Once again, I've got another story to give a shoutout to! This time it's "One in Body And Soul A Bond That Gave The World A Future" By BlazingSoul500. It's a Rex/Mythra focused story that explores her character through the events of Torna: The Golden Country with the tease of interactions during the main story. I would also call BlazingSoul500 the best Xenoblade 2 writer in the context of understanding Mythra's character. Also, it's only available on A03 (Archive of Our Own)!
And for review responses:
Guest: That's a fair question; here's how I'm going to handle smut. On FFN, I'll show the start and the aftermath, but on A03, there'll be some HOT SKITTY ON WAILORD ACTIO- I mean, Rex on Blade.
xxx
SomeRandomHuman: Your enthusiasm is appreciated. I'm honestly not sure what to do with that Konosuba story. Kazuma's to me the hardest character to write out of all the Konosuba cast; maybe because I don't like writing characters like him. However, I've been reading a lot of Re:Zero fanfics, and I've even sampled the web novel.
I don't know when I'll get around to writing them, but I want to take a stab at writing a Re:Zero (apparently, I'm a major fan of psychological stories like Xenoblade), and I have at least two ideas.
The first is a Re:Zero x Konosuba crossover where Subaru is transported to Belzerg instead of Luginica, and all the hijinks that'd occur. The pairing would probably be Subaru x Yunyun (Why not Megu- because there's enough fics with her, okay! Is the fandom going to suddenly explode all because one writer had no interest in the explosion loli?).
The second idea, which I'll probably more likely write, I have is a Subaru x Rem ship, where a much younger Subaru is transported to the Oni Village, and he forms a friendship with smol Rem that blossoms into a romantic relationship. Probably make it all nice and wholeso- GIVE REM AND RAM "RETURN BY DEATH", AND FORCE THE TWO TO DIE WITH HIM! Why give both sisters "Return by Death", and not one of them? It's because they're twins, and they possess some kind of psychic bond that allows them to sense what they're thinking. I feel it'd be odd if one sister had gotten RbD, but not the other.
I'm waiting for further updates to the web novel before I consider writing anything related to Re:Zero.
xxx
Summary: Pyra has escaped the grasp of Malos and Jin with the help of Rex and Nia. Realizing that Rex is capable of wielding the power of the Aegis through his unusual connection with Pyra, the newly formed party heads to Gormott to help him master it. But a sapphire encounter in the Gormotti capital might ruin their fun.
Excitement could be seen all over Chairman Bana's face as he watched the group that called themselves Torna enter the ship. The crude moss green ball of fur looked through a camera to observe the commotion as he awaited the untold fortunes he was going to receive.
It was foolproof; Torna needed to find a lost treasure, they needed a small crew to find it, and as soon as Torna found it, they would kill everyone. No one, not even those that had a future like Rex would be allowed to live. It was a shame to kill someone that had such potential as him, but his life, as well as the lives of a handful of Salvagers, was a small price to pay to ensure the compensation that Bana would receive.
As soon as word spread that a small crew of Argentum Salvagers had gotten killed in a tragic accident, Bana would be given trillions worth of gold. Sure, Rex's home of Leftheria would miss the boy dearly, but the sleazy Nopon could just send them a billion worth in gold without exhausting his own funds to shut them up. Given their circumstances, a solid billion could set them up for life.
Giggling like a madman, Bana told himself as he continued to watch "This is going to be a fine day. The trillions I'm going to receive, and the business in Mor Ardain….Bana, you're going to be the richest person in Alrest-"
The video feed cut off all of a sudden when an explosion ended what he was watching. Any sane person would've grown concerned over the interruption, but Bana thought differently. A selfish grin grew on his face as he already began to fantasize the untold amount of wealth he was going to accumulate.
"Bana can rest easy. With those Salvagers out of the way, Bana will receive millions...no, trillions in gold!"
The happy Nopon took a nap as he awaited for the Torna group to return with what they wanted to find. What he didn't expect was his video phone to ring so suddenly. "Must be Torna to report that everyone's dead!" Bana smiled with a grim excitement. But as soon as he pushed the button, the sleaze didn't expect to see a familiar face as a familiar Salvager showed his face. The creme-yellow fur of Pupunin who spoke with an exhausted tone. "Chairman Bana!" He declared. "Pupunin can explain what just happened! Apologies for the interruption!"
This….wasn't supposed to happen. Everyone was supposed to be dead. And if Pupunin was still alive, then that meant…..
xxx
"...and so Pupunin wisely retreated as soon as Rex gave us the chance-"
"WISE?!" Bana ranted. "Who wise now; Pupunin couldn't even die properly! Now I won't get the funds they promised!"
Still suffering from shock, the Nopon on the other end realized what his boss had said and asked with a confused tone "...die? Funds from who?"
