Chapter 48

  Training in the Sky

  Fara tapped her tail along the ground behind her as she walked out of the sentry post. Each frustrated click of the mace sized end of her tail matched the pace of her steps. Despite being half the height of any Valon, she carried enough presence to make the local patrolman shy away from her. She was a Senne on a mission, or she had been, anyways.

  After she reached the edge of the platform that the entire sentry tower was built on, Fara came to a stop. Instead of descending the staircase, like a regular person, Fara hopped up the rail and dropped down to the ground below. A twenty foot fall might be harmful to most people, but Sennish agility was not to be underestimated. Besides, she was a student of MAW, on the path to becoming a Myrrhmidon.

  It was a very sunny summer day, in the middle of nowhere. The grass in this area of the Ranear plains was high enough that Fara couldn’t see over most of it. She moved along the road to the rest area where the others stayed. “They better have gotten me some food.” She mumbled to herself.

  Here and there along the road were areas for travelers to stop and get a bite to eat. Rest areas, simple places, one or two buildings at most. They were more prevalent in Cryston due to the abundance of crystals the country sported. It was easy enough to make a simple ward stone to deter Zori. Places without wards did not last very long.

  Tasty food that could be eaten on the road, even if it wasn’t very good for you. As Fara approached the area cleared of grasses she could smell a savory scent in the air. Grilled meat, served with bread. Her mouth watered at the display of open air cooking that greeted her. There was a barbecue here.

  “Fara!” called an all too familiar voice, “Over here.” The Sennish healer turned to see her tall Kuldo companion waving from a seat nearby. He was still wearing that ebony armor he was so proud of, even while relaxing.

  “I see you, Rex.” Fara said, ambling over to the table he had sequestered. “You know, lots of other Kuldo are closer to my height.”

  “Well, some of us have to be tall enough to raise the average.” Rex said, “I got you some grilled sandwiches.” The man offered a platter of two meat filled bread delights, each dripping delicious sauces.

  “That’s what I like to hear!” Fara said, pulling the plate over to her as she sat down. She started eating.

  Rex waited with patience, eyes half closed. He waited and tapped his foot, then drummed his fingers together. He managed to be patient for an entire five seconds. “So, what did they say?” He asked.

  “Oh.” Fara said with her mouth full. She chewed a few more times and swallowed, then spoke, “They had heard about some similar attacks already, and thanked me for getting to them. The King already dispatched a Myrrhmidon to come and investigate on behalf of Magistrate Warlin. They didn’t tell me anything more.”

  “Who are they sending?” Rex asked.

  “They didn’t say, and don’t worry, I asked. But they said we are still clear to continue our bounty hunting.” Fara said.

  “You’d think MAW would be more supportive of one of it’s top students.” Rex said, “I’m practically a Myrrhmidon!” He complained.

  “Well, maybe if you did the report yourself.” Fara said.

  “Doesn’t matter.” He said, waving one hand, “We are cleared to continue, that’s all I needed.”

  “Of course.” Fara said, rolling her eyes. She returned to the feast of meat and grain that had been acquired for her. Her tail waved back and forth in a rhythm of happiness. Succulent juicy meat melted in her mouth with each bite. A girl could lose herself in such food, and Fara intended to.

  As the little Senne ate her feast, Rex leaned back to await their other companion. It was time for him to prove his worth. His efforts had better bear some fruit. Rex made crystals grow out of his chin and fall off, listening to the sound they made as they clinked down his armor and popped into dust on the ground.

  While two of the students of MAW sat idle, the third made his way back. Evan dragged himself to the table, one eye covered by an eyepatch. “Did you get any for me?” He asked.

  “Nope.” Rex said, glancing over.

  “Thanks,” Evan drawled.

  “Didn’t know how long you’d be.” Rex said, standing up before Evan could. “Rest.” Rex went over to get food.

  Evan grunted, “Is he being nice to me?” He wondered.

  Rex soon returned with food for Evan, and for himself. “Eat up. I want to move out as soon as we’re done.” Rex said.

  “Ah.” Evan said, “No rest for the wicked, huh.”

  “We are far from wicked, we are warriors of justice.” Rex said. “As soon as we capture that dangerous bounty target the world will be safer, and I will become a Myrrhmidon.” He took a bite out of his meal. “Did you find a place to start?”

  Evan took a few careful bites before respondings. “The target eluded me. I lost all track of them somewhere in the plains. However, I was able to spot the person in purple armor that was with the skinny robed fellow. I’ve used Hawk Eye.”

  “Hmm.” Rex finished his sandwich, “Remind me what that does again.”

  “I can track the marked target any distance.” Evan said, “However I cannot use my eye or fight. If I do I will lose focus, that includes being struck.” He took another bite of his food.

  “I will handle all the fighting.” Rex said, “You just lead the way.”

  “Are you sure that’s a good idea?” Fara asked, “Fighting on your own can be troublesome.”

  “Your support is all I need.” Rex said, “I can handle anything, even if I were alone.” Rex flexed, grinning. Evan rolled his eyes and kept eating. “We’ll be rolling in gil before you know it.” Rex said.

  “Temper your zeal, Rex.” Fara said, “I’ll get everything ready for travel.” The Sennish woman stood to begin packing.

  “Rex Zeal.” Rex mused, “I wonder if that works.”

  “Nah,” Evan said, “It doesn’t even make sense.” Rex grumbled and stood up to help Fara.

  “Maybe,” Fara said, “You could try a title before your name.” She offered.

  “Huh.” Rex grunted, “Like Dragonslayer Rex, or Demonslayer Rex.”

  “Funslayer Rex.” Evan said.

  Rex frowned and flexed his arm, looking at Evan. The Feral sniper ignored the Kuldo warrior. Fara sighed, “Just consider it. And please, try to get along.” She gave them each a long look, but neither of the boys responded. In silence, the three bounty hunting students finished their resting and made their way East, tracking Velicio.

