THE GIFT OF THE MAZOUKU - A SLAYERS STORY
Chapter 18 - Goodness Gracia!
HE WHO FIGHTS WITH MONSTERS MIGHT TAKE CARE LEST HE THEREBY BECOME A MONSTER. AND IF YOU GAZE FOR LONG INTO AN ABYSS, THE ABYSS GAZES ALSO INTO YOU - FRIEDRICH NIETZSCHE
"Did I say NAGS? No, I said HORSES! Horses with saddles, NOT nag with butt-breakers! SHE'S PRINCESS AMELIA OF SEYRUUN, not kitchen help. She's carrying an order with a royal seal on it, SO GET HOPPING!" Lina shouted orders right and left.
"That's RIGHT, fur-lined cloaks! It's going to snow and I'm going to be comfortable! Nice job with the cloaks, boys! Now would give those idiots a hand they can't seem to get three horse saddled and ready to go." Lina parted with some money and off rode the three companions.
"Unless the storm's really bad, we should get to Seyruun by tomorrow afternoon. Then I get to see my sister PRINCESS GRACIA and he fiancée. Daddy didn't mention Mr. Zelgadiss or the damaged prison cell.so we must be forgiven," said Amelia wistfully.
* * * *
The first snowflakes blew into their faces as they rode to their inn that evening.
"You are so right Lina. Bad luck follows that Rocky kid like demons follow that goofy Priest. Without them we not only made good time but we found an inn with great food that's cheap and the first snow is just that, NOT a blizzard," observed Yoyo with a sneer.
"I hope the others are all right though, I wonder what little Val- chan looks like now. What do you think Miss Lina?" asked Amelia before taking a bite of dinner.
Lina hated to admit it but she missed Gourry. They had been travelling together for years now. She was comfortable with his steadfast support and and good-natured joking. He wasn't smart, but she was. If it was sorcery-related conversation she needed, Zelgadiss filled the bill: sarcastic and moody but honest and logical. She missed him too. Xelloss, on the other hand.manipulative, secretive, dangerous, and annoying.She could do without him. If only she understood the dream.Shabrinigdo.the power of that ruby clasp.Shabrinigdo.Knight of Ruby Eye? Is that what Zelas was referring to? If I use that spell I become the Knight of Ruby Eye? Do I have a choice? Am I the Knight all ready and so, I have the power? I guess I need Xelloss too, to get me some answers.
"MISS LINA?" shouted Amelia.
"Oh yeah.the guys. I'm sure they're okay," said Lina.
"And Val.what's his name.Valentine?" asked Yoyo.
"Filia told us Dragons grow up extremely fast until they become teenagers. So, he's probably nearly grown up by now. I was wondering if he remembered anything about his past, about Valgaav," mused Lina.
* * * *
The next morning was crisp with sparkling snow frosting the trees and roads. The girls ate a filling but quick, for Lina, meal and prepared for departure to Seyruun. The horses were well fed and rested too and so willing to trot quickly over snowing paths and jump wind-swept drifts effortless. The sun hung low in its winter arc, pale and weak.
"Look, there's Seyruun!" cried Amelia with pride
Her beautiful city glistened in the valley below. Their path merged with others meandering down from mountain passes to join the main road into Seyruun. Other travelers moved purposefully towards town. The busy hum of the largest most peaceful city in all the land filled them with excitement.
The three companions rode up to the palace gates at full gallop.
"Open the gates!" the Princess commanded, then lead her friends to the guardhouse. "Please see to our horses. They should be returned to the inn marked on the saddles tomorrow. Take our belongings to my room also." Amelia continued to clip off orders to servants and guards as they approached. "Please inform Father I'm here. I expect three or so friends to arrive today. They'll be armed and dangerous looking but should ask for me by name. I'll give you their names scribble."
"Wow, she really IS the Princess of Seyruun!" said Yoyo amazed with the wealth and grandeur displayed in the palace.
One servant took their snow-dusted cloaks and soggy boots. Another directed the travelers to a comfortable salon with tables and plush chairs.
"Thank you Serat," said Amelia, "Miss Lina, Miss Yoyo, I'll be back soon. I must talk to Daddy privately!"
Amelia left her friends. Moments later a maidservant pushed in a rolling cart laden with cakes and tea.
"This beats camping out in the forest anytime," laughed Yoyo. "I can't figure why she'd want to trade this for life on the road?"
"Yeah, there was a time when I was looking for a prince to marry and never have to worry about money again.I had just met Gourry."mumbled Lina biting into another cake.
"No kidding? Don't get me wrong but, you don't seem the type.for marriage or anything." said Yoyo carefully.
"Yep, well it was the fast track to wealth, NOT the romantic road. I'm still not so keen on the romance part," smiled Lina.
"So I noticed. I mean you hang out with three gorgeous guys and never seem to notice. Except the other morning, you and the Big Guy seemed pretty chummy, eh?" grinned Yoyo.
Lina was still rolling over in her mind the phrase "three gorgeous guys", when she realized Yoyo had asked her a question. "Who? Oh, yeah, well Gourry can be so it hurts, like last night. We've been to Hell and back, literally, together and .I don't know. I really am used to being around him. Like now, I kinda miss him, but other times."
"Well, what about the others?" asked Yoyo leisurely sipping her tea.
"Zel is too self absorbed and obsessive about his looks to attract must besides barnacles - and I'll tell you that story later, remind me! He's a great friend, but until he resolves his cure thing I don't think there's much romance in him either," replied Lina.
"So.that leaves the goofy Priest guy. He seems to have a crush on you!" teased Yoyo.
"Let's just leave him out of the discussion. Xelloss just does stuff to annoy me, that's all. He's Mazouku. I don't know what kind of feelings they have, but they're not like us. They definitely don't settle down and have happy families and raise kids. Mazouku aren't into peace and love, more like strife and chaos."
Lina paused to gulp down her cup of tea and pour some more. "Whatever he appears to be is just that, appearance. He's not even made of flesh and blood like us. I've seen him hurt before. Pretty strange. Chunks torn out of him with some black Astral spirit mist pouring out. What's really going on is hidden inside, revealed only when he chooses to or.slips up. Which isn't often. He's usually working under someone's orders and does what he's told, which someday may include killing all of us. And he'll try to without regret, so be on your guard."
"What was THAT noise?" both girls blanched.
* * * *
"OH hohohoho!"
"MISS GRACIA!" cried Amelia with joy.
"AMELIA! How you have grown!" hollered her sister.
"Miss Gracia, I can't believe it! Mr. Xelloss said he had found you and your fiancée, but until I saw you with my own eyes.Oho! What kind of outfit are you wearing under that cloak?" asked Amelia.
"OH hohohoho. I say if you've got it, flaunt it!" laughed her sister. Considering that there was more of her skin showing than covered up, she certainly was showing off her attributes more than a princess should.
"B-But that's not appropriate dress for a Princess. Aren't you coming back.to stay?" asked Amelia.
"Hummm well, we'll see.Oh I was going to introduce you to my fiancée." Garcia excused herself shouting, "I'll be back in ten minutes.That's all. TATA!"
* * * *
"Oh hohoho! Lina, there you are! Phil said you were coming and I just couldn't believe it! Whooo's your new friend?"
Lina turned to Yoyo, "Yoyo, this is Nahga. Nahga, Yoyo."
Yoyo stared at the tall woman. Nahga had flawless ivory skin and lots of it visible. In fact, it appeared her clothing was comprised of two black strips of leather wound around her legs and torso. Her long black hair and cape swung freely down her back.
