Chapter 6
Written By Illuminet
Disclaimer: Most (if not all) of the characters appearing with in this story do not belong to me, but rather, are creations of the brilliant minds within Square Soft/Square Enix. I make no claim over any of them.
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Cyril City, Bar
When the Ruglia Clan got back from the investigation, all of them, save for Marche, went to bed. Marche walked to the Bar Keep's counter tiredly and sat in a stool right in front of Bartender, who looked up from cleaning a mug.
"Well, it's you Marche. Seems you've put in quite a days work. You want the usual?"
The Bartender asked. Marche simply nodded. The Bartender poured Marche a mug of milk and brought it to the tired leader.
"So, how was the investigation?"
He asked as Marche chugged down his glass. The Bartender poured him another one.
"Not bad. It was quite the success."
"Not bad, huh? It's too bad that all these Clan Conflicts are starting to arise. It gets worse and worse here everyday.'
Marche nodded.
"Yeah, so I've been hearing. It seems they started really going at it once my clan finished the last mission."
The Bartender nodded at Marche's words as he started cleaning another mug.
"I've been wandering the country, and all I seem to see is Clans battling it out day in and day out. They just keep increasing, I tell you."
Marche nodded solemnly, handing his empty mug to the Bartender to clean.
"All this fighting will just lead to more death, I'm afraid. Even my clan will soon become a part of that bloodshed."
Marche sighed as he heard himself speak.
'So little has changed since the old days...well, as far as fighting concerns...'
The Bartender looked at Marche.
"Hey, if your not busy, could you and your clan scan the area of town? Just to make sure no hostile clan is near by? I would rather try and avoid having innocents hurt by a raiding clan."
Marche nodded.
"I was going to do just that anyway. It's too bad that so many clans hurt others through use of innocent bystanders, don't you think?"
Marche asked as he got up and slung his sword over his shoulder. The Bartender smiled.
"You have impressed me a lot since you first came here and turned Montblanc's clan into a more powerful one. You seem to have a desire to help people weaker than yourself..."
The Bartender bowed in respect to Marche.
"Thanks for listening to this old man ramble. It's good to know that some clans use their power and influence for a greater good."
The Bartender handed him a mission paper. Marche nodded.
"Thanks for the head's up, take care, alright?"
Marche walked off, slinging his blade on his shoulder, and not bothering to wake up his clan members.
------
Cyril City, outskirts
"Stop right there..."
Marche said from within the shadows of the barely lit street. The Burglar he saw was carrying a chicken with him.
"Crap I've been spotted...who are you?"
Marche stepped into view and the bandit recognized him instantly.
"Your Marche, leader of the Ruglia clan, right?"
Marche nodded.
"And your the one who's been stealing all the chickens...It's amazing that this mission costs 3,600 gil just for your arrest. Why don't you come quietly?"
The burglar shook his head, laying the caged chicken down.
"Sorry, can't do that..."
The burglar pulled out a long cutting knife from behind him and held it ready. Marche brought his Defender forth.
"We don't have to do this.."
Marche said, hoping to not have to fight if he didn't need to.
"I got no choice."
The thief lunged with expert thrusts of his knife while Marche defended his blows.
'I guess he gives me no choice...'
Marche swung a wide arc with his blade, but the burglar evaded it easily, stepping in while Marche was off balance, but Marche kicked out with his right leg, striking the man in the face.
"Ow...now you've gone and done it."
The burglar slashed down with his knife as Marche blocked, realizing something.
'He's using a weapon break technique...'
True to what Marche had thought, the expert attack cleaved his Defender in two. Marche let it fall to the ground with a clang.
"Now what are ya gonna do?"
The burglar taunted. Marche struck out with his right fist, the burglar guarding against the attack with his knife.
"You gonna fight with your fists?"
The burglar said in disbelief as Marche smirked. The knife crumbled to dust, to the burglar's surprise.
"How...?"
Before the burglar could finish, Marche flipped over him, kicking out with his foot, and striking the man in the back of the neck. The burglar fell on his knees in shock.
"uhhh, Master..."
Was all the burglar said be fore he hit the ground unconscious. Marche picked him up and slung the man over his shoulder. He then looked down at the Defender.
"Montblanc isn't going to like this..."
Marche said as he picked up what remained of it and walked off back to town.
------
Cyril City, Bar, Marche and Montblanc's table
"Why did you act on your own, kupo?"
Marche sighed. He had just been lectured by Montblanc about the importance of going out with the clan and acting as a team
"Look, it was a one on one duel. The mission netted us 3,600 gil for one poacher extermination. I did it for the town."
Montblanc scratched his head.
"I guess I'll let it go, kupo, but next time Marche, at least inform the clan of a mission, kupo. Because you acted alone, your sword got broken., kupo."
Marche nodded.
"It probably would have gotten broken by others anyway.. Speaking of missions, I wonder if there are any others today."
Montblanc nodded in agreement.
"Why don't you go check, kupo."
Once it was said and done, Marche made his way to the Bar counter to talk to the Bartender.
"Any new missions today?"
Marche asked. The Bartender fetched out a piece of paper and handed it to him.
"Here's one, but...well, it's in Lutia Pass again."
"That's fine, gotta make gil somehow, right?"
Upon returning to the table Montblanc perked up.
"So what's the mission for today, kupo?"
"Let's see...it seems that a black mage has blocked off Lutia Pass with an...ice device of some sort. He fights off anyone who comes near it."
Montblanc nodded.
"Hmm...I see, kupo. Sounds like an important mission. How much do we get paid for this, kupo?"
"4,000 gil reward for their defeat. Now, can I ask you something, Montblanc?"
"Sure, kupo."
"Why are so many of our missions becoming free? Usually we'd have to pay for them right? Is this a clan influence thing?"
The moogle nodded.
"Yes, it is, kupo. You remember what I told you before, kupo, when we first met right?"
Marche nodded.
"Well then, on to more important things. we should buy you a new weapon, kupo."
Marche shook his head.
"My fists'll do. Your black smith brethren are taking care of the Defender, though, right?"
"Of course, kupo. But are you sure you want to use your fists, kupo?"
Marche nodded.
"You already know my body is just as powerful as my sword. I'll be fine, Montblanc, you don't have to worry about me, okay?"
Marche said while resting a hand on Montblanc's shoulder. The moogle nodded.
"So when do we leave, kupo?"
"We'll go in a little bit."
------
Lutia Pass, unnatural snow area
A Nu Mou Ice mage looked about the area as the cold winds kept blowing. He stared upon the thick frigid wall of ice that came through the pass, preventing anyone from passing through the Pass.
"Heh, I doubt that there will be anymore need for improvement for this freezing wind experiment. Now all I..."
He heard the crunching of footsteps within the snow.
"Who's there?"
The Nu Mou turned to find a clan standing near the icy wall the mage stood upon. The look at the clan's leader made the mage's eyes widen slightly in interest and surprise.
