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Jack stood up slowly. He was calm. Quiet. He couldn't hear much around him either. Maybe he wasn't processing his surroundings. That could be it. What was there to process? His mentor is hurt. There is a man dead just ahead. A man that is dead because he followed them. It is because he challenged him. Jack challenged him and now he is dead. He took footstep after footstep towards Virgo. Towards Lok. Stella grabbed his arm.

"Jack. Are you okay? You don't have to go see more. You can take a minute."

"Huh? Yea. Um, sure. You are right." Jack continued to walk. His footsteps slow and methodical. Stella could tell there was either a million things on Jack's mind, or worse, nothing at all.

"I will go with you then. Jack, we did the best we could."

"Huh? Yea."

The pair walked up to the animals. Jack stared at the lifeless body. There was a hole going through him. His eyes were open. The wind brushing through his hair. Grass dancing on his still face. Jack underestimated him. They thought he was just a powerhouse. A brute. He outsmarted them more than once. He looks like he could be calmly thinking now. Leading his men. No more hunts. He was so strong an hour ago. He was someone who could talk and scheme and punch an hour ago. Is this what strength can do? Strength to change someone's future. Strength to take someone's future.

"I am not going to apologise, friend. He was a bad man. He crossed a line that I couldn't allow," Virgo said calmly.

"Are we allowed to do that? Are we allowed to take someone's life because we think it is right?" Jack murmured. It was loud enough for the warriors in the circle to hear.

"He has taken lives kid. He would have continued to take lives. Does he have that right? If you see me as evil, then what would you call him? He would have led more and more men to take advantage of nature. I don't need to justify my actions to anyone, but you should know their story. Know their crimes."

"Jack. We all signed up for the danger the moment we chose this profession. We take lives. We lose the right to mercy the moment we stopped granting it to others. It is just the laws of nature. He clashed for what he wanted, and it cost him his life," Nod said.

"I...I clashed with him. Did he die because we did this? Is this because of us?" Jack took a seat on the grass.

"No way! Jack this is not your fault at all. You were trying to save lives. You did your best," Tana yelled while approaching the warrior.

"Jack. We really did our best. It may not be fair, but we saved lives too. You can't forget that." Stella sat with him. Darke walked over and rubbed his nose against Jack. He sat down while pushing against the boy. Jennifer walked to the side and took a seat herself.

"I am sorry, everyone. I am really sorry Jack. Stella. I wish I could have kept you away from this side of battle. I wish I could have protected everyone, but I want to tell you all that I am extremely proud of you. I messed everything up and you all still managed to save the lives of these amazing creatures. You even managed to secure the village. You all did good. You all really...I am sorry."

"Ace. We are not children. We signed up for this and we knew the possibilities. Shit happens. You haven't let us down. We could have only gotten here with you."

"Thanks Stella, but—"

"No buts. It pisses me off looking at you with a probably broken shoulder and bruised body, and still trying to take the blame. I get it. The teachers are the ones to blame for the actions of their students, but how can you accept blame when you just said you are proud of us! If you are proud of us, then just be proud of us damnit! Let us fall if we fall. Ace. You do too much." Stella clenched her fist this time.

"This isn't my place, but you all have done amazing things since you got here. I haven't met anyone like you guys, and I am extremely glad you all came here and did what you did. Please don't be harsh towards yourselves when you helped so many people." Tana walked over while putting her hand on Ace's undamaged shoulder.

"I am sorry. You both are right. This is my fault. Mr. Virgo, I understand that you did what you had to do. Is it okay if we know why?" Jack spoke up.

"Sure, friend. There was a—"

"I am really sorry for cutting you off. I am also sorry for talking out of place earlier. I understand the strength to make the decisions." Jack said calmly. Virgo's expression looked bleak for a split second. "Um. Ace. Would it be okay if we did a funeral rite for him?"

"Yea we can," Ace answered.

"I already did this much. I'll help," Virgo said.

