Disclaimer: I do not own the Monster Hunter franchise...shucks.
Chapter 2 - "A Real Test for Survival"
The night had been one of little rest, despite the comfort of being once more in a familiar setting, it was still not like the forge back home in his little village. Much of the night was spent thinking back at the past days events, and even more so about his caretaker back home. His eyes looked around the humble little shop, seeing the familiar tools of the trade that he was learning in addition to becoming a hunter. It was several hours before he fell into a somewhat restful slumber.
When he awoke the next morning, he was dumbstruck when the old man had asked for compensation for the broken grinding stone he had split in two the night before.
"You said to hit it!" Koryn had replied incredulously.
"Hit it, not split it in two!" the codger countered. The young hunter felt like any further arguing would be pointless, and he had to wonder if the old coot had planned this from the beginning. Despite the growing distrust he was starting to feel, he could see that he was still at fault to some extent. He quickly tried to think of a means to get out of his current predicament, but he could think of nothing, he had very little in the sense of currency to offer, and had nothing of value. All the young hunter had was his wits, and in that moment an idea came to him.
"Well then...since I'm sure you know I haven't got much zenny to my name...what if I compensate you by helping you out here?" Koryn suggested while doing his best to sound humble, and hoping the old man would at the very least be merciful in this sense.
"Hmm...well..." the young mans eyes widened with anticipation as the squat blacksmith thought the offer over.
"I am pretty old...not as young as I used ta be," that was an understatement," if you're willing to give some time to help a poor old man," Koryn had to stop himself from rolling his eyes at this, "then I'll call us square."
With a pleased grin the hunter nodded and bowed low in a respectful manner. It then dawned on him that he had not ever gotten the mans name, and if he had he quickly forgot it after the excitement of the night before.
"Sir...what am I to call you?" he asked very carefully, at this the elder craftsman stood up and seemed to try and make himself appear taller and more impressive.
"I go by Vul'ken boy...you can refer to me as Master Vul'ken or simply as sir though," he said with a sharp tone. A small sparkle seemed to light up in the old wyverians eye, as if he was remembering fond memories.
"Of course...Master Vul'ken," Koryn replied once more bowing low. Despite the devious way in which things had turned out, he could not help but feel a small sense of joy in once more being at the forge, and if it meant free lodging as well, he might just be the one who benefited the most from this agreement.
The weeks went by quickly since the day he had become the official 'unofficial' apprentice to the short old blacksmith.
In the time he had learned a great deal of new things in regards to the craft, as well as a bit more of his new mentors past.
It appeared Vul'ken knew Ferrum, or knew of Ferrum, from years back. Many in the same trade tended to know of others, and being so nearby had caused an unknown rivalry between the two, well Vul'ken had referred to it as that, he had no inkling as to his master back home even felt the same way as the codger.
"You keep bringing me good materials and maybe you'll learn a thing or two," Vul'ken had said one day after Koryn returned from another expedition into the wilds. He let the heavy bag of ore and raw material he gathered from his latest gathering trip fall from his shoulder and onto the shop floor with a heavy thud. The contents spilled out as it fell over to its side. The apprentice cringed slightly at the commotion, but the sudden excitement he felt had made him a bit clumsy.
"About metal?" he asked as he wiped his brow and took a seat a few feet from the old man.
"Well yes, but ever notice a weapon can be more than just made of metal and bone?"
The student gave a quick nod and after a moment began to realize just what the old blacksmith was getting at. He sat with greater excitement but forced himself to stay still and silent and to allow his mentor to speak. His mind quickly imagining all the exotic weapons he had seen before that the more seasoned hunters carried in town.
"Yes, you've seen how hunters use not just the bone of monsters to make their armor and weapons," Vul'ken took a deep breath from his cherished pipe and blew the smoke out slowly seemingly to add dramatic effect, "I can teach you how to do that...I bet that old fogey never thought to teach you how to makes weapons imbued with a monsters power had he?"
Koryn ignored the fact the much older wyverian had called his old master a "fogey" but he responded with a quick nod "No...though it wasn't often we were given material to craft anything more than bone and metal weapons."
"Hmph...knowing the fuddy-duddy he just didn't want to be bothered with it," the fact he knew very little of his previous master was also ignored. Vul'ken, after all, only knew of him through reputation and nothing more. Though he knew that would not stop the old timer from possibly bad mouthing his guardian, a fact he knew he would have to let slide if he hoped to unlock any more secrets to crafting.
"I will teach you to use a beasts own weapons against it, to use its own hide as your armor, its power as your weapon," the claims seemed like riddles to Koryn, but the words still sounded intriguing and only fed the passionate flames welling up inside the teens chest.
"That is...if you want to continue to learn from me after you've settled our previous agreement?" How could he even refuse such an offer?
So after he had paid off his previous debt, this had become the new agreement and it was a lucrative one for both. It appeared new hunters preferred to buy weapons, and many older hunters as well needed arms at a much quicker rate and spent little time having them crafted perfectly for them, instead buying them from the high end merchants in town.
The old smith had a stagnating income due to this "Impatient mindset" as he called it. So Koryn went out and would gather materials, and when Vul'ken and himself crafted new equipment for him to use, it would provide the old man with a means of flaunting his product and attract more to the forge.
The plan seemed to be far less of a success than the two had hoped for, but they continued to work patiently in the hopes that things would turn for the better.
Their luck finally changed after a few more weeks.
Koryn returned one day to see another fledgling hunter speaking with the old man outside the shop. He was much too far to hear the conversation, but it seemed to have gone well judging by the way Vul'ken proudly blew a large puff of smoke as the hunter left.
He did not need to wait long to know exactly what had been said "We got an order m'boy!" shouted the blacksmith and in minutes they once more had a burning furnace going and choice ores placed into the crucible. The aforementioned order was for a just steel helmet for the client, but he was eager to make his first bit of metal armor all the same.
As Koryn removed his leather chest piece one of the straps which had been worn away by friction and weathering suddenly ripped apart. He had chosen a very careful swear for this turn of events and mumbled about how he would have to once again replace another strap.
It had recently occurred to him that his armor had begun to wear away, the weeks of exploration had taken a toll on it, not to mention the sweat and blood that saturated the material had to be washed off almost daily. The task of constantly mending his attire was also growing very taxing for the young man, and took up much of his precious time for learning.
Vul'ken had not been blind to his young wards plight and with a gentle tone added "We'll also have to see about your own armor after this…something sturdier, I can't have you looking like something a felyne spat up if you're to represent me," the hidden concern laced within the words did not go unnoticed despite the old mans best attempt to appear aloof.
The young hunter allowed a small grin to spread across his face. The prospect of a set of armor greatly increased the boys productivity that evening as they worked on the helm, their work wouldn't be completed until the very late hours of the evening, and immediately after Vul'ken insisted they not let the fire go to waste and start the next project.
Koryn would learn that armor proved trickier to fabricate than weapons. Especially metal armor. Blades and the like all seemed to follow a basic construction with hardly little need for deviation from hunter to hunter, armor was an entirely different hurtle in all regards.
He learned that each piece had to be perfectly made for the wearer, fitting to provide the most protection, but at the same time allowing for comfort and ease of movement. The fact Vul'ken did not need to even measure the customers dimensions proved just how trained an eye he had. Koryn secretly wondered if that skill was impressive, or very perverse, but he kept that thought to himself and only voiced the positive to his mentor.
