10/12 - Anti-bandit army bus - afternoon - Alexander

Our bus passes through man-made roads large enough for it to travel through. A fine afternoon it is, or at least, I am to believe so; we have been driving since this morning. We stationed ourselves for 5 days and traveled for 3. A rest well deserved and needed for our injuries to be mended. My arm is no longer constrained, now I am capable of carrying on my duties.

Nary a single bandit has attempted to ambush us today either. While fortunate, it is curious. We are closing in on Borghulda, nearing their base. It would be prudent to set a trap for oncoming enemies. Perhaps they are gathering their forces to defend their territory? That would be the correct course of action…

“Marie, do you believe the bandits may be scheming something?” I inquire.

“Maybe. You’d think they put out a small group of bandits to stop us wherever we go, but nothing. Zell, what do you think?”

“Hmm, normally, you’d be right. However, the situation they’re in is unprecedented. Nobody would’ve suspected the bandits would lose control over the outside like this. But I assume they will focus on guarding their remaining piece of territory.”

“Hmm, I guessed as much,” Marie affirms. “We should be ready for anything. Zell, can you tell us about the no.1 Flame wraith? We need to know what;s waiting for us”

“I can.”

Marie claps her hands, thundering over idle conversations. “Everyone listen up! Go on.”

Zell coughs into his hand. “The no.1 Flame wraith is named Scar. Though that’s just a name he obtained from the other bandits, and that’s what we called him by. He’s the captain of the Flame Wraiths, right-hand man to the Phantom Flame himself.”

“Does he have abilities like you, Richard, and Nunnalé?” I ask, hoping for a “no”.

“Yes, but they are different. Whenever he wields his sword, destructive flames are all that’s left.”

“That’s where the motif comes from? Lame,” Proxy mocks, slumping in his seat with a wicked grin.

“However, the information I’m able to provide is limited,” Zell continues.

“How often did you guys work together?” I inquire.

“Barely. He doesn’t get sent out too often since he’s managing the bandits, telling who to go where and what to do. Although, that forest-loving weirdo, Wildcard, made him fight.’

“Seriously?” Proxy asks, sitting straight up.

“At first, some randoms got off’ed by him in the woods he was guarding. Bodies were all over the place; going in was suicide… But he didn’t need to go in.” Zeal sits with his chin resting on his hands. “He drew his sword, flames came to life out of the thing, and next thing you know, the whole forest was burning down. I can still remember the smell of burnt wood mixing in with burning flesh…”

He was willing to burn the remains of his allies just to seize victory…? Sounds like the description of my father.

“Also, since you guys didn’t kill them, who knows if the other Flame Wraiths are with them? Better be ready for shit to go down.”

Right now is not the time to lament. I must carry on and keep a level head. Our enemy will be strong, and the summarization of Scar makes that clear. We shall plan out a means of attack once we get closer to Borghulda.

“Man, you sound like you’re about to piss yourself. I already know how to beat him,” Proxy says, crossing his arms and wearing a confident smile.

“Really?” Marie says, taken aback by Proxy’s claim. “And don’t ham up the dramatics. Spit it out.”

“Simple.” Proxy stands up, pumping his fist. “We hit that dude…with water!”

The bus falls silent, staring at him with stares of bewilderment, amusement, or pity, oddly enough.

In Marie’s case, gazing at him with a blank expression. “Are you stupid or something? No, don’t answer that. Definitely stupid.”

“An irreversible condition, it seems,” Nunnalé follows up in a monotone voice.

“I’m serious! We douse him in water, he can’t hit us with fire! Boom, bang, we win.”

“Um, if we were hitting him with pressurized water like firefighters use, then maybe, but just throwing water at him probably wouldn’t do anything. It’s more likely it would evaporate on contact.”

“Yeah, well, just think about it.”

He plops back onto his seat, pouting and angrily muttering to himself while Richard tries to calm him. Some part of me believes he purposely says those things to help our nerves. Without levity, only comes misery. Ah, I have made a rhyme!

“‘Ay, we’re comin’ up on a village!”

Marie shuffles to the front with Elizabeth. “Borghulda?”

“Nah, too small. Wanna stop there? Might help us get a scope on what’s what here.”

“Hmm, brother?”

“I agree, we should. Maybe we can assist this village if the need arises.”

As Elizabeth brings us closer to the village, Marie faces everyone else in the back. “All right, when the bus stops, me, Alexander, and Gilhart will go out and see the villagers. I’m going to have Chip go ahead of us. Proxy, is Road Burner still following us?”

