Part 11.1: Welcome to Aquios
After a long (as well as loud) day's journey, the group of five had finally reached their destination. The Royal City of Aquios, the capital of the Aquarian Empire. They came through the city's gates and were at awe with its colorful sights. "What a beautiful city..." Fayt said.
"I'll say. Downtown Sacramento, eat your heart out," Cyrus commented.
"Yes, it's the pride of our kingdom," Nel replied. "But there are people trying to take this city for themselves."
"Airyglyph, huh?" Cliff asked.
"Yes."
"Nel, what happens next?" Fayt asked.
"First, I'll introduce the three of you to our ruler."
"You mean... the Quenn?" Cyrus asked in amazement.
"That's right."
"This is great!" Roger shouted. "I finally get to meet a Queen!"
"So what's this queen like, anyway?" Cliff asked. "I was kinda hoping she'd be hot, myself."
"Look, Cliff, whatever you do, please don't say something like that in front of Her Majesty," Nel advised.
"C'mon, you know I'm just teasing! It's a J-O-K-E…"
"Yeah right," everyone thought.
"No really."
"I think it's time for ya to shut up, ya moron," Roger said.
"What was that, kid?" Cliff asked.
"You heard me."
"Oh man," Cyrus said in a low tone. He held his forehead with his hand and shook it.
"Shall we go then?" Fayt asked.
" Let's," Nel said in response. "The castle is straight down this road."
"Hey wait up!" Cliff said as he was trying to catch up with his comrades.
"You know, I think we should restock on items," Cyrus said.
"Why do you say that?" Fayt asked.
"We've been in the wilderness for a while. Our inventory is as empty as the Ticket Masters for WrestleMania XXI." Cyrus showed a the supplies bag and turned it upside down. There was nothing there but one leftover Aquaberry that dropped to the ground.
"I don't know what this 'WrestleMania XXI' is," Cliff said, "but I agree."
"I guess we could go," Nel said. The group walked north and were in the center of the city. "Alright. The shops we want to use are on the East side of town. When we're finished then we must be on our way."
"Okay then," Roger said. "After you m'lady." Roger showed her to the street and halted the other guys. He cut in front of them and trotted behind Nel as if he was triumphant about something. The group followed the Menodix and the Crimson Blade. "Hey!" Roger exclaimed. "I think this looks like a good place to go," he said as they stopped in front of a small house.
"Are you sure this is a shop?" Cyrus asked.
"They're small business stores," Nel stated, "but their inventory is the same as all other markets."
"Okay then," Cliff agreed, "let's go in."
"Something fells strange here," Cyrus thought. "I was sure that there was only one shop in each area." Seeing that he had no choice, Cyrus reluctantly joined the group and headed inside the establishment. Unknowingly to them, they would be surprised themselves to see its residence.
As they entered, a nervous man turned around and was shocked to see the group enter his home. "Huh? Who are you?" he asked.
"Oh, sorry," Fayt apologized "We shouldn't have come in here without permission. We're travelers from a faraway land."
"You people? Travelers? I don't believe it!" He said as he saw Nel, "Anyone in the company of Lady Nel Zelpher of the Crimson Blade cannot be a mere traveler. After all, she is a commander serving directly under Her Majesty and the pride of Aquaria." Nel smiled embarrassingly as the man praised her.
"Wow Nel," Cliff said. "Must be a fan of yours."
"That, or a real psycho," Cyrus said in a low tone, "back away slowly."
"You must have an important mission." The nervous man walked over to Cliff. "Oh please, please tell me what it is. Here just whisper in my ear." Then he returned to where he was. "I know! You're on such an important mission that you can't tell another living soul! I understand. I shall not question any further." The man gave a light chuckle.
"Okay," Roger said. "Well, I guess we should be leaving now." The group walked out the door and remained quiet.
"Well," Cyrus said, breaking the silence, "like I said before: psy-cho."
"Um... okay," Roger said. "How about we buy our supplies later. We have a queen to meet."
"For once, you're making sense," Cyrus said.
"Hey, watch it!" Roger snapped. Cyrus grinned.
"So, I guess that settles it," Fayt responded. "Castle Aquaria, here we come." The group swam through the sea of people and headed north.
By the time they reached the castle gates, the group was stopped by two guards. "Halt," commanded the first soldier as blocked their way with his staff.
"The royal castle lies ahead," informed the other soldier. "The Chapel is not open for worship at this time."
"If you are here to worship, come back later. Otherwise, you'd best leave."
"At ease," Nel said.
"Lady Nel!" said the first soldier in shock.
"So these guys… I… I mean, these gentlemen are…?" the second soldier was still surprised to see her return.
"That's right," Nel said. "We'll be going in, now."
"Yes, ma'am!" the soldiers said in unison. The first soldier moved his staff and the group entered the premises.
