Danyal Herder
Dark God Makou
Alexandria Awaits
The mighty vessel of Neo-Tantalus glided through the sky effortlessly, its massive wings pushing the light gusts of wind behind it and propelling it further. Through the early afternoon sky one on the ship could just begin to make out the gigantic spires of Alexandria Castle. The sun was almost completely covered by clouds, making its rays of light softened.
John, at the helm of the ship, turned to the left of the castle and into an open meadow several miles away from the kingdom. He quickly glanced at a map to make sure no one inhabited the area, and upon finding the necessary information, he grabbed his rusty horn.
"Stop the engines! We're landing here!"
He sat back down and piloted the craft straight down. He heard the gears in the engine room grind to a halt, and the ship hovered closer and closer to the ground. After a few minutes, the ship was on the ground and John hopped out of his seat. He stepped out and began shouting frantically.
"Come on, everyone! We don't have much time!"
The doors to the ship opened and the entire crew of Neo-Tantalus peered out woefully, knowing fully what was coming. They lined up, rank and file, just as their boss ordered. John saw his ten actors and fifteen musicians file perfectly in just under ten seconds. He smiled through his gruff bread, pleased with the results.
"Good job, boys an' girls. As you all know, our most important performance ever is going to be the day after tomorrow. We're going to be performing the most popular play ever, "I Want to be Your Canary" to King Zidane and Queen Garnet of Alexandria." He said, as though he had memorized a speech.
"What's the occasion?" A violinist asked.
"'Tis their fiftieth anniversary, you bloody idiot! Not only will they be there, but so will Prince Zircon and Princess Amethyst. On top of that, Zidane's grandchild Cadrin will be in attendance, as well as Holy Knights Steiner and Beatrix."
"Anyone else?" Frederick asked.
John shrugged. "I imagine Regent Eiko, her son Zidaro and King Puck of Burmecia will be there to pay their respects to Zidane and Garnet. Who knows what kind of big names will be there. All you guys have to know is that you can't screw up or I'll eat the lot of you for breakfast - Ladies included!" John roared.
About half of the crew was trembling by now.
John continued. "Anyway, seeing that the performance is the day after tomorrow, we've got about two solid days to prepare for this play. I know you're still tired from the Lindblum show from two nights ago, but we just can't mess around this time. Our first two shows were good, but this one's gotta be great. Any questions?"
Nikolai raised his hand. "What'd the people of Lindblum have to say about our show?"
"They liked it, though I suspect they were being just a bit too polite. Any other questions?"
Avon nodded. "Yea, when are we gettin' our cut of job we did for Eiko?"
John frowned. "Ya little maggot! You just had to remind me about that, didn't you? All right, all right. The eleven of you, all of ya come up here and take 500 Gil from me. You do deserve it, I s'pose."
After the group took their cut of the job, John slapped his hands together. "Okay, then! Actors, I want you all to get with a partner and rehearse your lines with each other. Musicians, stay off to the corner and practice. I don't want me actors to have any disturbances."
The others nodded obediently and headed to their designated areas. Amadeus hurriedly set up a stage on the grass for his orchestra to rehearse on. Syovar and Yrena, having the lead roles, paired up and worked on their lines. Avon and Ophelia did the same, as did Nikolai and Kelvin, Marina and Simon, Pika and Frederick. The pairs worked for several hours on their material before growing tired of their work.
During this time John was pacing around the entire settlement, half looking through his own lines and half making sure everyone else stuck to theirs. When he saw the sun begin to set, he blew a whistle he had bought in Lindblum.
"All right, everyone! Half an hour break!"
He instantly heard several gasps of relief as the exhausted actors laid down on the grass to rest. They had been hard at work for several hours without any break, and the lines were just starting to sink into the actors. Each was feeling their own drive to succeed, for this would truly be the play that would make or break them. If they could pull off a decent performance at the biggest event of the decade, then it would be assured that they could make a career out of this.
As the minutes passed, Avon began to grow restless. He had been lying down on the grass for a couple of minutes, and his energy was already brimming and he felt the urge to bounce around. He hopped to his feet and walked back to the airship, where he saw everyone else.
"Hey, boss, I'm gonna go take a walk around that forest back there. That alright?"
"Yea, just be back when we start workin' again, or I'll tie ya up and let yer sister give ya a beatin!"
Avon nodded impatiently. "Yeah, yeah, yeah. Anyone want to come with me?"
Most of the actors remained seated. Frederick stood up, however, dusted his cape off and walked to his fellow troubadour.
"I'll go with you, Avon."
"Awesome! Anyone else?"
Kelvin shrugged and stood up as well. "Why not? It's better than sitting on my ass and doing nothing."
The three walked through the thin forest, making idle chit-chat. They didn't see much in the forest, however, and soon grew bored.
"So, what do you guys think of Neo-Tantalus?" Frederick asked as they hopped over a stream.
Kelvin shrugged. "Like I said before, it beats sitting around and doing nothing, you know?"
"Yeah, and we get to go all over the world! I don't know about you guys, but I think it's pretty damn cool that we're paid to fly around the world." Avon said excitedly.
Kelvin and Frederick nodded. "So, Fred, what's Alexandria like? Is it as cool as everyone says it is?" The salamander asked.
The red mage nodded. "Yeah, it's pretty cool. I've been to all the major kingdoms now, and I think Alexandria's the coolest one. Plus, I know most of the royal family and subjects, so they're nice to me."
