- Pages 1-12:
- Under Shattered Skies Refrain
“Warriors,” Warlord Carmen roared. Men and women clad in leather stood tall at the command of their superior. “Salute!” The moment the word went out their hands were raised as she walked past them and inspected each and every one, she gave them a nod for approval. “I've told you runts before but we're gonna be expecting a very special guest today. Some of you were just little squirts the last time he came around so you don't know he is so I'm gonna tell you. The brother to our village's most renown member will be arriving today and I expect all of you to show respect and courtesy for him. Not only are you representing Xenym, you're representing all warriors in it. If any of you decide to fuck around, I'll make you regret it until the very day you graduate, and remember it years later. Got it?!”
“Sir yes sir,” The warriors shouted in unison.
“Good.” Warlord Carmen plunged her broadsword into the ground and blew her bangs aside. A questioning glare from her deep mahogany eyes searched the warriors before her. “Any questions?”
One of the boys in the crowd raised a hand and the Warlord's eyes darted to him. “Permission to speak Wardlord Carmen!”
Her head tilted to him as she rested an arm on the sword, her black fishtail braid swayed in the opposite direction. “Granted.”
“Julius' brother must be an adventurer if he's outside of the village. Is he an alumnus of the village?”
Warlord Carmen snorted and smirked. “Alumnus? You wish. He trained our very own Meryl and most of the other alumni Treasure Hunters. He was a Treasure Hunter before most of you were even in your mother's wombs. Get over yourself.” She tilted her neck and sheathed her blade, surveying her warriors once more. “Enough chit-chat. I want you weaklings to be in top form. A hundred reps on the double!”
Warlord Carmen's intense training continued while preparation across the village proceeded.
Just a little ways off from Xenym in the snowy wasteland that it resided in, a small archery range was set up, consisting of a set of targets scattered across a small set of mounds and a group of benches for the archers to rest. Some were practicing while others sat on the benches and discussed the upcoming event.
“I heard Samson isn't a Mage like Julius is. Is it true that he was our teacher's teacher,” One of the younger boys asked.
“It's the truth! Though Julius is crazy strong I heard he has no magical ability! But he's one of the best Treasure Hunters our village has ever seen. You think he'll teach us some of his tricks?” A female archer answered tightly holding onto a bow.
“Please don't trouble Mr. Kolb when he arrives students! He's a very busy man!” A small lady with her chestnut hair tied in twin pigtails that bounced as her body did, waving her small arms to get her students' attention. A quiver drifted by her and she fell backwards, her whole body quivered yet the mentor remained frozen in place. One of the boys placed the quiver over his shoulder and shouted an apology as he drew and nocked an arrow.
“Stop messing with Meryl guys! You know how jumpy she is,” One of the girls shouted at the two.
“Are you okay Meryl?” Another of the girls offered her a hand and helped her to her feet.
“You have to respect your elders!” She remarked as she rose to her feet with the offered help. She dusted the snow from her pants and glared at the class with the intensity of a small animal. “It's Ms. Ambrosia okay?” Much to her dismay very few students paid her complaints any mind.
“You're too cute to be a teacher Meryl. That's why everyone calls you by your first name.” The girl said bouncing the teacher's twin tails in the palms of her hands.
“Word is that Samson used to call her Ms. Ambrosia when she was his student,” One of the boys chimed causing the teacher's face to flush.
“Stop goofing around!”
A young lady with shoulder-length platinum blonde hair gently wrapped her arms around the teacher's neck and rested her head atop hers with an impish smile. “Still got an eye for ol' Sammy eh Meryl?” She asked. “We might be teacher and student but I know a rival when I see one. Trust me on this one, Les always gets her man.”
Meryl slipped out from her students grip and pouted, face-to-face. “Alessa illicit relationships between teachers and students is wrong! I cannot allow you to do such a thing!”
Alessa wore a look of mock surprise, her only visible sapphire open wide while the other remained hidden behind her bangs. “Illicit? Definitely. But he's not a teacher anymore. He might still be your teacher, but he's a man within my strike zone. One more year and I can do illicit things with him behind closed doors. Legally, of course.”
“Alessa please, in less than a year you'll be deemed a professional archer and sent to the fields. You need to set an example for the younger generations! Also you must refrain from troubling Mr. Kolb. I won't give you another warning!”
“Don't you worry Meryl, we'll make sure Alessa doesn't get her grubby paws on Samson.” A female student suggested.
“Then we'll take him for ourselves!” Another girl cackled.
“Is that supposed to be reassuring?!” Meryl cried. “As your teacher and a citizen of upstanding morals I will ensure that you do not taint the minds of the children amidst us.”
“You tell 'em Meryl!” A male student cried out.
“We'll protect you Meryl!” Another shouted shortly afterwards.
“Protect me from what?”
Alessa chuckled. “You've got so much to learn Meryl. I'm gonna teach you the ABCs of love.” Her shuttered eye seemed to smile at the teacher.
“I'm your teacher Alessa. You seem to forget that every other day of the week.”
Samson
Samson looked up from his brown winter boots to the world ahead and caught sight of the gates and borders of Xenym, a second home to him. How long had it been since he had come home to the place? It seemed as chilly and deserted as usual, and he would have it no other way. Leaving his brother and sister in law's sides to traverse the continent; he hunted monsters, sought out legendary treasures and made some short-term companions but lifelong friends. He had many stories to tell, and after catching word that he would be an uncle in a matter of months he had to return to see the child before her birth. He had one more family member to share his grand tales with, and one that he would cherish with all his heart.
As he neared the gates one of the men standing guard took a glimpse at him and raised any eyebrow. “State your business stranger.” He said coolly.
Samson removed his fedora and held it to the brown trench coat he wore, offering a travel weary smile to the guardsmen of the gate. His chestnut beard gently blew in the gust of wind as he said, “Just a traveller looking for a bowl of soup. Your stock wouldn't be too low for one more, would it?”
The guardsmen lifted the visor to his helm and blinked. “Samson? My eyes aren't deceiving me are they?”
“If you've a mirror on your person, I could double-check if you'd like. If not you could ask your partner over there.”
The other guard standing adjacent to the first perked his head at the comment and turned his head to the two in a robotic manner. “That...is the real deal. If I've ever seen one,” He said stiffly.
“Have I become an endangered species? Perhaps I need a bodyguard. Would you two like to become sellswords?”
“I prefer a quiet life out here in the tundra.” The first guard said with a toothy grin. “Though if I could join you on your adventures, I'm sure I'd receive an earful upon my return.”
The second guard planted his spear firmly in the ground and uttered, “I-it's our duty to protect Xenym! So long as Xenym needs skilled soldiers I'll stay!”
