Chapter Thirty-four
Burmecia; Fratley's House; Hour Past Midnight
Freya wasn't too surprised when she woke up late in the night. Having retired early, it was only expected. And, strangely enough, she wasn't too surprised to find Amarant wake, his dark eyes glittering in the torch light coming from outside. Freya rose into a sitting position, causing Amarant to glance over at her briefly.
"Do you ever sleep?" Freya asked, breaking the silence.
"Take a wild guess," Amarant replied, rising into a sitting position.
"Did Fratley come home?" Freya asked.
"That's a pretty humorous guess," Amarant teased.
"Oh, shut up and answer my question," Freya retorted.
"Which one?"
"The second one, of course!"
"Yes, Fratley came home."
"Probably a long time ago... Well, what'd he say?"
"Wanderer is the new king."
"And?"
"He's going to remove your charges and allow you to become a Dragon Warrior again if you win a one-battle tournament."
Having not expected such an answer, Freya found she could only sit there, blinking with surprise. Amarant stretched his arms, finding them to be stiff after having stayed in the same position for so long. He then regarded Freya curiously.
"Well, are you going to respond?" he asked.
"This is my response," Freya replied.
"Blinking like an idiot. All right, then," Amarant grunted.
"Who are you calling an idiot? You blink too!" Freya replied. She then paused. "Well, I think you do, anyway."
Amarant chuckled. "There's a lot you don't know about me."
"And 70% of it I don't want to know," Freya replied.
Above the two, the door to the chamber opened. Then, suddenly, it was closed, and someone leapt straight over the railing and landed in the center of the room. The Burmecian rose to his full height, and Freya quickly recognized him.
"Fratley, what the hell?" she asked.
Fratley smiled and shrugged. "I felt like making a dramatic entrance."
"It was stupid, not exactly dramatic," Amarant grunted.
"I expect your entrances to be the same," Fratley replied, taking a seat on the floor.
"What are you here for?" Amarant asked.
"We need to talk," Fratley said, addressing both Freya and Amarant. "It's very clear to all of us that Julius is not going to leave Freya alone, and it's even clearer that without a plan, he will not stop leaving us alone."
"So you're going to discuss such in the middle of the night," Freya muttered with doubt.
"We're awake anyway," Fratley replied.
"He's got a point there," Amarant commented.
"Besides, I wasn't thinking we'd get the exact plan out. Just ideas. What would be a bad idea, and what would be a good idea," Fratley continued.
"Bad idea: Leaving Freya on her own. Good idea: Someone with her at all times," Amarant grunted.
"Shut up, Amarant," Freya snapped.
"I'm serious this time. You have way too much pride and if you're on your own then you are going to get yourself killed. We're all learning Julius' tricks pretty quickly, but he always seems to have more. If you're in danger, you won't ask for help," Amarant replied. "Besides, I'm not exactly saying you need bodyguards. Just someone in the vicinity, if not exactly by your side all the time."
"Should I just abandon my pride for you?" Freya asked, aggravated.
"I'd love it if you could, but that's a little much to ask," Amarant said with a sudden yawn. "Anyway, would it really kill you to have Fratley or I with you most of the time?"
"You, yes. Fratley, no," Freya said with a smirk.
"Liar," Amarant snapped.
"It's like I'm not even here," Fratley commented, smiling. "Well, I think Amarant has a good idea. But we need more than that. When we actually are able to confront Julius safely—"
"—Which has a 1/500 chance of happening—"Amarant interrupted.
"—We need to do something to prevent him from getting away," Fratley continued, ignoring Amarant. "I think that is where Dominic can come in. He's the Commander; I'm sure he can do something. Vivi should definitely be present with those deadly magic skills... Amarant, you can be present for comic relief..."
Amarant tossed a pillow at Fratley, who caught it and threw it into Amarant's face with a single fluid motion. Freya couldn't help but laugh. Amarant took the pillow and put it back on the couch, figuring he could get back at Fratley later. Fratley, meanwhile, had continued speaking.
"Meander will definitely be vital with his knowledge and powers. Eiko's summons will be excellent. I think I'd better be there or I'll kill myself..."
"And then I'll kill myself, and the fight will be pointless," Freya declared.
"You're all ridiculous," Amarant snapped.
"Anyway, basically, I think we'll need a lot of people and a lot of cooperation," Fratley concluded.
"I'll cooperate," Freya announced.
"I won't," Amarant grunted.
"Yes, you will," Freya snapped.
"Damn," Amarant grumbled.
Fratley chuckled. "I had been hoping to have a casual conversation, but I hadn't expected something this casual."
"Trust me, Fratley, it's impossible to not be casual with him around," Freya declared, motioning to Amarant.
"What the hell are you talking about? I'm serious 80% of the time and now you're accusing me of making serious matters casual?" Amarant asked, grabbing a pillow and holding as if to toss it. "One more comment—"
Suddenly a giant ball of white energy slammed into the couch, sending it onto the floor and Amarant tumbling off it. Fratley couldn't help but laugh, while Freya, who had thrown the energy ball, watched Amarant get up with amusement. Amarant grabbed the remaining pillows and a piece of the couch that had fallen off. He tossed them all at Freya, who hid under the covers of the bed.
"That's it, now I know you're out to kill me!" Amarant declared.
"Whatever you say, Amarant," Freya replied, emerging from the covers long enough to throw a pillow at Amarant.
"Well, if we can bring ourselves back to reality for a few seconds, did I make myself clear? We need to cooperate and—"At this point Freya tossed a pillow at Fratley. Fratley dodged and rolled to his feet.
"Oh trust me, you're right," Freya told Fratley.
"Except cooperation may be out of the question," Amarant grunted, putting the couch back onto its feet. He sat on it, then gave his head a shake, trying to get pillow feathers out of his hair.
"I'm sure we can cooperate. If we really tried," Freya commented, combing her hair with her fingers to make sure feathers weren't stuck in it.
"Perhaps maturity could be managed also," Fratley said with a chuckle.
"Eventually," Amarant grunted.
"It's a boring night," Freya commented, looking out the window.
"Boring? Shit, you almost started a pillow fight!" Amarant snapped.
"Well, true," Freya said, lying down. "Maybe we should try to go back to sleep."
"Great, and give you more energy?" Amarant asked.
