Jak II
ACT 1: A City Under Siege
Chapter 5: More To Come
He woke up the next morning. A small child. He looked so fragile. Dropping him would crack him open. Kids, I would usually entertain them with stories of my journeys and adventures, but never have I studied a child such as this one. His head was a full set of green with a tad of yellow showing. I made myself a bet that he would be blonde come the age of 12. The child was of average height, shorter then me by about a foot or so. The child's blue eyes intrigued me the most. It was the same color as the sea. When the child woke up from my bed and stared at me, I was ready to give him my comfort. A small, "It's okay, you'll be fine, I'm a friend." Instead, the moment he eyed me, he smiled. Not just a normal smile that a child his age normally makes, instead, his smile showed he already trusted me. It was warm. It was calm. This child wasn't special. He was beyond that point. I had so much to learn from him. After his smile, I hesitantly smiled back and extended my arms, hoping for a hug and the little child; he ran up to me and gave me that very hug.
Of course, I would be more amazed when he spoke to me for a first time…
……………………
Tram, Haven City
Month 5: Mair, Day 17 (Spring Time)
Year: 299 TOMH (Time of the Metal Heads)
The ride back to Hip Hog Saloon gave time for Jak to sleep. It was morning, at least late morning when the Wastelander and Wastelander-in-training were near Hip Hog Saloon.
"Hey, kid, wake up, we're almost here." Sig gently nudged Jak, who was in a sitting position, but with his face cocked down. Daxter merely watched.
"Jak doesn't usually sleep in." Daxter spoke softly, which was a surprise considering his loudmouth nature, "But he does when he's up all night. He doesn't do it often though, usually when he's dragging me on his latest exploration."
"He never partied hard or whatever teenagers do?"
"Not Jak, he was Mr. Goodie-Two-Shoes...or he used to be." Daxter commented, still keeping his voice down so as not to let the people nearby hear him.
"Puar, why don't you give him some morning exercise?" Daxter grinned. Puar was more then happy to do so.
"NO, not in the Tram." Sig sighed, "We're not allowed to yell in here. It could be hostile. Look, I'll carry him out if I have to." He didn't have to as Jak moaned and slowly got up. Stretching his arms, he let out a long yawn, making sure to cover his mouth, and then smacked his lips. Eyes half closed, he looked around his surroundings and saw he was in the tram, with his friends facing him.
"Good morning, Master Jak." Puar giggled, "Puar didn't do morning exercise because Master Jak does not like it when Puar does that."
"Hey, there, got enough sleep?" Daxter asked.
"What time is it?" Jak mumbled, rubbing his left eye.
"Almost 11:30." Sig answered, still smiling. He was easily amused by Jak's behavior.
"11:30!" Jak gasped, then he let out small groan, "I hate waking up late.
"Chill out, Jak, it's nothing to be ashamed off, just because you wake up at the crack of dawn and all." Daxter sighed, "Anywho, we got you some food." And with that, Daxter handed Jak a small rectangular wrapped food product. Jak took it and eyed it. Frowning in confusion, Jak took a bite out of it, then took it out.
" No, no, you unwrap it first." Daxter ordered as he showed Jak the proper way, "It's an energy bar, good for the morning time. And it's kinda like candy."
"Oh, uh…thanks." Jak sighed as he bit the energy bar, "….It's no fruits, but it'll do."
"My goodness, you really don't know nuthin' about the city, do you, boy?" Sig scratched his cheek as he spoke. Jak nodded, consuming the energy bar piece by piece, seemingly acting cautious around it like it contained poison.
"This is good." Jak commented.
"It's got real berries in it, so I heard." Daxter smiled.
"Oh, please, everyone knows these berries are just artificial flavors." Sig groaned as he sat next to Jak.
"Artificial?" Jak gasped, "You mean there's machine part in here?"
"No, no, artificial isn't just catered to robots, artificial means "not the real thing." Sig answered, "Like how that energy bar does not have real berries, despite it tasting like them."
"Well, what's in it, then?" Jak asked.
"You don't wanna know and I don't wanna ruin your appetite, so just eat." Sig smiled. Jak shrugged and ate the rest.
"This is embarrassing. I'm gonna be stuck here for a bloody amount of time and I don't know jack about it." Jak mumbled.
"Hey, it's alright, kiddo, I don't know much about the country." Sig admitted.
"You don't?" Jak eyed Sig who nodded, "You're missing out. The country life is wonderful."
"What's it like?" Sig asked.
"Well, everyday, we would, the villagers I mean, would wake up at the crack of dawn to start our days." Jak started, "We did many chores around our village to ensure our survival. We feed the livestock, we fixed the windmill, it was always broken, we crop the plants, and we would generally just enjoy the beautiful day. Everyday, rain or shine, I would work hard and play hard. My village…I had many imaginations in my village. I dreamt I was an explorer, navigating tall mountains, spelunking in deep caverns, swimming in the vast oceans, just like my uncle…"
"Well, go on." Sig ordered after Jak stopped.
"Uh, Sig, I think he hit a soft spot there." Daxter came in.
"…….It only seemed like yesterday." Jak muttered.
"If only I had a picture of him." Jak mumbled, unaware that the others couldn't make out his words.
He vaguely remembered, but he did carry a picture of his uncle before he was kidnapped and experimented on. In fact, a lot of his personal items were in there, in his bag, before he was kidnapped. When he was taken to the Baron's fortress, one of his many tortures from Praxis was having his precious items completely destroyed in mere seconds by Krimzon Guards. They had flamethrowers at their disposal and Jak watched in horror as his special items, his favorite books, his photo albums, his clothes, everything he had for years, was burnt in mere seconds. And poor Jak, he cried the hardest he ever had. The Baron was erasing his memories and he hated it. Such a fire burning inside his belly, a demon waiting to be unleashed.