"How well do you know Zidane and Garnet?" Avon asked as he climbed a tree absentmindedly.
"Not too well," Frederick admitted. "But I was really good friends with their grandson Cadrin. We played around a lot around the castle, and we always had Steiner watching out for us."
Kelvin grinned. "I can just picture that guy with his eyes all bugged out while you swing across a chandelier or something crazy like that."
Right then the three heard a rustle behind some trees. Fearing a monster or something else that would cause them harm, the three instantly unsheathed their weapons. Avon, the bravest of the group, calmly stepped forward.
"Show yourself, or I'll bust y'open with my throwin' stars!" He shouted in the best tough-guy voice he could muster.
From behind a tree stepped a salamander who was slightly taller than Kelvin, and had incredible amounts of hair hanging from his face in massive deadlocks. The hair was red, save for a few white streaks in it. The salamander was wearing loose, wandering clothes, and his bangs totally covered his eyes.
The salamander wearily lifted his head and saw the three staring at him, shocked at the spectacle. He was taken aback and grunted.
"What's the matter with you three?" He asked coolly.
Frederick shook his head. "I'm sorry, sir, but you look kind of familiar. Do I know you from somewhere?"
"Yeah, you know me. I was at Alexandria Castle some 25 years ago, celebrating Zidane and Garnet's 25th anniversary."
"Then you're..." Kelvin started, short of breath.
"Amarant Coral! I don't believe this!" Avon cried out, laughing and crying to his heart's content. He danced around anything he came in contact with, until Amarant stood in front of him, still emotionless.
"Yeah, Amarant's my name. What's it to you?"
Avon stopped. "You're just about the greatest fighter that ever lived, that's what! And I've met you! Whee!!!" Avon resumed his jig. Amarant shook his head and turned to the slightly calmer Frederick and Kelvin.
"You boys seem to not have lost your minds. Aren't the three of you in that Neo-Tantalus thing?" Amarant asked coldly, as if he didn't care about the answer.
Frederick still nodded. "Yeah, we're getting ready for our performance the day after tomorrow."
"We're rehearsing in an open meadow close to here. Are you on your way to Alexandria?" Kelvin asked.
Amarant nodded. "Yeah, but I'm out of food, and it'll be another six hours before I'm there. Do you guys have any food?"
"Let's get back to the ship," Avon motioned. "There's plenty of food there,"
Amarant shrugged. "Works for me."
The four walked back to the campsite, with Frederick leading the way. Avon was still in his dreamworld, and fantasizing about all the incredible things that would be happening in his life.
"So," Kelvin turned to Amarant. "I haven't met many of my own kind."
Amarant gave a slight nod. "Neither have I. But I heard about a bunch of colonies spreading around the world."
"Why don't you join one of them and settle down?" Kelvin grinned, knowing full well what the answer would be.
"You kidding? I couldn't settle down, even if I wanted to. I'm going to be traveling until the day I die. It's just not...me to have little kids running around that I have to take care of."
Kelvin nodded. "Yeah, no responsibility when you're alone."
Amarant stayed silent, unsure how he should respond to that.
By this time Frederick had navigated the group out of the forest, and the giant airship could be seen could a couple of hundred yards away. Much to their chagrin, they saw the rest of the troupe rehearsing.
"Oh, crap! We're late!" Avon hollered. He, Frederick and Kelvin ran to the ship as fast as they could, while Amarant kept his slow pace intact.
"Well, well, well. Looks like we gotta couple of late boys." John grinned as he saw the breathless three actors run up and subsequently start puffing for air. "I oughta have you flogged right now, but I'll give you one chance to explain why you're late."
"That's the reason." Frederick said, pointing at a body approaching them.
"Who's that?" John asked.
"Amarant." Avon smiled.
"Amarant? The Amarant?" John looked shocked. He was even more shocked when he saw three heads bob up and down.
"Welcome, Amarant!" John said when Amarant arrived on the scene a few moments later. John shook Amarant's lifeless hand and smiled. "Be there anything I can get you?"
The salamander shrugged. "Some food would be nice. I haven't eaten for a couple of days."
"Comin' right up! Simon!" John hollered. The obese boy hobbled up to them as soon as he heard his name called. "Yes, sir?" He asked.
"Get stuff of your best grub for this here Amarant."
Simon blinked as though he was seeing things. "Are you Amarant, the friend of Zidane who saved the world?"
Amarant sighed, knowing what was coming. "Yeah, I know Zidane." He said quietly.
"Alright, I'll be right back." Simon waddled back to rest of the actors. "Hey, guys!" He yelled. "The Amarant's here!"
About two seconds passed before virtually member of Neo-Tantalus was crowded around the salamander, who remained calm. He had been through this hundreds of times. He sat through the obvious barrage of questions.
"Are you as mean as everyone says?"
"Are you getting old? Your hair's kind of white."
"What do you think of Zidane and Garnet being together 50 years?"
John stood by for a few seconds, but finally lost his temper. "All right, all right, you filthy buggers! Back to work, the lot of you! This here boy and I are going to have a man-to-man talk!"
The twelve actors grumbled as John and Amarant stepped inside the ship. John locked the door behind them and soon the two were alone.
"Sorry about that. Me boys and girls get crazy sometimes."
Amarant nodded. "Yeah, don't worry about it. I've gone through it before."
John nodded as well. "So, I take it you're here for the anniversary? Come this way." He beckoned for Amarant to follow him into a small room behind the cockpit, a storage room.
