Disclaimer: I don't own Final Fantasy or anything in it.
A Warrior's Tale
By Archangel.
Chapter One: Meeting Jecht
"In all honesty, my lord," The crewman said, "Our chances of finding her are slim to nil, much less finding her alive."
"I won't give up!" Lord Braska spoke back. "I have to find her. And if she is dead, I have to see it myself to believe it!"
Braska turned and walked away. The crewman looked at Auron. "Maybe you can talk some sense into him."
"No promises there." Auron said with a sigh. But he turned to try anyway.
Several days had passed since Lord Braska's wife had left out to sea. She never came back. What was worse was that Sin had struck the water where she'd been traveling. Lord Braska had gotten a small ship to go search for her. His closest friend, Auron, had come too.
"Lord Braska," Auron said, "Forgive me for being so blunt, but do you really expect to find her out here?"
Braska sighed. "I don't know, Auron. I really don't know. But I have to look. If I don't, I'll never forgive myself."
Auron looked at the ground. "Yes, my lord."
The sun was high in the afternoon sky and the day was rather warm. The crewmen were getting restless. But Braska was determined to keep looking, so Auron was right with him.
They searched and searched, but nothing was found for the longest time. But then . . .
"Look! Over there!" Someone shouted. Everyone moved over to see what was going on. "There's someone there!"
"Oh, please let it be her." Braska said.
Auron didn't speak.
The ship turned and drew closer. The nearer they got, the more the body looked like her. Now the question remained: was she alive?
"It is her!" Braska said happily. Auron didn't smile, though. He was one to fear the worst. Soon, the ship was right up next to her and they all stared in horror. Her upper body was holding onto a piece of driftwood, but the lower half was completely severed off.
"Oh, Dear God!!" Braska exclaimed. He fell to his knees and leaned against the side of the ship. Auron stared at the torn, dead, heap for a little while, then looked at the crew.
"Alright. Let's go back." Then he looked down at Braska and put his hand on his shoulder. "I'm sorry."
"I will defeat Sin," Braska said. "I MUST defeat Sin!"
Auron looked away and muttered to himself. "I feared so."
* * * *
Bevelle was crowded, as usual. It was the biggest city in all of Spira. After they'd returned, Braska had instantly gone home. Auron wondered how Yuna, Braska's daughter would take this. Auron wandered the streets for a time.
Everyone heard that Braska's wife died, but nobody really cared that much. You see, she was an Al Bhed. The Al Bhed did not believe in Yevon, the religion of the people of Spira, and practically everything they did seemed to go against it. Why they had such a disagreement with Yevon, no on knew, or cared to know. Al Bhed were looked upon as traitors and blasphemers. However, there were some who didn't care what the Al Bhed believed, such as Braska.
Braska was a strong Yevonite, and had become a summoner some time ago. That was what really baffled everyone. If he was so strong in Yevonism, then why did he marry an Al Bhed woman? The thing was, she didn't have any conflict with Yevon at all. She did nothing sacrilegious or disrespectful to those who disagreed with her. She could've easily passed for a normal woman. Braska met her when he was out traveling. They got to talking and liking each other. When Braska announced that he wanted to marry her, people were confused. Summoners were supposed to marry high, classy people of the church. Braska announced that he would teach her the ways of Yevon. Soon enough, they were married. But things got bad when a man discovered she was an Al Bhed and told everyone. The people instantly told Braska, assuming he hadn't know. When he told them that he DID know, the people were appalled. He had to do a ton of talking to convince the priests that she wasn't bad. They had noted that she had been learning and that he was a well-loved member of the church. They did not excommunicate him, but everyone looked down at him from then on. Braska didn't care. He still loved his wife. They had a daughter together, Yuna, now age seven. She was a charming little girl everyone loved. Very outspoken and obedient. Braska was in his min-twenties and about six feet tall with brown hair (to the best of my knowledge). He was very plain-faced and calm. But the loss of his wife had overtaken him with grief.
Auron didn't know what to do or say to help. He had been Braska's friend for years and supported him all the way when he decided to marry, even though he knew she was and Al Bhed. Auron had no problem with the Al Bhed, unless they openly blasphemed Yevon. Auron was a fairly quiet man, and when he did speak, he spoke respectfully and to the point. He had black hair with a thin ponytail in the back, and he was just and inch or two taller than Braska. He was clean-shaven and strikingly handsome. Some time ago, he had been a warrior monk. But he'd been excommunicated for refusing to marry the high priest's daughter. That was considered completely disrespectful and dishonorable. But Braska had remained his friend nevertheless.
Auron didn't see Braska again for another hour. He came out with Yuna, looking sad.
"Are you alright, my lord?" Auron asked. Even though they were close friends, he always called Braska by his title.
"I don't know." He looked down at Yuna, who was still crying. He knelt down and held her. "Don't cry, Yuna. Soon, the suffering will end. I will defeat Sin! I will stop it from hurting anyone else. So don't cry. I'll all be over soon."
Yuna wiped her tears away. Auron wasn't so sure that Braska was right.
"So," Auron said, "You really mean to go through with this?"
"Of course. I've made my decision."
"I know, but . . .what about Yuna?"
"I will leave her in the care of the temple."
"Try telling her that."
"What?"
"Try telling her that she lost one parent, and now she'll lose the other!"
Yuna looked up at him and held onto her father tightly.
"Auron, please . . .not here."
He sighed. "I'm sorry."
"I want to fight Sin to end Spira's suffering . . .I have to, Auron."
Auron understood. "Well, my lord, if you will go, then so will I. Allow me to be your guardian! I'll fight Sin alongside you!"
Braska chuckled and put his hand on his shoulder. "I would be honored if you would be my guardian."
Auron nodded with a small smile.
"But I don't think just one guardian is suitable enough." Braska said. "We'll need at least one more. But who would qualify?"
Just then, a group of warrior monks came by. A good deal of them were injured badly. Braska and Auron went over to them.
