Note: Hello everyone. I've got an announcement to make.

First and foremost, I would like to thank you all for reading so far. You guys have made this worth it. Second, I want to thank Falchion1984 for not only giving up some of his time to read my story but to point out numerous errors.

Don't get me wrong, I really appreciate my readers sticking with me so far, yet honestly, I do wish I had been told these things sooner. Yes, while I do want you to enjoy my work, if there are severe grammar and spelling issues, then please tell me.

Also, a lot of my past behavior over the years had been rather attention-seeking and immature. I'm sorry about that, and I hope to show I've changed since then.

Thus, with all that in mind, I'm revising this fic. Not, that I'm not rewriting it (nothing major or anything like that), but I am going through it and seeing what needs to be corrected and/or possibly made better and/or make more sense. All of which is pointed out by Falchion1984 (seriously, thank you!)

Don't worry, this story isn't going anywhere. But there will probably be a while before the next chapter is posted, as I'm going over what I've got now (which is 60+ chapters) before I continue.

With that out of the way, please enjoy this newest chapter!

Late Night Musings at La Festival del Tomate

The beating of drums and the sounds of other strange, unfamiliar instruments filled their ears, each of the youths offering smiles that did not quite reach their eyes. Despite the jovial mood of their (very) unlikely hosts, none of them were exactly eager to party. Especially as they were being ushered to sit so close to the fire pit.

Either the Tomato Men wanted their guests to have the best seats or, when they had guests for dinner, they were...a tad literal about it.

Seeing as they were now guests as opposed to food - did these things even have teeth? some of them wondered - everyone was escorted to a pair of huts to be prepared for the feast. At least, that's how the old fruit worded it. The look on his wrinkled old face gave everyone the impression that he was either oblivious or was reveling in their apprehension. Regardless, everyone was taken and relieved of what little of their clothing they had left. That is, Tomato Men came in with weapons and the clear intent to strip them. The walking, sentient fruit had been unsure as to why the humans were so opposed to it. They were the ones that had said they wanted to be rid of the rags that they wore.

Nevertheless, the old fruit gave the humans THIS much kindness, allowing each of them to change into their new garments in private. Yet even then, the Tomato Men were puzzled. Why such a reaction to seeing each other nude? They took off their grass skirts in front of each other all the time! At least the beastman seemed to understand! The Elder was right, humans truly were strange. Speaking of, the beastman was still in his werewolf form, so clothes would've been completely superfluous in the Tomato Men's eyes. But still, the werewolf took a grass skirt. The humans' habits must've rubbed off on...him? The Tomato Men presumed so, but it was hard to tell since he kept his back to them.

Eventually, each of the human guests/prisoners/potential-main-courses exited, dressed similarly to their hosts, leaves tied around their waists (or in Charlotte's case, around her chest). But unlike the smaller living fruit, the humans also had jewelry such as necklaces of glazed clay painted with bright glazes, mostly bracelets and anklets, and in Riesz's case, a bra woven from leaves. Even if they were at the mercy of these beings (or lack thereof, if Angela's claim was disproven), they were being treated as well as they assumed they could be, cultural differences aside. Everyone was guided to sit by the fire, joining the other Tomato Men as they gazed at the fire, seemingly transfixed by it.

Or were they thinking of how good human flesh would be slow-roasted?

Duran shifted a bit, thankful for the heat the fire provided, even if he might not be so grateful later. He had to get his mind off of the mental image of being bound and set to roast over the pit, the little red imps spearing him to make sure he wasn't too pink in the middle. He couldn't decide if he found the image funny or horrifying. Or embarrassing. For despite what Lumina said, these guys looked a little...silly. "So…" he tried to find something to say if only to break the uncomfortable silence. "How's everyone doing?"

Hawkeye shrugged. "Well...at least we're not in wet, ragged clothes anymore." he then chuckled. "Or...any clothes for that matter."

"Hm, I kinda wike it." Charlotte said, standing up and spinning around, the leaves of her 'dress' fanning out as she spun. "It's bweezy." She smiled at Kevin, yet the werewolf didn't respond, averting his eyes from her.

Riesz was somewhat uncomfortable with showing this much skin, not to mention having neither her spear or armor. And this showed in her tense, stiff posture as she sat. They were outnumbered, that much she knew, but could the Tomato Men be fought off despite that? Honestly, the Amazon had little faith that Angela's ruse would work, or would backfire somehow. At the moment, the other Princess was NOT one of her favorite people. Yet as she went over potential strategies on what to do if (or rather, when) something went wrong, Riesz noticed Hawkeye's expression. While she had to study it for a moment, she could've sworn that the thief looked unsure. Troubled, even.

Duran looked at the tent that he had seen Angela enter, wondering what was taking her so long. Thankfully, the fire pit was close enough that Faerie could go and be by Angela's side without pushing the boundaries of how far she could go from her host. That was something they had working in their favor. In the span of one night, they had lost nearly all of their possessions, and now were potentially going to be dinner for these things. Or rather, they might decide to eat everyone else, as Faerie's perceived link with Angela, as well as Angela's claims to be Faerie's chosen host, was what saved her, at least. Unless the Princess messed up somewhere with this charade. And while Duran was still not exactly happy with how the magician took off with this 'little' lie, as she'd called it, that didn't translate to wanting to see the young woman being cooked like a skewered pig, apple included.

But if it came to that, could he defend her? Could he defend everyone? Or would he 'defend' everyone just as he had on the Ghost Ship?

Then, the hut the young woman had entered opened up, the Princess stepping out and proudly presenting herself to everyone there.

