Author's note: I don't own Star Ocean Till The End Of Time

The True Nature Of All

Chapter 11: Uneasy Truce Amongst Enemies

Fayt and the others left Airlia and Roger there. Airlia felt like she was going to fall asleep on the spot. Roger pulled a vial out of her knapsack. "Here, drink this. It should restore your strength." Airlia smiled as she drank the vial and felt some of her strength return to her. A cry of surprise later and the pair found Nel, Cliff, Maria, and Fayt running through the doorway as if something was following them to kill them. They stopped, realizing they were safe and breathed for a minute. "Those… Statues…. Are alive and they try to kill you!" Nel spoke as Airlia gasped in surprise. They proceeded through the now unlocked door and saw the Sacred Orb with the soldiers looking at it.

Fayt shouted, "Get away from the Orb!" The soldiers looked up in surprise.

One of the Vendeeni Soldier shouted, having been taken by surprise, "Huh!? Isn't that the Leingod boy?"

The second soldier, with his eyes gleaming said, "I think it is. How lucky for us and we thought we were taking a detour to check out this OPA. We got us two birds with one stone. But wait, there's the girl who shielded her world from our attacks and took out one of our more powerful ships! We were told to retrieve them both!"

Nel shouted, trying to divert their attention, "Get your hands off our most sacred treasure!"

The Vendeeni Soldier glared as he said, "That is not an option. Did you really think we'd abandon an OPA of this power so easily? The OPA, the boy and the girl are ours!"

Cliff went into a defensive fighting position as he said, "Not gonna happen!"

Maria unlocked the holder for her gun as she said, "You got a little too greedy. Let's get 'em!"

Airlia glared out at the soldiers as they tried to obtain her friend, Fayt and herself. Airlia ran one way with her sword in hand as one soldier followed her. Fayt knew what she was doing and ran in the opposite of the small room. Maria took the opportunity to kill the one following the Leingod boy. With him dead, Fayt doubled back and leapt at the remaining soldier. However, before the blue haired swordsman could kill him, Airlia whirled around suddenly and plunged her sword forward, into the neck of the soldier who died instantly. With the two soldiers dead, Airlia was able to breathe a sigh of relief before it truly struck her. "They're after me?!" Fayt could only look at the woman who was torn between the safety of her kingdom and her desire to return home as soon as possible.

Airlia hid her emotions deep within herself. She felt such bitter fury, sadness, confusion. She whispered softly, almost inaudible, "Who am I?"

Nel was the only one of the group who understood why she had asked that, the only one who knew she was adopted by the King of Airyglyph. "I won't let them near you Princess. I'm sure you'll feel better after seeing Albel safe from harm." Airlia seemed to perk up a bit as Maria went to scan the Sacred Orb.

Fayt looked at Airlia as he asked, "What did you mean by that question Airlia?" The blue-green eyed girl merely shook her head as she said nothing.

However, before the issue could be pressed, Maria let out a gasp of surprise, "This energy does possess a waveform that's never been observed before. As we thought, its power clearly exceeds anything that should be on this planet."

Cliff put his hand to his chin in thought, "So it really is an OPA..." Maria only nodded in response.

Cliff smiled as he realized something, "No wonder it's a holy relic."

Nel merely shook her head as she spoke, "I'm just relieved that it's safe. This will save Her Majesty considerable grief."

Fayt took everything into consideration as he said, "Let's get back to Aquios and let the Queen know that the Sacred Orb is safe." Everyone nodded as they left the room to go back to the block puzzle. They stepped outside and saw none of the blocks in sight as they proceeded to go to their left in order to avoid them.

It was a long trek, but to the thanks of some quick thinking and agile members, everyone made it safely back through the puzzles. They trekked their way back through the shine to the entrance, and when they made it back, Nel stopped everyone, "Everyone. Please allow me to thank you."

Cliff was curious about what Nel had meant, however she finished before he could ask further, "Thanks to you, the Sacred Orb is safe."

Fayt looked down at the ground in self-made guilt as he spoke, "There's no need to thank us. It's really our fault to begin with. They never would have known about the Sacred Orb if we hadn't come here!"

