Chapter 3
As soon as the guild was out of sight, I broke into a run. I had to get away from here -away from Gourry- as fast as I could! I blurred past the locals, ignoring their alarmed faces as best as I could.
A few lucky turns later, I was out of the town well on my way to...someplace else. I had no idea where I was going, only that I was now by myself...alone.
Stupid Gourry! Why'd he have to be so nice to me? Making me feel bad all the time...
I wipe a few tears out of my eyes, knowing very well that it wasn't his fault, but mine. After all, I was the one that had caused all of the trouble. He had just been along for the ride. I never did find out if perhaps he did it unwillingly...
No matter, I was on my own now, as was he. We could both get on with our lives.
The town finally long gone from sight, I decide to slow down to a walk. It wouldn't do me any good to tire myself out.
As I walk, I hear something behind me. I turn around, but see nothing but the empty road. Must have been my imagination... I continue walking, trying to get rid of this feeling of dread. Did I make the wrong decision?
Hey there, little lady. Why so sad?
I whirl around to see a man (and a dirty one at that!) His companions snicker, but are silenced as he glares at them. He looks at me. He sounded sincere enough, but something about him doesn't seem right.
"Y-you wouldn't understand. Just leave me alone." My voice catches, as I'm still shaken up from earlier. I turn to walk away.
Suddenly the man is in front of me, with his companions surrounding me. "How about we take a load off your mind?"
Whoa, wait! This is definitely a BAD situation to be in! I try to find a break somewhere in the group, but am horrified to see even MORE of these guys coming out of the woods. I'm totally surrounded!
I look back at the man, who leers at me. I'm not liking that gleam in his eye...
Give us all your money.
"I d-don't have any m-money." This is going to get ugly really fast. I try to step back from the man (obviously the ring leader of these nasty men), but suddenly find myself trapped when another man grabs me from behind.
"Now don't play dumb, give us all you've got or else we're going hafta hurt ya." The leader steps up to me, taking away any hope of escape.
I can see a hungry look in their eyes, and I know I'm the one they want! I inwardly cringe as I reply, "But I'm telling the truth!"
Now, nobody wanders by themselves without any money. Ain't that right, boys? The leader grins at his fellows, who in turn laugh. "Search her!"
Leave me alone! I struggle to break free, but there's suddenly more hands coming at me from all sides. I scream out as they tear at my clothing, yanking off my nonessentials (I liked those boots!), but they don't stop there!
We're not finding anything, boss!
You're just not looking hard enough. Keep searching!
As they try to tear off my shirt, (or worse yet, grope me!) I keep screaming, hoping that someone...ANYONE will hear me, and help me before...No! They won't kill me off so easily!
Shut UP! The leader yanks me away from my previous captor and claps his hand over my mouth.
I suddenly hear cheering. I glance over to where my cape had been discarded to see some of the men dancing about with glee.
Boss, she's loaded!
Look at it all! It would take us a month to get this much!
The leader laughs out loud and shakes me roughly. Thought you could hide your wealth from us, eh?
I just look at all the money that they keep pulling out of my cape. Why hadn't Gourry told me about it? And why hadn't I noticed I had all of that in my cape? Maybe they'd just take the money and let me go?
We've lucked out this time! She must be some nobleman's daughter or somethin'. We can ransom her, then we can retire! The leader laughs again.
His men all cheer, then search through my other belongings. Just stay away from me, leave me some dignity, please! I sag against my captor, tears of fear, anguish, and exhaustion stinging my eyes.
I'd expected more fight from you, what with your plain appearance. You must be some rich snob's kid after all!
I'm getting REALLY tired of this guy's stupid jokes! His last comment fills me with rage I didn't know I had, and without thinking I bite into his hand! (Too bad it wasn't clean...) I gag, realizing I'd gotten some of his blood in my mouth, and quickly spit it out.
He cries out in alarm, loosening his grip on me. You wench!
POW!
He slaps me across the face with his other hand. I cry out; it feels like he broke my jaw! The world begins to spin as I try to recover from the blow.
So, you've got some fight in you after all! It'll be fun to break you. He leers at me and jerks me around. Next thing I know he's snaking his hand up my side..and...and...I go numb, not wanting to feel what he's doing.
I'm surprised when he stops, and looks behind me, a look of pure horror on his face. I'm suddenly aware of all the cries of pain from behind me. A guttural roar makes me jump, and I finally jerk my head around to see what's going on.
