Author's notes:
Here is a new chapter.
Updates are every 2 to 3 weeks. Its slow but its what I can do with my current schedule.
That's all and enjoy!
A few moments earlier…
"So, let me get this straight? A felyne mixed a bunch of items, listed here on this list, and created some sort of tonic that made him bulk up and gain weight the next day after ingesting it. And the cat doesn't seem to stop growing unless he stops eating? Is that correct?"
"Yup pretty much. We were getting worried that whatever effects it had on him was permanent or dangerous, but it wore off after some time, though we didn't know how long it lasted or when it stopped. Whistill wants to know if the tonic is safe to ingest or if it could be useful for something else than making obese felynes." 9S explained to 801S, who continues to inspect the list he gave him.
The white-haired boy came to the item shop to ask 801S to test and experiment on the tonic he found in the Rider's Manual. Under a fake story he came up with last night, based on whatever effects the tonic would do to a regular monster than it would for a Deviljho.
9S knew that he can trust 801S to study and know the full details of the tonic and maybe even calculate how long the effects would have lasted.
Then whatever 801S finds or discovers, 9S could simple just proof check it with the information in the manual. Confirming whatever was written there as true or false, and proceed to safely use it for Rogue after.
"Well, okay. I can check this out and maybe even do a few tests on this concoction they made. I'm curious on how they mixed a bitterbug, honey, two sleep herbs and a nitroshroom to make a drink that bloats felynes. I should thank you that I have something to stave of my boredom off a bit, and for doing a favor in return for this." 801S said as he pocketed the paper list, keeping it on his person for the time being.
"Yeah its no problem. Getting you some Quickfoot seeds in return is not a hassle, but it may take some time since I'll be helping the felynes move." 9S told 801S, who didn't mind that his request would take a bit of time to get.
"No need to rush, I wouldn't be able to do my own personal crafting for a while anyway. I mean… based from what I saw yesterday, I get a feeling that whatever is coming in the next few days would double the work the guild is doing now." 801S said coming closer to 9S, who raised an eyebrow to his friend, curious to what he meant.
"What do you mean?"
"Well, you're going to meet the commander after this, right? I don't know the details but yesterday she left the guild with chief Zinnia, who I also know is your guardian, and came back late looking a bit more serious than her usual serious. Whatever it was that made her like that would mean something big is going to happen. And I get the feeling you're going to find out before the rest of us in the guild."
This news made 9S a bit uncomfortable, since whenever Zinnia got involved with something it would mean it affects the whole village. Then again Zinnia is the chief and knowing anything related to the village and its affair is part of her job, so whatever 801S may be talking about might be something or another ordinary thing Zinnia handles daily.
But 801S did say about the commander being more serious after coming back, which is a good telltale sign that the commander and the guild is going to do something big or impactful.
"Hey, don't get too work up about it, I only told you this so you can be careful around the commander today. You know how she is when she is in bad mood." 801S said after seeing 9S look a bit concerned.
"Yeah, I know since I'm still under some heat from her. Thanks for the heads up and I'll be careful." 9S replied, putting his other concerns for later. 801S then begins to gesture him to leave after seeing the time on his clock on top of the counter, knowing that the other guild members will start their work soon, including the commander herself.
"No problem. Now you better get to it, so you can report quickly and go back to help those felynes. Good luck in helping them move too."
"You too. Good luck on whatever the guilds gonna make you do! And tell 2B-or even A2-if they pass by that I found the felynes a new home. Thanks again for my request!" 9S replied, waving goodbye to 801S who returns the gesture, as he begins to rush to the main hall.
801S was right that he should report to the commander quickly, just in case she would be busy to whatever plans the guild has today and on whatever 801S said the commander has her concerns on from yesterday.
On one side in 9S' head, he is a bit curious to what it is and maybe his friend was right that he'll find out as soon he meets up with the commander.
Well…
After some time meeting her and the rest of the group he's with, 9S did find out whatever it was that was bothering the commander.
Maybe whatever was bothering the forest too and causing the disturbance for the past few days before the stampede. And it just took an unexpected detour to encounter whatever it was.
They were already driving through the Whistill forest by cart and have reached the northern area. 9S remembers that they were approaching the same path he and the felynes took to the monster den they found and almost passed it.
That was when Jackass stopped the cart suddenly, before sprinting off to find whatever she caught in her eyes. At first 9S and the rest of the occupants of the cart thought it was another one of Jackass' impulse to suddenly take off, the commander was about ready to yell at her to return, until surprisingly it was Jackass who yelled and called to them back in alarm.
