Chapter 3
Land of Freedom
After their discussion they retired for the night. Sam decided to go outside and walk around the Crufix for a bit. The crew members were already done for the night and we're in their quarters. The ship was calmly sailing and the breeze was a comfortable one. Sam took his sword off his hip and set it down while grabbing a seat. He gazes up at the night sky and stars lit up the night. A set of footsteps were approaching Sam. It was Beidou, Captain of the Crufix fleet. She handed him a cup of sake, a souvenir from Inazuma.
Beidou- Captain of the Crufix. The uncrowned Lord of the sea.
Beidou has long, waist-length dark brown hair. The top of her hair is tied up with an intricate gold hairpin with a pale blue tassel hanging from one end. Her fringe parts around her right eye, slightly covering her left. Her right eye is a deep ruby-colored hue melting into gold. Her left eye is covered by a red eyepatch.
She dons a black leotard underneath a bright red sleeveless qipao dress, with side slits going up to her hips and the chest area cut out. In stark contrast to the rest of her primarily red ensemble, a vivid purple Electro Vision is chained below her left breast. Beidou also wears an imposing fur-lined red shawl around her shoulders. Additionally, she wears a pair of fingerless, elbow-length black gloves.
"Yo, Sam! It's a nice night to have a good drink to accompany you." Beidou handed it to him.
"Thanks Beidou." Sam takes a sip.
"You know that was a pretty wild stunt we pulled off back there leaving Inazuma." Beidou being cheerful and sipped her drink.
"The situation was urgent and I needed a way out." Sam replied.
"You were the answer to my problem and for that I'm grateful. By the way, what was going on down there in Inazuma City?"
"Well, there was an attack by an unknown force." Sam taking another sip of his drink.
"Ha? That is pretty ballsy of them to head straight for the Shogun's castle." Beidou shock.
"It's even more surprising that the surprise attack actually succeeded." Sam replied.
"I've heard stories about the Shogun and how powerful she is. Even if you manage to defeat her army, she is still a force to be reckoned with." Beidou explained.
"This sort of attack must have taken time to plan out." Sam speaks from experience with his time with Desperados.
"What happened to the rest of the people in the area? They must have gotten caught in the fighting?"
"Yes and No." Slowly shaking his drink.
"Hmm?"
"Something happened with the Shogun and her people."
"That is really unusual."
"How so?"
"She is one of the few Archons that stayed with her people. The people wouldn't suddenly just turn on her after all this time."
"I bet that one guy who invaded Inazuma would know something." Sam thought to himself.
"Whatever happened to them, we will need to investigate that as well. In addition to what the relation was like before that day."
"So what happened to the Shogun?"
"Unfortunately I'm not at liberty to disclose that."
"I see, then the situation is pretty serious then." Beidou sipped her drink.
"If the Shogun is alive, then she must be trying to keep a low profile, so she can plan her next move or something like that. I wonder where she would have fled? I don't think she had any allies to count on. She does not strike me as someone who would back down from a fight."
"Hold on a minute." Beidou made eye contact with Sam.
He simply winked and continued with his drink.
"I see, so that's how it is. I won't pry any further into that matter."
"I appreciate your understanding."
"Just treat me to a great drink."
"Fair enough."
Beidou and Sam continued to chat for a bit longer and then once she finished her drink she returned to her quarters. Sam walked around the boat until he ran into Miko staring out at the night sky as well.
"Fancy seeing you here Lady Yae." sipping his drink.
"Ara, what a coincidence Sam. You can just call me Miko now. No need to stand on ceremony here."
"I've been meaning to ask you about how you ended up on that boat."
"Oh that? Well one moment I was meeting my contact in a restaurant and the next moment I found myself locked up in the boat you found me in. They even had a means to suppress my power."
"They must have been keeping taps on you. How else would they have been able to pull their sneak attack?"
"They must have been there before we even realized it. Which is why they were able to take Inazuma in the manner that they did."
"It also means we must exercise caution as we travel."
"We also don't know if they will come after her even after we left."
"They may send someone else to handle it."
"In their eyes, she is a weak Archon and not able to resist."
"I doubt she is that weak."
They continue to talk for a bit under the night sky.
"While I have you here, I wanted to thank you." Miko calmly stated.
"Hmm? Thank me for what?" Sam replied.
"For helping my friend out and of course, helping me out." Miko replied.
"Heh. Don't thank me just yet, we still have a long road ahead of us." Sam just gave a little smile at Miko. Miko grabs Sam's drinks and chugs most of it.
"Hmm not bad. Thanks for the drink." Miko's ears flickered a little bit. After Miko gave her thanks she went back inside.
"Hey! Get your own next time!" Drinking what was left.
Morning
The next morning was a bit cloudy with signs of a storm approaching. Miko and Sam met up with Shogun and began to discuss what they know so far about their enemy and what their motive could be. Sam noticed that Shogun was not very talkative and she appeared exhausted for some odd reason. The weather outside was also getting worse.
"We shall take a short recess from our discussion." Shogun commanded.
Sam and Miko were heading outside when they suddenly heard something fall to the ground. They turned around and saw the Shogun on her hands and knees, along with heavy breathing. The storm outside was becoming more violent. Beidou comes in with an announcement.
"We got a nasty storm headed our way and there is no way to avoid it." Informing the group. Beidou also notices Shogun on the ground.
"What's wrong with her?" Beidou asked.
"We don't know, she suddenly collapsed and started breathing heavily." Miko replied.
Miko went to help Shogun up, but when she touched Shogun, some of her elemental energy was drained from her hand that made contact. Sam also noticed that Shogun was still holding on to her wounds she received.
"Shogun, your wounds?" Sam asked.
