- Joined
- Nov 7, 2004
- Messages
- 47
- Age
- 39
- Linkshell
- TheNameless
Thank you Meleiyu~! *^^*
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PART IX - THE MASTER LEECH
"Arae, I need advice." Ereshkigal said urgently.
"Hmm? For what? Finally thinking of taking up Red Mage?" he asked cheerfully.
"Erm, not exactly, no," she laughed nervously. Her hands wrung a handkerchief on her lap.
"What is it then?" he blinked, curious eyes resting on her.
"It's about Cythe, actually. Well, you're a guy, right?"
Araelus shot a glance to his pants then back at her. "Last I checked, yes. Quite sure of it."
Again, a feeble laughter emitted. "Sorry, silly question. I was just... well, you know... just..." she shrugged, "Well like, what should I.. do to get Cythe's attention? To make him like me?"
"Oh my," Araelus breathed. "You like Cythe, Kiko? I feel terrible. Remember Ikari? Actually... you wouldn't, nevermind that. You were knocked out. But she asked me about Cythe and well, I already put a word in for her, if you get my drift."
"... What?" she weakly inquired. A sinking feeling weighed her heart down.
"Ah geez," he rubbed the back of his head, looking down shamefully. "I'm sorry, Kiko."
Before anymore words were exchanged, boots could be heard clanking down the steps. Ereshkigal looked away sadly, Araelus did the same except disdainfully. He did not wish to inflict any further damage. Particularly since Cythe seemed rather fond of the idea of Ikari being attracted. Let the course run as it will. The Red Mage wanted no more parts in it.
"Hey! Kiko! Wasn't expecting to see you here. I guess Ara gave you the details? Wait. Are you up to being here? You realize how dangerous Bostaunieux Oubliette is, right?" Cythe's grin faded into a worried expression. To his left stood the elegance of a slender, toned Mithra with platinum hair. Araelus saw Ereshkigal's eyes lock on the other female, and out of fear of a 'cat fight' breaking out, he intervened.
"Aheh, it's okay, Cythe! You know me, I'll keep an eye on her. Ehh..." He jumped to his feet, placing himself in front of Ereshkigal while he spoke to Cythe. "Any sign of the others? I brought Kiko here."
Hand on his hip, the Paladin nodded. "Yeah. I'm bringing a damn army for this thing. I found out two others know about it. They might be here, who knows."
Behind, Ereshkigal was seething. She leaned over to get another view of Ikari only to watch her brush back some of Cythe's hair while he spoke. He smiled briefly at her, then returned his attention to Araelus. Desperately, Araelus was pursuing conversation in hopes Ikari might back away. Where the logic laid in that, he was unsure. "Do you think we can trust Acute? I hear he's a tricky character."
"Of course we can. Aidyn even recommended him. Took awhile to track him down, I'll say that much. He seems like a guy who sticks to his word though. Doubt we have anything to worry about."
"If you say so..." Araelus said uneasily. If Aidyn were not such a stickler for staying away from adventures now- albeit however dangerous it might be, it would have made Araelus feel more comfort as opposed to the presence of Acute.
"I have arrived! Hello~wello everyone!" Veovis beamed as his stubby legs carried him down the stone steps. At once, the four welcomed the Tarutaru.
"Second that," GD said descending from above too. "I kinda got lost, sorry. San d'Oria's not really my place."
"No worries, we're all just now getting here," Cythe reassured him.
"Ourrr little Thief is taking his time, is he not...?" Ikari's silky voice filled the small enclosing. With the six of them it was packed already. "This does not bode well. I can show you exactly where to go, Cythe... We don't need him."
"Oh!" Ereshkigal puffed, rising to her feet. If height were imposing, this much was given to the Hume. She stood almost a head taller than the Mithra. "Little know-it-all are ya? If you'd stop and think, then you'd consider the fact we NEED Acute for his treasure hunter abilities unless you can miraculously whip out some unknown Monk trait that says we can become a Thief for so many hours." Her cheeks were flushed.
"Calm down, girl. If we wait any longer, we'll neverrr know if someone else is down there. They might garrrner the treasure first if we sit around doing nothing. Prefer to risk getting nothing over being beaten to it! Did you think of that?" Ikari retorted smoothly.
Ereshkigal mouth gaped. "GIRL? My name is Ereshkigal, you furball! Why don't you go crawl up and burn in Ifrit's Cauldron? Leave this to those who know what they're doing."
"Tsk, and you're one of 'those', I assume?" the Mithra said irritably. Her tail was beginning to poise. "You're an insult. Wait, you arrre a Monk, aren't you? You look a mess, so it's hard to tell..."
"OKAY, that's enough," Cythe stepped between the two. He looked at Ereshkigal. "I thought you knew better than to act that way, Kiko. Ikari's our new member and this is how you treat her? She didn't mean any harm in what she said in the first place."
"Maybe you should be more considerate, Cythe," darkly came a voice. Next to Araelus, who jumped, appeared Acute. A frown sternly spread as he stared coldly at the Paladin. "I don't know Kiko half as well as you, but even I can see she is easily provoked. You brought the Mithra." It was the last thing he wanted to see at that moment, a Mithra.
"Huh? What are you talking about, Acute? I didn't even know Kiko was gonna be here. Ikari wanted to come, so I brought her. I don't see the big deal. It doesn't give Kiko the right to jump on her like that."
"Yea, it's late and I'm kinda gettin' tired. Can we get this over with or are we gonna spend all night whinin'?" GD interrupted.
"GD's right. We'll deal with this later," Araelus added. "We have to wait on one more then it's time to go."
The soft padding of soles could be heard against the steps as the final member of the group arrived. Her hair was shoulder length, chestnut in color. A cerulean beret sat lopsided on her head, a feather protruding from it. Acute noticed this first. His lips parted momentarily, astounded at who he saw.
"Hah, we meet again," she smiled, nodding in Acute's direction. "Looks like I've kept everyone waiting. I apologize. Must have passed through Northern San d'Oria five times before realizing this was where to come."
Ithenas a Ranger? He never guessed that.
"All right!" Cythe clasped his hands together, looking around at everyone. "I'd like to thank everyone for showing up, because this would be three times as hard without you. Now here's the plan. Everyone who's not a mage brought oils, right?" His eyes went among Acute, Ereshkigal, Ikari, and Ithenas. Confirming that they had, he continued, "Good. Down below is something I want, and I want it badly. It's a ring, one supposedly a myth, but not. You all know how it works. Rare, magical, and not an easy find. Under the good graces of eavesdropping, I found out one of four in the entire world is here. Acute says this is true."
Veovis raised his hand. Cythe looked down and waited for the question. "How do you knowaru it's here? What if the person lied?"
"Nah, I thought that too. That's why Acute scavenged some more information before this. It's down there, just have to figure out where. So this is how it's gonna work. There's eight of us, so we'll split into teams of two. We can cover more ground that way and if someone gets in a bind, the other will be there to help. Uh..." He observed everyone, contemplating who to pair up. "Ithenas and GD, you two. Then... Ara and Acute, Veovis and Kiko. That way melee and mage are together." The ordered went over in his mind one last time to make sure it was the best choice: Ranger and Red Mage, Red Mage and Thief, White Mage and Monk, and lastly Monk and Paladin. It was the best it was going to get.
"Now that's settled, where to go. You'll have to fall in through that," he gestured to the wooden trap door. "Afterwards you go through a hall that splits into two definite paths- left and right. We'll all go right. Pretty sure what we're looking for won't be to the left. Anyway, as we get further in, we'll break off with every new path from there, spread out. The only time you can break apart is if you see a treasure chest. One guard it, the other come seek out Acute. For all I know, we might find it protected by some monster. Can't say in particular what type of beast, but we DO know in a few minutes it should awaken for three hours. We HAVE to find it. Everyone understand?"
The directions were clear and no disagreements posed. Satisfied, Cythe said he would down first. After opening the trapdoor with the effort of Cythe and Acute combined, he crouched down enxt to it and prepared to descend. However, before that could be the clanking armor of another could beh eard coming down the steps.
"NOT SO FAST, CYTHE! I'm helping too!" a Mithra weilding a great sword halted at the final step, catching her breath.
"What the? Rappa!" Cythe bolted upright and was lost between welcoming her and wondering how she found out.
"Hold on," she gasped. After composing herself, she acknowledged everyone then Cythe again, "Ithenas asked me to come. Said you wouldn't mind. You don't, do you? I can always go." She pointed behind herself while looking at the Paladin with eager eyes. It's not as if he had the power in him to actually tell her no.
"No, stay. The more the better. You're with me and Ikari, Rappa. I'm guessing Ithenas told you to bring silent oils?"
"I have 'em, no worries. Like I'd show up unprepared?"
Cythe shrugged. "Good. I'll drop down first to make sure everything's okay. Everyone fall in afterwards. Use your silent oils now. Don't want to make too much noise. Oh, and Rappa.. just, uh, follow mine and Ikari's lead." And, taking his own advice, Cythe applied a silent oil then dropped. Seeing the white figure waving for them to enter, Ikari then Rappa made the jump.
