Digiquest for Glory
Chapter 9
By Time Lady
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Disclaimer: I do not own Digimon or Quest for Glory
-----------------------
"Oh God," moaned Yamato, "make the headache go away." He lay his head on the table of the inn's common room.
"Perhaps this will help," said Shema. The Kattamon set a mug in front of the warrior. "It is a remedy from Shapier used for hangovers."
"Drink it down fast," advised Shameen.
"What's in it?" asked Ken as Shema handed him a similar mug. The thief was slightly hung over, though not nearly as badly as Yamato.
"It is a mixture of herbs and other ingredients," she returned. "With a hangover, it is often advisable to not say what is exactly is in it."
Ken looked at the cup curiously, then chugged it down. "Ugh! That's awful!" he coughed.
"Yes, but within an hour you will find you feel much better," she purred. Shema turned to Yamato. "You should drink yours as well. It is not wise to even try and wield your sword in this condition."
Yamato lifted his head and stared at the mug with bloodshot eyes. "I don't think it would stay down right now."
"Try it," advised Ken. "Once you get it past the tongue, you do feel better."
Grimacing, Yamato forced himself to drink down the contents of the mug. He gagged as he tried to keep it down. Ken hit him on the back. "I feel like I was mauled by a Cheetauromon, with a horde of Goblimon rampaging in my head." Yamato put his head back down on the table.
"Perhaps you would like some plain bread?" asked Shema. "I would not recommend anything spiced or fried."
"Don't even mention food. . .," muttered Yamato.
"I think I'll have a piece of your flat bread," said Ken. "Nothing on it."
"How come you're not so badly hung over," groaned Yamato.
"I'm a little more used to the type of ale served at the Aces and Eights. Besides, Gorimon just kept serving them up as you kept playing."
"Be thankful he did not try to serve you the Shamamon Sweat or the Dragon's Breath," said Shameen. "I have seen strong men knocked out cold with one cup."
"Feeling up to any adventuring?" Ken grinned as Yamato picked up his head and glared at him.
"I'm not moving. I'd still be in bed if the room wasn't so bright."
BANG! The door swung open and slammed against the wall. "OH MAN YOU GUYS AREN'T GOING TO BELIEVE WHAT HAPPENED!" shouted Daisuke as he ran into the inn's common room. Takeru followed, slightly embarrassed by Daisuke's excitement.
"Keep it down," groaned Yamato.
"You look wrecked," said Daisuke. "Anyhow, you guys are _not_ going to believe this!" Talking a mile a minute, Daisuke rattled off what happened since he and Takeru had left. Takeru's face reddened when he heard Daisuke glorifying his magical attacks. "You guys should have seen it. He was awesome! So then, we took the key and unlocked the bear. There was this flash of light and boom! Right in front of us was the missing baronet!"
"Don't exaggerate," said Ken.
"It's true!" returned Daisuke.
"It is," agreed Takeru. "The man was dressed as a noble. Then he used some sort of magical amulet to return to the palace."
Shema walked out of the back room with a tray of flat bread for Ken. "I don't know about you Takeru, but after all this excitement, I'm starving," said Daisuke. Takeru nodded. "Two really large breakfasts. Fried eggs, bacon, sausage, fried potatoes. . ."
"Urp. . ." Yamato jumped up and dashed out of the common room.
"What's with him?" asked Takeru.
"Hangover," returned Ken as he took a piece of flat bread.
"Perhaps I should prepare another mug of the remedy," said Shema.
"I believe you should, my love," returned Shameen.
"What happened?" Takeru asked as Shema walked out to the kitchen.
"He had a few too many when I took him to the Aces and Eights yesterday," explained Ken. "As good a musician as your brother is, it's a poor minstrel that can't hold his ale. Or who can't recover quickly from a hangover."
"I guess I should see how he is," said Takeru. He found Yamato kneeling over the chamber pot in their room with a case of the dry heaves.
"There isn't anything left to come up. Just Shema's remedy," said Yamato ruefully. "You wouldn't know any spells to deal with this, would you?"
"Sorry. Haven't learned any healing magic. Spells aren't plentiful around these parts." Takeru helped Yamato over to one of the beds. The two brothers sat on the edge of the bed.
"Damn." Yamato sighed, then grimaced. "Look, about yesterday. . . I had some time to think before the alcohol kicked in. When Mother and Father died, I promised them I would take care of you. I guess I didn't think of the long term picture. We've always been living day to day. Sometimes I look at Ken, and think how it might have been if his brother were still around for him. When Osamu up and left town without Ken, and I saw what was happening with Ken growing up alone and on the streets, I vowed I would always be there to take care of you. Then we started this whole journey. . ." Yamato trailed off.
"Then we started this whole journey and I started my own path. A different path than you," added Takeru quietly.
"Yeah. It never occurred to me that there would become a time when you wouldn't need me."
"It's not that I don't need you." Takeru stood and walked over to the window. "It's that I have different needs overall. You need to learn about using a sword, about footwork, armor, and all that. I need to learn spells. I need to expand my mind. There is so much out there that I want to learn." He turned to Yamato. "I can't explain the feeling of using magic. It's like a fire in my body that I have to harness and shape or else I'll go berserk. Talking to Wizardmon and Sorcerymon is helping me. I can't expect you to sit through discussions on how mana works just like you can't expect me to sit through and listen to a discussion on the best ways to kill a Shamamon."
"Ken pointed that out to me."
