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"Come on. Just one song. Let's raise the energy," the old owner of the tavern pleaded.

"No, no. Tonight is about the brave soldiers that brought down some scary criminals. Also, the stars of the show: Jack, Stella, Luna, Monica, and William, better known as Billy." Ace pointed and the crowd in the tavern erupted with cheers. Every seat was filled, and a variety of conversations took over the room. The entire street and some alleyways were crowded with people in celebration. All ages were partaking in the camaraderie. Jack wondered what the reaction would have been like if they failed to catch their targets. That is too negative to think about. It was just time to enjoy everyone's company.

Jack didn't like the stern look on Stella's face while she stared at her hand. She was replaying the battle over and over again. He knew she wanted to do better. He wasn't too happy with his performance either. To be bested like that felt horrible. Jack wasn't sure what he could have done at the end if it wasn't for Tenny. Who could really handle Tenny if he decides to help? He was the ultimate advantage. Sigh. In time they will get better. He just has to remind Stella that.

"Why so down ashen hair one? Hold on, I am going to get the good stuff." The toothless tavern man scuttled away.

"Oh, what's the good stuff, Lundy?" Ace had sparkles in his eyes.

"I have my own brew. It's a secret so don't tell anyone. I made it with apples. It tastes just like an apple pie." Stella's eyebrows met. Jack grinned from ear to ear.

"That's perfect. Pour me a cup, and you guys should loosen up. I got to head back and help out the other chefs. It is always great to have some good food to go with a good drink." Ace danced out of the room with cup in hand. Tenny's eyes were glistening with a drink of alcohol in front of him.

"Woah, woah. Are you sure that is okay for you to drink?" Jack grabbed the cup. The mystical creature bared his fangs and sharpened its eyes.

"Ace gives me all the time. I deserve it more than you. I had to hold your hand through the last fight."

"Yea, you are right. Still, how old are you?"

"Umm...In a couple of months I will be 428 years old."

"Sheesh, I am sorry for questioning you."

"That is right! I am the oldest. Sometimes I forget to remind Ace that he is a whole 100 years younger than me!"

"What? Ace is 300 years old?" Stella found a nugget of information that distracted her from her own mind.

"Shoots. Don't let him know that I told you." Tenny grabbed his cup and darted out of the room. In his place came Jack's first friends in Nectar village. The couple that was as bright and lovely as the flowers that peppered the surroundings. It could be the alcohol, but Jack felt his chest warm up with the smiles walking his way. He hopes he meets many more people like them.

"Woah woah, I smell something wonderful to drink, but get something in your bellies before drinking anymore. The cooks are finishing up and most of the soldiers outside are too drunk to think about food right now." Monica took a seat next to Luna and presented her a plate. There was almost a spark of excitement her eyes before she jumped into the serving of grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, and fresh bread lathered in butter.

"I would have grab you guys a plate, but I can only hold one." Billy and Monica laughed spectacularly at the grim joke. Even Luna paused eating to look at them funny before Monica grabbed her in a tight hug. Jack and Stella needed that uncomfortable encounter to lighten the mood, becoming infected with the contagious laugh. Even a toothless tavern owner was chuckling with the group as he topped up drinks and poured fresh apple juice for The Reaper and soon to be mother.

Stella led the way to the door, by grabbing a slightly stumbling Jack by the shirt. The tavern all making smiles and raises glasses to the pair as they walk. Even as warriors that regretted some of their performance, they had to admit the praise felt amazing. Heads nodded and the pair reflected actions back at them. Smiles, handshakes, back pats, and Jack was unsure how many soldiers slapped his butt on the way out.

The door opened to reveal a sea of smiles. Songs merrily played. Jack never heard so much singing. A middle-aged man was playing an instrument that Jack only read about in books. They never had much reason to celebrate back at home. He only remembers his mom singing to him and the occasional Mrs. Nevadere singing while doing tasks. Oh, and who can forget the latest performance of his moustached mentor. The music is quickly drowned out when citizens spot the pair leaving the tavern.

"Wooooooooooo!"

"Yeaaaaaaaaaaaa!"