Something a bit out of character of her, if 9S had a say on it, base from how normally Jackass is on a daily basis. But it did lead them to see what the head researcher saw.
And for 9S, it was honestly something he couldn't really believe.
Though to be fair he shouldn't be surprise at anything, like Pod 153 said before. Or anything else that life would throw at him, since he's learning about Rider culture and its suppose hidden existence after all.
Plus, he's raising a Deviljho based from the practical usage of the manual, which made his mind open to other possibilities of other tall tales or myths that may have an inkling of truth.
He just didn't expect that he would be staring at some tainted grass, covered in black and violet glowing haze that seems to be projecting an aura of cold, fear and death.
All at the same time.
9S could feel it, even from just standing a couple of feet away from it. He's never seen something like it before, at least from what he remembers. But he could say that he feels disturb by it, with some sort of strange feeling.
Entirely different and something else—something much worse.
Like Dread.
He isn't sure and he couldn't put it into words. It's making him feel really uncomfortable, with the urge of wanting to know more about it, but not wanting to find out either at the same time.
Staying just in the vicinity of it is increasing his own discomfort and he doesn't know why.
"…Nines?"
9S hears Zinnia call out to him, shaking him from his unknown stupor. He could see that she noticed his discomfort and distress, and wordlessly asking if he is alright.
She was actually a few feet ahead of him, with the others like White and Anemone closer to the grass inspecting it with Jackass. He could see that the commander and the captain had a map out and were probably discussing of the suppose perimeter around the northern area and what the range of this infection should be.
"Sorry… I'm just a bit weirded out from the grass. Never seen something like it before." He apologized for his behavior and getting distracted, but the wyverian chief was having none of it and approached him, even putting an arm on his shoulder in a comforting manner.
"Its okay. This infection or whatever it is, tends to do that to people. Trust me, the last group was the same. But just to be sure …are you alright? Normally when you see something for the first time, you would have gone closer to study or investigate it. Yet, you've been standing still on the same spot since we got here." Zinnia asked, the wyverian perceptive of his behavior.
"Yeah, now that you mention it, I would have done that. But whatever this is… I feel like I don't want to know, despite having an inkling of interest from it. Frankly, I don't even know if I want to come near it, much less try to figure it out myself." 9S response perplex Zinnia a bit.
His extensive curiosity, is something everybody in YoRHa knows and that he would even get in trouble whenever he attempts to pursue it, leading him to dangerous situations because of it. 9S acting the complete opposite of that, because somehow the dread from the mysterious black haze is enough to deter him, stumps Zinnia.
"Really? That's a first." She said, earning a nod from 9S, agreeing with her.
"Yeah, I'm surprise too… But I know that's its dangerous, like really dangerous. Do you know anything else of this strange infection? The commander told me only a hand full in her short debriefing with me, like how it looks like the frenzy virus in the other parts of the world, yet acts entirely different. She also told me that it could affect the local ecosystem but know not the extent of its influence or its full effects. She also mentioned because of it, you all are planning to request some help from Gildegaran to aid in the investigation and try to find out why it appeared here in the Whistill forest and what it is entirely."
The wyverian chief thought to herself a bit after listening to 9S, before replying back.
"Not much to be honest... and my knowledge is also limited, but yes we are sending a request for the Guild in the city to send some support. Maybe even the Royal Scriveners. But all you need to know of this strange black haze is that it's dangerous and that nobody is allowed to enter the northern area of the forest. That includes Whistill's tribe and maybe if we can manage it, other wild monsters as well. We do know what would happen if a monster gets infected by it, turning them mad and destructive, but me and White have not witness that occurence. And as far as I know Anemone has only seen infected corpses, but regardless we rather not let that happen. You can sense the aura itself coming from these things are already unpleasant and something worse is bound to happen if other creatures or monsters get involve." Zinnia told 9S, keeping some information that is confidential to herself without him knowing, but still give enough that is true to the boy. 9S simply gives a nod again, understanding the situation and made a mental note to inform Whistill of this change.
Zinnia took note for herself as well that 9S seemingly doesn't know of their other agenda of looking for the Black Calamity's suppose body or of the missing hunter A4. She could only guess that White also kept this from him and may even extend this secrecy to the public as well, the investigation becoming more classified. Hence, the choice words and secrecy to her charge for the time being.
But now that Zinnia thinks of it…
None of them, her, 2B and A2, have ever spoken to 9S about the late hunter or any matter related to her in the past two years he has been with them.