However, it would be Airlia who would speak next, "You're wrong. They came here of their own accord. No fault lies within you."

Fayt went to speak as Cliff shook his head, "She's right ya know!"

Nel spoke next, "I gathered from what you were saying before that there are many worlds like our own." Maria nodded, showing that Nel was correct.

So Nel was able to continue with her train of thought, "And the Sacred Orb...is an exceedingly rare object... And OPA, you said-correct?"

Maria nodded as she spoke, confirming the fears of Nel and Airlia, "Correct. At least, there's no record of anything like the Sacred Orb in the Federation's database."

Nel nodded as Airlia said, "That means, most likely, someone would have come here seeking its power sooner or later. It just so happens that time is now. You have nothing to apologize for." Fayt just murmured their names as everyone preceded to the Sealed Cave, surprised that the monsters that had been there were not there any longer. Airlia directed everyone to the left of where they were currently.

They found themselves in the hallway where they fought the two mages. They proceeded down the hallway and found themselves in a room with a doorway and still no monsters. "It's awful quiet in here guys… We had best keep on our toes…" Airlia said as everyone nodded.

They went south and saw a rabbit walking around. He came up to them, "Hi ya! I sell more of those Disintegration Hammers that you have. If you ever need more, feel free to ask me!"

Airlia brought out her pouch of money that she had collected over the time of fighting monsters. "We have need of these hammers. We have about seven left of our ten."

The bunny smiled as he named his sum. Airlia gave him the amount he requested as he gave her the hammers in need. Hammers in tow, they started to make the long trek back when Roger noticed something. "Guys, I think this is from one of my books!"

He started at the corpse as Airlia pulled out one of the books. Roger's friend had left notes as to what the translation meant, "Here it is! The rotted corridor, guarded by archers of the gods. The Sun King sleeps in his coffin. What shall the mute corpse say?"

They examined the area to find something unusual. It was berries that had the power to raise one's intelligence. They continued through the door to find that it belonged to a once locked doorway. They proceeded down to the southeast of their location and through the door to find a set of stairs that led to a seemingly dead end. However, something nagged at the blue haired woman as she stepped forward to examine the pathway to find a switch! She pushed it to find the wall collapse and reveal a very familiar room with a familiar monster in the center. They crept past it to find that they were back at the beginning of the cavern. They left to return to the throne room. Airlia managed to catch a breath of relief. When they entered, they saw the Queen awaiting word anxiously. When they made it, everyone bowed to show respect. Aquaria XXVII asked the obvious question, "Well?"

At Nel's relieved expression, it spoke of volumes of what the group went through, "It is unfortunate that thieves were allowed to enter Kaddan, but at least the Sacred Orb is safe. Thank you for your hard work, all of you."

Nel smiled gratefully at the group as she said, "We couldn't have done it without their help."

Cliff had to cut the thanks short though with a dose of reality, "All right, so what do we do next? They're intensifying their attacks."

Maria had to speak now, seeing as she had to cut emotions to the quick, "And now that we have defeated them at Kaddan, they have even more reason to attack this country."

Romeria looked solely at Airlia, "It would appear that the only option remaining is to work together to drive off the Vendeeni."

Everyone nodded, however, Cliff had to ask, "But how will we do it? The only weapon that might help isn't completed yet, and it doesn't have the range. What's the point of an attack that can't hit its target?"

Fayt asked the next obvious question, "That's a good question... Even if we hurry up and finish the weapon, there's no way to make it achieve the range we need."

Airlia spoke next, "We shall request cooperation from Airyglyph, is that not correct Majesty?"

Romeria nodded as Lasselle blustered, "I beg your pardon? Y-Your Majesty!"

However, Romeria had an answer to protect the child, "If you had the means to carry the weapon into the sky, range would no longer be an issue, correct? Airyglyph has this ability. ...All we need to do is borrow it."

Nel spoke, understanding the pair's line of thoughts, "A means for carrying... The air dragons!" Airlia and Romeria both nodded.

