Chapter 3
Written By Illuminet
Disclaimer: Most (if not all) the characters appearing in this story do not belong to me, but rather, are creations of the brilliant minds within Square Soft/Square Enix. I don't claim any of them.
"..."-Indicate speech
'...'-Indicate thought
------
St. Ivalice, Radiuju Residence, Marche and Doned's room
Marche stared up at the ceiling as he lay on his bed. His brother had been asleep in the other bed for two hours. Marche wanted to sleep, but his mind was plagued with one thing. The book Mewt brought over...
'That book...it reminds me somewhat of the Germonik Scriptures...but that's impossible...'
Marche kept trying to piece together why that book and it's pictures kept reminding him of a previous life. A life he thought he had escaped. At least for now.
'Is it time...? Has it been revived...?'
Marche fell into an uneasy sleep. Somehow he knew, tonight, something was going to happen...
:::Dream:::
Marche felt himself falling. He opened his eyes, seeing that he was just floating in the sky.
"What's going on?"
He said to himself, looking around.
"St.Ivalice...Why am I flying...?"
The snow covered city seemed to stretch on. Marche saw cars moving slowly in the streets. He saw the lights from some far off sky scrapers, and buildings. He heard something behind him.
"So familiar...sounds like...?"
Before he could answer, he saw a large golden feathered bird walking down a dirt path. Marche blinked. The city was changing. Tall buildings began to disappear, some being replaced by smaller, wooden buildings. He saw vast grasslands, tall mountains, blue skies...
"I don't understand..."
Marche murmured as St. Ivalice became less and less modernized. It was almost as if...
"Ivalice...but this world should be unaffected by higher influences...only humans have influenced this world....so why...?"
He stared in astonishment as the city disappeared. He sensed something in the air. A voice was calling out to him.
"The book..."
Marche's eyes widened.
"The book...no way...It's responsible..."
The voice came again, much closer than before.
"Welcome Marche Radiuju..."
Marche turned around, seeing an all to familiar face of a man. The man smirked.
"...or should I just call you Ramza Beoulve?"
Marche clenched his fists tightly.
"Delita...why are you here?"
Delita grinned in insane delight.
"I'm here to finish it, Ramza..."
Behind him, a giant six winged dragon emerged from the clouds.
"NOW DIE, RAMZA!!!"
The dragon let loose a large beam of energy. Marche held up his hands, trying to protect himself, but knew the attempt was ultimately futile against the blast.
"NOOO!!!"
Marche's vision went white.
:::Dream:::
Unknown land, Dark grasslands
Marche flung himself upright quickly, panting heavily and sweating profusely.
"Delita..."
His eyes widened in surprise. He was dressed differently now. He had a navy blue sweater like piece of clothing on and reddish-brown pants on. He noticed he had metal grieves on his legs and metal elbow pads.
"What's going on here?"
He felt himself to make sure he was entirely alright, before staring at his gloved hands.
"I'm alive...I sound older...have I grown up now?"
He stood at full height, realizing that he was now a young man, rather than a young boy. He looked around, seeing nothing but grass for miles around.
"Where is this?"
Marche decided to keep walking, not really knowing where he was. Deep down though, he felt a sense of familiarity in this place, as if he had known it his entire life.
------
Unknown Land, Unknown town
"Huh? Where am...ooof!"
Marche walked through the simple town, admiring the sights until he was knocked down on his rear. A gruff voice scolded him.
"You weren't looking where you were going, idiot."
Marche looked up in surprise when he saw who was talking to him.
"Your...a giant lizard?"
Marche said in confusion. The lizard man growled in fury.
"What was that, runt? WHAT DID YOU CALL ME?!"
Marche looked more confused as the lizard man seethed in anger at him.
"Huh?"
Marche said dumbly as he looked at the creature. It narrowed it's eyes dangerously.
"You called me a lizard didn't you? I know that's what you said. Don't you know never to call a Banga a lizard? DON'T EVER CALL US LIZARDS!!"
It growled, hoping to scare the young man, but Marche was not even phased. Another creature came between Marche and the creature called Banga. It was one Marche thought he was familiar with.
"Kupo! I've finally found you!"
Marche looked at the creature dressed in green with some surprise.
'Isn't this a Moogle? I thought they were extinct...'
Marche thought as he looked at the short creature. The Banga looked to the Moogle.
"Moogle, this brat an acquaintance of yours?"
He said, pointing his thumb at Marche as he looked down at the Moogle. The Moogle nodded.
"Yes, but he's from the Bronx, so he's never seen a Banga in his life until now. Kupo!"