***

A couple of trees were scattered across the land and the team found a lone Oak standing on top of a grassy hill, casting a shadow down the open field. The ex-members of Wolves Blood stood at the bottom of the hill after gathering enough wood for a pyre. The remainder was joined by Ophelia and Luna in silence doing the preparations. The body burning in a fire raging under the oak tree. Virgo was maintaining and containing the fire using his magic. Ace sat nearby carving spikes of wood with a dark knife Tenny made. Others whispered, but Jack was lost in the flames. His eyes pinned on every dance on the disappearing body of his recent enemy. No one approached him until the fire died down. They stood by him as the pile of ash was resting on the ground.

Ace walked over and stabbed three spikes close to each other directly into the ash. The middle stick had Lok carved into it and the last one contained the today's date. "I wasn't sure when he was born or his full name."

"Maybe one of his crew would find it and add it, if they know," Ophelia mentioned.

"Hopefully. He must have been famous to acquire machinery and equipment like that. It is strange to me that he is a mystery." William scratched his head.

"He only came to this town about two weeks ago and we didn't know much. After I lost to him, I asked around and there was a rumour that he was royalty that left Nocturne," Nod explained.

"Royalty from the capital. That would explain a lot. I am curious now. I will try and find out more," William said.

Lyon took a step forward. "The three said that life is what we have. Our existence before and after are a mystery because our understanding should be in this realm. Maybe in the end, we will discover the beginning, but we shouldn't fear the unknown because it is an adventure in itself. This man has left for an adventure as we wish him well in his endeavours by returning his body to the elements and praying the energy passes on to protect him in whatever he may face. Fire's energy has been channelled through the remains. Wind's energy passes through the remains. Water's energy shall be passed through the remains."

"I can help with that." Virgo raised his palm towards the pile of ashes. Water began to collect just above the planted sticks before streaming down onto them and eventually soaking into the ash covered ground.

"Thank you. Lastly, the Earth's energy shall sprout through his remains. As he travels through the unknown, our world will continue to hold onto his influence and memories of his life. I would invite anyone who wants to speak of a memory or influence of Lok at this time."

There was almost a minute of silence and passing looks. Jack was the only one focused on the grave. His expression didn't show much grief. Stella wondered if it was a disappointment more than a sadness that overwhelmed her comrade. It would make sense since they never formed an emotional connection with the deceased.

"I don't think we know him well enough." Stella broke the silence.

"That is okay. Those who do will carry on his legacy. At last, with the—"

"Sorry, I think I should at least say something since I asked for this. We all didn't know him well, but from my perspective, he was strong. All I can say really is that he was a strong and tactical person. He may not have been a good person. His objectives made him my enemy, and a troublesome one for sure. Stella told me yesterday. 'To be a hero, I have to become stronger than the villain.' I am learning that every life has value. I am not sure of his legacy, but I will take his battle and learn from it. He has made me stronger, and I am grateful for it."

"You are right, Jack. That was a good message. I will learn from this too." Nod placed his hand on Jack's shoulder.

"That was elegant words, Jack. I am really glad I got to hear them." Tana wore a soft smile.

"Too beautiful for what that man deserved, in my opinion." Olivia chimed in. Ophelia slapped the back of her sister's head.

"The adults are talking. You are so immature," Ophelia berated.

"What did he do, Mr. Virgo? Why did you decide to take his life?" Jack asked.

Virgo pointed to the wolves sitting close by. They were calm and just staying around the distance. Unbothered, but ever so often they would glance to see if there were any changes in the group. It was like they didn't want to get left behind. Jack looked at the majestic animals. They were calm. Happy. The events were far from ideal, but his friends were right. Those animals were safe. Virgo took a seat under the tree. It seemed like an invitation for everyone to join him. They weren't sure if it was possible to turn him down.

"He killed their parents. They were kind of Mystical Creatures, and I can't accept humans slaying Mystical Creatures."