………………
Haven Palace
Month 5: Mair, Day 17 (Spring Time)
Year: 299 TOMH (Time of the Metal Heads)
The palace felt more disturbed then usual. Every time a butler came in with the most elegant food or even a simple cup of coffee, Baron Praxis would just slam his fist onto his desk, yell out some profanity, then fired the butlers. He was not having a good day. He just got the newspaper which held the top news: The Ammo Dump incident. The video cameras manage to show a good portion of Jak on his mission. They manage to show a rather dramatic pose he did in the newspaper, fully colored, yet blurry.
"Your majesty, you need to calm down." Erol came in, who was standing next to him, "It's not fitting for the King to have such a hissy fit in front of people."
"I CAN HAVE AS MUCH HISSY FITS AS I WANT, DAMN IT!" Praxis shouted, spitting on Erol's face, "I'M THE KING!"
"Well, yes, but-"Erol started off again.
"But nothing! My life is slowly going down the crapper!" Praxis walked around his office, slapping the newspaper on his work desktop, "That brat escaped my fortress, only to make a mess out of it. And my crew still haven't found the Tomb of Mar! And the Meal heads…they're getting impatient. By the Precursors, why did I deserve all this!" He once again slammed his fists to his desk, shaking it violently, the hot coffee spilling on the desk and floor.
Every slam he made, Erol backed away, afraid that the Baron's next target would be himself. Erol watched the King as he took in deep breaths and sighs of relaxation. His patience was wearing thin. When the Baron's patience wears thin, there's always hell to pay.
Erol, a loyal young man, he was. Feisty, but furiously loyal, he would do anything for his King till death comes knocking on his door. It is almost a shame that Erol is such a young man. Only 21 years old and he has a high reputation as the Captain of the Krimzon Guards and personal Guard to Praxis. He has done a lot for someone of his age. People of his age go to college and study for their future. They get drunk in frat parties, they shop at the Mall section of the city, they gossip and drive, go have summer vacations at the beach. Heh, the only "summer vacation" Erol ever got was a mission held near the beach. Missions, Erol has had plenty of them, and triumphed over them all. It wasn't a surprise that Erol often would be a bit too proud of himself sometimes. Especially with his ability to race. But now I'm getting a little off-subject. At the moment, he felt his loyalty to the Baron was in question for the main reason that he failed to kill Jak when he had the chance. Now, Jak was running around, messing up Praxis' doings and it upset him greatly. Watching the poor Baron suffer was something Erol could not face without his heart being in pain.
"Your majesty…I…this is all my fault…my doing." Erol lowered his head, "I did not kill Jak in time…now he wanders the city, destroying all the hard work you put into this Kingdom." The Baron stood silent, listening to Erol's words of plea as he kneeled down, bowing his head.
"I regret all this. It is not my becoming to fail you." Erol shuddered, expecting Praxis to smack him, "Jak is free because of me. I regret this, but I do not regret serving you. I know you are angry with me. I just added another problem in your life and further complicated your plans. But…but if you give me another chance, I will find Jak and I will bring him to you. I'll make him beg on his knees for you. I'll…kill him in front of you if you must; serve his head on a platter, anything. Please, just give me another chance. PLEASE."
Baron Praxis is often seen as a harsh, temperamental, cold man. He had little heart over people and only did what he had to so that he may be King for all time. But the look on Erol's face gave Praxis the look of pity. Erol hardly ever fails him, so that must count for something.
"Get up, Erol, the floor is dirty." Praxis spoke in a calm manner, "Up your patrols and find Jak and tell HER and her troops to keep finding Mar's Tomb."
"Yes, sir." Erol eagerly smiled. He then saluted and made his way out, his goals to not disappoint the Baron.
…………………
Hip Hog Heaven Saloon
Month 5: Mair, Day 17 (Spring Time)
Year: 299 TOMH (Time of the Metal Heads)
The way back to Hip Hog Heaven Saloon ended with a big breakfast in the tavern in the Port and generally friendly chats between Jak and Sig, although again Jak spoke barely much, he was quick and to the point. Krew was busy on the phone and the four (Jak, Daxter, Puar, and Sig) saw a new face in the saloon. It was a blonde girl and like Daxter's nature, he couldn't resist a beautiful lady. Forgetting he was not suppose to speak, he headed straight for the blonde girl who seemed to work as a bartender.
"Hey sugarplum. You new here? Well, whatcha got that's, uh, hot and... Wait, I've seen you before. You're with the Underground." Daxter gasped, "You gave Jak his bag of goodies and-" Tess quickly hushed Daxter by placing two fingers on his lips.
"Shhh! I'm Tess. Torn sent me to spy on Krew. Play along, and maybe I'll be able to get a few hands on a few of his secrets. " The blonde girl explained. What she failed to realize is Daxter eyeing Tess' chest and putting in the biggest smile he has ever made.
"Undercover?" Jak retorted, 'What? Torn doesn't trust me enough?"
"It's not that." Tess mumbled, "…..Well, okay, it is. But there's more. I mean, you're still new, so he won't completely depend on just yet, plus you were gone all day. He'd figure you'd be back by now. Everyone who talked with Krew is usually back in a few hours. No one can really stand to be around him."
"Well, that's a big shocker, I wonder why?" Daxter sarcastically popped in, "But enough about me, let's talk about you. Undercover work? Eh? I love "undercover" work, baby!" But ah, two can work better than one. Let me help you out." And with that, Daxter leaped inside and behind the counter where Tess was. There, he started to fiddle with the liquors and wines.
Tess, a bit impressed at a furry being able to not only talk, but move around like a human, couldn't help but giggle. Jak sighed, sitting on one of the stools, waiting for Krew to finish his phone talk. Sig sat in one of the chairs located on the side of the saloon, drinking.