"At least we won't be up in the middle of the night," Freya said. She looked over at Fratley. "Your opinion?" "I'm with it," Fratley said. He seemed about ready to leave, but then stopped, remembering something. "Wanderer is going to be officially elected king tomorrow. Either of you coming?"
"Sure," Freya said.
"I guess," Amarant grunted, lying down on the couch.
"All right, then. It's going to happen pretty early, so I definitely think we should all go to bed," Fratley replied. He gave Freya quick hug. "Good night."
Fratley headed up the stairs and closed the door. The room fell temporarily silent.
"I have to sleep on the couch, don't I?" Amarant asked.
"No. You could sleep on the floor," Freya replied.
"I was hoping you'd give up the bed," Amarant snorted.
"Not a chance. If you want a bed, go to the underground chamber," Freya replied, getting into a comfortable position on the bed. "Now shut up."
Why am I letting you boss me around? Amarant wondered silently.
By the time Amarant fell asleep forty minutes later, he still hadn't found an answer.
"I don't know," Rose was saying four hours later as she stretched idly near the fireplace in the kitchen. "I just don't like the idea of 'aving a king who can read m' mind."
"Mother, you don't like the idea of anyone reading your mind," Fratley replied with a smile.
"Paranoia?" Amarant guessed, leaning against the counter closet to the stairs leading out of the house.
"No," Freya said, grinning. "Just she's rebellious."
Rose snorted. She then viewed the large group in the kitchen. The group consisted of herself, Aireff, Fratley, Freya, and Amarant.
"I don't remember ever 'aving this many people in this house," Rose commented.
"Maybe never this many adults. But I think if we consider kids too we get pretty close," Aireff commented.
"Pretty small kitchen to fit five people," Amarant grunted.
"We're fitting pretty comfortably," Freya replied, sitting at the table.
"Who says I'm comfortable?" Amarant asked.
"Who says you're ever comfortable?" Freya retorted.
"The kitchen seems small. Too small," Rose muttered.
"Blame him," Fratley and Freya said together, pointing to Amarant.
"Sure, blame the tall guy," Amarant spat.
"You're not only tall, you're big," Freya replied.
"When's that ceremony going to start?" Rose asked Aireff, clearly getting sick of her company.
"Within the hour," Aireff said good-naturedly.
"Thank the Great Dragon. You guys are all so damn loud!" Rose declared.
"Blame her," Amarant said, pointing to Freya, who glared at him in return.
Aireff laughed. "You're all so humorous. Let's go, before we annoy Rose so much she kills us."
Everyone soon had filed out of the house. Once in the dark, rainy streets, the group spread out. Freya stared up into the sky, as if trying to figure out the weather in the dark.
"Trying to blind yourself?" Amarant asked, watching as the rain nearly fell into Freya's eyes.
"Why not? One eye's pretty close," Freya replied, lowering her head so she could see where she was going.
"Why do you Burmecians hold everything so early?" Amarant asked, looking around the dark streets.
"Because we are early risers... Eh, normally," Freya quickly added, seeing Amarant's look.
"Early compared to what? A slug?" Amarant asked.
Fratley laughed. "Since when do we know slugs sleep?"
"Maybe we should be quiet," Freya commented. "We're either going to wake up all of Burmecia, or piss off Rose."
"Most likely both," Fratley concluded.
Noting Rose's aggravated expression, Amarant chose not to respond. Freya and Fratley soon followed suit, and the rest of the walk passed in silence – That is, until Freya tripped over an unseen boulder and tumbled to the ground.
"Ya all right?" Rose asked, quickly walking over.
"Clumsy in the morning?" Amarant asked, also walking over at a slower pace.
Fratley helped Freya to her feet, who thanked him, then looked at the boulder with confusion.
"Where'd that come from?" she asked.
"Probably construction," Aireff concluded. "Someone clearly forgot to clean it up."
"And now I nearly broke my leg on it," Freya muttered, lifting her right leg and rubbing irritably at her foot. "Damn scars!"
"Is the sun rising or something?" Amarant asked. "The sky's suddenly becoming very bright."
"Look that way," Fratley said, pointing to the east. "If the clouds are low enough, you can see it."
"Which means the ceremony will start soon," Aireff commented. "Let's go, folks! And don't trip over anything this time."
The group headed off again, this time at a faster pace. Thankfully, the lightening sky allowed them to dodge any obstacles. Soon, they had arrived at the gate separating the castle from the main part of the city. They swiftly passed through, and headed toward the castle front, where some of the city had already gathered.
Apparently the ceremony hadn't started yet. Most of the people present were in small groups, chatting as if it were day and not early morning. Freya was quick to spot Dominic, Eiko, and, to her surprise, Dominic's chocobo Duchess. She quickly walked over, followed by Fratley and Amarant.
"How'd the chocobo get here?" Freya asked.
"Called it," Dominic said simply, stroking Duchess's head feathers.
"All right, that makes enough sense," Freya quickly said.
"This is going to be really dull, isn't it?" Amarant asked.
"For you, probably," Freya replied, looking toward the castle. "I wonder... Where's Anita? I saw Puck, but not Anita."
"You expect her to be here?" Fratley asked.
"Well, of course. She's normally with Puck. They're a duo," Freya said. "I think I'll ask him... PUCK!"
"Now what do you want?" Puck asked irritably, looking over at Freya. "Can't you see I'm trying to have time to myself?"
"Oh, hush. Anyway, where's Anita?" Freya asked.
"Most likely with Wanderer," Puck replied.
"Why so?" Freya asked.
"Wanderer's going to allow her to become a spy, so where else would she be?" Puck asked, annoyed.
"Really? I didn't know that," Freya said.
Puck sighed. "You're so behind in these times... Hey, looks like the ceremony's finally starting."
Hearing this, most of the group around Puck snapped to attention. Indeed, a gong had just sounded. Apparently, either it had been repaired, or never destroyed during the attack from Alexandria. Everyone who had gathered – it appeared to be the entire town – quickly walked over to the main yard outside the castle. Amarant, realizing that quite a few Burmecians would have trouble seeing over him, stood in the back. Freya followed him, followed by Fratley.
"What are you doing here?" Amarant asked.
"Making sure you won't kill someone," Freya said with a grin.
"Whatever," Amarant replied, turning his gaze back to the castle door, which had opened.