My heart leaps in joy to see Gourry (of all people!) fighting his way through the men. I'm amazed with how well he handles his sword, enough that I forget I'm still being held against my will.
Those who haven't fallen from Gourry's attack have all fled, leaving just the leader. I glance back at him, seeing he's gone deathly pale. He jumps away from me, (as if I were poisonous or something) and whips out his own blade as Gourry charges him.
I rub my head, trying to sort it out. Gourry was charging the leader, and suddenly the guy's on the ground. ...and not moving, at that. I'll admit I'm a bit shocked at how severe Gourry was.
He sheathes his deadly blade and approaches me. Are you okay?
The realization of what just happened to me finally clicks, and I break down into sobs, falling into Gourry's arms. I-I was so scared! They...they...and I...I'm sorry, I should've never left you!
I suddenly find myself gripped in his strong arms, but it doesn't feel threatening. I feel safe in his arms. I look up at his face, seeing the anguish there.
I'm glad I got to you in time. I'd be lost without you.
...lost? And here I thought I was the lost one! ...but just what did he mean by that? Was it meant to be taken literally, or... No, I'd better not think too much into it. All that matters is that I'm needed, after all.
I return his embrace. I'll never leave your side again.
Gourry chuckles at this, but it's something I'm glad to hear after what I'd just gone through. "At least not until you learn magic and can defend yourself."
Magic lessons! I suddenly remember all of the money the men had robbed from me. A quick glance tells me it's still laying on the ground nearby.
Speaking of lessons, I did finally manage to get you a discount at the...Lina?
I smile back at his confused expression. Mr. Gourry, don't worry about that. I had the money all along.
What do you mean?
When they were searching me for money, they found that, I pointed out the bags of coins, in my cape. I had no idea I had it!
Gourry's eyes grew large as he spied upon the money. "Wow, Lina, you have a lot of money!"
I beam happily. Please, you take it. To cover my lessons...and also to repay you for paying for my meals.
But Lina, this is your money. I can't take it.
Please, I'd feel better if you did.
After a bit of negotiating, I finally convinced Gourry to take it, but not until I took some of it (for emergency purposes of course). That, and I'd need to do some clothes shopping now that most of mine were torn beyond repair.
We gathered up what could be salvaged, Gourry wrapping my cape around me to keep me decent, then trekked back to town.
* * * * * * * * * *
I must have been more battered than first thought, because I nearly collapsed before we entered back into town. Gourry took one look at me, then picked me up and took me to the local healer. (Argh, not again!)
As soon as the healer laid eyes on me, he chewed Gourry out. I felt so bad! I tried to tell him what had happened, but he wouldn't listen. He did patch me up though (he even gave me a simple shirt and pants to replace my wasted clothing), and afterwards had finally calmed down enough to hear me out. He then informed us of a group of bandits that had been terrorizing the area, and that there was actually a bounty out for them.
He apologized to Gourry as we were leaving (I was just glad to get out of there!), then we went out to find a tailor. (The clothes he gave me were good for keeping me decent, but they wouldn't make for good travel clothes.)
Tailor shops are wonderful in that they're easy to find. Even Gourry knew a bit about sewing, so he easily spotted the small shop. After explaining how things came to be (much to my embarrassment!), the tailor took me to be sized, while Gourry went to collect the bounty on those bandits.
I felt a bit awkward having some stranger sizing me up (and he wasn't shy about commenting, either!) It was the only way to get clothes that fit though, so I had no choice. Still, he doesn't have to rub it in that I'm small! ...I didn't mind so much...
When he was finally finished, I gave him my original clothing so he'd have something to refer to, then I went outside to wait for Gourry to return.
It was getting late in the day, and was pretty warm at that, so it didn't take long for me to nod off. I was just starting to have a pleasant dream, when someone shook me by the shoulders.
Huh, wha? Not very intelligent sounding, but I was half asleep.
Lina, sorry I took so long, but they wanted proof, and I had to go get it.
I looked up to see Gourry crouched over me. Dang, I fell asleep sitting against the tailor's shop! I stood up and dusted the road off of my pants. That's okay. I still felt drowsy from the heat, so I leaned against the shop's wall again.
You okay, Lina?
I blinked at Gourry. Yeah, just feeling a bit tired.
Yeah, it's been a long day. C'mon, let's go find an inn. I think I passed by it earlier...
Gourry's voice was soothing enough to fall asleep to. My thoughts began to wander as my eyelids drooped shut.
Lina. Lina!
I jumped up in surprise.