  As the evening suns began to wash the skies aglow in an amber mural, a chime rang out throughout the airship. Michael paused in his training to look at the rest of the deck. Sailors moved about with purpose, entering and exiting the ship with speed found only in the routine. “What’s all this?” He asked.

  “Change of the guard.” Mien said from a seat nearby. “Time for the evening shift to take over from the day crew.”

  “Oh, do we need to do anything?” Michael asked. He looked at Mien and the others. Mien was seated as he oversaw Michael’s training. Hyato, Kris, and Yan were all resting from their latest sets. Yan splayed out on the ground nearby, and gave Michael a weak smile when he looked at her.

  “Not really.” Mien said, “Though, I suppose we could stop for dinner.”

  “That sounds like a wonderful plan.” Kris said. Hyato nodded, whilst taking a long swig from a water bottle. Mien and Kris stood up.

  “Okay, I’ll get some later.” Michael said. “I want to try something first.”

  “Are you serious?” Kris asked, “You didn’t take a single break all day.”

  “I had lunch.” Michael countered.

  “That doesn’t count!” Kris argued.

  Mien folded his arms, “Still, you do have more stamina than I expected.” He said to Michael. “At this rate... how do you even sleep?”

  “He and Wolf beat the tar out of each other.” Yan said, “Until Michael is too tired to keep going.”

  “I see.” Mien said. “I suppose I should have intensified your training.”

  Michael slid along the ground to one side, lifting himself with a bit of water and wind. The step looked as simple as pivoting, “I mean, you taught me how to move. And how to be faster when I strike.” He said. “I feel you did plenty.”

  “Did you learn enough?” Mien asked.

  “No.” Michael said, without pausing to consider the answer.

  “Then I need to train you harder.” Mien stepped past him. “Come eat dinner soon, then... we’ll figure out something.”

  The others moved past him, except Yan who lingered behind. “So, uhhh.” Her eyes flashed with curiosity.

  “What do I want to try?” Michael asked, smirking. Yan nodded, bouncing up on her heels. “Earlier the Medic, Val, taught me about healing through meditation and stuff.”

  “Right.” Yan said, “So?”

  “I think I want to try to heal myself in the middle of fighting.” Michael said.

  “Really? I thought that healing required time to work.” Yan said.

  “You have a point.” Michael said, “But I know I can close wounds with it. So even if it’s not really a full on heal, it could look like it is.”

  Yan tilted her head, thinking about it. “But you’d still have blood on you.”

  Michael frowned, “Okay. I can wash that off with hydromancy.”

  “Wouldn’t you still be fatigued from fighting?” Yan asked.

  “I’ll figure it out.” Michael said. “Anyways, I’m going to try that a bit. I’ll catch up.” Yan nodded and departed while Michael took a silly pose. She took one last look and giggled.

  The motion to induce healing through meditation could be a simple one. Michael needed only to move enough to alter the flow of his energy. Flowing energy through himself felt like moving a muscle around. He drew the energy up from his belly to his head by lifting one arm, then spread it along his body by lowering his arm and widening his stance. With each arm raise he took in breath, and exhaled on the final motion. Two steps, that was all he needed.

  Michael practiced the simplified meditation several times, adding a small movement with each one. At first he slid one foot. Then he took a step. He could move his sword arm around a small amount with each motion too. The amount of focus he needed was lessening bit by bit, as the motions became familiar to him.

  “Zori, coming up on the portside.” Someone said. Michael’s ear twitched and he looked over. A few sailors were heading closer, towards the front of the ship. They had harpoons and looked ready to fight. Michael followed their gazes.

  Ahead of the ship was a flying creature, a bestial mass of fur with five long limbs dangling down. The claws on each limb were poised to strike, flopping about as the things two large wings flapped to keep it held aloft. There was only one. Michael leapt over the small fence around the training deck on a burst of wind, landing near the sailors. “So, there are even Zori all the way up here?” He asked.

  “That’s right.” a Valon sailor said. “It’s just one, but we can’t underestimate it. The solo Zori are usually tougher.” The man gripped his harpoon. “Stand back. Arms ready!”

  The sailors assembled all moved to a throwing stance. Two of them flexed surges around their weapons. All six harpooners waited to strike, while a seventh sailor cast a spell that made the tips of the harpoons seem to be on fire. “Strike!” The lead called.

  Harpoons sailed through the air, trailing thin wire behind them. Three of the harpoons struck the creature, the others missed and fell. The wires all began to retract, retrieving the fallen harpoons and dragging the Zori closer. It’s roar was drowned out by the noise of the airship.

  The Anozori reared its arms back and dove towards the ship, despite being pierced and burning. One of the sailors swore, “Fire isn’t working.”

  “Ready to block!” The leader called. The sailors seemed to be in a small panic.

  Wind surrounded Michael and he hopped to the railing of the ship, then kicked off towards the Zori. The moment he passed through the barrier around the ship all sound was drowned out by the howling winds. Michael slammed his fist into the Zori and let loose a burst of earth force. Stones pierced the enemy and sundered it, slaying it before it could arrive. Then Michael began to fall.

  With a swift burst of energy, Michael found himself back on deck amongst the sailors. Two still looked over the edge, but the others saw Michael back. “You can teleport.” One said.

  Michael shook his head, sheathing his sword. “The Fallen Sword.” Michael explained, “A technique to return to your sword after you drop it.”

  “Seems kinda risky, ya?” The mage said, “Jumping through the barrier, those winds must have hurt.” He indicated Michael, who was now sporting dozens of small cuts along his arms and face. Some were beginning to bleed.

