Disclaimer: Rune Soldier and King of Fighters do not belong to me. I am just doing this for fun and now let's get it on.
() Thoughts
Chapter 11
Spiritual Guidance
"I refuse to be a part of this! This is against my will!" Melissa shouted as she and Terry stood before the Head Priestess of the temple.
"And you honestly think I wanted any of this to happen?" Terry said irritated that he got roped into something that was the last thing he wanted to deal with at the moment and he was not happy.
Currently his students and Melissa's friends were waiting outside of the chambers as Jenny wanted to discuss with the two and had ordered the other followers of Mylee to wait in their chambers to discuss on what had happened earlier on when the ritual was being performed.
The Lone Wolf was not in the best of moods. First he and his students wound up getting attacked by a greedy thief and an angry swordswoman. Then they were attacked by a mob of priestess's who jumped to conclusions and now he found out he was the champion, without being giving a choice, to a spoiled brat of a priestess. He had caught a glimpse of Melissa in her birthday suit and he was trying REALLY hard not to think like Andy's perverted master Jubei Yamada.
(I shouldn't even be thinking like that at a time like this!)
As for the Mylee Priestess she was not exactly any happier with how the ritual turned out as she was hoping for a brave, handsome, shining knight in armor like the ones she read in the stories she love, but instead she got this brute and continued to protest in her mind.
(This is against my will! This is against my will! This is against my will!)
As for Jenny she couldn't help but smile at the two. Though in all honesty she was hoping that Louie would become the chosen champion for Melissa but she was also certain that Terry would be destine for great things and thought someone like him could become a great role model for others.
"Well this is certainly a surprise. I never expected for you to become the chosen champion to one of my best pupils Terry."
"Head Priestess Jenny I must protest to this! There is absolutely no way someone like him is my chosen champion!" Melissa protested.
"And why not Melissa?" Jenny asked her disciple despite the look of agitation on her face. "Did not the mighty Mylee give you a sign of who your chosen champion will be?"
"Well...yes I did." The blonde priestess reluctantly admitted as she did receive a psychic message from her deity.
"And are you not a loyal follower of Mylee?"
"Yes I am." She said as she lowered her head in defeat as she knew were this was going.
"You know the ancient texts as well as I do, Melissa." Jenny stated in a firm tone. "The will of Mylee must be upheld. Terry Bogard is your champion and you will aid him in all aspects. You are to also help guide him if he needs guidance in his journeys, are we clear?"
"Yes Head Priestess Jenny." Melissa said in a quiet whisper. She couldn't help but shutter at the kind of duties she may have to perform for her champion.
Terry however had no intention of going through with this like Melissa and decided to make it clear to the both of them.
"You can both forget about it as there is no way in Hell I am going through with this ether."
Both priestess's looked at him in shock and saw the look in his eyes meaning he was serious at his decision.
"Terry..." Jenny began but was cut off by the Lone Wolf as he was not about to just give in and follow some deity's creed he didn't practice.
"I'm sorry Jenny but this was all just one big accident and I have no intention what so ever of going through with this just because some god I never met says so. That and the fact neither Melissa nor I can tolerate each other after what happen between us and her friends."
"I do not believe this was an accident Terry." Jenny said shaking her head. "The will of Mylee works in mysterious ways and I believe that you two were meant for great things and the adventures that are to come your way."
"And I said forget it! It is obvious that your disciple is not happy with this and I am not going to force her into servitude just because of some ridiculous custom from some no name war god." Andy's brother argued.
For Melissa she was surprised at the level of hostility that Terry was showing toward the god she worshipped, but was even more surprised at his refusal in wanting to be her champion since anyone else would have took it up in a heartbeat.
The Head Priestess of the guild however was not happy with the way the displaced Earthling referred to her way of religion. She could understand he was upset but he didn't need to go so far.
"You shouldn't insult something you do not understand completely."
"And what is there to understand about a being that's only purpose is to create war and quite possibly pointless bloodshed? I have no time to be playing hero!"
"How dare you speak of Mylee in such a way?" Melissa shouted as while she didn't like the idea of having him as her champion she wasn't going to let him insult the guild she learned under as it was like insulting the head priestess before them.
The Lone Wolf looked to Melissa and spoke to her in a non friendly tone, "Why the hell should I follow your guilds creed? I'm not a member of this guild so I should be giving a choice of whiter or not I should become your champion. Beside's why don't you just take the ritual again?"
"She can't take it again Terry." Jenny spoke up to him. "The ceremony can only be performed once and there is nothing I can do."
"Can't or won't Jenny?" The Lone Wolf demanded.
"I can't change what has already happen. She is a follower of the order of Mylee and to not follow him is considered heresy."
The brother of Andy Bogard snorted in disgust and replied, "So if he told his followers to jump off a cliff or whore their selves out they should do it without a second thought?"
"How dare you speak that way in front of me?" Jenny said upset as while she understood his discomfort and wanting to return home he didn't need to go so far with his words.
Melissa for her part couldn't understand why Terry held such hostility toward Mylee. After all Mylee was a god of justice and virtue, but for him to speak as if the war god was some heartless monster didn't sit well with her.
The student of Tung Fu Rue had decided then and there to leave as he didn't want to do something he might regret. Without another word he turned his back on them and started walking off toward the exit.
"Terry come back here we are not done!" Jenny called out to the displaced Earthling.
Without turning around the Lone Wolf said in a cold voice, "As far as I am concerned we are done. You can call me a heretic all you want, but I will never follow some outdated creed just because you say so."
Without another word he stormed through the door leaving two shocked priestess's speechless.
Outside the temple...
Louie and Kika sat patiently outside of the temple as they didn't want to be in the same room or even within the temple as both Genie and Merrill were in there with the swordswoman being treated with her injuries from their master. The head priestess had told both parties to wait outside or in one of the guest chambers and to not start any trouble as she was upset with what happened to the roof and was going to figure out who started the fight.
"Man I hope bro is going to be okay. I have never seen Aunt Jenny so mad before." Louie said to his female companion as he was looking over the scroll that Merrill tried to take from them earlier.