Realizing that he had said too much, the corrupt chairman responded "None of your business, Pupunin! So tell me, Rex and that Aegis….where did they go off to again?"
"Oh, Rex! He, that Blade…...this Aegis…...and his Titan flew south after we left."
"And you lost track of them?"
"I was unable to keep track of them after the fighting began! Pupunin know they flew southward and that's it!"
An anger formed in Bana's eyes. So everyone survived, Rex took the Aegis for himself, and got everyone to safety. "Everyone is useless idiot! Get back to Argentum! Bana have extra work for you!" The sleazebag ordered before cutting off the call. "You idiot, Rex! Bana could've gotten trillions in gold, even took out a slip to cover for the Maelstrom in case it got destroyed!"
Remembering what Pupunin had said about Rex's whereabouts, Bana calmed down as he took a look at a map to his left. Noticing the current placement of the Titans in contrast to the Yggdrasil, he expressed "Still how amusing; adjusting for the current season, and Rex flying southward, he should be heading for Gormott."
A smile formed on his face; the Aegis was heading south, and he knew someone there that could grab the Blade of Legend. Pushing a button on the receiver, he proceeded to contact a shrewd politician that lived there. Consul Dughall, a representative of the Mor Ardain Empire who was currently serving as the head leader of the Gormotti citizens.
It took only a few seconds before his screen showed that of an ostentatious politician declaring "Why, if it isn't Chairman Bana. What a surprise to see you? Can I say I love your efforts of selling tampered Core Crystals to the dunderheads in Mor Ardain-"
"Bana didn't call to receive flattery. And lastly, BRINGING UP TAMPERED CORE CRYSTALS ON UNSECURE LINE?! IS DUGHALL AN IDIOT? WHAT IF INDOL'S SPIES WERE LISTENING IN?"
Panicking, the lavishly dressed figure replied apologetically "My mistake, I didn't think about that-"
Sighing at the idiocy, Bana reassured him with a sigh "Eh, don't worry about it! Bana's got bigger fishies to fry. Now, listen up!"
"Ooohhhhh…" Dughall replied with intrigue.
xxx
"No, I've never heard of the phrase." Rex replied in response to Nia's question.
Smirking, the Gormotti continued "I figured you wouldn't. Indol doesn't like people talking about them. I don't know the whole story, but these….Flesh Eaters are Blades that have consumed something related to humans. Cells, organs…." All the while, Nia seemed squeamish as she explained to Rex. "On top of that, Flesh Eaters are said to have a strange Core Crystal."
Walking up to the young man, and poking the emerald "x" on his chest Nia finished "If someone sees that, they might mistake you for one."
"Thankfully, I've got some extra clothes!" Rex reassured her as he grabbed a blue tee from a drawer in his hut. And without thinking, ripped the tank off as he noticed a tear where Jin had stabbed him. Sighing, he put the tank in another drawer, as he three on the tee, perfectly covering the Core Crystal that rested on his chest. "There we go!" As soon as he turned around, the brunet noticed Pyra and Nia having some rather funny looks on their faces. Did I do something wrong?"
Giggling, the silver haired catgirl teased "Do you just change your clothes like that, without a care if someone's watching you?"
Realizing that he forgot to close his hut before changing, Rex sighed "To be fair, I've been Salvaging on my own for so long that I never thought about it."
"Still, it wouldn't hurt to show decency." Pyra remarked as she began looking at the Cloud Sea, trying to purge her memories after seeing how athletic Rex really was with that toned body of his. Sure, the redhead was one to talk, with those high stockings and her mini shorts, and her exposed back.
"Look on the bright side, Rex." Nia continued. "At least you didn't drop all of your clothes in front of u-"
"NIA!" Rex, Pyra and Azurda screamed in unison.
"Just saying!" Nia remarked with a giggle. "Though on a more serious note….." Taking a look around at the Cloud Sea that seemed to stretch for miles on end, the yellow suited Driver questioned "Where the bloody hell are we?"
Seeing the perfect opportunity to change the subject, Azurda responded "Oh, that's easy! I watched the Maelstrom sail eastward to find Pyra! After grabbing your butts and flying away, I flew us southward."
Laughing, Rex chimed "That makes things easier." Grabbing a map, he laid it out on the ground as he explained "So we just go by the time of the year, and it's summer currently. Going by yearly patterns the placement of the Titans at the moment….that leaves us with….Gormott. It should only be a few minutes away."
"I'm amazed you came up with that so quickly!" Pyra exclaimed with intrigue in her rub eyes.
Rubbing the back of his head, the brunet responded "Hehe, thanks. Honestly, it wasn't that hard to explain! Titans are always moving, and I just figured which one by remembering patterns."
"And…...I can help you learn to control my power!" The redheaded offered.
Looking at his hands, the brunet chimed "I'm in!"