"Nahga the White Serpent sorceress at large, Lina's greatest rival. 'Yoyo', that's an unusual name.Lina has a penchant for odd-sounding named friends.like that one scary and charming young man.Xelloss, who directed me here to meet you Lina.well, so what is your line of work, Yoyo?" asked Nahga.
"I'm a bandit, starting my own group. Actually, I could use a sorceress- type. You are pretty powerful, I imagine." Yoyo smiled.
"Oh hohohoho. You betcha I'm good." Nahga grinned. "But.I've got to get something to drink.and God's no, not tea.I'll see you in the dining room and we'll chat more. TATA!"
* * * *
"Oh Miss Gracia, I'm so glad you're back. I wanted to talk more before I introduce you to my friends," cried Amelia.
"Talk, oh yes, let's get it all out dear. Wine?" asked her sister.
"No, thank you. It's not healthy. Aren't you drinking an awful lot there Miss Gracia?" asked Amelia.
"S'all right. What were you saying?" asked Gracia.
"Miss Gracia! When did you start drinking like this?" Amelia asked with obvious concern.
"Oh dear, well. when I left home.It was hard.I was too young to get married, you know. Daddy insisted it was the Law, and you know Daddy and the Law!" explained Gracia.
"Yes.I do know. I'm not ready either. I ran away too, but I came back to see you. But you don't seem to ready to settle down here and be the Crown Princess," said Amelia, sadness in her voice.
"I'm trying honey, but glug glug I'd also like to reach my other goal."
"And what's that?" asked Amelia, hopefully adding, "Spreading JUSTICE throughout the land?"
"OH hohoho! No, visiting all the spas and hot springs around the world! Now where did my husband-to-be Prince get off to now?" yawned Gracia.
"I don't know, but we can go looking for him if you like? But first, tell me, did you leave to avoid the marriage law.or the boring paperwork?" asked Amelia.
"There's boring paperwork? Now that's a toss up. Hmm, doesn't sound like me. I'm more of an .action person, you know? Even with the marriage problem settled now.whispering my fiancée's a prince now wink wink . I don't know what kind of princess I'll make," smiled Gracia.
"Oh, Miss Gracia! What will we do? I'm not ready for marriage. The only guy I like is definitely no prince and probably not becoming one soon," moaned Amelia.
"Have a drink, Sissy. You'll forget it all."
Just then, a tall, dark, bushy-headed man blustered into the room, tears flowing freely, "Ahhhh booohohooo, MY BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTERS TOGETHER AGAIN! You've shown me how UNJUST such an antiquated law really is! Sixteen years old? Let's make it sixty years!" cried Prince Phil jubilantly.
So together in a soggy, sniffling group hug, a new law was written, seconded, and voted into action.
"LONG LIVE SEYRUUN!" shouted Prince Phil.
"THE LAST BASTION OF TRUTH, JUSTICE, AND THE RIGHTEOUS LAW!" shouted Princess Amelia just as loudly.
"You're both starting to sound reasonable.Time for a drink!
Hic " moaned Princess Gracia, then laughed manically, "OH hohohoho!"
* * * *
Lina and Yoyo cried out together, "I thought I heard Nahga!"
The two girls were happily following a servant into the dining hall when they heard another disturbance down the hall.
"Ladies, please begin your meal. Prince Phil has been detained, but will join you momentarily," said the servant bowing stiffly.
"Don't have to tell me twice!" laughed Lina. She tore off a hunk of bread and stuffed it into her mouth, while watching a waiter ladle soup from a gigantic tureen into smaller bowls.
Yoyo clumsily chose a spoon from a line-up of twelve alongside her plate. "Do you think Amelia had to go to school to learn how to eat?"
Lina nodded and pointed at the empty breadbasket. The waiter removed it and replaced it with a selection of warm rolls. Another servant set a brace of pheasant on the table then carved slices. The carver presented the platter of slices to Lina to choose from and Lina grabbed the whole platter, dumping the contents onto her plate.
"Thanks! That'll do for me!" She said winking.
"OH, hohohoho! What am I missing? The soup? I'll pass and go straight, heh heh," Nahga paused, then slumped into a chair, "to the main course. Some of that.bird.whatever was sacrificed today.and those potatoes and.where did that wine steward go.You whoooo! Stew-ward!"
Yoyo couldn't believe that there could be anymore uncouth an eating companion than Lina, but here she was! She watched Nahga guzzle the entire carafe of wine in five gulps.
"That's better burp , now where were we? Oh yeah, Yoyo needs members.well.I don't think my current, ah.job is panning out, so.I'm IN! Welcome to the.wait, that's your line! Could you pass me that.whatever it is?" Nahga said, garbling the last few words.
Yoyo passed the nearest platter faster than the waiter could move, but Nahga passed out plunk smoosh face first into the mashed potatoes.
"Hey! Waiter guy! Give me a hand here. That's it, lift her up, I'll clean off her face. Yeah.can you.EYE'S UP HERE, BUB!"
Yoyo wrapped Nahga's cloak over her voluptuous figure. "Now, can you carry her to her room? Thanks. Yeesh, Lina what's her problem anyway?"
"Looks like she's drinking more seriously now. Maybe it's just the stress of taking on a job with Prince Phil. Wait till you meet him! Don't worry, she'll be fine in a bit.ah, are you going to eat the rest of those potatoes?" wondered Lina.
"Miss Lina, Miss Yoyo!" cried Amelia as she bounced into the dining hall.
"Hey, Amelia! We started without you, but I've left you something.somewhere." began Lina.
"Oh that's okay. I really wanted you to meet my sister, Princess Gracia. I thought she was on her way here."
"Well a servant guy said Prince Phil was detained and we heard some scuffling in the hall getting here so.maybe your sister and dad had some important wedding plans to go over, eh?" Yoyo mused.
"Of course, you are probably right. Umm, that DOES smell good. Crunch Munch . Amelia motioned silently to a nearby servant, "Please, Serat, would you see if you can locate my father and sister."
The three friends had long finished eating and settled into comfortable conversation, when the servant returned. "Princess Amelia, Princess Gracia is in her room. resting, and Prince Phil is in conference with the captain of the guard. There has been a disturbance outside of town, nothing important, Miss. Would you like me to keep you informed?"
"Yes, thank you, Serat. I'll be giving my friends a palace tour. You'll be able to find me in my suite later," Amelia nodded.
Serat bowed politely and left. Lina and Yoyo and Amelia continued to chatter away while leaving the dining table and walking the halls. The Princess pointed out the library, ballroom, offices, and stopped at her suite of private rooms.
"AMELIA! You're nuts to give up ALL THIS. for WHAT? To travel with a bunch of misfits and risk your life. for what exactly?" Yoyo paused for breath. Amelia blushed a little.
Yoyo smiled, "Excitement? Romance? AH, HA! "
Amelia blushed deeper.
"Romance? Are you hoping to meet some dashing swordsman who'll sweep you off your feet?" Yoyo asked with a grin.
"YOYO! Amelia's crazy about Zelgadiss! Even Rezo could see that and he's blind AND dead!" laughed Lina.
"Miss Lina!" gasped Amelia.
"Rocky! Well he is rather cute in an angsty, mysterious kind of way, but, ah.nothing personal, but.he's not really PRINCE material, is he?" said Yoyo incredulously.
"Well, no, but a right-thinking heart can't be lead astray. Justice will prevail. He will get his cure and he will see that my heart was true before, after, and for ALL TIME!" Amelia said standing on her bed, one arm upraised.
