HoloJourneys

by vanderblast

A fateful encounter with a fluffy sheep inside a castle dungeon, begins a journey that will change the world. In a world of magic, swords, magical spirits and endless possibilities, Anon, sets forth on a journey with his friend Watame to see everything this world has to offer and to find their origins. The journey won't always be easy, but together, they can always make it through.

21. A Forest to Save and Fairies to Find

You wake up on the floor of Pomu's treehouse, alone. For some reason, none of this seems strange to you as you get up and open the front door to leave. The doorway then disappears completely at your touch to reveal the vast shining splendor of space. You look behind you to find that the woodland home has vanished, with nothing but an endless sea of stars and planets as far as the eye can see. Your brain starts to make the connections of where exactly you are.

No Koyori tonight? You think to yourself as you turn to scan the area. This doesn't exactly match the pattern so far, but then again, what about Koyori makes sense?

As you begin to focus in a particular direction, a head bigger than a house suddenly rises up in front of you.

"Hey you!" Sana beams. "How's it goin'?!"

"Sana!" You yelp. "Don't scare me like that! How do you even just appear like that?!"

"Maybe I'll show you one day." The choco skinned woman manages to say as she snickers. "You gotta lighten up too! I thought this was our thing. You show up here in space, I come give you a small spook, we have a great time. It just works, no?"

"For you maybe…" You huff as you try to slow your heart down. "How are you here already? 'Our thing' usually involves two more stops before this one, not that I'm not thrilled to skip what comes right before this…"

"I dunno." Sana shrugs. "I just noticed your dreamspace was accepting visitors and coyote free, so I swooped in. So how've ya been?! Did you get a chance to find Aries?!"

"I did, actually." You reply as your mood considerably improves at the idea that Koyori is seriously nowhere to be found.

"Annnnnd? How'd it go? Did you show your little sheepfriend?" Sana asks with a very mischievous look on her face.

"I thought you were some kind of interstellar observer. Don't you already know?" You snap, the moment you and Watame shared stargazing was wondrous, but also very private, even to space women who appear in your dreams.

"I'm not watching you all the time, silly. I'm not gonna watch while you try to swoon your lady friends. That would be weird." Sana waves as she chuckles.

"At least that's one person who won't try to…" You mutter under your breath before noticing the still expectant stare Sana's bright golden eyes are giving you. "It went…well. She really liked it. I liked showing it to her. I even was able to make a small star out of my own mana."

"You did?!" Sana gasps as she scoops you up with her hands and holds you closer to her face. "That's amazing, little guy! I knew you could! So how did it feel?! To make a whole star right in your hands?!"

"It didn't stay around very long though." You feel the need to clarify. "But it felt…right. I'm surprised that making a unique shape with my magic came easier."

"That's cause you got a gift! One that I am SO excited to watch grow. It's gonna be so fun seeing what you end up doing."

"I'll try not to disappoint? It's a little nerve wracking being watched by someone who has the power to break into my dreams. How often are you watching me anyway?" You say as you feel yourself getting a little more relaxed around the cosmic girl, the praise she gives so enthusiastically probably helps with that.

"Well I can't watch ya all the time. I only got two eyes after all." Sana starts. "I'll be around for the fun stuff though! Which, by the way, want to hang out?!"

"What? Like do more astrology?" You ask, very confused over what a celestial being like this considers "hanging out".

"Nah. We'll skip the lessons for today. Won't it just be fun to fly through space together? There's a lot of cool things I can show you. What do you say? Pleaaaaase? It'll be fun. I promise." Sana says with a pleading smile and widened eyes that would make it hard to deny any request this girl might have.

"Sure, why not?" You shrug. "I'd be lying if I said I didn't have a little fun last time. Just take it a little slower this time."

"No problem! Where we're gonna go first ain't too far from here. Want to ride on my shoulder this time?" Sana says excitedly before not waiting for your answer, and taking you gently by the back of your shirt with her thumb and finger, and placing you on her opposite shoulder, close to her face.

"Comfy?!" She asks with a bright smile.

"Uhh sure." You say nervously as you try to adjust your footing, reflexively placing your hand on the first sturdy thing within reach which just so happens to be Sana's cheek.

With you as secure as you can be aboard a giant space woman's shoulder, you begin to soar through the cosmos at a speed that doesn't threaten to rattle your head off your neck this time. Accepting the idea that Sana and by extension, this very galaxy within your dreams are very much their own things and not imagined by you, makes you want to take in and savor every last detail.

Each star that passes you by is unique; with their own shapes, sizes, and even degrees of brightness. Planets of all colors and sizes are spread across the starlit canvas of the universe. Some even have their own moon, and some even have more than one! Are all these planets and stars actual places out in space?

You shake your head to be rid of such deep thoughts. There was more than enough to worry about on your own planet.

"Somethin' the matter?" Sana suddenly asks as you continue to fly. "You look like you're thinking too much again."

"It's just. There's a big problem I need to find the answer to when I wake up." You let yourself say. "I'm just a little worried, that's all."

"Well I got just the thing to make those worries disappear!" Sana declares as she slows down and directs your attention with an outstretched arm and open palm turned upwards in presentation. "Tada! It's a black hole!"

Maybe only a few miles ahead of you, or maybe hundreds of thousands, is a dark purple swirling mass that covers everything it touches. The sight makes your stomach drop slightly, as you can feel the pull and danger of such a void from here.

"Pretty cool eh?" Sana then asks proudly. "Hey. Watch this."

Before you can utter another word, Sana reaches over with her opposite arm, grabs an entire planet within her palm, and begins to cock back. With a mighty overhand throw, she hurls the planet straight towards the black hole. The dark green sphere is stopped to a halt at the dark whirlpool's perimeter before being forcibly sucked directly into its center. Just like that, the planet was no more.

"Wasn't that awesome!?" Sana turns her head toward you to see your face still trying to process the magnitude of what you just witnessed.

"But you just threw an entire planet in there…" You say, the shock only just starting to dissipate.

"There ya go overthinkin' again." Sana puffs her cheeks. "It's just a dream. No harm done. I thought you would like it…"

"I do! I mean I did!" You stammer, the pouty face of your interstellar companion makes you feel more than just a twinge of guilt. "It's just that I'm still getting used to the part where this is a dream. It feels so real after all."

"Sorry if I've been rushing things a little." Sana then says to you. "I just got so excited that you agreed to hang out with me that I forgot that this is all still new to you."

"While it's true I've seen more than my fair share of intense things already, it never quite prepares me for the next like it should." You chuckle. "Just when I think I'm ready for what's next, what's next comes and knocks me flat on my butt somehow.."

"But you get right back each time!" The cosmic woman says fondly as she offers you her hand to step onto, as she then brings you face to face with her. "That might be why I have a little trouble holding back my excitement. You seem nice, you can make pretty stars, and you go on great adventures!"

"Life has been pretty fun since I found my friends and magic. I was hoping exploring the forest I'm in now would be fun too, but I can't help but have a bad feeling about it." You let yourself begin to confide in your celestial acquaintance.

"Things do seem kinda rough down there. You're worried about all those dead plants and things right?" Sana asks, her chipper expression becoming more somber.

"Mhmm, but how do you know about that? I thought you weren't watching me all the time."

"Heard about it from a friend." Sana says matter of factly. "Just talked to her a while before you showed up. She's kinda got a thing for nature. Just like you! You shouldn't worry too much though. My friend said she thinks things will turn out just fine."

"But how fine can things really get?" You ask with your own doubt rising along with your voice. "Even if something magical is harming the forest, even if I get rid of it somehow, it can't reverse the damage that's been done already. I can't heal it all by myself. And then while I think Pomu is really nice, I'm starting to think that Flare is right, and she is holding something back from us. So that is driving me crazy too, because she is supposed to be one of Sylph's servants and I want to, I NEED to trust her but-"

Your ramblings are then interrupted by a sharp poke to your stomach from Sana's finger that causes you to stumble back a few paces. The tanned woman looks back at you with an unhappy stare.

"Crikey, do you think you'll get anything done making yourself go mental like that!?" She scolds you. "You've found a way out of every sticky spot you landed in so far, yeah? Why should this time be any different?"

"I don't know." You sigh. "Everything so far has been so simple in comparison; see someone in need, stop some bad guys, everything's suddenly fine. This just feels so much bigger than me."

"But it ain't just you. Is it?" Sana asks you, as those golden orbs of hers narrow, almost as if piercing your entire being. Why does that feel almost familiar?

"No…it's not just me." You say as you begin to understand the meaning behind Sana's question. "I got friends, great friends who always have my back huh? Watame, Undine, Flare, Polka, Nene, and maybe even Pomu too. "

Another sharp poke from Sana's gloved finger pushes you backward again, even harder than the first as it almost makes you fall over.

"What was that for!?" You yell.

"You forgot me." Sana grins. "I've seen what those hands of yours are capable of making. I believe you can do anything you put your mind and heart to. Check out the black hole again."

While you feel yourself flush a little at the girl's faith in you, you turn yourself around and look back at that awe inspiring marvel of outer space. Within its dark center, the faintest, tiniest sparkle of light shines.

"The smallest star can brighten even the deepest black for lightyears." Sana then says warmly.

"And that's what I want to be." You say resolute, remembering the promise you made to yourself atop the mountain with Flare. The promise you made to your friends. "You really think I can be something like that, huh?"

"You bet I do!" Sana says as she puts a gentle finger on top of your head. "Keep those friends of yours close, and they'll help you shine brighter than ever."

"And one of those friends can just so happen to propel herself right into my dreams. There's only a few ways I can keep a friend closer than that." You say with a smile as you turn to see Sana's confused expression.

"You really want to be friends!?" Sana says open mouthed and wide eyed.

