[IC] Ａ Ｎｅｗ Ｅｒａ / / Tυɴdrα&Hero

[AlteredTundra]

Chapter I - A Positively Beautiful Morning

---

"What a beautiful morning it is today!" Wesley exclaimed with a soft, cheerful smile.

As he strolled through Besaid village, dressed in his usual robes that the summoner has always been known to wear on any given day, Wesley went to every tent and gave everyone in the village a smile, often joining them in prayer. From the moment the sun caressed the village, he was ready to tackle the day. Everyone from the blacksmith to the Priests at the temple, Wesley was offering his services by joining them in the morning prayer sessions that were held daily. Though times have been rocky for Spira and believing in New Yevon’s teachings, Wesley never lost faith.

Standing up from his seated position within the Village Leader’s tent, Wesley bowed, his arms stretching apart, body crouched slightly, and then he brought his arms close to him, bending them in an equal ninety degrees as his hands were over each other. “May Yevon be with you,” he said, bowing his head.

“Thank you, Wesley. My daughter has been sick and your coming here has put our hearts at ease. I can feel my daughter’s spirit returning and that’s all thanks to you. How could we ever repay your kindness?”

Wesley waved away the Village Leader. “There is no need for that, Chaka. I’m happy knowing that my visits this past week has brought you some form of peace. With Yevon, peace and happiness are possible.”

Chaka nodded as Wesley left the tent, letting the rays of sunshine bathe on his light skin. When paired up with the gentle breeze that just picked up, Wesley could feel the spirits in the village improving. The smiles that were in fewer amounts were returning. The children who had previously fallen ill were no longer as ill as they once were. If there was anything Wesley could ask for out of the villagers it would be they could benefit from Wesley praying with every single one of them.

Taking only another moment longer to breathe in the clean air, Wesley went about his path. In the two hours he had been praying with Chaka and his family, Wesley had only one last stop before his morning routine was over and that was going to the temple to offer his prayers to the Fayth.

Before Wesley could, however, he hear the familiar sound of a friend’s voice. “Isn’t this the seventh time this week?"

“Good morning, Savayna!” He smiled cheerfully at her, seeing the redhead coming from the mountains. “How did your hunting trip go?”

“As well as to be expected. Kyrie and Touta nearly injured themselves, but we managed to catch a big one for tonight’s feast.”

Wesley was pleased to hear that. “I’m happy. The village is better for it, I’m sure of it!” He was positive of that.

As they walked, Savayna seemed to just roll her eyes at how positive Wesley was. “Don’t you ever have a lower setting for your positivity?” She asked him point blank.

As they seemed to reach the stairs to the temple, Wesley looked at Savayna with quite the puzzled expression. “I don’t know what you mean by that.”

“Well, you’re always so damn cheerful and positive. It’s a bit disturbing that someone I’ve known since most of the time living here has never shown an ounce of negativity or self-doubt. How do you do it, Wesley?”

Even though she explained herself, Wesley was still confused. “I’m sorry, my friend, I still don’t understand. Is there a bad thing about having a positive outlook?”

“Not necessarily, but there’s no way someone could be so happy all the time.”

He still didn’t quite understand where this was coming from, but Wesley shrugged it off. He couldn’t help it. When he saw the smiling faces of the children and all of the villagers who gave him such praise, he couldn’t help but feel humble that people he had known his entire life would honor him with their praise. He didn’t deserve it and he didn’t need it, but that didn’t stop them. The only thing Wesley could do was keep servicing the villagers with his prayers and good wishes.

“I’m just honored that the villagers allow me to pray with them,” Wesley offered to Savayna, hoping his words would offer her some kind of peace of mind.

In return, she rolled her eyes, though as she would see Wesley start to walk up the stairs that led to the temple, she saw one of the priests, Kiat, come this way.

“Wesley! I’m so glad you’re here!” Kiat, who was a man of Wesley’s height and twice his age, was also a man with grayed hair and faded steely eyes.

“Priest Kiat! I was just about to head into the temple for my scheduled prayer with the Fayth.” Wesley informed Kiat, giving his mentor a smile.

“I’m afraid that will have to be put on hold, Wesley. You have a visitor.”

Though he was surprised, Wesley welcomed it regardless. “A visitor for me? Who are they?”

“She wouldn’t say. The only thing she said was that she was here to visit the Summoner of Besaid and wouldn’t take no for an answer.”

And now Wesley was confused for the second time in less than ten minutes. Last he checked, he was not a summoner. He had all the tools, but he has yet to gain the official title. And he wouldn’t until the Fayth allowed him to have the Aeon’s power. Nevertheless, though, Wesley was as intrigued as his mind would allow. “Very well. Take me to the outsider,” Wesley told Kiat, looking at Sav, though he saw the way she was looking at him.

“Not a chance. I’m coming with.”

He knew when it was wise to simply nod when it came to Savayna. She was, if nothing else, an adamant girl. Her fire and strong will were one of the things Wesley respected about her. Everything about her was driven by her will to become stronger. Despite her height disadvantage, Savayna proved it to the men of the village that she was just as tough as they were. Something Wesley knew none of them would admit was how much stronger than them she was.

“Very well. Let us be on our way, then.”

[Hero]

Chapter II - Another Start

---

The sunset was what marked the end of the day. Just as the sun dipped into the sea, she heard him say her name. At that time, however, her decision had been made. His hand met hers, but she pulled it away. Giving him a sincere apology, she turned and walked the other way. She heard her name again and again, but she wouldn’t heed it. She’d be lying if she said it didn’t hurt, but she wasn’t going to run. She would face the enemy alone if need be.