The Moogle said to the Banga. He looked closely at the Moogle, as if making sure it wasn't lying. Marche wanted to say something but decided to keep silent.
"...."
The Moogle then turned to Marche.
"Look, he'll apologize for the rude comment. Kupo!"
Marche blinked once before bowing slightly to the Banga.
"Yes, I'm sorry for that. You are an unfamiliar person to me."
Once Marche was finished apologizing, the Moogle took his hand before turning to the Banga.
"Now if you will excuse us, Kupo."
The two walked away from the Banga. As they walked off, Marche could feel the Banga's eyes drilling into his back. He heard the Banga running up to them now.
"Hey, wait up a minute!"
The Banga said, making the two turn around to face him.
"Kupo?"
The Moogle said in question. The Banga looked at Marche carefully.
"Now that I've got a good look at you, I can tell by your clothes that your a Soldier, right?"
The Banga questioned Marche, who looked back with confusion.
"A Soldier?"
Marche asked as he stared at the Banga, who nodded.
"I thought so. If we Engage here, then I won't be complaining anymore about your sorry rear."
Marche was now more confused then ever about what the Banga just said. The Moogle held up it's right hand.
"ENTERING ENGAGE, KUPO!!"
Upon saying those words, a large knight in full battle armor appeared from nowhere.
"I'll judge this Engage match between..."
He looked towards the Banga.
"The name's Rune."
He then whistled, and another Banga came to help.
"This guy's Yuber."
Rune said to the Knight. The Knight then turned to Marche and the Moogle.
"And you...?"
The Moogle stepped forward slightly.
"I am Montblanc, kupo, and this is..."
Montblanc gestured the young man to say his name.
"Marche."
Marche said. The Knight nodded.
"Then this battle is between Rune and Yuber against Montblanc and Marche. The Law here is that no one on either side shall use an item for recovery. Begin."
Marche's eyes widened in realization.
"I think I understand, now...Engage is to battle..."
Marche said, as Rune and Yuber rushed up to him. Montblanc shook his head.
"If that's all the brilliant insight you have, you should be careful now. Take this sword."
Montblanc was about to give the sword to Marche, seeing as he was the target to the Banga. But instead of rushing to Montblanc and claiming the large sword, Marche attacked with his fists. The Banga drew a long staff and swung at Marche, who simply crouched under the blow, before sending an uppercut to his large chin. Rune reeled back from the blow, as Yuber came in with a sword, slashing sideways.
"No you don't..."
Marche said as he grasped the blade with his hands, using the momentum of Yuber to send him flipping on his back. Montblanc scratched his head.
"He's pretty amazing, kupo..."
The Moogle was impressed by Marche's quick reactions. As Yuber fell on his back, Marche flipped the sword, making it aim to The Banga's chest, where upon Marche put force on it, making the sword thrust into it's chest. Yuber died instantly. The Judge raised a hand, commending Marche.
"To the slayer of that incompetent, I grant you, Marche, one Judge Point."
Marche looked oddly at the Judge.
"Judge Point? What the heck is that?"
He asked the Judge. Montblanc answered for him.
"Kupo, you'll want to obtain Judge Points. Good things happen if you do."
Montblanc said. Marche turned to Rune as the Banga attacked with an over head swing of his staff, which Marche side steeped easily. He began punching the Banga with his fists.
"So I get Judge Points for defeating enemies...so that's a good thing?"
The Moogle simply nodded as he continued watching Marche strike the Banga, finally throwing an uppercut which knocked the Banga up in the air, before falling hard to the ground. Marche panted heavily.
"Wow, I guess we really did it, huh?"
He asked turning to Montblanc. Before Montblanc could respond, Rune crawled to his feet shakily, digging into his robe, looking for something.
"Damn it...need a...potion..."
Rune slurred. He took a small vial from the sleeve of his robe, containing a dark blue liquid. He popped the cork off with his thumb before gulping the drink down. The Judge blew a whistle, catching all of their attention, before pointing to Rune.
"You have just violated Law #R2-4601: Prohibition of Items in Engage. This is inexcusable, the violator of this law will be transported to Jail."
Rune looked wide eyed at the vial. Montblanc shook his head, turning to Marche.
"Prison is not a place you want to go, Marche, Kupo."
Montblanc said. Marche's face went a bit pale.
"Prison...?"
Was the only word Marche could get out. Montblanc nodded.
"It's a place warriors go to temporarily if they break a rule in battle. Be sure your clear with a Judge on what rules in areas mean or you'll find yourself there. Believe me, kupo, it's not a great experience."