Looking at the new group she had suddenly joined, Nia remembered the pain she had felt in her chest when Rex had died. "Are you….the one I'm looking for?" she suddenly asked herself.
"Hey….you don't mind if I stick around for now?" The young woman asked.
Confused by her question, Rex replied "Of course. I don't see why you have to ask."
"Torna." Was her only explanation. "Since I was with them, I'm afraid that people might think you're with them."
"Then let's prove them wrong." The brunet replied with confidence.
"Rex…...are you that unaware of them?" Nia was amused but worried with his optimism.
"Admittedly, I've never heard of Torna. Been too focused with my family back home. But as far as I'm concerned, you left them after they tried to kill us. And anyone that kills without reason, I want nothing to do with them."
The Gormotti had no idea what to say to that. "I need some time to think." Nodding, Rex and Pyra went closer to the front of the Titan to give the Gormotti some space. Granted, there wasn't much room to work with, but it didn't stop her from staying close to the crane that Rex used for his Salvaging operations. Looking at the near endless oceans of the Cloud Sea, Nia's thoughts brought her to her past.
She remembered the last time she was in Gormott; how she was running for reasons she didn't like talking about. And how Nia was eventually detained, and brought somewhere to be executed for her existence. Curling up into a ball, the young Gormotti could still feel the cold steel of the prison cell that accompanied her. Then she heard the sound of iron striking flesh, no doubt someone fighting the soldiers that had apprehended her, and making very short work of them.
Whoever it was, they were strong. The door to her cell opened, and that was where she first met the man in white and silver, and a mask that hid most of his face, but left his mouth and eyes visible. Despite the stoic look on his face, Nia could sense that he was a caring individual.
Jin was his name, and as soon as he offered a hand to the Gormotti, she was quick to seize it. Who could blame her? The world left her to die, and here was someone showing her kindness that hadn't been coming her way for a long time.
Jin had brought her to a group called Torna, and….the Gormotti wondered if she belonged with them. Jin was the sole reason she had joined, but Nia stood out like a sore thumb in comparison to the group. Then she thought back to Rex; she saw him as childish, despite his age.
But after her conversation with the young adult, her opinion softened. He was a hard worker that was actively providing for people that he viewed as his family. It must've been nice. But what left Nia conflicted was Rex's death at the bottom of the Cloud Sea. Jin meant a lot to her for what he had done, and yet; the man in the ivory mask had no problem killing a young man that had been trying to help those that needed it most.
Worse, Nia felt some kind of connection with Rex after his remarks. And after Jin killed him, the Gormotti girl felt an emptiness that she hadn't felt for a long time. And every step Nia took after Rex took his last breath seemed to become more painful than the last. "Is Rex….the person for me? I….should take the chance." The silver haired catgirl told herself, before standing up to approach Rex and Pyra to give her answer.
xxx
It wasn't a long ride to Gormott. Azurda figured it was a good half an hour to a full hour for the new party to reach the rather majestic quadrupedal creature.
"So…..green!" Rex expressed as he looked at the Titan through a pair of binoculars. "It's just like Elysium!"
Giggling at his declaration, Nia teased "You're such a child! To compare my home to a fable!"
"Well….." Pyra began as she observed the Titan up close. The last time she visited Gormott…..it wasn't so lively.
"This is probably going to sound weird, but Pyra showed me a vision of Elysium." The brunet shot back.
"What? How? I thought you died?" The silver haired girl questioned, now confused.
Pyra's expression turned somber as she responded "I don't know how to explain it."
"That makes two of us! I just know that Jin killed me, I woke up in the vision….or a memory of Elysium, and Pyra gave me half of her Core Crystal to bring me back to life." Rex attempted to best explain what had happened.
"At any rate…." Nia remarked. "I'm just glad you're in one piece." In truth, the Gormotti had no idea how to really respond to their predicament. After all, this wasn't how most Drivers resonated with a Blade.
Figuring they'd have to keep a low profile, but wanting to play by the books, Rex stated "So we just find a dock….."
"I have a better idea!" Nia blurted all of a sudden. There are some forests around the belly of Gormott! We could stop there to get Rex familiar with his new abilities and no one will see us! Then we can dock in Torigoth to resupply."
Getting closer to the Titan, Azurda was quick to notice the lush underbelly that would've given the group the ideal spot for Rex to master his new tricks.
Seeing the thick forest, the brunet was quick to notice the extremely humid air as he felt his clothes beginning to stick. Chuckling, Rex asked "Let me guess, the wetter air is to help nullify what I'm capable of."
Smirking at his use of the word wetter, Nia explained "Exactly. And Dromarch and I can use the water from nearby ponds in case things get out of control." The ivory tiger nodded in response.
Once the group landed, it didn't take long before they heard a distinct hissing noise. Turning around, the group could see steam radiating from Pyra.
