I do not own anything from Star Ocean Till the End of Time!
The True Nature Of All
Chapter 7: Ameena
The elderly woman caught her breath between words, "I'm Dawn, Ameena's neighbor. Ameena! She collapsed out on the top of the Mountain of the Gods! She had an attack and now she can't move! You must help her! I don't have the strength to carry her back."
Everyone was suddenly worried about the girl that Airlia knew was severely sick. "Nel, where is this Mountain of the Gods?" Nel looked at everyone before saying, "It's to the west of this town, down the lower path that leads to the Sanmite Steppes. It's well known for its thieves known as the Moonshadow Clan. If we're going there, we must be careful." Airlia thought for a moment before promising to give them the best weapons in Airyglyph if they could only get that far.
"Let's go. Hopefully we're strong enough to take out these bandits if we should encounter them while trying to find Ameena." They left while the woman was still saying her thanks. As they walked through the paths they found the side path that would take them to the Sanmite Republic, however, they turned left at the first crossroad. Going down they saw a chest at the base of the river.
Cavan was eager to give Airlia something and rushed into the waters to see that it was only materials for cooking items in a workshop. Airlia raised an eyebrow at the sight as she said, "Now we must hurry if you're done, we can't afford to waste time when this girl's life is on the line." Cavan's face drained substantially. He wasn't used to being admonished by a mere slip of a girl. Cassius snickered softly as they made their way to the edge of the forest.
"Which way Nel," Airlia asked as the bushes moved slightly in the wind. Airlia held her hand on her sword as Nel grabbed the handle of the dagger on her back. Fayt was puzzled by their actions when three bandits appeared.
Cliff merely punched into his other hand with a cocky smile. "Oh yeah, time to trash some bandits, maybe we'll get some answers as to where our friend is." The bandits were startled. They hadn't expected so many people. Airlia moved fast and subdued one bandit without problems. Nel killed the second bandit before he could even move with the toss of her dagger. Fayt killed the last bandit who was going to attack Airlia from behind, and was rewarded with a brilliant smile that angered the two men who were obsessed with the fair Princess.
Airlia smiled at the group as they proceeded to walk into the forest, only stopping so Nel could collect her dagger from her fallen foe. They walked around the forest and found that each path was blocked with an old tree. Unsure of what to do, they went back to the entrance and started talking. "If only we could find someone to help us get past these trees!" Fayt said as he kicked at the dirt. Airlia sat on a nearby rock to think. She was used to helping people, but couldn't figure out what it was about those trees that were throwing her instincts off. They got up and started walking around again, this time heading north. They saw another crossroad and headed left. When they reached another tree, Airlia paused. There was a noise she hadn't heard previously. She turned on her heels and ran into the forest following the sound that the others couldn't hear. When she couldn't hear the noise, she paused and the others did as well.
"He… lp… me," Airlia saw a young girl with wings lying on the ground, needing immediate help. Fayt paused for a moment, curiosity clouding his blue-green eyes.
"Is that… a Faerie?"
Nel smiled genuinely as she said, "Yes, they're rare too. This is the first one I've seen." Airlia knelt down to help the Faerie as she tried to fly, but sank to the ground seconds later. "They'll surely eat me alive!" The Faerie groaned, looking pointedly at Cliff.
Nel chuckled as Cliff spat, "Hey! Don't look at me! I don't eat bugs!" Airlia chuckled at his stupidity. Nel looked at him through slanted eyes.
The Faerie looked up indignantly. "I'm not a bug, I'm a Faerie! But I'm dead anyways!" Fayt brushed a hand through his hair as Cassius tried to get the Princess up from kneeling.
Airlia slipped her hand from his as Fayt asked, "Why are you dead anyways?"
The Faerie spoke softly, "I haven't been able to get to the mountains or the water that comes from her flowing springs. If I could only feel the mountain mists on my face and drink pure water from her springs, I'd feel much better…"
Airlia smiled, "We can help with that, but can you help us if we do?"
The Faerie looked up at her in anger, however, before she could vent Fayt spoke, "We're looking for a girl who is stranded at the top of the mountain. Can you help us to find our way through these woods if we help get you your water?"
The Faerie smiled instead with a nod. "Sure."
They stood and looked around. Airlia remembered the springs they passed and knew they had to find one that was the purest of the pure. She stood and looked at everyone, "Don't worry, we'll be back shortly." The Faerie lay back on the ground and the group left to find the spring. They went back to the first crossroad that they had taken to reach their current location and Cavan pointed out a spring. Cassius went to examine it while Airlia shook her head and continued to turn right at the first crossroad and they ran into more bandits. Cliff killed one with a set of punches that were done rapidly. Airlia finished one with a lucky strike to the stomach. Cavan used his gun to kill one bandit with a shot to the back of the neck. Cassius's yelp of surprise told everyone that Airlia was correct in that it was not the correct spring. Nel used her runology to freeze the last bandit in his place before diving into him to kill him.
"Cavan you jerk! How dare you endanger her life with a boiling hot spring," Airlia shook her head, her hair swaying with each movement.
Cliff whistled, "Whew she's a cold lady sometimes Nel."