"Wow! There sure are a lot of bottles back here." Daxter, fascinated started to drink every one imaginable, "Whew! Ooh that's, ooh that, that goes down aah... Ooh boy, gee ya spose that's real gold floatin' in here? How 'bout this purple stuff? Glug, glug, glug... WHEW!"
While this was up, Krew finished his phone chat and floated down to face Jak.
"Back, 'ey?" Krew grinned, "And in one piece." Daxter heard the gruff voice of Krew and climbed up the counter where he caught Krew's eyes, although in his perspective, it felt like many.
"Hey there, five chins... how's crimes?" Daxter was completely drunk while Jak chuckled, covering his mouth so Krew wouldn't see.
"What's his problem, 'ey?"
"Nothin'... I'm just fine... mind your own business…" He fell on the bar table and started to sing in his current drunk manner, "I sometimes feel so very…"
"Sorry about Daxter's…uhhh…attitude." Jak cleared his throat, "He's a very special ottsel."
"Yes, special…ottsels are special creatures…because they're rare." Krew commented, "Especially a talking one."
"He is STILL not for sell." Jak grumbled. Daxter sat up, finishing his song.
"...DRRYY!…" After his last line, Daxter eyed Krew suspiciously, then started to chat with Krew, "You know what's da trouble with you Krew? You got no vision... This place could be a real swingin' joint... Hop Heg Hiven with more dancin', more mac'n, more WOMEN!" And he continued on and on.
"He'd still be of value even if he didn't talk…perhaps I should cut off his vocal cords." Krew sighed, deeply as he eyed Jak who was trying to stop Daxter from kissing him. Then Sig came up.
"The kid's a lot better then I thought, I think he needs more then just the gun we gave him, Krew." Sig commented. Sig gave his hopeful, yet familiar grinning face and Krew gave his frowning one. Krew felt that Jak was somehow special, he had this gut feeling (well, quite literally, you could say), so Krew went out back behind an exceptionally wide door and after a few minutes of mumbling, "Where is it" or "Where did I put it" to full blown profanity, he came back with a small pistol top.
"Here." Krew threw it to Jak who caught it. Jak eyed it, and then stared back at Krew who eyed him evilly.
"…..What is it?" Jak asked.
"It's for use for your gun." Sig smiled, "Place that on the front of your gun and you get the Blaster gun."
"Blaster?" Jak repeated. Jak did what Sig told him to do. Sig then took his gun and stretch it out, which amazed Jak. The gun was more longer, sleekier, and had a laser point.
"This is the Blaster." Sig explained, "Your gun is special. It can morph depending on what ammo is given and it can get quite a lot. Push the gun back in if you want it to return to Scatter, stretch it out for Blaster, simple, eh?" He gave the gun to Jak who grinned at his new, "toy".
"Alright, ya got your new weapon." Krew sighed, "But you got a new mission, boy." He stared gruesomely at Jak, sometimes a little too close which didn't help for Daxter and his powerful ottsel nose.
Sig backed away and listened.
"Hmph! We're not doing anything until you tell us why Metal Heads are trading with the Baron's forces!" Jak pointed to Krew, then crossing his arms and suddenly remembering his main reason for being here. He'd show Torn a thing or two on his lack of dependence on newcomers. Sig was quite surprised by what he was hearing. Of course, he wasn't surprised by Krew's sudden anger.
"I should have had you both knee-capped, ey?" Krew growled, and then he proceeded to answer Jak's question, "All I know is that the Baron cut a desperate deal with the Metal Head leader. Mmmmm, Metal Heads need eco, so the Baron supplies them with regular shipments. In return, the Metal Heads agreed to attack the city just enough to satisfy the Baron's continued rule." After that explanation, Jak chuckled a bit.
"Yeah, but how long can that deal last?" He explained, arms still crossed.
"Well, the Baron is running short on eco, 'ey? And the Metal Heads are short on patience. Baron Praxis NEEDS this war to keep in power. Otherwise, the city would put the true ruler on the throne, wherever that little brat is."
"Little brat?" Jak repeated, "What on Precursia are you bleedin' talking about?"
"We're getting off the subject!" Krew growled, then he eerily spoke calmly, "Getting back to my original subject, I have a proposition for you, Jak. Racing is the biggest sport in the city! Erol is the undisputed grand champion. He's crazy and dangerous on the track. Haha. My kind of guy. Only a fool would dare race against him, 'ey! And that's where you two come in. A client of mine is looking for a fast driver for her racing team in Mar's memorial stadium. Here's a security pass to get you into the stadium section." Krew threw a green passport to Jak. Before Jak could say anything, Krew shoved some papers to Jak.
"Uh, and your contract, with just a few trifles for me. I've ah, already signed your name to save time, mmmmmnn." Krew grinned.
Jak grabbed it and stared at this, "My last name isn't Bannon and I don't write like this!"
"Well, first off, I don't know your last name and don't care, second of all, people love publicity and attention, "Jak Bannon" would be a fitting name for racer." Krew grinned.
"My last name is-" Jak didn't have time to finish, as Daxter climbed off the table and grabbed the contract.
"Bannon?" Daxter gasped, "HEH! What kind of last name is THAT?" With his tone of voice, he was no longer drunk, though things like that happen whenever something big catches Daxter's attention, plus he had an exceptionally fast thinking mind. He read the contract.
"We the racers hereby agree to give Krew all proceeds from race earnings, endorsement fees, broadcast royalties, syndications residuals, vehicle sponsorships, mall appearance fees, collectible card assets, fast-food tie-ins, use of likeness rights, talk show deals, clothing lines, all print rights including book, novella, comic, pamphlet, tickertape, neon sign and bathroom graffiti designs... " Daxter took a deep breath and turned the page, continuing while Jak looked on, bit peeved over his last name dilemma.