"I don't know. I should have made a sufficient recovery. Feels like I'm being stabbed from the lower back again." Shogun explained while breathing heavily. They moved behind her and searched around the area she mentioned. There was a small light glowing from the stab wound she received from Sara.
"Captain, can you bring us a med kit?" Miko asked.
"I'll send my men to go fetch it." Beidou replied.
Beidou leaves the room. Miko helps undress Shogun enough to prepare to treat the wound on her back. Miko see's the energy flowing to one point. She recognized the mechanic behind Shoguns condition.
"Shogun, do you remember what kind of object you were impaled with?" Miko asked.
"I wasn't impaled, I was stab from behind by a blade. I kick my attacker off in my pursuit to escape." Shogun replied.
"I see. There is a part of that object stuck inside you and it seems to be draining not just your power but also your life force." Miko explained. Thunder and lightning could be heard outside and the waves are becoming more aggressive.
"Heh, how troublesome. We must remove the item at once." Shogun replied.
"The problem is when we come in contact with you, our power and life force will be drained." Miko stated.
"If we're gonna do this, it's best to do it now before it gets worse." Sam points out.
"We just have to extract the object right?"
"Yes. That's correct."
Beidou returns with the med kit. Sam wasted no time retrieving it and examined its content.
"Alright, this should do it. Shogun, I'll need you to lie on your stomach. This will feel a bit unpleasant." Sam moved behind Shogun.
"Have you done this before?" Miko asked.
"I've done this a few times." Sam replied.
"Here take this, it should help slow down the effects."
Sam placed one hand one Shogun's back to hold the wound open and immediately felt the effects. The ship was rocking, making it difficult to pull the object out. Meanwhile, something large was swimming underwater and as it was passing by. A light flashes and then several spheres of light, head to surfaces. Several strange creatures landed on the ship.(Sentinel machines with water covering them.) A crew member opens the door and informs the captain of the situation.
"Captain! We are under attack!"
"By what exactly?" Beidou asked.
"I.. I don't know. I've never seen anything like it." he replied.
"I'll handle this!" Beidou informs them as she heads outside.
Outside on deck
Beidou makes it outside and sees her ship is under attack by water sentinels with a water barrier around them.
"Men, prepare for battle!" Beidou shouts and charges in with her men.
The storm continues on.
Inside the cabin
The Shogun grunts from pain. Sam is doing what he can to extract the object.
"Hoo, it's settled in there pretty good."
They hear strange noises outside.
"What's going on out there?" Shogun asked while dealing with the pain.
"It appears we have some company." Miko replied.
"They picked a great time to drop in." Sam commented.
One sentinel machine makes its way to the door. Miko immediately zaps it out the doorway.
"What a pain." Miko complained.
Outside
A battle broke out on deck. The sentinels were very resilient against physical attacks. The crew switch tactics and focus on knocking them overboard but the machine would launch themselves out of the water and back onto the boat along with more machines.
"These things won't stay down." One crewman points out.
"They must have a weakness. Let's not forget to mention that water barrier is really dampening our attacks." Another crew member commented.
Beidou is dealing with a group of machines on her side. The machine that Miko zapped lands near her. The machine lay there for a moment before it staggered to get up. Beidou wastes no time and cuts it in half before it can do any more damage to her ship.
"Hmm? So elemental energy removes its water barrier?" Beidou thought to herself.
She sees more of the machines and begins to dash towards them. Once she was in range, she imbedded her large greatsword with electro. She leaps forward and lands a powerful and clean hit. Beidou destroys its defense with electro energy. They now have an effective way to deal with the machine.
"Everyone on me!" Beidou shouts.
They form up in front of her and Beidou explains her plan to them. The plan is for Beidou to disable the machines barriers and her crew follow up with finishing them off. Beidou leads while charging her greatsword. She hits the machine and disabled the barrier then moves on to the next one.
Inside the Cabin
"You should be more careful with who you hangout with. Allowing them to stab you from behind like this, is not my ideal of a good time." Sam jokes around while reaching for the object. Shogun grunts in pain.
"I'll bear that in mind. How long are you going to fool around with extracting the object from within. Are you sure this isn't your first time doing this?" Shogun with one eye open looking back at Sam.
"It's deeper there than expected and the boat rocking is making it difficult as well. The last thing we want to do is cause more damage while extracting it." Sam gave a small smile. The Shogun let's out an impatient sign. *Loud thunder outside SFX*
"I hate to interrupt but we still have some unwelcome guests onboard." Miko grows impatient and zaps a couple machines and destroys them.
Sam caught a glimpse of machines outside. They were similar to ones he fought back at ruins but this group has the protective water shield over their bodies. Sam decided to pick up the pace. Shogun's grunts from the pain and grab Sam's ankle. He let out a discomfort sound and was surprised at her monstrous grip.
"I suggested you pick things up." Shogun's eye glowing violet.
A few more machines were heading to the cabin. Miko zaps them all with a powerful barrage of lightning. The machine fall to the ground and Miko hunch over abit. Sam had just about pulled the object out but for some reason it was trying to dig itself back in. Sam was stuck in a tug of war with this object and his stamina was running low and his ankle was on the line. He uses enough of his strength to pull the object out and examine it. The upper part of a blade was about four inches long and it was glowing for a few seconds then it ceased to glow. A sentinel made its way up the stairs and flew past Miko. Sam noticed it and charged the dagger-like object with alittle electro and threw it at the sentinel like a kunai. The little blade disabled its water shield. The sentinel is still moving forward.*Zandatsu Mode SFX* Sam grabs his katana and presses the trigger causing it to shoot out. Sam catches it and does a horizontal slash and a downward vertical slash followed by more slashes cutting the sentinel up into pieces. Sam slash's his sword then spins sheaths his sword. He stands up and slowly walks to the door leading outside.
