God Ah's Larghissimo: Act I-Caritas
Everything was dark-the world felt far away, and the sounds within it even further. Just where was TJ, and what was he seeing? Peorth and Kooh had vanished, as did the guild room, and he had not the foggiest what was occurring, and as if in response to his soul-searching a bright flash of light brought him an answer. As his vision returned he found himself in the body of another person, and another place. That which he knew of the book was extremely limited-supposedly it contained memories of his past and future, but the places he had saw before him were nothing that he could recall. Was it truly his memory?
The sound of the ragged breathing of a young lady brought his reverie to an end as through her eyes he could see a gentle blue light descending from the sky. Her focus turned back to where she was headed, and from all around he could see what seemed to be something akin to a giant temple or some such place-perhaps as big as if not bigger than the entire city of Elias. To make things even stranger, it was an island in the middle of the sea, and she seemed to be frantically ascending it! Across grass-covered walkways and up a series of ladders, the young lady moved ever higher towards the pinnacle of the island, eventually reaching one last ladder with a sign and an arrow pointing upwards that read 'To Xenadia's Holy Place'. Swallowing hard and taking a deep breath, she carefully made her way up the ladder to the top.
After climbing up a few short landings the young lady found herself before a tall tree that gave off an olive green aura-spheres of light fell from it silently. The entire place gave off an ambience that seemed to be similar to that of the Divine, and it was so far from everything else it was filled with a calming silence. Here it felt as if Humanity was closest to the gods. Like the guild room in Elias it was just the place that the two would be able to communicate. She knelt down before the tree and clasped her hands together as the blue wisp submerged itself in the tree-with a flash of light the tree changed from green to a snow white with a blue aura and spheres of the same colour falling from the branches and leaves.
“Thank you for gracing Xenadia with your presence, Lady Amae.” The young lady said as she knelt down before the tree.
“I am glad to see you in good health Seres.” A voice as gentle as a breeze and that almost seemed to borderline song spoke-leaving him in a faint daze. Though the young lady looked upon an enchanted tree, the feeling it gave off was divine in and of itself-so much so that TJ questioned exactly what it was, or rather who had inhabited the tree. It gave off the same feeling he did with the Order Frequency, along with the guild master-but much greater than he could. It dwarfed his very being, and left him in awe. “Please inform me on the current status of the war effort.”
“Our efforts to combat Agasura King Asmodeus' army are progressing steadily,” Seres explained to the goddess. The young lady remained knelt down before the mystical light of the tree at Xenadia's Holy Place. “To the day we still have acolytes that are making their way across Jienda in order to spread the word of your teachings, Lady Amae.”
“You have my thanks, Messenger. I pray that their preparations are at a stage in which they can challenge him on even footing. If the current standing of the world is any indication, the time where Asmodeus will strike draws nearer by the day,” Amae answered. TJ felt a pang in his chest at her words. “I know not what creations he plans to bring from the Dark World, but I can feel their corrupting influence even here. I can assure you, Humanity will not fight this battle alone, but I must insist that you do not neglect your practice. I cannot assure that we can both defeat our adversaries and protect Humanity from them.”
“To know that you would lend us your aid even though we are underserving of it is wonderful news, my lady. I shall urge all of Xenadia forward as best I can. But there is something else that has become a greater concern of late my Lady.” Seres knit her eyebrows as her eyes shuttered.
“Please, share your burdens with me.”
She raised her head. “One of our messengers had informed that a faction that hails from the city of Atlantis has started a revolution against us-against our cause as a whole. They have completely rejected your teachings and have been spreading a creation of their own. Something that turns normal humans into ability-wielders, I believe they were named. Their presence was once harmless, but of late there have been reports the mana levels across Jienda have been dropping steadily while the number of ability users have been increasing.” The messenger dug her fingers into the dirt as she bit her lip. “Even more so, many of your followers have lost their faith in you and sought ways to become ability-wielders. Our presence amidst the people is fading, and at such a crucial hour.” She lowers her head. “Forgive me for my failings.”
“You need not apologize Messenger. You have done all that you can for this cause and your efforts have borne fruit. I ask that you pay little heed to this and continue to see your mission through as you have up to this point.”
“I will not fail you, Lady Amae.”
“I place my faith in you Messenger. Alas, I must go, but I pray that we shall meet again before we must challenge Asmodeus. Until then, I wish you well.”
“Thank you, Lady Amae.” Seres bowed once more as the mystical blue faded from the tree and it returned to its natural colour.
TJ's consciouness seperated from Seres and seemed to enter that of the sphere of light as it ascended to the sky. He knew little of the inner workings of Memorius Sanctum, but it seemed to not only chronicle his memories, but the events, emotions and experiences of others that he did not know. Just who were Amae and Seres, and why did Memorius Sanctum chronicle their memories? If their talk was any indication, it must have been during the time of the Agasuric War, but according to Peorth that was around the time of her ancestors. Was it possible that the heirloom explored the memories of someone from her lineage?
The sphere of light that was Amae rose skyward before coming to a brief halt high above the clouds. Amae was not unaware of the rapid rise in technology from the city of Atlantis-at one point they had considered how they could utilize it to do battle with the Agasura, but after a myriad of casualties they had changed tactics. All by the hands of one man, a new breed of Humans started cropping up with a series of abilities that were oddly akin to the Magus and Warriors who had mastered the technique that she had attempted to pass on to Humanity as a whole. Those who had learned it were far and few between-it was no small feat for anyone to do such a thing, but with such difficulty came great responsibility. Those who learned the art tapped into a power that was only available to the gods, and those who followed in Amae's wake-in other words, the Cerebians. Angelic creatures born for the sole purpose of putting a stop to Asmodeus, and protecting Humanity from his onslaught. In her absence, she had seven of them scattered across Jienda to monitor the going-ons.