"Toy rights, shoe lines, mood rings, game rights. " Daxter gasped, seemingly offended, "GAME RIGHTS!" He continued to read.
"Vitamin endorsements, city kickbacks, movie deals, and of course, all death and dismemberment accident insurance claims."
"Heh heh heh... we can work out the tiny details later. Now, go to the Race Stadium." Krew grinned, "There should be a map in the passport I gave you."
"You seem awfully too optimistic towards me." Jak gulped, "What makes you think I'll be a good racer?"
"Ever read the papers?" Krew asked.
"The news-what?" Jak scratched his head.
"Oh, it's those black and white bundles of paper that tells news." Daxter answered, "Very handle...and they have funny comic strips, too." Krew tossed one to Jak and he saw himself during the Ammo Dump mission. He's picture was blurry, but it was clear as day that the man in the photo was him.
"No one can get in and out of the Fortress in one day." Krew smiled, "You're special, Jak, I feel it in my guts."
"I'm sure that's not the only thing you're feeling, Tub O' Lard." Daxter came in, eyes half closed.
Jak eyed the newspaper, still strange of it's concept and he wonders how they got him on picture, though he did remember one of the many technologies involve things called "Video Cameras" that can tape whatever it sees. Jak then eyed the passport and he immediately remembered the name, Erol.
"Erol." Jak repeated. Erol was Praxis' right hand man. Mess with him and the Baron could severely be damaged. He remembered how much the red headed man sneered and insulted Jak while he was struggling for help, while he was being tortured. His grins and laughter...Jak hated Erol almost as much as Praxis.
"Fine, I'll take your offer." Jak grinned, "And I'm gonna win."
"Make me proud, mmmm!" Krew came in.
……………………
Jak started to leave the saloon with Sig barely catching up to him.
"JAK!" He cried from a distance. Jak stopped and turned around.
"Jak, be careful." Sig sighed, "Krew isn't a man you can trust so easily."
"I'll be fine." Jak shrugged.
"Heh, that's what my little brother said one day back at my old home." Sig crossed his arms while Jak stared at him out of curiosity, "When he was a preteen, he made a mess out of himself. He joined thugs, did drugs, stayed up all night, and just plain terrorized the neighborhood. When mama asked him what was wrong with him, he said, "I'll be fine". But he wasn't. This all happen because he got involved with a kid named with a penchant for trouble. It took years, but my little bro is finally in rehab."
"What's your point?" Jak asked, frustrated at being treated like a child.
"My point is, don't trust people right off the bat." Sig pointed out, "I, too, made a lot of mistakes in my past, and I'm sure you have as well, but this is just a simple warning."
"What does it bloody matter?" Jak sighed, "This city is messed up enough as it is."
"Not always." Sig then sat on the edge of the port, as did Jak and Daxter.
"The city was bustling with beauty and optimism three years back when Praxis' older brother and direct heir to Mar was still King." Sig started.
"Tell me something I don't know." Jak mumbled.
"Jak, you seem to not have seen the city before the Baron's rule." Sig responded, "The entire Kingdom was shining with faith and it didn't look as messed as it is now. I've seen it. I'm no rich child. Far from it. I grew up pretty poorly, but I saw the Haven folks all having faith because they believed in the King. He was an exceptionally good ruler. But now, it's all dwindled down. People lost hope. They thought everyone was dead: The King, the Queen, and their only child."
"A child?" Jak eyed him.
"Yes, a little boy." Sig smiled, "The King and his Queen took a really, really long time to have a child…if he was alive, he'd be about 8."
"The child is dead?" Jak gasped.
"From what I heard, but I have been hearing rumors he is alive." Sig stood up, "And if he is, he may be our only hope for this Kingdom." Sig stared at the view in front of him. Jak did so as well, intrigued by a story he normally wouldn't care about.
"Praxis is offering a hefty reward for the prince's return; alive." Sig continued, "I don't know what he wants with the kid, could be his powers."
"Powers?" Jak muttered.
"Mar's descendents, the first-borns anyway, are born with tremendous powers said to be bestowed by the Precursors themselves." Sig answered, "We're not quite sure what powers; we don't get to see them as much as we don't see the royal family." Jak merely stared at Sig, unsure on what to say.
"Oh, I'm just boring you, you best be moving." Sig pushed Jak, "I gotta wait for my next mission from Krew. So, go on, run, you fool." And after another push, Jak, Daxter, and Puar were on their way. Sig watched as he smiled.
The Tram ride lasted until Jak, Daxter, and Puar ended up in the Mall Area of the city. The entire city was bustling and out of all the places Jak has been to so far, he admired this one the best.
…………………
The Mall area isn't exactly a mall, per say. It's called that because there are many malls surrounding here and the commercial values this place stacks. Suburban home are aplenty. Teenagers are the main center here. They pretty much conquered this section of the area. The Mall Area is also known as the Entertainment District. Everything, from movie theaters to concerts to outdoor café, this place has it all and it was designed for teenagers, who dominated these places, so Jak didn't feel so out of place. The streets have a very beautiful feel to it, especially during the nighttime. This is most likely the most dazzling place out of the entire city, some people would say.
What's really weird is the vast amount of nobles who live here. Because this is also the richest and most vast part of the city, the nobles dwell here like packrats. They built their multimillion companies, they scoff at lesser beings, and there are even stores catered to them, such as elegant fancy restaurants to high priced shoe stores. The Middle Class and the Nobles don't clash very often. They tend to avoid each other at all cost, making this part of the city one of the safest part of the city ever. For joy on the both the Middle and High Class, the area has lots of casinos. Lots of people gamble in here and if you don't watch out, you'll be mighty addicted to it. It is an exceptionally wonderful site. Though the real flaws is the overcrowded areas and the many traffics.