Most of the group gathered seemed surprised when Anita stepped out. She stepped with certainty, walking with a steady strut that showed she knew exactly where she was going. She soon came to a stop, and lifted her head. Most of the little children, having not seen her before, seemed a little nervous when they saw her milky-white, sightless eyes. Most of the older Burmecians, however, merely watched with some surprise. Anita sniffed the air briefly, then suddenly began speaking.
"Welcome, one and all," Anita said. "To a grand ceremony of uttermost importance. Here, on this day, we shall elect a new king – a new king that this time, we are sure will lead us to grandeur."
The high emphasis on "this time" made a few Burmecians in the crowd, probably the ones present at the time Ebon was elected king, chuckle with amusement. Amarant sighed lightly, turning his gaze to a nearby hedge.
"I'm bored already," Amarant grunted.
"Hush," Freya replied.
"This king is not of Burmecia – No, he came from a legendary – supposedly – continent. The continent of – yes, Eoroqu. I heard someone whisper it," Anita continued, ears twitching as a little kid whispered the word "Eoroqu".
"Eoroqu?" Fratley muttered, stunned. "My..."
"Talk about it later," Freya muttered.
"We're bored, we can't help it," Amarant snorted.
Freya was beginning to wonder if her two friends – well, Fratley was more than a friend – would ever be quiet. It didn't matter much, however, because Anita had continued, and Freya had a missed a few words when trying to hush Fratley and Amarant.
"—His skills are said to be unmatched. Supposedly the fame he received in Eoroqu was too much for him – Well, it appears he didn't exactly escape it, did he?" Anita asked, causing more chuckles. She clearly heard that the chuckles were less strained, and indeed, the crowd was beginning to relax. Anita was a lot more relaxing than the previous assistant had been. "All right, then, enough of my jabber. My friends, City of Burmecia, I present you with your new King..."
At this point the crowd began a polite clap, while Anita moved out of the way. Quickly Wanderer got out of the castle, moving swiftly for one with a paralyzed leg. Beside him was Landloper, as always, and the Great Dane seemed very relaxed, his tail wagging steadily while his ears perked. The crowd seemed a little shocked at the look of this supposed warrior. A cane? A limp? It seemed awfully awkward to them. Freya could also tell that the dog confused many of them.
"Hello," Wanderer said calmly, quickly coming to a stop. He stood very calmly, looking around at the people he now ruled. Landloper yawned lazily and sat down. He looked around at the people faced before him. "Well, first, I think my name is necessary... I am Wanderer. Nothing more, nothing less. Give my name and I may get trampled by fans, not to mention make a person or two uncomfortable."
When Wanderer said the last sentence, his gaze flickered to Freya, who gave him a confused look in return.
Why, Freya thought. Would your name make me uncomfortable?
"I know that this kingdom has been through various hardships in the past – Hardships that the last king only escalated. This, I assure you, will stop. The mysterious murders rising will end, quickly. Anyone who is helping the murderers or is actually doing the murdering would be best to leave tonight or I will catch you. Do not underestimate me," Wanderer continued, his voice becoming stern. "Rebuilding of the city is going to take hard work but no defense of the city will be sacrificed to achieve such. The city's people are in danger. Defense must not be sacrificed. There will be a main task in the rebuilding that will be absolutely necessary to rebuild. This task will, for now, be the houses. As has been proven in the past, the old wooden supports will not be suitable due to being fire-prone. The old houses must be replaced and rebuilt. Dragon Warrior tournaments will be held in six months – We need warriors, not just a rebuilt city. Also, when the time is right, a mini-tournament will be held to allow Freya Crescent to prove herself worthy of regaining her Dragon Warrior title. And, at long last the end of this speech – To all criminals, of any kind, major or minor. End your crimes – Immediately, and swiftly. I can catch you."
Wanderer's russet eyes hardened as he stared at the crowd, which stared with shock in return. Amarant looked over at the new king briefly, impressed with his abilities so far. Fratley and Freya both were smiling.
"That is the end of me," Wanderer said, bowing despite his paralyzed leg. "Now, something you may not be used to – a light feast now, after the ceremony? Free food."
Wanderer looked at the people and smiled. Realizing he wasn't joking about the feast part, the crowd broke into cheers, clearly having hope in this new king. Amarant clapped out of politeness. Then, within moments, everyone had gathered in the castle to have a clearly delicious-looking meal. The meal was varied, unlike most Burmecian feasts – There appeared to be delicacies from various parts of the world. The Burmecians were clearly enjoying it.
"One way to bribe people – Offer free, delicious food," Amarant said, watching the Burmecians eat.
"I agree with that one. It's actually pretty good... Aren't you going to try some?" Freya replied. She had taken some of the food, but had quickly stopped eating when something she had taken gave her a massive stomachache. Even if the other food was good, she didn't want to trust it.
"No. I don't want to risk the same thing you had," Amarant replied.
"What, do you think we have the same reactions? We're not even the same species, so it's doubtful. Oh, hello, Fratley!" Freya quickly turned to Fratley as he walked over.
"Very odd food over there," Fratley commented, examining the flat, wheat-colored, hard cookie in his hand. "Particularly this."
"Well, it's obviously a cookie," Freya said. "A very flat one, but a cookie."
"Wonder if it's as stale as it looks," Amarant grunted.
Fratley shrugged and ate the cookie. It was clearly hard as it took him a bit of work to chew. When he finally finished eating it, he looked over at Amarant and nodded.
"I think it was," he replied.
"Have a fun death," Amarant grunted.
"He's not going to die from eating a hard cookie," Freya replied, sighing. She then looked around. "Looks like things are slowing down... A few people are leaving."
"I'm out of here, then," Amarant said, quickly leaving.
"All... Right, then," Freya said, watching him leave with confusion. "I guess that's Amarant for you."
"Fratley!"
Freya and Fratley quickly turned in the direction of the cheery voice. Cleo had floated over to them, and she was easily recognized since she was in her normal spiritual form.
"What is it?" Fratley asked.
"Wanderer just say that it's time for all to go, including you two!" Cleo chirped.
"Oh, okay," Fratley said, nodding. Freya also nodded, and the three headed out.
"So, Cleo, what have you been doing lately? Haven't seen you around," Fratley said as he, Freya, and Cleo headed back toward his house.
"I doing special work for Wanderer! I spy!" Cleo chirped.