It didn't really occur to her to mention or talk about A4 to him nor did the twins since it was a painful topic. Regardless, 9S has made no move or mention of asking of it either. Zinnia could guess that he may have got a bit of info about A4 from the village and didn't actively try to seek more info about A4 from them. Out of the same reasons of talking about it being painful for 2B and A2, and his respect for the two because of it.
Giving them their own space and privacy for the matter, Zinnia knows 9S can be a sensitive individual at times. Knows when to not ask sensitive questions or apologize immediately if he has breached a touchy topic. The wyverian chief could guess he's like this, is because that's how he would want to be approach in regarding his own situation.
Still, Zinnia isn't sure if she should still keep this info from him and thought of telling him of their other objective here in the forest. But she knows A4's story isn't of hers to tell and despite her faith in him, it is too risky for 9S to keep quiet of a secret this big to himself for so long.
He always has the urge to tell at least one person, mostly 2B, about something since he would rather share the information and have someone to talk about it with, than keep it to ponder for himself. Though, that doesn't mean that he couldn't keep a secret.
It's just that the level of secrecy of their quest is also part of the reason to why she is hesitant of revealing it to him.
The confidential nature of the investigation is too great for the guild to risk of it leaking. Meaning only high-ranking hunters and other higher ups are allowed to know of this, with some few exceptions like 2B and A2's party yesterday. Since 9S is still a trainee, he won't be allowed to know anything about it, without the proper authorization or condition.
Besides, Zinnia would rather have 9S not worry about this while he is doing work for the felynes. He's doing well so far too, and she'd rather not ruin that.
9S on the other hand, was also thinking to himself about this revelation of the northern area. And deciding that the northern area is strictly a no-go zone for Rogue, either because of the strange black haze or the hunters and company that would swarm it to investigate in the coming days. He may have to talk with Whistill of what areas they will be gathering in for the future because of these latest developments.
Luckily, 9S remembers that he and Pod were able to map out with Whistill the location of their settlement on the map and know that they are marginally away from the northern area. They're technically placed southwest of the forest, with still a lot of distance from the southern area and relatively far from center of the west of forest.
"Okay, it's good that we've already got all the items of the settlements days ago and have no reason to return to the north. I rather have me, pod and Whistill avoid this area entirely. If there is a strange infection around here, we rather not bother or hinder the guild's investigative operation on it." 9S said to Zinnia, who turns her attention back to 9S from her thoughts.
"I prefer if you do that and hopefully, since it seems you're really adverse of this mist, that you wouldn't get in to trouble with it or do anything related to it." Zinnia spoke her opinion and her slight relief about 9S' interest of staying away from trouble for once.
Before both she and 9S hear White's voice speak to them.
"I'm sorry to say Zinnia, but unfortunately the latter may not be entirely possible for 9S. My job for him entails a bit of monitoring the mist." Hearing this, 9S and Zinnia turn to White, who was walking back towards them with Anemone and Jackass. 9S could see in one of the hands of the head researcher was a small sample of the grass, while Zinnia scrunch her eyebrows a bit from hearing that 9S may have to be near or in the presence of this black haze for his job from White.
But knowing that White would explain, the wyverian bit back her questions and doubts until White gives and finishes her explanation. The commander took notice of the chiefs silence and knows it as her gesture for her to continue and explain to the currently confused boy beside her, of what he will do. She faces 9S, who immediately gives her his full attention.
"9S, the job I request of you is related to our current situation of this strange black mist, but you wouldn't be actively seeking it or looking for it. Simple, your task would only be the need to monitor the western area of the forest of any disturbances or signs of this black haze of spreading and report it to the guild, while avoiding them entirely. You are aware that our hunters are spread thin from managing the southern area and helping in the repairs of our village. More so with our investigation with this infection and despite the absence of monsters here and the western area, I would still need a minor surveillance to keep check if there would be any new problems that would arise." The commander said, while both Zinnia and 9S grasp what White was explaining.
"And since 9S is staying with the felynes for the time being, his position is perfect and beneficial for monitoring the forest and informing us of any changes on the areas we don't have our focus on." Zinnia added, which White agreed before speaking to 9S.
"Correct. Your task may be small 9S and I would say not a top priority for you to do, but it is still important to the guild that you would do this request. At least to put our village at ease that we aren't letting any detail escape us of our current dilemma. Is that clear?" Hearing this, 9S stood up straight before speaking in an attentive manner.
"Yes Commander. Don't worry ma'am, I will inform you and the guild as soon as possible of any strange occurrence or threat that may endanger us."—9S then thinks for a minute before he deflates a bit and adds— "Though hopefully, nothing would happen on this side of the forest and nothing dangerous would come to the village." 9S replied, accepting the job request.