Blushing in embarrassment, Pyra explained "Sorry, bring a Fire Blade and all, I'm very…..warm….."
"Hey, don't worry about it. I've other Fire Blades steam up when they're in water." Nia reassured the redheaded woman.
His curiosity getting the better of him, Rex couldn't help but ask "You have?"
"Of course not, ya dork! I wouldn't watch a Blade take a bath!"
Amused by the banter between the group, Azurda remarked jokingly "I like your new friend, Rex."
Grinning at his grandfather, Rex questioned "So, where do we start?"
"Normally, we Blades absorb the Ether in the air to power our Driver's weapon." Dromarch began, his calm voice providing an air of reassurance to Rex. "However, since you can wield Miss Pyra's power directly, you too can call upon the same Ether, Master Rex."
Seeing a moment to chime in, Pyra interjected "When using Ether, it's recommended to focus on an emotion to call upon Ether."
"So you're saying it's that easy?" Rex asked, remembering how the young man had managed to block a strike from Malos, along with temporarily shielding Azurda.
"Wellll…..that's not entirely true. As a Blade, I can casually do this." The Aegis monologued as she created a sphere of fire before dispelling it. "But no one in human history has been documented using Ether like a Blade."
Grinning, Rex remarked "Well, there's always a first for something." Suddenly, a giant wall of water had formed around the group. Looking at the sight, Rex jumped. "The he-"
It didn't take long before everyone realized that Nia and Dromarch were the ones creating the wall of water, taking advantage of the ponds that surrounded them. "Why don't we try to speed things up?" Nia offered. "This is probably gonna sound insane, but since the Aegis is said to be this super powerful Blade, it might be better to work on something larger before going smol!" The catgirl advised.
Pyra…was hesitant, and who could blame her? You couldn't just summon a freakin' inferno, and expect to control it overnight! "Yeah, this might be a bad idea." She heard in her head. But the redhead was quick to think of something.
"I have a different idea. Let's try working on defense!" The crimson Blade blurted out, remembering Rex's efforts from the night before.
"I like that idea." The Salvager replied. Pointing in a direction, he asked "So to shield, I just raise a hand out, and think about it?"
"It's more involved than that, but you've got the idea, Rex." Pyra monologued in response. Raising a palm, a spherical barrier had formed from her gloved palm as she explained "Concentrate on an emotion. The greater the emotion, the stronger the shield."
"I see." Following the Aegis's advice, Rex decided to think about what made him happy. It wasn't that hard; the brunet enjoyed his work, and the smiles he received from his family in Leftheria reminded him of why he was a Salvager. Concentrating, for the briefest of glimpses, a golden barrier had formed from his palms, not too different from what Pyra could muster. A notable look of awe was written all over his face.
"Did I just….."
Putting a reassuring hand on his wrist, Pyra complimented "Good work, Rex! Let's try that again!"
"Alright!" Was his quick response. Taking a moment to focus, a barrier formed in front of him. Enthusiasm began to form on his face as the brunet remarked "Hell yeah!"
"Keep it up, Rex! I wanna try something!" Pyra remarked with an encouraging tone. "Now let's try this!" Pointing to a very open area, the redhead conjured a stream of flames from her palms.
Nodding, Rex followed suit…..and suddenly launched himself off of the ground, and sent himself flying into the Cloud Sea. "Rex!" Nia, and Pyra screamed with worry as the two ran up to the ledge where Rex fell in the ocean. Within seconds, the two were quick to see the brunet's signature grappling anchor as it grabbed the rocky cliffside.
Once the young man got close enough to the cliff that the two women could help him up, Rex was quick to reassure them "Not the first time I've been flung into the Cloud Sea. I want to try that again."
"Do you want to try that after you nearly fell into the Cloud Sea?" Nia questioned.
Appreciative of the concern over her Driver, Pyra remarked "I can hold him."
"I like that plan." The Salvager replied. "Let's try that again!" Looking at that area where he attempted that trick, Rex tried it again, as he conjured a stream of fire from his palms once more. With Pyra's rather ludicrous strength, he never had to worry about sending himself flying during his second attempt. In an instant, the young man found himself able to control the intensity of the flames he was producing. Out of curiosity, the crimson Blade let her Driver go, and was impressed how quickly Rex was getting the hang of her power. Though a worrying thought came to her.
"If Rex can figure out your power this quickly…what if he learns about mine?" Pyra subconsciously asked herself.
xxx
"I'd say that's a solid start to your training." Pyra remarked as Azurda swam the group over to Torigoth. They would've trained longer, but the tide was beginning to rise, and they figured now was a good time to rest up.
The sun was setting already, and the cover of night would've given them some cover. "That it was." Nia chimed in, as they reached the dock. Looking around the small city, a sad, nostalgic look formed on her face as the silver haired figure whispered "It hasn't changed a bit…."