“Yeah. You want me to go with him?”

Marie nods her head. “And take Zeal with you.”

The two hesitantly look at the other, cringing at the mere idea of a joint mission.

“I ain’t going with him,” they shout simultaneously.

“Hey, jackass, don’t copy me!”

“Right back at you, brat!”

“Call me a brat again, I dare ya!”

“Ooh, whatcha gonna do? Get beaten to near death again?”

“Funny, I was thinking of doing that to you. Though, I won’t stop at half.”

“Keep talking, cause I’m–”

“Quiet!” Marie strikes them both on the head, then pulls at their ears like a mother disciplining rowdy children. “You two are going to go with Chip, you’ll be on your best behavior, and if you aren’t, I’ll beat both of you half to death. Understand?”

Her fierce glare does away with whatever resistance they could muster. As much as it pains me to say this, I am glad that is not me under her scrutinizing gaze.

“Yes, ma’am,” the boys agree in unionism.

“Right, everyone else will come out and guard the bus while we’re gone. Proxy, Chip, and Zeal you three will meet up with us when you’re done, understand?”

“Yes…”

“Good.”

She returns to her seat, disgruntled and rubbing her temple. “I swear, Proxy is one thing, but with Zeal, they act like immature brats.”

“I am sorry for my brother.”

“No, I’m sort of used to it at this point, and I’m sorry for hitting him. Got caught up in the moment.”

“You saved me the trouble. But don’t hold it against him. He’s…easily worked up and isn’t great with people. I think the fault lies with me. Joining the bandits was my decision, and while it kept us alive, it nurtured his terrible attitude. I’ve done what I can to curb it, but as you can see, that did very little”

“I do not think you are entirely right,” I tell him. “I cannot say you are entirely wrong either, however, Zeal is not hostile with just anyone. Just with Proxy.”

“Doesn’t that concern you?”

“It would, however…” The two of them are staring holes into each other, showing off menacing faces at each other. “They share some similarities, in some ways. Perhaps Zeal has struck a chord with him, in a peculiar way?”

“I mean, they’re both idiots, that’s for sure.”

“Now, now, sister…”

Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.

Still, perhaps Zeal is trying to be friends with Proxy… Although, what friendship may blossom from such a thing…I dare not ask.

“Comin’ up on the village.”

Marie and I head in front of the bus, observing it get closer to the village. Elizabeth masterfully parks us next to it.

“Let’s head out.”

Marie leads us out. The sunlight hits me from the side and the air feels quite nice up here. Proxy whistles loudly, calling forth his vehicle.

Chip parks the scout bike next to us. “What’s going on? Flat tire?”

“Ya really think I’d make some weak ass tires for this big beauty?”

Chip rubs the back of his head. “Sorry,” he half-heartedly professes.

Proxy taps Chip on the shoulder and whistles for Road Burner. “Come on, we’re gonna scout ahead.” Chip shrugs his shoulders and goes ahead of Proxy and Zeal. The two get on the bike only for them to eye the other. “Don’t do any creepy shit like wrap your damn arms around my waist.”

“Yeah, yeah, I’d rather fall off than–”

A single glare from Marie is all it takes for them to settle down and go on their way. I hope that sending them off together will not encumber Chip… I should have gone with them. We shall reach there soon, but I cannot help but want to get there sooner.

“Brother, are you okay?” Marie places a hand on my shoulder. “You were spacing out.”

“Oh, sorry, I was just in thought.”

“Is it about Borghulda?”

“Correct. I want to get there now, despite my willingness to stop here.”

“It’s about father, isn’t it?”

“Yes It was his home, and yet he still waged battle against them. He dreamed of peace, but the way he went about, if what sir– I mean, Garrick said is to be believed, then I want to know what convinced him to go to such extremes. And not just that, but I wish to know the real him… I must, as his son and as the man I idolized, I must know.”

“Even if you don’t like it?”

“Even then…”

What Garrick said of my father might be true. Walter gave the impression that he was a crazed fiend of justice. I regarded it as nothing more than the ravings of a madman, but now I have to put everything I know of him in question. Albeit, there is little doubt that they may not hold him in the best of light, so discerning the truth may be difficult.

“Sorry, Alexander,” Marie says, melancholic in tone. “I knew what he meant to you.”