"A sentiment the rest of us share with you." White said before she adds— "With your task accepted and everything said is done, you are dismissed. You can proceed to return to your other task for the day, but I recall Anemone has other plans for you."
White glances at Anemone as the hunting captain moves forward and claps 9S on the shoulders before holding him and ushering him away. 9S was bewildered by the sudden gesture of the captain and more once Anemone begins to speak to him.
"Yup! I still have somethings I need to talk with you about and some stuff I need you to do for me. And for future references, the commander and chief have already approved of what I'm going to do with you. So, you don't have to be worried of Zinnia doting on you if you get a bit rough up." Anemone said, making 9S nervous about the ambiguity of his situation that he couldn't help but yelp in surprise.
"Wait what?!" 9S asks and turns to look at the others if they would give him any idea of what is going to happen to him.
He sees Zinnia just gives him a thumbs up, the commander retains her impassive gaze and Jackass mouths a good luck at him before he and Anemone leave them behind as they enter the forest.
"Don't worry kid, you'll like it!" Anemone said, setting the panic in 9S head.
"I didn't agree to any of this!" He shrieks as he notices that Anemone's grip suddenly tightens.
"Trust me, it's a surprise! You'll be asking for more after this."
"How would I be asking for more if I don't know what it is and you're not telling me anything!"
Anemone didn't reply and just continues to smirk as she drags 9S back to the cart. She thought that she might as well mess a bit with 9S before he finds out and completely flips in demeanor.
It might be the only chance she'll get before he starts to hound her for more hunter training and they both get serious about it.
A lone cart carrying its driver and with him, two passengers, are also in the forest heading to the same destination as to where the commander and the chief of YoRHa was heading. The ride was silent and one of the carts occupants noticed it too or rather noticed how silent her other companion is.
'She's quiet today' 2B thought.
Since yesterday when they returned and found about the black haze, to this current moment of the two of them, herself and A2 riding a cart back to the northern area to assist with the operation and the investigation of the guild.
Pod 42 was supposed to be with them for support and was informed about their situation, including the confidential areas, but Zinnia assigned him for the time being to stay at the guild and take note of all the news and information that would be requested to her, the chief, and inform her later today once they return. Leaving 2B and A2 by themselves.
But even if Pod 42 was with them, 2B doubts it would change the silent atmosphere they currently have. If anything Pod 42 would have mention it or rather mention about A2's silent and more unusual behavior today.
2B thought about it and figures normally, she shouldn't be surprise that A2 was silent and not in the mood to chat. But in this case, it's much different and she herself as well wouldn't be interested in talking to anyone either after what they had learned yesterday.
Since they've learned of A4's faith and why she didn't return from her last hunt. That information, plus the other details regarding the Black calamity, would leave both of them wanting to process it a bit before talking to anyone or do anything else after.
But…
She is concern for her sister and wonders if she is handling it well, with all the things and the past memories probably resurfacing. She knows A2 has never stop thinking about A4, even when she says to herself that she isn't or when she tries to distract herself from remembering their older sibling like figure before when they were younger.
2B would admit that she was the same at times, trying to not remember or think of A4. But on the other hand, she did do a few things that makes her reminisces the times she spent with her.
Like fishing.
The late huntress was the one who got her to be hook in fishing. The pun intended and itself would always come from A4 whenever she brings up that particular interest of 2B.
And doing things like fishing or anything that was related to A4, helps 2B remember her and make her feel that she isn't entirely gone. With her memories of the late huntress as something of A4 that is still with her.
She wishes that A2 could do the same but knows it's much different to her sister to a certain extent.
A2 spent more time with the late huntress than 2B did and they always seem to be together whenever A4 came to YoRHa. She did a lot of things together with A4 and made a lot of good memories with her, because of it.
If 2B could think of any relationship that is similar to theirs, it would be of her and 9S. And what the people of YoRHa would say that would best describe their relationship and A2 and A4's as well, would be that they were inseparable.
But… when A4 didn't come back.
A lot of the things they did together and the memories they made, would only remind A2 of her and can't help but feel the pain knowing that she could never do those things again and be together with her anymore.
She couldn't imagine the lost her sister felt, which 2B wishes that neither of them would ever experience again.
How A2 coped before was a complicated and difficult process, which made 2B wonder what other ways she could have done back then to help. But she knows that the best thing that she could do, is to be with her then and now.
Be her support and let her know that there are others who care about her. So even if A2 is silent for now, 2B can just leave her to her own thoughts until whenever her sister is ready to be open, and she'll be there to listen.
