Ch 53: New Heroes

Their names cleared, the members of the new Angelorum Lux have formed an alliance with the Guild. Felix announces their mission to the world, and a certain reporter seems eager to record the journey.

            Great Spire Palace, Bastion. Wednesday June 20, 520NA. Packing her things back into the small suitcase she had brought, which seemed to somehow hold more than its size should allow, Mythra looked around to see if she’d missed anything. Then Amy called out from outside the door of their guestroom, “Mythra hurry up! We’re gonna miss the announcement!” Frazzled, Mythra shut the suitcase and said, “I’m coming, I’m coming! It may be a magic suitcase, but it doesn’t pack itself!” Rushing out of the room with her magic suitcase in hand, Mythra joined Catherine and Amy in the hall, and together they made their way to the elevator. Stepping in as the elevator doors opened, Mythra said, “So you’re really not coming with us Catherine?” Shaking her head, Catherine replied, “No, I’m sorry. I have left my position for far too long, and there are various reasons why I can’t simply quit altogether.” With a heartfelt smile, Amy said, “Well that’s too bad, but thank you for everything Catherine. Without your help, everyone would still think Grey was a terrorist.” Looking embarrassed, Catherine said, “It’s nothing, really. We should be thanking you all! Thanks to this incident, all of Conwell’s actions are being reviewed. Already we’re seeing more of Altera Veritas’ other spies being removed from power.” Smirking, Mythra said, “I have to hand it to Alexander for his little display back there, not that I’m surprised. If there were a list of things he likes to do, coming up with plans and hearing himself talk would both be at the top of it…” Both Amy and Catherine suppressed a laugh, but then with a sigh, Amy said, “It’s too bad we couldn’t really have a party after the appeal was over…” With a shrug, Mythra said, “Well everyone was pretty busy straightening out the details, not to mention dead tired after everything.” 

Arriving on the landing spine, the three were met by Richter, who said, “Ah, you made it. They’re about to start.” Walking towards the Audentia with them, Catherine said, “I still wonder, is it really alright for Grey to not even make an appearance at the announcement? It doesn’t seem very proper, and while I wouldn’t say Felix is untrustworthy, he is still a politician…” Smiling to herself, Amy said, “Things like public appearances and ceremonies really aren’t Grey’s thing, so I’m not all that surprised.” With a quiet laugh, Richter said, “Yes, that wouldn’t be like him. As for Felix, it seems unlikely he would do anything shady at this point. We’ll always have an ace in the hole if he does after all, with our reporter friend present for all that went on.” As they approached the gangplank of the Audentia, Mythra said, “Come to think of it, I hardly even talked to that guy at all. What was his name again?” Suddenly calling out as he dashed down the landing spine after them with a large backpack strapped to his back, Ian trailing lazily behind him, Rufus shouted, “That’d be Rufus miss! Rufus Lenscap, Ace Reporter!”

            Reaching them, for a moment Rufus stood hunched over and panting. Then he looked up and said, “You guys aren’t gonna go to the announcement?” Shaking her head, Amy said, “Grey didn’t want to show up, so he told Felix to make the announcement without him. Why aren’t you there Rufus? It’s about to start.” With a wink and a grin, Rufus said, “Well as a matter of fact, since you guys are going off to fight Altera Veritas, my editor thought that I, his Ace Reporter, should be there to document it for history!” Nearly falling over in surprise, Mythra angrily exclaimed, “W-what the hell?! You think this is gonna be like a friggin’ safari or something?! You come along and you’re gonna go from Ace Reporter to prime rib!” Cowering, Rufus stammered, “B-but…” Popping his head out the door of the Audentia, Scott said, “Um, guys? It’s gonna start in a minute.” Quickly everyone rushed to get into the ship, Rufus trailing behind saying, “Ah, hold on! Can I at least watch too?” Reaching the bridge of the Audentia, as they all stepped in, the reporter on the holoscreen of the bridge said, “Here he is now, the Head of the Guild Council, Felix!” The camera switched to a view of an air cam hovering above a small terrace of the Great Spire palace that overlooked the crowd of citizens gathered beneath it on the streets below. Stepping out onto the terrace, Felix appeared, his arrival marked by the applause of the people. 