"I know what you mean. Heck I don't know what the heck happen to him and Melissa but I just hope this is the last time we have to deal with those idiots. I don't think I could take another day with them." Kika said as she was tired from the fighting with the mob that chased after them.
"You got that right. I STILL can't believe those other priestess's didn't want to listen to us and just believed that stupid little stick figure of a thief and the damn hot head." The stepson of Carwes said as he hoped things would be cleared up between them.
Further discussion between the two was halted as they heard the doors open and turned to see their master and from the look on his face he was pissed.
Terry didn't even acknowledge his students as he walked past them too upset and too deep in thought. He just needed to get away from here to relax and clear his head as he headed into the city.
His students got up shocked at what they saw and wondered what was going on to make their master upset. They decided to follow him to make sure he was all right.
A few hours later...
Terry sat at a table in a tavern that he usually went to for a good drink. He was currently having a meal and was on his third mug of ale as he wanted to try to relax after what happened today. Earlier his students caught up to him and asked what happen between him and Jenny to get him so upset.
The older brother of Andy Bogard told his students he didn't wish to talk about it right now and asked them to not disturb him for a while as he wanted to clear his head. His students nodded in understanding and left him to return to the magic guild of Ohfun.
(I just can't believe this crap. Here I am wanting to go home to my family and then I get caught up into some stupid war gods outdated unspoken law that says I have to be the hero to a woman who only likes to wine and cry?) He took a drink of his ale to help him relax.
"Terry-sensei?"
The Lone Wolf turned to see Ila, Louie, and the rest of his students standing in front of him with looks of concern on their faces as they were hoping to keep him company. He gestured for them to take a seat and they did.
"So what brings all of you here?" He asked them as they each ordered a mug of ale to be brought to them.
"We heard about what happen between you and Aunt Jenny bro." Louie said to his sensei.
"We were rather surprised to hear that you became the Chosen Champion for one of Head Priestess Jenny's disciples and on how you reacted." Thomas said as he was with both Kika and Louie when they returned to the guild to speak to him, Ila and Edward about finding their sensei and hope to cheer him up.
"I heard about what those two who were with Melissa tried to do to you, Louie and Kika. I shouldn't be surprised considering on how they acted when they first meet you, but for the other priestess's to attack you three without listing to you is just insane." Ila said as she couldn't help but frown at the behavior of the other followers of the guild and hoped that Jenny would punish them for their reckless attack.
"So what are you going to do now Terry-sensei?" Edward asked as he was hoping that things between him and Jenny wouldn't lead both of them to be at each other's throats.
"I honestly don't know Edward, but one thing is for sure and it's I don't know if I can stay in Ohfun any longer." He said to his student which caused the others to be alarmed.
"You're going to leave us?" Kika asked as she didn't want him to leave as she enjoyed learning under him and the same could be said for the others.
The Lone Wolf sighed and replied, "I honestly don't know what else I can do since Jenny doesn't seem to realize I don't want anything to do with Melissa."
"Please don't leave us Terry!" Ila pleaded to her master. "I'm sure things can work out if you just give them a chance."
"I'm not angry with Jenny or anything. It is just because she wants me and Melissa to follow after some ridiculous creed that so called god..." Terry started but was then interrupted by Louie.
"Whoa Terry hold on there. I get where you're going on this, but just so you know I'm not siding with Aunt Jenny on this." His student took a deep breath and then spoke to his master. "Didn't you tell Aunt Jenny on why you didn't favor any gods like you told me and Kika?"
Ila, Thomas, and Edward were wondering what their friend meant and then looked to Terry to see if he would speak while they were present.
The Lone Wolf looked to his disciple and sighed before speaking.
"No Louie I didn't tell her. I was just so angry I wasn't thinking clearly." He then looked at Louie. "By chance did you tell her?"
Louie shook his head and decided to let him know.
"I didn't tell her anything about your past. When she came and told me what happen and asked if I could speak to you into accepting into being Melissa's champion I told her no."
This surprised his friends and Thomas was the first to ask him.
"You told her no Louie? Why?"
The stepson of Carwes began to tell his friends and teacher about what had happened between him and the Head Priestess.
Flashback...
"What do you mean you will not speak to him about this?" Jenny asked surprised and a little upset about what Louie just said to her.
The blue-haired wizard sighed as he didn't want to see someone he considered family upset but he knew he had to be honest with her since he didn't want the Lone Wolf to get into trouble.
"Aunt Jenny I'm sorry but I am not going to ask Terry to become Melissa's chosen champion as this is between them and you."
"I have tried to speak with him when this whole mess started but he refuses to listen. I am sure if you could speak with him I'm sure he will understand things better."
Louie paused for a moment to think things over and decided to make a suggesting.
"Why don't you give him a few days to cool down and then you guys can talk things over since he is upset. And to be honest I can't blame him since me and him were being treated a bit unfairly by Melissa's friends."
The Head Priestess of Mylee thought it over for a minute and decided it was for the best since it was a hectic day and perhaps both party's needed space. Sighing she nodded to him and decided to let it drop for now.
"Very well Louie, I will give him a few days, but tomorrow I will need you, Kika, and Terry to be present as I need to know what had happen today as the other priestess's have accused you and the others of stealing from Melissa's friends."
Terry's student frowned at the accusation that he and his friends were being given but knew they needed to go to clear things up.
"I'll let the others know tomorrow as I need to speak with the old man about getting a new wand since my other wand was destroyed during the quest. Good night Aunt Jenny."
He then turned around and left to catch up with his friends in finding their master.
End of flashback...
"After words I went to the guild and meet up with Ila and the others to look for you. But before that I had to speak with my father about my wand and it looks like I will have to go out and find a five hundred year old Enchanted Tree. But before that we will need to see Aunt Jenny tomorrow about what happen today."
This caused the group to frown as they were worried for Terry and of the confrontation that might escalate into a fight with Melissa's friends. While they knew he could handle himself, they were worried that the Head Priestess of the guild would fight him and if Terry did, or rather would win against her in battle then he would end up as a wanted man.
Kika who had been quiet threw out the whole conversation decided to ask the Lone Wolf a question.
"Terry after we explain everything to Head Priestess Jenny are you going to be Melissa's champion?"