Angela wore what appeared to be a bikini bottom made from some sewn-together cloth and a bra that was made up of vines and two coconut shells. She wore several bracelets and anklets that were painted with various patterns and colors. Behind her was a train of feathers that trailed the ground behind her, while a headdress of more feathers, equally as extravagant, blossomed from atop her head. The train was composed of long, beautiful feathers that resembled that of a tropical bird or a peacock. Faerie sat upon the Princess' shoulder, rolling her eyes, the Tomato Men cheering. Poor little fools. Poor little, still-dangerous fools.

The other five youths observed Angela, and Riesz sighed. If they got a spear shoved up where the sun didn't shine, she was placing sole blame on Angela. Duran, on the other hand, despite his own reservations about this whole situation, couldn't help but find the violet-haired magician rather...appealing in her current outfit.

"Ok, now that our guest of honor is here," the old fruit said, gesturing to Angela and Faerie. "Finally, we can get this started!" he then turned to one of the other Tomato Men. "Bring out tonight's 'specialty' for our guests."

The Tomato Man nodded and went elsewhere, waddling off on his stubby limbs. Despite the previously jovial mood, everything went dead silent. "What are they gonna do?" Charlotte whispered, turning to Riesz for some sort of assurance. Unfortunately, the amazon had none to offer. She just watched, waiting, wondering what the first step would be should it come to having to escape.

Then, the Tomato Man that had been sent away came back with several others, the six youths horrified at what they saw. A humanoid figure was tied to a pole and being carried by several of the sentient fruit, everyone's eyes wide as the small creatures approached with their catch. "Now," the old fruit said, the other Tomato Men setting the still, silent figure over the fire. "Let's get this meat cooking!"

"Wait!" Duran stood up, running over to the figure and fire. "Wait, stop! Don't-"

It was too late, the figure began to burn and sizzle, coming apart and roasting already from the heat of the flames. Though upon burning enough, Duran saw that instead of muscle, once the outer layer was eaten away by the fire, straw fell into the pit below. Then he and everyone else heard the old fruit break out into hysterics.

"Oh...oh, Goddess! Oh geez, you all...I can't believe you bought it!" the wrinkled elder cackled uncontrollably, doubling over. Then, the rest of the Tomato Men joined in, a chorus of laughter echoing through the night. "You all are such dopes!"

"Wh-What?" Duran was confused.

"Did you really think we were going to eat you?" the elder asked between laughs. "We have no idea how to even prepare meat! We don't even have teeth!"

None of the humans (and one werewolf and half-elf) were sure as to what was going on, though it didn't take long to figure out. "You…" Riesz stammered as the dumbfounded amazon realized that all her mental preparation was for nothing. "You...you planned this…"

"Hell yeah, we did!" the old fruit confirmed. "I knew this babe here, busty as she is," he then winked in Angela's direction. "Wasn't the one chosen by the Goddess." he then looked at Duran.

"Then...then why do this?" Riesz asked, flabbergasted. "Was this some sort of sick joke you all came up with?!"

"Eh, basically. Yeah." the old fruit confirmed. "You guys coming here has been the most eventful thing that's happened in forever. I'd say we're allowed to have some fun." It was clear that the native islanders found the whole thing hilarious, yet everyone else was either trying to keep themselves together after being so tense, or enraged, at the little peoples' prank. "Anyway, we've wasted enough time. Let's get crazy!"

Later

The Tomato Men were well into the festivities, all the while their larger guests were also participating, but still with a degree of apprehension. As far as they were concerned, despite the elder's claims that they had no intention of harming them, things still didn't seem...right. Food was passed along, and much of the dishes were prepared from the fruit that grew on the island. Many were unrecognizable to the humans (and beastman), as they apparently didn't grow outside of the tropical climes and were like nothing they had seen before. This wasn't to say that they weren't terrible to taste. On the contrary, many of the dishes were quite delectable. Sure, it was mainly fruit, but it had a good variety of colors, textures, and tastes. Tastes such as sweet, sour, bitter, and smells that were also sweet, yet also some that were strong. And others, frankly, pungent.

Some of the six still had their eyes peeled, half expecting something sickening to come their way, like maybe a severed head. Or a leg or arm of some poor animal that had been caught. But no meat or anything of the sort was passed around. Perhaps they had judged these little men too harshly, they thought.

Then, something came to Hawkeye. "Hey, I was just thinking."

Riesz looked at him, about to respond, yet out of nowhere, the old fruit butted in. "Thinking about what?" he asked, a moment or two of silence passing by before he spoke again. "You might as well say it now because I ain't going anywhere."

The thief could see the Amazon's lips compress in restrained anger. It was clear she was still displeased about being part of the prank they pulled; yet to see an elder, an established authority figure behave in such a way? Cultural differences aside, there were some things that Riesz felt should've been universal, especially for those that held authority over others. She was about to protest and tell Hawkeye he didn't have to answer anything, but he spoke before she could get anything in.

"Well...you guys...what are you made of?" the thief asked.

The elder was confused. "What do you mean? We're Tomato Men. What we are is in the name!"

"So...you're literal tomatoes?" Hawkeye questioned the old fruit nodding. "And...here we are, eating fruit."

"Yeah, so?"

Geez, how was he going to word this without causing any offense? He may as well be asking "are you cannibals"! "Well...isn't that, you know, a little weird? I mean, if you guys are fruit, and you're eating fruit…"

"And?"

"Are there any other...living fruit here on the island?"

The old fruit shrugged. "I dunno. If it tastes good, that's all I need." With that, he left, the two not exactly feeling that eager to try much else.

Meanwhile, Angela was sipping some coconut milk, enjoying herself rather well ever since it was revealed that no one was ever in any real danger. And seeing as there was no need to keep up the charade anymore, Faerie had long since returned to her host. Though upon looking at the young soldier, the Princess's features fell once she saw his face.

"He looks miserable, doesn't he?" Angela looked to find Faerie fluttering beside her head once more.

"What's wrong with him?" the violet-haired Princess questioned.

"I know exactly what's wrong with him." the winged woman answered. "And that's the problem."