  “I didn’t realize how fast the ship was moving.” Michael said. He took a breath and channeled energy through himself. At the same time he used a bit of hydromancy. Through meditation, his wounds closed. The water took care of the blood.

  “A healer?” The mage said, “How rare.”

  “Just a little first aid.” Michael said, stumbling back. His head spun, but he righted himself. Now that he had actual wounds to close, that did use up more energy. “I’m gonna go get dinner. Let me know if any more Zori appear.”

  The canteen was bustling with activity as Michael arrived. Dinner seemed to be in full swing. A few groups of sailors stood on crates and sang between swigs of their drinks.

  An arm wrestling contest was ongoing between a jacked sailor and Wolf. The champion claimed victory with ease, sending the sailor off with the others who had lost. "I'm unbeatable!" Wolf proclaimed. A round of cheers and jeers in good humor broke out around him.

  The tall violet skinned first mate stepped past Michael with a polite greeting. Den stepped over to the table with Wolf. "We'll see about that."

  Michael chuckled, but walked away before the contest began. He was getting very hungry.

  The canteen sported a large kitchen bar area, and three chefs were hard at work back there. Michael saw Yan waiting for food and moved to join her. "Hey, what's for dinner?" He asked.

  "Something with lots of meat and veggies." Yan said. "I ordered one for you as well."

  "Nice! Thanks." Michael said.

  "How did your meditation trick go?" Yan asked.

  "Seems to work." Michael said. "Want me to show you?"

  "Sometime. I want to learn that elemotion stuff that Mien taught you." Yan said.

  "Okay, I'll train with you." Michael said, patting her on the shoulder. She chuckled.

  One of the chefs moved with downright alarming speed, zipping between three stations to assemble a set of meals. After serving taters and greens into dishes and adding an array of meats and garnish, she spun on her heel and began to pass out platters. “Momorian Stir Fry for you, Eastern Liagosian Drak Choy for thee, two orders of Broken Thyme Tempura, and of course,” She paused before Michael and Yan after serving the same food to four others, “For our lovely guests, a special treat. The finest dish in all the lands, Cienthian Peking Duck, just for you.”

  A dish of meats and veggies was placed before Yan and Michael, along with drinks. Michael looked at his platter, it was a hearty serving, but, “This is just meat and potatoes.” He said to the chef.

  “It’s the thought that counts, love.” The chef said. She placed a tiny paper umbrella in Michael’s drink, then turned around with a flourish, “Ta-ta, time to eat. Don’t let yourselves starve, now.”

  With a confused expression, Michael picked up his food and followed the giggling Yan to another table. Even while they sat Yan seemed to be holding back laughter. Michael chuckled, “She sure moves fast.”

  Yan took a drink and a few breaths to calm down, “You got that right. That’s big Valon energy, that is.”

  “What is?” Michael said, chuckling.

  “Being so hyper, moving about all the time.” Yan said, “You see that alot in Valon.”

  Michael glanced back at the chef, then around the room a bit. “Well, Hyato doesn’t get like that. Isn’t he a Valon too?”

  Yan started digging into her meal, and Michael did too, “You’re right.” Yan agreed, “I wouldn’t say the races can be defined by personality. They just... can do different stuff.”

  “Like what?” Michael asked between bites. The food was good, but then anything would taste good after working out so long. Yan frowned, not able to respond.

  “Sorry, I couldn't help but overhear...” A man with disheveled black hair that carried himself well despite being shorter than average said. Pierre gave a small bow of apology for his rudeness, “But you are wanting to know the differences between the races?” He asked.

  “Well, yeah.” Michael said.

  “Just to clarify...” Pierre said, “Were you not educated, Michael?”

  “Well, technically I was born a few weeks ago.” Michael said, “My knowledge is lacking, for the most part. Have a seat.”

  “Thanks.” Pierre accepted the seat at the small round table they were at. Yan slid a bit closer to Michael to give Pierre some room. “Well, if you want, I can tell you all about them.”

  “That’s what I assumed,” Michael said, “Please do.”

  Pierre nodded, then glanced at Yan with a bit of hesitance. She nodded, “Oh, I want to learn too. I only know of a few, I’m from a small country village.”

  With a sigh of relief, Pierre spoke up, “Excellent. I’ll tell you everything I know. Just give me a moment.” He started to dig around in his backpack, pulling out sheets of paper and pencils. A few slipped out of his hands and clattered onto the table.

  “Pierre.” Michael said, “Why are you so nervous? Aren’t you a soldier?”

  “Ah, sorry.” He said, “It’s not everyday you are hunting after a man capable of rending the ground apart, then are escorting him the next day.” Pierre explained, “I know you don’t mean it, but you can be really scary, you know.”

  Michael frowned, “Sorry... I don’t want you to be scared of me.”

  “I know, I realize.” Pierre said, holding up his hands in a placating gesture. “But all the same.” He glanced at Michael’s empty eyes for a moment, then looked away.

  “Listen man.” Yan said, “Look at me.” Pierre did, locking eyes with her. “Just take a deep breath, okay?” Pierre nodded, and inhaled. As he exhaled, he seemed less jittery. “Better?”

  “Yes. I suppose so.” Pierre said. “Apologies. Feel free to keep eating, I will explain what I can.”

  “We’ll start with the two of you. Part Feral, Part Valon.” Pierre said, “You can tell by the ears. You both have Wolf Feral ancestry. Commonly, the Feral have beastial attributes such as claws and sharp fangs, and often fur on their arms and back.”

  Michael inspected his hands. His fingers were long, but nothing about them was clawed of furred, “Okay, if you say so.” He said.

  “Well, you’re probably mostly Valon.” Pierre said. “So, The Valon are known for many things. Being able to turn into Energy is perhaps the best known trait, but they are also considerably faster than most others in general. And they have energy horns.”

