Chapter 7
Written By Illuminet
Disclaimer: Most (if not all) of the characters appearing in this story don't actually belong to me, but rather, are creations of the brilliant minds of Square Soft/ Square Enix. I make no claim to them.
"..."-Indicate Speech
'...'-Indicate Thought
------
Cyril City, Marche's room
'So...Ritz wants to stay here...'
Marche thought as he stared at the ceiling of his room, as he lay on his bed. Having seen Meliadoul and Agrias in Ritz's company, there was no doubt in Marche's mind that he would see other comrades who had allied themselves with his past self. Having seen Ritz, there was no doubt in Marche's mind that Mewt was also somewhere in Ivalice. Thinking about the two close friends of his, Marche's eyes shown a fear of realization.
'Wait...If Ritz is here, and that means Mewt is here...no...Doned...He was always physically ill...'
The thought hit Marche like a ton of bricks. Of course Ritz and Mewt weren't the only ones to read the book, Doned was there with them. Before Marche could think more on the matter, someone knocked on his door.
"Who's there?"
"It's me, kupo. Marche, we should check the mission listings, kupo."
He heard Montblanc say from outside his room. Marche got up, deciding to hope for the best with Doned, where ever he was, and got dressed.
------
Cyril City, Outside Bar
Marche's clan was waiting for him as he stepped out from the bar, holding a rolled up paper in his hand.
"Alright everyone, this is a simple mission, similar to the very first mission we got assigned: We are to head to Geeza Plains and collect some White Flowers for a gift. We'll head out right now, since Geeza Plains isn't all that far away, and collect the flowers."
Everyone nodded. Montblanc came forward.
"Marche, I've come back with your Defender sword, kupo."
Montblanc gave the wide blade to Marche, who held it experimentally.
"They did a good job. Thank them for me when you see them, Montblanc."
------
Geeza Plains, grassland area
"What are those? Giant ants?"
Marche asked as he saw the large creatures roaming the field. Montblanc nodded.
"You could say that. They are called Antlions. They are very ferocious. Be careful, Marche, kupo."
Marche nodded.
"Alright, Mustadio, Worker No. 8, Rooty and Victory. You'll be with me. The rest of you sit this one out."
Marche grasped the Defender tightly.
"Engage!!"
A Judge teleported near the area.
"Don't you guys ever take breaks?"
The Judge asked Marche, well aware of the Ruglia Clan's reputation. He pulled a yellow card out of a small deck and looked at it.
"Alright, prohibition on any magic and items. Anyone to use magic or items, no matter what the reason will be fined 10,000 gil. Let the engage commence."
Marche nodded.
'Hopefully we won't need magic to battle these Antlions...'
Marche rushed forward along with Rooty and Victory to fight the beasts close up, while Mustadio and Worker No.8 shot projectiles from afar. The Antlions nearest to the three charged at them, snapping their sideways jaws. One that was close to Marche almost bit him as it charged forward, but Marche over the attack as Rooty, who was close behind him, impaled his sword into the Antlions fore head. The Antlion wasn't totally dead, until Marche came down, thrusting his giant blade into the soft neck area of the Antlion, severing it's head from it's body. Rooty put his foot on the Antlion's twitching head, using his force to pry the blade from it. Further up, Victory had caught the jaws of another before they could clasp around the Banga. Victory struggled somewhat in keeping the jaws opened, and reeled his head back, before coming forward, slamming his head into the Antlion's, causing it's head to hit the ground and rebound off it. As it's head came up, the Banga sent a mighty uppercut to under it's head, sending it on it's back, before he brought his fist down on the unprotected belly, killing it instantly.
"Two more to go..."
Marche mumbled to himself as he charged at the last two Antlions, but one had just been shot several times in the head as it fell to the ground. The other exploded in flames, courtesy of Worker No. 8's laser. The Judge whistled.
"Your all finished already? Sheesh...your clan is very efficient, isn't it, Marche?"
The Judge asked. Marche only nodded.
"We just over powered them in the end, Judge. Now then, let's get those flowers..."
------
Cyril City, Bar, Marche and Montblanc's table
"That was easy, but it wasn't a very cost worthy job, as I suspected, though, kupo."
Montblanc commented as he sipped from his glass of milk. Marche didn't reply immediately, and just looked out the window at the fairly empty streets.
"Is something bothering you, Marche, kupo?"
Montblanc asked. Marche sighed, before turning to Montblanc.
"Yeah, I'm very worried about someone."
"Kupo? Is it Ritz again?"
"No, she's a tough girl, she can take care of herself. It's concerning my younger brother, Doned, and my other friend, Mewt."