Let's go. Gourry pulled me away from the wall, and led me down the street. Everything after that was pretty much a blur, until I felt myself laying back against a soft mattress. I snuggled into the pillow and finally fell asleep.
* * * * * * * * * *
Next thing I knew, it was morning. I would have liked to sleep in longer, but the sun was shining in my face, so I got up. Gourry wasn't anywhere to be seen, and it didn't look like he'd even been in my room, so he must have gotten his own room. I looked down at myself to see I was still wearing the clothes from last night.
I walked over to the window and looked out. The streets were packed again. What is with this place? Didn't these people ever relax? I sighed and walked away from the window, and over to the vanity.
I was a bit surprised to see my reflection. Who has red eyes? They looked natural enough, but they were still a bit strange. Ugh, and my hair! What a mess! I untangled it as best I could. If only I had a brush. It would definitely be something to pick up later.
My thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. I called out.
Lina, you're awake?
Ah, so there's Gourry. Yeah, I'm up. Did you need something?
Oh, um, I got your clothes for you.
He didn't open the door, so I went over and opened it for him. Sure enough, he had a package in his arms. I took the offered package, then looked back at Gourry for a second. I'll be right out. I smiled at him, then closed the door. Why did I feel so awkward?
I shrugged it off, and opened the package. Wow, these look exactly like what I had! Just without all the wear and tear. I hope Gourry paid the guy well, these were nice! Time to put them to the test...
I quickly changed into the new outfit. Ooh, very nice! They were a bit stiff because of their newness, but they'd be easy to break in. I slipped on my gloves and boots (luckily they just needed to be patched up), then went back to the door and opened it.
Gourry was right where I had left him, much to my surprise. How do I look?
Gourry looked at me for a moment. You look like you ought to.
I blinked at that for a moment, not expecting such a response. Could have been worse, I guess.
So, did you want to get some breakfast? Gourry was looking a bit uncomfortable himself.
Yeah! I feel like I haven't had anything to eat forever! That's no lie, I felt like I had an empty pit where my stomach ought to be.
Well, you did miss dinner last night. Gourry replied.
Wow, I must have been really tired. That means I slept for most of the day yesterday. Ugh, and we never did go back to the guild! Oh well, first things first. Let's go!
Over the course of our breakfast, Gourry filled me in on what I'd missed last night. He had taken care of getting me registered at the guild, all we had to do now was pick up my books.
After I felt like I had eaten enough that I wouldn't die of starvation, I got up to leave. Ready to go, Mr. Gourry?
Yeah, but... Gourry grew silent.
Oh, nothing. Forget I said anything. Gourry waved me off.
Was he trying to hide something? Uh sure, okay.
We headed back out into the streets, and straight to the guild. It was much easier to find the second time. The same receptionist from before was there again. (Hopefully she wouldn't remember that I had tried to run off before.)
She smiled up at Gourry. Oh, welcome back, sir. I see you brought our student with you this time.
Yeah, we're ready this time. You said she had to fill out something? Gourry scratched at the back of his head.
Just this form here. It's nothing major, just a precaution should anything happen while she's here. The receptionist slid a piece of paper across the desk.
I took it from her and looked at it. Man, so many slots to fill in. Umm, do you have something I can write with?
She handed a quill pen and ink blot over to me. Great, got to make sure I don't make a mess.
I scooted back over to Gourry's side. I'm going to need some help with this. I whispered in his ear. He just looked at me.
Uh, okay, I'll do the best I can.
We spent a few minutes filling out the form. Okay, name's Lina Inverse, age...16 sounds about right, gender is definitely female. Home country? Hmm... We finally put in adventurer' and hoped they'd accept that.
I handed the form back over. Here you go, ma'am.
She smiled at me as she took back the form, pen, and
ink, then checked it over. Then her smile turned into a frown. That can't be good. She looked back up at me, then back at the form, before turning her gaze on me again.
You're...Lina Inverse?
Okay, stay calm, keep smiling.
She visibly paled. Surely there must be some mistake!
She was starting to make me nervous.
Why do you need to come to us?! I wasn't sure if she was angry, or scared out of her mind.
I looked helplessly at Gourry, not sure why she had reacted the way she did.
Normally she wouldn't, but we ran in to some trouble a while back... Gourry paused a moment to gather his thoughts.
The receptionist looked at him expectantly.
Well, she's lost her memory.
The receptionist just stared at him.
I'm hoping that she'll gain her memory back if she learns magic again. Gourry played with his hands nervously.