Jack's eyes shot open. The width apart of his eye lids made holding back a small tear pretty difficult. He quickly swallowed the lump in his throat, and he couldn't hide a soft smile from taking control of his face. It was to his surprise to see his friend purposely displaying her teeth. Her gaze seemed to focus lower than anyone's eye level. The face she was wearing was a good disguise that Jack had never seen before. Did she have to use that face often back at her home? Their worlds really are different. The strain in her face slowly relaxed with the de-escalation of the applause.

"What's wrong?"

"We can talk about it later. I am sorry I am dragging down the night."

"Don't be sorry. We can go for a talk if it is really bothering you. We don't have to stick around all the time."

"Planning to leave already? After that applause, it would look a little bad, don't you think?" Captain Julius interrupted their possible escape with the company of a small doctor.

"No, no. It was my fault. I think I am still feeling drained from today."

"Yes, as a doctor, I recommend you all get enough rest. However, it is important to enjoy yourself after such a battle." The old doctor looked off to the distance before reconnecting with the pair's eyes. The captain looked stunned when he saw the doctor's reaction. He couldn't hold back a small smile. "What a battle it was. I have never seen anything like it. No one died. I don't think anyone has died. I barely had to put ointment on a bruise. Two greenhorns and a young killer was able to hold back a reputable mercenary group. Without killing anyone, eh Julius. Did you see it. You princess. Your skills and bravery are inspiring. With some training under that mentor, you will become fearsome. Boy. Your ability to stay calm surprised me. Especially compared to that crying boy, holding his friend, that came into my office. It is the first time in a while that I curse this old body. I want to live long enough to see where your lives carry you both."

Stella was choked up. She was not accustomed to praise that was so direct. She felt like all the compliments that she received in her past were political, all ways of gaining favours, but this old man had no reason to be so thrilled at her trying her best. That is right. She was trying her best. Ace was trying to tell her that earlier. She will get better. She can become fearsome in time. Jack was proud when he heard the words, but seeing his friend have her spirits lifted felt priceless. The whispers of the crowd as people passed by felt better now. The sound of music filling the background, and smell of fresh bread felt better now. It was all over, and everyone was here to celebrate.

"Yea Sans, it really was amazing. It makes me think that I might never see anything like that again in my quiet village, but I am glad I got to see it. A village wide battle, that didn't result in a death. It sounds unreal saying it."

"HA, that is because of my mighty power! Hic. Did you see me take on...hic...the generals like nothing. HAHAHA." Rodriguez crashed on the captain's shoulders. "I do have to admit though troublemakers, you have surprised me. Hic. You have done splendidly. Want to fight Jackie boy? Hic. Let's see what you are made off."

"I will pass. I was brutally reminded today that fighting is a lot more than will power. I have to get stronger. I have a long way to go. Um... I know this is probably strange to ask, but why did you trust me, Captain Julius? Not even just trust, but you had faith in what we were trying."

"Ha, it did seem strange didn't it. It is because of Doctor Hocho here. Before you ever approached me to help form a plan, the good doctor burst into my quarters excited about these new adventures in the village. I guess listening to him go on like that after many years had me very curious. Talking to Billy when I visited him also skewed my favour."

"Oh, and why did you trust us, doctor?" Stella picked up the line of questioning.

"It was your mentor. I talked to him quite a bit, and I am not sure if you have seen enough of the world to understand how scary he is. His partner, his weapon, his skills and logic is not of this world, but he has chosen to share that with us and more specifically you guys. If he has the faith to trust you, then that is more than we should need. To be honest, he hasn't told me anything special, and this was all my observation, so it was all a gamble. It paid off."

"He is scary. Hic. I hate to admit it. I plan to become one...hic... of the 14 generals with this tool he has gifted me...hic..., and even with that power, I will still never face him. Imagine he was living in the village and...hic...not doing anything until recently. I hope he always stays goofy."

"I hear everyone singing my praises here, so I am definitely in the right part of town. Imagine you all talking so highly about me, and you haven't tasted my chicken foot soup. Food is ready for everyone, except for the one that just called me goofy. Me and him are about to fight." Ace startled the giant man, and the Mystical creature on his shoulder stifled a laugh.