"Mewt? You mean Prince Mewt, kupo?"
Upon hearing those words, Marche stood up and towered over Montblanc as he leaned over the table, grabbing the moogle by the collar.
"What did you say...Prince Mewt?"
Although Marche didn't burst out yelling, Montblanc knew that he wanted to, but not with any added attention brought their way.
"K..Kupo...Marche...can't breath..."
Marche released the moogle, who began gasping for air. Once Montblanc could breath normally again, he looked at Marche.
"You didn't know, kupo? Mewt is the prince of the Ivalice royal family. His father, King Cid, is actually the Judge Master, and wields power over laws that are higher than any other Judge, and his mother, Queen Remedi, is the prince's care taker."
Marche narrowed his eyes upon hearing the information told to him by Montblanc.
"Mewt I understand...but how did his dad get here, too, and along with a dead person?"
Montblanc eyed Marche curiously.
"A dead person, what do you mean, kupo?"
"In the other world, Mewt lost his mom after she gave birth to him. I don't understand how she can be alive here..."
"Are you serious, kupo?"
Marche glared at Montblanc, who raised his furry hands.
"Fine, your serious, kupo. Still, let's get back to Mewt. If what you say is true, and that Prince Mewt, King Cid, and Queen Remedi were from the other world, how is it that Randall family has been the royal family here for centuries?"
Marche looked at Montblanc wide eyed.
"Are you serious? That can't be right, assuming that we all got here at the same time, there is no way Mewt could be the Prince of a royal family that has been here for centuries...what's going on..."
------
Cyril City, Marche's room
'Damn...things just got more complicated. Mewt...well, at least he's safe within some castle protected with lots of guards...I guess since both Ritz and Mewt are safe, Doned will be my main concern...he's got to be out there somewhere, and I'll find him!'
With that in mind, Marche fell asleep a bit more contentedly now that two of his other world friends were safe.
------
Erruto Sands Desert, Antlions nest
"This heat really gets to you."
Rooty sighed as he treaded through the sands. Montblanc was also very hot, and hovered slowly ahead. The two were following Marche as they all headed for what was suppose to be a village hidden in the desert. Behind Rooty and Montblanc were Victory and Celine, the two who were least effected by the heat. Hedges decided not to come because he wasn't to fond of hot weather, and Mustadio and Worker No. 8 stayed behind so Mustadio could perform a maintenance check on the steel giant. Marche stopped walking.
"Do you guys hear anything?"
He asked as he looked around, gripping the hilt of his sword tighter. Celine came up from behind him.
"Something's coming from underground..."
Upon saying that, six Antlions sprung out from the sands, snapping their jaws.
"Damn, were surrounded...We have no choice but to fight them."
Marche was about to strike the Antlions, until a large tornado came through their numbers, sending the Antlions through the air. Another one came forward and picked up the Antlions in back of Marche's clan soon after. Marche scratched the back of his head in confusion.
"...or not?"
Was all Marche said as the tornadoes carried the beasts away.
"Are you Marche Radiuju?"
Marche heard his name called from behind him. Everyone turned around to see a mysterious man with gold spiked hair. The man wore an odd blue garment with bits of armor attached. Slung across the man's should was a massive single bladed sword wrapped in course white cloth that rivaled Marche's sword in both length and width. To complete the mysterious look was a tattered red cape flowing behind him. Montblanc looked frightful at the man.
"Who is that, kupo?"
The man came forward, walking up to Marche, before kneeling.
"My name is Cloud Strife. I'm a simple wanderer who wishes to join your clan."
Marche smiled in recognition.
'It really is him...'
"Your wish is granted then, Cloud Strife. Welcome to the Ruglia Clan."
Cloud stood up, giving a small nod in Marche's direction. Victory stepped up to Marche.
"This man...is he trustworthy?"
"I can see his trust in his eyes. Don't worry about it."
Marche said to Victory, before turning to the rest of his group.
"Let's find the Rine Village, report it's location, and be on our way."
------
Cyril City, Marche's room
"What's with the claw, Cloud?"
Mustadio commented as he saw Cloud's left hand, which had a metal claw on it. Cloud shrugged.
"Seemed alright at the time."
Cloud answered, making Mustadio chuckle.
"It makes you look evil, or something."
Mustadio said to him. Marche sat up on his bed.
"How'd you know to call me Marche instead of the usual name?"
"I had a vision from your sister. Because of it, I found a way to get here so I could be of help. She told me of what you been doing and what kind of place Ivalice has become."
Cloud said. Marche nodded.
'It's good to see you again, Cloud."
"You, too. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to bed."
