Disclaimer: I don't own the Legend of Mana or any other game series.
Update (1/27/22): See author's notes below.
Chapter 11: Pesticide
One Month Prior…
A short trip from Luon Highway, there sat the village of Rider's Rest, the home of Clan Reed. Nestled within a beautiful glade, ramshackle dwellings overtaken by verdant flora spoke of a closeness to nature long lost to the likes of man. Aged lumber hid beneath moss, leaves, and twisting vines to become one with the environment.
Newer structures interspersed with those of old, the healthier timber attesting to their young age. This mix of young and old was an attempt to improve the clan's daily lives and revitalize their society. And, they too, were hidden by the green flora resting on their shingled roofs.
Glistening streams traveled throughout the village with wooden footbridges crossing over them. Soft grass covered the glade's earthen floor apart from a few dirt paths that wound around Rider's Rest. A silent mist floated amongst the trees like an apparition, hovering aimlessly in the night.
Only those on patrol were awake at this midnight hour, quietly walking through the village to ward it against any potential trouble.
High above, a pale rider glared balefully upon the glade with his slit red eyes.
His tough, chitinous exoskeleton glinted the color of bronze. Two scythe-like appendages hung at the end of each arm, easily sharp enough to split a man in twain. His legs, by contrast, were small and frail, barely able to support his upper mass. They were much like those of a cockroach. A thick spike jutted from both of his shoulders.
The monster's head was that of an ant's. A pair of white antennae rose from his crown and pincers clicked in front of his drooling maw. Their owner salivated at his envisioned future prospects.
Mantis Ant laughed so maliciously he put mad scientists to shame.
A dark purple miasma spewed forth from his mouth upon the village. In the heart of the night, he knew those filthy rodents would remain ignorant of the impending peril descending upon them. He could picture the dawn of their awakening and his chest swelled with glee at their fearful faces.
Mantis Ant flew off and waited for the effects of the poison to kick in so he could carry out the next part of his plan.
"Sorry for the interruption, but I've noticed that a lot of you aren't affected by the poison," Sean said. "How exactly is that?"
"Upon reaching adulthood, the youths of our clan are given the option to pursue the practice of mithridatism," Schierke replied, unbothered by his question.
Mithridatism is the practice of taking non-lethal amounts of a poison to slowly make oneself immune to it.
"And that's enough to protect you from what Mantis unleashed?" Sean asked dubiously.
Dawn nodded. "I understand your skepticism, but Mana works in mysterious ways. Is it any stranger than a complete novice being able to cast the [Esuna] spell?" She spoke in a light tone, poking fun at his mild hypocrisy.
"That's fair."
"Mantis Ant was not as wise as he believed himself to be," Schierke stated calmly.
Unbeknownst to Mantis, the malevolent odor akin to that of roadkill could be smelled from miles away. This racial trait of Murids and those alike often went forgotten due to willful ignorance. Those on watch swiftly alerted their chief of both the deadly shroud and the loud maniacal cackling. They did so silently by using a sophisticated signaling system combined with [Rat Speak].
It wouldn't do to tip the perpetrator off.
The frequency at which they spoke was reserved for such purposes. Others have been utilized in a variety of other manners. The integration of these various methods allowed them to keep the village safe…for a time.
"Though even a fool can succeed once in a blue moon."
Several citizens were awakened by the wretched stench and were able to recognize its harmful nature straight away. Fearing an attack, they grabbed their weapons and crept to their windows. What awaited them outside wasn't monsters, but stone golems standing 8 feet tall and covered in dirt and moss. They came with an announcement.
"Everyone, return to your homes," they said, all in the same tired voice. A rune on the inside of the grey automatons allowed sound projection. "Schierke has instituted a curfew. Unless specified, all are ordered to return to their homes immediately. This is for your safety."
"Does she truly expect us to just sit around picking our noses?" A male in his mid-20s asked. He was a tad on the chubby side and wore a green Robbin Hood cap on his head.
The golem nearest his homestead looked at him. "Go back inside, Garland. Schierke is dealing with the problem as we speak."
The chubby Chobin Hood snorted. "Like the time she handled the Tresken Affair."
Their conversation was broadcast across the village and many frowned at the bitter reminder. It was a dark day that most remained tight-lipped about.
"While we're on the subject, I suppose I should bring up the Trade Festival Fiasco. I'm sure everyone would love to hear about that."
Garland paled beneath his fur. "There's no need for that, Bracken."
"Then go back inside," Bracken said. "I already have enough of a headache with Vetch barking my ear off."
"I heard that!" The aforementioned female yelled.
"Glad to see your ears are functioning."
Bracken's golems herded the people back into their dwellings with nary a fuss. Although, not everyone was happy. A trio of so-called friends happened to be wandering about when the smog descended. They ducked into the shadows of the nearest house and used the [Blend] spell to hide from the patrols.
When the coast was clear, the three sped towards their "leader's" abode and waited there for further news. To say that he wasn't happy would be an understatement once they learned no action would be taken in chasing down the culprit.
"Don't pursue!" Brake growled. "That cunt is just as useless as her father."
"She did prove herself in the trials." Lark faced his friend's anger unflinchingly.
"Mighty impressive how she felled that [Great Malboro]," Butcher commented, aspiring to one day pull off such a feat. It's [Bad Breath] attack was to be feared. "Nasty piece of work that was."
"She cheated!" Brake snarled, not caring if anyone heard. He was too busy shoving supplies into a bag. "Rider knows daddy dearest left plenty of gifts for his little princess. There's no way she could kill such a beast otherwise."
"However you feel, facts are facts, Brake," Lark responded, sick of his "friend's" astonishing idiocy. "She is the chief." The two were acquaintances at best and communicated only when all three convened.
"Only because she stole it!"
"Not much you can do about it, mate," Butcher said. He already knew what his friend was planning. "Best to just move on."
Brake shook his head. "No. Not after what her father did."
"Pull your head out and think for a moment. What gave you the impression that Schierke will do nothing?" Lark asked. "In all likelihood, she's going to sort the problem out herself. You heard the announcement."
"He's right, Brake. You well know the punishment for disobeying orders."
"I don't care. You two can stay here if you want, but I'm leaving."
"A strike to the back of the head says otherwise." Lark was sorely tempted to do so, but felt it best to let the proper authorities handle his "friend."
The pair watched Brake leave and Butcher turned to Lark. "Do you think we should stop him?"
"No," Lark replied simply. "Bracken most likely heard his ranting."
Meanwhile, Brake traveled silently to the stables closer to the center of the village. Higher ranking members of Clan Reed, such as Hyssop, owned personal mounts and had enclosures built for them on their properties. Since Brake was still a teenager and had yet to prove himself, he wasn't allowed that right.
"I'll show them," Brake stated petulantly. He approached the back entrance and started fumbling with the lock. The rich ambrosia of wet hay and Chocobo urine was heavy in the air. "She's not fit to be the leader."
"Is that right?"
The earth opened up beneath Brake like a beastly maw and swallowed him up to his neck, leaving only his head exposed. He yelped in alarm and was prepared to go into a full blown rant as Bracken walked up.
"So, the bi—" This was all he managed to get out before a muddy hand grabbed ahold of his face. His tongue found the taste of dirt and promptly clammed up.
"You're rather boring, Brake."
Bracken was a young adult who dressed in similar garb to the rest of his clan. His dark blue fur and circular glasses made him distinguishable amongst the crowd. Turquoise eyes conveyed an air of indifference to Brake's struggling.
"That youthful arrogance is going to get you killed one day."
Brake shot him a glare and Bracken responded by flicking a pebble between Brake's eyes. The teenager flinched and tried to mask his anger to avoid further stones. Another golem appeared next to Bracken and lifted Brake from the earth. The hand remained on Brake's face to keep him quiet and a restraint wrapped around his torso to prevent any further misbehavior.
"What is the situation out there?" Dawn asked from one of his golems. She and the other higher ups could use the same rune network.
"Just common teenage rebellion," Bracken replied. More automatons stepped past him carrying other citizens who shared the same idea. They cursed, kicked, and scowled at him, all whilst being bound and gagged. "Where would you like me to put them?"
"Bring them to the meeting hall. Their punishment will be decided later."
"Copy that." Bracken turned to his golems. "You heard her."
The earthly creatures saluted him and headed off in that direction. The building itself was a short distance away, what with it also being near the center of Rider's Rest. Bracken followed them and kept an ear open for anyone else foolish enough to try anything.