"Sam, shouldn't you rest a bit?" Miko asked.
"Don't worry, I'll be fine." Sam replied.
Sam continues to make his way outside. Shogun slowly turned her head in the direction he was heading. She motioned her arm across as if cutting through something. A small electro symbol appears above Sam. Shogun used some power to aid Sam in his fight.
Outside
Beidou and her crew are still dealing with the remaining sentinels. She removed the water barrier but they were still troublesome to deal with even without it. The storm was calming down but it was still raining outside. Beidou had taken care of a few of the sentinel but the ones her crew members were handling kept getting back up and her crew would soon be too tired to fight back.
Beidou suddenly heard her crew making loud cheers. She turns around sees Sam leaping from the where the captains quarters were and explosively spin down (Avalanche) to the ground cutting the sentinel clean in half. Just before Sam's attack hit, the Electro symbol struck the sentinel with lighting. A couple more begin to surround and close in on him. He attacks one then spins 360 degrees (Blender) cutting the other sentinels in half. Beidou gave a small grin.
"Heh! This guy is getting everyone hype up." Beidou grinned.
Shortly she said that, four more dropped around her and one sentinel hit her from behind. Immediately after being hit, Beidou unleashes an explosive attack of her own, cutting up and sending them flying overboard (Tidecaller Perfect Counter.) Another group of sentinels jump out of the water to where Beidou is. Beidou hop down to the lower level where Sam was fighting. She landed on the ground and turned towards the remaining sentinels. Beidou's back was against Sam's.
"Took you long enough to get out here!" Beidou shouts.
"You said you take care of this." Sam lightly chuckled.
"I did. Unfortunately they won't stay down despite how much damage they take. Oh, looks like you got yourself a guardian angel there." Beidou looking at the Electro symbol above Sam.
"Heh, looks that way."
"You sure you ok, you look a little exhausted?"
"I'll be fine after we have dealt with these guys."
Sam observes the remaining eight sentinel. Their water shield has been disabled, however this set seems more sturdy than the ones from Inazuma. He could feel the exhaustion slowly catching up to him.
"We're just gonna have to hit them in the right spot."
Sam and Beidou vs the Sentinels *A Soul Can't be Cut- MGR cue*
Sam charges towards one of the sentinels which crawled on four legs. It had an energy shield on its two front legs, capable of blocking elemental energy. The sentinel leaps towards Sam attempting to crush him. Sam took a step backwards then delivered a hard back kick to its power cell causing it to be stunned for a bit. He moves behind and unleashes a barrage of slashes with one arm. After that attack, Sam kicks the sentinel off the ground to cut its limbs and smacks it towards Beidou. She sees it coming her way and smacks in on the ground pinning it. Sam leaps forward and stabs its powercell then rips it out and crushes it. Two other sentinels from opposite sides open fire on Sam and dodge the shots fired at them and move in on the sentinels once they stop firing. Sam runs towards the sentinel with his sword glowing and hits it hard enough they both go airborne (Ring Gale). Beidou positioned behind the sentinel with her greatsword charged with electro energy smacks it hard enough to send it flying off the ship.
The other sentinel on the opposite side locks on to Beidou. Sam assumes his quick draw stance and fires off a few Ameno projectiles and they hit. Beidou reaches the sentinel and gives it two good slashs and smacks it towards Sam. Sam runs towards the flying sentinel and leaps towards it. He took a modified quick draw stance in the air and exploded towards the sentinel (Charging Avalanche). The sentinel crashes to the ground, Sam stabs it and pulls out its power cell and crushes it. They finished off the remaining sentinels and tossed them overboard. Sam and Beidou met in the middle of the ship. Beidou rested her greatsword tip on the ground and held it up with one hand and her other hand on her hip. Sam simply rested his sword on his shoulder.
"Got some nice moves out there don't fight like the samurai I've heard about in Inazuma." Beidou's weapon disappears
"It's nothing fancy." Sam spin sheaths his sword then rests one arm on it.
"Your help is greatly appreciated once again, however what the hell were those things back there?"
"I'm not entirely sure, but they are machines of some kind. I encountered some in Inazuma, however the ones here were a little different."
"Is it possible they follow us here from Inazuma?"
"Not likely. They didn't have that capability when I encountered them. This batch could be used specifically for the water operation."
"I'll need to be more cautious when traveling around these waters for now on."
The two talk for a little bit longer then Beidou and her crew begin cleaning up the area while Sam went to check up on Miko and Shogun. Afterwards he collapsed from exhaustion. Miko squatted next to Sam, pointing at him.
"Such a stubborn guy, fighting in that condition." Miko poked him and Shogun was watching from where she was.
Evening time
Miko decided to step out and get some fresh air. She brought one of her books to read to help kill some time. Miko found a comfortable spot that had a good view of the ship. After reading her book for a while she felt a cool windy breeze accompany her while she was reading.
"Hmm. What lovely little breeze to have while reading. I'll stay out a little longer and enjoy it." Miko with a cheerful smile.
The next couple of nights Miko would enjoy the cool breeze while reading. One night Miko was wondering about the cool breeze. She closes her book and walks around the ship. The breeze felt a little stronger towards the front of the ship. She heads in that direction and sees Sam training with his sword. He would swing his sword a few times and a wall of Ameno energy would appear. Sam would practice this in different directions.
"I see he is very committed to his training. Not that I think that is a bad thing." Miko thought to herself.
One night, it started to lightly rain and Miko decided not to read outside due to the rain. She had a disappointed look as she wanted to enjoy her cool breeze while reading but she will have to make do without it tonight. Miko looked around and noticed that Shogun was not inside.