"If there's someone who really needs someone to keep an eye on them it's Daisuke." Takeru chuckled. "He needs to learn to look at the whole picture. If I wouldn't have been there, he might have killed the bear, essentially killing the Baronet. And then where would we be?"
A tentative knock at the door interrupted them. "Come in," said Takeru.
Shema entered, a mug in her paw-like hands. "I have brought some more of the hangover remedy." She turned to Takeru. "Your breakfast is ready."
"You better stay here while we're having breakfast," said Takeru as Yamato accepted the mug. "You're not going to find our breakfast very appetizing."
"No doubt about that," returned Yamato as he forced himself to drink the contents of the mug.
Shema took the mug and left. Takeru started to follow Shema, then paused at the doorway. "Yamato. . . I'm sorry about the flame dart yesterday," he said in a low voice.
"We both said and did a few things we shouldn't have yesterday," returned Yamato as he met his brother's gaze. Takeru nodded, then closed the door behind him. Still feeling hung over, Yamato lay back and pulled a pillow over his head.
---
"That stuff really worked," said Ken as he snagged one of Takeru's sausages. "I don't feel nearly half as bad as I know I should."
"Then how come it didn't seem to work on Yamato so quickly?" asked Takeru.
"It depends on the condition the being was to start," explained Shameen. "Your brother started out in worse condition than your friend."
"Good thing I got him out of there before some of the cutthroats got their hands on him," said Ken. "He could barely lift his lute, let alone his sword by the time I dragged him back to the inn."
"Yeah." Takeru picked at his breakfast.
"You going to eat that sausage?" asked Daisuke.
"No." He pushed his plate over to Daisuke. "I'm going to check on Yamato, then see about buying some rations. The one I threw the bear, rather the Baronet, was my last." The young magic user stood and went back to their room. Yamato was sound asleep, his head under the pillow. Takeru closed the door quietly, then returned to the common room. "I'll be back soon."
"Hey, wait. I'll come with you." Ken grabbed his cloak and followed Takeru out of the inn.
As they walked past the sheriff's office, they noticed neither he nor his deputy were in their usual positions on his porch. Hilde the Kentauromon was at her stand. "May I interest you gentlemen in some fruit or vegetables? We still have carrots and apples from our farm." Takeru walked over and examined her wares. He picked out some of the best apples. "Thank you sir," said Hilde as she took the coins from Takeru.
A bell tinkled when they opened the door to the general store. Behind the counter sat a Bakumon, his nose in a book. Ken cleared his throat. "Oh, sorry, didn't see you come in," said Bakumon. He looked at Ken and Takeru. "I haven't seen you around here before." His eyes grew round. "Are you two of the adventurers we've been hearing about?" Takeru and Ken nodded. "I've always wanted to be an adventurer! I'm reading a book about one now!"
Takeru glanced at the title. "Quest for Glory: The Death of a Hero." "Do you sell rations?" he asked.
"Yes we do. I would like to carry more things for adventurers, but due to the brigands, I can't get many things. I of course sell rations. I also have some throwing daggers, and chain mail shirts."
"No chain mail," said Ken. "I won't be able to move quickly in that. Can I see your throwing daggers?" While Ken examined the daggers, Takeru looked around the shop. This seemed to mostly be a dry goods store. The shelves, however, were pretty empty.
"With the brigades barricading the south pass and the north blocked by the avalanche, merchandise is short," said Bakumon as he put away the daggers Ken didn't purchase.
"Oh. Well, could I purchase some packages of rations then?" said Takeru. He and Ken both put their purchases in their packs, then said farewell to Bakumon.
They returned to the inn to find Gennai, Starmon, and Deputymon talking with Daisuke and Yamato. Takeru noticed his brother looked better. "The word is all over town," said Gennai, "that two of you are responsible for the Baronet's return."
"Hey Takeru!" shouted Daisuke when he saw the others enter.
"Not so loud, complained Yamato.
"Oops, sorry. Anyhow, word is spreading through town about our rescue of the Baronet."
"You two should go to the castle," continued Gennai. "The reward for the Baronet's return is surely yours."
"Wow," said Daisuke.
"I'm sure the Baron will talk to us now," said Takeru. "We'll be able to find out what has been going on."
Just then, the inn door swung open. A messenger wearing the Baron.s crest entered. "Am I in the presence of those responsible for the return of his lordship, the Baronet Barnard von Spielburg?"
"Yes," replied Takeru hesitantly.
"The Baron requests your presence at the castle this evening," announced the messenger.
"All of us?" asked Yamato.
"We're traveling together," added Daisuke. "The four of us."
The messenger looked the adventurers over. "I believe that will be all right. Shall I forward your acceptance?"
Takeru glanced at the others, who nodded. "Yes, please."
After they had given their names to the messenger, he turned and left the inn.
---
As the evening drew near, the four adventurers dressed in the best of the clothing they had brought. Shema gave them a once-over, cleaning a stain off Yamato's jerkin, polishing some scuffs out of Daisuke's boots, and fixing a small tear on Ken's cloak. At last, she proclaimed them ready to meet the Baron.
Nervously they left the inn. Starmon saw them, smiled, and gave the party a thumbs-up. They walked in silence the short distance from the city gates to the castle gates. Clockmon saw them coming up the road. "Welcome!" he shouted. "The Baron is expecting you."
They exchanged a glance as the gate rose, then entered the courtyard. Yamato and Daisuke led the way to the castle. A pair of Guardramon saluted, then sounded trumpets to announce the adventurers' arrival. The huge wooden doors slowly swung open. A twelve-year-old boy dressed as a court page greeted them. "Welcome to Castle Spielburg," said the page. "The Baron and the Baronet are expecting you in the great hall."
