Author's notes:
Hey! It's been a while. I know that haven't updated the fic here in FFNET for quite some time.
I was kinda busy uploading the chapters in AO3. So yeah, NieR: MHST is in Archive of our own and you can read the fic there or here either.
So just you know, this is fic is not dead nor do I have plans of abandoning it. I'm actually more motivated of writing more after learning of the different Monster Hunter news that came out the past days.
It took a while to write this chapter, it's pretty long and has a lengthy omake, but I hope you guys enjoy both of them!
Here is the chapter enjoy!
Walking through the forest as the sun rises above them, 2B and Pod 42 were heading towards the northern area of Whistill forest. To investigate and track the pod of Basarios that sprung up from underground the day before, and the mysterious infected monster chasing them.
It was the current special assignment the guild assigned its hunters to do. For the threat of both a wild pack of stone wyverns and a black blighted apex monster running wild, can cause serious disturbances to the already delicate ecosystem of the forest due to recent events.
"Pod 42, remind me again why our destination is the northern area of the forest? Didn't we search enough of it? I doubt the Basarios would head here where the black blight's influence has spread the most." 2B asked her Palico.
Knowing that they have no method to cure or curb the infection, the black blight has practically taken over the entire northern section of the forest. And has so far remained in the same state in the past days, giving little reason for any monster to return or any hunters to continue to investigate, and instead monitor for signs of change.
Especially with the guild already using the data they've gathered before to pinpoint where the likely source of the infection is. The scholars found that its possible location is a little more Northwest than their earlier conclusion of it being solely at the north.
"Meowster, as I recall, it wasn't just Basarios you and Meowster 9S found the other day but also an infected monster." Pod 42 answered her. "One that is clearly at the top of the food of the chain and as the Royal scrivener captains said before, the one responsible of propagating and retaining the Black blight's presence throughout the forest. Which the captains have also said would treat the infected areas as part of its turf."
"Hence, it's possible it may have claimed the northern area as its territory, I remember... The monster could be roaming around this section of the forest as part of its stomping grounds…" 2B said, nodding in understanding. "I see your point Pod. We may encounter the monster, follow it, and lead us to its den."
She gets now why Pod 42 insisted for them to head to the northern area to investigate, on the chance they'll be able to find tracks of the mysterious monster. While A2 heads south so she can track the Basarios and would engage them happily. Her sister favoring the more action-oriented task, than the 'boring investigating' type and spend who knows how much time getting bored and frustrated of looking for an elusive monster.
'Let the more hidden monsters like the Chameleos cheer in joy' 2B thought amusingly. Knowing her sister wouldn't go out of her way to hunt one because of that reason.
"Pod, do we have to enter or go deeper in the northern forest? I don't recall any of the other hunters reporting new monster dens opening and I only know one which still exist, it being the one 9S found and where I went with Captain Anemone and the party I was with." 2B asked again, as she could see themselves nearing the area.
Greeting them at a distance was the large black haze of the black blight, being radiated by the trees and other plant life. Showing how much of the forest has been infected by the past days and emitting the chilling aura.
Pod 42 shakes his head before replying. "No need Meowster, indeed there are no new reports of new monster dens and I doubt we would find any without a Basarios deciding to dig one out without heading underground—" Just as Pod spoke, at the corner of his eye, he spots something.
"…But I think we found what were are looking for." The white furred felyne points with one paws to a tree, that had a few objects embedded at its side radiating the same black haze of the blight.
Both hunter and felyne move closer, with 2B reaching it first and carefully moves her hand to pluck out one of the objects stuck on the tree. She inspects it and deduce that it was some sort of monster spike or scale, despite the black blight covering its entirety. It was sharp, almost feather like in appearance, and most probably used by the monster as a range projectile to fling at its target.
2B knows a few monster having such abilities, but she couldn't tell which one the spike belongs too. She turns to address Pod and asked for his input. "Pod, can you tell me what monster this spike came from? I can't seem to recall but I know there are only handful that could do something like this."
Her palico comes to her side as she bends down for him to have closer look. "Hmmm… I can think of a few monsters that could match this spike, or maybe this scale? Regardless… But from those I know off, it wouldn't make sense for any of those monsters to be found here in Whistill forest. Since their normal environments where they're found and live in are elsewhere."
Shaking and bowing his head, Pod apologizes. "I'm sorry Meowster, I can't give you clear answer until I'm sure."
"It's okay Pod. We can investigate more. Don't want to jump into conclusions and be prepared for the wrong monster to face." 2B said not minding, they'll find out soon enough once they track it.
Luckily for them, as 2B takes another look at their surroundings, she finds that the monster has left a visible trail for them to follow.
"Pod over there…" 2B points to some trees with similar spikes embedded on them, no doubt done by the monster. "Even if the black blight have driven monsters mad, it seems the behavior to mark their territory is still present."
"And done as a warning to trespassers or intruders. I suggest caution meowster. We may be getting closer than we expected." Pod 42 added, while they begin to follow the row of trees marked by the black blighted spikes.
They find more traces of the monster making its way and seemingly looked to be determined of going somewhere. From broken trees and plants crushed underfoot by large paws to small plant life showing signs of being infected by the black blight. Its haze being projected weakly and unsure what destination it had in mind.
Until they found tracks that both hunter and felyne could not decipher of what species it came from, without consulting a scholar.
"You know Meowster… When the monster dens were unearth, more monsters have been popping out of them too. As I recall even Meowster 9S fought a few blighted Velociprey when it happened. It's quite possible we may be facing a new monster, or new monsters, that originated from a hidden ecosystem away from our eyes, like what Meowster 9S and the Royal scriveners believe in." Pod 42 said sharing his thoughts, as he traced the track on a sheet of paper while his meowster inspected it more.
"I remembered we scrambled to respond quickly because some started to cause a ruckus once they came out. Blighted or not, other hunters have given similar reports of more monsters suddenly popping and coming out of nowhere. And those that were slain have been reported to have come from a different locale as well, based on the studies the scholars in the research center did." 2B replied before turning away from the large footprint to face her palico.
"You really think the stories of hidden ecosystems beneath the ground are true? I still it find hard to believe that some monsters could thrive or spend the rest of their lives underground. Though from recent events, I'm beginning to change my mind about it and be less skeptical."
"I'm not sure myself Meowster if it's true or not. But looks can be deceiving and we could find a startling discovery of a new ecosystem despite looking otherwise." The felyne shrugged before seeing 2B's inquisitive stare and explaining what he meant.
"I mean Meowster 9S did find that bio luminescent moss deep in the caverns, which were inaccessible to us previously. But somehow they thrive and are able to photosynthesize themselves. Maybe we'll find the black blight in a locale uniquely centered on it. Some ecosystems can be born from unusual circumstances and still allow monster's to thrive in them as long there is a way. Our old home, Pod 153 and I, is one example with such places existing."
"Right, you and 153 lived in Naubaka Island and were raised there, correct? I remember the two of you telling us how all the mainland felynes years ago sent their children there for safety against the Black Calamity. When it became too big of threat for everyone in the mainland." 2B said recalling the Pods' tale of their origins when they were young.
Pod 42 nodded, happy that his Meowster remembered and went on talking about it for a bit. "Yes, the island was the safest place at that time for us felynes and most of us were sent there by our tribes as newborns. Because of that, we didn't get the chance to know who our real family were, sadly… But even if we couldn't meet them in the end, we all became each other's family instead and with Chief Mallerie, our village leader, as a grandma to us all. Me and Pod 153 have a lot of good memories living there…Oh the sandy beaches and the fried fish all day."
Pod 42 smiled at the thought, while 2B couldn't help herself from petting him on the head, seeing him happy from the fond memories he was remembering.
"Going back…" Pod 42 cough, bashful for reminiscing, before returning to their previous topic. "Naubaka was a safe place for the felynes is because the entire island has multiple series of hidden valleys we can hide in. At first glance our home may look like an island with just one big mountain, but it is very deceiving and in reality the mountain's image is made by many faces of smaller ones. With overlapping hidden valleys between them.
The monster dens in Naubaka are the pathways and passages to these hidden areas. In turn becoming these hidden ecosystems that monsters would live and thrive in, but a labyrinth to navigate through to get there for outsiders. That would make it even difficult for the Black calamity to fly and search from above to find us. And venturing in would prove to be too much of hassle for anyone unfamiliar to the surroundings."
2B was intrigue hearing this. She didn't know hidden monster dens could be used as entries to hidden locales or used as hiding spots for felynes.
"You wouldn't tell if you were either at the base of the island or at the very bottom passed the sea level, because of the maze-like complexity. Nor would you recognize that you are already approaching the highest valley of the island. All possible because of our location and the sun's rays reaching all the way from the top to the bowels of our island. Casting an obscure view inside the valleys, while giving sunlight for plant life to thrive and create hospitable homes for monsters to make residence in. As long the parameters meet then it's quite possible to find life in irregular places we won't normally have access to. Away from any settlement or human contact …unless they are forced out of their home to ours." Pod 42 said, finishing his lengthy explanation with 2B understanding it.
"I see. As long as there is a way, then life could thrive and flourish... Then its possible a hidden ecosystem beneath us, may have made first contact with the Black Calamity's corpse or rather the Black blight and got infected, then forcing its residence out of their home to avoid it."
2B stands up and looks ahead at the path were they believe would lead to the Blighted monster. "Now we're meeting new monsters we don't normally see around or would have at all because of it. The Black Blight is really disrupting the order of things wherever it goes, hidden or not. Worst-case scenario, I fear if it's not stopped it may bring out more monsters to the surface and maybe awaken something worst and even more dangerous."
"Agreed, but at least our quarry leaves a pretty trail to follow Meowster." Pod 42 said, pointing and spotting more tracks ahead of them. "They seem fresh too, we're getting close to it Meowster."
"Then let's make haste and catch up to it. The guild must know what monster we are facing." 2B order as they both began to follow the tracks further.
They traveled more westward, approaching a cliff that oversees a nice view and from a far, the beginnings of Pondry hills in sight. The tracks continued to appear more numerously, with more spikes embedded on trees and rocks. 2B and Pod 42 were sure that they were getting closer to the monster by the second.
Unaware that they were also getting close to a certain settlement. And unknown to the trouble ahead of them.
"Pod." The hunter and Palico stopped by a river, finding something else that was infected by the Black blight with 2B pointing it out. "The Konchus… they're all dead."
At the bank, just a few meters from the water lay several dead Konchus in varied states of being mutilated and torn apart. Some were barely recognizable with their shells being all broken, cracked and opened, while their bodies were radiating the black haze of the blight.
"You think the monster did this?" 2B asked moving to inspect the remains but Pod 42 stops her from approaching them raising his paw and pointing out to a rustling.
"Not quite Meowster. I think it did something else by spreading the Black blight." Pod 42 said, as a pack of blighted Velociprey burst out to the clearing.
But not jumping out tactically as group to hunt or ambush the hunter and felyne, rather the raptorial wyverns came out in a middle of a frenzy. It was a gang fight with each other, and all members were attacking one another and indiscriminately killing packmates among themselves. Claws and teeth were clashing in a mad frenzy due to the black blight's influence. While the pack remained ignorant to the wide-eyed stares of 2B and Pod 42 witnessing the sight.
"They've already lost their minds. The blighted monster must be spreading the black blight in a much quicker pace and with a higher potency." 2B said watching as the pack have a go at each other, her hand on the hilt of her long sword just in case they turn their attention to them instead.
"Maybe if we're lucky, they'll kill each other Meowster." Pod 42 commented, seeing that most of the Velocipreys are already at their last legs and bleeding profusely that even for a regular monster would be bothered by it.
"Don't be so sure yet, Pod." Just as 2B spoke, a Velocidrome bursts out of the canopy of trees and to the clearing with a distorted roar calling attention to the entire pack.
"EEUUUURRRROOOPPPEEE!" At once the Velocipreys stopped fight fighting each other and turned to their Alpha, who was sporting a menacing glare to keep its pack in line.
The Velocidrome was also taken over by the Black blight and driven mad by it, yet a bit of sanity was left in it to still be able to command its pack. Either to fight together or at least aim all their raging ire to destroy, influenced by the black blight, to a singular target.
In this case, the targets were 2B and Pod 42. Who all the raptorial wyverns noticed and turn their attention to, with their claws and teeth bared at them.
No words were spoken between the hunter and palico, before 2B jumps in to attack first. She swings her long sword with ease and delivers several slashes, cutting through the first of the Velocipreys, while they scramble to back off and dodge her assaults. Most didn't get the chance to escape her strikes though.
The Velocidrome issues orders to gang up on her, while it charges head on to meet the hunter. 2B sees it rushing towards her with a pounce, but she simply raises her blade, looking at first to block the attack, before fluidly delivering a counter strike. Slashing the Velocidrome across its chest.
"EUURRRROPPE" The monster cries out in pain before turning its attention solely on 2B and locking on the hunter. But she was already on the move, dashing around it and delivering strikes to its legs, stomach, and side.
The Velocidrome thrashes in response, trying to hit her but only ends up slamming its own subordinates sending them into the air. While 2B cuts through them, slaying any falling Velociprey while still attacking the Velocidrome, who finally begins to lose itself with the black blight and wildly lunging at 2B in hopes of getting to her.
"Meowster!" With a shout Pod 42 chucks a flash bomb at the Velocidrome, blinding it, giving 2B the opening to slash the Velocidrome's head and neck in its confuse state. 2B then swings her sword in a wide arc cutting the Velocidrome again on its head, making it flinch, before sheathing her blade and getting into a quick draw stance.
The Velocidrome sees 2B pause in her barrage and rushes to bite her but she counters and unleashes an Iai spirit slash, cutting through its body.
"EUUuurrroopppeee…" The Velocidrome lets out one last roar before dying, crumpling to the ground and ending the fight.
2B sheathes her weapon, while Pod 42 approaches her. "Well done meowster. You've slayed the blighted monsters with ease, now they won't be able to spread the blight further."
"True, but that still leaves the elusive one we're tracking. We need to get it before anymore monster are infected. Pod did you see any more tracks?" 2B said, surveying the grounds for any clues while ignoring the slain bodies of the bird wyverns.
"There Meowster." Pod 42 pointed out to line of trees, their trunks this time covered with deep gouges made probably from sharp claws and just ahead of them short of following the river.
2B sees them and nods to Pod 42, before they begin to follow the trail. "Good, let's go—"
"ROOOUUUUUUUUOOOAOOAAAAAAAAARRRR"
A chorus of cries and roars interrupt 2B, forcing the hunter to rush ahead to investigate with Pod 42 following after. Passing through the bushes and trees at the direction of the sounds, they find themselves to a bizarre sight.
There in a clearing, an Azuros stands injured and bleeding, while being ganged up by a Bulldrome, a Yian Kut-ku and another Azuros. All three monsters infected by the black blight, their bodies suffering a variety of wounds which 2B suspects came from the blighted monster and a previous encounter with it.
And now, those monsters were turning their rage on the uninfected fanged beast in their mad state.
The Yian Kut-ku shoots out a ball of fire, on the uninfected Azuros. Hitting it square on the face, with the monster unable to dodge because of its injuries. It could only growl weakly in response before succumbing to its wounds and crumpling to the ground in a dead heap.
2B couldn't help but feel pity for the poor monster, being a victim to the black blight. Pod 42 shared the same sentiments, but he knew they couldn't stay feeling sympathetic to the slain monster, as the threat still remains in front of them.
With their current quarry dead, the blighted monsters were about to set themselves on each other. But again to 2B and Pod 42's dismay, all three monsters sense both of their presence and turn to look at the two. All monsters rumbled a growl, a challenge, getting ready to fight them.
"Pod. Distract the Azuros. I'll handle the Bulldrome and Yian Kut-ku first before I deal with it after." 2B said, while Pod 42 nods his head, accepting his orders.
"Copy, Meowster. But I still can't help but ask if you'll be fine dealing with them both at the same time?" The Palico asked with a hint of concern for his Meowster's safety.
2B simply nods in reply, before responding. "Not my first hunt-a-thon. Blighted or not, I'll be fine."
"I'm just a call away if you need me." Pod said, brandishing his boomerang while 2B unsheathes her long sword once more.
Both begin their approach, slowly walking to their opponents as they begin to growl more and doing intimidating tactics. The hunter and Palico break into sprint once close enough, heading towards their chosen targets. With the monsters responding the same.
The Bulldrome charges ahead of the monsters intending to trample 2B, but she rolls away before lunging straight at the Yian Kut-ku, thrusting her sword at it.
"SQQUUAAAKKK" The Bird wyvern cries in alarm, backing away and bumping into the Azuros. The fanged beast slams it to the side for getting in its way.
"ROOOOAAAARRR!" The Azuros roars and makes it way to 2B, but Pod 42 jumps towards it and throws his boomerang striking its forehead, distracting it. The Azuros visibly shake sits head at the attack, hardly feeling it and instead slightly annoyed. Pod 42 uses its distraction as opportunity to leap towards its face and begins to strike its head with his palico weapon repeatedly. He clings to its face while the bear monster attempts to dislodge him, keeping the fanged beats busy while his meowster deals with the two other monsters first.
2B was already in the middle of fight with the Bulldrome and Yian Kut-ku. It was surprisingly easy to maneuver between the monsters, as the black blight made them too erratic and unfocused. 2B was cutting through them easily as their movements were easy to read and using their own strengths against each other.
Whenever the Bulldrome charged, 2B would lead it towards the Yian Kut-ku and then dodging at the last second, sending it crashing at the other monster. Whenever the Yian Kut-ku would shoot its fireballs, 2B would make sure it was aiming at her before maneuvering behind the Bulldrome to act as her meat shield.
2B then would attack as the monsters incapacitate themselves, delivering several strikes and cutting through their hide and scales. With one last dash at the two monsters, she swings her blade and cuts through them in a single blow. Both fanged beast and Bird wyvern fall to the ground, slain.
With her opponents down, 2B turns her attention back to Pod 42, who was bravely dodging strikes from the Azuros trying to get him off its face. She doesn't waste time in dashing to the monster and delivering quick slashes at its hind legs, making it stumble and imbalance.
Pod 42 sees 2B and jumps off from Azuros before landing beside her.
"Meowster, I spied injuries on its arm braces and neck. Whatever monster attacked it, has weakened it enough to be slayed with a few strikes." He said pointing out the Azuros weak points, as the fanged beast regains its balance.
"Thank you, Pod. Leave it to me." 2B replied to Pod 42, before dashing ahead to the Azuros.