"Of course. You seem pretty nice. Sure, you like to scare me sometimes, but you've shown me a lot of cool things already too. Plus, who wouldn't want a friend who can soar through the galaxy and carry them around? I think that's pretty awesome."

"Awww. I think you're awesome too, little guy!" The cosmic woman chirps as she lifts you to her cheek and nuzzles your entire body against her.

While the nickname "Little guy" irks you a little, you decide to let it slide and just enjoy the comforting touch of your newest friend. After a few more hard shifts of her cheek, Sana brings you back in front of her and just smiles happily at you.

"I gotta say though, the whole thing where I'm basically the size of an ant compared to you will take some getting used to." You say to break the silence.

"Oh that ain't a problem. I can shrink down to people size too. No sweat." Sana chirps. "How about I do that next time we hang out? We're just about out of time, and you got a big day ahead of you."

"Sure, Sana. Sounds good. And thanks again for helping me out today. I know we were just supposed to be doing nothing, but I really appreciate you telling me what I needed to hear."

"Aww. You're gonna make me blush. I just reminded you that you're never alone. Which reminds me, it's really great that you're getting so popular, Anon!"

"The girls around me do really seem to like me." You say bashfully.

"Wasn't talking about just them, mate." Sana then says to you with a straight face.

You blink and the view changes from Sana in front of a vast galaxy, to the top of Polka's blond fluffy head; her two fennec ears almost completely obscuring your vision. You also feel something wrapped around your abdomen and ever so slightly tickling your back.

Around your body is Polka's pride, her exceptionally fluffy tail. It snuggly keeps you in place close to her, which as the big spoon this time, is very comfortable, almost dangerously so. Your arms are still wrapped around her own stomach that rises and falls with the soft snores that escape her mouth. You had no idea Polka even snores. Maybe it's the combination of the view and the position you're in, but you can't help but find those sounds cute.

You still can't believe your luck, an entire night where Koyori didn't show up once. What could have happened? It was so consistent before, and you doubt the last time you drove her away was enough to do it for good. Could laying with Polka somehow be different? She has had full access to your soul before, whatever that actually means for a kitsune.

A few more moments of trying to ponder about your dreams and how Polka could have influenced them and you decide that it wasn't worth dwelling any longer. Maybe Sana is right, maybe you've been trying to think too hard lately. It still almost seems unbelievable. A friend that only appears in your dreams, but seems to know what's going on outside of them too. Just who is she anyway? Whoops, there you go again. Thinking too much. You have a soft and beautiful clown in your arms and you want to think about how an astrological girl gets her information?

Wait, you have Polka in your arms. You should probably let go of her now. It might make things a little tough for her appetite wise if she wakes up in such close contact. So why won't your arms just slide back to you?

When you manage to gather the willpower to slowly start to retract your arms, you give the fennec a small pat on the back of her head. A relaxed sigh escapes her body before she begins to wake up slowly and become aware again.

"Anon…" She grumbles in a whisper. "Is it morning already?"

"Yup. How'd you sleep?" You ask, wanting to know if any possible soul cravings kept the girl up at all.

"Pretty good. What about you?" Polka replies as she rolls her head over to see you, her wild locks and bangs sporting a particularly cute style of bed head.

"Good. Really good actually. I got no idea what it was, but I didn't see a tail or hair of Koyori all night." You say, truly appreciative of a night of truly restful sleep.

"Guess she knew better than to try and mess with me." The fennec boasts, she basks in her own pride while looking at you for a moment before her brow furrows slightly. "I should probably let you go now…you're a little brighter than usual this morning."

Polka's tail begins to unwrap itself from your body and slowly slides its length along your back; it's ticklish in a pleasant sort of way. Once you are freed from your fluffy shackle, you separate your body from Polka's and roll over to then sit on your knees on top of the soft blankets Pomu provided you.

Looking around, you see Flare, Watame, Nene, and even Pomu still sleeping soundly under their blankets in the makeshift sleeping circle you all made in the middle of the fairy's treehouse living room. Curiously, Undine is nowhere to be found. As you scan the room in vain, you decide to use a more effective method of finding the water spirit. Closing your eyes, you try to focus on your link with her. To your own surprise, something becomes clear as day to you; her presence. Like the needle on a compass, the light of her soul directs your gaze in the right direction; somewhere outside.

"I'll be right back." You tell Polka, who only responds with a sleepy nod of her head before covering herself with the blankets. You chuckle softly at the fennec's reluctance to mornings as you rise to a stand and make towards the front door.

You open the entryway and are hit with the light of the morning sun shining throughout the clearing where Pomu makes her home. The refreshing scent of freshly dewed grass and trees fills your nostrils, as you become momentarily distracted by the vibrance of nature in front of you.

"Hoo! Hoo!" An owl's call travels across the air above you, turning your attention to the rounded shape of its owner perched atop one of the healthy trees. Interesting, you didn't think an owl would be up this early. It's also surprising that one is even this far in the forest, even shortly before reaching Pomu's clearing, there were barely any animals or insects in general, and you imagine the next part of the forest will be even more devoid of animal life.

You shrug and go back to following your internal direction, which leads you around the base of the treehouse to find Undine exactly where you felt like you would.

The water spirit floats calmly in front of the sign that originally invited you into Pomu's home, her gaze pointed towards the forest you have planned to set forth into soon. You don't need to share a special pact to know that something is bothering the ancient ruler of the waters, the look in her eyes says it all.

"Morning Undine." You greet, as you walk to stand next to her. "What ya doing out here by yourself?"

"Good morning, summoner." Undine turns to you, her expression brightening a little from your company. "I had woken up first, so I decided to look at where we will be going today. I must say, what I sense ahead is almost unsettling."

You look ahead towards the part of the forest that is suffering, overcast clouds cover the sky above. They don't seem to move in the slightest.

"All the more reason for us to get to the bottom of it, right? It probably is the job of a summoner to make sure things in nature are working how they are supposed to. Besides, if Pomu's friends and family are still in there somewhere, I'm going to help them." You say, your convictions pushing past the unease you once felt.

"That is very well said." Undine lips curl to a small smile. "If you don't mind me saying, this is a very welcome shift from what I felt within you yesterday. I could feel a fair amount of uncertainty within your soul. When you talked about the trees, you had no shortage of doubts, but now those very doubts look to have evaporated."

"I just needed to be reminded that I'm not taking this on alone." You say confidently. "Which by the way, should we wake up those sleepyheads?"

Undine nods happily and floats beside you as you walk back towards Pomu's house front door. When you both turn the corner, the sounds like hurried footsteps start to pour from the tree. One by one, each of the girls come into view, hair brushed, clothes straightened, and even equipped with breakfast.

Watame skips towards you, her blond hair bouncing hypnotically as she struggles to keep her harp secure under one arm, and your spell book and sword under the other. In her mouth hangs a single slice of toast with what looks to be a generous spread of purple jelly across it. The edges of her mouth curve to a smile while flashing some of those pearly whites at you.

She muffles what you assume to be a good morning when she ends her last skip directly in front of you.

"Good morning, Watame. Thanks for bringing my stuff to me." You say happily as you relieve the sheep of your belongings, earning a pleased expression from her.

"Pomuuu." Flare whines from behind Watame. "You said Anon and Undine left for the woods already."

"Did I say that?" Pomu innocently asks with a sly smile as she flutters ever so slightly off the ground. You can't help but notice the leather rectangular satchel secured over her hip. It looks like it holds a book or maybe even a journal. "All I remember hearing is Anon getting up and saying 'he'll be back'. How was I supposed to know he meant he would be back in just a few minutes."

Flare and Polka both groan, annoyed by the fact that their sleeping in was disrupted, but you can't help but chuckle slightly at the pair.

"Anon, I swear." Polka starts. "The next town we stay at. We are sleeping in till noon! This rise with the sun stuff is killing me…"

"Nene thinks Omarun wants to sleep too much. She will lose whole day in bed." Nene comments as she takes the last bite of her own slice of bread.

"We can't waste today in bed either!" Watame chirps as she swallows her own food and turns to the others. "We have fairies to find, and a forest to save!"

"I still can't believe it's gonna happen. The summoner and Lady Undine, are going to help me. Little old Pomu. I'll finally see my family again." The fae says almost to herself, as Flare's and Polka's once tired and annoyed faces perk up a bit.

You wish you could temper the fairy's expectations a little, but you don't have the heart to do so. The way those eyes of hers sparkle with hope, a hope she probably hasn't had for months, maybe even years, is not something you can bring yourself to take from her. You'll just have to man up and deliver.

"That's right." You say after securing your sword and book to their rightful positions at both your sides. "I promised to help you, Pomu, and that's exactly what I'm gonna do."

"Oh! You're going to need breakfast too!" Pomu gasps. "Hold on just a sec!"

With a wink and a twirl of her finger, the whisper of the wind begins to reach your ears. A few seconds later, two large slices of bread floating along thin airstreams come out Pomu's home and present themselves to you and Undine. To your amazement, both are spread with the same purple jelly as the ones everyone else had. How on earth does this fairy manage this type of thing with magic?

"Eat up! Ones for you too Lady Undine. I know you told me that great spirits don't need to eat while they're all see through, but that doesn't mean your tummy won't be grumbling after you need to be solid again~" Pomu says to both you and the water spirit.

Happy to put some food in your belly, you graciously take the floating square and eat half of it in one bite. The spread is delightfully sweet and has a very gooey texture.

"Wowmf! Ya gotmpf trpmh dis Undinee." You can't help yourself from speaking with your mouth full as you chew.

Undine giggles slightly at your childish behavior and phases back into tangible form. She takes her own breakfast and gives it a much smaller bite at one of its ends. As the flavor assaults her senses she holds a single hand to her cheek.