"You gotta keep the metal nice and sturdy, but make it just so that it won't be a burden to the hunters movement," Vul'ken explained over the sound of a beating hammer. Koryn watched as a simple sheet of metal slowly began to take shape into a large chest piece. Once the shape had been perfectly finished he would gasp loudly in horror as the wyverian would chuck the beautiful piece into the pile of scrap metal he kept at one side of the shop.
"Now you try," he said with a grin at the shocked young man. Koryn collected himself and nodded, getting up to grab another piece of metal to work on.
For the next few days the young apprentice would toil over his work, not taking any guild postings, and hardly ever leaving the forge except to have a quick meal and to relieve himself. It was tiring work to say the least, but it was work he was more than willing to go through.
"That forge is going to be your only comfort," the blacksmith had cackled at the innuendo he made. The quip went mostly ignored as Koryn focused solely on his task.
Vul'ken would become unusually quiet as he worked tirelessly on his armor. The few times his mentor spoke was only to give small bits of advice in between the rare breaks Koryn took in order to keep himself from running ragged and potentially having to redo his hard work, though it seemed inevitable that the scrap pile would grow larger as the days went on.
Experience was a painful teacher, as Koryn found out when he let his mind wander at times.
A quick tap of the hammer upon his hand had kept much of his work going at a slow and steady pace. His calloused hands began to show marks of his folly. His fingers bandaged and at times crusted with blood. The pain would not hinder him for long though. His task was too important to deviate from for just simple comfort. "It's almost finished," he muttered to himself for the hundredth time, mentally urging himself to keep going and to not give up.
When it was done, he felt the rush of relief run over him like a soothing shower. The pain in his body fading away in moments as he looked fondly at his completed work. The new armor was now primarily composed of metal, he had used the ores gathered by his own hands to make the intricate suit. New leather bindings held it all together.
"Not too bad," Vul'ken had merely commented as he looked over the young mans work. He didn't mind the lack of enthusiasm or praise from his teacher, he was far to proud of his accomplishment to care. With his task done though, he felt he deserved a long well earned rest.
The apprentice would sleep for nearly two whole days before he decided to put his work to the test.
Koryn was very eager for the first opportunity he got to dawn the new armor, it felt heavier than the previous, but not all together uncomfortable nor restricting in anyway. The idea of wearing a steel helmet had not appealed to him, thinking it might restrict his vision and also cause him discomfort in battle, the added pressure upon his skull seemingly a hindrance rather than a boon. Vul'ken had been insistent he wear one though, a leather one would provide little protection from more dangerous adversaries.
After just an hour of wearing it he felt that even the weight seemed like no more than a minor discomfort. The twin blades he had acquired the many weeks before were still just as sharp and ready as ever, he carefully strapped them upon his back once he was sure he had everything he might need. He had to keep himself from strutting as he left the blacksmiths shop and headed towards the town square to look at the daily postings.
He was pleased to see his new attire even brought admiration from other hunters, though he felt it was mainly because of how new and shiny it looked. Despite that though he wanted to test out his handy work. He usually took gathering quests or small hunting missions for furs and meat, today he wished to truly test his metal and try to hunt something more dangerous.
"Hornetaur infestation…..wild bullfango….." he read some of the targets, thinking new hunters seemed to rarely get anything highly exciting. Koryn new of the system that the guild had implemented for hunters, each person started at the lowest position or rank, and overtime meeting certain requirements allowed for one to advance in rank.
He scanned the postings more and more, noticing a few young hunters staring intently at one flyer upon the board. "Velociprey!?" he gasped looking at the written post. He hadn't seen any in his travels around the areas but he had heard of them. The blue and black striped avian looking reptiles were pack hunters, and though not usually dangerous to experienced hunters, they were a menace to traveling caravans and merchants. This would be a nice way to really test himself.
"Hunt a pack of them," he found out as he read more of the posting, he hadn't fought many things that could bite and claw, and certainly not a whole pack. It was a very high paying job as well, and it made him hesitate to take it right away. His fears however seemed unfounded as he shifted, the gentle clink of metal on metal reminding him he was much more prepared for it, and if he couldn't handle small beasts like this he did not deserve to call himself a hunter.
With his mind made up he went to guild desk and paid the necessary funds to take the listing. He was surprised to see that use of the airship was provided for this task as it was deemed a high priority by the cleint. The hunter made his way to the all too familiar crowd to board the ship.
A few hours later and he could see the familiar hilly landscape of the Verdant Hills.
Koryn took a deep breath as he was greeted by the familiar feeling of lush grass beneath his armored boots. He had grown accustomed to Minegarde in the past months, but he still felt very pleased to set foot on grass. It reminded him of the green he was so used to back home, and caused only the smallest feeling of home sickness in him.
While he had been up above the area he had looked for any sign of the bipedal creatures, he thought he had caught the glimpse of blue streaking beneath a far off tree, but a moment later it was gone and so he assumed it was just a trick of the mind in his excited state.
The young man pulled out a few scraps of dried meat, popping a piece into his mouth to chew on as he thought, the morsel had little flavor, but it gave him something to do while he concocted his next plan of action. Swallowing deeply, he then decided it best to move and so chose a path to follow and went on his way. His eyes scanned any and every tree or rock, looking for possible claw marks or disturbed turf. To his displeasure even after a good while of searching, he found no such signs of the monster he sought.
"Perhaps bait would have been ideal," the twin blade wielding hunter said thoughtfully as another hour went by without so much as a single sign of his desired target. It was then he heard something, like a shrill call in the distance.
Koryn listened for a few moments and heard a reply, once he was sure he was headed in the direction of the calls. His footsteps slowed as he felt he was getting closer to where the calls had come from, his armor making hardly a sound as he tried to not broadcast his presence to anything that may wish to make a meal of him.
As he turned round a bend he had to keep himself from letting out a surprised shout. He back-pedaled into cover as silently as he could. The thing he had been looking for was right before his very eyes! After a few moments to gather his wits, he ventured to take a careful peek from behind his hiding spot.
He saw the beaked creature looking around, as if scanning for something. He silently ducked back behind cover and processed what he saw. The thing was slim and aerodynamic, he could tell that in a chase he would surely lose, it stood about level with his face as well and despite its small stature it could probably still do a bit of damage. Its legs seemed to be its most distinguishing feature, aside from the crest upon its head and its brilliantly colored hide. They were powerful and strong, he guessed its primary mode of attack.
"Well….now or never," came a quick breath as he loosed his blades from his back. The metal gently clinked but he did not hesitate and quickly left from his cover, expecting to see the blue creature still unawares of his presence. His pulse quickened at the prospect of a real fight.
"Dammit…" he swore as he stared at nothing but lush grass and an empty clearing. He seemed to have missed his chance, the creature had departed. He begun to feel this quest would be fruitless if he did not find the desired target soon for fear it would ran off and he would never catch up.
"Maybe...they left...or someone else beat me to the punch?" The gentle scratching upon rock snapped him from his thoughts and he looked up towards the sound.