The mountain chuckled awkwardly, Jack couldn't help but stifle his own laugh at the faded confidence. Everything really worked out great, and there were so many moving parts that made it work.

"I'm sorry for bringing it back up, but it's bothering me. Why does the doctor have such an influence on you captain?" Stella stole the stage.

"This old man has seen a lot of battles. Hocho and Lundred were butterflies for a long time. They never admitted to being strong but survived very tough encounters. I don't know my parents. I am told that my mom had died at childbirth, and my dad was a butterfly. He passed away and Lundred and Hocho looked after me. They stayed with their comrades, but one-time Lundred was caught and tortured on a mission. Hocho and a few others saved him and the three of us moved to Nectar Village since then. Imagine their surprise when I became a captain." Jack noticed Rodriguez glance around at the mention of butterflies.

"That is super cool doc. I'm impressed, but what would be cooler is if you tell us what a butterfly is." Ace voiced Jack and Stella's thoughts.

"Oh, I really thought you knew what they were. I am sorry. They are..." Julius backtracked.

"Rebels. Those who want to change the empire." Rodriguez answered with no sign of an oncoming hiccup.

"Rebels? Is that a normal thing? Why butterfly?" Jack took over.

"Aye, young Jack. It is not as large a force to make headlines, but most military men and the emperor is surely aware of them. Throughout the years, the force may not have been the largest, but there is some of the strongest warriors in the continent labelled as revolutionaries. As for why we called ourselves butterflies. It was just the hidden symbol that was used to mark meeting places when the rebel army first was formed. The symbol changes often and only those in the know can recognise it. In my time, the symbol was the Nerine Plant."

"So why are you with the military captain?" Jack questioned.

"I believe in their cause, but I have heard about too much blood shed for me to support the revolutionaries. I want to see what I can do from the inside, but it hasn't proved fruitful. I spent many years trying while protecting this village the entire time, until my purpose became something completely different. I just want to have my soldiers happy and give my old men a quiet place to live the rest of their days."

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"And a fine job you have done," the endearing doctor reinforced.

"Just don't make me your enemy." There was the confidence from the muscle captain that Jack was starting to miss.

"I do have to admit that seeing this entire Eclipse business and young ones like you two reminded me of the stories Hocho and Lundred told me as a kid. You all are going to leave stories for Billy to share with his kids."

"Speaking of stories, where is our reporter?" Jack said while looking around.

"He said that he wanted to party, but he had some very important work to do," Ace chimed in. "I am sorry to bring back the subject, and I apologize for being a bit ignorant to the situation, but what do the revolutionaries aim to achieve? What are they fighting for?"

"Freedom. Freedom, Young Ace." Jack and Stella awkwardly grinned at the thought that Ace was young. "The right to spend our lives and time the way we want, without the approval of the government. The freedom and ownership of the work we own. It is great that they want to give back to everyone in the empire, but there is a bitterness that builds up when the hard work of some is never enough. Listen to the music. We are lucky to know someone who can play the guitar, but the skill was lost through the generations in small villages because it isn't practical. Isn't that tragic young ones. Look at this feast as well. We are only able to partake in this because Julius got everyone to hold back the shipment of resources. We would never see extravagance like this in a normal occasion."

"I didn't even think about that. Won't you get in trouble?" Stella asked. The sacrifice in their honour felt truly bittersweet.

"I have fulfilled my orders for over 25 years. I think they will forgive me for the resources getting destroyed in the capture of the notorious Eclipse. I trust that you all won't tell anyone about this little get together." The silver haired captain winked.

"Captain! There is this wild girl soldier who thinks she can beat you at arm wrestling!" A drunk Boras stumbled to Rodriguez. The gruff soldier locked eyes with Jack. Jack felt calm staring back at him. Stella was getting a bit irritated. The gruff soldier bowed his head slightly before dragging his captain off. Jack smiled. "You have to teach this Becky a lesson..."