"What happened?" Auron asked.
One warrior rubbed the back of his neck in pain. "Some freak attacked us."
"Attacked you?"
"Yeah. He was raving on and on about Zanarkand."
"Zanarkand?" Braska asked.
"He said he lived there and wanted to go back. We told him that Zanarkand didn't exist anymore and he got angry. We feared for the citizens' safety, so we told him to come with us. He resisted, so we took action. But he fought back. He wiped out twenty of us before someone knocked him out with a Thundaga spell."
"That strong of a spell to knock out one man?" Braska asked, rubbing his chin.
"Yeah! This guy was crazy! You wouldn't believe it! We think he was drunk or something, but still, he was tough."
"A man who fought that well when he was drunk?" Braska said, getting intrigued. "Imagine if he had been sober. What kind of damage could he do?"
"I hate to think about it, my lord." Auron said.
Braska asked, "Did he say his name?"
"Yeah. I think it was Jecht or something."
"Jecht," Braska mumbled. "From Zanarkand . . .where is he now?"
Auron shot him a look. "My lord?"
"He's locked up, of course!" The warrior monk said. "As soon as he was out cold, we took him in."
"May I see him?"
Everyone was shocked. "Well . . .not now, Lord Braska. We need to wait until sunset, at least. Hopefully, he'll be calmer."
"Alright then." Braska said, "I'll see him at sunset."
Auron spoke up. "Lord Braska, if I may, why are you going to see a drunk man claiming to be from Zanarkand?"
"I just want to see him for myself."
"I don't like it, my lord. It's . . .dangerous."
"Do not worry, my friend. I'll be fine. Now, Auron, could you take Yuna home? I have to help these people here."
"Yes, my lord. Come, Yuna."
He turned and left with Yuna beside him.
"What were they talking about?" Yuna asked.
Auron shook his head. "Nothing. Just some crazy man claiming to be from Zanarkand."
"Zanarkand? But I thought it was destroyed 1,000 years ago."
"It was. That's what makes his story unbelievable."
"He's lying?"
"Either that or drunk."
"Why does father want to see him?"
"I don't know. But I guess we'll find out tonight, won't we?"
Their conversation was cut off, and Auron was a little thankful. He wasn't too good with kids.
* * * *
When the sun was almost gone, Braska and Auron went to see this "Jecht". When they got to the prison, the monks did the prayer, the common and proper thing to do when someone of high importance came in . . .even if he was looked down upon.
"I am here to see the man Jecht." Braska said.
"Someone call me?" A rough voice said from one of the prison cells. The monks pointed to it and Braska looked in.
There was a man inside, lying on his side, his head propped up on his arm. His rough face and dark eyes showed he wasn't happy about his position. He was pretty muscular with dark brown hair held back by a red bandana that hung to his shoulders in the back. He was covered in many cuts and scars and had a giant tattoo across his strong, shirtless chest. He had black shorts on, but the right leg seemed to have an addition. It was like a red and yellow fiery outside covering, making it look like he had one pant led longer than the other. And he was barefoot. He also had a metal guard on his left shoulder.
"What do you want?" He grumbled in a gruff voice.
"You are the one they call Jecht? From Zanarkand?"
"What of it?" Jecht said, impolitely.
Then Auron made himself seen and jabbed his finger at him. "Watch you tongue, knave!"
Braska gave Auron a look, then looked back at Jecht. "What would you say if I said I could get you out of here?"
Jecht's eyebrow raised. "I'd say 'what's the catch?'"
Braska smiled. "That obvious, was it? I soon leave on a pilgrimage . . .to Zanarkand."
Jecht's head perked up. "Zanarkand?"
"Yes. But the road is long and dangerous. I would like for you to become my guardian. Do you accept?"
Auron shot him a surprised look.
"Anything to get me out of here!" Jecht said, getting up.
"Lord Braska," Auron said. "I must protest. This.drunkard a guardian?"
"Hey!" Jecht shouted, reaching through the bars. "You wanna come in here and say that?!"
Auron ignored him.
"You heard what skill he has." Braska said. "And think about it. A fallen summoner, a man from Zanarkand, and a warrior monk doomed to obscurity for refusing the hand of the priest's daughter. What sweet irony it would be if we defeated Sin."
"I don't know . . ."
"Well, I do. He's a qualified guardian."
"Is he? I mean, he can fight, but that's all he can do. He's . . .completely disrespectful . . .and violent."
"We will teach him otherwise. He can learn to target that violence at Sin. He's coming with us."
"Stop jabbering and get me out of here!" Jecht said, anxiously.
"Oh, yes. Release him."
They all looked at each other.
"Don't worry. I'll take full responsibility."
The warrior monks didn't know what to do but release him. One pulled his keys out and unlocked the cell and opened it and Jecht walked out. He took a deep breath and stretched.
"Ah! Free at last!"
"Now, remember." Braska said. "I am in your hands until we reach Zanarkand."
"Right, right. Braska, right?"
"Yes."
"Thanks for getting me out."
"My pleasure."
Jecht stretched again, then asked. "So, what's a summer-ner, anyway?"
"What do you mean, 'what's a summoner?'" Auron asked.
"I mean I don't know and want to find out."
"How could you not know?"
"Zanarkand doesn't have summoners!"
Everyone began shaking their heads. "And how come no one believes I'm from Zanarkand, anyway?"
"Because it was destroyed 1,000 years ago!"
Jecht stared. "What was that?!"
"Sin destroyed Zanarkand and all other machina cities 1,000 years ago."
"What the heck is Sin?"
Auron rolled his eyes. "Don't waste my time with incompetent questions." He turned away.
Jecht looked at Braska. "What's with him?"
"Nothing. Anyway, Sin is a creature that comes only to kill. Summoners are people who have been given the power to call forth great, powerful beings, known as aeons."
"Uh . . ." Jecht said, scratching the back of his neck. "I know I'm asking a lot of questions, but what's an aeon?"