Nel shrugged, "When you think about what you know of her, and what you've seen, can you blame her?" Cliff thought back to the fact that she was being held prisoner by her own people who were trying to coerce her into a marriage that she clearly didn't want. When she refused, they beat her. Who knew what else was done to her because of the refusals. Cliff also knew that Airlia was weary of the two men and didn't know yet as to why. Cliff nodded in agreement. He also knew that she was working on something the night before in Peterny, however, he didn't know yet what she was making.
They made their way back to the initial crossroad that they had found when they entered the forest. They continued to follow the path, beyond the way out. Airlia smiled when she saw a spring that glittered like diamonds. She went over and filled her flask with the water and capped it off. She turned around with a smile, "Got it! Let's get back to her so she can help us find Ameena!" They worked their way back to the location of the Faerie to give her the water. They had to work their way through rabid wolves that Cassius killed with his whip and soldiers that Cliff and Nel double teamed with diving knives attacks mixed with rapid-fire punches. When they found the Faerie and Airlia laid the Faerie's head gently against her stomach to give the girl support as she gently gave her the water to drink. After a few sips, the Faerie perked up enough to drink more on her own.
She flew up and smiled at the Princess, "Thank you for your kindness. I'm sorry but I don't know of the girl who you're looking for, but I can help guide you through the forest and spot the monsters that hide amongst the trees."
Airlia nodded as Fayt said, "We gotta hurry!" Airlia stood up quickly with the assistance of Cavan who tried to pull her closer to him as she shrugged the hand away. They walked to the nearby large tree that obstructed the path the Faerie stopped moving closer to it.
Airlia looked up at her in question when she squeaked out, "This old tree is really a monster!" Airlia readied a quick spell that would help send it down the path of death.
"Fire Bolt," She shouted as a ball of flame arose from her hand and to the tree, burning it, but not enough to kill it.
Fayt drew his sword and charged at the tree, ducking its branches as his sword drew upon the power of the flames that were still on the tree as he shouted, "Blazing Sword!" The slice down the middle of the tree was enough to kill it. As it died, the path cleared up.
Airlia smiled at the little Faerie, "Thank you for your help!" Even though the Faerie didn't like humans, that didn't prevent her from smiling back, they made it through the short path safely and saw another tree to their right and a clearing to the left.
"Take the left path! The right path is blocked by a monster and is a dead end."
They went to the left and saw a clearing on their right with no enemies. Airlia felt the hair on the back of her neck stand on end.
She clutched the hilt of her sword even tighter as Cliff nodded, "Airlia's right, it's too quiet. Something is wrong here; I just wish I knew what it was." Once they were past the clearings; they saw a path to the left and to the right.
The Faerie flew into the sky to check directions and nodded to herself, "Go right, but beware the tree blocking our path is really a monster." The group got ready for another fight. This time it was Nel and Cliff who fought the monster in place of Fayt and Airlia. Nel used her rapidly firing Ice Needles runology to pave the way for Cliff by creating large holes in the monster's hide. When it was ready, he used his Hammer of Might attack to kill it by delivering a blow so mighty that it split the monster in half. Nel merely smirked as they walked onward, weary of what was going to be in their path next.
So soon should they wonder before they find out? The ground began to quake unnaturally. Looking ahead, Airlia saw it first as she yanked Cavan out of the way of a falling rock. They ran forward, trying to dodge the onslaught as the brave Faerie began trying to distract the monsters. It worked, however, but not for long though as she took a hit and was knocked to the ground. Airlia saw it and rushed to her aid, only to be met with resistance. Looking over her shoulder revealed to be a rock that was coming her way. She quickly knelt down as she grabbed the little Faerie and got up; however, a rock that had hit the ground already tripped her. She managed to shield the Faerie from the fall when the other rock was seconds away from hitting her. Cassius worked quickly to use his whip to yank her back out of harm's way, but not before the boulder smashed her ankle, breaking it instantly.
Airlia withheld her pain-filled cry. Cavan glared at Cassius who merely shrugged and went to her side to bandage the broken ankle. The little Faerie came to and was instantly aware of why she was unharmed. She flew up a little to assess the damage and winced visibly. "I'm sorry that your ankle is broken."
Airlia shook her head, "If not for you, we would have been far worse off, thanks. Thank you as well Cassius. I would have probably been in worse shape if you hadn't used your whip." Cassius seemed to even blush at that compliment as Airlia tried to stand, and was able to thanks to the assistance of Fayt. He helped her over to Cassius so she could kiss his cheek.
However, she also whispered, "Now you two boys had better behave, no more love potions or else I'll simply resort to making girls out of you two." His face paled instantly as he relayed the message to Cavan who also paled.
Satisfied she did her job, they continued as she limped for a little longer before being sat down. She checked on her ankle as she took part of her healing potion and applied it to her wound. "It should set in two minutes; I'm sorry guys that I'm slowing you down." Airlia said as Cliff and Fayt shook their heads. The Faerie flew up and saw to her horror that there were more falling rocks ahead. Her look told everyone all they needed to know.
Cliff picked her up, much to the consternation of the two men who had crushes on her. Airlia smiled her thanks as did Nel, "He is the fastest of the group. No one would be able to slow him down, never mind this girl who is as light as a feather." Airlia held onto him tightly as they took off like a shot down the path before the rocks could even come close to them. Once the others had joined them, safely thankfully in Airlia's opinion, they continued when more bandits attacked them.