"Yeah, right and if there is no CURE? What is he actually? A teenage boy in a rock shell. Can he grow up? Can he have children? If he can, would they look human? Does he age? Oh, crud.I'm sorry, sweetie. I'm a realist, not a dreamer or a romantic," murmured Yoyo.
Amelia shook her head with a few tears rolling down her cheeks, "You're right, I know.how I feel defies logic. But it's just that he's so."
"Hot! That's the word. I told him so, but he couldn't take it and bolted. So what's it like kissing those stony lips?" asked Yoyo, "What's wrong?"
"Ah, Zel is kinda.distant." Lina intervened, "He's not very aggressive either."
"He's just shy, Miss Lina!" Amelia blushed, "I've never been kissed by anyone, but I dreamed he'd be the first."
"Well, does he know you like him? I mean most shy guys are pretty obtuse. He might think of you as a kid sister, if you act like one. Look at it from his standpoint. What has he to offer? You're a Princess, he's a wandering shaman who steals for food. What kind of man does he look like if he pursues you? He's got pride that's for sure. He won't want to look like a freeloader taking advantage of a younger girl."
"Oh Yoyo! I never thought of that! Of course he wouldn't want to appear so improper and.UNRIGHTEOUS!" Amelia brightened, "I'll have to give him a reason to hope."
Further discussion was interrupted by the sound of many heavily booted feet pounding down the hallway. Amelia's servant, Serat, knocked at the door.
"Yes?" called Amelia.
"It's Serat, Princess, with a message from Prince Phil."
"Come in, please," answered Amelia.
"Prince Phil requests your immediate presence, your companions included, in the throne room."
"All right everyone, let's go!" said Lina jumping for the door, glad to have some activity.
* * * *
Prince Phil was leaning over a map, which was spread out over the massive walnut table. The captain of the guard pointed to three spots saying, "Demons were reported here yesterday and here, then here today. But what the General here has told me was troubling."
An older man with wide shoulders and a graying beard nodded. "Troops from the Outlands to the North and East have reported numerous demon sightings. At times groups of ten to twenty or more moving through their lands. By nightfall our valley will be surrounded!"
"Daddy!" cried Amelia.
"Amelia!" cried Phil.
Yoyo looked over the map in an effort to ignore the Father/Daughter greeting and justice cheer-squad. Lina joined Yoyo and quickly reached the same gloomy conclusion as the General, whispering, "Yoyo, if they are after Xelloss, as he suggested, why so many? He's not even here, so what do you think they are planning to do to Seyruun?"
Yoyo shook her head, "So the Goof-ball's wrong. There must be another angle. I was chasing some demons when we met.or maybe they were headed your direction anyway.Did you get something new that demons might want, any of you guys?"
"Not that I know of.I have had some visions though.about a Mazouku Lord of the Shabrinigdo kind..but I don't know. It doesn't matter." Lina marched over to Amelia, "Hey, you coming? We have to keep these demons out of the city right? You don't want me to Dragon Slave Seyruun to ruins again do you? So let's go!"
"But there's only us three!" exclaimed Yoyo.
"AND THE JUSTICE FORCE OF SEYRUUN!" cried Prince Phil.
"Mr. Gourry and Mr. Zelgadiss will show up too!" said Amelia.
"I hope," thought Lina, "Amelia, we'll need our fur cloaks, boots, and some horses would be great!"
"On it, Miss Lina!" said the princess looking around for Serat again.
Yoyo followed Lina and Amelia out the door calling, "Hey Lina, wait up. Shouldn't we leave word here with someone for the guys so they know where to find us?"
"Oh Xelloss has ways.besides we'll be where the action is. My Fireballs can't be missed:" laughed the sorceress.
"I'll leave a note with my sister, Princess Gracia. If they come here, she'll know where to send them.at least where they can start looking."
"Good idea, Amelia. Just meet us at the stables in.fifteen minutes!" Lina called after the disappearing princess.
"OH, hohoho.oh crap! My head's killing me. Where's everyone going?" asked an unsteady Nahga.
"Ah.there's going to some trouble with demons, but you don't look up to much." began Lina.
"What? I'm in fighting shape. I'm as good as.ohhh.just need to sit a moment." moaned Nahga.
"Nahga, it's snowing out there. Why don't you stay in the Palace and guard it? You'd be the only sorceress here facing countless demons." Lina said enticingly.
"I'd do it," said Yoyo, "But I'm no sorceress, you know."
"Sssokay. I do guard duty too. I'm so NOT a snow person. Spa's and hot springs, that's my kind of recreation," smiled Nahga.
"That's good, well.Yoyo, let's go to the stables and check out the horse situation. Bet there isn't a nag to be had there!" said Lina, "See ya later!"
"OH, hohohoh! You'll be seeing Nahga the White Serpent in no time!"
Moments later, Princess Amelia rounded a turn and ran smack into, "Princess Gracia! I was looking for you. I have a favor to ask."
"No problembo, Sis! I've got the place covered."
"Great! You'll be staying here then? You see Mr. Gourry and Mr. Zelgadiss are expected but.could you give them this map? It marks the spots we might be found," Amelia smiled, handing over a note.
"Go have a good time.I need to go.find my fiancée.lay down..ohhh there goes my head again!" said Gracia, stumbling away.
"Now, to fight for JUSTICE I shall join with the RIGHTEOUS forces and.oh.bye, Miss Gracia."
* * * *
"Amelia! Hurry up! You're late!" shouted Lina.
Sorry, I did find Miss Gracia and gave her a map for .Hey! Wait for me!" cried Amelia.
CLIP CLOP CLIP CLOP
CLIPPITY, CLIP CLOPPITY, CLOP
Lina, Amelia, and Yoyo rode out the same way they had entered the beautiful city of Seyruun. Sparkling snow gave the high-peaked houses and palace spires a fairytale appearance. Lina steered off the main road and onto a narrow path through the forest. "Listen up everyone. Time for some tactical planning. We don't know how powerful these demons will be, but at first, Yoyo, stay back and don't let the horses run off. Amelia and I will test them a little. If needed, she can put up some protection barriers, then you dodge out and do some hacking. Got it? No heroics until backup arrives." Lina ordered.
"Right Chief!" answered Yoyo.
Amelia nodded. She knew Lina was in charge and was satisfied to take orders.
Lina raised an arm STOP! A cold wind caught a loose lock of her red hair, snapping it like a whip. From between the surrounding trees, a dozen hideous, barely humanoid forms appeared.
"FireBALL!" screamed Lina, bounding off her horse as the flaming ball flew from her hands.
"RAY FREEZE!" screamed Amelia while leaping off of her horse. She was hoping to by them some time by suspending the opponents' spells and movements momentarily.
Yoyo snatched up the freed reins. The horses whinnied and stomped the ground in fear of the approaching demons. The bandit-girl whispered softly to the animals and led them away beneath a sheltering rock ledge. She crouched down, using the horses as a shield and watched the demons burning in the Fireball spell. A heartbeat later new ones appeared behind Yoyo.
"Lina!" she cried, whipping out her axe.
SIZZLE
Yoyo's axe shot out and intercepted the flash of fire powered from the demon's claws. "Hi, YA!" she shouted.
The axe reflected the fire onto another creature bursting out of the ground. The ground golem blew apart, flinging rock parts into the air. Yoyo swung her axe, bouncing fragments away and repelling the claws of the first demon. With her left hand, she unsheathed a knife from a side pocket and jumped, jabbing the blade into the demon's eye and pushing off with her axe to parry the next claw attack.