The last thing she wanted was a repeated tragedy.

“Welcome to Besaid!”

The greeting was aimed at the majority of those who had stepped off the boat. Some of the passengers were from other places looking for a peaceful place, some came to soothe their souls, and others were simply returning home. There were a few colorful characters: one was an eccentric salesman, another a disgruntled bard that had been thrown off the boat halfway to the island, and the last was a serious-looking swordswoman.

Said woman let the breeze hit her as she stood still, her blue ponytail whipping in the wind. It had been some time since she had been on the shore, although as beautiful as it was, she had a purpose for her visit. The sound of a lyre being played could be heard, and she took it as her queue to leave.

Her heels went from sand to dirt relatively quickly, quietly walking ahead of a small group accompanied by a few warriors. She had been warned to stay close, but she paid them no mind. There wasn’t a fiend alive that could give her an adequate challenge, let alone harm her, so she walked with no fear. The island’s wildlife was untouched, flourishing gorgeously.

The village had grown in size since the last time she was here. It was fairly active this morning, though she supposed it was also due to the people entering that had traveled. A few of the villagers watched her, some curious, others looking at the sword she carried. It was a way of saying she was not to be challenged, but honestly, it only added to her rather intimidating image.

But of course, she ignored them all. She was only here for one person.

“Of course they’re staring. You don’t exactly look very welcoming,” She teased, lightly jabbing her elbow.

“I welcome nothing. Should they choose to cross my path, so be it,” Was her response.

She frowned. “That...that is not what I meant,” She then perked up considerably. “It’s just...you know, give them a smile! You mean no harm, so a small gesture can be assuring. It’s a way to make you seem less cold. Less...threatening.”

Saying she was not amused was putting it lightly. “My lady, if it truly bothers you that I am...threatening, then I will do my best to work on it.”

“Oh, no, that’s not--oh...forget it.”

Walking towards the temple, she felt eyes on her as she walked. Were she elsewhere, she would have been concerned. There was little hostility, and those that did hold hostility were far beneath her level to try to challenge her. Of course, there was that one rumor she had heard some time back about a lancer, but as far as she knew, they were not present.

Approaching the temple, she could hear the hymn rather faintly. That song always had a way to soothe the soul, though she briefly recalled the panic when it came back to the temples for the first time.

“It heals the soul,” She insisted. “Let it envelop your heart. You hear it, don’t you? It says...it says that as long as you believe, you will not be lead astray.”

“A slippery slope,” She couldn’t help but comment.

“It’s true! When I hear it, it’s like...like the beach! How the waves just wash over you...But like, for the soul. Get it?”

“No.”

“Oh well, it’s not important. What’s important is that this is the first step. When we complete our objective, Spira will worry no longer.”

The temple was well kept as always. Once again all eyes were on her, but this time, a priest approached her. “Welcome,” He spoke kindly.

She raised her chin slightly, amber eyes somewhat sharp. “I am here to see the summoner--Wesley of Besaid,” She announced.

“Honestly...you need to work on your manners, Shion!”

[AlteredTundra]

Chapter III - The First Aeon

---

The trio of Wesley, Savayna, and Kiat entered the temple and almost immediately, the legacies of the previous summoners that came before him began to overwhelm him. Knowing that the village’s namesake, Yuna, once walked into this temple just hours before she summoned the Besaid Bird Aeon, Valefor, made Wesley overcome with a sense of overwhelming pride in being able to one day fill her shoes. It was such an awe-inspiring moment for him that Wesley had to stop dead center in the temple, letting the hymns of the fayth fill him up, those angelic voices truly making him grateful for the training he had been given from Kiat.

As he took yet another moment, he heard Kiat to his left, “this way, Wesley. She’s in my chambers.”

“Oh, of course!”

Without taking a single moment longer, Wesley, with Savayna by his side, followed Priest Kiat into his chambers. “I present, Summoner Wesley and Huntress Savayna.” Kiat stated, though there was a slight annoyance when he said Savayna’s name. It was obvious he didn’t think she was actually going to stay, but Wesley didn’t seem to mind, so Kiat didn’t either.

The blue haired woman looked at the pair, a mild look of curiosity in her amber eyes. A summoner and a huntress. It was entertaining, that much she had to admit. They were slightly more impressive than she had imagined. Slightly. But she wasn’t here to judge them on appearances.

Eyeing Kiat warily, she remained silent.

“Thank you, Kiat. May I please ask for the room?” Wesley asked politely.

“Of course, Wesley. I have a prayer to attend to.”

As Kiat would leave, Wesley took his time to look at the visitor who asked for him personally. There wasn’t much to her appearances. He did, however, notice her long, blue ponytail and something about her overall visage gave him a good feeling. He did not suspect she harbored any ill will. Kiat wouldn’t grant her a private audience with him if he thought she was a danger to him. “Welcome to Besaid! I hope your journey wasn’t rough.”

“The roughest part was the bard who wouldn’t stop trying to woo anything with a skirt,” She admitted. How she wished she was joking. Clearing her throat, she figured she would start with an introduction. “My name is Shion. I have come here in hopes of protecting the one Valefor calls for.”

“Then I’m afraid you travelled here for nothing, sweetheart!” Savayna commented, holding her spear close to her. “There’s no such person here.”

Wesley couldn’t help but let out a chuckle. “I must apologize. My friend here has a unique way of stating certain things, but unfortunately, what she says is true. Valefor has yet to call upon anyone here on Besaid yet.”

“Not yet?” She repeated his last words slowly. “You don’t hear it?”

“Again, I must apologize, Shion, but hear what?”