The monster sees her and raises its arms to swipe and slash her with its claws. 2B dodges them easily, before slashing at its legs again, forcing the monster to stand on all fours unable to stand upright from her assault. She maneuvers to attack its front while the Azuros makes a quick swipe with its right paw. Swinging her blade, 2B cuts the right arm first shredding the armored brace and stopping its assault. The Azuros backs away and leans on its left to support itself, before 2B strikes the limb and breaks the other spiked brace on its left arm. The blow topples the monster to the ground, leaving it vulnerable to 2B, who delivers a decisive blow on its wounded neck.
The Azuros lets out a weak pained growl, as it is dies. But to 2B ears, it also sounded of one of relief. As if it was finally put to rest from being tormented by the black blight.
2B sheaths her blade and decides to take a breather, giving herself and Pod 42 a break from fighting. She makes her way to a tree and sits down with her back leaning against its trunk. Pod 42 follows and pulls out a mega potion for her to drink while they rest and recover.
Looking at the Azuros now laying still and with the black haze of its body slowly dissipating, 2B could feel some sympathy to it and the other monsters she's slain in the past infected by the black blight. They may have been monsters, but they were still living organism that didn't deserve suffering from this blight inflicted on them.
"They don't deserve this…" 2B spoke, looking at the clearing and seeing the dead Azuros slain by the infected monsters. The infected monsters and their bodies still radiating the black haze. Its influence still present and infecting the surroundings disgusted 2B.
She feels even more contempt at the Black blight for what it's doing to the environment and the monsters. Driving them mad and making them act unnatural, violent, and going rogue from its influence. It was a small mercy she gave them, putting them down and not letting them be tormented further by the black blight.
"You're right Meowster. We don't know why it's only monsters affected by the blight this way and driving them insane. Though I pity that they are cursed with this affliction as nature is too." Pod 42 spoke solemnly. He didn't like it either of what the blight was doing to the forest and its inhabitants.
"Then if you're good to go, let's resume the search for this monster and slay it so it doesn't infect anything else and spread the black blight further in the forest." 2B said, standing up and getting ready to look for more tracks. Pod 42 simply nods at her, before rising to his feet and leads her back to the river.
"I saw some deep gashes on the ground over on that direction. We may have luck that monster must be following the river's path to somewhere."
"Then we'll follow the river as well."
It didn't take long for 2B and Pod 42 to encounter more trouble as they followed the river. They knew they would, eventually, since they are following a blighted monster. They came along an even bigger trail of destruction and black blight infected plant life.
But it was the cry for help that caught their attention and signaled the start of their next debacle.
"NYAAAAAAAAAA!"
They heard the distress call and recognized it was a felyne's. From how loud it was, they could tell that it was close to them. But before they could make sense of what it meant; they hear another cry that fills them with dread.
"MMRRRRRREEEEEEEEEOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAWWWWWW!"
2B and Pod 42 were spurred to run faster. Going through bushes and scattered trees littered on the ground, just to reach where the call came from. They could hear the sound of a scuffle, of trees being torn down by the monster and the felynes who are trying to get away from it, based on the distress and panic sounds they were making.
The cries for help got louder as they got closer, until they reach clearing and saw a group of felynes cowering under an upturned cart with materials sprawled across the ground in disarray. Right in front of the felynes was the monster antagonizing them, cloak in a black haze and emitting the chilling aura of dread, standing with all of its malevolence.
The blighted monster 2B and Pod 42 were looking for, now in front of them. It's appearance much more discernible to 2B from the last she saw it, and with Pod 42, stood stunned from recognizing its features.
It was a flying wyvern that stood on four legs, the front being larger bladed winged forearms and the back smaller hind legs. Behind the rear legs, it possessed a long tail that made half of its length, with silver spiked scales at the end. Its fur and scales were jet black, darker with the black blight's influence. Its head possessed a beak like snout with sharp fangs, sharp pointed ears like a bat's, and normally yellow eyes that turn red when enraged but are now emitting an eerie purple glow from both of its pupils.
The monster then stands upright and bellows at the sky.
"MMMMMMRRRRRREEEEOEOOOOOOOOEEEAAAAAAWWWWWW!"
Its roar distinct to 2B and Pod 42, leaving no doubt of the identity of the monster they were facing.
"A Nargacuga…" 2B whispered to herself, with Pod nodding in agreement.
2B never thought she would encounter one so soon. Never thought she would be facing the same monster her blades' materials came from. This would be her first encounter of another individual of its species and infected with the black blight, causing some slight trepidation to herself. Feeling some nerves begin to rise, like every time she would face a new monsters in the field, but to a greater degree due to the black blight's clear influence on the monster.
Pod 42 felt the same and shared her unease, knowing that this fight would test them for their lives...
The monster then senses their presence and turns to face them, ignoring the more vulnerable felynes stuck under their cart. It gives a low growl of challenge and slams its tail on the ground as a threat display and intimidation.
2B tensed, knowing that she never faced any Nargacugas during her entire career as a hunter. Not many of these wyverns would make their way to Whistill forest or make their nest here. The chances of encountering one is slim and more so near the areas close to YoRHa. These wyverns would also rather keep to themselves than engage hunters unless it was necessary for them to do so.
As such, 2B doesn't have experience fighting one and would have to rely solely on her instincts and skills to face this monster. Adding caution and strategizing to adapt quickly to its movements, not knowing how erratic the Nargacuga would act due to the black blight. A factor making it more dangerous to her and Pod 42 and the felynes trap in the cart.
Remembering the felynes in distress, 2B steels herself and pushes aside any apprehensive thoughts to focus on saving them. She draws her blade, with the Nargacuga flexing its wing arms in response, getting into a fighting stance before addressing Pod 42.
"Help the felynes while I'll engage it, then take them to safety."
"Affirmative. But how about Meowster? I can't just leave you."
"I can handle myself, prioritize getting them back to the settlement." 2B left no room for arguments as she began to sprint towards the Nargacuga.
She lunges with a slash that the monster avoids easily and retaliates with a claw swipe. 2B swiftly dodges and begins to lead it away now that she has its attention and the Nargacuga is distracted from noticing Pod 42 stealthily making his way to the trapped felynes.
Once she knew they were at safer distance from the fight, 2B then engages the Nargacuga more vigilantly. Swinging her long sword and meeting the wyverns own assaults, clashing with its claws and bladed wings. The Nargacuga was swift and fought using its agility dodging 2B's attacks as she dodges its own but was at advantage of easily parrying her strikes with its bladed fore arms.
The Nargacuga then swings its tail in a 360-spin, intending to knock 2B off the ground or cut her apart with the sharpened spikes at the end of its tail. She rolls under, feeling the wind ripple past her back as the tail sails through before she rises and uses the opportunity to slash the wyvern's torso.
Her blade meets the Nargacuga's hide, but it bounces off with a resulting clang. 2B leaps back and away from the wyvern, alarmed from discovering that her weapon isn't sharp enough to pierce its hide and now learning she doesn't have the means to harm it. She muffles a curse fon her predicament, promptly dodging the Nargacuga lunging at her while she thinks of a way to fight it.
The Nargacuga growls and paws its claws on the ground as if taunting her for her weapon's ineffectiveness. It's mad expression concealing an amused one at 2B's misfortune.
"MRROEEOOOOWWWW"
The wyvern lets out a distorted roar, resuming its assault at 2B and forcing her to back away from its wider attacks, while her blade continues to bounce uselessly from its body. 2B knows she wouldn't be able to last the fight at this rate nor be able to fight the Nargacuga effectively with the level of her current equipment.
She could only hope that Pod 42 was done getting the felynes out as she continues to distract the monster, bobbing weaving through trees and large bushes as the Nargacuga tears through them to reach her. Fortunately, at the corner of her eyes, 2B notices Pod 42 pulling the last of the felynes from the cart while the rest begin to scatter and flee the night.
Unfortunately, the Nargacuga paused and turns to look back at the upturned cart, as if sensing that its prey were escaping. It spots the felynes in the middle of the act.
"MMRRREEEOOOOWWWW!"
The Nargacuga gave a short roar before charging at the fleeing felynes, ignoring 2B and her attempts to coax it's attention back to her. Failing to do so, 2B was then forced to run after it, planning to overtake the Nargacuga and hopefully block it from attacking the felynes.
The felynes see the approaching pseudo-wyvern, fear striking their furry hearts, and all began to panic and flee. Attempting to run deeper in the forest and no doubt back to settlement.
"Wait! Hold on! Don't start carrying me! —My Meowster needs me!" 2B spots Pod 42 protesting and now being carried away with by the frantic felynes, their speed doubling. This led to aggravating the large wyvern further to chase them more.
Muttering slight inconveniences to this unfortunate events, 2B quickens her pace and sprints to follow them. Her legs burning to keep up with the Nargacuga.
She leapt over fallen trees, bobbing, and weaving through multiple bushes and trailing just to keep the Nargacuga's tail in her line of sight. Until they all emerged out into a valley with a large clearing and a river split in between, the body of water originating from a waterfall and cliff at the end. The statue of a muscular felyne stood vigilant at one side of the waterfall's cliffside, marking the entrance to what would be the felynes' Settlement.
Which 2B deduced and guessed that she indeed stumbled into Whistill's settlement, based on all the other felynes who were out in the valley doing their work.
Until they saw the Nargacuga and their fleeing brethren, which then cause them to now run and retreat to the hole their entrance is, to escape the flying wyvern terrorizing them. Reminding 2B too that there is now a monster threatening their entire village.
"MMMRRREEEEOOOOOOWWWW!" The Nargacuga roars announcing its presence before it begins to pounce on any unsuspecting felynes.
A felyne that didn't look to be heading back to the safety of their settlement with the rest, was singled out and was targeted by the Nargacuga.
2B takes her cue to intervene and rushes to stab the flying wyvern's side, but again her blow bounces harmlessly. Yet it still caught the Nargacuga's attention, who growls in irritation before swiping at 2B with its claws. She evades quickly and rolls to get between the monster the felyne who she saved.
"Get to safety!" She ordered to the unknown felyne but didn't look back if it followed her command, hopeful that it got to safety. 2B instead focused on the Nargacuga and launches herself at it to continue to fight and keep its attention to herself.
The Nargacuga meets her head on, claws and bladed wings bared, slashing at 2B, and parrying her own strikes from her long sword. 2B keeps up, despite the monster's quick speed and agility, dodging with ease and running her blade to slash despite her weapon not sharp enough to pierce its body. As she moves, 2B attempts to analyze any weak points or areas in the Nargacuga's body that is softer for her weapon to cut through.
Yet to 2B's dismay, it seemed every part of its body is too thick for her to cut through. She suspects that the black blight must have strengthen its body, adding with the increased aggression and ferocity. There is no way for 2B to win this fight alone and knows that she'll need help to bring this monster down.
"MRREEEOOOWW!" The Nargacuga leaps back from 2B and unfurls it's tail spikes, jutting them out from the end of its tail. It waves it tail around in the air in circular motion before flinging and firing several bladed scales at her direction. 2B quickly dodges and even swings her blade to deflect some shots, but a single projectile was able to skim her right arm chipping the amor on that side.
A close call, 2B noticed that the scale didn't cut through deep enough to draw blood from her and her armor was just lightly damaged. Though, she made a mental note to upgrade both her weapons and armor once she gets through this, seeing how outmatched she was currently.
2B grits her teeth at the fact that she was not prepared or rather did not expect to face a formidable monster with her current equipment. She'll try to make do with what she has now against the Nargacuga. But without any way to hurt it, 2B could tell this fight is pretty one-sided in the Nargacuga's favor and she might as well be a sitting duck until she expires with exhaustion.
"MMRRRREEOEOWWWW"
The Nargacuga itself was not showing any signs of discomfort or fatigue and continues to alternate between trying to maim 2B with its claws or flinging more sharp projectiles at her, as the hunter continues to dodged. Suddenly, the Nargacuga leaps towards 2B, before maneuvering with unnatural grace into a somersault midair and whipping its tail at her.
The unexpected move catches 2B off guard and sends her crashing against the cliff wall with a muffled cry. She felt the pain searing her back, even as she slid back to the ground. It was heavy blow and it took 2B a second to shake it off, before standing to a stance with her blade poised to attack.
The Nargacuga charges straight at her and for split second, 2B gains an idea. She sheaths her blade and draws her carving knife instead and waits as the Nargacuga gets closer. Once she saw that it was close, 2B leaps towards the Nargacuga's head, using it like a springboard to leap over the air.
The Nargacuga, distracted from 2B's maneuver, was unable to stop its charge and crashes at the walls side. It bellows in pain, while 2B mounts its back and then brings down her carving knife, beginning to stab the Nargacuga relentlessly. The pseudo-flying wyvern begins to buck and run wild trying to dislodged her, running around the clearing, and even thrashing around the river in haphazard attempts to get rid of its unwilling rider.
2B continues to hold on and not relinquished her position on its back. She may not be as skilled in staying mounted on top of monster like 9S, but she proves to be capable of enduring the random jerk movements of the monster. She would have found it fun riding the Nargacuga under different circumstances, like the days with A4 and their Bulldrome rodeos. But she was clinging on the monster and attacking with a different intention of stopping it, no matter how unorthodox her course of action was to do it.
2B knows that her long sword couldn't pierce through its hide, but her carving knife can and could currently be the only means to deal any damage against the monster, despite being smaller and less effective. Yet, 2B was determined and not deterred by this set back. She is willing to try anything to stop the Nargacuga to protect the felynes and the settlement that 9S and Pod 153 spent a month building and raising. Even it means she'll have to keep riding a bucking monster and stab it to death to slay it.
"MMMMMRRRRREEEEEEOEOOOOOOOOWWWWW!" The Nargacuga releases cries of frustration that 2B could feel perched on its back. It was getting more irritated and erratic with it movements the longer she was riding it, and unfortunately harder for her to cling on safely.
It made a sharp turn that forced 2B to ceased her stabbing and begin to put her all of her strength and focus on not getting thrown off. She didn't how long she'll have to crouch and grip on her unwilling stead, but her saving grace came from Pod 42 who was shouting at her.
"MEOWSTER JUMP OFF!" At the corner of her eyes, 2B spots Pod 42 and an assortment of felyne heads peeking out of openings in the top of the cliffside she didn't notice earlier.
With some felyne designed cannons to boot standing right beside them, primed and ready. This was no doubt the reinforcements 2B needed at the moment.
Heading her palico's advice, 2B leaps off the Nargacuga's back and moves to safer distance under the cliff's wall and far from the range of fire.
The Nargacuga took a second to realize that she was gone from its back, but then was too late to notice the cannons felynes trained on it.
"FIRE!" Pod 42 shouted, with all the cannons beginning to fire and pepper the flying wyvern with explosive rounds.
2B was surprised that Whistill's felynes had any sort of weaponry to defend themselves and their settlement. But 2B grinned softly to herself, remembering 9S was involve in a lot of the settlement's establishment and wouldn't be surprise that he added explosives to their defenses.
Yet despite the small comfort of the felynes having a means to attack and combat the Nargacuga, it wasn't enough and eventually the felynes would have run out of ammo. Which they did with the Nargacuga thoroughly pissed from their actions. Unfortunately, its body looked no worse for wear and simply shrugged the remaining burns it had on its body, before standing upright and drawing a deep breath.
"MMMMMMMMMRRRRRREEEEEEEOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWW"
The flying wyvern roars, entering its rage state, with both of its eyes glowing blood red. It releases it ire against the felynes by shooting more black spikes from its tail. Aiming at the windows of the settlement, sharp projectiles fly through the air straight at them, forcing Pod 42 and the rest of the felynes to duck for cover. The cannons though, were thoroughly shredded and rendered useless with multiple cuts.
The Nargacuga doesn't cease its assault and then pounces at the cliff wall with great impact. The force shaking the entire wall and forming small cracks on the side. While in the inside, the felynes felt the tremors of the monster trying to break in while they scramble to get their other defenses up.
2B moves to intercept, drawing her long sword again and slashes at the Nargacuga, despite knowing the futility she knows from striking the monster. This draws back the monster's attention back to her, but it moves instantly for a quick swipe that nearly grazes her leg. 2B responds with a quick slash at its eyes, causing the Nargacuga to flinch back with panic shrieked before it swiftly turns around and slams 2B again with its tail in retaliation.
The blow sends 2B flying back in the air and crashing straight towards a tree, the force of the impact she made uprooting it and exploding the wood into splinters. 2B laid helpless on the ground as she lands with a groan. She knew that she needed to heal quick and forces to lift herself off the ground and get a potion out to drink.
But she was feeling slow and the Nargacuga was rapidly descending towards her, roaring and running towards her position. She doesn't know if she'll be quick enough to dodge and grab a healing item to quickly give her strength. She grits her teeth and glares with defiance against the Nargacuga, while forcing and urging her body to stand.
Just when she thought it was too late and the Nargacuga makes a leapt towards her, 2B hears a familiar cry and watches as A2 descends from the air with her blade drawn.
"AAAAARRRRRGGGHHHH!" With a battle cry, 2B watches her sister slash the Nargacuga's neck, but like her own strike before bounces off with a sounding clang. Though it did the trick of halting the flying wyverns charge towards her and A2's assault even caused the Nargacuga to take a few steps back, The monster showing signs of feeling stung by the attack.
"A2!" 2B cries with relief, while she finally gets her bearings and stands. She rushes to A2's side quickly, with both hunters then facing the Nargacuga, weapons drawn.
"Hey, glad we made it. Heard the news from a felyne that there was trouble here. You okay?" A2 asked, as both of them begin to circle the Nargacuga wearily, as the monster mirrors them.
"Fine. A bit rough up though." 2B replied tersely, before rolling away as the Nargacuga makes the first move and pounces towards them. They jump away from each other to avoid getting crushed under by the wyvern, splitting up and keeping the monster disoriented to who it will attack first.
"Wait. Did you say we?" 2B asked as she dodges a claw swipe.
"Yeah! I met up with 9S and we got here together—Woah!"
A2 ducks from a tail swing and then moves to slash the Nargacuga but is parried by the monster's own bladed wings sending her back a few steps.
The flying wyvern growls and then begins to swing its tail to slam either of the two. 2B and A2 were able to maneuver and avoid any of strikes before they attempt to retaliate with quick slashes but prove again to be ineffective. The hardened scales of the Nargacuga continue to prove to be formidable, no doubt this benefit from being infected by the black blight proving to be a nuisance to the two.