Samson grinned. “Fresh meat hmm? Right out of the textbook, this one, and not even a man of sixteen. You're a good kid. Train him well, hmm?”
“Absolutely. So long as he's under my watch he'll only receive the finest.” Samson offered an approving nod and the guard turned to the gate. “Open the gates!”
The sound of gears turning caught the traveller's attention as the familiar sound of the massive wooden doors creaked open and enabled him access to the small village within. Upon taking the first few steps into Xenym he found warriors that lined the pathway towards his old classmate Esther Carmen. She stood proudly between her students wearing the same smug grin that she was renown for back in his youth. Confidence was her sword, and her inherent skill was her shield throughout their years, and even now it still remained.
“It's about time you came back to our little village Sam. While you were gone I turned these boys into men. None of them can hold a candle to me yet but I think they could give you a run for your money.”
Samson approached and raised an eyebrow. “Is that a challenge Esther? You know only fools would make bets against Treasure Hunter. Nobody knows how to score coin like us,” He said. He drew a coin and flicked it, then caught it with a smirk.
“You've certainly become more confident in the time you spent goofing about Jienda. Should I be surprised?”
“You could feign it, if you'd be so kind. I'd certainly appreciate i-” The sound of footsteps and the wind being split caused Samson to turn on his heel and catch a greatsword with both hands, his eyes wide. “Well! That was dangerous, if I do say so myself!” His hands trembled beneath the weight of the blade.
The young man behind the weapon pulled away and sheathed it as he let out a sigh of defeat. “Since I heard you were coming I've been practicing day in and day out. I was sure today would be the day that I caught you off guard. Still not good enough huh?”
The adventurer wiped his brow and chuckled. “I'd say you're much better than you think Virgil. You were so close to catching me off guard you'd have split my head like a watermelon.”
Warlord Carmen placed a hand to her face and let out an exasperated sigh. “Do you two morons have any idea how much of an uproar would be caused if one of my warriors split the head of God's Governor's brother? I'd be knee deep both in shit and in paperwork! That and you'd make a bloody mess.”
Virgil scratched the back of his head, his hand lost amidst the tousled chestnut strands. “Sorry Warlord Carmen. We've done this for so long that it's become a sort of greeting for us.”
“You think I don't know that? I've been training you into the man you are now for years Squirt. I've seen this moronic scene play out enough times that I can predict it, but I swear one of these days this guy will die by your sword and not by the hands of some Agasura.”
“It's the price a solo adventurer has to pay at times my dear Esther. I won't likely come across a sparring partner during my adventures, so should I come across a human or humanoid Agasura, I'll be ill-prepared to battle it. Your students should understand this also. So in light of that, think of me as a student in your presence; just as your students go through your intensive training, I shouldn't be exempt.”
“Hmph. I guess you have a point. If they can't protect themselves they're not worth teaching.” She looked at Virgil and clicked her tongue. “Always were one is one of the fiercest of all these girls. Always picking fights, always kissing dirt, and always rising to fight some other warrior. You've got guts. It's no surprise that you'd choose to challenge Samson too.”
“I can handle these guys until they come at me in groups of three or four,” Virgil muttered. “If it's this old guy he might put up a proper fight with just himself alone. Give me five minutes and I'll prove that I'm ready to be promoted and put out on the field Warlord Carmen!”
“Did I raise a whiner? I don't think so. You'll get promoted when I say you're ready Squirt! Now get out of here.” Upon the Warlord's request the young man made his exit and took his place among the other warriors. Carmen looked at Samson again and grinned; she placed a hand on his shoulder as she walked past him. “It was good seeing you again Sam. Don't you go getting yourself killed out there yeah? I expect to see you back here to give these kids a few lessons. Especially your niece.”
He cracked a smirk in turn and closed his eyes. “Count on it Esther.”
She looked over her shoulder and grinned devilishly. “Samson, you said you wanted to be treated like a student under my watch right? We're going for training! Why don't you get that ass into gear and join us?”
He snapped out of his reverie and smiled wryly. “Who me? No no I couldn't! I may have said that but time is a commodity after all! There are still many people and places I need to visit!”
“When you decide you're ready for some real action you come see me!” She began to jog on the spot and turned her head to face her class. “Alright you pansies! I wanna see you sweat!” With a wave of her hand the warriors immediately broke out into a jog following closely behind their mentor.
Samson took a moment to watch them make their way towards the gate and exit briefly after then looked upon the village. Nothing had changed in the slightest. The tailor's shop looked as old and run-down as always, but the owner was no less kind. Though the market was small, they would always offer him the special on his visits. The bazaar always brought new and interesting things from the other Havens across Jienda, and the library held a couple of old friends Samson had really grown attached to despite his infrequent visits. He gazed upon it longingly for a moment, and decided he would visit the temple before going to see them. With all the ruckus from his arrival, they certainly would be expecting him soon.
As he walked through the village the passerby would greet him with a wave or a shout and he would reply in kind. Xenym was always known as one of the most easy-going of the four Havens; though as far from the civilizations of humans as the others, it remained the smallest and had seen very few travellers. He approached the temple, a worn-down but resilient white building resting behind a gate with a large arch. Opening the gate and closing it as he entered, he ascended the stairs and steadily opened the door, taking a moment to glance around the building to see if the pastor was in.
“Hello!” As he entered he closed the doors behind him and the sound of the winds died down in the wake of the two meeting. He had received no response and deemed the temple to be empty. He walked past the pews and down the aisle towards a statue resting upon a small within a small portion of the wall that was carved out to house it. Samson never considered himself to be a religious man, but for his family and all those he held dear he would not hesitate to say a small prayer or two for their safety and well-being. As he clasped his hands together he thought of all the fighters, young and old, Carmen and Virgil, little Alessa and Meryl, Hazel and her daughter Reina, and most of all his brother Julius and sister-in-law Rosetta. Lastly their daughter to be. He looked upon the white statue of the winged goddess; harp in hand smiling back at him, he nodded with ease and rose to his feet. He was truly blessed to have what he did, and he would not give anything in the world for it.
As Samson exited the temple he found himself swarmed by archers of all ages and genders, the top of Meryl's head and her tiny arms flailing to call her soldiers to order.
“Everyone settle down and line up properly!” Meryl's voice cried out amidst the shouts of excitement from her students.
“Now now everyone! I can't talk to you all at once.” Samson said gesturing for them to calm down.
“Sammy! The love and light of your life is over here!” Alessa waded her way through the crowd of archers. As her progress came to a halt she began to push and shove to reach her desired destination. After she arrived at the front of the crowd she leaped at the adventurer and wrapped her arms around his neck. “Did'ja miss me? I won't forgive you if you were seeing other girls.”