"Kind of? Aren't they Zodiacs?" Lyon questioned.

"Not really. I am a Mystical Magic User as most of the world knows. My mana is from those creatures. Whatever creature that makes a pact with me, I gain the mana of the creature with the most mana reserves. Of course, it still grows as I become stronger. Having a large pool of mana like that allows me to heal quickly too. Well, this is kind of what happened to their parents."

"So, they are Mystical Magic Users. That is amazing. What would happen? Do they lose their element?" Ace moved with excitement to the dismay of Tana who was trying to tie his arm onto his body.

"Yea, they lose their element too. So, it seems that animal mana is what controls their element. He was originally a fire wolf. Ambir is a Jackalope. A massive Ice Mystical Creature that befriended the wolf. Ambir told me that at first the wolf tried to attack her. She would ignore him for a while, but he kept coming, until the attacks became visitations. Ambir took a liking to the creature and when he didn't visit, she went to look for him. He was close to death, attacked by another wolf it seemed like. Ambir knew it might not be a great idea, but she was a bit of an outcast and this wolf became her closest friend. She transferred her magic to him, and her mana was able to sustain him and help him heal. I learned about this from her a couple of years ago when it happened and visited them over the years to check on these pups. The now ice wolf had children with a dark wolf. These two are half mystical creatures. They have the massive mana, but they are still animalistic. They seem to have better intelligence and communication with each other, but they aren't like a typical Mystical Creature."

"That would make them the first hybrids to ever exist, right?" Stella inquired.

"No, there was a hybrid before them. He is a really special instance. Whatever the case, I wanted to protect these guys after I found out that Lok tracked down and killed their parents."

"Why didn't Ambir save him? Was his team stronger than a Mystical Creature?" Tana asked.

"It isn't that. Mystical Creatures follow the teachings of The Three pretty strictly. They rarely fight or engage in conflicts. Mystical Creatures don't even need to eat, although many do enjoy meals. From what Reg told me, there is a love for animals and humanity as children. They even stayed out of the way when humans decided to take over land and tried to claim their heads. I think it is the strangest thing, but at least I am here now to defend them."

Stella and Jack looked at Tenny. Their Mystical friend blushed while looking away. Virgo chuckled in confusion.

"Our creature is the opposite of what you said. He eats all the time and constantly wants to fight," Stella responded.

"Well, he is very unique. What was it that you wanted to talk about, friend?"

Ace looked at his Mystical friend and then the inquirer. "I would like to meet the Mystical Creature that granted you, their power. I want Tenny to meet other Mysticals."

"I will talk to Reg. I am sure he will be curious to meet you guys as well. If that is all, I am going to get these guys home." Virgo took to his feet.

"Virgo," Jack started.

"How can I help, friend?"

"You are strong. Strong enough to do whatever you want. Ira, the dragon, is coming back. Will you help us stop him from destroying the world?" Jack's eyes were sharp. They were locked on. Virgo was stuck in his gaze.

Virgo finally broke the eye contact to look at Ace and Tenny. It was like every piece fell into the puzzle. Ace and Tenny confirmed Jack's explanation with a subtle head gesture. "I am sorry Jack. Saving humanity isn't my goal, and from what I know, Ira is just after humans. I have been granted this power by Mystical creatures, and I will not use it on another Mystical creature. I really am sorry, for everything in fact. If you ever need help with a human threat, then you can count on me. I will even follow your rules, but that is if they aren't my target either."

Jack swallowed a lump in his throat. Ace shook his head in disapproval. Jack knew not to further it, but his fist struggled to unclench. Power. Does power mean the right to walk away? Why turn away from the world if you have the power to save it? It is a fight of will. Ace always says that. He can't force someone into his ideals. He just has to get strong enough. Strong enough to do what he wants.