The inside of the castle was massive and majestic. The floors looked so clean, that it was possible for one to eat off of. The halls were decorated with lamps attached to each wall. "We're going to the audience chamber upstairs," Nel informed.
"That's cool," Cyrus said.
Cliff had his attention caught by a large entrance the was across the castle's entrance. "Hm, what's in there?" he asked curiously.
"That's the Chapel," Nel answered. "Pilgrimages to Kaddan, the holy land of Apris, involve such a long and treacherous journey that most people just do their worshipping here, in the castle Chapel."
"A Chapel…" Fayt said under his breath.
"If you're interested, go take a look later."
"I might just do that."
"The audience chamber is this way. Follow me." The group followed Nel to the chamber. Along the way though, they had to deal with a scatter brained Roger who was wondering off after every girl that the group passed. Cliff caught him straying away and solved the problem by dragging the boy by the tail, hearing the threats and screams that he made. The group arrived on the top floor of the castle. In a few steps, the group stopped as Nel stood in front of the large doorway that lead to the audience chamber. "We've been granted an audience with Her Majesty. Remember proper etiquette."
"Proper etiquette is my middle name," Cliff said.
"Yeah, right," Roger said with his head turned.
"Do we have an issue down there?"
"What was that, lummox?"
"You heard."
"You guys..." Fayt called.
"Hey you two," Cyrus called. Their attention was now on Cyrus. "You guys could bicker at some other time, you hear me? But right now, we've got some business to take care of. Fell me, playas?"
"It's not my fault," Roger whimpered.
"Come on you two," Fayt said. The two became silent.
"Alright," Nel said. "Let's go." The group entered the large room of the complex.As Cyrus was about to go inside, he heard the rustling of the plant behind him. He thought it was his imagination and shrugged it off. Inside the chamber, Nel and the others knelt down in front of the presence of the queen's thrown. "I have returned, Your Majesty," she said and bent her head down.
"You have done well," complimented the man standing next to the chair. "Are these the ones?"
"Yes, Magistrate Lasselle."
"Lift your faces. Her Majesty will speak now… Listen well to her words."
The group looked up to the queen as being a beautiful woman who sat in the thrown. She wore a royal white robe and, though her head was concealed, she had a short haircut. "Welcome, engineers of Greeton, to the Sacred Kingdom of Aquaria. I am the Queen of this country, Romeria Zin Emurille."
"My name is Fayt Leingod."
"My name is Cliff Fittir, You Majesty. I am deeply honored and grateful for this audience with your royal person."
"I am Cyrus Splicer. I am privileged of being in your presence, your majesty."
"I'm Sir Roger S. Huxley of Samnite. It is a pleasure to be of service to you."
"We have summoned you to this Royal Palace to request your assistance. As you may have heard, our country is at war with Airyglyph. And the war is not going well with Aquaria… The situation calls to mind Chapter Fifteen of Ikelos' Book of Prophecies, a book that contains the holy teachings of Apris."
"Ikelos' Book of Prophecies?" Fayt asked.
"Chaos in the holy land. The chaos shall spread catastrophe, and from that catastrophe shall be born a new maelstrom of war. It is our belief that this prophecy is about to come true. And we believe that you are the arrow of which the prophecy speaks." The Aquarian queen walks down from her royal chair to the group. "Our country is now embroiled in a war with Airyglyph. Unless something is done, our innocent citizens shall perish… We beg of you to lend us your strength." She kneels down and holds Fayt's hand.
" Please, Your Majesty—" Fayt said, still a bit surprised of the queen's action. "I don't know what we'll be able to do, but we will do what we can. That is why we came here." The group faced the queen and nodded in agreement.
"We are in your debt."
Magistrate Lasselle claps for a guard. "Guard–" he calls. On the side of the doorway, a guard with armor that appears to be like that of a shogun walks over to the party. "Show the travelers from Greeton to the guest quarters."
"Yes, sir!"
The group left the room and was about to go downstair, until Nel halted the group. "Don't move..." she commanded. "Who goes there? Reveal yourself... slowly."
Out from behind the bushes a familiar face approached them. "Huh? Wait, you're that--" Fayt said in surprise. It was the nervous man from before.
"I've seen you before. You live within our city walls. What're you doing here? Only authorized personnel are allowed in this part of the castle."
"Please, don't be so angry with me," the man said. "Umm... It's a bit embarrassing..."
"Gee, you think so, genius," Cyrus said.
"You see, I came to worship at the Great Temple, but I seem to have gotten lost on the way out. I've been wandering around here for quite some time. I'm sorry. I'll leave right away... Please forgive me."
"Came to worship...?" Nel said, not believing a word he said. Cliff put held his hand on his forehead.
"Yes, that's right. I'll be leaving now." The man quickly hustled out of the scene and left the building.
"I better have someone keep an eye on him. I remember hearing Farleen say she knew someone who was good at that sort of thing. That would be the best person to take care of this."