His eyes widening as he beheld the very creature he had been prepared to attack. The brilliant blue and black stripped hide was his first detail to take notice of, then the fading red crest upon its head, the yellowed beak like maw full of razor sharp fangs, and finally the massive talons and claws it possessed upon its hands and feet. Those legs though seemed to be far more well utilized for its killing as he previously concluded, but he was more than sure now as he saw just how well developed for the task they were.
Perhaps it was by some grace that the creature had not attacked the moment it had been discovered, or perhaps it had been thinking if it was hungry enough to try and attempt to take on the well armed human. As it's reptilian eyes, far more massive then his own, focused on him, Koryn knew that it had come to a decision. With a swift motion the bird like reptile launched itself down upon him with a hiss like shriek escaping its throat as its mouth opened, it's talons and claws spreading wider to grasp and slash at him.
As if by their own will his limbs seemed to move on their own, his arms tensing but only just so, and his legs suddenly darting to the left away from the creature. Had he been a moment later he would have surely been pinned down by the beast, helpless, exposed, and most likely dead. Instead one of the claws feet simply wracked along his right arm guard, grazing the metal and leaving a slight scratch upon it.
Koryn did not take a moment to allow the creature to ready itself again, instead spinning on the spot, his left leg coming around as he delivered a heavily armored kick to the creatures skull. His foot struck hard and triggered a surprised squawk from the predator.
Bounding on his right leg he gave himself some distance before planting both feet firmly on the ground and lifted his blades now at the ready. The creature seemed dazed, its head lolling gingerly for a moment, or perhaps it had just not expected to be kicked in the head. Whatever the reason it only lasted for a moment before the creature seemed to realize its ambush had failed and it threw its head back releasing a shrilled call loud into the air.
"Oh shit!" the young swordsman rushed forward instinctively with both blades swinging left to right as he tried to stop the ensuing noise, but as his blades struck and cut deep into the creature, it was already too late. The high pitched note echoed through the air before coming to a sudden halt.
The slim body of the velociprey flew, almost comically, a yard from him and lay dead on the ground. Its legs where splayed out underneath it in a pathetic looking manner. His blades had cut deep, as two slim lines along its side and extended through its neck, killing the creature instantly.
His eyes looked down on the dead figure, watching as deep red liquid spilled from the open wounds, in the moment his blades kissed the scaled flesh, it had released in a spray, the edges of his blades stained in the crimson fluid. He marveled at the sight, seeing that his leather gloves also had flecks of blood upon them. It was different then when he had first slain something, different from even when he had fought those large insects.
Koryn realized how alien the new weapon really felt to him now. The twin blades were far shorter, making his kill that much more real, and more intimate then the long single blades he had used before. What surprised him even more, was just how wonderful it had felt, to actually feel the final blow so close. His heart pumped as if he had ran leagues, an overwhelming sensation of delight filling him. It was both wonderful, and deep in the back of his mind a bit...terrifying.
The fleeting moments of silence where interrupted as the hunter heard calls in the distance. The sudden realization the creatures last action before its demise had alerted others of its pack once more drew a swear upon his lips, the sensations he had begun to feel dulled significantly but did not fully fade away.
"Do I run...or do I fight?" his thoughts went to the cylinder on his belt, the emergency flare the airship driver had given him to either call for extraction if his mission was complete, or to summon a much needed means of retreat. He had that crutch if all else failed, but something deep in him wanted to see this through. He had to rise up to this challenge.
Koryn looked about as he gathered his wits, knowing out in the open, even with minimal cover, might not be the best idea. Yet trying to hide and ambush a target far superior at such tactics was also foolish. He had to think on the fly now.
The young blade wielder darted in a random direction, thinking if he could at least find a choke point of some sort it would be best, forcing the creatures to come at him from one direction rather than many and one by one rather than as a pack. He sprinted deeper into the area, the idea that he was being followed weighed heavy on his thoughts, but he pressed forward. It was when he heard more of the bird-like calls that he knew he wasn't alone.
He stopped just as he ran into a clearing, all around him were tall stone walls, he had found what he desired. All directions where shut out by tall cliff faces, they were climbable and perhaps up above there existed a means of escape like a tunnel, but from what he could see there was only one way in and out and that was what he wanted. He turned to face the opening he had just run through.
The calls grew louder, and were drawing closer. He realized too late now that though strategically his plan seemed good, he realized that even if he indeed controlled the flow of the fight, he also could not call for help here as the flare would most likely not get high enough to be seen, he would be alone unless he fought his way back out.
"Idiot!" the fledgling hunter mumbled as the realization set it. He could only wait now for more of the brilliant blue creatures to follow him into the natural arena. He did not need to wait very long as he heard the gentle thuds of clawed feet drawing closer. He lowered his body into an almost crouching posture, his blades raised at the ready at his sides. As one of the velociprey ran forward so did he.
His plan seemed to work, his enemy had not expected to find a ready opponent waiting for it. The creature had halted its advance as Koryn let loose a war-like shout from his mouth. His actions where fluid and fast, blades once more singing with delight as he cut into the avian reptile almost spinning on the spot to ensure multiple slashes struck the beast. Once more the sensation of a killing blow graced him, dampening his growing fear and replacing it with raw strength.
Now two creatures rushed forward as the one fell, both fully prepared for a fight. Their claws where spread and maws opened wide ready to bite and hold onto the hunter if the chance arose. One of the pair leap high into the air, clearly trying to beat its companion to the punch, impatient to exact revenge upon the human male, and to taste blood. It would be its mistake; the hunter was ready.
With a swift motion Koryn swung both blades upwards striking the beast as it had begun to descend upon him. The heavy blades served to throw the oncoming form of the reptile away from him, his strength propelling him forward into the strike. Though the blow did not kill, it slashed the beast across it's chest and caused it to fling towards its partner. The other scaled biped leapt away from the oncoming form, not caring as it now rushed the human.
The choice to remain patient proved fruitful, as the velociprey collided with the hunter, its arms clasping his forearms and its jaws bit down upon his left shoulder. It however had not expected such a touch hide from its prey and its teeth merely slide and snapped along the young hunters metal armor.
"Gyah!" he heaved as the predator crashed into him. He nearly lost his footing, but he planted his feet to hold himself upright. The claws scratched at his arms, he felt them manage to pierce beneath his guards, as the fanged maw closed on him, he had expected to feel pain erupt from his shoulder. He was surprised to feel nothing but a sharp pressure as his armor held back the teeth much to the creatures misfortune. He shoved forward and kicked at one of the creatures legs just as it had begun to raise the other in an attempt to disembowel him with its razor talons.
The attack caused the beast to loosen its grip as it stumbled to the side, having to catch itself before it fell. The brief opening allowed Koryn to raise his blades and strike downwards heavily. The blow struck true and impaled the creatures upper back just behind the shoulders.
"Shrrrawk!" the blue reptilians doomed call was dreadful to hear, as it did not receive a quick death, instead bleeding out as the blades withdrew from its back, it's body slumping forward as it collapsed, its breath heaving. Despite its imminent demise the creature continued to snap and bite at the hunter from the floor, trying with its final breaths to inflict pain upon him. Koryn felt a sense of pity for the beast and with a decisive blow he struck at its chest, the blow piercing its heart and killing it quickly.