Cloud walked out of Marche's room, and shortly after, Mustadio left. Marche laid down and looked at the ceiling.
'Damn...Doned wasn't in the Rine Village...'
------
Cyril City, outside of bar
"Well, We're suppose to capture the fugitive, Diagrif, who's been accused of counterfeiting gil. There's one problem, though..."
Marche said as he looked at everyone in his clan.
"...we don't know where to find him."
Marche finished. Everyone lifted their brow in surprise.
"How our we suppose to catch someone who isn't in a specific location?"
Celine asked. Marche shrugged.
"Ivalice is a big place...but the only way were going to complete this mission is to search everywhere. Let's head for the Geeza Plains as our first area."
------
Geeza Plains
"I'll be damned..."
Marche said as he held up the picture of the fugitive he was suppose to capture. Diagrif was in the Geeza Plains all along. The Alchemist smirked at Marche.
"By the power of my third eye, I knew someone would come hunt me down, but I never suspected it would be you, Marche of the Ruglia Clan. This is quite the honor."
"Glad you feel that way. Now then. let's..."
Before Marche could say anything more, Cloud stepped besides him and placed his hand on Marche's shoulder.
"To be honest, I'm a little out of practice since we fought together last. Let me take them on alone, Marche."
Cloud offered. Marche looked at the enemies numbers: Including Alchemist Diagrif, there was also a Viera Archer, a Banga Dragoon and Gladiator, and one human thief. Marche nodded.
"If you want to fight them alone, Cloud, go ahead.."
The other clan members were astonished by Marche's decision. Rooty came up to Marche.
"Are you sure about this, boss. I mean..."
Marche interrupted him.
"All of you watch this battle. It will be very interesting."
Diagrif gritted his teeth in anger.
"You will send out one clan's member and not including yourself into this battle? Fine, I can take care of this myself. Engage!!"
A Judge appeared on Chocobo. He pulled out a red card.
"No holy magic permitted on the field of battle. You'll automatically be sent to jail upon the battle's end."
Diagrif began charging his magic. Using a double cast technique, Diagrif was able to use his Meteor spell, followed by his flare spell, bringing up dust and debris in their wake.
"Have you learned your lesson? Never send out a single member into battle."
Diagrif said. Marche smirked.
"He's alive, and he's pissed..."
True to Marche's words, Cloud appeared after all the dust was blown away, with a feral grin on his face.
"Let's end this. I'LL KILL YOU ALL!!"
Cloud roared as he hefted his Buster Sword above him, sending a ring of wind upward. Cloud then brought the sword forward as it shined with a mysterious light. Cloud then charged into Diagrif's numbers, slashing through all of them with his Omni Slash attack.
"Good ol' limit breaks, huh?"
Mustadio commented, while Marche only nodded. The rest of Marche's clan stared wide eyed as Cloud kept slashing through the enemy. When Cloud reached Diagrif, he remained suspended in air, while the Buster Sword shone with a feint light.
"Now its your turn..."
Marche stepped forward a bit.
"Hold on Cloud, were suppose to capture him alive, not kill him."
Cloud charged down on Diagrif, flipping his sword so that the blunt side struck Diagrif, knocking him unconscious.
"What power, kupo!"
Montblanc commented.
"Guess that's takes care of that. Let's take him in and get our gil."
Marche and the rest left along with Diagrif. Rooty turned to Victory.
"How'd that guy pull that off?"
------
Cyril City, Marche and Montblanc's table
"You seem to be deep in thought lately, Marche, kupo."
Montblanc commented. Marche sighed.
"It's nothing really."
"You want to go to the other world again, don't you, kupo."
"Yeah...when I saw Ritz, I was hoping she would help me, but she likes it here. I shouldn't expect her to have the same will to go home like I do."
Montblanc nodded at Marche's words.
"Your you, and she's who she is. You should just concentrate on yourself and what you decide, kupo."
"Yeah, your right, Montblanc. Thanks for listening."
------
Marche's Room
Marche looked up at the ceiling, pondering about how to get back home.
'This was my home, many years ago, but my true home now is St. Ivalice...'
Marche closed his eyes.
'Even if I can do all the things I use to do, like use magic and face monsters, I'd take St. Ivalice's peace any day...It's easy to understand why Ritz wants to stay here. She's never had the chance to do those things...and she's never made fun of like in St. Ivalice...'
Upon thinking that, Marche's eyes opened as another possibility came to him.
"Mewt...he was always picked on...if he's a Prince here, then he will never get picked on again...he may...no, he won't want to get back to St. Ivalice, because it would mean that old life style of his, where his dad was a disrespected drunk and he was the weakling that always got bullied. If I find a way home...he'll try and stop me...will we become each other's enemy?'