Although… A little conscience inside of her would say taking the initiative would be nice, and strike a conversation to ask her sister what's wrong.
...
Oh dear, some of 9S' character must be rubbing off of himself to her, which is not a bad thing but being open and showily sensitive in public would look to be a tad out of character of her.
But they're not in public per say, its just her and A2, plus the driver. So there isn't a problem for her to ask A2. She and her sister never had the problem of talking to each other, it's normal for her and A2 to open with one another.
Albeit a bit bluntly.
Though, right now 2B wants to be a bit less blunt than usual and try to ask her a bit more delicately.
By the ancients… 9S really is rubbing off on her and she could hardly deny that this is the case since she spent a couple of minutes pondering of her concern for her sister and how to be delicate of the situation.
She's surprise that she is getting a bit distress from this and hopes that it isn't evident on her face.
Too bad A2 took notice, ever since she saw 2B's lips twitch at the corner of her eye and continues to watch her sister furrow her eyebrows on something.
"Speak your mind 2B, just be blunt as you usually do. I can guess what's in your head and its okay to talk to me about it." A2 said getting 2B's attention.
"W-what?—" 2B kept her usual poker face expression out front despite the stutter, yet within was surprise of A2 calling her out and a bit flustered.
"You know that your lips twitch when you're bothered by something or when you try to talk about something sensitive. Me, 9S and 6O would notice it, and when it isn't your lips twitching, its either your fists clenching or your hair bristling a bit."
"I don't know what your talking about." 2B looks away and pouts while straightening said slight bristled hair.
A2 just keeps her gaze at 2B and watches her ponder a bit while straightening her hair, before she finally speaks to her.
"I… just want to ask if you're alright. Since you know." 2B gestures with her hand, waving it a bit, conveying the unspoken topic.
A2 understood the gesture and knows what 2B was trying to say. She stays silent a bit before, giving a sigh and replies to her.
"I'm fine… really."
"A2…" 2B makes to say something but A2 cut her off.
"No, just listen—" A2 briefly raises her voice but stops herself and mellows after composing herself a bit. 2B waits for A2 to start the conversation rather let her be the one to begin.
"Honest. 2B… I'm okay. It's a lot to process, I mean hearing about her after 2 years. After A4 disappearing suddenly, and the pain—the lost I felt because of it. Back then I tried to forget about her and make it easier for me to cope but…
You know that didn't work out and it just made it harder. I never stopped thinking about her and wondering about what happened…" A2 said somberly with 2B empathizing with her sister.
"I too… didn't stop thinking about her and the times the three of us spent together. It was really hard to accept she was gone back then." 2B said, making A2 nod her head in agreement.
The two then sat there in silence with feelings of melancholy about A4, as their cart ride moves smoothly. They remain quiet for a few minutes, letting the sounds of the forest fill their ears while they reflect, until A2 spoke up.
"But now…"
A2 pauses a bit while 2B returns her attention back to her.
"I kn—we know… what happened to her and maybe even learn the entire story and details about it, if we find her and whatever it is that is causing this blight."
A2's somber expression turned to one of determination before she added.
"And …maybe I can finally have closure with all of this." She said, making 2B reach a hand to her shoulder and place it in a comforting manner.
"And I'll be there with you… so we'll both find her and find the closure we both need." 2B said with a smile, showing her love and support for A2, who appreciates it and returns the gesture by giving a rare genuine smile back to her.
The remaining cart ride ended with the twins talking a bit more openly and discussing other, much less serious, topics. Like what long swords do they want Masamune to forge for them in the future and if 6O is handling well of her new guild duties of assisting this investigation or if she is boring her mind out from reading all the records in the guild archives she was assigned to.
Their light conversation continued until they reach the area where the Commander and Zinnia's cart stopped, leading them to meet up with the two village leaders.
Slash up, slash down, Dodge and thrust.
9S twirls the staff he is wielding before he delivers an overhead slash, giving a spin to his whole body as well and smashes the glaive on the ground, sending bits of dirt up and scattering them. He returns the glaive to its standard position holding the staff with his left hand and the length of the weapon running behind him. With the main blade end facing downwards on his left to the ground and the blunt end, glowing with light indicating the inbuilt pheromones, raised above his right side.
"Good. Now call the kinsect and let it extract that tree."
He hears Anemone and immediately waves the staff, twirls it briefly, before the kinsect on his right arm gets the signal and flies to the tree in front of him and gives a bite, with a bit of wood dust bursting, indicating the insect strikes the tree. He waves the glaive again, signaling the kinsect to return to him.