"WELL, if it isn't the infamous Ruglia Clan. I'm graced by such a famous leader, one who came out of nowhere to change a back draft clan into an amazing one...but on to more pressing matters...why are you here?"
Marche held up a mission paper, and it became all to clear to the mage on what was going on.
"So, you've picked up a mission to interfere with my work...but I, Grad, the Ice Mage can't allow you to do that..."
Marche sighed at Grad's words.
"You wouldn't have to deal with me and my clan if you didn't get the people angry for not being able to cross through the pass. You brought this on yourself."
"So I have..."
Grad mumbled before snapping his fingers. A Float Eye flew down to where Grad stood upon his wall of ice. Two Red Panthers emerged from the snow besides the ice wall, growling. Marche shook his head.
"Your making it to easy, Grad."
He turned to his clan members.
"Montblanc, Victory, and Celine. You three are with me, the rest of you stay back and let us handle this."
Marche then turned to Grad.
"ENGAGE!!"
Marche roared out, as a Judge rode out near Marche's location.
"You guys again? I must say, your clan sure takes a lot of quests."
The Judge pulled out his deck of cards.
"Let's see...Fire prohibition. No fire magic or fire elemental weapons of any sort allowed. This red card states that anyone to break this rule will instantly be teleported to prison upon the battles conclusion."
Grad laughed in delight.
"Seems the Ruglia clan has been dealt a bad hand."
Marche simply smirked.
"We may not be able to use fire powers, but that doesn't mean you have the advantage..."
Grad growled lowly at Marche's confidence.
"Shut up! I'll kill you right now!"
Marche turned to his clan members.
"Listen, Celine and Victory, you two take the Red Panthers down, and Montblanc will take care of the Float Eye. The leader is mine."
Montblanc came closer.
"Are you sure, kupo? Wouldn't a long range specialist like Mustadio or Worker No. 8 be better suited for this, kupo?"
Montblanc asked, but Marche shook his head.
"Normally I'd agree, but Mustadio just has fire elemental bullets with him, and we can't have him sent to jail. As for Worker No. 8, he's got to provide warmth for the rest of the clan."
Marche pointed to the left out clan members as they huddled near Worker No. 8, who's mechanic body was generating heat to keep them warm. Montblanc shivered.
"But then, who's gonna keep us warm, kupo?"
"No one. I've got a hunch that killing Grad will stop this freezing weather, and prevent us from turning into human popsickles, but we gotta hurry."
"Shouldn't we all concentrate our efforts on him then, kupo?"
"That Float Eye's gaze techniques will really be trouble if not keep occupied. You'll have to distract it while I use my special one-hit kill on Grad. Now go."
Marche dashed through the snow with practiced ease, St. Ivalice's weather having fully prepared him to move about effectively without any burden of speed or movement. Montblanc could fly without worry to the terrain, but the heavy winds Grad had created posed a problem to his movement. Victory treaded through the snow slowly, and advanced on the Red Panther on the left side by the ice wall. Celine, like Marche, had little difficulty in speed or movement, and was quickly upon the Red Panther to the right.
"Your making it to easy, Marche."
Grad said with a confident voice. He raised his hand slightly. On ground level, Marche barely had time to react as spikes of ice rose through the snow, nearly impaling him if his reflexes weren't quick enough.
"What kind of ice spell was that?"
Marche asked himself as he came closer to the frozen wall. Grad smirked.
"Your forgetting, Marche. I'm the Ice Mage, the entire environment of this Pass are at my disposal, and with fire magic working against you because of that law card, your chances are close to nil."
Marche gritted his teeth at what Grad just told him.
'So he can control and vary his ice spells into versions even I would have never thought possible. Still, all I need to do is get close so I can use the Stop Bracelet...'
Marche was fast approaching the wall, and when he was almost in arms reach, a large icicle shot out from the wall, but Marche jumped onto it, before jumping higher up in the air. Another icicle shot from the wall, and again Marche jumped onto it, before jumping off even higher, as another icicle greeted him.
'Since he's manipulating the ice to do this...well, as long as he keeps this up, I can climb up to that wall in no time...'
Marche estimated that he was about half way up. More and more icicles came, moving toward him more rapidly, but it only lead to Marche getting up on the wall faster, and frustrating Grad more. Once Marche was on the wall with Grad, Grad looked a bit surprised.
"I should have realized you were just using that attack of mine to scale the wall...oh well, one mistake won't kill me. Fare well Marche of the Ruglia Clan."
The wizard sent a shock wave of ice along the length of the frozen wall. Marche gritted his teeth together and knitted his brows together in though as the ice wave made it's way towards him.
'Damn it...with his complete control of the ice element, he can do anything to me up here...I've got to surprise him.'
Though Marche as the frigid spikes kept making their way towards him along the wall. A swirl of white roman numerals made their way in front of the ice spell cast by Grad, halting them before they could hit Marche. Grad stared in surprise.
"What?! A STOP spell?!"
Grad stated in disbelief. Marche reacted automatically, jumping across the spikes with ease, diving head first towards the mage with his fist reeled back. Upon bringing his fist forward, he extended his index and middle fingers outward, aiming for the wizard's heart. A feight red light seemed to appear as Marche's extended fingers touched Grad's heart. Grad's eyes opened wide in shock as he fell to his knees.
"Ugh...my experiments...they..."
Before Grad could say anything else, he fell to the ground dead. Marche looked at the fallen wizard, before turning his gaze at his minions below. The Float Eye and Red Panthers seemed to cower in fear before retreating from battle, to scared to go on with the battle.
"We've got to do something about this wall..."
Marche said before an idea struck him. He slammed his fist into the wall of ice, shattering it with his Earth Slash. The entire structure crumbled, as Marche fell head first into the snow, before rolling out of it and standing up, looking back to inspect his handiwork.
"With that wall out of the way, this pass should be able to be used by the common people again. Now then..."
Marche turned to the companions who had fought with him.
"Which one of you used that Stop spell?"
Marche asked them. Montblanc came forward.
"I used it, kupo. Pretty cool huh, kupo?"
Montblanc said to him. Marche nodded.
"Thanks for saving my life, Montblanc. I owe you."
Marche said with a smile, but Montblanc shook his head.
"Hey, you've done a lot for this clan, Marche. That's thanks enough, kupo!"
The Judge came forward.
"That was an amazing finisher, Marche. You seem to be gaining a lot of popularity these days. Anyway, you and your clan should head back to Cyril, your main territory. It's freezing out here."
With that said, the Judge left the battle field.
"I think the Judge has the right idea. Let's head back everyone."
------
Cyril City, Marche's room
"Man, that looked pretty tough, Marche."
Mustadio said as he sat at a small table. He was cleaning the revolver piece for his gun with a small piece of cloth. Worker No. 8 stood idly in a corner of the room. Marche lay on his bed, staring at the ceiling.