Marche sighed. It was very possible that he would have to be Mewt's enemy in his search to find a way home, because Mewt would not want a way like that to be found ever. Marche clenched his fist tightly.
'My heart tells me to find a way home...but I don't want to become Mewt or Ritz's enemy either. What should I do.'
A voice seemed to enter Marche's head.
'Always listen to your heart, Ramza...for it will lead you to the right path.'
------
Unknown Place
Marche opened his eyes.
'What...I don't think I closed my eyes...what's going on?'
Marche's room faded from existence, turning black. Marche could hear feint foot steps behind him and spun around quickly. His eyes widened in surprise.
'Father?!'
The man before him was none other than the legendary Belbanes Beoulve.
'It has been a while, my son...as much as I would like to, I cannot stay long...listen carefully, Ramza. The Ivalice you are in now is only partially the true Ivalice you were born in.'
Marche narrowed his eyes as he was given the information.
'Are you serious? How can it only be partially the true Ivalice?'
'Calm yourself, my son. The book you and your friends read was originally the Germonik Scripture from Ivalice's ancient history. Somehow it ended up in the world untouched by higher influences. When you spoke that ancient incantation, it fulfilled the desires of one of your friends. All of you were thrown into Ivalice, but the book's influence changed Ivalice into one that was desired by one of your friends, merging the true Ivalice with a created one from a video game series called Final Fantasy.'
'What? Final Fantasy? That popular RPG series?'
'Yes...the specific game, Final Fantasy Tactics, was conceived by the series' company after having somehow obtaining a copy of the Durai Report. Through the use of it, the company made the game based on your life while fighting in the Lion War. It was not a perfect recollection, but the basic story was still the same...and that version of Ivalice collided with the true Ivalice to create the Ivalice you are currently in. Either Mewt or Ritz's desires could have created this Ivalice...or even your new brother, Doned, may have...regardless, you have a decision to make: Stay within this Ivalice and make a whole new living as Marche Radiuju of the clan Ruglia, or believe in your heart and follow it as I have taught you...either way, I will be happy for you, Ramza.'
Belbanes went into a heavy silence as he waited. Marche closed his eyes, trying to concentrate on what he should believe in. After a long while, Marche finally opened his eyes.
'Father...I will follow my heart and find a way to my new home of St. Ivalice. If this Ivalice is just a video game, then we are simply running away from reality, instead of facing it. Whether this is Ritz's desire because of how she was made fun of for her silver hair, or Mewt's desire because of how he was picked on by everyone, or Doned's desire because he wanted to use magic to walk, or maybe all of their desires...all of them should face the truth or they will never be able to move on and change their future.'
Marche felt his determination flow through his body. He knew now what was going on. Even if this Ivalice was a fantastic place, it was only partially the true Ivalice, while the rest was one of his friend's or brother's fantasy. He would find a way to make them see the light. This Ivalice should only be a partial retreat from the real world, just like any video game.
'Since you have made that decision, it will be a hard road ahead of you, Ramza. Let me give you something...'
Upon Belbanes saying that, Marche fell on his knees, as ancient knowledge filled his mind.
'What happened?'
Marche asked. Belbanes smiled.
'I have given you the left red eye of your ancient body, Ramza. It is only half of the finished part of your old half that was repaired over all those years you slept before going to St. Ivalice, and including the five thousand year span of time it took for you to reach this new Ivalice.'
Marche looked confused.
'I never had access to all these ancient techniques. Where did they come from?'
'They are the techniques handed down by all of your Beoulve ancestry compiled within your ancient body. Many are extremely powerful, so I doubt you'll have to use very many. I wish I could stay and explain it more, but I trust you'll use your new powers wisely. Fare well, my son.'
Belbanes faded away. Marche's eyes opened wide in shock.
'Wait...'
"...FATHER!!"
Marche opened his eyes. He was on the ground.
"I must have fallen down...was it all a dream?"
To Marche's surprise, he knew it wasn't because the ancient power of Ramza bestowed upon Marche from Belbanes was still within.
"My head is clear now...I know why we ended up here...and I'll find a way out."
***TBC***
Note: Sorry for the long delay. This chapter has a lot of story to it rather than action, so I'm sorry about that. I'm sorry about some of the text, also, since it probably sounds confusing, but it was about 2:30 in the morning when I finished this chapter, so as you can imagine, I'm pretty gosh darn tired. Even if this chapther isn't all that good, I hope you liked reading it anyway, and thanks for your positive reviews and please wait patiently for the eighth chapter.