The kinsect flies back straight to his right arm and latches on to it, before 9S feels a small injection like sensation. He then feels his entire body feel a bit lighter and more mobile.
The kinsect biting him and injecting him with its extract was uncomfortable before when he was starting out in training, but now he sees it as a mild discomfort despite not having practice for the past few days with the glaive.
He jumps a bit on his feet, again to feel the lightness and energetic feeling in his now more mobile inclined body, guessing the kinsect extracted something to boost his speed.
"Okay, now you're a bit more mobile. I want you to run the vaulting exercises we did just earlier, but this time on the second jump, I want you to try to incorporate the aerial style as well." Anemone said with 9S nodding his head and follows her instructions.
He steadies himself then he leaps and uses the glaive to pole vault before triggering the mechanism to send a burst of air from the staff to the ground launching him into the air.
He triggers the mechanism again and a short burst of air propels him forward. As he approaches the ground, he swings the glaive for a mock aerial slash before landing gracefully on his two feet.
Then he makes his second leap but this time he vaults and launches himself in a spinning motion, propelling him forward much farther than his previous jump, looking briefly like an aerial top, angled vertically.
The bladed edge makes 9S act like a sharp pinwheel and cuts a branch of a tree he passes before he lands on the ground and stands up with no tumble in his step or vertigo from his spin.
"Good, good! Glad to know that the past 5 months of training with a technical weapon didn't go to waste and wasn't forgotten. You're getting good with your aerial maneuvers too."
Anemone clapped her hands, while praising him. 9S could only smile and give a thumbs up for his level of progress in training and his current handling of the glaive.
"Okay, one more round before I give my final assessment, then we can go over and talk about what you're still lacking and what else you need to do or learn. We've been training for almost two hours, but I could see you're still eager to train more and have the stamina too. I'll indulge you since we haven't had any training sessions for the past days." Anemone shouts to him and could see he heard her.
"Okay got it! Thanks too by the way! I haven't started with any of my self-training since I needed to prioritize the felynes, but with their new home found, I can make some time since they'll be busy moving. Then we can make a schedule, so we can keep doing this like you said." 9S tells the hunting captain as he walks from his landing spot and comes closer to Anemone.
"No problem kid. We can talk about all the details later and I can give you a few tips and pointers for you on your insect glaive training and what can you do in your self-training to improve." Anemone replies, happy that she was right with 9S liking her idea of giving him some special training.
With the whole hiatus for hunter training until the village is restored, 9S couldn't get any proper or formal training for the time being. He won't be able to learn the other weapon mechanics until then as well.
But at least Anemone is happy that 9S hasn't forgotten her teachings on how to use the insect glaive and could safely say that he just needs a bit of minor tweaks and a few more sessions before he is combat ready. She couldn't introduce new weapons for him to learn, but she can still teach him the one he already started and close to finishing.
It helps that he has an eagerness to train with it too, which was evident since they returned to the cart. It is beneficial for her, and to an extent, for him to learn and master the weapon so he can be at least armed for his other tasks in the forest. And to help defend the felynes from small or minor monster attacks, like what happened last time.
When she showed him the hidden bone glaive she brought, she also explained her proposal and that she explained it and got approvals from both White and Zinnia when she asked for their permission. Plus some positive opinions from 2B and A2 to help bolster her suggestion.
It surprised him at first, since he thought he was going to do something he would dislike. But in the end, the hunting captain was right that 9S would like it and got immediately enthusiastic about training again… and finally have a weapon to carry around to defend himself.
Of course for the latter, Anemone stressed to him that he won't instantly be given a weapon and that she'll train him for a few more times before she deems him ready. 9S accepted the conditions nonetheless, since he was really keen to learn and master the chosen weapon he plans to main.
"Tell me again, why did you want to learn the Insect glaive? Most hunters would have started with a simple and easy weapon to learn like the sword and shield before progressing to the harder to learn and more technical weapons." Said Anemone as she watches 9S do another round of the forms they were doing.
"Well, I know what you mean… It's standard that beginning hunters know how to use a few of the weapons that are easy to learn the basics of, like the great sword, sword and shield, and even the hammer. So they can at least be armed when they start doing the field training missions and just learn the rest of the other weapons along the way."
9S finishes the forms he was doing, before he swings the glaive and places it behind him, sheathing it. Anemone motions him to come closer to her as she finds a stump and rock where they can sit and talk. Her assessment of 9S is done and decides to chat with him and let him rest.