Before he could stand back up he felt something collide hard along the side of his head. A sharp pain erupting from his right cheek as a razor sharp claw sliced his flesh. The blade user was now aware that the first reptile had recovered from their previous bout, and had taken the opportunity to attack him in his moment of mercy. The blow left his skull ringing and he dropped his broad blade as he staggered to the side. As his mind returned to him he realized he had been saved from a mortal blow by his steel helmet.
"Damnit...now I have to thank him," he hissed as he steadied himself, realizing that the blacksmith had been correct on insisting this unfavorable piece of armor. He felt the blood along his cheek slid down his face, mingling with the sweat that had begun to form from his exertion.
Koryn stepped back, giving himself a bit of distance from the creature, in case another attack was coming. A second blow did not follow, as his eyes focused finally he saw the other velociprey still standing, but thin rivers of its blood had begun to drip down it's left inner thigh and pool by its talons, the grass becoming a rusty color from the mingling of bodily fluid. Its breathing was labored as it stared hatefully at the hunter. It had used much of its energy just to reach him, it's wound had not been fatal, but it had crippled the beasts leg as it now favored its only good one. It seemed ready to attack, but after a moment it instead arched its elongated neck, throwing its head back.
He knew it was coming, that shrill note that would call for help. He gripped his remaining blade in both hands and lurched forward, his body feeling heavy now from the fighting. The creatures braying call erupting into the open air, seemingly magnified by the stone walls all around them. It let loose three clear calls before his blade would strike. The thinner weapon slicing its beaked head clean from its long neck, silencing it as gore sprayed from the decapitated body, blood flicked along Koryns chest piece as it fell.
The young hunter looked at the twitching form of the dead velociprey, watching it lay still before he went to retrieve his other weapon from the ground. After wiping them onto the grass, cleaning blood from the edges, he slung them back onto his back. He then reached to his belt, grabbing one of two flasks and unscrewing its cap. He took a quick drink from the vessel before replacing its lid and putting it back on his belt. As the draught filled his mouth, he grimaced from the odd taste, but as it drained down his throat he felt it's affects almost instantly.
His fatigue seemed to vanish in an instant, the drink returning his stamina and even empowering him further. The rush of energy was welcoming to his tiring limbs as his stamina returned. As the initial affect subsided he breathed a sigh of relief, he wiped his cheek feeling the cut was not very deep and the bleeding had already subsided, he rubbed his gloved thumb and index finger together, feeling the somewhat gritty texture of the drying blood.
He knew the moment could not last, already feeling the prickling dread of more attackers sprinting his way. Even if he had not yet heard a returning note to the now dead creature, he knew more where coming. Leaving the way he came seemed foolish, so he turned to the large stone walls and saw that with his strength now returned he could perhaps climb his way out.
"Grrrrraaaaww!"
The hunter quickly turned to look behind him, the sudden noise had caused him nearly to flinch as he had just raised his hand to find a good starting hold to begin his ascent. "What was that?" the noise sounded much like the others, but it seemed louder...it sounded bigger.
His suspicions proved true as he heard two more calls, this time sounding all too familiar, and much smaller. Worry ran through his body as he quickly began to climb, feeling his way along the rocky face. Koryn was by no means used to climbing at even the best of times, but the need to survive was all he needed to perform his task flawlessly.
"Swaark!...Arkaarrraaa!" he heard two smaller shrieks.
"Awwaaaarrk...Graaah...Arrrrk!" came the much larger reply.
His eyes did not venture to look back, nor look how far from the ground he was. The only thought in his mind was to get further away. Something more dangerous was coming towards him, something he felt he could not fight like a cornered rat. His eyes scanned quickly for the next hand hold, feeling himself leaving the ground further and further behind. The only thought playing in his mind was that he had to get away, he had to find a place to hide.
Back in Minegarde the town square was in an uproar.
The guild desk was crowded with angry hunters, all clamoring around demanding why a posting had been removed from the board. "What happened to them all!" shouted a voice "Yeah, not all those leaping lizards could 'ave been snuffed out already!" came another.
The poor girl at the guild desk could only stammer replies at the many questions, her glasses askew as she turned left and right. "Please...calm down everyone!...the guild has deemed it...to dangerous...for low ranking hunters!..." the crowd roared with discontent.
"That one hunter took it!" shouted a voice "Yeah, we all saw him bright and early!" there anger now seemed to turn towards the fortunate boy, angry he had been allowed one such lucrative quest. It had been very strange to hear that a quest to rid just a few velociprey had been so well paying, many had hesitated in taking it thinking perhaps it had been a mistake or some kind of joke.
"N-new information...from the look outs...have deemed it too dangerous!" the guild worker stammered over them. "A...a...Drome...has been spotted!" she managed to get out, the poor female exhausted as the crowds tone suddenly began to falter.
"A Velocidrome?" one hunter questioned, getting a heavy nod from the exasperated guild girl.
The crowd of fledgling hunters suddenly became very soft spoken. "That kid...that kid...don't even know what he's in for!?" the once angry crowd had now begun to grow concerned. Many of the hunters knew that at least a pair of new hunters was needed to take on this level of target, that or at least a hunter with more experience and had time to prepare. They all knew that Koryn, though they did not truly know his name, had not hunted very often since arriving in town.
It seemed news traveled fast among hunters in their groups as they kept tabs on each other's activities. Koryn had spent most his time at the blacksmiths, seemingly content at hammering away and going out to gather materials for the old smith in town. All the other newbie hunters knew this for it had admittedly become somewhat of a joke among them.
The group of hunters questioned whether or not the boy would even survive, many doubting the possibility even if he had indeed seemed more outfitted for a fight. "The guild won't do nothing, of course," some stated crossly. The muttering of hunters grew louder as most seemed to begin to think that the apprentice metal worker would not be coming back from this.
Word had begun to travel throughout Minegarde, many claiming that a hunter was dead, or would soon be. Few rumors traveled that sounded very optimistic of the prospect of survival for the young man.
"What's this I hear of a dead hunter?" Vul'ken wondered crossly as word traveled to his shop. The old wyverian thought to himself, not for the first time, at just how morbid and soft this generation of hunters had become. They always seemed eager to hear of a death or maiming of some unfortunate soul.
"Yeah...that new guy...came but few months ago..." he overheard a trio of greenhorns murmuring among themselves. He grew quiet in his thoughts as he listened.
"You don't mean that old coots pupil do ya?"
"That one yeah, had a broken sword his first day, now seems he's been chomped!"
"That's a tragedy man!"
"Well least that reward is still up for grabs," guffawed one, though his compatriots quickly elbowed him in the ribs.
"That's a terrible thing to say, old man was just up and running again," said another.
The blacksmith would have no more of this dour news. He gingerly sat up from his cushion and hobbled inside his shop. Though he did not voice it, his mind now wondered if it was true or not. He said a prayer in his mind, hoping for the latter.
The hills had grown ominously quiet back were the young hunter was realizing his dire predicament.
Koryn rested against the cool wall of the cave for only a moment. His breathing labored and once more his brow beaded with perspiration. He removed his helmet once more to wipe it away as he looked around. He had not heard any more sounds of approaching danger, but he also knew that did not mean he was safe. He once more took a small swallow from his flask, feeling how near empty the container was. He had maybe one more draught left.
