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Memories	By : Asirainis Category: +A through F > Dragon Quest/ Dragon Warrior Views: 1615 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Dragon Quest VIII, nor the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 3
- 4
- 5
Memories
Chapter Three: Meeting New Friends
As they went into town, the silence was deafening while the children snapped out of it first running up to him with tears pouring down their eyes. They were probably about three and a half feet tall, not including their helmets. Their mouths were open in a round 'O' as they saw the very man that they were mourning! Squealing they came up to him as he embraced them both like his younger brothers or his children. Others in the village who had been crying in mourning glanced up to see Alistair standing there, his uniform coated in blood, but he was standing before them, alive!
Airlia took in the sight of the two children… One of them had short cropped blue hair, a helmet that had horns coming out of the sides of it; a silver band went around the whole of it, except for the front, which had a half circle coming up of it – with a trident there in red emblazoned in it. The remainder of the helmet was brown. He had a sword with a leather handle strapped to his back, with an orange belt going around his ivory tunic. Blue pants and simple brown loafers donned his lower half. The other lad was a few feet away, out of his stunned nature, he had dirty blonde hair with a pot as his helmet he wore similar clothing to the other lad. However instead of a sword, he had a wooden sword, which looked like it would more likely induce a lump rather than a cut. Alistair smiled as he knelt down, "Bangerz, Mash, please don't tell my sister or mother that I'm well. I'm going to see them now."
They both nodded as she kneeled down to their eye level, "It's true that he was dead, but the Goddess brought him back to us through ardent prayer, never forget that." They both nodded in acquiescence as the pair went to the largest house in the corner of the town, noticing a wagon was just outside with a horse hitched up and a short man with a cloak over his features stood there. She tilted her head, thinking of her dream and smiled softly – knowing that help lay inside, and that they would join her shortly.
As they approached the house, they could hear screaming from within as Alistair groaned, "My sister and mother are at one another's throats once again. Let's go bring the happy news and break up the argument, shall we Airlia?" she nodded as they went inside, forgetting their appearances to all. Alistair led the way up the stairs to see mother and daughter fighting as he pushed Airlia up the stairs before himself, to make it stayed a surprise to his family.
As soon as they were close enough, Airlia cleared her throat, "I'm sorry to trouble the two of you; however I have news regarding Alistair." Both women instantly put their arguments aside as Jessica turned on her heels. She was in a white and grey garment with red trim and a red bow. The skirt went down to her ankles with white trim. Her red hair was pulled into two pigtails with golden cuffs holding each up. Her glare was dangerous enough to kill her when the jester hadn't.
Her hazel eyes were just fixated on the chocolate haired lass's form, wondering what news she had of her dead brother… "Spit it out will ya? I was just off to pay my respects to his site of death."
Airlia smiled as she said, "Your brother's not dead…"
As soon as the words came out of her mouth, both women stopped instantly as Jessica screamed at the brunette, frightening her, "You're JOKING right!? I know he's dead, I felt his death the moment it happened!"
Airlia shook her head as she frowned before saying, "I know you did, I was there when the jester tried to take his life. I was also there to get his body out and we returned to Port Prospect. I would have come here, but since I've never been here, my teleport spell could have gone awry and it would have cost him any chance to return to life, ever. The herbalist, Raquel and the priest, Raymond, and the local nun all helped me to tend to his wounds, while I prayed to the Goddess revive him."
They both looked at her in astonishment, but the shock quickly exploded into amazement when Alistair stepped out from behind her, to the grateful sight of both Jessica and Rosalind. They were both so grateful to see him as they ran to him, arms open to embrace the once thought deceased brother and son, Alistair. "Jess, mum, I have to go with her on the journey to stop this mage. He is out to kill others, and to try and force Airlia to be his wife. If anything happens to her, I don't know what I'd do, simply because she was willing to give her life to protect mine, and risked everything to revive me."
Jessica grimaced as she said, "I want to go with you both. I owe you Airlia, for helping my brother to come back to us. I want to make sure he sticks around this time. Is that okay?" Airlia smiled and nodded in her delight of having what felt to be another powerful mage on their side.
Airlia redirected her attention to Rosalind for a moment, dressed well for a noble running the village, her auburn hair in a severe bun that showed that the pair of siblings inherited their mother's hair color. Her eyes were the same color as Jessica's. Rosalind smiled tightly at the young woman tightly as she said, "I appreciate you saving my son, but I don't appreciate you dragging them with you on your strange hunt to end some evil. I would much rather they stay here and lead life the way it's meant to be in our family."
Airlia nodded, trying to hide her panic as Alistair turned to Airlia and placed a soothing hand on her shoulder, as if detecting her fears. Without looking at his mother he said, "Accept it or not I don't care, I'm going with her. She saved my life, and if she is trying to end the evil before it destroys the world, then I'm going to help her."
Jessica nodded, "I'm not letting anyone hurt Alistair since he already died once. And I owe her my life, as do you mother for that matter, for her reviving him."
Knowing she was soundly defeated, Rosalind nodded with a smile as she said, "Keep her safe, and Airlia, you better bring them both back to me, alive and unharmed." Airlia nodded as she turned to the other two men in the nearby area.
She was greeted with the sight of one of the men that she had seen in her vision, the one in gold and blue. He felt – familiar – to her was the best way to describe it. It wasn't love, but it certainly felt like coming home which was odd to the young woman. "Are you both going after that jester?"