"Yeah. I figured this might be the last time I see Steiner and Beatrix. They don't have much longer, you know."
John nodded. "They're in their eighties now, right?"
Amarant shrugged. "Something like that."
"Here." John tossed Amarant a loaf of bread which the salamander dug eagerly into. John stared at him.
"Uh, I was going to get some peanut butter..."
Amarant shook his head. "Nah, this is fine with me."
"All right. By the way, how long do you salamanders live?"
The salamander cocked, curious at the question.
"It's just that I saw Steiner a couple of days ago in Lindblum, and it looked like he was hardly able to move. You're just as old as he is, but you look like you're fit enough to walk around the world."
"Salamanders live to be around 140, or if they're lucky 150. I'm only 78, so that means I'm only middle-aged by your standards. I've got a good 60 or 70 years left to do what I want."
John shook his head. "You guys got it easy."
"Guess so. You guys just sit around all day and say your lines for a play, then? Day after day?"
John nodded. "Basically, yeah. We tour all over the world, and perform for people. It's really a wonderful thing, you know? Making all those people happy. Really rewarding."
Amarant shrugged. "I just can't get into that sort of thing. But anyway, thanks for the bread. I'll just be on my way now."
"Aw, ya gotta leave so soon?" John asked.
Amarant nodded. "I want to get to the castle early, to make sure I don't miss anything. I have a feeling that something's going to go down there. Thanks again."
"No problem." John unlocked the front door and Amarant stepped out. He was mobbed again, but he waded his way through the people and continued along a dirty, worn path with his sack of belongings slung over his shoulder. He remained silent, and continued to say nothing until he disappeared from view over the horizon. The others remained in awe.
"I can't believe how cool that guy is." Syovar said.
"And he's a lot cuter in person." Pika giggled.
John nodded. "Nice fella. Bit quiet, but not a mean guy." He said to himself.
"So, boss, is he going to be at the play too?" Ophelia asked as she stared at her brother, who was swatting at some flies.
"I personally invited him." John grinned. "Just one person ya gotta bust yer asses to please. So get back to work, the lot of ya!"
Rehearsals continued all through that day, and all of the next day. By four o'clock of the day of the performance, every single actor knew the entire script of "I Want to be Your Canary" by heart. John, forcing everyone to recite it, finally nodded his head in approval.
"Alright, I think you're all ready to go into town." His voice was met with resounding cheers.
As the ship flew in through the city walls, the actors could see little children staring up at them in wonder, and senior citizens' eyes light up in anticipation of days long forgotten. The airship soared over the huge city, and John piloted it towards a theater building that had been built specifically for this occasion. It seated dozens of thousands of people, and each ticket holder was looking forward to the show of a lifetime.
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As John walked up on the stage for a check on the audience behind the curtain, he was astounded by the sheer number of people that had turned out for the play. He had expected a lot of people, but this many sent an electricity bolt running down John's spine. He checked to make sure his wig was on straight, and he turned to his troupe. It was early evening now, and that meant it would be totally dark by the time the play was done. Luckily, a lighting system had been strung out throughout the arena, and everyone would be able to see the play all the way through.
"All right, y'all, this is the moment we've all been waiting for. If any of you blow it, I'll destroy you! You remember that! Amadeus, man the orchestra!"
"Right!" Amadeus hopped onto the separate stage set for the band.
"Simon, Kelvin, Marina, Yrena, Ophelia! Off to the right!"
"Right!" The five hurried off to the side of the stage.
"Syovar, Pika, Avon, Frederick, Nikolai!" Off to the left!"
"Right!" The remaining five hurried off as well.
John sighed, and knew that this was the moment of truth. He took a deep breath, parted the curtain and walked onto the stage. Everyone burst into a shout of cheers as John searched for any familiar faces. He soon remembered he'd have tie for that later, and began addressing the crowd.
"Ladies and gentlemen, and especially the esteemed Alexandrian royal family..."
Cheers resonated from the audience.
"This is truly an epic day for all present. Tantalus has not performed in over 50 years, and only recently has Neo-Tantalus been revived to bring back the magic that was once there."
More cheers sounded.
"So, it is my pleasure and honor to be able to perform with my troupe for all the residents of Alexandria, and to the royal family."
The cheers continued without end.
"Now, everyone!" John grinned, starting to feel the energy. "Be prepared for a magical tale of heartbreak, deceit, and true love. The old classic that we all love so much! Ladies and gentlemen, 'I Want to be Your Canary!"
Massive cheers erupted from the audience as John stepped off stage, wiping sweat off his brow. The worst was over. Hopefully things will sail smooth from here, he thought to himself.
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John strode up to Yrena, his ridiculously long robe nearly causing him to trip.
"Please, sweet daughter, stay in the castle with me!" He executed his line perfectly.
"No, father! I won't return!" Yrena screamed.
"Cornelia, trouble me no more. This wedding is for your own welfare. Be mindful of that."
"Not if I can help it!!!" Syovar swooped down from the top of the stage. "Now is my moment of vengeance! For my parents, and for my love, Cornelia." He pointed a fake sword at King Leo. "I shall cut you down!" He darted forward with his sword outstretched, but Yrena was right on cue and stepped between the two. Syovar's sword cut straight between Yrena's body and her right arm. "No...Cornelia!" Syovar shouted.
"Mar...cus, forgive me. I still love my father..." Yrena whispered.
"Cornelia!" John cried.
"Please forgive my selfishness, father, and spare my sweet Marcus..." Yrena made her voice disintegrate into a barely audible whisper, and finally was silent. Syovar rose.
