Ch 37: Memory Lane

Mythra and Richter begin to recover with the herb from the ruins. Returning to Aerennis to see if Schmitt's family can find refuge there, Grey goes off on his own and encounters a strange woman.

            The Audentia, crews quarters. Tuesday June 12, 520NA. Having returned to Silens with the cruciamentum, Grey and party had waited with bated breath after Alexander had treated Mythra and Richter with the antidote to Douglas’ poison. After about a day had passed, the two remained unconscious but their conditions seemed to become more stable. Not wanting to trouble Jennifer any further, everyone pitched in to help move them to the crew’s quarters of the Audentia. Also, having discussed the matter of Abigail and her two children, it was decided that it was best to take them to Aerennis and entrust them to the care of Tabatha. Setting out for Aerennis the day after, as everyone else was on the bridge discussing the matter of their audience with Catherine’s father, Alexander remained in the crew’s quarters looking after Mythra and Richter. Suddenly stirring, Mythra slowly opened her eyes with a groan. Sitting in a chair in between their beds, Alexander stood up and said, “Ah, you’re awake. How are you feeling?” Turning her head to look at him, Mythra said, “I could be better… Having to see your face first thing in the morning definitely doesn’t help matters either…” Relieved that she seemed just fine, Alexander grinned and said, “It’s good to have you back. You worried me there for a while.” Turning away, Mythra muttered, “Humph. It takes more than some cheap shot from a low class Revenant like that to kill me. Besides, it was me who taught you healing and medicinal practices after all. Have a little more faith in the training I gave you.” Laughing, Alexander mischievously replied, “Yes, forgive me ‘Master’ Mythra.” Narrowing her eyes in irritation, Mythra said, “Don’t make me kill you Alexander…” As Alexander returned to his chair, Mythra turned to look at him once more and said, “How long have I been out for anyway?” Lifting his shades to rub his eyes, Alexander said, “About three and a half days. You’ve missed quite a bit actually.”

            “I see… So Serius has returned to Mautau…” Mythra said after Alexander updated her of the events that occurred after she went unconscious. Staring at the ceiling for a moment, Mythra said, “So basically we’re going to be meeting with the ruler of the Kingdom of Gaian? Discussing a full pardon for Grey no less? Just how can the ruler of one kingdom have such sway over the Guild? I mean besides using a magic portal to go into town every now and then for groceries, I wouldn’t know much about current affairs, but that still seems a little odd to me.” Thinking for a moment, Alexander said, “Well to be honest, I’m not positive it will all work out so seamlessly either. However the Kingdom of Gaian is a key nation of the world for its many unique exports, and as such, King Walker does hold a great deal of influence. Then there’s the fact that keeping Grey on the record as a criminal is not particularly the Guild’s goal. It would be safe to assume Altera Veritas will want things to stay that way, yet the only reason I can see the whole of the Guild strongly opposing the idea is the public relations angle. If we can make Grey’s story heard, and Altera Veritas’ influence is not large enough to sway the entirety of the Guild, we’d have a chance of getting Grey pardoned on the basis that he was brainwashed by Altera Veritas. With the Kingdom of Gaian backing us, the Guild with have no choice but to realistically consider his story.” Turning to look at him, Mythra quickly punched a hole in this ideal scenario, saying, “When you put it that way it could work, except for the fact that you have little proof. The whole ‘I didn’t do it on purpose’ concept won’t really fly in court…” Grinning, Alexander simply said, “Yes well, I was going to have Amy help me with a little plan of mine.” Bewildered, Mythra said, “Oh really? Just what can she do to prove him innocent?” Leaning back in the chair, his grin firmly in place, Alexander put his hands behind his head and said, “It wouldn’t be a surprise if I told you, now would it?” Rolling her eyes, Mythra muttered, “Honestly… Well whatever, just as long as it works. I signed up to fight alongside you all, not sit alongside you in prison.” Thinking of something, Mythra made sure to sound nonchalant as she added, “Speaking of Amy, has she made any progress with Mr. Oblivious?” Laughing, Alexander replied, “No big changes really, but you can tell they like each other. They both have so little experience in love. I think Amy is afraid she’ll scare him off, but I’m afraid without making her feelings known, she’s not going to get through to him. When it comes down to it, Grey is far too focused on things to realize. He is bright in strategy and combat and such, but when it comes to the delicate side of things… sometimes he truly is Mr. Oblivious.”