Written By Illuminet
Disclaimer: Most (if not all) of the characters appearing in this story don't actually belong to me, but rather, are creations of the brilliant minds of Square Soft/ Square Enix. I make no claim to them.
"..."-Indicate Speech
'...'-Indicate Thought
------
Cyril City, Marche's room
'So...Ritz wants to stay here...'
Marche thought as he stared at the ceiling of his room, as he lay on his bed. Having seen Meliadoul and Agrias in Ritz's company, there was no doubt in Marche's mind that he would see other comrades who had allied themselves with his past self. Having seen Ritz, there was no doubt in Marche's mind that Mewt was also somewhere in Ivalice. Thinking about the two close friends of his, Marche's eyes shown a fear of realization.
'Wait...If Ritz is here, and that means Mewt is here...no...Doned...He was always physically ill...'
The thought hit Marche like a ton of bricks. Of course Ritz and Mewt weren't the only ones to read the book, Doned was there with them. Before Marche could think more on the matter, someone knocked on his door.
"Who's there?"
"It's me, kupo. Marche, we should check the mission listings, kupo."
He heard Montblanc say from outside his room. Marche got up, deciding to hope for the best with Doned, where ever he was, and got dressed.
------
Cyril City, Outside Bar
Marche's clan was waiting for him as he stepped out from the bar, holding a rolled up paper in his hand.
"Alright everyone, this is a simple mission, similar to the very first mission we got assigned: We are to head to Geeza Plains and collect some White Flowers for a gift. We'll head out right now, since Geeza Plains isn't all that far away, and collect the flowers."
Everyone nodded. Montblanc came forward.
"Marche, I've come back with your Defender sword, kupo."
Montblanc gave the wide blade to Marche, who held it experimentally.
"They did a good job. Thank them for me when you see them, Montblanc."
------
Geeza Plains, grassland area
"What are those? Giant ants?"
Marche asked as he saw the large creatures roaming the field. Montblanc nodded.
"You could say that. They are called Antlions. They are very ferocious. Be careful, Marche, kupo."
Marche nodded.
"Alright, Mustadio, Worker No. 8, Rooty and Victory. You'll be with me. The rest of you sit this one out."
Marche grasped the Defender tightly.
"Engage!!"
A Judge teleported near the area.
"Don't you guys ever take breaks?"
The Judge asked Marche, well aware of the Ruglia Clan's reputation. He pulled a yellow card out of a small deck and looked at it.
"Alright, prohibition on any magic and items. Anyone to use magic or items, no matter what the reason will be fined 10,000 gil. Let the engage commence."
Marche nodded.
'Hopefully we won't need magic to battle these Antlions...'
Marche rushed forward along with Rooty and Victory to fight the beasts close up, while Mustadio and Worker No.8 shot projectiles from afar. The Antlions nearest to the three charged at them, snapping their sideways jaws. One that was close to Marche almost bit him as it charged forward, but Marche over the attack as Rooty, who was close behind him, impaled his sword into the Antlions fore head. The Antlion wasn't totally dead, until Marche came down, thrusting his giant blade into the soft neck area of the Antlion, severing it's head from it's body. Rooty put his foot on the Antlion's twitching head, using his force to pry the blade from it. Further up, Victory had caught the jaws of another before they could clasp around the Banga. Victory struggled somewhat in keeping the jaws opened, and reeled his head back, before coming forward, slamming his head into the Antlion's, causing it's head to hit the ground and rebound off it. As it's head came up, the Banga sent a mighty uppercut to under it's head, sending it on it's back, before he brought his fist down on the unprotected belly, killing it instantly.
"Two more to go..."
Marche mumbled to himself as he charged at the last two Antlions, but one had just been shot several times in the head as it fell to the ground. The other exploded in flames, courtesy of Worker No. 8's laser. The Judge whistled.
"Your all finished already? Sheesh...your clan is very efficient, isn't it, Marche?"
The Judge asked. Marche only nodded.
"We just over powered them in the end, Judge. Now then, let's get those flowers..."
------
Cyril City, Bar, Marche and Montblanc's table
"That was easy, but it wasn't a very cost worthy job, as I suspected, though, kupo."
Montblanc commented as he sipped from his glass of milk. Marche didn't reply immediately, and just looked out the window at the fairly empty streets.
"Is something bothering you, Marche, kupo?"
Montblanc asked. Marche sighed, before turning to Montblanc.
"Yeah, I'm very worried about someone."
"Kupo? Is it Ritz again?"
"No, she's a tough girl, she can take care of herself. It's concerning my younger brother, Doned, and my other friend, Mewt."