"Wow," Roger said. "That's just pathetic."
"Kinda reminds you of someone," Cliff said under his breath. Roger turned and gave him a stare, but Cliff wasn't really effected.
"Let's spell it out: P-S-Y-C-H-O!" Cyrus said.
The guard entered the hall and without further to do, they were escorted to the east side of the castle back on the first floor. Nel said that she had stuff to take care of in her room. Two doors down the hall and near the entrance of the castle was the room for the guys. There wasn't much there. It was mostly a desk and two beds with a window that viewed a picturesque scene of the Eastern side of Aquaria. "These are your quarters," the guard said. "You may stroll around the castle as you wish. If you need something, ask the nearest soldier."
"Thanks, pal," Cliff said. The guard left the room and Cliff stretched his arms. "So, what are you gonna do?" asking everyone in the room.
"What do you mean, do?" Fayt asked.
"They said you could walk around the castle if you want to. I think I'm gonna go check out the Chapel."
"The Chapel?" Fayt asked.
"Yeah… Well, I'm an atheist myself, but I'm sorta interested in the art."
"You... interested in art?" Cyrus asked.
"Hey—don't laugh. I'm actually a bit of an artiste myself, although you wouldn't think it to look at me. Mirage said as much."
"She did?" Fayt asked.
"That's right. She said 'you're the kind of guy who decides with his emotions before using his head'… In other words, she thinks I'm an impressionist."
"Sure, an impressionist..." Cyrus sneered.
"I don't think that's what she meant..." Fayt said.
"Yeah, and she also said I'm 'always looking at pretty women,' which I guess was her way of praising my keen sense of aesthetics, don't you think?" Cliff said.
"I wonder..." Fayt said. Cyrus was about to say something, but shook his head with a smile, knowing that it was too easy of an insult.
"Well, anyway, there you have it. Be back in a bit." Cliff left the room and headed to the Chapel.
"'Ight," Cyrus said. "So Rog, what did you say you were going again?"
"Well, since it seems that we've hit the jackpot," Roger said. "I'm going to go around and see if any of the ladies will fall for my charm."
"Charm?" a puzzled Fayt asked.
"Yeah. I'm going to try it out in a place filled with beautiful women."
"Try the library," Cyrus suggested. "It's the northernpath onthis floor, shorty."
"Who are you calling short?" Roger yelped. "I'll have you know I'm regular sized."
"Okay," Fayt said. "Well, I guess we'll you later."
"Yeah," Cyrus said. "And make sure you don't do anything stupid that'll get you tried, or something."
"Ha ha ha!" Roger said in an unamused tone. "Well, later." Roger jumped up to the door and twisted it. He pulled his body weight to open the door and walked out.
"I have to say that was sorta humorous," Fayt said.
"I can't agree more, dog," Cyrus said. "Well, you could do whatever. I'm gonna find some treasure 'round here."
"So that's what you've been doing?"
"That and training. Not just for fitness. I know that I'll confront that Albel dude sooner or later. I want to increase my skills if I have any chance of whooping the braidy chump."
"Don't worry, Cyrus. We're here for you. Albel maybe the best in Airyglyph, but that doesn't mean he could beat us."
"Got that right, homes." Cyrus said. The two shook hands and left the room. Cyrus left the scene to explore the castle. During his search, he found a few thousand fol and a valuable book on Fire Shielding, which would help synthesize a weapon of his choosing to become invincible against the element. "It seems like that was a good haul, if I do think so myself," he thought. "With this money and this Fire Shielding, I could make one of the most powerful weapons, the Laser Weapon invincible against my own element. But that would be expensive. I guess I'll have to save for that investment. Damn. Where's a GameShark when you need one?"
Cyrus went to a supply room that had one large chest which was opened earlier. He looked around the and saw that there was only a few switches that didn't do anything. "Perfect. I could train here for a while. I guess I need a good workout." Cyrus pulled out his sword and started practicing. He also stayed to work on other techniques such as his drunken boxing and other forms of martial arts. He also listened to his radio while working on his break dancing. The experience was tough and it took a good two hours. By the end of his workout he returned his sword to his sheath which was behind his back. He also learned two new moves: the "187" and the "Times Up." "Oh, that was fun," he said as he stretched art his arms. "I guess I should head back. After all that work, I think I should catch a little shuteye."
Cyrus left the supply area and traveled back to the guestroom. When he got there, he saw that Cliff and Fayt were already there. "Yo," Cyrus greeted.
"Hey, so what did you find?" Fayt asked.
"Nothin' really. Just some fol., and a few berries here and there," Cyrus replied. "Well, I guess we should get some rest. How about you Fayt? What have you been up to?"
"I found Cliff at the Chapel after Mirage contacted him."
"Thought as much. What did she say?"