Both men nodded, "Yea, we're tracking that Dhoulmagus. 'E's a slippery one, 'e is."
She nodded, "I have a feeling I know where he's going next, and we need to get there swiftly. Are you two willing to travel with us? I know you have a horse and cart to bring with you, and that's quite alright too." She felt more secure already with the four people in total adding to her group, it truly made her feel safe and secure, like she could go visit her father so he could see one of the faces from her visions.
They both nodded as the shorter guy introduced everyone, "I'm Yangus, and this 'ere is Draco. 'E's the guv." She smiled as she shook both of their hands.
Yangus's hand dwarfed Airlia's petit hand, the scars were of interest to her, telling her that he was strong… and if the guv was in charge, then he was stronger than even Yangus. "Hello Yangus, Draco. I'm Airlia, you've already seen Jessica, but haven't been formally introduced, and this here is Alistair. One self-proclaimed bodyguard." She winked at the last sentence, making him blush.
Jessica promised to meet up with them in a moment; she just wanted to get changed out of her finery. After a few minutes, she came out in a dress of purple, tan and red. Her shirt was purple, just covering her breasts, while leaving a vast amount of cleavage viewable, her corset was in tan, with a bag along the side, strapped to a belt, and a whip held along the same belt on the other side. Her skirt was red, going all the way down to her ankles with a white frill just below it, all though, something told her it merely served to enhance what was already there, her magical powers. She had black tights tucked into her brown leather shoes. Another pair of items that were there to likely enhance her magic were her two slime earrings, one in each ear and a necklace with a purple stone that sat just above her cleavage. Alistair pardoned himself a moment to go and change the under part of his uniform, to remove the blood soaked garments and replace them with something… clean and drier than his blood soaked clothing.
Moments later he came back out with a new undergarment to rejoin them, standing near Airlia and Jessica as he did such. When they went to approach the steps, a man approached the group as Alistair stepped subtly in front of her, to keep her safe from an unknown man. "But Jessica! Your mother said we were to be married!"
His voice as he whined had a nasal quality to it; somehow it went along with the rest of his physical appearance. He had short blonde hair, going to the bottom of his ears, a pink fur rimmed cape with pink feathers sticking out of it. His hair was bowl cut, allowing them to see his blue eyes; he made the mistake of wearing an outfit like Dhoulmagus's. Alistair stood in a protective stance in front of Airlia and Jessica. Upon a closer inspection, they saw his outfit; unlike the evil mage was red and gold, alternating in panels, with white cuffs. He wore purple pants, which matched his actual cape. His shoes were plain loafers, his eyes focused on Alistair's sister.
Jessica's expression turned to that of a sneer, "I already told you that I wasn't interested in getting married. Especially when you are such an egotistical maniac… So sure of yourself that you allow yourself to look like a jester, and as such, you are funny, but in all realities, it's truly sad. Goodbye." She went down the stairs as everyone else followed her. Once outside, the man in the wagon turned the good mare around and followed them outside of the town, the tears long since dried up.
When they were away from town, the hooded man threw his covering off from around his face, making a delighted expression appear on Airlia's face. "It is you! I thought it might be!"
Trode had a thoroughly confused expression on his face as she expanded on her comment, "I've been having visions in the forms of dreams. I saw a beautiful castle, peaceful and elegant with a shorter man who was obviously a king, with chestnut hair and a crown, and a beautiful princess in an elegant gown with long darker chestnut hair than the king's, when it was attacked. Vines with thorns exploded from within, trapping all within its curse, save two who were protected within a special circle, but it didn't completely save them. It changed their forms to something… not human. Even though they retained their personalities, looking at them briefly, you'd never know they were human once. They were traveling with him," and with that, she directed her attention to Draco.
Suddenly everyone stopped as Trode jumped up excited that someone realized his lineage, "You mean… you know that I'm a king!?"
She nodded with a gentle courtesy of her crimson gown, as she reached over to pat the mare's shoulder gently, "I'm sorry for your terrible burden. I don't have the power to break such curses, but my father might… I can't promise anything because a lot of it will depend on the strength of the evil."
The king nodded, a gentle gleam in his eyes as he said, "First, let me formally introduce myself and my daughter. I am King Trode, and this beautiful white mare is my daughter, Princess Medea. How soon until we find your father?"
She looked down as she said, "We need to hurry there as soon as we can, for I fear that the monster is heading towards him as we speak. I can't warp us there, for there are too many, and I'm unused to the magic yet. I can get us to Port Prospect though."
They nodded as she prayed for her magic to warp them to Port Prospect, and the next thing any of them knew, the town was right around the corner of the hill. Hurrying in, they went to the Quartermaster of that town, who was staring at the sea in worry. Airlia smiled as she went up to him, "Excuse me Quartermaster, when is the next ship due to set sail?"
He rounded on her, making her step back partially in concern as he said, "We're not leaving anytime soon, for a monster is out of control and is attacking every ship to try and cross. We've lost three good ships already, and I don't mean to make it a fourth."
Airlia nodded as she turned to the others, "What do you think guys, can we take this task on ourselves to help? They may give us free boarding if we do."
Alistair nodded as Trode said, "Shouldn't be a big problem, what do we have for magical abilities?"
Airlia nodded, "I can heal and squelch poison…"
Jessica chimed in, "I know bang and sizzle. I can put some to sleep too, making it easier to beat them."
Yangus smiled as he said, "I know a few nifty tricks with my axe, and can heal too."