Samson chuckled dryly. “Come now Alessa, we've never had such a relationship. I am glad to see that you're well, but I'd appreciate it if you weren't winking at me secretively.”
“You could tell? Your eyes are still good Sammy. Now why are you denying our love? It might be illicit right now but it won't be long before we can be recognized you know.”
He sighed and followed it with a weary smile. “There's no our in my Alessa. You should know that better than anyone else. Also it's not just the fact that it's illicit that I refuse to reciprocate it. I've been good friends with your mother and father for years now. I have no interest in their daughter.”
“Oh come now. So what if mom will be jealous that I bagged an older and more handsome man than she did? No offense Dad. Haven't you ever heard the adage 'It doesn't matter as long as there's love'?”
“That's not an adage. That's a phrase. And please, don't call me old. I prefer mature.”
“Stop hogging Samson all to yourself Alessa!” The nearest girl to Samson cried out.
“Don't be jealous! After our first date I claimed him so you'll have to get your own man!”
“First date? What date?” The adventurer asked with knit eyebrows.
“You forgot? We went out for a fancy dinner a few years ago. It was just you, me, and our candlelit dinner.”
“I think you've got things a little mixed up. If my memory serves me, it was you and your companions; I was watching the three of you while your parents and many others attended a very important meeting with the school board. We had a barbecue, and you were no older than nine.”
“Shh Sammy they don't know that. The less competition I have the better it'll be for the both of us.”
“You're the only one of Meryl's students who acts in such a way Alessa.” She really did, though years ago when she was still a little girl it seemed that she had a father complex, since her own father was often working long hours. Before he knew it she had grown strangely attached to him, and as she aged declared that the two would be married. Samson had believed that upon his long adventures she would give up on such a ridiculous concept and take a fancy to one of the boys in her class. He was wrong, and he began questioning exactly how serious she was about her interest in him.
“Where did you learn to use both the bow and dagger Mr. Samson? Can you teach me some of the skills you learned?” A boy asked out with a wave of his hand.
“I can teach you everything you need to know, one on one.” Alessa responded.
“For real?!”
“I need extra lessons too!” Another archer shouted.
“Just kidding!” There was a collective groan amidst some of the boys, while the girls rolled their eyes.
“Mr. Kolb please stop flirting with my students!” Merly awkwardly waded her way through the crowd and took her place in front of the teacher; her students retreating a short distance in droves to see the reunion play out, Alessa still holding on to him with a questioning gaze.
“Ms. Ambrosia? Ah...it's been far too long.” His eyes shuttered and he smiled gently at the teacher's half-baked glare.
Her gaze softened while she placed her hands behind her back and gazed away with a beet red face. “You...you remembered.” In his days as a teacher he always called her Ms. Ambrosia despite being her upperclassman. Though they were separated by a difference of less than ten years he was promoted to being the teacher of the Treasure Hunters, youths and young adults alike due to his innate talent. She was his best student, and one that professed she admired him before graduating the class.
“You haven't changed at all since the last time I visited. You're still the same height and the same Meryl I fondly remember. I love the hairstyle; it really gives you an air of youth about you. I'd almost think you a student if I didn't know you personally!”
She looked shocked, then flustered while she glared at him over her glasses. “I'm a teacher now Mr. Samson so continue to address me as one if you would be so kind! It would also be proper you to inform us prior to your arrival so we don't have any lesson plans prepared.” Her eyebrows sunk as she gazed at him over the rim of her glasses. “Only telling Julius and Rosetta is rather unfair, don't you think? All of the students were in an uproar when they heard a rumour that you would be in town. I've never seen them so enthused about their archery and weapons practice before.”
“You're a real hot commodity amidst the girls around here you know Sammy. If you really wanted to, you could have them all and I can tell you how if you promise to make me your number one. I can even tell you how to make Meryl fall head over heels for y-”
“Alessa!” The teacher cried and shot the girl a dirty look.
The girls swarmed the teacher and grabbed Alessa, covering her mouth and prying her hands from Samson, leaving him shaken up.
“You certainly have a...uhh...interesting group of students Ms. Ambrosia.”
“Please don't tease me Mr. Samson. I know they're yet to be disciplined.”
He let out a roar of laughter surprising a majority of the group. “Disciplined? Is that what you're most concerned about Ms. Ambrosia?” She tilted her head quizzically. “Here's some advice from a retired teacher to his adorable underclassman. You don't need to spend all of your time and energy 'disciplining' the students. Teach them the tricks of the trade, give them room to grow and let them enjoy what they do. Tough love might be necessary at times, but not all the time. Remember, we're teaching these children and young adults to be Treasure Hunters.” He offered her a grin and placed a hand on her shoulder. “A strange barista in training told me this gem, 'An adventure becomes nothing more than a journey when you stop enjoying it'. What you're doing right now is perfect, Meryl. Don't doubt your teachings, and have some confidence in yourself. If I was a disciplined Treasure Hunter do you think I'd have turned out like this?”
Tears welled up in her eyes and she quickly wiped them away with the sleeves of her cardigan. “How could I ever take you seriously? You always mess around so much then decide to act like a proper teacher on a whim. That hasn't changed about you in the slightest.” Her lips curled into a smile. “That explains why our class was always so chaotic.”
“Ha! I wouldn't have it any other way.”
One of the boys nudged another and whispered something in his ear, leading others to get in on the secret. In the heat of the moment the first shouted, “What are you waiting for Samson? Kiss her!”
“Lay one on her,” Another said.
“Don't keep her waiting Samson!” A girl shouted.
Alessa removed the hand from her mouth and cried out, “Adultery!”
“You guys, that's enough!” Meryl cried out with a flushed face as she gestured for them to calm down. Her words were lost amidst the crowd's cries of excitement.
“Looks like you're not being given much choice Ms. Ambrosia. Will you give the people what they want?” This time around he tilted his head and smiled.
“Please don't encourage them Mr. Samson! We have to be role models for the students.”
“I don't approve!” Alessa roared from somewhere within the crowd, or at the very least something akin to her showing mock anger. “I demand indecency between Sammy and I or none at all!”
Samson laughed. “Alessa has spoken! The peons shall bend to the will of the queen.” There was a collective groan amidst the students.
“I have another demand! I mean royal decree! Sammy will come play at the archery range!”
“Why is that?” “
“So I can become your top student's favourite student in your eyes.”