"Huh? Why?" Angela was confused.

"Because I can't talk to him about it," Faerie confessed. "He...it's something that...while I understand it, yes, it's something that I…"

"You what?"

Faerie lowered her head. "Something I can't exactly relate to."

Angela looked back at Duran, then at Faerie. While it was just a hunch, she had a feeling that she knew just what was on the young man's mind.

Elsewhere, Charlotte had garnered attention from some Tomato Men. She still stood over them by a respectable inch, but they were fascinated to see a human (or, at least close enough to one) that was closest to their size. They poked and prodded her, feeling the texture of her skin, some gripping parts of her face, and stretching her cheeks. They seemed fascinated at how elastic her skin was in comparison to theirs. Kevin was receiving similar treatment, though small, nearly invisible fingers gripped and pulled at his fur. Charlotte saw that he was trying to keep himself from making any movements as they did this, for he could surely yank one of the Tomato Men off their feet. And probably send them flying.

Charlotte wasn't entirely sure, but it looked like Kevin was afraid that he would potentially hurt them, even if by accident. While the Tomato Men were intrigued by the werewolf, they didn't seem to view his appearance as anything horrifying. This didn't seem to make Kevin feel any better though, as he remained as still as possible while the little beings continued to study him.

The old fruit sat upon his throne, observing the six former captives-now-guests. They all appeared troubled, and while the wrinkled Tomato Man was somewhat disappointed, he knew that it couldn't have been helped. While he hadn't heard any details, he didn't need to be told that these kids had been through quite a lot. It was then that he was beginning to question whether or not his prank was a good idea.

Regardless, they were here now, and thus, that meant "he" would emerge from hiding. And then...then everything would end. And then begin again.

Yes, it would soon be time for his people to start over somewhere far away.

He was happy that there'd been such a marvelous excuse to throw a party so that they could have a few happy memories before the end came.

Late at Night

It was quite late in the night, yet no one felt like sleeping. While the six youths had appreciated their hosts lending them clothes, an effort had been made to repair their ravaged garments using fibers that could be found near the village, it quickly became apparent that their old clothes were too damaged to be repaired. This likely meant they'd have to make do with the grass skirts until they got to a town...which was a prospect that delighted none of them.

The majority of the Tomato Men had already gone to their huts, their six guests having had an area prepared for them a small distance away, but still within the boundaries of the village. The hut they were given wasn't anything extravagant, but it was large enough for them all.

But it wouldn't have mattered how large or cozy it was, for no one could sleep.

It didn't take long for some of the group to exit the hut. The others heard them, yet decided to wait for them to eventually return. A few minutes turned into an hour, then another, and another. Finally, those remaining couldn't wait any longer and exited, going off to find and bring back those that left.

It was clear that there were things left unsaid between all of them.


Angela saw him standing at the edge of a shallow pool of water by the edge of the village, clearly a small lake of sorts. Duran simply looked down at the still reflection of the moon, a sigh escaping him.

You don't have to just deal with this. Faerie told her host. I mean...I might not understand entirely, seeing as it's more of an issue for you mortals, but I can tell you that you're wrong. Duran was unconvinced. And if you don't feel you can talk to me, then...then talk to someone. Please.

The young man closed his eyes, brows furrowing. "I don't know if they'd get it either."

"Get what?" Just then, he suddenly saw another figure enter the reflection, she looking down at his own with curious, green eyes.

Duran jumped back a bit, Angela laughing when he stumbled and fell to the ground. Having gotten over the shock of her sudden appearance, Duran then grew irritated with the Princess, cursing that he had just made himself look like a fool. "You done?" he asked, Angela still giggling.

"Give me a second," she said, getting out a few more chuckles. "Ok, I think I'm done." She cleared her throat. Even if she found it amusing, she had come out to look for him for a different purpose. "So, what are you doing out here?" she looked around. "This place looks boring."

That was true, Duran thought, but at least it was quiet. And quiet was the only thing he wanted right now. Something it seemed would be denied him, whether from Faerie's attempts to talk to him or Angela's sudden arrival. "Couldn't sleep," he admitted. That much he would confess. "I take it that it's the same with you?"

She then noticed his expression. She also remembered Faerie's words from earlier, they repeated in her head as she studied Duran's features. She didn't say anything, waiting to see whether he would first. Though after a short while, she decided that someone had to take the initiative to do something. "Look, if it's about me taking credit for Faerie being bonded to me…" Angela began. "I'm...sorry. I didn't mean anything by it."

"No, it's not that," he responded, shaking his head.

"Then what is it? Something's bothering you." the magician said. "It's BEEN bothering you ever since we washed up here. Everyone can see it."

He was disappointed that his attempts to conceal his emotions failed, but Duran still stamped down on the urge to say so much as a word about what currently plagued his mind. No matter what Faerie, Angela, or anyone else said.

Unfortunately for him, the Princess had deduced what was troubling him a long time ago. "You're thinking about what happened on the ship," she said plainly, Duran whirled his head around to face her, eyes wide as if she had just uncovered a terrible secret.

And, in a sense, she had.


Though Riesz didn't know it, she was not far from Angela and Duran when she finally spotted Hawkeye sitting atop the hill in the western corner of the village, the elevation high enough to where one could see the ocean clearly. The full, fat moon served to light the way, the Amazon almost distracted by the sight of him. Bathed in moonlight, the sounds of the ocean ever distant...but that wasn't what she was here for.

She slowly approached, keeping her steps silent, but it didn't take her long to stop. The fact she no longer had any shoes made this somewhat easier, her steps softer. This is ridiculous. She chided herself. Just talk to him! What was she doing?! Sneaking around like some...well, like some thief! Ironic, yes? She thought. She was behaving quite...irrationally. This is ridiculous. She sighed and straightened herself out, though she didn't let go of her spear.