Draco nodded, "I can heal as well as detox, and I can sizz too. I have some tricks I can do with my boomerang."
Airlia nodded, "We're pretty well rounded, let's go check with the armor and weapons, see if we need anything to help back us up."
They nodded as Alistair went to find Raquel about additional herbs. While he was away, the others went first to the armor shop. "Welcome my friends; we have a wide array of armor and protective gear. What can I help you all with?"
Airlia smiled as she said, "We need to see if we have armor that can be upgraded to a better quality, paying the difference of course."
The woman smiled as she said, "Certainly. For you my dear, we have a wonderful scale shield, where if you turn in your shield, your difference will be $145 gold pieces. For Miss Jessica, we have the scale shield for $180 gold pieces. Your friend in the fur vest it'll be the same, but he only has a difference to pay of $145. And the last fellow needs both the scale armor and scale shield. Those will run you a difference total of $405 gold pieces."
Yangus smiled as he said, "Yea, I had the leather kilt already from Alexandria. We were just about to buy the other items, but ran into you guys first."
He handed over his share of the gold pieces.
Jessica handed over the rest as she closed Airlia's hand, "You saved my family, so at least this time I can repay you."
Airlia blushed softly as she had been unfamiliar with kindness like that in her life… Sure, she had the Abbey, but there was always a double edged kindness from most of the people there, except where her father and Angelo were concerned… Equipment was traded and received as everyone set about putting the gear on. Draco put his scale armor on over his traveling garments to give him additional protection while the others merely slipped their shields on.
Alistair returned as he said, "I have the herbs, and since we're done with the armor, let's get you some weapons."
She nodded as they turned back to the clerk who sold them the armor that also dealt with the weapons, whom just put everything together. "Wait… you're the one who revived Master Alistair?! Forgive me please! Let's take a look at what weapons you guys can use…"
Airlia turned to him as he chuckled, "You're a bit famous here Airlia, even though people don't know your name."
Blushing, she nodded as the clerk jumped up with a smile. "For your friend in the bandanna, here is an iron spear, from me to you as thanks for reviving him. Your friend with the green helmet, I present you with this, a farmer's scythe. I don't want any coin for it, as I should have given you a better deal with your other equipment. As for you Miss, your sword is very special, don't sell it to anyone, and I have this odd feeling it will protect you for a long time…" Tilting her head to the side, she nodded thoughtfully.
She wanted to examine her sword, to understand why it was so special, but that was something to be figured out at a later time. Once their gear was set, they headed to the Quartermaster who looked at the group. Night was just starting to fall as he shook his head, "It's too late to sail today with that monster out there. We will go first thing in the morning, go over to the lighthouse and tell them I sent you. The name is Tomas."
Nodding, the group turned around to the lighthouse and found the woman there, cleaning it. "Tomas sent us to get some rest; we need to be up at first light…"
She nodded with a hopeful gleam in her eyes, "You're going to try taking on the sea monster? I wish you luck. My name is Samantha, now if you would please follow me; I'll show you to some beds." She led them upstairs to a few beds and smiled, "I appreciate all of your help everyone. Have a good rest; I'll be up first thing in the morning for all of you." They nodded as she left to go back downstairs.
They gathered together, sitting on two beds across from one another as Draco turned to Airlia, "Now that we're forced to stop, why don't you tell us a little about yourself. I want to know a bit more about you since we're all going to be traveling together for a while… You mentioned you have visions in the forms of dreams? Where did that sword come from?"
She nodded, "I may not be able to answer all of your questions, Draco, but I will try. It started a long time ago, I was found as a babe in the woods near Maella Abbey… Abbot Francisco found me while out on a stroll through the woods near the Abbey. He had apparently heard my wails and came to see what the commotion was about. Upon finding me, and no one else, he picked me up, and as he set me in his arm, like a cradle – he saw the sword that I have with me now. On my arm is a strange birthmark the shape of a dragon, so seeing the sword, he figured it was meant for me. So he set me down to secure the sword, then picked me back up and took me back to the Abbey. He's normally a bit of a recluse, so he had a nun who was there feed me until I was able to eat solid foods on my own. Time passed by and I grew up there, dressing as a nun to hide my appearance so that I could move about without risking the attack of an improper suitor. Still, it didn't calm the blood of one would-be suitor. His name is Marcello… Marcello Adon. There were things he said to my father that he shouldn't have, so my room was given a lock, and my father and I had the only true keys while Marcello had a false key. Time drew by as the nightmares began, starting with the one of what was King Trode's castle, to a man being murdered, his house burned to the ground-"
However as soon as that came out of her mouth, Yangus and Draco both gasped sharply as Yangus supplied, "We wos there… Master Rylus, 'e was murdered?!"
She raised an eyebrow, "I don't know who it was, but the town was small, and with huge stonewalls guarding the town. Does that sound familiar?"
Yangus and Draco both nodded as Yangus continued, "Yes, it wos 'im. Terribly sorry to say. Now that aside, wot's next then?"
Airlia shook her head, "I told my father of my dreams, and was given outside gear to wear," she indicated her attire, which had been forgotten until that point, and it still had Alistair's blood in it. "He told me to seek the ones in my dreams out. So, I left after leaving my only best friend there, Angelo, a note, only to run into Marcello. I ended up running from the Abbey, with Marcello sending his Templars after me, chasing me to drag me back to the Abbey. I made it to port and the Quartermaster, Mark, allowed me passage for free, only because he saw the men chasing me."