He was left speechless, somewhere between a mix of confusion and understanding. The amount of people that could speak 'Alessa' were far and few between. He considered himself lucky and cursed that he could, but took a small amount of pride in it nonetheless. “O-okay? I can make the time, though we're going to have to part before the sun goes down. I still need to visit Reina and Hazel before the library closes.”
“Hold on a sec'!” Alessa rushed to his side after breaking free of her classmates and leaned in to Samson's ear.
“W-what is it?” He asked reluctantly.
“I made a bet with Rei-Rei on whether or not Virgin would be able to catch you off guard this time. Who won?”
“I did; he did well though, nearly killed me.”
She slowly backed away from him while she pointed and muttered, “This is our secret Sammy. Rei-Rei doesn't have to know. Mmk? Mmk.”
The adventurer laughed uneasily as Alessa shifted into the crowd waving her arms in such a way to indicate her disappearance, while she slowly crouched down. Some things really never change.
Meryl's students surrounded Samson again and pulled him towards the archery range with their teacher in tow, one hand rested upon her elbow and the other her shoulder; her eyes closed, face bright red and a bright smile that he could not see.
“Alright you kids watching? Lemme' show you how a pro gets it done.” Samson told them with an arrow nocked in a willow bow and an eye closed, the other remained focused on a bullseye. He let the arrow loose and it flew past his target with great ferocity. “Practice shot! Nothing but a practice shot.” He drew another arrow from his quiver and nocked it. The arrow took flight and missed the bullseye by a large margin. “Ah...excuse me while I have an existential crisis.”
“I heard you were the best back in your day Sammy. Your edge has dulled huh?” Alessa snickered.
“Cherry on the cake Kiddo.” Meryl snickered quietly nearby and Samson turned to her waving his bow with a frown. “Time to show up your teacher Meryl! Come over here and make an example out of me.”
“Oh no I couldn't...” Meryl muttered. One of the female students brought a short bow and quiver while a male student pushed her towards where Samson stood.
“Still wanna object? The kids are waiting for you.”
She furrowed her brows but his typical smile was not shaken. “If this is really what you want...” She raised the bow and drew an arrow. As she pulled back the string she gazed at her target and immediately let the arrow loose once she had reached the string's maximum length. The arrow soared towards the bullseye and struck it right in the center, leaving her entire class in awe while Samson nodded with approval.
“You were the top of the class for a reason.” The class immediately broke out into cheers and chants as they crowded around their teacher letting questions fly faster than she could respond. “You should take a page from your teacher's book.”
Alessa glanced up at the adventurer and smiled. “You can learn a lot from Meryl too, Sammy.”
He smiled wryly and shifted his gaze off into the distance, “Touche. I was always better with daggers, after all. Alright kids, time for me to show off. Gather 'round and I'll share some tricks with all of you.”
The class was coming to an end and Meryl had managed to get her class in check so Samson could go about his business.
“You've got some real talent here Ms. Ambrosia.” He cracked a smile. “Xenym is in good hands.”
Meryl brushed a few stray hairs from her eyes and glanced across her class that watched her with bright eyes in turn. “We are responsible for our home and the lives of others, just as they are us. We can't put the responsibility entirely on Julius and Rosetta. Not just them, though,” She closed her eyes for a moment and held her bow to her body. “You, and many other adventurers out there in the wide world fighting for the futures of the refugees too. Though far, we're all working in conjunction to protect this world we love so dearly. I wish we could do something more for you but we can only offer you our hospitality and a warm welcome upon your return.”
Samson snickered. “What more could a traveller ask for?”
She knit her eyebrows and he raised his, his expression awaiting an answer. Meryl took a deep breath and took his hand and reached into her pocket with her other. Placing a closed fist on the palm of his hand, she opened it and placed a hair tie in his hand. A soft green elastic with a tiny gold compass placed upon it was given to him. The symbol of a true Treasure Hunter.
“I know it isn't much but perhaps it could be of use to you. It's small and I'm sure it won't get in your way. It can keep your hair out of your eyes also.” Her voice seemed to brighten a little as she finished speaking.
“For me? Don't mind if I do.” He reached behind his head and tied his hair into a ponytail. “So? How do I look?”
The boys began whooping and most of the girls joined in with cheers, some daring enough to cat call.
“It looks wonderful.”
Samson chuckled. “Thanks Meryl. Now I can kill Agasura in style and see where I'm aiming while I do it too.”
Shortly afterwards Samson made his way to a tiny building in the heart of the village, resting beside the general store. As he walked past a wispy old man gave a gentle wave and he smiled in turn with a salute. He approached the double doors and pulled one of the handles to enter and glance around the rows of shelves. He walked inside and glanced around, catching a glimpse of a young lady at the front desk who's surveying grey eyes gazed at him
“Mr. Kolb...you've arrived.” She arose from the chair, her long wavy auburn hair following in her wake. She held out a hand and he shook it. “Thank you for coming, as always.”
“Come now Reina, we're closer than that aren't we? There's no need to be so formal with me.”
“S-sorry. I spend so much time with Mom that I often take from her. Sometimes we just sit for hours discussing our discoveries for the days and debating on the legitimacy of the excerpts and speculations we find within the history books and various other sources.”
Reina was the spitting image of her mother, and shared the same interests. Her mother a librarian and her father a teacher, the two had filled the girl's mind with fiction and history alike. As she aged she delved deeper into the roots of both, tying the two together with the help of her mother and building the foundations that their kind had lost many a years ago. Once the two began a discussion there would be no stopping them until they were satisfied. It was a charming way of bonding.
Samson chuckled. “It's quite the spectacle you know. I sneaked out once and the two of you hadn't noticed in the slightest.
“R-really? I never knew that we were so engrossed in our hobby!”
“Everyone else does.”
“I-I see...let's leave that topic as is, shall we? It's a bit embarrassing to be a tad honest. So tell me about how you've been faring Samson. It's been quite a while since we last saw you. Have you found any interesting treasure during your adventure?”
“Indeed I have! I've found three in fact. This one here is my favourite.” Samson reached into a small pouch and drew a small gemstone with a light red tint within.
“That's...the Mino Gemstone, isn't it? I had heard that it was lost to a soldier who belonged to the Dark Moon. How did you get your hands on it?”
“That's a secret my dear. Every adventurer should have friends in high places, and know when to take risks to obtain them and treasures. Now then, how about a pop quiz?” There was a glint in Reina's eye; a sign that she was ready to take his challenge. “What does the Mino Gemstone do? How does it work?”
“Easy! The Mino Gemstone is used to locate far away targets, especially those who are sent away on scouting missions or who run the risk of being captured. By the owner implanting his/her own mana within the object, it will remain on standby until activated a second time by another user. When their mana wakes the item, it'll appear as an arrow within the gemstone that would guide the user to the target. As they approach, the arrow will change colours to indicate how close the user is to the mark.”