"I never would have though it possible for a mage like that to exist, Mustadio. He had free reign of his power over ice. He could do anything with it. Ivalice has changed greatly. Everything seems to have evolved in some aspect or another..."
Marche said. Mustadio nodded.
"Yeah, I hear ya. Still, we old timers seem to still hold our own, huh?"
Mustadio said, trying to cheer Marche up, as the young leader seemed a little down. Marche yawned loudly.
"I think I'll go to bed now, Mustadio. Good night."
"Alright, good night. Come on Worker No. 8."
------
Lutia Pass, Night time
"A rescue mission., huh?"
Rooty asked as he looked at Marche, who nodded.
"Yeah, Professor Ougii's was reported missing around this area, so..."
Marche was interrupted by a Sagely voice.
"You and your clan shouldn't be here after dark..."
Marche narrowed his eyes.
"Ougii? Is that you?"
An old man appeared in tattered robes, staggering up the hill where Marche and clan were.
"Why are you youngsters here? Don't you know the undead wonder around here at night?"
Ougii asked them. Marche shook his head.
"We've taken a mission to find you..."
Marche said, but he was interrupted by a howl. Zombies started to arise from the earth, surrounding the clan.
"Oh no, Marche...Lost Ones, kupo!"
Marche looked towards the undead beings.
"There's about six of them. Mustadio, Montblanc, Rooty, you guys with me. The rest of you should sit this one out."
The rest stood a save distance while Marche and his chosen clan members stepped forward.
"ENGAGE!!"
Marche roared as a Judge appeared. He scanned the battle field.
"Alright, let's see..."
The Judge pulled out a yellow card.
"No swords allowed. Anyone to strike with a sword will be penalized with a fine of 9,000 gil. I'm sure you all know the drill by now, so let the battle begin."
The Judge said. Marche nodded.
"Well, we won't have to worry. Rooty and I can cast fire spells. Montblanc, help keep the professor alive..."
Mustadio cocked his gun and smirked.
"Let me take care of all of them."
Mustadio shot the Lost Ones with holy bullets, petrifying their bodies before they could sling their way to the party. Marche's eyes opened in realization.
'That's right...the Seal Evil bullets.'
The Judge whistled at the display.
"That must have been the quickest Engage I've ever seen. Well, I'll be off."
The Judge rode off with his Chocobo. Marche turned to the rest of his clan.
"Well, without lifting a finger. That was pretty easy then, let's be off. Come on Professor Ougii, everybody misses you."
------
Cyril City Bar, Marche and Montblanc's usual table
"This is the highest paying quest yet, Montblanc. 6,000 gil for their defeat."
Marche said before drinking some milk. Montblanc looked at the mission paper with interest.
"Wow, kupo. 6,000 gil is really tempting, we should go for it, Marche, kupo!"
Montblanc got up excitedly, but Marche stopped him.
"Of course, Montblanc. Before that, though, is my sword finished yet?"
Montblanc shook his head.
"Not sure, I haven't spoken to any of them yet, kupo, but it probably is."
Montblanc said. Marche nodded.
"Then we should..."
Before Marche could finish, Celine came over.
"Sorry, but another clan has also taken the job of taking out the Swindler Gang. We should get going if were gonna catch up."
Marche nodded.
"Alright, Celine. Come on Montblanc, the sword can wait."
------
Nubswood Forrest, middle of the Forrest
Celine was jumping from the trees, carrying Montblanc on her shoulder as she sped through the branches. Marche had a little trouble keeping up, but he managed very well.
"Your sure it was a woman with long pink hair, Celine?"
Marche asked as he hopped to another branch.
"What are you thinking, kupo? You know this woman Celine's talking about, kupo?"
Marche narrowed his eyes in thought, not hearing Montblanc's question.
'Is must be Ritz...she's alive...no, I shouldn't hope to much...I'll know when I get there. Too bad we had to leave in a hurry without telling everyone."
------
Nubswood Forrest, clearing by the river
"Finally caught up with you, Swindler Gang. Now why don't you be good boys and turn yourself in quietly."
Ritz said. The Swindler Gang's archer turned to her.
"Damn persistent bastards..."
Ritz smirked.
"If we weren't, you wouldn't have been caught."
The Viera sniper that stood besides Ritz looked towards the trees on the other side of the river as her ears perked up, as if hearing something. Ritz turned to her.
"What is it, Shara?"
The two swordswomen behind Ritz and Shara came forward slightly.
"Is someone coming from the other side?"
The woman in the silver armor asked. Shara nodded. They saw as a Viera, carrying a Moogle, burst onto the scene. Ritz's eyes widened in surprise as she saw the next person to appear.
"No way...Marche..."
Marche also looked at her in surprise.
"Ritz...it really is you...and..."
Marche saw the two woman behind her.
'Agrias and Meliadoul...so they are with her clan.'
Marche was sure it was his previous allies, the Holy Knights who aided him as Ramza. The head of the Swindlers, a Banga Dragoon, eyed Marche with interest.
"Are you the leader of the Ruglia clan? Marche Radiuju?"
Marche turned to the Banga.
"And you must be the leader of the Swindler Gang, I presume?"
Marche said as he narrowed his eyes. While he and the Banga conversed, Shara turned to Ritz.
"An acquaintance of yours?"
She asked Ritz, who nodded.
"Yeah, he's from the other world I was telling you about."
As she said that, she heard the Banga roar and raise his weapon.
"There's no need to worry about some chick from a no name clan. I want Marche Radiuju's head. NOW!"
Ritz growled.
"I WILL NOT BE IGNORED!!!!"
She charged the backside of the Swindler Gang, striking at a Black Mage who was closest to her with her staff and knocking him aside. Shara took aim and shot down an archer in the back, crippling him. Meliadoul picked off the Black Mage Ritz had struck with a Shellbust Stab technique. Agrias followed suit and took down the archer Shara had shot with a Crush Punch technique. While the Swindler Gang members were falling, on the other side of the river, Marche, Celine, and Montblanc stared in surprise.
"They didn't even go into Engage, kupo..."
Montblanc said, shrugging his shoulders.
"Your girlfriends gets mad easily, huh?"
Celine said as she turned towards Marche, who was scratching the back of his head in embarrassment.
"Sheesh... I'm feeling sorry for that Dragoon for making a fatal mistake."
Marche said as he saw the Dragoon try and guard against Ritz's onslaught of swings which kept banging against the Dragoon's head, finally knocking him out cold from so many blows to the head. The four gang members were beaten down by the four women with ease. Ritz finally calmed down.
"Serves him right..."
Clapping could be heard behind her as she turned. A large Banga White Monk clapped good naturely at the display of downed fighters as he sat by a lone tree.
"Well, Ms, seems you took out my clan with little trouble."
Ritz narrowed her eyes at the Banga.
"So your the real leader of these guys..."
Before Ritz could say anything else, the Banga stood to full height, pointing at Marche.