"We can't fight it like this, its scales are stronger with the black blight! Our weapons aren't sharp enough to pierce its hide!" 2B said, before remembering the latter of what A2 said and adds a bit with alarm. "Wait, you brought 9S here!"
"Yeah!" A2 replied with a bit of enthusiasm to 2B's shock. "It's his settlement with Whistill! So why wouldn't he come here to help?! And Trust me he's bringing the Cavalry!"
"Why—what—he's going to FIGHT?! Do you not see the large blighted monster in front of us?!" 2B yelled indignantly, trying to keep her focus on fighting the Nargacuga while at same time trying to contain her anger at A2 for bringing 9S to fight that may be too dangerous for him. Adding to her concern to when 9S would suddenly pop out.
Before A2 could give her a proper reply, the Nargacuga begins to fling its tail spikes at the two hunter. Forcing them to dodge and duck or outright deflect the sharp spikes being fired at them. Fortunately, as they continue to avoid and weave through the monsters assault, 2B and A2 were able to duck behind a tree together as cover. Before several spikes embedded themselves on the trunk instead of them if they were as second slower.
"What do you mean cavalry? Is this another of his inventions or the thing he was keeping a secret about?" 2B asked A2, who was now getting nervous from her prodding.
"A bit of the latter… Well its—Okay it's hard to explain. But don't get mad and I promise the two of us will explain later once everything is over. Just trust us …and don't freak out?" A2 asked to 2B's confusion, and rising trepidation to what 9S is probably going to bring to the fight.
Seeing the look 2B was giving, A2 made to quickly reassure her. "Just trust me or trust 9S. He's going to be the edge we need to slay this thing."
2B was about to ask again to what 9S is going to do, but she bit her question back as the Nargacuga smashes the tree they were hiding into splinters. Again 2B and A2 were forced to dodge the Nargacuga's claw swipes and avoid getting cut by its bladed wings.
The two hunters were forced to the edge of the river by the Nargacuga, trapping them between itself and the running water behind them. 2B and A2 face the flying wyvern with grim expressions as the monster stalks closer, knowing that they can't escape.
But just as it makes its next move, 2B hears a roar she's never heard before. One that causes A2 to smirk and mutter 'it's about time' under her breath.
The Nargacuga hears it too and pauses from its approach to identify where the sound is coming, until suddenly the roar returns louder and right behind it.
"GRRRROOOOAAAAAH!"
Falling from the air, 2B watched as a small Deviljho clamps down its jaws on the Nargacuga's neck. And riding the smaller monster was 9S giving a war cry.
"RAAAAHHHH!"
"MRRREEEOOOOWWW!"
The Nargacuga replies with cries of pain, jostling the Brute wyvern to let go, but it only made the jaws grip tighter on its neck. 2B and A2 watch as the flying wyvern begins to thrash around to dislodge a literal pain on its neck, while they remain in a safe distance.
2B herself, stood rooted on her spot, stunned with her mouth gaping. While A2 cheers at the sight of 9S and the Deviljho lock in combat with the Nargacuga. The pseudo-flying wyvern trying to thrash off the latter's jaws, and its vice like grip from its neck. Even attempting to bite the other monster, but the Deviljho avoids them and maneuvers to keep its mouth enclosed on its quarry's neck.
The two monster continue to wrestle each other while 9S continues to grunt and shout support for the brute wyvern, who 2B momentarily forgot was riding the damn thing.
Allowing herself for the small sense of ease with the blighted Nargacuga incapacitated, albeit as long as the Deviljho keeps its jaws on it, 2B decides to turn her attention back to A2 and demand some answers.
To understand what the hell is happening before something else comes up that will freak her out. She was already freaking out internally and at disbelief from what she is seeing before her, with 9S and the Deviljho, and was now finding it hard to ask what she was going to say to her sister.
A2 could sensed her gaze, turning away from the fight to look at her with a nervous and sheepish expression, a rare occurrence to happen on her. She was about to say something but 2B cut her off with a stern monotonous voice.
"That's a Deviljho."
"I know." A2 replied casually, despite the look her sister was giving her.
"That's 9S…riding a Deviljho." Said 2B, pointing at the boy riding the miniature world eater, her monotone voice leaking a bit of fear that escaped her.
"I know." A2 replied with slight tone of admittance under her sister's gaze.
"He's riding a ****ing Deviljho."
"Yup."
A2 was surprise that 2B could still sound monotonous, despite swearing and the subject of her sentence.
"What the ****!"
Until 2B yelled with unrestraint disbelief and increduility, with A2 agreeing to her sister's outburst.
"I said that too!"
2B couldn'thelp but raise her voice to ask "Did you know about this?! Is this the thing he was keeping a secret about?! Why didn't you tell me—"
"Woah, woah. I just found about it today like you!" A2 was quick to put her hands up in defense and to placate her sister so she could explain.
"Today? What happened today that involved you finding 9S riding a Deviljho?! I thought you were tracking one of the Basarios that fled yesterday?" 2B asked with an impatient tone.
"Yeah, I was! Then I met 9S along the way—and his monstie, plus the felynes—Then a blighted Basarios appeared…" A2 replied before mumbling her next words. "Then got into a fight with it…and almost got trapped in a cave in…"
"WHAT!?" 2B yelled again, with A2 wincing at the volume of her shout.
"Look. Can we just finish fighting the Blighted Nargacuga first? Before you could go on and bitch about what we did today?" A2 said, clearly annoyed at 2B's I'm-really-worried-shock-angry-at-you-two-and-I'm-trying-to-scold-you attitude.
"I think you can see right now, slaying that flying wyvern is our top priority. Less we let it destroy the settlement, and then you won't be able to hear 9S out on about everything he's kept from you." A2 pointed out, to 2B's bitter agreement that she was right.
"9S told me, he promised to tell you everything." A2 added. "So if you quit your complaining, the sooner we get this job done, the sooner you get your answers from him. Kay?"
With huff and knowing her sister was right again, 2B swallows whatever frustration she has and replies curtly. "Fine."
2B then calm's herself and properly adjusts herself coolly, remembering that they were still in a fight and that it is not the time to ask questions and answers when there is a monster threat present. Especially when a monster is fighting 9S and his monster steed.
2B suddenly realizes she completely forgot about the two and that she practically left them to fend for themselves while she was busy interrogating A2.
"Shit. 9S. He's fighting by himself against that blighted monster." 2B said, before turning to A2. "So what's the plan? Our weapons can't pierce that monster's hide and so far we haven't made a dent on it until 9S arrived."
"9S told me, he and Whistill had defense protocols and anti-monster plans to deal with it. The felynes are preparing it right now in the settlement and we just need to buy them some time. Anything other than that, nothing much else. But right now, seeing we can't do shit at that Nargacuga, I guess we wait or jump in when 9S needs our help." A2 shrugged before looking back at the fight between Rogue and the Nargacuga.
"So we're just going to stand here and let 9S and his… Deviljho, fight by themselves until Whistill's plan is ready?" 2B asked incredulously. Not sure if A2 was serious of letting 9S and his monster fight it off.
Briefly, 2B makes a small note to herself to ask more questions about the Deviljho later. Questions like 'how the hell did 9S acquired and tamed one' and 'if he was in a completely right mind for attempting to train one in the first place'.
"We're not going to stand and do nothing 2B. I did say we'll jump in to help, just not right now." A2 spoke nonchalantly before her voice takes a proud tone. "You'll be surprise to what he's capable of and what he and Rogue could do together. Trust and have some faith in him, 2B. He'll just need to soften up that Nargacuga and then our blades will be cutting through its skin in no time."
"Wait, Rogue? Who's Rogue?" 2B asked, with A2 pointing back at the fight as her answer.
"The Deviljho—And look, see! The Boys got this!" A2 cheered, making 2B turn back to the fight as well.
She watched as the Deviljho pulls its jaws off, in manner of ripping a chunk of flesh out of the Nargacuga's neck, making the flying wyvern squeal in pain. Both 2B and A2 wince at the brutal act.
The brute wyvern proceeds to bash the Nargacuga back while it's distracted by its wound, with a tail slap to its head and a head butt striking its midsection. Before delivering a full body slam against the Nargacuga, the Deviljho shoulder tackling it to the edge of the river.
2B and A2 watch as the Nargacuga recovers from the assault and stands with an anger growl, seemingly shrugging off the previous blows and ignoring the bleeding wound on its neck. They could tell the flying wyvern was going to make a comeback and attack but before the monster could do anything, the Nargacuga was suddenly hit by a stream of dragon energy and blasted over into the river creating a large splash of water.
Rogue puffs out excess dragon energy from his attack, while 9S searches the water's surface for anything of the Nargacuga's presence. Even 2B and A2 watch with anticipation if the flying wyvern will jump out of the water.
Shortly it did, with an enrage roar.
"MMRRRRRREEEEEOOOWWWW!"
The Nargacuga was too quick for 9S or Rogue to respond, and both rider and monstie were struck by a quick claw swipe and then slammed by the wyvern's long tail. Sending them flying into the air from the heavy blow.
"9S!" 2B shouted with panic as she watched both boy and monster sail a few feet in the air, before Rogue rolls around in the ground with 9S still clinging on his back. A new wave of panic and worry seeps through 2B, fearing that 9S might have been crushed under the weight of his monster. She rushes to the place where they landed with A2 following in suit, fearing the same.
Luckily both boy and monster landed in heap just a distance from them, yet both figures remained unmoving, with 9S seemingly squashed under the Brute wyvern. Fearing the worst of seeing a bloody and armored pulp, 2B hesitated of getting closer to look, but took a step back when the Deviljho suddenly stirred.
As the brute wyvern rights itself, to 2B's surprise and disbelief she found 9S, still clinging and seated on the saddle, miraculously alive and not showing any sign getting crushed under the weight of his monster.
"Oooowww…uuuuhhhh…" 2B could hear him groan in pain and saw he looked mildly unscathed. He was covered by a bit of dirt and soil, but also a faith blue light encompassing his entire being.
Light shining seemed to originate from his choker before disappearing, as the Deviljho stands to its full height. Shaking its head of the dizziness felt from the hit it took, like it was a bad headache.
"Oh my Gog. I thought I was dead!" 9S cried out in relief and amazement, no doubt sharing 2B's thought of him miraculously surviving getting crushed under a monster. She watched as he takes deep breath and thumps his chest with a fist, before checking himself for any injuries.
Seeing nothing wrong, 9S then began to praise what he believes to be the circumstances to his survival. "Thank you Kinship! Thank you hunter armor! Thank you Rogue!" He patted Rogue on the side while saying the latter of his statement.
"I felt you taking most of the hit buddy. I'm so glad I got a tough monstie with me and—2B?!" 9S then caught 2B staring at him, causing her to shake off her stunned shock and immediately got into his space, asking if he was alright.
"9S! Are you okay? Are you alright? How are you not crushed? Why did you glow or why did your choker glow?" She continued to fuss over him, not minding if she was close to the Deviljho or how confused and slightly mortified 9S was from seeing her. She kept grabbing his arms, legs or whatever else she could get a hold of him to check if he were okay, until 9S grabs her hands to stop.
"2B, I'm fine." 9S said with a small smile to reassure her. Hoping his simple words could put her at ease. Oddly enough it did, with 2B releasing a breath and coolly returns a small smile of her own.
"You're too reckless for your own good. You nearly gave me a heart attack." 2B said, her tone teasing but still edged with worry.
"I know. I'm sorry… I didn't mean to make you worry…" 9S replied with a sheepish grin before his expression turns to one of worry. "And I guess you may have some questions right now…"
9S gestured towards to how he was saddled on top of a monster, reminding 2B of her close proximity to the brute wyvern. She hears a small rumble and turns to look at the Deviljho, who's head was turned and bent at an angle to look at her.
It also titled its head to the side, as if looking at her with an inquisitive gaze and somehow making its Glasgow grin look like a timid one.
"Oh, ah… Hello?" 2B greeted wearily, unsure how to interact with the monster. She even gave its side a pat with hand, hoping the gesture would convey peace.
"Grrr…." The brute wyvern growls softly in reply and doesn't make move against her. Only calmly looking at her and didn't acted out aggressively even when she was close and invaded its personal space to get to 9S. This behavior intrigued 2B for a moment.
Before her mind went to speculate how odd this was from the brute wyvern, 9S coughs getting her attention back to him.
"Okay, I feel the need to introduce the two you to each other." 9S said before gesturing the two to one another. "So 2B, this is Rogue, he's my monstie—err the simply the monster I hatched, raised and am riding on as you can see… And Rogue this is 2B. She's the hunter I was always talking about and the one I promised to introduced to you…"
9S then looks back to 2B and begins to ramble. "I know that this isn't the best place to introduce you guys. But I will tell you everything later—And I'm sorry for keeping Rogue and anything else I'm going to say a secret of few—I have a good reason if you hear me out and—"
"Nines." 2B suddenly cuts in with firm tone, making 9S paused. "A2 already told me you'll tell me everything later. Once we're done dealing with that blighted Nargacuga."
"So, it's okay. I understand." 2B said, with 9S nodding along.
He then had a worried expression before asking softly. "…Are you mad at me?"
2B pursed her lips, not even sure herself if she was. "That remains to be seen."
9S deflates and looks with downcast eyes at the ground, feeling a bit of shame and sadness from her answer. Yet, 2B takes a hold of his hand making him look at her.
"But I just want to you know, I still trust you. You haven't betrayed my trust in you." 2B said softly, reassuring him with a small smile.
"You did promise before you'll tell me, and I could guess something came up forcing you to reveal… this to me early." She gestured at him and Rogue entirely. 9S nodded his head in reply to her guessed, confirming it true.
"I may have felt a bit overwhelmed from everything I've just seen." 2B admitted, before squeezing his hand in reassurance. "But I can hold my questions for later once everything is over."
9S sighs in relief and gives squeezes 2B's handing return. "Thanks 2B. I'm glad you still trust me. I promise, I will tell you everything and spare no details later."
2B smiled and added with a teasing tone. "Good. Something tells me you have a lot of interesting things I want to know."
"You have no idea." 9S answered back with equal mirth. Both were glad about the easy atmosphere between them, despite their current predicament.
Which they were reminded off by A2 shouting at them from a distance. "If you two love birds are done! I COULD USE SOME ****ING HELP HERE!"
2B, 9S and Rogue then turn to the sight of A2 fighting the Nargacuga and keeping its attention to herself, no doubt distracting it while they settled with whatever grievances they supposedly had with each other. The three panicked and all felt sheepish from A2 handling the Nargacuga while they were occupied. With plans to quickly rectify their mistake and come to her aid quickly.
They noticed her attacks still bounced off in some places of the flying wyvern's body, but some of her strikes were able to cut through the weaken areas Rogue made from their scuffle. From this observation, 9S begins to formulate a plan.
"GRRRRROOOOAAAAAAHHHHH!"
Rogue roars, asking to be part of the fight again, with 2B and 9S agreeing with the monster as he begins to charge to where A2 and the Nargacuga are. 2B follows jogging along at his side trying to keep up, before addressing 9S.
"How long until your plan with Whistill is finished being prepared." She asked.
"Hopefully soon. But he's working as fast as he can right now. He'll give a signal once he's done. The best we can do right now is keep the Nargacuga's attention and put the hurt on it, as much as we can to weaken it." 9S replied.
"Then how do we propose to that? You've noticed our weapons aren't sharp enough to pierce its hide."
"Yeah but Rogue's teeth can, and he can break its scales too and weaken its armor. Enough until your blades can easily pierce it. You saw A2, her blade is cutting through the spots where Rogue damage it. We'll tenderize the Nargacuga's hide and the two of you can shred it to ribbons."
"I guess that's the plan then… I like it." 2B grinned.
"Glad you do." 9S replied with his own grin.
Both gave a determined gaze and a firm nod to each other before jumping into the fray and joining A2. 2B runs to her sister's side, while Rogue and 9S dash past them straight towards the Nargacuga.
"GROOAAAHHH!" With a roar, Rogue charges and tackles the Nargacuga's torso before chomping down and tearing off the scales on its right side.
The Nargacuga shrieks in pain and attempts to retaliate by flipping back and swinging its tail down to smash them, its spike unfurled to add more injury. But Rogue dodges the strike, leaping away and leaving the Nargacuga with its tail stuck to the ground. Forcing it to try to pull it out but leaves it open to attack by 2B and A2, who swing their blades with precise skill to cut at its neck and side were its wounds are.
"REEIIH!" The Nargacuga releases a high pitch squeal, grunting and leaping away from its adversaries. Putting some considerable distance between them and itself.
The flying wyvern stares at them, its expression somehow showing that it has come to a realization that its losing favor of the fight. Nevertheless, the blighted monster growls and the black haze surrounding it flares up, projecting itself as not one ready give up a fight.
9S, Rogue, 2B and A2 stare back with heated glares, showing their own conviction of not backing down either. The Nargacuga roars, before they all rush towards the monster.
Meanwhile within the Felyne settlement.
"153, I'm glad that you're here safe. And brought both meowster A2 and 9S for backup." Pod 42 said while hugging Pod 153.
She nuzzled back on his neck warmly. "I'm glad that you're okay too. I got so worried when that felyne ran into us and told that you and meowster 2B were fighting a blighted Nargacuga."
Around the two the felynes, the rest of Whistill's villagers were running around and following the orders being dictated to them by Whistill. The felyne chief was rapid firing his words making sure all of his villagers were accounted for and their monster defense protocols are being followed for their safety.
"Nya! Get the meowzer cannons back in tip top shape! Prepare the all the cluster bombs we bought from Jackass, Nya! Fortify the windows and our entrance!"
Both Pod 42 and Pod 153 pull back from their hug and turn to address to Whistill.
"Now that you are here, what's the plan? I'm sure meowster 9S and you have made several contingency in case a monster would attack or try to reach your Lunar tears. Which I might add, is quite an amazing find you have here, and I see why you wanted to settle here." Pod 42 asked Whistill, while praising the Lunar tear garden they had in the center of their village.
"Oh, Thank you Nya." Whistill beamed at the praised before adding "And if you must know we do have a secret weapon, Nya! It's being brought up to the windows and platforms as we speak!"
The felyne chief then pointed to a large object covered by a tarp being pushed to a ramp leading to the windows by several felynes. Though one felyne with a beret was riding the thing and shouting orders and waves of encouragement to his brothers bringing the thing up.
"Nya, is that what I think this is?" Pod 153 asked with surprised, with Whistill nodding his head.