Braska sighed. "I can't explain it. But odds are, I'll be showing you on our journey. Anyway, the goal of a summoners pilgrimage is to travel to every temple, earning every aeon. Once I have done that, I can go to Zanarkand to obtain the Final Aeon, the only way to defeat Sin."
Jecht shrugged. "Sounds simple enough."
"It isn't." Auron said. "The road is dangerous." He slowly moved closer to Jecht. "Fiends swarm it and Sin itself can even strike at any minute. You can get killed on your first day." He was now inches from Jecht's face. They were the same height. "Are you up to the task?"
"Are you trying to psyche me out?"
"Why? Are you getting scared?"
"Yeah. At this distance, I'm afraid you're gonna try and make a pass on me."
The monks laughed.
"Watch your back." Auron said.
"Ooh, what that a threat?"
"No. It was a warning." Then he left.
* * * *
There was only one more thing to do. Braska had to stop at the temple and leave Yuna in its care while he was gone.
"I don't trust him." Auron said as they went to Braska's home.
"I heard that!" Jecht said.
"Good!" Then he turned to Braska again. "I don't think Yuna will be safe around this tyrant."
"Who?" Jecht asked, not liking to be left out of a conversation.
"Yuna." Braska said, "My daughter."
"Oh. How old is she?" "Seven."
"Huh. Kinda wish my son was here now."
"Your son?"
"YOU have a son?!" Auron exclaimed.
Jecht ignored Auron and said to Braska. "Yeah, his name is Tidus. He's nine."
"Ah. Yuna would like a playmate. You have a wife too?"
"Yeah, Karen. You have one?"
"She died."
"Oh. Sorry."
"Sin killed her on the sea. We just found her today."
"Mm. So what about this guy?" He asked.
"Auron?"
"Yeah, does he have a wife, or does he scare 'em all away?"
"I am not married. "Auron said. "And I believe you scare them more than I do."
"You saying I'm ugly?!"
"No, I'm saying your face looks like a shoopuf sat on it."
"A what?!"
"Nothing." Braska said, stopping the argument before it got too heated. Then they reached Braska's home. He went in and got Yuna and came out. She looked up and stared at Jecht.
"Yuna, this is Jecht. Jecht, this is my daughter, Yuna."
"Hi." She said, giving a small bow.
"Hey there."
"Are you my father's guardian too?"
"Yeah, I am. Nice to meet you."
"We should go." Auron said. "The day will be spent soon."
As they walked, Yuna was full of questions.
"You're from Zanarkand?" She asked Jecht.
"Yep."
"What's it like?"
"Well . . .there are tons of tall buildings. And a lot more people. And life isn't so ancient there. I mean . . .there are tons of machines and stuff there, and-"
"But machina are forbidden!" Yuna said.
"Huh?"
"It's true." Braska said. "Machina, machines, are strictly prohibited."
"Why?"
"They just are." Auron said. "That's all you need to know."
"Well, they're okay where I come from."
"Are you Al Bhed?"
"Am I what??"
"Just say no." Braska said. "I'll explain later."
"Uh, no."
"Oh. Well, what else is there?"
"Well, the thing that gets the most people is blitzball. There's a huge stadium all lit up with a thousand lights. Even at night, it's still active. Zanarkand is always up and running."
"Wow! I'd like to see it."
"Maybe someday you will!"
"Do you play blitzball?"
"Yeah." His eye caught a group of teens playing with a blitzball. "In fact.hey!!" He called to the teens. "Got a spare ball?"
"Yeah!" He tossed it to Jecht.
"What are you doing?" Auron asked.
"Want to see a really cool shot?" Jecht asked Yuna.
"Yeah!"
"Okay. Watch this." He put the ball down. A blitzball was a simple sphere with small bumps all over it. Jecht kicked the ball at a lamppost and it bounced back. Then he hit it with his knee and it went straight into the sky. Then he headbutted it as it came down. the ball hit the pole again and came back. Then he punched it at such an angle that it bounced back almost straight up. Then Jecht leapt into the air and spun around like a top. His body moved until he was spinning horizontally, and then he gave a might kick, sending the ball flying out of sight.
"Wow!!" Yuna said.
Everyone around was equally impressed. Even Auron had to admit to himself that it was pretty neat.
"I call that the Sublimely Magnificent Jecht Shot Mark III!! Or Jecht Shot, for short."
"That was amazing!" Yuna said.
"Yeah, well I'm the best blitzer there ever was!"
"Would you like to stop showing off and filling her head with stories and get moving?" Auron said.
"Yeesh, do you ever have fun?" Jecht asked.
"He is right, though." Braska said. "We need to get going. The temple isn't far. Let's go."
* * * *
Auron was grumbling to himself the entire way. Lord Braska was a wise man. Why would he choose this.this disrespectful irritating twit of a man to become his guardian? He couldn't learn how to be a respectful citizen! He was hopeless!
Soon, the four of them reached the temple. The High Priest was there, praying. But he finished when the came in and he turned and saw them.
"Well, well, Lord Braska!" He, Braska, Yuna, and Auron brought their hands above their head, the brought them down on either side of themselves in a circle, and then brought their hands together as if they were holding something, and bowed. Jecht scratched his head, but decided to keep quiet. What? He didn't know the prayer either? What desert rock did this man come from? "What brings you to the temple at this time of night?"
"I am going on a pilgrimage tomorrow morning to Zanarkand."
The priest was frozen. "I-I beg your pardon?"
"I have made my decision to fulfill my duty as a summoner. I'm leaving tomorrow morning."
"But.what about little Yuna?"
"That's why I'm here. I wish to leave her in the care of the temple while I'm gone."
He sighed. "She just lost one parent, and now-"
"Father." Braska interrupted. "Please . . ."
He looked at Yuna. "Yes, of course. We will take care of her." He looked at Auron and Jecht. "And I take it these two are your guardians?"