He nodded approvingly. “You certainly do know your stuff, and just at a glance too. I tip my hat to you Reina.”
She laughed. “It's what I do best Samson. You do the adventuring, Mom and I appraise your findings for you. Could I have a look at the others?”
“Oh please do. I'll go say hello to your mother in the meantime.”
“She's somewhere at the back there.” She pointed him in the direction he needed to go and he tipped his hat to her.
As he walked past the second last aisle he caught a glimpse of a frail young lady placing books on one of the shelves from a cart. As he approached he tipped his hat to her and she offered him a gentle smile in turn.
Her soft grey eyes rose with a tilt of her head for her to gaze upon him. “Samson, what a surprise it is to see you.” Though her expression remained unchanged and the seeming lack of surprise, the genuine sound in her voice had not faltered for even a moment. “It's such a pleasure to see you back in Xenym safe and healthy.” Hazel was younger than he was but her aura offered her an air of elegance and maturity beyond her years. She had handled matters pertaining to records of the past and present, who lived and who passed away in Xenym and even the status of many of those lost in the war. Much to her dismay and those who personally knew the fallen, the records could only come to being through word of mouth, but if the brave warriors would not be forgotten their families and friends could find some peace; Hazel was happy to oblige.
“I could say the same for you Hazel. The years haven't fazed you in the slightest.” He smiled. “You're still burning the nights away poring over books aren't you?”
She chuckled. “Time is something our ancestors had a very interesting take on. They sought out balance between the elusive concept, and their wants and needs.” She gently placed a hand on a book covered by a worn out looking cover. Hazel had once told him that it, among the many was where she kept her transcripts. Some she even translated the ancient language to the more modernized version of their language, and at times that of the common language. Very few people in Xenym understood their ancient language, herself and Reina aside.
“Tell me about it. You wouldn't believe how much Julius insisted that we shouldn't waste time back home. That guy was always training and pushing himself to his limits day in and out. Crazy hard worker, that guy. It's good to see that he finally settled down in a peaceful place.”
She closed her eyes and smiled. Samson could only gaze solemnly. Before he could even ask the question he had an idea of the answer that he would receive would be. His heart sank just by looking at her; even if she was hurt she always put on a strong front to protect her daughter from the harsh reality of the world. How long could she remain that way? How long until her composure shattered? “Hazel I...”
“You need not apologize Samson. I know you've done your best in searching for him. I've done all that I can from here, but I'm not able enough to go out there and find him myself. Instead I've placed this burden upon you. I owe you my thanks.”
Samson closed his eyes and shook his head. “I'm going to find him Hazel. Whatever it takes, I will. Just promise me that you won't try to carry this burden alone.”
“I promise, I will do no such thing. I have Reina dear. You don't need to worry for my sake.” He blinked. He trusted Hazel but he knew that she would not share any of her burdens on her daughter. Her pride and fervent disposition towards being a responsible mother created a wall of impenetrable independence. Her husband had been missing for years, according to Julius he had disappeared during the war after sending his wife and child away with the other refugees. Samson knew he was either missing or dead, but for her sake and Reina's, he would do everything he could to hold their hope, and even more so to find him.
“Reina's a responsible girl. Perhaps you can take some time off once in a while to relax? With how well versed she is in the location, names and content within the books I don't think she'll have any trouble helping out guests.” He glanced away for a moment. “When there are guests.” Xenym was so out of the way and difficult to reach it very rarely had travellers visit.
Hazel chuckled lightly at the comment. “Oh I have all intention to leave the library in Reina's hands. She's so young and she's still so much to learn. But it isn't here that she'll learn the knowledge she'll need. Our world is changing everyday Samson. I'm sure you know that as well as we all do. I'm sure you've caught word, but the stranger that the princess had stumbled upon was rumoured to be the Exalted One.”
Samson snorted and grinned. “So I heard! I saw a picture of the little squirt on a wanted sign back then. I'm not sure who said that was them, but if it is I'd like to meet him.”
She lightly hit him with her fist and frowned. “Show some respect Samson! He's a very important figure to our kind!”
“I'm just kidding around Hazel, but you know we can't be too sure until we've seen it for ourselves. Rumours are all well and good but we can't be putting everyone we think to be the one on a pedestal. That aside, if it is them it'd be best if he kept a low profile. Not everyone can be trusted with that kind of important figure.”
Hazel nodded slowly, her eyes shuttered, eventually returning the gaze to Samson. A strange look she often gave that almost seemed to appraise him, while seeing through to the very depths of his heart. Over the years he had known her, the look seemed to have aged with her, the stare growing deeper as time pressed on. It seemed Reina had obtained something of the sort, but of a more inquisitive nature; either that, or he really was getting on in his years. “Samson, if you do come across that poor child, would you offer him some guidance? Even if we are not those who were chosen to stand by him, I can't help but feel he's lost.”
Samson rubbed the back of his necks and glanced over the books around them. Hazel was not likely far off the mark; the poor kid had spent years finding ways to meet up with the princess and getting thrown out of the castle or chased down by the authorities. He seemed more like an average kid than the saviour of their kind, but there was likely more to him than what met the eye. “Yeah, I could do that. I'm no stranger to handling kids.” He grinned. “What's one kid to an adventurer? Maybe I'll make him my sidekick. But of course, I'll be taking Julius' daughter from the nest when she's of age. If I find him, it'll save us a world of trouble.”
Hazel smiled, her eyes lighting up at his words. “Thank you Samson. Regardless of who they might be, I believe they will be in good hands under your care.”
“You can thank me once I raise a pair of battle-born adventurers. And find your hubby of course. Until then, you sit tight here and keep the kids out of trouble.”
“I can't help but believe my top priority is keeping you out of trouble. You caused quite the uproar with your arrival.”
Samson snickered. “If anyone in this village left as much or for as long as I did, I'm sure they'd make quite the splash when they come back.” He tossed his hat onto his head and turned around. “Shall we?”
Leading the way the two returned to the front desk where Reina sat with an ornate golden bell and the Mino gemstone before her with a new group of books surrounding her, her eyes shifting rapidly at every line on the page, hungry for answers. An insatiable curiosity for answers and knowledge.
“Hey Rei.” Samson said.
“Huh?” Her head darted up from the book and her gaze softened after realizing what occurred. “Oh! What is it Samson? Ah...I haven't found the names and uses of these artifacts yet...I need some more time. D-don't pop quiz me yet!”
He and Hazel chuckled. “I'm not gonna quiz you. Not today at least, but the next time I see you expect it alright?”