            Richter woke up shortly after Mythra did. Hearing the current state of things, he insisted he would be fine alone at the ship until they returned from Aerennis. On the other hand, Mythra insisted she wanted to go. Entering the village, Grey and the others were met with what seemed like a hero’s welcome by the villagers as they made their way through the streets towards the town hall. Holding tight to her children’s hands as they walked through the streets, as the townsfolk they passed pointed and cheered at them, Abigail said, “My, you all are certainly popular in this town.” A little overwhelmed at their welcome as well, Scott said, “It’s kinda my hometown, not that this happens every time I come back to visit…” Mythra, adjusting her hat in an attempt to protect her sensitive ears, muttered, “Normally I wouldn’t mind much, but I have a headache…” Looking at her in frustration, displeased by her refusal to rest, Alexander replied, “Good. Maybe next time you’ll stay in bed for a while after being saved from certain death!” Feeling rather embarrassed by all the attention, Grey said, “It’s better than being viewed as criminals, but I don’t exactly feel we’ve done all that much to warrant such a welcome.” Grinning at him, clearly loving this, Schmitt said, “Ya ask me, its bout time ya’ll got some recognition! You’re heroes in my book!”

As they reached the square, Bert called out from his stall, “Oy! Welcome back! Since last time you guys are the buzz of the town! Everyone’s excited at the return of the heir to the Greyson family, fighting Altera Veritas and all that.” Locking his gaze on Bert with a menacing stare, Alexander said, “Just how would word of all that get out Bert? I don’t recall the entire town being present at the meeting with the Governor, and I doubt she would start spreading our conversation about the town…” As Bert donned a rather nervous look, Alexander continued, “Though I do remember a certain villager who happened to come along with us during our meeting with her. Now what was his name…?” Bert laughed nervously and started to say, “Well… ya see…” With a stern look as well, Scott said, “Bert, did you really go and tell everyone?” Hanging his head, Bert said, “Well not everybody! It kinda went around before I knew it. Is it really that big of a problem anyways?” Suddenly, an irritated Mythra shouted at him fiercely, “Yes it’s a problem! For one thing, I have a terrible headache, and all this commotion is turning it into a migrane! Sending rumors floating around without even thinking about the consequences, I ought to-” As Bert cringed in terror at Mythra’s outburst, Alexander placed a hand on Mythra’s shoulder and said, “Now, now, let’s not cause any more of a scene.” Turning to Bert as Mythra pulled away from him and crossed her arms with a frustrated grunt, Alexander said, “Bert, didn’t it occur to you yet that supporting us puts you all at odds with The Guild? Not that we aren’t grateful, but your little rescue last time could have been enough to result in a severe punishment for the townspeople, or more likely the Governor herself.” As Bert showed a look of regret, Amy said, “Still Alexander, it’s been awhile since then right?” Bursting Amy’s bubble, Catherine said, “Although it has been awhile, the reports of that incident may simply not have been processed…” 

Having just noticed her, with a look of shock Bert exclaimed, “Ah, you! Weren’t you that Special Forces character with those other guys?!” As Catherine donned an indignant look at being called a character, Grey said, “It’s ok Bert. It’s a bit of a long story, but she’s a friend of ours now.” Surprised, Bert replied, “Oh, ok then. It’s, err, nice to meet’cha miss…” Catherine simply replied, “Catherine is fine.” Noticing Abigail and her kids, Bert said, “You certainly got quite a few more people with ya, even kids. Though I don’t see the guy with the tattoos on his face, what was his name? Serius Thompson?” As the others looked bewildered, Alexander, Scott, and Schmitt attempted to suppress their laughter. Then Alexander cleared his throat and said, “That’s a matter for another time. Anyways Bert, I think its best we get going. We need to speak with the Governor again.” Beaming, Bert said, “Well why didn’t ya’ll say so? If yer lookin for the Governor, it’d be faster to go on over to the school. I heard she’s volunteering some of her time to read to the younger kids there. Now’s bout the time she’d be there.” Nodding, Alexander said, “Thank you Bert, we’ll head on over.” As they walked away from Bert’s stall, Bert called out to Grey, “Nice to see you’re feeling better by the way Matt! Be more careful fighting it up out there!” Turning back with a grin to give him a thumbs up, as Grey walked away he realized that while it still felt strange to be called by his real name again, it didn’t seem to bother him as much as it used to.