"He sure likes spies, doesn't he?" Freya asked, shaking her head with disbelief.
"Handy, I suppose," Fratley said with a shrug. "So, what are you spying on?"
"COL," Cleo chirped. "Wanderer say I good for stopping attacks. They decrease attack quickly."
"Interesting," Freya said, seeing Fratley's house in the nearby distance. "Well, Cleo, I think we'll be parting now."
"Okay! Bye bye!" Cleo chirped before vanishing.
"She's too hyper," Fratley said, shaking his head.
"Nice break from Amarant, though," Freya commented.
Fratley found he could only agree with that.
Many hours later, when darkness had come upon the Realm of Eternal Rain once more, Freya found that she couldn't sleep. It wasn't exactly that she was nervous about something. She just simply couldn't get to sleep. She stared at the dark ceiling, watching the shadows on it form strange figures. She had a funny feeling Amarant was also awake; his breathing patterns didn't appear to be from sleep.
"Amarant?" Freya began, her voice shattering the quiet.
"What?" Amarant replied quickly in a grunt.
"Never mind," Freya replied, rising into a sitting position.
"What the—?" Amarant began, watching Freya with dark eyes.
"I was going to ask if you were awake, but it's obvious you are," Freya said in answer to Amarant's unfinished question. She turned her gaze to the massive, still-broken window that allowed the cold air in. "I wonder if Fratley's awake?"
"Would it make any difference if he was?" Amarant asked.
"Of course it would," Freya said with a snort, rising from the bed. She shivered slightly, staring at the broken window. "Darn window!"
"Yelling at it isn't going to make it repair itself. Unless, of course, you're Dominic," Amarant grunted.
Freya chuckled softly. "That makes sense. I'm going upstairs."
"Be sure to open the door and go into the kitchen too," Amarant grunted. "You won't get anywhere otherwise."
"Oh shut up with your sarcastic and literal mind," Freya spat, heading for the stairs.
Amarant shrugged and resumed staring at the ceiling. Freya quickly headed up the stairs and into the hallway, making sure to close the door behind her. She looked around the dark house, having been in it so many times before. She walked quietly across the hallway and into Fratley's room, only to find him looking out the window. Freya walked over to him, and he looked over at her.
"You can't sleep either?" Freya asked, staring out the window.
"It's a strange night. Seems too quiet," Fratley muttered.
"It's normal, though it seems odd," Freya replied.
Fratley nodded silently in agreement. Freya sighed softly as she turned from the window and looked around the dark, small room. She turned her gaze to the other bedroom, this one belonging to Rose and Aireff, down the hall.
"I'm impressed by all everyone is doing for me," Freya muttered.
"Not again," Fratley muttered.
Freya chuckled. "Oh no, I'm not going to complain once more. I'm happy and relieved that everyone is still trying to protect me. I just wish... I just wish Julius would finally go down! Each time I even get close to severely injuring him he teleports away... He's not invincible, but he's smart... Too smart."
Freya sighed with frustration, shaking her head. Fratley walked quietly over to her and wrapped his arms around her shoulders.
"We have to get him eventually," Fratley muttered. "He can't hit-and- run forever."
"At this rate, he probably could," Freya replied. "He's been in this murder business for more than twenty years..."
Fratley nodded. "But even those who have been at it forever normally fall."
Freya nodded slightly while looking up at Fratley quietly. She found herself staring into Fratley's blue eye. The two stared at each other for a few seconds. Their lips then met in a light, brief kiss.
The room seemed peaceful to Freya; no longer was the quiet intruding. Freya stared quietly at Fratley, who she could see was smiling softly. Freya found she could only smile lightly in return. She then reached forward and kissed Fratley once more.
The kiss soon ended and Freya lowered her eyes, staring at the ground before looking at Fratley again. Fratley slowly released her and looked around slowly. Freya could tell something was bothering him. Fratley walked slowly toward the window. Freya slowly followed.
"Something wrong?" she asked quietly.
Fratley looked up and over at Freya, and he smiled slightly, "Oh, no, not at all..."
Freya shook her head slightly, clearly disagreeing with Fratley's statement. Fratley looked out the window, and took a deep breath. He then walked over to an endtable near his bed. Freya thought he picked something up, but she couldn't be sure. Freya watched him with confusion. She began to walk toward Fratley, but Fratley was already walking toward her.
"The night's pretty, isn't it?" Fratley muttered. "The ice season is annoying, but the nights are pretty... But..."
Fratley shook his head, and Freya was beginning to become very confused, but curious all the same.
"That's... Not important. Freya..." Fratley sighed and gave up on whatever was in his mind. He walked over to Freya and revealed what he had picked up.
Freya blinked with surprise as she stared at the necklace in Fratley's hand. It had a thin yet strong-looking string that was shining lightly in the moonlight. Tied to the end of the wire-like string was an emerald encased in pearl. Freya found it to be quite gorgeous, but she wondered why Fratley had it.
"Freya... Will you marry me?" Fratley managed to finish.
Freya's heart skipped a beat. Surprised, she looked up at Fratley to find him staring down at her with love and worry in his eye. He seemed worried... But why? Why was he so concerned about this?
Then it hit Freya. He thought she would reject? Out of all things she could do, she couldn't reject. Not after she had hoped for this moment for years... Not after Fratley was finally gaining back most of his memory.
Freya took a deep breath, tears forming in her eyes. She looked up at Fratley and nodded.
"Yes," she muttered. She then suddenly hugged Fratley, squeezing him so tightly he most likely felt like he was going to burst. "Yes... How could I not...?"
Fratley didn't hear the last question, or anything else beyond Freya's first answer, for that matter. All his worries had vanished. He felt like he was flying. He didn't notice Freya nearly squeezing him to death, but when she moved to release him, he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her closer.
Freya didn't notice much herself. If time stopped around her, she would've noticed. All she noticed was Fratley. All he noticed was she.
--- -stares at horrible love scene- Argh... Romance is the worst... Anyway, so Wanderer is the new king, Cleo briefly appeared, Amarant's being normal, and everyone's preparing for Julius' return (whenever it comes) Stay tuned for... Well, you probably know =P
Check out Chapters 12, 13, 14, 28, 31, and 32. They have been edited in some way.
This story is copyright to me. Some characters, locations, and Gaia in general are copyright to SquareEnix.