Then, she felt the hairs on the back of her neck stand up. Turning around, Riesz scanned the area, blue eyes searching for any signs of disturbance. Then, she felt a hand on her shoulder. Whirling around, she found herself pointing the end of her spear right in Hawkeye's face.

"Uh...at ease, soldier." the thief chuckled.

Riesz, on the other hand, wasn't exactly amused. "You realize that I could've ended your life right then and there, right?"

He smiled. "No, I don't think you would've." he gestured to his weapon. "You wouldn't use something like that so carelessly." He then raised a brow. "Speaking of, why do you insist on carrying that everywhere with you?"

"A diligent warrior never abandons her weapon," Riesz said matter-of-factly. "If anything, I would expect you would at least keep yours on your person at all times." It was then that she saw it. His amusement at her surprise transformed into dejection. Riesz immediately regretted what she had just said. "I apologize. I didn't mean any offense," she assured him. Whatever offense that was, she hadn't meant it.

"No, you didn't do anything," Hawkeye told her. "I'm just...thinking."

Riesz found that perhaps likening her companion to a predator was more fitting than she realized, for she looked over the young man, analyzing his posture and body language. His facial features, the way his eyes appeared saddened and confused. The topaz color of his eyes, how his eyes and hair contrasted well with his tanned skin. How well kept his hair was, how long and vibrant in color. How toned his figure was: not overly muscular, yet developed in the most important places. Lean and tall...appealing...handsome.

Yet it wasn't anything new. Riesz, despite herself, had always had these thoughts. They were just becoming more and more difficult to keep in check. But even still, even if her eyes enjoyed what they took in, Riesz found that seeing such a face on Hawkeye was quite distressing. This wouldn't do. She went over to him, making her presence known. As well as how she wasn't going to leave unless he started talking.

It didn't take Hawkeye long to figure this out. At first, he was anxious that she was so forward, but she made it clear that he was going to talk. And also, that she was going to listen.

With that silent reassurance, Hawkeye finally found what to say. "I...I told you that Eagle...my friend...died, right?" Even if everyone knew of his innocence, he still remembered the curse on Jessica's necklace. He had to choose his words carefully, for he didn't know what would "count" and what wouldn't in regards to speaking of what happened that night.

Riesz nodded in response. "Yes. I'm aware of all the details," she answered.

"Well...it's about that, and..." Hawkeye sighed. "I don't know. I've just been thinking about home lately."

"I understand." The Amazon said. "I admit, even though I set out for Wendel, there was nothing I looked forward to more than returning home." A free home, free of the enemy forces that had taken so many of the people. Though now...they were HER people. "I am eternally grateful to you and the others," Riesz said. "I mean it. I shall see to it that your actions are told throughout generations. It shall stand as one of the great triumphs of my country's history."

Hawkeye was surprised to hear that from her. "Hey, it's fine. Besides, you and your troops did most of the work."

"We wouldn't have been successful, had you and the others not been there." Riesz insisted. "Nor would we have prevailed against those two assassins, Bill and Ben-" she stopped herself, seeing Hawkeye look at her before turning away. It was quick, yet Riesz noticed the thief's hurt expression. "I apologize. That was out of line." the soon-to-be queen said. Even if it was difficult, the truth was that, despite the lives that they had taken, those that invaded the Citadel were also victims of the same fiends who'd sacked her home. It didn't make it any easier, as it was also the truth that those that were lost couldn't be brought back.

"No, it's fine. I get it." Hawkeye said. "I mean...I thought your country's way of doing things wasn't exactly ideal."

"And, what is your verdict now?"

The thief pondered for a moment. "It's...tolerable."

Riesz crossed her arms. "Normally, I would take offense," she said. "But...I shall make an exception this one time. On the condition that neither of us compares the other's nations in...adversarial tones again. Agreed?"

Hawkeye thought for a moment. "Hm...I'll take that."

Much to her surprise, Riesz found a smile on her face. She was somewhat relieved to see him perk up so quickly, but she wondered whether it was genuine or not. And while she wasn't sure whether or not it would do anything, she wasn't exactly a...warm person, but she nonetheless wanted to at least distract his mind from unpleasant things.

"As I recall," she began. "You have seen and know of my country but I don't recall if you told me anything of yours."

Hawkeye thought for a moment. "No. No, I don't believe I have."

"So...enlighten me," Riesz asked him. Or told him, Hawkeye wasn't entirely sure. He was wondering whether or not she could tell when she was casually talking or commanding him. "Oh, only if you want to," she added. "I'm fine whether you wish to talk or not."

The violet-haired thief thought about this for a moment, yet stayed silent for a while longer after making his decision, analyzing Riesz's reaction. Even if she tried to hide it, he could tell that she was genuinely interested. "Well, since you asked," he told her. "I guess I should get talking because we've got a lot of ground to cover. And that's not even half of it."


It took Charlotte going back to the village to discover that the one she had been searching for never left the hut. "Kevin?" she saw the beastman huddled in the corner, he turned to see her, surprised that she was even there. "Can't sweep?" she asked.

"...maybe." he admitted. "Y-Yeah."

"Why don't you come out, then?" Charlotte asked. "It's pwetty out tonight."

Kevin shook his head. "I...don't really like going when the moon's out."

Charlotte didn't need to ask why; what took place during the infiltration of the Citadel in Laurent still resonated with her. Given that she had located the beastman so quickly, the girl wasn't going to waste this opportunity. "I'm not scawed." Kevin was surprised at Charlotte's forwardness, even more so when she entered the tent and took him by the hand. He struggled a bit, yet ultimately surrendered and let her lead him along. Even if he was concealed in the shadows, away from the moon's light, he didn't want to take the chance. He didn't want to hurt her.

