Here we go, Chapter 7. Heads up, this isn't much of a Matt chapter, but it does introduce others that I won't mention. As always, if you do see some errors, let me know. (Beta-ing by oneself usually has some blips) Enjoy!
Dropping In
Chapter 7
A few days ago, about two days since Matthew's odd arrival into the past, something strange had happened in the northeastern reaches of the Angara region. Something else that had been unprecedented and would reshape history. A village sat near the base of a pair of mountains, the ocean on opposing sides as roads and plains were blanketed by the never ending falling snow, and the sight of a massive tower several ways east of the village's watchful eye.
Imil.
It was another beautiful day today, she thought to herself as she rose from her warm bed. The weather usually changed from warm to cold in a heartbeat, but today it seemed like it wouldn't. Pulling the curtains back, she looked outside and watched as light snow continued to fall from the sky, like a blooming cascade of white, watery petals, fluttering softly in the gentle breeze. A sigh of glee escaped her as she let the curtains fall back to their place and shifted out of her bed. Despite how the weather looked, there was work to be done and she had to attend to the sanctum in town for another lesson to her two, promising students.
As her feet touched the floor, her body rose to its full height and she made her way to her drawers to take out the necessary garments. After pulling them on and her usual, white robe, she brushed her hair and tied it up in its normal ponytail. Teal eyes sparkled in the mirror as she looked at her reflection and it met her back. Yes, today was going to be a great day, she knew it! Once finishing up getting ready, she headed to the kitchens and found a young man dressed in blue robes already making breakfast. His long hair was pulled up into a ponytail as well, mostly out of necessity. When she stepped in, green eyes turned to meet her teal ones and a smile captured his face. She met it with an equal expression. This man was her only family left, her cousin.
"Good morning, Mia," the young man said as he turned back to the stove, "You're just in time. I've made our usual."
"Good morning, Alex," the young woman called Mia replied as she started to prepare their usual, morning tea, "Did you get a good night's rest?"
"Yes. Another night without any snowstorms, that's always a good sign. Yourself?"
"I have as well."
There was a companionable silence between them after they exchanged their morning pleasantries. As soon as Alex was finished, Mia's tea for them was brewed and they shared their breakfast together as they usually did. It was a welcoming routine the two of them underwent since they were younger when the elements and old age took the lives of their family members. They were the only ones left of the old Mercury Clan that had the powers and abilities of Psynergy, both of water, ice and healing properties.
Alex had been apprenticing under her late father before his death and Mia found it her responsibility to make sure her cousin received the same tutelage and continued the trend. She even took on two newer and younger students, a couple remaining clan members that could use Psynergy as well. Those two were a boon for the village of Imil, where they resided. When they got older, they'd be able to check on the Lighthouse that wasn't far from the village proper.
Speaking of the Lighthouse…
"I'll be checking on the Lighthouse today Mia," Alex spoke up after another round of sipping his tea. His pearly green eyes captured her teal ones as they exchanged glances.
"Is it already today?" she asked. It wasn't that Mia was surprised, but she hadn't expected it to come so soon again. It was already the beginning of the new month—they shared this task betwixt another, one month at a time. When her cousin gave her an affirmative nod, she reciprocated it, "Alright," she replied, "Please be careful when you go, Alex."
Her cousin chuckled lightly though not at her expense. "Don't fret, I will be as I always am. The monsters outside the village aren't strong enough to wear me down." He was very confident of his abilities to protect himself which comforted Mia's concerns. He had done this several times before and she knew that, but she still worried nonetheless. Alex finished his breakfast and tea, stood from the table, and washed out his dishes in the sink before moving towards the door. He quickly fetched his weapon and satchel of items, strapping them to their proper places on his person.
"I won't be gone for too long, the most it will take me is two or three days," he said, recalling how long the trek normally took, and factoring in monster encounters too. "I've packed everything I'll need on the trip." Mia stood as well and approached him, nodding when her visual scan was complete.
"Okay, I'll walk with you for a little," she said and Alex agreed to it. Both exited the house and started through the snowbound village. There weren't many people out just yet as it was still well into the morning hours—and still quite cold—so it was mainly the two of them alone. The walk towards the village's exit was a little ways away, given their house was much closer to the sanctum. A few Imileans were outside and greeted them, all covered up in thick coats and clothing to protect themselves from the perpetual chilly weather.
Once the gate came in sight, Mia stopped as did Alex, the latter turning to the former, "Alright, I'm off now. Thanks for walking with me, Mia."
"It's no problem. Have a safe trip and come back safely."
"I will. And don't you overwork yourself while I'm gone."
The two cousins exchanged warm glances and Mia was waving at Alex as he left the protection of the village and outside to the snowy plains that surrounded Imil and the rest of the northeastern areas. The towering sight of the Mercury Lighthouse, while in the far distance, could be easily seen. Mia's eyes followed its mountainous structure; from this far, it looked like a faraway painting, what with the blankets of white around, the wispy clouds overheard and the dim sunlight peeking through. She soon switched it to watching Alex again, his form becoming smaller as he kept walking. No more than ten minutes later, he was completely absent from view.
Alright, it was time for work.
Mia returned to the house, finished her breakfast and tea and left once again with her staff, a Blessed Ankh, in her grasp. Her first stop was to the sanctum to check in with her students and observing their progress. They were well on their way to becoming great healers and diviners on their own, but they still needed a little push forwards. Finding the path to the sanctum, Mia headed up, and pushed the heavy, wooden doors open.