"FLARE ARROW!" screamed Lina, igniting multiple light lances, which ripped off the demon's claws.
Amelia yelled, "BURST RONDO!" casting balls of light flashing into the demons' faces and blinding them temporarily.
"That's right! Buy us some time, Amelia!" said Lina beginning her chant.
Yoyo rolled back to the horses, out of the way and protected by a rock barrier.
"BURST RONDO!" Amelia cried out, spreading more chaotic light bursts, while Lina continued her incantation.
Amelia noticed two demons rushing them. Quickly she created a windshield and concentrated, ready to drop the protection the moment Lina was ready. Lina's voice grew louder, her cape flapped behind her in a wind as her chant continued. Yoyo pushed against the outermost horse forcing it to squeeze tightly against the rock ledge. Suddenly Lina's arms flung forward, a crimson glow grew from her hands: "DRAGON SLAVE!"
A massive blot of red pulsing power streaked through the cold air. A blinding light filled the sky and an impact blast blew with hurricane force.
"VICTORY!" Shouted Amelia as the dust cleared. No demons were left or trees or snow or.just a crater circling a mile out from Lina. Yoyo climbed on her horse and urged it on, yanking the other horses' reins.
"The next demon invasion was up at the pass ahead. But since I blew up the road, we'll have to circle back to the main road and.take this other swiggly line," said Lina, stabbing at the map.
Feeling confident, the three companions turned the horses back and galloped full speed toward Seyruun. Without warning, explosive blasts from overhead propelled rock chips into their faces. The cliff broke off and sent the trio careening down the mountain slope towards Seyruun's valley.
"LEVITATION!" screamed Lina, grabbing Yoyo by the waist and yanking her out of the rock slide.
"RAY WING!" cried Amelia, floating to safety.
Riderless, the horses slid with the rubble to the road below, righted themselves, and madly galloped away back to the palace.
Yoyo spat dirt. Amelia wiped away grime. Lina coughed dust. Another blast displaced more rocks, which pounded into them from above and bounced off Amelia's quickly conjured shield.
"Look out!" shouted Yoyo as a huge boulder loosened and rolled toward the girls.
"FIREBALL!" cried Lina, detonating a fiery ball into the boulder. The shattering fragments shot into Amelia's barrier, which, thankfully, held again.
Terrifying shrieks pierced the girls' ears. Lina glided to the top of the cliff. Amelia and Yoyo sank into the soft grass nearby, looking around anxiously for the source of the abominable sound. Nothing was moving in the gloomy dusk. Again, the shrill inhuman voices cried out and the demons rushed upon them. Lina chanted a quick spell then flung flames from her fingertips. Again and again she sent waves of flame washing over a cluster of creatures which ignited from the: "FIREBALL! FIREBALL! FIREBALL!"
Flaming tongues licked through the trees and swept up toward Yoyo and Amelia.
"MOS VARIUM!" cried Amelia. The glowing ball rushed from her hands to suck up the evil fire spell.
Yoyo dove under a barrage of shooting white-flame arrows, scrambled to her feet and leapt onto a tree branch. From her vantage point, Yoyo could see a single dark figure with multiple glowing eyes and an aura darker than the surrounding murkiness. It was floating towards them.
"Amelia, something different.Mazouku maybe.it's coming! Go for that and I'll help Lina distract the rest." Yoyo vaulted over Amelia using her axe for leverage. Then whirling her axe up, she slashed through a small on- coming creature and dropped-rolled to Lina's side.
Amelia began her chant, focusing on the empty space where Yoyo had pointed.
"FLARE ARROW!" shouted Lina, sending white-flaming lances to seared off a green-tentacled demon's limbs. The air filled with the foul stench of smoking wounds. Lina spun around to stand back to back with Yoyo, then sent out spell after spell of "FIREBALL!" filling the ever-darkening sky with and eerie artificial light.
Amelia finished her spirit-slaying spell, ".let the power hidden in my soul be called forth from the Infinite." With one last glance, Amelia spotted the specter of evil, then cried the last words, "RA TILT!"
The blue-white flame shot from her hands, slamming into her target. The Mazouku's spirit was destroyed in a blinding flash of light. "One for JUSTICE!" whooped the little Princess.
Lina , Yoyo, and Amelia stood together in the center of a charred landscape barely visible through a thick haze in the darkness of night.
"Are you all right, Amelia?" asked Lina as the princess slumped to the ground.
"Yeah, I'm just.drained."
"So do you think that was one of the wandering bands we expected, or a new one?" asked Yoyo.
"I don't know.but those were stronger than the first bunch." Said Lina, "Also, we're pushed closer to Seyruun. Look the main road is just a few hundred feet left and below."
The next explosion rocked the ground.
"Not again!" cried Yoyo.
"Can you run, Amelia?" asked Lina.
"Yeah."
"It's coming from the forest so,.down to the road!" shouted Lina.
They blew away ten more demons on their way, but were really getting tired. Yoyo's legs were burned and Amelia was applying a healing spell.
"That's enough or you won't be able to move yourself!" said Yoyo, "Thanks kid, you're.a real friend, Amelia."
"Gourry, Zel,.Xelloss, where are you?" wondered Lina, then to her friends said aloud, "Come on. We need to find a protected spot off the road. Give us a chance to build up our strength."
"Lina, LOOK OUT!" screamed Amelia. She summoned her remaining strength and chanted briefly to create a wind barrier.
A blast of power rebounded off the barrier shell. Lina began a long incantation. Again she stood eyes closed, arms aloft, wind gently blowing her hair then picking up and snapping her cape as the ball of glowing power grew in her hands. Amelia dropped the shield.
"DRAGON SLAVE!"
After the smoke cleared, the lunar landscape following her blast's attack stretched to the very gates of Seyruun. The city was spared. Amelia crawled over to Lina who was sprawled flat out on her back. She checked the sorceress's pulse and listened to her breathing, like Zelgadiss had taught her. "She's alive. Good, 'cause I couldn't help anyone now."
Amelia glanced over at Yoyo, who waved a hand, then closed her eyes too, mumbling, "If any more come, we are dead, you know."
Lina pushed up onto her elbows, "It's no time to be gloomy. It worked, didn't it?"
Amelia held up a half-hearted "V"-for-victory sign, "All gone, Miss Lina!"
"So.can any of us move?" asked Lina, "'Cause I can sense more .coming! NOW!"
* * * *
"Val, watch Zelgadiss a moment," advised Gourry. "See how he combines all his...ah.special talents with good sword skills to become a.a ah.very effective fighter? His speed, I wish I could move that fast.his skin can deflect most blades.I've got the scars to prove my mistakes.and I've seen him put spells on the sword with awesome results!"
Val watched admiring the demonstration, then added thoughtfully, "Yeah, if he wasn't a chimera, he wouldn't be much of a warrior, would he? He'd just be."
"He'd STILL be our friend..." finished Gourry.
Zelgadiss had hidden a blush response from Gourry's kind words with some speedy moves, but Val's words struck him like a punch to the stomach. He was distracted enough that Xelloss almost disarmed him, but instead, Xelloss froze mid-swing.
"Xelloss, what's up?" asked Zelgadiss, lowering his sword.
He and Xelloss were trading off with Gourry and Val practicing sword technique. Xelloss dropped his branch and opened his eyes in shock
Gasp! So many dead. "Time to go!" he said, his voice shaking ever so little, "Val, keep that dagger on you." The Mazouku reached for Gourry and Zel's arms then they disappeared.