"Cythe would get the Mithras," Araelus sighed as he retrieved his vial of oil.
"Wouldn't worry. You have the better deal out of the pairings," Acute said rather seriously.
Araelus started to chuckle, taking the meaning differently when the other Red Mage, GD, spoke up.
"Hope ya don't mean yourself." He sneered at what he considered to be the poorest example of an 'Assassin' ever. "Don't see why Cythe bothered with ya. We're better off with Kiko's gimp treasure hunting than you."
"Hey-- ow!" Veovis whipped his staff at Ereshkigal's knee before she could join the newly arising conflict.
Araelus took the silent oil he was holding and dumped it on Acute. "Oh, time to get a move on!" he expressed happily, urging his partner to the trapdoor. GD rolled his eyes as Acute reluctantly descended to the sewer. Araelus huffed and glanced back at GD, "C'mon, don't start anything. We have to be together for this. Cythe's relying on our help." His eyes shifted to Ereshkigal. "You too. I'm sorry about what I said, but we can't change that. So, be at your best. For me, at least?" Forcing a smile, he used his silent oil and jumped down.
GD blinked and looked at Ereshkigal. By the last comment, he finally understood what the problem had been earlier. "Aww, Kiko wuvs Cythe?"
"I'm going to- AH-OW! Stoppit!" She staggered as Veovis swung his staff at her thigh.
"Together-wether, we have to be! No opo-opo business," the Tarutaru said sternly. Then a finger jutted at the trapdoor and he stared angrily, which in truth only made him look more adorable.
"Aiee, how can I resist a face that cute? Fine, I'll spare him," she glared at GD, "for now."
"Yea right, Kiko. C'mon and go down. Cythe's waitin'."
"Yes, let's hurry," Ithenas said as she stepped up to the sewer entry.
Ithenas went first, then GD. Veovis sat on Ereshkgial shoulders and held onto her head as she leapt down. Due to the wearing on her knee, she collasped on the side the staff had hit. Had the silent oil not been used, her wailing would have alerted every monster in the area. Soaking wet, Veovis too, they crawled out of the polluted pool and met the stares of everyone. Cythe slapped his forehead and shook his head.
Once the two were partially dry and everyone at least appeared ready, they began their walk. The sewer was hardly lit. Cythe motioned for GD and Ithenas to break off from the pack and head down the first path they encountered that separated. Next was Acute and Araelus. Then Ereshkigal and Veovis. Cythe, Ikari, and Rappa continued until going down a flight of stairs into the main sewage area. Ikari scrucnhed up her face, waving a hand in front of her nose. Rappa was disgruntled by the horrible scent as well. There was no other choice but to go forward, so Cythe went on. He was followed. They found a new crossroads, one with unsure trails that may not interconnect. Cythe was fearing to split up, but the desire to find the item was overwhelming. He broke off with Ikari and Rappa, indicating they go to the left, and he the right. A leech hopped next to Ikari.
GD used his third silent oil. Neither it or his magic were very effective. He presumed it was because of his exhaustion. Working on three hours of sleep was not his idea of good conditions. At the same time, he could not refuse to help Cythe. How many times had he been there to lend and lead? Too many to count, GD knew. The place was bleak and a bore to him though. The dark interior and lack of sound aside from the paws of the hounds against the hard floor were not exciting or adventurous. He just felt sleepy, sluggish. Ithenas, in his opinion, was wide awake. Where the slightest sound emitted, she made him aware. That was what kept him from sleepwalking, most likely.
Ithenas had yet to make use of another oil. The dullest sound echoed in her hears, the quick movements of the hounds that dashed periodically or the gliding ghosts were at slow motion in her vision. She was also conscious of GD's nodding off. Every other minute, whether there was anything worth paying attention to or not, she hit him on the shoulder or dragged him forward. When a bat flapped around the corner, it took both by surprised. The problem was, GD's sharp "Ah!" was audible.
To Acute, GD did not deserve a painless death. No, for that insulting comment he needed excruciating pain to make him learn a lesson. Then, death was permissible. If individuals like him were involved with The Nameless, then he wanted nothing to do with those dregs of society. The attack did not have to be executed like a hired job either. Katars, claws? Dagger, baselard, kris? Or maybe a kukri. Acute grinned at the thought of stunning then pebbling the mage to death. Maybe a dart to the eye. That formed an amusing image. Might as well have fun with the idea.
Araelus shifted his eyes to his partner constantly. The situation was uncomfortable. He could not bring himself to trust his back to the Thief. It was foolish to believe he would try to steal anything and run away, but Bostaunieux Oubliette made anyone paranoid. How was this precious item suppose to be found anyway? His eyes were peeled hoping the ring shone brightly. If it blended in with the rest of its surroundings, it was a hopeless case. He was afraid to illuminate the room for fear of the creatures' disturbance. If Altana was merciful, the item would not be planted among any of the creatures. Araelus tried to picture himself parting the mangy fur of the hounds, politely asking, "Oh pardon me, just searching for a ring. Only take a second."
Veovis wanted to know why Ereshkigal did not wear pants. What was the point of a subligar? All it did was reveal more skin, parts of the body that should not be exposed unless to a loved married one. He looked away from her while waddling beside. When he prayed tonight, he made note to ask why such gloomy and corrupted locations existed. The beasts who roamed the filthy network did not have to live that way. Outside was a world of light and possibilities, not decay and dust. The bone-thin figures of the hounds showed their depravity. The floating ghosts must have never been allowed to become free souls from this dungeon. The foulness and sludge proved able to create slimes of smut to worsen conditions.
Dark, dark, and more darkness. Ereshkigal's adjusted eyes were not too keen. Never had been. If a ring was planted somewhere in the place, it better be shining the holy light to be spotted in the dankness of the doom-rooms, as she saw it. What a terrible place to die at. Ripped to shreds by bloodthirsty hounds and soul sucked away to become another wandering ghost. Worse yet, the idea of the slime oozing over her body made Ereshkigal shudder. To think all of it belonged to San d'Oria. What country allowed an atrocious place such as this to exist? Did anyone deserve to die here? Crazy Elvaan.
Ikari could not focus. Rappa mostly led the way. She hoped Ereshkigal did not hate her. They got off to a bad start, one that could be repaired. Both were Monks, an understanding could be reached. It was irresponsible of herself to have allowed the argument to get carried away. It upsetted Cythe and created uneasiness. Rappa was looking less and less thrilled to have joined the hunt for the ring, too. All the action that occurred so far was maneuvering around leeches. Ikari was digusted by the contaminated water she had to walk through as well. At least Rappa wore solid boots that prevented liquids from seeping in. This impossible to deal with stench was going to follow her until a good washing.
Cythe was lost in a panic. His silent oil was fading and he could not find a corner far enough from the leeches to apply another. Bad luck at its best. The dreaded moment happened when it completely wore, and he did not move an inch. His eyes, wide, carefully observed the immobile leeches. Finally, one leech hopped. As it splashed against the sewer water and onto Cythe, he wanted to jump out of the built tension. As slowly and silently as he could, he tried to twist open the vial. Unknown to him, a leech stationed close behind moved. Stupidly, it smacked right against his leg. It fell with a plop into the water. Alerted to the presence of an intruder, the six other leeches locked onto Cythe. "Oh shi-"
An arrow shot through the bat's head. A ghost moaned and drifted after GD and Ithenas. Instead of combatting the eerie force, Ithenas grabbed her comrade's wrist and took off running. Luckily, the creatures had a slow reaction to their sudden arrival. What was not so lucky was the train forming as they proceeded.
"Where're we goin'?!"
"I don't know! There has to be somewhere we can get warped or out of here!" Ithenas replied, almost casually.
"Stop soundin' so calm!" GD demanded.
"You're panicking enough for both of us!"
Their trekking brought them to a most unfortunate turn of events. With most of Bostaunieux Oubliette on their path behind them, they came to a stop at a dead end. Waiting for them was company, an undesired acquaintance.
"Oh-god-a-Shadow-ESCAPENOWGD!" Ithenas yelled, granting GD's wish for a frantic tone.
Acute and Araelus backtracked. Nothing appeared unusual or close to treasure. Araelus even came near to checking a passing hound out of desparation. If Cythe said the ring existed and in the location somewhere, then he wanted to find it no matter what. Perhaps drowsiness was taking over. Acute had the right mind in preventing him from touching the creature. Now both wanted to try and find Cythe. Maybe he stumbled upon a clue or was closer to finding the ring.
Ereshkigal and Veovis stood at the edge of a rectangular pool in a small room. A narrow walkway led them to it. The last dweller they saw was nowhere near, so once the oil wore both spoke in whispers. In the center of the pool a dim square of light shone.
"You check it," Ereshkigal told Veovis.
"Your arms are longer!" Veovis retorted.
"Stop whining and do it," she griped.
"I mightaru get eaten alive!"