"I appreciate that. I will definitely take you up on that." Jack offered his hand. Everyone around felt tension wash away after Virgo placed his grip. Everyone except for Stella, Luna, Ace and Tenny. Their emotions masked by a soft smile. Not many words were shared between others. There was scared looks from former Wolves Blood members that were hanging around and an apology from the strongest man to the moustache with a broken shoulder.

Jennifer was already a distance away with a slow walk. Darke seemed to hesitate a bit. He visited Ace first and bowed his head. Ace took the opportunity to lose his arm into the massive fur of the creature. Darke took a stop by Jack. The wolf pushed his nose against the young boy. Jack couldn't help but smile as the massive snout pushed him in every direction and its moisture broke away some of the dried blood. Stella scratched the beast as well as Luna took an opportunity to sink into its fur completely.

"Jack. There is someone named King. He looks to be about your age, but he is probably one of the strongest in world as well. He definitely will be if your mentor trains him a bit. He also might be interested in taking down Ira. If you ever come across him, make sure and tell him." Virgo turned away after receiving a confirmation. The wolves taking off behind him.

This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author's consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

"Now let's go get you that reward." Nod ruffled Jack's hair.

"You think we will get it?" Jack asked.

"You all did get rid of the threat. Technically. You all will be the military for the village, so I guess you will be sticking around."

"I don't think that we can. We have to keep moving and growing to be able to take Ira down. Getting to see more of the world and different challenges is something I look forward to. I just hope I can do better next time."

"Yea, I heard you all talking about it. Ira. That would be the ultimate hunt. I wish you the best of luck my friend. For all of our sakes, and don't beat yourself up too much. With you guys, I am sure there will be a next time."

***

The walk to the village was slow. Chatter bounced through each member. All taking turns to get close to Jack. Questions filled his ears, praises slapped his back, and a large, forced smile stretched on his face. Stella could see that he was still shaken. It may not have been his first thoughts, but it was clear he believed that no one had to die. It could be the fact that they succeeded in Nectar Village that made this harder. Her worry was the expression she clearly wore. Olivia, who was walking closely next to her, didn't have an idea on how to interrupt her concentration.

Tana fell back to take a chance. "What are you guys going to do after?"

"Um, we really haven't thought about it. I think we were really focused on this mission. They will probably decide tonight."

"Tonight? That is soon. You should stay around some more. You haven't been here long!" Olivia jumped into the conversation.

"It would be great to spend some more time with you guys, but I have a feeling we will leave here soon. I think sticking around will weigh a bit heavy on those guys."

"Is that why you are down too?" Tana asked.

"I wouldn't say that exactly. I never really bothered with saving everyone. I respect Ace and I won't try and take a life. I also admire Jack and his determination to save everyone, so I tend to give my all as well, but I can't say I am shaken up by the death of an enemy."

"Oh. Then what is on your mind? You guys did great if you aren't thinking about Lok," Tana continued.

"Probably what most of the team is thinking. We have to get stronger, faster. We barely made it through today. We should have been able to take on Lok one on one. We should have been able to get out of the way when Virgo used us as bait. I want to get stronger for them."

"I think you guys are strong, but I guess getting stronger means that you are going to be heading in more dangerous situations. What is the goal?" Tana's eyes focused on the ground.

"To save the world is what we are saying, but I am not sure we really have a goal. At first, I just wanted to be stronger. The promise to be one of the strongest. I then thought I could be the leader of our band. I was caught up in the excitement and I liked being there for our group. I am starting to realise that I don't really care to lead. Our idealistic leader seems to be hopeless at times, but I like to hear him jump into what he believes is right without hesitation. I want to be strong enough that he can confidently make those promises. I want to be the one they can count on for anything. All of them. I also just like to fight. I figured it out when I heard about how strong Oly is. How she doesn't want to lead. I think you are amazing. I want to be strong enough to be free. Free to choose any path I want. Like Olivia. Like Ophelia. Like Ace and Virgo."

Oliva glowed red. Her freckles melting into skin. "Please stay a bit longer, Stells. We haven't fought yet. I can help you get stronger. Me and sis. I think you should stay."