"What have I done! Am I never to hear her sweet loving voice again? Am I cursed to never again feel her soft touch? Cruel fate has robbed me of all I treasure!" Syovar turned the sword over and stabbed himself in the chest, falling over. Only John and Frederick were left standing on the stage, both crying crocodile tears.
"My friend and your daughter are gone! This should not have happened!" Frederick wailed.
"She sacrificed herself for me, yet Marcus was lost as well. This is a true tragedy! What will become of me now? What will I do?" John wailed himself.
The curtain dropped as John stood on one side of the stage, while Frederick, Kelvin and Simon stood on the other. Syovar and Yrena lay on the ground, not moving. The second the curtain fell over the stage there was a massive wave of applause and cheering, as virtually every person who had watched the play launched into a roar of approval. The curtain rose, and all of Neo-Tantalus had their hands locked and were bowing.
John glanced around the balcony and front rows, and saw many familiar faces. Sitting on the top balcony were King Zidane, Queen Garnet, Prince Zircon, Princess Amethyst, Zircon's wife Finnevere, Holy Knights Steiner and Beatrix, and the grandson Cadrin. All were cheering with wide smiles on their faces, though the queen looked quite tired. On another balcony just below them, King Puck of Burmecia was cheering with Sir Fratley, Lady Freya, and their daughter Frecia. Next to them, seated on a third balcony, was Regent Eiko and her son Zidaro, who were both clapping.
John then looked to the audience seating. He saw his father, Marcus, hooting and hollering with his family, as well as with his elderly friends Cinna and Blank, whom John had known since he was a baby. Cinna also had a family in tow, but Blank was alone. Up on a rooftop John spotted Amarant, who gave a simple nod of approval. John also saw a horde of black mages off to the right jumping around, along with one huge, lanky one who probably measured around fifteen feet tall. Closely were three Qus. One of which was hoisted on a platform, and was the most gigantically fat creature John had ever seen. On one side of it was a rather skinny Qu, who looked somewhat disgruntled, and on the other side was another grotesquely obese Qu whose mammoth weight almost rivaled the one on the platform, who was clapping its flabby hands together happily as it munched on a few frogs from its pockets.
The thunderous applause continued, and the curtain dropped again. As Neo-Tantalus relaxed backstage, there was an air of triumph.
"I can't believe we pulled that off!" Nikolai cried.
"Yes, that was quite beautiful." Amadeus said.
"All right, all right!" John shouted. Everyone turned to him, waiting for his say in everything. John nodded. "You did good."
The group cheered and laughed for several minutes, until a group of five or so guards marched backstage. One poked John on the back.
"What's up, boys?"
"Sir, are you Jonathon Marcus and Neo-Tantalus?"
"Yes, why?" John replied, confused.
"His majesty wishes to have a word with you, if you will all follow us." The soldier said.
The twelve whispered to each other as they were guided from the stage to the castle, which was eerily empty. The soldiers opened the door, and the members of Neo-Tantalus found themselves face to face with King Zidane and Prince Zircon. The king was dressed in a navy blue suit, while the prince was in a full suit of armor. Twelve jaws dropped open.
"Y...You're..."
"I know, I know. King and prince." Zidane grinned. "You guys put on a great show. I tell you..."
"Father, can we make this quick?" Zircon asked tensely.
"Oh, yeah!" Zidane's face grew serious. "You were referred to us by Regent Eiko of Lindblum. She said you did a great job on the Lindblum Lunatics."
The members of Neo-Tantalus blushed. "Yes, we did quite well." John grinned stupidly.
"Well, here's the deal: The queen's been poisoned. Not only that, but a horde of Mist monsters was let loose during the performance." Zidane said.
"WHAT!?" The others gasped.
Zircon nodded. "Yes, and we think we know who did it."
"I'll kill the guy!" Frederick snarled.
"Easy, Fred." Zidane said. "We think that it was Duke Diller, who resides on the other side of Alexandria. We want to you to do a little spying on his mansion and report any unusual activity."
"By the honor of Alexandria, we shall!" John shouted. "Were there any deaths from the attack?"
Zidane shook his head. "I don't think so. The guards took them out pretty quickly. But we still want to know what this Duke is up to."
"When would you like us to do this spying?" John asked.
"Tonight. You can rest for an hour or so in the basement." Zircon said.
The others looked alarmed. "But we just got done with the performance! Can we at least meet some more of the royal head honcho dudes?" Avon asked.
Zircon shook his head. "There will be plenty of time for that later, I promise. But the queen's life is in danger. Will you help us? Money is no object."
"But..."Avon started, but John quickly clamped his hand over him. "We will be glad to."
"Thank you." Zidane and Zircon said simultaneously. "The guards will escort you to the basement."
The guards took the twelve below the surface and into a large basement area. As the members of Neo-Tantalus spread out for the only rest they'd have for several hours, John addressed them once again.
"Alright, guys. Look, we don't have a choice here. We HAVE to help the Queen. But I realize that some of you are just too tired to go on this mission. So, who doesn't want to do some spying?"
Amadeus stood up. "I am sorry, sir, but I feel as though I will collapse any second."
"Alright. Who else?"
Pika's hand shot up, as did Yrena's, Frederick's and Nikolai's. Jonathon counted the remaining members.
"Okay, then. Me, Syovar, Avon, Ophelia, Simon, Kelvin and Marina are heading off in an hour. The rest of you, enjoy your sleep."
