Chapter 8

When going underground, one would expect things to cool down. At least that's how it would normally go. But the opposite happened: the temperature rose which each step they took.

Raine used some of her magic to create light for the dark corridor they were walking down. The one problem with that, was that it attracted monsters. They all knew by now that it was part of the trial; that they had to fight to show they were serious about helping Colette along her journey.

The corridor branched off into two directions, forming a half circle with three doorways. One was directly ahead and the others were at each end of each path. They decided to take the one right in front of them.

As soon as they passed the threshold, intense heat hit the group like walking into a solid wall, almost taking their breath away. Except for Mithos, they all needed a moment to regain their ground. All they could take in was dry, hot air, the heat pressing down on them like it had its own weight.

"What is this?" Genis gasped.

"Is that lava?" Colette stared down at the intense, red glowing substance which was bubbling not far below their feet. One wrong move and...

"Be careful. Stay close to each other and don't let monsters push you." Raine advised.

"Why does it look like there used to be a city here?" Lloyd wondered, noting arches and other structures sticking out of the lava.

"Because it was, an awfully long time ago."

All eyes set on Mithos for this remark. Even in the intense heat, the sword for hire refused to take off his helmet. No doubt it would be like a furnace in there. How was this man not burning up, Raine wondered to herself.

Once upon a time, humans established their settlement in an area surrounded by lush nature, with a pristine lake at its heart. The setting was idyllic, despite the persistent humidity. However, they did not realize this was the territory of the great summon spirit of fire, Efreet.

To prevent catastrophic events, they treated him like a deity. Shrines were risen in his name, offers and even sacrifices were made to appease him. And it worked; Efreet liked the attention, and respect he received and deserved.

However, as time passed, the fear humans once had faded. They no longer wanted to give to a being that, in their eyes, gave nothing in return. Instead, a great settlement was built. One that would have the latest magi technological features and comforts.

This angered Efreet greatly. Not only did the people show great disrespect by ignoring him, they built right on top of most sacred soil using methods that went against nature itself. Being the summon spirit of fire, he was easily pushed over the edge; one could say he was quite a hothead.

His fury reduced the entire area to cinders, sparing neither vegetation, animals, nor people in his path of destruction. All that remained was desolate land, nothing but scorched sand. Remarkably, the only natural feature left untouched was the lake.

"That lake, is better known as the Triet Oases these days. We now find ourselves standing amidst the remnants of a magnificent creation that ultimately led to the downfall of an ancient civilization. It is believed that Efreet left these ruins on purpose as a message for the generations to come. To not ever disrespect a summon spirit."

Mithos had spun the tale with a very serious expression, as far as his companions could see it anyway. His mouth was a thin line and his voice had little to no emotion throughout all of it. It was almost like he was citing well known history, or a lecture he had heard one too many times.

"I have never heard of this." Raine said after a moment of silence, wondering if it was really true. But making something like that up, was going a bit far.

Lloyd looked over to her, small beads of sweat rolling down his face. "Really? I thought you were the history expert. And archeological maniac to boot."

"What did you just call me?" She glared the teen down.

"Um, I was wondering… Where is the seal? I can't see it." Colette piped up, refocusing attention back to the matter at hand.

They all looked around, but all they could see were structures mostly swallowed up by the lava. All of them were out of reach, being either too low or high.

"Hm, what's this?" Genis approached a wall. There was a crevice, shaped in such a way that it was obviously manmade. There were more of them scattered around the place.

Stepping next to him, Mithos answered: "A torch, of sorts. Use a bit of your magic to light it."

The boy frowned, looking up at him. "Why, we got more than enough light?"

"Please just humor me for a moment."

Doubting there was very little that would make this man smile, Genis just did what he was asked. A small fireball was flung at the torch, which lit up immediately.

Far to the left of the group, something began to move. One of the arched structures rose up from the lava, creating a new pathway as a result. Raine looked at this with amazement and fascination.

"Primitive magi technology, built so long ago and it is still working correctly. Absolutely stunning."

"Sis, please. This is not the time or place." Her younger brother pressed, hoping to avoid another one of her episodes.