"I don't think we can change their minds, Oly." Tana placed her hand on the girl's head. "I wish we could. You all seem like these adventures are taking a toll. Adventurers that go around helping people, but who helps you... Sounds like something special. You guys are the story. It makes sense now. It makes people excited to see what you guys are going to do."

"We have been told. We hope we don't disappoint."

***

They walked pass the first buildings. Lyon decided to go home with a downtrodden expression and the promise to see them tomorrow. They couldn't wait to find a bed for themselves. Jack barely had the strength to move his limbs. Each appendage felt like they were tied down by dark magic. He just had to make it to the guild office, and he could rest. Not much more they can do for the day. Nod and his crew made their way to their guild house. Jack wasn't sure how they were feeling, but he saw that Olivia wanted to stick around some more. Stella convinced her that they were just going to rest. It felt like things were back to normal as the regular crew plus Tana walked through the empty village. Huh, the place was really quiet. Was everyone meeting somewhere? That would make sense after they saw Virgo.

Jack noticed eyes piercing through windows. Doors cracked and subtle whispers scattered in the wind. It was sound of gathering footsteps that caused Jack to stop in his tracks. A crowd formed behind them. Jack released a deep breath and his eyelids hung low. This can't be good. Tana looked around confused. More and more gathered in front of them. Some wielding sharp objects, some blunt, some felt their fist would do whatever they were deciding to do. The emotions plastered on their faces varied as much as the weapons they held.

"Tana. You were right. We should have stood up to Lok. We should have stood up long ago. Now you had to turn to savages to stop another one. You seen how crazy he is. How they charge around. Lok was crazy but he was still protecting the town. They all freed the beast. Even the good ones like Nod had to use these guys. Now these ones have gone and gotten Virgo on their side. It's too much. We can't stop that man. We have to go back to being a normal village. The empire and the generals are the only ones that can stop Virgo from taking over this town. We won't let it happen again. We will fight for our village. All of you! Get away from Tana. We are in charge! This is our village! You can stay, but you will follow our rules!" An elected elder and a few comrades spoke as a team at the head of the crowd. His hands were shaking, but his grip was tight. His eyes were focused.

"Guys, this is a mis—" Tana started.

"So you think you can stop me? I made myself very clear earlier. This is my village. I make the rules here. Hunters walked over you for ages, you think you scare me!" Jack grabbed Tana and pulled her back. Ace drew his knife as a dark blade emerged and pressed against her throat. Tenny wore a wicked smile, sitting on Ace's shoulder. Stella shook her head and grabbed Ophelia while Luna created a dark blade of her own. William grinned. The crowd stumbled forward. Jack was surprised their grips could get tighter.

"What is going on?" Tana mumbled. Sweat formed on her head.

"I think this is for the best. When this over, can you tell the officials to meet us outside the village," Jack whispered.

"Umm...Sure..." Tana barely opening her mouth.

"Well, let's get this show on the road. Save your people. Lead them," Jack continued. He turned back and gave Stella a nod.

"Just go with the flow, please. They are going to do something." Stella told her hostage. Ophelia responded with a nod.

"Everyone should just go back to whatever they normally do with their lives. Leave this town to me and my crew. Don't worry about it too much, just don't get in our ways or what we want." Jack curled his lips. Ace twirled his moustache. Jack felt tired. He hoped this doesn't take too long.

"That is enough!" Tana pierced Jack's ribs with her elbow. She ducked down and planted a fist directly to Ace's cheek. "It has been too long. This people deserve to carry on in peace. This is our village, and you work for us!"

Ophelia followed suit. She pried Stella's hand off before quickly joining Tana's side. The crowd collectively held their breath. Some were excited. Some felt nervousness. Everyone in the surroundings were waiting on the next move.