SHIMMER
Chapter 18 - Goodness Gracia!
HE WHO FIGHTS WITH MONSTERS MIGHT TAKE CARE LEST HE THEREBY BECOME A MONSTER. AND IF YOU GAZE FOR LONG INTO AN ABYSS, THE ABYSS GAZES ALSO INTO YOU - FRIEDRICH NIETZSCHE
"Did I say NAGS? No, I said HORSES! Horses with saddles, NOT nag with butt-breakers! SHE'S PRINCESS AMELIA OF SEYRUUN, not kitchen help. She's carrying an order with a royal seal on it, SO GET HOPPING!" Lina shouted orders right and left.
"That's RIGHT, fur-lined cloaks! It's going to snow and I'm going to be comfortable! Nice job with the cloaks, boys! Now would give those idiots a hand they can't seem to get three horse saddled and ready to go." Lina parted with some money and off rode the three companions.
"Unless the storm's really bad, we should get to Seyruun by tomorrow afternoon. Then I get to see my sister PRINCESS GRACIA and he fiancée. Daddy didn't mention Mr. Zelgadiss or the damaged prison cell.so we must be forgiven," said Amelia wistfully.
* * * *
The first snowflakes blew into their faces as they rode to their inn that evening.
"You are so right Lina. Bad luck follows that Rocky kid like demons follow that goofy Priest. Without them we not only made good time but we found an inn with great food that's cheap and the first snow is just that, NOT a blizzard," observed Yoyo with a sneer.
"I hope the others are all right though, I wonder what little Val- chan looks like now. What do you think Miss Lina?" asked Amelia before taking a bite of dinner.
Lina hated to admit it but she missed Gourry. They had been travelling together for years now. She was comfortable with his steadfast support and and good-natured joking. He wasn't smart, but she was. If it was sorcery-related conversation she needed, Zelgadiss filled the bill: sarcastic and moody but honest and logical. She missed him too. Xelloss, on the other hand.manipulative, secretive, dangerous, and annoying.She could do without him. If only she understood the dream.Shabrinigdo.the power of that ruby clasp.Shabrinigdo.Knight of Ruby Eye? Is that what Zelas was referring to? If I use that spell I become the Knight of Ruby Eye? Do I have a choice? Am I the Knight all ready and so, I have the power? I guess I need Xelloss too, to get me some answers.
"MISS LINA?" shouted Amelia.
"Oh yeah.the guys. I'm sure they're okay," said Lina.
"And Val.what's his name.Valentine?" asked Yoyo.
"Filia told us Dragons grow up extremely fast until they become teenagers. So, he's probably nearly grown up by now. I was wondering if he remembered anything about his past, about Valgaav," mused Lina.
* * * *
The next morning was crisp with sparkling snow frosting the trees and roads. The girls ate a filling but quick, for Lina, meal and prepared for departure to Seyruun. The horses were well fed and rested too and so willing to trot quickly over snowing paths and jump wind-swept drifts effortless. The sun hung low in its winter arc, pale and weak.
"Look, there's Seyruun!" cried Amelia with pride
Her beautiful city glistened in the valley below. Their path merged with others meandering down from mountain passes to join the main road into Seyruun. Other travelers moved purposefully towards town. The busy hum of the largest most peaceful city in all the land filled them with excitement.
The three companions rode up to the palace gates at full gallop.
"Open the gates!" the Princess commanded, then lead her friends to the guardhouse. "Please see to our horses. They should be returned to the inn marked on the saddles tomorrow. Take our belongings to my room also." Amelia continued to clip off orders to servants and guards as they approached. "Please inform Father I'm here. I expect three or so friends to arrive today. They'll be armed and dangerous looking but should ask for me by name. I'll give you their names scribble."
"Wow, she really IS the Princess of Seyruun!" said Yoyo amazed with the wealth and grandeur displayed in the palace.
One servant took their snow-dusted cloaks and soggy boots. Another directed the travelers to a comfortable salon with tables and plush chairs.
"Thank you Serat," said Amelia, "Miss Lina, Miss Yoyo, I'll be back soon. I must talk to Daddy privately!"
Amelia left her friends. Moments later a maidservant pushed in a rolling cart laden with cakes and tea.
"This beats camping out in the forest anytime," laughed Yoyo. "I can't figure why she'd want to trade this for life on the road?"
"Yeah, there was a time when I was looking for a prince to marry and never have to worry about money again.I had just met Gourry."mumbled Lina biting into another cake.
"No kidding? Don't get me wrong but, you don't seem the type.for marriage or anything." said Yoyo carefully.
"Yep, well it was the fast track to wealth, NOT the romantic road. I'm still not so keen on the romance part," smiled Lina.
"So I noticed. I mean you hang out with three gorgeous guys and never seem to notice. Except the other morning, you and the Big Guy seemed pretty chummy, eh?" grinned Yoyo.
Lina was still rolling over in her mind the phrase "three gorgeous guys", when she realized Yoyo had asked her a question. "Who? Oh, yeah, well Gourry can be so it hurts, like last night. We've been to Hell and back, literally, together and .I don't know. I really am used to being around him. Like now, I kinda miss him, but other times."
"Well, what about the others?" asked Yoyo leisurely sipping her tea.
"Zel is too self absorbed and obsessive about his looks to attract must besides barnacles - and I'll tell you that story later, remind me! He's a great friend, but until he resolves his cure thing I don't think there's much romance in him either," replied Lina.
"So.that leaves the goofy Priest guy. He seems to have a crush on you!" teased Yoyo.
"Let's just leave him out of the discussion. Xelloss just does stuff to annoy me, that's all. He's Mazouku. I don't know what kind of feelings they have, but they're not like us. They definitely don't settle down and have happy families and raise kids. Mazouku aren't into peace and love, more like strife and chaos."
Lina paused to gulp down her cup of tea and pour some more. "Whatever he appears to be is just that, appearance. He's not even made of flesh and blood like us. I've seen him hurt before. Pretty strange. Chunks torn out of him with some black Astral spirit mist pouring out. What's really going on is hidden inside, revealed only when he chooses to or.slips up. Which isn't often. He's usually working under someone's orders and does what he's told, which someday may include killing all of us. And he'll try to without regret, so be on your guard."
"What was THAT noise?" both girls blanched.
* * * *
"OH hohohoho!"
"MISS GRACIA!" cried Amelia with joy.
"AMELIA! How you have grown!" hollered her sister.
"Miss Gracia, I can't believe it! Mr. Xelloss said he had found you and your fiancée, but until I saw you with my own eyes.Oho! What kind of outfit are you wearing under that cloak?" asked Amelia.
"OH hohohoho. I say if you've got it, flaunt it!" laughed her sister. Considering that there was more of her skin showing than covered up, she certainly was showing off her attributes more than a princess should.
"B-But that's not appropriate dress for a Princess. Aren't you coming back.to stay?" asked Amelia.
"Hummm well, we'll see.Oh I was going to introduce you to my fiancée." Garcia excused herself shouting, "I'll be back in ten minutes.That's all. TATA!"
* * * *
"Oh hohoho! Lina, there you are! Phil said you were coming and I just couldn't believe it! Whooo's your new friend?"
Lina turned to Yoyo, "Yoyo, this is Nahga. Nahga, Yoyo."
Yoyo stared at the tall woman. Nahga had flawless ivory skin and lots of it visible. In fact, it appeared her clothing was comprised of two black strips of leather wound around her legs and torso. Her long black hair and cape swung freely down her back.