Cliff cleared his throat. "Well, the usual. She said to find a power source for a communicator and asked me to continue protecting you guys. She also said that even though interplanetary transmissions won't work, intercepting communications in an immediate area might."
"Sounds good. What about the war though?"
"I'm afraid it's raging."
"I know you said Sophia and my parents were still alive, but still..." Fayt became silent.
"I know what you mean," Cyrus said. "There's no sure fireway that we'll be intercepting the right channels in the that war, or if we can make the gizmo and use it without getting jumped." The room became quiet. In a few seconds, the door opened and in came Roger. He started panting with his back on the door. "Well, well. Look what the cat dragged in."
"Roger," Fayt asked, "what've you been doing?"
"Nothing really," he replied. "You know, I think I'll take a rest."
"Don't we all?" Cliff asked.
"Hold on," Fayt said.
"What's wrong?" Roger asked.
"There are only two beds and there are four of us."
"I don't know about you guys," Cyrus said, "but I ain't sharing."
"So what do you suggest?" Cliff asked.
"We have no choice but to have a competition. We must split into two groups of for a of two out of three match up. Testing our mind, body and spirit."
"You don't mean–"
"That's right. It's time for another game of Rock, Paper, Scissors. For my challenge, I choose... Roger."
"I guess that means it's just you and me, Cliff."
"Fine, just remember I ain't going easy on you." The competition began.
Cyrus and Roger gave one another scornful stares. They drew out there gambling hands and pounded them in the palm of the other. Rock... Paper... Scissors... BAM! The first win belong to Cyrus, who drew out a rock to counter his scissors. Roger was more intent now while Cyrus gave his trademark smirks. The game resumed as the two pounded faster than they did earlier. Rock... Paper... Scissors... BAM! With paper beating rock, the victor was Roger who did a little victory dance. Now, with only one match to go, they knew that everything rode on this last move. Smirks vanished and were replaced by looks of seriousness. Now that it was the final turn, the competitors pounded their hands faster. Rock... Paper... Scissors... BAM! With a revolutionary two out of three, the winner was... Cyrus with a scissors beating rock strategy. Roger pouted for a minute. Another groan of defeat was heard. They turned their attention to Cliff who was just whooped by Fayt.
"Victory is mine, Cliff!" Fayt said in triumph.
"Oh, come on!" he said.
"Don't tell me I lost with that idiot!" Roger said.
"I'm not sure about idiot," Cyrus quoted, "but I am sure that you two just got served."
"Alright," Cliff said. "Now that we know who sleeps in the beds, where do we sleep?"
Cyrus looked at the table. "I wonder, is that like maple or a kind of oak?"
"You're kidding?" Roger said.
"That, or one of you could sit in that chair," Fayt suggested. Cliff and Roger saw the soft looking chair and ran toward it. By the time they got there, a small fight ensued. In the end, Cliff was the winner and he felt no remorse for the kid who was one-third his size. The defeated Roger scowled at his nemesis and laid on the table.
"Well, now that everything's settled," Cyrus said. "Let's go. I'm bushed." The two swordsmen got in their separate beds. Cyrus set his MP3 Player to start on "What's Happening," by Method Man and Busta Rhymes and set the device on shuffle. In moments, the tired teen was knocked out with the rest of his comrades.
Author's Note 1: Remember the girl from Part 8.2: Heavy Metal? She's back. This time, she will give you guys more insight in her role. What matters is, will Cyrus be ready for this chick?
Author's Note 2: The name of this part is also a title to one of my favorite theme of the game's soundtrack and fits nicely.
Author's Note 3: The moves mentioned in the story, "Rocksteady," "Break Beats," "187" and "Times Up" are fighting moves from another game called "Def Jam: Fight for New York." They kinda bring a little more depth to Cyrus' character and if you ever played the game, then you know that it brings a lot of 'Def.'
Part 11.2: Influence on Truth Appearance
While he was asleep, Cyrus was back in his subconsciousness. He wandered around the strange and colorful space, knowing that there was an important reason for his being here. "Master?" he called, only to here nothing but echoes. "Master Diogo?" Suddenly, laughter was heard throughout the landscape. "Huh? Who's there?"
"Aren't you an interesting form," the voice said calmly. It sounded like a young girl.
"What? Show yourself!"
"Very well." A figure materialized into the scene. It was an attractive girl who seemed to be no older than Cyrus. She was also around the same size as him. She had pale skin, black hair and wore white clothes that were identical to what Cyrus attire. She took light steps toward Cyrus, the two tails of her coat trailing behind. "Are you happy now?"
"Whoa!" Cyrus said surprised. "The style catches on!" The young girl sighed. "Anyways, who are you? Why are you in my head?"
The girl chuckled. "I'm Catalysta. Lystara Catalysta. Who are you?"
"Splicer. Cyrus Splicer. You may know me for such reasons like the fact that you're in my dream."