Montblanc said. The Judge of the battle spoke up again.
"The Prison Transfer has been completed. If any of you wish to pay a visit, you must go to Mountain Peak City Spurom Prison."
With that being said, the Judge left. Marche put a hand to his chin in thought.
"Spurom...I've never heard of that name...this can't be Ivalice..."
------
Unknown Land, Cyril City (Previously unknown)
Marche and Montblanc were at the local bar, sitting at a table near a window, overlooking the town. Marche bowed slightly to Montblanc.
"Thanks for saving me, Montblanc."
Montblanc looked at him.
"I'm surprised you'd call a Banga a lizard. That's something even a toddler knows not to call a Banga, kupo."
Montblanc said seriously to Marche. Marche scratched his head, blushing slightly in embarrassment.
"Sorry, but I honestly didn't know."
Marche said. Montblanc stared hard at him.
"How can that be possible, kupo? You've never seen a Banga until now?"
Marche nodded his head.
"Well...I've never seen a real one...and you, if I wasn't familiar with what you are, I'd call you a talking stuffed animal."
Montblanc bristled at the comment.
"Watch who you call a stuffed animal, kupo. Still, all that your saying is odd...don't you come from somewhere around here? Like Kandoan or Mascade, Kupo?"
Montblanc asked taking a serious tone again. Marche clutched his head, trying to figure out what had happened to him.
"Sorry, Montblanc, I don't know those places, heck, I don't know why I'm here in the first place."
Marche said, still clutching his head. Montblanc nodded sagely.
"I understand your totally confused right now, Marche, but you should just calm down and begin to adjust to this life, kupo. First things first, your in the Town of Cyril, within Ivalice, kupo."
Montblanc said. Marche was now even more confused.
"Ivalice...it's the same name as the town I come from but..."
Marche began saying, until Montblanc cut him off with a question.
"Wait a minute, kupo. A town? Sorry but Ivalice is a country. kupo."
Montblanc said. Marche lowered his head.
"I can see that, Montblanc. Still, this can't be right. Where I came from, Moogles and Banga don't exist."
Montblanc stared in surprise at what Marche just said.
"Seriously, kupo? What about other areas? Surely there are races like us elsewhere then, kupo."
Marche shook his head.
"Sorry, only people. The only thing non human would be a cat or a dog..."
Marche said. Montblanc rubbed his chin in thought, his antenna bouncing about as he did.
"Wait a minute, Marche, what did you mean when you said that you saw us before, but not for real?"
Montblanc asked, as Marche stared up at the ceiling in thought, before snapping his finger, remembering something.
"Your right...I have a little brother who can't walk because he is so weak. He spends his time either reading books or playing video games. This place reminds me of the video game he loved to play called Final Fantasy. That's where I've seen you guys. Plus there were pictures of you in a book a friend of mine showed me."
The Moogle stared oddly at Marche, as if he were talking crazy.
"Video games, kupo? What is that?"
Marche leaned a bit closer, beginning to whisper it to Montblanc.
"The video game Final Fantasy is Role Playing Game. You assume the roles of heroes, play through a story, and eventually save the world from evil. Just one big adventure, I guess you could say."
Montblanc leaned closer.
"So, kupo, your saying that we might be in a video game? That has got to be one of the weirdest stories I've ever heard. Still, it has caught my interest, so why don't we go to somplace we can talk more freely?"
Marche nodded. The two got up paid for their tab and left the bar. The bar was connected to a large recruiting office of sorts. Montblanc stopped a bit, and Marche stopped with him.
"Why are we stopping here?"
Marche asked. Montblanc pointed to various races: some were just normal humans, others Moogles, Banga, and other races that Marche wasn't familiar with yet. Montblanc spoke.
"You've might have already guessed, Marche, but this pub is a good place to enter clans since everyone comes here. kupo."
Marche looked at the many warriors.
"Wow, everyone seems so strong...is there a recruiting office or something? How do I join a clan anyway?"
Marche didn't see any head chief behind a desk like he was so used to in another time, in another land with the same name. Montblanc shook his head.
"Don't worry, you'll join my clan instantly once your introduced..."
Montblanc turned and pointed to a small group before walking up to them. They all looked at Montblanc.
"Kupo. Everyone, I'd like to introduce you to a new member, Marche."
Marche nodded at the small band of races, smiling softly.
"Nice to meet you all."
Marche said simply. Montblanc turned to Marche.
"Listen carefully Marche. Me and the clan will help you, and all you have to do is work hard with us too, understand, kupo? Not only must you work hard for the clan, but you must also work hard so that we may find a way to get you home."