"Nahga the White Serpent sorceress at large, Lina's greatest rival. 'Yoyo', that's an unusual name.Lina has a penchant for odd-sounding named friends.like that one scary and charming young man.Xelloss, who directed me here to meet you Lina.well, so what is your line of work, Yoyo?" asked Nahga.
"I'm a bandit, starting my own group. Actually, I could use a sorceress- type. You are pretty powerful, I imagine." Yoyo smiled.
"Oh hohohoho. You betcha I'm good." Nahga grinned. "But.I've got to get something to drink.and God's no, not tea.I'll see you in the dining room and we'll chat more. TATA!"
* * * *
"Oh Miss Gracia, I'm so glad you're back. I wanted to talk more before I introduce you to my friends," cried Amelia.
"Talk, oh yes, let's get it all out dear. Wine?" asked her sister.
"No, thank you. It's not healthy. Aren't you drinking an awful lot there Miss Gracia?" asked Amelia.
"S'all right. What were you saying?" asked Gracia.
"Miss Gracia! When did you start drinking like this?" Amelia asked with obvious concern.
"Oh dear, well. when I left home.It was hard.I was too young to get married, you know. Daddy insisted it was the Law, and you know Daddy and the Law!" explained Gracia.
"Yes.I do know. I'm not ready either. I ran away too, but I came back to see you. But you don't seem to ready to settle down here and be the Crown Princess," said Amelia, sadness in her voice.
"I'm trying honey, but glug glug I'd also like to reach my other goal."
"And what's that?" asked Amelia, hopefully adding, "Spreading JUSTICE throughout the land?"
"OH hohoho! No, visiting all the spas and hot springs around the world! Now where did my husband-to-be Prince get off to now?" yawned Gracia.
"I don't know, but we can go looking for him if you like? But first, tell me, did you leave to avoid the marriage law.or the boring paperwork?" asked Amelia.
"There's boring paperwork? Now that's a toss up. Hmm, doesn't sound like me. I'm more of an .action person, you know? Even with the marriage problem settled now.whispering my fiancée's a prince now wink wink . I don't know what kind of princess I'll make," smiled Gracia.
"Oh, Miss Gracia! What will we do? I'm not ready for marriage. The only guy I like is definitely no prince and probably not becoming one soon," moaned Amelia.
"Have a drink, Sissy. You'll forget it all."
Just then, a tall, dark, bushy-headed man blustered into the room, tears flowing freely, "Ahhhh booohohooo, MY BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTERS TOGETHER AGAIN! You've shown me how UNJUST such an antiquated law really is! Sixteen years old? Let's make it sixty years!" cried Prince Phil jubilantly.
So together in a soggy, sniffling group hug, a new law was written, seconded, and voted into action.
"LONG LIVE SEYRUUN!" shouted Prince Phil.
"THE LAST BASTION OF TRUTH, JUSTICE, AND THE RIGHTEOUS LAW!" shouted Princess Amelia just as loudly.
"You're both starting to sound reasonable.Time for a drink!
Hic " moaned Princess Gracia, then laughed manically, "OH hohohoho!"
* * * *
Lina and Yoyo cried out together, "I thought I heard Nahga!"
The two girls were happily following a servant into the dining hall when they heard another disturbance down the hall.
"Ladies, please begin your meal. Prince Phil has been detained, but will join you momentarily," said the servant bowing stiffly.
"Don't have to tell me twice!" laughed Lina. She tore off a hunk of bread and stuffed it into her mouth, while watching a waiter ladle soup from a gigantic tureen into smaller bowls.
Yoyo clumsily chose a spoon from a line-up of twelve alongside her plate. "Do you think Amelia had to go to school to learn how to eat?"
Lina nodded and pointed at the empty breadbasket. The waiter removed it and replaced it with a selection of warm rolls. Another servant set a brace of pheasant on the table then carved slices. The carver presented the platter of slices to Lina to choose from and Lina grabbed the whole platter, dumping the contents onto her plate.
"Thanks! That'll do for me!" She said winking.
"OH, hohohoho! What am I missing? The soup? I'll pass and go straight, heh heh," Nahga paused, then slumped into a chair, "to the main course. Some of that.bird.whatever was sacrificed today.and those potatoes and.where did that wine steward go.You whoooo! Stew-ward!"
Yoyo couldn't believe that there could be anymore uncouth an eating companion than Lina, but here she was! She watched Nahga guzzle the entire carafe of wine in five gulps.
"That's better burp , now where were we? Oh yeah, Yoyo needs members.well.I don't think my current, ah.job is panning out, so.I'm IN! Welcome to the.wait, that's your line! Could you pass me that.whatever it is?" Nahga said, garbling the last few words.
Yoyo passed the nearest platter faster than the waiter could move, but Nahga passed out plunk smoosh face first into the mashed potatoes.
"Hey! Waiter guy! Give me a hand here. That's it, lift her up, I'll clean off her face. Yeah.can you.EYE'S UP HERE, BUB!"
Yoyo wrapped Nahga's cloak over her voluptuous figure. "Now, can you carry her to her room? Thanks. Yeesh, Lina what's her problem anyway?"
"Looks like she's drinking more seriously now. Maybe it's just the stress of taking on a job with Prince Phil. Wait till you meet him! Don't worry, she'll be fine in a bit.ah, are you going to eat the rest of those potatoes?" wondered Lina.
"Miss Lina, Miss Yoyo!" cried Amelia as she bounced into the dining hall.
"Hey, Amelia! We started without you, but I've left you something.somewhere." began Lina.
"Oh that's okay. I really wanted you to meet my sister, Princess Gracia. I thought she was on her way here."
"Well a servant guy said Prince Phil was detained and we heard some scuffling in the hall getting here so.maybe your sister and dad had some important wedding plans to go over, eh?" Yoyo mused.
"Of course, you are probably right. Umm, that DOES smell good. Crunch Munch . Amelia motioned silently to a nearby servant, "Please, Serat, would you see if you can locate my father and sister."
The three friends had long finished eating and settled into comfortable conversation, when the servant returned. "Princess Amelia, Princess Gracia is in her room. resting, and Prince Phil is in conference with the captain of the guard. There has been a disturbance outside of town, nothing important, Miss. Would you like me to keep you informed?"
"Yes, thank you, Serat. I'll be giving my friends a palace tour. You'll be able to find me in my suite later," Amelia nodded.
Serat bowed politely and left. Lina and Yoyo and Amelia continued to chatter away while leaving the dining table and walking the halls. The Princess pointed out the library, ballroom, offices, and stopped at her suite of private rooms.
"AMELIA! You're nuts to give up ALL THIS. for WHAT? To travel with a bunch of misfits and risk your life. for what exactly?" Yoyo paused for breath. Amelia blushed a little.
Yoyo smiled, "Excitement? Romance? AH, HA! "
Amelia blushed deeper.
"Romance? Are you hoping to meet some dashing swordsman who'll sweep you off your feet?" Yoyo asked with a grin.
"YOYO! Amelia's crazy about Zelgadiss! Even Rezo could see that and he's blind AND dead!" laughed Lina.
"Miss Lina!" gasped Amelia.
"Rocky! Well he is rather cute in an angsty, mysterious kind of way, but, ah.nothing personal, but.he's not really PRINCE material, is he?" said Yoyo incredulously.
"Well, no, but a right-thinking heart can't be lead astray. Justice will prevail. He will get his cure and he will see that my heart was true before, after, and for ALL TIME!" Amelia said standing on her bed, one arm upraised.