Heaving a sigh, Ereshkgial snatched the staff from Veovis' back and held it out of his reach. Panicking, he leaped for it and missed. It was held too high, and as she leaned over Ereshkigal extended it to the center of the pool. The Tarutaru's eyes watered. He basically spent lifesavings to buy that blessed staff. Waving it over the square did nothing. Next, the Monk submerged the tip of the gleaming white jewel in the water. Veovis clamped hands over his eyes. Nothing.
"Doesn't look dangerous. Maybe the ring's there!" At the inspiring thought, she whisked the staff from the water and almost dropped it to the ground while returning to Veovis. Promptly, one foot stepped into the murky water followed by the other. The hem of Veovis' robe was dirty already, and he did not much want to soak in polluted water. Seeing that her companion refused to tred after her, she came back to the edge and lifted him up on her shoulders again. Trudging to the center, Ereshkigal kneeled down. A hand eagerly pressed against the bottom, searching for the ring. Although it was not deep, it impossibe to view the underwater floor. Discouraged after not finding a single thing, she stood and cursed. Veovis sniffled. The night was trying. A glimmer of hope became darkness again.
"Stupid place," Ereshkigal muttered. Upset, she stomped down on the center of the square of faint light. The White Mage's scream was as pitched as hers as they fell through, engulfed by the waterfall of filthy water.
The water from above splashed on Cythe as did a body. The impact of the incoming water managed to wave back the leeches momentarily as two hysterical Humes and a Tarutaru fought one another. Mainly Ereshkigal clung to the hard armored body of the Paladin, and he tried to press her off until realizing who it was. Veovis remained attached to her head, crying out it was them.
"Oh great," he groaned, not wasting time and lifting her up into his arms. With lightning speed Veovis was attached to Cythe's head, his little legs wrapped around the neck. The leeches were recovering and Cythe sped off again. "I almost shook 'em, too! Why'd you guys have to fall in?!"
Sputtering out the bad water, Ereshkigal gasped and shrieked, "We were looking for that darn ring, that's why!"
"Yeah, yeah! Maybe this was a mistake- we aren't prepared for this tonight!" he said incensed, trying to look over his shoulder.
"Better planaruuu!" Veovis trailed clutching onto the blonde hair.
Two corners were cut, a sprint down a long passage, a turn to the left, and then midway down another extended path Cythe turned right into a room. Inside, he stumbled to a stop at the sight of the largest leech he ever saw. Larger than the rest of its kind, it also bore a different color from age. "You gotta be kidding me!" he rasped, wincing as one leech caught up and latched onto his right thigh. The sharp teeth tore through the lighter armor and fabric. Ereshkigal struggled out of his arms, allowing him to draw his sword. The bigger leech was revealing its pointed teeth, waiting for its minors to weaken the victims. Another leech hastily hopped into the room and met a swift kick from Ereshkigal, sending it against the sewer wall. Veovis slid off Cythe's head and jerked the leech off his leg, tossing it. Ereshkigal caught it and flung the creature at its fellow.
"We're getting that ring if it's the last thing we do," she cried, stepping out of the room's short entry passage and into the main way of the sewer. The leeches immediately directed their assault at her and she took off in a mad run.
The large leech lurched at Cythe and he moved to the side, swinging his sword at the slimey layer. It barely pierced the skin. Again, he was forced to leap out of the leech's path as its wide open mouth sought to sink its teeth into him. The leech was engulfed in a blinding array of light and impressive explosion of energy. As it cleared, however, the bloodsucker was unharmed and snapped at Veovis due to the Holy attack. The little one was saved by the Paladin's sword sinking into the aggressor's body. Yet, all this did was enrage the leech. Sliding his sword out, it faced Cythe and before he could react, his arm was ensnared by the mouth. Much worse than the former leech, he could feel his blood being drained rapidly. He did not give up so easily, and using his other arm equipped with the shield, commenced a shield bashing. His arm released, Veovis quickly chanted a curing spell. Cythe warned him not to, but the leech's attention strayed to the Tarutaru again. This time, the White Mage sprinted away. The leech, foulest of its kind, was also faster and followed. Left with no choice, the Paladin trailed.
"Veo, let me get it!" Cythe shouted. He was ignored.
Returning the way they came, Cythe was surprised when a blurring figure dropped from above- the exact same spot Ereshkigal and Veovis fell. Another followed, in mid-cantation while crouching. Flames erupted around the leech and swallowed it. Its skin burned, seared, and was thoroughly distracted from the small threat of the White Mage. Averting its focus to Araelus, it lunged. Cythe moved inbetween, throwing his shield up and being knocked back against his friend. Acute ran up behind, delivering a fivefold attack that illuminated the sewers by the high energy discharged. More help arrived as Ikari and Rappa came around the corner in a hurry, time not spent asking questions but drawing weapons and joining in. Attacked from all sides, the leech became confused who to attack and, the final blow dealt by Acute as Araelus lit the slime in flames one last time, ceased to subsist. Refusing to put weapons away, they cautiously watched as the shredded skin and oozing blood dissolved. As each layer melted away, Cythe gawked with excitement as a bejeweled band laid center in the defeated leech.
"I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!" he yelled in disbelief, dropping down on knees and scooping the ring up as it dripped thick blue blood.
Ikari noticed that Veovis stood shakingly among them, but Ereshkigal was missing. While Cythe celebrated, lost in tears that something good happened to him for once, she tapped Araelus on the shoulder and disappeared around the corner opposite where she came. Understanding, the Red Mage trailed behind and they embarked on the search. Any other time Cythe would have called for it instantly, but he was likely in shock at current.
"They came frrrom this way, so she has to be too!" Ikari said as Araelus caught up.
"Wondered what happened to her?" he responded breathlessly.
"Judging by the lack of leeches, she baited herself to draw them away."
"Oh no- you don't think?"
"I don't know," she answered sharply. "GD and Ithenas weren't therrre either."
PART X - BAJARRAT'S FIND
Ithenas opened her eyes, adjusting to the soft glow of the room's light. She could not figure out where she was nor what happened. Looking to the side on a bed laid GD. A white sheet covered him up to his shoulders and he slept. Still not saying a word, she looked to the opposite side. Nothing but a wall. While the daze faded, she slowly remembered the events that transpired. When trying to raise her arm, she felt a sharp pain. It was strange she could not emit a sound to express her pain. Lifting her other arm, free of bandages as she saw, she pulled the sheet off her. Most of her torso was wrapped up with visible stains of red. Also, she had been changed into a thin white shirt and pants. As she sat up, Ithenas grimaced. Other than the pain, she did not feel weak, but stiff. Especially her neck. Using the good arm, she brought her hand to feel around the neck. The lightest pressure caused her to wince- it was bandaged too.
"I'm glad to see you awake," an Elvaan said softly as he entered the room. "I'm Monberaux, the doctor here. You're in the Upper Jeuno Infirmary. Tried to get you into Lower for immediate care, but it was crowded. Thus, you were brought here."
Ithenas wanted to know how they arrived. Her mouth opened, but nothing came out. Monberaux raised a hand, wishing for her to relax. Calmly, he attempted to answer questions he assumed she wanted to ask. "You had sustained serious injuries. Amazing you held on as long as you did. You were cut up badly, close to death from the bleeding and infection." He walked to the end of Ithenas' bed, crossing his arms loosely. "I can't imagine where you were before you were found. Your rescuer should be coming to visit you soon, I believe. Her name is Bajarrat. She found you at the Tahrongi Canyon crag. Apparently, your friend must have taken you to Mea, barely with your lives, from where you were prior." The Elvaan motioned to GD.
At the moment, the fact they were safe mattered. On the other hand, where did he use Teleport-Mea? Ithenas thought he was casting the spell to remove them to the outside, not the other side of the world. Either way, he saved their lives.
"He is not hurt as badly," Monberaux continued, shifting over to GD's bed and looking at Ithenas. "He is experiencing a high level of exhaustion. He was wounded, but his problem lies more in his magic. Whatever it is, it has taken its toll on him as well."
Ithenas looked down. Feeling around her neck, barely letting fingertips graze the dressing, she pondered how close to death they had been. Certainly, they roused up a few unfriendly undead and the condemned. GD was acting strange too. Not as attentive, in a world of his own. Then again, he did state his tiredness before entering the sewer.
"I can't promise that you'll be speaking for awhile, however." Monberaux tilted his head and smiled sadly. "It's a miracle you're sitting up. Your voice box was severely damaged. As I mentioned earlier, you were tried into the Lower. Had they brought you to my Infirmary immediately, I might have been able to treat it sooner and prevent this problem. I cannot make any guarantee you will be able to speak again. For now, I simply hope for your full and speedy recovery."
Deciding to leave the patient, Monberaux bowed his head, turned, and left the room. Ithenas laid down again. All she wanted to do was sleep and forget for the time being what happened. When GD awoke they could leave and find Cythe.
-
Waking up, the first GD saw was a face looming over.
"Finally, you wake up. Took long enough," a feminine voice drawled. The face disappeared momentarily. GD started to rub at his eyes.
"Where...?"
"The Infirmary in Jeuno. You're indebted to me. I expect full payback, too. Do you understand?"