Stepping inside, there were a few rows of pews inside the cave-like sanctuary, outfitted with wool-made rugs underneath on the floor. There were lit torches along the walls to provide light and warmth. Towards the back, there was a wide, wooden desk, which supplied the necessary ingredients and items to curing ailments. A tall bookshelf filled to the brim with a plethora of books of differing covers and colors were aligned in an orderly fashion on the shelves, awaiting usage. There were three other occupants aside Mia's arrival. A villager had been inside, kneeling as two young children busily began casting healing Psynergy over him.
One of them, a girl, was sporting a white shirt with a green dress over that, complete with simple brown boots. She had her light blue hair tied into two pigtails. The other, a boy, was garbed in a simple light green shirt with brown overalls and matching boots. His light blue hair was done with an undercut hairstyle. Both children were in deep concentration as they focused their combined Psynergy abilities over the healer, the rings of light encapsulating the two in unison.
After a while, the healing session stopped and both children opened their eyes and ceased conjuring their Psynergy. "There you are, Mr. Boyd! Good as new!" the girl chirped up first, smiling as the man stood up.
"You kids did a wonderful job. I feel a hundred times better now," the man known as Mr. Boyd said, testing out his arms and legs, "Thank you."
"It's no problem. We were happy to help!" the boy chimed in next, glad to see that their assistance was worthwhile. "Be careful out there cutting wood, Mr. Boyd! And if you get hurt again, come see us!"
"Oh, I definitely will. With you two working under Mia, it's no wonder you're becoming better healers." The two children blushed in embarrassment at the praise. Mr. Boyd waved them goodbye and began to head out, only to see the very one he had mentioned.
"Good morning, Mr. Boyd," Mia greeted him.
"Good morning, Mia!" he replied, "Hey, great job with the kids! They've really improved since they started their tutelage under you."
"Oh, uh, thank you. But it wasn't really all me. They've been working very hard to reach the skill they have now." Not only that, but Alex has been helping a lot with them, too. Mr. Boyd nodded and smiled.
"That's true, but don't be so modest! You deserve a pat on the back for helping them this far. Well now, I'll let you go on. I've to get back to work. Those trees won't be chopping themselves, after all."
"Alright then, take care Mr. Boyd."
"I will, I will." He turned and waved to the two children, who had been listening on the conversation, "You two take care, too!"
"Bye Mr. Boyd!" the both of them exclaimed together while waving to the older man simultaneously. With the woodcutter leaving the sanctum, it was just the three of them, teacher and students. Mia closed the doors to keep the cold air out and approached the two, who looked like they were on pins and needles the whole time.
"Miss Mia, good morning!" the boy was the first to speak up.
"Good morning Justin and Megan. I see you two have been busy already," Mia replied and smiled at them, the two reciprocating it.
"Yep! We had just got here when Mr. Boyd showed up with a nasty bruise and cut so we took care of it so you wouldn't overwork yourself," the girl called Megan answered cheerfully. "I'm so glad we did it!" Justin bobbed his head in agreement, equally giddy and excited as Megan. They had been hard at work to improving their skills. They were only eight years old and have been under Mia's mentorship since last year. Having seeing the young woman go from house to house with her cousin Alex to administer healing sessions to the villagers, they had been inspired to try for themselves.
Everyone in the village had Psynergy to a degree, as many were descendants of the Mercury Clan. However, not all could harness these powers; at best, some could utilize them for small doses like putting out small fires or freezing something they may need frozen, like keeping food stabilized until the next time it needs to be used. Megan and Justin were two of the few remaining clansmen that could use Psynergy in the healing aspect as well as for battle, although the latter wouldn't be fully implemented until they were a couple years older. They had been busy working on their healing abilities to help lessen the load off Mia and Alex. So far, it was working wonders and while they were just apprentices for now, they were improving daily. It was getting easier to access their powers and conjure the Psynergy needed to do the job.
"The both of you had done a wonderful job, I'm proud of you," Mia said with genuine intent behind those words, the two children sponged the praise from their mentor. It was the highest praise they could ever receive, after all. The older of the trio headed for the bookshelf and found the text she needed and turned to them, "Today won't be a long lesson as there's more hands-on experience I want to show the both of you today. Let's start with remembering our basics, okay?"
The two children found their usual seats in the pews and anxiously nodded and began reciting the memorized material from the tops of their heads. They were eager to get to the "fun part" which was going outside and actually performing tasks than sitting inside all day long, reading and writing. Thankfully their mentor found the absolute need of personal experience over books to be more suited for the pair of children.
As they were covering the next few sections in a review session, the doors to the sanctum had been opened in a hurry. All three stopped what they were doing and turned to the newcomer. It was Mr. Boyd again. However, instead of his cheerful attitude from earlier, he was in a panic, eyes wide and mouth agape as he was catching his breath. Had he ran back?
"Mr. Boyd, hello. What happened?" Mia asked, putting the book down.
"Mia! You—you have to come quick!" The urgency in his voice made Megan and Justin stand up from their seats, too. The two were exchanging worried looks with another as Mia stepped from behind the desk, her face set to stone as she grabbed her staff.
"What's happened, Mr. Boyd?"
"It's weird. I had just went home and grabbed my tools and stepped outside the village to cut some wood for everyone when all of a sudden, I heard monsters!" The woodcutter started, trying to keep calm in his panic, "I went over to check and saw a whole slew of monsters surrounding a person. I thought it was ole Alex at first, but a closer look told me it wasn't him. Of course I went and helped 'em out with my trusty axe! The fella is unconscious and I tried to rouse him but it's no use. He's still breathing but not responding. I took 'em back to my house in a rush and his condition hadn't improved since!"
That wasn't good. That person might have been injured by those monsters and many of them around this area were infused with venom, meaning they could inflict deadly poison in a person. Left untreated and they would perish.