Though unlike God Ah, she was neither omniscient nor omnipotent, but prior to Asmodeus taking the first step in initiating Ragnarok ahead of its time, she could easily look over Midgard. By his influence the world was put under a perpetual night and has since remained as such-his minions had grown stronger since, and Humanity had remained locked in battle with them for months. Asmodeus himself had gone into self-exile to one of the other worlds to make his final preparations, after declaring his intentions to God Ah and Amae herself. The goddess sighed gently. It was his duty, but not his time-despite her best efforts, she could not stop him, and that left her only one option: to defeat him on the field of battle and put a stop to the war...but at what cost?
She turned her focus in the direction of Atlantis and in a matter of moments shot towards it at incredible speeds. Though there were seven Cerebians, only six of them came to Midgard. The seventh was still upon Asgard-the only Cerebian born of her very own lifeblood, and the only one who had a direct link to the goddess. Her daughter Leigha. The sole Cerebian acted as the leader for the other six, and would be fighting side-by-side with their goddess when the time came for them to wage war against Asmodeus.
As she neared the futuristic city she came to a halt and shot down towards the earth-the sphere of light came to an abrupt halt right above the ground and spun around quickly before growing into the size and shape of an average human female. As the light began to fade, her features came into view-her eyes were a dark brown and her hair a darker shade of it. She now wore a desert cloak, gladiator sandals and a dress that covered the entirety of her body.
She made her way down the paved road into a city with massive towers that reached up to the heavens and bright lights in every window. Gigantic poles poured light down upon the streets as people bustled here and there-unlike many of the other cities they were hardly perturbed by the state of events and proceeded as if little had changed. Despite bathing in the light of the lanterns, Amae had felt no warmth from them, and the effect was rather disheartening. As she placed a hand to her chest and looked up to it, the sound of someone calling out to her woke her from her reverie.
“My lady! I could sense your presence approaching! Forgive my lateness!” A young man ran towards her before he came to a sudden halt and knelt down before her, a single fist to his chest. “Keruz Revai, at your service.” He was a dignified young man with bronzed skin and long black hair in a blown back style. He had muted grey eyes with a serious look. He wore a thick silver coat and baggy black pants along with sneakers-clothes that were sold in Atlantis. Upon his hands were brass knuckles, but they were a disguise too-his weapon became a gauntlet that covered his whole arm when he entered combat. “To what do I owe the grace of your presence?” She gestured for him to stand and he did so without a moment of hesitation. She looked over him before smiling slightly-at the sight his face flushed and his eyes opened before he rubbed the back of his neck. “I-if you stare so much your holiness, even I will become flustered.”
Her smile grew even wider. Though Leigha was her daughter, she considered all of the Cerebians to be her children. Though they were battle-bred warriors, she swore to herself that she would protect both them, and humanity. Perhaps when the war had ended, the two could learn to live in unison. Looking upon Revai now, he had began to fit in their society with ease under the guise that he was a Cerebian hidden in plain sight. “Revai, I would like to hear what knowledge you have gleaned since my last visit to the city. I am concerned with Humanity's current status and their mastery over Frequency.”
At those words TJ's thought process came to a halt and he woke from the daze he had been in since this had begun. He was seeing the world through the eys of a goddess and those were her Saints! At what point in time was this? The feelings he had experienced and some of the knowledge that flowed through him now were Amae's also-he saw the world through her eyes, experienced what she did and Memorius Sanctum was chronicling her memories. If she created the Cerebians and was to challenge Asmodeus, then that meant she was God Ah's Left Hand. The Abellan felt a shock like nothing before. What about the Frequency? To think that it had existed in this time-and if what he heard was true, all of Humanity was able to use it. So what had happened that had caused them to lose their ability to do so? Why could they only use SP skills in the current time?
“This information may come as displeasing to you, my lady.” The Keruz lowered his head and closed his eyes. “As you recall, the Humans of Atlantis have found a way to create a secondary power-or rather as they call them the 'ability wielders'. Of late their campaign has promised to give power to combat the Agasura-a power that the gods have denied the 'everyday man'.” He grit his teeth and furrowed his brows. “Forgive my language but this is nothing more than lies and slander! For them to tarnish your good name is unforgivable!”
She took his hand and offered him a gentle smile. “Do not let their mistakes be reason for you to make such a face. I wish to see all of my children smiling in harmony.” He let out a gentle huff with a smile before he nodded. “If I recall correctly, you had once informed me a man by the name of Artemis Kimara was responsible for the birth of the ability-wielders correct? If there is one such location where this takes place, perhaps you could take me to it?”
“Your wish is my command, my lady.” He bowed down to her and she waved a finger at him.
“You must not forget, Revai, that we are to remain disguised. Not just in image, but our actions also.” She smiled proudly. “I have studied much of the Human culture, and I believe that I am quite proficient at it. Come, today I shall have you be my escort.” She wrapped her arms around his and gave him a confident nod. “Let us go. For you to be too formal would simply draw attention.”
“I-is this appropriate, my lady?” He knit his eyebrows.
“I deem it to be so.”
If TJ could feel his own body he would be sweating profusely. It was hard to imagine that the Cerebian goddess was so playful, but there was no denying that her actions were entirely understandable. It seemed she too, like his guildmaster was adamant on keeping the existence of the Cerebians a secret from Humanity. For generations they had kept this well hidden, and eventually became a part of their community-even so, there were still a myriad of questions TJ was yet to have an answer to.