"Oh my. That is quite good." She says after swallowing. "Pomu, where did you come to get such a delectable substance?"

"Oh that? That's just a mix of stuff that grows in the forest. I was saving that last jar for a rainy day. Ya know, one of those days where you just get kinda sad and need to eat some of it away." Pomu says almost too casually.

"Been there." Polka admits.

"Nene too." Nene joins in.

"But now since we're going to find all my friends and help the forest, I won't need to ration anymore! Jelly for everyone!" The fairy says cheerfully.

Was that why she had so much food? The poor thing was probably ready to hunker down here for who knows how long, just to wait for someone who can help to show up. Let's not keep her waiting a day longer. You're going to help this strange, but kind forest fairy.

"And when we get all your friends back, you're all going to treat us to the best stuff fairies and nature can provide." You exclaim, trying to match Pomu's optimism.

With your goals set and your spirits up, you set forth towards the edge of the clearing where the forest enshrouded in fog begins. Although you already know the sight that will meet you there, it doesn't make coming face to face with the struggling woodland any easier. Your group comes to a stop in front of the only tree that looks to be doing well; the one you helped heal. It was encouraging to know it hadn't quickly declined in the passing day, but it was impossible to know how long your watery support will keep this tree healthy for. You place your hand flat against its bark and utter a silent promise to help ensure it will never have to endure such decay again.

"Nene…Nene hates this…" The orange clad girl sighs as she looks at the forest, seemingly trying to hold back sniffles.

It breaks your heart in two to see that girl sad. She has such a strong connection and appreciation for nature similar to your own, so you can fully understand how she feels. You put a comforting hand on her bare shoulder and smile when she turns to look at you; those bright emerald eyes shaking with tears.

"I know Nene. I don't like it either, but we're going to make things better. Somehow." You say to her. Even though you can't see the answer yourself, the more you tell people that you'll find it, the more you start to believe that you will.

One thing comes to mind that should perk your bubbly bear girl back up. Taking her by the shoulders, you pull her into what you hope is your best bear hug. She lets herself fall into your embrace and rests head on your shoulder.

"Long as I got you and everyone to help me, we can do this." You say, becoming more and more sure of your convictions. "So how about we see that champion of Ursol smile?"

After sniffling and wiping her tears on your clothes a little, Nene lifts her face away from your shoulder and gives you the brightest smile she can muster. The joy you feel in your chest from making this girl happy could easily become addictive; you're looking forward to seeing that smile grow even bigger when this forest is back to normal. Your eyes gaze upward towards the graying tips of the trees ahead, and you spot something that makes your head tilt slightly.

An owl is perched proudly atop one of the trees, and it appears to be looking straight at you. Its feathers are all a light brown, but what stands out the most are the two plumes that protrude from the top of the owl's head. Their tips are a much darker brown that also looks to stripe at regular intervals down the length of the two adorning feathers. Something shines just above one of the owl's large circular eyes as well, something golden, but you can't quite make out its shape from here.

Your attention is then brought back to the girl you have just finished consoling as Nene gives you a tight squeeze around your midsection, pressing a bit of air out of you in the process.

"Thanks Anon! You always know how to make Nene feel better! Nene will do whatever it takes to help make forest go back to normal!" She chirps as she continues to hug the life out of you.

"N-No problem! Nene..." You barely manage to make the sounds leave your lips as you try not to make it look like you're suffering TOO much.

After the girl with the strength of a bear finally decides to let you go, you get some much needed air back into your lungs as you recompose yourself. Your curiosity causes you to look upward again, only for the owl you saw to be nowhere in sight.

"I didn't know you had owls around here, Pomu. Are they usually up this early too?" You ask the fairy who stands looking into the fogged forest, apparently lost in thought.

"What owl, Anon?." Polka asks, as she tries to scan the area for the avian in question. "We haven't seen or heard any animals since about halfway through our trip to Pomu's. It would be kinda off if one was hanging out so close to a dying part of the forest."

"There was an owl, I heard it this morning too." You argue. "Pomu, back me up here. Owls live in your forest right?"

"Huh?!" Pomu snaps back to reality. "Owls? What cha talkin' bout, Anon?"

"Owls." You state, growing a little annoying. "Big birds. Big wings, sharp talons and beaks. Usually like to hang out at night. One was hooting right outside your tree this morning. Probably the same one just tried to stare me down too from one of the trees up there."

"Couldn't be. We fairies like to be small sometimes. An owl would gobble us right up. Besides, I'd know if something else was living in my forest. Fairy senses, pretty handy." The fairy shrugs.

Great…first green haired ladies that no one else seems to notice, the next it's owls. What's next? How about a mix? A girl that's part rat. She should be as ridiculous as possible and stick out like a sore thumb wherever she is. That would make it that much better when no one else seems to spot her. Just going crazy again I guess…let's just move on.

"Did you get enough sleep last night, Anon?" Flare then asks, looking to be genuinely concerned. "We don't have to go just yet if you need more rest."

"I'm fine." You say quickly. "Doesn't matter what I think I saw. We got a forest to explore. Now who's ready?"

Your friends look back at you with determination in their eyes. They all want to solve this mystery as badly as you do, and you know that together, nothing will stand in your way. You turn back and stare down the thickening forest; the fog within tries to intimidate you, but you won't be turning back. Pomu, and even nature itself needs your help.

"Let's start moving then." You say as you take the first few steps into the forest. "Everyone stay close to each other, and if you start to feel sick or anything, we'll turn back for now."

After affirming hums and nods, your friends begin to follow you. The closer you walk to where the fog truly begins to thicken, the worse off the trees look. It takes a considerable amount of willpower not to stop and try to heal each and every one, but you push onward.

The forest is dead silent, save for the sounds of your collective footsteps. From what you can see within the fog, the forest itself looks to have been just like the first half that led you to Pomu's house. You can imagine how strong and vibrant all these trees were, how they should be right now. The fog continues to thicken around you all to almost palpable levels. It doesn't feel poisonous though, so that is a very good sign. You do feel a little…off though. It feels as though your senses are dulling, just ever so slightly.

As you try to pierce the fog with your vision, the footsteps behind you begin to fade. You quickly twist your body, hoping to spot your friends behind you, but only the dense fog and the gray bark of the trees can be found. A pit forms in your stomach as you begin to try to cope with the idea that you might be alone. That shouldn't even be possible though. Everyone was right behind you a second ago.

"Watame! Flare! Polka!?" You yell out, but nothing calls back.

You begin to jog quickly in the direction you think you came from, hoping that you'll see, or at least crash into someone soon. Instead, your knees and shins collide with something much shorter than you, causing you to fall forward. Face first in the crusty grass, legs rested at an angle atop the shrub that brought you down, you groan as you push yourself upward with your hands.

The small circular clearing you find yourself in is veiled by a thinner layer of fog. Unrest and dread weigh down upon you, almost threatening to bring you to your knees. You put a hand over your sword's handle, the means of protection quells your fears marginally. Stepping slowly, you reach the middle of the clearing and do a full rotation to take in your surroundings.

It seems like you are truly alone before the rustle of bushes reaches your ears, and you snap in the direction they come from. Who you see walking into the clearing makes your entire body run cold.

Pink pointy ears, a large fluffy tail, and in her signature outfit and lab coat, is Koyori.

This is not happening. There is no way this is happening. Your mind begins to race almost as fast as your body begins to tremble. Am I still dreaming? Was the entire morning just a dream?! How can Koyori be here!? I know I thought about her being the cause of all this, but there is just no way. Are Chloe and Iroha nearby?! What if they got my friends….

Like so many times before, that was the only question you needed to ask yourself to know in your heart what you should do next. With a shaky hand, you grip your sword hilt tighter and pull it from its sheath.

"I-I don't know how the hell you found me, K-Koyori! B-But you better just turn around and go back wherever you crawled out from!" You bark, the act of trying to stare down the source of so much fear and uncertainty within you makes it hard to stay steady. That, and the fact that your head is almost pounding with an almost unfamiliar pain; like something was prodding its way into your skull.

Koyori says nothing. She only looks back at you with those dark and hungry eyes. The coyote doesn't even move.

"What's wrong!?" You shout, the pain in your head getting worse while your body starts to feel…floaty. "Got nothing to say!? I swear Koyori, if I find out you hurt ANY of my friends, none of your twisted inventions will stop me from paying you back one hundred times over!"

The coyote flashes a small, crooked smile at you, the tips of her fangs just peaking out. You know that look. You hate that you know that look. She feels indestructible right now. Somehow, she has all the countermeasures planned. That's why you can't risk making any hasty moves, despite how badly your body is screaming at you to fight and get it over with. You need to do something though. Every second feels like your head is getting closer to splitting.

Get a grip Anon! You've grown a lot since you last faced each other. No matter what the version in your dreams tells you, you can find a way out of this. Also never forget, you're never alone either. That's right! You may not be able to find where the rest of your friends are, but there's one that can literally never be far. Undine! Are you there!? Are you okay!?

The power and connection from your pact shines within your very soul. You feel the presence of the water spirit in your thoughts, which comes as a great relief.

Summoner? Thank goodness. When I came to find myself separated from everyone, the link we share became so weak that I could not use it to find you. Your call has strengthened our connection once more. I'm afraid I do not sense that you are closeby. Are you alright?

Not exactly. I'm kinda staring down someone I really wish I wasn't right now. I could really use your help right now. Is anyone else with you? Are they okay?

Shortly after we were separated, Nene, Pomu and I found one another. Summoner, this may sound strange, but I want you to douse yourself with a water spell.

What? Why?

Please trust me. I believe this forest is potentially making you see things that are not truly there. You need to use your own waters to purify yourself. Please, summoner.