"Alright, lead the way." She quickly turned to Justin and Megan, "Can I count on the both of you to watch the sanctum while I'm gone?"
"You can, Miss Mia. We'll do our best!" Justin said. The both of them stood tall and donned serious expressions. Feeling reassured, Mia left it in their hands and followed Mr. Boyd out. She knew her home village was naturally plagued with illness that ran rampant on a bi-monthly rate due to the weather conditions, but this was the strangest situation ever. She'd never turn her back on someone in need, but this was the first time in ages that they had a visitor. The last time there were any was roughly fifty years ago, when her parents had been very young and the clan had more than four members as it currently did.
It wouldn't be long until the pair reached Mr. Boyd's house. The man himself stepped forward to open the door and letting Mia in first before closing it behind him. He urgently rushed to the room where he'd set the unconscious person and quickly made room for Mia to enter.
"Here he is, Mia," he said, standing back as she carefully approached them. The first sight of them—or him for that matter—had taken her by surprise. Mr. Boyd's brief description of the patient had been quite accurate. This young man, whoever he was, looked very similar to her cousin, Alex. It was almost like looking into a mirror of him. However, this person's hair was much shorter and he was grabbed differently than her cousin. While her mind was trying to process this, she had been checking him, forehead, neck, waiting for a distinct pulse—and was glad to find one present—and temperature.
He was far colder than he should be, and he had symptoms that frequented those unaccustomed to cold weather and poison. She knew she had to work quickly if she wanted to save his life.
Filing his oddities away for a later time, Mia turned to Mr. Boyd, who was still standing around anxiously, as she kept her hands on the stranger. "Mr. Boyd, I'm going to need your help." The man snapped to attention as she continued, "Please get boil water and pour it into a bowl and fetch some clothing towels," she instructed, placing her ankh aside and began removing the strange objects off the young man's head. It looked like some kind of crown, but she wasn't sure. "We'll need to warm him, please start a fire as well."
"Right away," the older man said and rushed out of the room to begin the preparations as fast as he could. Mia called up her well of Psynergy and began administering the healing, her abilities of Ply being channeled into him. As soon as she had done that, a striking sense of familiarity had rushed into her, as if she had known this boy for all her life. And yet, she hasn't once ever met anyone like him before. It was so strange to her that she'd have this kind of connection with a stranger. She'd only feel that way towards Alex and to a mild extent, when using Psynergy on Megan and Justin. This could only mean one thing, however. This boy was related to the Mercury Clan!
But, how could that be? There were only four of them left, as far as using Psynergy to its fullest extent went. Everyone else that lived here either didn't have such the skill to access their Psynergy, was never born with the extrasensory ability or only had a minimal grasp of the powers itself. What she felt here was like Alex in a way; a deep well of power. There were bits and pieces she had felt that were oddly different but the vast majority of his Psynergetic presence was all the Mercury Clan. This was indeed strange. Where had he come from? Had there been survivors of the clan that lived elsewhere? Were there more of them? These questions and more had plagued her mind and yet, she couldn't focus on them. No, not when his life was on the line.
This boy needed her help first. 'I will definitely worry about it later,' she thought as she concentrated her energy flow into him, working on eliminating the toxin inside his body. She would do whatever it took to heal him.
-x-
It had been a rough week since they started their attempts to awakening his son. They had long since moved him to his and Tyrell's shared room upstairs and changed him out of his normal attire for something more comfortable. Isaac stared at the still form of his only child, the guilt and grief consuming him as each second passed. Everyone was exhausted at this point and had done everything they could. Karis had been hard at work at unlocking the Psynergy Seal that Matthew was afflicted with. She had claimed she'd gotten far and with his addition of using his Revive Psynergy, he had high hopes they could recover his son's soul, wherever it had been hiding. He had morbidly entertained the idea that his son was already dead, but that wasn't true. He was still breathing, which meant he was still alive under those layers.
If they could just break through them, they could set him free.
Unfortunately Karis had exhausted herself to the point that she had nearly fallen unconscious herself. The teen had been overworking herself trying to remove the seal over her friend's body and while it was valiant in every aspect, she could have potentially killed herself if she had gone further. He wouldn't know what to tell Ivan if he found out his only daughter had died to save his son from his fate. Isaac had told her to rest and with much bantering later, the girl acquiesced and had done so.
She had barely hit the couch and was already out like a light. Garet had provided her with a blanket.
Isaac smoothed a wet cloth over Matthew's face, keeping him as cool as he possibly could. Another indicator that he was still alive was that his body temperature sporadically shot up and they had to make sure it cooled down. There were other times when his body had illuminated in a faint, golden yellow energy, signifying the use of Earth Psynergy, very likely something of the Cure series. But otherwise, he was motionless. This coma, whatever it had been, was worrying him. He held off sending a letter to Jenna, but he knew it would be a matter of time until he had to. It concerned their son, after all.
As he was finishing wiping down his son's face, creaks were heard as someone was coming up the spiral staircase. A shortened, spiky tower of auburn hair was shown until the culprit revealed themselves fully. They walked into the room and stood beside him. Isaac knew exactly who it was.
"Garet," he acknowledged his long-time friend.
"Isaac," the aforementioned replied back, "How is he? Any changes?" With the solemn look on his best friend's face, he knew the answer already.
"No. Still the same," Isaac replied, eyes downcast as he worked meticulously, "No random fevers or use of Psynergy though."
"I see…" Garet hummed and then sat down in a chair beside Isaac and the bed. He scanned over his friend's son and frowned. He didn't know what he could do to help other than do what he was asked. He'd been a listening ear when Isaac had his moments of grief. But other than that, his best friend was enduring this as strongly as he possibly could, determined to save Matthew from his affliction. "I've sent Kraden a letter this morning regarding the situation. If the messenger bird flies fast enough, it'll reach him in four days at its earliest."