Lasselle had to try and fight one more time, "Yes, but will they cooperate? Even if they approve our request, how are we to be sure that they will not betray us?"

Fayt nodded as Airlia spoke up for her country, "They shall not betray as the Warmonger is now dead. With the main threat to the country at this point are the new enemies that threaten both countries. Father will surely listen to me at this point." Everyone had almost forgotten that she was… well still is a Princess.

Aquaria XXVII nodded as she said, "Yes, I am sure he will listen to the voice of reason, let us appeal to Airyglyph for their assistance. I shall prepare a personal letter and send a messenger immediately. Can I count on your help?"

Nel bowed as she said, "Your Majesty."

Airlia spoke up immediately, "I am going too. I have been gone too long from my people."

Cliff spoke up though as a final say, "I'll go, too. Don't you think he'll trust me more? I don't think a person from Aquaria could explain the whole picture, anyway. I think it would be good to have a voice from both countries as well as an outsider too."

Nel spoke up next, her eyes narrowing, "That may be so, but... You realize this is dangerous?"

Cliff smirked, "Yeah, so? A little danger doesn't worry me."

Romeria nodded, "Very well. You shall accompany them."

Airlia spoke up finally, "Leave it to us."

The trio made preparations to leave swiftly from Aquaria to go to Airyglyph. They ran from town to town, the soldiers weren't bothering to attack them as Gareth, having already suspecting the truth and what was coming, already spoke to the guards to not attack the people with the Princess. Airlia was thankful for his help in that. They moved swiftly through Arias and through the town of Kirlsa. They moved along the mountain path and were welcomed, the Princess quite warmly, the others weren't so warmly greeted until Airlia glared at them. "Mind your manners, everyone. They're guests of mine, here to speak with my father." Everyone started chatting. As they moved through the city, Airlia smiled brightly at the prospect of being back home after so long. They reached the gates as the guards dared not to block their passage.

"They're here to speak with my father, please step aside." Airlia said softly, her Princess demure returning in full force.

"Of course my lady," The guard said as he bowed and allowed them passage inside. They moved their way up to the throne room. Airlia smiled even brighter as she went to embrace her father before taking in his appearance.

His face was so much paler and thinner, making her worry. "Father, are you alright?"

He looked as if he had seen a ghost. "I heard rumors that you had aided the side of Aquios, even though I told everyone it was merely rumors; I knew that you sided only with them to help us be rid of the warmonger. I am sure that Albel will be relieved to see you've safely arrived home… Whatever is the matter my daughter?"

Airlia's saddened face spoke of many troubles to come to the King. "I am being sought after for a hidden power I seemingly possess. This boy, his name is Fayt Leingod, he awaits our return to Aquaria with the answers, was the original objective of these outsiders, however, after seeing the power I amassed somehow during the fight, they now desire me as well…" He frowned as he put his head into his hands and shook for a moment. To see her father so defeated, she gently put a hand on his shoulder. "We have a solution father… but we need Airyglyph's help."

He lifted his head immediately, focused on the tall, muscular man. "What must I do to secure my only daughter's safety?"

Airlia shook her head as Cliff spoke next, "We need the help of your air dragons. With them, we might be able to stall them long enough to make them think that Airlia and Fayt are on our ship and leave when we leave. However, she won't really be going with us!"

Cliff saw his face turn furious and knew he would feel the same if it were his daughter's life on the line. "What would I need to do?"

Airlia smiled sadly, "We may need the help of the Marquis. I think he is the only one of the right size who can help us now…"

Arzei shook his head as he spoke, "Why must you be involved Airlia? I want you to remain with me, safe from harm…"

Nel spoke next, "Majesty, I was with them as I heard these beings from another world say that not only were they after one of my friends, but they were after my best friend, Airlia. I tried my best to kill them on spot for such evil deeds. However, Airlia and a female from another world already did that."

Airyglyph seemed to think. "Very well, however, I want Airlia's bodyguard to be with your group at all costs."

Airlia winced, "I heard something happened to Albel, is this true?"