Burmecia; Fratley's House; Hour Past Midnight
Freya wasn't too surprised when she woke up late in the night. Having retired early, it was only expected. And, strangely enough, she wasn't too surprised to find Amarant wake, his dark eyes glittering in the torch light coming from outside. Freya rose into a sitting position, causing Amarant to glance over at her briefly.
"Do you ever sleep?" Freya asked, breaking the silence.
"Take a wild guess," Amarant replied, rising into a sitting position.
"Did Fratley come home?" Freya asked.
"That's a pretty humorous guess," Amarant teased.
"Oh, shut up and answer my question," Freya retorted.
"Which one?"
"The second one, of course!"
"Yes, Fratley came home."
"Probably a long time ago... Well, what'd he say?"
"Wanderer is the new king."
"And?"
"He's going to remove your charges and allow you to become a Dragon Warrior again if you win a one-battle tournament."
Having not expected such an answer, Freya found she could only sit there, blinking with surprise. Amarant stretched his arms, finding them to be stiff after having stayed in the same position for so long. He then regarded Freya curiously.
"Well, are you going to respond?" he asked.
"This is my response," Freya replied.
"Blinking like an idiot. All right, then," Amarant grunted.
"Who are you calling an idiot? You blink too!" Freya replied. She then paused. "Well, I think you do, anyway."
Amarant chuckled. "There's a lot you don't know about me."
"And 70% of it I don't want to know," Freya replied.
Above the two, the door to the chamber opened. Then, suddenly, it was closed, and someone leapt straight over the railing and landed in the center of the room. The Burmecian rose to his full height, and Freya quickly recognized him.
"Fratley, what the hell?" she asked.
Fratley smiled and shrugged. "I felt like making a dramatic entrance."
"It was stupid, not exactly dramatic," Amarant grunted.
"I expect your entrances to be the same," Fratley replied, taking a seat on the floor.
"What are you here for?" Amarant asked.
"We need to talk," Fratley said, addressing both Freya and Amarant. "It's very clear to all of us that Julius is not going to leave Freya alone, and it's even clearer that without a plan, he will not stop leaving us alone."
"So you're going to discuss such in the middle of the night," Freya muttered with doubt.
"We're awake anyway," Fratley replied.
"He's got a point there," Amarant commented.
"Besides, I wasn't thinking we'd get the exact plan out. Just ideas. What would be a bad idea, and what would be a good idea," Fratley continued.
"Bad idea: Leaving Freya on her own. Good idea: Someone with her at all times," Amarant grunted.
"Shut up, Amarant," Freya snapped.
"I'm serious this time. You have way too much pride and if you're on your own then you are going to get yourself killed. We're all learning Julius' tricks pretty quickly, but he always seems to have more. If you're in danger, you won't ask for help," Amarant replied. "Besides, I'm not exactly saying you need bodyguards. Just someone in the vicinity, if not exactly by your side all the time."
"Should I just abandon my pride for you?" Freya asked, aggravated.
"I'd love it if you could, but that's a little much to ask," Amarant said with a sudden yawn. "Anyway, would it really kill you to have Fratley or I with you most of the time?"
"You, yes. Fratley, no," Freya said with a smirk.
"Liar," Amarant snapped.
"It's like I'm not even here," Fratley commented, smiling. "Well, I think Amarant has a good idea. But we need more than that. When we actually are able to confront Julius safely—"
"—Which has a 1/500 chance of happening—"Amarant interrupted.
"—We need to do something to prevent him from getting away," Fratley continued, ignoring Amarant. "I think that is where Dominic can come in. He's the Commander; I'm sure he can do something. Vivi should definitely be present with those deadly magic skills... Amarant, you can be present for comic relief..."
Amarant tossed a pillow at Fratley, who caught it and threw it into Amarant's face with a single fluid motion. Freya couldn't help but laugh. Amarant took the pillow and put it back on the couch, figuring he could get back at Fratley later. Fratley, meanwhile, had continued speaking.
"Meander will definitely be vital with his knowledge and powers. Eiko's summons will be excellent. I think I'd better be there or I'll kill myself..."
"And then I'll kill myself, and the fight will be pointless," Freya declared.
"You're all ridiculous," Amarant snapped.
"Anyway, basically, I think we'll need a lot of people and a lot of cooperation," Fratley concluded.
"I'll cooperate," Freya announced.
"I won't," Amarant grunted.
"Yes, you will," Freya snapped.
"Damn," Amarant grumbled.
Fratley chuckled. "I had been hoping to have a casual conversation, but I hadn't expected something this casual."
"Trust me, Fratley, it's impossible to not be casual with him around," Freya declared, motioning to Amarant.
"What the hell are you talking about? I'm serious 80% of the time and now you're accusing me of making serious matters casual?" Amarant asked, grabbing a pillow and holding as if to toss it. "One more comment—"
Suddenly a giant ball of white energy slammed into the couch, sending it onto the floor and Amarant tumbling off it. Fratley couldn't help but laugh, while Freya, who had thrown the energy ball, watched Amarant get up with amusement. Amarant grabbed the remaining pillows and a piece of the couch that had fallen off. He tossed them all at Freya, who hid under the covers of the bed.
"That's it, now I know you're out to kill me!" Amarant declared.
"Whatever you say, Amarant," Freya replied, emerging from the covers long enough to throw a pillow at Amarant.
"Well, if we can bring ourselves back to reality for a few seconds, did I make myself clear? We need to cooperate and—"At this point Freya tossed a pillow at Fratley. Fratley dodged and rolled to his feet.
"Oh trust me, you're right," Freya told Fratley.
"Except cooperation may be out of the question," Amarant grunted, putting the couch back onto its feet. He sat on it, then gave his head a shake, trying to get pillow feathers out of his hair.
"I'm sure we can cooperate. If we really tried," Freya commented, combing her hair with her fingers to make sure feathers weren't stuck in it.
"Perhaps maturity could be managed also," Fratley said with a chuckle.
"Eventually," Amarant grunted.
"It's a boring night," Freya commented, looking out the window.
"Boring? Shit, you almost started a pillow fight!" Amarant snapped.
"Well, true," Freya said, lying down. "Maybe we should try to go back to sleep."
"Great, and give you more energy?" Amarant asked.