His expertise in Earth-elemental magic allowed him to sense tremors and vibrations in the area around him. This [Seis] ability worked similarly to Horatio's [Sonar]. Bracken could not only detect movement, but also the force and duration. Even specific people could be picked out of a crowd with enough concentration.
Guards stationed on the way nodded at him in passing. Per Bracken's announcement, select individuals were chosen by Schierke to remain outside to protect the village. They were spaced apart evenly around Rider's Rest to respond to trouble at a moment's notice.
"You done-finished?" Vetch asked. Quill nodded.
She and Quill were standing on the roof of the meeting hall filtering the poison out of the air. Quill moved her hands and created a vacuum that sucked the poison down and condensed it into a gaseous sphere. To purify it, Vetch grew a tiny white flower from a seed in the palm of her hand. Injecting her own mana into it caused the flora to sprout, but the petals themselves remained closed.
The female rat brought the flower to her mouth and blew it away with a gentle breath.
Floating like a balloon, the plant was sucked into the sphere and popped once it met the malignant substance. Fluffy blue seeds like those of a dandelion spread out and swiftly absorbed the poison. The seeds floated down onto the grassy roof beneath their feet and took root, turning into more of the white flowers.
This cycle would continue as long as there was any poison in the village and the flowers would spread far and wide. The [White Purinthium] was well-known for its ability to prosper in toxic environments. It found uses in other scenarios, particularly in mining to clear out harmful gasses. It replaced sending in a small bird to discover danger.
Vetch plucked one of the flowers and tucked it away to analyze later.
"You two done up there?" Bracken asked from below. All of the curfew breakers were escorted into the meeting hall. The building was a one-story, Scottish Longhouse constructed primarily from large grey stones. "I'm good down here."
Quill smiled at him and gave him a thumbs up.
"Great. Now if you ladies don't mind, I'll be going."
"No, you won't," Vetch stated.
A thick vine wrapped itself around Bracken's waist like an anaconda and lifted him upside down to the roof. He was brought face-to-face with Vetch. Her domineering gaze met his lackadaisical one. Quill stood off to the side, ready to jump in in case Vetch went too far.
"Hello, Vetch," Bracken said. He let out a yawn from being used to this routine. "Sure is a swell evening, isn't it?"
"To slack off, yes-yes?" She replied, utterly sick of his attitude.
"Correct." He knew there was no use in denying it. "Haven't caught any winks for days."
"And whose fault is that?"
"Mine, but the case still stands."
"No. You stay-remain here," Vetch commanded. She wasn't going to let him skive off any of his responsibilities. "Schierke and Hyssop left-departed short time ago to deal with this. You're going to help-aid us guard the village, yes-yes."
"Surely the others have it handled," Bracken said, trying to think up a convincing argument. "And not to mention you ladies' capable hands." A touch of flattery never hurt either.
The vine suddenly released Bracken and he would've fallen on his head were it not for the gust of wind that caught him. Quill manipulated the air to land him softly on his feet. Bracken held a straight expression the whole time.
"You can rest-sleep later after Schierke returns." Vetch jumped off the roof and landed silently in a crouch. "But not before."
"It certainly is a wonder why you don't have more friends." Bracken stood up and brushed himself off, none the worse for wear.
"Knowing the susceptibility to poison shared amongst my people, Hyssop and I departed to track down Mantis," Schierke informed. "To my regret, it proved to be a fatal mistake."
Mantis continued to laugh sinisterly like a cartoon villain, his wings producing a sound similar to an airplane propeller. In three days' time, he would return to offer an antidote in exchange for their servitude. There was a particular item he was searching for that Mantis was too weak to retrieve himself.
In his hubris, he failed to see the disappearance of the stars above. The all-consuming darkness which jarringly placed him into Hyssop's clutches. It was like being rear-ended in a car crash. Unnoticeable. Sudden and swift.
Mantis found himself in a clearing down below faster than he could blink.
Nothing could be seen and all that could be heard was the rustle of leaves from sparsely dotted trees.
The umbral straightjacket wrapped around him tightly, preventing all movement except for that of his eyes. This allowed him to see his captors step from out of the abyss. Hyssop carried a flaming torch which brought their dancing shadows to life.
Schierke stepped forward among the soft grass with Shiro following closely at her side. The beginnings of a growl hung at the back of the wolfdog's throat, his hackles raised and his muzzle scrunched up in a snarl. Schierke calmly pet the top of his head and locked gazes with Mantis.
"Normally, I'd inquire as to what your plan was," She said, not the least bit bothered by his size. "But given your transgression, I think we'll skip that part."
Mantis glared down at her with all the hatred he could bear.
"And then what happened?" Sean asked.
"Following an intensive interrogation, Mantis was quietly apprehended," Schierke said. "His person is presently contained."
"If he was captured, then how were your people poisoned?"
"Mantis managed to send out a signal to his agents in the village. Something I regret and shoulder the blame for."
"Chief!" Dawn exclaimed. "There's no way you could've known that would happen."
"In the role of leadership, one finds themselves held to a level of accountability, whether or not they're actually at fault," Schierke stated factually. "Remember, all races hold true to this. Most will lash out in anger at the easiest and closest target when they find themselves unable to bear the burdens of life."
"Preaching to the choir on that one," Sean said, recalling all the people back home who blamed others for their own faults.
Back in the Village…
Vetch held up a hand. "Be quiet-silent," she said, cutting off the guards' riveting discussion on arrow shafts. "Something's wrong here."
"It's probably nothing," Bracken said.
BOOOM!
A series of explosions ripped across the village, sending screams into the night. Tremors rocked the earth and utterly demolished several homes. Citizens took shelter as best they could. Many hid beneath tables and beds to avoid falling debris. Those closer to the blasts left their homes behind and ran towards the village center. Others went to assist the guards with pulling people from the scattered wreckage.
"It appears you were right," Bracken stated, his nose wrinkling at the acrid, sulfurous stench that pervaded the air. He stared at the billowing plumes of smoke rising from around the village in sheer boredom. In stark contrast, worry and fear filled his associates' faces. "Let's go check it out, shall we?"
Those around him gave him looks of disgust at his shallow regard for others' safety.
Quill formed her right hand into a fist and rubbed it in a circular motion across her chest. She did this a few times in apology for Bracken's behavior.
"How can you be so blasé about this?" One of the sentries asked. The watchmen and golems stood idly by.
"I do care," Bracken replied. "But watching the same story play out repeatedly grows dull."
"Talk later. Move now," Vetch ordered.
A dozen more golems rose from the earth in a matter of seconds.
"You all know what to do."
They saluted their creator and sank back into the ground. Each headed off in a different direction to cover more of the village.
"I'll see you two later," Bracken said. He sank into the earth himself and swam through the crust like an Olympic athlete. Vetch could sense which direction he was taking and gave the guards their orders before heading the opposite way. Quill jumped into the air after watching them both leave and summoned a whirlwind around herself, gifting her with flight.
Sizzling puddles of pale yellow goo swirled like a witch's cauldron around the epicenter of one of the blasts, the acidic fetor practically palpable. Ground zero was nothing but a blackened scorch mark surrounded by blood spatter and charred hunks of wood hurled here and there.
Quill choked any lingering flames on the grass and trees and dissipated the cloud of smoke by cutting off their fuel source with a vacuum of air.
Her sensitive nose picked up the scent of decaying flesh hiding within the fetid fumes. She flew down and followed the trail to a corpse that had its rib cage torn open. Patches of fur were missing, revealing sickly purple flesh. The mouth was wide open in an agonized scream and both eyes were missing. The body itself was shrunken in like a mummy, sucked dry of all its necessary nutrients.
Its hands dug deep gouges into the earth and not even death slackened them.
Despite the terrible state it was in, Quill recognized the body as that of Conner, one of the teenagers that disobeyed orders a couple weeks back. He and his friends went out in search of wealth and neglected to inform anyone.
Supposedly, the lot of them discovered a hidden orchard packed to the brim with Mana-infused produce during a robbery. [Honey Onions] were chief among them and they were sure to fetch a healthy amount of Lucre on the [Black Market]. The group of eight left the village under the cover of night and returned with a plentiful bounty, unaware that their absence had been noticed.
All of their loot was confiscated and they were punished with menial chores. They protested this decision by claiming to use the plants for the betterment of the clan. In light of this, Schierke's judgment stood and the lot of them were sent on their way.