Airlia was sat down as she tested her ankle. One man thought she would be easy prey when she said, "Ice Needles." The bombardment of ice spears was enough to kill him without too much trouble. When he was dead, she found the medicine had done its job and she could walk once more. To prove it, she killed the bandit that was sneaking up on Cliff and Nel who were busy with two bandits of their own. Nel smirked, knowing full well that Airlia hadn't faked her injury and wasn't the kind that would either. Cassius used his whip to kill a kobold that was sneaking up on Fayt, knowing that it would possibly move him a rank up in the Princess's eyes. Cavan shot a witch that was planning on use magic to hurt Airlia from a distance. Her smile told him that while she was grateful, not to make a habit out of saving her. When the battle ended, Airlia found some money on the ground and gave it to Fayt.
"I don't really need it Airlia." However, when he saw that she had no way to carry it, he sighed.
The princess nodded as she insisted, "Take it and use it as part of the money for paying the inn for my stay."
He smiled and nodded, "Very well." They continued onward, knowing there would be no rest for the closer they got to the base of the Moonshadow clan, the more danger they would be in. Airlia tossed Nel a potion to renew her strength, which she took gratefully.
When they saw a tree blocking the path, they looked up at the Faerie who could only nod, "Monster." She said in plain tones. This time it would be Cavan and Cassius's turn to face the monster. Cavan started shooting away at the outer layers while Cassius kept the branches from hitting everyone. Eventually, the monster was killed, Airlia was grateful for the weapon that Cavan wielded was electronic, imported from Greeton, so it had an endless supply of rounds.
They proceeded forward when Airlia stopped the group. Fayt looked at her, "What's up Airlia?"
Airlia used her hand to indicate the scene, "Look familiar?"
Everyone thought when the Faerie said first, "It looks like every other falling rock area!"
Airlia smiled, "Exactly, I think I know a way to get around this unharmed!" They looked at her as she hugged the rock wall and proceeded to get past the falling rocks unscathed. The group smiled at the obviously easier way to get through it. When they were past, Cassius used his whip to grab the large chest and pull it towards him. With his reward in toe, he opened it to see a doll that he knew was rare from his time in her kingdom.
"Here, Airlia, I want you to have this." The doll was pretty enough, but if he really knew her, he wouldn't have given it to her.
She closed her eyes as she plastered her smile on her face. "How sweet Cassius." She placed it in the sack that was taking up precious room for herbs as they continued on their way. They saw a tree as Airlia and Nel got ready for combat this time.
They looked at each other with a wry smile as they didn't bother to pull out their weapons this time. "I hope you're ready to die monster!" The Faerie called out, making the tree move. Airlia dodged to the side as Nel jumped into the air.
They cried out at the same time, "Fire Bolt." While it may drain their life essence to do the runological spell, it did the trick. The monster was incinerated from the several sets of fireballs at the same time.
With the monster dead, they proceeded north of and through the clearing, they saw a small hut. Fayt said, "I wonder if someone found Ameena and brought her there to rest?"
Everyone could only shrug while the Ice Princess said, "We should check first." They proceeded to the hut where Airlia said, "Nel, you and I should check parameter, Cavan, Cassius, go inside with Fayt and Cliff to make sure that the inside is secure." Airlia and Nel darted off to ensure there were no traps outside, waiting to spring. Airlia saw nothing outside the decrepit house that seemed to be very suspicious to her. She saw Nel on the other side as she asked, "Did you see anything?" Nel shook her head when suddenly a large commotion drew the two women back inside. Inside, they saw a small child locked away in a cage, Cliff, Cavan and Cassius were losing their patience with the child.
Nel looked at them in irritation; Airlia merely shook her head as Nel voiced the shared question, "What's going on here? Did something happen?"
Fayt shook his head and shrugged, "You could say that…"
He would have continued when the small child spoke, earning glares from the two men who were disliked by the group and Cliff. "Whoa, where did that lovely voice come from?"
Nel and Airlia both looked at the cage as Nel asked, "Is someone in there guys?"
Cliff looked slightly sheepish as Cavan spat, "Yeah, a brat." Airlia peered beyond the black haired man. She saw a small child that was dressed rather oddly. He only came up to her waist. His gold colored helmet had a spike the goggles sitting on the helmet were broken. His ears were poking out under the rim as did sprouts of brown hair, he also had matching armor on over his normal clothes, of which she could only see his teal colored shirt.
The young kid saw both women who had entered and shouted, "Oh wow! Two really beautiful women! Oh, please let poor ol' me outta this cage!" Airlia and Nel looked at each other for a brief moment. Airlia looked down to squash the blush that rose to her cheeks. She didn't feel anything for the child, but was uncomfortable with people making comments about her like that. It was her looks and station that had gotten her into the mess she was in before and what she was in again.
Nel looked at her and understood everything instantly. Her hands rested on Airlia's shoulders, making the weight go away, if only for a moment. When the kid huffed Nel kneeled down to face him at eye level, "Who is the kid? Is he one of the bandits?"
Roger huffed indignantly as he said, "No way! Ya got it all wrong miss, actually I'm…"
Fayt glared at the ground as he said, "Ameena's not here, let's go!"