Marche nodded at Montblanc's words.
"Does your clan have a name to go by?"
Marche asked out of curiosity. Montblanc shrugged.
"Well, were still a very new clan, so we haven't got an official name...I know, kupo! Why don't you come up with a name as the newest member?"
Marche pointed to himself in dismay.
"ME?! But I..."
Montblanc sighed.
"Don't worry, just take a deep breath and come up with a name, kupo."
Marche scratched his head and breathed like Montblanc said.
'I'm not very good with names...back in my old, old time, I never named by team. We were just...heretics...oh well, let's see...'
Marche looked at his team: He saw a Banga, dressed similarly to Rune, a Human, and two other form of races he didn't know. He turned to Montblanc, lowering himself so he whispered in the Moogle's ear.
"Montblanc, what are the other races? Like that rabbit eared lady and that mole?"
Montblanc nodded at remembering that Marche was still a bit unfamiliar with the races.
"The woman is a Viera, and the other one is called a Nu Mou."
Marche nodded as he stared at the team again.
'Hmmm...a Banga, a Human, a Viera, a Mu Mou, and...'
He looked down at Montblanc.
'...a Moogle...just a bunch of crazy races mingling...'
Marche cleared his throat.
"How about the Nuts Clan?"
Montblanc stared at him.
"Are you sure? That's a bit of an odd name..."
Marche scratched his head.
"How about...the Ruglia Clan?"
Marche said. Montblanc thought a bit before nodding.
"That's a nice name...alright, I like it, kupo. How about you guys?"
All in the Clan nodded in approval. Marche sighed in relief.
------
Ivalice, Cryril City, Outside of Pub
Marche leaned against the side of the Pub in an alley with Montblanc seeing the different races walking in the streets together. Marche was deep in thought.
'So this place is known as Ivalice. It almost reminds me off my old homeland, but it's still very different, what with so many diverse races amongst each other...'
Marche narrowed his eyes.
'I wonder if...'
He looked towards Montblanc, who was also staring at the crowed street while he leaned against the opposite building's wall.
"Tell me something, Montblanc...is Ivalice ruled by a King named Delita Hyral?"
Montblanc stared in surprise at Marche.
"Kupo. That's interesting, Marche...your asking about a man who has not been heard of for five millenia."
Marche's eyes bulged at what Montblanc just said.
"Five millenia? What's happened to him? Does he rule over Ivalice?"
Montblanc shook his head, closing his eyes.
"Well, Marche...A long time ago, a tyrant appeared on the throne in a northern location of Ivalice. Back then I think it was called Zeltenia, kupo. Apparently, Delita was the hero over the Lion War, which, had it succeeded, threatened to tear Ivalice apart. Delita proved to be a far better hero as he was so claimed to be than a king, kupo. Only for the past thousands of years has a truth been shown upon Ivalice: That there was in fact another responsible for ending the Lion War. He was said to be branded a heretic by the church at that time, but a report was released from the church, ultimately leading to it's end..."
Marche looked closely at Montblanc.
"A report? What kind of report?"
Montblanc nodded.
"It was called the Durai Report, kupo. Apparently some guy name Orlan Durai wrote it. The report stated that Delita was in fact not the true hero. Another man, named Ramza Beoulve, of a distinguished royal family, was the real one. Delita used Ramza for his own well being it was said, since Ramza and he were once best friend, kupo. The Report not only held extensive information on Ramza, but also what life was like back then. It was said that battles were common, and there was no sense of right or wrong, no clans, no judges, no nothing, kupo."
Marche lowered his head.
"I see..."
Marche mumbled as Montblanc continued.
"Delita was said to have lived for a very long time. He ruled Ivalice thousands of years ago, without aging. Many thought he was an immortal, kupo. Anyway, About two thousand years ago, around the time the Report was discovered, and Ramza Beoulve became the most legendary figure in history, kupo, the region of Zeltenia somehow got cut off from the rest of Ivalice, becoming it's own island. Ships that go there mysteriously disappear, so we have no knowledge of Zeltenia."
Marche narrowed his eyes.
"Zeltenia was cut off from the rest of Ivalice...so no one knows what happened to the King?"
Montblanc nodded before looking at Marche curiously.
"I'm surprised you'd ask me something that you should probably know nothing about..."
Marche interrupted Montblanc before he could question further.
"We have to get up early right? Why don't we head to the inn and get some rest?"
He walked off into the streets, as Montblanc followed behind him, still pondering what mysterious interest Marche had with King Delita and Zeltenia.