Dark God Makou
Alexandria Awaits
The mighty vessel of Neo-Tantalus glided through the sky effortlessly, its massive wings pushing the light gusts of wind behind it and propelling it further. Through the early afternoon sky one on the ship could just begin to make out the gigantic spires of Alexandria Castle. The sun was almost completely covered by clouds, making its rays of light softened.
John, at the helm of the ship, turned to the left of the castle and into an open meadow several miles away from the kingdom. He quickly glanced at a map to make sure no one inhabited the area, and upon finding the necessary information, he grabbed his rusty horn.
"Stop the engines! We're landing here!"
He sat back down and piloted the craft straight down. He heard the gears in the engine room grind to a halt, and the ship hovered closer and closer to the ground. After a few minutes, the ship was on the ground and John hopped out of his seat. He stepped out and began shouting frantically.
"Come on, everyone! We don't have much time!"
The doors to the ship opened and the entire crew of Neo-Tantalus peered out woefully, knowing fully what was coming. They lined up, rank and file, just as their boss ordered. John saw his ten actors and fifteen musicians file perfectly in just under ten seconds. He smiled through his gruff bread, pleased with the results.
"Good job, boys an' girls. As you all know, our most important performance ever is going to be the day after tomorrow. We're going to be performing the most popular play ever, "I Want to be Your Canary" to King Zidane and Queen Garnet of Alexandria." He said, as though he had memorized a speech.
"What's the occasion?" A violinist asked.
"'Tis their fiftieth anniversary, you bloody idiot! Not only will they be there, but so will Prince Zircon and Princess Amethyst. On top of that, Zidane's grandchild Cadrin will be in attendance, as well as Holy Knights Steiner and Beatrix."
"Anyone else?" Frederick asked.
John shrugged. "I imagine Regent Eiko, her son Zidaro and King Puck of Burmecia will be there to pay their respects to Zidane and Garnet. Who knows what kind of big names will be there. All you guys have to know is that you can't screw up or I'll eat the lot of you for breakfast - Ladies included!" John roared.
About half of the crew was trembling by now.
John continued. "Anyway, seeing that the performance is the day after tomorrow, we've got about two solid days to prepare for this play. I know you're still tired from the Lindblum show from two nights ago, but we just can't mess around this time. Our first two shows were good, but this one's gotta be great. Any questions?"
Nikolai raised his hand. "What'd the people of Lindblum have to say about our show?"
"They liked it, though I suspect they were being just a bit too polite. Any other questions?"
Avon nodded. "Yea, when are we gettin' our cut of job we did for Eiko?"
John frowned. "Ya little maggot! You just had to remind me about that, didn't you? All right, all right. The eleven of you, all of ya come up here and take 500 Gil from me. You do deserve it, I s'pose."
After the group took their cut of the job, John slapped his hands together. "Okay, then! Actors, I want you all to get with a partner and rehearse your lines with each other. Musicians, stay off to the corner and practice. I don't want me actors to have any disturbances."
The others nodded obediently and headed to their designated areas. Amadeus hurriedly set up a stage on the grass for his orchestra to rehearse on. Syovar and Yrena, having the lead roles, paired up and worked on their lines. Avon and Ophelia did the same, as did Nikolai and Kelvin, Marina and Simon, Pika and Frederick. The pairs worked for several hours on their material before growing tired of their work.
During this time John was pacing around the entire settlement, half looking through his own lines and half making sure everyone else stuck to theirs. When he saw the sun begin to set, he blew a whistle he had bought in Lindblum.
"All right, everyone! Half an hour break!"
He instantly heard several gasps of relief as the exhausted actors laid down on the grass to rest. They had been hard at work for several hours without any break, and the lines were just starting to sink into the actors. Each was feeling their own drive to succeed, for this would truly be the play that would make or break them. If they could pull off a decent performance at the biggest event of the decade, then it would be assured that they could make a career out of this.
As the minutes passed, Avon began to grow restless. He had been lying down on the grass for a couple of minutes, and his energy was already brimming and he felt the urge to bounce around. He hopped to his feet and walked back to the airship, where he saw everyone else.
"Hey, boss, I'm gonna go take a walk around that forest back there. That alright?"
"Yea, just be back when we start workin' again, or I'll tie ya up and let yer sister give ya a beatin!"
Avon nodded impatiently. "Yeah, yeah, yeah. Anyone want to come with me?"
Most of the actors remained seated. Frederick stood up, however, dusted his cape off and walked to his fellow troubadour.
"I'll go with you, Avon."
"Awesome! Anyone else?"
Kelvin shrugged and stood up as well. "Why not? It's better than sitting on my ass and doing nothing."
The three walked through the thin forest, making idle chit-chat. They didn't see much in the forest, however, and soon grew bored.
"So, what do you guys think of Neo-Tantalus?" Frederick asked as they hopped over a stream.
Kelvin shrugged. "Like I said before, it beats sitting around and doing nothing, you know?"
"Yeah, and we get to go all over the world! I don't know about you guys, but I think it's pretty damn cool that we're paid to fly around the world." Avon said excitedly.
Kelvin and Frederick nodded. "So, Fred, what's Alexandria like? Is it as cool as everyone says it is?" The salamander asked.
The red mage nodded. "Yeah, it's pretty cool. I've been to all the major kingdoms now, and I think Alexandria's the coolest one. Plus, I know most of the royal family and subjects, so they're nice to me."
"How well do you know Zidane and Garnet?" Avon asked as he climbed a tree absentmindedly.