"You, Marche of the Ruglia clan, I challenge you to a one on one duel."
He said with a smirk as all attention seem to focus on Marche. Montblanc came forward, standing in front of Marche.
"He's incredibly powerful, Marche. I know he is, kupo...it might not be a good idea to fight, kupo..."
Marche shook his head.
"Don't worry about it, Montblanc. I'll be fine."
With that, Marche jumped into the river, swimming to the other side where Ritz, her clan, and the Banga were. He walked steadily to where the Banga was.
"Wait, Marche, are you sure about this?"
Ritz asked as he walked by, but he never answered. Meliadoul put an armored hand on her shoulder.
"He'll be fine."
Was all the female knight said as she turned to Marche, who was now face to face with the Banga, who easily towered over Marche.
"Seeing as you know my name, why don't I ask you yours?"
Marche said with a clear voice, devoid of fear. The Banga smirked.
"You may call me Grava. Now then..."
He brought his large fists up as he got into fighting stance, ready to strike.
"...let's begin."
Marche sighed.
"I guess this won't be an Engage battle?"
Grava didn't answer Marche and just waited. Marche finally readied himself.
"I'll take that as yes, this isn't an Engage battle."
The two evaluated each other carefully, neither one wanting to underestimate the other. Grava struck first, with a his knuckled fist, as Marche ducked under the blow and countered with a spinning back fist to Grava's mid section. Grava didn't even budge. Marche's eyes widened in surprise.
"Wow, you are very powerful..."
Marche commented as he blocked a flying knee attack from Grava. The two threw punch after punch: Grava was slow but powerful, while Marche's were lightning fast but not very effective against the Banga. Marche always counter attacked Grava's punches, so he decided to take it up a notch.
"Whirlwind!"
Grava spun like a top, striking Marche back into the ground. Marche got up slowly in pain, but was knocked back by the force of air Grava sent out with his fist.
"Air Render!"
Marche felt the blow send him reeling back, but he regained his balance.
'Damn...he's not playing around anymore...'
Marche struck the ground with his fist.
"Earth Slash!"
The ground ripped apart, as the shock wave got closer to Grava. The Banga side stepped the attack completely as he smirked, before charging in front of Marche, and using his massive body to charge into Marche, but Marche simply hopped over the rushing Banga, kicking him down into the ground. Grava got up, turning towards Marche.
"Your not bad, Marche, not bad at all...but, I'm gonna finish this."
Grava smirked. Marche shook his head.
"It's not over yet."
Grava used Air Render again, but Marche easily dodged it, and used the same attack against him.
"Why don't you hold still, Marche?"
Grava said, as Marche jumped over a low sweep attack.
"Now why would I do that?"
Marche said sarcastically, as he dodged an uppercut.
"Truthfully, though, Grava, your starting to bore me. I'll give you five more attacks to strike me down before I take you out."
Grava smirked at Marche's words.
"You...take me out? You must be joking."
The Banga punched down, almost catching Marche, before he kicked out sideways, trying to hit Marche as he dashed away from the blow. Grava was getting frustrated as he threw a back hand which was easily dodged.
"You little..."
"Enough, Grava, I'm tired of this. It's almost noon and I want to speak to my friends. I've got no time for you anymore."
Marche dashed forward, fading out of existence. Grava's eyes widened in surprise.
"Where...?"
Before he could finish, he fell to his knees in pain. His whole body ached.
"What...what did you do?"
Marche was now behind Grava, as the Banga swayed back and forth, trying to regain conscious.
"I just attacked all your weak points simultaneously. It's very effective against Bangas with a lot of stamina."
Marche said as Grava fell face first to the ground unconscious.
------
Nubswood, after fight is concluded
"I didn't think I'd meet you here, Ritz."
Marche said as he talked to Ritz.
"Me neither. I was a bit surprised to hear you were the famous leader of the Ruglia clan. If it wasn't for that display a little while ago, I'd never believe you'd be doing clan work."
"Oh...? You find that strange, huh?"
Ritz nodded.
"Yeah...you never really participated in anything unless it was snow ball fighting."
"I guess so. Anyway, you pretty much beat down those other guys, Ritz. You didn't get hurt or anything, did you?"
Marche asked. Ritz smirked.
"What's this? Were you worried about me?"
She asked. Marche blushed and scratched his head.
"Well..."
Shara came forward and looked at Marche closely. Ritz introduced the two.
"This is Shara, my fellow clanswoman. Shara, This is my friend Marche."
The two shook hands, before the others came forward.
"These two are Meliadoul and Agrias. They are very powerful warriors."
Marche nodded.
'I was right...'
"This is my clansman, Montblanc. Celine is another member of my clan as well."
------
Nubswood Forrest, Dusk
"Tell me Ritz...what do you make of this world, anyway?"
Marche asked as he sat against a tree, fiddling with a strand of grass. Ritz was close, also leaning against the tree.
"Hard to say, Marche. I believe it's the game world of Final Fantasy.I don't think were stuck in a game, though. I think the very town has become the game world of Final Fantasy."
Marche sighed.
"Why did this have to happen to us?"
"It's not all that bad, Marche. We get to do all sorts of things we weren't able to in St.Ivalice."
Marche's mood got darker.
"You really like it here, Ritz?"
Ritz turned her head to look at Marche. His hair came over his eyes, and he looked to be deep in thought. She could feel that Marche did not like it here, for some reason.
"You really want to go back, Marche? To that dull life in St. Ivalice?"
"Listen, Ritz. I love the things I'm able to do here, but I'd rather not have to stay here. It's just like back then..."
Marche's voice was just a little above a whisper, and Ritz barely heard it.
"What do you mean, Marche?"
"Won't you help me change it back?"
"Sorry, but I like it here, Marche."
After she said that, Shara appeared.
"We should get going, Ritz."
"Alright Shara."
Ritz turned to Marche.
"I'm sorry, Marche, but I won't assist you. I'm sure we'll meet again, though."
The two walked off. Meliadoul and Agrias showed up a little later after the two. Marche lifted his head up to look at the two.
"Take good care of Ritz for me, okay, you two?"
He told them.
"So it really was you, Ramza."
Agrias said, nodding her head at him.
"We'll be sure to take care of her."
Meliadoul said afterwards. The two walked off in Ritz's direction. Marche looked towards the red sky.
"Mewt must be around here, too."
After saying that, Marche thought back to another time in another place where he was a different person, watching the same sky with a friend he knew a long time ago. He brought the piece of grass to his lips and blew, filling the sky with a soft sound as he closed his eyes.
'Well, Delita...are you looking at the same sky this very moment?'
***TBC***
Note: Sorry for the long delay, but when you have to worry about college, you'll find yourself with little time to update. Hopefully this chapter is alright. I didn't like it as much as the other chapters too much, but hopefully you'll like it. The seventh chapter will probably not be coming along anytime soon either, sorry. Oh yeah, thanks for all the positive reviews as well.