“I'll be ready.” She grinned. “I'll have Mom helping out too so you better be quick okay?”
“You know, when I had visited Ves they called me Speedster Sam. Used to race the locals through the jungle to Ktuka Ruins. They were fast, but not fast enough. I'll be back before you know it.” As he said the last words he wondered when the next time he would see Reina would be. What would she look like after he returns? What of Hazel's state?
She laughed. “You always had some fascinating stories to tell after your adventures Samson. Have you ever thought of writing a book? You could call it Samson's Tall Tales.”
He performed a mock gasp. “I'm sensing a hint of doubt in the words of this young girl. Hazel we need to remedy this immediately.”
Reina placed her elbows on the desk and rested her chin upon her intertwined fingers. “Even if they were just tall tales, I still believe all of your stories just as I did back then Samson. Big V and Les are no different you know. Sometimes when the three of us are hanging out we talk about some of the ones you told us when we were younger. We all want to hear more of them sometime.”
Despite being the most mature in her group of friends, she occasionally showed a very vulnerable side of herself. She and her mother were so much alike it was quite the spectacle in itself. “Let me go on some incredible adventures and I'll return with many stories to tell.”
“I'm gonna hold you to that.” Her gaze seemed to lose focus for a moment and sharpened as her attention did the same. “I have a question Samson.”
“Ask away.”
“Did Alessa approach you about the match between Big V and yourself?”
“Huh? Alessa? No she didn't mention anything like that.”
Reina smiled impishly. “I see.” Her smile and shuttered eyes told him enough. Alessa was even more familiar with the look, but it didn't deter her. She was tenacious to a fault, but he respected it all the same. “That's all I needed to know Samson.” She rose from her chair and saw him to the exit with her mother. “Please give Julius and Rosetta our regards will you? Until next time, take care!”
“Be well Samson. We'll await your return here. We'll have some tea ready also.” Hazel added.
Next time. The words prickled his conscious mind. “I'd like that.” He answered coolly. As the two waved to him, he offered a single wave back and had went about his business.
Julius and Rosetta did not live very far from the library itself. Crossing the plaza, past the statue of Julius, Rosetta and their canine companion to their tiny home tucked near the outermost portion of the city's wall. It took much effort from the people of Xenym to have the statue erected, but it was due to their efforts that many of the people who live in the Haven, and many others that they could have performed such a feat. Whenever Samson visited he would marvel at the statue for a spell; seeing his brother clad in robes and bearing his staff while his wife stood by his side armed with sword and shield while bearing the weight of her armour. To see the two dressed like average people and relaxing in their home always brought a smile to his face. They among many had seen the face of war; they deserved so much more than a moment of peace. He hoped that the peace would continue to last, and that Julius' daughter would grow to know it too.
As he approached the door he could hear Rosetta humming. Though the sound was low, her voice still carried through the walls to his ears and brought him peace of mind. He sat down for a while to enjoy it to the very end; it was a once in a lifetime opportunity, after all.
Julius & Rosetta
Julius intertwined his fingers and gently leaned against them; a ring on his wedding finger and another upon the middle finger beside it. “What do you think of Sophia?” He asked.
“It seems your naming sense is rather feminine, wouldn't you agree Julius?” Rosetta gently rubbed her round stomach and closed her eyes. “I believe we should name her Victoria. She should be brave, a born leader, as the next God's Governor.”
He chuckled and shifted his glasses with two fingers. “It's a lovely name, but I believe that she should have one that will assist her in earning respect, not demanding it. How does Grace sound?”
Rosetta blew a few stray strands of her blonde hair from her eyes. “I believe the phrase is like father like son. Two fine ladies in the house is more than enough. A name like Brianna is much more fitting.”
“You may have forgotten, but we are raising a child before a warrior. Our daughter deserves a name such as Emma. I've no doubts she'd live up to the name.”
Rosetta closed her eyes and placed a finger to her chin. “I don't think so. I still find it rather unusual that you would not like her to take a name in honour of your lineage. Nevertheless, I suggest Alexis. Magnificent, no?”
Julius placed his hands in his lap and locked eyes with his wife. “Essentially we do have one for her, since we've both agreed upon her middle name being Terra. Just as you feel that it is more fitting for it to be, I feel the same way.” He closed his eyes. “At the moment I can't think of any other fitting names for our daughter. This challenge has plagued us for weeks now and we've yet to come to a proper conclusion.”
“I think of it more a crisis than a challenge. It will be such an important thing for her as she grows, but our biggest concern will be in how we raise her.”
“I know that teaching her to understand and master her powers is a necessary duty, but I'm unsure if I can teach her as my father had me. I must see her as a pupil, not my daughter. I fear that I may push her too hard or wound her in the process. I was so young when my father had begun my teaching I remember very little of it. Will I be as capable as he was?”
Rosetta arose from her chair and placed a knee between his legs, leaning in to gently kiss him on the lips and place her forehead against his. “Fear not my love. Just she is a child before she is a warrior, you are a father before you are God's Governor. Be it a father or a God's Governor, you are never alone, not even for a moment. Remember the words of our pledge, 'I am your sword and your shield, we are one in body and mind'. If you've any doubts you may confide in me, and we shall face every challenge together as one.”
Juliues chuckled and took his wife's chin in hand, then locked his lips with her once more for even longer and leav her in a daze as he rested her in the chair. “Until our daughter is born our roles will be reversed Rosetta. I will protect you, and look after you with all that I am. Excuse me while I prepare some tea.”
The faintest of smiles danced on the edge of her lips while a gentle sigh escaped them. On and off of the battlefield the two remained connected; though it was hard for her to imagine, someday perhaps they would fight together as a family. The past and future God's Governors and their pledger. She paused for a moment. She gazed intensely at the wall as her entire train of thought came to a grinding halt. Her daughter would need to find a pledger when the time came for her to succeed her father. Her smile immediately turned into a scowl and her silver companion seemed to be watching the entire event play out. She scowled at him and he blinked innocently, the scar across his eye giving him a much more menacing look than he intended. She leaned over the chair's arm and scratched behind his ears, the wolf raising his head with a pleased expression. As she did she began to hum and left him to his own devices, their companion laying his head down on the ground and tilting his ears as she went on.
As her humming came to an end the wolf arose once more looking towards the entrance with a keen curiosity. He let out a quiet groan and Rosetta gazed down at it as if it would speak at any moment.
“What is it Bane?” She asked while the wolf padded towards the door. Julius emerged from the kitchen before Rosetta had a moment to rise from her chair. “Need I be left out from this conversation between the two of you?”
“Not at all my dear. It seems we have a guest.”