"Yup! LeoMeowdo's Banes is finished and ready, Nya! Show them Boys!" Whistill shouted to the felynes, who were now securing the object in place.
The felyne with the beret heard Whistill and dropped down from his position and called the other felynes to help remove the tarp and unveil the hidden object within.
Which was a miniature and heavy modified ballista minigun.
"Holy Magala! Where the heck did you felynes gets a ballista minigun!" Pod 42 exclaimed in surprise.
"Meowster found it with Rogue a while back, in one of their monster den spelunking trips." Pod 153 answered and explained further. "It looked to be one of the old designed ones for ancient bowguns and they brought it here thinking it would be useful for the felynes and helped rebuilt it with specific modifications."
"Nya, it shoots dragon pods and other sorts of ammos we could craft with. And we call it LeoMeowdo's bane for… Well technically we call it that because of the plan involved we made with Nyain-es." Whistill said and then chuckle adding. "After a certain dragon breath shenanigan we had days before hehehe…"
"Clearly, you haven't been telling me everything about the things meowster 9S and his Deviljho have found. But it looks to be just what we need for this fight." Pod 42 said to Pod 153 with amusement but also finding it fortunate that they have a weapon to help fight off the Nargacuga their Meowsters were fighting.
Whistill suddenly gasped and noticed something about Pod 42 and his casual mention of Rogue, turning to Pod 153 with shock. "Wait a second Nya. Pod 153?! You told Pod 42?! Like about everything, Nya?!"
The black furred felyne gave a sheepish nod was drawing circles with her foot.
"I did and I'm sorry. I couldn't keep it a secret to Pod 42." She apologize quickly, while Pod 42 came to her defense.
"Please don't be mad with her. Most of the time, whenever we're stress about things we rant to each other. And since we're paired, we hear each other out and just be there for each other."
"And well I might have slipped a few times of getting a heart attack from my Meowster's recent antics, you know…" Pod 153 added a bit bashfully.
Whistill simply nodded with understanding, knowing much and wasn't mad. "Well, I don't blame you. Since, clearly the things Nyain-es has been doing—Wait a second Nya you guys are paired?!"
The felyne chief caught on to the other detail, of the two palicos being essentially married in their culture and gave an excited squeal and cheered in joy. "Since when?! I could have gifted you two something nice for tying the knot, Nya!"
Both felynes visibly blushed and their paws were clasped together, while explaining to the felyne chief briefly.
"It was a long time ago, before we met Chief Zinnia and our Meowsters don't know. It's not something we think of a big deal to share." Pod 42 said, with a shy wave of his paw.
Pod 153 did the same gesture adding. "No need for gifts Whistill, really. We're happy with what we have and where we are."
"I could see that Nya! You two look really cute and loving together Nya!" Whistill teased with a smile, eliciting more blushes from the couple and the rest of the felynes in the settlement cooing their 'aaawww' for them too.
The sound of the entire settlement aweing at Pod 42 and Pod 153, pausing in their work, caused Whistill's expression to change and remember that they still have a fight on their hands.
"Oh shoot! You guys can tell me more details later. We've still got a Nargacuga to fight, Nya! Back to work Felynes!" Whistill ordered before heading towards the minigun with Pod 42 and Pod 153 following him, shaking off from their cutesy moment and remembering that their Meowsters are still fighting outside.
As they all get closer to the windows, the sounds of battle grew louder in volume. They hurry in their steps worried of the fight and how each side was faring.
What they saw surprised them at least.
Specifically, Rogue pining the Nargacuga's tail. While 2B and A2 were in middle of a sword locked with each bladed cut wing of the flying wyvern.
Earlier outside, the battle so far was a stalemate between 9S, Rogue, 2B and A2 against the Blighted Nargacuga. Despite the numerical advantage they possess over the monster, the flying wyvern's speed and agility prove to be a hinderance to the group. As the Nargacuga continues to maneuver and leap around the area, being more keen of avoiding their attacks and risk getting severely injured.
It was sporting new cuts around its neck and torso, courtesy of 2B and A2 slicing in, on the fresh wounds done by Rogue. The Nargacuga was littered by bite marks and scales torn off on its body that it made its priority to avoid the Deviljho's attack as much as possible while returning its own in retaliation to it and the rest of the group.
Which it has, on the accounts of both hunters panting and sporting some bruises and freshly healed wounds by mega potions drank. 2B and A2's armor also looked to be banged up, with slight dents made by the Nargacuga. They could still stand and have potions in stock to heal, but both sisters know they'll be at their last legs soon if the fight goes on and if they run out of healing items mid battle with the Nargacuga. The blighted flying wyvern continues to be a relentless foe for either sister to take on alone.
Even 9S and Rogue were having a hard time fighting the Nargacuga and they didn't fare better against it than 2B and A2 did either. Rogue had cuts made by the Nargacuga's blade fore wings or puncture wounds from its tail spikes. 9S looked to have gotten beaten around while riding Rogue and feeling some strain of using his energy to heal his monstie's wounds, even intaking healing items himself every second they got to help. Their kinship was keeping them strong and healing some of their wounds together, through trading of their energy channeled by 9S's kinship stone on his choker.
But the bright blue glow that permeates whenever the other gets hurt or to strengthen the body to take a hit, begins to wane and dim with each instance. Both rider and monstie know that they won't be able to keep this up at this rate and may have to keep playing their cards right, unless the next hit comes, and their kinship isn't there to save them.
The fight can't be dragged any longer, a thought shared by 2B, 9S, A2 and Rogue. They all have to think of something quick or at least find a way to hold out a little longer until the felynes are done preparing their plan.
MMRRREEEEEOOOOOOOWWWW!"
The Nargacuga makes the first move, running towards the group with a mad frenzy and reckless abandon. 9S and Rogue intercept, meeting it head on. The Nargacuga moves for a quick swipe but Rogue counters with well a placed tail whip, pivoting in place for a powerful swing and sending the monster reeling to the ground leaving it disoriented.
2B and A2 rush in, taking the opening to begin hacking and slashing at the monster. They dance around the Nargacuga delivering cuts on its torso, adding more to those it already has. 2B then jumps on top of the monster's torso like a platform and launches herself over the monster, somersaulting midair and delivering several slashes on the flying wyvern's exposed back. The monster grunts in pain, while A2 follows and delivers a series of slashes on its head and finishing with a spirit slash on its right face.
"RIIIEEEAAAHH!"
The Nargacuga reels back with a shriek, feeling the loss of its sight on its right eye. The flying wyvern leaps back from A2, looking at first to flee before suddenly lashing out with its tail whipping and striking the hunter's midsection.
"AHH!" The blow sends A2 flying back, while 2B moves to attempt to intercept the Nargacuga.
But the flying wyvern sees her and moves with lightning speed, lunging at her with one of its bladed forearms. 2B was forced to block with her own sword but she wasn't fast enough to properly guard and the force of the attack sends her to the ground beside A2 with a grunt.
With both hunter down, the Nargacuga jumps to pounce and finish them off but 9S and Rogue tackle it mid jump, sending all of them crashing down. There was brief scuffle as they rolled around the ground, until both rider and monstie ended up on the flying wyverns chest.
The Nargacuga looks at them and gives a threatening growl. "Mrrrr…."
"Hehehe…" 9S chuckles at it sheepishly due to the position they were in, before the Nargacuga promptly shoves them off with a claw swipe and flinging them back to in front of 2B and A2. Rogue lands safely on the ground, while both twins recover from their hits and stand back up.
"So, this plan you and the felynes have? It is a concrete plan, like a real plan that will happen, right?" A2 asked sarcastically, while tossing an empty potion bottle behind her.
"Yes." 9S answered curtly ignoring the sarcasm.
"Oh, good. Just making sure… So where the hell is it?! We've been keeping mister whisker and black blighted busy for a while now and we still don't have any signal from the felynes!" A2 asked, snapping at the fact that their plan hasn't sprung up while they were getting beaten by the second by the Nargacuga.
"Look, it takes some time to prepare it, okay. We were planning to install it on the later date since we didn't know if we needed it, until now. So, I know Whistill is rushing as fast as he can to set it up. We just need to give them enough time." 9S answered back.
"I admit too that the waiting is taking a while, but 9S is right A2. The settlement wasn't expecting to get attacked today by a Nargacuga or any large monster for the matter. We can only hold the line, until their defenses are up." 2B added, agreeing with 9S.
A2 reluctantly nods in agreement seeing the two's point. She turns back to look at the Nargacuga and grimaced after spotting it roll itself back on its feet and faces towards them.
"Ugh, great. The blighted kitty is back on his feet. Any other suggestions to keep this guy busy? Our tactic of keep hitting until it dies isn't working so well. Not with how much that things is moving around for us to follow."
Rogue grunted agreeing with A2, causing 9S to hum in thought before speaking. "Then we'll pin him down." This earned him a few skeptical glances. 9S then turns to the twin hunters and sees their questioning looks, before explaining.
"Me and Rogue will get a good grip on him like last time and then you guys can jump in and strike the Nargacuga while were keeping its attention. It'll try to thrash a lot, but I know Rogue will do his best to keep it in place. Worst case we don't keep it down, but we at least would have both more time."
"GROAH" Rogue barks in agreement, confident in his rider's plan and his strength.
With no other option left or much choice on what to do next, 2B and A2 nod their heads agreeing with the plan before getting into a stance readying themselves. 9S and Rogue brace themselves too for what could be another rough scuffle, as the Nargacuga begins to charge at them once more.
This time the Nargacuga leaps forward but then spins around to slam its tail at the group. They dodge the strike, but 9S noticed that it was a feint before the Nargacuga lifts its tail again up in the air for a secondary strike. Seeing an opportunity, 9S moves Rogue to intercept quickly before the tail completes its motion of slamming down on the ground.
The monstie rushes and chomps it jaws near the end of the tail, just before its tail spikes, and stopping the Nargacuga's attack mid swing. The flying wyvern shrieks in surprise at the Deviljho biting down on its tail and attempts to flail Rogue off. But the Monstie persists in keeping its jaws around its appendage and refusing to budge in place.
"Grrrrrr…." Growling with determination, Rogue grits his teeth harder on the Nargacuga's tail, earning more grunts of pain from the monster, before stomping his feet and shifting his stance to keep his position rooted on the ground. With 9S assisting through their kinship of keeping him balance, the monstie has effectively gotten a hold on the Nargacuga and hindering it from jumping around.
"MREEEEEOOOOOWWW!" The Nargacuga roars with evident rage and continues to struggle to pull its tail from Rogue's grip.
"Now!" 9S shouted to 2B and A2.
With the Nargacuga effectively focused on him and Rogue, the twin hunters rush towards the flying wyvern, weapons poised and swiftly deliver a series of slashes and combos on the distracted monster. Their blades cutting through the weakened scales and blighted fur of the Nargacuga, no longer bouncing off and effectively doing more damage to it.
The Nargacuga grunts and growls in frustration at its current predicament, with Rogue holding on to its tail and the two hunters running around a slashing it on its sides, drawing blood like two oversized mosquitoes. Deciding to fight back, the Nargacuga lifts its right forearm and blocks and parries the sword strikes from A2, before using its left forearm to meet 2B's own blade. Sparks fly from the force of their attacks on each other, but the flying wyvern was stronger and pushes 2B back a little distance from it before turning its attention back at A2.
With its other arm free, the Nargacuga makes to swipes at A2 causing the hunter leap back away from striking range. It tries to follow her, but a sharp and painful tug stops the Nargacuga from doing so. Its anger boils and turns its head to glare at the instigators, no doubt 9S and Rogue. The latter's jaws still gripped on its tail that was now sporting blood from the bite marks made earlier. But before the Nargacuga could do anything about it, 2B and A2 return to attack, forcing the monster to block their blades with its own bladed forearms.
Just then a small flare is shot and seen in 9S's peripheral vision. He looks to the settlement's windows and saw Pod 42, 153 and Whistill calling out to them with the restored minigun. 9S sighs in relief, happy to know that they were done setting up LeoMeowdo's bane, and the plan can commence smoothly. He pats Rogue, informing him of the plan without the monstie losing his hold on the Nargacuga before shouting to 2B and A2.
"2B! A2! Aim for the feet!"
The twins hear him, and they move away from the Nargacuga's front before dashing to its hind legs. The monster makes a quick swipe at the two, but both hunters simultaneously slide under the Nargacuga before rising to their feet and deliver a series of slashes to the flying wyverns knees.
"MREOW!" The Nargacuga grunts in surprise, losing its footing and stumbling a bit before it lost its balance briefly. An opportunity that 9S and Rogue takes advantage off.
"Now Rogue!" 9S shouted in command, with Rogue growling and performing with great exertion and amazing show of strength, pulls and swings the Nargacuga off its feet, throwing the flying wyvern through the air.
The Nargacuga flies briefly in the air before crashing roughly at the ground, right in the firing range of the settlement's minigun. The monster was disoriented from the surprised throw and didn't sense the incoming danger it was in.
"Fire Nya!" Whistill ordered, with the minigun beginning to whirl and whistle in sound before rapid firing at the Nargacuga.
"MRRRREEEEOOOOOOOOWWW!" The Nargacuga roars in pain, getting peppered by the volleys of dragon pods being shot at it.
"Unleash the Meowzer cannons!" Pod 42 and Pod 153 ordered at the same time, with the other felynes bringing back the cannons and begin to fire at the Nargacuga, adding more firepower and blasting it off its feet and then pining it to the ground with their explosions.
9S, Rogue, 2B and A2 watch in spectacle at the unique weapon the felynes brought out, unleashing its fury at the Nargacuga with the Meowzer cannons.
"Badass! You guys got a minigun!" A2 commented with awe.
"Why do I feel that you found that and decided to have this as one of your plans." 2B added with a tease at 9S's direction. "I should be surprised but I'm not. Though I was expecting something more flashier."
"Oh… that is just part one of the plan." 9S said, before patting Rogue. "This guy is the rest of it."
"GRROOOAAAAHHH!" Rogue roars in agreement before running towards the Nargacuga with 9S, leaving 2B and A2 behind.
"Take cover or stay behind Rogue! It'll be safer for you guys. Trust me!" 9S told them, which the two complied and wordlessly went for cover.
Rogue makes his way towards the Nargacuga but stops at a distance from it and the blast range of the felynes bombardment on the flying wyvern.
"Okay, Rogue you know what to do. Take a big breath and then fire!" 9S said as Rogue follows and inhales, sucking in air. Before feeling within himself the draconic power he was charging. Red sparks and black smoke escape from the gaps in Rogue's maw and nostrils, signaling his breath attack is charged.
"GRRROOOAAAAAAHHH!" With an accompanied roar, Rogue unleashes his dragon breath at the Nargacuga. The stream of red and black energy collides at the flying wyvern's body, eliciting another howl of pain from it. The red and black emission envelopes the Nargacuga, with red lighting and sparks bursting out and burning the monster.
Whistill and the Pods see this, with the felyne chief urging his villagers to press on further with their attack. "Fire, Nya! Keep firing! Rogue unleashed his breath attack. Bring out all the dragon ammo! Pour it on, Nya! Unleash the dragon cannon balls, Nya!"
The felynes renew their efforts and begin to load their cannons with balls full of Dragonfell berries in them. While the minigun continues to pepper dragon pods at the Nargacuga, this time the draconic ammo being fired is causing a unique reaction with Rogue's dragon breath.
At a safe distance, 2B and A2 watched as the coordinated attack of 9S and the felynes unfold. They see the Nargacuga was fully enveloped by Rogue's dragon breath, the monster even looking like it was inside a red and black bonfire. And continues to look more like one, as the bombardment of dragon pods from the felynes seemingly add fuel to the fire. Bursting into bright red explosion whenever striking the dragon breath covering the Nargacuga's body.
If the flying wyvern was ever screaming or screeching in pain from getting burned, its sounds were left unheard. Being drowned out by the noise of the felynes firing their cannons or from the hellish inferno it was in.
A column of red and black energy begin to rise as Rogue and the felynes continue to sustain their attack on the Nargacuga. 2B and A2 then noticed Rogue's dragon breath and the red and black draconic energy burning the Nargacuga begins to change color to a bright white and crimson. They slowly brought their hands to cover and protect their sight, from the increasing brightness of the attack. Both had a sudden feeling of what will come next and decided to braced themselves.
And they were right, as suddenly an explosion is heard within the burning pyre that is the Nargacuga. More explosions continued to occur before one big one, colored white and crimson, shoots to the sky and blinds everyone from the intensity of the light produced. While sending a shockwave and drowning out the Nargacuga's screams. 2B and A2 ducked their heads behind their hiding spot, 9S and Rogue brace themselves and close their eyes, and the felynes retreated briefly within the settlement's windows.
As the light clears away, 9S and Rogue were the first to recover and stare at the large smoking crater where the Nargacuga is supposed to be. 2B and A2 follow, leaving from their hiding spot and begin to approach where 9S and Rogue where. The felyne's look out through the window, but the black clouds of smoke was covering their view. They couldn't make shape of anything until the smoke clears.
9S then noticed 2B and A2 appear right beside him and Rogue. He lets out of breath before asking. "So you guys think it's over?"
A2 opened her mouth to make a witty retort but was cut off from a roar and the Nargacuga jumping out of the smoke.
"MMMMMRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEOOOOOOOOOOOOWWW!"
The flying wyvern pounces with rage at the four, its entire body scorched, and all of its fur burned off. The pain it felt was unbearable, with most of its body parts broken like its wings and the tip of its tail blown off. But its distress over its injuries was overshadowed from the intense fury it held at the ones who caused its great pain.
9S and the others scramble away from the Nargacuga, as the monster clumsily flops to the ground. Despite the rage fueling its body, its injuries prove to be a great hinderance and was extremely weakened by the explosion. 9S and Rogue take this opportunity to finish the job and launched themselves on top of its back and slam Rogue's jaws on its neck.
The Nargacuga roars in pain and struggles to shake them off, but Rogue simply pulls its neck upward and exposing its underside. 2B and A2 rush in thrusting their swords to its exposed neck.
"HAAAAAAAHH!" With a shout both hunters stabbed their blades deep into the Nargacuga's lower neck. More roars of pain are emitted by the Nargacuga and a three-way struggle begins. With Rogue keeping his jaws on the flying wyvern and pulling it upright, while 2B and A2 are keeping their grip on their long swords and pushing them deeper into the Nargacuga's neck, while it begins to flail to shake all of them off.
"Just die already!" 2B shouted as she grits her teeth as the Nargacuga refuses to cease its struggle.