Isaac inclined his head a little in response to that. Having the older man's help in the situation was the best solution they could muster at this point. All three of them have been studying the Psynergy Vortices, how they form, and what effect they have on living organisms, Adepts specifically.
After some time, a silence permeated between them. Garet watched as Isaac continued to look after his son. It was awkward but not unwelcomed. "The kids are sleep," Garet added, "This whole thing took a lot out of them."
"Understandable," came Isaac's response as he folded the wet cloth and placing it back on the edge of the small bowl. "They've been really working themselves to death. Seeing him this way hasn't done them any wonders."
"Hasn't done any of us wonders," his friend corrected, "I can't imagine what Matthew's going through. I wonder if he can still hear us or anything."
The boy's father thought the same thing, wondering if deep down in there, could his son feel them? When they grabbed his hand and held it? When they spoke to him? When their Psynergy tried to cut through the binds to reach him? Could he hear them? Was he aware they were close by, waiting for him to awaken? On reflex, Isaac took Matthew's nearest hand and held it, rubbing the palm and skin texture between his own. Tired, blue eyes fixated themselves on the teenager, wishing and hoping this nightmare would end, if only he opened his eyes…
"I can take your place and watch him while you rest," Garet eventually spoke up again, being mindful. When his friend glanced towards him with a look of refusal, the Fire Adept met it with his own disapproving look and pressed, "We all need it to recuperate. You and Karis especially, Isaac, since the both of you are doing majority of the labor trying to bring him back. If you don't rest, you won't have the strength to help him and everything we've done together so far would be all for naught. Running yourself ragged won't do you or any of us any good."
"I know Garet," Isaac replied quietly with a low sigh, rubbing Matthew's hand again, "…I know."
Garet didn't press any further. He only hoped his friend knew and was only saying that to get him off his back. It wouldn't be the first time that's happened. Another wave of silence surrounded them, the two staying quiet for a time. After a while, Isaac released his son's hand and began to stand. Garet's gaze followed him.
"I'll make tea," he said. He sounded so tired, both mentally and physically, and it showed on his face. This whole incident had aged them and not in a good way. Both friends exchanged looks and Garet nodded.
"I'll keep a close watch over him. If anything changes, I'll let you know."
It took a bit for Isaac to get going after hearing the confirmation; his focus was on Matthew. Looking at him one more time, in such a state had him tightening his fists in frustration. He swore he'd find a way to bring him back, no matter what. With one breath exhaled, he headed for the stairs and descended. When the last of his friend's presence was gone, Garet turned back to the unconscious teenager and frowned. The next session would no doubt wipe them out. He'd have to go restock on tea, hot chocolate and coffee at Carver's once Isaac rested and returned.
"I hope you're still in there, Matt. We're all doing what we can. Just hang on."
Matthew & Ivan
The pair had taken a bit of a break once they had gone through the next section of the cave. They'd encountered many monsters along the way, and all of them one right after the other. Ivan said he had a grasp on a new spell he was focusing on and Matthew was glad for that. So far, Ivan knew Whirlwind, Ray and now Plasma. However, the numerous monsters attacking them was getting extremely ridiculous—in Matthew's eyes—and Ivan was tiring out pretty quickly from the expended usage of his concentrating his Psynergy. Mental exhaustion would equate to physical if it wasn't treated with applicable rest.
Awkwardly enough, Matthew had the strangest sensation that someone was touching or had touched his hand. He ghosted over it, maybe thinking it was another Ghost enemy or something that was trying to spook him while being invisible but nothing. No one was there, not that he could sense. It was strangely odd. Maybe he had imagined it? He ignored it for the time being.
In any case, to ward off anymore of the annoying creatures, Matthew decided to cover them with Sacred Feathers, which Ivan readily agreed to. The youngest had wanted to get stronger but with the rapid influx of monsters they fought off, it had become bothersome and a chore than training.
So, they relaxed beside a wall, sitting down and watching the small stream that rushed by them and letting their minds and energy recharge for a while. Matthew took out the remaining leftover bread and made them ham sandwiches in the meantime while they chatted with another to pass the time.
"I've never seen so many monsters all at once," Ivan said after he finished chewing the last bite of his sandwich, "Usually it's maybe two or three encounters but with that many, it's really strange."
"It is, yeah," Matthew agreed. He'd never seen that kind of monster outbreak, not since the Grave Eclipse. But those monsters were conjured from the Eclipse itself and corrupted versions of the regular creatures that had been touched by the dark energy. He was mostly used to back-to-back encounters but for someone starting out like Ivan, he figured it would be exhausting after several times. The break was necessary, more for the younger of the two than Matthew's sake.
"I often wonder why that is, though. Why the monsters attack us so often when we are adventuring."
Ivan's question brought up a good point, one that he had once asked before himself once upon a time. The answer to that, or a believable response to it, was fresh on his mind.
"I think it has to do with our Psynergy," Matthew started, garnering his companion's attention, "Like, we're attuned with our powers, right?" Ivan inclined his head. "So, I think they'd be likely to try and ambush us to overpower us. I think they're attracted to our Psynergy and want to take it for themselves." Remembering the Psynergy Vortices and what they do to an Adept came to mind. "A naturally born Adept is already attuned to their element, and so likewise, we are essentially constructed of that element mainly alone. It's what makes us what we are in physical form." 'Who'd thought Kraden's random lessons would come in handy?' He thought to himself and continued, "As far as we know, this is the widely accepted theory when studying Adepts. They're mostly closed off in different villages, usually hidden away from the prying eyes of the world.