The page led them down a massive stone hallway. A red carpet ran down the center of the hall. Antique swords, shields, and armor decorated the walls. Here and there hung tapestries woven with pictures of knights, ladies, and Digimon. Ken's mind began calculating the value. He suddenly found Takeru and Yamato walking on either side of him. "Don't even think about it," whispered Yamato.
"Yeah,'" added Takeru in a low voice. "If something suddenly turns up missing in the castle, who do yo think they're going to blame?"
"All right," sighed Ken.
The page led them to a pair of huge oak doors, then paused. A pair of Guardromon swung the heavy doors open. The page stepped inside and bowed low. "Mr. Yamato Ishida, Mr. Takeru Ishida, Mr. Daisuke Motomiya, and Mr. Ken Ichijouji," announced the page. He moved to the side, allowing the others to enter.
Daisuke swallowed hard and prayed he remembered what Gennai had had told them. He watched out of the corner of his eye as his friends. They strode forward. A stout, older man, his reddish-blond hair streaked with gray, sat in an ornate, carved wood chair on a dais. His red velvet doublet was edged in gold, with a matching hat upon his head. Next to him stood a slender young man dressed in a more elaborate version of the elder man's suit. Daisuke and Takeru recognized him as the man they rescued. Following the directions Gennai had given them earlier, the four adventurers bowed low to the Baron and the Baronet.
"Welcome brave adventurers. I am Baron Stefan von Spielburg, twelfth baron of Castle Spielburg. Words can not express the depth of my gratitude," said the Baron as he stood. "Not only have you returned my son, but you have also renewed my hopes that the curse on myself and my lands will finally be lifted. Would the two of you responsible for my son's safe return step forward?" Takeru and Daisuke took a step towards the dais. "Not only have you returned my son, but you have also rid Spielburg of a dangerous Raremon. My son would like to express his gratitude." The Baron glanced at Barnard, then elbowed his son. "Barnard," prompted Baron von Spielburg.
"I appreciate your efforts to free me and destroy the Raremon." From the Baronet's tone, it was obvious that he was unused to expressing his thanks.
"Sir, might I ask how you became prisoner of the Raremon?" asked Yamato.
"I was out riding with my men," explained the Baronet. "We were separated. As I sought to join them, I found a cave entrance. The Raremon dared to order me to leave _his_ cave. I informed him that I was the Baronet, heir to all lands within the area, then I ordered him to bow down before me."
"I can see why the Raremon would want to turn him into a bear," thought Takeru.
"The evil creature then cast a spell upon me. I remember very little after that."
"I hope you gentlemen will continue your adventures," said the Baron. "Spielburg is still in need of heroes. It will take time for my forces to reach enough strength to take on the brigands."
"Now that I have returned, I shall lead our forces to victory," affirmed the Baronet.
"My lord, what sort of organization do the brigands have?" asked Yamato.
"In that lies the clincher," returned Baron von Spielburg. "There have always been brigands in the valley. Only recently have they become organized. The brigand leader is a brilliant strategist. His raids have little losses. By his side fights a wizard. Though not powerful, his spells are used effectively."
"Sounds like a dangerous combination," mused Ken aloud.
"It is said that the brigands have a fortress to the south, protected by an ambush for all," said the Baron.
"Hey, that sounds like the place we ran across the other day," interrupted Daisuke.
"I have heard of rumors of a secret entrance to their hideout, but no one has been able to find its location," ended the Baron.
"My lord, how did the curse come about in the first place?" asked Takeru.
"Several years ago, I tried to force the ogress Babamon Yaga out of the lands. She retaliated by casting a curse so that I would lose all that I treasured. Ten years ago, a strange creature flew over the castle walls and stole away my darling daughter. Every one, including my court jester Gekomon, searched for her. Gekomon was a Digimon of infinite jest. But alas, poor Gekomon never returned. Five years ago, Barnard disappeared as well. I lost interest in my lands and everything else. Now I can almost envision the day I hold a ceremony proclaiming you 'Heroes of Spielburg.'"
"It would be nice if someone finally defeated the brigands and claimed the title," sniffed the Baronet.
The Baron glanced at his son, then turned to Takeru and Daisuke. "As I promised, the reward posted for the safe return of my son is yours. You will recive it when you leave. But now, I invite you all to join me for dinner and be my guests at the castle this evening."
"We would be honored, my lord," Takeru responded.
---
They spent a pleasant evening with the Baron and the Baronet, then a comfortable night in canopy beds with down comforters. After a filling breakfast, a page met the adventurers and presented Takeru and Daisuke each of them with a purse of gold coins. "I never thought I'd ever own this much money, let alone see it," said Daisuke as the group walked back to town. "I told you guys becoming adventuring was worth it."
Yamato and Ken tried not to roll their eyes. As they weren't involved in the rescue of the Baronet, they didn't receive any of the reward money. "So what are you intending to do with it?" asked Ken.
"I don't know," said Daisuke. "I'd like to see about a better weapon or shield, but I don't know where in town they sell any."
"The dry goods store has some chain mail," suggested Takeru. "I was about to see about a new dagger."
"With what you earned, you could buy fifty daggers," returned Ken.
"I'll probably invest in a bunch of mana potions. But first I'll see what Bakumon has in his shop."
"Okay. Frankly, I'd like to see if the valley entrance we came through is still blocked," said Yamato.
"I'll go with you," said Ken.