"At least we won't be up in the middle of the night," Freya said. She looked over at Fratley. "Your opinion?" "I'm with it," Fratley said. He seemed about ready to leave, but then stopped, remembering something. "Wanderer is going to be officially elected king tomorrow. Either of you coming?"
"Sure," Freya said.
"I guess," Amarant grunted, lying down on the couch.
"All right, then. It's going to happen pretty early, so I definitely think we should all go to bed," Fratley replied. He gave Freya quick hug. "Good night."
Fratley headed up the stairs and closed the door. The room fell temporarily silent.
"I have to sleep on the couch, don't I?" Amarant asked.
"No. You could sleep on the floor," Freya replied.
"I was hoping you'd give up the bed," Amarant snorted.
"Not a chance. If you want a bed, go to the underground chamber," Freya replied, getting into a comfortable position on the bed. "Now shut up."
Why am I letting you boss me around? Amarant wondered silently.
By the time Amarant fell asleep forty minutes later, he still hadn't found an answer.
"I don't know," Rose was saying four hours later as she stretched idly near the fireplace in the kitchen. "I just don't like the idea of 'aving a king who can read m' mind."
"Mother, you don't like the idea of anyone reading your mind," Fratley replied with a smile.
"Paranoia?" Amarant guessed, leaning against the counter closet to the stairs leading out of the house.
"No," Freya said, grinning. "Just she's rebellious."
Rose snorted. She then viewed the large group in the kitchen. The group consisted of herself, Aireff, Fratley, Freya, and Amarant.
"I don't remember ever 'aving this many people in this house," Rose commented.
"Maybe never this many adults. But I think if we consider kids too we get pretty close," Aireff commented.
"Pretty small kitchen to fit five people," Amarant grunted.
"We're fitting pretty comfortably," Freya replied, sitting at the table.
"Who says I'm comfortable?" Amarant asked.
"Who says you're ever comfortable?" Freya retorted.
"The kitchen seems small. Too small," Rose muttered.
"Blame him," Fratley and Freya said together, pointing to Amarant.
"Sure, blame the tall guy," Amarant spat.
"You're not only tall, you're big," Freya replied.
"When's that ceremony going to start?" Rose asked Aireff, clearly getting sick of her company.
"Within the hour," Aireff said good-naturedly.
"Thank the Great Dragon. You guys are all so damn loud!" Rose declared.
"Blame her," Amarant said, pointing to Freya, who glared at him in return.
Aireff laughed. "You're all so humorous. Let's go, before we annoy Rose so much she kills us."
Everyone soon had filed out of the house. Once in the dark, rainy streets, the group spread out. Freya stared up into the sky, as if trying to figure out the weather in the dark.
"Trying to blind yourself?" Amarant asked, watching as the rain nearly fell into Freya's eyes.
"Why not? One eye's pretty close," Freya replied, lowering her head so she could see where she was going.
"Why do you Burmecians hold everything so early?" Amarant asked, looking around the dark streets.
"Because we are early risers... Eh, normally," Freya quickly added, seeing Amarant's look.
"Early compared to what? A slug?" Amarant asked.
Fratley laughed. "Since when do we know slugs sleep?"
"Maybe we should be quiet," Freya commented. "We're either going to wake up all of Burmecia, or piss off Rose."
"Most likely both," Fratley concluded.
Noting Rose's aggravated expression, Amarant chose not to respond. Freya and Fratley soon followed suit, and the rest of the walk passed in silence – That is, until Freya tripped over an unseen boulder and tumbled to the ground.
"Ya all right?" Rose asked, quickly walking over.
"Clumsy in the morning?" Amarant asked, also walking over at a slower pace.
Fratley helped Freya to her feet, who thanked him, then looked at the boulder with confusion.
"Where'd that come from?" she asked.
"Probably construction," Aireff concluded. "Someone clearly forgot to clean it up."
"And now I nearly broke my leg on it," Freya muttered, lifting her right leg and rubbing irritably at her foot. "Damn scars!"
"Is the sun rising or something?" Amarant asked. "The sky's suddenly becoming very bright."
"Look that way," Fratley said, pointing to the east. "If the clouds are low enough, you can see it."
"Which means the ceremony will start soon," Aireff commented. "Let's go, folks! And don't trip over anything this time."
The group headed off again, this time at a faster pace. Thankfully, the lightening sky allowed them to dodge any obstacles. Soon, they had arrived at the gate separating the castle from the main part of the city. They swiftly passed through, and headed toward the castle front, where some of the city had already gathered.
Apparently the ceremony hadn't started yet. Most of the people present were in small groups, chatting as if it were day and not early morning. Freya was quick to spot Dominic, Eiko, and, to her surprise, Dominic's chocobo Duchess. She quickly walked over, followed by Fratley and Amarant.
"How'd the chocobo get here?" Freya asked.
"Called it," Dominic said simply, stroking Duchess's head feathers.
"All right, that makes enough sense," Freya quickly said.
"This is going to be really dull, isn't it?" Amarant asked.
"For you, probably," Freya replied, looking toward the castle. "I wonder... Where's Anita? I saw Puck, but not Anita."
"You expect her to be here?" Fratley asked.
"Well, of course. She's normally with Puck. They're a duo," Freya said. "I think I'll ask him... PUCK!"
"Now what do you want?" Puck asked irritably, looking over at Freya. "Can't you see I'm trying to have time to myself?"
"Oh, hush. Anyway, where's Anita?" Freya asked.
"Most likely with Wanderer," Puck replied.
"Why so?" Freya asked.
"Wanderer's going to allow her to become a spy, so where else would she be?" Puck asked, annoyed.
"Really? I didn't know that," Freya said.
Puck sighed. "You're so behind in these times... Hey, looks like the ceremony's finally starting."
Hearing this, most of the group around Puck snapped to attention. Indeed, a gong had just sounded. Apparently, either it had been repaired, or never destroyed during the attack from Alexandria. Everyone who had gathered – it appeared to be the entire town – quickly walked over to the main yard outside the castle. Amarant, realizing that quite a few Burmecians would have trouble seeing over him, stood in the back. Freya followed him, followed by Fratley.
"What are you doing here?" Amarant asked.
"Making sure you won't kill someone," Freya said with a grin.
"Whatever," Amarant replied, turning his gaze back to the castle door, which had opened.