The blonde street fighter was quiet, thinking about his disciples question and responded as best as he could.
"To be honest Kika I don't want to be the champion of someone I hardly even know or can even stand but Jenny isn't going to drop it no matter what I say."
He paused to gather his next thoughts and spoke in a depressed tone.
"I'm seriously wondering if I should just sneak out of Ohfun and never come back just to get away from them."
This caused his students to worry; afraid he might abandon them since they did care for him. His next words however eased their minds.
"But then again all I would be doing is running away from the problem and that wouldn't solve it. I also have to take in the fact I don't know where else to go or who I can turn to for help."
"We could go with you and help you out." Louie spoke up making the others look at him like he was nuts.
Terry however shook his head. "No Louie I don't want any of you to get into danger just to help me out and I don't want any of your family's to worry about you constantly."
"He's right Louie and you are Master Carwes son after all." Thomas said to his friend as he knew that while the head master of the magic guild was strict he did care a whole great deal about him and all his students.
Thomas's friend frowned when he heard this and spoke with bitterness, "There are times I wish I wasn't adopted by the old man. I hate magic."
"Louie!" Ila said shocked that someone she had a crush on had never spoken to any of them like that before.
"I'm sorry about that guys it's something I've wanted to tell you but I'll wait till later since we're getting off track." He then looked to their master and said, "So do you want to tell them why you don't favor the gods Terry?"
The Lone Wolf looked to his students and took a deep breath before speaking to them.
"Before I begin, I would like for one of you to put up a silencing spell so no one but us hears about this." He looked to Ila knowing she was one of the few with such a spell.
The red haired beauty nodded in understanding and began invoking the spell. Soon a small blue orb appeared in her hands then floated into the air, which then expanded until it covered the group incasing them in a small dome to block out unwanted noise and to keep their conversation to themselves. Seeing that the spell was complete the Lone Wolf began to speak.
"What I'm about to tell all of you must not be repeated to anyone as it is very personal and is one of the many tragedy's of my life."
Everyone nodded in understanding knowing whatever he was about to tell them was something he probably hardly ever told anyone. Seeing that they understood her began his story.
"It all started years ago when I was still traveling the world improving on my martial arts that I meet a woman named Sulia."
Terry told them about the Armor of Mars and how it was connected to the God of War Aries who possessed Sulia's brother Laocorn into collecting the armor for him and with him were his three accomplices Jamin, Hauer, and Panni. He told them about the battles between him, his family and friend had against Laocorn's group leading up to his battle with Aries himself. This caused Ila to interrupt her master.
"Whoa! Back up a minute! Did you just say you BEAT A GOD?"
Her friends were bewildered as well as they just found it humanly impossible. Yes they believed that Terry was strong but not THAT strong. The only ones who were not shocked by this was Louie and Kika since they had heard this before.
Terry let off a tired, sad sigh.
"Yes I did. Mind you, I'm not sure if I could ever reach THAT level again, and I DON'T want to experience that kind of tragedy again to do so."
"But...T-That is impossible Terry. Not even the most powerful wizards or warriors known throughout Alecrast could perform such a feat." Thomas said bewildered as this sounded more like a fairy tale.
"I was skeptical at first too Thomas, but after the things we saw our master do and what we learned from him it's got to be real." Louie spoke up to his friend.
It was then that Ila decided to ask the Lone Wolf a question that came to mind.
"What do you mean by tragedy?" She asked wondering what kind of tragedy he could have experienced went through to face a god.
The student of Tung Fu Rue face took on a pained and depressed look which didn't go unnoticed by Kika who decided to speak to him with concern.
"Terry do you want to tell them what happen next? You can tell them another time when you are ready." She knew what he was about to say next was NOT something he wanted to repeat again when she and Louie heard it from him before.
The Lone Wolf was silent for a moment until he nodded to her and looked at the others who were wondering what it was he was about to tell.
"I say tragedy because Sulia had died with her brother in that battle."
He told them of the tragic end of the siblings and how it affected him along with those close to him.
When he had finished his tale he could see the looks of sadness in their eyes at what he had told them. Ila was crying, as well as Kika. Louie had his head down in respect for the siblings that died along with Thomas and Edward.
"So now you know why I got upset over this and don't want anything to do with Mylee." He let off a tired sigh as he decided he had his fill and left to go pay for his meal. He motioned for Ila to undo the spell which she did, but not before calling out to him.
"Sensei, are you going to return the guild?" Ila asked him as he was leaving.
Without turning to look at her he replied, "No Ila, I will be resting at an Inn for the night but I will see you all in the morning." With that said he paid for his meal and was gone.
This left Louie and his friends alone thinking over what they had learned about the Lone Wolf and wondered what other hardships he had endured.
Meanwhile...
Soaring through the night skies in another part of the world was Leopold Goenitz. His destination was toward Arctica to retrieve the Blue Dragon's Eye from the hydra that inhabits the lands.
He had left around a day earlier before Terry and his group left for their adventure, and he was close to his destination for the artifact he needed.
Before leaving he had made sure to study a flight spell that he needed to travel to where he needed to go and with his powers of the Hakkesshu it came natural to him with his control over the wind.
He had also made sure to carry provisions in a large duffle bag, along with a few magical items that he would need against the beast he was about to face.
(It will not be long. Soon I will have the key to returning to my world and I will bring back the forces I need to have my revenge.)
He soon spotted a village and decided to rest there for the night before continuing his journey as the cave was another day away.
Back in Ohfun...
The Lone Wolf sighed as he laid on his bed thinking over the day's events. He started to wonder if maybe he went too far in his words against Jenny. Even though Melissa and her friends were rude to him and his students, Jenny was one of the kindest people he had met along with Carwes and he felt ashamed for his words.
(I shouldn't of snapped at her like that. Maybe Louie did raise a point since she doesn't know about my past, but what I am going to do about this whole Mylee chosen champion nonsense?)
"I believe I can help you with that Terry."
Terry jumped at the sound of the voice and took a stance. He mentally chided himself for not senescing the presence of whoever snuck into his room and wonder who it was.
"Be at ease Terry it is only me."