"Nia?" Pyra asked, a look of worry in her warm, ruby eyes.
Appreciative of the concern, the catgirl look at Pyra, and reassured her "I'm alright. It's just….been a long time since I was here."
Noticing her change in demeanor, Rex thought "Must be weird."
Bidding Azurda a good night's rest, Rex took in the scenery as he looked in awe at the city that lay before them. There weren't many towering buildings, save for a giant windmill that seemed to provide power for the homes that dotted the city. And many of the said homes that dotted Torigoth were small compact places, made of the finest wood, no thanks to the near ocean of trees that dotted the Gormott Titan. To their right was a military base, run by none other than the Empire of Mor Ardain. Rex had heard that Gormott offered the finest wood out of any Titan, so he wasn't surprised that the Ardainian Empire would take control of the Titan…..especially given the state Mor Ardain was in.
Obviously, bringing an ex-Tornan anywhere near a military base was going to be suicide. Walking away, it didn't take long for the quartet of Drivers and Blades to notice a group of the catlike Gormotti surrounding a pair of soldiers adorned in black and silver armor. "Gather round, gather round! Who wants to rise above and beyond the call of duty? All you have to do is awaken this here Core Crystal!" The first announced, presenting the crowd with a vibrant, glowing blue gem.
"You get more than just the honor of serving our fine nation! You'll get pensions, too! Work hard and you can even reach the ranks of the nobility! For the glory of Mor Ardain!" The second declared, trying to rally anyone to step forward.
"So….what's going on?" Rex asked, slightly confused.
Putting her hands on her hips "Driver recruitment."
"The Ardainian military has a branch of soldiers that wield Blades. If the pool of potentials has shrunk in Mor Ardain, then they're reaching out to the Gormotti." Dromarch monologued, attempting to explain the situation.
Raising an eyebrow, Rex asked the group "Wait, you mean not just anyone can resonate with a Core Crystal?"
"Nope." Nia responded with a dry tone in her voice. "A handful of people are inherently born with the potential to bond with a Core Crystal!"
Seeing a chance to chime in, Pyra explained "I believe it's more of an aptitude that a select few possess."
Turning his attention to his redheaded companion, Rex asked "So…..what happens is someone is unworthy?"
As soon as he asked that, the group immediately noticed a male Gormotti, not all that younger than Rex being restrained by his younger siblings as they pleaded with him not to touch that gem.
The young brunet couldn't help but see himself in that young Gormotti. Than a much larger, buff Gormotti man, not all that larger than Malos arrogantly pushed the younger boy and his siblings out of the way to grab the gem. "Aw'right, boyo! Time to wake up!" The giant boldly declared, as he aggressively grabbed the gem with his claws.
No sooner than that arrogant juggernaut grabbed the Core Crystal did he feel a violent surge of energy course through his body. It was…unsettling to watch. That man's body began to glow with an unhealthy light as he began to scream in pain.
Knowing full well what was happening, Nia sarcastically remarked "Yeah, he's not walking for a while-" Before the young woman could finish explaining, the Core Crystal blew up in the lion's cocky face, as he hit the ground, and began to vomit blood.
Rex wasn't disgusted easily, but seeing the crimson fluid erupt from that man's mouth….it caught him off guard. The dark brown haired Driver was horrified to think that something like this could've happened to him when he had grabbed Pyra's sword. Pyra, on the other hand, was horrified. "Something's not right; if those Core Crystals are causing that violent of a reaction…somebody's screwing with them." The redhead once again thought with a voice that didn't belong to her.
"You're right." Pyra thought in response. The Aegis could've easily checked that Core to figure out the problem, but she couldn't just walk up to check it for herself.
"He was all bark and no bite!" One of the guards argued. "Does no one else want to try?" It was probably a given that none of the Gormotti would want to try resonating with a Core Crystal, after watching one of their own violently collapse from the attempt. What scared everyone was when that much, much younger Gormotti willingly approached the Core. "I will try." He confidently declared with a humble tone.
"We have a contender, ladies and gentleman! Step forth, young man!" A soldier declared with encouragement. Nodding, the young lion slowly placed his claw on the glowing sapphire gem. In an instant, a radiant light flowed from him. Compared to before, this light looked warm and inviting.
"There's the aptitude you're looking for." Nia explained as everyone watched the Core Crystal split into two spheres of golden light. The first turned into a spear that the young Gormotti grabbed out of instinct. The second took on the form of a Blade. But what surprised Rex was the Blade. Compared to Pyra's extremely human appearance, the humanoid Blade that had been resonated with the Gormotti man looked….robotic, with a white and grey color scheme. And compared to Pyra's warm crimson eyes, something about those blue and white eyes of that Blade that was awakened seemed…...wrong to Rex.