"The road to hell is paved with good intentions," Dawn said. "And proceeding events proved the age-old maxim true."
"A xenomorph didn't jump out of one of the corpses, did they?" Sean asked. With all of the different fictional characters he'd encountered, it wasn't out of the realm of possibility.
"No. I'm afraid I don't know what that is," Schierke said. "However, his sleeper agents resided within my junior clansmen."
"We noticed something off about them shortly upon their return, along with the strange smell of oil," Dawn said. "Their movements were more rigid and their eyes lacked their prior spark."
"Did you not take any measures against this?"
"Something you must understand is that I took over the clan after my father's passing," Schierke said. "And unfortunately, many shifted their views from him onto me. I need to exercise caution in my dealings lest I push matters to the breaking point."
Vetch heard faint buzzing as she jumped from tree to tree and summoned giant pitcher plants across the entirety of Rider's Rest. They released a sweet aroma which combined the scents of melon and peach to attract the insects. The scent's potency was of such strength that many of the village people sighed in relief.
Living in such a heavily forested area, insectoid and arthropod-based enemies were among the most commonly encountered.
She stopped moving on a particular branch and immersed herself in the environment. Her experience in plant-based magic enabled her to form a mental link to a wide range of flora and control them from afar. This, coupled with her regular senses, made her a powerful tracker.
A flying ant the size of a football shot out at her from the surrounding foliage.
Its exoskeleton was completely black with red markings in the shape of a skull on its abdomen. Crimson eyes glared at the stoic rat, murder blazing in them. Vines sprang from the trees and wrapped around the monster before it even got close to her. Vetch gave it a bored look.
The flying ant was then pulled back into the foliage and all that could be heard was a loud crunch.
"Do try to save some samples, would you," a golem called from below. "We need to find out how they got in."
"Lazy wretch! Quit goofing off!"
"Oh, how your words hurt me."
Elsewhere, Bracken pointed his right index finger at a space between two of the houses and fired a stone bullet from the tip. The buzzing grew a decibel quieter.
He stepped into the small alley and picked up the petrified remains of one of the ants. He snapped the head off with zero effort and placed the body into a clay container.
"Take care of this," Bracken ordered one of his golems. The automaton picked up the box and disappeared into the floor. The rest accompanied the guards in getting people to safety. "Let's see what we have here."
Using his magic, Bracken [Scanned] the head and found a network running between it and the other ants. Parts of it were darkened, but in other areas there were pulsing nodes of tar black mana. Of particular interest was a fiery red node sitting in the center of the hive mind. Bracken prodded it gently with feather light touches and observed an immediate, explosive surge in magic.
His eyes widened. "[Self-Destruct]," Bracken uttered. From his observation, the spell should've gone off by now, but something was holding it at bay.
Bracken immediately used his golems to send an announcement. "Attention everyone. Exercise extreme caution. The enemy are set to self-destruct. Maintain a proper distance when facing them. Vetch, have you found any of the others?"
"Yes-yes," Vetch said irritably, not having the time to chat. "But the beasts aren't reacting."
"You're seeking the [Boreal Shell]," Schierke said.
"Hmm?"
"That's the object that Mantis was searching for," Dawn explained. "And the final words the chief spoke before the spell was set off."
The flying ants self-detonated once the trigger was activated, releasing volumes of [The Fifth Day] across the village. The virulent poison spread about in a dark grey smog and blanketed the people in its suffocating grasp. Many of those exposed were quick to fall unconscious whilst others covered their faces with pieces of thick cloth soaked in an herbal mixture. They moved on to their peers and did the same for them to lessen the spread.
Quill tried dissipating the smog, but nothing she tried worked other than blowing it into the trees. This had the unfortunate effect of ripping the life from them. Healthy green leaves turned grey and crumbled as if set alight and the trees curled in on themselves and became a sickly white.
She and the others coordinated their efforts to control the damage.
As for Mantis, he was locked away before he could do anymore harm.
Sean POV
"You mind telling me how you trapped Mantis?" Sean asked, stilling casting [Esuna]. "And why is he still alive?"
Esuna Lvl 3 → Lvl 12
Lvl 5: The user can heal the [Paralyzed] status effect.
Lvl 8: The user can heal the [Blind/Darkness] status effect.
Lvl 12: The user can heal the [Berserk] status effect.
SPI: 75 → 80
"Shouldn't be too much longer," Sean thought, although he did notice his progress start to slow down past Level 10. He also felt his gains in SPI should've been higher.
"That's confidential information," Dawn answered. "And we've managed to create a stopgap by collecting venom from his pincers."
Her tone suggested further questioning would be a bad idea.
Sean kept casting while the three stood in silence and observed the memorial stone. Going from top to bottom, his eyes trailed down and spotted the name Connor engraved into it. It was just one of the 47 names listed. Sean aimed to keep the number from rising.
Observe Lvl 21 → Lvl 22
This world was already turning out to be darker than the game, though the story wasn't exactly squeaky clean.
Sean grimaced which attracted Dawn's confusion.
Thanks to [Eidetic Memory], he recalled where he knew Magissa and Forza from.
"And I see I've caught no less than the princess of Tycoon! Yes, you'll make a lovely souvenir for my husband," Magissa said, her lips curled into a lascivious smirk.
The implication there was rather disturbing and likely referred to rape. Both she and her husband were minor bosses in Final Fantasy V, a game that Sean never completed. He wasn't a fan of the game's job system.
"I may have to keep an eye on them."
"Excuse me, Schierke, but preparations are nearly finished," Bracken drawled, his tone suggesting he'd rather be elsewhere. Vetch sent him to keep him busy. "Are you ready to go?"
"Tell them that I'll be with them shortly."
Name: Bracken
Race: ?
Title: ?
Age: ?
Level: ?
Description: A bit of a slacker. He'd rather be reading.
Bracken walked away without saying another word and Schierke turned from the grave marker.
"Dawn," she said. Her stoic countenance returned. "Please lead Sean back to the infirmary while I attend to other business."
"Yes, chief," Dawn replied with the utmost respect. She glanced at Sean and beckoned him to follow. "Let's go."
On their way back, one question stayed on his mind.
"I'm not trying to dredge up any bad memories," he said, trying to avoid offense. "But do you know the exact species of bug that came out of your former peers?"
"Exploding ants," Dawn replied. She grew silent and Sean didn't drive down that road any further either.
Back on Earth, Exploding Ants were an actual species. Found in Malaysia and Brunei, the workers are capable of self-destructing as an act of defense. When they explode, the ants release a sticky secretion in all directions from the anterior region of their heads. This glue-like substance has corrosive properties and can act as an irritant. It's strong enough to entangle and immobilize all nearby victims.
Their return to the training yard garnered no attention.
The workers finished unloading all of the supplies from the wagons during the impromptu history lesson and the caravan was set to return to Rider's Rest. Schierke hopped on Shiro's back and took her place at the head of the procession. Basil and Orpheus climbed onto their own mounts, a gryphon and couerl, respectively, and took up positions near the middle and back.
The couerl was similar in appearance to a leopard, except bigger and stronger with thicker limbs and taller, pointed ears. A line of white fur traveled from behind its head down the middle of its back to the feline's rump. It's most captivating features were its long whiskers upon which electricity surged. The cat's muscles flexed with each spark and it hungered for a good hunt.
The gryphon possessed the body, back legs, and tail of a lion and the head, wings, and front talons of an eagle. The back of his wings were light grey which darkened to black at the tips. The white feathers on the sides and back of his head spiked up with the transition from white to black also in place. His blue eyes spoke of a vast intelligence.
Two tribal arm coverings were on his front limbs above his talons and two golden bracelets sat over them.
Name: Fubar
Race: ?
Title: ?
Age: ?
Level: ?
Description: Basil's griffin comrade. Highly intelligent and even seems to understand spoken languages.
Name: Basil
Race: ?
Title: ?
Age: ?
Level: ?
Description: The current leader of Clan Loch. Father of two. Loves them despite the arranged marriage.
Name: Orpheus
Race: ?
Title: ?
Age: ?
Level: ?
Description: The current leader of Clan Noctis. A real night owl.
Observe Lvl 22 → Lvl 23
Lvl 23: The user can now see the target's thoughts and feelings towards the player.