Turning to the sound of the voice the Lone Wolf saw someone emerge from the shadows and was shocked to see who it was.
"Phacia?"
The red eyed beauty smiled warmly at the displaced Earthling and walked over to him as he took a neutral stance.
"It has been a while since I last spoke to you hasn't it Terry?"
"It sure has Phacia. Heck I haven't seen you in over a couple of months since I left on that training journey."
"Yes and I saw many of the good deeds you and your students did over that trip." She then got a serious look on her face before speaking again. "There is something I wish to speak to you about and it concerns the Ritual of Revealing with Melissa."
"How did you know...?" The Lone Wolf began but then stopped as he figured since she knew about his past then she must of already known about what happen today. With a sigh he then said, "Then you know how I feel about this and I don't like things turned out."
"Indeed but have you forgotten in our last conversation that Mylee is nothing like Aries since he cared little for humans and it was because of that he was defeated by you?"
The Lone Wolf nodded since he did read up on Greek Mythology before.
The white haired beauty then continued with her next words. "This is why the reason I am here is to ask you for a favor not only to me but to Head Priestess Jenny as well."
"What kind of favor?"
"I want you to become Melissa's champion."
"What?" Terry exclaimed then narrowed his eyes at her. "Now wait just a minute Phacia, why should I be the champion to some prissy, snobbish, spoiled little brat?"
"My reason I want you to become Melissa's champion is to teach her a lesson in humility and reality." Phacia said simply to the Lone Wolf.
"Huh?" This caught Terry off guard as he decided to ask what she meant. "What exactly do you mean by that?"
"To be blunt Melissa is a good person at heart though she has been sheltered most her life and she is very narrow-minded about the outside world in general. She believes that the world is like those child-hood fairy tales parents tell their children. She is also quite naïve and clings to certain ideals such as chivalry which you and I both know that not everyone follows in this day and age."
"Sounds to me she acts like a child more than she does as an adult." Terry said as he knew back in his world things like etiquette and manners didn't mean much especially when someone like him grew up in the mean streets of South Town.
"Exactly, which is why I want you to show her she shouldn't judge things at face value or to just judge someone without getting to know about them."
"I don't know about this since we didn't really see eye to eye and her friends are not exactly trust worthy or open minded as some people I know."
"I'm sure if anyone can change them for the better it's you and this could help you as well."
"What do you mean by helping me?"
The red eyed woman took a solemn expression and said, "Terry I know that you don't want to hear this but this journey will help you to fill the void in your heart."
Terry froze for a moment when he heard those words as he knew what it was Phacia talking about. His expression took on a sad and pained look as he said with a heartfelt voice, "Phacia...I don't...I don't know if I should even consider this because..."
"It is because of your first two lovers?" She said in understanding of his pain as she had a look of sympathy on her face.
The displaced Earthling nodded as he didn't really want to try to find love again as he was afraid to lose someone and be hurt once more as he felt whenever someone fell in love with him it would only bring death. This brought up his memories of Blue Mary as she too had lost a lover the same way as he did and she wanted to try finding love again only this time it was with him.
The white-haired beauty spoke to him once more, "You can't keep blaming yourself for what happened to them Terry. Lily and Sulia wouldn't want you to continue feeling sorry for yourself and to moan for them."
"I know that but...I don't want to take the chance ever again after what happen to them." He replied to her.
"You can't continue to be like this forever as it will do more harm for you than good. You should consider the words your friend Joe Higashi gave to you."
At the mentioning of his friend he recalled on what the Muay Thai champion said to him before.
Flashback...
Joe: "Do you want to be called Terry 'The Lonely Wolf' Bogard for the rest of your life or what?"
End flashback...
Andy Bogards brother sighed heavily as he thought over his friends words. Truth be told he was a little jealous of his brother when he had finally popped the question to Mai after a few years.
After thinking over what Phacia had said with another heavy sigh he said to her, "All right, I will go apologize to Jenny about my earlier outburst, since her God of War is not the same one I defeated and he might even be a benevolent deity. However, that doesn't mean I have to LIKE being Melissa's champion."
"That is all I ask of you Terry. Also make sure to ask her if she wishes for you to be Melissa's champion, who knows you might be surprised." With those words the mysterious beauty chanted in a different tongue and disappeared.
When she was out of site Terry made his way out of his room, thinking over on how to approach Jenny without being seen since he knew trying to enter the front gate of the temple would most likely cause a scene so he decided to go an alternate route.
The Temple of Mylee...
Jenny sat calmly in the library sipping a cup of tea while reading over one of the ancient texts of her guild. She had calmed down after what happen a while ago and thought over on what Terry said to her. She realized he was upset but she wondered on what reasons he would be so hostile toward her deity?
Though she was a follower of Mylee she did consider two things. For one she didn't know if any gods existed in the Lone Wolf's world or if they were even worshipped. Another was she had to consider was that Terry wouldn't be staying here forever since he desired to return back to his world, and she didn't know when that would happen.
Sighing she decided to turn in for the night when she felt something was amiss. Slowly rising she turned around and at her waist was a sword she carried in case there were any attempts that someone would try to take her life. She then spoke out to a dark corner of the room.
"Whoever you are, you may as well come out. I do NOT appreciate intruders nor do I like being sneaked up on."
Emerging from the shadows was someone she did not expect to see till morning as he came into view. Terry stood a few feet away and gave a small smile.
"I would have knocked but I doubt anyone would have allowed me in after what happen today."
Jenny was silent for a moment before saying, "Is there anything I can help you with ?"
Terry knew by the sound of her voice she was still a little upset by today's events so he decided to be honest and get to the point.
"I deserved that which is why I want to apologize for how I acted today toward you today and forgotten that this isn't my world so I shouldn't have labeled your god the same as the one in my world."
He paused for a moment to choose his next words before speaking to her again.
"Another reason I wanted to speak with you is because I never told you the reason why I was upset over what happen today and you deserve to know since I was speaking out of anger."
The Head Priestess of Mylee looked into the displaced Earthlings eyes and saw that they held no malice or deceit in them. She saw only honesty and kindness in them which showed he wanted to speak with her.
Gesturing to a chair she sat down waiting for him to take a seat. Terry did so and sat across the small table of the room in front of her.