But now, he was allowing her to lead him out, right into the light of the very thing he tried to avoid. He stopped, eyes widening as the moon's light hit his hand, his fingers growing into claws. "N-No, wait." He protested, yet as he saw Charlotte still holding his transformed hand, he also saw that she was somewhat nervous too.

"It's okay." She said, determined to go through with her plan. "I twust you."

He did not share her confidence but didn't fight her either as she tugged on his arm. Kevin came out and, in the light of the moon, transformed into a more muscular, bestial version of himself. He looked to see Charlotte's wide eyes, seemingly not prepared. Goodness, he was bigger than she remembered. Still, she told herself that, werewolf or no, this was still Kevin.

And she was going to prove that to him too.


"What do you mean it doesn't matter?" Angela asked, bewildered by what she had just heard.

"I mean that it doesn't matter," Duran said, repeating what he had said moments ago. "Even if things DID turn out alright in the end...it wasn't due to me. What I 'did' was only because of Lumina and Shade."

"Nonsense!" Lumina popped out. "You tapped into the Mana Stone's power and rescued everyone from that Gova meanie!"

Shade then manifested, having a few words to say but keen to make them count. "Gova was my pupil, one of the strongest of his kind. Valiant as your efforts may have been, had you been without the Stone's power, then you would've had no chance," he explained. "Gova knew this, and thus, put you at a disadvantage by cursing you so your life would slowly drain away."

"No, he cursed everyone else," Duran answered. "He tried, but I guess Faerie's bond prevented that."

Faerie now decided to come out, Duran being surrounded by the three. "I suppose not even someone like Gova can compete with the power of the Goddess. It is She that forged our bond, after all," she told her host. "But shouldn't that be reassuring to you?" she asked. "Gova couldn't curse you, let alone kill you. True, it was to suit his own needs, but this ultimately led to you defeating him."

Angela looked on as Duran continued to shoot down what the spirits and Faerie said, no matter whether it was the truth or simple reassurance. While she had suspected as much, Duran's current grief had to do with the events that transpired on the ghostly ship they had barely survived. Or rather, they HAD indeed perished but were saved at the last second. Angela wasn't sure which was the truth, yet the possibility of actually having one's soul sucked out from their body...ugh. She didn't wish to think about it, the experience was still quite unpleasant to think about.

"Why are you so upset about it?" Faerie asked. "I mean, everything turned out alright in the end, didn't it?"

"THAT'S NOT THE PROBLEM!" Duran bellowed, his voice shaking the trees and echoing throughout the entire island.

Faerie fluttered back, startled by the vehemence in the young man's voice. And Faerie could not only see but also feel his rage. He was angry at Gova, angry that he had dared to trap them all, tricked them into eating decayed, rotting food, forced them to play his stupid "game", and even worse, stole the souls of those around him, along with countless others that had boarded that ship.

"That's not the problem," Duran repeated, his voice now soft and tired. "It…"

"No, it's not." Angela interrupted, figuring it out. And all it took was a brief moment to recount what she had heard from Duran aboard the ship. "The problem is that you chose Shade over us." Duran whirled his head around, shocked to hear her say that. Nonetheless, she continued. "You were afraid that, perhaps, you'd made the wrong decision." the soldier wrapped his arms around himself, not exactly wishing to hear Angela's words. But it seemed that there would be no stopping her now.

"The problem is that you were unable to save us...and the world at the same time."


In all honesty, Hawkeye found himself barely able to scrape up anything to tell Riesz. True, he knew of current events and what occurred in his lifetime, and he was quite eager to tell her of those events. But when it came to how the nation was founded, frankly, the thief found himself without a thing to say.

"...that's it?" Riesz asked, then cursed herself for her insensitivity. "Oh, don't think that this means I'm not interested. After all, Laurent is, by comparison, a fairly new nation," she assured. "If anything," she said, pausing. Did she dare say it? "...it adds a mystique to your lands."

"Mystique?" Hawkeye questioned.

"Well...yes," she answered. "Such places are usually ones with fantastic histories and mysteries."

The thief gave a coy smile. "Oh, really?"

Riesz then cleared her throat. "Well...perhaps I'm… romanticizing it."

Hawkeye then grinned wider. "Even if all of what I know is from a group of criminals? And, not to mention, you think I'm a criminal as well?"

The blonde Amazon was confused. "I have never thought you were a criminal!" Scoundrel, yes. But not a criminal.

"But I AM a criminal." Hawkeye insisted. "I break into the other people's homes and rob them of their goods. I know techniques that could maim, cripple, paralyze, or even kill a man."

"But you haven't done any of that yet," Riesz countered. Granted, she didn't necessarily...believe that the ways of his guild were...lawful, but to label them all criminals would be…Riesz reflected on what she had just thought.

"Riesz?" Hawkeye asked, wondering why the blonde had gone silent.

"It's nothing," she said. She had so much she wanted to say to him just now, but that would have to wait until later. For now, he needed to reflect upon better times. "I...suppose...a better term for you would be…" she then looked at him, and, to his surprise, gave him a coy smile. "Scoundrel."

Hawkeye's eyes widened, he seemed completely flabbergasted. Riesz found herself caught off guard, and, to her embarrassment, released a giggle from her throat.

"Oh my!" Hawkeye exclaimed in mock stupefaction. "Dost my ears deceive me? Was that a laugh? Better, yet, was that a joke for you?"

Riesz's cheeks grew red. "Perhaps."

Hawkeye shook his head. "No, no, I'm PRETTY sure it was both of those things."

"Even if it was, they were...small ones," Riesz answered.

"I'll take them," he said.

It was good to see him return to his usual demeanor, but still, Riesz could tell that he remained troubled.