Written By Illuminet
Disclaimer: Most (if not all) of the characters appearing with in this story do not belong to me, but rather, are creations of the brilliant minds within Square Soft/Square Enix. I make no claim over any of them.
------
Cyril City, Bar
When the Ruglia Clan got back from the investigation, all of them, save for Marche, went to bed. Marche walked to the Bar Keep's counter tiredly and sat in a stool right in front of Bartender, who looked up from cleaning a mug.
"Well, it's you Marche. Seems you've put in quite a days work. You want the usual?"
The Bartender asked. Marche simply nodded. The Bartender poured Marche a mug of milk and brought it to the tired leader.
"So, how was the investigation?"
He asked as Marche chugged down his glass. The Bartender poured him another one.
"Not bad. It was quite the success."
"Not bad, huh? It's too bad that all these Clan Conflicts are starting to arise. It gets worse and worse here everyday.'
Marche nodded.
"Yeah, so I've been hearing. It seems they started really going at it once my clan finished the last mission."
The Bartender nodded at Marche's words as he started cleaning another mug.
"I've been wandering the country, and all I seem to see is Clans battling it out day in and day out. They just keep increasing, I tell you."
Marche nodded solemnly, handing his empty mug to the Bartender to clean.
"All this fighting will just lead to more death, I'm afraid. Even my clan will soon become a part of that bloodshed."
Marche sighed as he heard himself speak.
'So little has changed since the old days...well, as far as fighting concerns...'
The Bartender looked at Marche.
"Hey, if your not busy, could you and your clan scan the area of town? Just to make sure no hostile clan is near by? I would rather try and avoid having innocents hurt by a raiding clan."
Marche nodded.
"I was going to do just that anyway. It's too bad that so many clans hurt others through use of innocent bystanders, don't you think?"
Marche asked as he got up and slung his sword over his shoulder. The Bartender smiled.
"You have impressed me a lot since you first came here and turned Montblanc's clan into a more powerful one. You seem to have a desire to help people weaker than yourself..."
The Bartender bowed in respect to Marche.
"Thanks for listening to this old man ramble. It's good to know that some clans use their power and influence for a greater good."
The Bartender handed him a mission paper. Marche nodded.
"Thanks for the head's up, take care, alright?"
Marche walked off, slinging his blade on his shoulder, and not bothering to wake up his clan members.
------
Cyril City, outskirts
"Stop right there..."
Marche said from within the shadows of the barely lit street. The Burglar he saw was carrying a chicken with him.
"Crap I've been spotted...who are you?"
Marche stepped into view and the bandit recognized him instantly.
"Your Marche, leader of the Ruglia clan, right?"
Marche nodded.
"And your the one who's been stealing all the chickens...It's amazing that this mission costs 3,600 gil just for your arrest. Why don't you come quietly?"
The burglar shook his head, laying the caged chicken down.
"Sorry, can't do that..."
The burglar pulled out a long cutting knife from behind him and held it ready. Marche brought his Defender forth.
"We don't have to do this.."
Marche said, hoping to not have to fight if he didn't need to.
"I got no choice."
The thief lunged with expert thrusts of his knife while Marche defended his blows.
'I guess he gives me no choice...'
Marche swung a wide arc with his blade, but the burglar evaded it easily, stepping in while Marche was off balance, but Marche kicked out with his right leg, striking the man in the face.
"Ow...now you've gone and done it."
The burglar slashed down with his knife as Marche blocked, realizing something.
'He's using a weapon break technique...'
True to what Marche had thought, the expert attack cleaved his Defender in two. Marche let it fall to the ground with a clang.
"Now what are ya gonna do?"
The burglar taunted. Marche struck out with his right fist, the burglar guarding against the attack with his knife.
"You gonna fight with your fists?"
The burglar said in disbelief as Marche smirked. The knife crumbled to dust, to the burglar's surprise.
"How...?"
Before the burglar could finish, Marche flipped over him, kicking out with his foot, and striking the man in the back of the neck. The burglar fell on his knees in shock.
"uhhh, Master..."
Was all the burglar said be fore he hit the ground unconscious. Marche picked him up and slung the man over his shoulder. He then looked down at the Defender.
"Montblanc isn't going to like this..."
Marche said as he picked up what remained of it and walked off back to town.
------
Cyril City, Bar, Marche and Montblanc's table
"Why did you act on your own, kupo?"
Marche sighed. He had just been lectured by Montblanc about the importance of going out with the clan and acting as a team
"Look, it was a one on one duel. The mission netted us 3,600 gil for one poacher extermination. I did it for the town."
Montblanc scratched his head.
"I guess I'll let it go, kupo, but next time Marche, at least inform the clan of a mission, kupo. Because you acted alone, your sword got broken., kupo."
Marche nodded.
"It probably would have gotten broken by others anyway.. Speaking of missions, I wonder if there are any others today."
Montblanc nodded in agreement.
"Why don't you go check, kupo."
Once it was said and done, Marche made his way to the Bar counter to talk to the Bartender.
"Any new missions today?"
Marche asked. The Bartender fetched out a piece of paper and handed it to him.
"Here's one, but...well, it's in Lutia Pass again."
"That's fine, gotta make gil somehow, right?"
Upon returning to the table Montblanc perked up.
"So what's the mission for today, kupo?"
"Let's see...it seems that a black mage has blocked off Lutia Pass with an...ice device of some sort. He fights off anyone who comes near it."
Montblanc nodded.
"Hmm...I see, kupo. Sounds like an important mission. How much do we get paid for this, kupo?"
"4,000 gil reward for their defeat. Now, can I ask you something, Montblanc?"
"Sure, kupo."
"Why are so many of our missions becoming free? Usually we'd have to pay for them right? Is this a clan influence thing?"
The moogle nodded.
"Yes, it is, kupo. You remember what I told you before, kupo, when we first met right?"
Marche nodded.
"Well then, on to more important things. we should buy you a new weapon, kupo."
Marche shook his head.
"My fists'll do. Your black smith brethren are taking care of the Defender, though, right?"
"Of course, kupo. But are you sure you want to use your fists, kupo?"
Marche nodded.
"You already know my body is just as powerful as my sword. I'll be fine, Montblanc, you don't have to worry about me, okay?"
Marche said while resting a hand on Montblanc's shoulder. The moogle nodded.
"So when do we leave, kupo?"
"We'll go in a little bit."
------
Lutia Pass, unnatural snow area
A Nu Mou Ice mage looked about the area as the cold winds kept blowing. He stared upon the thick frigid wall of ice that came through the pass, preventing anyone from passing through the Pass.
"Heh, I doubt that there will be anymore need for improvement for this freezing wind experiment. Now all I..."
He heard the crunching of footsteps within the snow.
"Who's there?"
The Nu Mou turned to find a clan standing near the icy wall the mage stood upon. The look at the clan's leader made the mage's eyes widen slightly in interest and surprise.