Nothing was said for a moment until it was Jenny who broke the silence, "Before you say anything I just wish to say I too wish to apologize as I didn't take two things into consideration. For one thing I didn't take into account that you would be here forever and that eventually you would return home."
"And the second reason on why you want to apologize?" The Lone Wolf asked her.
"The second reason is I never bothered to ask why you acted so hostile toward Mylee or any deity for that matter."
"That is the reason I am here tonight. I wanted to apologize since I spoke out in anger, and I should have told you why I didn't favor your deity." Taking a deep breath he spoke once more. "What I am about to tell you I have told only to my students recently and like I asked them must not be repeated to anyone as it is one of the tragedy's of my life."
Jenny nodded to him to show she understood and so the student of Tung Fu Rue once again began his tale about the Armor of Mars, his battle against Laocorn and the God of War Aries, to the tragic loss of his second lover Sulia. When he finished his tale it was his hope that she would give up this idea about him being Melissa's chosen hero and just let them go their separate ways. But then he would be going against his word to Phacia and as much he didn't want to go through this he would help Melissa even if she didn't appreciate it.
The Head Priestess began to understand why he was so set against being Melissa's chosen hero. Though she found it very hard to believe that Terry had that kind of power to defeat an actual god of his world, she could see in his eyes the sadness, honesty, bravery, and hardship that he had endured and it made her wonder how many hardships he had to deal with in his life to make him the way he is. Despite all this she knew that deep down he was a wonderful person and that he needed someone to help fill the void in his heart.
"So now you understand why I do not favor Mylee or want anything to do with Melissa." He sighed tiredly before asking, "Do you still want me to be her chosen hero?"
He had asked the question that Phacia had suggested to him and that was when he got the biggest shock when Jenny answered him.
"Yes Terry, I would like you to be her chosen hero."
The Lone Wolf's eyes widen as he looked at her and saw a kind and understanding smile to which shocked him.
"That's it? After all that has happened today you want me to be her champion still?" Terry was completely surprised by this turn of events as he never thought something like this would happen. It was then that he remembered what Phacia told him before.
(If I didn't know any better I think she knew this would happen.)
He then heard Jenny speak again catching his attention.
"Now that I have a better understanding of your situation, I would like you to know of Melissa's situation."
"Melissa's situation?"
"Yes. Now as you know, the Church of Mylee will not turn away any candidates who wish to follow our God's edict of truth, justice and doing what is right. The supreme representation of our tenant is that of a hero, chosen by Mylee to spread his ideas to the world and to have a servant of Mylee aid him. Now it is obvious that our God has decided that you are worthy of being his representative."
She holds up a hand as Terry's about to say something, allowing her to continue.
"Yes, I know that you believe that it was all a coincidence, but Mylee does move in mysterious ways sometimes. And also keep in mind, not all candidates we train are from righteous backgrounds. Some have come in off the streets, looking for guidance. Some are selfish, just looking for an easy life. Some came from whorehouses or have been prostitutes on the streets, just seeking out a bare existence. And some were orphans or former slaves who have nowhere to go. In Melissa's case, she gave up a life of ease and wealth, due to the fact that her father wanted her to marry a 'miserable and cowardly excuse of a man' as she put it. Now I don't know the details, but she seems to want to idealize those fantasy books she loved reading so much."
"Not exactly a realistic view of the world." The Lone Wolf commented as it sounded silly to him.
"Precisely, and that is why I want you to be her hero. I want you to show her the downsides, as well as the upsides of what a hero is supposed to be."
The Lone Wolf thought over on what he had just been told and then finally he nodded his head and spoke.
"All right Jenny, I'll be Melissa's champion since it is to help her. Though her friends might not like the idea of me being her champion they will have to get use to it."
"They have no choice in the matter as Melissa is a devoted follower and she has to follow Mylee's will."
"Just don't tell Melissa something crazy like telling her to sleep with me or whatever as I believe that would only make her more uncomfortable around me, and we should at least try to get to know one another."
The Head Priestess nodded and then said, "If it will help you out you may look into the library of this temple to add you in your quest home."
"That would help me out very much and thank you Jenny."
"Oh and Terry."
"Yes?"
"Try not to be too hard on Melissa, just make sure she takes her lumps like everyone else."
He nodded and then stood up to leave. Before doing so he bowed in a gesture of respect and said, "Again I wish to apologize about what happen today."
She waved it off and smile at him.
"It is over and done with Terry so there is no need."
The Lone Wolf smile and with that took his leave.
The Next Day...
Terry and his students made their way toward the Temple of Mylee to settle things once and for all. On the way to the temple he, Louie, Kika, and Ila were having a conversation and it regarded about what he and the head priestess talked about last night.
"You mean you're going to be her champion?" Louie was dumbfounded that after what his brother figure told him and his friends last night that he would never in his life would go through with what happen yesterday.
"I was hoping that Head Priestess Jenny would see reason and let you go after what you told her, but after hearing how she wants you to teach Melissa a lesson about the real world...wow!" Came the reply of Kika as to be honest she didn't want her master to be the hero to an ungrateful, stuck up snob like the blonde priestess.
"It couldn't be helped Kika since it is tradition and from what I read about the Church of Mylee this Chosen Hero ceremony is one of its most sacred acts." Said Ila as she had read about it when she returned to the magic guild hoping to find a loop hole for her master but couldn't.
"Let's just say that it took someone I know outside of Ohfun to help me out and clear things up for me." The Lone Wolf said as he adjusted his hat. Currently he was back in his street clothes and had his sword strap to his back. He didn't tell his students about Phacia as he wasn't sure on how to explain to them about the mysterious beauty. Plus he felt he owed her the very least.
They soon reached the church and stood before the front gates. Terry knocked on it and waited for a response. He didn't have to wait soon as one of the priestess's answered it.
"Can I help you sir?" The young priestess asked the group before her.
The Lone Wolf and the others noticed that they never saw this girl before. She looked to be around seventeen years old, had dark orange hair, with brown eyes and had glasses like Ila. She also had a few freckles on her face and her figure was well developed, especially in the chest area.