What currently caught Jak's eyes were the multiple neon-based signs, all colorful and brightly shining despite the afternoon sky.
"Hey! These are the movies and malls I told ya about!" Daxter gasped, "We should go to one when we have the time."
"Yea, we should." Jak nodded, "This entire place looks quite busy though."
"Yea, teenagers dwell here ALL the time, Jak." Daxter answered, "They ruled this area, unconditionally."
"Hmm." Jak pondered. Jak made a mental note to come back here to fully explore it once he had time.
"Wanna get to your destination faster, just call a taxi." Daxter explained, "Just shout "TAXI!"
Jak, hesitating, shouted the word and in seconds, a heavy two-seater, yellow zoomer came up next to him.
"Where to, bub?" came a mustached man, looking around 30 years old.
"Oh, ummm…the Stadium." Jak answered. The Taxi driver nodded and off they went.
Because of the many sights to see, Jak extended his neck to see the many views the many of the entertainment district: glowing neon signs, billboards, locations and entertainment, the teenagers and nobles passing one other, one group insulting and teasing, the other storming off in utter disgust, among others.
"This is one of those days you wish you had a camera." Daxter muttered.
"I have a built in camera with me!" Puar cried, "I'll take pictures on your command, Master Jak."
"Jak, tell her to take some pictures!" Daxter nudged him. Jak sighed and ordered her, too.
In about a matter of 30 minutes, Jak reached the Stadium Area. Jak some currency from Daxter and Torn paying him, so Jak had the money to pay for the taxi driver who eagerly accepted it and drove off.
When Jak turned around to face the Stadium, he was in awe…it was…beautiful.
There, surrounded by a barely littered clean pavement with blooming flowers next to trees stood the beautiful and awe-inspiring Mar Memorial Stadium. And for a good few seconds, Jak saw the city's Heaven.
As Jak walked pass the sparkling fountains and majestic statues, he stopped at a computer screen located between two spiky trees held by a pole. It explained the origins of Mar's Memorial Stadium through pictures and voices, like a documentary:
"Racing is not only a favorite among the people of Haven Kingdom, but an honored tradition since the days of Mar himself since he loved the power of racing. The nobles themselves consider racing an honorable sports event and they would watch and gamble off of it constantly.
The history of the Stadium goes all the way to the time of Mar's death. Because of his love for racing, the people built the Stadium in his honor and named it the "Mar Memorial stadium". Back then, only nobles could race, but as time grew, others could join in as well. Now, people of all class, provided they have the contracts and teams and such, can race their hearts out. Their grand champion at the current moment is Captain Erol of the Krimzon Guard, an unbeatable young man. It is place where almost everyone can see eye to eye on a subject.
The other common things that goes on in this stadium are the Festivals and parties. Sometimes the stadium is reserved for big time concerts and popular plays. The current celebration in planning is the city's 300th year, and they're planning to make it a good one.
Near the Stadium are locations of popular and celebrity inhabited stars. Celebrities are exceptionally common here and very famous to teenagers and even nobles alike. One of the most famous star is actor, Michel Pet'ri. Most of the actors are considered nobles as well."
After Jak got that bit of info, he continued to wonder around the stadium with his face turning every few seconds to check every single detail of the Stadium area, unaware of the man coming his way.
When Jak got his act together, he saw a rather…suave figure. He had blonde hair like Jak did that reached to his upper neck and deep hot pink eyes that seem to sparkle and glimmer. Donning rectangular shaped pink sunglasses and two pink, star shaped stickers or tattoos of sorts on his left cheek, his face was a confident, flamboyant feel. His teeth were pearly white and his tan shirt was half button, making any teenage girls drool madly over him, covered over by an open blue overcoat that felt very Victorian, the style of clothing the nobles seem to wear. His pants were black as well as his expensive shoes, almost looking as if the two clothing were glued together. His one hand was coxed on his hips which were extending out sideways while his other hand hung freely.
He had two assistants with him, a woman dressed in colors of pink and light green and sporting a bright light green ponytail with bangs. To top it all off, she had overdid her make-up and also donned a rectangular sunglasses and star tattoos, one on each cheek, only light green in color. The other was a short man, about 5'4 wearing mostly clothes of blue and indigo, a sash around his neck, also donning blue rectangular glasses and two blue star tattoos on his right cheek. He was easily the most flamboyant of the three. All three stared at Jak as if he was some insect.
"Uhhh, excuuuuuse me, but…did you just bump into moi?" the blonde spoke.
"Sorry." Jak cleared his throat, trying to make his way pass the three. The colors were killing his eyes.
"Do you know who I am?" the blonde man asked.
"No, not really." Jak shrugged, "Do I need to know?"
"I am…Michel Pet'ri, famous actor/seeger/dancer…and luver." The last word he said, he added a little bit of lust to it which freaked poor Jak out. His voice was a different accent that that of Jak's.
"And thees is my assistant, Ginger and Mimo." Michel introduced.
"Umm…okay, hi to you all." Jak quickly waved, "Look, it's nice meeting you…Michel, but I have to-"
"UPP UPP UPP!" Michel placed his index finger on Jak's lip to hush him up, "My name must ne-ver be spoken again from the same persaan."
"Ummm…okay?" Jak gulped, "Look, it's nice meeting you all, but I must leave."
"Leeve?" Michel gasped, "After you bumped into moi?"
"I said I was sorry." Jak sighed, getting aggravated.
"Sorry is not good enough, especially for people like you." Michel pointed.
"People like me?" Jak retorted back, "What do you mean by THAT!"
"He means, you lower beings." Ginger came, then she walked up to Jak in a weird way, almost like she was dancing, "I mean, look at your clothes, it's so…so…drab…so…slum. You MUST be a slum dweller!"
