AXEM, TRITHAL, and Danika were walking around Itsuka minding their own business when suddenly behind them someone shouted "TRITHAL!!" The trio turned around to find someone they thought they saw the last of back in Episode 41.
TRITHAL: "Visaggo of the Shadows! I'm surprised to see you. Last time I saw you, you were on a one-way trip to Nelia courtesy of the Grand Macha. What are you doing way the hell out here?"
Visaggo: "After you turned me over to 壮大マハ and I was taken to Nelia, I was quite extensively examined and interrogated. Afterward, they decided that I 'no longer pose any real threat to the world', so they let me go."
Not really satisfied with that response, TRITHAL asks, "Soooo, why are you here?"
Visaggo: "I'm here to take my revenge on you! You, Trithal the Divine Wind, have taken everything that ever mattered away from me. You killed my master Liiche... you destroyed the Redusa... you defeated Galaria and the Periande... and you even took my macha powers from me! Now I have nothing but my Darkness powers and my thirst for vengeance"
TRITHAL: "Don't forget that you also took something very important away from me four years ago! By my count we're even now."
Visaggo: "I disagree. Aside from everything else, you also took my honor. Now I intend to fight you to get it back!"
TRITHAL turns to Danika and AXEM and asks, "Whadaya think? Should we fight this muthafucka?"
AXEM: "Sure. Why not? I could use some extra EXP. Besides, I was getting bored anyway."
Danika: "This is something that doesn't really involve me, so count me out."
TRITHAL: "Well, I'd like to reach end-game before the close of this volume." (to Visaggo) "Okay, little man. Let's fight."
BATTLE MODE ON
TRITHAL (LV 20; 94/94 HP; 88/88 SP; 2909/3000 EXP)
AXEM (LV 15; 80/80 HP; 79/79 SP; 1904/3000 EXP)
Danika backs away as TRITHAL and AXEM take their fighting postures. Just like back in Episode 82, the area surrounding the fighters becomes devoid of other people. Visaggo takes the first shot and unleashes DARK THUNDER, where bolts of dark lightening rain down on TRITHAL and AXEM, causing both to lose only 1 HP.
TRITHAL: "I hope that ain't all you got, Visaggo. Otherwise this is gonna be a short fight."
TRITHAL withdraws his Wind Sword II and slices at Visaggo, causing the loss of 12/77 HP.
AXEM, also doing a basic attack, launches some throwing knives at Visaggo, causing the loss of 15/65 HP.
Visaggo withdraws a short sword and uses some of his SP to fill it with darkness energy, then attempts to slice at TRITHAL. TRITHAL blocks the move and loses no HP.
In response, TRITHAL unleashes a small percentage of his power into his sword, just enough to make the blue carvings glow, and tries another slashing attack. This time Visaggo lost 19/50 HP.
AXEM tries another basic move and roundhouse-kicks Visaggo, resulting in the loss of 10/31 HP.
TRITHAL: "This is stupid and pointless, Visaggo. Why don't you do something more constructive with yourself or something?"
Visaggo: "Don't try any of that Shirotama bullshit on me, Trithal. I came here resolved to seek vengeance, and I'm not gonna give up until I either defeat you or die trying."
Visaggo charges his sword with Darkness power again, then rushes at TRITHAL with all the speed he could muster. TRITHAL dodges most of it, but ends up getting nicked and losing 4/94 HP.
In response, TRITHAL withdraws his sword and charges it with a little more of his Wind power, then slashes at Visaggo. Visaggo loses 20/21 HP.
Visaggo: "Go ahead, Trithal. Kill me. I have no problem dying here today."
TRITHAL sheathes his sword and says, "No, I won't kill you. It isn't worth it for me to soil my hands with your blood."
Visaggo: "Then allow me..."
Visaggo thrusts his sword into his gut, causing him to lose his last 1 HP. Visaggo falls dead on the sidewalk.
BATTLE MODE OFF
TRITHAL GAINS 104 EXP
TRITHAL HAS REACHED END-GAME
AXEM GAINS 159 EXP
AXEM GAINS A LEVEL
LV 15>16; HP 80>83; SP 79>82
TRITHAL (LV 20; 90/94 HP; 88/88 SP; 3013 EXP)
AXEM (LV 16; 83/83 HP; 82/82 SP; 2063/3000 EXP)
Not even a minute later, local police were on the scene and calling an ambulance for the fallen Visaggo. They do nothing to TRITHAL or AXEM since they witnessed Visaggo stab himself.