"Let's meet back at the inn at noon," suggested Daisuke. The others agreed. Daisuke and Takeru entered the town.
Ken and Yamato continued east along the road that first led them to town. A fifteen minute long brisk walk brought them to the valley entrance. Snow and boulders still blocked the valley entrance. "Looks like it's going to take a while longer before the sun really begins to melt the snow," said Yamato.
"Too bad there isn't a local contingent of fire Digimon around," chuckled Ken. "They'd melt the avalanche and be done with it."
"Maybe we should suggest that to Sheriff Starmon," returned Yamato as they turned back towards town.
A few minutes later, they found a Kapurimon with its tail caught in the jaws of a trap. "Please help me," it said when it saw them.
"Okay, give me a second," said Yamato as he knelt next to the struggling Kapurimon. "Ken, you hold it still while I see how this trap opens.
"It'll be okay," said Ken as he held the Kapurimon still. He stroked its ears. "We don't want the trap to open and close again." A minute later, Yamato found the reset trigger on the trap and opened it.
"Thank you," said the Kapurimon as it briefly examined its sore tail. "To show my gratitude, here's a tidbit of information I picked up in the forest. Babamon Yaga has enchanted the Baron's daughter. Lillymon, in the southwest corner of the forest, knows how to break the spell. Thanks again!" The Kapurimon bounded off into the forest.
"Curiouser and curiouser," said Yamato as he watched the Kapurimon go. "What do you make of it?"
"Those Yuramon mentioned Lillymon before. Sounds like one of those magical forest spirits. We should take Takeru along if we're going to be dealing with magic."
Yamato nodded. "Let's go see if they're finshed shopping yet." They returned to the village just as Takeru and Daisuke walked out of the dry goods store.
"Man, take a look at this!" said Daisuke. "A real chain mail shirt! I'd like to see a Cheetauromon get its claws through this." Yamato examined the chain mail. The tightly worked metal links were of a good quality and offered more protection than the leather jerkins they wore. "Too bad he didn't have any shields. The Weapons Master said I might be better off with a shield."
"We can ask Gennai about that," said Yamato. "Maybe he knows where we can get some."
"You know, you always could just scavenge a couple from some dead Goblimon or brigands," suggested Ken.
"I don't know," returned Yamato. "I'm still getting used to the idea of scavenging gold from them."
"Gold, and probably weapons stolen from others they attacked and killed," Takeru pointed out.
"True," Yamato conceeded. He then told them what happened with the Kapurimon.
"Interesting," said Takeru. "Both Wizardmon and Sorcerymon said the area surronding the town has a strong natural aura of magic. It may be the reason Babamon Yaga came to this area."
"Let's check out this Lillymon!" exclaimed Daisuke. He took off towards the town gate.
"Will you wait a minute!" called Ken. He began chasing after Daisuke.
Yamato turned to Takeru and was about to say something to him when he noticed the large, unweildy package his brother was carrying. "What in the world did you buy?"
"Um, well, I was going to give you this later, but since we're heading off to the forest again, you might as well get some use out of it now." He handed Yamato the package. The bulky package was a bit on the heavy side. A silvery glint met Yamato's eyes as he tore off the brown paper. Pulling off the paper revealed a piece of chain mail. "I pretty much bought out every spell Sorcerymon had already. There wasn't much I could use in the store. And for some strange reason, I never did trust Ken around large amounts of money."
Yamato laughed. "But still, you should keep this for yourself."
"No. When I'm dealing with monsters, I prefer to keep my distance and use a few well placed flame darts, while you're up there in claw's distance with a sword. Besides. . ." Takeru scratched the back of his head in embarrassment. "I still feel bad about that flame dart I threw at you the other day."
Deciding not to argue further, Yamato took off his cloak and pack, then slid the chain mail shirt over his leather jerkin.
"Will you guys hurry up?" called Daisuke, who was already at the town gate.
"We're coming," said Yamato as he picked up his pack. The chain mail was heavy, but it offered more security than just the leather. The fighter fastened his cloak around his neck. Daisuke waited for them at the gate impatiently.
"Come on already! Let's find this Lillymon." Daisuke began marching out of town.
"We better get a move on before he gets into any trouble," said Ken.
-To Be Continued-
Author's Notes: First thing I've posted in who knows how long. I hope more readers are out there.
I've been making lots of character revisions in this story. One of the main characters in this story (who hasn't appeared physically yet) has been changed at least 3 times. I've also changed a few things as to how the whole series will develop. Those familiar with the Quest for Glory games will probably have a few ideas. There's a major turning point in Game 5 (Dragonfire). I may decide to take a rather shocking twist. But I will leave things hanging until that point.
Speaking of Dragonfire, I finally found the soundtrack CD. It's incredible.
A few of my other projects have been backburnered thanks to this new story consuming my imagination (that's what happens when you spend a weekend reading fairy tales online). This one will be an original story like "A Digi-Tale" was. . . in fact, it's running away with itself as well (I've barely gotten into writing the story and it's at 14 pages _).. The basic theme will be that of a princess meeting an enchanted creature (I'm using a fairly common fairy-tale motif, but it's _not_ a "Beauty and the Beast" story). This is being revised so many times that odds are it won't be posted until its finished.
Postings will probably be slow. My new principal is demanding lesson plans turned in to her desk by 8am every Monday. Until things settle down, I'm going to be rearranging lesson plans _. So much for the illusion of teachers working only from 8 to 3. I didn't leave school till 5:30 today. I've been in by 7:20 (only because I'm getting a ride from one of the other teachers).
Well, back to writing. . .