"Yes, they are."
"Auron is a given, but who is this other man?"
"Name's Jecht." He said, stepping forward and jutting his hand out to shake. "How ya doin'?"
The priest stared at his had, then looked at Braska. "You're . . .sure?"
"Yes, father."
Jecht pulled his hand back and crossed his arms. "Yeesh, everyone's so uptight around here!"
"Or perhaps it's that you're too laid-back." Auron said.
"Seriously, man," Jecht said to Braska, "Where did you get this guy?"
"He has been my friend for many years."
"Are you kidding? He's like a brittle twig, snapping under any kind of pressure!"
"And you're the giant foot, setting me off!"
"Enough!" The priest said. "I will not have such arguments in my temple. Lord Braska, what you do is your own choice. I wish you the best of luck, and may Yevon be with you."
"May I stay with her for tonight?" Braska asked. "One last time?"
"You may, and your guardians too."
"Father," Auron said, motioning towards Jecht, "I do not think that man should be allowed to stay in the temple for the night."
"Look, bub," Jecht said, "You're this close to getting your head knocked off!"
"Will you two please calm down?" The priest said.
"Hey," Jecht said, "I'll stay outside if he does!" He pointed to Auron.
"None of you shall sleep outside, unless you keep up this silly argument! Now, come with me."
"Auron!" A voice said. He turned and saw a warrior monk with a long, thick, brown beard heading towards him. "My, my, what brings you here?"
"Lord Braska will be leaving on a pilgrimage tomorrow, Kinoc." Auron said. "I will be guarding him."
"And so will I!" Jecht said, walking up to him and sticking his hand out. "Name's Jecht, nice to meet ya!"
Kinoc looked at him funny, but shook his hand. "I don't think I've seen you around."
"Well, I'm not from around here. Besides, I just got out of-"
Auron hit him in the gut with his elbow.
"So, Jecht," Kinoc said. "What is your weapon of choice?"
"Weapon?"
"Yes! Every guardian must have a weapon."
"Uh.I don't have one."
"Well, then come with me! I'll get you one."
They left and Auron followed, just to make sure Jecht didn't do anything crazy.
"We've got spears for skilled fighters, staffs for magic users, and swords for the powerful."
"Maybe a sword." Jecht said. There were many kinds. "Say, Auron, what's your weapon?" Then he felt cold, sharp steel against his cheek. He turned and looked at the long, powerful blade Auron had in his hand. "WHOA!! That's thing's huge!"
Auron put it back in its sheath strapped to his back. "Hurry up and pick one."
"That thing looked too heavy for me. Uh . . .say, how about this one?" He picked up a red longsword. The blade was kind of funny. It went up to a point, then seemed to come back down on the other side and stop halfway. Jecht swung it around. It was the perfect weight. "Kinda funny lookin', but I guess it'll do. Course, I'm not too good at sword fightin'."
"Then Auron will teach you." Kinoc said.
"ME?!"
"You're both going to Zanarkand with Braska, are you not? Teach him along the way!"
Auron groaned. "I guess I'll have to."
"Hey, I'm a fast learner!" Jecht said.
"Let's hope."
"I'm gonna go back and find Braska."
Auron began to follow but Kinoc stopped him. "Wait, Auron."
"What is it?"
"Well . . .it's just that . . .I guess I just want to say goodbye."
Auron smiled.
"You're leaving soon, correct?"
"Yes."
"You take care of Braska."
"Don't worry. I will. By the way, I hear you've got an office position just waiting for you!"
Kinoc sighed. "We both know that job was meant for you. You always were the better one.even until the end."
Auron raised a brow. "You make it sound like I'm going off to die or something."
"Sorry."
"I must go, now. Goodbye, my old friend." Then he turned and left.
* * * *
"Auron. Auron, wake up."
"Mmph, what? Lord Braska??"
"Come on. We must leave."
Auron looked around. "The sun hasn't even risen yet!"
"I know. I want to leave early to avoid too many people. Jecht is already up. Let's go!"
"Alright. I'll be there in a minute."
Braska left and Auron yawned and got up. He wore a black sleeveless shirt and black pants and black boots. He also had a large, red coat on, but it wasn't fastened together in any way except for the thick blue belt around his waist with a jug attached to it filled with an unknown content. His right arm was actually in the coat, but his left arm wasn't, giving it more mobility. And his right hand had a thick, black glove on it, making sword swinging easier.
Auron came out and saw Braska and Jecht waiting for him. Braska had a giant red cloak covering his entire body and he carried a long staff with him. Jecht still had on the same clothes, this time with his sword at his side.
"Yo, Auron! Let's go, man!"
"Shh!! Lord Braska wants to leave quietly!"
"Alright, sorry."
They began walking alone the highbridge of the temple, a long path leading outside Bevelle. Each of them had an item sack latched around them. Jecht reached into his and pulled out a recording sphere.
"Hey, Auron! Smile for the camera!" He turned it on.
"What are you taking?" Auron groaned. It was too early to deal with Jecht.
"You said we were going to go all over the place. We'll be seeing a lot of neat things, right? I want to record it all on this!"
Auron stopped walking. "This isn't a pleasure cruise!"
Jecht ignored him and turned the sphere towards Braska.
"Hey, Braska! You said this would be a grand occasion! Where are all the cheering fans, they crying women?"
"This is it. Too many goodbyes . . .people think twice about leaving."
"Well, it better be a lot more colorful when we come back. A parade for Braska, vanquisher of Sin!"
Braska chuckled. "We should hurry. Day will break soon."
And then the walked out of Bevelle, and onto the first steps of a long pilgrimage.
Author's Note: This is my first Final Fantasy story. I noticed that all the stories up there are about Tidus coming back and getting together with Yuna and all that, so I was just dying to break the trend! I decide to make a story about the coolest character, Auron. It'll run through his adventures with Jecht and Braska, and then with Yuna. What do you think so far? First chapter's always the worst. Please review!