Airyglyph shook his head, "Vox wanted him dead, and I tried my best to shield him from everything by secretly locking him up in a particular dungeon. However, I think he was found out about not too long ago by one of our hardliners who is now in prison for a much needed stay. Come…" He led the way to the dungeon and opened the door. Airlia nearly cried at the situation before her. However, her rage overtook her emotions as she drew her sword and raced in, followed by Nel and Cliff. One of the inquisitors who were determined to hurt her friends was now hurting the one she loved so very dearly. She attacked him with her sword, leaving him hurting deeply as he tried to slap her for the injuries.

However, Cliff wouldn't hear it as he gripped the man's arm and physically put him into a submission hold and dragged him to where the King wanted him locked up. With him imprisoned, they left to go free Albel. When Albel was loose, he started to get angry, not realizing the war was over. However, he was stopped by the gentle touch of a familiar hand. He looked over and saw his lady there, smiling at him gently, even with the tears in her eyes. "Airlia… I thought you were to remain there for your safety?" Albel questioned of the Princess.

She merely smiled as she shook her head, "The situation has changed and you are needed my dear knight and friend."

Albel was furious, he thought he had left her in the safety of the care of the Aquarians and yet she was still in danger. However, everything came to light as the Princess began to speak. "There are new enemies; this has brought about much change. The war was forcefully ended with the death of Vox. However, we thought they were just after the new boy, Fayt. Yet our views were changed with the attack upon the Shrine of Kaddan. They claimed there, while we prevented them from taking the Sacred Orb, they were also after me, for what I apparently did to shield our friends and both worlds from their assault. Obviously, we cannot allow this to happen…" Albel's dark look spoke volumes of what was in store for those invaders.

"However, we cannot simply extend our hand in truce to the Aquarians…" Airyglyph stated.

Airlia sighed, "And yet you cannot give in and meet them until they meet us on middle ground. Perhaps the Ancient Ruins of Mosel will suit our needs."

Arzei thought for a moment before nodding, "Yes, I think they will. Please, have her meet us there, she may take as many guards as necessary, however, I would like to request that Airlia and Albel remain here with me, however, they will be at the Ruins when I arrive there." Nel looked at everyone and saw the obvious shock on Airlia's face, she had genuinely known nothing about it, and however, she had some ideas that would allow her to change the fate of herself and her friends.

Nel and Cliff bowed before leaving. Airlia looked at her father, "Father, I have missed this place so much in my time away, however, there is much to be done. I fear for what they planned, that they will need the help of the Marquis. However, the only one to have been there that is still alive is Albel. I refuse to let him go alone with the Aquarians and outsiders. I fear it is a very volatile situation. I want to remain at home with you, but I would feel very fearful that someone will end up dead on account of tempers."

Airyglyph didn't care who saw, he drew his arms around his daughter. "I just want you to be safe Airlia. I've just now gotten you back only to lose you once more. Just keep safe my child. I would not like to think of where I would be now if the thought of you coming back to me alive had died within me." Airlia felt tears prick her eyes as she brushed them away.

Albel wasn't sure of what to make of his Princess's concerns. If helping them meant her safety, then that is what he would do. They left the dungeons to go outside to meet with Woltar. They began to walk and fill in the blanks of what had transpired that Airlia knew of with him. However, that was when they heard a loud argument as they just passed the inn… That was, until a loud argument from the inn caught Airlia's ears. "I'll be right back father. I recognize those voices. They're not harmful, just irritating. They were looking for Kirlsa, which is why I'm trying to not laugh." The snickers from the younger men made Airlia smile happily. Among the first few true smiles that she had given in what felt like years.

Airlia went inside of the inn, with Albel on her heels they went inside to see the familiar pair arguing. "This isn't Kirlsa! It's too cold to be!"

Airlia smiled as she said, "Excuse me. I believe you passed Kirlsa when you came to Airyglyph. Just head back through the exit to the next town, and you can't miss it!"

Albel snickered as they just stared at her as the smaller girl said, "I remember you! You helped us with trying to find Kirlsa while we were back in Peterny. Thank you. We'll head there now." Airlia smiled as she and Albel left to rejoin her father.