"But it gets hard to learn the other technical weapons once you have a certain feel and have a preferred choice from the other weapons you have wielded. So, I thought to better learn all the technical ones while I still have a fresh mind, and…"
"And…?" Anemone saw 9S purse his lips and could guess he is a bit embarrass of what he would say next.
"Well, I think the insect glaive is cool. I thought of it since then, when 2B brought me to the training arena for the first time and I saw a hunter use it. He was jumping around and moving like a pole-vaulting ninja, he looked awesome and I thought he was flying!"
"So the wow factor of the Insect glaive got you too." The hunting captain gave 9S an amused look.
"Yeah…" 9S said sheepishly to Anemone's knowing stare, a bit embarrass to his reason of wanting to learn the Insect glaive.
"But learning of the technical side and its benefits, also got me to want and learn the Insect glaive first. And maybe even make it my main weapon of choice. I mean it sort of fits with what I want my fighting style to be, and to help me in the long run too." He added as Anemone gestures him to continue and explain.
"How so?"
"Well, I'm not as strong as 2B or A2. Not as fast as them either too." 9S admits, knowing that the two siblings are in a level much above him in the physical department.
"But with the Insect glaive, I can boost my own physical prowess and durability to keep up with them or be able to fight in the same playing field like them. So, I wouldn't be a hinderance and I can properly support them. Plus, I prefer to fight by being more mobile and able to move around a monster and try to hit it where it counts."
"And avoid the direct approach, am I correct?"
"Yup! I doubt I can overpower or stun a monster with the force of my swing like other hunters. I prefer to be lean and agile, then hit them where it hurts." 9S proudly said, while Anemone listens and takes in what he meant. She nods her head and understands 9S point.
"I see… Not a bad fighting style and I see you would focus on being mainly a support, but still be able to do direct combat if needed to." Anemone said, more to herself than to the 9S, before she claps her hands and addresses him.
"I have what I need, and I know what I'm going to do for your training in the future. Plus, don't sell yourself short by comparing yourself to the twins. They're older and have trained longer than you so it is expected that they are stronger." The hunting captain stands up from her seat and 9S follows, guessing that their training session is done for the day.
"But I do see one advantage you could have against the two." Anemone said, making 9S quirk an eyebrow in interest.
"Really? What?"
"Your stamina!" The hunting captain said with a raised finger, only for 9S to get confused by her answer.
"My stamina?"
"Well based from my assement, you do have potential to sustain a physical endurance far longer before fatigue. Even with that charm you got around your wrist." She pointed as 9S raises it to let her see. He almost complete forgot about it and that he was wearing it too.
"Really? Are you sure its not the charm making me last longer?" 9S asked, a bit skeptical to the claim now that Anemone pointed out the charm.
"You're still standing right? Even if the charm was helping you, you still done a full hunter's exercise that would leave most panting for air and this is a good benefit for you especially when you are using an insect glaive. You expend a lot of stamina constantly vaulting around." Anemone explained to 9S, who was now slowly being convinced of his new strength and finding it more appealing.
"You think I could improve on it, to the point were I wouldn't need the charm anymore?" He asks with a renew vigor.
"I'm confident that with proper training and the training plan I have for you, hunters may think you have limitless stamina and would convince themsleves that you're juice up with mega dash juice every morning to explain." Anemone said confidently, further exciting 9S.
"Well that's all for today, so let's head back. I'll tell you more about it and the improvements you need to do. Plus some advice too for your self-training, along the way back to White and Zinnia." Anemone said as they begin to return to the others.
"Do I get to keep the glaive?" 9S asks her with a hopeful grin.
"Nope." She denies him.
"Worth a shot." 9S jokingly gets dejected making Anemone chuckle a bit.
"Remember my conditions 9S. You can keep the kinsect though, and I will lend you a none bladed practice glaive I brought with me. Its back at the cart and I was planning to give it to you, so you can at least practice on your free time with your preferred weapon of choice properly."
"I can take that." 9S replied, not minding Anemone's decision. At least he gets to have something that will help him train to use an Insect glaive and maybe even test himself, without the charm he has, on his stamina.
And Here he thought he would be practicing with long branches or make a pole for him to use from the felyne's settlement.
"Nines?"
Anemone and 9S hear a voice as they pause in taking a step further, recognizing it and see someone part a bush in front of them revealing themselves.
"2B what are you doing here?" 9S was surprised that 2B was here and wondered if she is part of the investigation of the black haze.
Then again, if he remembers correctly, it was her party yesterday that have found it in the first place.