Putting your trust in your close friend, you begin to channel your mana into your free hand, but still pointing your sword directly at Koyori to hopefully keep at her bay. The strain on your head is increasing as you try to conjure enough mana for a spell. A final desperate push creates a small collection of water that floats around your open palm. Not wanting to lose control in fear of the spell collapsing, you bring your hand up as you let the pure liquid drench your entire face and neck.

The cooling shock of the waters created by your own magic washes over you, sending a soothing sensation throughout your head. As the water drips past your eyes, you can't believe what you're seeing.

Koyori's entire visage begins to shimmer and fade away. In her place, stands Polka. Could this be another trick?

"Polka? Is that really you?" You say as you lower your sword down slightly. Those normally sparkling eyes that glisten with color and shapes seem to look right past you. You take a tentative step towards her, causing her to take two steps back in a panic.

"Polka. It's me. Anon." You say clearly to her.

"Stay away!" Polka shrieks as you take another step closer.

"Pol-"

"I MEAN IT! I'M NOT GOING BACK!" The fennec frantically screams before sprinting toward a nearby tree and vaulting to one of its higher branches.

"What the hell is going on…" You mutter as the concern over your friend mounts.

Summoner? Are you alright? Did you splash yourself? You seem distressed once more.

I'm fine, Undine. The water worked, I think. Koyori is gone, but it might have been Polka the whole time? She's freaking out too. I don't think she recognizes me. If she can even see me at all.

Nene was in a similar state when I found her. Summoner, you must help Polka regain her senses.

Alright, but how?! She's scared shitless of me at the moment. She even climbed a tree just to get away from me.

You have to break through whatever illusion she is forced to see. Find a way to show Polka that you can be no one other than you. I have a situation of my own to deal with, speak out to me when you have helped our friend and we can use our connection to find one another. I believe in you, summoner.

There is no time to dawdle on "Ifs" and "Hows". For Polka's sake, you have to do something. If what happened to you is anything similar to what's happening to her right now, she's staring her own fears right in the face. Or more in her case, running away from them…Okay. Time to show this fox that you're the genuine article. You have a few tricks that are exclusive to only you so far.

After sheathing your sword, you unstrap your spell book and open its pages to the second spell.

"I don't know what you see right now Polka, but this should help shine a light right through that fog! The second spell! Stellaruke!"

The pages of your tome shine as the veil of starlight brightens around your body. You look up towards the frightened fennec who looks over her shoulder at you. The eyes that looked at you with such fear, now look like they might be second guessing themselves. That's it, Polka! Break through this illusion.

You take a few steps towards the tree the fennec is perched on, she twitches at first, but you feed more power into your spell book, making it shine even brighter.

"Come on, Polka!" You call out. "Who else do you know that can shine like this?! This is a one of a kind performance I'm giving you here."

You can't be sure if anything you say is reaching her, but Polka continues to eye you questioningly.

"How are you doing that?!" She growls, her voice almost becoming more feral like. "Only one person I know can coat themselves in starlight, and you are NOT him."

"Look again. Look really closely, Polka. It IS the person you think. The person you KNOW me to be. Just come down, I promise you'll see for yourself."

At the base of the tree she climbed, you hold your free arm up towards her. The fennec is now turned toward you, still in full squat upon one of the branches. Conflict paints her face as she struggles with the choice she is faced with.

"Back away." She says coldly. "I'm coming down, but not before you back off."

Holding your free hand up, you back away slowly from the tree. Polka then begins to carefully descend, not taking both her eyes off you the entire trip down. Once she reaches the ground, you wait for her consent to take one step closer. She's scared, you can tell she wants to run, but you keep your spell active in hopes that it will pierce the clouds in her mind. A few more steps and you are within arms reach. There is one way you know for sure that Polka can see just who you are.

Reaching out a hand, you motion for the fennec to place her hand within it. She looks between your open palm and your eyes a dozen times at least, before taking a deep breath, she places her trembling bare hand within yours. You cup her hand gently and look into her eyes. The shape of spades are at the center of those vibrant purple pools, but you can see something else; what you hope to be the illusion breaking.

"A-Anon?" Polka stutters. "This feeling, this…soul. It's really you. Isn't it?"

"Your one and only soul snack." You joke in hopes that the one thing that will always be unique to the two of you, manages to get to the fox's ears. You try to better answer her question with a simple nod as you take your hand back and begin to gather enough mana to give your friend a dowsing that will beat whatever hold something has over her mind.

A quick flick of your wrist splashes the fennec's face with water. Polka looks at you bewildered as she continues to blink and rub her eyes with her other arm to dry them off. Those entrancing orbs begin to focus on you again, and in an instant, those spades that overlay her pupils become hearts. A smile that could light up cities stretches across her face as tears begin to form in her eyes.

"It's really you!" She cries as she wraps both arms around your neck for a hug. She suddenly pushes herself from you when she looks you up and down again, seemingly to confirm that you are actually you. "Bright soul, bright coat of starlight, hit me with a water dribble spell. That's definitely my Anon!"

"Glad you're back, Polka." You say genuinely as the fennec squeezes your cheeks with her hands in excitement. "I hate to cut the reunion short, but we gotta find the others. This forest somehow split us all up."

"That's right!" Polka gasps as she lets go of your face and steps back to give you a little breathing room, not that you minded how close the circus fox was being. "I remember we were all just walking along, and then poof! I was all alone. I ran around trying to find you or anyone, and then I wound up here…and…well…"

"Same thing happened to me." You let the fennec know as you let your spell fade and place your book back in its holster. "Not only did this forest split us up, but it played tricks with our heads too. You saw me as someone else that entire time right? You were someone else to me too; Koyori."

"I was? To you?" Polka points to herself, then back to you. "This forest made you think I was that psycho!? While you were all alone!?"

"Hey. I'm never alone." You grin, you are really starting to take that lesson to heart, and it honestly feels pretty uplifting. "I had you here, and Undine."

"But Anon, I-"

"I know I know. You saw me as someone who scared you shitless too, but we broke through didn't we? Which by the way, what DID you see me as anyway? I've never seen you more spooked in your life."

"I'd rather not talk about it…" Polka averts her gaze from you as her visible ear begins to droop slightly.

"I won't make you, but take it from someone who definitely knows. It helps." You say supportively. While you might have an idea of how hard it might be for Polka to open up about such a thing, you also know how much those who love you can help. You just want to be that person for her.

"You're right." The fox sighs. "I promise I'll tell you about it sometime soon. First we need to focus on finding the others, right?"

"It's a promise." You smile. "Let's get going."

"But Anon, we're surrounded by fog. I don't even think the magic from your spell book will be bright enough to see from more than a ten or so feet away. How the heck are we gonna find everyone?"

"The water spirit that lives in my soul." You say matter of factly to help lighten the mood. "We're like beacons to each other, remember? Now come on. Hopefully we'll find Flare and Watame along the way."

Before Polka can protest any further, you take her by the wrist and lead both of you out of the foggy clearing…not that the rest of the forest is any less obscured by the thick haze.

"A-Anon! Hold on a sec!" Polka says nervously as she stumbles slightly behind you. "You need to let-"

"No." You say sternly. "I'm not going to risk us getting separated again."

"But…I'm getting hungry…" The fennec argues, her voice almost dropping to a low growl.

"Then eat me." You don't even hesitate to say as you come to a full stop, causing the fox to almost bump into you. "Take however much you want. We both know I can handle it."

You turn to face the fennec, who turns her head away from you. Even in the heavy mist that surrounds you, you can see the strain and struggle in her eyes. What she just went through, whoever the illusion painted you to be, really shook the usually energetic ring mistress to her core. She was reluctant to feed off you back in Lu'Shaldor too; when Flare was taken from all of you. Even after she opened up to you how yours is the first and only soul she ever consciously fed on, it didn't really answer the question of why she tries to prevent herself from doing that again.

"Anon…I can't. It wouldn't be fair to you." Polka mutters. "You don't know what you're getting yourself into."

"And how is that new for me?" You fire back. "I never understand exactly what I might be getting into, but I do understand one thing for sure. I understand that I can help a friend. Someone I love a lot. Someone who is always there for me. No matter what Polka, I'm here for you. You've been an amazing friend to me since the night we met. I can't even begin to thank you for helping me discover how to use my own magic, and for helping me reunite with Undine. Please. Let me help you too."

"When did you get so comfortable with the L word?" Polka chuckles as she inhales her running nose. "You'll always be there for me though? No matter what? There's a lot about me you don't know though. Are you just okay with that? Whoever I was and who I might be?"

Polka's eyes finally look straight into your own, as if trying to find your answer before you can say it. Past your own reflection you can see the uncertainty within those purple pools, and if that wasn't a clear tell, the black club that overlays her pupil whenever she is sad or anxious is a dead giveaway. You did not need to think about your answer in the slightest. Taking the hand that still holds the fox girl's wrist, you slide it down to take her gloved hand comfortably in yours. It's almost a little strange; how fragile Polka feels. A girl you have always seen as unstoppable, unyielding, so sure of who she is and who she wants to be.

Maybe there is a lot you don't know about her yet; her past, her home, even her family, but that doesn't matter right now. Nothing you could learn would change the fact that she's always been there and cared for you. You lace your fingers within hers and bring your conjoined hands up against your chest.

"Polka, there isn't a force or thing I could learn on this earth that would stop me from being there for you. Whoever you were, and whoever you will be, I want to be there for every version of Omaru Polka there is. I'll always be in the front row for every show you put on."

To finish your heartfelt declaration, you move your hand over Polka's so that her palm is resting flat on your chest. You give an assuring smile and nod to the fennec who looks at you with a mix of surprise and gratitude.

"Just so you know. There won't be any takebacks. Kay?" She says, her tone brightening.