Chapter 9
By Time Lady
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Disclaimer: I do not own Digimon or Quest for Glory
-----------------------
"Oh God," moaned Yamato, "make the headache go away." He lay his head on the table of the inn's common room.
"Perhaps this will help," said Shema. The Kattamon set a mug in front of the warrior. "It is a remedy from Shapier used for hangovers."
"Drink it down fast," advised Shameen.
"What's in it?" asked Ken as Shema handed him a similar mug. The thief was slightly hung over, though not nearly as badly as Yamato.
"It is a mixture of herbs and other ingredients," she returned. "With a hangover, it is often advisable to not say what is exactly is in it."
Ken looked at the cup curiously, then chugged it down. "Ugh! That's awful!" he coughed.
"Yes, but within an hour you will find you feel much better," she purred. Shema turned to Yamato. "You should drink yours as well. It is not wise to even try and wield your sword in this condition."
Yamato lifted his head and stared at the mug with bloodshot eyes. "I don't think it would stay down right now."
"Try it," advised Ken. "Once you get it past the tongue, you do feel better."
Grimacing, Yamato forced himself to drink down the contents of the mug. He gagged as he tried to keep it down. Ken hit him on the back. "I feel like I was mauled by a Cheetauromon, with a horde of Goblimon rampaging in my head." Yamato put his head back down on the table.
"Perhaps you would like some plain bread?" asked Shema. "I would not recommend anything spiced or fried."
"Don't even mention food. . .," muttered Yamato.
"I think I'll have a piece of your flat bread," said Ken. "Nothing on it."
"How come you're not so badly hung over," groaned Yamato.
"I'm a little more used to the type of ale served at the Aces and Eights. Besides, Gorimon just kept serving them up as you kept playing."
"Be thankful he did not try to serve you the Shamamon Sweat or the Dragon's Breath," said Shameen. "I have seen strong men knocked out cold with one cup."
"Feeling up to any adventuring?" Ken grinned as Yamato picked up his head and glared at him.
"I'm not moving. I'd still be in bed if the room wasn't so bright."
BANG! The door swung open and slammed against the wall. "OH MAN YOU GUYS AREN'T GOING TO BELIEVE WHAT HAPPENED!" shouted Daisuke as he ran into the inn's common room. Takeru followed, slightly embarrassed by Daisuke's excitement.
"Keep it down," groaned Yamato.
"You look wrecked," said Daisuke. "Anyhow, you guys are _not_ going to believe this!" Talking a mile a minute, Daisuke rattled off what happened since he and Takeru had left. Takeru's face reddened when he heard Daisuke glorifying his magical attacks. "You guys should have seen it. He was awesome! So then, we took the key and unlocked the bear. There was this flash of light and boom! Right in front of us was the missing baronet!"
"Don't exaggerate," said Ken.
"It's true!" returned Daisuke.
"It is," agreed Takeru. "The man was dressed as a noble. Then he used some sort of magical amulet to return to the palace."
Shema walked out of the back room with a tray of flat bread for Ken. "I don't know about you Takeru, but after all this excitement, I'm starving," said Daisuke. Takeru nodded. "Two really large breakfasts. Fried eggs, bacon, sausage, fried potatoes. . ."
"Urp. . ." Yamato jumped up and dashed out of the common room.
"What's with him?" asked Takeru.
"Hangover," returned Ken as he took a piece of flat bread.
"Perhaps I should prepare another mug of the remedy," said Shema.
"I believe you should, my love," returned Shameen.
"What happened?" Takeru asked as Shema walked out to the kitchen.
"He had a few too many when I took him to the Aces and Eights yesterday," explained Ken. "As good a musician as your brother is, it's a poor minstrel that can't hold his ale. Or who can't recover quickly from a hangover."
"I guess I should see how he is," said Takeru. He found Yamato kneeling over the chamber pot in their room with a case of the dry heaves.
"There isn't anything left to come up. Just Shema's remedy," said Yamato ruefully. "You wouldn't know any spells to deal with this, would you?"
"Sorry. Haven't learned any healing magic. Spells aren't plentiful around these parts." Takeru helped Yamato over to one of the beds. The two brothers sat on the edge of the bed.
"Damn." Yamato sighed, then grimaced. "Look, about yesterday. . . I had some time to think before the alcohol kicked in. When Mother and Father died, I promised them I would take care of you. I guess I didn't think of the long term picture. We've always been living day to day. Sometimes I look at Ken, and think how it might have been if his brother were still around for him. When Osamu up and left town without Ken, and I saw what was happening with Ken growing up alone and on the streets, I vowed I would always be there to take care of you. Then we started this whole journey. . ." Yamato trailed off.
"Then we started this whole journey and I started my own path. A different path than you," added Takeru quietly.
"Yeah. It never occurred to me that there would become a time when you wouldn't need me."
"It's not that I don't need you." Takeru stood and walked over to the window. "It's that I have different needs overall. You need to learn about using a sword, about footwork, armor, and all that. I need to learn spells. I need to expand my mind. There is so much out there that I want to learn." He turned to Yamato. "I can't explain the feeling of using magic. It's like a fire in my body that I have to harness and shape or else I'll go berserk. Talking to Wizardmon and Sorcerymon is helping me. I can't expect you to sit through discussions on how mana works just like you can't expect me to sit through and listen to a discussion on the best ways to kill a Shamamon."
"Ken pointed that out to me."