"It is a pleasure. I have been waiting to see you, Cyrus."
"Why? What business do you have with me?"
"You were able to cross the dimensional barrier, were you? Must have been some ride."
"You know about the flux?"
"Questions, questions. Of course I do." Lystara looked down at his feet and scanned him with blue eyes, slowly climbed up to Cyrus' face until both her eyes met with Cyrus' red eyes. She could see her own reflection as Cyrus could see his. "Heh... We certainlyare alike." Lystara started to walk around Cyrus.
"That depends on one's perspective." He said as his head was following her.
"You see, we are both powerful and unique beings, both in and out combat."
"Really?"
"Yes. I've seen the way you fight. I must admit, it was intriguing."
"You're too kind. Though, I wouldn't be so sure about that, girl."
Lystara stopped in her tracks. "What do you mean, Cyrus?" she asked while turning around slowly.
"You've said that our skills in combat are both powerful and unique. I want to know if your theory holds in true."
"You do, huh?"
"That's right, and since you're in my head, I have the reason to battle. Now let's get this party started."
"After you."
Both combatants pushed the sides of their jackets out of the way of their sheaths and drew out their swords. What caught Cyrus' attention was that her weapon of choice was around the same kind as his. "She dresses like me and she's wielding the same kindweapon!" he thought. "What else does Lystara have up her sleeves?" The battle began as both warriors ran in to the center and clashed with one another's swords. With gritted teeth, they pushed on each other's swords. In seconds, both were hurled back from the forces of their strength, but landed to their feet. Cyrus charged at Lystara and began to strike with his blade, but each attack was evaded. Lystara ended up behind him and made a downward slash. Fortunately, Cyrus jumped to the left, barely missing the strike. Cyrus recovered and spun with his blade low to the ground, but Lystara somersaulted backward. The match ended in a stalemate. "Okay," Cyrus said in a battle position, "I admit, you're good."
"You're not too bad yourself," she said in a similar battle position.
Suddenly, a familiar voice was heard. "Cyrus," it called.
"Master Diogo?" The two turned around, and sure enough, it was Master Diogo. "It is you."
"Yes, my pupil."
"What is it that you want to discuss with me, sensei?"
"The topic is about who you've battled."
"What do you mean?" Lystara began to snicker. "Wait... You knew that I'm not from this dimension. So that would mean..."
"Yes, that's right. I'm who you were sent to defeat." Cyrus was in shock. "I am the one who was sealed away. Until now that is."
"So you only tested my strength. Get a taste of what was in store for you."
A sinister cackle came from Lystara. "You could say that. But the thing is, you'll never defeat me, boy."
"You wanna bet?"
"You know, I'll give you this chance to submit to my power. I might even be nice enough to transport you back to your space-time. You want to go back, don't you?" Cyrus turned his head and groaned. Two portals appeared on each side of Lystara. One showed Cyrus' Earth. It seems nothing's changed. The other showed Elicoor II, which showed his unconscious body and his comrades asleep. "What will it be? Fight a futile fight, or submit and go home. As they say, it is where the heart is."
"I never backed down from a challenge. My master has told me about your plan. Even though I didn't really accept this job, that doesn't I will allow you to destroy my universe, this universe or any other. In other words LC, you're going down!"
"So be it. For someone with a high IQ, you're not as intelligent as I thought you were. Oh well." A glowing sphere, similar to that of a charging symbological spell appeared in front of Lystara. In moments, a beam of light blue shot out and headed toward Cyrus. He shifted to a defensive posture, raising the sword to brace for impact. Then, something would happen that Cyrus would never forget. His master jumped in the path of the attack and took the hit. Cyrus' face was painted in shock. The attack was over and his teacher's crashed to the ground, smoke sweltering from his body. "I guess that takes care of that," she said with no remorse. "Your teacher may have saved you today, but next time we meet, you won't be as lucky." With that said, Lystara Catalysta walked away and disappeared.
"Noooooooooo!" Cyrus yelled. He bent down and turned his teacher over. "Sensei, sensei. Wake up, sir!"
"My son..."
"Master?"
"You must keep going... You are our only hope..."
"Like I said before, I will not fail." His master smiled and Cyrus gently laid his head down.
"Do not worry about me... my student. I will survive. I won't be able... to contact you, but know that I will... I will be with you in spirit."
"I guess this is good bye, master." Master Diogo closed his eyes and slowly disappeared. With an intent look on his face, Cyrus was more determined than ever. "I have promised to my master and vowed that I am going to stop Catalysta. If you still hear me, I keep my word and you will pay for what you've done. I swear on it."
Cyrus ran to the exit where he woke up. "Whoa!" he said as he awoke. It was still night and everyone else was sleeping. He exhaled heavily. "What a nightmare. Man, I hope myworld is okay..."