"Wouldn't have it any other way. And if you're still not convinced, you know what to do to be sure what I'm saying is one hundred percent the truth."

"J-Just a bite then…that's all I'll need. Promise." Polka says with a hint of anticipation. "It has been a while…"

While you want to tell your clown girl that she can have as much as she wants from you, you keep yourself from pressuring her. The act of feeding on another's soul might be a much more intimate act among kitsunes than you were originally giving it credit for. You finally got Polka to feel comfortable leaning on you for that need, you will let her set the pace from here.

Polka takes a deep breath through her nose as she presses her hand more firmly against you. The next thing you feel is a quick tickle deep within you, but from no discernable location. What feels like the air escaping your lungs comes next, then the loss of all strength in the muscles that keep you standing, your legs buckle, causing your stumble forward.

A supporting hand finds its way to your shoulder as Polka gently helps you fall into her. Her other hand glides around your chest to find a comfortable spot along your back. Your head is safely nestled between her shoulder and cheek, the fennec lets out a satisfied sigh as you begin to feel your muscles slowly start to function again.

"Thank you, Anon." Polka whispers into your ear, and even in your inebriated-like state, pleasant shivers roll down down your entire body.

"Anytime, Polka." You whisper back as you begin to feel what appears to be a light breeze blowing onto your neck from above. Bringing your hands up to the clown's shoulders to help raise you back up to a full stand, you immediately notice that the two pink locks of hair that sit under that blue bow on her forehead were spinning! Quite quickly too. Those wonderful eyes of hers have seen to regain their sparkle as well, along with the shape of pink hearts gracing those pupils of hers.

"Well, my legs seem to work fully again. How about we go find the others now?" You smile at Polka who gives you a beaming nod.

As you begin to turn around, both Polka's hands clench your shirt and she pulls herself into your chest. She lets herself bask for a few seconds before taking a long and very drawn out breath.

"Such a tasty, bright soul." She coos, slightly muffled by your clothing. "It fits just right for me, ya know?"

The wording and tone makes your cheeks flare up slightly, as you take a hand and stroke the back of the fennec's soft head. Focus Anon, you're still in the middle of a fog filled dying forest, with several friends still missing to boot.

"Okay!" Polka chirps as she springs herself from you. "I'm ready! Take us to Undine, Anon!"

While there are now several things you would like to talk about and sort through with this girl, that can all come later. You happily offer the fox clown your arm that she happily hooks hers through, and you begin walking in the direction you feel will take you back to the water spirit.

The more you walk, the more it seems like the fog thins ever so slightly. With your bond with the water spirit as your navigational needle, and Polka's sharp kitsune eyes, you both traverse more of the veiled forest with ease until a break in the trees appears ahead. Eager to reunite with your friends, you and Polka pick up the pace and practically run into the upcoming clearing.

The gray haze still hangs in the air, but not enough to hide anything from your vision. Your eyes widen when you spot Undine and Nene tending to Pomu who lays on her back on the hardened and dry grass. You and Polka unlock your arms from each other and race over to your friends.

"Undine! Nene!" You say relieved. "I'm glad you're both alright!"

"Omarun!? Anon!?" Nene then gasps as she rises to her feet and meets you and Polka halfway to lock you both in a big hug. "Nene knew sad forest wouldn't keep you!"

If you keep getting hugs like this and getting your soul snacked on, you might actually run out of air one of these times, but you are overjoyed to find that Nene is safe and sound. Pomu however, is not looking so great.

"I am pleased you and Polka are unharmed, summoner." Undine says warmly after Nene puts you and the fennec down. The water spirit's hand is resting gently on the forest fairy's head as her chest shakily rises and falls.

"What's up with Pomu?" Polka then asks, not liking the sight of the struggling fae any more than you are.

"I do not know." Undine shakes her head regretfully. "After Nene and I found each other, we came across Pomu by chance. It was as if she could not hear or see either of us."

"Pomu acted like she was sleeping." Nene adds. "She only kept walking, so Undine and Nene follow her to here. Then Undine splash her with pretty water, and she fall down."

"Another illusion?" You propose. "Did that happen to you too, Nene?"

"Mhmm! Nene might have said mean things to Undine…" The girl says shamefully while pressing her two index fingers together. "Nene is really sorry… She hopes Anon won't be mad at her."

"Don't worry about it, Nene." You reassure her. "This forest is definitely up to some shady stuff. At least we know how to stop it from affecting us, but why isn't Pomu awake?"

"We might want to figure that out later. I don't see Watame or Flare around." Polka chimes in while checking the edges of the clearing for any signs of movement.

"Dammit! That means they're still lost in there somewhere." You curse, your worry for the half-elf and sheep skyrockets. If this forest makes everyone think they see people or things they fear, that is NOT something you want either of them to have to face alone.

"Come on, Anon. Let's go find them." Polka says to you.

"Nene will come too!" Nene furrows her brow in focus.

"I think it would be best if Nene and Polka stay here." Undine interrupts you all as you are about to leave. "There is no telling if the effects the forest had on you will repeat themselves. I sensed through my summoner that the illusions that are created are quite powerful indeed. I will go with my summoner to find Flare and my little sheep. The magic of this forest does not seem to be able to affect me in the same manner."

"Undine's right. It might be safer if you two stay here and keep an eye on Pomu. I also hate to ask this Undine, but can you stay behind too?"

"Summoner?"

"Even if the forest plays tricks on my mind again, if I'm alone, I won't run the risk of thinking you're someone you aren't. Also, once I find Watame and Flare, I'll use our link to find my way back here. The forest somehow split us up without us even noticing. We'll need a way to make sure we all get back to the same place." You explain, the situation is nowhere near ideal, but this might be the best course of action.

The water spirit considers your request for a moment, she is clearly hesitant, but soon her expression softs and she nods her head.

"I will trust your judgment, summoner. I will also do my best to keep our mental link as strong as possible."

"Thanks, Undine. Polka, Nene, I'll be back soon with Flare and Watame." You nod to the two girls before turning around and braving the foggy forest once again.

You call out Watame and Flare's names as you walk, on the off chance one of them actually hears you and calls back. This plan is really a shot in the dark, you could be going in the opposite direction of where they are, but it's unfortunately the best shot you have. As you walk, you can't help but try to make sense of all the strange sensations you feel. That clearing you were just in almost felt…normal. Something about it almost felt welcoming too. You noticed the grass was not in the best of shape, but it was doing just a tiny bit better than the rest of the forest, could the fog be the real cause?

The air in this part of the forest, now that you seem to be more aware, is foreboding and heavy. You also think back to how the water spells you created earlier took a lot more effort than they should have. When you wave your hand through the fog it feels as though you are wading your hand through mana itself. As you continue your search for your friends you decide to try something; creating a mana coat of wind over your one fist. To your astonishment, the light green glow of your mana fizzles away the instant it comes to the surface. You try again, this time with water; the layer of blue light comes to your hand and begins to evaporate as well, but much slower than your previous attempt. Finally, you give mana formed by starlight a try. This latest mana coat seems to be the most resilient against whatever draining effect this forest somehow has on mana. You wonder….

Taking out your spell book, you cast the stellaruke spell on yourself and try forming a wind mana coat around your fist one last time. The light green glow holds much more steadily now while under the extra layer of protection from your book's spell.

Your magical experimentations are interrupted by the sound of leaves rustling close by. A shape enshrouded by the haze emerges from the cover of one of the trees. It's easily a woman's shape, but the hair doesn't quite match Flare's or Watame's. What look to be pointing outward from the head are not Watame's stunning horns, they're…twigs.

The figure turns toward you, and steps forward close enough to be seen. It's that girl from yesterday! The same green hair that remind you of vines, and golden eyes that seem like they can see right through you.

Not again. I do NOT have time to be dealing with this. Wait. What if she is behind all this! She might be some forest witch! Maybe she wants the fairies for some kind of spell. Wait…for some reason that doesn't feel right… Aw who cares?!

"Hey! Just who are you anyway?!" You ask as you take a few steps towards the girl, your spell book clenched tight in your grip; ready to go if she tries anything funny.

The woman only looks at you bemused, while brushing some of the hair that hangs over one of her eyes out of the way.

"Great…this one isn't talking either. Wait! Could it be Watame or Flare?" You say aloud. "But, I don't feel like I'm under an illusion…should I try splashing myself anyway?"

While the girl in front of you continues to just watch you, you gather your mana and splash yourself once more with water. To your surprise the green haired girl's visage remains, she was even giggling at you now.

"My my. You are rather funny." She says in a soft, feminine voice that is both soothing and strangely alluring.

"So you CAN talk!" You snap. "Alright, out with it! Who are you, and what are you doing here?!"

"Mayhaps I shall respond to your question with one of my own, brave adventurer." The woman begins to speak again, her tone suddenly overly playful, as if she was playing a part in some performance. "Is this the maiden you want to focus on, pray tell?"

"Maiden?" You repeat, as your temper then begins to rise. "I'm not in the mood for games! Are you even real?! Either tell me who you are, or get out of my way. My friends are still out there, and I can't waste any more time!"

"I see, I see." The woman nods, the green stringy locks of hair decorated with pink flowers bounce ever so slightly. "Does thou have the skills to find the maidens hidden in the mist? The path is treacherous indeed. One cannot traverse the forest maze with nothing but foolhardiness and starlight."

What the hell is this girl?! She's just speaking in riddles, but for some reason, I can't seem to just ignore her. I hate to admit it, but she's right. I'm just running around hoping I come across some sign of Watame or Flare. In the middle of a forest where I can barely see five feet in front of me…damn.

"So you got me there. Do you have any better ideas?" You ask snarkily.

"Mayhaps you shall find aid from above." The woman then points upwards toward one of the trees behind her.