"Where would she be? She usually doesn't leave the cabin for anything." Miko is slightly curious.
There was a slight flash from outside. Miko turns her head in the direction of the flash. She heads to the door and peeks out the window where the flash continues periodically.
"Ara, to think he would be out there training in this weather. He is indeed committed. I wonder if I could convince the Shogun to train with… no spar with him. That would be interesting to see. After all, we never know what we'll run into." Miko gave a mischievous smile and took out a small book and wrote some notes in it then closed it.
"Who am I kidding, she would probably kill him if she ever sparred with him. The Shogun and Ei are not the type to who holds back. If she had her full power, I doubt Sam would even think about sparring with her." Miko lightly chuckled while facing reality.
Miko heads back to her seat and continues with her book. The rain continues to lightly drizzle. Above the cabin, the Shogun stands outside in the rain and observes Sam from the distance practicing his Kenjitsu and some Iaido with no expression on her face.
"A spar with Minuano? Hmm." Shogun overheard Miko's absurd comment.
"Miko had a interesting proposal. What do you think Shogun?" Ei asked Shogun.
Shogun simply observes Sam.
Sam's area
Sam was practicing in the rain. He would practice his slash's and thrust along with his movement. Sam would also incorporate electro infused strikes for quicker and more deadly attacks. During the end of his session, Sam would sit on his knees while still holding his sword. He would take a step and slash as if to cut off an opponent's head and then a downward strike. Sam was finishing up his training when the rain slowly began to stop. Around the same time a figure was approaching him. It was Shogun.
"What could bring her out here on a night like this?" Sam wondered.
"Shogun? Good evening, what brings you out here on a night like this?" Sam ask.
"Good evening Minuano. I was curious about your sword and wanted to have a closer look at it. May I have a look at it?" Shogun asked in a little softer tone than she usually has with Sam.
Sam turns slightly away from Shogun, slash's his sword then sheaths it (chibuiri-wiping blood from sword) then hands it to Shogun.
"Thank you."
Shogun slightly turns away holding the sword close to the chest level and draws it like her own. She begin to examine it.
"Hmm. Excellent quality."
Shogun turns it to the side and lightly traced her finger across it.
"It's also quite beautiful." Now holding it with two hands.
She taps the blade and a small electro symbol with a ring around it appears at the bottom of the blade. Shogun slightly turns away from Sam, performs chiburi then sheaths his sword. Shogun is now holding his sword with two hands.
"Thank you for saving us." Shogun presented his sword to him.
Sam grabs it with two hands.
"Your welcome." Taking his sword back.
Shogun walks passed Sam. Sam looks at his sheath and sees an electro symbol with a ring around it. Shogun stops for a moment and turns to face Sam who is examining the symbol on his sword.
"Minuano, what is the meaning behind your name?" Shogun asked.
Sam stopped and looked at Shogun. The first person to ask about his code name since he got here.
"The Cool Brazilian Wind." Sam lightly smiles
"The Cool Brazilian Wind? How comforting." Shogun pondered, then walked off.
Falcon crest
After three and a half weeks at sea the Crufix reach the shores of the beach.
"We are here." Beidou informed everyone.
They all head outside to see land after being out at sea for three and a half weeks. Beidou had a raft prepared to take them to land along with some food and a tents for them to sleep in.
"Once you reach the shores, just head inland and you will reach Monstate, the City of Freedom."
"Thanks for the lift Beidou." Sam thanked Beidou.
"Don't mention it. I'm certain I'll be seeing you and group around. If you ever need a lift, you all are more than welcome to come aboard."
The group said their farewells and departed.
On a small boat heading to the beach
"Minuano, you possess superior skills and will serve as my personal guard. If you encounter trouble I will dispose of them." Shogun informed Sam.
"Well I wouldn't be much of a guard if I let you dispose of them. I can't let you have all the fun." Sam replied.
"Looks like someone is moving up." Miko teases Sam.
"We need to register you two as adventurers."
"Ha? You must be joking Sam." Miko in disbelief.
"Unless you got a better idea of making some mora, I'm all ears."
"I have plenty of mora on me so we won't need to worry too much about it." Miko replied.
Sam and Miko looked at Shogun. Shogun slightly tilted her head to the side as to why they were staring at her.
"I think you have another candidate to sign up, Sam." Miko smiles.
"Don't think you can sly your way of this one Miko."
"I think we should take him up on the idea. It is also a chance to sharpen my skills." Ei commented and looked at Sam.
"*Sign*. Looks like we're gonna be adventurers while we're at this. You win this round Sam."
"Now, now Miko, I'm sure you will find other ways of bringing some mora." Sam lightly smiles.
"Hooh, you sound as if you're familiar with my way of doing things." Miko sneered.
"I think you misunderstood the intention. The adventurer will simply be a cover for you." Sam explained.
"I see now, so that was your aim."
Sam, Shogun and Miko reached the shore around the evening time and set up camp there.
"So what shall we have for dinner? Any favorite dishes for anyone." Sam asked them.
"I'm fine with anything." Miko replied.
"A foolish question. Only food that provides nourishment is required." Shogun replied.
Sam had a blank and unsure expression on his face.
"Oh don't listen to the Shogun. Do we have anything sweet like a dango?" Ei asked with a cheerful smile.
"That comes after dinner. Are either of you familiar with cooking?" Sam looks at them.
"I can take care of anything else but not that. Don't ask me to cook anything. If I need something, someone would usually bring it for me." Ei replied. Sam had a not so surprised expression on his face.
"Well when you're an Archon why would you go through the trouble of cooking when someone else can bring food to you. Very few people with a high status would actually bother with it." Sam thought to himself.
"I'm a little familiar. Just don't expect anything fancy." Miko replied.