***TBC***
Written By Illuminet
Disclaimer: Most (if not all) the characters appearing in this story do not belong to me, but rather, are creations of the brilliant minds within Square Soft/Square Enix. I don't claim any of them.
"..."-Indicate speech
'...'-Indicate thought
------
St. Ivalice, Radiuju Residence, Marche and Doned's room
Marche stared up at the ceiling as he lay on his bed. His brother had been asleep in the other bed for two hours. Marche wanted to sleep, but his mind was plagued with one thing. The book Mewt brought over...
'That book...it reminds me somewhat of the Germonik Scriptures...but that's impossible...'
Marche kept trying to piece together why that book and it's pictures kept reminding him of a previous life. A life he thought he had escaped. At least for now.
'Is it time...? Has it been revived...?'
Marche fell into an uneasy sleep. Somehow he knew, tonight, something was going to happen...
:::Dream:::
Marche felt himself falling. He opened his eyes, seeing that he was just floating in the sky.
"What's going on?"
He said to himself, looking around.
"St.Ivalice...Why am I flying...?"
The snow covered city seemed to stretch on. Marche saw cars moving slowly in the streets. He saw the lights from some far off sky scrapers, and buildings. He heard something behind him.
"So familiar...sounds like...?"
Before he could answer, he saw a large golden feathered bird walking down a dirt path. Marche blinked. The city was changing. Tall buildings began to disappear, some being replaced by smaller, wooden buildings. He saw vast grasslands, tall mountains, blue skies...
"I don't understand..."
Marche murmured as St. Ivalice became less and less modernized. It was almost as if...
"Ivalice...but this world should be unaffected by higher influences...only humans have influenced this world....so why...?"
He stared in astonishment as the city disappeared. He sensed something in the air. A voice was calling out to him.
"The book..."
Marche's eyes widened.
"The book...no way...It's responsible..."
The voice came again, much closer than before.
"Welcome Marche Radiuju..."
Marche turned around, seeing an all to familiar face of a man. The man smirked.
"...or should I just call you Ramza Beoulve?"
Marche clenched his fists tightly.
"Delita...why are you here?"
Delita grinned in insane delight.
"I'm here to finish it, Ramza..."
Behind him, a giant six winged dragon emerged from the clouds.
"NOW DIE, RAMZA!!!"
The dragon let loose a large beam of energy. Marche held up his hands, trying to protect himself, but knew the attempt was ultimately futile against the blast.
"NOOO!!!"
Marche's vision went white.
:::Dream:::
Unknown land, Dark grasslands
Marche flung himself upright quickly, panting heavily and sweating profusely.
"Delita..."
His eyes widened in surprise. He was dressed differently now. He had a navy blue sweater like piece of clothing on and reddish-brown pants on. He noticed he had metal grieves on his legs and metal elbow pads.
"What's going on here?"
He felt himself to make sure he was entirely alright, before staring at his gloved hands.
"I'm alive...I sound older...have I grown up now?"
He stood at full height, realizing that he was now a young man, rather than a young boy. He looked around, seeing nothing but grass for miles around.
"Where is this?"
Marche decided to keep walking, not really knowing where he was. Deep down though, he felt a sense of familiarity in this place, as if he had known it his entire life.
------
Unknown Land, Unknown town
"Huh? Where am...ooof!"
Marche walked through the simple town, admiring the sights until he was knocked down on his rear. A gruff voice scolded him.
"You weren't looking where you were going, idiot."
Marche looked up in surprise when he saw who was talking to him.
"Your...a giant lizard?"
Marche said in confusion. The lizard man growled in fury.
"What was that, runt? WHAT DID YOU CALL ME?!"
Marche looked more confused as the lizard man seethed in anger at him.
"Huh?"
Marche said dumbly as he looked at the creature. It narrowed it's eyes dangerously.
"You called me a lizard didn't you? I know that's what you said. Don't you know never to call a Banga a lizard? DON'T EVER CALL US LIZARDS!!"
It growled, hoping to scare the young man, but Marche was not even phased. Another creature came between Marche and the creature called Banga. It was one Marche thought he was familiar with.
"Kupo! I've finally found you!"
Marche looked at the creature dressed in green with some surprise.
'Isn't this a Moogle? I thought they were extinct...'
Marche thought as he looked at the short creature. The Banga looked to the Moogle.
"Moogle, this brat an acquaintance of yours?"
He said, pointing his thumb at Marche as he looked down at the Moogle. The Moogle nodded.
"Yes, but he's from the Bronx, so he's never seen a Banga in his life until now. Kupo!"