“Valefor’s calling for a summoner. It’s hidden in the Hymn,” Shion motioned towards the air around them. “It’s quite loud. I’m surprised you haven’t noticed.”

“Hidden in the Hymn?” Wesley didn’t mean to repeat her words, but he was genuinely unaware of what Shion spoke of. “I figured the reason it was loud was because it is such a beautiful morning and the villagers were in such high spirits,” he admitted.

It seemed that Shion was less than amused at Wesley’s extremely naive viewpoint. Well, beggars can’t be choosers. Then again, she often had to take matters into her own hands. And so she would lightly you with her hair, twirling it with one finger. Releasing her hair, she decided that these types of people did better at showing, not just telling.

“To the Chamber, then,” She stated. “We musn’t keep her waiting.”

“If that’s what Yevon wishes, then who am I to argue with his will?” Wesley cheerfully said, following Shion out of Kiat’s chambers. “Are you coming Savayna?”

She wasn’t sure honestly, but she wasn’t going to miss this for a moment, especially since it seemed this one with the hair colored opposite to hers had a lot more mystery and intrigue than she seemed to think Shion would have. “Yeah, might as well.”

It was nice to see the two cooperative--although Shion did not doubt that if she made a move, she would likely meet resistance from Savayna’s spear. Luckily for the pair, she meant no harm. At least, no physical harm; the amount of people she offended by simply walking into the Cloister was rather numerous as she offered no prayer. More surprising was the fact that the doors opened for her at all.

The inside room had a staircase that lead to the Chamber of the Fayth. Only one voice was heard singing the hymn as opposed to the group version heard outside. It was a bittersweet feeling, somewhat lonely even.

“She awaits you,” Shion said, looking back at Wesley. “You can't deny her, can you?”

Being in the heart of the chamber really made Wesley thankful that he, of all who lived within Besaid Village, he was granted the honor to hear the voices of the Fayth. And now that he found himself just feet away from the Fayth herself, Wesley came as close as he has ever come to being nervous. The usually positive and thankful male was overwhelmed with the great honor he felt being the sole summoner of Besaid Island.

He stood in front of the door, looking at Shion, then seeing Savayna, who didn’t take her eyes off of Shion, hands gripping her spear as if ready to strike Shion should she try anything. Ignoring that, Wesley took in a deep breath and as he walked forward, the door slowly rose up, and he entered where only summoners were allowed to enter, the voice of Valefor being more than evident to him now.

“Oh great Fayth, I must admit, I was late in hearing your call. I wish to ask for your forgiveness for I am committed to Yevon and wish only to serve him in any way that I can,” Wesley said, taking a spot in front of the semi-transparent Fayth of Besaid, bowing his head.

“Sometimes all we need is a push in the right direction,” came the Fayth’s light-hearted response. “I’m glad you’ve come, Wesley. However, it is not Yevon who you should serve. It should be Spira.”

Wesley rose his head, somewhat in a state of surprise at how optimistic the Fayth of Besaid seemed. She wasn’t how Wesley imagined she’d be. “Yevon is part of Spira, Great Fayth. By serving Yevon, I am also serving Spira,” he offered in retort, his cheerful demeanor never faltering.

“Is that what you believe?”

“It’s what I’ve always believed all my life.”

“Then let me guide you, young one. You will see Spira and Yevon with your own eyes...and you will see if they are one and the same.”

Floating into the air, the Fayth charged forward, soaring into Wesley as a bright light enveloped him, signaling the joining between the two.

After it was all said and done, Wesley looked around the chamber, wondering if that’s all there was to it. The merging of sorts had only last for a brief second. Though the light was intense and had caused him to flinch, he couldn’t say with certainty that he felt all that different. He had somewhat of a stomach ache. Grasping his stomach, Wesley soon exited the chamber, seeing the curious faces of Shion and Savayna.

“You okay there, Wes?” Sav asked, raising an eyebrow at him.

“Absolutely!” He winced as he forced himself to smile.

“At least you didn’t pass out,” Shion commented, eyeing him warily as she placed a hand on her hip. “Shall we continue?”

“I thank Yevon and the company of my friends for the strength--” As Wesley spoke, stepping forward, the next thing he knew it, the Summoner was falling forward towards the cold ground, though Savayna quickly caught him, and placed Wesley over her shoulders. Despite being shorter, she was able to support his weight without being slowed. It came with the habit of training daily with her spear strapped around her back.

“So much for that, huh?” Sav commented, laughing as she briefly glanced towards Shion.

The blue haired woman stared at Wesley for a moment, though after some time she let out a rather heavy sigh. “He needs to practice inner strength if this is what Yevon does for him,” She shook her head, somewhat disappointed, although she would look to the Chamber of the Fayth. Without a word, she dropped down and decided to help Savayna with the now unconscious Wesley. If this was the summoner she had come to collect, Spira was in trouble.

[Hero]

Chapter IV

---

When the duo had stepped back into the temple with Wesley in hand, a mixture of great pride and joy for the young man and a strong disdain for the foreign woman was expressed to them. Wesley was quickly whisked away for treatment, though there was nothing physically wrong with him. Multiple priests tried to lecture Shion, but she wouldn't hear it; as easily as she had walked in, she walked right back out.

Night fell eventually. The blue haired woman hovered outside of Wesley's home, politely declining rest. She needed first and foremost to make sure he would awaken before she would take her next step. Her thoughts were shrouded by a neutral expression, the townspeople looking at her with either interest or fear. She preferred the latter; curiosity often brought attention she would rather not have, but it could not be helped.

