A/N: A quick note for those viewing as both new and old, I wasn't quite happy with how the flow of the story was and it seemed that the idea I originally had wound up creating more confusion than was worthwhile to the story. Here's to hoping this version is easier to read/write, thanks for reading!
The cavernous ravine was bathed in an eerie blue light as the world rushed by. Gusts of wind whipped past her ears as she leaned into the hilt of her blade. The once-deafening roars of the beast below slowly faded, but her final gambit was not without cost.
The reality was… this was the end for both of them.
Time had seemingly slowed to accompany their last moments, her blurred vision cleared, and her senses came back to her; if only briefly. She felt the temperature rising alongside the equally breathtaking sights. Their destination was soon to arrive.
The droning of the wind eventually gave way to the sound of lapping waves as the rapids at the core of all life churned beneath them. An aurora of greens and yellows mixed with the red and blue hues upon which she stood. She didn't know what would become of the world after this event, but she was certain that she had achieved her goal; the rest didn't matter so much now.
When the concentration of scorching bioenergy finally splashed across them, their potent forces immediately began to work. Whether it would be the igniter to the energy stored within the great beast below or that which dissolved her whole, the time was nigh. The color of black soon entered, an everlasting darkness that enshrouded her senses and mind.
In time, only memories remained, clung to her soul where her body faltered. Even in death, she would fight to keep what she treasured most. The hazed recollection of all that came before then flashed, the darkness itself lurching from the turbulent energies that entered the space.
Now cracking apart like glass to a window, the endless sky fell away, trailblazing a new path to tread.
"Your stasis has finally reached its end, hasn't it?" a feminine voice softly questioned, a small smile lining her cheeks. "Rest assured, I eagerly await your awakening, My Lady." the voice continued, turning her gaze away from the bedside to the open terrace behind her.
"However, it seems we have unwanted guests."
Time unbound, she didn't know how long it was she walked into the unknown. Endlessly trekking towards the otherworldly view that enticed her from afar. A limbo of strange sensations that came and went, each filling her mind with even stranger thoughts.
Only… for it all to vanish in a flash.
She did not realize the life that was instilled into her until her body had already begun moving. Instinct crying out, she maneuvered around the sharp object her senses outlined. Breath rapidly filling her lungs and light suddenly flashing into her eyes, she felt her pulse race as her body acclimated to the world around her.
Without a thought, she swung at whatever it was that attacked her, the sensation of a shaft forming between her hands. A blade, swift and true in the hands of one such as herself. With practiced ease, she sliced apart the living shadow that manifested before her, the creature dissipating alongside the sound of a cracking stone.
Rearing her gaze, she used the brief moment of calm to approach the doorway. Carefully listening as she pushed open the door, it let off a long creak as it gave way. Immediately, the dusty interior was showered with dawn's light. The air was stale and filled with the musty scent of old furniture and decay. Cobwebs hung from the ceilings and walls, and she could even hear the scurrying of rats in the distance.
However, her scuffle had not gone unnoticed. She was certain now she wasn't alone. Quickly moving down the hall poised to strike, she brought the wrapped, darkly colored blade to bare. As if on queue with that revelation, the old creaks and groans from the wood soon turned to loud, high-pitched screeches as the gaunt shadows manifested into a physical form. Their intent was clear. Feeling the adrenaline rush through her veins, her instincts flared to life full-force. They were fast, but she felt oddly in her element among the darkness as she cut through them.
Nonetheless, her breakneck adaptation was not enough, she was still in a bit of a daze. It was as if she had just woken from a long slumber after eating a hearty meal the prior night. Sluggish. A fact that had caused her to become surrounded before long. The monsters simply kept coming and it wasn't as if she had the stamina in such a state.
Just when she was about to begin weighing her options, she heard a seeming roar accompany the shattering of the wall beside her. Pushed aside by the force, she watched on as a crimson-haired woman cleaved through the shadowy hordes with nothing more than raw strength. Thankfully, she did not appear to be another enemy, if anything… she appeared worried.
As the haze of her slumber finally began to wane and the enemies at hand began to diminish, she found her mind beginning to ask questions. Questions few would have an answer to, except… maybe the one who had come to help her. As the dust began to clear, she looked around for that very woman, only to see she was already at her feet employing a dogeza pose.