"Anyway, monsters have thrived on Psynergy for a long time just as Adepts have been around for a long time. So, I think that's why." It was the best he could do as far as a hypothetical answer and using Kraden's randomized theories behind the studies of Adepts. Of course, his only examples of studies were the eight Warriors of Vale that he traveled with. "I understand it's kind of a weird answer."
Having absorbed the information, Ivan nodded slowly, "I will say that is quite an answer. I hadn't thought of it that way, but that could be because I've just recently discovered what my powers really were and accepted them. I'm not sure if it's the actual answer I'm looking for, but I will consider it one of many."
"Understandable. Though, if I were you, I'd probably take what I said with a grain of salt," Matthew added with a small laugh.
A bit addled by his friend's response, the Wind Adept gazed questioningly at him, "Why would I do that?"
Matthew gave a slight shrug, "Oh, well. I don't think it was an educated answer, that's all. Just ramblings jumbled together in a coherent way, or as coherent as possible while trying to make some sense out of nonsense, I guess."
"Don't sell yourself short, Matthew. I'm sure your answer has some merit to it."
He could only hope it did. "Well, I guess so. Thanks, Ivan." Mainly for the vote of confidence on his end. The other boy gave an affirmative nod and the two were wrapped up in companionable silence, only listening to the emptiness of the cave and the occasional drip-drop of the water spilling from the stalagmites atop the cave's ceiling. They could also hear the squeaks and chatters of roaming monsters from around but as long as the Sacred Feathers were in effect, they wouldn't be coming anywhere near. Ivan scooted a little closer to Matthew out of alarm when he overheard the clunking sound of a Bone Fighter's presence slinking by.
The two finished their sandwiches and were set to setting off again.
"I wonder how much progress Isaac and Garet's made?" Matthew wondered as they stood up and reconfirmed where their weapons were on them.
"Very likely done with what they were doing and waiting for us to return with news about our small adventure," Ivan supplied, "So far nothing but more walkways and turns."
"Yeah, but let's get going though. We need to see what's up ahead and then report back to Garet and Isaac." Once that was stated, the two started off again, following the path along the wall and water. There was a small section of land protruding from the cave's river, which would allow them to cross over to the other side, which was blocked off by a thick wall. Matthew crossed first to ensure it was safe and then called for Ivan to follow.
Soon enough, they came upon a staircase leading further up. They ascended it without a question.
After a couple of minutes climbing the stairs, they were in another room and upper floor of the cave. They both looked around for a moment until Ivan spotted what appeared to be another mysteriously placed log on a ledge that required the Move Psynergy. Oh, great. Ivan looked to Matthew in concern, remembering what happened much earlier in the day when they were entering the cave.
"Matthew?" Even with the young mage's tone implying this, the future Adept knew what he had to do. He glanced down at his hands, as if they were the cause to his random disruption to accessing his natural Psynergy, then clamped them shut into fists. He had to do this—there was no other way to get further along.
"It's okay," he told Ivan, "I just have to concentrate harder." The pair reached the stationary log and the wide gap between both ledges. Down below, they knew it looked like a dark abyss into nothing, but likely lead to the floor they'd ascended from. Very likely, a thirty or more drop from here. They'd have to be careful. Facing the log on the opposite side, Matthew focused and summoned his Venus Psynergy, willing the earthen powers to his call. Okay, so far so good. As he was doing this, Ivan kept his eyes and mind open to anything that might go wrong. Something about that last time had baffled him and he wanted to be sure of something…
'Okay Matt, focus. Don't let it slip anywhere else but the log.' He thought, biting his bottom lip as he summoned the Move Psynergy once more, 'Slowly, slowly now…'
He manipulated the energy-summoned "hand" that appeared to push the log forward, to give them ample space to jump across. Like before, it was working out and the Psynergy appeared to do as it was intended. A few beads of sweat trickled down Matthew's face as he kept his focus and attention on the technique, something that was so simple and menial that a kid at age five could do this in their sleep. Nonetheless, he didn't want to blow it like last time. As it looked to succeed, Matthew's lips curled into a smile. Maybe—maybe what had happened was a fluke. Perhaps being so worked up and worried for the passing week had muddled his concentration without him knowing. There wasn't any reason for alarm—he was just fine.
Crrraaaaaack!
Those thoughts were immediately dashed and thrown into the flaming abyss of despair when the "hand" suddenly became the Slap Psynergy and slammed the log into the wall, smashing it in the process. Both Adepts had seen it again, their eyes wide. Matthew instantly stopped focusing when the "hand" started to become erratic. Likewise, his own feelings were mirroring this after seeing what had happened. Why? Why had it—?
"So it happened again," Ivan started, expression set in a deep frown, "I can sense you are in control when you conjure the Psynergy, but then after a moment, it suddenly goes haywire." Matthew blinked when Ivan had spoken. "I think I may have seen what was wrong." Wait a minute…
"You were observing me?" The older of the two asked, turning to him with a genuine, curious look.
"That's correct. The first time you used Move when we were outside, I thought I saw some faint traces of light in your Psynergy," Ivan began, "Not the typical sort of 'light' that we emit when summoning the abilities themselves. It was much harsher if I can so describe it. It felt like I was looking at the sun for a split moment. And it seemed to be entwined into your Psynergy whenever you call it forward." Ivan hummed in thought before nodding to himself, "Additionally, I also spotted some flickers of what looked to be…shadowy particles within it. Also, when you used Potent Cure to heal us after the fight, the same was also present there, in much more quantity than when utilizing Move. I hadn't really paid it any attention, believing it to be apart of the powers to heal us. But, taking a good look at you when we've fought and you used Psynergy to attack… It's wholly different. It's at the same intensity as when I summon mine and you're in much better control of it."