Charlotte clung onto the werewolf's back as he ran, the blonde feeling her hair and the world rush by, her small hands holding on as best she could. Granted, Kevin wasn't going too fast, yet nonetheless, he wished to find a private spot, whether in or outside the village. Ultimately, the werewolf decided that he didn't want to be confined to the small area housing the sentient fruit. Leaping over the fence and rushing through the jungle, Charlotte's eyes spotted various tropical plants and the small glimpses of animals and creatures that shrunk back upon hearing the far larger lycanthrope coming close. How long they ran, the blonde girl didn't know, yet as her "steed" did so, she found herself enjoying the sensation of traveling so fast, the wind almost straightening her curly locks due to the speed Kevin was traveling.

They went on and on, Charlotte beginning to doubt they would ever stop. Then, at last, Kevin reached his destination. Wherever this place was. Had either she or Kevin knew where Hawkeye and Riesz were, they would've seen that this place was at a far grander height. Not only the sea but the village, the surrounding jungle, and even the great mountain. The girl and beast could see nearly the entire island from where they were! Charlotte stared on, wide-eyed, then heard a relaxed sigh from Kevin.

"This is so coow." the blonde said. Sure, she had been at far higher heights before, especially after her little...misadventure with Springy, but those incidents weren't exactly pleasant. Not to mention that she was too busy screaming and couldn't appreciate the world below. She looked at Kevin, who took to sitting a short distance away from her. Even if it was sort of amusing to see him sitting just like a dog, albeit a very BIG dog, she could tell that he wasn't entirely at peace. She walked up to him, noticing the werewolf's hairs standing up. "What's wwong?"

Kevin didn't answer, assuming one didn't count a low huff as one. Charlotte pondered for a moment whether or not beastmen had their own language when they transformed. Regardless, she continued closer, noticing Kevin beginning to back away. At first, she found it humorous that a big thing like him was scooting away from her as if he were afraid!

Afraid…

Looking him over again, Charlotte found that, indeed, the werewolf was afraid. She didn't need to ask why. Yet still, she approached him, hastening her steps so she could hopefully catch him before he moved away again. Thankfully, she managed to catch him by the tail...well, perhaps "thankfully" was too strong a word. Kevin was so startled by the act that he lurched forward as if to run, and Charlotte was yanked off her feet and sent crashing into his back. Seizing the opportunity given her, she dug her fingers into his fur, despite her disorientation.

"Thewe." she told him, convinced she was victorious. "Now you can't get wid of me." as if to emphasize her point, she climbed up and laid her elbows on the werewolf's head. She waited for a response from him, mentally cheering when he didn't try to get her off. Of course, this was due to something quite distressing, she was sure, but she didn't want to delve too deep.

She wouldn't dare bring up Karl.


True, she had told him that, if he had no knowledge of the far distant past, then what he knew of more recent history would suffice. And she found that he had QUITE a lot to tell her. By the end of this night, Riesz was certain that she would know each and every detail of Hawkeye's guild. Each and every face, name, personality, everything that made up the eclectic band who, up until recently, had been far different from those who'd invaded her home. Secret tunnels that ran all throughout the fortress, where the best places to get a whole view of the desert were, the choice shops in the remote villages or capital, all of this was told to her. And it was told with such enthusiasm, she couldn't help but be engaged in Hawkeye's nostalgic tale of his home.

True, the Citadel was a multi-floored fortress in itself, but the way Hawkey described his residence struck such a contrast to how she saw her own. She loved Laurent, and while she was a fairly new nation, having been just established by her grandmother, Galura, the land around them had tales of its own. One in particular detailing a supposed "Path to the Heavens."

What seemed to really get the thief going, however, was telling her of the guild's many, MANY heists. True, Riesz had made it clear that she viewed such a lifestyle as "unlawful", but she was...interested in hearing about them.

"So, you're interested in hearing of my crimes, are you?" Hawkeye asked her, coyly.

Riesz stiffened, but she saw the satisfaction on his face. His handsome face. She caught herself. "Well... seeing as you say thievery is essential to your survival, as well as a way to punish those you see as exploiting their fellows, you now have a chance to make your case."

"Well then," the young man chuckled. "I shan't disappoint."

He delved into everything, from his very first heists to those that had occurred more recently. Tales of how he learned the skills he had now, the lessons that had honed them, the friendships that he had forged with those around him (though he tried to not bring up Bill and Ben in front of Riesz), all of this was told to her. And, thankfully for him, she appeared interested. Engaged, even. She sometimes threw in a comment here and there about how "dangerous" the thief's escapades were, or gave credit to the organization and tactics of his fellow thieves. Albeit, only in so much that she appreciated their skill, but not their "occupation."

But what seemed to get the biggest reactions out of her was when Hawkeye told of some of his more...memorable moments. These didn't all have to do with robbing from those who could clearly spare a few lurce. Some involved pranks, accidents, and funny quirks of the people around him; overall, anything he found to be somewhat humorous. He was currently telling her of how a rather fat cat had just been relieved of some "extra" cash. And no, the "fat cat" in question was not Niccolo, even if he did like his fried fish a little too much. Regardless, the high-ranking member of Nevarlan society had, obviously, taken umbrage at his purse being emptied and had tried to stop them.

"I, of course, had a surprise for him," Hawkeye said with pride.

By this point, Riesz could only roll her eyes. Even if this young man and those who'd been his friends were law-breakers, she felt that she might as well be hearing about the antics of neighborhood kids. It's just that his profession of thievery was, sometimes, involved. "Enlighten me. What happened?"

Hawkeye had to keep himself from laughing. Even now, just thinking about what happened sometimes was enough to make him burst out laughing. "Well, he came running at me, and it was clear that perhaps he needed just a teensy bit more exercise in his life." Again, Riesz rolled her eyes but listened on. "And, seeing as we were taking some stuff off his hands, and he wasn't going to simply let us leave with it, I had to come up with a...distraction."

Riesz doubted very much that the young man actually harmed the one he'd been robbing - even if he was already breaking the law by that point, his stories had made it clear he had lines he did not cross - but still, what did he do exactly, she wondered. "Which was?"