As the two walked through the streets Revai eyed the passerby with caution but despite his apprehension hardly any looked their way. This left TJ surprised also, because of Amae's garb, and less so her existence as a goddess. She looked like the travellers from Elfa in his time-though the two cities were not far apart, so perhaps visitors from it were not as scarce. Even so, he was hard-pressed to believe that the city of Atlantis was as of yet to be sunken. According to Curt, it was because of this very event-did that mean TJ would see it happen first-hand? The idea created a sense of unease within him.
“I feel that it would be in your best interest if I warned you first, my lady. I doubt that you have forgotten, but the original incarnation of Kimara's creation harvested mana in the area and used it to create the ability-wielders. Since that would not suffice, he had his workers scattered across the continent to gather mana in places that were abound with it.” Revai explained before he grit his teeth. “When the amount could not meet the desire of the masses, he had taken one last step to ensure just that. He...began to cut down the seeds of Yggdrasil that we had spread. Many of the crops have fallen to their hands, and for it Midgard is suffering, as are we. Had it not been for the Heart of Yggdrasil, we would hardly be able to sustain our abilites, along with providing mana for Midgard.” The Keruz turned his head towards a massive clock tower at the heart of the city. “It will not be long before their next demonstration. I would suggest we attend so that you may see for yourself the result of their actions.”
“Perhaps you are correct, Revai. It seems that this was a fault of my own, to have underestimated Kimara and his influence,” Amae remarked.
He shook his head gently. “You were not wrong in your decisions. As you had informed us, it was God Ah's desire that we do not interfere. In doing so, should Humanity create new possibilities for itself, it is their decision what path they follow. Where they shall find light, is a choice of their own. Just as we take solace in your presence and what you give to us, so may they. You need only shine on, my lady.”
The goddess smiled. “You have grown so much in such a short time Revai. I am very proud of you.”
He scratched his cheek gently. “I only share in my understanding of your teachings, my lady.”
After a brief walk the two came to a towering silver building, inlaid with a series of windows from top to bottom-thhose at the lowest point were much wider but were also blocked by curtains. A pair of glass doors welcomed visitors, and as one would expect it was crowded. There were a couple of men who stood at the door trying to hold back the bustling crowd who clamored at the idea of becoming the next ability-wielder. Some were so adamant that they waved bills and cried for Kimara to come out.
Amae gasped, “This is...”
Revai nodded grimly. “This is how it is on a regular basis. Most do not know what darkness they have bought their way into...alas, there is little we can say or do to sway those who have made their mind. In a matter of minutes Kimara himself will come.” He shook his head. “They treat the man like a god among men. To think that this is what had become of so many people...it beggars belief.”
Shortly after the doors swung open and lead by two more men was a lanky man with dark chestnut hair combed back-his features were sharp and his eyes a deep sea green. He wore a long white lab coat and a pair of olive green pants atop a pair of black shoes. He wore a pair of rectangular-framed glasses and pushed them upthe bridge of his nose as he prepared to greet the Atlantian community.
“Welcome my adoring citizens, to Kimara Research Laboratory! I thank you for your constant patience and time for coming to visit this...humble facility.” Kimara's voice was oddly...sleek, yet seemed to straddle the line between sanity and madness. In that regard, he and Choen Palm were not very far apart, but she had an oddly violent or bloodthirsty tone at points, and his was more cunning. “I am positive you can hardly wait to have your chance at becoming the next glorious ability-wielder, so without further ado, we shall begin the demonstration! My receptionist shall be giving out numbers, so please see her following the demonstration.”
At those words Kimara walked back into the Laboratory as he gestured for the men on security to let people in and they did so, albeit a small amount at a time. Each of them wore black coats over dark blue pants and carried weapons of the sort that could be seen in modern times-swords and shields, two-handed swords, knuckles and clubs, everything.
“Shall we?” Revai asked, to which the goddess nodded solemnly.
They walked inside and through Amae's eyes TJ could see the Laboratory as it was in the past-it was almost incredible at how primitive it was in comparsion to the modern version. Despite that, though, it was still relatively futuristic. A series of screens that showed videos of countless people lined one of the walls, each talking about their experience after becoming ability-wielders; some of them even advertised SP potions and where to find them, while others talked about ability-wielders and what they could do. As if that was not enough, there was all sorts of propaganda in posters that actively slandered the gods for their decisions. TJ felt both apprehension of his own, along with that of Amae's as she examined the area herself. The wall opposite of the corridor had all sorts of awards and accolades for Kimara's accomplishments, along with pictures of the employees and the deeds they may have accomplished.
They entered a pair of double doors that lead to a massive towering room, but it was not that, that caught TJ's attention-it was the towering machine within. Stairwells that swirled around the room with a myriad of landings that allowed the workers to reach and perform maintenance on the machine drew his attention for a spell; as they walked ever closer to a series of seats laid out before the spectacle, Amae looked upon the workers scattered at varying heights around the abomination of metal with shock. The walls were black like the present Kimara, but it lacked the odd floating texts, and the sky-high multi-coloured cords did not serve as a means to ascend the place, but rather were a part of the machine itself.
“Do you see that, my lady?” Revai asked as he pointed to one of the highest points in the Laboratory. At the sight, she knit her eyebrows-TJ would if he could also. What he pointed to was an eery green glow within a glass case that was connected to the machine-at closer inspection, roots of one of the seeds of Yggdrasil could be seen within. The goddess' heart sunk at the sight. “It is that creates the ability-wielders.” One of the security guards gestured for them to proceed and take a seat so they did so at the far back. “I had heard that upon the mana being exhausted from extraction is depleted, they grind up the roots to make potions from them.”