The hunter had scaled the rocky cliffs, only to find about half way up its length there had been a flat landing, moss and lichen had begun to grow among it. Not much further away he saw another landing, and there was the gaping entrance of a cave. His first instincts told him not to venture in, but as he looked farther up and saw just how much further he had to go, he knew that he had to venture inside unless he wanted to try and scale higher up.
He drew in a deep breath as he prepared to leap towards the other landing and without a second thought he lunged forward with hands spread out before him. He let out a shout of joy as he felt his fingers find a firm hold on the lip of the landing, and he had quickly pulled himself up and dashed into the cave without a moments hesitation.
He had run through a long tunnel that at some point dipped down deeper. The sunlight still permeating through the tunnel, but he had to slow down and allow his eyes to adjust to the lower levels of light. He let his hand grope the wall nearest him, just to be sure there were no other openings along the darkening passage.
For what felt like a long while the sound of his footsteps was his only companion. Koryn was thankful that he had not heard any other noises though, but he began to wonder if he might become lost in this seemingly never ending cavern. Just as he began to muse over the idea of turning back around, he began to notice that the area was growing steadily brighter. He eagerly began to pick up his pace as he drew closer to a potential exit. He was pleased to feel the cool breeze upon his face as he reached another large opening.
"Well..lets see just where I might be," he said, reaching into a small pouch at his side, withdrawing a folded up map. He had jotted down what he found when he visited the area in the past. Hurriedly sketching what he thought was a rather accurate account of what he knew. This tunnel had been one he usually avoided in the past, only traveling in deep enough to find raw ores and material, but never to see if it truly had an end.
"That...answers that," he said, making a mental note to draw that in when he returned to town. He looked up at the sky, seeing it was now well past noon, the sky now beginning to grow orange as the sun set.
"I can't stay out in the open much longer...I think, going backwards might be best," he voiced to himself. He stood and listened for some time, the sky growing more fiery as the sun set. When he felt that he was indeed safe for now, he played with the notion of using the emergency flare, though he wondered if in this light, would it even be seen. Rather than wasting it he decided he would have to make due and camp out for the evening. He turned back into the tunnel and walked in, going a ways in before he looked around and saw a shelf along the cave wall. He had missed this detail his first time through, not really looking for a means to hide, but rather to get out. It seemed high enough for him to stay sitting, and large enough for him to lay down and hopefully stay hidden.
"Better than in a monsters belly," he shrugged and removed his blades from his back. As gently as he could he placed the two weapons upon the shelf and pushed them forward. The metal scratched along the rocky landing and he stayed still, hoping he had not alerted anything, after a minute of silence, save for his gentle breathing, he then leapt up and grabbed a hold of the lip and pulled himself up. As he sat upon the rocky perch he was delighted to find it was indeed large enough for him to comfortably sit, the ceiling of the tunnel close enough to not allow anything to also leap up and follow him, especially not something as large as a velociprey. Whats more there was nothing else there, save for a few stones, and what seemed like the carapace of a long dead insect, a gentle prod told him it was indeed nothing but a husk and he paid it no mind.
"I wonder if the old coots worried," he mused. Koryn highly doubted it, if anything the wyverian would be more upset he had not returned in a timely fashion as usual. His thoughts then returned to home, thinking of Ferrum, his village, and the pleasant forest around them. He let himself think of the pleasant thoughts for some time, not fully dropping his guard as the images of home brought some relief to his beating heart.
He knew now as the hours past it was night, the cave was nearly pitch black, but he did not mind, he also would not risk making any form of light, for fear of discovery. The hunter just sat and waited. His eyes grew accustomed to the darkness, and his ears listened intently. He was glad to hear nothing but the gentle beating of his heart, telling him he was still very much alive.
He took this solitude for a moment to reflect upon what had transpired. The blue creatures hunted in packs, that was a given, and they seemed to coordinate fairly well, when not seemingly competing with one another. He came to realize what really tugged at his fear, was just how devoted they seemed to be to the hunt. The one that he had mortally wounded had still tried to continue even though it knew it was dying. And the one before that he had merely subdued did not seem to hesitate to finish the job shortly after its companion was slain. The idea that these lithe creatures, despite their cunning, seemed to care little of their own well being made them very dangerous, and that is what caused his nerves to all at once seem to focus on the dark surroundings.
Despite his alertness, his eyes began to grow heavy, sleep tugging on his mind. He was afraid to sleep, to only awaken to see the flash of fangs and claws before he died painfully. In the silence though he then eventually drifted off, succumbing to the need of rest.
Sleep had not been very easy to attain for the young hunter as he slept on the shelf in the cave. Despite his precarious perch he did manage to rest, even if just a little.
Dreams of huge fangs and slashing claws ripping him bit by bit would cause him to shift and awaken throughout the night. It would be many hours before he could finally fall into a deep sleep, though his nerves remained wound up, and he slumbered in a semi-conscious state for much of the night.
Koryn would awaken a few hours later, his dark amber eyes snapping alert, his hands groping for his blades. He was ready to fight off a swarm of velociprey if he needed to, and he half expected his dreams to have come true and have half a dozen or more of the angry reptiles waiting for him to leave his hiding spot. He peaked over the shelfs edge to be sure.
What greeted him was not the glare of a hungry reptile, but stone, cold uninteresting stone. It seemed there were no hungry monsters waiting for him, in fact it seemed he had been the only occupant of the cave at all as far as he could tell. After letting out a breath he had not realized he'd been holding in, Koryn felt just how stiff his aching body was from his very uncomfortable resting place.
"It's better than being dead", he thought to himself. He reached into his pouch and took out another piece of dried meat. He had realized he was a bit hungry, having not had a bite since the following morning. The few tidbits of food he had could barely be called a meal, but the unsavory rations filled him enough, staving off his hunger. He drank from a small flask of water he had on his belt. Remembering he had only one last swig of the stamina reviving draught on his hip. He would have to really save it for an emergency.
He let his feet dangle over the side of the shelf, seeing as the coast was clear. He reached into the pouch at his side and withdrew a small smooth stone. He reached for one of his two blades and held it in his right hand, slowly running the sharpening stone over the edge to renew its deadly bite. He knew he did not need to sharpen his weapon, but he found the action relaxing as he considered his possibilities.
Would he stay and try to finish what he started? Or would he find the safest place and fire off the emergency signal and have the airship come back to collect him? As he pondered his choices he gingerly set the now sharpened blade aside and took the second, giving it the same careful treatment as the first. The gentle scrapping of the blade was all that kept him company now as he remained deep in thought for some time.
"I need to get back right away," he concluded after he had finished with his task. With the early morning he knew the flare would be seen far and wide. It pained him to give up, but it was better to live to fight another day, than to die out of stupid pride. He could find no fault in his decision aside from the wound in his ego. With a slow sign he put what was left of the sharpening stone back into his pouch and made ready to leave this seemingly safe place.
Koryn took up his blades and strapped them to his back once more as he rolled off the ledge and fell with a metal thud onto his feet. The drop was not far, but he made far more noise than he had been hoping. After a quick check to be sure the coast was clear he made his way to the mouth of the tunnel.