Shortly after Wesley was laid to rest, Savayna had come out of his home, taking a spot next to Shion. Something in the red-haired girl was had dominated most of her other senses and caused her to look towards the girl with hair in direct opposite to hers. “Don’t you ever sleep?” Savayna simply asked.

Shion didn’t return her gaze, her amber eyes looking at something far, far away. “It’s a luxury I can’t afford to have. Not until I’m sure he will awaken.” She stated rather simply. “Once he does, then I can see if he will accept my offer.”

Sav looked towards the location where Shion seemed fixated on. ”What are you looking at? There’s nothing there,” Sav said, shaking her head. Outsiders were always weirdos. “But, you don’t need to worry about Wes. Everyone in the village loves and adores him, so pretty sure you could spare an hour or two. Not like you’re going to get arrested or anything,” Sav informed Shion.

“Perhaps not this time,” She commented airly. “Though I suppose enough time has passed that few of them recognize my face.”

Sav shrugged, ”your call, I guess. You’re going to regret it, though,” Savayna said with arms across her chest. “Just think about it: what if something happens and you aren’t fully rested to do something. It would reflect bad on you, wouldnt it?”

“Were I any ordinary person, you would be correct.”

”I don’t know you, so that means nothing to me, Miss Outsider.”

Raising an eyebrow at the redhead, she actually found herself amused. “The unknown is precisely what you should be wary of,” She warned her in jest.

“Oh, it’s not the unknown I’m wary of. It’s you and why you’re here.” Savayna felt like she had to clarify for Shion.

She was sharper than she looked, she had to give her that much. “Ignorance is bliss. Sometimes not knowing is safer,” She said, though she continued. “My business is with Wesley alone.”

”Then that’s where you and I might have a problem. Wesley is like a brother to me and I already don’t like you, so whatever business you have with me goes double for me,” Savayna made herself clear to Shion.

Amber eyes met blue ones, Shion’s apathy clear. “If he chooses to tell you, then you'll be informed.”

Savayna was just a few seconds away from giving this arrogant pile of entitled garbage a piece of her mind. She had her left arm gripping her spear, ready to draw it. Savayna wasn’t usually one to react so rashly, but Shion was testing her patience. Fortunately, from the door to Wesley’s home came a Kiat.

”Oh Kiat! How’s Wesley?”

“He’s resting. I believe our beloved summoner will likely be out until morning. Please, if you will follow me, I will see you to your rooms in the temple.”

“That’s not going to happen. This one is adamant of being the first one to see Wesley when he awakens. And there’s no way in the Farplane I’m going to leave Wesley alone with her.”

Kiat was puzzled about Savayna’s problem with Shion, but he accepted it nonetheless. “Well, at the least, please allow me to show you to a meal. The fish you brought us today should be ready by now, Savayna.”

“Ask her.” Sav looked to Shion, offering the blue-haired girl a smile for Kiat’s sake. Inside, she wanted to pop her smug expression off of her face. “You’re not allergic to food, are you, snowflake?” She asked.

Shion was a little disappointed to hear he would not wake as soon as she would have liked. She must have jinxed it. Somewhat resigned, the blue haired woman would stand, brushing herself off. “If it isn't too much trouble, I would be happy to take your offer,” She told Kiat.

“This is most excellent!” Kiat’s smile was contagious as it caused Sav to form one of her own. “Then please, if you will, follow me. We are about to eat!”

Sav didn’t wait for the snowflake to follow Kiat. She walked past her, looking at Shion with a superior gaze as she walked behind Kiat towards the Banquet Tent where most of the villagers were going to be so they could enjoy the bountiful feast that the best cooks that paired the Besaid Snapper with some of Besaid’s best side dishes: boiled seaweed, rice, and a special, green curry that was said to smell like the sea.

“Come on, then! Or I’ll eat your share!” Sav somewhat teased Shion, though she was absolutely serious.

Shion didn’t have to be told twice to eat.

[AlteredTundra]

Chapter V - Leaving Besaid

---

Night came and went uneventfully. The day restarted once again as the sun rose and lifted the sky into a light blue. Once the sun hit the village, Shion exited the Crusader’ lodge. Despite her teasing Savayna about not needing rest, she knew better than to push herself unnecessarily. The redhead had greatly entertained her, quick to temper and easy to annoy. Then again, that was just the type of person Shion was--distant, secretive, and generally distrusting. But she was also a woman on a mission, and regardless of Savayna’s wishes Wesley also had a duty to fulfill--even if he didn't know it yet.

Stretching her arms above her head, the hilt of her sword clinked quietly against the armor on her legs. The sound had gotten her a few looks from the nearby Crusaders, though none would speak. Ignoring them for the moment, instead, she went straight to Wesley’s home, taking the same position she did last night as she waited for the young man to emerge.

Shortly thereafter Shion had arrived, it took no more than three full minutes until Wesley calmly walked out from his home and took in a deep breath, exhaling that deep breath as he smiled up at the bright, golden sun that happily smiled back at him - or so, that's what Wesley saw. The clouds hovering over the village seemed to be shaped like Kilikan candies as they slowly moved across the ocean-colored sky towards where Kilika was.

The dark-haired summoner looked around and he saw Shion simply leaning against his home. "Good morning, Shion! So happy to see that you seem well-rested!" Wesley gave the blue-haired warrior a smile. "Would you care to walk with me? I wish to see the beach and I wouldn't mind the company."

As chipper as always, it seemed. Lightly pushing herself from her position, Shion nodded. “We have much to discuss,” She informed him, crossing her arms. It was as good a time as ever, although she would take a look around. “Surprised your little friend isn't hovering around.”