"WELL, if it isn't the infamous Ruglia Clan. I'm graced by such a famous leader, one who came out of nowhere to change a back draft clan into an amazing one...but on to more pressing matters...why are you here?"
Marche held up a mission paper, and it became all to clear to the mage on what was going on.
"So, you've picked up a mission to interfere with my work...but I, Grad, the Ice Mage can't allow you to do that..."
Marche sighed at Grad's words.
"You wouldn't have to deal with me and my clan if you didn't get the people angry for not being able to cross through the pass. You brought this on yourself."
"So I have..."
Grad mumbled before snapping his fingers. A Float Eye flew down to where Grad stood upon his wall of ice. Two Red Panthers emerged from the snow besides the ice wall, growling. Marche shook his head.
"Your making it to easy, Grad."
He turned to his clan members.
"Montblanc, Victory, and Celine. You three are with me, the rest of you stay back and let us handle this."
Marche then turned to Grad.
"ENGAGE!!"
Marche roared out, as a Judge rode out near Marche's location.
"You guys again? I must say, your clan sure takes a lot of quests."
The Judge pulled out his deck of cards.
"Let's see...Fire prohibition. No fire magic or fire elemental weapons of any sort allowed. This red card states that anyone to break this rule will instantly be teleported to prison upon the battles conclusion."
Grad laughed in delight.
"Seems the Ruglia clan has been dealt a bad hand."
Marche simply smirked.
"We may not be able to use fire powers, but that doesn't mean you have the advantage..."
Grad growled lowly at Marche's confidence.
"Shut up! I'll kill you right now!"
Marche turned to his clan members.
"Listen, Celine and Victory, you two take the Red Panthers down, and Montblanc will take care of the Float Eye. The leader is mine."
Montblanc came closer.
"Are you sure, kupo? Wouldn't a long range specialist like Mustadio or Worker No. 8 be better suited for this, kupo?"
Montblanc asked, but Marche shook his head.
"Normally I'd agree, but Mustadio just has fire elemental bullets with him, and we can't have him sent to jail. As for Worker No. 8, he's got to provide warmth for the rest of the clan."
Marche pointed to the left out clan members as they huddled near Worker No. 8, who's mechanic body was generating heat to keep them warm. Montblanc shivered.
"But then, who's gonna keep us warm, kupo?"
"No one. I've got a hunch that killing Grad will stop this freezing weather, and prevent us from turning into human popsickles, but we gotta hurry."
"Shouldn't we all concentrate our efforts on him then, kupo?"
"That Float Eye's gaze techniques will really be trouble if not keep occupied. You'll have to distract it while I use my special one-hit kill on Grad. Now go."
Marche dashed through the snow with practiced ease, St. Ivalice's weather having fully prepared him to move about effectively without any burden of speed or movement. Montblanc could fly without worry to the terrain, but the heavy winds Grad had created posed a problem to his movement. Victory treaded through the snow slowly, and advanced on the Red Panther on the left side by the ice wall. Celine, like Marche, had little difficulty in speed or movement, and was quickly upon the Red Panther to the right.
"Your making it to easy, Marche."
Grad said with a confident voice. He raised his hand slightly. On ground level, Marche barely had time to react as spikes of ice rose through the snow, nearly impaling him if his reflexes weren't quick enough.
"What kind of ice spell was that?"
Marche asked himself as he came closer to the frozen wall. Grad smirked.
"Your forgetting, Marche. I'm the Ice Mage, the entire environment of this Pass are at my disposal, and with fire magic working against you because of that law card, your chances are close to nil."
Marche gritted his teeth at what Grad just told him.
'So he can control and vary his ice spells into versions even I would have never thought possible. Still, all I need to do is get close so I can use the Stop Bracelet...'
Marche was fast approaching the wall, and when he was almost in arms reach, a large icicle shot out from the wall, but Marche jumped onto it, before jumping higher up in the air. Another icicle shot from the wall, and again Marche jumped onto it, before jumping off even higher, as another icicle greeted him.
'Since he's manipulating the ice to do this...well, as long as he keeps this up, I can climb up to that wall in no time...'
Marche estimated that he was about half way up. More and more icicles came, moving toward him more rapidly, but it only lead to Marche getting up on the wall faster, and frustrating Grad more. Once Marche was on the wall with Grad, Grad looked a bit surprised.
"I should have realized you were just using that attack of mine to scale the wall...oh well, one mistake won't kill me. Fare well Marche of the Ruglia Clan."
The wizard sent a shock wave of ice along the length of the frozen wall. Marche gritted his teeth together and knitted his brows together in though as the ice wave made it's way towards him.
'Damn it...with his complete control of the ice element, he can do anything to me up here...I've got to surprise him.'
Though Marche as the frigid spikes kept making their way towards him along the wall. A swirl of white roman numerals made their way in front of the ice spell cast by Grad, halting them before they could hit Marche. Grad stared in surprise.
"What?! A STOP spell?!"
Grad stated in disbelief. Marche reacted automatically, jumping across the spikes with ease, diving head first towards the mage with his fist reeled back. Upon bringing his fist forward, he extended his index and middle fingers outward, aiming for the wizard's heart. A feight red light seemed to appear as Marche's extended fingers touched Grad's heart. Grad's eyes opened wide in shock as he fell to his knees.
"Ugh...my experiments...they..."
Before Grad could say anything else, he fell to the ground dead. Marche looked at the fallen wizard, before turning his gaze at his minions below. The Float Eye and Red Panthers seemed to cower in fear before retreating from battle, to scared to go on with the battle.
"We've got to do something about this wall..."
Marche said before an idea struck him. He slammed his fist into the wall of ice, shattering it with his Earth Slash. The entire structure crumbled, as Marche fell head first into the snow, before rolling out of it and standing up, looking back to inspect his handiwork.
"With that wall out of the way, this pass should be able to be used by the common people again. Now then..."
Marche turned to the companions who had fought with him.
"Which one of you used that Stop spell?"
Marche asked them. Montblanc came forward.
"I used it, kupo. Pretty cool huh, kupo?"
Montblanc said to him. Marche nodded.
"Thanks for saving my life, Montblanc. I owe you."
Marche said with a smile, but Montblanc shook his head.
"Hey, you've done a lot for this clan, Marche. That's thanks enough, kupo!"
The Judge came forward.
"That was an amazing finisher, Marche. You seem to be gaining a lot of popularity these days. Anyway, you and your clan should head back to Cyril, your main territory. It's freezing out here."
With that said, the Judge left the battle field.
"I think the Judge has the right idea. Let's head back everyone."
------
Cyril City, Marche's room
"Man, that looked pretty tough, Marche."
Mustadio said as he sat at a small table. He was cleaning the revolver piece for his gun with a small piece of cloth. Worker No. 8 stood idly in a corner of the room. Marche lay on his bed, staring at the ceiling.