She took a shuddering breath before continuing, "I went to nap, and the dreams came again, this time to warn me about Alistair, so I ran soon as the ship docked, through town, not really stopping anywhere, until I found Alistair heading for the tower. He knows everything from there. The evil in the dream was so frightening that I had to stop it before it destroys everything we've ever known. Soon as he left after stabbing Alistair, I had a terrible feeling, like I know where he's going next… I fear it's after my father." She shook as Alistair tried to comfort her with a hand on her shoulder.
Yangus and Draco looked on in sympathy as Alistair spoke, "That's why I'm trying to protect her… I heard that evil creature, Dhoulmagus, say that he was going to make her his bride after he was freed. I have a very bad feeling that it's somehow linked to those of us that he's after. But let's get some rest. We don't know what this creature of the sea is, and why it's going crazy."
They nodded as they all went to bed, with Trode staying with Medea. The town understood enough to not judge poor Trode on his looks, making him feel at home and kept Medea safe as well.

She saw that it was a circular room with stairs at the edge of it leading downwards… Looking up, she saw familiar stained glass… Fear gripped her, as the realization set in that it was another dream… She saw her father and felt her heart sink. She simply had to prevent this as she saw him struck down, Marcello and the other Templars wounded and unable to move. She felt tears streaking down her cheeks as she became determined to prevent it!

She awoke, breathing heavily as she looked around and brushed the tears from her cheeks. Settling back down to sleep the night passed swiftly for the travelers, and as dawn broke, Samantha came back up the stairs to wake them. As she gazed at them, she felt bad for waking them as early as she knew they talked through a bit of the night about the woman who revived Alistair, but it had to be done if she was going to give them food to eat. "It's time to wake up everyone. The Quartermaster is looking to set sail soon, so I thought I'd give you all something to eat prior to departure."
Airlia awoke first, and nodded her thanks as she turned to Jessica to awake her, while Samantha awoke Draco. Jessica in turn awoke Alistair while Draco awoke Yangus. With everyone slightly awake, she brought them downstairs to give them a meal to never forget. Grumpy and hungry, they trudged down the steps only to smile – seeing the food there before them. Fruits and meats awaited them with juices and water to wash it all down. Eating heartily of the food and drink, they were quickly joined by Trode, "They have given Medea food and water while I join you in here to have some food. It's amazing, the amount of respect that I've been shown here as opposed to Farebury."
After eating their fill, they bade Samantha farewell as they went outside to the ship. The Quartermaster was there, waiting for them as they saw the grim look on his face, "I hope you're all prepared there. We're going to set sail immediately once you're all on board."
She nodded as he let them on the ship, "Good luck Captain. May they bury that beast in the bottom of the sea!"
John nodded as he smiled – seeing the familiar face, but that she no longer had that frightened look that he recalled seeing on her so shortly ago. "Are you sure Miss that you want to take on this beast?"
Airlia looked up to see John and grinned, "I'm sure. I may not be the strongest lass, but I have friends now – and we can take it on!" He nodded as he looked at her and gave her a smile, showing his belief in the group. He looked at the hooded man with the beautiful white mare that was tethered to the wagon and thought them the odd ones out, but they seemed to be as important to the group as any other person there.
As the ship pulled out, it sailed about a quarter of the way to sea, when suddenly the waters started to churn. The ship rocked mercilessly as a giant pink and purple squid appeared out of the water. A voice was suddenly heard, "Ooh, I hates this, Tenta!" They looked around, wondering who was talking, or what was talking for that matter.
Another voice was heard, "I hates it too, Tickles! These nasty humans and their ships, always sailin' over poor Khalamari's head!"
Suddenly it became apparent, it was the squid talking, and or rather talking through his tentacles… as they looked at him in curiosity. Airlia tuned out the monster for a moment as she studied him, he was almost salmon pink in color, with purple diamond-shaped markings along his tentacles. His spout had two small tentacles coming from it, almost like a mustache. He had what looked almost like a purple helmet, with darker purple streaks, and under it they could see his red eyes. His tail fin was the same shade of purple as his 'helmet.' Looking at him, he seemed harmless for the most part, but something happened, something made him evil. Her thoughts were jarred from him as he jumped out of the water, spraying them all with sea water.
She looked around in shock, drawing her sword as Yangus drew his axe. Alistair drew his boomerang and Jessica drew her whip. Alistair joined in, standing tall next to Airlia with his sword in hand. "Let's show him what happens when he messes with people who just want to go from port to port!"
They nodded as the battle began. Airlia was off to the side, striking the nearest tentacle as it came at the group. Yangus groaned as he heaved his axe sky high as he jumped and drew it straight down on the squid. The resulting hit drew blood from the creature as the pain sent the creature rearing back. Roaring angrily, he shot fire back at them in retaliation. Airlia drew deep within her to bring healing magic to the group as Jessica sharply drew her whip, lashing it fiercely at the monster, stunning him for a precious moment. Alistair took his turn, lashing his sword at the creature, bloodying it. Draco smirked as he drew back his boomerang and let it loose with such an angle that it drew an X in the air – striking the foe twice.