"If there's someone who really needs someone to keep an eye on them it's Daisuke." Takeru chuckled. "He needs to learn to look at the whole picture. If I wouldn't have been there, he might have killed the bear, essentially killing the Baronet. And then where would we be?"
A tentative knock at the door interrupted them. "Come in," said Takeru.
Shema entered, a mug in her paw-like hands. "I have brought some more of the hangover remedy." She turned to Takeru. "Your breakfast is ready."
"You better stay here while we're having breakfast," said Takeru as Yamato accepted the mug. "You're not going to find our breakfast very appetizing."
"No doubt about that," returned Yamato as he forced himself to drink the contents of the mug.
Shema took the mug and left. Takeru started to follow Shema, then paused at the doorway. "Yamato. . . I'm sorry about the flame dart yesterday," he said in a low voice.
"We both said and did a few things we shouldn't have yesterday," returned Yamato as he met his brother's gaze. Takeru nodded, then closed the door behind him. Still feeling hung over, Yamato lay back and pulled a pillow over his head.
---
"That stuff really worked," said Ken as he snagged one of Takeru's sausages. "I don't feel nearly half as bad as I know I should."
"Then how come it didn't seem to work on Yamato so quickly?" asked Takeru.
"It depends on the condition the being was to start," explained Shameen. "Your brother started out in worse condition than your friend."
"Good thing I got him out of there before some of the cutthroats got their hands on him," said Ken. "He could barely lift his lute, let alone his sword by the time I dragged him back to the inn."
"Yeah." Takeru picked at his breakfast.
"You going to eat that sausage?" asked Daisuke.
"No." He pushed his plate over to Daisuke. "I'm going to check on Yamato, then see about buying some rations. The one I threw the bear, rather the Baronet, was my last." The young magic user stood and went back to their room. Yamato was sound asleep, his head under the pillow. Takeru closed the door quietly, then returned to the common room. "I'll be back soon."
"Hey, wait. I'll come with you." Ken grabbed his cloak and followed Takeru out of the inn.
As they walked past the sheriff's office, they noticed neither he nor his deputy were in their usual positions on his porch. Hilde the Kentauromon was at her stand. "May I interest you gentlemen in some fruit or vegetables? We still have carrots and apples from our farm." Takeru walked over and examined her wares. He picked out some of the best apples. "Thank you sir," said Hilde as she took the coins from Takeru.
A bell tinkled when they opened the door to the general store. Behind the counter sat a Bakumon, his nose in a book. Ken cleared his throat. "Oh, sorry, didn't see you come in," said Bakumon. He looked at Ken and Takeru. "I haven't seen you around here before." His eyes grew round. "Are you two of the adventurers we've been hearing about?" Takeru and Ken nodded. "I've always wanted to be an adventurer! I'm reading a book about one now!"
Takeru glanced at the title. "Quest for Glory: The Death of a Hero." "Do you sell rations?" he asked.
"Yes we do. I would like to carry more things for adventurers, but due to the brigands, I can't get many things. I of course sell rations. I also have some throwing daggers, and chain mail shirts."
"No chain mail," said Ken. "I won't be able to move quickly in that. Can I see your throwing daggers?" While Ken examined the daggers, Takeru looked around the shop. This seemed to mostly be a dry goods store. The shelves, however, were pretty empty.
"With the brigades barricading the south pass and the north blocked by the avalanche, merchandise is short," said Bakumon as he put away the daggers Ken didn't purchase.
"Oh. Well, could I purchase some packages of rations then?" said Takeru. He and Ken both put their purchases in their packs, then said farewell to Bakumon.
They returned to the inn to find Gennai, Starmon, and Deputymon talking with Daisuke and Yamato. Takeru noticed his brother looked better. "The word is all over town," said Gennai, "that two of you are responsible for the Baronet's return."
"Hey Takeru!" shouted Daisuke when he saw the others enter.
"Not so loud, complained Yamato.
"Oops, sorry. Anyhow, word is spreading through town about our rescue of the Baronet."
"You two should go to the castle," continued Gennai. "The reward for the Baronet's return is surely yours."
"Wow," said Daisuke.
"I'm sure the Baron will talk to us now," said Takeru. "We'll be able to find out what has been going on."
Just then, the inn door swung open. A messenger wearing the Baron.s crest entered. "Am I in the presence of those responsible for the return of his lordship, the Baronet Barnard von Spielburg?"
"Yes," replied Takeru hesitantly.
"The Baron requests your presence at the castle this evening," announced the messenger.
"All of us?" asked Yamato.
"We're traveling together," added Daisuke. "The four of us."
The messenger looked the adventurers over. "I believe that will be all right. Shall I forward your acceptance?"
Takeru glanced at the others, who nodded. "Yes, please."
After they had given their names to the messenger, he turned and left the inn.
---
As the evening drew near, the four adventurers dressed in the best of the clothing they had brought. Shema gave them a once-over, cleaning a stain off Yamato's jerkin, polishing some scuffs out of Daisuke's boots, and fixing a small tear on Ken's cloak. At last, she proclaimed them ready to meet the Baron.
Nervously they left the inn. Starmon saw them, smiled, and gave the party a thumbs-up. They walked in silence the short distance from the city gates to the castle gates. Clockmon saw them coming up the road. "Welcome!" he shouted. "The Baron is expecting you."
They exchanged a glance as the gate rose, then entered the courtyard. Yamato and Daisuke led the way to the castle. A pair of Guardramon saluted, then sounded trumpets to announce the adventurers' arrival. The huge wooden doors slowly swung open. A twelve-year-old boy dressed as a court page greeted them. "Welcome to Castle Spielburg," said the page. "The Baron and the Baronet are expecting you in the great hall."