At first you don't let your eyes leave the strange girl, thinking that it might be a trick to distract you, but the ruffling of wings pierces through the silence of the forest. You can barely make it out, but you do see a small shape perched on one of the higher branches above you.

"Not the owl too…" You groan as you pull your face down slightly. "How are you both even here?!"

"Hoot! Hoot!"

"It appears our feathered friend has kindly offered you her services. Now follow her brave adventurer! Follow your winged savior to reunite with your true loves! Which if I may be so bold as to say, nice going!" The girl then recites in a dramatic fashion.

"I'm almost starting to miss having hallucinations about Koyori…" You mutter as you resign yourself to walk past the girl in front of you towards the owl's calls as it flitters from tree to tree.

As you wrestle with the fact that you might very well be going insane, the owl continues to hoot at you in sporadic intervals, almost like it was taunting you. The supposed to be nocturnal bird seems to be enjoying guiding you far too much. On more than one occasion it does a straight dive until it is right next to your ear to deliver an exceptionally loud call. Every time it brings itself back up out of reach before you can land a swatting hand on the pest.

When you feel like you are close to your wits end, the sound of chattering voices reaches your ear. Stopping for a moment, you try your best to hone in on what direction they are coming from. A yell from far away reaches your ears; it's Watame!

"Hoot! Hoot! Hoooot!" The owl says to you proudly from its perch above you.

"Hey if you're actually real, thanks." You say to your forest guide, before facing forward to find your friends.

"Hey! No problem!" An energetic girl's voice answers, causing you to stop dead in your tracks and look back up at the owl.

Up on the frayed branch, slightly covered by the fog, sits a girl, kicking her legs back and forth while she bends her fingers up and down at you in a wave. The only thing your eyes recognize are those two distinct plumes that sit on top of her long brown hair.

You rub your eyes and half think you're under another illusion, before almost reluctantly focusing back on the same spot, only to find that the girl is gone. Instead, the owl flutters above the trees as it takes off, going who knows where through the skies.

You decide to leave questioning your sanity for later and place your book back within its straps. You then sprint off in the direction you heard the sheep's voice come from. The sound of something colliding against the trees echoes through the forest then urges you to quicken your pace.

The light from spells of music and fire colliding almost blinds you in the darkened woodland, as you arrive at the scene. When the dust clears, you are shocked to see Watame and Flare standing off against one another, armed and ready to strike again.

"I won't let you hurt Anon!" Watame shouts as she pulls on her harp strings to let loose another flurry of magical projectiles.

"As long as I'm breathing! You won't lay a finger on Anon!" Flare shouts back as she throws a fireball towards the sheep.

Another collision of spells shines brightly within the forest. You shield your eyes from the blast, while calling out to both of them, but they don't seem to hear you. They are only focused on subduing the other.

This is messed up. This forest actually has these two fighting!? Could that have been me and Polka if I didn't snap out of it? Okay, just like with Polka, I need to bring these two back to reality. Let's hope this works again.

You reach for your spell book and begin to fuel it with power. A cast with feeling, the second spell coats you with starlight. The bright light from your spell seems to direct both girls' attention toward you as their expressions brighten.

"I'm so glad you're safe, Anon!" Watame beams before looking back at her opponent with confidence. "Don't worry! I'll have this big meanie eating dirt soon! Your combat sheep will protect you today!"

"Anon! You're just in time to watch me mop the floor with this guy!" Flare boasts as she gathers more red mana into her hands. "Let's go find the others after I've burned them to a crisp!"

They're actually trying to kill each other! They're going to get hurt if you don't do something! As both ends let loose spells of music and fire, you find yourself running towards the middle of their arena. You can't deflect both sides with your shield spell, and you can't manage to make shields of water like on your own just yet. Maybe it will be enough to disperse ONE side's magic, while blocking the other. It's worth a try.

Bringing the power of the free winds to your hand, you let your mana build and build before you stand in the way of both oncoming spells. You point one arm towards the oncoming fiery assault and fuel your spell book.

"Stellashield!" You shout, and once the multi-pronged barrier is in place, you whip your hand towards Watame's magical crescendo and let the spell you've been storing unleash.

Gusts of wind blow against music, while starlight is met with fire. Without your full focus and energy on the shield spell, it crumbles under the might of Flare's own magic. The torrent of air you created only managed to send some of the musical projectile off course, and you are hit with a barrage from both sides.

The impact knocks you flat onto the ground. You quickly take one of your hands and create some water to help cool down the arm that took the brunt of Flare's fire blast. Breathing heavily, you look yourself over from your sideways position on the ground. Nothing looks to be on fire or cut, that was good at least. Your ears are ringing, but nothing seems broken.

You pick yourself up to a sitting position and cough a little. Watame's eyes look over at you, wide in shock.

"Anon!" She and Flare screams as they rush over to you.

"You're hurt! What happened!?" Watame asks you first.

"Are you alright!? How did you end up in front of my spell?!" Flare asks next before furrowing her brow at Watame. "And you get away from him!"

"You get away from him!" The sheep barks back. "I don't know how you used Anon as a shield, but I won't let you use such a dirty trick again!"

"Would you two stop it!" You shout. Both girls look down at you, and then back at one another, their faces still poised for battle. This was getting you nowhere. Whatever illusion they are under, can't be broken with just words. You don't think you can manage another water spell right now, but hopefully there is another way to clear their heads.

Groaning from the pain, you take your spell book and lay it on the ground. You reach out and take both girls by their hands, and before they can protest, place their hands flat against the book's pages. The light from your tome begins to shine brighter, its light cutting through the cloudy look that glasses over both your friends' eyes.

"F-Flare?" Watame says groggily. "When did you get here…owie…my head."

"I was going to ask you the same thing." The half-elf remarks as she presses her free hand against her temple. "I don't know what's happening. It feels like something is trying to break into my skull."

It looks like the light from your book only reduced the effects, but whatever is creating the illusions might be trying to make new ones again. You don't think you can make enough water fast enough on your own right now, but maybe Flare can.

"Flare, you need to trust me on this. You need to cast a water spell. Make it as pure and clean as you can. Then I want you to splash yourself with it." You say clearly to the half-elf, who only looks at you with a confused expression.

"Anon, what are you-" Flare starts.

"I'm cashing in my favor. Now just do it!" You plead, the risk of both of them losing sense of reality again was too great.

"Fine, fine. I don't really get it, but if this is what you want to throw away your free favor on, I won't stop you." Flare grumbles as she holds a hand up to her face and lets a small spray of water cascade over.

You breathe a sigh of relief as the azure liquid washes over her and the light begins to come back fully in her eyes. Once you see that the tanned girl has regained most of her facilities, you give her a cocky smile.

"One more, for Watame, if you don't mind." You say next, seeing that the half-elf now more or less understands what your intent was from the start.

"Sorry Watame." Flare says before letting loose a splash of water that catches yours and the sheep's faces in its spray. You've been safe from the illusions since you broke yourself from them, but I guess it can't hurt to be extra careful, right?

Watame spits out some of the excess and coughs a little, before her own eyes start to clear.

"Anon? Flare? What happened?" The sheep asks as she wipes some of the water from her face.

"Let's talk about it on the way. I can get us back to the others. Can you two help me up though. I'm still feeling a little stiff."

With reddened cheeks and guilty faces, Watame and Flare each help you stand on your own two feet. Once your spell book is back on your person, you interlock arms with both of them and begin to slowly walk towards where you can feel Undine's presence. The walk is silent for a few moments until both girls stop walking, stopping you along with them.

"I'm so sorry Anon!" Both say at once to you.

"It's alright." You say truthfully.

"No it's not." Flare argues.

"You got hurt by us, BECAUSE of us." Watame adds.

"Hey. I'm still alive aren't I? No real harm done." You try to convince them, but this does not seem to erase any of their guilt. "Besides, something about the air here messes with our heads. The same thing happened to me earlier."

"But-"

"No buts!" You say sternly. "It doesn't matter how bad I get battered, bruised, or cut. As long as you two are safe and back with me, I'll take it all."

"We feel the same." Watame begins. "I think that's why we were so crazy with our own magic. We thought you were in danger."

"I couldn't even tell it was Watame I was fighting against. All her magic just looked…dark, to me. She wasn't even her either." Flare adds.

"Yours too Flare!" The sheep gasps. "I can't even remember what you looked like. When I do, it's just all fuzzy and black. Almost like a shadow."

So their illusions didn't have clear forms or faces? Flare and Watame both have people from their past they sure wouldn't like to see, but maybe they're just completely over it? Gods, I wish I could do that. That's a relief on one hand though, but also extremely unsettling on the other. Something is deliberately fabricating these illusions somehow. The longer I walk in this awful fog, the more I get really bad vibes from it. It's not all that different from those demons we fought at the plains…dark, destructive, and just plain evil.

"Anon?" Watame says to snap you out of your retrospective. "Are you still okay to keep going?"

"Why don't you just use your new healing spell?" Flare inquires.

"Afraid I don't got the mana for it right now. Something about this forest makes casting spells a lot more taxing. That's why I had to make you splash yourself and Watame. Surely you noticed, Flare."

Flare gives her index finger a few flexes before forcing a soft golden glow to emit at its tip. She lets it linger for a second before it fizzles away.

"That's…" She starts, perplexed and a little afraid.

"Horrifying? Yeah a little." You finish her sentence. "All the more reason to figure out what's going on. Come on, Undine is this way."

You point in the direction your internal compass is pointing towards and the three and you walk arm in arm again. A few more minutes of waking and Flare motions for yours and Watame's attention.