"I never would have though it possible for a mage like that to exist, Mustadio. He had free reign of his power over ice. He could do anything with it. Ivalice has changed greatly. Everything seems to have evolved in some aspect or another..."
Marche said. Mustadio nodded.
"Yeah, I hear ya. Still, we old timers seem to still hold our own, huh?"
Mustadio said, trying to cheer Marche up, as the young leader seemed a little down. Marche yawned loudly.
"I think I'll go to bed now, Mustadio. Good night."
"Alright, good night. Come on Worker No. 8."
------
Lutia Pass, Night time
"A rescue mission., huh?"
Rooty asked as he looked at Marche, who nodded.
"Yeah, Professor Ougii's was reported missing around this area, so..."
Marche was interrupted by a Sagely voice.
"You and your clan shouldn't be here after dark..."
Marche narrowed his eyes.
"Ougii? Is that you?"
An old man appeared in tattered robes, staggering up the hill where Marche and clan were.
"Why are you youngsters here? Don't you know the undead wonder around here at night?"
Ougii asked them. Marche shook his head.
"We've taken a mission to find you..."
Marche said, but he was interrupted by a howl. Zombies started to arise from the earth, surrounding the clan.
"Oh no, Marche...Lost Ones, kupo!"
Marche looked towards the undead beings.
"There's about six of them. Mustadio, Montblanc, Rooty, you guys with me. The rest of you should sit this one out."
The rest stood a save distance while Marche and his chosen clan members stepped forward.
"ENGAGE!!"
Marche roared as a Judge appeared. He scanned the battle field.
"Alright, let's see..."
The Judge pulled out a yellow card.
"No swords allowed. Anyone to strike with a sword will be penalized with a fine of 9,000 gil. I'm sure you all know the drill by now, so let the battle begin."
The Judge said. Marche nodded.
"Well, we won't have to worry. Rooty and I can cast fire spells. Montblanc, help keep the professor alive..."
Mustadio cocked his gun and smirked.
"Let me take care of all of them."
Mustadio shot the Lost Ones with holy bullets, petrifying their bodies before they could sling their way to the party. Marche's eyes opened in realization.
'That's right...the Seal Evil bullets.'
The Judge whistled at the display.
"That must have been the quickest Engage I've ever seen. Well, I'll be off."
The Judge rode off with his Chocobo. Marche turned to the rest of his clan.
"Well, without lifting a finger. That was pretty easy then, let's be off. Come on Professor Ougii, everybody misses you."
------
Cyril City Bar, Marche and Montblanc's usual table
"This is the highest paying quest yet, Montblanc. 6,000 gil for their defeat."
Marche said before drinking some milk. Montblanc looked at the mission paper with interest.
"Wow, kupo. 6,000 gil is really tempting, we should go for it, Marche, kupo!"
Montblanc got up excitedly, but Marche stopped him.
"Of course, Montblanc. Before that, though, is my sword finished yet?"
Montblanc shook his head.
"Not sure, I haven't spoken to any of them yet, kupo, but it probably is."
Montblanc said. Marche nodded.
"Then we should..."
Before Marche could finish, Celine came over.
"Sorry, but another clan has also taken the job of taking out the Swindler Gang. We should get going if were gonna catch up."
Marche nodded.
"Alright, Celine. Come on Montblanc, the sword can wait."
------
Nubswood Forrest, middle of the Forrest
Celine was jumping from the trees, carrying Montblanc on her shoulder as she sped through the branches. Marche had a little trouble keeping up, but he managed very well.
"Your sure it was a woman with long pink hair, Celine?"
Marche asked as he hopped to another branch.
"What are you thinking, kupo? You know this woman Celine's talking about, kupo?"
Marche narrowed his eyes in thought, not hearing Montblanc's question.
'Is must be Ritz...she's alive...no, I shouldn't hope to much...I'll know when I get there. Too bad we had to leave in a hurry without telling everyone."
------
Nubswood Forrest, clearing by the river
"Finally caught up with you, Swindler Gang. Now why don't you be good boys and turn yourself in quietly."
Ritz said. The Swindler Gang's archer turned to her.
"Damn persistent bastards..."
Ritz smirked.
"If we weren't, you wouldn't have been caught."
The Viera sniper that stood besides Ritz looked towards the trees on the other side of the river as her ears perked up, as if hearing something. Ritz turned to her.
"What is it, Shara?"
The two swordswomen behind Ritz and Shara came forward slightly.
"Is someone coming from the other side?"
The woman in the silver armor asked. Shara nodded. They saw as a Viera, carrying a Moogle, burst onto the scene. Ritz's eyes widened in surprise as she saw the next person to appear.
"No way...Marche..."
Marche also looked at her in surprise.
"Ritz...it really is you...and..."
Marche saw the two woman behind her.
'Agrias and Meliadoul...so they are with her clan.'
Marche was sure it was his previous allies, the Holy Knights who aided him as Ramza. The head of the Swindlers, a Banga Dragoon, eyed Marche with interest.
"Are you the leader of the Ruglia clan? Marche Radiuju?"
Marche turned to the Banga.
"And you must be the leader of the Swindler Gang, I presume?"
Marche said as he narrowed his eyes. While he and the Banga conversed, Shara turned to Ritz.
"An acquaintance of yours?"
She asked Ritz, who nodded.
"Yeah, he's from the other world I was telling you about."
As she said that, she heard the Banga roar and raise his weapon.
"There's no need to worry about some chick from a no name clan. I want Marche Radiuju's head. NOW!"
Ritz growled.
"I WILL NOT BE IGNORED!!!!"
She charged the backside of the Swindler Gang, striking at a Black Mage who was closest to her with her staff and knocking him aside. Shara took aim and shot down an archer in the back, crippling him. Meliadoul picked off the Black Mage Ritz had struck with a Shellbust Stab technique. Agrias followed suit and took down the archer Shara had shot with a Crush Punch technique. While the Swindler Gang members were falling, on the other side of the river, Marche, Celine, and Montblanc stared in surprise.
"They didn't even go into Engage, kupo..."
Montblanc said, shrugging his shoulders.
"Your girlfriends gets mad easily, huh?"
Celine said as she turned towards Marche, who was scratching the back of his head in embarrassment.
"Sheesh... I'm feeling sorry for that Dragoon for making a fatal mistake."
Marche said as he saw the Dragoon try and guard against Ritz's onslaught of swings which kept banging against the Dragoon's head, finally knocking him out cold from so many blows to the head. The four gang members were beaten down by the four women with ease. Ritz finally calmed down.
"Serves him right..."
Clapping could be heard behind her as she turned. A large Banga White Monk clapped good naturely at the display of downed fighters as he sat by a lone tree.
"Well, Ms, seems you took out my clan with little trouble."
Ritz narrowed her eyes at the Banga.
"So your the real leader of these guys..."
Before Ritz could say anything else, the Banga stood to full height, pointing at Marche.