The creature, enraged that mere humans try to strike him, struck at the group, as Airlia held her shield up to block it, but the sheer force of it sent her flying backwards, knocking her out. Alistair got up, ran to her and checked for a pulse and weakly smiled when he found one there. He got up, and felt his rage flowing deeper still as Draco hurried over to them to check on her. Jessica deftly dug into her pouch, bringing up a pack of smelling salts. She always kept one in her pouch because of Bangerz and Mash when they were training, one of them would inevitably get knocked out. She used it on the woman and smiled as chocolate eyes fluttered open. Alistair focused on his rage, feeling the flames leap to his blade as he drew back and attacked Khalamari. When he did, there was a sudden light to his eyes – no longer angered or enraged.
Strength flew to everyone, bringing them to yet another level of strength as powers flowed through them all. Airlia felt the powers of the goddess unseal within her a new holy protection, to keep them safe from dangerous grounds. She felt like she was becoming tougher, slightly faster, stronger, and to her, it felt simply amazing. She could only hope the others felt the same way after their fight. The only regret that she had was she couldn't wield her sword or shield proficiently yet. Somehow though, she knew the knowledge would come to her – her friends would see to that if she couldn't see to it on her own. She wiped the blood off her sword before placing it back in the scabbard. Turning to her friends, she saw the need for healing and called forth for the magic and healed everyone around her.
Alistair walked over to her, "Are you okay?"
She nodded, "Sorry I didn't realize that the blow would knock me out, but Jessica quickly woke me up."
He nodded as they turned to the captain of the ship. "We're all set here. Do we go back to port before going to the other shore?"
The captain was about to speak until another voice caught their ears, that of Khalamari, "Oog, they was stronger than we thought. We give up, we give up! It wasn't our fault, though! It was histhough! That's right, it was! That jester, he came walkin' on top of the water to us! Just walked over us, he did! Pretty cheeky of a human to pull that little trick off, we thought, so we talked to him, we did! But when he talked, our head got all cloudy-like and we started attackin' ships, we did, we did! It wasn't us, it was that jester, it was! Here's this by way of an apology, like. Ooh…" He held up his tentacles with something being held within it. Airlia reached for the shining object and nodded as she took it. "We found it in the ocean, we did. Go on, take it, mate! It's the least we can do, it is, it is. Well, that is all from us. We are leavin' now, we are. Have a pleasant trip! So long!" He sank back into the water to nurse his wounds, leaving the group alone to talk.
When he left, Airlia saw turned the object over in her hands; she saw it was a gold bracer. She felt that it would help protect its wearer. Turning to the auburn haired woman, Airlia gave it to her. Jessica smiled as she placed the bracer along her forearm, feeling herself toughening up just having it on. When it was done, the reality hit her hard… Airlia paled, thinking back to the description Khalamari gave her as a pained cry escaped her throat… "Dhoulmagus!"
Trode walked over to the group and touched her hand gently, "Is it what you feared then?" She nodded, knowing her dream was likely going to come to fruition unless she could prevent it! Trode placed his hand along her hand, "We will help you my dear, don't fret. Anyone so dedicated to their father… well they deserve to be helped. Especially in your case my dear, with him not being your biological father, but neither of you show it… Truly splendid!"
She smiled in relief as Trode went into the wagon while Jessica turned to the others, "We're going to head back to port for a bit, so we can restock and they can get anyone seeking passage." As soon as the boat was docked, Draco rushed off to get more herbs and was back within minutes, leaving them smiling. With herbs stocked, they went back onto the boat to wait for it to be set to sea. Airlia went to the railing and stared out to sea towards the other coast.
She failed to notice Yangus and Draco sitting on the barrels near her, or Alistair there – staring at her in worry. Losing herself to her thoughts, Airlia's face paled with the thought of going back to the Abbey, but knew she had to help her father. His fate was solely in her hands. Yangus noticed her pale skin tone and knew it was worse than anyone thought, so he offered to lighten the mood. "Care to know just 'ow the guv and I met?" She blinked for a moment to shake away her thoughts and smiled. She was grateful for something to take her mind off her worries as she agreed readily.
He jumped off the barrel with a smile as he chuckled with a fist in the air in excitement. "The story of 'ow me an' the guv fell in together is an epic tale, full o' laughter, thrills and tears…"
Jessica came over to them, her necklace gleaming in the light, making the purple stone seemingly even brighter. A closer look showed she had changed the slime earrings to match the necklace as Jessica simply explained, "They enhance my magical abilities. It makes my magic stronger by focusing them. Now as to the story, well, why don't you just give me the highlights?"
Airlia nodded as they turned to listen to the tale, as Draco joined them, ever the watchful protector. Yangus got up as he started to animatedly explain the tale. "Awright, I will! It all started on a fine, summer's day… The sounds of the insects was deafenin'… I'd just decided to make a clean break of it. I was well 'acked off wiv the old bandithood. So I decided to leave the town I'd lived in me 'ole life and start fresh, like." He stared off into the sky as he relived the memories.

I ain't exactly a looker as you can see. Perhaps that's why people treated me funny everywhere I went. Like I was a thief or somefin'. I didn't 'ave no place to go and not a penny to me name, neither, so I ended up goin' back to the old game.
And that's when I run into the guv 'ere!
You see, they wos approaching the bridge. I didn't know any of them, an' I see a man traveling with a green faced creature and a beautiful mare. So I can only think that 'e 'as money on 'im to give to me. I decided to block the bridge. Armed with me axe, I jumped to land in a fighting stance.
"'Old it right there! Who gave you permission to use my bridge, then, eh?" It was then that the green faced creature responded…
"Permission!? Permission!? Your bridge lies within my kingdom, you oaf!" He roared at me.