The Moogle said to the Banga. He looked closely at the Moogle, as if making sure it wasn't lying. Marche wanted to say something but decided to keep silent.
"...."
The Moogle then turned to Marche.
"Look, he'll apologize for the rude comment. Kupo!"
Marche blinked once before bowing slightly to the Banga.
"Yes, I'm sorry for that. You are an unfamiliar person to me."
Once Marche was finished apologizing, the Moogle took his hand before turning to the Banga.
"Now if you will excuse us, Kupo."
The two walked away from the Banga. As they walked off, Marche could feel the Banga's eyes drilling into his back. He heard the Banga running up to them now.
"Hey, wait up a minute!"
The Banga said, making the two turn around to face him.
"Kupo?"
The Moogle said in question. The Banga looked at Marche carefully.
"Now that I've got a good look at you, I can tell by your clothes that your a Soldier, right?"
The Banga questioned Marche, who looked back with confusion.
"A Soldier?"
Marche asked as he stared at the Banga, who nodded.
"I thought so. If we Engage here, then I won't be complaining anymore about your sorry rear."
Marche was now more confused then ever about what the Banga just said. The Moogle held up it's right hand.
"ENTERING ENGAGE, KUPO!!"
Upon saying those words, a large knight in full battle armor appeared from nowhere.
"I'll judge this Engage match between..."
He looked towards the Banga.
"The name's Rune."
He then whistled, and another Banga came to help.
"This guy's Yuber."
Rune said to the Knight. The Knight then turned to Marche and the Moogle.
"And you...?"
The Moogle stepped forward slightly.
"I am Montblanc, kupo, and this is..."
Montblanc gestured the young man to say his name.
"Marche."
Marche said. The Knight nodded.
"Then this battle is between Rune and Yuber against Montblanc and Marche. The Law here is that no one on either side shall use an item for recovery. Begin."
Marche's eyes widened in realization.
"I think I understand, now...Engage is to battle..."
Marche said, as Rune and Yuber rushed up to him. Montblanc shook his head.
"If that's all the brilliant insight you have, you should be careful now. Take this sword."
Montblanc was about to give the sword to Marche, seeing as he was the target to the Banga. But instead of rushing to Montblanc and claiming the large sword, Marche attacked with his fists. The Banga drew a long staff and swung at Marche, who simply crouched under the blow, before sending an uppercut to his large chin. Rune reeled back from the blow, as Yuber came in with a sword, slashing sideways.
"No you don't..."
Marche said as he grasped the blade with his hands, using the momentum of Yuber to send him flipping on his back. Montblanc scratched his head.
"He's pretty amazing, kupo..."
The Moogle was impressed by Marche's quick reactions. As Yuber fell on his back, Marche flipped the sword, making it aim to The Banga's chest, where upon Marche put force on it, making the sword thrust into it's chest. Yuber died instantly. The Judge raised a hand, commending Marche.
"To the slayer of that incompetent, I grant you, Marche, one Judge Point."
Marche looked oddly at the Judge.
"Judge Point? What the heck is that?"
He asked the Judge. Montblanc answered for him.
"Kupo, you'll want to obtain Judge Points. Good things happen if you do."
Montblanc said. Marche turned to Rune as the Banga attacked with an over head swing of his staff, which Marche side steeped easily. He began punching the Banga with his fists.
"So I get Judge Points for defeating enemies...so that's a good thing?"
The Moogle simply nodded as he continued watching Marche strike the Banga, finally throwing an uppercut which knocked the Banga up in the air, before falling hard to the ground. Marche panted heavily.
"Wow, I guess we really did it, huh?"
He asked turning to Montblanc. Before Montblanc could respond, Rune crawled to his feet shakily, digging into his robe, looking for something.
"Damn it...need a...potion..."
Rune slurred. He took a small vial from the sleeve of his robe, containing a dark blue liquid. He popped the cork off with his thumb before gulping the drink down. The Judge blew a whistle, catching all of their attention, before pointing to Rune.
"You have just violated Law #R2-4601: Prohibition of Items in Engage. This is inexcusable, the violator of this law will be transported to Jail."
Rune looked wide eyed at the vial. Montblanc shook his head, turning to Marche.
"Prison is not a place you want to go, Marche, Kupo."
Montblanc said. Marche's face went a bit pale.
"Prison...?"
Was the only word Marche could get out. Montblanc nodded.
"It's a place warriors go to temporarily if they break a rule in battle. Be sure your clear with a Judge on what rules in areas mean or you'll find yourself there. Believe me, kupo, it's not a great experience."