"We are here to see head Priestess Jenny to discuss about an incident that happened yesterday." Terry said to the girl in front of them.
"Please come in." She said and gestured for them to enter.
The group entered and made their way to the main hall was. While they were walking Kika decided to ask a question.
"I haven't seen you here before."
"I just came in this morning returning from my trip to Ramliearth." She replied to her.
"Why so far from Ohfun?" Louie asked the young priestess.
"I was on an assignment from Head Priestess Jenny to see if there were any archives about magic gates." She replied without turning around.
This caught their interest and figured that Jenny must have started her search to help Terry find his way home. They soon stopped before the doors to the main chambers and the young priestess turned to face them.
"This is where Mistress Jenny and the others are to hold the meeting for the debate." She paused for a moment and then asked, "I was wondering which of you is Terry Bogard?"
"That would be me and you are?" The Lone Wolf asked.
"My name is Sandra and I just wish to say I apologize for what my fellow priestess's did to you and your students." She bowed before the group surprising them.
"What do you mean Sandra?" Kika asked her though she had a feeling she already knew what it was about.
"When I came in this morning I notice that several of the others were greatly upset over something so I asked them what was wrong. One of them whose name is Anna told me that you had stolen from Melissa's friends and that you had broken your word. When I asked for your names I heard Master Carwes stepson was involved so I decided to ask Mistress Jenny for her side of the story and I heard differently. Besides to be honest Melissa can be over reactive and rude at times just like Isabelle."
"Who is Isabelle?"
"She someone who is like Melissa and comes from a noble family. And I'm sorry to say she acts like a total snob." Sandra said her face taken on a sour expression. She then returns to her neutral expression and asked, "Are you really Melissa's chosen hero ?"
The Lone Wolf was silent for a moment before sighing and nodded though reluctantly.
"Yes I am Sandra. Though to be honest I don't want to be since she and I don't exactly get along very well, but I am only doing this as a favor to Jenny."
"I see. I don't understand why she would be upset since Head Priestess Jenny speaks highly of you, as does Master Carwes." Without another she opened the door and entered with the group following in.
As they entered they noticed the hostile looks they were receiving from the other priestess. The ones that were the harshest were from Anna, Joan, and Gannet. They got the same looks from Merrill and Genie, though Melissa looked pale from just looking at Terry.
The red haired swordswoman didn't show it but on the inside she was afraid of the Lone Wolf. After being on the receiving end of his attack and seeing it destroyed her sword she didn't think he was entirely human. There was no way ANYONE could break a sword in half the way he did.
Melissa for her part continued to look disappointed and did NOT want to go through with this. Earlier on in the day Jenny had asked to speak with her in private before of what was to take place and it had to do with her revelation.
Flashback...
"WHAT!" The blonde priestess couldn't believe of what she had just been told from the woman before her.
"You heard me Melissa. Terry is to be your chosen hero and you will follow through with the creed of our god. There is also the fact that I want you to be present during the debacle since it had to do with what happen yesterday and just so you know I will inform the others that Terry is your champion."
"Please Mistress Jenny I don't want anyone to know that he is my champion!" The distraught woman pleaded to her as she didn't want her rival Isabelle to know of what transpired and it would give her a reason to gloat.
"Everyone is going to know sooner or later Melissa and it is better now. Terry and I talked over this last night since we were both upset and managed to work things out. He is willing to give this a chance and so should you." She said in a no nonsense tone.
"But Mistress Jenny..." Melissa began but was cut off by the head of the guild.
"I do not want to hear it Melissa. You and your friends, along with the others who were part of that riot are in enough trouble as it is and I will tell you now when I speak to Head Master Carwes, I know he is not going to be happy about what transpired yesterday."
Without another word Jenny left to gather the others that were to be called in for the meeting, while Melissa stood there frozen like a zombie repeating the same phrase in her mind.
(This is against my will! This is against my will! This is against my will!)
End Flashback...
She shook her head back to the present. She could only hope that no one told her rival about Terry being her champion as she felt it would ruin her reputation.
Everyone stood before the altar waiting for the Jenny to arrive which didn't take long. She entered with a neutral expression and stood in front of everyone on the stand and then begun to speak to the crowed of people before her.
"I call this meeting to order. As of right now we are going to discuss and explain about what happen during yesterday's events. We will start off with Melissa's partners since they are accusing Terry Bogard and Louie of not keeping their word to them on the quest." She looked at the thief and said, "I want you to tell me what happen yesterday Merrill."
The young brunette began her side of the story of how it started from her view.
She began by saying that Terry and Louie had agreed that they could have everything after the quest, which included the scroll. She then went on to say that neither Kika or Ila offered to help and that after the quest was over, Terry had token the scroll without them noticing when coming back to Ohfun. She even went as far as to say the treasure they had was worthless and that Terry knew it was.
Ila and the others couldn't help but frown at the blatant lie the thief was telling and the red haired beauty saw that Louie was trying really hard not to shout or even lash out at the one who started this mess.
When she had finished she stepped down, and the Head Priest of the church turned to Louie.
"I have heard from Merrill, and now I ask for your side of the story Louie."
The stepson of Carwes nodded as he moved forward and stood before her. Taking a deep breath to help him relax, he began to tell Jenny what really happened.
"What happen that day Aunt Jenny, was that Melissa and her friends were looking to recruit a fourth member into their group and they had asked Ila. She POLITLY turned them down when they asked her and had suggested that she ask me, and Terry sensei for our help. Due to a misunderstanding before this quest started, Genie and Merrill had encountered sensei, Kika, and me which caused them to be hostile toward us."
"That's a lie!" The young thief started but was soon silenced by Jenny.
"Be silent this instant! You have already spoken your peace and now I will hear from Louie!"
When the thief's rant ended she turned to Louie who continued.
"As I was going to say, due to a misunderstanding, Genie and Merrill didn't want ether me or Terry in their group. Melissa had even stated that she didn't want us and said she was looking for someone of the more feminine type. She wanted to recruit Kika but since her friends were being hostile toward us, she didn't respond kindly to them and refused seeing that they were insulting us because we were men."
This caused Jenny to look at her disciple briefly with a look of disappointment before turning back to Louie and motioned for him to continue.