“You...did not have to use force to acquire this information, did you Revai?” She asked with a worried expression. Was that normal for him?
“N-no, of course not!”
“Now then! To show that this is no farce, I would like to take a member from our wonderful audience today to be our demonstrator for the day. Which of you aspiring adventurers would like to become an ability-wielder?” Kimara asked the crowd with a sweep of his hand. There was something about him that gave TJ the heebie-jeebies, and he did not like the man one bit.
As if in spite of his thoughts hands shot up rapidly as did some people desperate to be picked from the crowd. The security guards immediately tried to get the situation under control while Kimara swept over the crowd with his eyes-a look that seemed to see cattle to fulfill his ambitions. He pointed to a young man in the crowd. “You...yes, you shall do just fine.” A single adventurer with spiked hair and adventurer's gear that seemed rather out of place for an Atlantian rose to his feet with a fist-pump before making his way to Kimara and his machine at the dismay of all of the other visitors. The scientist inspected him before he gave an approving nod and snapped his fingers. Threen men in lab coats immediately hurried down the stairs and began making preparations for the transformation. One of the three opened the glass case at the base of the machine while another ushered the young man into it. While the two strapped him into a strange harness and attached all sorts of cords to his body, the other stood at a console and rapidly pressed a series of keys. “Now as you can see, this is your common, everyday adventurer. I have hand-picked him from all the visitors before your very eyes, and in the following moments he will be transformed!”
One of the scientists seemed to ask him something to which he responded with a grin and a thumbs-up. He relayed it to his companion on the console who nodded solemnly and input a bit more information while the two closed the window. “We are ready to begin Doctor,” He said.
“Then let us do so.”
As Kimara walked away and took his place at one side of the machine, the others did so also as it came to life-a series of lights flickered on as they ascended ever higher. A powerful glow was emanated from each and every cord as a blinding light emanated from where the roots were located. The crowd watched in awe as water filled the tank and submerged the adventurer in it, his eyes closed as if he was put to sleep. After he was completely submerged in it, his body moved with a jolt as if it was shocked a couple of times before a bllinding green light filled the tank and caused many to avert their eyes. Once it faded, the water subsided and a powerful gust dried off the adventurer. Jets of mist filled the machine for a brief few moments, and once they began to dissipate the scientists approached. The first of the three went to the console and input a series of commands, opening the hatch and allowing the others to release the young man from his bindings. Once free they helped him to his feet and allowed him to exit on his own to stand before an awe-struck crowd.
“How do you feel young man?” Kimara asked as he returned his weapon to him.
“Feel? I feel great! Powerful even!” He excitedly said as he clenched his fists a couple of times.
“Good, good, as you should. Now then gentlemen, if you would be so kind?” One of the scientists approached and whispered into his ear while another handed him a piece of paper. The third ran through a pair of doors at the far end of the room and returned with a straw training dummy. “We'd like you to display your newfound abilities for everyone.”
He sheathed his blade before he balanced it over his shoulder. “That all? You got it!” He took his two-handed sword in both hands before he prepared a strike. He leapt at the dummy as he shouted, “Shock Wave!” Though the blade itself did not reach the object, it created a wave of violet energy that travelled across the ground a short distance and pierced the dummy. “One more!” He did a flip and brought his blade down on it. “Meteor Wave!” As if the weapon rended the very air before it and caused it to combust, flames rose in its wake and set the dummy aflame. He turned to Kimara with a grin. “How was that?”
The crowd was in a frenzy of elation. Alike to prior the arrival of Kimara, hands shot-up, bills in hand and cries of excitement followed suit. Those who had already seen it were not as enthusiastic, but still showed some signs of excitement, while Amae looked on with shock and disbelief.
“I had a feeling by that alone, you would be well aware of what effect it had my lady,” Revai muttered grimly.
The goddess closed her eyes slowly. “I can hardly even detect his presence anymore...the mana within that young man has almost entirely ceased to be. It as if the connection between us has been completely severed.” She clapsed her hands together as she looked over the crowd before her. “What kind of monstrosity has this man created?”
“I know not either, but he has lead many to believe that this will be the means in which to turn the tides of war. I believe this mummer's farce must meet a swift, deft end along with the fool who initiated it.” He let out a gentle sigh. “Even so, my loyalty to you will never be overshadowed by foolish or unseemly desires. Allow me to see you out. Such a place is ill-suited for you.”
“I am in your care once more Revai.”
The guards escorted those who came for the demonstration out of the laboratory and those who wished to undergo the transformation to the receptionist's desk in another hall. Amae and Revai made their way out of the facility and down the streets of Atlantis towards the outskirts of the city.
“Forgive me for taking up your time Revai, but this short journey has proved to be of great import,” Amae said. She wore a stoic expression, but TJ could feel the concern she had withheld.
“It is nothing you need to thank me for. I am but a humble servant of yours.” He said as he bowed to her. “If you have need of me, please, contact me at any time and I shall be by your side with the utmost haste.”
“I shall do so. For the time being, I would like for you to continue to monitor the activity in Atlantis City until we meet again. Should you find any signs that Asmodeus is approaching, I wish you to engage him. I and Leigha's Keruz will be with you anon.”
“Your wish is my command, your grace.”
She smiled gently. “Be safe Revai. I shall go to visit Docle in Elifius. Until we meet again.” She outstretched both her arms and turned to a sphere of light before shooting towards the sky-the young man solemnly waved back as he faded amidst the clouds.