"Keeping it simple will suffice. We'll rotate on cooking." Sam replied.
After they had dinner Sam stayed by the fire, Miko went to sleep in the tent and Ei just waited for the morning to come. Inside the tent, Shogun was thinking about recent events. Sam has saved her twice now for reasons that are not quite clear to her. She also wonders if she has malfunctioned in some way. She has never been rescued and never been in the current situation before either.
Many feared and respected the Shogun but none were considered her friends or allies. She is the Guardian of Eternity after all. Ei once had more friends before Miko but they are all dead now. One vanished, another died in battle and the last died by Ei's hand after she turned against her. These loss came after the first great loss that Ei does not speak about. Now that they have lost Inazuma, what is she now?
After a few hours, Raiden Shogun leaves the tent and heads to the fire where Sam is. Sam notices he has company and is a bit surprised to see Shogun again.
"Shogun, we meet again. Is there something on your mind?"
"Minuano, you have save the Shogun twice now, why?" Shogun asked.
"It was part of my mission. If the Shogun falls, then Inazuma falls with it." Sam replied.
"An answer I expect from a citizen of Inazuma. I'm the Narukami Ogosho, the protector of Inazuma. The people fought and die for the one within. I'm just an assistant for her. If she wishes, I will assist her. Inazuma and her people are gone, I'm no longer the mighty Shogun I once was. Yet you, someone not of this world and not from Inazuma would risk your life for the Shogun again despite that. Enlighten me." Shogun explained.
Sam was a bit surprised that she was concerned about that, however she did bring up some good points.
"Well the people were your subjects so they would naturally fight for their Archon. I did it because I choose to."
"You choose to?"
"You and Ei are Raiden Shogun. I made my choice at the start of this journey, so I will defend it with my life."
Shogun is trying to make sense of his words and actions.
"After all, we'll be traveling together. We will be putting our lives in each other hands. It would be better that we all get along on this trip."
"Your my gaurd and comrade?"
"Yes."
Shogun turns around crosses her arms and closes her eye as well.
"As the one within stated before, I look forward to working with you."
Sam was a bit surprised to hear this from Shogun herself.
"Ha? What's that?" Sam places a hand behind his ear and leans into Shogun.
Shogun responded by elbowing Sam in the chest and walks off. Sam just lightly chuckles. Miko inside the tent taking notes.
Before sunrise came, a large dragon was falling near the group's location. The falling dragon looks like a shooting star from far away. The dragon crashed and landed in another area close to where Sam was. Sam decided to check it out after everyone was awake. Miko comes out of the tent yawing. Shogun was staring in the direction of the dragon that crashed. Sam looks at the direction that Shogun is looking and decides to go check out the area.
He reached the suspecting area of the crash. The area that used to have ruins is now totally destroyed by something large. Sam saw the initial impact and a trail that goes a little distance. While Sam was walking down through the area, he heard movement behind the ruins on both sides that he was walking through. Once he reached the end of the trail, there was a large tower constructed that was still incomplete that overshadowed the area. A group of Fauti with some bandits appeared from all sides and surrounded him.
Sam vs Fauti and Bandits
"Well, what do we have here?" One bandit asked him.
"Just taking a little nature walk out in the countryside." Sam replied.
"You expect us to believe that?" the bandit replied.
"You can believe what you want." Sam replied.
"It's dangerous to wander around aimlessly in the countryside. You never know what could be waiting for you out there."
"Looking at you guys, you look like you don't even know how to handle a sword." Sam lightly smiled.
"The hell you say!" One bandit getting irritated.
"I think this guy's sword would fetch a nice price, what do you think?" A bandit behind Sam commented.
"I could give you all a demonstration." Sam replied.
"He doesn't look like he has anything valuable on him other than his weird looking sword. Get rid of him and let's move on." Geochante Bracer commanded.
"Nah, I think I'll just keep it after we dispose of him." Bandit looking at Sam's sword.
"Oh you mean this?" Sam aims his sword at the bandit.
He pressed the trigger and shoots his katana at the bandit infront of him. The hilt hits him in the chin sending him airborne. Everyone in the area is in shock and confused as to what just happened. Sam just looked up and then at the bandit next to him.
"Whoops." Sam looked at the shocked bandit.
The bandit regains his composure then goes to attack Sam but he dodge the attack and hits him with his sheath. Sam steps on the bandit's knee and shoulder leaps to his sword. He grabs his sword and cuts the airborne bandit in half and lands in front of the other bandit. The other bandits prepare to charge at Sam. While still facing away from the bandit, Sam attacks with blinding speed cutting the bandit in half from the waist. Sam sheaths his sword and the bandit falls in half. The other bandits and Fauti circle around Sam. Cryogunner opens fire and sprays ice cold mist everywhere. Sam put some distance between him and Ice Fauti. Geochante Bracer shoots rocks at Sam hoping to catch him off guard.
A stocky bandit with a large mallet aim to hit Sam from behind
Sam simply slices the bandit with a large mallet, who was aimed to crush his head. The other bandits drew their weapons and charged in on Sam. Sam took a step backwards to dodge one attack, steps forward and stabs the bandit in the chest. The bandit falls down and doesn't move again. Another bandit aimed to catch Sam off guard but Sam parried the attack and cut him from the shoulder to his waist and then fell. Another band went for an attack but Sam cut the bandits weapon, then cuts his head off. Cryogunner jumps in the air with the assist of his ice pack on his back and aims to land near Sam however Sam charges forward and intercepts him. (Ring Gale) Cryogunner hits the ground hard.
"Ha, wide open!" Sam shouts.