Part 11.3: Top Gun
The next morning, the group was wide awake. Cyrus, who was sitting on his bed, still couldn't believe that the guidance of his master was gone. But he knew there was no time to weep about it. He had a job to do. Fayt during a conversation with Cliff and Roger was checking up on his helmet. Not that it needs a check seeing that it's already in bad shape. Then, Nel's voice was heard on the other side of the door as she said, "I'm coming in." She opened the door and came in the room.
"Mornin'." Cliff greeted.
"Good morning," Fayt said.
"Good morning," Nel replied. "Did you sleep well?"
"Yeah, thanks."
"Today we're going to the Runological Weapon Research Facility."
"Ohhh, is that where they're making that weapon?" Cliff asked.
"Yes… It's time—Time for you to lend us your knowledge."
"Well, knowledge is power," Cyrus said in his low tone.
"Sure, but until we actually see it, we can't make any promises," Fayt said.
"Of course. First, I want you to meet the person in charge. Her lab is on the west side of the castle… Shall we then?"
"Let's get to it!" Roger said. Everybody turned around to see a smile on the boy's face as his three foot tall form stood on the table.
"Do you think this is a good idea for him to come?" Cliff whispered to Cyrus.
"I do have my doubts," he said, "but he has to come as well. It wouldn't be right to leave him here. Besides, he would prove some sorta use if he's more involved."
"I guess."
Cyrus walked over to Roger and sat on a chair. "Yo Rog. Listen, the stuff you are about to see is top secret and real important to Aquaria. If you're coming with us, than you need to show us you're a real man."
"A real man?" Roger said. "I'll have you know that I've won the 'Real Man Contest' over two hundred times. You're talking to Roger S. Huxley, man among men."
"That's what I'm talkin' about, man."
Roger jumped off the desk and opened the door. "After you, m'lady." Nel walked out the door, followed by the rest of the group, with Roger not far behind. The group went upstairs to the second floor and took the west wing. They went down the hall and stopped at the door at the end of the hall. "This is it." Nel knocks on the door and says, "It's me. I've brought the engineers."
"Please, come in," a woman's voice invited. The group entered the room. The place was pretty much in disarray. Books were everywhere and papers were scattered. Behind the junky desk, a young woman sat down in her chair.
"That's Lady Elena, head of Aquaria's First Runological Weapon Development Division," Nel said. "Lady Elena, these are the two engineers from my report."
Elena stood up from her chair and walked over to the group. She wore a dark drag with the hood over her head. "I'm Elena Frahm, leader of Runological Weapon Development," she greeted and bowed.
"Nice to meet you. I'm Fayt Leingod."
"Howdy, Cliff Fittir."
"Wassup, the name's Cyrus Splicer."
"Hello ma'am, I'm Roger S. Huxley."
"A pleasure to meet you." Elena turned to Nel, a little surprised about the group. "I…have to admit, they're much younger than I expected."
"Yet they are knowledgeable," Nel replied.
"I read the report. I do not doubt your information. It looks like we have no choice but to rely on that knowledge. We still haven't been able to analyze that metal fragment…"
Suddenly, a knock was heard at the door. "Did you call for me, Lady Elena?" asked a young man outside a door.
"Yes, Dion. Come in."
A young man entered the room. He wore the standard lavender drag, a hair style that was short and dark blue and he wore a pair of reading glasses. He walked over and stood next to Lady Elena. "Is this them?" he asked.
"Yes… The big one is Cliff, the small one, Fayt and the smaller one, Cyrus." She turns to Fayt, Cyrus and Cliff, saying, "This is my right-hand man, Dion Landers, Chief Researcher of Runological Weapon Development."
"I'm Dion. Pleased to meet you. I hear you are men of learning. We're hoping you can impart some of your wisdom upon us."
"We would be honored to," Cyrus said, respectfully bowing after words.
"I don't mean to rush you, but would you take a look at the runological weapon we're working on? A number of structural issues have been troubling us."
"Sure, no problem," Fayt said.
"Dion, can you show them the way, please? I can't leave my desk right now."
"Absolutely. Please, this way…" Dion and the group walked to a door, but stopped by his curiosity. "I must admit, I am surprised. I'd thought you would be a bit older."
"I'm impressed that you're Chief Researcher at such a young age," Fayt said.
"Well, I'm still an apprentice compared to Lady Elena."
"Dion?" called the voice of a hasty Lady Elena. "Stop jabbering there. Hurry up and show them."
"Ah, yes Lady Elena. Please forgive me!" Dion said and quickly bowed. "Ah, she's mad at me now. Let's go. This way, please," he whispered to the group. Dion opened the door to the next room and they went inside.
"This is the runological weapon research lab, where we do the basic design work for new weapons. The weapon we'd like you to take a look at is in the fabrication room."
The group followed Dion down a ladder that housed the weapon. "This is what I wanted you to take a look at," he said. The armament was massive. It looked almost like a strange eighteenth century cannon only larger. Fayt and Cyrus began to inspect the technology.