"Not too well," Frederick admitted. "But I was really good friends with their grandson Cadrin. We played around a lot around the castle, and we always had Steiner watching out for us."
Kelvin grinned. "I can just picture that guy with his eyes all bugged out while you swing across a chandelier or something crazy like that."
Right then the three heard a rustle behind some trees. Fearing a monster or something else that would cause them harm, the three instantly unsheathed their weapons. Avon, the bravest of the group, calmly stepped forward.
"Show yourself, or I'll bust y'open with my throwin' stars!" He shouted in the best tough-guy voice he could muster.
From behind a tree stepped a salamander who was slightly taller than Kelvin, and had incredible amounts of hair hanging from his face in massive deadlocks. The hair was red, save for a few white streaks in it. The salamander was wearing loose, wandering clothes, and his bangs totally covered his eyes.
The salamander wearily lifted his head and saw the three staring at him, shocked at the spectacle. He was taken aback and grunted.
"What's the matter with you three?" He asked coolly.
Frederick shook his head. "I'm sorry, sir, but you look kind of familiar. Do I know you from somewhere?"
"Yeah, you know me. I was at Alexandria Castle some 25 years ago, celebrating Zidane and Garnet's 25th anniversary."
"Then you're..." Kelvin started, short of breath.
"Amarant Coral! I don't believe this!" Avon cried out, laughing and crying to his heart's content. He danced around anything he came in contact with, until Amarant stood in front of him, still emotionless.
"Yeah, Amarant's my name. What's it to you?"
Avon stopped. "You're just about the greatest fighter that ever lived, that's what! And I've met you! Whee!!!" Avon resumed his jig. Amarant shook his head and turned to the slightly calmer Frederick and Kelvin.
"You boys seem to not have lost your minds. Aren't the three of you in that Neo-Tantalus thing?" Amarant asked coldly, as if he didn't care about the answer.
Frederick still nodded. "Yeah, we're getting ready for our performance the day after tomorrow."
"We're rehearsing in an open meadow close to here. Are you on your way to Alexandria?" Kelvin asked.
Amarant nodded. "Yeah, but I'm out of food, and it'll be another six hours before I'm there. Do you guys have any food?"
"Let's get back to the ship," Avon motioned. "There's plenty of food there,"
Amarant shrugged. "Works for me."
The four walked back to the campsite, with Frederick leading the way. Avon was still in his dreamworld, and fantasizing about all the incredible things that would be happening in his life.
"So," Kelvin turned to Amarant. "I haven't met many of my own kind."
Amarant gave a slight nod. "Neither have I. But I heard about a bunch of colonies spreading around the world."
"Why don't you join one of them and settle down?" Kelvin grinned, knowing full well what the answer would be.
"You kidding? I couldn't settle down, even if I wanted to. I'm going to be traveling until the day I die. It's just not...me to have little kids running around that I have to take care of."
Kelvin nodded. "Yeah, no responsibility when you're alone."
Amarant stayed silent, unsure how he should respond to that.
By this time Frederick had navigated the group out of the forest, and the giant airship could be seen could a couple of hundred yards away. Much to their chagrin, they saw the rest of the troupe rehearsing.
"Oh, crap! We're late!" Avon hollered. He, Frederick and Kelvin ran to the ship as fast as they could, while Amarant kept his slow pace intact.
"Well, well, well. Looks like we gotta couple of late boys." John grinned as he saw the breathless three actors run up and subsequently start puffing for air. "I oughta have you flogged right now, but I'll give you one chance to explain why you're late."
"That's the reason." Frederick said, pointing at a body approaching them.
"Who's that?" John asked.
"Amarant." Avon smiled.
"Amarant? The Amarant?" John looked shocked. He was even more shocked when he saw three heads bob up and down.
"Welcome, Amarant!" John said when Amarant arrived on the scene a few moments later. John shook Amarant's lifeless hand and smiled. "Be there anything I can get you?"
The salamander shrugged. "Some food would be nice. I haven't eaten for a couple of days."
"Comin' right up! Simon!" John hollered. The obese boy hobbled up to them as soon as he heard his name called. "Yes, sir?" He asked.
"Get stuff of your best grub for this here Amarant."
Simon blinked as though he was seeing things. "Are you Amarant, the friend of Zidane who saved the world?"
Amarant sighed, knowing what was coming. "Yeah, I know Zidane." He said quietly.
"Alright, I'll be right back." Simon waddled back to rest of the actors. "Hey, guys!" He yelled. "The Amarant's here!"
About two seconds passed before virtually member of Neo-Tantalus was crowded around the salamander, who remained calm. He had been through this hundreds of times. He sat through the obvious barrage of questions.
"Are you as mean as everyone says?"
"Are you getting old? Your hair's kind of white."
"What do you think of Zidane and Garnet being together 50 years?"
John stood by for a few seconds, but finally lost his temper. "All right, all right, you filthy buggers! Back to work, the lot of you! This here boy and I are going to have a man-to-man talk!"
The twelve actors grumbled as John and Amarant stepped inside the ship. John locked the door behind them and soon the two were alone.
"Sorry about that. Me boys and girls get crazy sometimes."
Amarant nodded. "Yeah, don't worry about it. I've gone through it before."
John nodded as well. "So, I take it you're here for the anniversary? Come this way." He beckoned for Amarant to follow him into a small room behind the cockpit, a storage room.
"Yeah. I figured this might be the last time I see Steiner and Beatrix. They don't have much longer, you know."