"You, Marche of the Ruglia clan, I challenge you to a one on one duel."
He said with a smirk as all attention seem to focus on Marche. Montblanc came forward, standing in front of Marche.
"He's incredibly powerful, Marche. I know he is, kupo...it might not be a good idea to fight, kupo..."
Marche shook his head.
"Don't worry about it, Montblanc. I'll be fine."
With that, Marche jumped into the river, swimming to the other side where Ritz, her clan, and the Banga were. He walked steadily to where the Banga was.
"Wait, Marche, are you sure about this?"
Ritz asked as he walked by, but he never answered. Meliadoul put an armored hand on her shoulder.
"He'll be fine."
Was all the female knight said as she turned to Marche, who was now face to face with the Banga, who easily towered over Marche.
"Seeing as you know my name, why don't I ask you yours?"
Marche said with a clear voice, devoid of fear. The Banga smirked.
"You may call me Grava. Now then..."
He brought his large fists up as he got into fighting stance, ready to strike.
"...let's begin."
Marche sighed.
"I guess this won't be an Engage battle?"
Grava didn't answer Marche and just waited. Marche finally readied himself.
"I'll take that as yes, this isn't an Engage battle."
The two evaluated each other carefully, neither one wanting to underestimate the other. Grava struck first, with a his knuckled fist, as Marche ducked under the blow and countered with a spinning back fist to Grava's mid section. Grava didn't even budge. Marche's eyes widened in surprise.
"Wow, you are very powerful..."
Marche commented as he blocked a flying knee attack from Grava. The two threw punch after punch: Grava was slow but powerful, while Marche's were lightning fast but not very effective against the Banga. Marche always counter attacked Grava's punches, so he decided to take it up a notch.
"Whirlwind!"
Grava spun like a top, striking Marche back into the ground. Marche got up slowly in pain, but was knocked back by the force of air Grava sent out with his fist.
"Air Render!"
Marche felt the blow send him reeling back, but he regained his balance.
'Damn...he's not playing around anymore...'
Marche struck the ground with his fist.
"Earth Slash!"
The ground ripped apart, as the shock wave got closer to Grava. The Banga side stepped the attack completely as he smirked, before charging in front of Marche, and using his massive body to charge into Marche, but Marche simply hopped over the rushing Banga, kicking him down into the ground. Grava got up, turning towards Marche.
"Your not bad, Marche, not bad at all...but, I'm gonna finish this."
Grava smirked. Marche shook his head.
"It's not over yet."
Grava used Air Render again, but Marche easily dodged it, and used the same attack against him.
"Why don't you hold still, Marche?"
Grava said, as Marche jumped over a low sweep attack.
"Now why would I do that?"
Marche said sarcastically, as he dodged an uppercut.
"Truthfully, though, Grava, your starting to bore me. I'll give you five more attacks to strike me down before I take you out."
Grava smirked at Marche's words.
"You...take me out? You must be joking."
The Banga punched down, almost catching Marche, before he kicked out sideways, trying to hit Marche as he dashed away from the blow. Grava was getting frustrated as he threw a back hand which was easily dodged.
"You little..."
"Enough, Grava, I'm tired of this. It's almost noon and I want to speak to my friends. I've got no time for you anymore."
Marche dashed forward, fading out of existence. Grava's eyes widened in surprise.
"Where...?"
Before he could finish, he fell to his knees in pain. His whole body ached.
"What...what did you do?"
Marche was now behind Grava, as the Banga swayed back and forth, trying to regain conscious.
"I just attacked all your weak points simultaneously. It's very effective against Bangas with a lot of stamina."
Marche said as Grava fell face first to the ground unconscious.
------
Nubswood, after fight is concluded
"I didn't think I'd meet you here, Ritz."
Marche said as he talked to Ritz.
"Me neither. I was a bit surprised to hear you were the famous leader of the Ruglia clan. If it wasn't for that display a little while ago, I'd never believe you'd be doing clan work."
"Oh...? You find that strange, huh?"
Ritz nodded.
"Yeah...you never really participated in anything unless it was snow ball fighting."
"I guess so. Anyway, you pretty much beat down those other guys, Ritz. You didn't get hurt or anything, did you?"
Marche asked. Ritz smirked.
"What's this? Were you worried about me?"
She asked. Marche blushed and scratched his head.
"Well..."
Shara came forward and looked at Marche closely. Ritz introduced the two.
"This is Shara, my fellow clanswoman. Shara, This is my friend Marche."
The two shook hands, before the others came forward.
"These two are Meliadoul and Agrias. They are very powerful warriors."
Marche nodded.
'I was right...'
"This is my clansman, Montblanc. Celine is another member of my clan as well."
------
Nubswood Forrest, Dusk
"Tell me Ritz...what do you make of this world, anyway?"
Marche asked as he sat against a tree, fiddling with a strand of grass. Ritz was close, also leaning against the tree.
"Hard to say, Marche. I believe it's the game world of Final Fantasy.I don't think were stuck in a game, though. I think the very town has become the game world of Final Fantasy."
Marche sighed.
"Why did this have to happen to us?"
"It's not all that bad, Marche. We get to do all sorts of things we weren't able to in St.Ivalice."
Marche's mood got darker.
"You really like it here, Ritz?"
Ritz turned her head to look at Marche. His hair came over his eyes, and he looked to be deep in thought. She could feel that Marche did not like it here, for some reason.
"You really want to go back, Marche? To that dull life in St. Ivalice?"
"Listen, Ritz. I love the things I'm able to do here, but I'd rather not have to stay here. It's just like back then..."
Marche's voice was just a little above a whisper, and Ritz barely heard it.
"What do you mean, Marche?"
"Won't you help me change it back?"
"Sorry, but I like it here, Marche."
After she said that, Shara appeared.
"We should get going, Ritz."
"Alright Shara."
Ritz turned to Marche.
"I'm sorry, Marche, but I won't assist you. I'm sure we'll meet again, though."
The two walked off. Meliadoul and Agrias showed up a little later after the two. Marche lifted his head up to look at the two.
"Take good care of Ritz for me, okay, you two?"
He told them.
"So it really was you, Ramza."
Agrias said, nodding her head at him.
"We'll be sure to take care of her."
Meliadoul said afterwards. The two walked off in Ritz's direction. Marche looked towards the red sky.
"Mewt must be around here, too."
After saying that, Marche thought back to another time in another place where he was a different person, watching the same sky with a friend he knew a long time ago. He brought the piece of grass to his lips and blew, filling the sky with a soft sound as he closed his eyes.
'Well, Delita...are you looking at the same sky this very moment?'
***TBC***
Note: Sorry for the long delay, but when you have to worry about college, you'll find yourself with little time to update. Hopefully this chapter is alright. I didn't like it as much as the other chapters too much, but hopefully you'll like it. The seventh chapter will probably not be coming along anytime soon either, sorry. Oh yeah, thanks for all the positive reviews as well.