She gave me that odd look again, then stood up, walking around her desk and up to Gourry. Excuse me sir, but could you come with me a moment? Without waiting for a response, she grabbed him by the arm and dragged him around the corner.
I didn't mean to listen in, but she was speaking so loud it was hard NOT to...
Sir, you do realize what kind of reputation she has, right?
Yeah, I have been traveling with her for awhile. What's your point?
Dragon Spooker, Bandit Killer, Enemy to all that Live! Do they mean nothing to you?
You forgot Abominable Fiend, actually.
Oh, I guess I hadn't heard that one.
Yeah, she has too many for me to even keep track, but they don't mean anything. Lina's actually a really nice person...for the most part. It would mean a lot if you'd let her come here.
I sat in silence, waiting to hear her response.
I'll be right back.
I tried to look ignorant as she came back around the corner, and went up the stairs. Gourry came back a moment later.
What was that all about. I whispered.
Gourry shrugged. I'm not too sure myself.
I sat down in a seat, waiting for her to return. After a while, Gourry came to join me. After fidgeting in my seat a while, I turned to look out a window, watching the people passing by.
She sure is taking a long time. Gourry yawned.
No kidding. I wonder why? I kicked my legs out in boredom.
After an eternity, I heard her coming back down the stairs. She looked rather flustered. Too bad I couldn't overhear what had been discussed up there.
They've agreed to take her on, but we'll have to charge you an additional fee. She brushed back a loose piece of hair.
Fee? What for? Gourry stammered.
Insurance for us, in case she destroys something. She sighed.
Gourry gazed at me a moment before pulling out his money pouch. How much?
And thus ends the chapter of scariness. I've been hogging these author's notes for long enough, so without further ado, here's Rocky to share her thoughts on this project:
Hey, there. Rocky here with her ever late author's notes. Sorry about that, but I was distracted by Teen Titans. I don't know how Diane and I got through chapter one, we were both cracking eachother up: "Did you name me?"
For Chapter 2, poor Gourry! Not only does Lina not know who she is, she's asking him questions about magic he can barely answer.
Okay, now that I got those quick notes out of the way. Chapter 3...heh... we must have rewritten the bandit scene three times. Hopefully, we were able to get the right feel of danger without going into unsafe detail (don't worry, Diane). Although, even with the danger Lina was going through...I'm sure it can't compare to the danger Gourry will be in when Lina realizes she just GAVE AWAY her money to him of all people to pay for her magic lessons.
The line I enjoy the most out of this chapter is when Lina asks Gourry how she looks in her repaired clothes and he replies: You look like you ought to. It fits well since this story is about Lina trying to discover herself. She'll discover more about herself than she would care to admit.
So enough of my rambling, stay tune for chapter 4 or the receptionist is going to charge extra fees on our heros!
Just as a last little extra (as I myself love reading how people wrote their stories), here's an example of how we worked out most of this fic, before I went through and cleaned things up a bit:
Rocky: "Phew, looks like you'll be going to class afterall, Lina....Lina?"
Rocky: (and I'll play dirty rotten bandits)
victori: Sure is a vacant room he's looking at..
Rocky: We be dirty rotten bandits hanging around to close to the city
victori: (And Lina be dashing out of the city all teary and sad, too focused on what a horrible person she must be, and how she can't be a burden to Mr. Gourry, nice as he is.)
victori: *running*
Rocky: Still outside the city...looking for potential victims
victori: Enter one potential victim..
Rocky: Cuz we be dirty rotten bandits
Rocky: Leaders gives signal to others and they start to follow her
victori: *doesn't hear them, still self-absorbed*
Rocky: ::still following her, waits till she's a bit tired from running::
Rocky: and of course till she stops running
victori: 'Tis hard to run and sob at the same time, so Lina slows down.
victori: Heck, she collapses to her knees, crying her eyes out. (Covering her eyes with her hands.)
Rocky: Leaders comes up behind her. "Hey there, little lady, why so sad?"
victori: *is startled* "Y-you wouldn't understand. Just leave me alone."
victori: *sob sob*
Rocky: *ignores what she said* "How about we take a load off your mind?"
And so it went. It was definitely a new and fun way to write a story (and full of random lines that didn't make it into the story!) So now you know!
Oh yes, you can find Rocky's own stories at:
If the link doesn't show up, search for her author name: Rocky and CG'
Thanks again to everybody that has reviewed, and continues to review! We love hearing your thoughts on this story! ^_^