The wolf sat down and patiently awaited Julius' arrival at the front door. Julius approached and opened it, meeting with his brother's eyes for the first time in years. Though he knew he would come to visit, Julius could not stop himself from beaming. “Sam, it's so good to see you!” Without a moment of hesitation he stepped forward and hugged his elder brother.
“That's big bro or Samson to you little bro.” Samson answered. “I happened to be drifting around the Elias area and figured I might as well dropped in to say hello. To you, your lovely wife and your unborn child.” He grinned impishly. “When I heard you got Rosy knocked up my interest was peaked.”
Julius' face flushed and he averted his gaze. “Must you put it so crudely Sam?” His lips curled into a smile this time around. “Still, you must have went quite out of your way while drifting to come out this far. Technically it's a village in the middle of nowhere, and completely non-existent on Jienda's maps.”
“Out of my way? Oh pssh not at all! I know this place like it's my own backyard. Coming here is just a step off the path.”
“I couldn't tell the others exactly when you were coming because I knew you'd get lost Sam. Your sense of directions is as terrible now as it was in the past. What happened to the compass I had given you the last time you visited?”
“Eaten by a black bear.”
“And the map I gave you the time before that?”
“Burned to a crisp by a Hotkuri.”
Julius chuckled and shook his head. “I'm glad your sense of humour remains intact, along with the rest of your body. Welcome home Sam.”
Samson beamed. “I'm home, little bro.”
Julius stepped back. “Bane wants to say hello also.”
The wolf stood up and began to pant as if it was going to jump into Samson's arms so he immediately crouched and braced himself for the impact. “Come on Wolfy, come get a piece of ol' Sam!” The wolf remained in place and the adventurer knit his eyebrows. “Must be getting on in his years, eh Jules?” Bane sat back down and gazed at him. “Alright Bane I'll come to you.” He regained his typical posture and approached the wolf. Just as he reached down to pat the wolf's head it leaped at him and knocked him to the ground. Bane then licked Samson's face, and coated him in dog saliva and walked back into the house.
“That's...that's certainly new.” Julius muttered as he watched as his companion return to his wife's side.
“Every time. Every single dang time that dog does something like that. What's his gripe with me?”
“I think he likes you Sam. Quite a lot, in my opinion.”
The two entered and Samson removed his shoes, coat and hat. The two entered the small room and the brother sat next to each on the couple's loveseat.
“Julius what have I told you about bringing in stay mutts? Bane is an exception, but we've no need for man-sized mutts.” Rosetta warned them.
“Come now Rosetta, can't we keep him? He may be a stray but he does know his way home. We only need to feed him occasionally and offer him shelter. He'll fend for himself.” Julius answered.
“Do I look like a dog to either of you?” Samson asked with a raised eyebrow.
“Without a doubt.” She answered with a devilish grin.
“Sharp tongue, check. Icy personality, check. Well Jules, that Rosy passed the criteria for the 'Is this the real Rosy' test with flying colours. Congratulations!”
“Please Sam, if anyone would know my wife best it would without a doubt be me. I think that it's safe to say that nobody would attempt to disguise themselves as her for various reasons.”
“Give me one good reason and I'll admit defeat.”
“I'm pregnant?” Rosetta responded in his place.
“Julius I'm sorry. It was an accident, I swear.”
Rosetta focused on Samson with an intensity that could freeze him in place. “Have you ever fought a Temple Knight on maternity leave? No? Would you like to?”
“Point made. You can consider me defeated. I will shut up now.”
Julius laughed at the two. When he and his brother first came to Jienda they'd no idea what they were in for. By the leave of the royal family they were sent on a journey for hands-on experience working alongside humanity, and during their journey they stumbled upon the young tomboy that was Rosetta. Though their visit was short, the he and she had often exchanged letters and remained in touch despite being worlds apart. Samson and she never got along, but in their journey they forged a very strong bond, the three together. They grew together and despite being years apart the flame ignited within them remained lit to the day. To be reunited again made him happier beyond words.
“Well you've got a poison-tipped tongue as always Rosy, so can I assume it's safe to say that you're doing well? More importantly than you I can't forget the little one on the way. How's Rosy Jr. doing?”
“I've no doubts you would forget again once you disappear for another couple of years Mutt. Our adorable daughter has nothing to learn from you. Why don't you take Bane and teach an old dog some new tricks? I'm sure he would look up to you, a mutt among mutts.
“Keep your wit sharp, and your tongue sharper eh Rosy?”
“Do not refer to me as Rosy.”
“I might just take you up on that offer. Wanna join me on my adventure Bane?” The wolf lay against the ground and covered his eyes with his paws.
“Julius, you look rather pleased. What's the occasion?”
“It's the times like these. They bring back fond memories of us adventuring together. Do you recall when Samson first came to Xenym? I had never seen him so flustered in my entire life!” Julius replied.
“Now now little bro, there are some things you can just go ahead and forget.” He laughed. “I was seriously worried, you know. I didn't think you and Rosy survived the war with how fervently you two fought. Knowing that you were on the front lines seemed like it would be the end of both of you. After it ended I searched high and low across the whole continent. Should have paid more attention in class. If I knew what a Haven was I wouldn't have spent so long not knowing where you were.”
“Had you any knowledge within that pea you call a brain you would know to ask a Confidant where you could go to reach the Havens. It seems the most basic knowledge comes as a surprise to you.”
“I do like surprises.”
“On the other hand, with your sense of direction you would have likely gotten lost on the way there after receiving an answer from a Confidant. I can't count how many times you got us lost during our adventures. Rosetta still gets the shivers when I mention Spooky Village.” Julius said rising from the chair.
“We agreed not to mention that horrid, nightmarish place,” She added curtly.
“Oh I remember that clearly. I'd never heard her shriek so loud in my life. She could have scared off the ghosts with that kind of noise.”
As he walked past Rosetta she glared daggers at him and turned away as he leaned in to kiss her. He settled for a peck on the cheek and asked, “Coffee or tea love?”
“Tea,” She muttered under her breath.
“And for you Sam?”
“Coffee! Black! Just the way I like it!”
“Hmm? What'd you say? Double-double? Coming right up.”
“You do not defile another man's coffee Jules! That is blasphemy of the highest caliber! The big-wigs will hear of this, mark my words! So, how you been Rosy?”
She scowled. “Pregnant, and I would prefer if you didn't address me as such. Also you've already asked about my being.”