“Little friend?” Wesley was confused for all of one moment, but then he had a vocal a-ha moment. “Oh, you must mean Savayna,” Wesley deduced, looking Shion’s way. “She is likely out hunting or training,” he informed Shion as he walked forward, absolutely blanking on what she had to say in response to his offer to her to walk with him.

Convenient. It was an opportunity to speak freely, one she would take gladly. Shion ended up following Wesley's lead, her heels crunching against the ground underneath. “The fayth has heard and accepted your prayer. Whether the people want to accept it or not, the fayth’s return isn't a chance encounter. The Machina Faction, the Youth League, New Yevon...there are many who question why they return without having a proper explanation. But under the still water lies turmoil. Spira itself is crying out for help...and she asks for you,” She stated as such.

As he listened, Wesley’s eyes wandered to the sights around him. Time escaped them as Shion told him of Spira’s troubles because they had already made it to the top of the hill where Besaid’s wildlife and Besaid Village met. The air was somewhat thicker, but the smell of the wildflowers that only grew on the cliff sides nearby carried thanks in large part to the breeze that traveled towards the village.

Wesley took it upon himself to get a little closer to the nearest rock formation where he saw that eight-petal flower colored gold and white and plucked it. As he took in a gentle whiff, Wesley offered it to Shion. “If you wouldn’t mind, just smell the flowers. This is the season where they are just now blooming. All of the cliffs and mountains on the island will be covered in them in just a few weeks,” He told her, his voice a tad louder than usual, but that was due to how loud the wind was up where they had walked.

Her amber eyes looked at the flower for about two seconds before looking back at the man. Taking the flower somewhat reluctantly, she stared at it for a moment. It was just a flower. Pretty, perhaps, but it had no actual use for her.

“Pleasant. But that’s not the point.” Shion replied slowly.

Wesley turned his head slowly, but it wasn’t where Shion was standing - it was where Yuna Bridge was at. “Very well, this way. We can talk whilst we walk.” Wesley again disregarded Shion’s words as the carefree man casually strolled towards the bridge.

Was that not what they were doing already? Taking his lead, Shion followed suit somewhat reluctantly.

“It's nice to just enjoy the scenery.”

Was it? Shion didn't think so. Not now, anyway.

“Have you nothing to say?” She finally decided to ask him.

As he hummed with his eyes cheerfully narrowed, he directed his attention to Shion after a long moment of mostly-silence. “This weather is quite lovely, isn’t it?”

“I meant in regards to my previous words.”

“What about them?” He asked calmly.

Shion stared at Wesley for a moment, wondering if he was testing her. “Will you not answer her call?” She asked him.

Wesley continued down the path, his pace slowing due to his preference to enjoy the scenery. And as he did, Shion’s words were coming at him, which prompted the young summoner to stop and look back at the blue-haired girl who had stopped, those amber eyes simply gazing at him. “I have, Shion,” Wesley said, offering her simple words as he continued down his slowed stroll.

What was it about summoners that had them refusing to simply be upfront? Wesley's thought process was an enigma, prompting the woman’s annoyance. She should have expected as much all things considered. Perhaps she didn't want to compare the two, but no, Wesley was proving that the comparison had merit.

“Then we go to Kilika,” She told him, gauging a reaction.

By the time it took Shion to say that, they had made to the end of the path and the beach was in sight. The sounds of crashing waves, the children playing on the beach with the Besaid Auroch’s, and, of course, the seagulls unleashing their cries as they flew over the blue ocean. Wesley stood there, just taking in the sight. After letting the beauty of nature sink in and after Wesley was content enough, he turned to face Shion. “I still need to make some arrangements, but this afternoon should--” And just as Wesley was about to finish, his eyes lit up as he saw the sight of his friend come running his way. “Ah, Savayna. So happy you were able to make it,” Wesley greeted her with a smile.

“Stupid laidback idiot, you left without me!”

“I hope your farewells were pleasant. I know the villagers will miss both of us so.”

“My master cried, but he’ll be fine,” Savayna said, giving Wesley a smile and Shion a scowl.

As Wesley smiled, he looked to Shion with the same smile, his eyes full of hope and excitement. “I do hope you forgive me. I was trying to stall long enough for my dear friend to catch up. It wouldn’t be fair if we left without her being able to reach us before we departed for Kilika.”

The sound of a lyre being played accompanied the conversation, causing Shion to let out a rather heavy sigh. Yes, this one was going to be a handful as well. Shaking her head slightly, she instead looked at the few boarding, including a familiar looking musician happily playing his tune.

Ignoring Savayna’s look, Shion would begin to walk to the boat. “Onwards, then,” She instructed the pair.

Wesley happily followed Shion as she seemed to lead them down to the shore, though Savayna was less willing. Along the way, Wesley heard her mumble a few things he dare not repeat should there be any children present. He felt uncomfortable knowing that there were so many ways to describe the female species of a dog in reference to ‘that woman’ who was in front of them. But, on the upside, it would be nice to have company along the journey to Kilika. Even though Wesley was packed and had all the belongings he needed already on the boat, traveling alone has never been something he was particularly fond of.

When they traveled along the shore, the sight of Wesley to the children and their admiration for Wesley was immediate as they ceased what they were doing and came up to him, smiling and laughing.

“Wesley, is it true that you’re leaving Besaid?”

“I’m afraid so. I have to go where Spira calls me.”

“Will you be back?”

“Of course I will. Be sure to pray for me!” Wesley cheerfully said, giving all the children each a hug and before long they tackled him and the physical sight of Wesley was gone, only the sounds of his laughter mixed in with the children’s laughter was heard.