"Huh?"
GD pressed his hands against the mattress, moving to sit up. When he looked to see the speaker, she walked up to the bedside and promptly slapped him. "That," she said lowly, "will be an agreement. No if, and, but, or 'huh' about it. Were it not for me some barghest would be eating you for breakfast right now. Do you understand? If you don't, I'll make it clear. I have a vial of venom I can take out and persuade your mind in the right direction. And in your state, your immunity cannot handle the slightest of poison. A quick and easy kill marks you."
The slap still stung. Confused, he saw Ithenas asleep on the next bed, then as he raised his eyes, the imposing woman. A Mithra with reddish-orange hair and luminous green eyes. Vaguely familiar, he recalled her in a red and white doublet. Presently, she resembled Ikari almost exactly. Was she a Monk too? GD slid his hand from the slapped cheek to his forehead. He sweated and felt the pains of a headache.
"Who are you?" he asked groggily. "Is Ithenas okay?"
The Mithra's jaw dropped briefly, eyes widened. She appeared offended deeply, and once composed, snatched the patient's shirt. Her face was inches from GD's. Snarling, she pressed, "You are not in the position to ask questions. What you need to know will be told later. Are you going to do what I tell you or should I go ahead and kill you?"
"Damn, so touchy... fine, fine, whatever... lemme go." As requested, she released him. The Mithra walked to Ithenas and peered at her.
"Monberaux says she awoke earlier. She needs to hurry up. I don't have time to waste babysitting you two."
"No one's askin' ya to do anything.." GD yawned. "Why don'tcha get that doctor? My head's killin' me."
Piercing eyes stared at him, and sharply turning from Ithenas, the Mithra marched out of the room.
"Ugh... th' hell's her problem?" he asked himself, falling back on the pillow.
Passing by Monberaux, the Mithra informed him coldly of GD's problem. In addition, she said, "And hurry, will you? I need them in good shape soon. With all the magic and medicine this should not take nearly as long as it has."
"There are some things that the body must heal itself. Be patient, Miss Bajarrat. They will be fine in time."
PART XI - SAN D'ORIAN BLUES
Sitting at the Lion Springs Tavern, Cythe watched a Tarutaru Bard and Mithran dancer on stage. Julz sat down next to him, placing a large mug down in front of himself, then one for Cythe. A dark ring had formed under the Paladin's eyes. Taking up the mug, he drained half the contents with one swig.
"Julz, I don't understand women at all," he said. Propping an elbow on the table, he rested a side of his face into one hand. Disenchanted, he watched the Mithra gracefully move across the stage.
"Don't be so blue, Cythe. It'll be fine. At least you got your ring, right?" Julz took a sip. He preferred not to be around his friend during times like this, but at the same wanted to make sure he felt all right. Any efforts were normally futile, because if Cythe was determined to be upset and beat himself up over something, his mind could not be taken off it.
"That's just it," he sighed heavily. "If it hadn't been for this stupid ring and me dragging everyone down there, we'd be fine. I know GD and Ithenas aren't lost in there, but at the same time I still don't know where they're at. Kiko's knocked out again. She's probably use to that by now, or expecting it I guess. Even then, her and Ikari were at each other's throats, right?" Cythe shifted his sad blue eyes to Julz. "Now I can't pull Ikari away from her bedside. She's not even getting any rest, making sure a doctor's in there to check up Kiko every hour."
Julz pursed his lips. The delicate mood forced him to consider words carefully. "Well, that's not a bad thing is it? Better to be concerned than.. I don't know, trying to kill one another? It's not your fault what happened. Stuff like this happens all the time. We all come out better from it."
"No, I don't get people as a whole." Cythe straightend up, resting the hand on the table. "Acute didn't even care. I paid him and he left. What's with that? Doesn't he have a heart? Two people missing, one about dead. You'd think he'd hang around long enough to make sure they're okay."
"Didn't you say he's the one who kills for a living?" Julz vaulted an eyebrow.
"That's not the point! It looked like him and Ithenas knew each other. He'd met Kiko. Doesn't he care what happens?" Frustrated, Cythe shook his head and took another drink.
"Cythe, you can't question everything. Guess, well, you have to let things go. So what if the guy doesn't care? We care about them. Ikari's had a change of heart from the sound of it, too."
"I know. I just feel responsible. If I'd been more careful, they would be safe. I feel like I should be out there looking for GD and Ithenas instead of here. But if I leave here, I won't know if Kiko comes out okay."
Julz leaned over and patted Cythe's shoulder. "You're gonna be the next one in the sick bed if you don't chill. Why don't you get some rest tonight and go to Jeuno tomorrow? I'll be here, so will Ikari. If anything happens, we got it under control. I still say if GD and Ithenas made it out, then they're okay."
"Yeah... I think I'll do that. Ara's done gone to Jeuno to see what's up. I can find him tomorrow..." Cythe inhaled deeply, then exhaled. A faint relief swept through.
PART XII - THE ARCHDUKE'S LETTER
"Excuse me. Cythe Aldemo?"
The Paladin stepped off the airship and onto Jeuno's port to San d'Oria. He blinked and looked at the Ducal Guard. "Yeah? That's me."
"A letter from the Archduke Kam'lanaut. He asks that you read this immediately." 'This' being, as Cythe saw, a folded letter extended to him. Curious, he took the parchment in both hands and slipped the ribbon tied around off and unfolded. The Ducal Guard made a salute and left. Cythe waved slightly then focused on the intricate writing.
Walking slowly while reading, he expressed quiet surprise. It was an invitation. From what he understood, the Archduke was holding a formal party in Ru'Lude Gardens. He was allowed to bring along a date, three guests and their date if they desired to bring one. He thought this awfully generous coming from the youthful Archduke. What was the purpose of the gathering? More importantly, why him? Cythe went out of his way to avoid the palace. To him, it was enshrouded with corruption.
"A week," he whispered while folding and stuffing the letter in his gobbie bag.
Araelus waited outside the port and greeted Cythe. He quickly informed that GD and Ithenas were in Upper Jeuno at the Infirmary. He had been unable to visit them due to being tied down to other obligations, but made a point to discover their whereabouts. Without being in Jeuno for more than five minutes a heavy weight lifted from Cythe's shoulders. After the details of two's conditions were addressed, Cythe thought to bring up the letter.
"Kinda odd. What do you think he wants? Kam'lanaut's been a thorn in my side ever since that first mission I did for him."
"Ah, I'm not sure, Cythe." Araelus rubbed his chin and looked down thoughtfully. "Maybe you shouldn't be suspicious. It's just a party, right? You're a well-known guy, I'm not surprised he invited you." Shrugging, he faced his friend. "Just go and see what happens. It's in a week anyway. Why don't you go to that Infirmary- it's Monberaux's- and check on GD and Ithenas? I have to get going, myself..."
"Thanks, Ara. Drop by the house sometime when you're not busy."
"I should say the same to you. It'd help if you're there to visit," he chuckled. Waving goodbye, he took off toward the gate.
Entering the Infirmary, Cythe waited at the desk. An Elvaan girl with several braids rushed into the lobby and behind the desk. "I'm sorry for the wait! Can I help you?"
"I was told Monberaux was taking care of two friends of mine? Two Humes, one male the other female."
"Oh yes, them... You want to see them? They're coming along nicely. The girl is probably scarred, she can't speak. The other is," she paused while showing Cythe to the back where the paitent rooms were, "he's something of a pervert actually, but feeling better than the girl. A kind Mithra saved them. She's been taking care of them, too. OH! Here we are." Turning the knob, the door opened to reveal a nurse sitting next to GD and happily feeding him. Cythe choked back a laugh and thanked the desk clerk.
"That's enough, GD. I've been worried sick about you two. What happened?"
"Ah-ah! He's eating right now, sir," the young Hume girl fussed, shooting a glance at Cythe.
"It's fine.. I.. I'm okay, really," GD said pitifully.
"Aww, so strong. If you say so, then. I'll be back to check on you later, okay!"
"I look forward to it," he smiled weakly. After the nurse brushed hair behind his ear, lightly poked the tip of GD's nose and smiled, she hurried out. Cythe stared in disbelief, shutting the door completely and hearing the girl outside go 'hmph!'
"I'm not bothering to ask what you must have told her. But do tell, what happened with you and Ithenas?" Cythe leaned against the wall, folding his arms. He saw Ithenas looking much worse. GD did not have a single bandage on him, nor did he look pale or sick at all.
"I dunno. Ran into some trouble, I got us outta there. Some psycho Mithra brought us here. Name's Bajarrat. She's makin' me 'repay' her after Ithenas and I get out."
"What? That's stupid. She expects something in return? Kind of like forced gratitude."
"That's what I'm sayin', but oh well. Ithenas," he tilted his head to the side, "should be up sometime soon. She's been gettin' better. Got messed up real bad though, can't even talk. Oh yea, did ya get that ring?"
"Yeah... Kiko was hurt, too. She's at San d'Oria. Everything's looking good now, though. Glad to see you two are safe."