"That griffin is from Suikoden 3." Sean remembered the game fondly. He stayed up for almost three days to beat it back on the PlayStation 2.
A small gathering of people stood in the training yard to see them off. Hopeful expressions adorned their faces, wishing that this nightmare would finally end. Wheels creaked as the wagons rolled out past the gates and into the dark woods. Dawn tugged on Sean's sleeve to get him to stop standing around and urged him to the infirmary.
A stockpile of mana potions waited for Sean when they got there. He picked up two of the berry blue [Ether] potions and downed both. Sean hummed at the blueberry taste. He was pleasantly surprised since he expected them to taste atrocious like medicine.
Sean immediately resumed casting and it only took a few more minutes to reach his desired goal.
Esuna Lvl 12 → Lvl 15
Lvl 15: The user can heal the [Petrified] status effect.
SPI: 80 → 82
"Finally."
"I should be able to cure all of their symptoms now," Sean said joyfully. He smiled down at Dawn in earnest.
Doubt lingered in her eyes. "Follow me."
One by one, Sean went to each bed and successfully freed the children from the clutches of [The Fifth Day]. He also restored their health points since the affliction gave that a hit. There was something peculiar he spotted during this that he chose not to disclose.
The [Esuna] spell alone didn't cut it.
Sean ended up reloading a save file and combining [Esuna] with the [Purify] skill to heal the Chobin Hoods of all traces of poison. No one else seemed to notice this and the light of each purify was hidden by the [Esuna] spell.
This confirmed his suspicion that Mantis had access to some malevolent energy without which Clan Reed should've been fine.
There was also the fact he received skills such as [Corruption Resistance] and the ability to sense it after what happened in Norwich. Sean supposed that there was probably a link to what happened back there and what's going on now.
"Could be how Mantis snuck those creatures into the village," Sean thought. He, himself, hadn't been able to detect the corruption was there till after a notification appeared telling him of the spell's failure.
He also ruminated on using his [Unlock] skill to teach the necessary spells to Soiree and Gengen to assist him, but believed it better to wait until relations were improved between him and Clan Reed. He planned to never tell anyone about [The Gamer]. That didn't mean his knowledge couldn't be used as a powerful bargaining chip should the need arise.
He knew it was a calculated risk to display his skills, but Sean wasn't a martyr.
Sean would display enough to keep people interested, but wouldn't reveal his entire hand. He hoped his abilities would bring a range of benefits. Chief among them being the artifacts he sensed earlier, along with assistance on missions and possible training.
For thinking ahead, you have gained +2 INT and +2 WIS.
INT: 54 → 56
WIS: 58 → 60
Of all the children, Kieran was the one Sean healed last. Not out of cruelty, but Vetch was clearly the most distrustful of him. He also empathized with her caution. Sean was a complete stranger and he wouldn't want an unknown messing with his family.
The female rat's glare promised death if he tried anything funny. Sean moved carefully and explained to her everything he was doing while she watched him from her nephew's bedside. Kieran looked a million times better once Sean cast [Esuna] on him, but he stayed asleep from the medicine his aunt administered to him.
The kid's fever disappeared and his breathing returned to normal. Kieran's black fur even regained some of its luster and he didn't tremble anymore. Sean cast [Cure] on him and backed off.
"Your son should be fine now," Sean said in a soft tone. "A good night's rest is all he needs."
She didn't reply and Sean walked away, feeling it best to give them space.
Vetch placed her hand on her nephew's forehead and gently touched the sides of his face to verify the human's words. Motherly love shone warmly in her eyes and she placed a kiss on Kieran's brow, silently thankful he'd be okay.
"What now?" Sean asked Dawn. Her fears were alleviated and her features softened when she looked at him.
"Now we wait for the chief to return."
There was a short pause.
Sean's eyes glided across the room and a sense of pride washed over him when he saw how happy the Chobin Hoods were. Smiles adorned their faces and a few shed tears as they hugged their children tight. Many feared they'd be attending another mass funeral within the next day or so.
It was a likelihood none of them fancied.
Schierke POV
In Rider's Rest, the people slept silently in their homes, doing their very best to weather the plague cast upon them. Ever since Mantis arrived, they suffered more than just [The Fifth Day]. They also needed to watch out for the traitors, most of whom cared not an ounce for their well-being.
Thankfully, their numbers didn't fall in the majority.
Mantis inhabited Schierke's abode, feasting ravenously on the food and drink the clan secured for him. Piles of gold and treasure chests sat around him like a dragon's horde whilst he indulged in hedonism.
Those loyal to him followed suit and were as drunk as a skunk. They partook of the fruits they absconded with from a recent raid on a shipment travelling to [Gato Grottoes]. Not one of them stopped to consider the ramifications of their actions, the kind of danger they could pose to the clan.
A few outliers abstained from the high-spirited fun and secluded themselves in their dwellings.
One Chobin Hood staggered out of his friend's house which was situated close to the chief's home. Loud conversation and sounds of partying spilled outside, disturbing the village's tranquility. His mouth reeked of alcohol and was cotton dry. He stumbled on his feet and stared angrily at the ground as if it was at fault for his current predicament.
"Goodbye—," He hiccupped. "—guys," he said, forgetting to close the door in his drunken stupor.
He turned his head to go home and came to a stop, his dopey grin replaced by stumped befuddlement.
Rider's Rest was completely dark, shrouded in a blackness so deep that he couldn't see his paw in front of his face. The moon hung absent in the sky and every star was snuffed out. Complete silence found his ears. Only the eternal abyss stood around him, judging him for his disloyalty.
"Uh, guys," he uttered. Rising dread sobered him from his drunken haze. "A-anyone?"
Hyssop stepped from out of the darkness and it was at that moment the traitor realized what deep shit he was in. His heart leapt up into his throat and the last thing he saw before losing consciousness was the face of death staring at him.
Behind his mask, Hyssop gazed down at his former comrade with thinly veiled disgust. The tendril that just struck the traitor in the back of the head slunk back to him.
Similar happenings occurred throughout the village as the normal citizenry were separated from the traitors and the traitors separated from Mantis' reach. The people were led quietly to the wagons, many of whom shot wary glances at the chief's home. They were forced to leave behind their belongings and only take what was on them.
Schierke and her countrymen created a lit path for them using torches. It was a small comfort in these trying times.
Next, the betrayers were rounded up and loaded into wagons with iron bars on the windows and locks on every door. Hyssop used the darkness to teleport all of them to their confinement in a matter of seconds. The warriors who came along slapped handcuffs on all of them and removed anything that could be used as a weapon.
They were rough in their treatment and if one or more of the traitors woke up with a few lumps, no one raised an issue.
Mantis was none the wiser.
"Is that everyone?" Orpheus asked. He watched the last of them being loaded up into the wagons dismissively. Their punishment would be decided after Mantis was dealt with.
"All are accounted for," Schierke replied. "The only item left is to deliver everyone safely back to headquarters."
"Might as well get moving," Basil said, his stomach growling. "I haven't forgotten the food you promised."
Orpheus shook his head and rode back to the caravan whilst Basil hopped onto Fubar's back. Schierke climbed onto Shiro and the group escorted everyone to safety.
Sean POV
Schierke and the rest returned in under 2 hours. With the over 300 people they brought back, Sean figured the journey would've taken longer.
"Perhaps the village isn't that far away."
Then again, these was the issue of artifact placement. In the Legend of Mana, characters would appear in different locations for quests, no matter where the player placed the objects on the map. They spoke the same dialogue and everything played out as it was scripted.
Certain quests didn't appear based on how artifacts were positioned and the gamer couldn't gain access to higher shop levels and other things. Given this wasn't the game, they didn't seem like too big of an issue. What worried Sean was the following:
Did artifact placement have a mental effect on people? And, if so, did this tie in to why people like Wedge and Gengen lacked key pieces of knowledge? Or, were they this universe's counterparts to the originals?
"Something to think on."
Sean pushed the thought aside and went to tend to the influx of people that flooded the building.
1 Hour and over 50 Bottles of Ether Later…
"Holy shit."
Tending to patients was exhausting, especially when being bombarded by so many clamoring people at once. Some were pushed forward into his face or tried to skip the line like at an amusement park. A few had the gall to get angry at him, partly blaming him for their situation and shouting grievances into his face.
"I get you're upset," Sean said calmly. "But would you kindly shut up."
They frowned at his words and were ready to give him another earful when Dawn and the guards came over to bring them back to order.