The youngest Adept sighed as he pulled up the rest of his observation, "I think, Matthew, that your powers might be developing into something else. I think, whatever it is, is influencing your natural Psynergy affinity."
Absorbing Ivan's deductions, Matthew could only be silent about them. His powers could be developing into something else? Could he be losing his affinity over the earth, his birth element? What was this about harsher light or these shadowy particles? Something about that seemed familiar to him and after a moment of mental searching, he found his answers.
The Grave Eclipse. The Apollo Lens.
He and his ragtag group of friends had all been affected by those to some degree. All had been heavily exposed to the dark and light energies, almost on and off. Most of this was due to the Grave Eclipse's effects as they had to traverse Weyard in search of the Umbra Gear—that only his friend Sveta could use—and finally climb the Apollo Lens. After a rough and long battle with the enemy, he and Sveta had tried to climb the lens to activate it to dispel the Eclipse… They'd merged souls together and—
'Is—is that it? Is that why? Had those energies corrupted my Psynergy?' Matthew thought with a deepening frown, 'Was such strong exposure the reason why I'm like this now? Is it tainted? What's going on? What's going to happen to me?' What could he do, if this was true? What if it spreads to his other Psynergy? Dark and Light Psynergy were brand spanking new elements that emerged after their victory back home at the Apollo Lens. It had created new Adepts that had bathed under that intense light, namely where Sveta's home city Belinsk and the region of Morgal. Was it possible preexisting Adepts exposed to such energies converted or corrupted them?
Those answers…he didn't know.
Gods, more mysteries added to the list, that's exactly what he didn't need. But, if both the harsh light of the Apollo Lens and the corrupted darkness of the Grave Eclipse were the reasons why his Psynergy was likely going out of his control, then that would help explain the oddities. And yet, that haunting question prevailed in reminding him of what could potentially be happening:
Was the exposure to both changing him or corrupting him? Or—or… could it be because of this time era? Was it because he was here, in the past? Or, was it a combination of all three possibly the reason why?
'If only I had Kraden here to help me. We could have traded some theories and ideas together,' Matthew thought and sighed a little. There wasn't anything he could do right now about the absence of the scholar nor of his dwindling, derailing or potentially converted Psynergy abilities, either.
-x-
Three men and two women, or to be truly specific, two teenagers, one young man, one young woman and an elderly gentleman, had just exited the Goma Cave for themselves not long ago. It had been a couple days' worth traveling through the puzzle infested dungeon-like cave and they were making great progress so far. Their first stop was to head northeast to the chillier reaches of the Angara region. According to their research, there was a village close to their first destination: the Mercury Lighthouse. The group of five pressed on until the skies darkened.
It was for another few hours in which they finally stopped and made camp, mainly to rest and the fact it was getting dark. The two teenagers had set up camp with the help of the old man.
"We've certainly come far," the woman spoke up to her companion. She had long hair that was fair and blond in complexion. She wore a reddish-pink dress, boots, a small cape, small gloves and had piercing red eyes. Her skin complexion was strange in that it was pale yet had jagged, red scales shaped around her face, legs and ears, making them strangely pointed. Strapped to her back was her weapon of choice: a scythe. "With our progress so far, it won't be long until our mission is complete."
"Yeah. It's been…interesting to say the least so far," her aforementioned companion answered. He had silvery blue hair, oddly styled to spike upwards then slant naturally towards the left. He also wore a headband to keep his hair from falling into his face. His attire consisted of metal armor plating, pants and boots, complete with a long blue cape and metal gauntlets. His skin seemed unnaturally pale, almost like a faint shade of blue, with blue scales bumpily lining along what could be seen of his arms, face and ears, much like the woman previously. At his hip was a sheathed sword, his preferable weapon.
"Understandably. Also, it appears those kids are still alive after all," the woman spoke up again. "Quite amusing and interesting themselves that they managed to survive Mt. Aleph's trap."
"Indeed. But that only makes it easier for us."
"How so, Saturos? Those kids might have the last Elemental Star we need—the Mars Star."
"I know, Menardi. Part of the plan now is to lead them to the Mars Lighthouse or at the very least, take it from them at Venus should they continue their pursuit of us," the newly-named warrior called Saturos explained briefly, "Which I'm sure they will. They won't have it for long. Let's just say they'll be keeping it safe for us, if they have it."
"That's only if. Can such an artifact be lost forever in the Sol Sanctum?"
Saturos mulled over it for a moment before shaking his head, "I wouldn't think so. That rock thing, the Wise One, would have likely saved it from its inevitable doom no doubt. It is necessary to have all four gems thrown into each Lighthouse aerie to awaken each seal. Such an essential item wouldn't be lost forever."
Menardi glanced to her companion again and nodded to his logical answer. While the two continued their conversation, the old man and the teenaged girl were conversing with each other. However, the lone, teenaged boy had set himself apart from most of the camp, just staring into the fire for a moment.
His hair was brown, worn long and into a ponytail with an odd cowlick sticking up from where his bangs were parted. His complexion wasn't too far from between fair and tanned, and his eyes matched his hair color. A greenish-blue cap craped around his body as he was decked out in simple armor, boots and gloves, a sheathed sword strapped to his left with a belt. The fire was warm and yet he ignored it in favor of having a staring contest with the flickering flames—and losing horribly. Slowly, he turned his hands downside up with his palms facing him.