"Psh. Like somethin' could actually happen to me. You don't have to worry 'bout me, Cythe."
-
PART IX - THE MASTER LEECH
"Arae, I need advice." Ereshkigal said urgently.
"Hmm? For what? Finally thinking of taking up Red Mage?" he asked cheerfully.
"Erm, not exactly, no," she laughed nervously. Her hands wrung a handkerchief on her lap.
"What is it then?" he blinked, curious eyes resting on her.
"It's about Cythe, actually. Well, you're a guy, right?"
Araelus shot a glance to his pants then back at her. "Last I checked, yes. Quite sure of it."
Again, a feeble laughter emitted. "Sorry, silly question. I was just... well, you know... just..." she shrugged, "Well like, what should I.. do to get Cythe's attention? To make him like me?"
"Oh my," Araelus breathed. "You like Cythe, Kiko? I feel terrible. Remember Ikari? Actually... you wouldn't, nevermind that. You were knocked out. But she asked me about Cythe and well, I already put a word in for her, if you get my drift."
"... What?" she weakly inquired. A sinking feeling weighed her heart down.
"Ah geez," he rubbed the back of his head, looking down shamefully. "I'm sorry, Kiko."
Before anymore words were exchanged, boots could be heard clanking down the steps. Ereshkigal looked away sadly, Araelus did the same except disdainfully. He did not wish to inflict any further damage. Particularly since Cythe seemed rather fond of the idea of Ikari being attracted. Let the course run as it will. The Red Mage wanted no more parts in it.
"Hey! Kiko! Wasn't expecting to see you here. I guess Ara gave you the details? Wait. Are you up to being here? You realize how dangerous Bostaunieux Oubliette is, right?" Cythe's grin faded into a worried expression. To his left stood the elegance of a slender, toned Mithra with platinum hair. Araelus saw Ereshkigal's eyes lock on the other female, and out of fear of a 'cat fight' breaking out, he intervened.
"Aheh, it's okay, Cythe! You know me, I'll keep an eye on her. Ehh..." He jumped to his feet, placing himself in front of Ereshkigal while he spoke to Cythe. "Any sign of the others? I brought Kiko here."
Hand on his hip, the Paladin nodded. "Yeah. I'm bringing a damn army for this thing. I found out two others know about it. They might be here, who knows."
Behind, Ereshkigal was seething. She leaned over to get another view of Ikari only to watch her brush back some of Cythe's hair while he spoke. He smiled briefly at her, then returned his attention to Araelus. Desperately, Araelus was pursuing conversation in hopes Ikari might back away. Where the logic laid in that, he was unsure. "Do you think we can trust Acute? I hear he's a tricky character."
"Of course we can. Aidyn even recommended him. Took awhile to track him down, I'll say that much. He seems like a guy who sticks to his word though. Doubt we have anything to worry about."
"If you say so..." Araelus said uneasily. If Aidyn were not such a stickler for staying away from adventures now- albeit however dangerous it might be, it would have made Araelus feel more comfort as opposed to the presence of Acute.
"I have arrived! Hello~wello everyone!" Veovis beamed as his stubby legs carried him down the stone steps. At once, the four welcomed the Tarutaru.
"Second that," GD said descending from above too. "I kinda got lost, sorry. San d'Oria's not really my place."
"No worries, we're all just now getting here," Cythe reassured him.
"Ourrr little Thief is taking his time, is he not...?" Ikari's silky voice filled the small enclosing. With the six of them it was packed already. "This does not bode well. I can show you exactly where to go, Cythe... We don't need him."
"Oh!" Ereshkigal puffed, rising to her feet. If height were imposing, this much was given to the Hume. She stood almost a head taller than the Mithra. "Little know-it-all are ya? If you'd stop and think, then you'd consider the fact we NEED Acute for his treasure hunter abilities unless you can miraculously whip out some unknown Monk trait that says we can become a Thief for so many hours." Her cheeks were flushed.
"Calm down, girl. If we wait any longer, we'll neverrr know if someone else is down there. They might garrrner the treasure first if we sit around doing nothing. Prefer to risk getting nothing over being beaten to it! Did you think of that?" Ikari retorted smoothly.
Ereshkigal mouth gaped. "GIRL? My name is Ereshkigal, you furball! Why don't you go crawl up and burn in Ifrit's Cauldron? Leave this to those who know what they're doing."
"Tsk, and you're one of 'those', I assume?" the Mithra said irritably. Her tail was beginning to poise. "You're an insult. Wait, you arrre a Monk, aren't you? You look a mess, so it's hard to tell..."
"OKAY, that's enough," Cythe stepped between the two. He looked at Ereshkigal. "I thought you knew better than to act that way, Kiko. Ikari's our new member and this is how you treat her? She didn't mean any harm in what she said in the first place."
"Maybe you should be more considerate, Cythe," darkly came a voice. Next to Araelus, who jumped, appeared Acute. A frown sternly spread as he stared coldly at the Paladin. "I don't know Kiko half as well as you, but even I can see she is easily provoked. You brought the Mithra." It was the last thing he wanted to see at that moment, a Mithra.
"Huh? What are you talking about, Acute? I didn't even know Kiko was gonna be here. Ikari wanted to come, so I brought her. I don't see the big deal. It doesn't give Kiko the right to jump on her like that."
"Yea, it's late and I'm kinda gettin' tired. Can we get this over with or are we gonna spend all night whinin'?" GD interrupted.
"GD's right. We'll deal with this later," Araelus added. "We have to wait on one more then it's time to go."
The soft padding of soles could be heard against the steps as the final member of the group arrived. Her hair was shoulder length, chestnut in color. A cerulean beret sat lopsided on her head, a feather protruding from it. Acute noticed this first. His lips parted momentarily, astounded at who he saw.
"Hah, we meet again," she smiled, nodding in Acute's direction. "Looks like I've kept everyone waiting. I apologize. Must have passed through Northern San d'Oria five times before realizing this was where to come."
Ithenas a Ranger? He never guessed that.
"All right!" Cythe clasped his hands together, looking around at everyone. "I'd like to thank everyone for showing up, because this would be three times as hard without you. Now here's the plan. Everyone who's not a mage brought oils, right?" His eyes went among Acute, Ereshkigal, Ikari, and Ithenas. Confirming that they had, he continued, "Good. Down below is something I want, and I want it badly. It's a ring, one supposedly a myth, but not. You all know how it works. Rare, magical, and not an easy find. Under the good graces of eavesdropping, I found out one of four in the entire world is here. Acute says this is true."
Veovis raised his hand. Cythe looked down and waited for the question. "How do you knowaru it's here? What if the person lied?"
"Nah, I thought that too. That's why Acute scavenged some more information before this. It's down there, just have to figure out where. So this is how it's gonna work. There's eight of us, so we'll split into teams of two. We can cover more ground that way and if someone gets in a bind, the other will be there to help. Uh..." He observed everyone, contemplating who to pair up. "Ithenas and GD, you two. Then... Ara and Acute, Veovis and Kiko. That way melee and mage are together." The ordered went over in his mind one last time to make sure it was the best choice: Ranger and Red Mage, Red Mage and Thief, White Mage and Monk, and lastly Monk and Paladin. It was the best it was going to get.
"Now that's settled, where to go. You'll have to fall in through that," he gestured to the wooden trap door. "Afterwards you go through a hall that splits into two definite paths- left and right. We'll all go right. Pretty sure what we're looking for won't be to the left. Anyway, as we get further in, we'll break off with every new path from there, spread out. The only time you can break apart is if you see a treasure chest. One guard it, the other come seek out Acute. For all I know, we might find it protected by some monster. Can't say in particular what type of beast, but we DO know in a few minutes it should awaken for three hours. We HAVE to find it. Everyone understand?"
The directions were clear and no disagreements posed. Satisfied, Cythe said he would down first. After opening the trapdoor with the effort of Cythe and Acute combined, he crouched down enxt to it and prepared to descend. However, before that could be the clanking armor of another could beh eard coming down the steps.
"NOT SO FAST, CYTHE! I'm helping too!" a Mithra weilding a great sword halted at the final step, catching her breath.
"What the? Rappa!" Cythe bolted upright and was lost between welcoming her and wondering how she found out.
"Hold on," she gasped. After composing herself, she acknowledged everyone then Cythe again, "Ithenas asked me to come. Said you wouldn't mind. You don't, do you? I can always go." She pointed behind herself while looking at the Paladin with eager eyes. It's not as if he had the power in him to actually tell her no.
"No, stay. The more the better. You're with me and Ikari, Rappa. I'm guessing Ithenas told you to bring silent oils?"
"I have 'em, no worries. Like I'd show up unprepared?"
Cythe shrugged. "Good. I'll drop down first to make sure everything's okay. Everyone fall in afterwards. Use your silent oils now. Don't want to make too much noise. Oh, and Rappa.. just, uh, follow mine and Ikari's lead." And, taking his own advice, Cythe applied a silent oil then dropped. Seeing the white figure waving for them to enter, Ikari then Rappa made the jump.