So I responded disbelief clearly in my voice, "Wot you on about? A creepy old codger like you, a king? Don't make me laugh!"
'E responded in kind, mocking me at this point, "I see your mouth is as vulgar as your face! Yes, I'm the King! And who exactly do you think you are!?"
I laughed as I spoke boastfully, "Me? 'Earing my name is enough to make anyone wet their knickers! That's right! Yer talkin' to none other than Yangus, the legend'ry bandit, 'imself!"
The 'king' looked at me as he said, "Yangus?"
I nodded as I pulled me weapon out, "The one and only! Time to cough up! You 'ave to pay if you wanna cross my bridge."
Trode laughed at me, "The one and only Yangus!? What a shame there aren't more of you! Now, kindly remove your one and only self from my bridge and clear off!"
I growled as I spat, "Don't push yer luck, you green-faced freak!" I wos shaking with rage as I continued, "I would've let you go if you'd o' kept your gob shut an' paid up, but ya wanna do this the 'ard way, eh?" I started spinning me axe preparing for an attack. I leapt in the air an' came crashing down on the bridge. When me axe landed on the plank, it started to split the bridge. I cried out as the boards beneath me gave way. I clung to me axe and the board directly in front of me.
Trode took advantage of the situation as 'e said, "Now, Draco, my boy! Now's our chance to cross!"
They took off running, leaving me clinging to the bridge as they cleared to the other side. It was then that my luck was about ta change.
I growled as I felt the bridge weakening, "Just my bleedin' luck…!" The rope was just starting to fray, an' it finally snapped, as I grabbed for the rope with a wild cry. Me axe gone to the ravine, but at least I 'ad my life.
I could still hear Trode call out ta Draco, "Now that's what I call just desserts. As the saying goes, 'crime doesn't pay'. Let us carry on, then Draco, my boy! There, there my precious Medea. Did the bad man scare you?"
Just as I was about to give up hope, my grip slipping – a 'and grabbed mine. I hadn't even realized 'e 'ad been pulling up the rope. 'E didn't make a show of it, just did it. Even as Trode said, "What are you doing, Draco? But he attacked us! Why the devil are you helping him? Just leave him! It's poetic justice! Nay, divine justice!"
Finally, 'e had pulled me all the way up, as we both landed on our backs. 'E instantly 'ad my respect and I let it be known, "Th-Thank you, guv'nor. I thought I was done for…!"
All Draco did was smile and shake 'is head as Trode let out a sigh. "What is the world coming to? You can show your gratitude by getting out of our sight!"
Both Draco and I were 'eavin' 'ard as I croaked out, "Hahh… Hahh… Yer 'avin' a laugh!"
Trode looked at me with disdain and disbelief. "What? Still here? If you won't do us the favor of leaving, I'll be happy to provide some encouragement!"
Instead, I got up and bowed before Draco, saying, "Mister Draco! N-No, guv'nor! I really owe ya! You saved me life an' ev'ryfin'! You're the bee's knees, guv!"
Breathing heavily, it was 'ard to 'ear Trode talkin', but I did. "Guv? What is this nonsense!? Are you a complete imbecile? This boy is my retainer! If you're in anyone's service, it's mine!"
I growled as I shook a fist, "Put a sock in it! I ain't talkin' to you. Draco's the one who saved me!"
Trode 'ad a scandalized look on 'is face as 'e stood with 'is arms wide open – like 'e was about ta hit me or somefin', "Put a sock in…!? Who do you think you're speaking to, you, you… good-for-nothing scoundrel!"
We then began to argue as Draco stayed put for a moment more. 'E smiled and said, "What's one more hand to help us out on the journey to find Dhoulmagus Your Majesty?" Trode thought it over before nodding…
The rest, as they say, is 'istory.

He smiled as Draco stood up; Alistair took the moment to speak up, "While we're waiting to arrive at the coast, why don't we train a bit so that everyone can feel more comfortable with a weapon?"
Airlia smiled brightly, happy to be able to pull her own weight with more than little spells and visions while Jessica was eager to be able to do more to help the group trying to end the threat that originally claimed Alistair's life.
However, she had something minor to do first as she turned to the pair of men that joined them. "I haven't formally apologized for my behavior in Alexandria. Forgive me for being so rude!" She stood at a tense stance, her head bowed and her hands were balled into fists, as she had her arms stiffly away from her body as if she was expecting a blow to come to her back.
Draco smiled as he said, "It's completely understandable. At least it's over, and you've got your brother back once more!"
Yangus threw on one of his charming smiles as he said, "Yea, it's no skin off me nose. Just glad to 'ave more 'ands to go after this Dhoulmagus jerk!"
The group went to the center of the ship, where the captain merely smiled, "You can all practice there, just don't damage my ship too much please."
Airlia smiled at him, making him blush a little as she said, "Of course captain. Thank you so much – for everything." He nodded as the group took out their preferred weapons. Alistair and Airlia both took out their swords, while Jessica took out her whip. Yangus grabbed his grabbed his axe while Draco took out the spear.
Alistair gently stood behind her, gripping her hand that held the sword and said, "Just relax yourself, I'm going to adjust your stance, you should feel an immediate boost in strength and defense."
She nodded as she felt the boost he mentioned as her right foot went half a step backwards while her other foot stepped out to stand shoulder width apart, her grip changed slightly where her fingers tightened and went further to the hilt of the sword, and her other hand gripped just below that hand, ensuring that the sword couldn't be merely flung from her hand. "Good job Airlia, that's it."