  “Energy horns?” Michael asked. He looked at Pierre, “Aren’t you a Valon? You don’t have any horns.”

  “Energy horns.” Pierre said. He concentrated, flexing energy around his head. Two long ‘horns’ extended from his head, floating behind them. Michael felt they looked more like paper thin ponytails. They floated behind him and were semi-transparent.

  “Oh.” Michael said, “Do I have those?”

  “They mostly appear when someone is fighting.” Pierre said, “Since it’s when someone channels energy.”

  “Mine are swirly.” Yan said, with a grin.

  “So, is there anything that I should definitely know?” Michael asked.

  “What do you mean?” Pierre said.

  Michael shrugged, “Well, Yan said everyone can do different stuff. Like what?”

  "I'll give you the basic rundown then." Pierre said. Michael and Yan nodded, "First I'll start with the different Races..." Pierre explained what he could to Michael and Yan. The students listened in with rapt attention for an entire hour.

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  The day grew late, and for the passengers of the ship it became time to sleep. Michael and Wolf sparred for a while, until both warriors were tired. Wolf remained undefeated, and Michael retired to sleep soon thereafter.

  Daylight dawned aboard the airship all too soon for Sebastian. The hammock he'd crawled into the night prior was positioned too close to a window for his liking. The morning light refused to turn away from him, so he grumbled as he got to his feet.

  The weary Evari stumbled out of the crew quarter's he'd bunked in, past several sailors that remained in deep sleep. Sebastian made his way to a bathing room to wake himself with cold water. He looked at himself in the mirror, blinking more and more awake. "Do you party too much?" He asked his reflection. He considered the question, "Nah."

  Sebastian cast a spell, causing water to dance about his face for a moment. After a moment he felt awake and refreshed, and the spell had done his hair. "Where would we be without household magic?" He asked, pulling a shirt on.

  "Probably carrying a comb." A fmailiar voice said. Sebastian glanced over to see a woman with striking red hair, brushing her teeth.

  "Medic Valori." Sebastian said, turning to face her, "What a pleasant surprise. How are you this morning?"

  Val spat and grinned, showing her sharp teeth. "Good. And you, always this smarmy? Or is it just because I'm a woman?"

  "I'm simply a man that knows what he wants." Sebastian said, "If you aren't interested, I shall trouble you no further, Medic Valerie."

  "Really?" Val huffed, "'Knows what he wants' huh? Do you know how many women stopped by my cabin yesterday looking for protection?"

  "Well, I'm not sure..." Sebastian said.

  "Eight of them." Val said. "How many more will I see today?"

  Sebastian frowned, "I didn't realize. I also take appropriate measures. I'm sorry I troubled you Medic Valer-"

  "And call me Val!" She snapped, cutting him off.

  "Yes M-, Val. Yes Val." Sebastian said, taking a small step back.

  "Thank you." Val said, sounding much calmer. She paused, then asked, "Do you really only want sex? No other goals?"

  "Oh, I have other goals." Sebastian said. "Sex is just short term. I can't chase my dreams from where I'm at right now."

  "Well why not?" Val asked. "What's stopping you?"

  Sebastian leaned against the sink in thought. “I want to do lots of things. Find the hidden city of Sky Reach, uncover ruins, learn new skills.” He said, “Not sure how I can do anything from here.”

  “Well, you could plan for them, or prepare.” Val said. “Something, surely.”

  “I can’t very well look for hidden ruins or ancient lands up here. I won’t find the End Gate on this ship.” Sebastian said.

  “You want to find the End Gate? Really?” Val said, “That’s a myth.”

  “May as well look for it.” Sebastian said, “Some stories have to be true.”

  Val shrugged and pulled out a small bottle of perfume. “Well, do as you like, I suppose. But, a man that has ambition is much more attractive, you know.” She sprayed the bottle, a scent of clove filling the air. “See me if you need healing.” Val left the room.

  Sebastian stayed back, considering things. “What can I do?” He wondered, thinking over his goals. “Hmm.”

  Michael was the first to the training deck after eating breakfast. Hyato had done some warm ups earlier, but spent more time eating. As long as he didn’t get a stomach ache again, it would be alright.

  After taking a few minutes to warm up, Michael thought back to his training on the previous day. An attack to overcome the adaptability of a Sorcerer. The only way to do that was to combine speed and power. Not enough of either, and the entire attack would fall apart. The downside they ran into was that Michael could not use enough power at range. If he charged Vero, he would be torn to shreds. Dark Wind was not fast enough either.

  So they settled on a new trick. Michael threw his sword, causing it to spin through the air. Then he closed his left hand around nothing and summoned it back with Arm Return. This could work, a sword throw he could repeat ad infinitum. Michael felt this was enough to turn the tides.

  Mien, on the other hand, disagreed. An arrow or shuriken would work better than throwing his sword. They had to go one step further. Under Mien's direction, Michael had spent much of the previous day attempting to surround his sword in an elemental aura. He could maintain one while he held it, but it would fade when he threw the sword. It had taken Michael five hours to get it the aura to stay even after using Arm Return.

  That itself was still not enough for Mien. The next step, he was to learn today. "Already warming up, I see." Mien said as he arrived. Michael had thrown his sword with the aura of winds six times already.

  "I'm ready to go." Michael said. "And I think I know what the next step is too."

  "Oh you do, do you?" Mien said. "Then what is it?"

  "Instead of summoning Oronbyr back." Michael said. "Summoning myself to the sword and delivering an attack."

  Mien arched an eyebrow. "Oh really? And how are you going to do that?"

  Michael opened his mouth, then shut it. "Hmm."

  "Teleporting like that is not what I had in mind." Mien said, "I don't even think it's possible. No, instead I want you to use a stronger aura."

  "Stronger than wind? It's my strongest element."