"When they mentioned the sealed door of the ruin I told them of why it wouldn't open and I decided to have a word with Terry, Kika, and Ila. I called back to them and said that we got off on the wrong foot so I offered to go with them and said they could have all the gold, jewels, and anything money wise. However the only thing I wanted were any magical artifacts or scrolls within the ruin. I also brought Terry with for extra muscle because of the goblins."
Louie then went on about the monsters, and traps that they encountered at the ruins and the loss of his wand. He also told her about when they were returning to Ohfun that Terry had offered to check the treasure to see its worth but that Merrill refused his offer and left them when they had said the adventure was over.
"The next morning we were heading to see you for a certain artifact that we read about in the scroll and I think you know of what happen afterwards."
After Louie finished his side of the story, Jenny turned to Melissa. The blonde priestess already had a bad feeling in the pit of her stomach as she suspected what her superior would ask of her.(1)
"I have heard both sides of this debacle and I now ask you Melissa for the truth."
"Me?"
"You were there on that adventure so it would be logical to ask you for the truth behind this mess. And before you answer, may I remind you that you are a Priestess of the Great God Mylee, whom we support his policy of courage, bravery, and JUSTICE. Any lie or act of FALSE WITNESS in this temple would be considered a very GRAVE SIN with EQUALLY GRAVE CONSEQUENCES!"
Melissa gulped slightly as she nodded.
"Are your friends telling the truth that Terry and Louie stole that scroll from them?"
Melissa paused for a very long time, and then glanced Merrill with an apologetic expression before answering Jenny in a quiet and defeated tone.
"No Mistress Jenny. Terry and Louie did not steal that scroll. It was part of the agreement for their cooperation on that quest."
Jenny nodded as she rendered her verdict.
"This is NOT a very favorable way to welcome your Chosen Champion, but at least you upheld the tenets of this temple." She then turns to the other priestesses who had participated in the riot. "And you! I am VERY disappointed in your recent conduct! Instead of acing like true disciples of Mylee, you were nothing more than a disorganized mob! You are all confined to your quarters until I come up with a suitable punishment for your actions!"
All the priestesses gasped in shock and were about to protest but a stern glare from Jenny immediately silenced them. Without another word, they bowed and headed out of the conference room. Merrill tried to sneak out with them, but was stopped as Jenny stepped out to block her escape.
"And just WHERE do you think you're going?"
"Err...Well, I..." The young brunette began but was cut off from Jenny.
"The Church of Mylee is far from finishing its business with you. Since you and your friend were the instigators to this unfortunate and UNFORGIVABLE event, it only makes sense that you will share in the punishment."
"P-P-Punishment?"
"Indeed. I believe that a form of service would be in order to repay the damages done to this church."
"What do you mean I got to pay for damages? I didn't cause any damages!" The young thief protested.
Jenny began counting off her fingers on what Merrill had done.
"Accusing Terry and Louie of theft? Inciting a riot? Blatantly going back on your word? Shall I go on about how you WERE the cause of all those damages? Or should I just have you thrown in prison along with Genie and be done with it?"
Merrill gulped as she was on very thin ice.
"You have a choice. Either you work to pay off the damages to the church, or spend the minimum of 1 year behind bars for your crimes?"
Merrill realized at that point she didn't have a choice. If word got out that she was in prison then all the people she owed money to or people she stole from would come for her and that would cause her prison sentence to be even LONGER. So with a nervous and defeated voice she asked the only question she could ask.
"Err, where do you keep the brooms?"
A while later...
"Man am I glad that is over with!" Louie said as they were at the tavern they usually went to when they needed a break from their studies or training.
"You and me both Louie, though I'm only sorry Terry sensei has to be the Chosen Hero of that brat Melissa." Kika said with a frown.
"What's done is done Kika, and there's nothing I can do. Besides I'm only doing this as a favor to show Melissa she shouldn't judge someone because they aren't anything like how she reads about in those fairy tales she read about." The Lone Wolf told his student as he took a drink from his mug.
"Well that takes care of one problem for you Terry sensei, but now it will complicate things for you with Melissa's friends." Ila said as she was currently looking over some notes she wrote about on the scroll she read.
"Like I told you all early this morning they will have to deal with it since Melissa is a disciple of Mylee and I heard from Jenny that Merrill is going to have to work at the church to pay for the damages she and the others caused." He told his student as he could already tell that Merrill and Genie would be having a heated discussion with the blonde priestess.
Speaking of whom...
"You sided with HIM instead US?"
The young thief had never felt so betrayed since she knew Melissa for quite a while, and all three of them swore never to abandon the other whenever they were in trouble.
Melissa could only shake her head at her friend and could only be honest with her.
"I didn't want to, but I had no choice. Jenny would KNOW if I was lying and as a Priestess of Mylee, I cannot bear false witness in HIS temple."
"Well that's just peachy Melissa. Now we have to deal with him and his idiot students for who knows how long!" Genie didn't know what was worse. The fact that they were even more broke from when this whole mess started or that she now had to travel with someone who in her eyes was a real monster from the display of strength he used to destroy her sword.
"I said I was sorry. Besides what can I do now that he is my champion?" She pleaded to her friends.
"Well just leave the church and stop being a priestess so you don't have to deal with him." The brunette suggested to her.
"I can't do that!" The blonde priestess quickly replied to her.
"Melissa what is the big deal? How come you don't want to leave the guild?" The red haired swordswoman asked her friend.
"If I leave then I will have to deal with my father and I don't want to go back to the way I live! I honestly wish to be more independent and live how I wish!" Though it was only a half truth she didn't want her friends to know about a certain arranged marriage her father made with another family.
The group of females could only sigh as none of them wanted to have Terry in their group, but could do nothing. Furthermore Genie had a feeling that Jenny would tell Carwes of what happen and he would most likely want one or both of them thrown in prison for what happen.
They could only hope that the aged wizard would be in a forgiving mood.
Back to Terry and his group...
The Lone Wolf and his group were on their way to see said wizard and it was at Louie's suggesting they see him.
They stood before the door to his office with the blue haired wizard knocking and waited for a response.