A Warrior's Tale
By Archangel.
Chapter One: Meeting Jecht
"In all honesty, my lord," The crewman said, "Our chances of finding her are slim to nil, much less finding her alive."
"I won't give up!" Lord Braska spoke back. "I have to find her. And if she is dead, I have to see it myself to believe it!"
Braska turned and walked away. The crewman looked at Auron. "Maybe you can talk some sense into him."
"No promises there." Auron said with a sigh. But he turned to try anyway.
Several days had passed since Lord Braska's wife had left out to sea. She never came back. What was worse was that Sin had struck the water where she'd been traveling. Lord Braska had gotten a small ship to go search for her. His closest friend, Auron, had come too.
"Lord Braska," Auron said, "Forgive me for being so blunt, but do you really expect to find her out here?"
Braska sighed. "I don't know, Auron. I really don't know. But I have to look. If I don't, I'll never forgive myself."
Auron looked at the ground. "Yes, my lord."
The sun was high in the afternoon sky and the day was rather warm. The crewmen were getting restless. But Braska was determined to keep looking, so Auron was right with him.
They searched and searched, but nothing was found for the longest time. But then . . .
"Look! Over there!" Someone shouted. Everyone moved over to see what was going on. "There's someone there!"
"Oh, please let it be her." Braska said.
Auron didn't speak.
The ship turned and drew closer. The nearer they got, the more the body looked like her. Now the question remained: was she alive?
"It is her!" Braska said happily. Auron didn't smile, though. He was one to fear the worst. Soon, the ship was right up next to her and they all stared in horror. Her upper body was holding onto a piece of driftwood, but the lower half was completely severed off.
"Oh, Dear God!!" Braska exclaimed. He fell to his knees and leaned against the side of the ship. Auron stared at the torn, dead, heap for a little while, then looked at the crew.
"Alright. Let's go back." Then he looked down at Braska and put his hand on his shoulder. "I'm sorry."
"I will defeat Sin," Braska said. "I MUST defeat Sin!"
Auron looked away and muttered to himself. "I feared so."
* * * *
Bevelle was crowded, as usual. It was the biggest city in all of Spira. After they'd returned, Braska had instantly gone home. Auron wondered how Yuna, Braska's daughter would take this. Auron wandered the streets for a time.
Everyone heard that Braska's wife died, but nobody really cared that much. You see, she was an Al Bhed. The Al Bhed did not believe in Yevon, the religion of the people of Spira, and practically everything they did seemed to go against it. Why they had such a disagreement with Yevon, no on knew, or cared to know. Al Bhed were looked upon as traitors and blasphemers. However, there were some who didn't care what the Al Bhed believed, such as Braska.
Braska was a strong Yevonite, and had become a summoner some time ago. That was what really baffled everyone. If he was so strong in Yevonism, then why did he marry an Al Bhed woman? The thing was, she didn't have any conflict with Yevon at all. She did nothing sacrilegious or disrespectful to those who disagreed with her. She could've easily passed for a normal woman. Braska met her when he was out traveling. They got to talking and liking each other. When Braska announced that he wanted to marry her, people were confused. Summoners were supposed to marry high, classy people of the church. Braska announced that he would teach her the ways of Yevon. Soon enough, they were married. But things got bad when a man discovered she was an Al Bhed and told everyone. The people instantly told Braska, assuming he hadn't know. When he told them that he DID know, the people were appalled. He had to do a ton of talking to convince the priests that she wasn't bad. They had noted that she had been learning and that he was a well-loved member of the church. They did not excommunicate him, but everyone looked down at him from then on. Braska didn't care. He still loved his wife. They had a daughter together, Yuna, now age seven. She was a charming little girl everyone loved. Very outspoken and obedient. Braska was in his min-twenties and about six feet tall with brown hair (to the best of my knowledge). He was very plain-faced and calm. But the loss of his wife had overtaken him with grief.
Auron didn't know what to do or say to help. He had been Braska's friend for years and supported him all the way when he decided to marry, even though he knew she was and Al Bhed. Auron had no problem with the Al Bhed, unless they openly blasphemed Yevon. Auron was a fairly quiet man, and when he did speak, he spoke respectfully and to the point. He had black hair with a thin ponytail in the back, and he was just and inch or two taller than Braska. He was clean-shaven and strikingly handsome. Some time ago, he had been a warrior monk. But he'd been excommunicated for refusing to marry the high priest's daughter. That was considered completely disrespectful and dishonorable. But Braska had remained his friend nevertheless.
Auron didn't see Braska again for another hour. He came out with Yuna, looking sad.
"Are you alright, my lord?" Auron asked. Even though they were close friends, he always called Braska by his title.
"I don't know." He looked down at Yuna, who was still crying. He knelt down and held her. "Don't cry, Yuna. Soon, the suffering will end. I will defeat Sin! I will stop it from hurting anyone else. So don't cry. I'll all be over soon."
Yuna wiped her tears away. Auron wasn't so sure that Braska was right.
"So," Auron said, "You really mean to go through with this?"
"Of course. I've made my decision."
"I know, but . . .what about Yuna?"
"I will leave her in the care of the temple."
"Try telling her that."
"What?"
"Try telling her that she lost one parent, and now she'll lose the other!"
Yuna looked up at him and held onto her father tightly.
"Auron, please . . .not here."
He sighed. "I'm sorry."
"I want to fight Sin to end Spira's suffering . . .I have to, Auron."
Auron understood. "Well, my lord, if you will go, then so will I. Allow me to be your guardian! I'll fight Sin alongside you!"
Braska chuckled and put his hand on his shoulder. "I would be honored if you would be my guardian."
Auron nodded with a small smile.
"But I don't think just one guardian is suitable enough." Braska said. "We'll need at least one more. But who would qualify?"
Just then, a group of warrior monks came by. A good deal of them were injured badly. Braska and Auron went over to them.