The page led them down a massive stone hallway. A red carpet ran down the center of the hall. Antique swords, shields, and armor decorated the walls. Here and there hung tapestries woven with pictures of knights, ladies, and Digimon. Ken's mind began calculating the value. He suddenly found Takeru and Yamato walking on either side of him. "Don't even think about it," whispered Yamato.
"Yeah,'" added Takeru in a low voice. "If something suddenly turns up missing in the castle, who do yo think they're going to blame?"
"All right," sighed Ken.
The page led them to a pair of huge oak doors, then paused. A pair of Guardromon swung the heavy doors open. The page stepped inside and bowed low. "Mr. Yamato Ishida, Mr. Takeru Ishida, Mr. Daisuke Motomiya, and Mr. Ken Ichijouji," announced the page. He moved to the side, allowing the others to enter.
Daisuke swallowed hard and prayed he remembered what Gennai had had told them. He watched out of the corner of his eye as his friends. They strode forward. A stout, older man, his reddish-blond hair streaked with gray, sat in an ornate, carved wood chair on a dais. His red velvet doublet was edged in gold, with a matching hat upon his head. Next to him stood a slender young man dressed in a more elaborate version of the elder man's suit. Daisuke and Takeru recognized him as the man they rescued. Following the directions Gennai had given them earlier, the four adventurers bowed low to the Baron and the Baronet.
"Welcome brave adventurers. I am Baron Stefan von Spielburg, twelfth baron of Castle Spielburg. Words can not express the depth of my gratitude," said the Baron as he stood. "Not only have you returned my son, but you have also renewed my hopes that the curse on myself and my lands will finally be lifted. Would the two of you responsible for my son's safe return step forward?" Takeru and Daisuke took a step towards the dais. "Not only have you returned my son, but you have also rid Spielburg of a dangerous Raremon. My son would like to express his gratitude." The Baron glanced at Barnard, then elbowed his son. "Barnard," prompted Baron von Spielburg.
"I appreciate your efforts to free me and destroy the Raremon." From the Baronet's tone, it was obvious that he was unused to expressing his thanks.
"Sir, might I ask how you became prisoner of the Raremon?" asked Yamato.
"I was out riding with my men," explained the Baronet. "We were separated. As I sought to join them, I found a cave entrance. The Raremon dared to order me to leave _his_ cave. I informed him that I was the Baronet, heir to all lands within the area, then I ordered him to bow down before me."
"I can see why the Raremon would want to turn him into a bear," thought Takeru.
"The evil creature then cast a spell upon me. I remember very little after that."
"I hope you gentlemen will continue your adventures," said the Baron. "Spielburg is still in need of heroes. It will take time for my forces to reach enough strength to take on the brigands."
"Now that I have returned, I shall lead our forces to victory," affirmed the Baronet.
"My lord, what sort of organization do the brigands have?" asked Yamato.
"In that lies the clincher," returned Baron von Spielburg. "There have always been brigands in the valley. Only recently have they become organized. The brigand leader is a brilliant strategist. His raids have little losses. By his side fights a wizard. Though not powerful, his spells are used effectively."
"Sounds like a dangerous combination," mused Ken aloud.
"It is said that the brigands have a fortress to the south, protected by an ambush for all," said the Baron.
"Hey, that sounds like the place we ran across the other day," interrupted Daisuke.
"I have heard of rumors of a secret entrance to their hideout, but no one has been able to find its location," ended the Baron.
"My lord, how did the curse come about in the first place?" asked Takeru.
"Several years ago, I tried to force the ogress Babamon Yaga out of the lands. She retaliated by casting a curse so that I would lose all that I treasured. Ten years ago, a strange creature flew over the castle walls and stole away my darling daughter. Every one, including my court jester Gekomon, searched for her. Gekomon was a Digimon of infinite jest. But alas, poor Gekomon never returned. Five years ago, Barnard disappeared as well. I lost interest in my lands and everything else. Now I can almost envision the day I hold a ceremony proclaiming you 'Heroes of Spielburg.'"
"It would be nice if someone finally defeated the brigands and claimed the title," sniffed the Baronet.
The Baron glanced at his son, then turned to Takeru and Daisuke. "As I promised, the reward posted for the safe return of my son is yours. You will recive it when you leave. But now, I invite you all to join me for dinner and be my guests at the castle this evening."
"We would be honored, my lord," Takeru responded.
---
They spent a pleasant evening with the Baron and the Baronet, then a comfortable night in canopy beds with down comforters. After a filling breakfast, a page met the adventurers and presented Takeru and Daisuke each of them with a purse of gold coins. "I never thought I'd ever own this much money, let alone see it," said Daisuke as the group walked back to town. "I told you guys becoming adventuring was worth it."
Yamato and Ken tried not to roll their eyes. As they weren't involved in the rescue of the Baronet, they didn't receive any of the reward money. "So what are you intending to do with it?" asked Ken.
"I don't know," said Daisuke. "I'd like to see about a better weapon or shield, but I don't know where in town they sell any."
"The dry goods store has some chain mail," suggested Takeru. "I was about to see about a new dagger."
"With what you earned, you could buy fifty daggers," returned Ken.
"I'll probably invest in a bunch of mana potions. But first I'll see what Bakumon has in his shop."
"Okay. Frankly, I'd like to see if the valley entrance we came through is still blocked," said Yamato.
"I'll go with you," said Ken.