"Before I go. Ace, thank you for bringing me in this. I will become one of the 14 generals, and your gift will help me. I also feel that I should let you know that when I had the ring appraised and was permitted to keep it, I was told that The Dog had taken an interest in it. I am not sure what your thoughts on the government are but be careful. They may be looking for you." The captain took his leave.

"The Dog. I guess I am not surprised. It seems my intuition about you is right." The old doctor smiled ear to ear.

"I am sorry for being confused again, but what the hell is The Dog." Ace looked tired of being lost.

"The Dog is the emperor's protector. It is believed that when the Great Emperor Aren ended the war 300 and something years ago. His right hand wore the mask of a dog so he would be a warrior that can be the eyes, ears, and sword of the emperor. When Aren was killed early. His son took over and there was another individual who wore the mask of a fox. I have no idea why he wore a mask, but he developed the research division and guided the emperor in their affairs. The Dog and The Fox pass on their titles over the years and they hone their craft and passions. The current Fox is Entro and the current Dog is unknown as always." Julius was lost in thought while explaining so he didn't get to see Ace get lost in thought at the mention of a name. Maybe Ace does know The Dog?

"Don't look so downtrodden Ace. Tonight is a festival. We shouldn't worry about things that may not come to pass."

"You are right doc. Especially after all the trouble to organise all of this. Thank you Captain."

"It really was no problem. I will leave you all to enjoy the rest of the night. Thank you for everything," Julius reassured.

"Thank you for everything!" A group expression of gratitude.

"We are extraordinarily grateful for your kindness." The ashen-haired warrior took her bow. The silver-haired captain and the doctor took their leave.

"I'm sorry to interrupt your night, but could you both stay back for a minute?" Ace placed a hand on their shoulders.

"Sure, but only if you perform that song that I heard about." Stella grinned.

"Ha. That only happens when I am drunk, and it would be an honour for you to hear me sing."

"I never said it wouldn't be. What's wrong? Tell us straight."

"I want to know your thoughts on joining us. I know you may not have had much time to think about it, but I would like to hear your opinion."

"Ace, everyone is tired. This can wait for another day. We aren't leaving tomorrow anyway."

"No, its fine Jack. It has been all I could think about anyway." Ace smirked a bit. "I didn't know what to do. Can I take Luna back home? Is it what she wants? Is she ready to fit back into society? I couldn't answer any of those questions because I don't know anything about Luna. It wasn't until a moment ago, talking to Doctor Hocho, that I realised what I want. I want to see the world with you guys. I want you to train me to become one of the strongest. I want to be able to protect anyone I want to protect and stop anyone I want to stop. Luna really only listens to you, anyway. This is my decision. I want to help you save the world." Jack's smile covered his entire face. The team is coming together.

"Thank you, Miss Stella. It is an honour to have you and your sister on our team." Ace extended his hand. The ashen-haired warrior met the extension with a bright smile. "Oh, but I do have one condition. Luna doesn't fight. I don't want the risk of her getting hurt when fighting people. I might not be there to protect everyone all the time, and I am limited in my strength as well. She can help us train since she is currently the best fighter, and she can help with certain missions, but we will not force her into any battles with humans."

"I fully agree," the sister answered.

"I think that is for the best too."

"Well, then it is settled. Welcome to Lunar Eclipse."

"No," Stella turned and walked away from the bowing Ace.

"Ha, way to kill the mood." Jack turned and joined her.

"We did it huh. Saved a town and made a new friend." Ace addressed his friend that just jumped off his shoulder.

"Yea, we definitely did. Ace, I like spending time with them too. I can understand a bit why you are doing this, but are you really sure? I am starting to think this is a bad idea. When they find out you are lying about Ira, and your real plans, it will break them. What if you decide not to go through with it anymore? I can't let that happen!"

"Tenny. When have I ever let you down? Don't underestimate them. Even if they change their minds, it won't stop me. I know what I have to do my friend."

"Ace! Hurry inside! It's Luna!" Billy burst through the crowd and grabbed Ace's wrist.

Ace pried through the drunken numbers to see a black staff emanating from the little Reaper's palm. Everyone keeping their distance, with Jack, Stella, and Monica all working together to calm her down.