"You are going to stop us? You all really want that blood on your hands?" Jack continued. Stella's eyes locked on her friend after the comment. Even Ophelia and Tana took a moment to focus on the expression on Jack's face. "Bring your best champion for a duel."

"I will take you on. If we win then...then..." Ophelia stood tall in front of the crowd.

"Then Lunar Eclipse will follow the command of our village council. There will be no more special treatment for the hunter guilds." Tana took over. The crowd voiced full support.

"Fine, but if we win, then you all accept your fate as our tools. You all will offer us cuts of your ledger resources for the week as a tax. Do you still want to stand against me!" Jack brought his hands into the air. His voice cut the excitement swiftly. It was an alarming wave of hesitation overtaking the crowd.

"We can't be afraid! If we don't believe in ourselves then they will continue to walk over us. We can stand together and our village strongest will guide your hopes forward. It is all of us together. We can't take your offer because we will never accept our fate. We will always unite for each other. You can surrender and stay, or you can leave!" Tana had a way with words.

"Or we can crush you!" Jack began to run forward. Stella blew pass him. There was no hesitation in her first punch. The fist cut through the air but was quickly unclenched when Ophelia drove a knee into her stomach. A quick fist sent her falling to the ground. Jack rushed over to the warrior on her back. "What are you doing?"

"It has to look realistic. You look like you can barely move, and Ace's arm is tied to his body. I am the one that can make it look reasonable. She will beat me a bit and then you all run in after and get broken. She really isn't hitting that hard. Let's get this over with." Stella wiped the blood from her mouth.

Ophelia's eyes were narrowed. Focused. It must have taken way more concentration to hold back. The two of them danced. The performance captivated the audience. Bits of excitement with every punch that landed on the Ice Queen. Ophelia must have felt bad at some point because Stella got one punch in. It even drew blood. It was only moments after that Ophelia slammed Stella to the ground. Jack gathered green and dashed in a zig zag. His face only visible in brief appearances, but it only took one appearance for Ophelia's punch to lay him out. Ace was next. He dashed forward to before pausing with his fist in the air. Ophelia connected with his chin, but her jaw dropped. He stood there with a blank expression on his face. His fist still in the air. What was he doing? Ophelia loaded another punch and almost connected before Ace stiffly crashed to the ground. William shook his head at the dramatic display. Luna put her weapon away and raised her hand. William didn't hesitate to do the same.

The crowds cheered as each member of the team slowly rose to their feet. Everyone besides Ace. Stella helped William put him on his back. The team's pace reflected their exhaustion. The march of the crowd, closing the gaps behind them was the only factor hastening the guild. Jack looked at everything. He caught the sorrowful eyes of Tana walking ahead of the townsfolk. Now his eyes were focused on the horizon. Their escape. This time they are leaving the village after the death of a rival. The death of a human being.

"Looks like kindness did win," Jack mentioned.

"Huh?" Stella questioned.

"I thought their scary ruler had the power, but Tana's kindness did work. Got us kicked out of town."

"You are right," Ace replied.

"You can start to walk again at any time," William mentioned.

"I lost twice today." Ace spoke while keeping his head on the reporter's shoulder.

"Yea you did buddy, but it is part of life isn't it. I am sure you learned or were reminded of something after today. Not even you are immune to learning," William said.

"Yea. I became too full of myself. It reminded me what it feels like to be hopeless."

"Stop!" Jack interjected. "All of us know that you could have stopped him if we weren't there. It was us that were powerless. Helpless. We don't have the strength to change anything."

"Jack. It isn't about power. Strength isn't the solution to the problem's most people face."

"How would you know? You don't fight anymore, and before, you just served in the military. You always fought for others, but why won't you fight for your ideals! If we fought for the people, then we can make things so much better." Jack stopped. They were outside the village. The sun hanging low in the sky, but a couple hours away from taking a rest. Jack faced his mentor that began to stand for himself. Stella looked hungry for insight as well. She focused on their mentor that took his time before speaking again.

