it roll away.
"Please...stop!" I decried, "J-Just, stop!"
"Not until you're healed," Rika sighed.
She walked over, picking up that bloodied tool. I buried my hands beneath me, digging them in the soil. The sealing of the wound stopped [Hemorrhage], but HP was still in red status.
"Garr!" She demanded, "You need this! Don't fight me now! I can't feel pain like you can, you idiot!"
"Then bring me a monster!" I shouted, "Don't put me through this, please! It kills me to hurt you!"
"It kills me to watch you suffer!" she yelled back.
In numbers, it was all the same, I had to injure others to survive...monster or man. In my heart, it wasn't the same...even in this fake world of fantasy. At that moment, [Ares] became a curse...a burden on everything I held dear.
I laid there, leeching off Rika for my own existence. It was all so wrong, so black. Fuck [Ares], fuck me for putting her in such a position...and God damn Kayaba...for trapping us all!
She kept going, clawing my hands from the dirt. The pain in her eyes stopped me again, holding me by my wrists. Just run you fool, run before I feed upon you. The others stared in shock, bewildered by the sight of the monster at their feet.
She had me strike again, this time with my hands. My knuckles met arm...God I hated it! It all felt so cold, I wanted to chop them off for what I was doing. Every strike brought me life...hers. Her HP dwindled further, the rain dripping off her curly hair.
"Rika please!" I cried with renewed strength, "Spare me from this! Just let me rest!"
"So the rumors are true..." Troy gasped.
Rika wouldn't listen, raising my hand again to strike herself. Just as she pushed it down, I grabbed hers, forcing her to stop.
"Please?" I teared up, "I'm so sorry...for everything. Don't do this?..."
She laid on top of me, staring with eyes a wavering mess of thoughts.
"Stop..." I begged, "Don't make...a wife beater out of me..."
Rika stared at me, horror on her face. Raising a healing potion, she dressed her injuries. The rain fell harder, a furious hail of water pouring down from the great reservoirs above.
"It's exactly what that beggar said..." Pillius moaned.
All of a sudden, a voice called out to us from above, muffled by the rain. Everyone fell silent, looking for the source of that sound.
Hidden in the trees, some male voice croaked out something, but I couldn't for the life of me tell what he was saying. I think...he was speaking Russian? Whoever it was, he didn't sound very happy with us.
"He's right there," Zek pointed slightly left of where we were looking, "Pillius..."
"I would wait on that," the voice growled, "Takes me a bit to remember what language you all speak..."
"Who are you?" Rika shouted.
An arrow streamed by, whizzing past us with great speed as it hit the ground.
"I'll be the one asking, girl. Why are you following me? Your pet's been awfully loud this evening."
"You're a bitch..." I groaned angrily, "Working for PoH must be nice."
"Who's that?" the Ghost bellowed calmly, "I will admit, I didn't think you'd feel that bad after a basic trap...must've scored a critical."
"Show yourself," I growled.
Another arrow flied through, this time from a different direction! It flew just inches past my face, nearly grazing my helmet before planting in the dirt! I shook, startled by what I was shown. Clearly this guy wasn't joking around...not with precision like that.
"Okay!" I yielded slightly, "Thank you for not killing me there. I'll step back a bit, my name's Garr."
Silence, think he was warning me not to continue. I glanced to Rika, who seemed intent on trying to spot him.
"Pst," I nudged her, "Stop...I don't think he appreciates you looking."
"No I don't," he growled.
"He nearly shot you!" Rika snapped, "Come down here, you creep!"
Well okay then, he could hear my whispering too!
"Listen," I tried coaxing, "I was told by info brokers that you were paid to spy on me and my partner. Is that true?"
Silence, only broken by the patter of raindrops.
"I have better things to do than spying on kids," he grumbled, "Too busy saving them. Do you have any idea...just how many of you I find wandering this place?"
"I won't try guessing," I nodded, "There...had to be a misunderstanding..."
"No shit," he croaked.
"We're looking for a man named PoH, have you ever met him?"
"Confidential," he muttered, "Sorry."
"I have to know," I growled, "I'll duel you if I must..."
"With a missing leg?" he questioned, "I doubt it'd be a wise move on your part."
I nudged Rika to get off.
"Aiden please," she whispered, "You're not in good shape."
"I'll be the judge of that," I growled with shaking hands, "punk nearly shot you..."
She stepped away, watching me carefully. Summoning Ironback, I angled the tip to the ground. Guiding my back against a tree, I kept rowing the weapon, pushing myself steadily back to my feet. Well...foot.
By preventing Rika from healing me fully, I also stopped her from fully regenerating my lost limb. As I returned to my one foot, I leaned onto Ironback with my left arm, drawing the mace with my right.
"H-How's he doing that?" Troy stammered, "Dude just lost his leg!"
Slowly, I lifted the club...pointing it in the direction of the voice.
"Try me..."
"Young one," he sighed in the brush, "That kind of an attitude will lead only to a shallow grave. Think of your mother, are you sure she'd want this?"
Something about his voice unsettled me. It was so calm, calculating, like he knew my every move. Wait...he sounded middle aged. I remember my father making friends with war veterans all the time, why was that thought creeping back on me?
"I must know," I repeated, noticing a clearing to my right.
"Well that makes the two of us," he said, "Watching you grow back by harming others? You must be the one they found in the campsite..."
Oh shit...who was I dealing with here? The fog grew thicker, the trees swaying as the wind picked up.
"I like your style," he chuckled, "Tell you what, comrade. If you win? I'll tell you everything I know. If not? You're gonna spill the beans on whatever happened that day."
"You hurt him and I'll beat your face in!" Rika shouted.
"Easy there, Sooka," he chuckled.
"What did you call me?" she challenged.
"The beauty of archery," he muttered, "...is the fact that as long as you can't see me...my first strike counts as a [Sneak Attack]."
"Better yet," he chuckled, "If I happen to kill you with that shot? I don't get penalized. It's the game's...reward for a clean shot."
This old crow sounded too comfortable with that...something that calmly stated came from experience. Rika huddled beside me, just as creeped out as me. We came for what we thought was a spy...and found a lion instead. With only the rain and fog to shield us, the beast showed its claws.
A/N: Just as a note, loading a confetti launcher into a package of cooked bacon's a delicious idea, cheers Crow. Oh man, a lot of emotions flared this chapter, wondering whatcha all think!
So sadly, I can no longer eat reviews...doctors said I would suffer from some strange disease if I did so. Think it was called ego...ANYWAY, thanks guys for reading, drop me a review for it'd be your blessing!
Favorites and follows are just fine too :D...See you all next chapter!