Shion watched him for a moment, though said nothing as her eyes wandered to the few stragglers that had gathered. Wesley was popular; the children didn't seem to be the only ones wishing him well on his journey. His heart was in the right place, she would give him that much. Unfortunately, the beginning of the journey was the easiest. The road ahead of them would be filled with peril and challenges, all designed to test the new summoner.

With that in mind, Shion simply boarded the ship.

As the children, the Besaid Aurochs, and the others who wanted to see Wesley off had all personally been given a goodbye from him, he, along with Sav, made their way to the dock where the ship was awaiting the two. Just as they were about to step onto the ship, a voice of desperation caught Wesley’s attention. It wasn’t until he turned around did he see who it was. “Oh, Kiat. Is there something wrong?”

“You..forgot...this…” Kiat’s voice was breathy, a sign he was out of breath, though he handed Wesley something that resulted in the young summoner to give Kiat a gaze of shock.

“Oh my great goddess, how could I have forgotten that!” As Wesley took the large book from Kiat’s sweaty palms, he let out a sigh of relief. “I thank you so much for coming all this way to give me this, Kiat. You have my eternal thanks!”

“Don’t..mention..it..” Kiat said, taking a seat on the ground as Wesley and Savayna boarded the ship.

“I apologize for the wait.” Wesley offered his sincerest apologies to Shion.

She shook her head, leaning against the railing as the lyre’s music danced on the winds. Fate worked in funny ways sometimes. “Leaving in such a way doesn't seem like a surprise to you,” She stated.

Wesley took a spot a few feet away from Shion, watching the sea create a symphony in tune to the island-friendly sounds of the lyre he heard. Pair that with the company of an old friend and a new friend and Wesley couldn’t possibly ask for more. “The people of Besaid are very close, Shion.”

“What he means to say is everyone here adores him and tends to smother him with praise,” Sav clarified for Shi-Shi, patting Wesley on the back a little rougher than what most would. Sometimes she didn’t know her own strength.

All the more reason why it surprised the woman. So long as Wesley was dedicated, she would not give him any reason to stay. Luckily for her, the boat departed shortly afterward. Staring out into the open sea, she watched Besaid get smaller and smaller until eventually it was gone. As she pushed herself away from the railing, she noticed the sound of the lyre getting louder.

“And we’ll let it be, sun-kissed eyes that swim across the sea~” A very pleasant, soothing voice rang through the air. The source of it happened to be the same as the lyre; a chestnut-haired young man sauntered his way towards the trio, golden brown eyes twinkling. Shion’s eyes narrowed as the young man approached Savayna, giving her a wink. “Just close your eyes, I’ll guide you to a sweet memory.”

Wesley turned around as the man with the lyre approached them, a smile on his face. The melodious tone of his voice seemed to relax Wesley. He found the lyrics both calming with the sounds of the gently moving water making way for the boat and quite befitting of the start of their journey. Wesley found himself humming to the sounds of the lyre, eyes closed as he simply enjoyed the music, completely oblivious to Savayna’s annoyance with Rio.

Savayna quickly made it known she wasn’t interested as she gave him one, quick glare. “Not going to happen, bard,” she told him outright.

Said man chuckled to himself, slightly leaning in towards the red-haired woman. “So the possibility crossed your mind before you rejected it? I’m flattered, my lady,” He replied somewhat cheerfully, continuing his playing. He seemed to enjoy Wesley’s humming, playing his lyre just a little more passionately as he closed his own eyes. “We’ll let it be, just you and me, let’s cherish this precious memory--” He sang, his eyes landing on Shion.

“Enjoying yourself?” She asked him rather bluntly, unamused.

“Always, my darling,” He told her. “Because when it’s you and me, we’ll let it be, eyes colored golden brown like the sunset,” He sang rather cheerfully, greatly enjoying the rather irritated grimace that took over Shion’s face.

“What a beautiful day for music,” Wesley said, his eyes opening and greeting the Bard with a smile. “You are quite talented, Bard. What do you call that one you just sang?” Wesley asked, completely oblivious to what was happening with Shion and the Bard.

“I call it, ‘Sunset’--after a beautiful moment I once had with a woman who was near and dear to my heart,” He replied in earnest.

“That poor woman,” Shion said.

As Wesley seemed to nod, likely approving of the title, Sav rolled her eyes. “She probably didn’t like the way you sang,” Savayna stated bluntly.

“I sing the same way I make love--tenderly and romantically,” He replied without skipping a beat, lightly bowing to the group. “I am Rio of Kilika, famed for waxing lyrics and strings together to create beautiful music, whether they are from my lyre or from a beautiful woman.”

Sav knew from the moment he started opening his non-melodic mouth that she wasn’t going to like this guy. To avoid from doing something that, perhaps for a few hours would feel great and bring her some form of relief, decided to walk away from Rio, the Idiot from Kilika. Instead, she opted to take a place next to Wesley, looking forward at the water as the thought of Kilika filled her up.

And as she did that, Wesley smiled. “Please, don’t stop singing on our account. I’m sure we would benefit from your harmonious voice and poetic lyrics. May Yevon be with you and strengthen your beautiful message!” Wesley happily said, giving Rio the Yevon Bow as he encouraged him to keep playing his lyre and singing as he had been.

The bard’s smile faltered as he watched Wesley’s bow. He was quiet for a moment, his fingers lightly plucking as his eyes landed on Shion. The amber-eyed woman gave him no answers to his somewhat questioning look, only offering him silence. “Yevon, huh?” He quietly repeated.

“Wesley here is a child of Yevon,” Shion confirmed.