Amae soared over the various cities of the past, now nothing but mere villages or towns. As TJ saw glimpses of the places he knew now, he came to realize much of Jienda had changed in that time-many of the roads had not even dirt trails for travellers to follow, Cherry Lake did not have the fortress that he and his allies once traversed and Aoich was not split into two different districts. Even Yong Gyong was a shadow of its current self, but the Red Crop Field still remained vast, and a land for harvesting. Amae came to an eventual halt near one of the cities, and if he was to hazard a guess it would have to be the past Elias, at the time named Elifius. Though she descended close to one of the entrances, she came to a brief halt and moved towards one of the city's walls-as she neared a waving figure came into view.
The goddess touched down and TJ got a closer look at the figure he assumed to be Dolce. A young lady with silver hair in two braided side loops with deep violet eyes curtsied to the goddess. She wore a black blouse with white trumpet sleeves over a crimson calf-length skirt. She also wore a pair of black cloth shoes with a flower damask, silver bangles and matching hoop earrings. “It is a pleasure to see you healthy and hale my lady. I take it you recently visited Revai? I could sense your presence coming from the direction of Atlantis.” Dolce said as she opened her half-shuttered eyes and smiled. It was not until she placed her hands atop each other that TJ noticed the conductor's baton that was kept safe through a leather strap that hung around her waist. That, and the loaf of bread she held in her hand.
“As am I, Dolce. You have my thanks for your guidance. As I would expect of you, your senses are in tune with the Heart of Yggdrasil magnificently.” Amae answered as she beamed. She chuckled gently shortly afterwards. “Nevertheless, you are insouciant in other matters as always.” Of the eight, Dolce was one of the most capable but also one of the most carefree in other matters.
Her eyes opened wide in surprise for a moment, but she closed them and smiled as she held the bread to her cheek. “Indeed! I have come to know Elifius both inside and out, and have taken quite a liking to the local cuisine. The honeyed milk bread has quickly become preferential to all else. Would you like to taste it Your Grace?” She held out the loaf to her.
“No, but thank you for the offer.” By the grace of God Ah Amae had no need to eat, but she wanted the Cerebians to be a little more Human-in that they could experience many of the things they do, both good and bad and come to understand them on equal terms. They would feel what they feel, eat and drink, face conflicts and learn admiration, and someday reproduce also. Though for the time being, they were nothing more than a small group, she knew it would not suffice to keep back Asmodeus' impending army. In time she would need to give life to many more, but the experiences that those who came before would become that of those who come after, and in doing so their resolve would carry them through their duty. For the sake of peace, and to put a stop to her only and beloved sibling, she would do what must be done no matter how difficult it was for her. “Alas, I am concerned with the state of affairs in Elifius. You had told me that they, among many others had stayed true to our cause and continued to do so prior. Have there been any noteworthy at all?”
Dolce placed a finger to her face as she mulled it over for a few moments. “I would not say there was a dramatic change in the city's affairs, but I must confess there is some grim news.” Amae had a fair idea of what that would be. “A man from Atlantis and his men once visited to treaty with the king, and it seems they had come to a settlement. That man and his men had taken Elifius' seed of Yggdrasil-from what I had gathered, they did so in turn for coin. To fund their weapons, armour, and cost for training soldiers along with food and drink for said soldiers, they would need immense amounts of it.” The Keruz took the goddess' hand and lead her into the city as she continued her explanation. “I do confess, that it is quite the disenchanting scenario, but human culture is one where in order for progress to be made, sacrifices must be made in turn.”
As they walked TJ could see the Elias of the past-cobblestone streets and small shops with signboards hanging from them. There were people in the streets who hawked the wares of the store and attempted to bring customers in. Further along there were a series of stalls set up like a bazaar, that was reminiscent of the weekends in the city. Rather than adventurers though, it was businessmen and actual shopkeepers selling all sorts of items from weapons and armour to potions, accessories and baubles. Unlike Atlantis, both the city itself and the people who inhabited had neither the futuristic technology nor the fashion sense that accompanied it. At times it was difficult to tell just that because there was a myriad of adventurers that lined the streets.
“Is that so?” Amae was indeed listening, but the way she looked around said that there was something else on her mind. Was there something about Elifius that bothered her to such a degree? Or perhaps was it the scenario itself that weighed so heavily on her mind?
“Indeed. Spirituality is often outweighed by coin-alas, spirituality cannot buy weapons nor mercenaries to fight their cause. On that note, there is something of a concern that I have.”
The goddess turned to face the Keruz with a raised eyebrow. “That would be...?”
“Mercenaries. Naturally, they would seek out places where they might find work. There is no doubt in mind the first place they would go to is Elifius. Have you noticed how much the city bustles in such a time?”
“She nodded slightly. “Yes, in comparsion to my previous visits there seems to be an even greater abundance of adventurers in this city. Though if there are this many here, that could only mean...”
Dolce nodded and closed her eyes. “That's right. The smaller villages and towns will suffer because the adventurers that hail from there have come here seeking payment and glory. Perhaps it is not as negative as I may paint it out to be, but the fact still stands tall.” The two broke away from the crowded market and came to a halt outside a massive wall of stone with a tiled top similar to that of a rooftop. “Keeping that in mind, I believe it would be in our best interest if we came to a decision. In total, there is nine of us. If I may, Your Grace, I suggest that you station each of us in the general vicinity of the towns and villages across Midgard. Though together we may be able to defeat Asmodeus with much greater ease, I cannot help but fear that Humanity will suffer many casualties in the process. A war won with excessive bloodshed is not a war that is won-it is nothing more than a bloody battle. Though our indentities may be given away upon our taking up the defense of Humanity, I will personally take it upon myself to clear the memories of any who have seen us throughout those battles.”