Before she could say anything of the act, the woman suddenly spoke. "Little can describe the shame I feel for not arriving sooner. I will not ask to be forgiven, My Lady, however, please-"
There was a familiarity in this woman that she had only just now realized, and that fact made her entire body freeze. The mental image of her final moments flashed once again. From the obvious characteristics such as the draconian appendage that laid prone alongside the woman to the horns atop her head, or even the faint smell of ash in the air, there was little else to theorize.
"It's… okay." she eventually said, cutting off the woman's words. While her gaze was stern, deep down, she was truly unsure what to make of the situation. Just what had happened on that fateful day?
The woman rose her head, her eyes wide with surprise. "I am forgiven?" she said, disbelieving. "Are you certain?"
She deadpanned at the response. From being one of the most feared creatures in the New World to… this? She wasn't sure how to feel about the woman in the slightest. Should she have been mad? They had killed each other after all… but even then, she also couldn't believe those two to be the same being after seeing her like this either. Perhaps all the strange things that filled her mind in the time before she awoke had meant something after all. She pressed a finger to her temple as the onset headache ensued.
"Yes. Now, me, you— talk." she said, pulling the woman up from her dogeza and back towards the room she awoke in. She didn't want to be unfair to someone who hadn't deserved it, but she still had so much to figure out. Too much was left unknown, she would get her answers.
The dragoness let out a yelp of surprise by the sudden contact, but didn't put up any resistance. If anything, she appeared quite happy to be dragged along if her smile was anything to go by. Perhaps she was into this sort of thing? She didn't let the thought linger much longer than that.
After reaching the aforementioned space, she let the redhead step in before habitually closing the door behind her. At least, as best as it could from its half-broken hinges. Sitting over the edge of the mattress, she crossed her legs and motioned for the other woman to have a seat. The latter of whom opted to sit seiza from the floor.
Now, where did she want to begin? She sighed once more, struggling to wrap her head around the various complexities. "Well… you appear to know me, so what's your name?" she eventually said, attempting to break the ice.
"Of course. The name I've come to acquire is Seraphina, My Lady." the dragoness introduced, bowing her head slightly.
She nodded and went to address the next point on her mind: the title. While she was used to receiving various titles as the premier Hunter of her fleet, this felt… different. Surely she hadn't incarnated as some sort of royalty, right? She shook her head and directed those same thoughts at Seraphina, her tone even. "I'm sorry, but I have to ask. What is it with the 'My Lady', this and the 'My Lady', that? If you are who I think you are, were we not on even grounds in the past?"
Seraphina's gaze softened as a faint smile gracing her lips. "Once upon a time, perhaps that may have been true. However, much has changed since then and I can no longer rightfully claim that title. I've since dedicated myself to you and am content where I am, so long as it is at your side."
"A-ah… I see." she trailed, unsure how to respond to the strange flutter that just filled her chest. Taking a moment to recoup her train of thought, she took a breath. "Well, then you should know my name is Luna Whisperwind and I would prefer it if you referred to me as such." she said as matter-of-factly as she could muster.
"I-I couldn't do that, My-" She gave Seraphina a particular look that caused her to shrink back slightly. "Lady L-Luna." Seraphina relented.
"I can live with that. So, moving on, can you go over what you know about this place?"
Seraphina nodded, her tone suddenly serious at the order. "Of course, Lady Luna. However, it may take some time, I would ask you get comfortable."
As Seraphina began to recount her experiences thus far and explain what exactly was going on with this world, the understanding come gradually. There was a lot to take in. Even the locals of this area; who had found Seraphina originally, only knew so much. Nonetheless, she couldn't be too surprised, she herself had encountered numerous times where people from other worlds showed up to her own in the past. So, it wasn't as if it happening to her wasn't a possibility; even if the circumstances differed.
Given the information… she felt her gaze drift to her hands. She was essentially given another chance at life. Every decision going forward was not a part of some dream, it was reality; her new reality. She had to stifle a chuckle to herself at the thought. In the end, even another life in another world could not take her far from her love of taking on new frontiers.
Still, her body was not a frontier she thought she would have to tackle, but here she was still trying to wrap her mind around its differences. Although she felt strangely comfortable in this new body, the subtle changes to her anatomy; namely the addition of the pitch black appendage that was her tail, was going to take some time to grow accustomed to. As far as her knowledge as a Hunter went, she seems to have become some sort of humanoid version of a nargacuga. Seraphina, on the other hand, appears to be the inverse of her situation.