"Wow!" Roger exclaimed. "So this is the weapon? Neat."
"So what's the matter with this thing?" Cliff asked.
"The device itself is basically complete, but it lacks the punch we need for it to work as a weapon…" Dion said. "But if we increase the output, we run into durability problems…"
"I see..."
"I know that a destructive tool like this is far too advanced for a civilization like them," Cyrus thought. "I wonder how they could build such a thing. I'm pretty sure that not even those Battle Mechs like the one I saw in Surferio were this far ahead."
Dion came toward them to see what progress the two made. "What do you think?" he asked. "You see the problem? If you have any questions, I'll try to answer them."
"None that come to mind," Cyrus said. "Fayt, what about you?"
"No, I don't have any questions, but… I'm sorry. Can we take a look at it a little longer?
"Sure, no problem at all," Dion replied. "Take as long as you need."
"Thank you."
"Hey, c'mere," Cliff said to the two boys.
"What is it?" Fayt asked.
"I'm no expert, but, uhh…doesn't this smell a little fishy to you…?"
"I don't think 'a little fishy' is the term I'd use," Cyrus said.
"Yeah… It's definitely too advanced," Fayt replied. "This sort of thing shouldn't even exist on a planet at their stage of development."
"Even with symbology," Cyrus said, "They should be throwing daggers and start making up folk tales. Now, you got an oversized cannon and remnants of a robot fleet. If this keeps up, I'm sure they'll be driving Convertibles in the eighteenth century!"
"Let's not go too far, Cyrus, though you could be right. With their progress in advancing this civilization, they might be able to create technologies that predates kinds similar to Earth's."
"Next thing you know, Gangsta Rap will be competing with Opera houses..." Everyone became silent.
"So, you gonna help them?" Cliff asked Fayt.
"I'm not sure. What do you guys think?"
"Me?" Cliff said. "Well, if we finish it, lots a people are going to die. Question is: are we okay with that? I mean, I don't like doing something that I can't take responsibility for myself. It'd be different if I were the one making the decision to fire, but…the idea of some other guy who ain't me deciding what to do with a weapon I created…that kinda bugs me."
"Yes," Cyrus said. "Plus, we're making our own upgrades to this weapon. The effects may be shocking in the eyes of the opposing team, but in a way, we're doing something to save both sides. Though it may be pain, that don't mean I'm okay with someone besides myself using a contraption as serious as this. In someone else's point of view, we're getting blood on our own hands vicariously through the guy with the switch. As they say: with great gifts, comes great responsibility."
"You two do have a point. This country, with its symbological technology, might be able to complete this weapon eventually even if we don't help them. Maybe."
"Yeah… Maybe. Anyway, like I said before: you make the call."
Fayt starts thinking about what he should. The room became silent as the eager ears of Cliff, Nel and Dion awaited his decision. Cyrus began to sweat during the suspense. "Oh shizz," he thought. "I hope that Fayt doesn't say no. The last thing I need is for the whole storyline to go outta whack because of my presence. Please homes, say yes."
"I'll help them."
"Alright, Fayt," Cyrus cheered.
"What about your beloved UP3, huh?" Cliff asked.
"I know this weapon might cause great suffering—but, on the other hand, think of the suffering it can prevent."
"Yeah," Cyrus said. "Screw the law, fight the power! Er... I mean... In this particular case."
"Okay—So what do you want me to do?" Cliff asked.
"Huh? But I thought you didn't—"
"Who said I wouldn't help you? You've prepared yourself for the consequences, so as your bodyguard, I'd best do the same."
"Don't forget me and Rog," Cyrus said. "You guys need all the help you can get. After all, we're a team."
"Besides," Roger stated, "what would you guys do without me, huh?" Cyrus shook his head lightly from Roger's comment, eyes turned up.
"Thanks," Fayt said. "Mr. Landers!"
"Just call me Dion. What is it?"
"Dion, can I see the blueprint for this weapon?"
"Sure, no problem. Come on over to the lab."
"Alright!" Cyrus said. "Time to soup this baby up!"
Dion, who was confused by Cyrus' out burst, turned around. "I'm sorry, but there is no soup and this area is clearly devoid of small children."
"No, no. That's not what I meant, Dion sir," Cyrus quickly explained while scratching his head. "It's a saying which means to insert a new feature to a technological model."
"Oh, is that correct? Well, let's go and 'soup this baby' as you say." Cyrus nodded and, along with his comrades, followed Dion up the ladder to the runological weapon research lab. "This is it."
"Thank you. Can I also have some paper and something to write with, please?"
"Sure, use this."
Fayt looks over the blueprint sheet that was laid across a desk. "Dion, what kind of wire are you using to conduct the runological power?"
"Iron wire, why?"
