Before we begin: These characters are not mine in any way, shape, or form. I'm just borrowing them because one line materialized in my head, spawning an entire fic. Which I have made into chapters.
On with the story!
Into the Dark
Part One
Damn it, we're lost.
Lina Inverse, Bandit Spooker, Dragon Slayer, was lost. Separated from her companions in the twisting halls of the natural labyrinth, she wandered alone, save a certain violet-haired priest.
Are you sure? Xelloss chirped, always the cheerful one.
Lina glared at him. Yes, I'm sure, now shut up unless you have something useful to contribute.
Xelloss only grinned at her. Tsk. Temper, temper, Lina.
Lina clenched her fists and continued walking, muttering to herself something about not fireballing the mazoku, as it wouldn't do any good anyways. She turned left, following the smooth path of stone.
She stole a peek back at Xelloss to make sure that he was still following her, which he was. He smiled at her, catching her eye. She cursed silently and threatened to fireball him if he didn't quit his inane smiling.
Another intersection loomed, and Lina stood in quiet confusion for a moment before turning right. Unbeknownst to her, the mazoku shuddered imperceptibly.
Hah! I've found something! Lina crouched down on the ground, soon joined by Xelloss. A small trinket lay on the ground. Lina recognized it as belonging to Miss Annoying herself, Amelia.
We're on the right track. Lina grinned as she picked up the tiny jewel. This way. She led onwards, Xelloss trailing a little behind.
Are you sure that we're going the right way? Xelloss asked. Lina growled.
Of course! This is where Amelia's jewel was leading! She whirled around and pointed an accusing finger at Xelloss. And why don't you do something useful? Mazoku. she snarled.
Xelloss crossed his arms, the ever-present smile still plastered to his face. And what would you have me do? He was enjoying himself, the taste of Lina's anger sweet on his tongue.
Lina waved her hands around dangerously close to the mazoku's face. I don't know! Something! She stalked off, but paused a few yards away. Are you coming?
Xelloss smirked at the irate sorceress, then sauntered up to join her. Of course, my dear Lina. I wouldn't miss it.
Lina rolled her eyes and continued following the path. With a final glance back at the darkness, Xelloss did also.