"Ha! It's amazing how a slum dweller is walking in these parts without begging for food." Mimo, the short man came, walking as though he was floating in the sky, "Though, I do admit, he doesn't look half bad." Mimo poked Jak's chest. Jak, blushing madly from fright, moved back a few spaces.
"Look…" Jak started, "Do we really need the insults? I mean, it's just a bump."
"You bumped into my recently ironed sheert." Michel scoffed, "It was wrinkle free until you came in and messed it all up!"
"Wha-it's just a shirt." Jak mumbled.
"Maybe to a low life like you." Michel scoffed again, "After all, I bet you wear the same outfit everyday. That's probably why you steenk."
"I take showers!" Jak gasped, near shouting.
"It must come from that HORRIBLE rat." Ginger retorted. And with that, Daxter growled an ottsel growl.
"It's an ottsel." Jak corrected.
"Ott-sal or not, it is hideously oogly and smelly, too!" Michel held his nose and Daxter growled some more. Jak gave looks to Daxter, urging for him to NOT talk.
"Why do you insist on carrying an animal on your shoul-dar, it's dirty!" Michel cringed.
"Daxter is my friend." Jak sighed.
"My gosh, he named that atrocious being." Ginger stuck her tongue out.
"And you're no prize yourself." Mimo pointed to Jak, "Although with my make-ups, you could look better the Michel."
"AHEM!" Michel stared at Mimo.
"I mean about as good as Michel." Mimo nervously chuckled.
"No thank you." Jak crossed his arms, "I don't wanna look like pretty boy over here. I'm fine on my own! Now, get the hell out of my way or bugger off! I don't have time for this!"
"Fine, let us leave, this scoun-dral is not for us to waste our times with." Michel walked past Jak and the other two followed.
"After all, a scoun-dral is what slum dweller weel always be. There is no hope for people of your dirty ol' kind." Michel laughed., "The only one more worth us is the Keeng himself." Jak was pissed and much as he tried to hold it in, he couldn't let this be unsaid:
"WELL, IF I WAS BLOODY KING, THE FIRST THING I'D DO IS TEACH YOU BASTARDS A LESSON ON PROPER SOCIALISM AFTER I HANG YOU OVER A FLAGPOLE BY YOUR KNICKERS!"
And of course, the three took it as an insult and walked off that way. The surrounding people who heard Jak were mainly plain folks and most of then applauded Jak's attempt, others (mostly fans) cried out in foul, and the rest just stared and walked off. The Krimzon Guards who heard the yell merely shrugged it off as well.
As for Jak, his anger was burning inside him. When he was angry, something started to happen to him. He wasn't sure of what, but he feels something burning inside him. Something that was eating him alive. It felt…dark. Jak didn't know how so, but he felt his "other" side nearing him. Jak took in some short breaths as he fell on his knees, clutching his stomach.
"Jak? Jak?" Daxter gasped, "Are you okay?"
"Master Jak!" Puar shrieked, "Master Jak, are you okay?"
"Daxter…"Jak mumbled softly, "I think…I'm going to faint."
And he did…
………………
"So, I almost took over you…"
"What?"
"I almost took over you…made you a demon again…"
"How could you?"
"I'm your other side."
"No…"
"Yes, I am…I was created because of your doings…You sent us to the past, you silly fool…and someday, I will come out of this innocent shell and rage terror…"
"But…I'm good…"
"Are you?"
"………………"
"You waltz around cursing, rampaging around just to get revenge, you're angry all the time…you don't smile much anymore, if ever…you lost the good in you, so why don't you let me take over? I can stop the Baron. I will make him spill blood. I am your inner demon. Let me kill him. I'll eat his carcass if I have to."
"I'm good!"
"You say you're good, but you're only denying yourself in the inside."
"Shut up."
"Why? Only going to be a matter of time before you succumb to me…you're not innocent anymore, the, time will come when the darkness will engulf you whole. Nothing can change that fact. Dark Eco runs in your veins now, it's time to let go of all the light you hold and unleash your true self."
"I SAID STOP IT! I'M NOT EVIL! I admit, I'm angry a lot and I…I…curse a lot…and I do all these stuff that makes me a criminal in the city's eyes, but I'M NOT EVIL! I never will be! I CAN'T! I…I don't want to be you…"
"You were me before…you will be me again…and once of these days, you will never return to your light side again…"
"Shut up! Shut up! SHUT UP!"
"Do you see the light…?"
"WHAT!"
"The light…you're waking up…"
………………
"He's awake!" Jak heard the shrill sounds of Puar. He couldn't see much yet. His eyes were still not fully open. Daxter came running in when Puar announced Jak's recovery. Jak slowly, but surely opened his eyes and saw Daxter and Puar staring right back at him.
"Jak?" Daxter softly whispered.
"Daxter…Puar…" Jak weakly spoke their names. Daxter breathed a sigh of relief.
"Master Jak is alive!" Puar screamed in pure delight. Jak clutched his head which felt like splitting in two.
Jak noticed he was not in the Stadium, but in a small clinic. His boots were off and carefully laid next to the bed he was on. His goggles and gloves carefully placed on the cabinet next to him which held a lamp and a glass of water.
"Where am I?" Jak mumbled.
"In a small clinic near the Stadium." Daxter answered. There was no one in the room, so Daxter spoke in a normal level, but not too loud, a nurse was nearby outside, "A teenager called one of the Krimzon Guards and he manage to get you to this clinic."
"Oh." Jak sighed, "He didn't recognize me as an Underground resistance?"
"Well, if he did know, you'd be in jail by now." Daxter answered. Jak nodded, then he slowly got up until he was sitting. Puar and Daxter kept a close watch on him. Then the nurse came and she noticed Jak was up.