"Iron… Okay, that explains why the wire can't take the heat when you increase the output…"
"Yes, that's our biggest problem."
"When you increase the power, it breaks," Cliff said. "And when you decrease the power, you can't use it as a weapon, that it?"
"Shizznit! Talk about a major issue," Cyrus said.
"Superconducting aluminum would easily solve this problem, but…that's not an option here," Fayt said.
"Superconducting aluminum?" Dion asked.
"Um, never mind. Just talking to myself. Dion, have you tried copper?"
"No, well, I know that copper would probably solve the overheating issue, but…"
"Is there a problem?" Cliff asked.
"We can't obtain enough copper to complete this device," Dion said.
"You don't have any mines?" Fayt asked.
"No, there's a mine, it's just..."
"Wild dragons have taken residence there," Nel replied.
"Even one dragon would be a terrible enemy, so there's no way we could ever enter a whole nest of them. And mining is out of the question…"
"Dragons," Cliff said. "Well that explains it."
"Talk about your resident evil," Cyrus said. "There's nothing worse than flying lizards with combustible gas."
"The mine in question is in Airyglyph territory, and is under the jurisdiction of the Dragon Brigade," Nel said.
"The Dragon Brigade..." Fayt said to himself.
"Even if we were successful in obtaining the copper, there's no guarantee that we'd be able to make it back here safely…" Dion said.
"So you see the problem."
"You average guy doesn't stand a chance against wild dragons and the Dragon Brigade," Cliff said with his arms folded.
"So what do you suggest? We just go up to them politely and ask if we can have some of their metal?" Cyrus asked sarcastically. "Oh yeah, I'm sure they'll just hand it over."
"Hmm, Cyrus does have a point…" Fayt said. "It seems we have a real problem here. But copper's really our best bet… What should we do?"
"What are you talking about?" Cliff asked. "All we have to do is go and get it."
"Can we?"
"Of course we can. Do I look like an 'average guy' to you? I got no problem with dragons. No problem at all."
"I sure appreciate your groundless self-confidence in situations like this…"
"Groundless? You're pretty rude, you know that? Don't you think it's about time you admitted how tough I am?"
"It's not that I don't admit it. I just think you're a little overconfident, that's all."
"Whatever."
"Yo Fayt," Cyrus interceded, "It's not groundless overconfidence, it's called keeping it real." "Unfortunately," he thought, "there are times when keeping it real goes wrong. That's what I learned from the Chappelle's Show!"
"You can't be seriously considering going, just the two of you?" Dion yelped in disbelief.
"What are you talking about?" Nel asked. "It won't just be the two of them. I'm going too!"
"You too? It's still insane!"
"Don't worry. They may be engineers, but they really can fight. They've already proven themselves against the Black Brigade."
"Maybe so, but still..."
"Hmm… But we won't be able to carry all that copper by ourselves. We'll need to bring several people with us just to transport it. How much do we need?"
"Several dozen kilos, I'd say," Fayt said.
"All right, no problem. My subordinates should be able to handle that much by themselves. We'll take Tynave and Farleen."
"You insist on going, don't you. Well, all right, but don't take any unnecessary risks."
"I know. I swear, you're just like Clair. Always worried!"
"And Dion, take this," Fayt said. He handed back the notepad and paper.
"What's this?" Dion asked.
"I glanced over your blueprint and jotted down a number of problem areas and possible solutions. You can deal with these while we're out getting the copper."
Dion scanned the notes Fayt took and was intrigued by the results. "Of course! Yes! Yes, I see! This should be a dramatic improvement."
"It's really nothing."
"All right, get to work, Dion," Nel said.
"Yes, ma'am. …And please, be careful."
"I'll go gather my team. Let's meet up at the entrance to Aquios once you're ready."
"Yahoo!" Roger yelled.
"Huh? So there you were," Cliff said sarcastically.
"Shut up, lumox."
"I liked it better when you were quiet." Nel, Fayt and Cyrus sighed. Now they had to deal with the unstoppable loud mouth duo.
By the time they left the castle, Fayt and Cyrus quickly left Nel with the two "children" to pick up some supplies. Cyrus shopped at the stores on the west side of town. Here, he picked up a new Long Dagger for Nel, a Fine Gauntlet for Cliff and a neat Battle Ax to replace Roger's unreliable relic (in one fight when they were coming to Aquios, the ax's head fell off. Then again, the name of his weapon was the "Rusty Ax," not the "Mighty Ax"). Cyrus also went to the outfitter where he bought plenty of Basil (seeing that most of the dragons and other kinds of monsters would paralyze them) and some Sage (for the boss, of course). When all was done, he went back to the group and saw that they were ready to leave. "Here we are. Are you ready?" Nel asked.
"You know it," Cyrus said. "Now let's bag us some CU."
"All right then, let's go." With that said, they left the city to trek back to Arias.