Adjusting his shades, Felix smiled and raised the microphone to his mouth as he said, “Thank you, thank you all! Now, as has already been stated, there is a very important announcement today. As I’m sure you’re all aware, several days ago Matthew Greyson, son of the late Governor Jonathan Greyson, appealed his case to the Guild Council. As I’m sure you all are also aware by now, he has been cleared of all criminal charges.” Adjusting his shades, Felix continued, “Before getting straight to the point of this announcement, I want to speak to all of you out there who still cling to your hatred of the man you’ve come to know as the Black Knight. To those of you who have lost friends and loved ones to the menace that is Altera Veritas. So that you might understand the decision we have made.” The townspeople murmured as Felix paused. Then he continued, “Three years ago, Matthew Greyson watched his home burn around him and listened to his parents screams as they died. Taken prisoner by Altera Veritas, he was controlled by them into leading attacks on innocent people against his own will. Even though he did not die, his life ended for him that day three years ago. Now however, despite all the pain, the torture, he has asked us to give him the chance to fight. To give him the opportunity to follow in his father’s footsteps, and make this world a better place for both energists and non-energists.” The crowd was silent. Smiling, Felix said, “That is why I have come to you now. To announce that the Council has given him and his allies our confidence in helping to bring an end to Altera Veritas. Having already shown great capabilities, they shall work apart from the Special Forces as a unit of specialists, seeking out Altera Veritas in the very shadows in which they hide, and I ask that you give them your understanding and support as they work to remove the terror that plagues this world. I deeply regret that they cannot be here to speak with you themselves, but they have already departed to begin their mission. Let it be known that in addition to our new allies, the Special Forces will continue to fight Altera Veritas wherever and whenever they should appear. Together, let us all take back our peaceful days. Thank you for your time, that is all.” The crowd burst out with applause, and for awhile everyone on the bridge of the Audentia watched as they continued cheering and applauding until the broadcast returned to the reporter and Schmitt shut off the holoscreen.

            Shutting off the monitor of his computer, Alastor leaned back in his chair and muttered, “And so it begins again. The new generation has banded together to oppose me just as the original Angelorum Lux did all those years ago…” Rising from the chair, he walked to the door and exited into the hall. Walking down the hallway he thought, “Deus Amictus, the God Mantle… Had I been prepared, I would have claimed you right then and there. I can hardly believe he summoned it at all, but it was clear he has not mastered it. As much as I’ve enjoyed watching your progress Mr. Greyson, I’m afraid I’m going to have to end this…” Suddenly a voice called out, “Going somewhere?” Turning, Alastor saw Gisette leaning against one of the large windows along the hall that looked out onto the ruins outside. A smug grin on her face, she said, “Planning to leave me out of the fun are you?” Looking at her with an empty expression, Alastor said, “I’ve come to see that if I want something done right, I’ll have to do it myself. Is there some reason you’re bothering me now Gisette?” Resting her eyes, Gisette said, “Don’t you even want to know where they’re headed?” Alastor stood there silently with an expectant air about him. Grinning, Gisette said, “I’m sure you’ve noticed, but the young hero still has a fragment of the Nameless One within him. There’s only one place they can remove it from his body you know…” Alastor took this in for a moment. Then a faint smile crossed Alastor’s face and he said, “On second thought Gisette, I believe I may yet have a use for you…”

            Aboard the bridge of the Audentia, sitting at the pilot seat, Schmitt said, “Ah that Felix, I don’t think we could’a asked for a better announcement!” Sitting in a passenger seat with a hand over his face, clearly embarrassed, Grey said, “I’m still not so sure about this…” As Schmitt roared with laughter, from his post in the co-pilot’s seat, Scott said, “Well, at least we’re free to move around now. Those were some high class travel passes they got us.” In the seat next to Grey, looking cheerful that things were going so well, Amy said, “So where is it that we’re going now anyways? Back to the warehouse in Abnoct?” Surprised he wasn’t the only one who still remembered about that, Alexander said, “No, we’ll leave that to the Special Forces. I told Felix about the warehouse in question, and he said that he will inform us of what they find. It will save us time while we head to our next destination.” Stretching out in his seat, Grey said, “Which is?” Tossing her magic suitcase into an empty passenger seat, Mythra looked at Grey as she stood there and said, “We got rather sidetracked back in Silens. Now that everything’s settled, we need to go to the Gate and see if we can’t use the Mirror of Souls to remove the essence of the Nameless One from you. It rests at the top of the Grand Crags, guarded from the air by a powerful barrier and from the ground by the elves of the Lost Forest.” Turning and walking down to stand behind Scott’s seat, Alexander said, “Would you mind bringing up a map of Ofralis on the monitor for me Scott?” As Scott quickly pulled up the map he’d requested, Alexander stared at it as he said, “Thank you.” Pointing over Scott’s shoulder, Alexander showed him where they were going as he said, “The Grand Crags are in a large patch of uncharted territory far to the north that stretches across the border between the Adali Empire and the Kingdom of Gaian. We’ll head for the eastern edge of the Great Lake in the middle of the Lost Forest, located within the Empire’s territory. Once we land, we’ll head through the forest on foot to the elven village of Altus. They should let us pass, once we make it clear who we are.” With a nod, Scott said, “Got it.” Then, remembering a minor detail, Mythra said, “There’s another little problem here we need to resolve…” She turned her head to glare at a certain someone, who stood by the door of the bridge with Ian sitting at his feet. Though Catherine had already taken her leave, Rufus had remained in hopes of joining them, and now that he was spotted, he simply waved nervously and said, “Um, sorry to barge in…”