The changes to their bodies aside, their kind, these 'Otherworlders', were just one of many things that got her thinking. While they are supposedly rare, that still implied there were more of them somewhere out there. Could she encounter others from her old world here, as well? Perhaps she was getting ahead of herself. There was no guarantee of anything with how much they knew right now, they really only knew the basics of this world.
To that end, it did bring her some comfort in knowing that she wouldn't have to figure it out alone. She had accepted her fate the moment she made the decision to venture out that day, and numerous prior. But, she would've been lying if she said she didn't miss the camaraderie. Now, with word of these so called 'Great Quests', she couldn't help but feel like a greenhorn all over again and that excited her. If the Fates wished to grant her another chance at life, then so be it, she would live it to its utmost potential.
"Thank you, Seraphina." Rising from the bedside, she shifted her gaze to the terrace overlooking the abandoned manor they found themselves holed up in. "You mentioned there was a quest you were thinking about taking earlier. One from the local settlement, right? Care to fill me in on what it was about? It may be a good opportunity for the both of us."
"I would be delighted!" Seraphina said, her eyes sparkling for a moment. "Ahem. Right, the quest entailed the subjugation of a large green-scaled wyvern. According to the townsfolk, it has been growing increasingly aggressive over the last few months."
She nodded, looking out to the treeline that surrounded the property. "Sounds like the thing could be in heat." Given her prior experience as a Hunter, she knew enough about monster behaviors that she could hazard a few theories. Even if this creature wound up being another she was unfamiliar with, it was better than approaching it blindly.
"Then it's fair to assume it must still be expanding its territory to find a mate?" Seraphina concluded.
"That's the ideal scenario. After all, it'd be much easier to deal with one beast than two. That being said," she glanced towards her hand once again, "…it's easier said than done. I've still yet to fully acclimate to these new abilities I find myself with in this world." she admitted, the blade she had been wielding prior suddenly manifesting in her grasp.
Seraphina gave a slight smile. "Then it is only natural I offer my assistance, Lady Luna. If you wish it, of course."
She sighed and returned a smile of her own, dismissing the blade with some focused thought. "I see no reason to decline. Though, I will warn you beforehand that I didn't work with others often, so it may take me some time to… figure things out." Truly, there was no getting used to this dynamic they now seemed to have.
"Naturally. We'll start by heading back to town to trade some of the stones that dropped from those shadows for some equipment. After that, well…" Seraphina put a hand to her chin for a moment. "I'll figure it out, rest assured. Let us depart!" Seraphina resolved, gleefully dragging her off.
Seraphina's enthusiasm didn't take long to fill the atmosphere either. It was strange to think that just moments ago, she had awoken in this unfamiliar world with no idea what had become of her, and now here she was preparing to take on a quest with her newfound companion. Things in this new life were already progressing so quickly. It almost made her wonder if she should slow down… almost.
While the journey to the town itself was relatively uneventful, it was welcomed time to think. Of everything Seraphina was able to explain to her, she couldn't help but be curious about these so-called 'gods' that lived among them. The whole idea behind their arrival wasn't exactly… noble, but the nature of the blessing they could provide was interesting. Although Otherworlders like them didn't require one, she wouldn't say no to the opportunity to chat about it.
Eventually, they passed through the modest gates surrounding the town, and she felt a sudden recollection impose over her gaze. Her eyes drifted across the various shops and stalls that lined the streets, and the people that filled them. It was a far cry from some of the places she had seen in the past, but there was a comfort in the simplicity that she appreciated too. Unlike the usual awe and admiration she received in the past, the townsfolk simply went about their daily lives seemingly unfazed by their presence. In a way, part of that stoked the embers in her heart— to make a name for herself in this new frontier.
"Seraphina," she began, quickly drawing the dragoness's attention, "how long do you think it'll take to get everything we need from those stones?"
Seraphina stifled a giggle, seemingly aware of what was racing through her mind. "Motivated, are we, Lady Luna?"
"Well, yes. I'm quite eager to put my body to the test and see what needs work." she explained without a thought.
Seraphina sighed, slightly deflated by her ineffective teasing. "Right… that makes sense."
After a few minutes, Seraphina recouped her confidence and motioned a hand towards the building at her left. "Well, to answer your question, Lady Luna, we've just arrived at our destination. This place is essentially the hub for the adventurers of this town. Since I've already acquainted myself with a few of the representatives here, allow me to handle introductions."