            Taking the northeast exit from the square, everyone made their way to the school. It was a nostalgic feeling for Grey, walking the streets of the village again. Much more so than last time, as he had been in too weakened a condition to really take in the sights. As they reached the school, Grey was struck by how little it seemed to have changed. Aerennis only had one school, for both energists and normal children, the intention being to teach at an early age that the difference between energists and non-energists was not so great. A wide, two story building with white paint upon its wooden structure, it was centered in a grass covered lot with a picket fence around it. It had a wide awning over the front of the building, casting shade upon several wooden benches set up against the walls. Children could be seen at their desks through the many class windows. Seeing him staring, Scott said, “Brings back memories, doesn’t it?” Shaken from his thoughts, Grey replied, “Yeah… It’s a strange feeling, being back here again.” Overhearing, Amy turned back to them and said, “You know Grey, you could always go sightseeing while we’re here. Aside from when you were in such rough shape before, you haven’t been here in three years. I think it’d be good for you.” Thinking about it, Grey finally said, “Well alright, if you think you won’t need me for anything.” Turning around to look at the three lagging behind, Alexander called out, “Something the matter?” Amy shouted back, “Grey’s going to look around a bit. Is that all right?” After considering it for a moment, Alexander replied, “I guess that’s fine. We can fill him in later if anything important comes up.” With an innocent tone, Mythra said, “Oh, if that’s the case I think I’ll look around as well…” Alexander and Amy both quickly surrounded and took hold of Mythra’s arms as they said in unison, “Not a chance…” As they began dragging her off, Mythra cried out, “Hey! Let me go, let me go! It’s not what you think! I just don’t want to go be around a bunch of noisy kids with my headache! Honestly! Is this any way to treat someone who almost died?!”

            After the others hauled Mythra away, Grey headed off through the streets by himself, looking around at the hometown he had so many memories of. Not quite sure where he wanted to go, he just walked aimlessly for a while. Many townspeople called out to him and cheered, and he waved nervously as he made his way onward. Then a woman with dark skin and blonde hair that was short with long bangs called out to him from the shadows of the building he was passing, speaking politely as she said, “Good day sir. May I have a moment of your time?” She wore glittering gold pants, a white and gold top, and golden shoulder pads and shoes. The tan scarf draped around her fluttered slightly with the breeze, and as she stepped out of the shadows and walked toward him, the specks of gold sewn into it glittered in the sunlight. Seeing no harm, Grey asked, “Sure, how can I help you?” Her golden eyes met his gaze as she showed a smile and replied, “Oh, it’s not what you can do for me, it’s what I can do for you. You see, I am a traveling soothsayer who is hired by the Guild to help others, and the moment I laid eyes on you I had a vision that has informed me that something has been troubling you for a very long time…” Taken aback, Grey said, “Oh, well something was bothering me for a while, but I think I can work through it myself. Thanks for the offer though.” As he turned to leave, the woman replied, “Very well. However, be warned… I have foreseen that if you cannot resolve what’s troubling you, someone very close to you will most certainly meet a tragic end…” Stopping, eyes wide, Grey stood there for a moment. He’d immediately recalled Mr. Grant’s words, “A vision of my daughter’s future should she remain near you.” Grey had almost forgotten. Amy’s mother, a soothsayer as well, had foreseen a tragedy befalling Amy because of him. With fear in his heart, Grey thought to himself, “Could there be a connection with what this lady has seen in my future?!” Turning to look back at her, Grey slowly said, “If that’s really true, what is it you can do to help me?” The woman grinned as she simply replied, “Follow me.”