Geochante Bracer continues to fire rocks at Sam. He dodges the rocks and leaps towards the Geo Fauti. Geochante Bracerwarps outta the way and repositioning himself to fire another attack. Sam fire some Ameno energy at Geochante Bracer but it's not very effective. The Geo Faitu covers himself in Geo energy to make him more resilient and then fires off more shards of rocks at Sam. Sam runs around and deflects the shots. He changes his directions and charges towards Geo Fauti who is still shooting at him. Sam goes for a thrust and again Geochante Bracerwarps out the way. Geochante Bracerappears several feet behind Sam prepares to fire his next attack. This time Sam turns around immediately and fires off a completely different projectile that shreds Geochante Bracer enchanted armor and knocks him off his feet.(Storm Front) He slowly gets back up to feet. Sam slams his sword into his sheath and dash towards the Fauti delivering multiple slashes (Charging Slash).
Mondstadt Field
Sam had just taken out all the Fautis and bandits in the area. Sam slash the blood off his sword and sheaths it. High above on top of the tower a Fauti Sniper zooms in on Sam. He takes a shot at him but Sam deflects the shot. He took a couple more shots and the results were the same. Sam was preparing to engage the sniper when suddenly someone ran past him.*Gerudo Valley cue-Ocarina of time* The sniper begins to target the other person but she dodges the bullets with ease and runs up the tower. The sniper leaps backwards to get a clear shot of his target but she is nowhere in sight. He turns around and notices she is right behind him. The mysterious woman wasted no time and struck the sniper down to the ground with her ice sword. The mysterious woman lands on the ground and slowly walks towards Sam and stops a few feet in front of Sam with her hand on her hip.
Eula Lawerance-Captain of the Favonius Knights. A traitor to her clan and surrounded by contradictions.
Eula is an elegant woman with a pale complexion and multicolored heterochromatic eyes that fade from dark purple to pale yellow. She has choppy, unevenly cut light blue hair. Above her bangs, Eula wears a black headband and a four-pointed silver, white, and blue hairpin to her left. She wears a blue cape on her right shoulder, with her Cryo Vision pinned to it.
Eula's outfit, Wavecrest Waltz, is described as consummate elegance that shines through her neat and smart knight's uniform. It consists of a black leotard which has a silver symbol of her clan at the sides of the bottom, and the back cut out. The upper body and sleeves are white and have the sides of the shoulders cut out, and is secured below her breasts with a black belt.
Additionally she wears a blue tie, a pair of black gloves with blue palms, and blue stockings with thigh-high boots accented with silver with an additional strap, silver heels with spurs, and blue soles.
"Sheesh, you're lucky I was in the area. Do you have any idea how long I've been tracking these guys? It's just unfortunate that you struck my targets first. Mark my word, Vengeance will be mine." Eula points at Sam.
"Vengeance?" Sam had a confused look on his face.
"That's right. I've been tracking these Fauti and bandits. There was also that large thing that fell in this area. Still it's good that you're not injured."
"Well thanks for your concern."
"Concern? Why would I be concerned about a suspicious enemy?"
"Suspicious enemy?"
"That's right! I get here and see you in the middle of a battle in this totally destroyed area and taking out all these Fauti and bandits. Just who are you and what are you doing all the way out here?"
"So the Fauti are operating here as well." Sam thought to himself.
Sam was getting ready to respond when his name was being called from behind.
"Minuano! What are you doing?" Shogun appears and is a bit impatient from him taking too long.
"Minuano? That doesn't sound like a local name?" Eula points out.
"I thought you were checking out what crashed in the area here?" Miko asked.
"Great, more suspicious enemies." Eula frowned.
"Suspicious enemies? Sam, who is this strange woman?" Miko asked.
"Sam? Strange? That's rude to call someone you just met, even by normal standards. Yet another transgression to avenge." Eula crosses her arms and glares at Miko.
"Ara, I'm sorry but I still don't even know your name. Would you mind introducing yourself?" Miko smiled with her eyes closed.
"Hmph. I'm Eula Lawerance, Captain of the Favonius Knights, of the 4th Company." Eula replied.
"I'm Yae Miko. This is Raiden Shogun. You have already met Sam." Miko introduced herself and Shogun.
"Miko, Shogun and Sam. Looking at how your dress, I can tell you're not from around here. What business do you have in Mondstadt?" Eula asked them.
"We are adventurers looking for some work in Mondstadt." Sam replied.
"Adventurers. Well this is not the best time to be this far out." Eula explained
"Why is that?" Shogun asked.
"A report came in a few days ago, it stated there was a dragon seen flying around the outer area."
"A dragon huh." Sam rubbed his chin.
"Eula, would you mind taking us to Mondstadt? We are new to this area and not very familiar with it." Miko asked.
"I can take you there. If you decide to leave the city, be sure not to venture too far out in case the dragon attacks. " Eula replied.
"We will remember your words." Miko smiles.
"Looks like they haven't heard of the Lawerance clan which I'm certain many people would have heard about already." Eula thought to herself.
They head to Mondstadt with Eula escorting them. Along the way Sam and Miko had a chat.
"Miko, what else besides dragons do you have around here?"
"Ara, you come to me with another interesting question. You don't disappoint Sam. You will find many sorts of creatures that can be found along with dragons. Back home we had many yokai like tengus, onis and kitsune."
"I've heard and read stories about these mythical creatures, but I've never seen them before."
"Hoo. Never met one before. You say that, yet you have one right in front of you."
"Eh?"
"Oh my, you didn't know?" Miko teases.
"I wasn't quite sure the night we talked at the Sacred Sakura tree and the boat. So which one are you then?"
"I'm a sky kitsune."
"Hooh. A kitsune, that would explain some things. How many tails do you have?"
"Heh, wouldn't you like to know. A lady has to have some secrets." Miko sneered.