"It is because I have power that I know. I don't fight for my ideals, because my ideal is not to fight. You want to fight for the people, but who decides what they want? People have to fight for their own ideals, or they never feel satisfaction, but I guess fighting against someone oppressing their fight is fighting for the people. I am me and can only really be me. I did promise to give you both extraordinary power. Do you still want it?"" Ace walked forward and offered his hand.

"I do." Jack used a strong grip.

"Count me in again. How long will it take?" Stella placed her hand on theirs.

"I can't promise that you will be able to beat Virgo alone if that is what you want, but everyone else will run from you in a couple of years."

"You make it sound so unappetising." Stella laughed.

***

Tenny and William were locked into a deep conversation about the importance of fruit for breakfast. William opposed, but Tenny's eyes called for support as he brought his friends into the matter. Jack was replaying the day in his head. He must have been really distracted since the first thing he zoned into was Tenny staring deep into his eyes from his lap.

The sound of excitement rang in the distance. Ace stopped his lesson with Luna. The crew all looked for answers. The tavern chef's shoulders were loaded with the belongings of the team. Kids ran around them as the town hall's official shared in their excitement. Some kids had a disheartened look on their face, similar to the one Ophelia was wearing, and the addition of one unfamiliar face carrying his own case walked closely behind.

"Virgo! You guys got Virgo! That is exactly what we needed. They will definitely make us a kingdom now! Thank you for all your hard work! Tana told me what happened. That was amazing. Thank you for that. She was also able to explain everything to the doctor here. He will check you guys out if that is okay. Oh. Oh. The reward. What do you want for the reward?" The official jumped up and down while holding on the hand of the awkward smiling Jack.

"Thank you doctor. Thank you, Tana." Jack took a seat while the doctor began cleaning his wounds. "We have members of Lunar Eclipse that will be staying. I feel bad that Nod would have to win back the people's favour but I am sure he will. I believe making them the military of the village was the deal, but we were hoping to take advantage of that. We want access to Null Metal Equipment. The rest can be used by Nod's team."

"Oh wow. That is going to be a problem. When we discussed having our military with the empire, they made sure we understood that we could not receive Null Metal. It is already a bit troublesome to come by, and they don't trust us in fear of a rebellion. I am sure you know that rebels are still a thing." The official hung her head. "Anything else?"

The crew looked at each other. The expression saddened. What else could they want? That was the entire mission. There was nothing they could do. Jack twisted back to the official. "What about a royal ledger?"

"What do you mean?"

"A ledger that can give someone better resources without a job. A comfortable life." Tana blushed at the familiar words. She looked around and her eyes fell on Ophelia. Ophelia had a glint in her previous saddened eyes.

"I think we can do that. It might not be sanctioned at first, but we can make it happen. Just one? Who is getting it?"

"Tana. I think she deserves it. Right?" The crew all had positive regards to the matter. William looked the most enthusiastic. The least enthusiastic was the receiver. "Something wrong? Did I overstep?"

"No, no. I just didn't expect it. I feel kind of bad. Umm. I am not sure how to say this. Umm," Tana stumbled.

"I am sorry, but I cannot grant that request either. For the ledger to work, the person has to be living in our village. We cannot arrange for it to be for someone planning to travel." Eyes quickly fell on a blushing Tana.

"Are you going to visit home again Tana?" Stella questioned.

"No. Maybe, it depends...on what you all are doing. I am hoping to tag along." Tana let go a sigh of relief. "I want to be a part of this team. I am not a fighter, but I am good at other stuff. Please let me join."

"You didn't ask them! I don't think you should go!" The chef jumped ahead.

"Where is this coming from Tana?" Stella spoke everyone's mind.