  "No, it's not." Mien said. "The Darkness that you wield is much stronger. I want you to turn Dark Blade into a sword aura."

  Michael looked at his sword. "You think I can do that?"

  "You managed to hold a wind around it. Just think of it as an element and manipulate it the same way." Mien said.

  As Michael got set up for training, Mien moved on to help start the others that arrived. Michael used Dark Wind instead of Dark Blade, he wasn't trying to tear up the deck after all. The winds exploded forth while Michael attempted to reign them in around his sword. The idea was similar to Dark Flight.

  When Yan arrived she went to ask Mien for direction. "You are a Kairaetsu, correct?" He asked.

  "You can just say Ninja, I don't mind." Yan said.

  "Very well." Mien said. "So, you Ninja have those energy techniques that no one else can do, right?"

  "Err. Well it's not that other people can't use them." Yan said.

  "It's that they're traditionally secret." Mien said. Yan nodded, "Don't worry. I know. I don't mean to steal them or anything, but I might be able to help you refine them. You wanted to be stronger, why don't you use them?"

  "I mostly use the movement and utility Jutsu. The combat one's were never my main focus." Yan said.

  "Let's work on them then." Mien said. "I want you to spar using only those Jutsu for battle."

  Yan looked over at Kris. "Isn't she doing drills today?" Yan asked.

  "You aren't sparring with Kris." Mien said. "You are sparring with me." Yan's eyes widened in shock, and she did not respond. "Be ready in ten minutes."

  Sparring with Mien? A Myrrhmidon? Yan watched as the man walked over to check on the others, and tried to hide her panic. How was she supposed to face him at her level? She considered herself capable enough, sure, but what was she supposed to do against him?

  Yan could move fast, and kept up with Michael well enough, but Michael had already gotten much stronger. Accuracy with kunai was good enough in most battles, but Michael and Mien were already fighting at a level that boggled her mind. It’s not like she could use stealth in a one on one fight. Could she?

  Michael and Hyato were training, and even Wolf came by today. Yan watched them for a moment, then steeled herself. ‘I can do this.’ She thought. If she didn’t try, then what was the point? Yan had to train using her combat techniques this time. She couldn’t rely on her Kunai or the Energy Doubles she acquired from that Gibzori in the mountains.

  After touching base with the others and giving her time, Mien returned to Yan. She still seemed unsure about this, perhaps she needed to be rallied. “Okay Yan, are you ready to begin sparring?” Mien asked.

  Yan looked up at him, “I suppose.” She said, “Are you sure this is the right way to get stronger?”

  “The way I see it.” Mien said, “You have a weapon that no one else does, you should lean on that. Sharpen that edge, and you can go far.”

  “Still, I don’t see how these techniques can go up against a Myrrhmidon.” Yan said.

  Mien closed his eyes, “Ah. Myrrhmidon, Champion, Adventurer, Delver...” He said, “They are all just titles. Don’t think of me as more than what I am. They’re just distractions in battle. I’ve seen you fight without holding back, you are powerful.” He paused, as Yan continued to listen with rapt attention, “You just need to let go of whatever is holding you back.”

  Yan tilted her head and thought about it, “So... what’s holding me back?” She asked.

  “I don’t know yet.” Mien said, “So let’s find out. Come, are you ready to fight?” Mien lowered into a stance.

  Yan held up three fingers, “I thought of three techniques I should work on. But, I’m changing the rules some. I’m still going to use my movement abilities, since they pair well together.”

  “Fair enough.” Mien said, “Let us begin.”

  By the time Sebastian arrived at the training deck, everyone was already there. The Evari tactician saw Michael hard at work off by himself, Hyato working on sword moves with Wolf, Kris and Pierre practicing some kind of drills, all while Mien and Yan sparred using the majority of the deck. “Where do they find their motivation?” Sebastian wondered aloud, sitting nearby.

  Sebastian assessed the people training for a long moment. Some of them were doing just fine, but all of them could be better. The one who seemed to be struggling the most was Michael. Whatever he was trying, he was doing it wrong. Sebastian stood up, dusting himself off. “I might as well help.”

  Michael was hard at work trying to emit Dark Blade energy without launching it. So far, his efforts were in vain, as Sebastian approached. “So, what ails you, Michael?” Sebastian asked.

  Assuming that Sebastian asked him what he was up to, Michael Said, “I’m trying to condense my Dark Blade energy around the Oronbyr like and Aura.”

  “That seems like a tall order.” Sebastian said. He watched Michael try a few more times, only to release a half hearted Dark Wind. “So, what do you do in order to use Dark Blade?”

  “I just channel energy through the sword.” Michael said, “It kind of... expands through it and rushes out.”

  “Expands.” Sebastian said, “So it’s modified by the sword then?”

  “Well, yeah. It’s like I am using my energy to open the way for the Oronbyr to release energy.” Michael said.

  Sebastian rubbed his chin in deep thought, but it wasn’t enough. So he touched his forehead with two fingers and closed his eyes. The world around him seemed to slow down. Sounds faded, light filtered away, and Sebastian was alone with his thoughts.

  The Oronbyr. A weapon made by a God, an Elder God no less. Made from some kind of black crystal instead of a metal, and now in the possession of Michael. Whatever kind of energy the sword contained, it was powerful. Or perhaps it was just a strong form of kinetic energy. Dark Blade and Dark Wind did not seem to hurt, just launch things with great force. Even large items could be propelled.

  If the power of the sword had no secondary effects, it was unlike any of the magical elements. Instead, his sword was pure, more like energy than element. Elemental control would not work on it, this required skill at weaving energy. Sebastian opened his eyes.

  “Michael.” Sebastian said, making the younger man flinch, “Stop attempting to use it like an element. Treat it like a Surge. Attempt to draw out the energy as if flexing it, and contain it around your sword that way.”