"Yeah, right and if there is no CURE? What is he actually? A teenage boy in a rock shell. Can he grow up? Can he have children? If he can, would they look human? Does he age? Oh, crud.I'm sorry, sweetie. I'm a realist, not a dreamer or a romantic," murmured Yoyo.
Amelia shook her head with a few tears rolling down her cheeks, "You're right, I know.how I feel defies logic. But it's just that he's so."
"Hot! That's the word. I told him so, but he couldn't take it and bolted. So what's it like kissing those stony lips?" asked Yoyo, "What's wrong?"
"Ah, Zel is kinda.distant." Lina intervened, "He's not very aggressive either."
"He's just shy, Miss Lina!" Amelia blushed, "I've never been kissed by anyone, but I dreamed he'd be the first."
"Well, does he know you like him? I mean most shy guys are pretty obtuse. He might think of you as a kid sister, if you act like one. Look at it from his standpoint. What has he to offer? You're a Princess, he's a wandering shaman who steals for food. What kind of man does he look like if he pursues you? He's got pride that's for sure. He won't want to look like a freeloader taking advantage of a younger girl."
"Oh Yoyo! I never thought of that! Of course he wouldn't want to appear so improper and.UNRIGHTEOUS!" Amelia brightened, "I'll have to give him a reason to hope."
Further discussion was interrupted by the sound of many heavily booted feet pounding down the hallway. Amelia's servant, Serat, knocked at the door.
"Yes?" called Amelia.
"It's Serat, Princess, with a message from Prince Phil."
"Come in, please," answered Amelia.
"Prince Phil requests your immediate presence, your companions included, in the throne room."
"All right everyone, let's go!" said Lina jumping for the door, glad to have some activity.
* * * *
Prince Phil was leaning over a map, which was spread out over the massive walnut table. The captain of the guard pointed to three spots saying, "Demons were reported here yesterday and here, then here today. But what the General here has told me was troubling."
An older man with wide shoulders and a graying beard nodded. "Troops from the Outlands to the North and East have reported numerous demon sightings. At times groups of ten to twenty or more moving through their lands. By nightfall our valley will be surrounded!"
"Daddy!" cried Amelia.
"Amelia!" cried Phil.
Yoyo looked over the map in an effort to ignore the Father/Daughter greeting and justice cheer-squad. Lina joined Yoyo and quickly reached the same gloomy conclusion as the General, whispering, "Yoyo, if they are after Xelloss, as he suggested, why so many? He's not even here, so what do you think they are planning to do to Seyruun?"
Yoyo shook her head, "So the Goof-ball's wrong. There must be another angle. I was chasing some demons when we met.or maybe they were headed your direction anyway.Did you get something new that demons might want, any of you guys?"
"Not that I know of.I have had some visions though.about a Mazouku Lord of the Shabrinigdo kind..but I don't know. It doesn't matter." Lina marched over to Amelia, "Hey, you coming? We have to keep these demons out of the city right? You don't want me to Dragon Slave Seyruun to ruins again do you? So let's go!"
"But there's only us three!" exclaimed Yoyo.
"AND THE JUSTICE FORCE OF SEYRUUN!" cried Prince Phil.
"Mr. Gourry and Mr. Zelgadiss will show up too!" said Amelia.
"I hope," thought Lina, "Amelia, we'll need our fur cloaks, boots, and some horses would be great!"
"On it, Miss Lina!" said the princess looking around for Serat again.
Yoyo followed Lina and Amelia out the door calling, "Hey Lina, wait up. Shouldn't we leave word here with someone for the guys so they know where to find us?"
"Oh Xelloss has ways.besides we'll be where the action is. My Fireballs can't be missed:" laughed the sorceress.
"I'll leave a note with my sister, Princess Gracia. If they come here, she'll know where to send them.at least where they can start looking."
"Good idea, Amelia. Just meet us at the stables in.fifteen minutes!" Lina called after the disappearing princess.
"OH, hohoho.oh crap! My head's killing me. Where's everyone going?" asked an unsteady Nahga.
"Ah.there's going to some trouble with demons, but you don't look up to much." began Lina.
"What? I'm in fighting shape. I'm as good as.ohhh.just need to sit a moment." moaned Nahga.
"Nahga, it's snowing out there. Why don't you stay in the Palace and guard it? You'd be the only sorceress here facing countless demons." Lina said enticingly.
"I'd do it," said Yoyo, "But I'm no sorceress, you know."
"Sssokay. I do guard duty too. I'm so NOT a snow person. Spa's and hot springs, that's my kind of recreation," smiled Nahga.
"That's good, well.Yoyo, let's go to the stables and check out the horse situation. Bet there isn't a nag to be had there!" said Lina, "See ya later!"
"OH, hohohoh! You'll be seeing Nahga the White Serpent in no time!"
Moments later, Princess Amelia rounded a turn and ran smack into, "Princess Gracia! I was looking for you. I have a favor to ask."
"No problembo, Sis! I've got the place covered."
"Great! You'll be staying here then? You see Mr. Gourry and Mr. Zelgadiss are expected but.could you give them this map? It marks the spots we might be found," Amelia smiled, handing over a note.
"Go have a good time.I need to go.find my fiancée.lay down..ohhh there goes my head again!" said Gracia, stumbling away.
"Now, to fight for JUSTICE I shall join with the RIGHTEOUS forces and.oh.bye, Miss Gracia."
* * * *
"Amelia! Hurry up! You're late!" shouted Lina.
Sorry, I did find Miss Gracia and gave her a map for .Hey! Wait for me!" cried Amelia.
CLIP CLOP CLIP CLOP
CLIPPITY, CLIP CLOPPITY, CLOP
Lina, Amelia, and Yoyo rode out the same way they had entered the beautiful city of Seyruun. Sparkling snow gave the high-peaked houses and palace spires a fairytale appearance. Lina steered off the main road and onto a narrow path through the forest. "Listen up everyone. Time for some tactical planning. We don't know how powerful these demons will be, but at first, Yoyo, stay back and don't let the horses run off. Amelia and I will test them a little. If needed, she can put up some protection barriers, then you dodge out and do some hacking. Got it? No heroics until backup arrives." Lina ordered.
"Right Chief!" answered Yoyo.
Amelia nodded. She knew Lina was in charge and was satisfied to take orders.
Lina raised an arm STOP! A cold wind caught a loose lock of her red hair, snapping it like a whip. From between the surrounding trees, a dozen hideous, barely humanoid forms appeared.
"FireBALL!" screamed Lina, bounding off her horse as the flaming ball flew from her hands.
"RAY FREEZE!" screamed Amelia while leaping off of her horse. She was hoping to by them some time by suspending the opponents' spells and movements momentarily.
Yoyo snatched up the freed reins. The horses whinnied and stomped the ground in fear of the approaching demons. The bandit-girl whispered softly to the animals and led them away beneath a sheltering rock ledge. She crouched down, using the horses as a shield and watched the demons burning in the Fireball spell. A heartbeat later new ones appeared behind Yoyo.
"Lina!" she cried, whipping out her axe.
SIZZLE
Yoyo's axe shot out and intercepted the flash of fire powered from the demon's claws. "Hi, YA!" she shouted.
The axe reflected the fire onto another creature bursting out of the ground. The ground golem blew apart, flinging rock parts into the air. Yoyo swung her axe, bouncing fragments away and repelling the claws of the first demon. With her left hand, she unsheathed a knife from a side pocket and jumped, jabbing the blade into the demon's eye and pushing off with her axe to parry the next claw attack.