Maybe that was just him. And he was overthinking it…..although….. "Wait, when I had resonated with Pyra-"
"She's an Aegis, she works on a different set of rules!" Nia explained. "Giving up half a Core isn't unnatural."
Observing Pyra's overjoyed expression after that Gormotti boy successfully resonated with a Core Crystal, Rex put a hand on his chest as he felt the covered saltire. "That explains a lot."
"We need to get going. They tend to hold a bunch of ceremonies, and we don't need to stick around to see it." Nia announced to the group.
Taking the opportunity to leave, Rex and co. walked northwest to get away from the crowd, but suddenly froze when one of the soldiers noticed them and cried out "Excuse us, you're a Salvager, right?"
"Oh, shit." Nia thought.
Hoping to talk himself out of whatever the Ardainian soldiers wanted to ask him, Rex replied with a chuckle"Yes, I am."
"How'd you like to join the Empire? Whatever you're being paid, we can double or even triple it even!" Now that…..was an enticing offer. "Even better, you're already a Driver, but we can give you a Core Crystal."
But as enticing as the offer was, the Salvager hated war. Not only that, but any effort to stay from a war was good enough in his books. Fortunately for Rex, the young man had the perfect excuse. "Thank you, but I'm gonna have to take a rain check. I'm kinda busy at the moment. But if the door's open, I'd be more than happy to join up at a later time."
Despite the funny looking helmet completely covering the soldier's faces, the trooper responded with a disappointed tone "We understand. We hope you're able to reconsider at a later time."
"I'll keep that in mind."
xxx
"That was a close one." Rex expressed calmly as soon as the quartet had reached an unoccupied alleyway.
"Too true." Dromarch responded, an ever calm tone in his aquatic blue eyes.
Seeing a moment to take a break, Rex began to remark "It's kinda cool how Blades work! So they just start off as that crystal."
"Exactly!" Pyra chimed in as she put a hand to her chest. "We start off….in a way lifeless, devoid of form. But it takes the gentle touch of a potential Driver to give us form."
Seeing a good moment to jump in, Dromarch remarked "Blades can take on many forms upon our awakening. Some of us take on a human shape, others a more animal shape."
"That's really cool." Rex remarked, the look of curiosity radiating from his vibrant golden eyes.
Although….there was a negative thought that lingered in his mind, as he looked at Pyra. "But she had already been awakened when we found her…..and when I met her….she was crying. I already know about the war she was in…..but what happened…..Ad-"
"Halt!" The group suddenly heard. Turning around, they found a squad of soldiers pop out of nowhere to surround them. "We noticed that you had a Blade, but you didn't give us your registration number!"
"Uhh….I became a Driver just yesterday! I didn't know registrations were a thing!" The Salvager was quick to utter, hoping to avoid a fight.
One of the Ardainian troopers, noticeably larger than the common footsoldiers questioned "Is that so? Then we can offer you an escort to Indol to get your Blade registered. Wait….is that a member of Torna by your side?"
"Damn." Nia muttered, realizing she had been caught.
"I'd call her ex-Torna." Rex attempted to counter argue.
"Yeah, it's her alright." A footsoldier declared, ignoring Rex's remark. What neither of them expected was the sight of a giant wanted poster with….Nia's face? The catlike beast depicted on the poster kind of looked like her, but it also looked way too feral to be a wanted poster of Nia.
Confused and a little disgusted, Rex asked as he cocked his head slightly "Is that…...suppos-"
"What the bloody hell is that? Don't tell me that's supposed to be me?!" Nia cried, an aggravated look in her amber eyes.
"I know, right? I don't even see how that looks like you."
"Thank you!"
"Silver haired Gormotti, and white furred tiger like Blade. It's definitely a member of Torna." Another footsoldier declared, as more of them showed up to assist in the apprehension of Rex, Nia and their respective Blades. "That Salvager and the crimson human shaped Blade must be newer members."
Now Rex was going to take offense if they were going to refer to Pyra as just some human shaped Blade. "Rex, save yourself! They want me!" Nia attempted to convince him, as the group slowly braced themselves for a fight.
Sighing, the brunet argued "I think these guys want to arrest all of us! We're going to have to fight our way out of this one."
"You can be a stubborn one!"
"Gramps says that a lot about me!"
"Alright, on the count of three, Dromarch and I will attack the soldiers on the left. Rex and Pyra, you go right!" The catgirl declared.
"You got it. One….."
"Are you for real?" One of the grunts asked.
"Two…."
"I don't believe it! They're going to resist!" The commanding officer exclaimed, as the squad readied their rifles.
"THREE!" The quartet shouted as Rex and Nia drew their weapons-
xxx
Despite the strength in numbers of the Ardainian Soldiers, they weren't a match for Rex and Nia as they crippled their opponents without killing them. Thanks to that training session, the brunet had a much better understanding of being a Driver. As well as refraining from going loose on non Drivers, as he blocked the bayonets, and simply knocked the troops on their backs. Some minor burns were likely, but nothing most of these guys could just walk off.