  “Okay.” Michael said, ever willing to follow orders given by his friends. He looked at his sword and his face screwed up in concentration. Sebastian watched him stand there and flex his own energy a few times, letting out wispy weak waves of energy every now and then. Sebastian was impressed with how much effort Michael gave before he said, “It’s not working.”

  “I can see that.” Sebastian said, “You are certainly using your own energy.” He paused for another moment to consider things. “Try to think of the sword as an extension of your body.”

  “I... don’t know what you mean.” Michael said.

  “The sword is not a tool in your hand, it is a part of your arm.” Sebastian said, “Just, envision that.”

  Michael looked at the Oronbyr again, imagining that it was his arm. At first, it seemed like a silly thing to think about. Then it seemed comical, thinking that the sword was made of muscle and sinew. Michael continued to envision it, wondering if he could make the sword bend. Was there a sword at all? “There is no sword.” Michael said, “Just, my arm.”

  “Now,” Sebastian said, “You already know how to hold energy around your arm, right?”

  “Yeah.” Michael flexed energy, a surge, around the sword. His own purple energy surrounded it, but none of the black energy of Oronbyr was emitted. Michael frowned, and tried again.

  Instead of flexing the energy around it, he used a surge with the sword, then flexed it. Channeling energy into the sword, then holding it. It was like trying to shove cheese through a needle. The hole was there, but it felt nigh impossible.

  "This is so difficult." Michael complained.

  "The solution is often simpler than it seems." Sebastian said. "If you find yourself up against something complex, look for the simple answer."

  "Simpler." Michael said, focusing again. Perhaps the cheese need not fit through the needle by force. There could be another way. Not force, finesse.

  "String Cheese." Michael said. He attempted to flow the energy with a focus on control. It doesn't matter if the energy only comes through a little, Michael would get some through.

  This line of thinking washed away Michael's doubt. Along with controlled breathing, Black Energy began to seep out of the guard of his sword. The flow was weaker than it had ever been, but grew as Michael put more effort in. He knew how to direct his energy for this, a breakthrough!

  Dark energy flowed around the Oronbyr and Michael flexed it like a surge. The energy condensed into an aura, like an extended edge of inky water. Michael let go of the energy and watched it dissipate, then called it back with near instantaneous ease. "Done." He announced to himself, "Dark Aura."

  Sebastian clapped, "Well done. You got it to work."

  "Yep." Michael swung his sword around, leaving a black trail of fading energy. "I wonder how strong it is."

  "That's a good question, but I'll ask a better one." Sebastian said, "String Cheese?"

  "Uhh." Michael said, "Well. It's like, forcing cheese through a needle?"

  "Nevermind." Sebastian shook his head. "What next? You've managed to make your new technique."

  "I need to practice it." Michael said. "Until I can maintain it for three throws."

  "I'll leave you to it." Sebastian said, "Keep up the hard work." Michael began the next leg of his training, and Sebastian approached the stoic swordsman with a red mantle. "Hyato. How goes your training?"

  Hyato was alone now, working on a set of sword strikes and footwork, along with a technique that launched a heavy slash of wind and energy. Where Wolf was just a few minutes ago sat just an empty cup, the Phanokai had gone to take a break.

  “Training is training.” Hyato said, “Why bother thinking about it?”

  “Hmm,” Sebastian frowned, “I’m not sure that is the right attitude.”

  Hyato rolled his shoulder in a shrug. “I always seem to be training. I’m sure I will get stronger eventually.”

  “Why are you training so much if you think it’s so bothersome?” Sebastian asked.

  “How should I know?” Hyato said, “I just find myself training and keep going, that’s all.”

  Sebastian sat down nearby, thinking it over. “You live your life out of order.” Hyato nodded, “So you just sometimes find yourself in unfamiliar situations.”

  “All the time.” Hyato said, “Though, it seems I stay near the same time. Much of my recent days have been around the recent days here.”

  “That seems like a plus.” Sebastian said, “So things are getting more balanced?”

  Hyato shrugged again, “How should I know?”

  “Right.” Sebastian said, “Just because you visit other times doesn’t mean you know what future you is thinking.”

  “Will be thinking, I suppose.” Hyato said, “I don’t want to think about it.” He continued to swing his sword, repeating the simple motion.

  “Well, why not?” Sebastian asked, “I mean, isn’t it fascinating? You live a life no one else does, in a way I have never heard of. Why not think about it?”

  Hyato paused in his training, “No matter how much thinking I do, I never figure anything out.” He said, “Why bother?”

  “You don’t know that until you try.” Sebastian countered, “Why don’t you try and pass messages backwards? Or... teach us about things we haven’t learned yet?”

  “What if my past doesn’t affect your future? What if it does?” Hyato asked, “Has everything that happens already happened? Do our choices matter?” Hyato took a step towards Sebastian, who balked at the questions.

  “I... don’t.... Hmm.” Sebastian wondered.

  “I don’t feel like thinking about my situation.” Hyato finished, “So, I don’t.”

  Sebastian contemplated Hyato as the man went back to his training. Despite his apparent boredom, Hyato trained without stopping. He practiced slashes and forms, repeating them over and over for his muscles to adapt. How many times had he practiced the same form, Sebastian wondered. Something could be done here, Sebastian felt Hyato could be inspired. But were his words enough?

  As Hyato practiced, he faced in the same direction. He was facing Michael, had he always been watching Michael like that? It was worth investigating. The Evari Tactician made his way back across the training deck and waited for a break in Michael’s routine. After Michael called his sword back and paused, Sebastian spoke, “Michael, a word, if you please.”

  “What’s up?” Michael asked.

  “I want a favor from you. Will you ask Hyato about his training?” Sebastian said.

  “Sure. Is there a reason?” Michael said.