Albel stopped her, however, right before they went outside. "Airlia… I wanted to say something, but I am not sure how you'll react to it… Perhaps I should wait until things settle down just a little." Airlia sent him a peculiar look while he just shook it off.

They went back inside the castle so that they could find Oddeye. Airlia realized just then how much she had missed the dragon's presence. When they found Oddeye – Airlia smiled and curtsied before the dragon as he nodded his head to the young princess. Albel assisted her upon the back of Oddeye. Albel got on behind her while her father sat in the front of her. With her father in front of her and Albel behind her, Oddeye flew up only to be joined by Baldwin. Upon Baldwin's back was Gareth followed by Woltar, so with their group completed, they left to the ruins before Fayt's group would reach it. When they arrived, Airlia smiled as Albel helped her down Oddeye's back. Airlia smiled brightly at the dragon that had safeguarded her father for years. "Thank you my old friend that kept my father going when his hope of seeing me was probably ever fleeting…"

The dragon seems to smile as he bowed his head. "It is an honor and a pleasure my young friend." Airlia stayed close to Albel, she enjoyed being in his company, even if he was cruel sometimes.

They quickly went inside as to not expire in the blistering heat. Airlia watched as the path was opened and followed it slowly inside, watching where everyone went. After a series of attacks from one statue were done on the others, the door opened, allowing everyone passage inside. Airyglyph led the way as the two younger soldiers fought off the monsters with the aid of the Princess. Within a short time, they made their way to the inner chambers where everyone sat to await for Fayt's group. Airlia smiled happily, much to Albel's confusion. "I'm happy that the war between nations is ending, however, the reasons are very heart wrenching. I wish that not so many died in this needless war. It was Vox who had kidnapped me. Both times I'm sure; however, I only clearly remember the second time…" By the end of her accounting, Arzei was seething at his now-deceased uncle.

However, when she finished, before Arzei could say anything, the doors opened to reveal Romeria, the young Queen of Aquios. Alongside her were the others who had helped Airlia to survive her ordeal. Seeing them alive eased the poor woman's heart. "What happened?"

Airlia could tell by their faces that there was something bad that had happened. However, the doubtful look spoke volumes as Fayt spoke, "Like your father and his friends don't know. I don't think you had anything to do with it Airlia, however, they can't be trusted by me just yet…" Arzei knew what happened after a moment's thought.

"I fear it was one of our hardliners that was adamant against our treaty was going to try something. However, by the looks on your faces, something did happen. Let us move past this for now, the fate of our two kingdoms depend on this…"

Romeria shook her head, "Arzei, we seem to think alike as usual. It's good to see you again after so long. I know that Lady Elena would have loved to come, but someone had to keep an eye on the kingdom…"

Arzei fought the blush as he nodded, "Yes, however, I want to hear more of this tale. Tell me, what you think about what they have said."

Romeria shook her head, "It's hard to say, with what I've been told. It's a lot to take in." Fayt nodded and began to explain everything as he was told by Cliff and Maria.

When it was time to discuss what happened when the invaders first came, about how Airlia surprised everyone by shielding the world from the onslaught. She had no recollection however, much to her own despair. She wished she had something to go on as to why she was able to do that. However, before anyone could say anything else. "You seem to think they were after my daughter. What would make you think so?"

Airlia spoke up next, the words sealing her heart in a dark place of fear. "I fear that they said as such. When we confronted them in the Shrine of Kaddan, they said that they were not only after the boy, but they were also after the girl who managed to protect everyone with a shield." At this point, Albel turned a shade paler as he stepped closer to his angel.

"They attacked the Shrine AND said they were after you as well?"

Airlia nodded sadly. "Airlia said you wanted to use our air dragons to be able to fly your weapon in the sky. However, Airlia seemed to think it would be too big for one dragon at this point…"

However, Maria wouldn't have any of that. "How about using more than one dragon?"