Amae listened to Dolce speak calmly and quietly, and once she had finished her suggestion the goddess smiled. If it was her, it was not impossible that she would be able to perform one such feat. Despite Amae's abilities though, the Keruz had been thinking of counter strategies in order to protect Humanity despite the lack of their numbers. They were very kind despite their youth-the Cerebians that would follow in their footsteps would be even more so. She placed her hands to the cheek of the Keruz and the young girl's rosy cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink. “You need not worry for the sake of the other civilization my precious child. I will be sure to protect them. I would not like to seperate you from your siblings-I have not a doubt in my mind Leigha has in mind something for all of you to do in order to defeat Asmodeus, and he will be the largest threat to all of Midgard. If they lack warriors, I shall provide them, and if they are wounded there will be those to tend to them. Your duty is to protect yourself, and the comrades that fight alongside you. Let me worry for the others. Now then, I would like to see the progress of those who have mastered our art.”
“It would be my pleasure, Your Grace.”
Dolce removed her baton from her sash and with a wave held it above their heads. A sphere of light surrounded them and once it vanished, they did also.
“Let us proceed with caution and guile, My Lady. Though we are not easily visible to the naked eye, we can still be discovered by those who are discerning enough or who know how to disable illusory magic.” Dolce looked up to the eaves of the castle that towered in the heart of Elifius and turned on the balls of her heels with her baton before waving it with a flick of her wrist. At her command the winds surrounded the two and carried them up towards it before letting them off. “Down there are some of the palace's own warriors. Supposedly they are some of the finest the kingdom has seen in some time. That man down there, their instructor supposedly fought Agasura from all around the continent and became a renowned figure among adventurers and mercenaries alike.” As Dolce explained the courtyard behind the castle had warriors in formation, all practicing their swordplay. There was an archery range, practice dummies and even an obstacle course a fair distance from the castle itself. “What you see now is nothing more than practice equipment-what they will be wearing during the battle is held within the castle.” She turned her focus away to another location within the castle grounds. “I can sense Mages nearby. I shall show you to them.”
At her command the winds surrounded them again and they drifted over trees and gardens towards a small barren area with a group of seven people. The two touched down nearby and watched in brief silence as one of the six robed figures raised his staff in the air as he sung. He opened his eyes and pulled the weapon back as he held a hand out, and the ground near the instructor shuddered before the earth rose up violently-the instructor, also robed but in Xenadia's colours-black, green and silver. Those who were of Xenadia but also acted as messengers for the goddess' cause had her insignia inscribed upon their outfit, as he did where his heart was located. An eye surrounded by a sunburst.
Amae gave an approving nod at the sight and Dolce grinned. “It seems that Humanity had mastered your art through an imitation of your song that they had given the name 'incantation'. I have come to the understanding that it is not just through knowing the song that they can give it shape, but also in hearing your own-many of those that have come to learn the song have not mastered Frequency.” Dolce's explanation brought TJ's thought process to a grinding halt.
That name-there was no doubt that she was talking about the very same thing he had in mind. But even so, the mention of it still left him in disbelief. The song was their means in order to master it, but what song did they speak of, and how exactly did they use it to tap into the Frequency? Was it really not something that was unique to him? If so, how did it come to be and how did he use it in the current day?
“Even so, it is not just the members of the kingdom of Elifius who have come to get a hold on this power. As you can see, there are members of a myriad of different races and tribes that have come together to heed the king's calling and learn from one of Xenadia's finest.”
As she had said, though TJ could not see their faces from behind, the fact that there was a child among them caught his attention. With a wand in hand, she stood tall among a group of four adults, one teenager and a young adult. Amae's heart ached at the sight, but any and all capable warriors were likely to be inducted into an army-those who could learn Frequency were even more valuable. Though human lives were short-lived, she could not bear to see those that had hardly even begun come to an abrupt end due to the gods. Kera would likely have felt the same way.
“I know not what plans they have for them currently, but I will continue to watch them over the coming days, up until Asmodeus decides to wage war against us.” The young girl turned in their direction, potentially because she heard the Keruz' whispering and this gave Dolce a start. “We may have been detected, My Lady. I recommend a prompt and hasty retreat!” With a wave of her baton, a powerful gust of wind surrounded them and lashed out in the general vicinity before they took off and landed back before the castle's gates. “This was nothing more than a small glimpse of the events that have conspired of late. If you would like to see more, I can gain access to the castle Your Grace.”
Amae shook her head gently. “There is no need for such actions Dolce. What you have shown me thus far is more than enough. For the time being, please continue to survey the ongoing situation here. There is one more place I must visit before I return to Asgard.” She explained before she smiled at the Keruz. “As for the use of the seeds of Yggdrasil here, I have no qualms with it...and none with what Kimara has chosen to do either. It is Humanity's decision, but be it weapons, abilities or potions, I pray that they can protect Midgard with it. The path they follow following the defeat of Asmodeus is one they must decide for themselves.”
As the goddess closed her eyes to surbey the air for any nearby humans, Dolce smiled gently in turn. “As you wish, Your Grace.” As she curtsied once more she winked. “Though I am in no place to do so, may I burden you with a request?”
“You may. What do you wish for Dolce?”
Her smiled widened into a grin. “Please ask Leigha to pay us a visit. I am positive that she will come to love Elifius-especially the confectionary they call 'cake'.”
“It shall be done. Be well Dolce, we shall meet again in time.”
The Keruz curtsied once more before she waved the goddess off. “My thanks! Safe travels, Your Grace!”