The kid growled as Cliff added salt to the wound, "Yeah, this brat's annoying me anyways."
With everyone nodding in agreement, the child had finally had enough as he spat, "That's just plain cold! I'm askin' for help!" Suddenly the door burst open before anyone could move. Cavan, trying to look good for the Princess moved to block the path of the intruder, causing Airlia to try and peer around the tall man with a frown.
The man looked at the large group confused, "Hey! Who are you?!"
The child smirked as he said, "Hey look, the morons are back! My boys are gonna tear ya to pieces! Better say yer prayers!" The bandit whistled as more bandits arrived on the scene.
This aggravated the ice Princess as she said, "Don't worry guys, we were just leaving. We have nothing to do with this child, we're simply looking for our friend who collapsed somewhere in the forest."
The apparent leader of the men who had just arrived also looked aggravated as he demanded of the strange child, ignoring Airlia's words, "What did you say?!"
Cliff heard the words as he said, "Hey, when he said 'my boys,' did he mean..."
Everyone nodded as Fayt voiced for the rest of the group, "Yeah, I think he meant us..."
Cassius spoke, "He has no right to do that; especially with it being Airlia!" The bandits heard the name and looked around, eventually spotting the royal woman.
"You're Airlia!? There's a King's ransom on your head! Get her!" Everyone sighed at the words spoken by Cassius and the child.
The bandit growled out, "Yer dead meat!"
The small child smirked as he said, "Too late to grovel now! There'll be no mercy this time. Get 'em, boys!" The fight ensued with Cavan now trying desperately to protect his lady. Fayt easily killed one man while Cliff took down three within two minutes. Airlia couldn't believe their strength as she merely tried to play keep away while she got her runology ready. Cavan struck one down that was trying to sneak up on the group while Cassius strangled one with his whip. Airlia used her flames to keep one from hurting Nel from behind. Eventually the battle was done as Nel froze the last one to death. They turned to the child.
He stood up slightly in the cage as he said, "I never got to introduce myself. I'm Roger when it comes to the ladies, however, when it comes to the likes of these lummoxes, I'm Sir Roger." Airlia sighed as Fayt freed him from the cage.
When Roger left the cage, all Cliff could do was stare as Cassius exclaimed, "What the heck?! He's got a tail!?"
Roger huffed indignantly, "What? What's the big deal? My tail's the softest around, I'll have you know!"
Airlia spoke next, "You're a Menodix, from the Sanmite Republic, right?"
Roger beamed at the blue-green eyed lady as he said, "Yes, that's right, Miss!"
Fayt had to ask, "The Sanmite Republic?"
Nel took the liberty to answer the question, "It's a country of humanoids located northwest of Aquaria. I'm sure you noticed lots of humanoids in Peterny. Almost all of them are from Sanmite." Fayt seemed to think for a moment. However, Nel continued, "But it's strange to find a Menodix around here. Everyone knows they almost never come down from their highlands."
Roger looked down as he kicked at the ground, "Well you see, Miss, it's kind of complicated."
Cliff scoffed as he spoke, "Complicated...yeah right."
Cavan asked, "Why did the bandits capture you?"
Roger looked up at the large group, "That's a secret! You know, a real man has things he can't even tell his girl."
Cassius scoffed as he said, "Huh? Secret? After we just saved your...tail?"
Airlia looked coldly at the child as Nel said, "What an odd kid. Let's leave him. I really don't want to hear his story anyway." Airlia smirked at Nel for voicing her own feelings. However all Roger could do was stutter in curiosity.
Cavan spoke, irritated, "We're not interested, kid."
Roger spoke up, looking between both girls, "Oh, but I'd really want you to hear about it, Miss... I really do!"
Cliff spoke up, "Somebody stop me before I wring this brat's neck."
Airlia placed her hand on Cliff's upper right arm as he sighed hard. Fayt had to ask the obvious question, "So? Why did they capture you?" However, Roger's answer would bring about much shock, "It was a dare." Everyone paused in mid step as the words sank into everyone's mind. Cavan coughed out, "A dare?" Roger looked proud of himself as he said, "Yup, that's right. Ya see; me and my gang are enemies with this other gang back in Surferio. I challenged their leader to a dare to see who the bigger man was."
Nel spoke next, her face was calm, "A dare, huh? What was it that you did?"
Roger smirked as he looked up in pride, "A test of courage. We dared each other to slip into the legendary Moonshadow Clan's hideout in Duggus Forest and steal the treasure therein! A test fit for real men!"
Cliff laughed as he said, "I see... So you screwed up and got caught."
Roger shot Cliff a dirty look, "...Shaddup, moron." Fayt shook his head and tried to intervene in the conflict, "So now we know how you got here. Be more careful on your way home. Later."
Roger had a gleam in his eye as he said, "...What'd you guys come here for, anyways? Not to clear out the bandits, I guess?" Fayt looked conflicted to continue with the conversation with the Menodix.
He sighed as he said, "We're looking for someone."
Roger looked genuinely interested as he said, "Looking for someone? A girl?"
Fayt nodded as Roger said, "I get it. I'll give ya a hand then! No one knows this place better than I do!"