Hawkeye took a moment, a giggle threatening to spill out. "It didn't take much, his robes weren't exactly thick." he then made a slicing motion with his hand, signaling what he did. "I just made a few quick cuts here and there, and…" he couldn't stop a snort from escaping him. "And then…"

"And, then what?" Riesz asked, She was too deep in now, she had to hear what happened.

"And then...everything came off." Hawkeye snickered. "Everything!" he couldn't contain himself anymore. "He was wearing boxers, thank the Goddess...but the look on his face…oh, that's a moment I'll treasure forever!"

Riesz also found she was unable to contain herself. She was partially ashamed she was laughing, given that the humiliation might've been more than the man deserved, yet she couldn't deny that the whole thing sounded quite hilarious. "You…" she managed to get out in between her own laughter. "You are terrible!"

Hawkeye finally caught his breath, wiping a tear from his eye. "I hope 'terrible' is alright with you then. Because that's far from the first time I've used that technique. That was just my first time trying it out."

Riesz finally managed to collect herself. "And I suppose your use of said technique got better with time?"

"Oh, yeah," Hawkeye said. "Though mind you, I NEVER have, nor intend to ever relieve a lady of her garments."

"Oh yes, like THAT is supposed to excuse all the thievery and robbing you had just told me about!" the blonde retorted. "Still...even if I don't know how much I'd like living in a desert, your home sounds...nice."

Hawkeye nodded. "Yeah. Sure, I won't lie by claiming Nevarl doesn't have its problems, but it's the people in charge that won't do anything to change it that I really mind. Not to mention that it's always been one of the poorer countries. On the losing side of many wars."

"And, I assume, due to such things, your people aren't exactly well-liked." Hawkeye nodded to answer Riesz's question. "Well...unfortunately, things like that can't be helped. After all, history, true history, is written by the victors."

Hawkeye gave a half-hearted chuckle. "True," he admitted. "Though, you'll see to it that it's told they couldn't have stopped themselves, right?"

"Of course," Riesz said. "I admit, I only found it in me to forgive after I heard your story," she bit her lip. "But ultimately, I shall make it known." her fingers curled, gripping at the blades of grass. "Besides, the blood is on that witch's hands." she hissed. "And, if she knows what's good for her, she had better not have spilled a drop of Elliot's."

Hawkeye suddenly grew stern, looking her dead in the eye. "That won't happen," he told her. "I won't let it happen."

Riesz shook her head. "I appreciate it, but you have your own burdens."

"Riesz, I mean it." she then felt him take her hand in his. His skin was somewhat callused from continuous use of his daggers, yet even so, the young woman found herself focusing on how gently he held her own hand. There was a slight chill in the air, so it only made her focus on his hands holding hers even more.

Goddess, he feels warm. But...a pleasant warmth.

"I…" he began, stumbling over his words, very much unlike how he was able to speak before. "I'll be honest. I...I don't know what'll happen." he admitted. "I don't know what's going to happen next. No one does, I guess." he chuckled. "And...yeah. What happened on that ship was cutting it just a bit too close."

Riesz was silent, her blue eyes focusing solely on him as if transfixed. Had he always looked this appealing before? True, his physical shape was the same, and Riesz had little to no interest in appearances. After all, of what worth was a beautiful body without at least a decent soul? But now, after everything that had occurred, Riesz found her interest in him growing. And only now did her eyes want to take in all that she saw.

"But I promise. You will go back to your country with your brother," he told her. "And you'll return as Laurent's Queen." he noticed her expression gain a small twinge of sadness. "And you'll be a damn good one. The best. But either way, if it falls to me, I'll bring your brother home." he then gave her hand a small squeeze. "And you with him."


It all made sense now. Duran's dour spirits and aloofness as of late, his reluctance to discuss what had occurred on the haunted ship, and better yet, how he suddenly seemed uncomfortable with so much as glancing in Angela's direction, let alone meeting her gaze.

He still remembered seeing Gova suck the essence from her body, seeing her still form begin to slowly shrivel up, knowing well that, even IF he somehow managed to get her soul back, she wouldn't have much of a body to return to. "I...I took a gamble." Duran said. "I took it, and we're only here because we, once again, somehow got lucky." he sighed.

"Perhaps. Don't discount luck, though. It's saved me plenty of times in the past!" Lumina interjected. "But still, you deserve some credit, hun! Besides, it allowed you to channel the Light side of Mana, right?"

Faerie looked at the Elemental and shook her head. Her host was unconvinced.

Seeing as none of these otherworldly beings weren't having much success, Angela decided that perhaps a more "direct" approach was in order. "So, tell me," she said. "Let's just say, you DID have control of the situation," Angela began. Duran was about to ask what she was even talking about, but she continued, not giving him a chance to speak. "How would it play out?"

The soldier was confused. "Why would that-"

"Answer the question." Angela interrupted. "What would've happened, if you had it your way?"

Duran pondered this. Or rather, he HAD been pondering this since they had all arrived on the island. There were SEVERAL things he would've done differently. For one, he wouldn't have up and mouthed off to that Gova bastard, he wouldn't have allowed that same bastard to steal the souls of his comrades so easily, and...and he'd...he wasn't sure whether or not he would've chosen to free Shade over the others again. "Things…" he said, for even if what he wanted to say was clear, he still wanted to maintain some semblance of strength. The whole ordeal on the ship was a lethal blow to his pride. "Things...just would've been different," he said. "I...I'd find a way to save Shade AND you all."

"But...what DID happen?" Angela asked. Duran looked down. All right, perhaps she went a little far with that. She didn't intend to upset him further, she only wished to make a point. After all, even with everything that had happened, they were all okay now, right? Still, it was clear that Duran wasn't going to be satisfied with such an answer. So, quite surprisingly, when he began speaking again, Angela grew quiet and listened.