"Mewt? You mean Prince Mewt, kupo?"
Upon hearing those words, Marche stood up and towered over Montblanc as he leaned over the table, grabbing the moogle by the collar.
"What did you say...Prince Mewt?"
Although Marche didn't burst out yelling, Montblanc knew that he wanted to, but not with any added attention brought their way.
"K..Kupo...Marche...can't breath..."
Marche released the moogle, who began gasping for air. Once Montblanc could breath normally again, he looked at Marche.
"You didn't know, kupo? Mewt is the prince of the Ivalice royal family. His father, King Cid, is actually the Judge Master, and wields power over laws that are higher than any other Judge, and his mother, Queen Remedi, is the prince's care taker."
Marche narrowed his eyes upon hearing the information told to him by Montblanc.
"Mewt I understand...but how did his dad get here, too, and along with a dead person?"
Montblanc eyed Marche curiously.
"A dead person, what do you mean, kupo?"
"In the other world, Mewt lost his mom after she gave birth to him. I don't understand how she can be alive here..."
"Are you serious, kupo?"
Marche glared at Montblanc, who raised his furry hands.
"Fine, your serious, kupo. Still, let's get back to Mewt. If what you say is true, and that Prince Mewt, King Cid, and Queen Remedi were from the other world, how is it that Randall family has been the royal family here for centuries?"
Marche looked at Montblanc wide eyed.
"Are you serious? That can't be right, assuming that we all got here at the same time, there is no way Mewt could be the Prince of a royal family that has been here for centuries...what's going on..."
------
Cyril City, Marche's room
'Damn...things just got more complicated. Mewt...well, at least he's safe within some castle protected with lots of guards...I guess since both Ritz and Mewt are safe, Doned will be my main concern...he's got to be out there somewhere, and I'll find him!'
With that in mind, Marche fell asleep a bit more contentedly now that two of his other world friends were safe.
------
Erruto Sands Desert, Antlions nest
"This heat really gets to you."
Rooty sighed as he treaded through the sands. Montblanc was also very hot, and hovered slowly ahead. The two were following Marche as they all headed for what was suppose to be a village hidden in the desert. Behind Rooty and Montblanc were Victory and Celine, the two who were least effected by the heat. Hedges decided not to come because he wasn't to fond of hot weather, and Mustadio and Worker No. 8 stayed behind so Mustadio could perform a maintenance check on the steel giant. Marche stopped walking.
"Do you guys hear anything?"
He asked as he looked around, gripping the hilt of his sword tighter. Celine came up from behind him.
"Something's coming from underground..."
Upon saying that, six Antlions sprung out from the sands, snapping their jaws.
"Damn, were surrounded...We have no choice but to fight them."
Marche was about to strike the Antlions, until a large tornado came through their numbers, sending the Antlions through the air. Another one came forward and picked up the Antlions in back of Marche's clan soon after. Marche scratched the back of his head in confusion.
"...or not?"
Was all Marche said as the tornadoes carried the beasts away.
"Are you Marche Radiuju?"
Marche heard his name called from behind him. Everyone turned around to see a mysterious man with gold spiked hair. The man wore an odd blue garment with bits of armor attached. Slung across the man's should was a massive single bladed sword wrapped in course white cloth that rivaled Marche's sword in both length and width. To complete the mysterious look was a tattered red cape flowing behind him. Montblanc looked frightful at the man.
"Who is that, kupo?"
The man came forward, walking up to Marche, before kneeling.
"My name is Cloud Strife. I'm a simple wanderer who wishes to join your clan."
Marche smiled in recognition.
'It really is him...'
"Your wish is granted then, Cloud Strife. Welcome to the Ruglia Clan."
Cloud stood up, giving a small nod in Marche's direction. Victory stepped up to Marche.
"This man...is he trustworthy?"
"I can see his trust in his eyes. Don't worry about it."
Marche said to Victory, before turning to the rest of his group.
"Let's find the Rine Village, report it's location, and be on our way."
------
Cyril City, Marche's room
"What's with the claw, Cloud?"
Mustadio commented as he saw Cloud's left hand, which had a metal claw on it. Cloud shrugged.
"Seemed alright at the time."
Cloud answered, making Mustadio chuckle.
"It makes you look evil, or something."
Mustadio said to him. Marche sat up on his bed.
"How'd you know to call me Marche instead of the usual name?"
"I had a vision from your sister. Because of it, I found a way to get here so I could be of help. She told me of what you been doing and what kind of place Ivalice has become."
Cloud said. Marche nodded.
'It's good to see you again, Cloud."
"You, too. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to bed."