As the evening progressed, the trio had dinner, and checked into a motel for the night. The next day TRITHAL and Danika shared their goodbyes with AXEM as he left Itsuka and started hiking down the Over-Land route around Mount Sabretooth. Later that morning TRITHAL and Danika boarded a train to Morgura Prefecture, heading towards whatever awaits them in the village of Laurenstown.
>> TO BE CONTINUED! <<
Monday, May 9, 2011
EPISODE NINETY-FOUR: Resolution and Restitution
After the party only had a few hours of sleep, they were awoken by servants who were sent to summon them to the parliament hall for the trial of Red Phile. Danika wanted to stay behind but insisted TRITHAL go, instead of staying with her to keep her company.
As soon as TRITHAL, THRAX, CHRIS and the 5 remaining Saibot chicks make it to the foyer outside the Parliament hall, they go in as a group and find seats. Within a short time, the bailiff calls the room to order.
Bailiff: "ORDER!!! ORDER, DAMN IT! The Grand Court of the United Prefectures will come to order! The honorable Judge Marius presiding. All rise!"
Everyone in attendance stands up as Judge Marius enters the room. When he takes his seat, everyone sits down. Red Phile is then escorted in shackles into the room and seated in the Defendant's box.
Bailiff: "First on the docket is the the case of the Tanchi-Sabretooth Royal Family vs Red Phile. Red Phile is accused of kidnapping and raping Ella of the Light, daughter of the late Duke Annan, sister of Duchess Ali."
Marius: "Red Phile, how do you plead to these charges."
Red Phile: "Guilty."
The crowd murmurs amongst themselves.
Marius: "Very well. This court will direct a verdict of Guilty to the charges against you. Now, before we go into sentencing, is there anything you would like to say?"
Red Phile: "Do with me what you will. Everything I've spent my life working for is gone now. I have nothing to live for."
Marius: "Now, you will be subject to a sentence to be prescribed by King Midus, on behalf of the Royal Family."
King Midus walks up to the bench and says, "Judge Marius, we, the Royal Family, move that the convicted face execution by beheading pursuant to royal law for the crimes he committed not only against us, but to the countless other victims of his crimes."
Marius: "So shall it be. The convicted will be turned over to the Royal Executioner."
Two men wearing black hoods over their heads march in and collect Red Phile and carry him away.
Bailiff: "Next on the docket is a request by Duchess Ali of the Plains of Tanchi to re-open the case of the Royal Family versus Miah Thorpatrick a/k/a Axem the Stone Pillar."
AXEM is escorted in, also shackled, and seated in the Defendant's box. Ali approaches the bench and says, "Judge Marius, in light of the recent capture and conviction of Red Phile for the crimes of kidnapping and rape, I wish to have Axem's conviction..... overturned, now that it has been proven that he is not responsible for these crimes."
Marius: "Very well. In accordance with Duchess Ali's request, Miah Thorpatrick a/k/a Axem the Stone Pillar is hereby acquitted and released."
The guards undo AXEM's restraints.
Marius: "Mr. Thorpatrick, you are free to go. If there is no more business before this court, I call this session adjourned."
The judge pounds his gavel, and the room begins to empty. AXEM meets with his party members inside the parliament hall.
THRAX: "Fuck yeah, Axem! You're free now!"
TRITHAL: "Yeah, dickass! Let's go to a titty bar!"
CHRIS: "Yeah, you guys can go if you want. I think I'm gonna head back to Dale Gorge."
THRAX: "Pssh! Why? We just got back together!"
CHRIS: "Well, I haven't been feeling too good lately, and I need to go tend to my garden. King Midus said I can use the catwalk, so it'll only take me half a day to get there."
TRITHAL: "Ok, whatever Chris! *coughs* Quitter!"
AXEM: "Yeah, see you later, Chris! I'll get a lap dance for you!"
CHRIS IS DISMISSED FROM PARTY
CHRIS leaves the scene and makes his way to the catwalk entrance. Before the growing celebration could get too big, the party was confronted by Ali, Ella, and Rishna.