Cliff gave him a dumbfounded look as the child continued, "I said I'll give you a hand, ya big lummox!"
Airlia smiled sadly as she said, "Thank you, however…"
Roger gave her sad eyes as he whimpered out, "Huh...? You're gonna refuse an offer from someone as irresistible as me!?"
Cavan said, "You're up to something, I can tell! Are you really going help us?" Roger cursed his luck very softly; however, it was heard anyways. Cassius smirked; this kid had no way of being able to sway his Princess's heart to any other man than possibly himself or that of Cavan. However, he had a plan to take her for himself, he just had to wait.
However, he had to add his two cents in, "As I thought."
Nel took sympathy on the child as she knelt down. Airlia followed suit and they both looked the small child in the face as Nel asked, "Let's hear the truth. What do you really want?"
Roger stumbled to find the words, he felt embarrassed. Airlia spoke with a small smile, "We won't get angry, I promise."
Roger twisted in his spot as he spoke, "Well, ya see, the truth is that I haven't exactly gotten the treasure from the dare that I made."
Cavan asked softly, "Treasure?" He was looking for any reason to impress his Princess. He wanted her to think that he was genuinely interested in her so that he could find out her deepest secrets that he believed she was withholding.
Roger rolled his eyes, "That's right, moron. It's a gold statuette!"
Cliff smirked as he said, "What's stopping you? Go get it!"
Roger's shoulders fell as he said, "Well, I would if I could, but the bandits' leader has it. And all I know is he's somewhere in the forest." Fayt nodded in understanding.
Cliff nodded as Cassius spat out, "So your plan is to leech on to us and hope you get lucky and we'll get that treasure for you?"
Roger looked ashamed of his next thoughts that needed to be voiced aloud, "Uhhh...that's one way of putting it..."
Airlia smiled, "Sure, however, you got to pull your own weight here, and I'm very specific about that." Roger looked up at her with a bright smile.
Cavan grimaced as he spat out, "Are you out of your mind Airlia?!"
Nel nodded, knowing Airlia's line of thought, "It's been some time since Ameena collapsed in the forest. We need to find her soon and bring her back to town. If this little guy really knows this area as he says, he could guide us."
Cliff nodded, "I suppose if it is necessary…"
When everyone nodded in agreement, Fayt asked of Roger, "Hmm... Roger...was it? So, you'll help us out?"
Roger rubbed his nose with his hand and held out indicating the number one, "I owe it to ya guys! Heh he he, just leave it to me!"
Cliff had to ask, "Yeah, but what about that dare? Yer not done yet, are ya?"
Roger smirked as he smiled wryly while he said, "Duh…"
Cavan shook his head as he said, "Did you forget Cliff?"
Roger shook his head as he said, "Heh, does it really matter? I mean, you guys are searchin' for someone in the forest, right? So, that means we might run into the guy I'm lookin' for! I'll help you guys find that girl and if we run into the bandit leader, you guys can help me slap him down! That way, everyone ends up happy."
Airlia spoke next, trying to get the large group moving, "We better hurry!"
Roger jumped up and down while pointing outside, "Go, go, go!"
Airlia stood off to the side as Cavan came up near her. He took her hand as he looked at her squarely in the eyes, "I don't want you to fight anymore Princess. So far, you've been lucky enough to not get hurt, but when you rely on Runology, it is a dangerous thing, it takes from your life essence. You shouldn't have to take these potions to replenish what should never have been diminished…"
Airlia shook her head 'no' to indicate him to stop, "I won't stop fighting because they saved my life. I would have died in the facility had they not found me. The only reason Albel didn't find me sooner was because Vox was constantly trying to keep him away. Mayu wasn't strong enough to break my chains, but she knew Fayt and Cliff would be. I want this war to end as much as the next person, for so many reasons. If this is the only way that I can end the war, then so be it." Cliff actually smiled without throwing a joke out there.
The group started to leave, ensuring that the bandits wouldn't follow them. Once they were outside, Airlia took a deep breath of the fresh air. Everyone could see that she was relieved to be safe from the bandits who had recognized her due to her heritage. They didn't look back as Roger ran ahead only to bump into something. The resounding 'oof' drew the rest of the group running. Airlia lagged behind slightly in fear of what lay beyond the edge of the plants. Roger smirked as he said, "You!" The man's face was drawn in slightly.
He looked at Roger in confusion as Fayt asked, "This would be...the boss?"
Nel drew her arms up to her chest in a protective gesture as she said, "Yep, no doubt about it."
Cavan threw out there softly, "Yeah, has to be. He looks kind of evil." Airlia kept out of sight until she knew the fight would be starting. The man was tall, but not as tall as Cliff.
He spat, "So it's you, that little brat from before. What're you doin' here? Didn't we put you in a cage or something?"
Roger smirked as he held up one finger in defiance, "How do yah think you're gonna get away with putting Roger, man among men, in a steenkin' cage!? Purdy women are the only ones who can catch this man, let me tell you!"
The chief of the thievery clan spoke, "What the heck are you talkin' about? Get back to your cage already!"
Roger glared up at the man as he said, "What kinda fool do you think I am? I want to know first of all, how I would win the Real Man Contest if I went back in that cage!?"