It was early morning as he walked outside, back onto the green grass and into the fresh air. Dew still glistening along the green blades. He looked around, seeing sparse trees and a small rise in the ground, like a large sheet of rock had been placed randomly there, grass grew upon it too. He felt this was as best as place as any, the airship would have plenty of space to make its extraction here. He only hoped it was even in the air at this hour. The hunter walked and stepped upon the grassy slab, taking the flare and lifting it high up above his head. He drew the pull-string down to activate it.
Pupff!
The trail of brilliant crimson smoke shot high into the sky, traveling hundreds of feet into the air before halting at its apex and then lingered there. He hoped it would be seen, wondering if he should have waited longer in the hopes of the flying vessel being overhead. He knew nothing of its flight pattern nor if it would even be in the sky that day. He was certain word of his absence would have begun by now.
"Then again...maybe not," he said thoughtfully. It wasn't like he was some big time hunter, for all he knew only Vul'ken even knew his name. The thought was a bit saddening to him, as he realized he was still very much a nobody. He would not have to dwell on the thought for long though.
A long screech brought him back to reality. The swordsman turned on the spot, facing behind himself seeing two small blue figures making their way from around a bend. Koryn quickly wondered if perhaps it had been the smoke that alerted them, or maybe just his bad luck. He motioned to withdraw his blades from behind, mentally getting ready for the two small reptilian quickly made their way towards him.
His hands paused momentarily as he went to grab his weapons, just as the two velociprey drew nearer, there was a loud call, and to his astonishment they stopped. Only a few yards away and the two bipedal creatures stood, looking at once another and chattering as if speaking to one another. Something wasn't right. He had the sickening feeling it would have been preferable had the two drawn closer so he could fight them off.
"Krrraaawww!" came a loud threatening call, and then suddenly it appeared. A massive beast had run around the bend, it stood taller than either of the two smaller counterparts. It's hide the same pattern of vivid blue and black, but everything else seemed larger and more menacing. Upon its head there was a great crest, it's color not faded but a deep red like some crown of a rooster. Its claws, talons, teeth, were larger and deadlier looking. He knew in that moment this larger beast was the reason the smaller individuals fought so hard, it was the one in control.
The large reptile sped towards him, it's eyes seemingly able strip him down to bear flesh as it closed the distance with speed greater than the others before. He withdrew his blades and quickly made to strike. Just then the larger velociprey, this monarch among them, leapt high into the air. Koryn nearly shielded his eyes as it vanished into the early morning sun, and rather than striking at an unknown target, he had to retreat and roll away with his weapons drawn. It had not been a moment too soon, just as he got away the larger beast slammed heavily down on the space he had just been. The blade wielder rolled off the stone slab quickly getting to his feet to face the new assailant.
It stood even taller than himself, well over his head. The large maw could easily grab him round the middle and shake him aloft. Just as he looked at it the beast struck forward like a spear without hesitation. It had been by the grace of his own limbs that he quickly swung his smaller blade and struck the side of the creatures face. The blade sliced its beaked muzzle causing the large creature to recoil its elongated neck. Koryn quickly putting a few strides between him and the monster as it regarded him with a piercing glare.
The young hunter did not forget that this was not a one on one bout, and just as his mind returned to that thought he saw a streak of blue upon his left, and once more struck blindly. This time however his blade hit hard. With a panicked shriek the smaller reptile that had just attempted to get the best of the situation had met his keen edge. He once more felt the destruction of flesh and sinew as his blade cut deep, and he felt the warm splash of vital fluid gingerly caress the side of his face.
The velocidrome's eyes shifted, perhaps surprised he had suddenly dispatched one of its underlings in an instant. Unaware that it was some luck that the blow had been fatal. Koryn did not have to look to know his sword stroke had killed it, hearing the pained noises it made before silence followed. The notion he once more took the creatures life so easily purged his mind. Rather than pity though, he felt more at peace about it, comfortable, it felt so good to know he was perhaps a threat to this menacing advisory.
His amber eyes focused on the blood red orbs of the larger velociprey. He could see no opening in the larger creatures stance, its long neck seemed capable of striking fast at either side, and he had little hope in trying to dive on top of or below the larger figure. The swordsman knew he had to strike first, he had to keep this thing from calculating or coordinating some form of attack.
'If I can't find an opening...I should make one!' he decided internally and lunged forward his blades ready to strike. He let the adrenaline course through him and he felt his pulse beating now at a steady rate, hardly a pause between the thrumming of his heart. He sliced at the larger creature who merely stepped away, hissing menacingly at his brazen actions. He did not let up, as his blades missed he followed striking once more at its exposed side. The creature not fast enough this time as his reach shot towards it.
He grazed its side, drawing first blood from its thigh, the cuts were shallow and superficial, but he drew another angered call from the beast. It regarded him with malice in its gaze. He tried again to push his advantage, but the now aware beast would not let him get much closer. His blades sliced through the empty air, and in his frustration he shouted in anger at the much quicker foe.
"Stand still!" Koryn demanded, the velocidrome only seemed to find enjoyment from the little game of tag they were seemingly playing. It was a huge surprise when the creature then suddenly obeyed his command. It stood still for the briefest of moments before suddenly shifting its leg. The entire side of the creature rushed toward him before he could even hope to move out of the way.
He had not expected the sudden hip check from the creature and it struck him hard. His body separated from the ground as the blow sent him tumbling head over heels along the grassy floor. His vision blurring as his skull rang from the hit. The metal armor protected him mostly, but the sheer force of it still did a number on his body. His limbs vibrated from the strike, and he was more so surprised he had not been separated from his twin blades. The blade wielding youth was thankful his grip had been strong in that moment.
Before he could rise up from the ground he felt sharped talons slide along his back. The remaining velociprey had taken the opportunity to attack him and in a desperate attempt it tried to wrestle him back down onto the floor. He felt its claws scratch as his helmet, it pushed its weight down upon him, trying to grab and pin him down. Koryn swung his arm wildly and managed to break free just as the leader made to bite his armored head.
The jaws snapped a moment to late as he broke free and rolled away. He righted himself up and made to retreat. He did not have to look behind to know he was being followed, the sound of the heavy strides told him everything. Just as he felt he would not get away he thought of something. He halted suddenly, and spun with both blades on the spot in a very improvised attempt to land a decisive blow. The action was out of pure desperation, but he could only trust his instincts were correct.
His feint had worked, the larger beast had not expected him to attack so haphazardly, and as his blades sliced through the air it drew to close and received two heavy strikes once more along its face. This time he could feel his strike cause damage and he took a brief pause to see just how well he had struck.
The two blades cut deep, just under the eye and along the jaw line of the velocridrome, the large reptile shrilled in pain and anger, as flecks of its own blood stained its muzzle. The young hunter was not going to let the creature have it's time though, he continued, once he regained his footing and swung to glance the creature twice along the side, drawing more lines of crimson from it.
The hunter felt deeply pleased with himself, seeing as he was now gaining the upper hand in this struggle. The smaller creature seemed perplexed by what was happening, still calling out at him in a threatening manner, or perhaps cheering on its leader from the side, it seemed unwilling to once more rush in seemingly aware of its standings in this bout.