She smiled as she lashed out at Yangus, striking quickly, while he deflected it with his axe. "Aye, that wos strong! But part of it is that sword. Dunno wot that is, but it's not of this world!" She looked at the handle of it, staring intently at the symbol, while thinking of her dreams. The group practiced for hours on various weapons, Airlia and Alistair becoming adept at whips while
Jessica learned to wield a knife at first that was provided by the ship's first mate. "It is the bridge," he had told Jessica, "To learning how to use a sword." She nodded as she practiced.
After becoming proficient at it, the trio started to train with swords, not enough to learn too much yet – but enough to feel more confident with their stances, lunges and simple attacks. Yangus got more proficient at his axe and scythe while Draco worked with his spear, boomerang and sword as well. By the time they took a break, the shore was in sight, and they felt more confident than they had when they first started to cross the ocean.
Airlia went to seek out Trode; while the others were sure she wouldn't be assaulted on the ship. Alistair wasn't sure whether or not to go with her as she gave him a comforting smile, "It's okay to spend time with your sister. You were killed after all, and now she has joined us to share her powers with us in order to defeat Dhoulmagus. The crewmen won't hurt me on this ship since they saw the Templars were after me…"
Alistair looked at her in question as Draco asked, "Templars?"
She nodded as she supplied, "They're the guards of Maella Abbey. They weren't too keen on me leaving Maella because of Marcello's… feelings when it comes to me…"
It hit her then and there, without saying anything of what may happen when she went back there. As she felt the lump in her throat rise, Yangus came up to them and said, "We won't let them take you, an' they won't even see you. When we arrive there, stay back an' be silent." She nodded, hoping they were right. She went off to the Captain's quarters.
Trode was there, having moved the captain to the edge of his own table as the cursed king worked on something involving a dark silver pot. She looked at it intently as she saw a green jewel along the top with an amber jewel on either side of it. Lighter silver markings weaved along the pot, both where the handles were and under the silver band that wrapped the entire middle of the pot. It seemed to reek of power and mystery as she listened to Trode who jumped with joy. "I did it! I did it! I finally did it!"
He turned around to see her and jumped off his chair, his arms extended as he said, "Ah, it's wonderful to see you Airlia, but where is Draco? I've just finished fixing this up and wanted to show it to everyone!"
She nodded as she said, "Let me grab everyone Trode." He grinned as he nodded.
She went outside and called out to the others, "Trode has something for us all to see! Come quickly!"
They ran over to her as Yangus looked around skeptically. "Wot does that old koot 'ave for us now?"
She smiled as she shook her head, "It's something powerful. I know that much!"
They all went inside as Trode said, "Yes, this is it!" Yangus eyed the pot with even more skepticism than before as the cursed king explained. "It may look like an ordinary pot to many, but it is, in reality, a legendary alchemy pot. It can take normal items and turn them into extraordinary items. But keep in mind, not all items can be used in alchemy, and not all results are desirable. After my kingdom was cursed, I thought it might come in handy and managed to spirit it out of the castle. But that's not all. I spent night after night to get it working again. No, no. You can thank me later." His eyes were closed as he shook his head from side to side, his arms raised in the air as if praising his actions. Airlia smiled as she knew he was trying desperately to be a benefit to the group while trying to maintain his air of kingship. Yangus, Jessica and Alistair merely shook their heads, respecting him but not happy with his being over full of himself at the moment.
Draco smiled happily at his king, happy to have another useful tool on their quest. Trode came back to reality as he said, "Right then. Well, it's in my carriage, so why don't you give it a try? It's surprisingly easy to use."
He saw Airlia's excitement as he gave her a small leather bound journal. "I would like you to use this when you experiment, so you can note down reactions of the items you combine. I still have some tinkering I need to do on the pot, but it should still work in the meanwhile. A few of the recipes that my predecessors have been able to use successfully are noted in the journal already." Airlia smiled as she put the book next to the pot in the wagon as she put in the pot two medicine herbs. She knew the reaction was already there, but it never hurt to have stronger medicines with them.
The ride took them another forty minutes as she made several 'strong medicines' from her medicinal herbs. She gave two to each of them. "These are much more potent than your normal medicine. Please use them sparingly."
They nodded as they each took the offered herbs and placed them in their bags. By the time everyone had their items set, they were docking at the port. She chewed on her bottom lip in worry of what would come when she went to return home to see her father. Alistair and Draco both saw the worry on her face and promised internally to not let anyone touch her. They waited until the Quartermaster of Peregrin Quay set the plank before they got off the ship.
Once they were down, Mark was surprised by the change in the girl. Sure, she was still nervous – but somehow – he knew she was stronger and more confident than she was before. Mark smiled as she caught sight of him and she relaxed a little. "Don't worry Miss; they haven't been around here since yesterday. I think they got the hint that you were to be left alone."
She nodded as everyone got off the boat with Draco being the last one with the wagon. The captain came up to the group – panting as he said, "I wanted you lot to have this bronze knife. It may help protect the lady in a pinch. Keep it hidden on you at all times."
Airlia smiled softly as she accepted the knife, "You have my eternal thanks Captain, Quartermaster."