"I hate to point this out, but you guys need to see this." Flare says before steering you all a little off course. As you breach the hanging fog, the shapes of fallen trees become clear. While terrible, the trees are not the only target of interest here. In the dying crusty earth, are footprints. Huge, three clawed footprints.

"I bet you have an idea what made these, Anon." Flare remarks. "Although, I kinda wish I didn't. Look at the trees too. Any that were toppled over around here have gigantic gashes in them. Probably from spikes."

It's as you feared. It was more than likely that the giant razor backed demon you slew the other day had run through here. That lines up with a few things so far, but also makes more things unclear. If those demons really were here, how did Pomu not know? Even if the fog somehow hid their presence from her, they had to run through the forest that isn't covered in fog to get to the plains. Dammit. She is hiding something from you.

"I do, Flare. Can't say I'm surprised that those monsters might have come from a place like this. We better get to the others. Who knows if there are more." You say, panic starts to fuel your muscles to work harder.

The closer you get to the water spirit and the more the fog starts to thin, the better you all feel. Thoughts feel a lot less hard to form and lighter too. When the break in the woods comes into sight, you all double your efforts, eager to see an escape. You arrive at the small clearing to thankfully find everyone you left there, and even a now conscious forest fairy.

"Anon's back!" Polka points. "And he found Watame and Flare!"

After Nene and Polka run up to you and give everyone very much needed welcome back hugs, you separate yourselves from the group and walk up to Undine and Pomu.

"I am glad you have returned safely, summoner." Undine smiles. "I admit, I was beginning to grow worried when I did not hear from you directly, but I could feel you getting closer after a while."

"Yeah, sorry I didn't check in as much. Things got a little hectic. I also figured out a bit more about this weird fog, I think." You say, a little apologetic for making the water spirit worry.

"Pomu?" You say as you direct your attention to the forest fairy who seems to be avoiding your gaze. "Are you alright? What happened to you earlier?"

"I wish I knew." She says downcast, her voice grabs the attention of the rest of your group. "One second we were all just walking together, then I heard a voice, almost like a whisper. I can't remember what it said, but everything just got really hazy after that. The next thing I know, I'm on the ground with Polka's hand on my head."

"I figured I would try a little healing magic." Polka confirms as the rest come to join your conversation.

"After Nene tried slapping Pomu awake." Nene admits proudly.

"Is that why my cheek felt hot at first?" Pomu says holding a hand to the side of her face Nene must have tried her own healing methods with.

"So here's what we know so far." You begin. "Something about the fog here not only has an effect on our mana and magic, but can also somehow put us under illusions. Polka and I saw people in each other meant to scare us stiff, Watame and Flare saw someone they had to fight."

"I also very faintly remember being told something before Flare and I started fighting." Watame adds. "Something inside me was telling me you were in danger, and that the person in front of me was the cause. So I just went full combat sheep…"

"It was the same for me." Flare confirms. "Except for the combat sheep part. I could never take that from you Watame. Although it gives me chills to think back on it, the experience was almost like the mind magic Gildmoore tried to use to wipe my mind, except from the inside. Thoughts were just appearing before I could think them."

"Funny air told Nene Undine wanted to keep Anon to herself forever…" Nene embarrassingly admits. "Nene did not use nice words when she saw pretty water lady…"

While the idea of the bubbly girl throwing curses at the water spirit over you is nothing short of comical, you choose to not inquire about that further and move on.

"We also found tracks on our way back here. Big ones." You try to emphasize. "I think they definitely belonged to that huge monster we took care of in the plains. Which by the way, Pomu?"

"Y-Yeah?" The fairy answers nervously.

"You said you didn't sense anyone coming in or out of your forest for months, right?" You ask.

"Uh huh. You guys were the first in a while." Pomu replies, seemingly sure of herself.

"But you sensed us the second we walked in yesterday." You press.

"Of course I did. I've been paying extra special attention to everything. Just in case any of the fairies came back…."

"Then how come you didn't notice the four bloodthirsty demons, one the size of a house no less, running through your forest to get to the plains where the Talonclaw roam?!" You ask, your temper rising.

"D-Demon? I-I don't know what you're talking about, Anon. There aren't even owls in these forests." Pomu stufters before trying to feign ignorance. The reluctance to look you in the eye tells you all you need to know, but you need to hear it from her.

"Pomu. They tore through a part of the forest not far from here to leave. I bet if we went back right now, and checked the part of the forest not covered in this dangerous fog, we would find a similar warpath! Are you really going to stand here and lie to me?! Lie in front of Undine?!" Your voice raises more. "What else are you not telling us, Pomu?!"

"I….I…I" The fairy stammers, trying to hold back tears.

"Why didn't you tell us that those monsters came from here?! I would have been more careful. Are there more?! What really happened to all the other fairies?!"

"I DON'T KNOW!" Pomu wails as she falls to her knees and buries her head in the dirt and begins to sob hysterically. "I don't know…I really don't know…"

"D-Do-Do you think I'd not tell if you if I knew?!" The fairy pounds her fist onto the ground as she continues to cry. "Everyone I ever knew or cared about is GONE! Even before she came here, Grandma was barely around. She kept flying to all sorts of places to try and find the others…until she ran out of choices…"

"Yeah! I knew about those scary monsters!" Pomu shouts as she keeps her face pointed to the earth. "Do you know what that was like?! Sensing those horrifying things running through the forest?! Where my grandma went and never came back from?! Where's my friends went and never came back?! I didn't want to believe they were real!"

"Oh Pomu, you're just imagining things. You read too many late night stories, Pomu. You ate too much junk before bed, Pomu! I told myself anything to keep me from thinking the worst….I just shut it all out and kept positive. Then, you came and I finally had someone to talk to again. Someone who wanted to talk to me." Pomu continues, her speech becoming less hysteric and more defeated.

"Pomu." You say, taken aback as you kneel down to the weeping fae. "Why didn't you just tell me you knew about them?"

"Because!" She sobs again. "You're Lady Undine's summoner! You even got the look of some strong adventurer. I was afraid you'd leave…If you knew there were monsters out there to defeat…you might have turned around before coming here…before we could find the other fairies. I just didn't want to be alone anymore."

"Also, the second we stepped into this fog I KNEW something was bad, really bad. I could feel something trying to get into my head. But I still didn't say anything. I just didn't want us to have to turn back…not when I finally had the chance to find the others."

It's hard not to be hit by that reasoning. You know all too well what it is like to feel alone. There were a couple times growing up where you would have said anything to keep the attention of any of the villagers. To just feel like you weren't alone, that could be worth any price to a person.

Your anger with the fae starts to dwindle as you reflect on this. Pomu doesn't seem to want to lie to you about anything. Tears like that can't come from lies after all. The poor thing needs a friend she can really count on. She might end up being family someday after all, you suppose you can do that.

"I just wish you told me, Pomu. I could have saved you a lot of grief." You say, which finally prompts the fairy to lift her head up enough to look at you.

She was an utter mess. A combination of tears, dirt, and dried grass litter her face, as her nose drips with snot, and her eyes are a very irritated shade of red.

"We took care of those monsters earlier this week. They were trying to make a meal of the nomads that travel the plains." You state.

"Y-You did?" Pomu asks in disbelief. "Like they're gone? Really gone?"

"Sure are. I'm also a little hurt by what you thought of me Pomu." You begin to say with a slightly sarcastic tone. The fairy looks back at you apologetically at first,the waterworks threaten to start again in full force. "I'm a little hurt you thought such a fine upstanding summoner like myself would ever leave the servant of the great wind spirit in her hour of need. If I look like some hero to you, would that be very hero-like?"

"No…I guess it wouldn't…" Pomu pouts.

"And if you want to keep helping this particular hero, save this forest, I'm going to need you to do something for me." You say with a small smile.

"You mean you don't hate me?" Pomu whimpers.

"Hate you? Yeah I was kinda pissed that you weren't telling me the full story, but I can't hate you just for that." You answer as you take one of the fairy's hands and help her back on her feet. "We all make mistakes sometimes. What matters is what we do afterward. As long as you promise me to always tell me the truth from now on, you can help me save this forest, and with any luck, your fellow fairies."

"You really don't think I was trying to lead you into danger on purpose? I kinda knew how dangerous this fog could be too. How can you trust me again?! After all I did!"

"Anon is just too trusting for his own good." Flare sighs before smiling.

"If you actually wanted to hurt him, you could have just told him that he had to fall off a cliff to wake up Sylph." Polka jokes.

"Gee thanks." You grumble. "I think what my witty friends are trying to say is; I want to trust you, Pomu. I just need you to trust me too, okay?"

"B-But I do trust you!" Pomu spatters. "You're the great summoner! I-"

"Trust that you can tell me anything, and I won't leave you hanging." You interrupt the fairy. "Is that fair?"

"Mhmm." Pomu slowly nods.

"How's that sound to everyone else?" You say looking over your shoulder.

All your friends give you signs of affirmation and supporting smiles. That's at least one problem out of the way. Now onto much more complicated ones.

"So, you said you heard a voice earlier? What did it say? Nene and Undine said it was like you were sleepwalking when they found you." You ask the forest fairy, hoping that she will now be more willing to share information with you.

"Definitely something like directions." The fairy affirms while she is looking to try her hardest to either fight those instructions, or recollect more about them. "Even now, I almost feel like I'm being pulled in a certain direction."

"I guess that means whatever is at the center of all this, wants Pomu." Flare deduces. "It only seems to want us out of the way."

"There is one other thing!" Pomu then exclaims before you can respond to Flare. "A big thing. A big, big thing that happened in this part of the forest a couple years ago."

"How 'big' a thing?" You ask with your arms crossed.

"Big enough to be where that big monster came from?" Pomu whinces. "And to cover Lady's Sylph's flower field…"

Watame then walks past you and takes both of the fae's hands in hers and looks at her brightly.