I rub my hand on her head, giving her my brightest smile. “Worry not about me, sister. Whatever the truth may be I shall not waver, especially with such dependable friends and a sibling to boot.” I move ahead of her. “For now, let us find any inhabitance.”

This is all I can do for now. My focus must be here, and then I can worry about my father. However, I am afraid that what Garrick said will come true, that the principles of knighthood my father taught me were false. But though they may be false, I do not believe they were wrong. As for how he felt about me… Best not to dwell on such words.

“Hello, is anyone here?” Marie shouts.

“We’re not here to hurt you,” Gilhart adds on. “Saying that out loud doesn’t sound so reassuring, does it?”

“Hello…! Guess this place is deserted. Surprised anyone made a small village here, anyway. Couldn’t they just have lived in Borghulda?”

“This is weird,” Gilhart says. “These houses, they’re in good condition for them to be abandoned.”

“Yeah, that’s a good point. Close to the Fire Wraith home base, too. You’d think they would’ve burned anything that isn’t their place. Maybe the warriors of Borghulda kept them safe?”

Certainly strange…

“Hello there.” We spin around to the voice. A man wearing fresh clothes stands before us. “Are you from a neighboring village? Everyone else has already gone off.”

Gilhart raises an eyebrow. “Off where?”

“What a weird question. To the capital, of course.”

“Capital?”

“Yes, the capital. Are you pilgrims?”

“Yeah,” Marie answers without a shred of hesitation. “We were just looking for the capital. Can you tell us where it is?”

“Why don’t we tell him we’re the anti-bandit army?” Gilhart raises.

“Let’s just play along. We need intel right now.”

“Ah, quick thinking, your highness.”

“You…don’t have to call me that.”

“It is down that road… However, it is best to avoid Borghulda when passing.”

“Why?” I ask, the words rolling out of my mouth.

“The inhabitants there are terrible monsters that will attack on sight.”

What!?

“Shit! Are you serious!? Do they attack anyone?”

“Anyone. Several days ago, my fellows passed through their foraging for food. He came back bruised and bloodied.”

Marie dashes off for the bus. We follow behind, leaving the villager in a wake of confusion.

“Can’t we just fight bandits!? Why does this shit have to be complicated all the time!?”

“Seems fate itself is out for us,” I remark.

Everyone watches us rushing back to the bus. We gesture for them to return onto the bus.

“Get back on,” Gilhart bellows, his screams echo across the land. “Back on!”

“Nunnalé, run after Proxy and the others,” Marie decisively orders. “They’re in danger!”

She grabs Richard, puts him on her back, and moves out at an incredible speed. We barrel into the bus, surprising Elizabeth.

“Whoa! Missed the bus or somethin’?”

“No time! We have to get to Borghulda, and hit the gas!”

“Aight, don’t gotta tell me twice!” Everyone piles onto the bus, quickly taking their seats. “Y’all better buckle in! This is ‘bout to get bumpy!”

The bus suddenly accelerates, jutting us forward in our seats. Marie keeps to her feet, standing next to the exit. I keep next to her. Richard and Nunnalé will surely get there first, but let us hope it is not too late!

…/Proxy

“Can’t you go any faster?” Zeal barks, practically spitting at me.

“If I kick your heavy ass off, sure.”

“Wanna try it, brat?”

Believe me, I do. But right now isn’t the time to do that. We need to find Borghulda… Though, are we just looking for a huge village or something smaller? I keep thinking of this big ass place. I could ask this guy, but I doubt he’d be willing to tell me… Eh, might as well; if he gets on my nerves, I’ll just beat him up.

“What does Borghulda look like?’ I ask, expecting to be annoyed.

“Dumbass, it’s a huge village! Can’t miss it.”

“Thanks…” Yep, I still want to snap his neck. “So, what’s it like?”

“Never been myself. Scar never let us go near the place.”

“Why not?”

“Dunno. I know it’s filled with warriors, but even that shouldn’t pose a threat to him, not even on his worse days, if he has any.”

“Maybe he’s just scared of them.”

“No… That guy ain’t scared of anything, nothing.”

“Are you in his fan club or something?”

“Idiot! I meant he’s just weird! He barely acts like a normal person half the time!”

“What, is he a freak or something?”

“He’s…”

“Stop!”

I hit the brakes like Chip said to. There’s someone on the ground in front of us. There’s no blood anywhere, so they might still be alive… But there isn’t a sign of a battle, either. And passing out in the middle of the road ain’t the smartest thing in the world. Yeah, I smell bullshit here.