"Fair enough."
"Glad you understand." Miko smiles.
Miko and Sam continue with their talk and Shogun would occasionally glance over in their direction. Sam approaches Shogun along with Miko.
"By the way, I came across some Fauti operative." Sam informed Miko and Shogun."
"So they are out here as well." Shogun processing the information."
"We'll need to capture one and find out what their objective is while here in Mondstadt."
"I can't imagine they would do anything openly. They may utilize others to achieve their goals." Miko points out.
"They could also be operating from places far away from the city as well." Sam added.
"Either way, we must be vigilant. For we don't know who else could be aiding them." Shogun points out.
Eula glanced at Sam and his party occasionally. They arrived late in the afternoon. The city was on an island surrounded by water and only one way to enter is through the front entrance.
Inside the city
They walked through the gate and the guards gave their salute to Eula. Once they passed through the gate and stopped just outside of the marketplace. Sam registered Shogun and Miko before continuing on. Eula gave them a quick guide of where things were located.
"Here you have the Adventure guild and next to it we have a restaurant called Hunter Cafe. Turn right at the market place and it will lead you to the bar. Head further up is the HQ of the Favonius Knights and the church." Eula explained.
"Hmm. So this is Mondstadt, the city of freedom." Miko looked around the place.
"The atmosphere here is certainly lively." Shogun observed.
While Miko and Shogun were taken in the view he noticed the people were avoiding Eula. They even gave her a look that was rather unwelcoming.
"Enjoy your stay. I shall return to patrolling outside the city."
"Until we meet again." Sam bid farewell and tipped his hat.
"Hmph. You stay outta trouble until I extract my Vengeance upon you." Eula.
Sam and the others still don't know what to make of Eula and her Vengeance. Eula walked only a few steps until the winds began to pick up and the sky darken a bit. A large dragon was approaching the city. The bells went off, indicating that the city is under attack.
*Large Bell SFX*
"It's StormTerror! Everyone take shelter!" One of the guards shouts.
The area was getting darker all of sudden. A large dragon was seen flying around the city. It let out a massive roar. Sam looked up at the massive dragon.
"Yep. Definitely not in Kansas no more."
"I take it this is your first time seeing one, a living dragon." Miko walked up to Sam's side.
"Yes, they don't compare to when you see them live." Sam replied.
"This must be one of the Ameno Archon's familiar. Why is it attacking the city?" Shogun walked up to Sam while looking to the sky.
"A familiar." Sam looks up at the dragon and then at Miko.
"I would have slain this dragon for its transgressions if I was in better condition." Shogun explained.
"I wonder if I'll face off with one of these creatures ." Sam thought to himself.
"I've already slain two beasts much bigger than this one." Shogun points out. Sam rubs his chin and then looks up at the dragon.
"I would like to hear about that story at a later time." Sam showed an interest. Shogun was a bit surprised.
"Certainly."
The dragon let out another massive roar and this time several tornadoes formed around Mondstadt. Sam looks around and admires the dragon's display of power. He looked around at the tornados.
"I'll take this dance." Sam grinned.
Miko and Shogun looked at Sam.
"Minuano, you can't be serious?" Shogun looked at Sam.
The dragon was circling around spotted Sam, Shogun and Miko. A tornado formed near Sam and pulled him up high into the sky. Miko moves herself and Shogun to the rooftop of the Favonius Knights HQ.
"Sam!"
"Minuano!"
While looking in the same direction, Shogun notices a small group of monsters attempting to enter the gate. Shogun's eyes began to light up.
Sam vs StormTerror
High above Mondstadt
Sam was pulled up several thousand feet into the air, along with some debris that the tornado picked up.
"Heh, I never thought I would go skydiving. I wonder if I can convince Miko and Shogun to try it at least once."
Sam saw an object just staying afloat. He shoots himself towards it and retrieves it. It was a glider that would help slow his descent. The dragon was closing in on Sam. He notice it and moved out the way in time to avoid being hit. The dragon went to make another pass and Sam was able to dodge it again and shoots a Ameno energy from his sword, if was somewhat effective.
"Tsk. Without any way of maneuvering around, I'm going to slowly get picked off." Sam thought to himself.
Suddenly a massive gust of wind was keeping Sam in the air.
"Use this to help drive off the dragon." Mysterious voice contacting Sam.
"Who is this?"
"Just concentrate on using the wind energy."
The dragon was making another pass to Sam. This time Sam was able to fire off wind energy like a machine gun. Sam chased after the dragon and continued firing. He notices two purple like thorns on the dragon's back.
"Wonder what happens if I shoot at the dark thorn?" Sam wondered.
Sam aimed at it and fired. After several shots he managed to blow off a piece of the dark thorn. The dragon lets out a scream, flies up higher into the clouds and disappears. After it took off, Sam glides back down to Mondstadt and landed in front of a large statue near the church. Once Sam landed he noticed that the area was still dark despite StormTerror not being present in the area.
"I see you have the power to fight off a dragon. Most impressive." Shogun complements Sam.
"Where is the dragon now?" Miko asked Sam.
"It took off to the sky after I shot some purple thorn on its back." Sam replied.
"Purple thorn?" Shogun asked.
Eula shows up at the statue.
"You don't think twice about pulling your sword out do you." Eula crossing her arms.
"To hesitate in battle means certain death." Sam replied.
"Even if it's a dragon?"
"Even a dragon."
"To think you were such a fearless arch-nemesis. I won't forget this transgression. Still, it's good to see you are safe." Eula uncrossed her arms and placed a hand on her hip.
"Wait, did you say arch-nemesis?"
"Hmph."