"Me and A2 are part of this investigation. We've just arrived a while ago and we were debriefed of what we will do today by the commander. I was sent here after to come get the both of you." She replied, confirming 9S thoughts on the previous matter.
"Hmmm, that means your ride is here too 9S." Anemone said to 9S, who raises an eyebrow.
"Wait my ride?"
"A cart will take you to a check point near the western area, then from there you can head back to the felynes. Besides, we wouldn't want you to trek back to the felynes all the way from here on foot now, would we? You're not even a full hunter or a scout yet. Though that would make a good endurance training, maybe I'll put that in part of your training plan."
"Well that's comforting to know what's in store for my future..." 9S replied with a bit of sarcasm after hearing Anemone's explanation.
"Now that I have found you two, we should head back to the others. More hunters will be arriving, and the Commander and Chief Zinnia would need you there captain, as they arrive." 2B said bringing 9S and Anemone's focus back to the task at hand.
"Understood, thank you 2B." Anemone replied before the three them begin to head back to the others together.
"Oh, I hope you don't mind that I'll be just giving some pointers to 9S. You can listen in to what I'll have to say about 9S' current level of training, then the two you can catch up after." The hunting captain added.
"It's not a problem and I am a bit curious about 9S' current standing. I appreciate that your allowing me to hear about it." 2B replied, catching 9S off guard.
He suddenly felt a bit nervous of 2B hearing of his progress and a mix number of thoughts are running in his head. He's worried about whether she'll be impressed or disappointed by it and he was planning to stop Anemone from saying it to him now and just tell him in private on another time.
But was too late as Anemone began.
"You have nothing to worry about. He actually performed well, much better than before. Hey, did he tell you why he wanted to use the Insect glaive?"
"Oh, yes. I remember him telling me about it after I brought him to the training arena for the first time…" 2B began to tell her side of the story, while telling more details of 9S' interest and, admittingly a bit more embarrassing, reasons for wanting to learn using the glaive.
It didn't make 9S comfortable and tried to cut 2B from saying things too much and from Anemone as well, as she tells 2B about his mishaps of previous training sessions.
Surprisingly, their conversation after that went smoothly and 9S had nothing to worry about and got all the pointers Anemone wanted him to know.
He then began to chat with 2B and tell her that he already found a new place for the felynes and their plans for the next few days.
2B would also share her own experience yesterday and what the guild is planning to do about the black haze in the forest, while omitting their other objective of finding A4 and any trace of the Black calamity. She was told before hand by both Zinnia and the commander to not reveal anything related about it, to him under strict orders from the guild and the confidentiality of their quest.
Though to her surprise and a bit of small joy, 9S revealed that for the first time he doesn't want to get involve with this investigation, for reason unknown but to himself.
It was a small relief for 2B, since 9S would be out of danger from this unknown haze and not be directly involve with it, based from the task the commander gave him.
So for now, nothing in her opinion would complicate her and A2's current task.
The two continued to talk, even after Anemone left them and met up with White and Zinnia and 9S was able to meet A2 briefly before she immediately got to work. 2B told 9S that A2 was a bit under the weather today, which he noticed and didn't ask any more details after since he could guess that the black haze or whatever, is causing some discomfort for her too.
2B decided to add and give 9S some pointers in using the insect glaive, like learning what part of a monster would give a certain extract, and was their topic of choice for conversation until 9S got on to the cart to be taken to the western area of the forest to return to the felynes. He promises that he'll keep in touch and he would visit the village to train with Anemone and hopes that they could meet up sometime.
She also promises him in return to take care and not push herself or A2, in whatever task they'll be doing, and she'll inform him somehow if she's too busy or when she is available for the day.
"So, I may stop by tomorrow so I can finalize my schedule with Anemone and since the felynes are just packing for the big move. You want to meet up or you think you'll be busy here for while?" He asked.
"I feel the latter is the most probable case for tomorrow and the next days. We can try to meet another time but if you want... you can meet up with 6O and let her tell me when you'd be available so we can plan accordingly." 2B told 9S as he nods head in agreement.
"Sure no problem 2B."
After saying their goodbyes to each other and some light teasing from A2, who returned to tell 2B to partner up with her, the two part ways to resume their assigned tasks.
As the cart finally leaves the vicinity, 9S couldn't help but feel excited to return.
"Ohhhh, I can't wait to tell Rogue." 9S said to himself, thrilled to show his monstie his skills on the Insect glaive, as the cart begins to head west.
Author's notes:
Well that's the end of the chapter.
See you guys in the next one!
P.S.
Expect it to come out after two weeks on Friday.