"So, the seal's somewhere up there, huh? Let's find more of those torches. I bet if we light them all, we can walk right to where we need to be!"

As long as it was something new, it got Lloyd excited. But things got old quick for him too, his companions were aware of that by now, even Mithos. Nonetheless, it was a good idea; they went around the place, finding more torches and lighting them up.

Oddly enough, some of the raised pathways seemed to lead to nowhere. Raine figured it was because the structures were unable to uphold in the environment. She warned everyone to be careful once they were to step onto the newly created path rising high above the lava.

"Walk in a line, and slowly. Don't rush, don't push. We can't afford any mistakes."

Nothing more needed to be added, as all their eyes landed on the hot, boiling liquid.

"I'll go first." Mithos said, already setting foot on the first step of the stone stairs.

"Oh, wait!" Unexpectedly, Colette called out and took hold of his hand. Next, she grabbed Raine's. "We should link up, just to be safe."

"That is a good idea." Raine said with a nod, holding out her hand to her younger brother.

Gulping as he managed to tear away his eyes from the certain death below his feet, Genis took it. He closed the link by taking hold of his best friend's hand.

The small group quietly followed the narrow path at a slow pace. It was so narrow that it could accommodate only one person at a time. The path gradually snaked upwards, seemingly leading toward the back wall of the large, open room.

"Um, is this the right way?" Colette inquired upon noticing what appeared to be a dead end.

"It's gotta be, right? I mean, it's the only one." Lloyd said from the back.

At last, the narrow path widened, allowing them to stand side by side and gaze up at the wall, bewildered and blinking in confusion. Stepping closer, Colette touched the polished stone.

Blue light emitted from within, making a very intricate pattern upon the wall before a line appeared in the middle. The heavy, high double door opened inward, revealing a round room. It felt very much like the room where Colette had received her Cruxis Crystal. All the way in the back, the seal was waiting for them.

"How did you know that would work, Colette?" Genis wondered.

"I didn't... it was more of a hunch."

Mithos drew his sword. "Be ready for a fight with the guardian of this place."

Retrieving his dual swords from their sheaths, Lloyd glanced at the mercenary. "You mean Efreet?"

"I most certainly hope not. We do not stand a chance against a mighty summon spirit."

"Very true." For you lot at least, Mithos added in thought, nodding to Raine's words. "Chosen one, I request you to stay back."

"This is my trial. I have to fight too!" She slightly raised her voice in protest.

"I am not saying you cannot fight. Just that you join the backline with Genis and Raine. You can protect them where needed while they support us with magic."

The elven siblings nodded, agreeing to this plan. The small group proceeded to enter the room, where an unsettling silence and tense atmosphere enveloped them. On their guard, they approached the seal slowly.

A red glow emanated from the raised alter, revealing a shape in the center that Mithos immediately recognized. The next moment, he was engulfed by immense pressure and intense heat. It actually brought him to his knees, struggling to breath.

The worried calls of his companions went unheard, as a deep, raw voice overrode them. It did not speak out loud, but rather right into his mind.

"You dare show yourself after what you have done? You are either mad, or have a death wish. Hide your energy, wear any disguise you want, I will always know it is you. The summoner who betrayed all of us, who broke his pact and misused our power and changed the foundation of the world, only to behoove himself. You will regret what you have done, Mithos Yggdrasill."

From the middle of the glowing seal, a big creature stepped forward. One that matched the appearance of a lion, but its fur was red and the manes were made out of sharp spikes. The creature glared at the group, its maw leaking fire as it growled deeply. It wasn't alone; two smaller monsters that shared most of its features, joined in on either side.

"Mithos!" The man had dropped his weapon and collapsed to his hands and knees. Lloyd could tell he was struggling. Was the beast targeting him specifically? It did not seem to make any sense, as this was the Chosen's trial.

The fire beast opened its maw wide and a fireball formed. This was launched straight towards the mercenary.

Quick on his feet, Lloyd jumped into the fray. He blocked the attack using the technique they had just learned, nullifying most of the damage. Not all of it though; some of the cinders burned holes in his clothes, even some locks of hair.