He nodded sagely, but at a glance she could tell it was only in action and not full effect. “That's good to hear.” He gazed at her and she raised an eyebrow. “I've always wondered what it'd be like to be in your shoes. Marrying into the family is one thing, but you've married into the colony. Most of your kind doesn't even know we exist, though they're not surprised by the most incredible forms of technology and magic. But there's still so much they don't know. The Havens are not only the homes to us, but places that hold our secrets. Imagine if they had discovered this place? That'd certainly be something.” He paused. “Though I consider this home, I never was the type to stay in one place.”
“Is it because you're an indecisive man?”
“You mean a drifter?”
“I prefer vagrant, vagabond, and my personal favourite, tramp.”
“Oh Rosetta you sweetheart you!”
“It was not a compliment but if you like it, I may allow it.” She offered him a devilish smile.
“You're quite the point of interest, did you know that? You're the only human in this entire haven. I'm surprised it doesn't bother you. Do you not feel homesick at all?”
“It would be foolish to falter due to such a petty feeling. I've outgrown such desires, and upon taking the pledge I knew there would be little time to return to my family. When I had parted ways with them for the last time I had set out knowing that there would be no turning back. I take pride in being one of the few humans considered to be a part of this colony, but it is not for this reason that I bear my sword and shield. I do so for Julius, and for him and our daughter alone. I will protect them with my life, and those that need us I shall fight for them alongside him.” She blinked slowly, thoughtfully. “I know someday our daughter may need to fight in his stead but I honestly wish for her to find a place in this world that she truly belongs. Somewhere she can obtain friendship, love, and a place that she can consider he sanctuary.”
Samson looked nonplussed. “I didn't think the icy beauty could feel emotions. This is history in the making. I should chronicle this tale about her and her lovely unnamed daughter.”
“That is another nickname I will never, grace with a response.” She made a small frown. “Though it is no less true that our daughter is yet to be named. For an unborn child she is rather vicious...her kicks are rather overwhelming.”
“Lemme' take a listen.”
“I may allow it, but I advise against it. There is a very high chance that I may throw up.”
“She's got the looks, the grace, and the maturity to match. God's Governor of Earth's very own wife Rosetta! What a keeper! So, you two are in need of a name hmm?”
“You speak as if this would be a small feat for you. If you don't blow away my expectations on your first try I will ignore you for the rest of the day.”
“Challenge accepted.” Samson crossed his arms and furrowed his brows as he thought long and hard for the answer. Rosetta gazed at him, expecting a very ridiculous answer with little thought to it, or a ridiculous name with too much thought in it. Before she knew it she waited in bated breath for his answer; was it excitement or amusement that danced on the fringes of her conscious mind? She could not say for sure, but the longer he stalled for time the more her curiosity invited her to break the silence, and potentially his might-be concentration. “I've decided!”
“Oh? Enlighten me.” Her lips unwillingly curved into a smile. She was ready for a laugh.
“Kasumi.”
Rosetta's mouth opened slowly and remained agape for three or so seconds, then closed. “Kasumi...?” She crossed her arms. “Kasumi...” She closed her eyes. “It...it's perfect...you almost have me impressed Samson.”
Well, I have to admit starting out this one was difficult, to say the least, but not as difficult as Innocent was. I wasn't exactly sure where to begin so I just went with a perspective-free solution. I decided to bring back Warlord Carmen, now with an actual you know, physical being and a personality to match how Virgil described her in Innocent, along with Alessa's teacher Meryl and Reina's parent now with a name! Along with those three are Reina and co. pre-Innocent. Though they're still only supporting characters, this time around they'll have a bit more presence and each will have a bit of their own story within the first act, which is essentially before the time skip. As you'd expect, there's a lot of ridiculous scenarios that accompany those guys, and Samson is usually caught up in the pace of it one way or another. Through this, I've been able to develop and solidify his character a bit more. With this, the change from his usual happy-go-lucky to his more dejected sense of self post-time skip will be a bit more natural. He's grown a lot more as have the other characters around him, and I think it's gone well so far. Again, it's not fantastic but there's always room for improvements.
I've carried over the idea of artifacts from the main story, and made the Mino Gemstone one of those as you can see. Foreshadowing. Oh yes . Though everyone who's read it will know already. Moving along, I've brought back the initial opening in Julius and Rosetta's perspective, and changed the way they speak slightly. Julius is more easygoing when relaxed, and you'll see how he changes when tense. Rosetta has a more formal way of speaking, but that's because she's not very well-versed in the Cerebian language; she often switches between a casual and more formal way of speaking. I'm considering having her do it just because she prefers it that way. Looking back, Julius also has that way of speaking also, but less so than his wife. After thinking about it, it might make a bit more sense. Julius had spent most of his time training under his father to be the next God's Governor, so he didn't have the freedom that Samson did, and spent most of his time communicating with him alone. He'd likely inherit the way he speaks from him, like Reina, and pass that on to Rosetta after she becomes his pledger and a Confidant. Samson on the other hand would've seen more of the world and picked up different slang, and inherited a more casual way of talking.
I have to admit, a big concern of mine is how Samson often worries about when he'd return. It feels as if I was foreshadowing to the fall of Xenym, when the intention was a bit more...simple. In a sense. The fall of Xenym feels more obvious, but the idea was that he really doesn't know when he would come back after his adventure. I might change the dialogue later, but I hope I can get the message across. Then again, I guess it could run both ways, even if it's unintentional.
Lastly, and this is a bit of a spoiler, but I do plan to do the other side of the war this time around. Innocent was focused on Reina and her escape during it. This will focus on Virgil, Alessa, their teachers and Rosetta and Julius while the war happens. The scene will end after Julius and Rosetta...you know. Then from there on the story will continue from where Samson returns and follow USS from there, as I make changes along the way. Except this time, just as with earlier portions the perspective switch will be marked. Borrowed the idea from GoT and a novel I started called A Tale for the time being. Great book, I recommend it.
So yeah. USS is getting the Frequency treatment. It'll take a while but it'll definitely be good. The original will remain alongside the 2014 version, but the original will lose the songs. I've said my peace. Until next time.
Sat Dec 16, 2023 12:39 pm by Toejam
» Innocent
Fri Aug 18, 2023 11:15 am by Toejam
» Side Stories
Mon Mar 14, 2022 1:37 pm by Toejam
» Well shit
Thu Jun 08, 2017 12:54 am by Suuba
» The Eccentric Anima's Legacy
Mon Oct 24, 2016 2:36 pm by Toejam
» Under Shattered Skies Refrain
Sun Jan 25, 2015 3:16 pm by Toejam
» Project Hero/Heroine
Wed Sep 11, 2013 4:02 pm by Toejam
» My Art
Thu Jul 11, 2013 9:34 am by Toejam
» Frequency
Thu Oct 25, 2012 10:55 am by Suuba