Cloud walked out of Marche's room, and shortly after, Mustadio left. Marche laid down and looked at the ceiling.
'Damn...Doned wasn't in the Rine Village...'
------
Cyril City, outside of bar
"Well, We're suppose to capture the fugitive, Diagrif, who's been accused of counterfeiting gil. There's one problem, though..."
Marche said as he looked at everyone in his clan.
"...we don't know where to find him."
Marche finished. Everyone lifted their brow in surprise.
"How our we suppose to catch someone who isn't in a specific location?"
Celine asked. Marche shrugged.
"Ivalice is a big place...but the only way were going to complete this mission is to search everywhere. Let's head for the Geeza Plains as our first area."
------
Geeza Plains
"I'll be damned..."
Marche said as he held up the picture of the fugitive he was suppose to capture. Diagrif was in the Geeza Plains all along. The Alchemist smirked at Marche.
"By the power of my third eye, I knew someone would come hunt me down, but I never suspected it would be you, Marche of the Ruglia Clan. This is quite the honor."
"Glad you feel that way. Now then. let's..."
Before Marche could say anything more, Cloud stepped besides him and placed his hand on Marche's shoulder.
"To be honest, I'm a little out of practice since we fought together last. Let me take them on alone, Marche."
Cloud offered. Marche looked at the enemies numbers: Including Alchemist Diagrif, there was also a Viera Archer, a Banga Dragoon and Gladiator, and one human thief. Marche nodded.
"If you want to fight them alone, Cloud, go ahead.."
The other clan members were astonished by Marche's decision. Rooty came up to Marche.
"Are you sure about this, boss. I mean..."
Marche interrupted him.
"All of you watch this battle. It will be very interesting."
Diagrif gritted his teeth in anger.
"You will send out one clan's member and not including yourself into this battle? Fine, I can take care of this myself. Engage!!"
A Judge appeared on Chocobo. He pulled out a red card.
"No holy magic permitted on the field of battle. You'll automatically be sent to jail upon the battle's end."
Diagrif began charging his magic. Using a double cast technique, Diagrif was able to use his Meteor spell, followed by his flare spell, bringing up dust and debris in their wake.
"Have you learned your lesson? Never send out a single member into battle."
Diagrif said. Marche smirked.
"He's alive, and he's pissed..."
True to Marche's words, Cloud appeared after all the dust was blown away, with a feral grin on his face.
"Let's end this. I'LL KILL YOU ALL!!"
Cloud roared as he hefted his Buster Sword above him, sending a ring of wind upward. Cloud then brought the sword forward as it shined with a mysterious light. Cloud then charged into Diagrif's numbers, slashing through all of them with his Omni Slash attack.
"Good ol' limit breaks, huh?"
Mustadio commented, while Marche only nodded. The rest of Marche's clan stared wide eyed as Cloud kept slashing through the enemy. When Cloud reached Diagrif, he remained suspended in air, while the Buster Sword shone with a feint light.
"Now its your turn..."
Marche stepped forward a bit.
"Hold on Cloud, were suppose to capture him alive, not kill him."
Cloud charged down on Diagrif, flipping his sword so that the blunt side struck Diagrif, knocking him unconscious.
"What power, kupo!"
Montblanc commented.
"Guess that's takes care of that. Let's take him in and get our gil."
Marche and the rest left along with Diagrif. Rooty turned to Victory.
"How'd that guy pull that off?"
------
Cyril City, Marche and Montblanc's table
"You seem to be deep in thought lately, Marche, kupo."
Montblanc commented. Marche sighed.
"It's nothing really."
"You want to go to the other world again, don't you, kupo."
"Yeah...when I saw Ritz, I was hoping she would help me, but she likes it here. I shouldn't expect her to have the same will to go home like I do."
Montblanc nodded at Marche's words.
"Your you, and she's who she is. You should just concentrate on yourself and what you decide, kupo."
"Yeah, your right, Montblanc. Thanks for listening."
------
Marche's Room
Marche looked up at the ceiling, pondering about how to get back home.
'This was my home, many years ago, but my true home now is St. Ivalice...'
Marche closed his eyes.
'Even if I can do all the things I use to do, like use magic and face monsters, I'd take St. Ivalice's peace any day...It's easy to understand why Ritz wants to stay here. She's never had the chance to do those things...and she's never made fun of like in St. Ivalice...'
Upon thinking that, Marche's eyes opened as another possibility came to him.
"Mewt...he was always picked on...if he's a Prince here, then he will never get picked on again...he may...no, he won't want to get back to St. Ivalice, because it would mean that old life style of his, where his dad was a disrespected drunk and he was the weakling that always got bullied. If I find a way home...he'll try and stop me...will we become each other's enemy?'