"Cythe would get the Mithras," Araelus sighed as he retrieved his vial of oil.
"Wouldn't worry. You have the better deal out of the pairings," Acute said rather seriously.
Araelus started to chuckle, taking the meaning differently when the other Red Mage, GD, spoke up.
"Hope ya don't mean yourself." He sneered at what he considered to be the poorest example of an 'Assassin' ever. "Don't see why Cythe bothered with ya. We're better off with Kiko's gimp treasure hunting than you."
"Hey-- ow!" Veovis whipped his staff at Ereshkigal's knee before she could join the newly arising conflict.
Araelus took the silent oil he was holding and dumped it on Acute. "Oh, time to get a move on!" he expressed happily, urging his partner to the trapdoor. GD rolled his eyes as Acute reluctantly descended to the sewer. Araelus huffed and glanced back at GD, "C'mon, don't start anything. We have to be together for this. Cythe's relying on our help." His eyes shifted to Ereshkigal. "You too. I'm sorry about what I said, but we can't change that. So, be at your best. For me, at least?" Forcing a smile, he used his silent oil and jumped down.
GD blinked and looked at Ereshkigal. By the last comment, he finally understood what the problem had been earlier. "Aww, Kiko wuvs Cythe?"
"I'm going to- AH-OW! Stoppit!" She staggered as Veovis swung his staff at her thigh.
"Together-wether, we have to be! No opo-opo business," the Tarutaru said sternly. Then a finger jutted at the trapdoor and he stared angrily, which in truth only made him look more adorable.
"Aiee, how can I resist a face that cute? Fine, I'll spare him," she glared at GD, "for now."
"Yea right, Kiko. C'mon and go down. Cythe's waitin'."
"Yes, let's hurry," Ithenas said as she stepped up to the sewer entry.
Ithenas went first, then GD. Veovis sat on Ereshkgial shoulders and held onto her head as she leapt down. Due to the wearing on her knee, she collasped on the side the staff had hit. Had the silent oil not been used, her wailing would have alerted every monster in the area. Soaking wet, Veovis too, they crawled out of the polluted pool and met the stares of everyone. Cythe slapped his forehead and shook his head.
Once the two were partially dry and everyone at least appeared ready, they began their walk. The sewer was hardly lit. Cythe motioned for GD and Ithenas to break off from the pack and head down the first path they encountered that separated. Next was Acute and Araelus. Then Ereshkigal and Veovis. Cythe, Ikari, and Rappa continued until going down a flight of stairs into the main sewage area. Ikari scrucnhed up her face, waving a hand in front of her nose. Rappa was disgruntled by the horrible scent as well. There was no other choice but to go forward, so Cythe went on. He was followed. They found a new crossroads, one with unsure trails that may not interconnect. Cythe was fearing to split up, but the desire to find the item was overwhelming. He broke off with Ikari and Rappa, indicating they go to the left, and he the right. A leech hopped next to Ikari.
GD used his third silent oil. Neither it or his magic were very effective. He presumed it was because of his exhaustion. Working on three hours of sleep was not his idea of good conditions. At the same time, he could not refuse to help Cythe. How many times had he been there to lend and lead? Too many to count, GD knew. The place was bleak and a bore to him though. The dark interior and lack of sound aside from the paws of the hounds against the hard floor were not exciting or adventurous. He just felt sleepy, sluggish. Ithenas, in his opinion, was wide awake. Where the slightest sound emitted, she made him aware. That was what kept him from sleepwalking, most likely.
Ithenas had yet to make use of another oil. The dullest sound echoed in her hears, the quick movements of the hounds that dashed periodically or the gliding ghosts were at slow motion in her vision. She was also conscious of GD's nodding off. Every other minute, whether there was anything worth paying attention to or not, she hit him on the shoulder or dragged him forward. When a bat flapped around the corner, it took both by surprised. The problem was, GD's sharp "Ah!" was audible.
To Acute, GD did not deserve a painless death. No, for that insulting comment he needed excruciating pain to make him learn a lesson. Then, death was permissible. If individuals like him were involved with The Nameless, then he wanted nothing to do with those dregs of society. The attack did not have to be executed like a hired job either. Katars, claws? Dagger, baselard, kris? Or maybe a kukri. Acute grinned at the thought of stunning then pebbling the mage to death. Maybe a dart to the eye. That formed an amusing image. Might as well have fun with the idea.
Araelus shifted his eyes to his partner constantly. The situation was uncomfortable. He could not bring himself to trust his back to the Thief. It was foolish to believe he would try to steal anything and run away, but Bostaunieux Oubliette made anyone paranoid. How was this precious item suppose to be found anyway? His eyes were peeled hoping the ring shone brightly. If it blended in with the rest of its surroundings, it was a hopeless case. He was afraid to illuminate the room for fear of the creatures' disturbance. If Altana was merciful, the item would not be planted among any of the creatures. Araelus tried to picture himself parting the mangy fur of the hounds, politely asking, "Oh pardon me, just searching for a ring. Only take a second."
Veovis wanted to know why Ereshkigal did not wear pants. What was the point of a subligar? All it did was reveal more skin, parts of the body that should not be exposed unless to a loved married one. He looked away from her while waddling beside. When he prayed tonight, he made note to ask why such gloomy and corrupted locations existed. The beasts who roamed the filthy network did not have to live that way. Outside was a world of light and possibilities, not decay and dust. The bone-thin figures of the hounds showed their depravity. The floating ghosts must have never been allowed to become free souls from this dungeon. The foulness and sludge proved able to create slimes of smut to worsen conditions.
Dark, dark, and more darkness. Ereshkigal's adjusted eyes were not too keen. Never had been. If a ring was planted somewhere in the place, it better be shining the holy light to be spotted in the dankness of the doom-rooms, as she saw it. What a terrible place to die at. Ripped to shreds by bloodthirsty hounds and soul sucked away to become another wandering ghost. Worse yet, the idea of the slime oozing over her body made Ereshkigal shudder. To think all of it belonged to San d'Oria. What country allowed an atrocious place such as this to exist? Did anyone deserve to die here? Crazy Elvaan.
Ikari could not focus. Rappa mostly led the way. She hoped Ereshkigal did not hate her. They got off to a bad start, one that could be repaired. Both were Monks, an understanding could be reached. It was irresponsible of herself to have allowed the argument to get carried away. It upsetted Cythe and created uneasiness. Rappa was looking less and less thrilled to have joined the hunt for the ring, too. All the action that occurred so far was maneuvering around leeches. Ikari was digusted by the contaminated water she had to walk through as well. At least Rappa wore solid boots that prevented liquids from seeping in. This impossible to deal with stench was going to follow her until a good washing.
Cythe was lost in a panic. His silent oil was fading and he could not find a corner far enough from the leeches to apply another. Bad luck at its best. The dreaded moment happened when it completely wore, and he did not move an inch. His eyes, wide, carefully observed the immobile leeches. Finally, one leech hopped. As it splashed against the sewer water and onto Cythe, he wanted to jump out of the built tension. As slowly and silently as he could, he tried to twist open the vial. Unknown to him, a leech stationed close behind moved. Stupidly, it smacked right against his leg. It fell with a plop into the water. Alerted to the presence of an intruder, the six other leeches locked onto Cythe. "Oh shi-"
An arrow shot through the bat's head. A ghost moaned and drifted after GD and Ithenas. Instead of combatting the eerie force, Ithenas grabbed her comrade's wrist and took off running. Luckily, the creatures had a slow reaction to their sudden arrival. What was not so lucky was the train forming as they proceeded.
"Where're we goin'?!"
"I don't know! There has to be somewhere we can get warped or out of here!" Ithenas replied, almost casually.
"Stop soundin' so calm!" GD demanded.
"You're panicking enough for both of us!"
Their trekking brought them to a most unfortunate turn of events. With most of Bostaunieux Oubliette on their path behind them, they came to a stop at a dead end. Waiting for them was company, an undesired acquaintance.
"Oh-god-a-Shadow-ESCAPENOWGD!" Ithenas yelled, granting GD's wish for a frantic tone.
Acute and Araelus backtracked. Nothing appeared unusual or close to treasure. Araelus even came near to checking a passing hound out of desparation. If Cythe said the ring existed and in the location somewhere, then he wanted to find it no matter what. Perhaps drowsiness was taking over. Acute had the right mind in preventing him from touching the creature. Now both wanted to try and find Cythe. Maybe he stumbled upon a clue or was closer to finding the ring.
Ereshkigal and Veovis stood at the edge of a rectangular pool in a small room. A narrow walkway led them to it. The last dweller they saw was nowhere near, so once the oil wore both spoke in whispers. In the center of the pool a dim square of light shone.
"You check it," Ereshkigal told Veovis.
"Your arms are longer!" Veovis retorted.
"Stop whining and do it," she griped.
"I mightaru get eaten alive!"