I get off my bike. “I’ll check it out.”

Not too sure if I’m right about this, but if I am, then at least I’ll be prepared for it. I crouch to the body, turning it over… Oh, this guy is actually laid out cold. Blood is running from his nose and his face is all red and bruised.

“Is…he dead?” Chip asks, somewhat cringing at him.

“He has a pulse.“

“Looks like an idiot.”

“Why, and how does that matter?”

“Just got a feeling.”

“Let me guess, you can relate?”

“Better watch that mouth, kid!”

“Come on… I’m getting a headache just listening to you two. If you’re gonna beat the snot out of each other, do it when I don’t have to babysit, ‘kay?”

Still, this guy isn’t a bandit. His clothes make that clear, and no marks. He has a small pouch on his waist. Something moving inside it, poking outward. Maybe it’s not a good idea to look, just saying.

“What is this guy doing out here like this, anyway?”

“Can’t tell you, but I can tell you why his face is all beaten up.” Chip points to a branch above us. Not too high from the ground, but falling from there - face first - will mess you up big time. “Maybe this guy is a weird tree climber or something?”

“First Wildcard, now this doofus. What’s up with these people and be freaking tree lovers?”

My sense alarms me! Behind me, traveling for the back of my head. I dodge the sneak attack. A funny-looking mask, shaped like a dog, is the thing that sticks out to me first. Their weapon is a blunt stick. Nothing about it is special. But their muscular arms and legs are no joke.

He chases after me, swinging his weapon with experienced precision. This guy isn’t a bandit, he’s not wearing their colors or tattoos, and he's quieter than a regular mook. Still, this ain’t enough. I block his next attack, guarding with my forearm against his, stopping his swing. Perfect, not a moment late. I strike him twice on the chest and with a round-house kick at his chest. Yet, he gets back up despite the combo.

“Man, you suck ass! Let me–”

“Shut up…!” This is perfect. He’s not going to go down with just that. Guess that means I can try to fine-tune it. “Come here, I wanna try something on you.”

The enemy gets low on his feet, dashing towards me with the stick behind himself. He’s not fast enough. I got this! Stepping into my zone; he thrust his weapon at me. I shift out of the way. I strike his face with my fist, staggering him. Now! With hasty steps, I hit his abdomen with my elbow, following up with consecutive kicks that hit the side of his chest to his head, finishing off with a palm smack against his mask. A guttural cough escapes the enemy.

“Come on, we ain’t done yet.”

He isn’t coming at me at the same speed as before. His attacks are easier to read. With each attack they make I return with a harder, well-timed hit. I use my speed to dart around them and whatever attack he’s throwing my way, making full use of my legs for strikes. Ever since Laguna, I learned so much more about fighting, myself, and how I should go about it; I needed to change my fighting style, and I had to think about it while I was out of action, but it didn’t take me long to figure it out. My agility and speed are my best assets, and while I like punching stuff, that isn’t the best way to express my strengths; my legs are! I can use them to extend my reach and make blows I can’t with my arms while acting more flexible. Gotta use whatever martial arts I know that fits me, and learn to get used to it.

My leg spears the enemy’s face again, breaking off pieces of his mask. A perfect hit! Wished I practiced Martial Arts sooner. I’ll have to keep working on it until I get the feel for it.

“Nasty hit, huh? Wouldn’t blame you if you gave up now.”

“Ya lil bastard, dat hurt…” The enemy throws their mask off. It’s an old man. He has grey and black strands of hair for his unkept beard and lion-like mane of hair. But that’s nothing compared to the huge ass scare on his face traveling from his left cheek across his nose to the end of his forehead. "Whatcha, standin’ der for? Ya scared, runt?”

“Sorry, old man, but I’m done watching you two screw around.” Zeal shoves me out of the way. “Don’t start crying when I break you.”

“A piss sniffer like ya? Now ain’t dat a joke. But now ain’t da time.” He points his stick at the boy behind us. “...We’re gonna kill all ya ten times over for touchin’ him.”

“Wait, we didn’t… We?”

On cue, several masked figures emerge from the forest, carrying different blunt weapons of varying sizes and lengths. We huddle up, back to back. Their quiet approach and their masks make it hard to tell what they’re feeling, but if I had to guess, they’re pissed off.

“Hope ya lil shitters don’t beg, ‘cause we ain’t gonna show any mercy.”