'This is it, we're getting close to the Mercury Lighthouse just as it was planned,' he thought, 'Each one of us has a role to play in the future Lighthouses that must be lit. However, we don't have a Mercury Adept with us. Traversing the Lighthouse would become problematic… Unless there's a Mercury clansmen from that village that would help us.' He shook his head a scoffed to himself, 'Yeah, like hell that's going to work. Centuries of guarding seals won't be so easily broken just out on a whim. They'll likely refuse to listen to reason… And then we might have to take them as hostages, too.' He briefly glanced at the old man and teenaged girl trying to have a conversation with one another. Most of his focus was on the girl, though. '…I just wish she hadn't been involved in this…'
Said girl was a usually robust young lady with powers aligned to being a Fire Adept, or specifically a Mars Adept. She wore a simple breastplate, a pinkish, long-sleeve top, a knee-length maroon skirt with boots, and a purple cape fastened around her shoulders and breastplate. Her complexion was about the same as his. She had brown eyes with a similar shape to his own and her reddish-brown hair was styled in a ponytail too, only held much higher. Two strands of cowlicks stood up from where her ponytail was position and another where her bangs were parted. An ornate staff was strapped to her back and she looked no older than seventeen, a year junior to his own age.
Looking at her made him frown and feelings of guilt seized him again and think, she shouldn't be here right now. And yet, here she was in a position that was forced upon her.
Apparently feelings eyes on her, the teenaged girl turned from her conversation with the old man and locked gazes with him. Her expression shifted though upon seeing his. "Felix?" She called to him and when he didn't answer back, either due to his self-inflicted daze, she pressed again, "Brother? What's wrong?"
Blinking out of his reveries, the appropriately named Felix saw her staring at him along with the older gentleman. Ah, had he been staring off into space again? He had to better control that. "I'm fine, Jenna," he answered quickly to alleviate her concerns, "I was merely thinking, that's all."
"Oh. Well, um, is it anything you wanted to talk about?" Jenna asked and offered. He'd been there to listen to her complaints ever since she was kidnapped by Saturos and Menardi after the incident in Sol Sanctum.
"No. Not quite," her brother replied before returning his gaze back into the fire. "It's nothing to concern yourself with. But, thank you." His sister frowned a little but didn't press it. Instead, she stood up from her spot and sat close to him, eventually scooting closer until their knees were touching. Felix didn't bat an eye, knowing this was his sister's usual response so far when they broke for camp for the evenings so far. Even as children when their father took them out for camping for fun in the eastern side of the village—prior to Kraden's arrival—along with Isaac's father, Kyle, and Isaac and Garet, too. It was—it was a lot of fun.
But those days are over. There was no going back even if he wished it.
"I'm still worried about Isaac and Garet," Jenna spoke up after a while of silence betwixt them. Her hands balled up the hem of her skirt as she looked down, bottom lip trembling and unshed tears threatening to fall, "What if—what if they didn't survive the sanctum's—?"
"Don't say that," Felix interrupted her. The very idea the friends he grew up with for twelve years suddenly dead because of the Sol Sanctum incident not so long ago was preposterous in his mind. No—they were much stronger than that, he believed it. "They're alive, I know it. And they will be pursuing us."
"How…?" When Felix glanced at her again, she shook her head, "How do you know they're still alive?" First her family then her best friends… She just—she couldn't take it anymore. Her brother was alive yes, but she lost two more she held dear to her heart.
Almost as if he could feel her inner turmoil and distress, Felix placed a hand on top of hers in a comforting manner, getting her attention, "They just are, Jenna. I can feel it. Isaac and Garet are stronger than they seem. I know they're okay. You have to believe that they are. You've been with them for much longer than I have. They've always been with you when since—since that day, right?" When his sister slowly acknowledged that, he brushed some strands of hair from her face, noticing that she did shed a few tears, "Just believe in them and their ability to be alive. They'll come for you and have protected you where I've failed these past three years." He hated talking about that day as it hurt not only him and their parents but it deeply affected Jenna. In fact, he hadn't ever told her of what was really going on and about their parents and Kyle's current situation…
Perhaps—perhaps telling her would make her cheer up? After some consideration, he thought against it. He wouldn't tell her yet, but he would someday soon. She deserved to know that everyone was alright at the very least.
"Don't cry, Jenna. Everything will be alright," Felix said, attempting to comfort his sibling as best as he could, "You'll see all of them again." He gave her a one-arm embrace, pulling her close to him. She used the palms and backs of her hands to wipe her tears even as more slipped under the radar.
"…Okay. I will." Her brother was right. He had to be right. Isaac and Garet were her best and only friends since childhood. They had been studying Psynergy more intently than ever before after the incident three years ago. They were okay—they had to be. She just had to believe in that. She couldn't think such negative thoughts. She—she had to stay strong and hope with all her heart they were alright. They were likely doing the same so she had no excuse to sulk!
Once drying her face completely, Jenna leaned a little bit from her brother, taking her weight off him voluntarily. "You're…you're right, Felix. I have to be strong for them. I know they're out there doing all they can to help me."
'I hope they do, too,' Felix thought as he released her and instead said, "They are." She didn't deserve to be here. She and Kraden were hostages since the main focus of the group already comprised of two Mars Adepts—those being Saturos and Menardi—and with him being the Venus Adept for two of the next three future Lighthouses. He knew the reason they were taken but it still didn't sit well with him.
As for his friends, or former friends…
His gut feeling told him so and for some odd reason, another feeling surfaced, having bubbled itself up. It was an odd sensation; at one point, he felt as if he were somewhere else farther away. It'd been an on and off presence since, he'd guess about five or so years ago. And the feeling hadn't gone away, either. In addition to that, he was starting to have strange dreams about familiar places but he'd never seen nor visited such alien places before. How could this be? He hadn't pursued nor spoken about them. They were his problems and he couldn't possibly burden anyone else with something that seemed so trivial.