Rio nodded slowly, though he seemed to regain some of his enthusiasm. “If the young summoner wants a song, then who am I to refuse?” He grinned as Shion rolled her eyes at him. “And we’ll let it be, moving onwards, letting the past be but a memory~”

As long as he wouldn’t bother her, Shion had no issue with the bard continuing his song, choosing instead to watch the sea.

[Hero]

Chapter VI - Land Ho!

---

The remainder of the voyage to Kilika Island was spent partly with Rio singing song after song that had Wesley clapping cheerfully and both Sav and Shion sharing a mutual interest of annoyance with the bard and his lyre. Among this, those also traveling to Kilika struck conversation with Wesley for they were Priests from Bevelle that were traveling the seas, spreading the message of acceptance and love that the Teachings of Yevon emphasize. While Wesley happily welcomed them to spread it like an eagle spread its wings, there was a lack of encouragement from Shion. Wesley hadn’t noticed, of course, so he simply gave them his attention while Rio had started to sing.

At some point, the group of four saw the sight of Kilika Island come into view. This had been both Wesley and Savayna’s first time leaving the island of Besaid and as their eyes looked on at the pork getting closer and closer to them, they looked at each other with their own smile. Wesley had an expression of child-like wonder while Sav was more in the lane of amazement that she was finally getting to see the world of Spira, though deep down, she knew this would bring her closer and closer to getting to the truth of her origins.

As the ship anchored itself at Kilika Port, the group had made their way off the boat, their belongings, few in the numbers as they were, in their hands. “It’s so amazing being here in person. Kiat has told us many things about Kilika, has he not, Savayna?”

“He did,” Sav nodded, admiring Kilika in a more subtle way that Wesley was.

Seeing the natives greet them with a smile only increased Wesley’s enthusiasm. “Truly a remarkable place.”

Shion didn’t give their surroundings a second glance, simply enjoying the wind for a moment before stepping off the boat. To her annoyance, the sound of the lyre followed her as she approached Wesley and Savayna. Rio happily hummed as he played, clearly interested in the group and either oblivious or outright ignoring Shion’s unamused glare.

“If it’s your first time, the least I can do is show you to the temple,” Rio helpfully offered, his fingers still strumming. “Kilika’s sights are few, but the road to our temple is a journey in itself.”

“I can show them the way,” Shion said, clearly unwanting the bard’s help.

“You could, but not the way a native can,” He cheerfully replied.

“It’s a straight road.”

“A road much better enjoyed with song!”

Savayna rolled her eyes, walking forward. It wasn’t that long of a walk to get from the port to the gate that was in sight. That’s what she had to assume where the entrance to the Kilika Jungle was. There was absolutely no way she was going to stick around listening to Rio’s singing or Shion argue with him as he sang. And she knew Wesley was too polite to say anything about it.

“Oh, I guess we’re walking now,” Wesley said, seeing Savayna walk first. Wesley proceeded second, following his close friend, the sounds of her metal boots creating a clinking sound against the wood beneath them.

Not long after they had started walking did Wesley and Savayna go into high-alert mode as the cries of the Kilikan natives and them running towards the band of four. “Fiends! By the gates! Hansen..” One of the running villagers said, running past the group.

“Hansen?” Savayna seemed to ask herself, looking back to Rio for answers.

“One of the village's warriors,” Rio explained, frowning slightly. “How strange, the fiends don't usually make it this close. Something must have happened.”

Shion’s eyes lit up as Rio spoke. With her hand on her hilt, she looked towards the area where the villagers were running from. “A fiend infestation? Something my blade will enjoy at last,” She stated as she continued forward.

Rio’s eyes widened, the man finally stopped his playing and even going so far as to put away his instrument. “It could be dangerous,” He said.

The woman stopped, looking back at Rio with a rather confident expression. “Then it's best you stay back and let me handle this,” She replied.

“I think you mean me,” Savayna added, her spear drawn. If there was a battle on the horizon, there was no way in hell she was going allow, of all people, Shion to upstage her. If there was one thing Sav excelled at more than her witty comebacks, it was battle. She has been training for this moment since she showed up on the shore of Besaid ten years ago.

Wesley offered Rio a smile. “Do not worry, my harmonious friend. We shall not let these fiends hurt your people. By Yevon’s grace, we will protect Kilika!” Wesley assured Rio, gesturing the singing Kilkan to follow him and the others as they made their way to the gates.

His mouth opened slightly as the trio continued forward. Scratching the back of his head as he placed one hand on his hip, he frowned. He wasn't exactly sure if the group alone had what it took to handle the problem, but at the very least he could offer his support. Fate worked in funny ways, it seemed. After letting out a sigh, Rio jogged after the group to catch up.ch up.

Shion scanned the area where there was more fiend than friend, fingers itching to pull out her blade. It seemed to be more concentrated towards the temple. Letting out a huff of disappointment, the blue haired woman shook her head. What a waste.

Finally catching up, Rio let out a huff, a small gathering of pyreflies forming a makeshift bow as he looked around. “Why are there so many?” He asked, frowning.

“It matters not. Take out the leader, then the rest will fall,” Shion informed him, once again running forward.

“Ah--wait! Shion!” Rio called as she ran.

The swiftness of Shion and Savayna leading the charge with a bow-clad Rio and a staff-drawn Wesley arrived at the gate within record time. Though Wesley’s robes forced him to arrive last, being their resident mage-healer, it was best he hung back next to Rio. With the powerful duo of spear-user of Savayna who has demonstrated lancer and dragoon abilities and Shion, the katana-wielding enigma that Wesley has yet to see in battle, how could they possibly lose?