*Low clapping SFX*
"To think someone would stand up to StormTerror and be the talk of the town. Are you an ally or a new storm." Man with an eye patch approaching the party.
"I am the storm that is a approaching." Sam lightly chuckled.
"Hooh, is that so? You think your a storm now?" Shogun approaches Sam with her arms crossed after hearing Sam's joke. Sam just lightly smiled.
"Let's not forget the ones preventing the monsters from entering the gate on the other side. That would be troublesome if they have gotten through." Man with an eye patch continued.
"Didn't have much of a choice at that time." Sam replied.
"On behalf of the Favonius Knights I thank you all for your efforts just now."
"Just who might you be?" Sam asked.
" This Kaeya. Captain of the calvary company." Eula introduced him.
"Pleasure to meet you all." Kaeya giving head nod.
"This is Miko and Shogun. I am Sam. We are adventurers looking for some work in Mondstadt." Sam introduced everyone.
"Adventurers, I see. Welcome to Mondstadt. Unfortunately it is not the best time due to StormTerror's presence."
"So Kaeya, what brings you here?" Miko asked.
"Your efforts in defending the city were witnessed by no small amount of people. The acting grandmaster sends her thanks and extends an invitation to meet you all."
Kaeya is a tall young man with a lean build and a tanned complexion. His visible eye is periwinkle with long eyelashes and the same diamond-shaped pupil as Dainsleif. He has navy-blue hair with streaks of lighter blue, accompanied by a long lock of hair that rests over his left shoulder, cascading down to his waist. His bangs covers the right side of his face and almost hides a plain black eyepatch, which he claims to have inherited from his grandfather, a pirate.
He wears a white-collared, cleavage-revealing blouse adorned by a cape with a fur collar. He wears dark, tight-fitted trousers and knee-length boots. He also wears a loose brown belt from which his Vision hangs, as well as a rope which may be meant for a scabbard to carry his sword.
Favonius Headquarter, Grandmaster Office
Acting Grand Master Jean and the Librarian Lisa were waiting in the office to meet the adventurers. Jean was currently sitting on the desk with her arms crossed and periodically looking at the clock. Lisa was reading a book while patiently waiting. Jean decides to head outside.
"Jean, we all agreed to meet here."
"Reports are coming in about StormTerror."
"Relax Jean. I'll lend a hand when the time comes." Lisa reassures Jean.
Kaeya and Eula enter the room along with Sam and the others.
"I've brought our guest Jean."
"Thank you Kaeya. Welcome to Mondstadt. I'm Jean, the acting Grandmaster. On behalf of Mondstadt, we thank you for your help. This is Lisa, our local Librarian."
Jean Gunnhildr- Acting Grandmaster. Dedicated to her work and protecting Mondstadt
Jean has a tall, athletic build, and fair skin. She has grey-blue eyes and medium-length gold-blonde hair tied back into a ponytail with a black bow. On her ears, she wears a pair of gold cross earrings.
She wears a white, blue, black, and red strapless shirt with a long blue tailcoat attached to it, a pair of separate white sleeves, a short blue and gold cloak attached to a white separate collar. Her white tights are embroidered with gold diamond-dot pattern, and pair of white high-heeled knee-high boots. She also wears a pair of blue gauntlets.
"Oh, have they come to help out? Quite the crowd we have here. Especially the darling here." Lisa giving a welcoming smile.
Lisa-Librarian of the Knights of Favonius. One who seeks knowledge
Lisa has fair skin, green eyes, and wavy, light honey-brown hair, which is tied in a loose side ponytail.
She wears a purple and white dress with open slits at the sides and gold embroidery, along with black gloves with pale purple trim, a large witch's hat, black lace stockings, and black high heels, and an earring is visible on one ear. She wears a gold necklace with her Vision clasped to the collar of her dress.
Reflecting her favorite flower, a motif of roses is present throughout her outfit. There is a pale purple rose pinned to her hat, and a similar one on the tie of her ponytail. Lisa's outfit, Purple Rose, is described to be a slim-fit dress adorned with roses that displays a young lady's elegance.
"Travelers from afar, what brings you here to Mondstadt?" Jean asked them.
End of Chapter 3
Ch 4 Preview
Plane of Euthymia
Sam was looking around the area and saw several Tori gates surrounding the area. The ground was like sand with a large electro symbol on it. The place has a sad and lonely feel to it. Ei appeared behind Sam while still in her meditating state. Ei notice she has company stand up. The area around them slowly lightens up a bit.
"Sam?"
"Ei?"
"What are you doing here?" Both
"I meditate here. How did you get here?"
"I was talking with Shogun and then the next moment I'm here."
"Hmm why would she bring you here?" Ei wondered.
Ei looks behind Sam and sees Shogun walking towards them. Ei thinks back on a comment Miko made back on the boat.
"She couldn't be.." Ei wondered and lightly giggled after seeing Shogun in the distance.
"Sam, I asked that you stay strong for what's about to come your way. Depending on how things go, I might ask the same thing from you later on." Ei smiles and jumps out of the area and on top of a Torii gate.
"Huh?" Sam is not sure what's going on.
Shogun was a little distance from Sam.
"Prepare yourself." Shogun commanded.
The next moment she extended her arms as if to welcome an attack. It got a little dark in the area and lightning flashed. A purple light comes from the top of her bossome, then the hilt of a sword slowly comes out. Sam looked with interest and amusement then started laughing and clapping. Shogun drew a sword from her chest.
"Well that tops Armstrong. If this were a talent show you would definitely take first place." Sam smiled.
" I wonder what other tricks she can do." Sam wondered.
Sam drew his sword and it began to crackling.
"Ok. Let's dance." Sam gave a small grin.
A very small grin appeared on Shogun's face.
End Preview Chapter 4