Besides, it wasn't important. Saving the world from its self-destruction was far more dire than any issues of his. Once the major issue was taken care of, perhaps he'd ponder on his problems. Until then…he had to remain focused. Not only for the mission but for Kraden's and his sister's well-being. He knew if he so much as stepped out of line, Saturos and Menardi would come after them, especially her. He couldn't let them harm her. He'd already failed once, he couldn't let them do it again. For that, he only hoped Isaac would come and save the two of them from their imprisonment. It was all he could hope for—Jenna would be safer with Isaac.
"While I had also worried for Isaac and Garet's well-being and safety, I do believe those two are alright," a voice spoke up, garnering the siblings' attention. It was Kraden, the old man that had also been straddled with being a hostage. He had graying, white hair, some curls springing upwards like a cowlick as well, complete with a beard. His complexion, unlike the siblings, was much fairer. His blue eyes sparked with age, wisdom and intelligence. He was garbed in a simple clothing of a long-sleeve blue shirt, pants and brown cloak, with an assortment of bags that contained necessary documents of his studies on Alchemy. He was around his seventy's and yet seemed as chipper as a teenager—for the most part. He'd mostly stayed quiet to not interfere with the siblings' moment, although couldn't help himself from saying what was on his mind about his other two friends-slash-students.
"You too, Kraden?" Jenna spoke up, relieved she wasn't the only one that had been worried.
"Quite. I'm sure they are still alive, Jenna. We have to trust in ourselves and have confidence in their abilities. After all, they aren't just mere Adepts."
Felix mulled over Kraden's words and hummed silently in thought about them. Aren't just mere Adepts? He wondered about that…
Before either of the three could continue their impromptu conversation, the other two members of their group returned from their private conversation and approached the campfire.
"We're close to the first Lighthouse," Saturos started, getting their attention, "However there is an issue we've ran across. Accessing the Lighthouse is prohibited by non-members of the Mercury Clan. The village closest to its location is called Imil. Apparently, there are two members of the dwindling clan that exist that should be able to assist us."
"I highly doubt they will," Jenna said in a matter-of-fact tone, scoffing at her kidnapper and glaring at him. "I know I wouldn't."
At her uninvited comment, Saturos narrowed his eyes at her, then smirked when Felix voluntarily shifted closer to her, his hands inching close to his sheathed sword. He knew the Venus Adept wouldn't let anything happen to her, but it was amusing to see him try.
"Oh, don't worry little girl. I'm sure they'll be more than willing when we…convince them otherwise."
"You mean more hostages?"
Saturos chuckled humorlessly and smiled—not in a friendly way, either, "Not necessarily, but if it comes down to it… Then we will."
At this, Jenna shot up, fists tightening as she attempted to charge at him, anger flashing in her eyes. She didn't get far as her brother quickly stood and restrained her. "Let me go, Felix! This man is a criminal! He's going to hurt more people!" She shouted, trying to wring herself free from his grip. Unfortunately, she wasn't successful, given Felix was much stronger than she'd ever be. But still…! If she could only wipe that smug look off his face—!
"I'd calm her down if I were you, Felix," Menardi spoke up, eyeing the Adept in question. His response was a mere gaze, "We don't know what will happen to her if she keeps being this way. Can't promise to…keep her alive, that is." Jenna's brother narrowed his eyes at her from the threat. He steered Jenna away from them, giving both Fire Adepts a hopefully chilling gaze they'd never forget as he guided his sister from them. The two only watched them go, but they knew they couldn't get far. They were too weak in terms of power and Felix wasn't strong enough to take them on.
As much as he was "helping" them on this mission, he was a hostage himself. And they knew he knew that. It would be futile for him to try and escape when they could easily overpower him.
Kraden sighed and stood to go after them, not wanting to be in the company of the two interlopers. He had yet to receive the full truth of what was going on. Why had the Elemental Stars been taken? Why were they bent on lighting the Lighthouses? He researched this topic many times and came up with a reason why the Lighthouses existed: they were seals to contain a great power. What that power was, he had no clue and intended to continue researching. That was the whole point in entering Sol Sanctum's innermost hidden sanctuary. And yet…
"When do you think he'll tell them of our true plans and the mission, Saturos?" Menardi asked as she, too, watched Kraden leave the vicinity. Saturos sat down beside the fire, arms crossed but his smirk hadn't evaporated.
"I'm sure it'll be anytime soon. If to only keep them out of the dark. Until then…"
They'll just have to follow along.
Alright, I admit it's kind of short, due to being an introductory chapter of some "new" folks and Mystery Masked Man too, but I bet you all know who that is, lol. Word count will increase again later.
I understand Megan and Justin are NPC kids with like orange hair in the first game where they are introduced and seen, but they are also apart of the Mercury Clan. The five that we've seen in the games all share that teal/light blue hair color similarity. So yep, I've given them that slight detail in this story, too. Minus Piers since he's a Lemurian Water Adept and all the Lemurians look like him.
For those that are concerned for the story's general direction, it will begin to really differentiate from the main plot/games story, I'd say soon enough. There's plenty of unknown variables I'm going to take advantage of that I've created. And yes, as I said last chapter, more drama! (I'm no good at it, but I try)
Heads up: if you guys see me posting short stories, it's mostly to keep myself active. I don't want to flake and go on another hiatus. Anyhoo's, I'll shut up now. See you all in the next chapter…hopefully sooner than later, haha.
Like it? Don't like it? Review if you want.