"****ing sick of your shit!" A2 yelled pushing her sword deeper.
Struggling to stay perched on top of Rogue, 9S shouts from his monsties' back, "Rogue! Do it!"
Through their bond, Rogue reads his rider's thoughts and acts on it.
The Nargacuga's eyes suddenly widen in shock, as it feels a burning sensation on its neck. Its flailing intensifies, trying harder to throw the Deviljho off its back, screeching and roaring for Rogue to let go
A sudden a popping sound is heard and the flying wyvern stills.
2B and A2 then feel something pushing against their blades. The hunters pull their swords out of the Nargacuga's neck, feeling a strong force pushing them back, then learning that it was dragon energy instantly bursting out of the wounds and violently growing stronger with intensity.
Until a massive burst within the flying wyvern's throat explodes and decapitates its head off its torso, sending it rolling on to the ground. While Rogue stumbles off the now slain monster's body as it flops to the ground uselessly.
The monstie moves behind the two hunters, panting with exhaustion shared with 9S, 2B and A2. They stare at the dead body of the Nargacuga and to its lifeless eyes of its decapitated head.
"Now it's over." A2 said with finality, before her legs give out and she flops to the ground.
The rest follow, with Rogue collapsing to the ground with a groan. 9S slides off his saddle before leaning on his monsties side, A2 does the same and rests her back on the Deviljho's bulk. 2B was at first hesitant but suddenly didn't find the energy to care, due to how tired she was. She scoots closer to 9S's side and rests her back on Rogue's shoulder.
2B breathes in some fresh air and sighs in relief now that their ordeal was over. She then hears heavy breathing on her right and turns to see Rogue still panting for air and clearly exhausted, no doubt from using his dragon breath. She thinks for a second before she gingerly reaches her hand and begins stroke his snout.
"Good boy…" 2B said, petting Rogue, who croons weakly at the welcomed petting, nudging his head closer to her side. 9S watches from the corner of his eyes and feels a smile tugging him.
The four of them continue to rest, not bothered by the mutilated corpse in front of them. Too tired to care, as the smoke from the crater begins to dissipate.
"Holy **** Meowsters!"
They all turn to Pod 42 and Pod 153 at the windows of the settlement, their palicos expression showing both awe and disbelief.
"WOAH NYA! Did you guys behead a Nargacuga! ****ing HARDCORE!" Whistill shouted excitedly at top his perch, with the rest of the felynes in the settlement cheering the same.
9S could only shake his head at their reactions before leaning his head on 2B's shoulder, not ready to deal with the felyne's antics. 2B follows suit and leans her head on his for comfort feeling the same, while A2 replies to them with equal mirth.
"HELL YEAH ****ING HARDCORE!"
Later. Like much later…
After a bunch of healing potions and cleaning up the mess that was the battlefield outside the settlement, Whistill decided to order some of his felynes to prepare the slain Nargacuga for transport. No doubt the slayed blighted monster would be shipped off to the guild, when 9S and the rest would return to YoRHa to report of this tumultuous success of a hunt.
It would be great news for the village and the guild to know that their recent threat to them was neutralized and they'd be one step closer in their investigation of the black blight and eliminating it. And good news for the forest itself, to possibly start healing from the black blight, now that it's supposed preparator and prime infectant of spreading and sustaining it, is now deceased.
Yet the passing of this good news will come much later, after everybody has rested and recuperated. Especially for those who have fought the flying wyvern and came out more tired than triumphant at their victory from it. Currently, 9S and Rogue were resting inside their shared room in the settlement, and 2B, A2 and the Pods were with them as well.
They spent a couple of minutes patching each other up before 9S and Pod 153 made accommodations for them to rest and be comfortable with. And knowing better with the time given to them, 9S decided to use this opportunity to properly explain to 2B about everything, with the rest following and huddling together to listen. Pod 153 had them sit around the table they had in the room, with 2B and 9S sitting beside each other and A2 with the felynes across them. Rogue was resting in his nest, just a few feet from where they are and close enough to listen to them.
Once they settled, 9S then told 2B about riders, monsties, kinships and what he was doing for the past days without her knowing. The same he did with A2, he spoke to 2B starting from the beginning of finding the Rider's manual until their subtle involvement of Rogue in the black blight investigation.
It was tough talk and very difficult for 9S to do so, from both expecting and not knowing of 2B's reactions to his tale. But 9S pushed through to explain his reasons and beliefs to why he kept most of it a secret, while 2B remained quiet but listening intently to what he said.
Moments later, after telling her everything, 2B's expression remained impassive, pondering on the things she has just learned from him. She held it for a few moments that made 9S nervous until she spoke.
"So, for the past weeks you've been keeping a secret… of a discovery about yourself. That you found from a book you got among Whistill's old junk and learned something about your past—or how you for the matter—could be related to a race of warriors that bond and tame monsters. Who are believed to have hidden themselves from the rest of the world, due to the prejudice they face for their culture. Which is truthfully against several teachings of the guild, but mainly about taming monsters, and with knowledge of the act being a taboo for most and unacceptable to some guild member's beliefs."
2B paused, pondering on her next thoughts before looking straight at 9S.
"Yet, despite knowing how dangerous and scandalizing it is, you continued to research and follow this path you've set yourself on. You even hatched, raised, trained, and ridden a monster of your own, which is also a Deviljho. And then you proceeded to continue to learn more about being a rider and training to be one. While shuffling between the work you received from the guild and the assignments given to you while staying with Whistill's settlement—" 2B made a side glance at Pod 153, who shuffled timidly, before resuming. "Which I now know your stay was planned in the beginning, to make it easier for you to be with Rogue…"
2B then looked at 9S with slightly accusing gaze. "Another lie that you've kept a secret from everybody else… except the felynes who have given you their full support on everything related to it. While making an agreement with Whistill, who found some unique advantages from it as well... besides plain curiosity."
Both 9S and Pod 153 hung their heads, nodding along 2B's correct summation of their deal with Whistill.
Which she resumed and expounded on about said deal. "Even going so far to have trips to exclusive gathering spots or adventuring to places that led you to find the settlement's new home or whatever resource you need. Places that are sometimes in monster dens or too far out of reach, and likely to be dangerous, for new hunters… But I suppose not to fledging riders with violent brute wyverns as their companions. And then reaping the rewards of your reckless spelunking, despite the dangers you were in."
At the latter of her statement, 2B had a pointed look on 9S. Who made sheepish expression at the fact.
"I wasn't being reckless… that much, you know how careful I've been lately." 9S objected, before pointing out. "And during those times the forest was relatively safe—in manner of speaking that there weren't-much-dangerous-monsters-around sort of safe."
"And it's not like any of our actions brought anymore trouble to us on later date. We were careful and we didn't get into monster fights that we provoked." 9S defended, but 2B raised an eyebrow in response.
"…The Velocidrome?"
9S wince at the reminder and admits reluctantly. "…Touché. But we handled it didn't we? And many more by ourselves too…"
2B pursed her lips in response to 9S's reply, wanting to add more on how he has been in dangerous situations that she didn't know of. And it did worry her a lot for his safety. Yet, she reluctantly admits to herself too that 9S was right.
That he was able to overcome and triumph from not just his encounter with the Velocidrome, but with the other dangerous situations he was in as well. Which from what 2B just learned, includes those times when he had to fight blighted monsters without her knowing of it in the uncharted monster dens and assisting A2 with slaying the blighted Basarios. Then doing fine recently against the blighted Nargacuga, with all four them, counting Rogue and herself.
"Yes, you were able to handle dangerous situations quite well and exceeded some expectations of your abilities 9S. Plus, besides recent events, you were able to manage yourself during our current investigation, with all the tasks given to you and the undertakings you've set upon. Despite the dangers and noticeable fatigue you've experience during those days." 2B said, a hint of pride in her voice, surprising 9S and the others listening in.
"And as a result, you've actually grown a lot more 9S from these past weeks." 2B said, her tone akin of being both proud and having approval to 9S's recent developments. "You're still a bit reckless, but you've proven yourself as a capable hunter, Nines. I'm proud of you."
Which is true. 2B knows that his skills and combat prowess have improved much from the past month. She already noticed them showing during those times they went on low level quests together. A part of 2B couldn't help but feel a bit of awe, on how fast 9S was catching up as a hunter. But she knows its because of 9S growing stronger and more experienced, is what allowed him to make it through all those encounters he's fought and be victorious.
And despite having a bit of contrasting opinions on it, she is surprisingly amazed of him being a natural as a monster rider.
"You've really surprised me on how fast you had grown as a fighter." 2B added with a proud smile to 9S.
His reaction was one of surprise to the compliment. 9S was not expecting to be the praised by 2B and was actually waiting for her disappointment or do a similar reaction to the one A2 had earlier in the caves. He was baffled with how 2B was reacting with more reservation to everything and he could tell that 2B still has some lingering doubt with him.
Which is why 9S couldn't help but ask. "…You're proud of me? …But aren't you …aren't you mad at me, instead?"
9S's face fell, turning his head away from facing 2B, feeling a bit of shame and not deserving of her praised. "I've kept a lot of things from you… including how much danger I put myself in and… well, harboring a dangerous monster without the village or the guild from knowing. And worse is I done lot of things that made you worried, but I couldn't tell you… And it felt wrong not telling you either. But because I was so scared of what you would have thought of me or what you could have done to Rogue because of the Guild's belief and laws and you being a hunter… And I was scared of you being mad and…"
9S audibly mumbled more incoherent things, related to his showing his confusion of why 2B wasn't being mad at him or showing it. She made a soft smile at 9S, before bringing her hand to cup his cheek and turn his face to look back to hers, pausing him from his word babble.
She spoke with gentle caress on his cheek. "I would be lying if I told you I wasn't mad that you've kept a secret this big from me. But not because of the reasons you believe I had for being a hunter." 2B said, noticing his further confusion and continued to explain with more reassurance.
"What I'm mad about is that you didn't tell me you found some clue about your past. You know well I promised to help you recover your memories and I would have taken any clue, no matter how farfetched or unreal it sounded."
"Even with all of this? With being a rider or that in the beginning would have let me hatch Rogue?" 9S asked with a bit trepidation.
"Yes, even with all of this and what you've already done." 2B said with nod, rubbing more of his cheek in comfort.
Though she admitted shyly. "But… I would admit of being skeptical of this 'rider business', both a bit now and if you would have told me far earlier. And I'm not going to lie either, I would have reacted the same way as A2 did. If you didn't explain everything to me and made me listen to you. I may have been more wary of Rogue than trusting and forcefully demand an explanation if I met him on different circumstances or unexpectedly."
"Yeah and we wouldn't want a repeat of what happened after I did that…" A2 staged whispered, while clutching the back of her head, to Pod 42 and Pod 153, the latter nodding knowingly.
"But you showed me otherwise. If anything, today's entire debacle with the blighted Nargacuga helped convinced me of what your doing is right and good for you. For both you and the others you've helped so far." 2B added, not hiding the pride in her voice. "You've grown stronger, more independent, and improved a lot as an individual. While doing a lot of good for the felynes, the guild and the forest, Nines."
"I'm happy that you're finding more about yourself, after so long…" 2B said before she closes her eyes and presses her forehead on 9S's, leaning in and cupping both of his cheeks.
"And If being a rider is what you are, then why would I try to stop you from being one? You've been an amazing rider so far and I don't want you to stop." Her action also conveying her thoughts that whatever he is trying to be as rider, she'll accept him no matter what.
She leans back and catches 9S sporting a blush but giving her the warmest look he's ever shown her before. His eyes looked to be watering, but he had what 2B would consider a sweet smile on his face.
9S suddenly wraps his arms around 2B, burying his head on her shoulders. Not caring if he was unconsciously nuzzling her in thanks and joy. 2B returns the gesture not minding it at all.
"Thank you 2B. You've have no idea how much I worried if you would accept this part me... It makes me so happy hearing those words from you." 9S whispered to her ear.
He pulls back to see once again; how close their face were to each other. Both were reminded the last time they were in this position and they started to match each other's blush because of it.
"AHEM!"
Until A2 interrupted them with loud cough.
They quickly pulled away from each other, remembering they had an audience, turning to them and saw A2 with a smug smirk and the felynes sporting similar but more amusing looks. Rogue actually got up from his nest and sat behind A2 and the Pods, with an excited and hopeful look on his face.
A2 looked at 2B and asked. "So… can I say that you're all cool now with 9S being a rider and having a Deviljho as his monster partner… Or what did you call it? A monstie, right?"
9S nods, still sporting a blush and trying shake it off while the others look on with amusement.
"Erhm… Yes." 2B answered, composing herself and doing same of waving off her blush before coolly adding. "While it might take some getting use to, I am okay with everything I've just learned and have no problems or qualms against 9S being a rider or Rogue and his entirety as a Deviljho and as a monstie."
"If anything. I'm grateful we had this… sort of backup against the Nargacuga. And we couldn't have finished it off without 9S and Rogue weakening the Nargacuga and their plans with the felynes. And I thank Rogue for delivering the decisive blow, slaying it." 2B nods at Rogue with gratitude.
This earns her Rogue's attention, who barks and quickly shuffles to 2B's side. "GROAH!"
The monstie begins to nuzzle 2B with affection, she froze for a second at the sudden and unexpected action before relaxing and awkwardly begin to pet the brute wyvern again.
A2 let out a snort, seeing how out of place 2B felt. "He'll grow on you. Trust me."
"He is …quite affectionate." 2B replied, giving a weary nod, while the others look on in amusement.
"He takes a lot from Meowster 9S!" Pod 153 added. "A bit too much if you ask me. And sometimes Rogue's influence is too much for meowster as well."
"Well that could explain your new appetite and how willing you are to fight, lately. Should I be worried your kinship will start making you turn red or breathe dragon energy from your mouth?" 2B teased at 9S, while she continues to absently stroke Rogue's snout as the monstie lies on her side.
9S just shakes his head and replies with equal mirth. "It doesn't work like that. If anything, the manual says I might get some perks of receiving a little of the elemental resistance Rogue has."
"That or being able to hit a like a flying brick wall against monsters!" A2 added remembering 9S's clash with the Basarios. "It's really a sight to see and believe yourself 2B. Short and lanky 9S, giving a big blow that broke his glaive and toppling that Basarios. No one going's to believe me if I said that without any proof."
"Interesting. Not only is the monstie receiving changes to its behavior and abilities through its bond with its the rider. But the rider also receives benefits that affects his body as well." Pod 42 chimed with interest at the unique condition one of his meowster has.
Pod 153 nods her head, agreeing with both Pod 42 and A2. "Yes, it's apparently one of the perks of being a rider to use all their strengths for powerful strikes to stun monsters briefly in direct clashes. As long as they could properly attack and counter against an opponent, of course."
"I'm actually curious of witnessing you doing that." 2B mused, impressed from hearing the feat and hope to see 9S do something similar in the future.
"And I actually forgot I broke my glaive!" 9S said with panic, remembering his broken weapon, not hiding his genuine of fear to a certain blacksmith. "Masamune is going to kill me!"
"Don't worry, Nines. We'll work something out and provide an adequate explanation to Masamune." 2B said reassuringly. "Besides, you have the first rights to the Nargacuga, if the guild will allow us to make any equipment from it. We can commission a new glaive for you from it."
"…Wait, I get first rights? ...Why me?" 9S asked, confused.
"Cause it was you and the felyne's plan that ended the fight. Plus your monstie that did the killing blow, dummy." A2 answered pointing out to 9S. "Decapitating by blowing its head off with a dragon breath. That was ****ing crazy."
"Yes, I agree as well. I feel meowster 9S may had influence that action." Pod 42 added. "It was pretty clever to have Rogue release his dragon energy while his jaws were still around the flying wyvern's neck."
"True, but I just gave Rogue the idea to just tear its head off." 9S admits with a shrug. "I only realized what he was doing until he started a second after and I admit too that it was pretty smart and hardcore…"
Rogue chortles an appreciative growl from 2B's side from his rider's praise.
"Still Meowster, I think you have the rights on what to do with it first or for Rogue to at least receive something good through, you." Pod 153 said. "Since we don't know how the guild would reward a monstie…"
"True, and I doubt Rogue will want much with from the Nargacuga, besides eating it and we're not sure if it's safe for him to do so because of the black blight's strong influence on it." 2B added, agreeing with Pod 153.
"Well, okay. But we're all sharing the zenny reward right? I mean it was team effort." 9S asked the group with them nodding in reply.
9S then looks to his monstie. "And if it's okay with you Rogue, I can use some of my rewards to buy you something nice or a lot of treats. Maybe even a large chew toy if you want?"
"GROAH!" Rogue barks loudly in agreement with no arguments, making the rest laugh at his enthusiasm.
"Well with that settled. Is it okay if I can asked what your next plans will be?" Pod 42 asked the group.
9S, 2B and A2 share a look with one another, all three thinking of what to do next. 2B was the first to speak addressing their main priority.
"Obviously, we first return to the guild and report and deliver the corpse of the Nargacuga. Despite how unexpected it was, we completed the task of eliminating the black blight's main preparator of spreading and sustaining its influence. What the guild will do next for the investigation, will be based on whatever decision they have after examining the slain monster for clues of its main whereabouts or nest, to find the black blight at its strongest source. I guess we wait until then, until our next orders come."
All heads nod in agreement to 2B's assessment and suggestion.
"As for me and Rogue, and the rest of the settlement." 9S spoke up to add his plans with the felynes. "I believe its best that we resume of our original plan for the settlement to withdraw from the investigation for the time being, as the guild gave them the option too."
"It would help for the felynes to rebuild some of the damages caused in the fight and focus on fortifying their defenses for the time being." Pod 153 added.
"Yeah, that too and since we already took care of the Nargacuga, I think Rogue and I should follow our original plan too, of laying low for the time being from helping the guild discreetly." 9S added and explained. "It'll be safer for him, and I wouldn't want to cause any more complications or trouble for anyone and the guild, if they accidently discovered Rogue or be forced to reveal himself due to circumstances like with you guys."
"I think that is a sound plan." 2B nods. "I didn't say this before, but you are right of making the decision of keeping Rogue a secret and revealing him until we're not in crisis. If it went according to your plan, I believe it would have been much safer and less stressful for us to be introduce to each other than during a battle. And might be easier for us to talk too, without tensions being as high they could be."
Rogue grumbles at 2B's side, making her turn to look at the monstie and surprised seeing the unexpected pout like look on his face.