            Leaning against the back wall of the bridge, Richter said, “Oh that’s right. Rufus wants to come along…” With a sparkle in his eyes, Rufus said, “Look at it this way! I’ll be recording your adventures to be passed down through the annals of time!” Seeing their less than enthusiastic faces, Rufus sighed and said, “Even after sneaking in and all, you guys were really nice about it, and it’s thanks to you I got my first big scoop. I just thought I could repay you guys by making sure everyone knows everything you’re doing for them…” With a heartfelt smile, Grey said, “You don’t owe us anything Rufus. Not to sound like Schmitt, but we’re friends right?” Laughing, Schmitt said, “Damn straight! ‘Sides, I’m sure nobody here’s doing this for any recognition. We’re treadin in some dangerous waters here Rufus. I ain’t no good in a fight, but they need me to fly the ship. Other than that, it’s prolly not a good idea to have any normal folks along for this trip.” Hanging his head, Rufus said, “I know it’s dangerous, but still…” Raising his head with a determined look, he said, “You guys are my friends! Please, I want to go!” Trying to be sympathetic, Alexander said, “Come now Rufus, this will most likely be a long and arduous journey. Think about all you’ll be leaving behind. Surely your other friends and family will be worried about you.” Looking down at Ian, Rufus said, “Truth is, I haven’t got any family left besides old Ian here…” Feeling rather thoughtless, Alexander quietly said, “I apologize, I had no idea.” Shaking his head, Rufus said, “Nah, I’m not too sensitive about it. I get by alright on my own.” Feeling fearful of his answer, Grey slowly asked, “Rufus, did your family die in Luminosa…?” Waving his hands before him in panic, Rufus exclaimed, “Ah! No, no! This was back when I was a little kid. They died in some kind of natural disaster. I survived and was raised in an orphanage here in Bastion.” Having feared the same thing, Amy felt a mix of respect and pity for Rufus as she said, “So you live all by yourself in the city?” Nodding, Rufus said, “Yeah. I rent an apartment and work my job as a reporter. I don’t really have any positive relationships with my co-workers, and I’m always the one handed the most boring assignments, but it pays the bills…” Feeling sorry for him herself, Mythra muttered, “Some Ace Reporter…” With a shrug, Rufus halfheartedly said, “Nothing wrong with a little positive reinforcement.”

The bridge became silent as Grey and the others thought about what to do. Finally, Grey said, “Rufus, are you sure you want on board for this trip? You just got your first big scoop, and even if you don’t have any family, you must have some friends you’re leaving behind.” Grinning ear to ear, Rufus said, “I’ve been around you guys for just a few days, and I can already tell there’s never a dull moment with you all! Rufus Lenscap, Ace Reporter, never backs out on his word! I want to go with you and show the world that my friends are real heroes!” Smiling in spite of himself, Grey said, “Well guys, you think we’ve got room for one more?” Laughing, Richter said, “Well, it’s certainly difficult to turn down such enthusiasm.” Shrugging his shoulders, Alexander said, “I suppose it can’t be too much trouble.” With a slight groan, Mythra said, “Whatever, it’ll be his own fault if he winds up fried and crispy.” With loud and hearty laughter, Schmitt started the repulsion engines of the Audentia as he said, “Well then what are we waitin for?! Let’s get this show on the road Admiral!” Grinning to himself in the co-pilot’s seat, Scott said, “Aye aye!” Feeling enthusiastic, as the Audentia lifted off from the landing spine Grey, Amy, and Rufus cheered, “Yeah!” Looking on, Alexander and Richter simply smiled, while Mythra sighed and said, “Oh boy…”

            Making their way down through the halls of the Audentia, as Grey and Rufus reached the door to the crew’s quarters, Grey said, “There’s plenty of rooms. The one at the end has become something of an infirmary, and everyone’s rooms are marked. We don’t really use them often anyways, so just pick any unmarked one you like. We’ll put your name on it later.” Nodding, Rufus began lugging his hefty backpack down the hall to find himself a room, Ian trailing after him. Turning to go, Grey said, “Tell everyone I’m gonna be in the cargo hold.” Glancing back, Rufus said, “Oh, alright.” Exiting the crew’s quarters, Grey walked down the hall, his steps creating a clanking sound upon the metallic grates along the floors. Going down a flight of stairs, he passed the main door of the ship and continued on through the hall to another flight of stairs leading into the cargo hold. Filled with the faint hum of the engine room above, it was dark and mostly empty aside from the air cycle they had retrieved after the incident at Lamis. Looking around, Grey muttered to himself, “Well, I can’t go on the deck at this speed. I’ve been trying for the last few days to summon Deus Amictus again, but I haven’t had any luck. I’ve gotta learn to use Void Energy too, and since the only guy who really knows how to do either one died about a thousand years ago, there’s really no point dragging anyone else down here…” Thinking back to the battle against the Professor, Grey muttered, “Back then, the thought of everyone fighting alongside me gave me such confidence, and without even knowing how, I used it. So if that thought or feeling or whatever was the key, maybe it really is confidence that I’m lacking, just like Claus said.” Closing his eyes and focusing, in his mind Grey repeated, “Confidence, confidence! I can do this, I can do it!” After a few minutes, he opened his eyes and said, “Well, I didn’t expect it to be easy…” Suddenly Grey heard someone chuckle from somewhere within the room. On his guard, Grey formed his swords and shouted, “Who’s there?!”