Heaving a sigh, Ereshkgial snatched the staff from Veovis' back and held it out of his reach. Panicking, he leaped for it and missed. It was held too high, and as she leaned over Ereshkigal extended it to the center of the pool. The Tarutaru's eyes watered. He basically spent lifesavings to buy that blessed staff. Waving it over the square did nothing. Next, the Monk submerged the tip of the gleaming white jewel in the water. Veovis clamped hands over his eyes. Nothing.
"Doesn't look dangerous. Maybe the ring's there!" At the inspiring thought, she whisked the staff from the water and almost dropped it to the ground while returning to Veovis. Promptly, one foot stepped into the murky water followed by the other. The hem of Veovis' robe was dirty already, and he did not much want to soak in polluted water. Seeing that her companion refused to tred after her, she came back to the edge and lifted him up on her shoulders again. Trudging to the center, Ereshkigal kneeled down. A hand eagerly pressed against the bottom, searching for the ring. Although it was not deep, it impossibe to view the underwater floor. Discouraged after not finding a single thing, she stood and cursed. Veovis sniffled. The night was trying. A glimmer of hope became darkness again.
"Stupid place," Ereshkigal muttered. Upset, she stomped down on the center of the square of faint light. The White Mage's scream was as pitched as hers as they fell through, engulfed by the waterfall of filthy water.
The water from above splashed on Cythe as did a body. The impact of the incoming water managed to wave back the leeches momentarily as two hysterical Humes and a Tarutaru fought one another. Mainly Ereshkigal clung to the hard armored body of the Paladin, and he tried to press her off until realizing who it was. Veovis remained attached to her head, crying out it was them.
"Oh great," he groaned, not wasting time and lifting her up into his arms. With lightning speed Veovis was attached to Cythe's head, his little legs wrapped around the neck. The leeches were recovering and Cythe sped off again. "I almost shook 'em, too! Why'd you guys have to fall in?!"
Sputtering out the bad water, Ereshkigal gasped and shrieked, "We were looking for that darn ring, that's why!"
"Yeah, yeah! Maybe this was a mistake- we aren't prepared for this tonight!" he said incensed, trying to look over his shoulder.
"Better planaruuu!" Veovis trailed clutching onto the blonde hair.
Two corners were cut, a sprint down a long passage, a turn to the left, and then midway down another extended path Cythe turned right into a room. Inside, he stumbled to a stop at the sight of the largest leech he ever saw. Larger than the rest of its kind, it also bore a different color from age. "You gotta be kidding me!" he rasped, wincing as one leech caught up and latched onto his right thigh. The sharp teeth tore through the lighter armor and fabric. Ereshkigal struggled out of his arms, allowing him to draw his sword. The bigger leech was revealing its pointed teeth, waiting for its minors to weaken the victims. Another leech hastily hopped into the room and met a swift kick from Ereshkigal, sending it against the sewer wall. Veovis slid off Cythe's head and jerked the leech off his leg, tossing it. Ereshkigal caught it and flung the creature at its fellow.
"We're getting that ring if it's the last thing we do," she cried, stepping out of the room's short entry passage and into the main way of the sewer. The leeches immediately directed their assault at her and she took off in a mad run.
The large leech lurched at Cythe and he moved to the side, swinging his sword at the slimey layer. It barely pierced the skin. Again, he was forced to leap out of the leech's path as its wide open mouth sought to sink its teeth into him. The leech was engulfed in a blinding array of light and impressive explosion of energy. As it cleared, however, the bloodsucker was unharmed and snapped at Veovis due to the Holy attack. The little one was saved by the Paladin's sword sinking into the aggressor's body. Yet, all this did was enrage the leech. Sliding his sword out, it faced Cythe and before he could react, his arm was ensnared by the mouth. Much worse than the former leech, he could feel his blood being drained rapidly. He did not give up so easily, and using his other arm equipped with the shield, commenced a shield bashing. His arm released, Veovis quickly chanted a curing spell. Cythe warned him not to, but the leech's attention strayed to the Tarutaru again. This time, the White Mage sprinted away. The leech, foulest of its kind, was also faster and followed. Left with no choice, the Paladin trailed.
"Veo, let me get it!" Cythe shouted. He was ignored.
Returning the way they came, Cythe was surprised when a blurring figure dropped from above- the exact same spot Ereshkigal and Veovis fell. Another followed, in mid-cantation while crouching. Flames erupted around the leech and swallowed it. Its skin burned, seared, and was thoroughly distracted from the small threat of the White Mage. Averting its focus to Araelus, it lunged. Cythe moved inbetween, throwing his shield up and being knocked back against his friend. Acute ran up behind, delivering a fivefold attack that illuminated the sewers by the high energy discharged. More help arrived as Ikari and Rappa came around the corner in a hurry, time not spent asking questions but drawing weapons and joining in. Attacked from all sides, the leech became confused who to attack and, the final blow dealt by Acute as Araelus lit the slime in flames one last time, ceased to subsist. Refusing to put weapons away, they cautiously watched as the shredded skin and oozing blood dissolved. As each layer melted away, Cythe gawked with excitement as a bejeweled band laid center in the defeated leech.
"I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!" he yelled in disbelief, dropping down on knees and scooping the ring up as it dripped thick blue blood.
Ikari noticed that Veovis stood shakingly among them, but Ereshkigal was missing. While Cythe celebrated, lost in tears that something good happened to him for once, she tapped Araelus on the shoulder and disappeared around the corner opposite where she came. Understanding, the Red Mage trailed behind and they embarked on the search. Any other time Cythe would have called for it instantly, but he was likely in shock at current.
"They came frrrom this way, so she has to be too!" Ikari said as Araelus caught up.
"Wondered what happened to her?" he responded breathlessly.
"Judging by the lack of leeches, she baited herself to draw them away."
"Oh no- you don't think?"
"I don't know," she answered sharply. "GD and Ithenas weren't therrre either."
PART X - BAJARRAT'S FIND
Ithenas opened her eyes, adjusting to the soft glow of the room's light. She could not figure out where she was nor what happened. Looking to the side on a bed laid GD. A white sheet covered him up to his shoulders and he slept. Still not saying a word, she looked to the opposite side. Nothing but a wall. While the daze faded, she slowly remembered the events that transpired. When trying to raise her arm, she felt a sharp pain. It was strange she could not emit a sound to express her pain. Lifting her other arm, free of bandages as she saw, she pulled the sheet off her. Most of her torso was wrapped up with visible stains of red. Also, she had been changed into a thin white shirt and pants. As she sat up, Ithenas grimaced. Other than the pain, she did not feel weak, but stiff. Especially her neck. Using the good arm, she brought her hand to feel around the neck. The lightest pressure caused her to wince- it was bandaged too.
"I'm glad to see you awake," an Elvaan said softly as he entered the room. "I'm Monberaux, the doctor here. You're in the Upper Jeuno Infirmary. Tried to get you into Lower for immediate care, but it was crowded. Thus, you were brought here."
Ithenas wanted to know how they arrived. Her mouth opened, but nothing came out. Monberaux raised a hand, wishing for her to relax. Calmly, he attempted to answer questions he assumed she wanted to ask. "You had sustained serious injuries. Amazing you held on as long as you did. You were cut up badly, close to death from the bleeding and infection." He walked to the end of Ithenas' bed, crossing his arms loosely. "I can't imagine where you were before you were found. Your rescuer should be coming to visit you soon, I believe. Her name is Bajarrat. She found you at the Tahrongi Canyon crag. Apparently, your friend must have taken you to Mea, barely with your lives, from where you were prior." The Elvaan motioned to GD.
At the moment, the fact they were safe mattered. On the other hand, where did he use Teleport-Mea? Ithenas thought he was casting the spell to remove them to the outside, not the other side of the world. Either way, he saved their lives.
"He is not hurt as badly," Monberaux continued, shifting over to GD's bed and looking at Ithenas. "He is experiencing a high level of exhaustion. He was wounded, but his problem lies more in his magic. Whatever it is, it has taken its toll on him as well."
Ithenas looked down. Feeling around her neck, barely letting fingertips graze the dressing, she pondered how close to death they had been. Certainly, they roused up a few unfriendly undead and the condemned. GD was acting strange too. Not as attentive, in a world of his own. Then again, he did state his tiredness before entering the sewer.
"I can't promise that you'll be speaking for awhile, however." Monberaux tilted his head and smiled sadly. "It's a miracle you're sitting up. Your voice box was severely damaged. As I mentioned earlier, you were tried into the Lower. Had they brought you to my Infirmary immediately, I might have been able to treat it sooner and prevent this problem. I cannot make any guarantee you will be able to speak again. For now, I simply hope for your full and speedy recovery."
Deciding to leave the patient, Monberaux bowed his head, turned, and left the room. Ithenas laid down again. All she wanted to do was sleep and forget for the time being what happened. When GD awoke they could leave and find Cythe.
-
Waking up, the first GD saw was a face looming over.
"Finally, you wake up. Took long enough," a feminine voice drawled. The face disappeared momentarily. GD started to rub at his eyes.
"Where...?"
"The Infirmary in Jeuno. You're indebted to me. I expect full payback, too. Do you understand?"
"Huh?"