"I'm guessing Rogue, doesn't like this arrangement, since I presume he would only be allowed to roam the settlement's grounds and not the entire western forest section, like he used too." 2B said, before petting Rogue again in comfort, feeling the brute wyverns slight annoyance at his position and circumstances for the next days.
9S could sense it as well and gives out weary sigh. "Rogue, we already talked about this… Besides, it doesn't mean I can't visit you anymore. With the Nargacuga dealt with, it'll be easier for me to visit you now, since I believe guild wouldn't be that restrictive of going out now that its slain. We can hangout and I can keep you company!"
"Meowster's right Rogue! It'll be much safer for us to visit and not as seldom we previous thought." Pod 153 chimed in to add merit.
"Meowster can we go visit as well? I've been wanting to see and experience Whistill's settlement for quite a while. Of course with your permission." Pod 42 asked 2B, who made a thoughtful expression before replying.
"I don't mind Pod. Beside I think we could afford some breaks from the investigation." 2B said, before she begins to scratch Rogue's scalp, earning a content purr from the monstie.
"And I don't mind spending some time with 9S and get to know Rogue more."
Rogue's expression perks from this, with 9S feeling the same as he looks at 2B with a surprised look.
"You mean it 2B?"
"Yes, Nines, I do. We can relax, as you tell me more about riders, and we can do some other things together, like training or helping the felynes too."
"Yes!" 9S couldn't help but cheer in joy, before looking at Rogue. "You'll see Rogue, it's going to be even more fun now that 2B's going to visit."
Rogue gives low growl of agreeing and nuzzles 2B with appreciation. Liking the idea of his rider and his lady friend visiting him for company and to spend some time together. As a bonus he gets to meet and befriend Pod 153's hubby and get the chance to know if he's as cuddly as she is. Or if he could run faster than her, it is fun chasing the felynes sometimes.
"Meowster A2, will you be joining us in visiting the settlement as well?" Pod 42 asked. Noticing how oddly quiet A2 was throughout their conversation.
She appeared that she was deep in thought since it took her a second to register the questioned addressed to her before replying.
"Oh… Yeah, I don't mind. I mean I was promised a tour and I do want get to know and see our resident world eater in action some time." A2 said, though her tone was still a bit subdued that everyone noticed. She saw them staring at her knowingly, with silent question asking her what's wrong.
A2 sighs before coming clean. "Okay, sorry for weirding you guys out. Just had something in mind that's all. No need to worry about it."
"Would you like to share it?" 2B asked with hint of concern.
"Nah, it's okay…" A2 waves it off, but her expression falls to reluctant one as she whispers. "You guys might not like it…"
"Try us." 9S said, with a determined look shared by the others.
A2 could see that they wouldn't backed down from asking whatever it is she was thinking about. She knows if she tells them to drop it, they would and not get anymore pushy. But she was compelled to reveal it, because of the opportunity that presented itself to her and with the desire to complete a personal quest.
"Look, what I'm going to say next may go against what you guys already planned." A2 started, before turning her gaze directly at 9S. "But there's something I like to ask you to do to help me… just hear me out and let me explain it. Okay?"
"Okay." 9S nods, with the rest waiting to hear her out.
A2 hesitate for a moment before speaking with a serious tone. "I want you and Rogue to keep searching the tunnels for the black blight. But this time with me, 2B and the Pods tagging in."
"Wait… what?" 9S was surprised, as with 2B, Rogue and the felynes from her statement. Pod 153 and Pod 42 leaned closer with Rogue doing the same, as A2 explains her proposal.
"In other words, I want you and Rogue to continue to help in the investigation discretely with our support. You were right when you told me earlier that you guys were making more progress than us in the investigation. Like finding more clues to the black blight's true whereabouts than the guild. From a logical perspective and from a hunter's point of view, you two are our best bet in finding the black blight."
"But personally for me and what I want I'm really asking is…" A2 paused briefly before speaking with a determined tone. "…is that I need your help with finding A4."
Instantly, the group understood and had an idea to what A2 was suggesting. 9S noticed 2B having a forlorn look at the mentioned of A4, mirrored by A2.
A2 spoke, her voice measured and serious. "The two of you together have the best shot in finding her. And I feel it. That I'm so close to reaching her. She's somewhere down below the underground tunnels, with whatever source the black blight is or even with the Black calamity's corpse. And you've shown and proven us that you and Rogue could navigate them easily."
"…If the both of you are willing, please help me find her." She added, sounding almost like she was pleading. Inside she was. And how could she not? Of all odds, the means to of finding the late hunter once and for all, is presented right in front of her.
"…I know this is a bit selfish of me and I might be asking too much from you…" A2 continued, feeling a bit more emotions coming out of her voice. "But I need to know, like really know what happened to her that day."
A2 was staring at 9S with gaze he was all too familiar with. It was harder, more stoic and reserved than his, but it was still the same the desperate and pleading gaze he gave to her, when he was defending Rogue and his reasons of being rider. To find his lost memories and his family.
9S knew how important A4 was to her and to 2B. A quick glance at his side, 9S noticed 2B giving him a similar gaze, not surprised of wanting to find A4 as well. He knew that the late hunter was family, and someone amazing he could only hope and dream to meet someday yet knowing he won't be able to.
"You don't have to ask us A2 if we're willing…" 9S said, knowing his answer to her request. "Me and Rogue already are. And we're going to do the best we can to help you."
"Grrrrr…." And as if adding emphasis to his decision, Rogue growled while approaching A2. Once he got close, He began to playful nudge the hunter, conveying his support to help her before nuzzling her with affection. She was surprised at first but then relax and petted the Deviljho back, in response to the gesture.
"You guys mean it?" A2 asked, just to be sure. "Its going to be dangerous since I'm asking for you and Rogue to risk exposing yourselves as a rider and monstie."
"Yeah, we know of the dangers. And we're sure of helping you despite the risks." 9S answered to A2. His expression turns to slightly forlorn look adding. "…Besides, with my lost memories, I know what's it like of wanting to find answers to the things I lost…"
2B grabs hold one of 9S's hands in comfort, which he appreciated and gave her small smile in response.
"Finding my memories is important to me… just like how A4 is important to you and 2B." 9S said. He then look to both A2 and 2B, adding. "…so it's worth risking myself and Rogue being seen together to find A4. I want to help and it's the least I can do, for all the things the both of you have done for me."
"GROAH!" Rogue barks in agreement with his rider, while giving a short chortle of grunts as if conveying he shares his rider's thoughts.
A2 made a small bow in gratitude towards the two, elated to have their support and help. "Thank you, 9S, Rogue."
Rogue simply nudges A2 playfully in response, making the hunter chuckle. Moving one of her hands to run around Rogue's scalp, A2 begins to affectionally scratch the monstie. Earning content rumbles and purrs from the Deviljho, who flops down on the ground beside the hunter clearly feeling bliss.
He even had his tongue out, hanging with a goofy expression on his face, while the others watch on chuckling at the antics of the brute wyvern.
"Thank you Nines." 2B said, facing away from the sight and looking at 9S. "Just know me and A2 will do the same with you. I promise we'll help you find your lost memories and even help you be a fully realize rider, if needed to do so."
"Thanks 2B… if anything, now that you and A2 know, I think we can achieve anything as long as we're working together." 9S said in response, happy he doesn't have to keep secrets to the people close to him any longer.
"I think so as well… As long as there aren't any more secrets you've been keeping from us." 2B mused with a raised brow.
9S softly laughs from her knowing look. "Don't worry, there's nothing else and if I find something I'll go straight to you and tell you about it. Promise."
"Okay." 2B nods and scoots closer to 9S, with him doing the same until both were leaning on each other. They continue to watch with the Pods Rogue and A2's antics.
At the moment, Rogue somehow brought his dolls to the table showing all of them to the hunter. A2 was scrutinizing the doll modeled after her and comparing it to 2B's.
"Impressive… 2B and I are twins so it's not out of ordinary that we look the same. But whoever made these dolls, captured our difference from each other well too. Except for one thing, I mean compared to my doll, why does 2B's look and feel more thic—"
"NyaHahaha!" Whistill suddenly entered the room, through the door connected to the Settlement's area.
"The blighted wyvern is ready to be sent to YoRHa and all my villagers are accounted for." The felyne chief cheered with glee and then added with much gusto. "Are all you rest up and ready to report to YoRHa about your recent accomplishment?"
The group shared a look with each other before nodding that they are ready to return back to the village.
"We are Whistill." 9S answered back to the felyne chief. "But we still need to discuss how we'll report this incident back to the guild."
"Oh that's already taken care of, Nya. I already made one and sent a messenger to the guild earlier." Whistill said with a nonchalantly expression in contrast to the others shock.
"Wait what?!" 9S said, surprised like the others. They all stared at the felyne chief demanding an explanation; Worried yet curious to hear what chief was going to say.
Whistill made placated gesture to them. "Nya don't worry people. Nyain-es here knows my informative skills are impeccable and I'd have omitted everything related to Rogue in my message. If anything, I just told most of the truth of what transpired here, Nya. I'm confident too Nya! That your higher ups will be impressed and overjoyed at the accomplishment you three did today!"
"I'm sure they might be to a certain degree…" Pod 153 pondered with the thinking the same. "But they might be a skeptical to how we slayed and decapitated a blighted monster on our own."
"But on the bright side that they're not suspicious, they could just chalk it up as one of Meowster 9S's shenanigans or something." Pod 42 said with shrug, with the other nodding in agreement, as 9S yelled in protest.
"Hey!"
"It wouldn't be the first time. Only 9S here could come up with an intricate plan to blow something off than Jackass." 2B teased, to 9S's annoyance.
"That's not always my plan!"
"But the commander thinks so…" A2 chuckled and spoke up with an amuse tone. "I wonder what's Commander White going to say to you this time 9S."
9S grumbles. "Ugghhh… I don't know. Probably along the lines of saying—"
"I-Incredible… This is… most Astonishing!" Commander white spoke with awe as the decapitated head and corpse of the blighted Nargacuga lay before her inside one of the Research center's rooms for examination.
Inside the room with her, was the current company of Zinnia, Anemone, Jackass, all three sharing the same look of awe and amazement at the slain monster and Popola, who had a slightly different expression and was stunned with shock at the sight.
"Holy shit… Nier and Kaine would love these kids." Popola thought out loud, before she muttered to herself. "Note to self, don't introduce them to each other if possible."
2B, 9S and A2 stood at the side of the room watching as the rest of the adults to continue to gawk at the slain corpse. They were nervous of what their reactions would be earlier, but then were surprise at the unexpected amazement from them or the Commander's genuine astonishment.
White couldn't stop herself from exclaiming. "Not only did the three of you hold your own against a blighted monster, but also single handily slain the monster and in turn dealt a significant blow to the black blight, by eliminating its main preparator of spreading its influence."
"Indeed, with the blighted Nargacuga dead, both the forest and the monsters inhabitants would not be at risk anymore of being infected by the black blight." Popola added. "And without its presence propagating and maintaining the blight, the forest can start healing itself of some afflictions."
"That is after we've taken care of the other blighted monsters its infected beforehand." Anemone cut in reminding them. She looks at A2 and 9S and adds. "The felynes of the settlement have also reported that the both of you faced a blighted Basarios and slaying it, while escaping a cave in. Is that correct?"
This earned a few raised eyebrows at the two, with hint of worry from Zinnia, no doubt reading the report too and wanting to know of the cave in both A2 and 9S avoided.
"It's true. 9S and I faced a blighted Basarios before slaying it together and heading to the settlement to aid 2B against the Nargacuga." A2 answered, with 9S nodding along then speaking after her.
"We fought it in one of the abandoned monster dens, and stray blasts of the Basarios' fire breath hitting the walls and the ceiling caused the entire den to destabilize before collapsing on itself."
"We made it out in time after slaying the monster with no losses on our end." 9S said, before shuffling a bit nervously before adding. "… except for my weapon, my glaive was damaged because I broke the top half off when fighting the Basarios."
"I could see that…" Anemone smirked, seeing the absence of her student's weapon. "Don't worry, Masamune doesn't know yet and I'm sure he'll understand if you explain to him how it was damage."
"I hope so." 9S muttered to himself, knowing full well he'll get an earful from the blacksmith about weapon maintenance and usage.
"Going back, even if there are stray monsters infected by the blight, the Guild will still be able to handle them." Zinnia spoke up catching their attention. "Much easier as well, than facing a blighted monster that was further strengthen by the blight due to prolonged exposure."
"That's true. It takes a lot of guts and experience for a normal hunter to survive fighting a black blighted apex monster." Jackass said adding further explanation to Zinnia's statement. "It's a tough battle facing one especially with the blight making them stronger. As you guys would have noticed, the monsters you've faced had tougher armor or scales, increasing their defenses as the black blight strengthens their offenses with greater striking power and speed."
"Those are one of the few symptoms—or rather benefits—an infected monster receives from the black blight." Popola added. "At the cost of getting mad and the need to destroy everything. It's what makes blighted monsters far more dangerous and unpredictable."
"And why it's too dangerous for lower rank hunters to face them, much less attempt to, given any situation that fleeing from one would have been possible." Anemone had a stern expression, looking at 2B, 9S and A2 as she spoke. All three had a slight sheepish expression, knowing that they may have overstepped some boundaries when they fought the Blighted Nargacuga without an official quest request.
But Anemone's expression turns to one of being impressed, as she faced the three hunters. "Yet, miraculously, the three of you slayed the Nargacuga and while protecting the felyne settlement from it as well. And you've accomplished this just after the three of you faced other blighted monsters individually or together before meeting up and facing it together."
"It's not just that Anemone. Don't forget on how they took it down." Jackass said, before giving 9S a sly look. "The fur balls added in their report that our little trainee here, actually restored an old ballista minigun and used it to fire explosive material and blowing up the Nargacuga sky high!"
"That would explain why the flying wyvern looked like it took a trip inside a burning furnace." Popola commented, eyeing the singe, and burned monster corpse.
"I should be surprised by the method 9S used, but I've grown used to his shenanigans, so this isn't out of the ordinary for me anymore." Commander White said with a slight exasperated tone, while others in the room giggled softly at her remark. Except for 9S who looked sheepish instead.
"But it did the trick! You've weaken the monster enough to even decapitate it!" Zinnia said with excitement and amazement towards 2B and A2. "Oh A4 would be so proud on how much the two of you've have grown strong!"
"I know two other friends of mine who'll be impressed by your strength." Popola added.
"Well…" A2 had an awkward and slightly sheepish look, shared by 2B, from their praise. Knowing the truth who actually tore the Nargacuga's head off but couldn't without revealing everything they've learned and promised to keep it a secret.
The twins shared a look with 9S, who shrugs and simple mouths to go along with it. Whistill was right that the village heads were actually impress and didn't bat an eye too much at the edited events Whistill placed in his message reporting of their hunt.
Anemone a had proud smile on her face, beaming with pride at her students before congratulating them. "Good work hunters! You've made this captain feel proud and full of pride for her students!"
"And done the village a good service." Zinnia said, also congratulating her charges. "Again, you've eliminated a threat to the village, but also aided our black blight investigation to a great extent."
"Yes, we thought it it'll take a few days before we could identify the blighted monster or much less catch and learn that it was a Nargacuga. But you've done it in just a day and because of that, we can proceed ahead of schedule in finding the source of the black blight." Popola added, before pointing out. "My sister Devola will be please of hearing this. If you're wondering why she's not here at the moment, it's because she's already analyzing and gathering data from some of the Basarios captured by the hunters here as we speak."
"As we'll do the same with that Nargacuga too, and see where it came from and probably tell us where the Black blights original infected source could be." Jackass added. "So it might take a few days before any you of guys can use some of the materials from it, but at the same time we'll have pinpointed the black blights location by then too."
"Until then, further orders will have to be postponed. Besides our current orders of handling of any other blighted monsters that may rise." Commander White said, before nodding at three hunters. "The three of you can take a break and rest, and let the other hunters handle the remaining guild requests at the moment. All of you deserve it, after all the tasks and accomplishments you done and completed, especially of those done recently."
"Of course you guys will be reward and compensated for slaying the blighted Nargacuga too. I can handle those zenny and monster material related matters later…" Zinnia added before she glance at White with knowing look. "…But I think the three of you deserve a different kind of reward too. Since you've all done such an amazing work slaying a formidable monster."
2B, 9S, and A2 were confused at what Zinnia said and wondering what they meant. They turn to look at what the commander would say of this and found her raising an eyebrow with a questioning look at the wyverian chief, before smiling softy and turned to address the three of them.
"Yes, Chief Zinnia is correct… I believe the three of you deserve a different kind of reward from your recent achievements." White said, before she spoke her next words with a serious and solemn tone.
"Hunters 2B and A2. Because of both of your exemplary work done for the guild and for the recent investigation, the two of have proven yourselves to be past the stage of fledging hunters and have move to become more experienced and stronger hunters than before… I've decided to promote both you to high ranking hunters."
2B and A2 were surprised at the sudden promotion but also elated at the same time. The twin sisters nod their heads in thanks and acknowledgement to the commander for their raised rank.
"Thank you Commander." Both spoke in unison, while Commander White nods back in return. The others in the room gave a small round of applause at their achievement.
"Do well you two. I expect great things coming from the both of you now that you are able to take on higher ranking quests." Commander White added to the twin hunters, before turning to look at 9S, who was perplex after noticing the sudden on focus on him.
"9S. You've only began your training as a hunter just recently and promoted to a field trainee in less time as well…" White paused and gave him a measured look. "And although, you have… caused a great deal of mishaps that YoRHa has come to know off…"
9S winced and smiled sheepishly, knowing what the commander meant, with the others giving the same knowing looks.
"…You've still proven yourself as resourceful and imaginative in handling situations you've placed yourself in and a hard worker with exceptional growth as a hunter. Based on your contributions with our black blight investigation, which was far more than what others would have, and proving exceptional skill in helping slay the Blighted Nargacuga… I've decided to promote you to a full fledge hunter."
9S was stunned at the Commander's declaration, disbelief shown in his face and heard in his voice as he asked. "Wait, what?!"
The others had similar reactions, mostly 2B and A2, who were surprised at 9S's sudden promotion and astonish that if Commander White was serious, then this would mean 9S would be one of the youngest, if not the youngest, hunter YoRHa would have in history.
Zinnia, Anemone and Jackass, were just giving nods at each other and even exchanging a few pocket zenny between themselves, with the others not noticing. It was from a bet they made earlier when they first received the report from the felynes, of whether White would promote all three of Zinnia's charges or leave one from the others.