Colette was next to join in the fight, throwing her chakram to push back one of the smaller beasts. The youngest member of their group, however, didn't find his bravery. Quite the opposite: like he had told his best friend before, Genis found himself shaking.

It was understandable. After all, he was only twelve years old. He may be very intelligent for his age, but he had close to no battle experience, which clearly showed.

The warm, slim hand of his sister rested on his shoulder. When he looked up at her, Raine give him a reassuring smile. "Concentrate on your magic, just like I taught you. Your Kendama is your medium, use it to the best of your ability. I know you can do it."

Nodding to these words of encouragement, Genis did exactly that. He began bouncing the ball of his Kendama. It may look silly, but it really did help him concentrate. He felt the urge to be helpful and make a meaningful contribution. As a member of the group, he knew it was important for him to be prepared to join the fight. He sensed the magic building within him, igniting a fierce determination.

"Aqua edge!" The new spell came to him, seemingly out of sheer will. The fire beasts did not like the water, obviously.

"Wow, good job, Genis!" Lloyd flashed him a thumbs up.

While the monsters were engaged, Raine cautiously made her way towards Mithos, remaining vigilant about her safety and the well-being of the others. It looked like the sword for hire was being tormented somehow, so she hoped she could offer some help. However, she couldn't get close because of the high temperature emanating from him.

The fiery shape of Efreet was clear in Mithos his mind. Heat pressed on him from all sides, not only rendering him immobile, it also seemed to burn him from the inside out. It didn't hurt; after all, he was still a Seraphim, able to nullify any pain.

You really believe you can push me back? Now, when I am getting close to what I've wanted all this time? Hah, I will not give in. After all, I am Mithos Yggdrasill!

"Move!" Mithos called out loud, taking up his sword.

Only Lloyd stood in the path of danger. He leaped aside just in time, narrowly avoiding the incoming attack. Focusing all his energy, a fierce battle cry erupted from the mercenary. His sword burst into flames and expanded, transforming into a massive pillar of pure fire. With a forceful strike, he brought it down, engulfing both the creatures and the seal in a blazing inferno.

Once the flames died down, nothing was left of their opponents. Scorch marks speckled the room. A silence settled in, one of sheer disbelief and shock. The man who caused it, shuffled away from the scene, ending up leaning against the far wall and collapsing.

"Mithos!"

"Colette, the seal. You need to offer your prayer first."

"Y-yes, professor."

It was not easy to put her worry aside, but she had to. Walking up to the altar, she observed the damage, wondering if it would still work. Only one way to find out. Folding her hands together, Colette recited her prayer.

The angel appeared before them. He did not give all the damage a second glance, likely thinking it was the work of the fire guardians.

"Colette, my dear daughter, you have done well."

"Oh. Thank you… Father." She chose not to elaborate, not wanting to waste the angel's time.

"The guardian of the seal has fallen, thus the first seal has been released. As a result, Efreet will surely awaken soon. In the name of Cruxis, I shall grant you the power of the angels."

"Thank you, my lord." Colette said while bowing her head.

The next moment, she rose up into the air. On her back, she could feel two harsh stings. Biting her lip, she endured the pain. A set of wings stretched out, distinctly different from Remiel's. These wings were translucent, casting a soft pink light, their form resembling those of a ladybug.

"The angel transformation will not be without pain. Yet, it is but for one night. Be strong and endure." Remiel told her.

Landing gently back on her feet, she once again bowed her head. "I humbly accept this trial."

"The next seal lies far to the east, across the sea. Offer your prayers at that altar."

"Understood, lord Remiel."

As he started to vanish, he spoke his last words to her: "I shall await you at the next seal, the Chosen of Regeneration, my beloved daughter, Colette."

The room darkened after all that, and the temperature notably dropped as well.

Genis couldn't help but let out a gasp. "Colette, you have wings!"

Putting up a smile, she turned towards him, moving the wings as she did. "Aren't they pretty?"

"They are amazing!"