"I mean my dream is to live a comfortable life. I am sure I will get it someday again, but I am not sure why I really like helping people as well. Seeing you all come and give your heart and body for a village really amazed me, but the closer I got to you all, the more I have seen that you all are going through a lot. Jack holds up the world. Stella is trying to balance as much as she can to make others happy. Ace didn't sleep the night of the party, and it doesn't seem like he sleeps at all. William is hopeless and Luna and Tenny are perfect. I want to see the world and be there for you guys. I want to help the helpers. Please. I feel like I cannot pass this up."

"I like her a lot. She is part of the team," Tenny proudly said. Luna supported with a thumbs up. The official confused at the talking creature.

"Miss Tana. It will be dangerous. Ace is already injured, and I am not sure what we will face. I don't think it is a—" Jack's tone was constant.

"I know what I am asking. I know the risks. I still want to do it. I want to see the world with you all."

"I trust you guys. Look after her for me." Ophelia walked up and took the working arm of Ace. She turned to her long time friend. "And you! You will be missed. Thank you for all the time you spent with us. Don't be a stranger okay. Come back with a lot of stories for the kids. Come back with as much as the world as you want, but just make sure and come back okay."

A crowd of children swarmed around the hugging women. The chefs tried to make their way in between. Jack couldn't help smiling at the huddled love. "Can we use excess at the orphanage instead of sending it all away. Get them a bigger share? I think that should be a possible reward."

"I knew about Tana's escapades. I will make it work. No worries." The official took Jack's hand.

"When and where are we off to?" Tana re-joined the group.

"Well, we still hope to get Null Metal and maybe some strong members? Which one do you want to aim for and when?" Ace mentioned.

"Strong members. Let's get some stronger members," Jack answered quickly.

"Tellacules. The colosseum. There are a lot of famous tournaments there, so it must naturally draw warriors. We might be ablet to get Null metal there too. We can do that or try a Dark Kingdom. We might be able to find a lead on one. We are in the domain of The Chief I think," William took lead.

"Tellacules. That sounds interesting. It is a bit of a travel, right?" Jack made his decision.

"2 months if we travel by foot. Maybe a month and a half if things go really well," William replied.

"The coliseum. That is exciting. I heard there are a lot of great meals there, since people gathered from all around the empire." Tana jumped into the excitement.

"The coliseum. I can't believe it still exists." Ace caught their attention.

"Still exists? It has been around for hundreds of years," Stella mentioned.

"We had one in my dimension to. It was closed down a long time ago." Ace looked at his palm. He then twirled his moustache before focusing on the group again.

"It will be exciting, and we have a new member to the team. We are glad to have you, Miss Tana. I feel bad for Nod though." Jack awkwardly grinned.

"Why? What happened to Nod?" Tana tilted her head.

"Huh?" The group collectively matched her bewilderment.

"Yea, she is like that often. That is what you have to deal with now. Take care of her for me." Ophelia wrapped her hand around Tana before laughing.

"What? Did something happen to Nod? Why won't you guys tell me!" She stomped the ground. While most enjoyed a chuckle.

"I will try my best. Please let Lyon know that we left. Thanks for helping out, I hope we meet again." Ace extended his hand to the caretaker.

"I will, and we will, Moustache. Take care yourself too. Moustache. You have done good by those kids. Don't forget it."

"I won't. Thank you."

The luggage was managed by the reporter with a Ground Glider, riding beside them. Ace expressed his gratitude to not be their cart this time, but his words presented the opportunity for his best friend to find the top of his head as a resting place. Tana held back her tears with a big smile, but some water gracefully met her lips. Children swarmed, and palms shook their emotions away as the crew placed Evergreen Village against their backs.

"Forward we move. Everyone okay?" Ace started. Luna launched a thumb in the air.

"All good here sir," Stella mentioned.

"I am kind of starvi—" William started.

"This is exciting! Do we tell stories? Do we have a schedule for the day? What was your favourite parts of Evergreen?" Tana kept the bombardment. Stella walked next to the Jack, stealing a glance for a sign of gloom.

"I am okay. I promise. We couldn't do anything about it. Yet. We will get there Stella. We will get there."

"Yea."