The disbelieving look spoke volumes as the older man said, "Shaddup and do as I say! What's this 'Real Man Contest,' anyway!?"
Roger looked at him like he was absolutely the most stupid person on the planet as he said casually, "It's a contest to see who the real man is, duh!"
The chief just looked puzzled as he looked down at him dumbfounded. Roger lost his temper finally as he demanded, "Never mind that! Just hurry up and gimme your treasure!"
Cassius sneered at Roger as he said, "Wait a minute, who said anything about that?"
Roger looked back at the group that was looking at him curiously, he asked, "Huh? Didn't I mention it?"
Airlia stepped out into view as she said, "No, not a single word."
Roger blushed slightly as he said, "Um, er, anyway. Cough it up! Shut yer trap and gimme the goods. Stop wastin' time! Argh, would you just...just gimme it!"
The chief had just about lost all of his patience, "Who do you think you're kiddin'? Now I want to know why I would give you my treasure!?"
Roger shrugged as he said, "You don't understand anything, do you!? What kind of fool are you? Wait, I know! You're a dumb-dumb, that's what kind! Just gimme the treasure!"
The chief screamed out in aggravation, "Who're you callin' a dumb-dumb! I've had enough of you! I'll smash you to smithereens!"
Roger's cocky look spread even further if it was even possible, "Hah! Like you could ever beat me! Come on, you guys! It's time to fight!"
Cavan spat out in disbelief, "Hey, hey... Think about who is with us. We don't want to involve her if it is possible!"
Roger looked down in thought as Fayt spoke up, asking about Ameena, "Can I ask you one thing first? Did you see a girl with long hair picking flowers around here?"
Moonshadow Clan Chief looked genuinely thoughtful for only a moment before he spoke, "I don't know! And why would I tell you guys if I did, anyway!? You come around here, cracking jokes about me! Man, do you think it's my fault I look evil!?"
Cassius looked down as Cliff spoke, "Oops, he heard us."
Cavan smirked, "It certainly looks that way. And I think you hurt his feelings, too. Maybe you'd better stop talking now."
Cassius nodded as he whispered, "Yes. Even though it's true, it looks like he's kinda sensitive about the whole subject. I won't say another word. But man... He really does look evil, don't you think?"
Moonshadow Clan Chief had finally had enough, then he noticed the Princess amongst the group, "Why, you! You're the Princess! Come here honey and be prepared to go back to your kingdom while giving me a handsome reward."
Airlia's look of fright was enough to clue Fayt into a defensive position while standing in his path, "Over my dead body!" The Chief drew out his small dagger as he swiftly made his way towards the group. Several thieves appeared out of the bushes as Cavan and Cassius rounded two sides of Airlia. With Fayt on the third side, she was protected in a triangular group. Airlia saw the bandit that was trying to sneak up on Fayt and used her fire bolt to stop him in a blaze of fury. Cliff proceeded to pound on the Chief as Nel killed a bandit that was sneaking up on the man that she secretly felt affection for.
With the smaller bandits killed, Cliff delivered the final blow, knocking out the bandit. Roger smiled as he went and found the treasure he was looking for, "Yeah, that's it! That's a win for me! Hehe, take that, Lucien!"
Airlia smiled wryly as she said, "Congratulations."
Roger smiled as he looked at both women, "Woohoo! This is thanks to you, m'ladies!"
Cliff spat out, "Hey, hang on a second, there. What're we then, window dressing?"
Roger looked at him with an embarrassed look, "Oh yeah. Thanks, I guess."
Cavan glared at the small kid, "You guess?"
Roger looked guiltily at the three self-absorbed guys, "Well, I guess I could thank you, too. I guess."
Cassius looked at the kid with almost pure hate, Airlia moved Roger behind her as the platinum blonde man spat literally at the boy. He was so furious that he couldn't even speak. Airlia glanced down at Roger as he said, "Thanks, kinda, in a way." Cassius was still silent as his eyes showed his unbridled rage. Roger looked at the ground as he spoke next, "Well, it's not like I don't want to, um, thank you or something like that."
The three men were about to boil over, "..."
Roger breathed out heavily, "Whew. Nice work. Okay, okay. Thank you very much." Cliff smiled, "All right, that'll do."
Nel thought about Ameena, the girl who was still missing, "Anyway, forget about those four for a moment. We must search for Ameena, immediately." Airlia was grateful for the change of thoughts. Fayt nodded as the boy and two women started to walk away.
Cavan shouted, "Hey!" Roger waived his hand, trying to get them to stop. They proceeded down the path and eventually had to turn left.
The Faerie flew up and saw the holes in the ground and the same number of boulders sitting on the ledge, waiting for a victim. She flew back to Airlia. "I can help here. Please wait for my signal." Airlia nodded, worry present on her face. Cavan went to put a hand on her shoulder, however a look Cliff stopped him cold. The Faerie flew out as the rocks started flying, after a while the rocks stopped. The Faerie saw there were no more boulders and smiled as she arrived back to the group.
"There are no more rocks my friend!"
Airlia's worried expression disappeared as she said, "Thank you friend. Let's move!"