"And look, I can have them disappear too." She demonstrated just so, making them come back soon after.

Stepping closer, Genis observed them with fascination. "They don't look the same as Remiel's, though. Why is that?"

"Hmn well. I think because there are still other seals. I'm only supposed to become a full angel at the end of it..." Stopping herself from saying anymore, the girl bit her lip. "So, I guess I'm loaning them." She added with a forced chuckle.

Curious, the boy tilted his head at her statement. Her eyes went towards Lloyd, who hadn't moved or said anything. His gaze was far away, seemingly not seeing her at all. Worried, she stepped closer, gently taking hold of his hand.

Unexpectedly, he recoiled. Fear and anger flashed in his eyes for just a moment, until he finally blinked.

"Lloyd?" Shocked by his reaction, Colette looked up at him.

"We... should get out of this place."

"Agreed. Though I think Mithos here may need some support." As always, Raine kept her head cool and focused on what needed to happen.

Nodding, the teen walked over to him, draping an arm over his shoulder to lift him to his feet. Not a word was said as the group slowly walked back through the ruins. The heat seemed to be less intense, even the lava wasn't boiling anymore.

As soon as they stepped outside, Colette was no longer able to keep her head up. She fell to her knees, shuddering despite of the heat of the dessert around them.

"Colette!" Raine and Genis were with her right away.

"You're completely pale." The boy said worried.

"Your lips are turning purple. We need to get you to a doctor right away."

Finally, Mithos lifted his head. His voice cracked ever so slightly as he spoke. "No doctors are to be found for miles." He went on to stand on his own feet next, straightening himself. "Remember the angel's words. This is part of the transformation process, her trial to overcome. I suggest we rest here."

"I'm sorry to cause so much trouble. I'll be alright after some rest."

Lloyd walked over to her as well and held out his hand in turn. "You are no trouble at all. Stop apologizing."

"Hehe, I'm sorry..."

Yuan and Botta were in the midst of making up new plans. Some good ideas had been put on the table, but the details still needed to be worked out. In the middle of a sentence, the Renegade leader suddenly stopped.

"Sir? Is something-"

Botta couldn't even ask more, as the man just stood up and hurried out of the office. He had no choice but to follow.

They ended up outside, Yuan's gaze set in the direction of the Triet ruins. There was nothing to be seen, however. Botta had half expected to see that beacon of light once again.

"Was it the boy, sir?"

"No. This was Mithos."

There was no doubt in his voice, as he kept staring in the same direction.

Crossing his arms and arching a dark eyebrow, Botta asked: "Why are you not going there?" It was clear to him his leader was worried.

Yuan shook his head, finally blinking and turning his eyes away. "We had an agreement: when something was amiss, we would let a ball of light go up in the sky. This hasn't happened."

"Yet he must have used a great surge of power to have you react that way."

"I will not deny I am worried. But to just blow both our covers, would be unwise. If he truly were harmed, I would have known."

"If you say so, sir."

What could have triggered such a reaction, Yuan wondered. Sitting by the sidelines, not knowing what is going on, was something he did not like in the slightest.

The Chosen's group found shade thanks to the cliff sides that surrounded most of the ruin. Raine arranged a place for Colette to rest to the best of her ability. Her little brother made food for all of them. Lloyd went on to gather resources, staying in sight per the professor's request.

As for Mithos, he had sat himself down at a small distance, completely quiet. He was unreadable as ever. Not expecting any answers, the other just let him be for the time being.

Noishe had joined back up with them, first keeping Lloyd company and helping him with some hunting. After that, as the sun began the set, bringing in the welcome cool, the animal sat down next to the mercenary.

Maybe it was because he could feel the man needed some company, despite him taking his distance. Normally Noishe did not like strangers, but he seemed oddly comfortable with this man. It stung a little, the teen had to admit. Though he wouldn't say it out loud.

Walking up to Genis, Lloyd held out his empty bowl. "Got anymore?"

"Your stomach is as bottomless as ever, huh?" Chuckling, the boy took hold of the ladle, stirring the cooking pot before scooping some up. "You really like it?"