"What happened?" Auron asked.
One warrior rubbed the back of his neck in pain. "Some freak attacked us."
"Attacked you?"
"Yeah. He was raving on and on about Zanarkand."
"Zanarkand?" Braska asked.
"He said he lived there and wanted to go back. We told him that Zanarkand didn't exist anymore and he got angry. We feared for the citizens' safety, so we told him to come with us. He resisted, so we took action. But he fought back. He wiped out twenty of us before someone knocked him out with a Thundaga spell."
"That strong of a spell to knock out one man?" Braska asked, rubbing his chin.
"Yeah! This guy was crazy! You wouldn't believe it! We think he was drunk or something, but still, he was tough."
"A man who fought that well when he was drunk?" Braska said, getting intrigued. "Imagine if he had been sober. What kind of damage could he do?"
"I hate to think about it, my lord." Auron said.
Braska asked, "Did he say his name?"
"Yeah. I think it was Jecht or something."
"Jecht," Braska mumbled. "From Zanarkand . . .where is he now?"
Auron shot him a look. "My lord?"
"He's locked up, of course!" The warrior monk said. "As soon as he was out cold, we took him in."
"May I see him?"
Everyone was shocked. "Well . . .not now, Lord Braska. We need to wait until sunset, at least. Hopefully, he'll be calmer."
"Alright then." Braska said, "I'll see him at sunset."
Auron spoke up. "Lord Braska, if I may, why are you going to see a drunk man claiming to be from Zanarkand?"
"I just want to see him for myself."
"I don't like it, my lord. It's . . .dangerous."
"Do not worry, my friend. I'll be fine. Now, Auron, could you take Yuna home? I have to help these people here."
"Yes, my lord. Come, Yuna."
He turned and left with Yuna beside him.
"What were they talking about?" Yuna asked.
Auron shook his head. "Nothing. Just some crazy man claiming to be from Zanarkand."
"Zanarkand? But I thought it was destroyed 1,000 years ago."
"It was. That's what makes his story unbelievable."
"He's lying?"
"Either that or drunk."
"Why does father want to see him?"
"I don't know. But I guess we'll find out tonight, won't we?"
Their conversation was cut off, and Auron was a little thankful. He wasn't too good with kids.
* * * *
When the sun was almost gone, Braska and Auron went to see this "Jecht". When they got to the prison, the monks did the prayer, the common and proper thing to do when someone of high importance came in . . .even if he was looked down upon.
"I am here to see the man Jecht." Braska said.
"Someone call me?" A rough voice said from one of the prison cells. The monks pointed to it and Braska looked in.
There was a man inside, lying on his side, his head propped up on his arm. His rough face and dark eyes showed he wasn't happy about his position. He was pretty muscular with dark brown hair held back by a red bandana that hung to his shoulders in the back. He was covered in many cuts and scars and had a giant tattoo across his strong, shirtless chest. He had black shorts on, but the right leg seemed to have an addition. It was like a red and yellow fiery outside covering, making it look like he had one pant led longer than the other. And he was barefoot. He also had a metal guard on his left shoulder.
"What do you want?" He grumbled in a gruff voice.
"You are the one they call Jecht? From Zanarkand?"
"What of it?" Jecht said, impolitely.
Then Auron made himself seen and jabbed his finger at him. "Watch you tongue, knave!"
Braska gave Auron a look, then looked back at Jecht. "What would you say if I said I could get you out of here?"
Jecht's eyebrow raised. "I'd say 'what's the catch?'"
Braska smiled. "That obvious, was it? I soon leave on a pilgrimage . . .to Zanarkand."
Jecht's head perked up. "Zanarkand?"
"Yes. But the road is long and dangerous. I would like for you to become my guardian. Do you accept?"
Auron shot him a surprised look.
"Anything to get me out of here!" Jecht said, getting up.
"Lord Braska," Auron said. "I must protest. This.drunkard a guardian?"
"Hey!" Jecht shouted, reaching through the bars. "You wanna come in here and say that?!"
Auron ignored him.
"You heard what skill he has." Braska said. "And think about it. A fallen summoner, a man from Zanarkand, and a warrior monk doomed to obscurity for refusing the hand of the priest's daughter. What sweet irony it would be if we defeated Sin."
"I don't know . . ."
"Well, I do. He's a qualified guardian."
"Is he? I mean, he can fight, but that's all he can do. He's . . .completely disrespectful . . .and violent."
"We will teach him otherwise. He can learn to target that violence at Sin. He's coming with us."
"Stop jabbering and get me out of here!" Jecht said, anxiously.
"Oh, yes. Release him."
They all looked at each other.
"Don't worry. I'll take full responsibility."
The warrior monks didn't know what to do but release him. One pulled his keys out and unlocked the cell and opened it and Jecht walked out. He took a deep breath and stretched.
"Ah! Free at last!"
"Now, remember." Braska said. "I am in your hands until we reach Zanarkand."
"Right, right. Braska, right?"
"Yes."
"Thanks for getting me out."
"My pleasure."
Jecht stretched again, then asked. "So, what's a summer-ner, anyway?"
"What do you mean, 'what's a summoner?'" Auron asked.
"I mean I don't know and want to find out."
"How could you not know?"
"Zanarkand doesn't have summoners!"
Everyone began shaking their heads. "And how come no one believes I'm from Zanarkand, anyway?"
"Because it was destroyed 1,000 years ago!"
Jecht stared. "What was that?!"
"Sin destroyed Zanarkand and all other machina cities 1,000 years ago."
"What the heck is Sin?"
Auron rolled his eyes. "Don't waste my time with incompetent questions." He turned away.
Jecht looked at Braska. "What's with him?"
"Nothing. Anyway, Sin is a creature that comes only to kill. Summoners are people who have been given the power to call forth great, powerful beings, known as aeons."
"Uh . . ." Jecht said, scratching the back of his neck. "I know I'm asking a lot of questions, but what's an aeon?"