Sean turned away from them and went back to treating the younger clan members who were given priority. After them came the elderly, those who were weaker to the poison's effects.
This experience gave him a greater appreciation for medical professions, not that he didn't have one already. His mom was a pediatrician for a living and she often regaled him of stories on the job and unruly patients. He knew his temper and bedside manner would never allow him to pursue such a career and her words reaffirmed that belief.
Soiree followed Sean as he moved from patient to patient and did her best to mitigate his anger. It wasn't a good idea to piss of their captors.
Sean breathed a sigh of relief when he finished. He sat down in a nearby chair and entered [Photo Mode] to capture the happiness of the healthy families and commemorate his success. Reunited relatives and loved ones hugged each other without fear of spreading the malady. Someone even brought in beer, but a stern glance from Vetch made them carefully reconsider.
[Photo Mode] didn't require him to raise his hands. Sean simply pointed his vision towards whatever or whoever he wanted a picture of and purposefully blinked to get the shot. He would go on to capture more images around the premises and from what he could tell, there was no photo limit.
The human was thanked profusely and was invited to visit the village the next time he had the chance. Sean shook hands with a few of the people there and he promised he would definitely drop by. He already planned on returning and he could use this as an excuse in case his appearance caused any problems.
The young man nodded contentedly and several of his levels jumped massively, not to mention his SPI statistic.
Observe Lvl 23 → Lvl 41
Level 25: The user can see a greater description of the target.
Level 28: The user can see a list of the target's skills and spells.
Level 31: The user can see the target's racial traits and related abilities.
Level 35: The user can see the target's elemental affinities and weaknesses.
Level 40: The user can use the [Appraise] ability.
Appraise (Active/Passive) Lvl 1 [0%] Cost: 0 MP
The act of assessing an item's value, this skill allows the player to do just that. Any information gained from this skill will be added and updated to the various encyclopedias in the gamer's possession.
Lvl 1: The user can assess the value of [Common] items.
Esuna Lvl 15 → Lvl 30
Lvl 18: The user can heal the [Burned] status effect.
Lvl 23: The user can heal the [Stunned] status effect.
Lvl 27: The user can heal the [Frozen] status effect.
Lvl 30: The user can heal the [Sap] status effect.
Cure Lvl 8 → Lvl 22
Purify Lvl 1 → Lvl 10
SPI: 82 → 115
For reaching 100 SPI, you've gained a new skill!
Dual Synchro (Passive) Lvl Max
A mechanic unique to Legend of Mana, a Synchro Effect is a special ability that allows party members within close proximity to share certain benefits. This skill doubles the fun and allows the user a second Synchro Effect.
First Synchro Effect: [HP Recovery Lvl 1]
Second Synchro Effect: [MP Recovery Lvl 1]
Effect: Boosts MP Regen by 30% when within 20 ft. of a party member while standing still.
Synchro Effects (Part 2)
In the event that two or more party members share the same Synchro Effect, the effects can stack or present other benefits to the player and his team. Different Synchro Effects are also capable of being active at the same time, unlike the game, and this applies to not just allies, but the player himself as well.
There was also another new bit of information that could be perused in the [Pause Menu].
Item Levels
A mechanic found in many video games, items are sorted by factors such as their power and drop rate into one of several categories. Starting with the most valuable from top to bottom:
[Legendary]
[Epic]
[Rare]
[Uncommon]
[Common]
There are also unofficial sixth and seventh classes fittingly called "Garbage" or "Junk" items and [Broken] items. One man's trash is another man's treasure as they say and even these items can have their uses in the right hands.
"Well, at least I'm done…oh, wait." Sean remembered the ones from Domina who were taken to the Norwich Police Headquarters. Thinking back to the [Healing Hand] quest, he realized that the bonus objective probably referred to them.
For coming to a realization, you have gained +1 WIS.
WIS: 60 → 61
"And helping them doesn't guarantee our safe release." The Chobin Hoods seemed nice enough, but circumstances change and gratitude wears off. He scanned the area for Schierke and noted she was still absent, along with the leaders of the other two clans and some of her closest confidants. Horatio and Hyssop were among them.
Soiree stuck close to Gengen in the corner of the room to keep him out of trouble. Vetch was left alone to spend time with her nephew and Quill stood watch with a warm smile. The one nearest to him was Dawn who rejoined his side.
"Excuse me, Dawn, but I just remembered that some of your friends—"
"I know," she said. "And they're no friends of mine except one."
"Do you know if they're immune to the poison?"
"Only a few. Most of them aligned with Mantis," she spat in disgust. Her tone carried a vengeful bite. "Not that that saved them." "And as much as I'd rather not, Schierke needs you to heal them."
"You don't mind if I leave?"
"You're mistaken if you think we'll let you just walk out of here alone," Dawn replied. "I'll be the one taking you."
"Can I at least let my friends know I'm going?"
"That's fine."
Sean walked over to them and found Soiree keeping Gengen preoccupied with treats. They weren't dog biscuits like he was expecting, but were instead strips of dried meat. The kobold chewed on them softly and was kept pacified by the teriyaki taste.
"Do you normally carry around jerky in your pockets?" Sean asked. He was confused by where she kept pulling them from, considering her clothes were so small.
"Only in certain instances, kupo!" She replied in a friendly demeanor. "Though you have to be careful. Many kobolds will take offense to this."
"I'm guessing because they find it demeaning."
"That's only part of it, kupo! There's also some history there along with squabbles with the 'true' kobolds."
"True kobolds?" Sean asked with a raised brow.
"Those are the reptilian ones," Soiree answered. "Did you need something?"
"Yeah, Dawn and I are about to head off to Norwich so I can heal the Chobin Hoods that I stopped in Domina," Sean explained quickly. "Are you two going to be all right here?" Concern colored his tone.
"You'll come back for us right?"
Sean smiled. "I'd never leave someone as cute as you in harm's way." Pink dusted Soiree's cheeks.
Due to calling Soiree cute, your reputation has changed.
Soiree: +100
Soiree: (Friendly: 500/1999)
"Oh stop, kupo!" She turned her head away in embarrassment, refusing to meet his eyes.
"Are you finished?" Dawn asked. She came over to see what the holdup was and glanced between the two impatiently.
"We're good here," Sean responded, not the least bit fazed. "Sorry about that."
"Let's just get moving."
"Be safe," Gengen chimed in, now that his mouth wasn't filled with jerky. Several people sent him scathing looks, but the cheerful canine remained oblivious.
Sean shot him a thumbs up over his shoulder as he followed Dawn out of the infirmary. She led him outside and around to the back gate where not as many people were gathered. Groups of soldiers from Clans Loch and Noctis were left behind in the event of an emergency while their leaders, along with Schierke and some of her associates departed to deal with Mantis.
"How good are you with heights?" Dawn asked.
"Okay I guess. Why?"
From seemingly nowhere, a black Chocobo walked up to them. It stood 7-feet tall and already came equipped with a saddle and harness. It bobbed its head from side-to-side as its bright blue eyes locked onto them.
"Pretty," Sean said, causing the bird to perk up.
"This here is Lyla." Dawn scratched the avian's neck when it squatted down for them to climb on. The bird trilled a 'kwee' in contentment and nuzzled Dawn with her bright yellow beak. "She'll be taking us to Norwich."
"I'm just glad it's not that fricking pelican again."
Dawn took her place on the saddle and Sean looked at the spot behind her, suddenly finding himself faced with an awkward conundrum. She glanced back at him and felt a small measure of amusement at his discomfort, expertly masked by an even visage.
"I don't bite," she said teasingly.
"I didn't want to make things uncomfortable," Sean replied.
"Just get on."
Gingerly, Sean sat down on the saddle behind her. He made sure to leave a little bit of room between them. Dawn shook her head and pulled on Lyla's reins, making the bird stand up and lean forward. This led to Sean sliding forward and his stomach pressing up against Dawn's back.
She then grabbed ahold of one of his hands and placed his arm around her stomach. Seeing that as permission, Sean joined his other arm around her and clasped his hands together. An earthy, forest scent met his nose being this close to her.
"Hang on tight," Dawn said. She pulled on the reins to get Lyla to rise to her full height.
The bird scratched at the ground with her feet a few times and started walking towards the main building of the headquarters. She then made a U-turn and immediately started running. The Chocobo ran with such speed that it was as if they were in an airplane taking off. Lyla flapped her wings mightily and jumped over the back fence.