"What happened?"

"Just some drunk soldiers ended up spilling their drinks on the table and Monica yelled at them and well... you can see the rest."

"Are you sure that is what happened?" Ace walks up and crouches down to look Luna in the eyes. He stares into her eyes with a puzzled expression until she puts her weapon away. "I don't think she is upset. I think she just has to use the bathroom. I get cranky when I have to go as well." Ace addresses the crowd that there is no need to worry.

"Why would we trust you with anything!" Stella punched Ace to the ground.

The little Reaper smiled just enough for a few teeth to show. The bright sight brought the merriment to a whole new level. The party escalated until the sun rose. Everyone singing and dancing and telling stories as the apple liquor made its way to the small circle. Monica and Luna were the only ones to turn in early. During the night, Stella finally got Ace to sing. She immediately regretted it. Jack looked around with a slight blurred vision. This was amazing. He wasn't sure if he would ever have a time like this again. He was glad he left home.

***

"I am really proud of it. I even left out Stella and Luna's real names like you asked." William grinned with his arms crossed. The rest of the crew reading the paper around Monica's dining table.

"Yea, I appreciate it, but why am I the Ice Queen?"

"I think that is really cool. I'm The Hummingbird. How is that threatening at all? It makes me sound like a wimp."

"At least you guys got to be in the article." Ace pouted.

"Ice Queen is an amazing name that strikes fear in the hearts of others, and I really can't describe your grace any other way. The warrior that appeared in front of his enemies, in a flash, floating in the air, like a hummingbird darting around. As for you Ace, if you really wanted to be in the article, you should have done something."

"Quit your pouting moustache, it's the kids turn to shine. Plus, my Billy made it in the paper! Isn't he so lovely. Your potatoes are almost done, I'll help you serve."

"Oh shoots, my potatoes! Thanks." Ace rushed past a blushing Billy.

"I think you guys are forgetting the real star of the show. I am the best!" Tenny raced around until getting distracted by his serving of potatoes.

"Yea, you are correct Mr. Tennebrae. When people read that part of the article, they are going to think I am delusional. A Mystical Creature, helping humans take down a mercenary group."

"You think that would get us in trouble? Like people tracking us down for Tenny or revenge?" Jack started at his two-toned friend.

"Nah, I don't think anyone would recognise you from the limited description. That is unless the population of Nectar Village spreads your name," William assured.

"Speaking of getting us in trouble, what are we going to do next Ace? I am thoroughly enjoying myself here, so I am in no rush to leave," Stella asked.

"What have you been doing?" William asked.

"If you weren't locked in your room writing the story, then you could have seen for yourself. Monica and I went to see the town. We got clothing made for Luna, but we couldn't approach her with a scissor to cut her long hair. She taught me some local dances. I got to practice with the local boys." Jack choked on his potato. "We had a lot more fun than library boy over here."

"That is mean. My week was productive too. I didn't learn much from the blacksmith since it seems we have similar techniques, and there weren't much different books in the library, but Billy did let me see the military base for a day." Billy gave such an enthusiastic thumb up that no one could find the heart to make fun of Jack. "I am glad I got to see more of the town, instead of the town boys."

Stella had a wicked grin as she seemed to be getting to her comrade. Monica found this jest the funniest. Billy and Ace clasped hands, hoping their comrade would stand tall against the Ice Queen.

"Stop being so dramatic in the corner and tell us where we are going next." Jack tossed a fizzled out red orb at the pair.

"We don't really have a goal besides getting stronger and gathering a few allies. Although I think if we take Monica, she can just hug Ira to death."

"Nah hon, I am all done with adventures. It is just me and Righty and the child."

"Sorry, I know you guys mentioned it already, but it's a bit hard to wrap my head around. You are from another dimension. The legendary dragon from our dimension, got into your dimension and is coming back after you came here, but didn't Ira disappear like 1100 years ago?"

"I'm not sure, you would have to ask him." Ace stuck his tongue out. "I did notice that beside overall increasing your abilities and strength, your teamwork needs to be worked on. I also think some equipment would be great. Stella, we should get you a proper halberd to fight with. Everyone on the team could use a piece of Null Metal for armour. The problem is how to get it."