Despite the lack of their king, the Agasura that inhabited Midgard still persisted in attacking Humans wherever they were. Amae had considered having her Cerebians take flight and take the fight to them, but it was Leigha who suggested that they hold out until Asmodeus himself appears. Though the Agasura were not as strong as those to come, those untrained and those who were veterans needed all the opportunities that they could get in order to hone their blades in preparation for the upcoming war. Going by the knowledge gathered by her Keruz, she had come to realize that Humanity would take any able-bodied person to join in their fight, and they needed all the help that they could get. In that amountg of time, Amae could prepare herself-creating eight Cerebians was a small feat for the goddess. Creating an entire colony would be a matter in and of itself. In that time the Cerebians would have to gather as much information as they possibly could for their brothers and sisters who would follow after them. As for Amae, she had a mission of her own to see through.
Amae touched down on the outskirts of the city of Elfahdera and made her way to one of the entrances. If TJ was to hazard a guess, assuming by the geography and name of the city it was a past Elfa-like a jewel hidden amidst the desert sands. Unlike the current and massive bustling city of Elfa, it was a small village not too far from the ocean, with buildings still under construction and much smaller and less grandeur than those that filled the city in his time. There were no tall domes or massive arches, and the city was not as colourful as it was. The ground was stone and cracked, and the buildings were worn down from being buffeted by sand but the city still seemed to see some prosperity in the face of hardship.
A pair of guards in chainmail armour stood tall with spears in hand as she walked by and waved to them. Through the visors of one of their helmets TJ stole a glance at them as they looked back at the goddess, but it did not seem to be one of caution nor apprehension. As she made her way through the dusty village TJ saw very few people, save for the merchants who hawked their wares at small stalls, only few passerby lined the streets-adventurers, a couple of children and some elderly citizens. The Abellan felt a bit nostalgic as he caught passing glimpses of vendors in the street and others that set up a carpet or tarp and sold their wares there. The Desert village did not seem to have a market specifically, but did have a sort of bazaar, with a few people, some travellers, selling a variety of wares from the other cities and trading in all sorts of currencies while speaking in tongues that he had never heard of; the sight of shops with signs that hawked their wares thankfully, were universal. Unlike Elifius, there were far fewer buildings for shopping, so it was possible that to have a stall or even a tarp was not just something that was more common among adventurers.
TJ could not help but wonder if all the others gone to join the fight. The goddess continued on to a store with a wooden sign hanging from it that featured a suit of armour and she entered without a moment of hesitation. This startled the Abellan-what was Amae looking for in an armour store?! Was she looking to equip the Cerebians or outfit herself? Either thought seemed rather incredulous, but there was no denying she was here, and he awaited in bated breath to find out why.
“Ezra? Are you not present? Kera?” The goddess shouted to the silent store. The door was unlocked, but it was not unusual for the two. Nevertheless, despite her calling out to them she could sense the presence of neither. She considered searching the back, where Kera's room was located but a single wall or a second would not impede her senses.
Amae exited the store before she did a quick sweep of the streets within her line of sight. A myriad of presences were within the walls of the temple, and though mixed amidst the others she felt positive that the young girl was within. She made her way towards it and paused for a couple moments as she reached out to one of the doors' handles-the sound of music came clearly through to her and she smiled gently. It was the sound of Kera playing her instrument while singing hymns with all the children. Even in her absence, it seemed there was nary a time where the young girl did not strive to further hone her skills. As the song came to a close Amae slowly opened the door and the light of the day shone in as she stepped inside to a group of faces that looked on in surprise.
The eldest of them placed her instrument down and held her hands out as the children flocked behind her for cover-she wore a stern expression and her body remained unmoving as the door closed back and Amae's figure became visible. She removed her hood and relief washed over the young musician's face as she ushered the children to come from hiding.
“Thank the gods...you had startled me Nomad.” The young girl said as she sat back down and smiled. Going by Amae's thoughts and memories, the girl that looked over the children was indeed Kera. She had a similar skin tone to TJ, her night black hair tied in a fountain-style ponytail and deep brown eyes.Despite her small build, her body was well toned-she wore a simple light brown t-shirt, a pair of hide shorts and a pair of tan sandals. TJ could not help but wonder how she got so fit-perhaps she was an armour smith also? Next to her was the unusual instrument that she seemed to be playing up until a few moments ago. Though unsure if it were true, his memories said it was called a chordophone? Or a lute?
The children all flocked around her while they called to her using that moniker-she smiled and greeted each one of them by name as she gave them high-fives and swayed with them as they took her hands.
Kera clapped her hands. “Okay everyone, leave the nomad alone for now. It's time for the adults to talk so run along okay?” In turn she received a united 'okay' and the children ran off into a door to the young girl's right. Amae followed in their wake and upon her reaching the musician she took her hands. “How have you been faring Nomad?”
Amae beamed. “I have been doing very well. It pleases me greatly to see you in good health as well. You have been here more frequently of late. I take it more of the men and women of the village have gone to fight, correct?”
Kera nodded glumly, but as she lifted her head she put on a brave face. “Yes, that is the case but I will not lose hope! There have been more sightings of Agasura within the vicinity, and the village elders have called more and more to join our battle but I will believe in God Ah's Family right until the very end. They will not abandon us. I have not a shred of doubt.”
“The gods will protect Humanity. I assure you, so do not lose faith.” Amae clasped her hands tightly.
The essence of all life was mana-of the people, the plants and animals on all worlds. But to the gods, to Amae, at the very least, she also gained strength from that of her followers. If her followers believed in her, the effect of every ability to her would increase, including how much she could utilize them while decreasing the time it would take her to recover from them. In breathing life into Leigha and her Keruz, she had used her own mana, and even now much of it was still recovering but she knew her efforts were not in vain-each of them was born from her, and carried a portion of her power which would manifest in the form of their weapons and the skills in their repertoire. In the same vein, spells and stances learned through Frequency manifested through such a means, but much of the strength in them relied on the user, and their ability to understand it.