"You heard me. You are here by a hunter as of this moment." Commander White clarified with a small smirk, finding his disbelief a bit amusing.
9S shook himself from his shock before starting to asks the commander a few things. "But what about my training? And the starting quest I need to take? And—"
White cut him off with raised hand, explaining. "Your training can still be completed with Anemone, mostly on the combat side that you've shown be well accustomed to, already. The rest like the beginning quests and other things you need to be properly initiated as hunter was already done by yourself before. Ever since the day you arrived and displayed hunting expertise and knowledge and experience out in the field, even before you were properly introduced to the hunting life."
The Commander then gave 9S a leveled gaze adding. "You already have the experience and expertise to keep up with an average hunter and with others like 2B and A2 no less. I know now, the good you can do out in the field and I want you to continue to do so. Even if you are younger and heading to this life earlier than expected."
"What more, I see now that you can do more good together with 2B and A2. And better without the restrictions you previously had that prevented you to do so before." White moves closer to the three hunters' spot, startling 9S, 2B and A2 a bit from her abrupt approach. She looks at all three of them straight in the eyes, before her expression surprisingly softens.
"I believe with all three of you working together, you'll continue to do more of like what you did today." White spoke softly at three, surprising them with how gentle and encouraging her tone was. "YoRHa may need more of this kind of help in the future to ending the black blight. I know the three of you will deliver it."
She took a step back and address them with more a professional manner. "So hunters, congratulations again on all your promotions and I expect to continue to do exemplary work with all of you in the future."
Shaking off their surprised, 9S, 2B and A2 respond together with equal respect to the commander. "Thank you Commander."
"We'll do our best to uphold the expectations the guild has placed on us." 2B added with firm determined nod, which White returns.
"Wooohooo… now that's all said and done, I think it's time for me and my family to have some quality time to celebrate!" Zinnia announced excitedly. "I've rented the entire guild mess hall for ourselves today. And the Pods are already there preparing everything!"
At once White's face fell to a disbelief and scolding. "Zinnia! We still have some work to do! And when did you have time to reserve the entire guild hall?!"
"Two to three hours ago, I guess. Just right after we received the message from the felynes." Jackass answered to the Commander, while Anemone patted her back.
"Oh c'mon White let them celebrate, just this once. They do look like they deserve a little R&R from fighting that Nargacuga. And it's not like the two us or Zinnia have real work to do tonight, we can afford to stop for the day."
"Besides, Jackass and I are the ones who do have work to do, with analyzing the Nargacuga." Popola added. "And captain Anemone is right, it's good for everyone to take a break tonight. I mean everyone was stress about the blighted apex monster on the loose, until today that is and now you can put your worries to rest for the time being."
"She's right you know…" Zinnia chimed with teasing smile. "You've been pacing since the morning whenever you were idle throughout the day."
White let out tired sigh, seeing she couldn't argue with everyone advising her to take a break. "Very well, but just for tonight. I understand that it is a joyous event for you to celebrate your charges promotions."
"Yeah!" Zinnia pumps her fist in the air, before grabbing 9S, 2B and A2 and pulling them out the room and quickly to the guild hall. Leaving the rest of the adults shaking their heads with amusement, or exasperation for White, as the wyverian chief shouts at the hall like a giddy schoolgirl and proud parent mix as one.
"C'mon kids! Let's go celebrate! This a joyous day that all my little wyverianlings get promoted."
They could only laugh at the antics of their guardians and join in her enthusiasm. Because it was a joyous day one way or another. 9S got 2B and A2 to get to know Rogue and about riders, and accepted and have given their support to his being as a rider. They in turn get a powerful new ally and friend through Rogue, and 9S was happy that there isn't any more secrets between him and those close to him.
They also got promoted to higher rank as hunters, and because of their new arrangement, they can work together more efficiently. In achieving both of their goals of finding A4 and 9S's lost memories.
2B, 9S and A2, will always remember this day when everything started to change for the better…
… and for the worse.
Author's notes:
And that's the end of the chapter! I hope you guys enjoyed it.
2B and A2, know about Rogue and 9S's rider status. Plus decided to work together as team. Which they will be for the later chapters.
I'll try not to make them too long like this chapter and the previous one before it. And updates will continue to be one posted once a month and maybe two depending on how much I have written.
Thanks for those who follow and favorite this story. Seeing people taking interest in NieR: MHST warms my heart and encourages me to write more. You guys can comment, critic or asks me questions if you like, but no flaming or anything that will cause offense to others as such. I like to hear your thoughts too on this story too and I hope to keep seeing you guys in the future!
With that said, thanks for reading the story again and see you in the next chapter!
Enjoy the omake too!
Omake
(Dreams IV)
"Mama…"
.
"Yes, 9S?"
.
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"…How did you meet dad?"
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"Oh… I haven't told you?"
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"Nope…"
.
.
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"…Well, if you don't mind… I'll tell you how I met your father, but I might say a few more things besides that."
.
"It's okay! I like to hear a lot more interesting stuff anyway!"
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"What makes you think they'll be interesting? And I don't think I tell my stories like your father does. They won't sound as interesting or exciting, as he makes them to be."
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"I don't mind… I like hearing your voice… I-I feel…I won't remember it someday."
.
.
.
"Don't be sad my little honey dew… You'll never forget my voice;
And you'll always remember me.
No matter what happens, I'll always be with you…one way or another."
.
"…Okay."
.
"Now how about I go start telling you that story?"
.
"Yah!"
.
.
"Erhem…So… I don't know how I'll begin but let me start by just telling you about myself, before I met your father…
…I was a young woman in my village and the local healer. When I was little, I was always interested in the ways of medicine and healing and wanting to help others. So, as I grew up, I studied and learned the practice of medicine and made my career out of it.
I spent a good long years in service of helping others in need, specifically hunters and my village had no shortage of them due to our location being a popular place for monsters to invade. So I ended up patching up quite few and have become experience treating injuries made by monsters by then. While I also grew a fascination, on the stories hunters would regale to me of about monsters and the many ways they got hurt because of one.
.
"I found many of those stories ending with many hunters jokingly saying to each other to 'git gud' or buy some 'felyne insurance'
.
"Do we have felyne insurance mother?"
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"No dear. Our village doesn't have a bank, but our monsters our good enough insurance as any and our own security too."
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"You're not wrong there mama…"
.
"Anyway going back…
…Because of all that exposure to listening to hunters about monsters, I gained a new interest to the hunting life and a bigger one to monster biology and ecology. I found myself wanting to learn more about monsters and how they could heal and continue on living despite grievous injuries, without the aid of a healer like myself to hunters. And wondered if I could create news ways to help hunters take care of themselves out in the fields or at least new ways to provide first aid, based on whatever I learned.
I learned a lot, but I didn't end much discovering anything new. I only had one remarkable achievement and it only was the further application of an endemic life to heal hunters mid-combat. They called it a Vigorwasp, a sort of flying insect that forms a gelatinous mass with healing properties and carries it around while flying in the air. Hunters use them to pop the gelatin like bubble and they'll be hit with a healing cloud made from the fluids. Ending with them recovering their injuries, like they've drank an entire bottle of a mega potion.
And I had found a way to nurture the bugs to become bigger and stronger. And increasing the potency of the healing fluid they create to a greater degree."
.
"Really?"
.
"Yes Really. Enough that you could heal a whole party of hunters together… or a large monster, if it consumed the entire insect.
Which is was probably a good thing I made it. Since it would have been a lot harder to heal both your father and Grump when I met them the first time."
.
"Wait, you met dad and Grump when they were hurt? What happened to them?"
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"Let's just say, I found them in a state that made me glad I learned medicine…. And probably made me feel like all of the knowledge I acquired, was preparing me for that very moment when I would help them.
.
"…How did it go? Like, how did you find dad?"
.
"Oh. It was really easy to find your father. I just followed the grunts and groans of pain, while I was out gathering herbs one day…
I was curious to who or what was making those sounds and grew a little concern of what injuries they may have. When I heard the grunts and groans of a monster near the person, my worries intensified and thought that someone was in trouble. I recklessly rush to the location where the sounds came from, to help out however I can, without thinking of how foolish it was for me to do.
I may have been running straight ahead to a monster attack…
…But I found instead was the most peculiar sight, I have ever witnessed.
Your father dangling by his vest in Grump's mouth, with both of them in a middle of an argument. He was beating his fist on Grumps' snout, while Grump kept shaking him in irritation.
Their argument being your father complaining against the idea to head to our village for medical aid, and Grump urging him to do so, since he looked far worse between the two and apparently had injuries I doubt that two can treat on their own.
It took a second before they noticed my presence, pausing in their argument and surprised at my sudden appearance. While I stood there in front of them stuck in place. Watching them with weariness and fear rooting me on the spot.
…I was speechless for I didn't have the words either to describe them and remained staring at the two, waiting for what would happen next. Your father noticed my discomfort and weariness, so he decided to do something to break the ice."
.
"…what did he do?"
.
"He gave me a pickup line…"
.
.
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*Snort "Oh dad…"
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"Yup. First words out of his mouth was to woo me for some reason, either to not let me run away screaming and exposing them or plainly that he was love struck at seeing me.
Whatever reason it was, it didn't stop him from saying a really lame and overused pickup line to boot. Nor did it help when he tried to sound suave, he was all like:
'Hey beautiful… How's it hanging? Never seen a dashing hunter and his Tigrex partner before?'
I couldn't stop myself from rolling my eyes or having a… low… first impression on your father."
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"Dad wasn't that bad… was he?"
.
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"No, he wasn't. I mean, I knew from that moment I was getting into a lot of trouble if I got involve with your father…
…But I felt I'd get a whole lot of good and meaningful things with him. Which I did, with you being the prime example my little honeydew.
.
"Oh. Moooooom… No need to sound mushy…"
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"Hehehe…But it's true!
Though even if I didn't know that I would have you and a family with him, plus having a spectacular life living with monsters in a hidden village, I still felt a connection and some kind pull to your father.
Something that told me that I was supposed to meet this man and his Tigrex and help them both.
Something that made me move past the fear and skepticism I felt, when I realized how close I was to a dangerous monster at that time and nowhere near convince that Grump wasn't going to harm me.
And before I knew it… I took it upon myself to heal their wounds and injuries and make it my responsibility to take care of them.
Which then led to me visiting your father and Grump in the woods in secret, while learning more about themselves and listening to the many stories your father had to share with me.
All in all I felt that day was a beginning of some sort of change to my life, like a start of a new chapter for me."
.
"You really thought of it like that?"
.
"Yup. That's what I thought of it and thinking back, it was really the beginning of some big changes to my life. And it all started with me dealing with a fussy patient and his grumpy Tigrex…They were both difficult patients if you must know.
I mean, always going against my orders of bed rest and ruining the bandages I made, forcing me to rewrap them. Complaining the taste of the concoctions and remedies I crafted, with both of them being insufferable of making their distastes known to me.
Uggghhh… During those times, I had I found myself questioning if healing them was worth it."
.
"I can imagine you scolding and giving a stern look at both dad and Grump."
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"SO many of them I did give too! But they treated it like it was challenged to rile me up and see if I'd abandoned them.
It didn't help that they were still skeptical of me at that time, even after I spent a lot of time trying to convince them that I would help them, no malice or double crossing expected.
But Noooo…. They were adamant of keeping their guard around me. And I was perplex at their overall behavior of it…
…Until I got to know them more …and learning what they've been true, finding out a bit of sore aches that I couldn't ease….
From then on, I understood why they were like that and found myself not blaming their lack of trust on me."
.
"…How so? What did you find out?"
.
"Well, for starters, your father and Grump were—and still are—a successful adventuring duo and team that helped a lot of people despite not getting the recognition they deserve or warranted, with some of their efforts not even recognized and or know off by the general populace.
Your father still pursued his career of being a hunter who slayed monsters and defended villages from dangerous one, with Grump tagging along. And together they've taken an additional responsibility of protecting the ecosystems and local habitats, by slaying monsters who were also disruptive of the balance or anything else that did, like over hunting and excessive gathering of resources.
This duty led to them being specialize with dealing with elder dragons. Since most of the monsters under those classification were a threat to everyone. And as you know, they did fight a lot of elder dragons and just as much as the stories they made that people started to make rumors of.
I myself didn't know of this life they decided for themselves, much less some of their achievements. So imagine my surprise that I ended up recognizing some of them as the mysterious rumors the guild was circulating at that time.
Rumors like the beast rider of Mt. Celion, the mirage slayer of Albarax, the bog beast of the Badba rainforest and Geo-Fulkright's wild coal master. And a few more I could name, with all of them I later learned was one of your father's many adventures.
Either he was slaying some troubling monsters or putting on a bunch of leaves and whatever on-site disguise he would make for bombastic stories to tell the masses. So he can use them as an excuse and hide his trail from the guild tracking him and leaving before they caught up on him."
.
"Dad did say he and Grump made a lot of legends! But I didn't think he would make them just to get the guild off their tracks."
.
"Well, you and I may know your father as Bern and Grump, The heroic hunter and monster duo. But to the guild they were Bernardo, the ex-communicated hunter wanted for breaking several guild laws and the savage Tigrex he's come to tame and used in unsanctioned hunts, their so called partnership in the guild's opinion his biggest offense yet.
And their reputation wasn't always shown or told in good light. The majority still didn't believe that hunters and monsters could work together—much less live together. They were mad because they thought your father had to subjugated Grump so he would work with him and that act would upset the natural order. They wanted your father to stop this misuse, despite not knowing the truth.
On the other hand, people are still quite fearful of monsters and didn't believe your father that Grump could be docile. Villagers would be in fear and panic whenever he tried to bring Grump inside some villages and try to convince them otherwise that he is harmless, as long as no one would provoke him and that he was trustworthy companion.
More often than not, your father and Grump were driven off and at most chase down by the hunters from the local guilds in the villages, because of their disbelief in their bond and fear of Grump attacking them.
And for a while that was your father's and Grump's life. Living out in the wild in the dangers of the elements, while avoiding others if not being turned down by them or hunted. Your father even face some harsh realities because of his decision of staying with Grump.
Most of your father's friends turned away from him, if not outright against him, and he found it hard to buy supplies or commodities if he weren't in disguise and if he couldn't sell some of the material he's gathered for money. Going back to civilization became a big risk and it made him reluctant to go anywhere, especially Gildegaran, if he were to keep both himself and Grump safe from people.
He became wary of others as result, and coupled with monsters recognizing how big of a threat your father and Grump were working together, they were also attacked or threatened just as much from monsters as they were with hunters during those days…"
.
"Wow… Dad and Grump were fighting both sides of each other's worlds… That's rough and harsh…"
.
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"It was, as I came to the same conclusion as you when I got to know your father more…
…Yet, despite their circumstances they were in.
They still continued their adventures and helping people cheerfully.
They were happy with what they have, even at the cost of them being against both of their worlds, and unable to return to the point normalcy for either of them. They just found this new life better despite the hardships.
Since, in a way, they themselves were living the best of both of their worlds, with each other.
I found my heart bleeding for them both and felt that it was unfair for your father and Grump to be treated the way they were by the other villages, despite all the good they did unknowingly."
.
"I guess that's why they thought of you different and got close with you. I mean 'dad' would often tell me how he was instantly smitten with love for you! After you took care of him that is."
.
"Oh. You're not wrong.
I could already tell your father had a crush for me, after the last time I came to check on them. And I noticed it more later on, when my visits became less medical related and more wanting to spend time with your father.
And I was able to since, he told me he was staying near the village for a few days for some 'reason' he was giddy about. Which I already knew that 'reason' was me and I admit guiltily that I was giddy as well.
It's because, well… I realized that I already liked your father and felt the same towards him, during the course of time I spent together with your father and Grump. And we started to do more things together from there, discovering a few shared interests and a few new things we like both."
.
"Like what? What did you guys do together?"
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"Well, we'd talked, and your father will share more of his travels, while I share my own tales in the healing hut or those from other hunters I found interesting. Then somedays he'd take me to areas I couldn't visit on my own to collect a few medicinal herbs. Other days he'll just be show off and perform tricks or maneuvers he and Grump do together.
Then sometimes I'd teach him a few first aid skills…"
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"Dad told me he couldn't get a hang of those…"
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"Then he thought me how to ride monsters!"
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"Oh yeah! Dad said you were a natural!"
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"Where do you think your skills came from huh, my little honeydew?"
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"Yeah, yeah I know... But what else did you guys do?"
.
Well, there was a time when I helped your father sell some of the goods he's acquired or even help me out in making more healing items for the guild. We slowly started to become business partners because of our arrangement and work a lot more together. We may even got a little enthusiastic of setting up our own item shop, and planning to manage it together.
Then were some boring days when we just let out our frustrations we have on some things. Sharing it to one another, while being the rock that listens to each other rant about them and give some advice if we could help. And afterwards we'd just lie down together and makeo—Errr…. Make new crafting recipes! Because of said business while we relax and stuff!
And well… Let's just say a few other things, I don't want to go into the specifics too much and bore you.
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"Like what?"
.
"Oh... you know, like more couple stuff."
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"Oh eewww, Mom…"
.
"Hahaha..See…"
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"Okay, okay, let's move past that…
…When did you start traveling with dad?
.
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"Pardon?"
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"Was it after a few days he stayed near your village? Did he make a proposal or something to ask you to travel with him?"
.
.
"Oh…
That's…
…It's—I didn't start traveling with your father—He didn't really ask me…well."
.
.
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"Mom… what's wrong?"
.
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"9S… this part of my story; I don't know if you want to hear."
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"…Why not?"
.
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"It's complicated…"
.
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"...Can't you try explaining it to me?"
.
"Maybe when you're older—"
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"—I'm not a kid anymore, mom.
I want to know… At least for the sake to warn me of something if it's bad. You know already know in the next summer we'll be leaving the village to go move to that Monster rider's home village.
We might be traveling for a while too, out in the outside world and there might be somethings I need to know to stay safe."
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"We've already told you of those things, many times in fact. You don't need to know what led to me and your father traveling together to grasp our warnings and rules.
Why so curious about it anyway… Is this why you were asking me how I met your father?"
.
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"…Yes. I figured you'd be more open to tell me than… dad."
.
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"So you tried asking him… hmmm…."
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"Yeah…I asked him before... but, he just—he never told me— he never tries to tell me…
To what happened and what made you decided to go with dad and Grump. He always skips that part and just goes ending the story like:
'After that it was Bern, Numa and Grump, Family bonanza! Ready to take the world by storm!'