Most of the group gathered seemed surprised when Anita stepped out. She stepped with certainty, walking with a steady strut that showed she knew exactly where she was going. She soon came to a stop, and lifted her head. Most of the little children, having not seen her before, seemed a little nervous when they saw her milky-white, sightless eyes. Most of the older Burmecians, however, merely watched with some surprise. Anita sniffed the air briefly, then suddenly began speaking.
"Welcome, one and all," Anita said. "To a grand ceremony of uttermost importance. Here, on this day, we shall elect a new king – a new king that this time, we are sure will lead us to grandeur."
The high emphasis on "this time" made a few Burmecians in the crowd, probably the ones present at the time Ebon was elected king, chuckle with amusement. Amarant sighed lightly, turning his gaze to a nearby hedge.
"I'm bored already," Amarant grunted.
"Hush," Freya replied.
"This king is not of Burmecia – No, he came from a legendary – supposedly – continent. The continent of – yes, Eoroqu. I heard someone whisper it," Anita continued, ears twitching as a little kid whispered the word "Eoroqu".
"Eoroqu?" Fratley muttered, stunned. "My..."
"Talk about it later," Freya muttered.
"We're bored, we can't help it," Amarant snorted.
Freya was beginning to wonder if her two friends – well, Fratley was more than a friend – would ever be quiet. It didn't matter much, however, because Anita had continued, and Freya had a missed a few words when trying to hush Fratley and Amarant.
"—His skills are said to be unmatched. Supposedly the fame he received in Eoroqu was too much for him – Well, it appears he didn't exactly escape it, did he?" Anita asked, causing more chuckles. She clearly heard that the chuckles were less strained, and indeed, the crowd was beginning to relax. Anita was a lot more relaxing than the previous assistant had been. "All right, then, enough of my jabber. My friends, City of Burmecia, I present you with your new King..."
At this point the crowd began a polite clap, while Anita moved out of the way. Quickly Wanderer got out of the castle, moving swiftly for one with a paralyzed leg. Beside him was Landloper, as always, and the Great Dane seemed very relaxed, his tail wagging steadily while his ears perked. The crowd seemed a little shocked at the look of this supposed warrior. A cane? A limp? It seemed awfully awkward to them. Freya could also tell that the dog confused many of them.
"Hello," Wanderer said calmly, quickly coming to a stop. He stood very calmly, looking around at the people he now ruled. Landloper yawned lazily and sat down. He looked around at the people faced before him. "Well, first, I think my name is necessary... I am Wanderer. Nothing more, nothing less. Give my name and I may get trampled by fans, not to mention make a person or two uncomfortable."
When Wanderer said the last sentence, his gaze flickered to Freya, who gave him a confused look in return.
Why, Freya thought. Would your name make me uncomfortable?
"I know that this kingdom has been through various hardships in the past – Hardships that the last king only escalated. This, I assure you, will stop. The mysterious murders rising will end, quickly. Anyone who is helping the murderers or is actually doing the murdering would be best to leave tonight or I will catch you. Do not underestimate me," Wanderer continued, his voice becoming stern. "Rebuilding of the city is going to take hard work but no defense of the city will be sacrificed to achieve such. The city's people are in danger. Defense must not be sacrificed. There will be a main task in the rebuilding that will be absolutely necessary to rebuild. This task will, for now, be the houses. As has been proven in the past, the old wooden supports will not be suitable due to being fire-prone. The old houses must be replaced and rebuilt. Dragon Warrior tournaments will be held in six months – We need warriors, not just a rebuilt city. Also, when the time is right, a mini-tournament will be held to allow Freya Crescent to prove herself worthy of regaining her Dragon Warrior title. And, at long last the end of this speech – To all criminals, of any kind, major or minor. End your crimes – Immediately, and swiftly. I can catch you."
Wanderer's russet eyes hardened as he stared at the crowd, which stared with shock in return. Amarant looked over at the new king briefly, impressed with his abilities so far. Fratley and Freya both were smiling.
"That is the end of me," Wanderer said, bowing despite his paralyzed leg. "Now, something you may not be used to – a light feast now, after the ceremony? Free food."
Wanderer looked at the people and smiled. Realizing he wasn't joking about the feast part, the crowd broke into cheers, clearly having hope in this new king. Amarant clapped out of politeness. Then, within moments, everyone had gathered in the castle to have a clearly delicious-looking meal. The meal was varied, unlike most Burmecian feasts – There appeared to be delicacies from various parts of the world. The Burmecians were clearly enjoying it.
"One way to bribe people – Offer free, delicious food," Amarant said, watching the Burmecians eat.
"I agree with that one. It's actually pretty good... Aren't you going to try some?" Freya replied. She had taken some of the food, but had quickly stopped eating when something she had taken gave her a massive stomachache. Even if the other food was good, she didn't want to trust it.
"No. I don't want to risk the same thing you had," Amarant replied.
"What, do you think we have the same reactions? We're not even the same species, so it's doubtful. Oh, hello, Fratley!" Freya quickly turned to Fratley as he walked over.
"Very odd food over there," Fratley commented, examining the flat, wheat-colored, hard cookie in his hand. "Particularly this."
"Well, it's obviously a cookie," Freya said. "A very flat one, but a cookie."
"Wonder if it's as stale as it looks," Amarant grunted.
Fratley shrugged and ate the cookie. It was clearly hard as it took him a bit of work to chew. When he finally finished eating it, he looked over at Amarant and nodded.
"I think it was," he replied.
"Have a fun death," Amarant grunted.
"He's not going to die from eating a hard cookie," Freya replied, sighing. She then looked around. "Looks like things are slowing down... A few people are leaving."
"I'm out of here, then," Amarant said, quickly leaving.
"All... Right, then," Freya said, watching him leave with confusion. "I guess that's Amarant for you."
"Fratley!"
Freya and Fratley quickly turned in the direction of the cheery voice. Cleo had floated over to them, and she was easily recognized since she was in her normal spiritual form.
"What is it?" Fratley asked.
"Wanderer just say that it's time for all to go, including you two!" Cleo chirped.
"Oh, okay," Fratley said, nodding. Freya also nodded, and the three headed out.
"So, Cleo, what have you been doing lately? Haven't seen you around," Fratley said as he, Freya, and Cleo headed back toward his house.
"I doing special work for Wanderer! I spy!" Cleo chirped.