Strong winds buffeted them as the Chocobo flew ever higher. Dawn was unbothered, her face and posture completely relaxed. Sean, on the other hand, squinted his eyes and tried not to squeeze her in a death grip. Breathing became more difficult and he slowed his inhales down, struggling to keep the flow of oxygen going.
Breath Control Lvl 17 → Lvl 18
He wasn't a thrill seeker by any means and Sean often avoided intense situations. That's why he never got on the big rides at amusement parks.
Due to a special action, you have gained a new skill!
Riding (Active) Lvl 1 [10%]
This ability enables the player to ride and steer any mount without fear of falling off or losing control. Higher leveled and stronger mounts require a stronger user and greater levels in this skill.
"Get out of here," Sean thought irritably, too focused on maintaining his grip to give a crap.
After a couple minutes elapsed, Lyla evened out and flew towards Norwich horizontally. Sean opened his eyes fully and couldn't help but be mesmerized by the view. Sure, he's be on an airplane before, but that didn't compare to the sight of the moon hovering above, shining down on the clouds around them. The very stars themselves danced with excitement in this surreal atmosphere.
"Ever been this high up before?" Dawn asked. She decided to be a little friendlier after Sean gave his assistance.
"Only on an airplane," he practically shouted.
"It's going to be a few moments till we get there. Continue holding on."
"You don't need to tell me twice."
Of course, no one from Clan Loch knew about [The Gamer] and it wasn't too far into their trip when Sean met the barrier that led him to the [World Map]. With zero warning, the world around him disappeared and Sean yelled as he fell towards the ground at high speeds.
Mental Attack blocked by [Gamer's Mind]!
For successfully escaping to freedom, you have gained +7 INT, +7 WIS, and +7 LUK.
INT: 56 → 63
WIS: 61 → 68
LUK: 67 → 74
"I said go away, damn you!"
Down below, Soiree and Gengen appeared. They were a tad shaken, but unharmed. Spatial whiplash will do that to a person.
The spot on the map which they occupied was three squares to the left and one down from Sean's house and three to the left of Norwich. Sean discovered earlier while searching his inventory that one of the arrows he took from Domina was missing. It wasn't too surprising given the notification about the artifact [Archer's Arrow] being used shortly after awakening.
The headquarters was named [Fort Reed], their clan name, and likely a reference to something else.
Fort Reed
A fortress created long ago by Rider to protect his people after [?]. Knowledge of this place is guarded closely and hidden by [?], making it virtually untraceable.
Soiree looked around in puzzlement, wondering how she got there. The last thing she remembered was being out in the fields at Norwich and then nothing. A nagging voice at the back of her head screamed she was missing something important.
"Gengen, do you know how we got here, kupo?"
"Me don't know," he replied just as bewildered. "Could be due to nasty smell."
The kobold did say something about Sean smelling bad after the human collapsed, though for the life of her, she still didn't know what he meant. Unfortunately, current circumstances didn't permit her to ponder the subject any further.
Mandragora appeared on the floor next to them and they were quickly recognized as some of Sean's summons. They arrived in response to their summoner's peril.
From the earth, a giant field of yellow sunflowers sprang up several storeys high and came together to form a soft cushion. Soiree watched them grow taller and gasped in horror when she spotted Sean falling towards them. He tried slowing himself down using [Remora], but he kept slipping off their slick scales and [Bomb] would be counterproductive.
Sean landed in the bed of flowers on his back with nary a noise.
Other than some fishy ick on his clothes, Sean was completely unharmed. He lie there for a time in a daze as the flowers lowered to the ground. His heart beat rapidly in his ears for a few seconds until [Gamer's Mind] kicked in.
"Sean! Are you okay!" Soiree asked. She flew over to his face and checked him for any injuries.
"Finer than a frog's hair," Sean replied. He pushed himself up slowly and got back on his feet. Sunflowers bounced merrily as he walked along their hilly surface, snapped a quick picture, and jumped off the edge a short ways to the floor.
Soiree kept her hands on his back to make sure he was stable.
"You know how Gengen get here?" The kobold asked.
"I do, but it is all right if I explain later? I'm on a bit of a time crunch."
"Is there some kind of emergency?" Soiree inquired, hearing the worry in his voice.
"I need to get to the Norwich Police Station pronto," Sean said. "There are some sick people there I need to cure." He took off and entered the town of Norwich.
Soiree and Gengen reappeared behind him in the empty main street. Not a sound could be heard and their only company were the fireflies and moths dancing around the town's lampposts. Sean disbanded the party and promised to meet up later to inform them of what transpired at Fort Reed. They, in turn, would tell Sean about what happened after he passed out.
Sean rushed his way to the police station and heard the pitter-patter of tiny feet trailing after him.
The five little onion people who made up the Mandragora summon looked up at him in child-like curiosity.
"Hey guys." Sean smiled down at them and rubbed the top of each of their heads, causing them to hum in delight. "Thanks for the save earlier."
He briefly considered sending them away, but thought better of it in the event of trouble. Sean didn't get the most accurate read on the strengths of the people he helped capture and a pissed off Dawn could also appear.
"Okay you lot, follow me." Sean beckoned them with a hand gesture.
He then made a new [Save File] and walked up to the front doors. Peering inside, Sean couldn't see much hustle and bustle going on and the only person around was a short white mouse decked out in a typical light blue police uniform.
A blue, black-billed police cap sat on his head and a gold police badge was pinned on the left side of his uniform. Snoring loud enough to wake the dead stemmed from the drooling murid whose head was slumped forward on the front desk.
Name: Stewart Mappy
Race: Mouse
Title: Police Officer
Age: 28
Level: Lvl 5
Likes: Cheese
Dislikes: Cats, Thieves
Description: An officer of three years, this mouse loves to stop burglaries and return stolen goods.
Sean blinked. "Weird."
He tip-toed past the lesser-known game character and followed the map in the top right of his sight to the holding cells.
"Hey! What are you doing back here?" An angry police officer asked, storming up to Sean from a side hallway. The man's large gut and powder-stained uniform painted him as the stereotypical cop. An errant sprinkle clung to his moustache.
"Reloading a save, evidently," Sean deadpanned.
[Save Loaded]
Back outside the police station, Sean [Observed] the mandragora to see if there was a way to overcome this obstacle. He didn't fancy the idea of sneaking around the station, dodging officers left and right. Sean personally detested those types of mechanics in video games and avoided them like the plague. The only exceptions were games such as the Sly Cooper series.
[Mandragora]
Skill List:
Lullaby: Lvl 1
Wrap: Lvl 1
Sonic Boom: Lvl 2
Photosynthesis: Lvl 1
Leaf Spin: Lvl 1
Dig: Lvl 5
Grow: Lvl 10
"Lullaby?"
Lullaby [Sound] (Active) Lvl 1 [0%] Cost: 10 MP
The user sings a soothing song to lull the target to sleep. Those with stronger wills are able to offer resistance to the effects of this spell.
"Think that'll work," Sean uttered to himself. He looked down at the sentient plants contemplatively. "Could you all go into the station and use [Lullaby] on everyone?"
The group made Pikmin noises in affirmation, forcing Sean to raise his index finger to his lips and quietly shush them. "Lower the volume, okay? I need you to be silent."
He opened the front doors just a crack and ushered the group inside.
Sean elected to stay outside while they went about their assigned duty because he was uncertain as to whether or not he was impervious to the spell. He didn't know if being their summoner gave him that kind of benefit. The faint traces of a gentle song did capture his ear from the other side of the door, but that wasn't enough to assuage his fears.
For careful thinking, you have gained +2 WIS.
WIS: 68 → 70
"Getting close to learning the [Haste] spell," Sean thought excitedly. Sure, his other stats were important, but speed was key.
The soft singing grew quieter and quieter as it moved away from the door. Sean gazed up into the sky for any sign of Dawn and was a tad puzzled she hadn't arrived yet. Looking at the town map revealed no hostile or approaching presences either.
Sean eventually lost his patience as he swayed in place anxiously and entered the building.
Going up to the front desk, he found Stewart dozing like before, a river of saliva spilling from his mouth. Sean turned right and went towards the holding cells once more. He stopped at the hallway where the other officer surprised him and he poked his head around the corner to find no one coming.
The portly policeman was kicked back in an easy chair with the centerfold of a bodacious, blonde bombshell covering his face.