When I pointed it out he was skipping a few details and outright not telling what had happened before that. He'd just go quiet, be a bit stern, then end the conversation there without answering…
…And he'd look so sad too.
.
"Oh 9S…"
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"I was scared if I said something wrong… And I wanted to know why dad looked so sad and try to make it up to him…
I apologize one time, but dad told me it was okay. He said I didn't need to apologize for upsetting him and it was just something personal he couldn't share easily, an experience he wished that didn't happen… And wished it wouldn't happen to me later on.
…So of course, hearing that.
I got even more curious of what it was.
To what happened to you and dad in your village, years ago.
How bad it must been for dad to look so lost …and fear for my own future."
.
.
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"It was… bad… but not that bad. But I'd wish too, you wouldn't caught in the same situation we were in...
…But do you really want to know?
You might not like what you hear 9S, and I'm worried you might lose a bit of your optimistic view on the world if you learned the truth.
I don't want you stop seeing all the good in the world because it's overshadowed by the fear and the bad you might think once I tell you the truth.
.
"Better I know the truth now than be ignorant. I already know dad's stories aren't as realistic he says them to be and after meeting that monster rider, I know the world is much different and dangerous than I thought.
I might end up being naïve of some dangers I couldn't see before. Especially with the profession I'm going for."
.
"…hmmm …Okay. You're not wrong."
.
"With what you said, It might be good for you to know what happened between your father and myself with my old village. At least to know a little bit of what to expect, when visiting other villages and hiding your status as a monster rider from them like your father. Especially when you're going to be one, while hiding in plain sight to explore the world in the future.
And it may even help you later down the road when you decide to take a partner yourself!"
.
"Wait partner? Like a—You mean! —"
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"Yes, 9S. A lover. A girlfriend. A spouse or whatever else youngsters call themselves in a relationship."
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"H-How is this related to you story?"
.
"How is it not? Our relationship that time was like a forbidden love story, with how both me and your father are on two metaphorically different sides against each other. Complications abound are to happen, no matter how cliché or unrealistic it sounds.
…And also, because you might find yourself in the same situation as me and your father did later on.
Once you find your own special someone… probably saving you from a life-threatening situation or something related."
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"…Like that would happen. Who would try to save me if they don't even know me?"
.
"It could happen. It did with your father!"
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"Okay yes and—Wait a minute. Mom stop stalling! Weren't you going to tell me what happened?"
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"Yeah, yeah I did, just wait and let me compose myself."
.
.
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"Okay, I'm ready…
Now listen carefully my little honeydew and try not to interrupt me or ask any questions yet until I finish.
This is a sensitive topic for me and for your father too, which explains to why he's… sad, whenever this part of the story is brought up.
Can you do that for me?"
.
"Okay Mama…"
.
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"Well, let's see… If remember correctly…
It was around mid-autumn… after days and more time spending and getting closer to one another.
Your father and I realized that we both wanted to stay together and have a future together. We began to discuss ways for us to achieve that goal and to decide the best course of action to do so.
But then we found many complications to it and realizing the many difficult choices we had to make to be able to stay together. And like I said before, it had something to do with both me and your father's backgrounds.
Your father was an ex-hunter and traveled with Grump, a Tigrex. Their way of life was different and contrasting to normal society and the Hunter's Guild laws, with them wanted by the latter for said reasons.
And I was a local healer, living in the village and having the ordinary life that is expected as the norm in the world we live in. With both people and monsters living separately from one another.
Even though your and father I were able to make it work between us, visiting in secret and being discrete. We knew our current set up was only temporary if we wanted to live a life together. And after many discussions and debates of the facts we placed, it came to two hard decisions.
Two different and difficult choices. That your father and I didn't want to impose to the other… because it meant sacrificing something in favor for the other. And we didn't want that.
The first choice was in my favor. It was that your father will part ways with Grump and turn himself in to the guild. Then he'll work his way out or whatever it takes for him to be free of his crimes. So that he'd be able to stay with me and live a far more normal life.
I didn't want that. I didn't want him to separate with Grump. I could see and understand the bond they made, and I thought of it beautiful and has become a part of themselves. I wouldn't forgive myself if I were the reason they severed it. I love your father too much to let him lose that amazing part of himself, and I love Grump too for being a good companion and a fun Tigrex to be with. I wouldn't have discovered my interest in monster riding or the rush from it if I haven't met them. Nor opening the doors to new possibilities of understanding more about monsters.
The second choice on the other hand, in favor for your father, was for me to abandon my current life and come travel with him—Which was the choice we ended up making later on, but I'll get back to that in a bit—This choice also came with a dire price of me being subjected to the same conditions your father had, both in living on the run from the guild and absence of the comforts civilization had to offer.
Your father was firmly against this choice and would rather have himself be a disappearing partner who visits time to time, than let me live in the wilds at the mercy of the elements with him. He didn't want that sort of life for me, not because he thought of me weak and that I couldn't do it. Rather, because I still had the choice to stay in the village, safe and doing good work for others as a healer. Than live a harder life, with him out in the wild lands.
And I could see the reason to his argument. Your father may have chosen to stay with Grump and deal with the consequences from his decision. Didn't mean he wanted those conditions or nor did he expect it to be too hard, for him to ask any person to go through it willingly. Your father told me; he loves me. And he didn't want me to go through those same hardships he had just to be with him. He wouldn't forgive himself if I ended up in a dangerous situation and couldn't protect me from it. I ended up telling him the same in response, of wanting to protect him. That I wanted him close, so I could continue to watch over and take care of him and any wounds he and Grump might have in the future.
From there, we were at an impasse of not wanting the other to sacrifice or abandon a part of themselves to stay together. To still wanting to stay close together, but it would be less frequent and only meet up time to time.
We almost settled for the latter, being distant lovers and scheduling our calendars of when we'll meet…
…until one day, our secret got out to the village.
.
"w-what...?"
.
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"We weren't as careful as we thought.
One day I discovered that some hunters spotted your father once when he was visiting me and recognized him. I learned of it when the guild sent a representative and some guild knights to my place, days later after the initial report of your father being sighted and told me that they know that we were seeing each other.
And they demanded that I turn your father in for his past grievances…"
.
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"What did you do?"
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"Well, I started to deny and lie first that I didn't know your father and haven't met him before, but they could see right through me.
…and I wasn't a good liar in the first place...
.
Then I refused to turn your father in, despite their arguments saying he was a dangerous individual and broken guild law of 'subjugating' a monster. That he was also the cause of several monster attacks and actually leading elder dragons to villages to raze and destroy them, as punishment due to the taboo he committed of staying with Grump.
Of course I argued back and said my piece. That your father prevented and took care of several monster attacks before the guild knew they were to happen and that 'he' was the one following elder dragons, who's path were in direct collision with villages and fought them off to prevent a disaster.
I told them and pleaded that all of his suppose crimes were misunderstood and just a coincidence when he was there at the right time and place when a monster attack. I urged them to believe that your father, and Grump by extension, wasn't in the wrong and we could learn more from the bond they had.
But they didn't believe—wouldn't believe me. I could see that their judgement was clouded in fear and mistrust at the idea of your father and Grump's partnership and thought of it as ridiculous and unbelievable. They said a monster will always attack humans and its only a matter of time when they do. And that your father was at risk hurting himself and others if he continues to 'keep' Grump.
Yet I didn't believe them either, continued to rebuke their claims, remaining adamant and refusing to tell them where your father's whereabouts are. They gave me a warning in return, telling me that I'll be punished as well for collaborating with a criminal and refusing to cooperate with the guild, but I pointed out that they couldn't without proof that I was.
And I even added if they were right to accuse me of working with criminal?
When I asked them that if your father was really as dangerous as they said he is, then why hasn't the village we were standing on already destroyed? Why hasn't any of the local monster began to stir trouble or villagers being harmed and terrorized by them? Why hasn't the guild receive any reports of disturbances in our area, in the past days when your father was staying here? When its notoriously known our village makes at least 16 quest requests in a single week.
I asked lastly if your father was threat to them because he was working with a monster or because he was a threat to the guild's standing, because he was doing a far better job than they were in protecting us.
I sounded so smug when I said that last one and I may have metaphorically flip the bird to them, when I saw they couldn't refute my claims and just repeat their previous argument. They left my home after, with an annoyed huff and their frustrations I felt even pass the door I slammed in their faces.
At the moment, I felt proud at myself for defending your father and casting out the guild representatives that wanted to convict him. I then went straight to discretely message your father of what has transpired and informed him of the guild and everything that our relationship was found out. And asked of what's our next move.
Because I knew from the moment the Guild representatives left, everything for us is going to go downhill one way or another…
…And it did for me.
.
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"Mama… what do you mean it went downhill for you? Were you… were you hurt?"
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"…I wasn't hurt physically if you're worried about that…
…But in a sense… I was hurt in a different way…
in the later days after I met with the guild...
People started to avoid me, while whispering rumors they heard from the guild knights.
As more time passed, I found that I couldn't sell my wares or items I crafted anymore. Because people wouldn't buy from me.
Then my profession was lost to me too because hunters wouldn't go to my place to heal. Because they couldn't trust me of treating their wounds and for working with the 'enemy' as well.
Some of them silently expressed their anger at me. Blaming me, for making them lose their livelihood because of keeping your father around and running them out of business…
…
That time… I learned… How quick, people could change their opinions on you.
With from simple words and baseless rumors. And they believe them because out of fear and lack of understanding or even sometimes because they didn't like you and found it as the truth instantaneously.
And before I knew it, in their eyes I changed so much that they didn't see me anymore as their trusted healer… much less as another member of the village.
Everyone I knew started to talk less with me, until they started to ignore my presence completely.
…In the end, I found myself turning to an outcast in my own home…
.
.
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"…h-how… why?
…Why would they do that to you?"
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"…Understand 9S, they were afraid of me and didn't understand what your father and Grump had… they were scared of it because they didn't know, so they acted—
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"BUT IT WAS WRONG! They shouldn't have treated you that way! You didn't change, you just met dad and learn something new that they think was bad!
And alright, maybe you did change a bit, but they didn't even give you the benefit of the doubt nor did they let you explain—much less listen to you—to convince them otherwise.
And because they thought of it bad or a taboo, they immediately put you in the wrong! —How could they turn their backs on you, mom!?
After all the good you did! —You were their healer and they just… just…just…"
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"…Just abandoned You. And I-I... I don't get it...why?"
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"shh…sshhhhhhh… it's okay, 9S… It's okay…
…I know you're upset. But mommy's alright… I'm still here aren't I?
And that was in the past, I'm okay now… I've already move on and it doesn't bother me anymore.
Just know that everyone has their own opinions and are entitled to them, as we are as well. And in real life its hard to change one's belief, especially when its one they had since birth or from their upbringing. And making others understand your own would prove to be difficult if they are not receptive to it.
In this case for me and your father, bonding and living with monsters is still a concept that is lost to others. But its okay for me if most don't grasp it, as long as those close to me do. So even when the village turned away from me, I at least still had your father with me to help me along the way…"
.
"Okay…
…But what did Dad do when he found out?
Did he and Grump go on a rampage and take you away from them?"
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"Well, no on the rampage part, not exactly what I call a rampage in the first place. But yes in the latter, ultimately he did take me away from the village.
He and Grump were as mad as you are right now, with the entire village once he learned of my treatment from them. I had to dissuade them both from going on the rampage since it would have proven the guild right of their own opinions on them. Still, he was furious at my treatment and thought then and there that I was better off traveling with him than continue to be an outcast.
Which I knew that he was right and made my life changing decisions then, to leave and stay together with him…And probably before the guild would come to arrest me for collaborating with him.
Your father knew that it might the case later on if I continue to cooperate with them. They'd probably bring me in for questioning in Gildegaran. Then it would be harder for your father to get to me and would probably end up falling into a trap by the guild for him to get caught."
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"So what did you guys do?"
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"Easy, we made plan. And a plan so like your father, being loud, over the top and obnoxious when he needs to be. Yet, simple enough to put in motion.
Basically all we had to do was for your father to cause a ruckus in the forest attracting monsters and the guild's attention, which was all the hunters in the village. Then sneak in the village to pick me up with Grump. While all I had to do was pack my personal belongings and items that I needed for the road and wait for them.
…And our plan went through flawlessly."
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"Wait really? Just like that? I thought there was going to be something over the top?"
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"Oh yes, there was. Your father and Grump… they were pretty late when they came to pick me up. From what I remembered, they may have proceed to have taken the opportunity to stir a bit more trouble when they came to get me.
They came in riding, with Grump stomping through the streets evading the other hunters left to defend the village and while your father plotted our escape route. And additionally, doing the other part of their plan of leading an angry mob of villagers around in circles until they tire them out.
Why and how did your father executed this?
Well, apparently your father actually snuck into the village the other day and stole several personal belongings from a number of hunters, villagers and others who were miffed at me and decided to punish them. By forcing them to chase him and Grump around the town, while tauntingly waving their possessions, as they fruitlessly try to get them back once he revealed that he had them.
And among things your father has stolen, I recall a number of them include:
-All the left armored boots of both male and female hunters staying in the guild.
-The local guild halls favorite public beer keg and Barbeque split.
-Every Guild lass's writing pens and sailor uniforms they had for some reasons.
-Every piece of raunchy underwear some noblemen were not keen to let the public know were in their possession.
-The Guild representatives' favorite golden monster figure collection, which was limited edition.
-The local gossip's rack of assorted collection of salts—And yes that meant she had a salt rack not a spice rack.
-Every piece of raunchy underwear some noblemen's spouses were not keen to let the public know were in their possession.
-Old painted portraits of relatives from some of my former friends, who turned their backs on me—Because it was the one thing they can't replace, which was what your father said as his reason for stealing them.
-Then finally, all the medicinal and combo recipe books from the local library—Which were the only things we've kept and literally our only crime of stealing from that day. But your father still left some zenny to pay them when he left.
And what your father did with the rest of the items was to throw them around the village, while everyone chased him and attempt to retrieve their scattered belongings. Before he and Grump eventually flew to my place and proceeded to take me away once everyone was thoroughly distracted and in disarray.
Then we were soaring away from the village and never to see it again, without a scratch on any one of us and leaving unscathed.
.
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"Wow mom… that was something, and dad was really pissed. I kinda feel sorry for the villagers for what he did…
But I still think dad and Grump should have gone with an even bigger rampage or something…"
.
"Oh, my little honeydew… hehehe…. I know your angry, but you shouldn't just let your anger dictate your actions. If your father did ,then I know my village would have been flatten by Grump in seconds and it would have just been a needless act of violence.
I wouldn't have like it or would have forgiven your father for such an act. I wanted him to be the bigger man in the situation, even though he acted a bit immature in the end. I was still happy he didn't lash out and proud that he didn't harm anyone, even during the chase around the village.
…And I want you to be the same 9S. Its going to be hard, but I want you to be the bigger man too if you find yourself in a similar situation.
Try your best to be if you can. Will you do that for me?"
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"…Well. I'll try. I won't know until it happens, but if it does, I'll do my best for you mom and try to be like dad and not lash out in anger…
Though I hope I could avoid of coming to similar situation ever. But I know that's unrealistic…"
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"Its okay my little honeydew. I wish the same too, but I feel the path you're on as a monster rider, would lead you to similar scenarios and confrontations.
Defend yourself if you must whether you find yourself in danger in these situations. You won't find me saying that you shouldn't protect youself and your monster's wellbeing or even your belief in your bond when met with opposition.
As you finally learned of your father and I's story, you should know that danger can lurk even in the safest of places."
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"…So, what happened next?"
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"For me and your father? Well you already know that the rest is history.
We traveled together, got closer together and had both uphill and downhill moments between us. We faced complications and difficulties when adjusting of working together in the wildlands, but we always worked it out between ourselves and came out stronger and closer together.
Then later down the road, we found our current village—our current home, a blessing that made us feel all our hardships had finally payed off.
Me, your father, and Grump were finally happy. Finally done running and found a perfect place to settle…
…Then we had you and made our lives even happier than before.
All is well and end's well for us, and kinda a happy ending for me and your father."
.
.
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"…Did you guys have any regrets?"
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.
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"I think for your father, he's only regret is that he believes I was forced to make the choice to go with him because of his reputation and the village finding out.
Ruining my normal life in the process, which is why he's always looking so sad and forlorn whenever the subject of how I started to travel with him comes up.
But in truth… I don't blame him for anything, and my decision was not forced.
I genuinely chose him, and the life offered with him. And I don't have any regrets from doing so. Even if I have to say this to your father every day to make him believe so, I will because I love him.
And I don't want your father to think of meeting me was a mistake, but rather a really good thing that happened for the both of us.
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"I think so too mom…"
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"Glad that you do… if there's one advice I want you take to help you through the same situation I had with my village, is to have someone by your side and facing it together, like what happened with your father and I.
I hope when we go out there back to the outside world, you'll meet someone as special…
Someone who you'll get along greatly and be close with. Who'll become like what your father is to me. Who'll be there to support you and help you no matter what situation you're in. Accepting you and whatever monster partner you'll hatch and go on rides with to wherever you'll go in the world.
…And most of all, someone you'll be happy to be with and love.
And I hope I get to meet them someday.
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"I think I already have mom…"
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"…Really?
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"Yeah, she's amazing. Awesome really… And I think you'll like her when you meet her yourself. I mean you can already tell how great she is with one look—and not just in appearance!"
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"Oooohh… did my baby find his first crush...? She must be really cute!"
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"Beautiful, actually."
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"Awwwwww… That's so sweet of you to say. You've been love struck for this girl, haven't you? I bet you freeze whenever she's around or awkwardly tried to look cool whenever she's around, like you father was to me."
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"…Moooom."
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"Okay, okay. I'll stop. I was just teasing my little honeydew…
But you'll have to save telling me all about this girl later for another time. Our conversation got a bit lengthy here and it's getting late. You'll still need your rest for the things you need to do tomorrow."
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*Yawn "Okay mom… I'll tell you another time."
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"Good… Now sleep well my little honeydew and have a good night's rest."
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"You too mom…
…Good night, I love you."
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"I love you too, 9S…"
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"Oh. One more thing.
When you wake up… tell 2B, I send my regards…
And tell her thank you… for finding you in the river… For saving the life of my little honeydew.
I am so glad and grateful that someone found you.
And just after when everything went wrong… and got worse from there...
I only hope you'll forgive us for what we had to do…
…And you'll find peace from learning the truth."
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9S wakes up, remembering everything in his dream for the first time.
"…Mom?"