Airlia shook her head as she spoke on behalf of her kingdom, "He said at this point, it would be too difficult with two dragons, nor do they have that many to spare. We need the help of the largest dragon in our kingdom, that of what we call the Marquis."

Albel gripped her shoulder gently as he whispered, "I won't let you go in there. That creature is much too dangerous for you to be around, even if you simply do healing…"

Airlia shook her head, however, her father answered for everyone. "I'll give my full assistance, however, only on one condition…" Fayt looked intently at the King of Airyglyph as the man spoke.

"I request you take one man from my kingdom to accompany you."

Airlia's voice turned to give the next question, "Who father?"

Arzei gave her a sad smile, "I wish that Albel join them, to prove how intent he is to protect you."

Airlia felt like crying, however, her voice didn't even quiver as she said, "No. I won't let him go by himself. They're after me father, not him. Sending him away from me only puts me in more jeopardy than I already am in. Who is to say that when I go to sleep that they won't merely appear and take me from my room in the middle of the night? Our people are already taxed of enough strength. I'll go with them to make me a harder target. I'll be safe, I promise."

Airlia gave him a gentle kiss on his cheek as he shook his head, "I shouldn't let you, however, as a King, I know you are right. As a father, I beg you to not go. Please keep her safe Albel." Everyone nodded, promising to protect the Princess from those who would spirit her away and cause her who knew what type of harm. Airyglyph smiled weakly as he handed Airlia a small but beautiful stone. "This is the Glowstone. It should assist you in your travels everyone." Airlia smiled brightly as she placed it among her things in her bag.

Everyone grouped as Albel gave the Aquarian and the outsiders a dirty look, "You'll only touch her over my dead body, maggots. Now, as much as I dislike working with you, I must admit that you are strong. However, if she should be harmed under your watch, you'd best beware me."

Airlia shook her head as she said, "Please try to get along everyone. We must not give up now or ever. We can do this. I know where the Urssa Lava Caves are. We'll take the Queen back to Peterny to meet up with Clair's group, rest for the night and proceed. It will be a long journey…" The group split up, however, for the first time, Airlia knew she would partially enjoy the trip much more due to the fact that Albel was with her. When they went into the desert, Airlia smiled gently as she held the veil of pure liquid up to shield the group from the heat. The desert was vast enough to avoid the monsters as they made their way back to the cavernous passage that led from the town of Surferio and the desert. They went inside as Airlia placed the Aqua Veil in the bag on her back. They proceeded forth through the passage as they tried to dodge the monsters that were around them.

However, one monster, a liquid mermaid of sorts, would not let them pass. Airlia and Fayt ended its pathetic life with a double casting of "Thunder Flare." Albel saw the weakness of his Princess and went to mask it by taking the lead, keeping close to her. Airlia gave him a weak smile of gratitude. They proceeded forward and managed to make it back out and to Surferio. With a smile of relief, the group pressed forward passing the town quickly. Airlia knew that rest would come soon, and she would sleep better than in months with the knowledge that she was safe with the present group and that Albel was back again with her.

They proceeded south of their location and managed to make it back to Peterny without much hassle of monsters. When they went in Peterny, Clair was there, waiting for everyone to arrive. "Leave Her Majesty to us. We'll make sure she gets home safely." Clair said as both Tynave and Farleen bowed. Airlia smiled gently as she eyed the inn with a hidden sense of joy. She was so tired of the fighting for the moment.

Nel bowed and said, "Be careful everyone. I trust you to keep her safe Clair." With that, the group of women left to go north of their location, back to Aquaria.

Fayt smiled with relief, "Everyone, let's rest for the night. I know we're all pretty tired right now, so let's rest at the inn."

They made their way to the inn where Fayt paid for the rooms while Airlia was led to a back bedroom by Albel. He knew she was utterly exhausted. In fact, the princess was asleep before she even got into the room. Albel lifted her up gently and pulled her close to him. When he reached the bed, he gently brushed her hair away from her face and kissed her forehead tenderly. With that, he tucked her into the bed and went to meditate outside, giving her some privacy. However, he couldn't focus. He saw the looks that Fayt had given his Princess; however, he couldn't tell if she returned the affection. He waited, however, until darkness fell and everyone was resting in separate rooms.