Mandragora was nowhere to be seen when Sean neared the lockup. Small yellow dots indicated their approximate position on his map and they were too spread out for Sean to go hunting for them. Instead, the young man let out a whistle based on both the assumption that everyone else in the building was asleep and the shared behavioral traits with Pikmin.
He made a mental note to purchase a whistle later on and test it to see if it worked better.
Each of the mandragora answered his call and sprinted towards him like a group of school children lining up for recess. Sean descended the steps softly and found two people sleeping outside the cells. One was a rather average looking male officer and the other was a young woman whose species was nearly unfamiliar to him.
Her face was pulled into a snout which ended with a pink nose. Beautiful blonde hair framed either side of her head and fell down to her shoulders, shielding one of her eyes from view. Her light skin was covered by blue and green clothing along with a piece of green cloth wrapped around the back of her head behind a pair of pointed ears.
Name: Benjamin Spencer
Race: Human
Title: Police Officer
Age: 25
Level: Lvl 7
Likes: Poetry, Reading, Sight-Seeing
Dislikes: Brussel Sprouts, the Color Mauve, Dark Chocolate
Description: A man who tends to fade into the background. Tried following in his dad's footsteps as an adventurer, but couldn't cut it and joined the police force.
Name: Khris
Race: Kyantol
Title: Aspiring Healer/Magic Student
Age: 18
Level: Lvl 10
Likes: Magic, Studying, Helping People
Dislikes: Meanness, Loud Music, Excessive Swearing
Description: A shy girl seeking to overcome her timid nature. Discovered magic at an early age and saw it as her avenue into the world.
Observe Lvl 41 → Lvl 42
"She's from the first Shining Force game," Sean thought.
All of the Chobin Hoods aside from one were placed into a medically-induced slumber. He was the biggest of the lot and currently dozing on a wooden bench. The rest of the group took up most of the floor. Each was given a mat and pillow to help ease their discomfort.
It was all the police could offer. None of the healers they brought in could produce a cure.
The biggest one wore a thick green tunic which hid large muscles developed from years of intense training. Purple eyes hid from view and were encircled by black fur, not at all different from a raccoon's natural bandit mask. This complemented his normal brown coat nicely and spoke of a mixed parentage.
Name: Boone
Race: ?
Title: ?
Age: ?
Level: ?
Description: A culinary connoisseur. He is a voracious eater and he constantly works out to stay in shape. Uses fire-elemental magic to prepare his meals.
"All right," Sean began. "I'm going to need you five to wrap up the prisoners. Do you think you can do that?"
The mandragora made a sound in the affirmative. They were careful not to be too loud so as not to wake anyone. Fitting through the iron bars of the cell door was simple for each of them and they started wrapping the Chobin Hoods up in thick vines. Their heads were left alone, but their arms were kept pinned to their sides.
Sean did this because the [Esuna] spell wasn't one he could cherry-pick which effects he cured. He wasn't aware at what level he'd be able to cure the [Sleep] status effect and kept them bound in the event of any surprises. Their reaction to seeing him again would likely be negative as well and Sean would much rather avoid the headache.
For thinking ahead, you have gained +2 INT and +2 WIS.
INT: 63 → 65
WIS: 70 → 72
"That won't be necessary," Boone said, revealing he was awake. The mandragora still tried to wrap him up until Sean signaled for them to stop.
"He'll probably break out of it," he stated. Boone regarded him with tired eyes, unperturbed by the human's presence. Sean stared back emotionlessly.
"You here to finish the job?" Boone asked sardonically.
"No, Dawn brought me here."
"Is she present?"
"She's outside somewhere flying around on Lyla," Sean informed. "She brought me here to cure the lot of you."
"They weren't able to find a cure?" Boone inquired. A hint of disbelief colored his tone, surprised that they were unable to given their resources.
"No. And I'm pretty sure it was due to the corrupted mana in your peoples' systems," Sean responded, not seeing the harm in telling him.
"Bracken did mention something strange about the sample he acquired."
"You mind if I get on with this? I don't want to keep Dawn waiting," Sean said. "Vetch already tried to chew my ear off once tonight."
A lazy smile graced Boone's face. "Yeah, she'll do that," he replied in understanding.
With his level hidden, it was incredibly likely that Boone faked being defeated in Domina. Sean used the [Unlock] skill on the door and wasn't surprised when it opened.
"Thought that would happen."
Sean stepped into the cell and moved methodically, making sure to keep his hands in plain sight to show he wasn't up to anything funny. He cast his magic on each Chobin Hood till he came to a pair who were both sporting black eyes. Sean went to cure them when Boone spoke up.
"Leave them," he said, his inflection less genial. "Both are immune to the poison."
Sensing there was some history there, Sean didn't bother with them and exited the cell.
Esuna Lvl 30 → Lvl 31
Cure Lvl 22 → Lvl 23
Purify Lvl 10 → Lvl 11
SPI: 115 → 117
Several new notifications appeared.
Quest Completed!
Healing Hand
Reward: 100,000 Exp, 10,000 Lucre, Increased Reputation with Clan Reed, Clan Loch, and Clan Noctis, Shell Spell Book, Fear Spell Book
Bonus Objective: Cure the Captives of [The Fifth Day]
Reward: Artifact: Quaich, Red Wolf Summon
[Legendary] Artifact: Quaich
A shallow two-handled drinking cup or bowl hailing from Scotland and used for drinking whisky or brandy, this Quaich has been historically used to establish trust and friendship between the various Chobin Hood clans. A purpose that quaichs on earth have shared.
Allows the artificer entry into the village of Rider's Rest.
Due to the system's recalibration, the player's awarded experience has been adjusted.
Level Up!
Sean Rent Lvl 17 → Lvl 20
+15 Stat Points
Stat Points: 10 → 25
+6 Perk Points
Perk Points: 34 → 40
"What utter bullshit."
Lucre: 2850 → 22,000
New Reputations!
Schierke: (Neutral: 150/499)
Dawn: (Neutral: 100/499)
Horatio: (Neutral: 200/499)
Vetch: (Unfriendly: -200/-1999)
Quill: (Neutral: 300/499)
Clan Loch: (Neutral: 100/499)
Clan Noctis: (Neutral: 170/499)
Updated Reputations:
Soiree: +200
Gengen: +200
Clan Reed (Loyalists): +300
Clan Reed (Traitors): +200
Current Reputations:
Soiree: (Friendly: 700/1999)
Gengen: (Friendly: 550/1999)
Clan Reed (Loyalists): (Neutral: 200/499)
Clan Reed (Traitors): (Unfriendly: -1000/-1999)
For a full list of [Reputations], check the [Pause] menu.
"At least I went up in level."
The completion of this quest automatically created another one.
Quest Alert!
Quest Chain!
Robbin' Hood → Healing Hand → Pest Control
The guillotine hanging over the heads of Clan Reed has been destroyed by your helping hand. It's time to finish this. Kill Mantis Ant.
Success: 5,000 Exp, 10,000 Lucre, Increased Reputation with Clan Reed, Clan Loch, and Clan Noctis, Brothers Summon, Bushwhacker Spell Book
Failure: Lower Reputation with Clan Reed, Clan Loch, and Clan Noctis, Strained Relations with the Chobin Hood Clans
Bonus: ?, ?
Success: ?, ?
Failure: ?
"Fuck. I don't know," Sean thought, moving his head side-to-side in rumination. A frown was visible on his face.
"There a problem?" Boone asked.
Sean shook his head. "No. I just remembered that Schierke disappeared earlier when I was busy healing people. I think she went to kill Mantis."
"You worried about her?"
"I'm wondering if she has any knowledge of the corruption your people were infected with," Sean replied, using it as a viable excuse to leave. "I feel like I should head over there."
"She'll be okay, but you do what you think is best," Boone spoke. "We'll be fine here."
"I'll see you later then." Sean turned away and headed for the stairs.
"You might want to get rid of that fishy smell first, but that's just me," Boone jested, making Sean stop briefly. "Safe travels."
Schierke POV
"Have you adequately prepared, ma chérie?" Horatio asked. "This one would truly lament any harm to your beauty."
"All preparations have been completed," Schierke replied. A quiver full of special arrows crafted from the acquired [Dior Wood] and [Altena Alloy] and her bow were strapped to her back. "Is everyone in position?"
The suave rat nodded. "Yes. These ones are prepared to proceed."