John nodded. "They're in their eighties now, right?"
Amarant shrugged. "Something like that."
"Here." John tossed Amarant a loaf of bread which the salamander dug eagerly into. John stared at him.
"Uh, I was going to get some peanut butter..."
Amarant shook his head. "Nah, this is fine with me."
"All right. By the way, how long do you salamanders live?"
The salamander cocked, curious at the question.
"It's just that I saw Steiner a couple of days ago in Lindblum, and it looked like he was hardly able to move. You're just as old as he is, but you look like you're fit enough to walk around the world."
"Salamanders live to be around 140, or if they're lucky 150. I'm only 78, so that means I'm only middle-aged by your standards. I've got a good 60 or 70 years left to do what I want."
John shook his head. "You guys got it easy."
"Guess so. You guys just sit around all day and say your lines for a play, then? Day after day?"
John nodded. "Basically, yeah. We tour all over the world, and perform for people. It's really a wonderful thing, you know? Making all those people happy. Really rewarding."
Amarant shrugged. "I just can't get into that sort of thing. But anyway, thanks for the bread. I'll just be on my way now."
"Aw, ya gotta leave so soon?" John asked.
Amarant nodded. "I want to get to the castle early, to make sure I don't miss anything. I have a feeling that something's going to go down there. Thanks again."
"No problem." John unlocked the front door and Amarant stepped out. He was mobbed again, but he waded his way through the people and continued along a dirty, worn path with his sack of belongings slung over his shoulder. He remained silent, and continued to say nothing until he disappeared from view over the horizon. The others remained in awe.
"I can't believe how cool that guy is." Syovar said.
"And he's a lot cuter in person." Pika giggled.
John nodded. "Nice fella. Bit quiet, but not a mean guy." He said to himself.
"So, boss, is he going to be at the play too?" Ophelia asked as she stared at her brother, who was swatting at some flies.
"I personally invited him." John grinned. "Just one person ya gotta bust yer asses to please. So get back to work, the lot of ya!"
Rehearsals continued all through that day, and all of the next day. By four o'clock of the day of the performance, every single actor knew the entire script of "I Want to be Your Canary" by heart. John, forcing everyone to recite it, finally nodded his head in approval.
"Alright, I think you're all ready to go into town." His voice was met with resounding cheers.
As the ship flew in through the city walls, the actors could see little children staring up at them in wonder, and senior citizens' eyes light up in anticipation of days long forgotten. The airship soared over the huge city, and John piloted it towards a theater building that had been built specifically for this occasion. It seated dozens of thousands of people, and each ticket holder was looking forward to the show of a lifetime.
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As John walked up on the stage for a check on the audience behind the curtain, he was astounded by the sheer number of people that had turned out for the play. He had expected a lot of people, but this many sent an electricity bolt running down John's spine. He checked to make sure his wig was on straight, and he turned to his troupe. It was early evening now, and that meant it would be totally dark by the time the play was done. Luckily, a lighting system had been strung out throughout the arena, and everyone would be able to see the play all the way through.
"All right, y'all, this is the moment we've all been waiting for. If any of you blow it, I'll destroy you! You remember that! Amadeus, man the orchestra!"
"Right!" Amadeus hopped onto the separate stage set for the band.
"Simon, Kelvin, Marina, Yrena, Ophelia! Off to the right!"
"Right!" The five hurried off to the side of the stage.
"Syovar, Pika, Avon, Frederick, Nikolai!" Off to the left!"
"Right!" The remaining five hurried off as well.
John sighed, and knew that this was the moment of truth. He took a deep breath, parted the curtain and walked onto the stage. Everyone burst into a shout of cheers as John searched for any familiar faces. He soon remembered he'd have tie for that later, and began addressing the crowd.
"Ladies and gentlemen, and especially the esteemed Alexandrian royal family..."
Cheers resonated from the audience.
"This is truly an epic day for all present. Tantalus has not performed in over 50 years, and only recently has Neo-Tantalus been revived to bring back the magic that was once there."
More cheers sounded.
"So, it is my pleasure and honor to be able to perform with my troupe for all the residents of Alexandria, and to the royal family."
The cheers continued without end.
"Now, everyone!" John grinned, starting to feel the energy. "Be prepared for a magical tale of heartbreak, deceit, and true love. The old classic that we all love so much! Ladies and gentlemen, 'I Want to be Your Canary!"
Massive cheers erupted from the audience as John stepped off stage, wiping sweat off his brow. The worst was over. Hopefully things will sail smooth from here, he thought to himself.
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John strode up to Yrena, his ridiculously long robe nearly causing him to trip.
"Please, sweet daughter, stay in the castle with me!" He executed his line perfectly.
"No, father! I won't return!" Yrena screamed.
"Cornelia, trouble me no more. This wedding is for your own welfare. Be mindful of that."
"Not if I can help it!!!" Syovar swooped down from the top of the stage. "Now is my moment of vengeance! For my parents, and for my love, Cornelia." He pointed a fake sword at King Leo. "I shall cut you down!" He darted forward with his sword outstretched, but Yrena was right on cue and stepped between the two. Syovar's sword cut straight between Yrena's body and her right arm. "No...Cornelia!" Syovar shouted.
"Mar...cus, forgive me. I still love my father..." Yrena whispered.
"Cornelia!" John cried.
"Please forgive my selfishness, father, and spare my sweet Marcus..." Yrena made her voice disintegrate into a barely audible whisper, and finally was silent. Syovar rose.