It didn't take long for the two to make short work of the Ardainian Soldiers. Seeing a window to escape, Nia cried "Now!"
Following the catgirl and her ivory Blade, Rex and Pyra bolted to the north to make a getaway as Rex cried "You got it-
The color blue is known for many things. It can be associated with serenity, wisdom, trust even. Blue can even be seen as a protective color. However, the color blue can show it's rare ugly head, and expose the worst of itself, such as the feeling of self-righteousness, superiority and suspicion. What few expect is the rare instances of life where the color blue can be far, far more intense than even the color red. And the absolute worst was the sudden wall of sapphire flames that halted their attempt of escape.
"Such annoyance…..I was hoping to retire quietly, but you two are quite the noisy bunch." Was the first thing Pyra heard as the quartet turned around. A Blade was approaching them, and Rex couldn't help but be enamored by her, tall, curvaceous form, and adorned in a sleek, form fitting dress that really brought out her best features.
Even better, that woman's body seemed to glow under the night sky, just like Pyra…..wait, Rex already had Pyra. He didn't need another fire Blade. Not to mention Pyra's form was already perfect.
"L-Lady Brighid!" One of the soldiers stuttered.
Raising an eyebrow, Rex asked aloud "Lady Brighid?"
"The Jewel of Mor Ardain." Dromarch explained, feeling a need to do so. "One of the strongest Blades in Alrest, even without her Driver.
Noticing the sapphire haired Blade approaching them, Rex was quick to realize her apparent lack of a Driver, as she wielded a pair of rapiers. Lowering his sword, the brown haired young man remarked as he put a hand on his hip "I kinda want to know where your Dri-"
"That does not concern you, boy! My Driver is busy with an assignment." The azurian dressed figure quickly interrupted.
"And Lady Brighid here can make short work of her opponents, even without her Driver! Lady Brighid, these two are terrorists, working for Torna!" A soldier bragged, as he brought the cerulean and lavender dressed woman up to speed.
"Torna?" She asked, her closed eyes hiding whatever thoughts may have been stirring.
A wall of fire behind them, an extremely strong Blade in front of them, Rex's options were beginning to run out. And there was only one option that the brunet hadn't tried. It probably wasn't going to work, but the boy thought it was worth a gamble. Planting the asymmetrical sword behind his back, Rex slowly raised his arms in the air, as he declared "Actually, we're Torna defectors, and we don't like what they're doing!"
"What?" Pyra, Nia and Brighid said in unison.
Figuring he could use himself as an example, the brunet monologued "I've watched them stab and maim people younger than me! I even watched them beat the tar out of young Drivers that took a stand against them. When I realized what kind of people they were, we were quick to leave. And we just want to get away from them."
Nia had gotten confused, but was quick to realize what Rex was doing. As much as she hated the idea, surrendering without a fight and making themselves appear somewhat innocent would hopefully make the Ardainian troops go easier on them.
Brighid was intrigued by what the young man was saying, but was suspicious. What increased her suspicion was the crimson Blade standing by the young man's side. Seeing the emerald Core of Pyra, the blue thi- the royal blue figure remarked "The Aegis stands by your side; we still have to detain you, but I wish to hear your story."
Nodding, Rex expressed "Very well." The young man held his arms out to be detained, and he suddenly felt the temperature around him. "Yess….?" Before he could ask a question, it didn't take long before the bruner realized the problem as the saltire on his chest glowed. And the collar of his shirt was loose enough to expose his piece of Pyra's Core.
Upon seeing the Core Crystal on Rex's chest, the commanding officer began to stutter "You-y-you're a Fle-Fl-Fles-"
"Captain Padraig, I will keep them distracted. Get the nets ready!" Brighid ordered in a calm demeanor. But despite the calm, almost soft tone in her voice, Brighid's body began to glow with a fire more intense than anything Pyra could summon, even if the latter was stronger. It was kind of horrifying to see the sapphire flames that seemed to radiate from this beautiful woman.
"Yes, ma'am!" The officer as he made a run for it.
Hoping to slow them down, Rex shot a stream of fire, remarking "Well, that was worth a try." Figuring it was the best option, he trapped the Ardainian Jewel and the commanding officer with a wall of fire of his own. "We need to do something about those flames!"
"I'm on it!" Nia responded as she quickly turned around to extinguish the flames with Dromarch.
"None of you are going anywhere!" Brighid warned defiantly as the blunette got rid of Rex's firewall, and hurled an azurian projectile. Panicking, the brunet drew his sword, and fired an attack of his own with the impact of the dual projectiles creating a mini explosion. Seeing an opportunity, Rex and Pyra charged at the sapphire Blade, even leaping in the air to deliver a hammer strike. "Nice try!" Came her dry response, as Brighid's rapiers transformed into a pair of whips, grabbed the two from the air, and slammed them into the ground. The Aegis and her Driver were fortunate that neither of them broke anything, but it didn't change the fact that the impact still hurt a lot.