Ali (to AXEM): "As I promised, I have set you free -- and cleared you of those charges... But, Axem the Stone Pillar, you are still pond scum to me. You would do well to stay out of the Plains of Tanchi.... And I mean that -- don't ever let me catch you in my prefecture again... Seriously -- if your care about your life, just stay away!"
Ali turns and walks away. AXEM is weirded about by her halting and stuttering. Then, Rishna approaches AXEM.
Rishna (to AXEM): "I'm sure you've heard by now what is going on with me. You'll be relieved to hear that I finally got my period this morning, so I'm not pregnant. In light of this whole ordeal I had to go through, I am finally realizing now that my sisters were right... you are the wrong guy to get involved with. In fact, I am also realizing as I face you right now, I cannot sense or feel whatever it was that made me attracted to you in the first place. Goodbye, Axem."
Rishna turns and walks away. Then, Ella approaches AXEM.
Ella (to AXEM): "I may not remember you or anything that happened between us, but I do know that it was wrong of me to have trusted you. My sister and the Saibot Clan told me what has happened since my dissappearance... and according to what they told me, you acted in total disregard to my family and my needs. You are the most self-absorbsed, selfish person I have ever known, even though I have no memory of ever knowing you. How could I have reveled in any love you claim to have shown me? I hate you... and I mean that. I never want to see you again, Miah Thorpatrick."
Ella turns and walks away. TRITHAL and THRAX say in unison, "WOAH! Triple-hottie burn!!!"
AXEM might normally react differently to what had just happened, but instead stands there acting uncharacteristically nonchalant, unbothered and unaffected about the whole thing.
The party moves the gathering from the now-vacant Parliament hall to their entertainment room. After discussing the situation, and realizing that Danika would have to accompany TRITHAL, THRAX and AXEM to wherever they chose to go onacounta the gayness surrounding her and the Saibot Clan, they decided to just go to a pool hall in Itsuka instead of a titty bar. About a half hour later, the four of them headed into town and partied their asses off, trying to forget about the gayness of the past couple of weeks.
----------
The next day, the remaining party members plus Danika meet in the entertainment room.
THRAX: "I think I'm gonna have to split. The Saibot chicks are insisting that we 'resume the search for Xanatos' or whatever. The other day in town I heard of a guy who lives on Ragnarok Island that may know where Xanatos is. I think we're gonna head there and look for him."
TRITHAL: "Yeah, I'm probably gonna split, too. There's a life and some responsibility waiting for me down in Laurenstown. I think me and Danika are gonna head there. What about you, Axem?"
AXEM: "Well, everything that's happened recently has made me think about what I've done in the past. I think I'm gonna go wander around a while and re-trace my steps through life. Maybe I need to find myself again. I've got to get away from here. There's probably something else for me out there somewhere... but I'm sure whatever it is isn't here..."
TRITHAL (to AXEM): "You wanna hang with us for a while? Since today's Sunday, there aren't gonna be any trains heading to Morgura from here until tomorrow morning. Me and Danika were just gonna spend the day in Itsuka while we waited."
AXEM: "Yeah, why not? It might be kinda silly. I just might do that."
THRAX: "Well, later today there's gonna be a train heading to the Northern Ports. From there we can catch a ferry to Ragnarok. So, me and the rest of the chicks will be leaving soon. You all have fun and whatever."
AXEM: "Ok. Catch you later, Thrax!"
THE PARTY DISBANDS
THRAX goes and collects his followers, and the group of them leave the Mountain Castle and head toward the train station in Itsuka. Shortly afterward TRITHAL, AXEM and Danika go into town... leaving the Mountain Castle and that whole mess of ordeals behind them.
(END CHAPTER FOUR)
THE END
maybe...
As soon as TRITHAL, THRAX, CHRIS and the 5 remaining Saibot chicks make it to the foyer outside the Parliament hall, they go in as a group and find seats. Within a short time, the bailiff calls the room to order.
Bailiff: "ORDER!!! ORDER, DAMN IT! The Grand Court of the United Prefectures will come to order! The honorable Judge Marius presiding. All rise!"
Everyone in attendance stands up as Judge Marius enters the room. When he takes his seat, everyone sits down. Red Phile is then escorted in shackles into the room and seated in the Defendant's box.