“I will not.” Kera knit her eyebrows slightly. “Though we are sworn to secrecy, I trust you Nomad so I would like you to know.” Amae nodded solemnly and listened intently. “Of late there have been a small group of people that have come to understand that power which our goddess has blessed us with. Some men from the city state of Elifius had once come by in search of them, and took them back with them. Most were adults but one of them was one of the children.” She looked to the door the children had recently went into and sighed gently. “The kids have since held fears that they would be taken away from their families, and I find myself hard-pressed to act on either behalf. The elders had said that to join the battle would be an honour and that those who are able have a duty to all of Midgard but...I feel unsure if this is truly the best course of action. To that end, I have hidden two more skilled people in mind but...”
Amae knit her eyebrows as she pursed her lips slightly. It seemed that mastering the Frequency at times could serve more as a sentence than a reason for celebration. What could she do to help Kera in this situation? What could she do for Humanity to ease their burdens? “Might I inquire who they might be?”
She smiled bitterly. “They are Olen...and I.”
Amae nodded solemnly. She knew that Kera had already learned the Frequency-her potential and mastery grew upon every visit, and if she was to give it shape her power and talent would shine through. As for Olen, he was one of the children she looked after in the temple and was amidst the children now. Though faint, he had the embers of budding talent within, and if honed he too could learn to access the power within. “Are you afraid to face the Agasura Kera?”
The girl shook her head. “No...it is not that I fear them. I wish to fight...or rather...” She looked down to her instrument for a couple of moments. “I wish to master my instrument, because through it I feel that I can support those on the battlefield. Though it is not a weapon I...I have been able to heal the scrapes of the children, and even some of the wounds on the soldiers that returned.” This gave the goddess a shock not even she expected. “I do not believe that I have the capacity to kill, even if my enemy is an Agasura, but I feel confident that if I was to go there I could contribute by giving strength to those with enough conviction to do so!”
The goddess beamed at the words. “You have a truly beautiful soul, Kera. Do not let anyone or anything snuff out the fire of your courage. Burn ever brighter with the intensity within.” She gently pressed a finger to the young girl's solar plexus and she smiled in turn.
“Yes, I am positive that the time for me to join the battle will come. For the time being, I want to remain here by the children's side. To protect them, to sing with them and teach them.” She turned her head in the direction of the door as the kids peered through an open crack before they all toppled out over each other. Those who could got up and surrounded the two again while they bombarded the adults with questions. “I guess the kids need some kind of parent when their families are a way so...I'll be here until the time for me comes too.”
“Then until that moment comes...” Amae reached into her dress and drew her harp. “Let us practice to prepare you for the future. We shall see your song through to its completion, Kera.” At the action the kids all clamoured about magic tricks-some had even believed that she used the Frequency to do so.
Kera chuckled. “I would appreciate it greatly. There are many Elfahdian hymns I and the children can teach you Nomad.”
As the two began to play a brief thought came across his mind. The young girl Kera looked awfully familiar for someone TJ had never known-in fact, since she was a human that lived in the past, he never could have come to know her, but he felt certain he had seen her, After a few moments of pondering the matter, the realization dawned upon him.
That young girl-that aspiring Bard...that Human from another time, long before he even existed...
Was him. Every feature, from her eyes to the contours of her face was his. But she was not him. He had the sneaking suspicion that he was her.
After a sudden but brief blackout TJ found himself unable to see anything-what had happened? Where was he now? All of a sudden in a flash of light he could see again-there was a flower garden with a young lady and a strange being of pure light with her. Her singing, or rather the song she sang gave TJ an odd sense of nostalgia. He searched through every experience he had that he could recall since his awakening, but the exact event escaped him and he could only recall a vague memory-the dark expanse of time between his defeat at Kimara Research and his second awakening.
The sound of the song was the same, but even through Amae he could not understand the lyrics that he heard. Everything he saw through Memorius Sanctum he had understood but the two songs, respectively performed by Kera and now the lady before him. Who was she, and what was the song that she sung now? How did he recall it, and who was it that knew and sung it in the current day and age?
The lady brushed a few strands of deep blue hair from her eyes and smiled at the goddess as she approached. “Welcome back, Your Grace,” She said with a curtsy-her voice was smooth and oddly enchanting. She wore a long pink dress, a transparent silver shawl, and a flower coronet upon her hair. She had bright golden eyes that gleamed in the goddess' light.
“I thank you Orpha. How fares the Child of Light?” Amae asked as she approached.
TJ caught the slightest glimpse of the goddess through Orpha's reflection and was both dazzled and blindsided at the same time and lost focus for a moment before he regained his composure. He could hardly see much, but the goddess' emerald green hair was something he definitely saw, and the white raiment she wore, but hardly anything else.
As the goddess walked by Orpha clasped her hands together and bowed, and when she approached the being rose to its feet and looked up to the goddess who dwarfed both it and Orpha. As if born and shaped from light itself, the being stood before her and what seemed to be eyes appeared on its face-the body was shaped like that of a small human child. At the sight of her, it shone brighter and the jingle of bells followed shortly afterwards.
Amae beamed at the sound. “Is that so? I am very pleased to hear that.” She placed a hand atop its head and it jingled once more. Was that truly its way of speaking? “You need only wait a brief time longer. Leigha has been preparing mantras in my stead-it is only a matter of time before you may experience the outside world. Have patience my love. Your time will come.”
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