"Let's meet back at the inn at noon," suggested Daisuke. The others agreed. Daisuke and Takeru entered the town.
Ken and Yamato continued east along the road that first led them to town. A fifteen minute long brisk walk brought them to the valley entrance. Snow and boulders still blocked the valley entrance. "Looks like it's going to take a while longer before the sun really begins to melt the snow," said Yamato.
"Too bad there isn't a local contingent of fire Digimon around," chuckled Ken. "They'd melt the avalanche and be done with it."
"Maybe we should suggest that to Sheriff Starmon," returned Yamato as they turned back towards town.
A few minutes later, they found a Kapurimon with its tail caught in the jaws of a trap. "Please help me," it said when it saw them.
"Okay, give me a second," said Yamato as he knelt next to the struggling Kapurimon. "Ken, you hold it still while I see how this trap opens.
"It'll be okay," said Ken as he held the Kapurimon still. He stroked its ears. "We don't want the trap to open and close again." A minute later, Yamato found the reset trigger on the trap and opened it.
"Thank you," said the Kapurimon as it briefly examined its sore tail. "To show my gratitude, here's a tidbit of information I picked up in the forest. Babamon Yaga has enchanted the Baron's daughter. Lillymon, in the southwest corner of the forest, knows how to break the spell. Thanks again!" The Kapurimon bounded off into the forest.
"Curiouser and curiouser," said Yamato as he watched the Kapurimon go. "What do you make of it?"
"Those Yuramon mentioned Lillymon before. Sounds like one of those magical forest spirits. We should take Takeru along if we're going to be dealing with magic."
Yamato nodded. "Let's go see if they're finshed shopping yet." They returned to the village just as Takeru and Daisuke walked out of the dry goods store.
"Man, take a look at this!" said Daisuke. "A real chain mail shirt! I'd like to see a Cheetauromon get its claws through this." Yamato examined the chain mail. The tightly worked metal links were of a good quality and offered more protection than the leather jerkins they wore. "Too bad he didn't have any shields. The Weapons Master said I might be better off with a shield."
"We can ask Gennai about that," said Yamato. "Maybe he knows where we can get some."
"You know, you always could just scavenge a couple from some dead Goblimon or brigands," suggested Ken.
"I don't know," returned Yamato. "I'm still getting used to the idea of scavenging gold from them."
"Gold, and probably weapons stolen from others they attacked and killed," Takeru pointed out.
"True," Yamato conceeded. He then told them what happened with the Kapurimon.
"Interesting," said Takeru. "Both Wizardmon and Sorcerymon said the area surronding the town has a strong natural aura of magic. It may be the reason Babamon Yaga came to this area."
"Let's check out this Lillymon!" exclaimed Daisuke. He took off towards the town gate.
"Will you wait a minute!" called Ken. He began chasing after Daisuke.
Yamato turned to Takeru and was about to say something to him when he noticed the large, unweildy package his brother was carrying. "What in the world did you buy?"
"Um, well, I was going to give you this later, but since we're heading off to the forest again, you might as well get some use out of it now." He handed Yamato the package. The bulky package was a bit on the heavy side. A silvery glint met Yamato's eyes as he tore off the brown paper. Pulling off the paper revealed a piece of chain mail. "I pretty much bought out every spell Sorcerymon had already. There wasn't much I could use in the store. And for some strange reason, I never did trust Ken around large amounts of money."
Yamato laughed. "But still, you should keep this for yourself."
"No. When I'm dealing with monsters, I prefer to keep my distance and use a few well placed flame darts, while you're up there in claw's distance with a sword. Besides. . ." Takeru scratched the back of his head in embarrassment. "I still feel bad about that flame dart I threw at you the other day."
Deciding not to argue further, Yamato took off his cloak and pack, then slid the chain mail shirt over his leather jerkin.
"Will you guys hurry up?" called Daisuke, who was already at the town gate.
"We're coming," said Yamato as he picked up his pack. The chain mail was heavy, but it offered more security than just the leather. The fighter fastened his cloak around his neck. Daisuke waited for them at the gate impatiently.
"Come on already! Let's find this Lillymon." Daisuke began marching out of town.
"We better get a move on before he gets into any trouble," said Ken.
-To Be Continued-
Author's Notes: First thing I've posted in who knows how long. I hope more readers are out there.
I've been making lots of character revisions in this story. One of the main characters in this story (who hasn't appeared physically yet) has been changed at least 3 times. I've also changed a few things as to how the whole series will develop. Those familiar with the Quest for Glory games will probably have a few ideas. There's a major turning point in Game 5 (Dragonfire). I may decide to take a rather shocking twist. But I will leave things hanging until that point.
Speaking of Dragonfire, I finally found the soundtrack CD. It's incredible.
A few of my other projects have been backburnered thanks to this new story consuming my imagination (that's what happens when you spend a weekend reading fairy tales online). This one will be an original story like "A Digi-Tale" was. . . in fact, it's running away with itself as well (I've barely gotten into writing the story and it's at 14 pages _).. The basic theme will be that of a princess meeting an enchanted creature (I'm using a fairly common fairy-tale motif, but it's _not_ a "Beauty and the Beast" story). This is being revised so many times that odds are it won't be posted until its finished.
Postings will probably be slow. My new principal is demanding lesson plans turned in to her desk by 8am every Monday. Until things settle down, I'm going to be rearranging lesson plans _. So much for the illusion of teachers working only from 8 to 3. I didn't leave school till 5:30 today. I've been in by 7:20 (only because I'm getting a ride from one of the other teachers).
Well, back to writing. . .