Bailiff: "First on the docket is the the case of the Tanchi-Sabretooth Royal Family vs Red Phile. Red Phile is accused of kidnapping and raping Ella of the Light, daughter of the late Duke Annan, sister of Duchess Ali."
Marius: "Red Phile, how do you plead to these charges."
Red Phile: "Guilty."
The crowd murmurs amongst themselves.
Marius: "Very well. This court will direct a verdict of Guilty to the charges against you. Now, before we go into sentencing, is there anything you would like to say?"
Red Phile: "Do with me what you will. Everything I've spent my life working for is gone now. I have nothing to live for."
Marius: "Now, you will be subject to a sentence to be prescribed by King Midus, on behalf of the Royal Family."
King Midus walks up to the bench and says, "Judge Marius, we, the Royal Family, move that the convicted face execution by beheading pursuant to royal law for the crimes he committed not only against us, but to the countless other victims of his crimes."
Marius: "So shall it be. The convicted will be turned over to the Royal Executioner."
Two men wearing black hoods over their heads march in and collect Red Phile and carry him away.
Bailiff: "Next on the docket is a request by Duchess Ali of the Plains of Tanchi to re-open the case of the Royal Family versus Miah Thorpatrick a/k/a Axem the Stone Pillar."
AXEM is escorted in, also shackled, and seated in the Defendant's box. Ali approaches the bench and says, "Judge Marius, in light of the recent capture and conviction of Red Phile for the crimes of kidnapping and rape, I wish to have Axem's conviction..... overturned, now that it has been proven that he is not responsible for these crimes."
Marius: "Very well. In accordance with Duchess Ali's request, Miah Thorpatrick a/k/a Axem the Stone Pillar is hereby acquitted and released."
The guards undo AXEM's restraints.
Marius: "Mr. Thorpatrick, you are free to go. If there is no more business before this court, I call this session adjourned."
The judge pounds his gavel, and the room begins to empty. AXEM meets with his party members inside the parliament hall.
THRAX: "Fuck yeah, Axem! You're free now!"
TRITHAL: "Yeah, dickass! Let's go to a titty bar!"
CHRIS: "Yeah, you guys can go if you want. I think I'm gonna head back to Dale Gorge."
THRAX: "Pssh! Why? We just got back together!"
CHRIS: "Well, I haven't been feeling too good lately, and I need to go tend to my garden. King Midus said I can use the catwalk, so it'll only take me half a day to get there."
TRITHAL: "Ok, whatever Chris! *coughs* Quitter!"
AXEM: "Yeah, see you later, Chris! I'll get a lap dance for you!"
CHRIS IS DISMISSED FROM PARTY
CHRIS leaves the scene and makes his way to the catwalk entrance. Before the growing celebration could get too big, the party was confronted by Ali, Ella, and Rishna.
Ali (to AXEM): "As I promised, I have set you free -- and cleared you of those charges... But, Axem the Stone Pillar, you are still pond scum to me. You would do well to stay out of the Plains of Tanchi.... And I mean that -- don't ever let me catch you in my prefecture again... Seriously -- if your care about your life, just stay away!"
Ali turns and walks away. AXEM is weirded about by her halting and stuttering. Then, Rishna approaches AXEM.
Rishna (to AXEM): "I'm sure you've heard by now what is going on with me. You'll be relieved to hear that I finally got my period this morning, so I'm not pregnant. In light of this whole ordeal I had to go through, I am finally realizing now that my sisters were right... you are the wrong guy to get involved with. In fact, I am also realizing as I face you right now, I cannot sense or feel whatever it was that made me attracted to you in the first place. Goodbye, Axem."
Rishna turns and walks away. Then, Ella approaches AXEM.
Ella (to AXEM): "I may not remember you or anything that happened between us, but I do know that it was wrong of me to have trusted you. My sister and the Saibot Clan told me what has happened since my dissappearance... and according to what they told me, you acted in total disregard to my family and my needs. You are the most self-absorbsed, selfish person I have ever known, even though I have no memory of ever knowing you. How could I have reveled in any love you claim to have shown me? I hate you... and I mean that. I never want to see you again, Miah Thorpatrick."
Ella turns and walks away. TRITHAL and THRAX say in unison, "WOAH! Triple-hottie burn!!!"