She nodded, motioning towards the doorway. "Then by all means, the floor is yours, Seraphina."
Seraphina returned a respectful nod and stepped confidently into the bustling adventurer hub. The room was filled with adventurers of various races and backgrounds, all engrossed in discussions, preparations, or boasting about their past exploits. It was a lively atmosphere despite the actual number of people there.
Seraphina approached a counter where a friendly-looking woman with cat-like features was tending to a group of adventurers. She patiently waited her turn, and when the woman finally noticed her, a warm smile crossed her face.
"Miss Seraphina! It is good to see you again," the woman greeted. "Have you completed your last quest already?"
Seraphina returned the smile, the pair were clearly more acquainted than met the eye. "Indeed, it is good to see you again as well, Miss Ferris. My mistress and I are looking to trade some stones for equipment." Seraphina said, gesturing to her.
Ferris's eyes shifted over, a seeming epiphany washing over her expression. "Oh, my apologies. Welcome to our town, newcomer. I'm Ferris, one of this guild's receptionists. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to ask." Ferris introduced with a bow.
She extended a hand with a warm smile of her own. "Pleasure to meet you, Miss Ferris. My name is Luna Whisperwind. I look forward to working with you while we are in town."
"Likewise, Lady Luna, Miss Seraphina has talked a great deal of you since we've met." Ferris said, returning the handshake.
She flicked her eyes towards Seraphina. "Has she now?"
"Oh, indeed! She's mentioned a great deal and I have to say her descriptions don't quite compare to the real deal-"
"Ahem! H-hey, let's stay on topic now. We have business to do, as well." Seraphina interjected, trying to hide a blush underneath her hand.
Ferris giggled for a moment before suddenly jumping as Seraphina dropped a pouch of stones onto the counter. Seraphina's gaze did not move from the tabletop, but Ferris seemed to understand and relented. "My, my, I never thought you'd be so easy to tease… but alright, let's get to the boring stuff then."
"Yes, let's," Seraphina said, raising her gaze slightly, "the war shadows have been dealt with, although…"
"These are in… rather poor condition, to be blunt," Ferris commented as she looked through the pouch. "The quest reward itself is one thing, but the price for these stones is another. Seriously, how did you manage to beat them up so badly?" Ferris sighed. "I'll see if I can pull a few strings to get you a better deal. But don't expect too much."
Seraphina's expression lit up at that, unconsciously reaching across the counter to grasp Ferris's hands in gratitude. "Thank you, you truly are a gem of a woman!"
Ferris let out a small squeal, slowly prying out of Seraphina's grip with a small blush of her own. "I get it, I get it. Jeez, quit making a scene."
"Apologies, but truly, your assistance is always appreciated." Seraphina said with a sheepish laugh.
"I'd hope so, now, just hang tight for a minute while I talk with a coworker. I'll call you two up once we're done." Ferris explained after taking the sack of monster crystals.
She looked to Seraphina, who gave a nod for the both of them, "Understood, we'll try not to stray too far then." Seraphina said, tipping her head towards the pub section of the building. "In fact, I have a good idea of how to keep us both busy. After all, when was the last time you had a good meal, Lady Luna?"
"…"
"Lady Luna?" Seraphina called, confusion clear in her voice.
Seraphina's words fell dead on her ears. There were still many things she had yet to fully acclimate to with her body, but instinct was one hell of a thing. Sights locked to the gaining night sky, she heard it, the faintest sound. Her ears keen as they now were, twitched as a familiar enraged cry rang through them.
It was only the briefest moment, yet she felt her entire body shift in that moment. Each breath shallow and hushed, laced with adrenaline. Eyes honed, slitted towards the ominous envoy that came with the winds. Hairs all across her body prickled on end. And then came a memory…
"A Hunter's primary duty was to ensure the safety of the people and ecosystem. Any beast that threatened that must be felled, no matter the cost!"
She didn't remember who it was who said those words, but their meaning rang true. Though confusion hung in the air around her, her body had already long bolted off. Only when the screams of terror came did those around her begin to understand the situation.
They were under attack.
A/N: And there's the first chapter! I don't have too much to say down here now, but hey if you enjoyed and wanna give a bookmark or comment, by all means feel free. Just try to keep things constructive is all I ask, the more motivation to continue the better you know! Have a nice day y'all!