Just then the larger monarch swung its body quickly to the side, it's whip like tail came around faster than he could duck beneath it and he felt his world suddenly go dark as it collided headlong with his helmet. The blow really shook him, his eyes unfocused from the pain. The contents of his skull seemed to be spiraling. He could not hope to defend himself as his every fiber was trying to keep himself from going down and falling to the floor. His muddled mind quickly tried to regain his composure.
Just as swordsman regained some focus his left arm was suddenly tugged painfully from his body. His eyes cleared and he saw the jaws of the larger creature held tightly onto him. It had also not squandered its chance and went for a mortal blow. His armor keeping it from tearing the limb off, but he still felt fangs pierce in between the sheets of metal and through the softer leather lining beneath. His teeth gritted in pain but held fast trying to formulate a means of escape.
A warm slickness rushed over his forearm, and he realized the creature had managed to get deep past his armor. Koryn was suddenly lifted off his feet as it threw him several yards through the air and rolling once more to a halt upon the ground. His blades had still been clenched in his palms as he sailed through the air, but as he struck the ground he felt the wind rush from his lungs and his hands slackened dropping them both. As he sucked in heavy breaths, he groped at his sides for his swords, his left arm coursing with pain. His fingers felt the handle of his wicked blade but just as he meant to grab it a large taloned foot crashed on his forearm, the pain doubled as the velocidrome pinned his arm helplessly to the ground.
"Aaaaahhh!...Ghhaah!" screams of anguish burst from his throat as the large creatures weight pressed down on his injured limb. He looked to his side, seeing his broader blade inches from his right hand, but he could not reach it, not without causing more damage to himself and possibly exposing more vital parts of himself to his assailant. He looked up at the red eyes of the beast, it's large mouth slightly agape as it bared down at him triumphantly. It was toying with him, seemingly taking great delight from his pained screams.
The young hunter glared back at it, trying to refuse it any further pleasure as he shut his mouth and simply gritted his teeth through the pain. Its taloned foot fell down heavily onto his right leg further restricting his movements. He held back the gasp of agony, feeling his leg almost breaking from the force. The full weight of the creature was upon him, and it was only the metal plating of his armor that kept his limbs from shattering beneath it.
Seeing as he refused to shout any further the creature began to grow restless, blood from it's facial wounds dripped down onto the cheeks of the pinned hunter. The boy would not even struggle, once more wanting to go defiantly if his end was truly to come. He stared coldly at the monster, his eyes expressing his full defiance to the creature.
The velocidrome seemed to come to a discussion, no longer wanting to play with its meal and it threw its head back, letting loose a triumphant call to the wind before baring back down on the hunter. Its mouth opened wider, drips of saliva fell from the parted jaws down onto the pinned little human.
Koryn tried to reach his blade, his right hand stretching as best it could even despite the protesting pain it brought his other arm. He gave up, feeling he was really going to lose it all here. His arm went slack and he slid it closer to his body, ready to use it to defend himself once more if he needed to before dying. He felt something against his hand as he did this, and realized he had one more weapon, though perhaps not its original purpose, he still had his carving knife.
The small curved blade he used primarily as a means cut the raw materials from slain creatures and when he needed to cut things from the trees and other unruly plant life. He could feel it was inches from his fingertips. It seemed the blow he received earlier had loosened its bindings and it was now trapped beside his thigh rather than under him at the small of his back.
He grabbed the shaped handle and pulled it from his sheath. He retrieved his weapon not a moment too soon. Just then the carnivore struck down towards him its sharp fangs falling like daggers upon him. His right hand held the carving knife tight and he swung the blade sideways at the creature as its fanged jaws came down on him. He felt the blade sink into it, not realizing how close death had been. The jaws were an inch from his exposed throat before the small blade plunged into the reptiles left eye.
"Arrrraaaaaggh!" the horrible shriek filled his ears as the creature flailed backwards in pain. The handle of a blade protruding from its now bleeding eye socket. The small weapon did not plunge in deep enough to kill the creature, but it had caused a significant amount of damage. The beast pathetically clawed at its own face, trying to use its slender fingers to flick the invading dagger from its ruined optic.
Koryn forced himself up, reaching for his true weapons, despite the thrumming pain in his left arm he held the handle of a blade, once he had it in his hand, he gingerly felt along his waist, his right hand sliding along his belt to feel for something. He found it and he pulled a third flask from his side, not taking the one he had drank heavily from earlier, nor the one that held the stamina returning drought. He uncorked it with his mouth and drained the contents quickly, throwing the empty container to the floor.
The effects of the healing tonic were instant. His ailing arm no longer seemed to bother him, and he could feel the blood had stopped flowing so greatly, though he knew the wounds where still open. His throbbing leg and knee also seemed to suddenly grow strong as the liquid quickly went to work, the pain in his skull also becoming nothing but a dull throb. He reached down and picked up his broader blade before standing tall.
The small velociprey had leapt towards its ailing leader, apparently trying to assist in removing the blade from its eye. It cared little for the hunter as he mended his wounds. He took the moment to look along the ground, finding his second weapon not far from him and he made to pick it up. With his twin blades in hand, and his vigor beginning to return to him he felt himself grow bolder.
As the hunter stood it the small eyes of underling turned and regarded him and it decided to avenge his monarchs wounds. Not realizing the swordsman had received a second wind, it came at him with absolute abandon. Jaws once more open to bite and tear into the human, the armor he wore seemingly forgotten by the beast as the creatures mind focused simply on the blood it would spill as repentance.
The twin blades moved through the air at the precise moment of impact. Their edges cutting deep and true through the slim body of the avian-like monster. Its shriek upon death was sharp and quick, seemingly not realizing its mistake even upon its very end. The body flew backwards just as the very first creature he had slain the day before, it's body spilling gore in sweeping arcs as it fell, there was no final twitching as the life was long extinguished before it even hit the grassy floor.
Koryn breathed in the familiar feeling, his body seemingly growing once more rejuvenated despite not having taken the last of his energy returning draught. He did not know why, but upon that recent kill, he felt like a build up of energy had peaked within him. He rose his bloodied blades high above his head, staring once more at the struggling agonized creature before him. The larger beast had only noticed its last remaining support had just been put down. Its bloodied socket seemingly forgotten as it glared at the hunter with malice using its only remaining eye.
The swordsman struck the blades together above his head, the clean note of metal upon metal rang out above him as he dragged the two together and down. Two arcs of blood dispersing from the blades, cleaning them as they fell to his sides, arms outstretched. From deep inside his being, he felt the sudden welling of energy burst. He did not fear this feeling of exhilaration anymore, no he embraced this hunters high, this manic feeling. He was a vengeful demon, and all he could think of was the thought of spilling more of the lumbering creatures blood.
His eyes focused on the larger beast, he felt like he himself grew to match its stature. He felt his muscles tense just before he rushed at the beast, arms outstretched leaving himself fully open to any attack that may come his way. He did not feel any stress on his limbs, in a deft motion he turned his blades over in his palms, the sharp edges now facing backwards rather than upright. The large creature seemed perplexed by this new style of attack.
"Kyrrrraaahhh!" it bellowed at him, lunging forward despite its grievous injuries. It would make him pay for what damage he had inflicted, it would have not just an eye, but flesh and bone as repayment. The beast plunged at him and struck at him with its beaked maw. It flew like a spear towards the hunter, but he was ready for it.