"FLARE ARROW!" screamed Lina, igniting multiple light lances, which ripped off the demon's claws.
Amelia yelled, "BURST RONDO!" casting balls of light flashing into the demons' faces and blinding them temporarily.
"That's right! Buy us some time, Amelia!" said Lina beginning her chant.
Yoyo rolled back to the horses, out of the way and protected by a rock barrier.
"BURST RONDO!" Amelia cried out, spreading more chaotic light bursts, while Lina continued her incantation.
Amelia noticed two demons rushing them. Quickly she created a windshield and concentrated, ready to drop the protection the moment Lina was ready. Lina's voice grew louder, her cape flapped behind her in a wind as her chant continued. Yoyo pushed against the outermost horse forcing it to squeeze tightly against the rock ledge. Suddenly Lina's arms flung forward, a crimson glow grew from her hands: "DRAGON SLAVE!"
A massive blot of red pulsing power streaked through the cold air. A blinding light filled the sky and an impact blast blew with hurricane force.
"VICTORY!" Shouted Amelia as the dust cleared. No demons were left or trees or snow or.just a crater circling a mile out from Lina. Yoyo climbed on her horse and urged it on, yanking the other horses' reins.
"The next demon invasion was up at the pass ahead. But since I blew up the road, we'll have to circle back to the main road and.take this other swiggly line," said Lina, stabbing at the map.
Feeling confident, the three companions turned the horses back and galloped full speed toward Seyruun. Without warning, explosive blasts from overhead propelled rock chips into their faces. The cliff broke off and sent the trio careening down the mountain slope towards Seyruun's valley.
"LEVITATION!" screamed Lina, grabbing Yoyo by the waist and yanking her out of the rock slide.
"RAY WING!" cried Amelia, floating to safety.
Riderless, the horses slid with the rubble to the road below, righted themselves, and madly galloped away back to the palace.
Yoyo spat dirt. Amelia wiped away grime. Lina coughed dust. Another blast displaced more rocks, which pounded into them from above and bounced off Amelia's quickly conjured shield.
"Look out!" shouted Yoyo as a huge boulder loosened and rolled toward the girls.
"FIREBALL!" cried Lina, detonating a fiery ball into the boulder. The shattering fragments shot into Amelia's barrier, which, thankfully, held again.
Terrifying shrieks pierced the girls' ears. Lina glided to the top of the cliff. Amelia and Yoyo sank into the soft grass nearby, looking around anxiously for the source of the abominable sound. Nothing was moving in the gloomy dusk. Again, the shrill inhuman voices cried out and the demons rushed upon them. Lina chanted a quick spell then flung flames from her fingertips. Again and again she sent waves of flame washing over a cluster of creatures which ignited from the: "FIREBALL! FIREBALL! FIREBALL!"
Flaming tongues licked through the trees and swept up toward Yoyo and Amelia.
"MOS VARIUM!" cried Amelia. The glowing ball rushed from her hands to suck up the evil fire spell.
Yoyo dove under a barrage of shooting white-flame arrows, scrambled to her feet and leapt onto a tree branch. From her vantage point, Yoyo could see a single dark figure with multiple glowing eyes and an aura darker than the surrounding murkiness. It was floating towards them.
"Amelia, something different.Mazouku maybe.it's coming! Go for that and I'll help Lina distract the rest." Yoyo vaulted over Amelia using her axe for leverage. Then whirling her axe up, she slashed through a small on- coming creature and dropped-rolled to Lina's side.
Amelia began her chant, focusing on the empty space where Yoyo had pointed.
"FLARE ARROW!" shouted Lina, sending white-flaming lances to seared off a green-tentacled demon's limbs. The air filled with the foul stench of smoking wounds. Lina spun around to stand back to back with Yoyo, then sent out spell after spell of "FIREBALL!" filling the ever-darkening sky with and eerie artificial light.
Amelia finished her spirit-slaying spell, ".let the power hidden in my soul be called forth from the Infinite." With one last glance, Amelia spotted the specter of evil, then cried the last words, "RA TILT!"
The blue-white flame shot from her hands, slamming into her target. The Mazouku's spirit was destroyed in a blinding flash of light. "One for JUSTICE!" whooped the little Princess.
Lina , Yoyo, and Amelia stood together in the center of a charred landscape barely visible through a thick haze in the darkness of night.
"Are you all right, Amelia?" asked Lina as the princess slumped to the ground.
"Yeah, I'm just.drained."
"So do you think that was one of the wandering bands we expected, or a new one?" asked Yoyo.
"I don't know.but those were stronger than the first bunch." Said Lina, "Also, we're pushed closer to Seyruun. Look the main road is just a few hundred feet left and below."
The next explosion rocked the ground.
"Not again!" cried Yoyo.
"Can you run, Amelia?" asked Lina.
"Yeah."
"It's coming from the forest so,.down to the road!" shouted Lina.
They blew away ten more demons on their way, but were really getting tired. Yoyo's legs were burned and Amelia was applying a healing spell.
"That's enough or you won't be able to move yourself!" said Yoyo, "Thanks kid, you're.a real friend, Amelia."
"Gourry, Zel,.Xelloss, where are you?" wondered Lina, then to her friends said aloud, "Come on. We need to find a protected spot off the road. Give us a chance to build up our strength."
"Lina, LOOK OUT!" screamed Amelia. She summoned her remaining strength and chanted briefly to create a wind barrier.
A blast of power rebounded off the barrier shell. Lina began a long incantation. Again she stood eyes closed, arms aloft, wind gently blowing her hair then picking up and snapping her cape as the ball of glowing power grew in her hands. Amelia dropped the shield.
"DRAGON SLAVE!"
After the smoke cleared, the lunar landscape following her blast's attack stretched to the very gates of Seyruun. The city was spared. Amelia crawled over to Lina who was sprawled flat out on her back. She checked the sorceress's pulse and listened to her breathing, like Zelgadiss had taught her. "She's alive. Good, 'cause I couldn't help anyone now."
Amelia glanced over at Yoyo, who waved a hand, then closed her eyes too, mumbling, "If any more come, we are dead, you know."
Lina pushed up onto her elbows, "It's no time to be gloomy. It worked, didn't it?"
Amelia held up a half-hearted "V"-for-victory sign, "All gone, Miss Lina!"
"So.can any of us move?" asked Lina, "'Cause I can sense more .coming! NOW!"
* * * *
"Val, watch Zelgadiss a moment," advised Gourry. "See how he combines all his...ah.special talents with good sword skills to become a.a ah.very effective fighter? His speed, I wish I could move that fast.his skin can deflect most blades.I've got the scars to prove my mistakes.and I've seen him put spells on the sword with awesome results!"
Val watched admiring the demonstration, then added thoughtfully, "Yeah, if he wasn't a chimera, he wouldn't be much of a warrior, would he? He'd just be."
"He'd STILL be our friend..." finished Gourry.
Zelgadiss had hidden a blush response from Gourry's kind words with some speedy moves, but Val's words struck him like a punch to the stomach. He was distracted enough that Xelloss almost disarmed him, but instead, Xelloss froze mid-swing.
"Xelloss, what's up?" asked Zelgadiss, lowering his sword.
He and Xelloss were trading off with Gourry and Val practicing sword technique. Xelloss dropped his branch and opened his eyes in shock
Gasp! So many dead. "Time to go!" he said, his voice shaking ever so little, "Val, keep that dagger on you." The Mazouku reached for Gourry and Zel's arms then they disappeared.
SHIMMER