AXEM might normally react differently to what had just happened, but instead stands there acting uncharacteristically nonchalant, unbothered and unaffected about the whole thing.
The party moves the gathering from the now-vacant Parliament hall to their entertainment room. After discussing the situation, and realizing that Danika would have to accompany TRITHAL, THRAX and AXEM to wherever they chose to go onacounta the gayness surrounding her and the Saibot Clan, they decided to just go to a pool hall in Itsuka instead of a titty bar. About a half hour later, the four of them headed into town and partied their asses off, trying to forget about the gayness of the past couple of weeks.
----------
The next day, the remaining party members plus Danika meet in the entertainment room.
THRAX: "I think I'm gonna have to split. The Saibot chicks are insisting that we 'resume the search for Xanatos' or whatever. The other day in town I heard of a guy who lives on Ragnarok Island that may know where Xanatos is. I think we're gonna head there and look for him."
TRITHAL: "Yeah, I'm probably gonna split, too. There's a life and some responsibility waiting for me down in Laurenstown. I think me and Danika are gonna head there. What about you, Axem?"
AXEM: "Well, everything that's happened recently has made me think about what I've done in the past. I think I'm gonna go wander around a while and re-trace my steps through life. Maybe I need to find myself again. I've got to get away from here. There's probably something else for me out there somewhere... but I'm sure whatever it is isn't here..."
TRITHAL (to AXEM): "You wanna hang with us for a while? Since today's Sunday, there aren't gonna be any trains heading to Morgura from here until tomorrow morning. Me and Danika were just gonna spend the day in Itsuka while we waited."
AXEM: "Yeah, why not? It might be kinda silly. I just might do that."
THRAX: "Well, later today there's gonna be a train heading to the Northern Ports. From there we can catch a ferry to Ragnarok. So, me and the rest of the chicks will be leaving soon. You all have fun and whatever."
AXEM: "Ok. Catch you later, Thrax!"
THE PARTY DISBANDS
THRAX goes and collects his followers, and the group of them leave the Mountain Castle and head toward the train station in Itsuka. Shortly afterward TRITHAL, AXEM and Danika go into town... leaving the Mountain Castle and that whole mess of ordeals behind them.
(END CHAPTER FOUR)
maybe...
EPISODE NINETY-THREE: A: Triumphant Return; B: Danika faces the music; C: AXEM's new reality
The next day, the party plus Ali, King Midus, Nathan and Lisa, awoke and prepared to depart. It was agreed that Ali, Lisa and her baby, and the Saibot chicks minus Danika, would all ride in Ali's coach back to Mount Sabretooth, whereas King Midus, Nathan Sormeo and the rest of the group would ride in the King's coach. Each group engaged in random conversation during the 4-hour ride from Kurgemenheim, through western Morgura and the border area between Tanchi and Sabretooth, around the southwest corner of Mount Sabretooth to the Mountain Castle. When they arrived, they were greeted with a grand fanfare that one would expect to find at the end of an RPG which, again, only THRAX, TRITHAL, and CHRIS seem to only be aware of.
As the group disembarked the coaches, Queen Mia immediately went and greeted her two nieces.
Mia: "Ali!! Ella!! Oh, we've missed you so much, Ella! You had us worried sick! We've missed you so much!"
Mia continues to show her love to Ella aka Lisa. Nobody is able to communicate to her that Ella has suffered amnesia so Queen Mia proceeds to go nuts over her lost niece. All the while, Ella is fronting a weak look on her face not knowing how to react. The group of them made their way inside to the Grand Entertainment Hall, a room which the party hasn't seen yet inside the castle. The inside of this room was about 10 times bigger than the entertainment room the party had used last time they were at the mountain castle... and it was filled with 10 times more stuff too. It would take a very long time to describe everything in it, so just use your imaginations.
During the celebration, the trio was anxious to find out when they would see AXEM.
THRAX: "Hey...[showing restraint]...Duchess Ali, when are we gonna see Axem?"
CHRIS: "Yeah, we reunited you with your missing family member, now we want ours."
Ali (showing some restraint in her words):...he is being transported from Tanchi City and will arrive either later tonight or early tomorrow morning..."
With that, the party excused themselves so as not to disrupt the family gathering, wondering if Ali could maybe be suffering from epilepsy... or if maybe there could be something brewing between Ali and AXEM.