            Unable to see anyone, Grey began to wonder if he were imagining things. Then a voice said, “You’re really going about it quite wrong my young friend…” Scanning again for the source of the voice, Grey shouted, “Show yourself!” With a gruff laugh, the voice said, “Very well.” Appearing from nowhere, an old man with long white hair and a long white beard who wore a studded black leather belt around his head like a blindfold now stood before Grey. Dressed in black clothes, he had belts strapped around his chest and along his arms, a black cloak draped over his right shoulder, and he carried a gnarled wooden staff with a gold chain studded with gems dangling from the top of it. His appearance was so sudden that Grey reeled back in surprise, and even though he had the belt strapped over his eyes, the old man seemed to notice this, and he laughed as he said, “Did I startle you?” Regaining himself, Grey now stared at him curiously and said, “Who the hell are you?!” With a grin, the old man said, “Oh, no one of any particular importance.” Seeming to look around the room despite being obviously blindfolded, the old man added, “Just an observer…” Raising an eyebrow, Grey hesitantly said, “Ok… but I don’t see how you observe anything with a belt over your eyes…” The old man’s grin widened as he said, “Ah, you have a good point there! Or at least, it’s a good point to one who knows nothing of the wonders of the mind’s eye. Yes, it’s quite useful I assure you. Did I ever tell you about the time I spotted a bluebird in a tree with it from a completely separate dimension?” Starting to wonder about the old man’s level of sanity, Grey said, “Uh, we’ve never really met before this, so I don’t know how you could have…” Laughing, the old man’s grin did not waver as he said, “Oh, I’ve known you for quite the long time my young friend! Yes, quite long…” 

With a deep sigh, Grey said, “Look, could I at least get a name or something old man? Just what are you doing here anyway?” Turning in the direction of the air cycle, the old man hobbled over to it, muttering, “Hmm, I see, I see. Yes, it’s a little cruder than the old days, but they’re getting closer to matching their predecessors…” His eye twitching in frustration, Grey struggled to remain civil as he said, “Excuse me, sir…?” Turning to look at Grey, the old man said, “Ah yes, how rude of me! Now let’s see, you wanted my name and reason for being here?” Grey simply replied, “Yes.” Walking over to Grey, his staff clanking upon the floor as he used it like a cane, the old man stopped before him and said, “Well, I’m afraid it’s a bit early to give you my name. As for why I’ve suddenly shown up, it’s because you asked me to.” Struggling to maintain his rage, Grey simply muttered, “Of course…” Turning away, the old man said, “Well, now that that’s over, let me give you a little advice before I go…” Glancing back at Grey, he continued, “Void Energy is born from one who is linked to all. Many people, many paths, they all lead back to you. Understand this and you’ll find the answer. You’ve used it before, even if it was a complete accident. I’m sure you’ll find that power again, sooner or later…” Before Grey could say another word, the old man vanished as suddenly as he had appeared.

Reviews

[Ryan Henderson]

Great chapter yet again! It's been a while since I've reviewed, my apologies.

I loved the bit with Mythra at the beginning with her magic suitcase. "It may be a magic suitcase, but it doesn't pack itself!" XD I nearly laughed out loud.

I also loved how Rufus and Ian will be tagging along. And of course in this chapter, Rufus said something 'with a sparkle in his eyes'. I'm starting to think that's his trademark :D

I also liked the bit with Alastor. I find it interesting and cool how you write from the villain's point of view, so the readers actually get the full story, not just the side concerning Grey and his friends. I also wonder when Gisette will be making her appearance?

Okay, so at the end with the old man... It kinda through me for a loop. It was seemingly sudden and random, but knowing you, you never have a character come into play without a reason. I have a prediction as to who the old man is. Since he knows Grey (and claims to have known him) for a very long time and that he wouldn't give his name, I think that he's Grey's future self.

Really looking forward to the next chapter! Mythra is life :D