The group of four travelled a fair distance away from the village, back to where Mantis was first apprehended. Orpheus and Basil were hidden for backup and a contingent of guards were stationed around the perimeter of Rider's Rest.
Schierke was smarter than her people gave her credit for. She had indeed detected the malignant influence of which Sean spoke and she kept Mantis alive specifically to study it, to learn how to cure and combat it. It was an energy Schierke wasn't closely acquainted with and she didn't believe this was a one-off.
Mantis suddenly disappeared from the chief's home and reappeared before them. The insectoid glanced about frantically, confusion obvious in his features. His gaze eventually settled on Schierke and just as he was about to order her to explain what she was doing, an arrow struck him between the eyes and pushed out the back of his head.
Schierke calmly lowered her bow and watched impassively as Mantis' eyes rolled up into his head. The beast's body lurched forward and struck the earth with a mighty thud.
One second passed and another and then a few more.
On the tenth second, a familiar pulse of tainted mana shot forth from the cadaver and Mantis shambled slowly to his feet. Both eyes were completely bloodshot and his whole body changed into a deep obsidian.
Several more arrows flew from Schierke's bow and turned him into a pin cushion. Mantis' right eye was crushed into jelly, his heart impaled on a wooden shaft, and stomach and intestines pierced by yet another three.
The wretched abomination screeched in sheer agony as the purifying properties burnt away at his disgusting flesh.
Still, Mantis remained standing and the walking corpse moved about erratically, its arms hanging uselessly at its sides. Black ichor spilled from its many wounds and grass died wherever the substance fell. In retrospect, the creature was nothing more than a marionette, moving to the will of a foreign power.
It shambled towards them and let out a low groan. Schierke nocked another arrow whilst Hyssop and Horatio prepared themselves for an attack. No emotion could be glimpsed from the bone mask, but the black rat sneered at Mantis in contempt. Shiro growled viciously and would've lunged at the monster had Schierke not ordered him to stay back.
The three of them were about to unleash their attacks when a mighty wave of sound absolutely ripped Mantis to shreds.
[Echo Chamber]
None of the noise reached the group, but they could feel the strength of it and wisely backed away. They played audience to the macabre showing of Mantis' demise. One blast of sound struck the insectoid in the chest, knocking him back into an invisible wall where the energy sliced up his wings like a blender.
A second wave caved in his chest and a third blew off his antennae.
On and on this went, the creature's health rapidly dwindling to zero HP as his internal organs ruptured. Mantis' body fell for the last time when the attack ended, its strings permanently cut. The corpse vanished in a cloud of light particles and left behind a pile of treasure in its place.
Among them, there was a stack of coins totaling to 3,000 Lucre, the [Slow] spell book, and another orb. Shades of blue and yellow danced together inside and from its depths, a rooster's crow called.
Curiosity struck the assembled group and all were left to wonder what happened and where the items mysteriously came from.
Their pondering was interrupted by the items falling into a small sink hole, one that was immediately after filled in with dirt. Sniffing the air revealed a faint fishy smell lingering about. Horatio raised his brow in clear bafflement while Schierke kept her eyes focused on a particular spot on the ground.
She could hear a dragging noise beneath the surface and her ears tracked it till it promptly vanished.
Sean POV
"Glad that's over," he said, walking along the bridge to his house.
Pest Control
Reward: 5,000 Exp, 10,000 Lucre, Increased Reputation with Clan Reed, Clan Loch, and Clan Noctis, Brothers Summon, Bushwhacker Spell Book
Bonus Objectives: Purify [Mantis Ant]: [Completed]
Kill [Mantis Ant] Alone: [Failed]
Reward: Siren Summon, Quake Spell Book [Missed]
Level Up!
Sent Rent Lvl 20 → Lvl 22
+10 Stat Points
Stat Points: 25 → 35
+4 Perk Points
Perk Points: 40 → 44
Lucre: 22,000 → 35,000
Updated Reputations:
Schierke: +50
Dawn: +50
Horatio: +50
Vetch: +50
Quill: +50
Clan Loch: +50
Clan Noctis: +50
Clan Reed (Loyalists): +50
Clan Reed (Traitors): -100
Current Reputations:
Schierke: (Neutral: 200/499)
Dawn: (Neutral: 150/499)
Horatio: (Neutral: 250/499)
Vetch: (Unfriendly: -150/-1999)
Quill: (Neutral: 350/499)
Clan Loch: (Neutral: 150/499)
Clan Noctis: (Neutral: 220/499)
Clan Reed (Loyalists): (Neutral: 250/499)
Clan Reed (Traitors): (Unfriendly: -1100/-1999)
For playing it smart, you have gained +5 INT and +5 WIS.
INT: 65 → 70
WIS: 72 → 77
Following his departure from Norwich, Sean decided to go for broke and head to Rider's Rest. Boone would likely inform Schierke of his help and Dawn wouldn't be remiss in detailing his disappearance during their nighttime flight. He kept that in mind as he neared the settlement and searched along the edge for Mantis.
He remained at the precipice, the border between Rider's Rest and the World Map, to avoid detection. The Chobin Hood's heightened senses would detect Sean in an instant, a fact to which he was well aware. That's why he relied on Remora, who was still summoned, and Mandragora to carry out the deadly deed.
The blood which spilled from Mantis made tracking him an easy task for the large piranha.
Sean had Mandragora use [Dig] to reach his position. This was made simpler by Mandragora's dual nature as both a plant and sound-elemental summon. The onion people used the heartbeats of Schierke and the others to reach them once Sean sent them off in the direction Remora indicated.
Unlike the grass, Mandragora didn't suffer from the corruption Mantis exuded.
Sean's [Corruption Resistance] extended partially to them, sufficient to where they could get close enough to finally kill the bastard. Sean maintained his position and kept a close eye on the village while they were away. Remora remained summoned in case he needed to beat a hasty retreat.
It only took a few minutes for Sean to retrieve the notification of the quest completion. He promptly departed for his home seeing as his work was done.
Sense Corruption Lvl 1 → Lvl 5
Corruption Resistance Lvl 1 → Lvl 5
Cartographic Ambition Lvl 5 → Lvl 6
Remora: Lvl 6 → Lvl 8
Mandragora: Lvl 4 → Lvl 7
STR: 80 → 86
SPI: 117 → 125
WIS: 77 → 86
Due to The Gamer's various perks, the following have gone up:
STR: 86 → 146
SPI: 125 → 185
Elemental Affinities:
Wood/Plant: 65 → 80 → 280 → 400
Sound: 65 → 80
Moon/Space: 0 → 300 → 420
Water: 75 → 85
Lightning/Thunder: 75 → 85
Fire: 70 → 270 → 390
Soul: 0 → 200 → 320
Wind: 50 → 90
For reaching 100 STR, you've gained a new skill!
Aeronaut (Passive) Lvl Max
Any landing you walk away from is a good one and this skill does just that. With this ability, the user is immune to all fall damage. Environmental hazards such as spikes and lava can still hurt the player.
There were other notifications, but Sean pushed them aside for the time being.
He climbed the stairs in his home with heavy steps and flumped onto his bed, uttering a brief hello to Li'l Cactus. Sean saved his game and went to sleep, already devising plans for the next day.
Author's Notes: Here's Chapter 11. This story isn't dead and I don't intend to abandon it, but I was busy travelling for a number of months this year and it got pushed to the side. I thought about writing a bigger fight scene, but like I said, I didn't want to build up Mantis too much since he's the first villain of the story.
Members of Clan Reed such as Schierke and Hyssop are strong and it wouldn't make since for Mantis to give them a lot of trouble.
Concerning Sean's experience, I'll sort that out later and give an idea of how much experience he needs to level up. I didn't think about it until I started writing this chapter again and it's probably better to save for later.
To whoever stuck with this story, thank you. I know it's annoying when people don't update. Even more so when they do and it's just an author's note, not a real chapter.
Update: I noticed a lot of issues with the previous version of this chapter that I need to fix. One of them was stat increases from both Sean's summons and his perks he gained in Chapter 10. I completely forgot to put those in. Some of his decisions didn't make sense either such as him strolling up to Schierke near Rider's Rest and telling her that he's an artificer.
I also have no intentions of nerfing Sean and he won't suddenly be OP either. If I forgot or missed anything else, then please let me know. I've also been playing the remaster of Legend of Mana on the PS4.
Please leave a review.