  “There is.” Sebastian said. When he didn’t elaborate, Michael shrugged and went over to Hyato. The swordsman was not looking that way, all of a sudden.

  Michael walked up to Hyato’s side, “Hey, Hyato. What’s that sword technique you’ve been practicing?”

  Hyato glanced over, his face as stoic as ever. “Force Sword.” He replied.

  “Oh.” Michael said, “I thought you were already really good at that one.”

  “I am.” Hyato agreed. “But the basics can be honed further still.”

  “Well, okay. As long as that’s the one you want to work on.” Michael said. “Personally, I like working on new techs. Right now, I am thinking of adapting the Fallen Sword to give me more mobility.”

  Hyato stopped swinging his sword for a moment. “It doesn’t matter what I want to do.”

  “Sure it does.” Michael said, “It’s what you want to do, which means it matters.”

  With a shake of his head, Hyato said, “No. I don’t have that freedom. Things are already as they are, and I’ll just find myself in another time doing something else anyways.”

  “That can’t be true.” Michael said, “We always have a choice, right? Just do what you want, doesn’t matter when you are.”

  “Wouldn’t that be odd?” Hyato said, “For me to be switching things up as I bounce around through time?”

  Michael patted Hyato on the shoulder, making the swordsman tense up some. “No way, man.” Michael said, “Who cares if you are bouncing through time from our point of view. For you, it’s just the path you walk.”

  “You really think so?” Hyato asked, “But, what if I change something that I shouldn’t?”

  “Well...” Michael said, “Who cares? You should be allowed to be yourself, right?”

  “I don’t want to mess anything up.”

  “Okay, but if you never do anything, then you won’t have done anything.” Michael said. Hyato, Sebastian, and even a few others looked at Michael. “I don’t know if I could go through a day without having done something.”

  Hyato looked at Michael, who was now looking out over the cloudscape. A gentle breeze stirred Michael’s shaggy white hair, and whipped Hyato’s brown ponytail in his face. The swordsman fixed his hair, then took a deep breath, “Michael-”

  Clang clang clang! Rang a bell from the top of the ship. What was a peaceful deck one moment became swarming with sailors the next. Mien, Kris, and Pierre also leapt into motion, leaving Michael, Hyato, Sebastian, and Yan standing around looking stunned.

  “Below the hull!” Someone called, “All hands to battle stations.”

  Michael spotted the tall violet skinned first mate and rushed over to him, “What’s happening?” He asked.

  “A large zori, a Skuzori, has been spotted below the ship. It must have been following us for some time.” Den said.

  “What does Skuzori mean?” Michael asked.

  “It’s not one of the common types,” Sebastian explained, having arrived with Yan and Hyato, “Zori of the Sky, they are rare, very dangerous, and intelligent.”

  “I don’t like the idea of an intelligent Zori.” Yan said.

  “It is below the ship and keeping pace with us. Our cannons and ballista cannot pivot to target it, and it is shadowing us no matter how we maneuver.” Den explained.

  “What’s the plan?” Sebastian asked.

  “We lower harpooners with ropes to strike at it with incendiaries.” Den said, “Got a better one?”

  “Tough call. Show me to the ropes.” Sebastian said.

  Den led everyone to the edge of the ship where sturdy ropes were being tied down. Several sailors were already donning harnesses. “Will these charges be enough?” Sebastian asked, inspecting the crates of explosives being readied nearby.

  “It’s a rather big thing.” Den said, with a distant expression, “Massive tendrils and interlocking scales. I’d call it a kraken, or a sky kraken, if I were to call it anything.” Den turned to the harpooners. “How soon can you descend?”

  “Just a couple minutes.” The sailor replied, rushing to check his harness.

  A booming crunch of metal was joined by the entire ship shaking, and the winds from before only grew more intense. The shaking stopped after only a moment, but many people staggered and fell. “That’s not fast enough!” Michael said, jumping over the side of the ship!

  The clouds that rolled along the base of the ship were split by a massive scaled form. It’s bulbous mass was protected by chitinous growths, and four long tendrils dangled behind it as the massive squid shaped Zori flew along the shadow of the ship. One barbed tendril had just withdrawn from the ship’s hull, having finished it's attack.

  As Michael descended into view, three glowing eyeballs tracked to him, and the Skuzori’s body shuddered. From the tip of it's bulbous head and along it's form, a cascade of shimmering scales stood on edge, forming a razor sharp guard around the enemy.

  “I’m going to destroy you!” Michael roared, his voice drowned out by the high speed winds. He readied a throw and covered the Oronbyr in Dark Aura, then launched his sword. It spun through the air like a metal discus, striking the Skuzori with a direct shot to the eye. “Ha, take that, Skraken!”

  As the enormous flying cephalo-monster thrashed in pain, Michael called his sword back and held it aimed near his feet. The dark energy surrounded him as he adapted to Dark Flight to propel himself along. The technique enhanced by Dark Aura allowed Michael to maintain speed with the airship and the monster.

  The enemy did not take the attack lying down. Dozens of scales the size of daggers were shot forth, spinning through the air like silver insects. They whirred in perpetual motion around Michael, then began homing in towards him in groups of three. Michael tried to dodge, but the scales tore through the air and grazed him left right and center.

  “Are you crazy?” Someone yelled? Michael turned to see Yan falling towards the foe, darting down like an arrow.

  “What are you talking about?” Michael asked, watching as she sailed past him. She must not have heard him, he was downwind.

  Yan shot towards the foe and moved her hands in front of her, before letting out a sudden burst of indigo petals. The shower of blossoms tore into the Skraken like blades, an attack! The Skuzori whipped a tendril at Yan, but her body faded in a jolt of emerald energy.

  ‘Double swapping.’ Michael thought, moving in for his next attack. He attempted to use Dark Wind, but the movement of sailing across the skies made his attack go askew, leaving him dodging another storm of scales. He began to deflect the more dangerous ones away with his sword.