Marche sighed. It was very possible that he would have to be Mewt's enemy in his search to find a way home, because Mewt would not want a way like that to be found ever. Marche clenched his fist tightly.
'My heart tells me to find a way home...but I don't want to become Mewt or Ritz's enemy either. What should I do.'
A voice seemed to enter Marche's head.
'Always listen to your heart, Ramza...for it will lead you to the right path.'
------
Unknown Place
Marche opened his eyes.
'What...I don't think I closed my eyes...what's going on?'
Marche's room faded from existence, turning black. Marche could hear feint foot steps behind him and spun around quickly. His eyes widened in surprise.
'Father?!'
The man before him was none other than the legendary Belbanes Beoulve.
'It has been a while, my son...as much as I would like to, I cannot stay long...listen carefully, Ramza. The Ivalice you are in now is only partially the true Ivalice you were born in.'
Marche narrowed his eyes as he was given the information.
'Are you serious? How can it only be partially the true Ivalice?'
'Calm yourself, my son. The book you and your friends read was originally the Germonik Scripture from Ivalice's ancient history. Somehow it ended up in the world untouched by higher influences. When you spoke that ancient incantation, it fulfilled the desires of one of your friends. All of you were thrown into Ivalice, but the book's influence changed Ivalice into one that was desired by one of your friends, merging the true Ivalice with a created one from a video game series called Final Fantasy.'
'What? Final Fantasy? That popular RPG series?'
'Yes...the specific game, Final Fantasy Tactics, was conceived by the series' company after having somehow obtaining a copy of the Durai Report. Through the use of it, the company made the game based on your life while fighting in the Lion War. It was not a perfect recollection, but the basic story was still the same...and that version of Ivalice collided with the true Ivalice to create the Ivalice you are currently in. Either Mewt or Ritz's desires could have created this Ivalice...or even your new brother, Doned, may have...regardless, you have a decision to make: Stay within this Ivalice and make a whole new living as Marche Radiuju of the clan Ruglia, or believe in your heart and follow it as I have taught you...either way, I will be happy for you, Ramza.'
Belbanes went into a heavy silence as he waited. Marche closed his eyes, trying to concentrate on what he should believe in. After a long while, Marche finally opened his eyes.
'Father...I will follow my heart and find a way to my new home of St. Ivalice. If this Ivalice is just a video game, then we are simply running away from reality, instead of facing it. Whether this is Ritz's desire because of how she was made fun of for her silver hair, or Mewt's desire because of how he was picked on by everyone, or Doned's desire because he wanted to use magic to walk, or maybe all of their desires...all of them should face the truth or they will never be able to move on and change their future.'
Marche felt his determination flow through his body. He knew now what was going on. Even if this Ivalice was a fantastic place, it was only partially the true Ivalice, while the rest was one of his friend's or brother's fantasy. He would find a way to make them see the light. This Ivalice should only be a partial retreat from the real world, just like any video game.
'Since you have made that decision, it will be a hard road ahead of you, Ramza. Let me give you something...'
Upon Belbanes saying that, Marche fell on his knees, as ancient knowledge filled his mind.
'What happened?'
Marche asked. Belbanes smiled.
'I have given you the left red eye of your ancient body, Ramza. It is only half of the finished part of your old half that was repaired over all those years you slept before going to St. Ivalice, and including the five thousand year span of time it took for you to reach this new Ivalice.'
Marche looked confused.
'I never had access to all these ancient techniques. Where did they come from?'
'They are the techniques handed down by all of your Beoulve ancestry compiled within your ancient body. Many are extremely powerful, so I doubt you'll have to use very many. I wish I could stay and explain it more, but I trust you'll use your new powers wisely. Fare well, my son.'
Belbanes faded away. Marche's eyes opened wide in shock.
'Wait...'
"...FATHER!!"
Marche opened his eyes. He was on the ground.
"I must have fallen down...was it all a dream?"
To Marche's surprise, he knew it wasn't because the ancient power of Ramza bestowed upon Marche from Belbanes was still within.
"My head is clear now...I know why we ended up here...and I'll find a way out."
***TBC***
Note: Sorry for the long delay. This chapter has a lot of story to it rather than action, so I'm sorry about that. I'm sorry about some of the text, also, since it probably sounds confusing, but it was about 2:30 in the morning when I finished this chapter, so as you can imagine, I'm pretty gosh darn tired. Even if this chapther isn't all that good, I hope you liked reading it anyway, and thanks for your positive reviews and please wait patiently for the eighth chapter.