Braska sighed. "I can't explain it. But odds are, I'll be showing you on our journey. Anyway, the goal of a summoners pilgrimage is to travel to every temple, earning every aeon. Once I have done that, I can go to Zanarkand to obtain the Final Aeon, the only way to defeat Sin."
Jecht shrugged. "Sounds simple enough."
"It isn't." Auron said. "The road is dangerous." He slowly moved closer to Jecht. "Fiends swarm it and Sin itself can even strike at any minute. You can get killed on your first day." He was now inches from Jecht's face. They were the same height. "Are you up to the task?"
"Are you trying to psyche me out?"
"Why? Are you getting scared?"
"Yeah. At this distance, I'm afraid you're gonna try and make a pass on me."
The monks laughed.
"Watch your back." Auron said.
"Ooh, what that a threat?"
"No. It was a warning." Then he left.
* * * *
There was only one more thing to do. Braska had to stop at the temple and leave Yuna in its care while he was gone.
"I don't trust him." Auron said as they went to Braska's home.
"I heard that!" Jecht said.
"Good!" Then he turned to Braska again. "I don't think Yuna will be safe around this tyrant."
"Who?" Jecht asked, not liking to be left out of a conversation.
"Yuna." Braska said, "My daughter."
"Oh. How old is she?" "Seven."
"Huh. Kinda wish my son was here now."
"Your son?"
"YOU have a son?!" Auron exclaimed.
Jecht ignored Auron and said to Braska. "Yeah, his name is Tidus. He's nine."
"Ah. Yuna would like a playmate. You have a wife too?"
"Yeah, Karen. You have one?"
"She died."
"Oh. Sorry."
"Sin killed her on the sea. We just found her today."
"Mm. So what about this guy?" He asked.
"Auron?"
"Yeah, does he have a wife, or does he scare 'em all away?"
"I am not married. "Auron said. "And I believe you scare them more than I do."
"You saying I'm ugly?!"
"No, I'm saying your face looks like a shoopuf sat on it."
"A what?!"
"Nothing." Braska said, stopping the argument before it got too heated. Then they reached Braska's home. He went in and got Yuna and came out. She looked up and stared at Jecht.
"Yuna, this is Jecht. Jecht, this is my daughter, Yuna."
"Hi." She said, giving a small bow.
"Hey there."
"Are you my father's guardian too?"
"Yeah, I am. Nice to meet you."
"We should go." Auron said. "The day will be spent soon."
As they walked, Yuna was full of questions.
"You're from Zanarkand?" She asked Jecht.
"Yep."
"What's it like?"
"Well . . .there are tons of tall buildings. And a lot more people. And life isn't so ancient there. I mean . . .there are tons of machines and stuff there, and-"
"But machina are forbidden!" Yuna said.
"Huh?"
"It's true." Braska said. "Machina, machines, are strictly prohibited."
"Why?"
"They just are." Auron said. "That's all you need to know."
"Well, they're okay where I come from."
"Are you Al Bhed?"
"Am I what??"
"Just say no." Braska said. "I'll explain later."
"Uh, no."
"Oh. Well, what else is there?"
"Well, the thing that gets the most people is blitzball. There's a huge stadium all lit up with a thousand lights. Even at night, it's still active. Zanarkand is always up and running."
"Wow! I'd like to see it."
"Maybe someday you will!"
"Do you play blitzball?"
"Yeah." His eye caught a group of teens playing with a blitzball. "In fact.hey!!" He called to the teens. "Got a spare ball?"
"Yeah!" He tossed it to Jecht.
"What are you doing?" Auron asked.
"Want to see a really cool shot?" Jecht asked Yuna.
"Yeah!"
"Okay. Watch this." He put the ball down. A blitzball was a simple sphere with small bumps all over it. Jecht kicked the ball at a lamppost and it bounced back. Then he hit it with his knee and it went straight into the sky. Then he headbutted it as it came down. the ball hit the pole again and came back. Then he punched it at such an angle that it bounced back almost straight up. Then Jecht leapt into the air and spun around like a top. His body moved until he was spinning horizontally, and then he gave a might kick, sending the ball flying out of sight.
"Wow!!" Yuna said.
Everyone around was equally impressed. Even Auron had to admit to himself that it was pretty neat.
"I call that the Sublimely Magnificent Jecht Shot Mark III!! Or Jecht Shot, for short."
"That was amazing!" Yuna said.
"Yeah, well I'm the best blitzer there ever was!"
"Would you like to stop showing off and filling her head with stories and get moving?" Auron said.
"Yeesh, do you ever have fun?" Jecht asked.
"He is right, though." Braska said. "We need to get going. The temple isn't far. Let's go."
* * * *
Auron was grumbling to himself the entire way. Lord Braska was a wise man. Why would he choose this.this disrespectful irritating twit of a man to become his guardian? He couldn't learn how to be a respectful citizen! He was hopeless!
Soon, the four of them reached the temple. The High Priest was there, praying. But he finished when the came in and he turned and saw them.
"Well, well, Lord Braska!" He, Braska, Yuna, and Auron brought their hands above their head, the brought them down on either side of themselves in a circle, and then brought their hands together as if they were holding something, and bowed. Jecht scratched his head, but decided to keep quiet. What? He didn't know the prayer either? What desert rock did this man come from? "What brings you to the temple at this time of night?"
"I am going on a pilgrimage tomorrow morning to Zanarkand."
The priest was frozen. "I-I beg your pardon?"
"I have made my decision to fulfill my duty as a summoner. I'm leaving tomorrow morning."
"But.what about little Yuna?"
"That's why I'm here. I wish to leave her in the care of the temple while I'm gone."
He sighed. "She just lost one parent, and now-"
"Father." Braska interrupted. "Please . . ."
He looked at Yuna. "Yes, of course. We will take care of her." He looked at Auron and Jecht. "And I take it these two are your guardians?"
"Yes, they are."