            Having apparently just missed Tabatha, Alexander and the others had made their way to the town hall, Mythra following begrudgingly as she still wanted to go off and find Grey. As the secretary went to go inform Tabatha of their arrival, Mythra complained, “This is so boring! I wanna go sightsee…” Rolling his eyes, Alexander muttered, “Just give it up, I see right through you. You’d just get lost anyways if you went now. Let him be by himself for a while, this is a good way to help him come to terms with his past.” Looking a little worried for his old friend, Scott said, “You think he’ll visit the manor? I know he’s come a long way, but that’ll still be hard on him.” Thinking about this, Amy said, “Really? I hope it wasn’t a bad idea for me to suggest he go look around by himself…” Shaking his head Alexander said, “No, it was a good idea. I hid the death of his parents from him because I knew he would blame himself, but now that he finally seems to be starting to face his past, I’m certain closure will help. He has every right to it regardless. If I had only told him sooner, maybe…” Standing beside him, Schmitt clapped a hand on Alexander’s shoulder and said, “Don’t you start blamin yerself for everythin now. Fact is you had good intentions. Things just didn’t turn out so well. Nobody’s at fault for that.” Smiling in spite of himself, Alexander simply said, “Perhaps…”

            “I see…” Tabatha said after Alexander had explained Abigail’s situation to her. They all sat at the large glass table in the middle of the meeting room again. Smiling sympathetically at Abigail, Tabatha said, “I’m so sorry to hear you’ve lost your husband and your home in such a terrible incident, not to mention what you must have gone through as a prisoner of Altera Veritas. Rest assured I will do all I can to find you and your children a proper home to live at here in Aerennis. Times are hard for everyone right now, so it might take a while, but until then you all are all quite welcome to stay in some guest rooms at my residence.” Smiling even though she looked ready to break down into tears, Abigail said, “Thank you so much… Even after surviving everything, I’d worried we’d be living on the streets. It will never be the same without my husband, but at least there’s some small hope now…” Schmitt suddenly stood, his eyes welling up with tears as well, and he bowed to Tabatha as he said, “Governor, thank you from the bottom of my heart! I’ll never forget what you’ve done for my little girl!” Smiling again, Tabatha said, “No thanks are necessary Mr. Barton. It’s my policy to never turn away someone in need. I daresay Jonathan would have done no less…” Thanking her once more, Schmitt took his seat again and wiped his eyes. Crossing her hands in her lap, Tabatha leaned back in her chair and said, “So then, is that all the business we have today?” Nodding, Alexander said, “Yes, I believe so. I do apologize that Grey, I mean Matt, could not be here, but as he has been away for three years, not counting the week he spent in bed, we suggested he take a look around town. I feel it will be good for him.” With a look of understanding, Tabatha said, “Yes, I think that’s a fine idea. Do say hello to him for me, and remember, he and you all as well will always be welcome here in Aerennis should you need a place to rest.”

Rising from his chair, Alexander said, “Thank you Tabatha. Hopefully the meeting with the king goes well, so that the next time we visit, you won’t be harboring criminals anymore.” Nodding, Tabatha said, “Yes, I do so hope that goes well. Thank you very much Ms. Walker for all you’re doing for everyone.” Rising as well, Catherine said, “It’s nothing. After all, someone in my position cannot simply overlook the injustice that has befallen that young man.” Laughing quietly, Tabatha replied, “You have a good heart Catherine. If the king is anything like you, we have nothing to worry about.” Slightly embarrassed, Catherine merely said, “You’re too kind Governor.” With a warm smile, Tabatha said, “Please, feel free to call me Tabatha.” As everyone else was rising to go as well, Catherine returned her smile and said, “Very well, thank you for everything as well Tabatha.” Getting out of her chair to show Abigail and her children to the Governor’s residence, Tabatha picked up a small box that had been on the table in front of her. As she did, a photograph fell out of the box onto the floor. Noticing it fall out, Scott said, “Ah, Grandma you dropped something. Here, I’ll get it.” As he stooped to pick up the photo, Tabatha said, “Oh thank you dear.” Rising with the photo in hand, Scott said, “What’s in the box, photos?” Tabatha replied, “Yes, old family photos. I was looking at them earlier and-” She suddenly paused as she noticed Scott’s face. Scott stood staring at the photograph he had picked up in horror.