"Pomu. I know this is all really scary, but if you can tell us more about what's in this forest, the more we can try to help. We won't run away, no matter what you tell us. We're sleepover friends! We'll always have your back!" The sheep speaks in a soothing tone that even makes you a little more docile.

"Sheesh…" Pomu kicks the ground in embarrassment. "You guys are a lot braver than me."

"My little sheep is correct." Undine chimes in, putting a comforting hand on the sprite's shoulder. "Whatever danger may lie ahead, we will protect each other. That is the strength of our bonds. Would you please tell us what you know?"

"The thing is, I'm not really sure what I know anymore. That big thing I mentioned, a lot of us fairies sensed something strange in this part of the forest. The ones that went to check it out didn't come back, but after, we couldn't sense anything different. I think now I'm starting to understand what happened…." The fairy starts to explain, her expression growing darker.

"They were probably lured in by something, like I almost was. The direction my legs want to go in is also near where that big thing happened. It's getting stronger too. If you guys let go of me, I might just fly away. It's….It's so scary!" Pomu begins to cry in distress.

A magic that not only takes life and mana from nature, but implants thoughts, visions, and feelings, into people. What cruel magic. Whatever is doing this, has to be stopped.

"Take us there, Pomu." You almost command. "Whoever, or whatever is behind this, is going to answer to me. This all stops today."

"Hold on, Anon." Flare flanks your side and turns you to her. "I get that you wanna teach whoever is doing all this a lesson, but think about it. Something strong enough to cause this much damage to the forest, AND be able to mess with our heads, might not be someone we can beat so easily. Just using our normal spells takes more than normal in this fog."

"I made up my mind, Flare. It doesn't matter what lies at the heart of all this. If I can't use magic, my sword will be enough. I also got one of the best shots with a bow to ever walk the earth to watch my back for me. So I'm not too worried." You say grinning.

"Flattery works on Flare so well." Polka teases as she notices the half-elf's expression softens at your words.

"Knock it off." Flare then scoffs. "Let's get going then."

"Nene will smash whoever try to hurt Pomu!" Nene roars with her arms in the air.

"You heard em'. Lead the way, Pomu. Watame will make sure you don't fly away too." You say proudly.

Hesitantly, Pomu nods and begins to walk towards the other side of the small clearing you stand in. This time, everyone forms a walking chain of hands with each other to ensure the forest has a harder time splitting you all up. As you walk through the thicker woodland again, the fog curiously begins to thin even more.

Being able to see more than ten feet in front of you is a welcome change, but you can't let yourself relax yet.

"You still with us, Pomu?" You ask towards the front of the chain.

"Uh huh. My heads a little fuzzy, but I'm still okay. I think?" The fairy answers. "I think where I'm taking you is just up ahead."

You nod and try to mentally prepare yourself for what you might find. There was really no telling what would be the cause, but you had no doubt it was something vile and loathsome.

Another break in the trees is up ahead. Your heartbeat starts to quicken, your muscles tense; to be ready at a second's notice to act. You watch Pomu, followed by Undine, then Watame breach the edge of the woods in front of you.

Watame's sharp gasp compels you to pull Flare along with you, which in turn pulls Polka, and then Nene, into the newest clearing quicker.

"What's wrong Watame?!" You ask as you turn to see her face white with horror. Her gaze doesn't break from what lies before her.

You follow her eyes, expecting to see some monster with huge fangs and claws, akin to a natural predator for a sheep. What you see though, makes your stomach drop past the earth's very core.

Dead center of what might have been a field that once bloomed with life and color, was a castle. The pitch black stone that made its masonry is darker than night, and its windows glow with a low orange light. The sharp narrow spires of its three towers loom menacingly against the gray skies. The clouds that above are a very foreboding dark that almost looks black, but the storm today does not promise wind or rain.

"N-No way." You stutter. "That can't be."

"What is it? Anon? Watame? What's wrong?" Flare asks as she comes between both you and the sheep.

"It's the evil wizard's castle." Watame manages to squeak, before taking shelter behind Undine.

"That one that fell apart back near your home?" Polka then asks. "Are you positive it's the same one?"

"I believe Polka is right to pose that question, summoner." Undine says as she keeps both Watame and Pomu close to her. "Pomu, you think this castle arrived in your forest some years ago."

"That's right." The fairy answers. "I didn't know it was some big spooky castle though….Its construction is kinda impressive though. I wonder if I should make a quick sketch so I don't forget."

"Okay. So it's a different one." You say, your panic subsiding somewhat. "You're absolutely sure this is where you're being drawn to? Oh what the hell am I saying?! Gah!"

You stomp off ahead of the group slightly and curse yourself for your own apprehension. It's clear as the nose on your face that this is where all the evil is stemming from. It's all starting to come together. Weird magic that drains mana. The disappearances of magical beings that easily have plenty of mana to take. Disgusting monsters appearing that are out for blood. You can even feel the same dark vibes those demons gave you from that stone structure.

This is what you came to do right? Find the source of the decaying forest and put a stop to it? That's right! If you're going to be a shining spark of hope, it's time to act like it!

"Alright!" You blow hard from the pit of your stomach, dispersing some of the unease you feel. "I know what we gotta do next. Pomu, your fellow fairies are likely somewhere in that castle. Can you sense them at all?"

"I'm not sure. I sense something in there. It's almost familiar, but I'm not sure. There's also something else. Something kinda scary feeling." The fairy says to you, her eyes uncertain and anxious.

"Then that's where we'll go. We're gonna go in there. Find your friends and family, kick the ass of whoever made this place, and make it fall!" You sound off with confidence. Your courage led to the downfall of a dark place just like this, and it will do it again.

"You're gonna go in there?!" Pomu gasps.

"I am too!" Watame cheers as she walks to your side with purpose. "Even if there is an evil wizard in there! I won't let you face him alone, Anon! This time, I'm going to fight alongside you. I know how mean and evil these castles are. I won't let anymore people suffer because of them. Let's break it into pieces!"

The sudden declaration from the sheep takes you off guard at first, but quickly lights a fire in your belly. This is perfect. Together, you've both grown stronger. Together you've helped so many lives already. Storming a dark castle with your favorite sheep, and all your other friends, sounds perfect to you right now.

"Nene want to smash stupid castle! Make whoever hurt trees sorry!" Nene almost growls.

"If whoever made us see those illusions is hiding in there, I'm going to pay them back in spades for what they tried to pull on us." Polka says as she pulls her cane from her hat and gives it a few twirls.

"That goes double for me." Flare adds. "I'll never forgive anyone who tries to use magic to mess with people's heads."

"You know you will always have my support, summoner. Especially in matters such as this." Undine says as she materializes her trident in a flash of blue mana.

"A-And I'll help too!" Pomu says shakily. The blond fairy girl looks to be using all her courage just to keep her top half from quivering.

"Pomu, you don't have to. It will probably get really dangerous from here on out." You start. "You should probably fly home. Wait for us there. You'll at least be safe from whoever is trying to get their hands on you there."

"I don't care. I-I'll fight whoever I h-have to! This is my forest! The trees and the other fairies need my help. That's all that matters!" The fae proclaims as her knees continue to shake against one another.

The courage to plunge headfirst into a dark ominous castle because you want to save those you care about; you can definitely relate to that. It wouldn't be right to refuse her now. Her wind magic could come in handy too. Still, you'll have to keep an extra close watch on her.

"Doesn't seem like I can turn you away at this point." You raise your hands in mock defeat. "You would probably just sneak in on your own anyway."

"Yeah. I'm pretty good at sneaking." Pomu says proudly. "Oh! Should we sneak into the castle?! I bet there's an open window, or loose cobblestones, or maybeee, there's a secret back door that you need a password for! We should go check!"

Oh no. Now Pomu's all jazzed up because she thinks she's going to be one of those operatives from those weird books she likes…I guess it's better than being scared out of your pants…barely. She does have the right idea though. Last time I just went through the front door like an idiot. To be fair though, the castle was on a cliff. There wasn't much going around I could have done. Regardless, the subtle approach might be better this time around.

"That's actually a good idea." Flare comments. "From what I remember Anon telling us about how he first came across one of these castles, he just used the front door. I bet he knocked and asked if anyone was home too."

It's almost scary how in your head Flare seems to be sometimes…stupid cute half-elf.

"I did not KNOCK!" You feel the need to clarify. "Let's just get going before someone makes fun of me enough to just go charging in to get some of this aggression out of my system."

"Nene likes that idea better." The champion of Ursol nods happily. "Anon and Nene can go smash bad people together! Then other friends can find funny fairies and free them."

"That's not-" You snap before you begin to consider what Nene proposed.

Nene might actually be onto something! All seven of us trying to sneak around a castle unnoticed is just wishful thinking. We would be found out the second Nene wants to hit something or use her powers. There's also a good chance I would slip up, or Flare and I get into a shouting match again. Also, if whoever lives here has been trying to get Pomu, they probably have a way to track her. We could walk right into an ambush.

But if we split up, send a main force crashing through the front gates, the others can sneak through the castle with hopefully no resistance and find the fairies. Oh, that's good. Why, that's very good. Yes, I like that!

"That's brilliant, Nene!" You say excitedly. "You're a genius!"

"She is?" Flare and Polka both say at once,

"Nene knows. Nene very smart. Always has good ideas." The happy and very proud blond proclaims as she taps the side of her head with her finger. "Part of why Nene will be best wife."

You may be in for more than you first bargained for, but that's just fine. With a plan much more suited to your strengths, it's time to show whoever thought they could mess with the forest and servants of the wind spirit just whose attention they got. This will be different from your first encounter with one of these black castles. You got new skills, magic and tougher friends to match. Time to knock at the castle gates.