Montblanc said. The Judge of the battle spoke up again.
"The Prison Transfer has been completed. If any of you wish to pay a visit, you must go to Mountain Peak City Spurom Prison."
With that being said, the Judge left. Marche put a hand to his chin in thought.
"Spurom...I've never heard of that name...this can't be Ivalice..."
------
Unknown Land, Cyril City (Previously unknown)
Marche and Montblanc were at the local bar, sitting at a table near a window, overlooking the town. Marche bowed slightly to Montblanc.
"Thanks for saving me, Montblanc."
Montblanc looked at him.
"I'm surprised you'd call a Banga a lizard. That's something even a toddler knows not to call a Banga, kupo."
Montblanc said seriously to Marche. Marche scratched his head, blushing slightly in embarrassment.
"Sorry, but I honestly didn't know."
Marche said. Montblanc stared hard at him.
"How can that be possible, kupo? You've never seen a Banga until now?"
Marche nodded his head.
"Well...I've never seen a real one...and you, if I wasn't familiar with what you are, I'd call you a talking stuffed animal."
Montblanc bristled at the comment.
"Watch who you call a stuffed animal, kupo. Still, all that your saying is odd...don't you come from somewhere around here? Like Kandoan or Mascade, Kupo?"
Montblanc asked taking a serious tone again. Marche clutched his head, trying to figure out what had happened to him.
"Sorry, Montblanc, I don't know those places, heck, I don't know why I'm here in the first place."
Marche said, still clutching his head. Montblanc nodded sagely.
"I understand your totally confused right now, Marche, but you should just calm down and begin to adjust to this life, kupo. First things first, your in the Town of Cyril, within Ivalice, kupo."
Montblanc said. Marche was now even more confused.
"Ivalice...it's the same name as the town I come from but..."
Marche began saying, until Montblanc cut him off with a question.
"Wait a minute, kupo. A town? Sorry but Ivalice is a country. kupo."
Montblanc said. Marche lowered his head.
"I can see that, Montblanc. Still, this can't be right. Where I came from, Moogles and Banga don't exist."
Montblanc stared in surprise at what Marche just said.
"Seriously, kupo? What about other areas? Surely there are races like us elsewhere then, kupo."
Marche shook his head.
"Sorry, only people. The only thing non human would be a cat or a dog..."
Marche said. Montblanc rubbed his chin in thought, his antenna bouncing about as he did.
"Wait a minute, Marche, what did you mean when you said that you saw us before, but not for real?"
Montblanc asked, as Marche stared up at the ceiling in thought, before snapping his finger, remembering something.
"Your right...I have a little brother who can't walk because he is so weak. He spends his time either reading books or playing video games. This place reminds me of the video game he loved to play called Final Fantasy. That's where I've seen you guys. Plus there were pictures of you in a book a friend of mine showed me."
The Moogle stared oddly at Marche, as if he were talking crazy.
"Video games, kupo? What is that?"
Marche leaned a bit closer, beginning to whisper it to Montblanc.
"The video game Final Fantasy is Role Playing Game. You assume the roles of heroes, play through a story, and eventually save the world from evil. Just one big adventure, I guess you could say."
Montblanc leaned closer.
"So, kupo, your saying that we might be in a video game? That has got to be one of the weirdest stories I've ever heard. Still, it has caught my interest, so why don't we go to somplace we can talk more freely?"
Marche nodded. The two got up paid for their tab and left the bar. The bar was connected to a large recruiting office of sorts. Montblanc stopped a bit, and Marche stopped with him.
"Why are we stopping here?"
Marche asked. Montblanc pointed to various races: some were just normal humans, others Moogles, Banga, and other races that Marche wasn't familiar with yet. Montblanc spoke.
"You've might have already guessed, Marche, but this pub is a good place to enter clans since everyone comes here. kupo."
Marche looked at the many warriors.
"Wow, everyone seems so strong...is there a recruiting office or something? How do I join a clan anyway?"
Marche didn't see any head chief behind a desk like he was so used to in another time, in another land with the same name. Montblanc shook his head.
"Don't worry, you'll join my clan instantly once your introduced..."
Montblanc turned and pointed to a small group before walking up to them. They all looked at Montblanc.
"Kupo. Everyone, I'd like to introduce you to a new member, Marche."
Marche nodded at the small band of races, smiling softly.
"Nice to meet you all."
Marche said simply. Montblanc turned to Marche.
"Listen carefully Marche. Me and the clan will help you, and all you have to do is work hard with us too, understand, kupo? Not only must you work hard for the clan, but you must also work hard so that we may find a way to get you home."