GD pressed his hands against the mattress, moving to sit up. When he looked to see the speaker, she walked up to the bedside and promptly slapped him. "That," she said lowly, "will be an agreement. No if, and, but, or 'huh' about it. Were it not for me some barghest would be eating you for breakfast right now. Do you understand? If you don't, I'll make it clear. I have a vial of venom I can take out and persuade your mind in the right direction. And in your state, your immunity cannot handle the slightest of poison. A quick and easy kill marks you."
The slap still stung. Confused, he saw Ithenas asleep on the next bed, then as he raised his eyes, the imposing woman. A Mithra with reddish-orange hair and luminous green eyes. Vaguely familiar, he recalled her in a red and white doublet. Presently, she resembled Ikari almost exactly. Was she a Monk too? GD slid his hand from the slapped cheek to his forehead. He sweated and felt the pains of a headache.
"Who are you?" he asked groggily. "Is Ithenas okay?"
The Mithra's jaw dropped briefly, eyes widened. She appeared offended deeply, and once composed, snatched the patient's shirt. Her face was inches from GD's. Snarling, she pressed, "You are not in the position to ask questions. What you need to know will be told later. Are you going to do what I tell you or should I go ahead and kill you?"
"Damn, so touchy... fine, fine, whatever... lemme go." As requested, she released him. The Mithra walked to Ithenas and peered at her.
"Monberaux says she awoke earlier. She needs to hurry up. I don't have time to waste babysitting you two."
"No one's askin' ya to do anything.." GD yawned. "Why don'tcha get that doctor? My head's killin' me."
Piercing eyes stared at him, and sharply turning from Ithenas, the Mithra marched out of the room.
"Ugh... th' hell's her problem?" he asked himself, falling back on the pillow.
Passing by Monberaux, the Mithra informed him coldly of GD's problem. In addition, she said, "And hurry, will you? I need them in good shape soon. With all the magic and medicine this should not take nearly as long as it has."
"There are some things that the body must heal itself. Be patient, Miss Bajarrat. They will be fine in time."
PART XI - SAN D'ORIAN BLUES
Sitting at the Lion Springs Tavern, Cythe watched a Tarutaru Bard and Mithran dancer on stage. Julz sat down next to him, placing a large mug down in front of himself, then one for Cythe. A dark ring had formed under the Paladin's eyes. Taking up the mug, he drained half the contents with one swig.
"Julz, I don't understand women at all," he said. Propping an elbow on the table, he rested a side of his face into one hand. Disenchanted, he watched the Mithra gracefully move across the stage.
"Don't be so blue, Cythe. It'll be fine. At least you got your ring, right?" Julz took a sip. He preferred not to be around his friend during times like this, but at the same wanted to make sure he felt all right. Any efforts were normally futile, because if Cythe was determined to be upset and beat himself up over something, his mind could not be taken off it.
"That's just it," he sighed heavily. "If it hadn't been for this stupid ring and me dragging everyone down there, we'd be fine. I know GD and Ithenas aren't lost in there, but at the same time I still don't know where they're at. Kiko's knocked out again. She's probably use to that by now, or expecting it I guess. Even then, her and Ikari were at each other's throats, right?" Cythe shifted his sad blue eyes to Julz. "Now I can't pull Ikari away from her bedside. She's not even getting any rest, making sure a doctor's in there to check up Kiko every hour."
Julz pursed his lips. The delicate mood forced him to consider words carefully. "Well, that's not a bad thing is it? Better to be concerned than.. I don't know, trying to kill one another? It's not your fault what happened. Stuff like this happens all the time. We all come out better from it."
"No, I don't get people as a whole." Cythe straightend up, resting the hand on the table. "Acute didn't even care. I paid him and he left. What's with that? Doesn't he have a heart? Two people missing, one about dead. You'd think he'd hang around long enough to make sure they're okay."
"Didn't you say he's the one who kills for a living?" Julz vaulted an eyebrow.
"That's not the point! It looked like him and Ithenas knew each other. He'd met Kiko. Doesn't he care what happens?" Frustrated, Cythe shook his head and took another drink.
"Cythe, you can't question everything. Guess, well, you have to let things go. So what if the guy doesn't care? We care about them. Ikari's had a change of heart from the sound of it, too."
"I know. I just feel responsible. If I'd been more careful, they would be safe. I feel like I should be out there looking for GD and Ithenas instead of here. But if I leave here, I won't know if Kiko comes out okay."
Julz leaned over and patted Cythe's shoulder. "You're gonna be the next one in the sick bed if you don't chill. Why don't you get some rest tonight and go to Jeuno tomorrow? I'll be here, so will Ikari. If anything happens, we got it under control. I still say if GD and Ithenas made it out, then they're okay."
"Yeah... I think I'll do that. Ara's done gone to Jeuno to see what's up. I can find him tomorrow..." Cythe inhaled deeply, then exhaled. A faint relief swept through.
PART XII - THE ARCHDUKE'S LETTER
"Excuse me. Cythe Aldemo?"
The Paladin stepped off the airship and onto Jeuno's port to San d'Oria. He blinked and looked at the Ducal Guard. "Yeah? That's me."
"A letter from the Archduke Kam'lanaut. He asks that you read this immediately." 'This' being, as Cythe saw, a folded letter extended to him. Curious, he took the parchment in both hands and slipped the ribbon tied around off and unfolded. The Ducal Guard made a salute and left. Cythe waved slightly then focused on the intricate writing.
Walking slowly while reading, he expressed quiet surprise. It was an invitation. From what he understood, the Archduke was holding a formal party in Ru'Lude Gardens. He was allowed to bring along a date, three guests and their date if they desired to bring one. He thought this awfully generous coming from the youthful Archduke. What was the purpose of the gathering? More importantly, why him? Cythe went out of his way to avoid the palace. To him, it was enshrouded with corruption.
"A week," he whispered while folding and stuffing the letter in his gobbie bag.
Araelus waited outside the port and greeted Cythe. He quickly informed that GD and Ithenas were in Upper Jeuno at the Infirmary. He had been unable to visit them due to being tied down to other obligations, but made a point to discover their whereabouts. Without being in Jeuno for more than five minutes a heavy weight lifted from Cythe's shoulders. After the details of two's conditions were addressed, Cythe thought to bring up the letter.
"Kinda odd. What do you think he wants? Kam'lanaut's been a thorn in my side ever since that first mission I did for him."
"Ah, I'm not sure, Cythe." Araelus rubbed his chin and looked down thoughtfully. "Maybe you shouldn't be suspicious. It's just a party, right? You're a well-known guy, I'm not surprised he invited you." Shrugging, he faced his friend. "Just go and see what happens. It's in a week anyway. Why don't you go to that Infirmary- it's Monberaux's- and check on GD and Ithenas? I have to get going, myself..."
"Thanks, Ara. Drop by the house sometime when you're not busy."
"I should say the same to you. It'd help if you're there to visit," he chuckled. Waving goodbye, he took off toward the gate.
Entering the Infirmary, Cythe waited at the desk. An Elvaan girl with several braids rushed into the lobby and behind the desk. "I'm sorry for the wait! Can I help you?"
"I was told Monberaux was taking care of two friends of mine? Two Humes, one male the other female."
"Oh yes, them... You want to see them? They're coming along nicely. The girl is probably scarred, she can't speak. The other is," she paused while showing Cythe to the back where the paitent rooms were, "he's something of a pervert actually, but feeling better than the girl. A kind Mithra saved them. She's been taking care of them, too. OH! Here we are." Turning the knob, the door opened to reveal a nurse sitting next to GD and happily feeding him. Cythe choked back a laugh and thanked the desk clerk.
"That's enough, GD. I've been worried sick about you two. What happened?"
"Ah-ah! He's eating right now, sir," the young Hume girl fussed, shooting a glance at Cythe.
"It's fine.. I.. I'm okay, really," GD said pitifully.
"Aww, so strong. If you say so, then. I'll be back to check on you later, okay!"
"I look forward to it," he smiled weakly. After the nurse brushed hair behind his ear, lightly poked the tip of GD's nose and smiled, she hurried out. Cythe stared in disbelief, shutting the door completely and hearing the girl outside go 'hmph!'
"I'm not bothering to ask what you must have told her. But do tell, what happened with you and Ithenas?" Cythe leaned against the wall, folding his arms. He saw Ithenas looking much worse. GD did not have a single bandage on him, nor did he look pale or sick at all.
"I dunno. Ran into some trouble, I got us outta there. Some psycho Mithra brought us here. Name's Bajarrat. She's makin' me 'repay' her after Ithenas and I get out."
"What? That's stupid. She expects something in return? Kind of like forced gratitude."
"That's what I'm sayin', but oh well. Ithenas," he tilted his head to the side, "should be up sometime soon. She's been gettin' better. Got messed up real bad though, can't even talk. Oh yea, did ya get that ring?"
"Yeah... Kiko was hurt, too. She's at San d'Oria. Everything's looking good now, though. Glad to see you two are safe."
"Psh. Like somethin' could actually happen to me. You don't have to worry 'bout me, Cythe."
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