"You guys can apply for the gear as adventures or hunters, but you would have to have a reputation and build your way up to have access to Null Metal. I am not sure how long that process would take." William helped brainstorm.

"I like the idea of that, but I am not sure how much time we do have."

"We can approach a dark kingdom. Try and earn some there."

"I am scared of the dark."

"What?"

"No, for real. Ace is scared of the dark," Tenny chimed in. He grinned proudly after protecting his friend from his fears.

"It's not really dark. It is just a place where criminals gather."

"Oh, that sounds too dangerous for our current level. We barely made it through Eclipse," Jack answered.

"If that is too tough, then maybe Tellacules might be out of the picture. Oh! I just remembered. In Evergreen Village, recently there was a giant dark wolf that is giving the village trouble. The hunters have failed to kill it and it injured one of their top warriors. I hear the government officials of the town are offering a reward to capture or kill the wolf. I think they are also using it in a way to draw in stronger warriors to Evergreen." William was waiting for any sly remark about the wolf being a dark wolf. Instead, there was a very mean grimace coming from Billy.

"I think we can go and capture a wolf. No need to worry Billy. We aren't going to Evergreen to become troublemakers." Jack joined in.

"I still don't like the idea," Billy responded.

"Is the rest of team in agreement?" Ace put his hand in the centre, over the table.

"I agree. We can leave tomorrow." Stella placed her hand in next.

"Let's do it." Jack placed his hand on top of hers.

"Luna?" Ace questioned. The little one stood up and gave the group a strong thumbs up before placing her hand on top of the groups. Monica wiped away tears as they formed.

"It looks like it is all decided," Tenny said while jumping on the collection of hands. "Let's go!" The united chant launched the mystical creature in the air.

***

Monica and Billy stood in the shed just outside the town's walls. The sun had just risen, and crew had all their bags on their backs. This time the group was a bit larger. William had asked to join them and decided to ride ahead on his Ground Glider. He would be able to gain information and organise their arrival. The smiles were bright, but a bit of tears was gathered in the eyes of few members. Monica dried hers and Jack followed suit. Billy smiled and offered his hand to the emotional new adventurer.

"Don't become a troublemaker while in Evergreen village. I mean it kid."

"I think I am going to become one. You will have to stop me."

"You beat a couple thugs and think you can take me?"

"I could take you with one arm." The pair of boys smiled ear to ear before gripping in an aggressive handshake. "You are going to be a great dad, Billy. I am really glad I got you meet you."

"You aren't disappearing forever. Come by and visit us sometime."

"I will."

"That goes for all of you." Monica holding onto Stella's hand, but with Luna completely buried between the two of them.

"Of course, I will. You think you can stop me from seeing the little one."

"I am sure they can't wait to meet their Aunt Stella."

"Thank you so much for everything. I am really glad to have had you around."

"Stella. You are amazing. Reflect on what you accomplished. You left home and found your sister. I know circumstances are not ideal, but you did the difficult part. Be patient. You have a great team behind you. Everything will be okay Ice Queen." Tears flowed from Stella's eyes. Her grip became tighter, and smile was wider.

"Thank you!"

"Alright Lunar Eclipse. Let's move before it becomes impossible to leave. Thank you all for every—" Stella drove a punch into the stomach of their cheery moustache.

"Bye!" Everyone yelled and waved while making their distance. The only problem was the newest member wasn't moving.

"Luna, you can go with them. They are waiting for you." The little Reaper hugged Monica, and then Billy before taking off and jumping on Ace's back. The two smiled from ear to ear.

"She looks good being a kid." Billy started the conversation.

"Yea, she really does. I am really glad we met them. I am not sure why I think it is a big deal."

"Ace, he is scary if you didn't know him and those three are young but better than any fighter in this village." The older sister had passed the bags onto Ace, and Tenny hitched a ride on the Luna's shoulder. Only Jack held on to his bag.

"He looks good being a carriage. A human carriage." Monica addressed the sight.

"A moustached carriage."