They ran down the path and turned left only to be forced into another fight, this time with witches on brooms. Airlia and Nel glared as they prepared their preferred magic types when Fayt decided to not unsheathe his sword. Instead, his eyes seemed to glow eerily as he said, "Lightning Blast!" Several bolts of lightning originated from the palms of his hand as they shocked the two witches, killing them instantly. However, both women knew the battle was far from over. Fayt smiled over at the Princess as they continued to walk down this forest path, relieved to see none of those large trees that they had fought. Without much interruption, obviously word had gotten around to the thieves to keep away from them, with the exception of a few rabid hounds; they made it to a small clearing where several stones were noticed.
Fayt looked around questioningly as Airlia and Nel smiled. "We must rest for a few minutes then we must find Ameena. We're in no shape to fight for the very moment, and I feel something big is around the corner, waiting for us.
Airlia brought out a small potion and poured it into flasks for everyone. "Drink," she said without hesitation. Cavan and Cassius looked at each other hesitantly, however, did as instructed. Their strength returned with such force that it nearly knocked them off their feet.
"What is this stuff?" Fayt asked as Airlia merely smiled.
"That's for me to know. You guys thought I wasted time in the facility yesterday, now you know I didn't. I created this through compounding. I actually discovered it inadvertently while trying to find something to help Ameena."
Cliff laughed as Nel merely smiled. "Thank you. I couldn't have done too many more of my runology without this elixir." Roger nodded his thanks. Airlia drank her own flask with a worried look. With everyone's strength restored, they knew they could last while they found the missing woman. They proceeded to the next section of forest only to be surrounded by enemies and fog. However, the enemies couldn't seem to see them. They saw the reach of the two trees wouldn't reach them if they ran straight down the middle, so rather than to have a fight, that's exactly what they did. They ran and avoided the monsters, turning right after they reached several rocks piled up. They followed it straight only to reach a large pond.
Fayt asked as he ran a hand through his hair to get it away from his eyes, "Is this where the fog is coming from?"
Airlia said, "Either way, there's definitely something suspicious about this place."
Cliff shrugged, "Okay, what do we do next?"
However Nel went into her defensive stance with her hand on the hilt of her weapon, "Something's coming." Cavan and Cassius stood in front of the Princess to shield her from the coming monster.
Roger took out his axe as Cliff punched into his other hand. Cavan spat out, "This looks like trouble!"
Suddenly a tall creature that was pure mud arose. Airlia looked at Nel, her expression fiercely determined. Nel came back to where the Princess was. "I have an idea; however it'll take the both of us to make it work." Fayt glanced back as the creature slammed his fist down, making Fayt jump out of the way. Cliff rushed to punch at the creature, to little effect. Cassius tried to use his whip, only for it to slip through the creature. Cavan tried to shoot at him, only to have the bullet go straight through him.
Fayt was at least smart enough to use his attack which was called, "Blazing Sword." Airlia prepared her runology to call forth Fire Bolt while Nel called forth Ice Needles.
Roger used his axe in a special move where his axe lit up with all of the flames of passion as he said, "Fiery Axe."
The monster was killed when they did the attacks for a second time. When the monster sunk into the waters, the fog suddenly disappeared. Airlia looked around in amazement, "That creature was responsible for the fog. Now let's stop wasting time and find Ameena."
They left the pond and went to their right and up a steep slope. At the top, a terrifying sight awaited the group. The Faerie gasped as she saw the girl lying on the ground. Surrounded by large, beautiful flowers was Ameena. Fayt cried out, "Ameena!"
Roger asked Airlia, knowing that Fayt was focusing on the girl, "This who yer talkin' about?" Airlia nodded solemnly.
Cliff asked Fayt who was checking her over from head to toe, "Well? Is she okay?"
Nel examined her, "She's still breathing but... I don't think her chances are good." Everyone knew the unsaid that they had to get her back to town quickly.
Roger smiled, "I know a shortcut, and however, by the time that you met me, it was too late to use it. Now, though, we can use it." He showed them down the mountain path that was so rarely used that the path was overgrown. However, in little time, they were already clearing the forest.
Roger turned to the group and bowed, "Thanks for your help! Glad we found the girl!" Fayt smiled as he said, "Thanks for your help Roger."
Roger left as he waived, "Later!" They ran to Peterny to find the middle-aged woman waiting for them at the inn.
They ran with her back to her home while Nel sought out her friend who was a doctor. Airlia remained with Fayt as the doctor appeared. The woman who Ameena was staying with felt so helpless and depressed. The doctor arrived as she tried everything in her power to help Ameena. She bowed to Ameena and turned to the large group and bowed. Ameena's neighbor turned to the group and said, "I'm so happy she's home safe, thanks to all of you."
Cliff blushed as he said, "Aah, it was nothing."
However, Dawn, her neighbor wouldn't hear any of that, "No, no, the doctor said that, had you found her much later it might have been too late. Oh, I feel so sorry for the poor girl. She lost both of her parents, and now this disease..."
This caught Fayt's attention, "Ma'am?"
Dawn punched the air in frustration, "Oh, it's all the war's fault! If it wasn't for this war, Ameena's parents wouldn't have died, and she could have lived in peace..."
Airlia winced as she said, "That's why the killing has to end." Nel looked at her friend and nodded in agreement.