"When I was very young, my father told me about a knight's true purpose; above allegiance, kingdom, rank, above all else," Duran began. "A knight's true purpose is to protect and defend those that are unable to defend themselves." he sighed. "And...yes. I guess this DOES sort of come from a more...personal source." Personal as it may have been, it didn't make it any less of a reason for him to acknowledge it. "But...but in that, if there is no other option, then my father said that such a thing didn't require a knight," he said. "If life is threatened in any way, then whether someone has a sword or armor doesn't matter." Indeed. Even now, despite knowing his father for so short a time and the many years that had passed since his death, Duran kept every memory he had of his father close. "What matters is whether or not someone is a knight in their soul. And…" he bit his lip. "And a true knight should die before allowing those he is sworn to protect to come to harm."

Angela froze. "Duran," she started. "You...you don't mean-"

"I admit that I don't want to!" the young man shouted. "Cowardly as it may be, I think it's safe to say that anyone, no matter who they are, doesn't wake up wanting to die that day!" he then tried to calm himself down. Goddess, he hated losing himself to all the confusion and chaos in his head. Let alone having Angela see him like this. He'd just learned to tolerate Faerie knowing each and every aspect of him. "But...but if it has to come to that...I don't want you to..." he then looked at Angela again. "I don't want any of you to...be lost...because I wasn't able to do my duty. No, not duty. Just...what I should do. What I'm supposed to do."

Angela felt taken aback by what she had just heard. True, she knew the young man held deeply-rooted beliefs concerning the ways of a warrior, but to hear him say that he would rather lose his own life than see any of the others lose theirs...suffice to say, it made Angela burn up. "That...is the dumbest thing I've ever heard."

Duran couldn't believe what he just heard. But before he could retort, Angela continued speaking.

"I admit that I don't know much about knighthood or codes of honor, but you're an idiot for thinking that ANYTHING good would come from you dying!"

Duran sighed. "Yeah, I know. The Mana Sword-"

"No, screw the Sword," Angela said. "I'm talking about you." she drew closer to him. "Even if I was to wield the Sword like grandpa fruit seemed to think, what good would it do any of us if you died?"

The wild-haired young man found himself not exactly able to answer. "Well...like I said. A knight-"

"And that's another thing. I don't care about your knighthood." Duran then felt a hand come to rest upon his shoulder. "Your life wouldn't be worth any less." seeing as she had his attention, she continued on. "This...this whole thing is crazy. And, yes, we were all kind of just thrown into it." Indeed, there were times she still wondered where she would be now if none of what happened had ever occurred. "But...we're here now. And...and last time I checked, we're all aiming for the Mana Holyland. So that means we're all in this together." she then appeared to be debating something in her mind. After a few moments, the Princess lifted up her hand to cup the young man's cheek. "Whether you like it, or not."

He felt her far softer palm press into his cheek, still trying to process what he had just heard from her. "You know," Duran finally found himself able to speak again. "When you're not being insufferable, you can be rather wise."

"'Can be'?" Angela questioned, almost sounding affronted. "I know every text in Jose's library like the back of my hand. That's the hard stuff." her tone then grew softer. "It's just...when someone gets a stupid idea like yours in their head, they need that stamped out right away." she drew even closer. "Because you matter just as much as any one of us."

The two young people stared at each other for a long moment, both pairs of eyes looking the other up and down, taking in each and every curve, dip, slant, and angle of the other's form. Even if they always knew of the others' assets, such things didn't really seem to matter before. Or rather, there was nothing of substance to tie them to. At least, that's what they both assumed when they first saw each other back at the entrance of the Cascade Cavern.

Angela's skin was a lighter color than Duran's, giving her a pale complexion. But here, under the moon, the young man found that the light of the celestial body emphasized the contrast between her skin and her vibrant, violet hair and light, green eyes. It was no secret that Duran was well toned with a decent amount of muscle on him, and before, Angela just hoped that some of that muscle went to his brain, seeing as he seemed like he had quite the short fuse. But seeing his midriff and chest bared naked for her to see...she found her eyes stuck on him. They would have to try and see if they could mend their clothes in SOME way (no way they were walking around in these outfits, especially not into a town!), but for now, Angela found there were some benefits. Angela couldn't help but let her hand stray down from Duran's shoulder to his chest, her nails tracing over his pectorals. He didn't stop her, shuddering slightly as her fingers lightly graced his flesh. She used an even amount of pressure, not enough to cause pain, but not light enough to tickle. Duran appeared to be enjoying this treatment, her hand then migrated to his abdomen. Angela ran her hand over each and every one of the bulges that comprised his abs, the young woman feeling her fingers begin to tingle as her eyes devoured what was in front of her.

The two young people looked at each other, surprised at what they had just done. Nevertheless...they found little reason to not continue, the distance between the pair shirking. Lips inching closer and closer, eyes curiously studying them, wondering if it was even the right time for such a thing. Let alone if either of them even KNEW the other long enough to take such a leap!

Despite all this, the two were drawn to each other, distance vanishing more and more until they were mere inches away.

And then…

And then the entire island was rocked with a great tremor, Duran and Angela's footing lost as the sudden quake sent them sprawling. Alarmingly, the shaking and rumbling grew so violent that it made it near impossible for either to stand. But before either of them could question just what was happening, the shaking died down, the island growing still once again.

"Oh great." Both of them turned to see the Tomato Men's Elder shaking his head. "Well, it looks like your stay here's going to be even shorter than expected."

Note: And that's it for now. Again, thank you to all my readers, and to the editor of this chapter, Falchion1984.

It took me until now to learn this, but always, ALWAYS have someone look over your work BEFORE you post. That should've been obvious to me, but I'm an idiot.

Thank you all for reading, and I hope to see you in the future!