Koryn turned on the spot, as the strike hit him he simply moved with the momentum and he spun once more, this time close to the monsters bloody side. Like a buzz saw his arms spun along it, cutting deep gashes into the creature from chest to tail. It yelped in pain, feeling each bite of his blades, the hunter's talons tearing viciously into it. Arcs of crimson splashed about him as he came to a halt.
The young man turned on the spot, watching as more life-giving fluids spilled from the creatures side. The large beast struggled to turn, to once more face its advisory. Its movements sluggish from the grueling hit. It still stood though, still returned a hateful gaze at the standing sword wielder. It snapped its jaws, attempting to cause fear in the human, but Koryn knew it was only for show. He knew this fight was done, the creature just would not surrender, and he felt that he would not let it even if it did.
This time the velocidrome ran forward, letting a sullen cry erupt from its jaws once more. Much like the smaller minion before, it ran without a single care. The blade wielding youth merely stood there, crossing his arms over his chest, as if to block with the blades, though they were too far out to serve as a means of defense, no he was ready to strike.
"Come on..." he muttered towards the approaching foe, he saw the teeth, the claws, the means to kill him all rushing towards him, and he took it. The reptile bite down upon him, it's massive form colliding into him as it snapped at his right shoulder. The hunter didn't fall back though, instead taking the full blow and stood firm against it, his weight pushing back and keeping the two combatants motionless.
The creature bit down on him, his armor keeping the blow from being fatal, but he let it taste his blood, letting it savor some small victory, even though it could hardly even bite any longer. The creature was dying, but he gave it one final parting gift, the taste it so desperately craved. His crossed arms moved swiftly, moving forward in two arcs that formed an "X". He cut deep into the creatures chest, branding it with the letter as his blow sliced away at its remaining strength.
It lurched and after a pained gibbering of noise its body fell to his side. The bloodied cross upon its breast spilled fluids, knife impaled eye staring up, useless towards the sky. The death was not a pleasing sight, not in the least. The young man felt a small prickle of shame and remorse. This had not been a good fight, it had been a desperate ugly thing, and some small part of him almost regretted it, but his survival had made it necessary, so he did not dwell upon his sad thoughts.
He crouched down to pull the blade from the creatures skull, pulling it free and wiping it along the grass to clean it before he returned it to its small holster at his side. He then stood up and felt his energy quickly diminish. The pain of the last desperate attack, exhausted him, he knew he was now bleeding not from just his arm, but from the wounds he had allowed to be inflicted upon himself. His body slackened and he fell backwards, his helmet rolling off his head as he landed heavily into the soft grass.
He breathed heavily, feeling exhausted from his ordeal. He stared up at the sky seeing the flare he had sent still lingered. The red smoke had begun to spread thinly, and it looked like some deep wound had cut the blue sky itself, the blood now dripping with the wind.
Koryn silently hoped someone would see it, even if the setting was a pleasing one, he did not want to be left here to eventually expire. He stared up at the clear sky, watching the red trail of the flare continue to stretch across it. Exhaustion racked his body and he soon felt his eyelids begin to grow heavy once more. He did not know if it was safe to rest, but he didn't care at the moment. Slowly his eyes shut and he wondered just how long it might be for someone to come and collect him.
Thankfully he only remained on the grassy floor for little over half an hour before his prayers were answered.
It was not much time later that the gentle thud of boots made their way upon the grass. They came to a halt not very far away from the downed hunter. From the sounds of it, there were many sets of boots as soon other followed and halted. There was a clear whistle from behind him.
"Holy smokes! Is it dead?...is he dead?" a concerned voice managed. Once more the trotting of greaves sounded for a few more moments, this time coming to a halt only a yard from the boys spread out figure.
"Hey fella...ya not dead are ya?" questioned the airship captain.
Koryn didn't open his eyes, he could barely even fathom what was happening at the moment, but as he perceived the question, he managed to give a very subtle shake of his head. There was a laugh at that moment, it sounded like a deep, hollow laugh, like someone was chuckling into a deep metal hollow.
"The kid actually did it," the voice sounded odd to him, but he thought perhaps it was his tired mind distorting it. He still refused to look up and take anything in, he only breathed slowly allowing himself his much needed rest.
He felt two pairs of hands help him to his feet, his eyes fluttered open as they lead him to the ship. Striding before him was a heavily armored figure as he was helped along by the crew of the vessel. The armored hunter carried a large bone hammer over their shoulder, an impressive sight to the fledgling. He vaguely remembered seeing this very individual at times when he went to the guild hall. Perhaps a hired guard when coming to get unfortunate hunters like himself.
He did not question anything until he was on the airship. After the crew had went and collected the corpse of the velocidrome, a memento of his victory to proudly display or use for his own means, in addition to his blades he gently mumbled his appreciation.
"Thank...you," he meant both to the men who helped him, and even to the armored hunter, who refused to remove the large helmet for their features to be seen.
"Don't worry kid," the hunter replied. The crew replied in kind. The next thing Koryn asked was something he could not help. Despite himself he was far to curious, and wished to know of his bulky savior.
"Who are you?"
A silence followed, it seemed the hunter was deciding on whether or not to respond at all. Perhaps offended by the blunt question, this individual had come seemingly to find a corpse not a breathing individual. Koryn let his eyes drop to the deck of the vessel as it began to rise into the air.
"Zen…." the armored figure spoke, the hollow sounding voice lacked any trace of emotion. "They call me Zen..." the heavily armored hunter repeated and said nothing more afterwards.
He regarded it for a moment, trying to imprint it into memory. He then repeated his gratitude, not feeling the desire to question any further. The mysterious hunter seemed to appreciate the silence and only gave a nod behind the obscuring helmet.
He became aware that though the hunter had seemed to regard him little, the crew was staring at him, as if they were unsure he was indeed alive and with them, or some phantasm from the veil. He looked down once more, and became fully aware as to what they were looking at. He was a mess, gore splatted along his once new armor, his guards and gloves looked like he was more a butcher than a hunter.
"S...sorry," he said sheepishly, hoping he was not leaving a crimson mess upon the deck of the ship. He thought he heard a giggle from behind the heavy helmet, but as he turned to the other hunter, he was greeted with nothing but an unseeing helmet. He shrugged off the feeling and looked as the clouds went by.
Koryn did not care anymore if they stared at him or not, or even if they spoke to him. He was just glade he had lived through his ordeal. He was glad to be heading back to the small little forge, and the small grouchy little wyverian who manned it.
-End Chapter-
A/N-
Well as promised the third chapter to my story! Man did this one take a while to go over, over 13k words! Wow...I just couldn't stop writing.
I just wanted to take a moment to announce that I plan to add more chapters now, but on a more monthly bases. I might release earlier, or later depending on how life treats me, but I do plan to keep it as a monthly thing to allow myself some time to edit and read over before posting.
I also want to take a moment to thank those who have already read my story and left me a review, and fav.
Thank you tooneyloon, my very first reader and reviewer.
Also Thank you UltraCutie for the very nice review you left me, it really helped motivate me.
Wow two favs in less than a day of posting. I know it seems small, but it's more than I was expecting. Thank you all my readers.
Feel free to PM me with questions if you have them, and leave a review, and maybe fav my story. Till next time.
Happy Hunting!