"Yeah, it's good."

"Are your tastebuds okay?"

"Huh, whadya mean?"

Genis shook his head. "I didn't have the usual ingredients; I couldn't make my usual tofu curry."

"Oh, you made this? I thought it was the professor."

The boy leaned in to whisper: "If you value your life, don't eat anything purely made by my sister."

Lloyd couldn't help but laugh at that, stopping himself when Raine looked over to them; neither of them wanted her punishment.

"Say Genis, I just wanna say that you did great back there."

"Huh?" Blinking, the boy looked up to his best friend.

"That new spell of yours really got us out of a pinch."

"You really think so? Wasn't I a little late?"

Lloyd shook his head at that. "You did it went it counted. And that's all that matters. Keep this up, and you'll be the greatest mage to ever live!"

Answering his friend's wide smile, Genis nodded. "Thank you, Lloyd. I appreciate it."

Padding him on the shoulder, the teen took the bowl and started walking towards Mithos.

"Huh, I thought you were going for seconds?"

"Not quite fair while others haven't had anything yet."

Sure, the man had visibly shut himself out from them, but that would never deter Lloyd. He was still smiling as he offered the food.

His head moved, his unseen eyes landing on the teen, who could only discern them thanks to the gleam of the campfire reflecting in them.

"A feat like that, musta tired you out. I always feel better when I eat."

There was a silence, Mithos did not move a muscle. A soft shove from Noishe's nose broke his posture, and the man took the bowl reluctantly.

"That must be some Exsphere you got, to allow you to do something like that. How did you get it, and what about the one you gave Raine? I didn't even know they usually come with a Key Crest."

Lloyd found himself rambling on, because the sword for hire was quiet. His eyes seem to flicker behind the visor at his last words.

"You know of Key Crests?" Mithos spoke evenly, no longer showcasing any weakness.

"Uh yeah. My dad's a dwarf."

"Is that so? Not your biological dad, I assume."

"Obviously not." Rubbing his arm in discomfort over the subject, Lloyd went on: "My mom died when I was young, she was killed by Desians. I'm not sure what happened to my dad, but he most likely met the same fate."

"So both your parents died at their hands. Do you hate them for it?"

"Of course I do. But I know just cutting them down in the name of revenge isn't the answer. It wont make me any better, and it wont bring them back or something like that."

His eyes turned towards the ground, biting his lip. "I don't even really remember them..."

"You must have been very young then."

"Just three years old." Lloyd said it softly. Then, he shook his head harshly and looked straight at the man before him. "Hey, I answered your questions. How about you answer mine."

"Desians." A short, and curt response.

"Huh, what?"

"I stole those Exsphere's from Desians. Those in higher position do tend to wear them, together with the protection needed."

"I see."

"Was that all you wanted from me?"

"N-no. I mean..." Lloyd scratched the back of his neck. This guy was really difficult to talk too. "I just wanted to thank you, for today."

"I simply did what I was hired to do." He said matter-of-factly.

"Still, it wasn't easy for you. None of us want to see you in pain, Mithos."

The man tilted his head, as if confused by this statement. Or maybe even surprised?

"We're a team, you know. So, we need to look out for each other. That's all I'm saying."

Nothing was said to this, all what Mithos did was nod. Not knowing what else to do or say, the teen decided to leave the man alone. Jade green eyes watched him go.

Oh, how those words sounded familiar. It took him back, an awfully long time ago. Yuan, Kratos, his sister... Would we have that once more, when you return us, he wondered to himself. He wasn't blind; he knew they didn't have the same bond as all those years ago. All what he could hope for, was that with Martel's revival, so too will their bonds be renewed.

The bowl of food was set down for Noishe. After the animal looked up as if to confirm the man was sure, he went in.

Lloyd had approached Raine, who was sitting next to Colette. She was writing in her notebook as the girl was still sleeping.

"What are you doing, professor?"

"Ah, Lloyd. I am just noting down all that has happened today."

"Are you keeping a journal?"

"Not exactly. It is more like a study. My notes on the ruins, as well as the transformation that Colette is experiencing."