He went in and drew his sword and drove it into the pillow, mere inches from Fayt's face. Fayt woke up with a slightly strangled startled cry, however, when he saw that it was Albel, he spoke in a harsh whisper, "Albel?!" Albel jerked his head towards the door. Nodding, they went outside as Fayt said, "Are you crazy? You could have killed someone!"

Albel chuckled darkly, "If it weren't for my Princess, I would have said that it wouldn't have bothered me. On the other hand, I would be bothered now as I know that she has some sort of emotional attachment. However, I have a question for you. Do you hate me?"

Fayt seemed perplexed, though, he quickly went into thought as he said, "No, not really. I know you were merely trying to protect your home and keep Airlia safe."

However, a scream that was muffled drew the pair into a solid run as they ran to Airlia's room. However, the door was locked tightly and Albel could hear a struggle within as well as the cry of his Princess, begging something to stop, to leave her alone. Albel refused to hear her cry anymore and slammed into the door with his metal protected arm. The door gave way and awoke the others who had thought that it was merely a dream at first. What Albel saw threw him into a rage like none had ever seen. Cavan was trying to force his Princess into loving him. However, Airlia was still trying to resist with all of her might. Albel, having had enough of the pompous brute physically went up to him and gripped him with his iron claw and ripped him off the Princess. He threw the man over to Cliff who was more than happy to throw him into a submission hold.

Albel took a cloak out of his bag and draped it over his Princess. He then walked over to the sadistic man who had plagued his love's existence. With his clawed hand, he slashed at the pathetic man's face. "That was for Airlia. This, however, is from me," Albel took his metal hand and formed a fist and launched it into the man's stomach. "Take him out of here. I don't care what you all do with him. I've got to remain here in case someone tries to hurt her further." Cliff smirked dirtily as he towed out the bleeding man. Nel smirked as she went with him to make the man pay for attempting to despoil the Princess as a way to win her by default. Maria remained behind to give Albel some potions to help heal her injuries. Fayt went to make sure that the man would never hurt her again.

Airlia began to toss and turn, however, Albel took her hand and rubbed it gently to try and ease her pain. She awoke slightly and smiled at him. "Don't leave… please…" Albel smiled as he nodded. He was happy to be wanted. He pulled up the nearby bed and laid on it while holding her hand gently. Airlia fell back into a soothing sleep while the group outside dealt with the man. Everyone knew who he was and that he had a fascination with the Princess who had harshly turned him down, and now they saw why. Cliff held him while Nel and Fayt took turns slapping him. However, when they were done, Cliff shoved him down and began to kick him. Cavan never said anything until they were done.

"I'll apologize to her! I swear it!"

Fayt didn't want the scum near the Princess ever again. "No. You'll do far better than that, you'll leave this town and go back to wherever you came from and never show your face again. I believe she said you were from Greeton at one point of time or another. Now go. Never come back." Fayt watched as the beaten and bloody Cavan took off and never looked back.

With that, everyone went back inside and saw the Princess sleeping soundly, and her loyal knight watching over her in the still night. Everyone split up to return their rooms, all except for Nel who felt his pain and left to go buy her new battle clothing. Airlia barely slept through the night, for the slight settling of the room was always waking her up; for fear that it was another sneak attack. When dawn's light broke, she felt slightly refreshed. Albel was wide awake miraculously. Nel gave the woman the new clothing, and refused to be compensated. Fayt smiled when he saw how she looked with the new outfit on. It was a dress that fitted her very well, the gleaming silver shown off in the light bringing out the details of her face. Her sword resting in its hilt on her hip, she looked ready to take everything on and win. However, Albel wasn't done. He had found a charm that if worn, will aid in a person trying to use runology by reducing the strength used. Airlia smiled as she tied it around her neck.

They proceeded outside to the edge of town, ignoring the obvious distress that was being shown around them by the fears of the outsiders. The group passed through the Palmira Plains without incident and made it to the slowly recovering village of Arias.