  Just above, Hyato and Sebastian watched from a platform that had been lowered using ropes, an adaptation to Den’s idea of lowering harnessed harpooners. Two of the harpooners were with them. “Michael is flying.” Hyato said, “And his swordwork is incredible.”

  “What do you mean?” Sebastian asked as he helped prepare explosive harpoons.

  “He’s using his sword to fly, but also to parry the enemy. When did he get so much better than me?” Hyato said.

  “Well, he trains constantly, and harder than anyone.” Sebastian said, “And you said yourself that you aren’t giving your all. It’s no wonder you fell behind.”

  Hyato watched as Michael launched another sword throw, and Yan dropped in for another attack before swapping back to the deck above. “What have I been doing?” Hyato said, “I should be helping.” Sebastian watched the younger man’s resolve intensify. “I’ve been wasting my time worrying about time.”

  “So, do something.” Sebastian said. Hyato nodded, and leapt over the side of the platform. One of the harpooners called out in shock, while Sebastian shook his head. “So brazen, these three.”

  Hyato dropped towards the foe, holding his sword at his side in a sheathed stance. Yan was dropping in as well, and the two synced up with Michael. There was no time to exchange words or even a glance, the enemy was nigh.

  All four tendrils of the Skraken shot towards the warriors, and the airship beyond. The barbed extremities spun in a threatening promise of the pain that would follow. They were as thick as oak trees. To be skewered would mean certain death.

  Explosions shook the air before the tendrils and warriors clashed, leaving the tendrils stunned in a fiery burst of impacted powder. The harpoons had met their mark, and the sailors tossed in a few more for good measure. The Skraken’s furious glowing eyes tracked to the platform as it thrashed in pain. It was distraction enough to be a shield of stealth.

  Yan’s bolt-like dive brought her to the Skraken’s body before the boys reached it. With so many dagger scales launched, a bald spot became safe to land upon. With a swift motion from her hands, Yan called forth a cone of energized winds around her fists. She slammed them into the Skraken, drilling through its body to deal direct damage. Acrid blood shot out along the sides of Yan, kept away by the wind drills.

  The Skraken glared at Yan, then refocused on the platform, unwilling to attack a foe that would vanish. It launched another host of daggers towards Sebastian and the harpooners, but the daggers never reached. “Blade Blossom Barrage!” Yan cried.

  Another of her ninja skills came to life as Yan generated a wave of petal shaped blades at the wound in the Skraken. It thrashed and let out an echoing howl of pain as Yan’s assault continued. The mistake of leaving her alone cost too much. All of the dagger scales were recalled, flying through the air at the Ninja girl.

  Yan vanished, just as dozens of scales slammed into the flesh of the foe. The Skuzori roared again, it's pain and rage reverberating through the air. It thrashed again, whipping it's heavy tendrils through the air.

  As the beast complained, Michael and Hyato landed on its scarred body. Most of the Skuzori's wounds had already closed, leaving behind nasty pink globs of muscle and congealed blood. "Michael." Hyato said, "Use Dark Wind."

  "Sure." Michael flipped his sword and drew it back towards him, summoning it's Dark Aura, then he thrust it forth with an explosion of effort. A hurricane of overwhelming wind crashed forth from the blade, slamming the screeching scarred Skraken with violent force.

  Michael's attack launched the enemy down, removing the footing that both swordsman were using. Michael fumbled to right himself, but Hyato aimed down as if it were sure footing. The air stilled around Hyato for a moment, drowning out noise and feeling. Then Hyato drew his sword.

  A sharp Snap echoed through the air, booming like distant thunder. A thick line had been drawn in the Skuzori, and the surrounding clouds. The Skraken had stilled it's tantrum, splitting open at the seam Hyato had drawn. Hyato's arm was drawn, having completed his sword strike.

  The cut to the Skraken did not sunder it through, though two clouds nearby multiplied from the slash. Hyato began to fall, so Michael tore his eyes from the combat.

  The red swordsman fell through the sky at a rapid pace, too weary to keep hold of his sword. Michael rocketed towards him with Dark Flight as they fell below the Skuzori and approached the Ranear Plains.

  Hyato fell like a stone, so Michael had to focus to reach him. With a dive and explosion of force, Michael dropped down and caught Hyato, swapping into Dark Flight at the last moment. The grassy plains were just below, and Michael touched down, setting Hyato to his feet.

  Both warriors panted, but Michael spoke up, “Gotcha.” He said.

  “Thanks Michael.” Hyato said, dropping to the ground and lying down. “I love you, man.”

  “Yeah,” Michael said, “I love you too, bro.” Hyato looked over at the other man, and let out a small chuckle. Michael had an oblivious smile on his face. Hyato smiled back, closing his eyes. They weren’t on the same page.

  Michael looked up at the airship above. The Skraken latched around the Airship, trying to tear it apart. The attacks that Yan, Hyato, and Michael performed had not been enough to slay the Skuzori after all. Michael took in a breath, readying himself to tear his way back up through the sky and end this.

  He didn’t have to. Cannonfire at point-blank range slammed into the tendrils of the enemy, and after a few salvos Michael saw the Skuzori fade away, slain. A powerful force of energy resonated inside Michael, Synergy rewarded from slaying the Zori. The feeling had become so familiar that it no longer gave Michael a rush. He let out a sigh of relief and dropped to the ground. “It’s over.” He said.

  “Thank Feros.” Hyato said.

  “Look, they’re coming down to pick us up.” Michael said, pointing out the approaching airship. After relaxing for a minute, he hopped back to his feet when the airship drew near. “Let’s go, Hyato.” The swordsman rose to his feet at a slower rate, then Michael flew them up to the airship.