"Huh?" The teen frowned in confusion.

"The wings, and her sickness. I just wonder if her biological structure is changing."

"Bio- wah?"

Letting out a sigh, Raine simplified the matter: "I wonder is Colette is becoming something different before our eyes, a different kind of life form."

"Professor, Colette is Colette."

Ready to argue, she opened her mouth. But she could not find the words. "I suppose you are right. You do have a knack for pointing out the truth."

Chuckling shyly, the teen rubbed the back of his neck. "I'm just saying, that she'd appreciate it if you keep treating her the same. She really looks up to you. Don't make her into some science experiment."

Nodding, Raine closed her notebook and put it aside. "I get what you are saying. Thank you for saying this, Lloyd."

Beside them, Colette shifted. Opening her eyes, she moved until she sat up. "Ah, evening."

"Good evening, Colette. Are you feeling better?"

"Yes, professor. I feel fine."

"I've set aside some food for you." Raine reached for the bowl, but the girl shook her head.

"That's okay. I'm not hungry."

"You need to eat, dear. It's an important part of feeling better."

"I know. I'll do so later, promise. I just don't seem to have much of an appetite."

Not wanting Raine to fuss anymore, the girl rose to her feet. When she stumbled a little, Lloyd was quick to offer her support.

"Hey, take it easy."

"Thank you, Lloyd. I'd like to take a little walk."

"I'll come with you."

"Please do stay in sight, just to be safe." Raine requested.

The two nodded and walked beside the steep cliffside until they reached a point where they had a view of the ocean some distance away from them. It was quite tranquil, with only the sounds of birds of prey calling, hissing snakes, and crickets chirping breaking the silence.

"I can stand on my own, thank you." Colette finally said, no longer leaning on his arm.

"You sure you're okay? You don't have to wear a brave face for me."

Looking up at him for a moment, the girl turned her gaze downward right after.

"Did I say something wrong?"

Colette shook her head, her long, blond hair lightly dancing around at the movement. "It's weird, isn't it? Having wings."

"No, of course n-"

"The way you looked at me back there. How you reacted..." She interrupted him, feeling very bothered by ordeal. "I'm a freak, aren't I?"

Darn it, he really messed up. Lloyd pulled the girl in an embrace. "I will never think that. I'm sorry that I made you feel that way."

Sniffing, she leaned into his hug. They were always warm and comforting. "Sorry for lashing out."

There she goes apologizing again. Sighing, he shook his head. He broke the hug to look at her. "Stop saying sorry, you dork."

"Okay. But Lloyd, I want you to know that, if anything's bothering you, you can always talk to me."

Where was this coming from? Did he really react that badly? "I don't even really know why..." Lloyd rubbed the back of his head in shame. Why did he feel fear, and anger? That was such an odd mix.

"Don't push yourself."

"Hey, you're the one who wasn't feeling well."

"I'm fine, really."

Habits do die hard, and to Lloyd, it was clear that the girl was still wearing a fake smile. He really wanted to cheer her up.

"Oh right! I still have something for you. Your birthday present."

Colette perked up as her friend dug around in his pocket. He found the golden trinket; a necklace. Its large gem reflected the stars above. However, it seemed some of the links of the chain were lose.

"Oh no, it's broken."

"When did that happen? Maybe during the fight. I'm sorry, Colette. I'll fix it, I promise."

"That's okay, Lloyd. Thank you, I appreciate the gesture. If you don't mind, I'd like a moment alone..."

About ready to argue, the teen stopped himself. He could understand a lot was going through Colette's mind, so he nodded. Every individual requires some time alone to sort out their thoughts.

"Alright, if that's what you want. Just stay close, okay?"

"I will," she said, nodding back to him.

Lloyd walked back to the campsite after that. Colette watched until he sat down, then turned to face the ocean, looking at the gentle waves; it was too far away to hear them.

Her stomach felt like it was in knots and although she hadn't eaten since breakfast, she didn't feel hungry or weak. It wasn't normal, she knew that much. Shuddering, she coughed a couple of times.

"What's happening to me...?"