"Who is it?" A gruff voice answered from behind.
"It's me pops. Terry and the others are with me as well to talk to you."
"Enter."
The group of people entered into Carwes office, and saw he was there. Standing in front of him was Jenny who turned and greeted them.
"We were just discussing about what was going on Louie. Master Carwes is considering just throwing both of Melissa's friends into prison."
This shocked Terry and his students as they knew Merrill was going to be working for the church to pay off for the damages she and Genie caused. So why was Carwes considering such a thing?
The aged wizard saw the look of confusion on their faces and decided to enlighten them.
"Judging by your expressions you are wondering why I'm considering of just throwing the two behind bars?"
They nodded their heads.
"Since Terry is under mine and Head Priestess Jenny's protection anyone who provokes any unnecessary attack will be punished accordingly. While Merrill could work to pay off the damages she endangered both my son and a student of my school."
Kika's eyes widen as she remembered a law in Ohfun. If anyone attacked a student from the Magic Guild then the headmaster would reserve the right to punish the offender as he or she saw fit. The only one who could overrule the decision would be the King. It was the same for anyone who would attack a priestess of Mylee.
She then heard Carwes speak once more.
"Jenny however wish's to have the two of them work in service of her to pay off the damages they caused to the church. While I agree they should work off their debts I can't overlook this since my students safety is my top priority and many would question the guild if I did nothing." He sighed as he could only shake his head.
It was then that Louie decided to speak to his foster parent.
"Old man I know this may be much to ask but I would like you not to throw ether of them in prison."
This caused everyone to look at him like he grew a second head.
He noticed their looks of confusion and decided to speak his thoughts.
"The reason I'm asking this is because it would only cause Melissa to resent Terry more than usual and Aunt Jenny told you about the favor she asked him to perform right?"
His step father nodded as he had been told while they were at the tavern. Louie then continued on where he left off.
"So it would be better if you let Merrill continue to work under Aunt Jenny since I have a feeling she and her friends probably owe a lot of people money. As for Genie well she was injured by Terry and I don't think it would be fair to send her to prison in a weakened state."
The aged wizard considered his sons words and he had to admit while he would be in his right to throw the two who attacked his students, it would only cause problems for Terry since he was Melissa's chosen hero and Jenny had told him about the request she had asked the displaced Earthling.
With a sigh he gave his verdict to the group.
"All right Louie I will not throw ether of Melissa's allies in prison, BUT none of them are allowed to accompany both Terry and Melissa until Jenny or I say otherwise since they will need to earn our trust."
"That seems fair Master Carwes." The Lone Wolf spoke up.
"Also there is the matter of Louie getting a new wand, but the problem is he will need the branch of a five hundred year old oak tree."
This caused the students of Terry, minus Louie, to gasp and the Lone Wolf wondered what the big deal was?
It was Ila who spoke that answered Terry's unanswered question.
"Master Carwes, are you saying that Louie has to go into the Tartious Forest?"
The old wizard nodded to his student.
"I don't get it. What is so dangerous about this forest?" Terry asked as he wanted to know what got them so spooked about it.
Ila decided to explain to her sensei about the subject they were on.
"The Tartious Forest is very deadly place were demons and other creatures inhabit the environment as their own. Many who go there barley come out alive and it is rumored that even elves live there to avoid any humans that they deem untrustworthy."
That was all Terry needed to know from her. If the Tartious Forest was as deadly as she said it was then Louie would need all the help he could get. With that thought in mind he decided to ease everyone's worries.
"Don't worry about Louie Ila, because I'll be going with him."
This surprised the others in the room as none of them expected this. Terry noted their surprised looks and only shrugged.
"I've been in worse situations before and I doubt this would be any different. Besides Louie is one of my students like the rest of you and I will be damned before I let anything happen to any of you."
"Then Melissa will have to accompany both you and Louie then."
Everyone turned to Jenny who had spoken and could see she was serious about her decision which caused Kika to speak up.
"No offense Head Priestess Jenny, but I doubt those two who follow Melissa around would even bother to help them. Hell I think they would only help if there was money involved."
"Regardless Melissa is a follower of Mylee and those two have no say in this matter. Furthermore they will not be going with them on this quest. Like Master Carwes said they will have to earn my trust back before I can let them be with both Melissa and Terry."
Everyone could only nod at that since it made sense. Louie decided to ask another question.
"Do you think I should ask the others to come with us?"
"We will ask them tomorrow, and it is up to Carwes if they can go." Terry answered to his student, before looking to the age wizard to see what he thought.
Carwes thought for a moment before nodding.
"If they are not behind in their studies then I shall let them accompany you, but I will assign an extra guard for you since it will be dangerous."
"All right then, we will start tomorrow but we will need to pack for a long trip since we don't know how long it will take."
With that said the group decided to turn in for the night as they knew that tomorrow would be anything but normal.
To Be Continued...
Authors Note.
Well that is it for Chapter 11 of this story. I didn't start off on the adventure to the Forest yet because I wanted to have a build up for it and I wanted to show everyone on how Terry would react to becoming Melissa's champion. Now if he seemed out of character keep in mind he lost his second lover to a god of war and it is understandable that he would act hostile. Luckily things cooled down between him and Jenny since he has a better understanding and is doing this as a favor to the Head Priestess to show Melissa a dose of the real world.
As for Genie and Merrill not going with them, well I wanted to do things differently and after the stunt they pulled at the church, you can't blame Jenny or Carwes for not trusting them.
I want to thank everyone who added me to their favorites list and for review this story and my other two. I'm also sorry I haven't been around. Real Life is a pain in the ass, and I had to deal with headaches.
On the next chapter we will see more of Goenitz and the results of his quest. We will also be seeing a certain elf meet up with Terry and the others. And we will see the return of an unwanted wizard from when Louie and the others left. See you then.
Before I forget, should I have Melissa, Genie, and Merrill paired up with some of the other King of Fighters characters or hook them up with OC's? I am kind of thinking of having Genie being in a three way with Terry and Celecia, pardon the pun, for future chapters but I'll think about it.
(1)I want to thank my friend Hung Nguyen for this scene and for helping me with this chapter. I couldn't have done it without him.