Getting up, Rex was now aggravated at the technique used against him. Pyra felt a soreness, as she followed suit. It wasn't her first time fighting the Ardainian Jewel.
"That does it!" The brunet cried as he charged again, but stayed on the ground. A storm began to roll in as the navy Salvager and the royal blue jewel clashed swords. Droplets of rain hit Brighid, her naturally high body temperature causing the drops to turn into steam upon impact. Conjuring a fireball, the brunet threw the sphere at his opponent-
It was effortlessly tossed into the stormy night sky. Seeing the attack coming miles away, Brighid battled the attack as it dissipated into nothingness, thanks to the rain.
"Uhhhhh." Rex muttered, before delivering a swing that was blocked. Again, the brunet tried another swing, a jab, a thrust even with that crimson sword! But nothing he tried could land a hit on the royal blue lady, as she effortlessly parried, blocked and even balleted his strikes with the prowess of a ballerina.
"You're clumsy!" Brighid criticized, effortlessly evading his attacks. "You fight like a novice!" The blunette saw an opportunity to strike, as her right rapier cut his side, uttering a scream out of the boy as he felt a searing open his side. Her left rapier grabbed his ankle, as she suddenly threw the young man into a wall of stone to her left. But what threw Brighid off was not only hearing him scream from the impact, but she was quick to notice the Aegis screaming as the redheaded beauty fell to the ground, one hand cupping her side, and the other holding her nose.
On top of that, the royal blue dancer noticed Rex cupping his nose as he struggled to get up, blood trickling from his face.
"Rex, Pyra!" Nia cried, their safety taking priority as she stopped attempting to douse off their escape route. Dromarch was quick to conjure a barrier to give them some distance as his Lady started to patch Rex's broken nose. Trying to ignore the pain, Pyra slowly picked up her sword, her dark red eyes glowing with anger.
Now confused, Brighid took a defensive stance as she questioned "Aegis, why are you reacting to your Driver's injuries? And why are you….bleeding if you're a Flesh Eater-" But before she could finish, a spherical projectile hit an aqueduct the blue and lavender dressed noble just so happened to be standing right under. The fracture was enough to send water gushing right onto her, the downpour on top of the rain severely weakening the Ardainian Jewel as she panicked "W-water!" Her abilities weakened, Brighid fell to her knees, as a squad of troops happened to show up at the right time.
"Lady Brighid!" Captain Padraig cried with worry, as he readied what looked like a grenade launcher.
"Dromarch, now's our chance!" Nia cried.
"You got it, milady!" The tiger replied, as he quickly dropped the barrier, and unleashed a roar that threw off the soldiers.
Nia leapt in the air, a cyclone of water enveloping her before unleashing it on Brighid and the soldiers, as she and Dromarch cried "Dark Maelstrom!", sending the group flying. Thanks to Brighid's high body temperature, the following assault of water created an explosion of steam.
If Nia turned around, the catgirl would've noticed the sapphire haired woman embedded comedically into a wall. But Rex and Pyra needed healing, and they needed to get out of there.
"Lady Brighid!" Captain Padraig cried, as the ebony armored officer helped pry his cerulean superior off the stone wall. But the Tornan terrorists had already retreated before the steam cleared.
"Thank you, Captain." Came her lone reply, somehow still conscious after everything she had endured.
"The terrorists…..got away."
Nodding, Brighid reassured the commander "They won't get far. If they have a vehicle, acquire it. It'll slow them down."
"Lady Brighid!" Another soldier exclaimed, as he approached her. "The terrorists came in on a very inconspicuous Titan. It looks like it belonged to a Salvager, but those Tornans. You can never be too sure."
"A Titan?" Brighid asked with a confused tone, knowing the reports of their flagship running without one. "That doesn't sound like Torna. I wish to see it." Noticing the droplets of blood where Rex stood, she dipped her fiery blue fingers into the crimson fluid. Looking at it, another thought came to her: Blades could produce Ether, not blood. And if a Blade was injured, the injury would heal quickly. Flesh Eaters weren't all that different from Blades, and could still produce Ether.
And this boy was carrying a Core Crystal, but still bled like a normal human. Looking in the direction the potential terrorists ran, she asked herself "What are…..you?"
xxx
This might be the last chapter I write for a while. My work hasn't given me the benefit of being able to write consistently. And since I have no idea when the next Chapter will be, I'll give you the names of the next 3 Chapters.
Chapter 4: Neko-Pyra
Chapter 5: Build-a-Blade Workshop
Chapter 6: Blowing Off Steam