"He sure likes spies, doesn't he?" Freya asked, shaking her head with disbelief.
"Handy, I suppose," Fratley said with a shrug. "So, what are you spying on?"
"COL," Cleo chirped. "Wanderer say I good for stopping attacks. They decrease attack quickly."
"Interesting," Freya said, seeing Fratley's house in the nearby distance. "Well, Cleo, I think we'll be parting now."
"Okay! Bye bye!" Cleo chirped before vanishing.
"She's too hyper," Fratley said, shaking his head.
"Nice break from Amarant, though," Freya commented.
Fratley found he could only agree with that.
Many hours later, when darkness had come upon the Realm of Eternal Rain once more, Freya found that she couldn't sleep. It wasn't exactly that she was nervous about something. She just simply couldn't get to sleep. She stared at the dark ceiling, watching the shadows on it form strange figures. She had a funny feeling Amarant was also awake; his breathing patterns didn't appear to be from sleep.
"Amarant?" Freya began, her voice shattering the quiet.
"What?" Amarant replied quickly in a grunt.
"Never mind," Freya replied, rising into a sitting position.
"What the—?" Amarant began, watching Freya with dark eyes.
"I was going to ask if you were awake, but it's obvious you are," Freya said in answer to Amarant's unfinished question. She turned her gaze to the massive, still-broken window that allowed the cold air in. "I wonder if Fratley's awake?"
"Would it make any difference if he was?" Amarant asked.
"Of course it would," Freya said with a snort, rising from the bed. She shivered slightly, staring at the broken window. "Darn window!"
"Yelling at it isn't going to make it repair itself. Unless, of course, you're Dominic," Amarant grunted.
Freya chuckled softly. "That makes sense. I'm going upstairs."
"Be sure to open the door and go into the kitchen too," Amarant grunted. "You won't get anywhere otherwise."
"Oh shut up with your sarcastic and literal mind," Freya spat, heading for the stairs.
Amarant shrugged and resumed staring at the ceiling. Freya quickly headed up the stairs and into the hallway, making sure to close the door behind her. She looked around the dark house, having been in it so many times before. She walked quietly across the hallway and into Fratley's room, only to find him looking out the window. Freya walked over to him, and he looked over at her.
"You can't sleep either?" Freya asked, staring out the window.
"It's a strange night. Seems too quiet," Fratley muttered.
"It's normal, though it seems odd," Freya replied.
Fratley nodded silently in agreement. Freya sighed softly as she turned from the window and looked around the dark, small room. She turned her gaze to the other bedroom, this one belonging to Rose and Aireff, down the hall.
"I'm impressed by all everyone is doing for me," Freya muttered.
"Not again," Fratley muttered.
Freya chuckled. "Oh no, I'm not going to complain once more. I'm happy and relieved that everyone is still trying to protect me. I just wish... I just wish Julius would finally go down! Each time I even get close to severely injuring him he teleports away... He's not invincible, but he's smart... Too smart."
Freya sighed with frustration, shaking her head. Fratley walked quietly over to her and wrapped his arms around her shoulders.
"We have to get him eventually," Fratley muttered. "He can't hit-and- run forever."
"At this rate, he probably could," Freya replied. "He's been in this murder business for more than twenty years..."
Fratley nodded. "But even those who have been at it forever normally fall."
Freya nodded slightly while looking up at Fratley quietly. She found herself staring into Fratley's blue eye. The two stared at each other for a few seconds. Their lips then met in a light, brief kiss.
The room seemed peaceful to Freya; no longer was the quiet intruding. Freya stared quietly at Fratley, who she could see was smiling softly. Freya found she could only smile lightly in return. She then reached forward and kissed Fratley once more.
The kiss soon ended and Freya lowered her eyes, staring at the ground before looking at Fratley again. Fratley slowly released her and looked around slowly. Freya could tell something was bothering him. Fratley walked slowly toward the window. Freya slowly followed.
"Something wrong?" she asked quietly.
Fratley looked up and over at Freya, and he smiled slightly, "Oh, no, not at all..."
Freya shook her head slightly, clearly disagreeing with Fratley's statement. Fratley looked out the window, and took a deep breath. He then walked over to an endtable near his bed. Freya thought he picked something up, but she couldn't be sure. Freya watched him with confusion. She began to walk toward Fratley, but Fratley was already walking toward her.
"The night's pretty, isn't it?" Fratley muttered. "The ice season is annoying, but the nights are pretty... But..."
Fratley shook his head, and Freya was beginning to become very confused, but curious all the same.
"That's... Not important. Freya..." Fratley sighed and gave up on whatever was in his mind. He walked over to Freya and revealed what he had picked up.
Freya blinked with surprise as she stared at the necklace in Fratley's hand. It had a thin yet strong-looking string that was shining lightly in the moonlight. Tied to the end of the wire-like string was an emerald encased in pearl. Freya found it to be quite gorgeous, but she wondered why Fratley had it.
"Freya... Will you marry me?" Fratley managed to finish.
Freya's heart skipped a beat. Surprised, she looked up at Fratley to find him staring down at her with love and worry in his eye. He seemed worried... But why? Why was he so concerned about this?
Then it hit Freya. He thought she would reject? Out of all things she could do, she couldn't reject. Not after she had hoped for this moment for years... Not after Fratley was finally gaining back most of his memory.
Freya took a deep breath, tears forming in her eyes. She looked up at Fratley and nodded.
"Yes," she muttered. She then suddenly hugged Fratley, squeezing him so tightly he most likely felt like he was going to burst. "Yes... How could I not...?"
Fratley didn't hear the last question, or anything else beyond Freya's first answer, for that matter. All his worries had vanished. He felt like he was flying. He didn't notice Freya nearly squeezing him to death, but when she moved to release him, he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her closer.
Freya didn't notice much herself. If time stopped around her, she would've noticed. All she noticed was Fratley. All he noticed was she.
--- -stares at horrible love scene- Argh... Romance is the worst... Anyway, so Wanderer is the new king, Cleo briefly appeared, Amarant's being normal, and everyone's preparing for Julius' return (whenever it comes) Stay tuned for... Well, you probably know =P
Check out Chapters 12, 13, 14, 28, 31, and 32. They have been edited in some way.
This story is copyright to me. Some characters, locations, and Gaia in general are copyright to SquareEnix.