Dawn sighed in frustration again, "Indeed-But there's not much we can do. All we can do is make Wishing Charms and pray that Apris ends the war... If only I had the power, I'd smash those Airyglyph scum into little pieces... I...I feel so powerless!"
Airlia gave the woman a weak smile, "I want nothing more than for this war to end, but there is only one way to get it to end. That is by killing Vox. He is the warmonger that is hell-bent on war between these two nations that were at peace long before."
Fayt looked down, "Power..." Ameena groaned as she tried to sit up. Nel placed out her hand to stop Ameena. Airlia shook her head as realization dawned on Ameena who Airlia really was.
"You're…"
Ameena started as Airlia gave her a sad smile. "Yes. I am so sorry about your family. I wish there was more that I can do. I'm trying to work on a cure for your condition; however, I had to have the doctor give me all of the symptoms. However, there are things that only you can tell me. When did this all start?"
Ameena looked down at her hands as she said, "It started when I left Airyglyph at the start of the war almost ten years ago. My father was sent to be a soldier of the dragon brigade and my mother went out to help heal the fallen. An attack done by Aquaria killed them both. However, I feel no blame to Aquaria. The Airyglyphians started the war after all, claiming you had been kidnapped, even though most of us suspected otherwise. Albel tore apart the world trying to find you. However, with my family dead, I had nothing left and came here. During my travels, I contracted this deadly disease." Ameena gave her a list of the symptoms and a weak smile.
"I am so sorry that this all happened to you my dear friend. I will do my best to find something to heal you. Please, though, you must follow the doctor's orders and stay in bed."
Ameena looked around in question, finally registering the other faces as she asked, "What is everyone doing here? I understand that she's trying to keep a low profile while trying to find a way to end the war, but Fayt, you're supposed to be in Aquios today…"
Airlia smiled sadly as Dawn, the middle aged woman spoke, "These people brought you back here after you collapsed. You collapsed on top of the mountain, Ameena. I couldn't carry you all the way home-so I came back to get help. Well, that's when I saw this boy..."
Ameena gave a sad smile as she tried to apologize, "I see... Fayt, everyone, thank you very much. I am so sorry for the trouble I've caused you all..."
Cliff gave a smooth smile as he brushed it off, "Nah, don't worry about it." Nel, too, gave a smile as she said, "He's right. You just concentrate on resting up and getting better." Ameena barely nodded in agreement. Nel continued, "Ameena?" The weakened brunette smiled while her gaze spoke in volumes, wondering about what would be asked, "Yes?"
Nel smiled as she said, "I asked that doctor to take care of you for me. If you start feeling worse, please go see her right away." Ameena looked like she would burst from the fear of not being able to pay. However Nel shook her head, "That's not a problem. We've already come to an agreement about the fee. It's all taken care of."
Ameena was not one to take things for free, "I, I can't let you do that!"
Airlia grinned in merriment as Nel shook her head in amusement, "You need to learn to take favors when they're offered. Don't worry-you don't owe me anything. That doctor is an old friend of mine. I'm happy to use my connections to help."
Cavan spoke out next, "She's right. Listen, she says it's okay, so it's okay!"
Ameena tried to speak but Cassius spoke up next, "How about this? Just think of it as payment for the Maiden of Irisa? Does that sound fair?"
Ameena merely shook her head, but Airlia spoke up next, "Come on; just say 'yes.'"
Fayt knew the perfect way to end this argument in the works, "You want to see your friend again, don't you? You'll need to get better as fast as possible if you want to do that, right?"
At the mere thought, Ameena seemed to get stronger, "I...don't know how to thank you."
Cliff smiled as he nodded, "Don't mention it. Fayt?" Fayt looked at Cliff with a nod of his head, "Yeah. Ameena? Sorry, but we have to go." Ameena looked up in question, and then remembered their journey to Aquios. Fayt nodded as he spoke, "I'd like to stay and help you get better, but there's something important I have to do." Nel and Airlia were silent at this statement. He could have possibly agreed to help end the terrible war that was raging between the two nations. Fayt continued to speak, "It's something I've thought about a lot. At first, I was just going to run away from it all, but then I realized: sometimes, you're the only one that can make a difference. And if it's something that might help people you've got to give it a try!" Ameena nodded with a gentle smile.
Airlia had to ask, "Fayt, you don't mean-?" Airlia knew that Nel had badgered them to help end the war, but with their solid commitment, the war would definitely end.
Fayt smiled at the three women, "That's right, I'll cooperate with you. Of my own free will, of course. So let's go...before I change my mind again." Airlia gave a sparkling laugh, making Cavan and Cassius glare at the blue haired boy who had earned the smile of the Princess, never mind her laughter.
Cliff laughed, earning him a smile from Nel as he said, "You're as easy to read as always." Fayt smirked as he said to Cliff, "I'll take that as a compliment," and then he turned to face Ameena again, "All right, we have to go now. I'm sorry; ma'am-please take good care of Ameena."
Dawn smiled gently as she said, "I will. You folks take care of you own work, whatever that may be. You just leave Ameena to me."
The group bowed to her as they left, Airlia smiled at the two women as she said, "Thank you." Ameena knew she didn't have to ask Fayt if she would see him again, in her heart of hearts, she knew that she would. If only the tragedy that lies ahead could have been avoided…