Right at the gate, which had been busted through the end that separated the woods and the village, over a dozen fiends of three kinds: Killer Bee, Dinonix, and a mini Lord Ochu all separated those trying to fend it off from the woods. Right off the bat, they were intensely hostile and they had lunged forward, hitting the warriors of the village. They parried, but the ochu’s vines tripped them, which gave the Dinonix a moment of opportunity as they lept, aiming for the head of the fallen warriors.

“Look out, Hansen!” A Kilikan warrior said, slicing through one of the chameleon-shaped fiends, though a Killer Bee came from above and struck the warrior in the back, causing blood to ooze out. He collapsed next to Hansen.

Without waiting, Savayna leapt forward. She jumped into the air and as her left hand gathered ice magic and shot it down to the killer bees, she struck another one with her spear, slicing it into the farplane. At the same time, Wesley conjured up a fire spell, vanquishing one of the Dinonix fiends.

“Hansen, was it?” Savayna looked to him, holding her spear ready, “if you can stand, take your friend and get out of here. We will fend them off.”

“Who are you--” As Hansen spoke, he looked around, seeing a familiar face. “Rio? Is that you?”

The bard immediately knelt down to the injured man, a small Cure bursting out and covering the injury with healing magic. “We’ll have to take it from here, get as many people out as possible,” He replied, throwing another Cure over Hansen.

Shion narrowed her eyes at the scene, watching the Ochu. Despite its age it was acting awfully crafty all things considered. Making her decision, she walked forward with a serenity not usually seen in the battlefield. For her, she had nothing to fear--she was home. Taking a stance, her hand withdrew her sword slowly, the metal glimmering as she raised it. Pushing off the ground, she charged towards the vines, and with a single, vertical strike, the katana cut through them all.

Ignoring the people running, she gave her attention to the Ochu, who was less than pleased that its prey had escaped. Readying her sword once more, she went in to battle.

Plucking the string of his bow, a musical note was heard. An arrow of light formed as he drew it back and fired, pinning a Killer Bee to the ground until it burst into pyreflies. “The best course of action is to get rid of as many fiends as we can, the sooner we clear the area the sooner Kilika will be safe,” He said.

What Rio said was the truth, but it was proving to be more difficult than what they might’ve thought.

As the numbers of the first wave of fiends had decreased by more than half, things were looking up for the group of four and the native Kilikans that were thankful for their intervention. From Shion who decided to tackle the biggest obstacle in the form of the Ochu that wasn’t pleased with how she disposed of its vines. When one fiend disappeared and faded to the Farplane, more replaced it.

“It’s never-ending,” Savayna said, slicing through three Killer Bees that flew towards the redhead.

“We must not let up. Kilika’s safety depends on it!” Wesley urged them, conjuring up another spell. “Fire!” He shouted, a series of bullets of flame being fired at the Ochu as Wesley was intended to aid Shion in her efforts. Much to his delight, the fire had seriously damaged the Ochu. It’s entire body was set ablaze and the shrieks of horror could be heard from a mile away. “Shion now!” Wesley shouted.

Taking a step back, Shion’s stance widened slightly as she let her sword’s tip fall to the ground, her grip slightly slack. Taking in a deep breath, she blocked out everything but herself and her target: the Ochu. Focusing her energy oh her sword, she straightened up, holding her sword vertically as she closed her eyes. She could feel the wind blowing around her, Wesley’s fires nearly dying down. Opening her eyes, she slashed forward once and slowly sheathed her blade until the very end where she pressed down on the hilt. The Ochu froze in place for a moment, and in the next emitted a shrill shriek as it withered, pyreflies dancing from its corpse as it dissipated.

When that happened, something quite interesting seemed to happen. The moment the Ochu faded away, the remainder of the fiends that had pushed back against Savayna and Wesley’s efforts all faded as well, the pyreflies coming from their alive bodies and forcing their existence to take a one-way trip to the Farplane. “Well, that certainly was something,” Wesley commented, a somewhat intrigued expression on his face. He was both interested in why that happened the moment the Ochu was slain and grateful that it happened when it did. With the small amount rest he had throughout the night, a prolonged battle wasn’t in the cards for young Wesley.

“Nicely done,” Sav said to Shion, giving her the warrior’s nod. She didn’t like her, but from one warrior to another, she had respect for her as a warrior.

Exhaling slowly, Shion took her hand off her sword as she watched the pyreflies for a moment. Despite the victory, the disappointment on her face was apparent. She gave Savayna a short nod in response, looking at the area. Their efforts were not in vain, a majority of the citizens left unharmed. She supposed most people would be alright with that, but Shion would have liked a better challenge.

Rio clapped, relieved that it ended well. “I’m going to see if anyone else is injured,” He informed the party.

Though Wesley felt somewhat perplexed by what just happened, he put that aside for the moment. He knew what must take the priority: the villagers. They were what truly mattered right now. “I’ll assist you, Rio! I may not be a healer, but I can help with the lesser injured,” he informed Rio, following the bard.

Watching the pair stroll off, Shion stayed in place for a moment. Tapping the hilt of her sword with her fingers, she surveyed her surroundings for a moment. Narrowing her eyes, she paid no mind to the rest of the people as she continued along the path towards the temple. Something was amiss, but as to what it was, she couldn’t quite put her finger on it.

“You must feel it too,” Savayna said to Shion, looking towards the forest, her eyes quickly glancing at Shion.

“Let’s go see what it is, Little Red,” She told her, continuing her walk into the forest.

Sav didn’t seem to appreciate the name, but she let it go as she approved of Shion’s suggestion. She gripped her spear. “Lead the way, Big Blue.”