"What have I done! Am I never to hear her sweet loving voice again? Am I cursed to never again feel her soft touch? Cruel fate has robbed me of all I treasure!" Syovar turned the sword over and stabbed himself in the chest, falling over. Only John and Frederick were left standing on the stage, both crying crocodile tears.
"My friend and your daughter are gone! This should not have happened!" Frederick wailed.
"She sacrificed herself for me, yet Marcus was lost as well. This is a true tragedy! What will become of me now? What will I do?" John wailed himself.
The curtain dropped as John stood on one side of the stage, while Frederick, Kelvin and Simon stood on the other. Syovar and Yrena lay on the ground, not moving. The second the curtain fell over the stage there was a massive wave of applause and cheering, as virtually every person who had watched the play launched into a roar of approval. The curtain rose, and all of Neo-Tantalus had their hands locked and were bowing.
John glanced around the balcony and front rows, and saw many familiar faces. Sitting on the top balcony were King Zidane, Queen Garnet, Prince Zircon, Princess Amethyst, Zircon's wife Finnevere, Holy Knights Steiner and Beatrix, and the grandson Cadrin. All were cheering with wide smiles on their faces, though the queen looked quite tired. On another balcony just below them, King Puck of Burmecia was cheering with Sir Fratley, Lady Freya, and their daughter Frecia. Next to them, seated on a third balcony, was Regent Eiko and her son Zidaro, who were both clapping.
John then looked to the audience seating. He saw his father, Marcus, hooting and hollering with his family, as well as with his elderly friends Cinna and Blank, whom John had known since he was a baby. Cinna also had a family in tow, but Blank was alone. Up on a rooftop John spotted Amarant, who gave a simple nod of approval. John also saw a horde of black mages off to the right jumping around, along with one huge, lanky one who probably measured around fifteen feet tall. Closely were three Qus. One of which was hoisted on a platform, and was the most gigantically fat creature John had ever seen. On one side of it was a rather skinny Qu, who looked somewhat disgruntled, and on the other side was another grotesquely obese Qu whose mammoth weight almost rivaled the one on the platform, who was clapping its flabby hands together happily as it munched on a few frogs from its pockets.
The thunderous applause continued, and the curtain dropped again. As Neo-Tantalus relaxed backstage, there was an air of triumph.
"I can't believe we pulled that off!" Nikolai cried.
"Yes, that was quite beautiful." Amadeus said.
"All right, all right!" John shouted. Everyone turned to him, waiting for his say in everything. John nodded. "You did good."
The group cheered and laughed for several minutes, until a group of five or so guards marched backstage. One poked John on the back.
"What's up, boys?"
"Sir, are you Jonathon Marcus and Neo-Tantalus?"
"Yes, why?" John replied, confused.
"His majesty wishes to have a word with you, if you will all follow us." The soldier said.
The twelve whispered to each other as they were guided from the stage to the castle, which was eerily empty. The soldiers opened the door, and the members of Neo-Tantalus found themselves face to face with King Zidane and Prince Zircon. The king was dressed in a navy blue suit, while the prince was in a full suit of armor. Twelve jaws dropped open.
"Y...You're..."
"I know, I know. King and prince." Zidane grinned. "You guys put on a great show. I tell you..."
"Father, can we make this quick?" Zircon asked tensely.
"Oh, yeah!" Zidane's face grew serious. "You were referred to us by Regent Eiko of Lindblum. She said you did a great job on the Lindblum Lunatics."
The members of Neo-Tantalus blushed. "Yes, we did quite well." John grinned stupidly.
"Well, here's the deal: The queen's been poisoned. Not only that, but a horde of Mist monsters was let loose during the performance." Zidane said.
"WHAT!?" The others gasped.
Zircon nodded. "Yes, and we think we know who did it."
"I'll kill the guy!" Frederick snarled.
"Easy, Fred." Zidane said. "We think that it was Duke Diller, who resides on the other side of Alexandria. We want to you to do a little spying on his mansion and report any unusual activity."
"By the honor of Alexandria, we shall!" John shouted. "Were there any deaths from the attack?"
Zidane shook his head. "I don't think so. The guards took them out pretty quickly. But we still want to know what this Duke is up to."
"When would you like us to do this spying?" John asked.
"Tonight. You can rest for an hour or so in the basement." Zircon said.
The others looked alarmed. "But we just got done with the performance! Can we at least meet some more of the royal head honcho dudes?" Avon asked.
Zircon shook his head. "There will be plenty of time for that later, I promise. But the queen's life is in danger. Will you help us? Money is no object."
"But..."Avon started, but John quickly clamped his hand over him. "We will be glad to."
"Thank you." Zidane and Zircon said simultaneously. "The guards will escort you to the basement."
The guards took the twelve below the surface and into a large basement area. As the members of Neo-Tantalus spread out for the only rest they'd have for several hours, John addressed them once again.
"Alright, guys. Look, we don't have a choice here. We HAVE to help the Queen. But I realize that some of you are just too tired to go on this mission. So, who doesn't want to do some spying?"
Amadeus stood up. "I am sorry, sir, but I feel as though I will collapse any second."
"Alright. Who else?"
Pika's hand shot up, as did Yrena's, Frederick's and Nikolai's. Jonathon counted the remaining members.
"Okay, then. Me, Syovar, Avon, Ophelia, Simon, Kelvin and Marina are heading off in an hour. The rest of you, enjoy your sleep."