Marche nodded at Montblanc's words.
"Does your clan have a name to go by?"
Marche asked out of curiosity. Montblanc shrugged.
"Well, were still a very new clan, so we haven't got an official name...I know, kupo! Why don't you come up with a name as the newest member?"
Marche pointed to himself in dismay.
"ME?! But I..."
Montblanc sighed.
"Don't worry, just take a deep breath and come up with a name, kupo."
Marche scratched his head and breathed like Montblanc said.
'I'm not very good with names...back in my old, old time, I never named by team. We were just...heretics...oh well, let's see...'
Marche looked at his team: He saw a Banga, dressed similarly to Rune, a Human, and two other form of races he didn't know. He turned to Montblanc, lowering himself so he whispered in the Moogle's ear.
"Montblanc, what are the other races? Like that rabbit eared lady and that mole?"
Montblanc nodded at remembering that Marche was still a bit unfamiliar with the races.
"The woman is a Viera, and the other one is called a Nu Mou."
Marche nodded as he stared at the team again.
'Hmmm...a Banga, a Human, a Viera, a Mu Mou, and...'
He looked down at Montblanc.
'...a Moogle...just a bunch of crazy races mingling...'
Marche cleared his throat.
"How about the Nuts Clan?"
Montblanc stared at him.
"Are you sure? That's a bit of an odd name..."
Marche scratched his head.
"How about...the Ruglia Clan?"
Marche said. Montblanc thought a bit before nodding.
"That's a nice name...alright, I like it, kupo. How about you guys?"
All in the Clan nodded in approval. Marche sighed in relief.
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Ivalice, Cryril City, Outside of Pub
Marche leaned against the side of the Pub in an alley with Montblanc seeing the different races walking in the streets together. Marche was deep in thought.
'So this place is known as Ivalice. It almost reminds me off my old homeland, but it's still very different, what with so many diverse races amongst each other...'
Marche narrowed his eyes.
'I wonder if...'
He looked towards Montblanc, who was also staring at the crowed street while he leaned against the opposite building's wall.
"Tell me something, Montblanc...is Ivalice ruled by a King named Delita Hyral?"
Montblanc stared in surprise at Marche.
"Kupo. That's interesting, Marche...your asking about a man who has not been heard of for five millenia."
Marche's eyes bulged at what Montblanc just said.
"Five millenia? What's happened to him? Does he rule over Ivalice?"
Montblanc shook his head, closing his eyes.
"Well, Marche...A long time ago, a tyrant appeared on the throne in a northern location of Ivalice. Back then I think it was called Zeltenia, kupo. Apparently, Delita was the hero over the Lion War, which, had it succeeded, threatened to tear Ivalice apart. Delita proved to be a far better hero as he was so claimed to be than a king, kupo. Only for the past thousands of years has a truth been shown upon Ivalice: That there was in fact another responsible for ending the Lion War. He was said to be branded a heretic by the church at that time, but a report was released from the church, ultimately leading to it's end..."
Marche looked closely at Montblanc.
"A report? What kind of report?"
Montblanc nodded.
"It was called the Durai Report, kupo. Apparently some guy name Orlan Durai wrote it. The report stated that Delita was in fact not the true hero. Another man, named Ramza Beoulve, of a distinguished royal family, was the real one. Delita used Ramza for his own well being it was said, since Ramza and he were once best friend, kupo. The Report not only held extensive information on Ramza, but also what life was like back then. It was said that battles were common, and there was no sense of right or wrong, no clans, no judges, no nothing, kupo."
Marche lowered his head.
"I see..."
Marche mumbled as Montblanc continued.
"Delita was said to have lived for a very long time. He ruled Ivalice thousands of years ago, without aging. Many thought he was an immortal, kupo. Anyway, About two thousand years ago, around the time the Report was discovered, and Ramza Beoulve became the most legendary figure in history, kupo, the region of Zeltenia somehow got cut off from the rest of Ivalice, becoming it's own island. Ships that go there mysteriously disappear, so we have no knowledge of Zeltenia."
Marche narrowed his eyes.
"Zeltenia was cut off from the rest of Ivalice...so no one knows what happened to the King?"
Montblanc nodded before looking at Marche curiously.
"I'm surprised you'd ask me something that you should probably know nothing about..."
Marche interrupted Montblanc before he could question further.
"We have to get up early right? Why don't we head to the inn and get some rest?"
He walked off into the streets, as Montblanc followed behind him, still pondering what mysterious interest Marche had with King Delita and Zeltenia.
***TBC***