"Oh, my dear, you're up." the nurse gasped, placing a hand on her chest. She was pudgy figure, even on the cheeks on her face. Her hair was short and dirty blonde and she looked to be in her mid 40's. She seemed to be the type to be watching over her children with patience and love.
"Are you alright, dear?" the nurse asked, feeling Jak's forehead, which was half covered by the red scarf/bandana he wore.
"I'm fine." Jak nodded slowly, "My head hurts a little, but I'm fine."
"Oh, then, here." The nurse went to a nearby cabinet and got out a small white bottle. She opened it and took out a small orange tablet. She took the glass of water next to Jak and ordered him to swallow the pill. Not asking any question, Jak did so.
"Will he be okay, Miss Nurse Person?" Puar asked, obviously worried, her lens showed her emotions and now, she was feeling blue.
"It's okay, Puar, I'll be fine." Jak weakly answered, "I get sick easily."
"Do you know why you fainted?" The Nurse asked.
Jak pondered for a brief moment, but he couldn't remember, so all he could do was shake his head.
"Oh, you poor thing." The nurse commented, and then she rushed to the phone, "Can you tell me your parent's home number? I'll have them come pick you up." Jak
"Oh…that's a problem." Jak sadly spoke.
"Why?" The nurse asked.
"I don't have parents." He muttered, looking ashamed.
"Are you an orphan?" The nurse gasped. She was an emotional, overactive fellow.
"No…sorta." Jak sighed, "I live on my own…don't worry about it." Jak spoke softly, his voice showing he was still tired.
"I see." The nurse slowly nodded.
"How long have I been sleeping?" Jak asked.
"Hours, it's nighttime now, sweety." The nurse opened the window, "And I must be leaving to go back home soon."
"Oh, okay, I should leave, too." Jak explained.
"Nope!" The nurse stopped Jak in his tracks, "You're staying here for the night. There are Krimzon Guards watching over, so you'll be safe. Now, get some rest and by tomorrow you'll feel better." Jak was too tired to argue, so he let the nurse tuck him in like a little child.
Jak was a bit afraid to fall asleep. Something inside of him was telling him something "dark" might happen. But his temptation to close his eyes urged him to sleep in but a few minutes after he was tucked in. Afterwards, the nurse left when she felt sure Jak was asleep. Daxter then curled up next to Jak like a dog and Puar shut herself down to recharge.
………………
Mar's Memorial Stadium
Month 5: Mair, Day 18 (Spring Time)
Year: 299 TOMH (Time of the Metal Heads)
It is a most difficult task to survive in a world you've never remember ever being in. Never remembering, putting your foot down. All the people you walk pass by are not familiar in your eyes. You don't say "hi" to them every morning with a friendly tone and with a city as depressed as ever, why should a "hi" even be said? None of the people seem to trust each other. Everyone could be a thief who pretends to be friends, only to have your expensive watch stolen the next day. This wasn't Sandover village at all. Not even close. Sandover was bright and happy. It was a colorful town with familiar people Jak grew up throughout his years. With their smiling faces, Jak has learned to trust them as his friends and fellow neighbors. He would wake up every morning to say "hi" to them and they, in turn, would say, "hi" back in a friendly tone. The entire village was never oppressed. They flourished every year. The great suns made their crops grow, and the vast, clean, ocean made it easy for the fishermen to catch fishes. It was home. Home to Jak and Daxter. At the rate they were going, the two wouldn't find home anytime soon. Daxter has had two years to do so, but he never found it. He couldn't, he wouldn't last a day with Metal Heads. And Jak, he would not leave until he had extracted his revenge. And so, come morning time, Jak continued his mission, knowing that acing Erol could hurt the Baron's line of defense.
"Ya know, this could be it." Daxter gasped, "If you're lucky and race and win, you could make your way to the Baron."
"What do you mean?" Jak asked. The stadium was close by.
"Don't ya know that the Grand Tournament Race is coming up in a few months or so?" Daxter asked to a confused Jak, "Oh, right, of course, you don't know anything."
"Well?" Jak urged.
"Well, once every year, when that tournament is held, the winner gets to have a special tour of the palace." Daxter started, "Maybe you can get your revenge there."
Jak grinned. Not an idea. Maybe this whole racing deal was a good thing after all.
They reached the stadium after their little talk and judging by Jak's map skills, he managed to find the garage in about a few seconds.
It was a small garage, nothing huge: The Zoomer Express.
The "Zoomer Express" housed a veteran racer. Having won many trophies during her stay, the mechanic that owns this place is an exceptionally skilled racer and…well, mechanic. In her shop, she not only makes zoomers, but fixes them as well. People consider her to be one of the best in what she does. Her garage is often a mess and cramped to boot, but large enough to store at least three to four zoomers of all size. Rumors spread of a "secret project" the mechanic has been working on behind the curtains, but she has made sure no one will witness her creation. The mechanic has been a big help in the many festivals held near the Stadium area. She's also skilled in jetboarding, making various prototypes of them. The mechanic also has a tendency to be rude sometimes, no matter how much she denies it sometimes…
Jak causally walked in, observing his surroundings. He didn't find the mechanic anywhere.
"Ah... hello? Krew said someone was looking for a race driver?" Jak shouted a little.
"Huh? Oh, hi, I'm over here." came a female voice. Jak followed it and saw that she was behind a large green curtain. Her silhouette was shown though.
"Umm, hi, we need to talk." Jak was able to life the curtain, but the girl stopped him in time.
"DON'T open the curtain or you'll regret, buddy." She spoke in a loud, yet eerie tone. Jak sighed and backed off. He waited. Knowing he was doing just that, the girl took a deep sigh and started to talk again.
"Look, I'm busy right now. You must be Krew's new errand boys." The girl spoke, "Look, I don't mean to be rude, but I'm not interested in any new drivers right now, and I've got work to do." Jak muttered Krew's name in disgust for having stirred him wrong. Maybe he didn't want him around in his Hip Hog Saloon. He turned his attention back to the girl.