"Auron is a given, but who is this other man?"
"Name's Jecht." He said, stepping forward and jutting his hand out to shake. "How ya doin'?"
The priest stared at his had, then looked at Braska. "You're . . .sure?"
"Yes, father."
Jecht pulled his hand back and crossed his arms. "Yeesh, everyone's so uptight around here!"
"Or perhaps it's that you're too laid-back." Auron said.
"Seriously, man," Jecht said to Braska, "Where did you get this guy?"
"He has been my friend for many years."
"Are you kidding? He's like a brittle twig, snapping under any kind of pressure!"
"And you're the giant foot, setting me off!"
"Enough!" The priest said. "I will not have such arguments in my temple. Lord Braska, what you do is your own choice. I wish you the best of luck, and may Yevon be with you."
"May I stay with her for tonight?" Braska asked. "One last time?"
"You may, and your guardians too."
"Father," Auron said, motioning towards Jecht, "I do not think that man should be allowed to stay in the temple for the night."
"Look, bub," Jecht said, "You're this close to getting your head knocked off!"
"Will you two please calm down?" The priest said.
"Hey," Jecht said, "I'll stay outside if he does!" He pointed to Auron.
"None of you shall sleep outside, unless you keep up this silly argument! Now, come with me."
"Auron!" A voice said. He turned and saw a warrior monk with a long, thick, brown beard heading towards him. "My, my, what brings you here?"
"Lord Braska will be leaving on a pilgrimage tomorrow, Kinoc." Auron said. "I will be guarding him."
"And so will I!" Jecht said, walking up to him and sticking his hand out. "Name's Jecht, nice to meet ya!"
Kinoc looked at him funny, but shook his hand. "I don't think I've seen you around."
"Well, I'm not from around here. Besides, I just got out of-"
Auron hit him in the gut with his elbow.
"So, Jecht," Kinoc said. "What is your weapon of choice?"
"Weapon?"
"Yes! Every guardian must have a weapon."
"Uh.I don't have one."
"Well, then come with me! I'll get you one."
They left and Auron followed, just to make sure Jecht didn't do anything crazy.
"We've got spears for skilled fighters, staffs for magic users, and swords for the powerful."
"Maybe a sword." Jecht said. There were many kinds. "Say, Auron, what's your weapon?" Then he felt cold, sharp steel against his cheek. He turned and looked at the long, powerful blade Auron had in his hand. "WHOA!! That's thing's huge!"
Auron put it back in its sheath strapped to his back. "Hurry up and pick one."
"That thing looked too heavy for me. Uh . . .say, how about this one?" He picked up a red longsword. The blade was kind of funny. It went up to a point, then seemed to come back down on the other side and stop halfway. Jecht swung it around. It was the perfect weight. "Kinda funny lookin', but I guess it'll do. Course, I'm not too good at sword fightin'."
"Then Auron will teach you." Kinoc said.
"ME?!"
"You're both going to Zanarkand with Braska, are you not? Teach him along the way!"
Auron groaned. "I guess I'll have to."
"Hey, I'm a fast learner!" Jecht said.
"Let's hope."
"I'm gonna go back and find Braska."
Auron began to follow but Kinoc stopped him. "Wait, Auron."
"What is it?"
"Well . . .it's just that . . .I guess I just want to say goodbye."
Auron smiled.
"You're leaving soon, correct?"
"Yes."
"You take care of Braska."
"Don't worry. I will. By the way, I hear you've got an office position just waiting for you!"
Kinoc sighed. "We both know that job was meant for you. You always were the better one.even until the end."
Auron raised a brow. "You make it sound like I'm going off to die or something."
"Sorry."
"I must go, now. Goodbye, my old friend." Then he turned and left.
* * * *
"Auron. Auron, wake up."
"Mmph, what? Lord Braska??"
"Come on. We must leave."
Auron looked around. "The sun hasn't even risen yet!"
"I know. I want to leave early to avoid too many people. Jecht is already up. Let's go!"
"Alright. I'll be there in a minute."
Braska left and Auron yawned and got up. He wore a black sleeveless shirt and black pants and black boots. He also had a large, red coat on, but it wasn't fastened together in any way except for the thick blue belt around his waist with a jug attached to it filled with an unknown content. His right arm was actually in the coat, but his left arm wasn't, giving it more mobility. And his right hand had a thick, black glove on it, making sword swinging easier.
Auron came out and saw Braska and Jecht waiting for him. Braska had a giant red cloak covering his entire body and he carried a long staff with him. Jecht still had on the same clothes, this time with his sword at his side.
"Yo, Auron! Let's go, man!"
"Shh!! Lord Braska wants to leave quietly!"
"Alright, sorry."
They began walking alone the highbridge of the temple, a long path leading outside Bevelle. Each of them had an item sack latched around them. Jecht reached into his and pulled out a recording sphere.
"Hey, Auron! Smile for the camera!" He turned it on.
"What are you taking?" Auron groaned. It was too early to deal with Jecht.
"You said we were going to go all over the place. We'll be seeing a lot of neat things, right? I want to record it all on this!"
Auron stopped walking. "This isn't a pleasure cruise!"
Jecht ignored him and turned the sphere towards Braska.
"Hey, Braska! You said this would be a grand occasion! Where are all the cheering fans, they crying women?"
"This is it. Too many goodbyes . . .people think twice about leaving."
"Well, it better be a lot more colorful when we come back. A parade for Braska, vanquisher of Sin!"
Braska chuckled. "We should hurry. Day will break soon."
And then the walked out of Bevelle, and onto the first steps of a long pilgrimage.
Author's Note: This is my first Final Fantasy story. I noticed that all the stories up there are about Tidus coming back and getting together with Yuna and all that, so I was just dying to break the trend! I decide to make a story about the coolest character, Auron. It'll run through his adventures with Jecht and Braska, and then with Yuna. What do you think so far? First chapter's always the worst. Please review!