She put the knife in her bag, determined to find a spot for it later. They wandered around Peregrin Quay for a little but until they found the armor area. Airlia spied new silk dresses for herself and Jessica as she ordered one of each for them both. They supplied a red silk dress and a purple silk dress after the amount requested was paid. After thinking about it, she ordered one additional scale shield and paid the named sum for it.
Placing it in the bag, Jessica and Airlia went to the inn to change into their gear, passing by someone calling for help to unlock his chest because his key went missing. The young lad looked to be in such distress, but they couldn't help him just yet because their gear dictated the need to get changed first. Once they went inside they looked at the inn keeper, "Could we just use a room to quickly change out of our clothing into our new battle gear?" The innkeeper looked at them and internally battled on if they were going to be charged or not.
"If you can finish in five minutes, sure, if not, then I must charge you for the night." Airlia nodded as they went into the nearest room with the key, to keep people from trying to peep in on them. And three minutes later, they came out in their silk gowns, happier than they had been in a long time. They returned the key to the innkeeper and gave him their thanks, who could only blush at their appearance. Jessica had her dress on, with her corset still on top, to keep the dress out of her way; her belt was still on her waist, with her item bag still attached to her belt on the right, with her whip on her left hand side. Her shield was across her back, as she went outside.
Airlia had her silk dress on with a belt to keep her sword and her item bag in place. She wasn't quite comfortable enough with it on her back yet like Alistair or Draco kept theirs. Her shield, however, did lie over her back as she went to go outside to join the others. However, someone in the inn prevented her from leaving. He seemed like an unscrupulous man dressed in green and black as Jessica fingered the hilt of her whip uneasily.
"I remember you from before Miss. I was stuck between being a thief and going to the Abbey to become a monk. After seeing the scene of the Templars chasin' you, I decided to stay here, pretendin' to be a thief when – really – I'm an honest man. I want you to have this iron nail. Any true thief worth 'is salt will know wot ta do wiv that."
She nodded and smiled, "Please, don't have hard feelings about the church after seeing what happened with me. Truly, I'm an odd case. That is not normally how they are." He nodded with a smile as she left the inn to rejoin the others.
She went up to Yangus, "I know you used to be a thief, but do you know what to do with this iron nail?"
Yangus went into thought as he said, "You could make somefin' of that. Combining that with a knife of some sort, somefin' sturdy and it'll make a key." She nodded as she turned to the alchemy pot and offered her bronze knife with the nail. She didn't know if it was sturdy enough, but figured it was better to start somewhere than with nothing. As they went over to the weapon's dealer, Airlia merely looked about everything.
Yangus had acquired new equipment that he merely changed out what he needed to. While Yangus had upgraded to a chain mail that lie over his chest, while keeping his kilt for the legs since the mail didn't extend there. Airlia looked at the scythes and wondered… could it possibly be… She inquired about the scythes at the weapon shop and managed to barter him down to the price of one for two scythes.
She heard a chime that told her the pot was done. She went to it, and opened the pot to find a bronze key. Amazed at what it was, she quickly made note of it in the journal. She put the two scythes into the pot and let it brew as Yangus looked at her, "Are you sure about that one?"
Airlia nodded with a smile as she said, "The moment I saw it, somehow I knew it would be something special. Should be done in a few minutes if I'm right."
Yangus nodded as she pulled the scale shield from the bag and set it down next to the alchemy pot while waiting for it to finish. Airlia suspected the scales would be versatile in alchemy and wanted to test another theory. Soon as she finished the alchemy for the scythes resulted into something truly magnificent for them, an iron axe emerged as Yangus looked on in surprise. He immediately sold his stone axe to replenish the money a little.
Airlia smiled at Jessica as she said, "I want to do something special for you Jessica, considering I couldn't tell you the moment he was revived, which left you completely battered emotionally speaking. Can I see your whip?" Jessica smiled happily as she handed over the leather whip. Airlia placed the shield and whip into the pot. She then noted into the journal the results of the alchemy, as well as the new recipe currently in the pot. They bid the weapon seller good day as they went over to the clerk who had been trying to get into his chests.
"Maybe we can help you now sir?" She inquired as he looked up at them startled because he had been so intent to get into his chest as to be able to open his shop.
"Could you? You can keep what you get out of the chests, I just need them open to be able to put items in there that I carry for sale." She nodded as she took her key out of her pouch and proceeded to try and unlock the doors.
Luckily for her, they came open instantly as she took the contents. She pocketed the money, the strange medal and the boomerang was given over to Draco. He looked at her and smiled, "Thank you so much for your help Miss! Please, take a look at my items and hopefully I can repay the token for your help."
She nodded as she looked at everything. She smiled as she said, "I don't need much, but two hairbands that would help us. How much would that be?"
He gasped as he looked at everything and said, "Two hundred and we're squared on the items requested for your helping me out like that." She nodded and handed him the money she got out of the chest.
He handed her the items as she handed one hairband to Jessica to keep it out of her way as she used the other to push her bangs out of her face, and to keep them out of her face. She heard the familiar ding of the pot as she went to it, with journal in hand. She found a snakeskin whip ready for Jessica as she gave it to the woman who looked at it in amazement. She coiled it and placed it in her holder on her hip.
She turned to Alistair and Draco, "The pot isn't quite ready for three items yet… So any complex recipe will have to wait for it. I'm sure Trode will let us know the moment it is. Right?"
Trode nodded in agreement under his hood as he said, "I will indeed child. Are we going to be on our way now?" Airlia nodded as they started towards the place she had fled from… Maella Abbey.
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