"Is there anything we can do?" Jak suggested. And with that, the girl stood up in a panic and started to shield her work.
"No! I'm... ah... working on a secret, ah... ah... 'vehicle project'." She gulped.
"Okay, sorry…" Jak sighed, sounding almost offended. This was getting nowhere, so he decided to confess, "Look, listen, I just need to be on someone's team. I have to win to get to the Baron's palace."
"Is there a reason why?" The mechanic sarcastically asked, "What, are you his number one fan or something?"
"Yea, I'm REAL friend of the Baron." Jak sarcastically spat back. Again, she was silent.
"Look, don't you have anything better like bothering someone to collect money from, or beat up, or something?" She retorted.
"You don't like us, do you?" Jak asked.
"You work for that slime ball Krew. What's not to like?" Her voice spoke in utter hatred. Jak eyed the place around some more until he witness the blue shelf which housed the many racing trophies the mechanic had won.
"Looks like you've won a few races." Jak grinned.
"Yeah, why?" She asked.
"Could you get me into the palace?" Jak asked, "I mean, can't you race for me or let me join? I know you don't want new racers, but I'm kinda desperate."
"Don't I just love it when guys are desperate." Again with the sarcasm.
Jak growled in frustration, placing both his arms on his face.
"BLOODY HELL!" Jak shouted with clenched teeth, "Look! I've been through a LOT OF SHIT! Probed, blown up, dissed, almost eaten, and JUST YESTERDAY, I FAINTED! YOU DON'T SEE A GROWN MAN FAINTING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE STREET! ALL. I'M.ASKING.FOR.IS. OKAY! I'll help you out if you stop bothering me!" The mechanic yelled back, but it was enough for Jak to hear her talk, "I saw an old maintenance elevator at the base of one of the Palace support towers. That old lift might take you up to the palace, IF you can find a way to turn on the elevator's power."
"Do you know how?" Jak asked.
"I'm a mechanic, not an egghead." The mechanic scoffed, "I gave you all the information I know, now leave…me…alone."
"Okay, okay, sheesh." Jak sighed, then he left, "What a bitch."
"I HEARD THAT!" She cried out as Jak left.
……………………
"Now what? How do we power up the support tower?" Daxter asked once outside. The two were now sitting on a bench next to a tree, so the shade was nice. There was a nice breeze blowing, causing the tree's leaves to breeze ever so slightly. Spring was one of Jak's favorite weather. The air was not too hot or too cold, it was just right. Not to mention spring time was one of the few seasons where he doesn't get sick all the time. Although summer was slowly approaching.
"I don't know, Daxter." Jak sighed. His revenge to the Baron wasn't going the way he planned. Although he did feel calm, sitting on that bench, with Daxter on his lap, Puar watching over, doing absolutely nothing. The calm wind was blowing past his blonde hair and the trees, the birds chirped as they passed by, for once in his entire life…Jak felt like he was home…
"MASTER JAK HAS A MESSAGE!" Puar shouted, disturbing Jak.
Jak growled in yet another burst of frustration before telling Puar to send the message. Puar used her lens and out came a small holographic image of Torn.
"Torn?" Jak asked. He moved his hand back and forth, passing the small image of Torn.
"I'm a hologram, Jak." Torn sighed.
"A holo-what?"
"Never mind." Torn groaned, "You busy, 'cuz I got another mission for you."
"Are you sure you can TRUST me enough with it?" Jak sarcastically spoke, arms crossed.
"Look, you want it or not?" Torn growled.
"What is it?" Jak sighed.
"One of the Baron's mining operations is under attack by the Metal Heads." Torn started.
"That's not OUR problem." Jak hissed, the mere mention of the word, "Baron" was enough to feel his heart with anger.
"It IS our problem when the foreman's one of the Underground's best informants! His name is Vin, and he's just valuable enough to save." Torn cried out, then he displayed a map which Puar showed, "Find the warp gate at the Power Station and use it to travel to the Strip Mine so you can rescue Vin's pathetic hide." And with that, Daxter came outta nowhere and went straight to Puar's face.
"Hey, Tattooed Wonder, how come we get all the crappy missions!" Jak urged Daxter to be quiet.
"Because I... DON'T... LIKE... YOU!" Torn, despite being a small hologram was still fearful enough to make Daxter run back in intimidation. Daxter then tripped over Jak's leg and fell.
"Fair enough…"
"Whatever deal the Baron made with the Metal Heads, the city's eco is almost gone, and his time is running out. If we don't get the kid back on the throne soon, there may not be a city left to defend!"
"Kid?" Jak gasped. He briefly remembered Sig saying something about the kid, but he didn't give it much thought, "So…Vin is a mining operator for the Baron. Nice to know he can lead a double life."
"He has access to many of the technologies around here." Torn stated, "He used to be the head Minister of Science until the Baron's rule where he was cast down to mining operative."
"The minister of science?" Jak repeated.
"Yep! The head science guy person in charge of all things science." Puar came in, "Vin was promoted WAY back when the late King's father was in the throne."
"Wow, old guy." Daxter nodded.
"Well, get moving, unless you have something that's stopping you?" Torn wondered.
"I'm going." Jak sighed. Then Torn cut off and the trio were on their way.
"I swear, he hates us enough to give us the crappy mission." Daxter complained…again, "Maybe if Torn told us to rescue a chick, then that'll motivate me…"
To Be Continued…
………………
Author's Notes: Michel is suppose to be have a very French accent, or in their world (by my own portrayal of Jak's world), Western Haven. Anything of Michel's speech that involves italics means he's accent is the most strongest there. Jak's British accent is common Haven speech.