            Following the soothsayer through the streets of the village, after a while Grey said, “Uh, where are we going miss… You know, you haven’t even told me your name.” Looking back at him in amusement, the soothsayer said, “It’s Gisette. Gisette Rui.” Continuing through the streets, Grey suddenly got the feeling he’d been down this road many times before, but he could not place it until they at last came to a very large lot with what had once obviously been a lush garden, the plants and grass now withered and dead. A large pile of charred ruins sat in the middle of the lot, and it was obvious much of the plant life close by had been burned as well in the fire that had destroyed what must have once been a grand structure. Grey looked at the ruins in shock as he slowly said, “My… home…” As Gisette looked on, he walked into the lot and approached the ruins. Walking up to stand where the entrance he had walked through countless times had once been, he placed a hand on the charred doorframe, which looked to be one of the few parts of the manor still somewhat intact. For a moment, Grey simply stood there holding the door frame, and then he turned back to look at Gisette as he said, “Why have you brought me back here?” Looking at him with interest, Gisette replied, “To show you that your existence brings nothing but suffering to those around you.” Grey’s eyes went wide as he stared at her, and after a moment he managed to say, “What…?” Raising a hand before her, Gisette formed a mass of EDE in her hand that crystallized into a golden staff. There were twisted protrusions sticking out on the top of the staff, as well as a small clock embedded in it. On the other end of the staff, another clock hung from a short golden chain. Grey watched as she lifted the staff into the air and said, “This world is going down the path to destruction. The future I’ve seen must not come to pass, and I’m afraid you are a troublesome variable in my plans. May you languish within the past, unable to change the course of your destiny! Maledictio Temporis, Eternus Preteritus!” Realizing it was an incantation, Grey quickly formed his swords and rushed at her. However as Gisette finished her spell, the clocks on her staff began turning backwards rapidly, and suddenly Grey found himself falling through nothingness as everything around him faded into darkness.

Reviews

[Ryan Henderson]

Once again my friend, excellent chapter! Just one spelling error:

Anyways Bert, I think its best we get going.

It should be

Anyways Bert, I think it's best we get going.

Other than that I didn't see any spelling errors, so great job! Your dialogue flows very nicely and your dialogue fits your characters! Your characters are very believable and very likable. I also loved how Mythra wanted to go find Grey, but Amy and Alaxander both saw through her and grabbed hold of her, preventing her from finding Grey. Although since I want Mythra and Grey to happen, I DISSAPROVE of this scene!I wanted Mythra to go find Grey, but little jealous Amy wouldn't let it happen! *Angry grunt*

Also, the woman that Grey met, I had a feeling that it was Gisette. I'm not sure what I think of her character as of yet, but she seems okay. Although the fact that she tried killing Grey at the ruins of his old house kind of makes me not want to like her. The only person who can attack Grey and still be awesome is Douglas. I have a theory that Douglas comes back in some shape or form. Only time will tell I guess.

I am also curious to see what Scott saw on the picture... Very nice chapter. I am certainly in this for the long haul and look forward to finishing Volume One and moving on to volumes 2 and 4. I really can't wait for the beach scene that you mentioned happens in Volume 2. Keep writing!

~Ryan

[KeithKVH]

Thank you for the review my friend. A valid correction you have there, that particular point of grammar on its and it's is admittedly also one of my shortcomings. I constantly mix myself up on it, I'll fix that for sure.

The description of her appearance really is a dead giveaway, it was kind of a treat for the readers to basically let them know it was Gisette. I'm rather interested in what you'll think of Gisette by the end of this encounter, and as for Douglas time will indeed only tell. I also don't think you'll be disappointed on the contents of that picture... xD

[Ryan Henderson]

K, I swear I haven't read on or anything, just making a prediction here. Judging by how you said 'I also don't think you'll be disappointed on the contents of the picture...XD' I am going to make a prediction. If it's right, then awesome but I swear I haven't read any further chapters than this one so far.

My prediction is that Mythra is related to one of the main characters.

[KeithKVH]

Lol. I'll message you in a second, but I'm afraid you're quite cold there. Mythra was born a little over 3000 years ago, the photos would be dust.

[Ryan Henderson]

XD oh I forgot about that little detail XD

[KeithKVH]

To be fair, I suppose I've only mentioned at this point in time that she's older than Alexander, but he's over 1000.

[Ryan Henderson]

Yeah, you have lol