----------
As the evening continued, Palledoris and the other Saibot chicks decided that now is as good a time as any to discuss the situation surrounding Danika. They obtain permission to use a conference room in the north wing, and the Saibots minus Danika meet in there and spend an hour or so discussing amongst themselves.
Meanwhile, TRITHAL, THRAX, CHRIS and Danika are in their usual entertainment room trying to find ways to help keep Danika's spirits up while her fate was being decided in the other end of the castle. They manage to find some movies that they can mutually agree upon, and spend time watching them.
After a while, a servant enters the room and says, "Please excuse me, sirs and miss. Miss Palledoris has requested the presence of Miss Danika in the north wing." Danika immediately became nervous. TRITHAL offers to escort her to the meeting room, and she accepts.
The two of them, led by the servant, make their way to the North Wing of the mountain castle, to the door leading to the meeting room where the other Saibot chicks were waiting. TRITHAL hugs Danika and tells her that he will wait here for her. Danika tries as hard as she can to keep her composure as she enters the room.
Danika walks in and faces the other Saibot chicks sitting at the long side of a rectangular table aligned parallel to the back wall. Palledoris is sitting in the middle.
Palledors: "Danika, daughter of Ghondu, we have called this meeting of the Saibot Order to discuss your recent change in behavior. We have reached an agreement on how to respond to this. Before we continue, is there anything you would like to say?"
Danika: "Yes, there is." (pauses for a moment) "In light of all that has happened since we've met Lord Thrax, I have come to a realization: I don't think I can uphold the beliefs of the Saibot Order in good faith anymore. After spending as much time with Thrax as we have, I cannot see how our beliefs can be valid, given the kind of person that he is. As hard as I've tried to, I really can't see him as our promised messiah in the same way the rest of you do. There's no way I would ever feel comfortable in my faith if I'm not completely certain of what I have faith in. Therefore, I wish to leave the Saibot Clan on my own accord."
Palledoris: "Well, I can see that you're absolute in your beliefs, and for that I commend you. However, if you choose to leave the Saibot Clan, you can never return. You will be forced to relinquish the powers of the Forest Dragon and you will not be allowed to see any of us ever again. Are you sure this is what you want to do?"
Danika hesitates, then says with confidence, "Yes, it is. I have already decided that this is what I want to do."
Palledoris stands up and says, "Very well then. Danika of the Forest Dragon, you are hereby expelled from the Saibot Clan." then says a phrase in the Saibot language which means 'You are dead to me', then turns her back to Danika. The other 4 get up and do the same... Rishna trying as hard as she can not to cry.
Afterward, Danika turned and left the room. Outside, TRITHAL was sitting in a chair waiting for her. When she walked out, TRITHAL stood up and Danika immediately fell into his arms crying. As soon as enough of her composure was regained, the two made their way back to the entertainment room with THRAX and CHRIS.
----------
By this time, the hour had grown considerably late. Outside, a Tanchi Military Police transport vehicle arrives, and from within it emerged 4 guards and the chained-up AXEM the Stone Pillar. A few palace guards meet the procession and escort the Tanchi guards and AXEM down to the dungeon beneath the Mountain Castle. Soon thereafter, a servant goes to the entertainment room containing THRAX, TRITHAL, CHRIS and Danika and informs them that AXEM had arrived, and the Duchess has granted them permission to visit with him downstairs. Danika, still an emotional wreck, and having never really cared for AXEM to begin with, stays behind and insists the rest of them go see him.
Down in the dungeon, Ali meets the party outside the cell block.
Ali: "You can tell him that tomorrow morning will be Red Phile's trial. If Phile is found guilty, Axem will.......(in a quotationative tone)...be set free.... If not, Axem will rot away in jail like he deserves to."
THRAX was about to utter a sentence comprised mostly of harsh derogatory words until TRITHAL grabbed his arm and pulled him into the cell block. The trio have been wondering in their minds why she seems to stutter and halt before she talks about AXEM. THRAX is more cognizant of it than the others. Wanting to make sense out of it, he asks Ali, "Uh, don't you wanna go in with us? I mean, regardless, you two did have a thing for each other..."
Ali simply walks away and mutters, "He is no friend of mine anymore..."
With that, the party makes their way down the cell block to AXEM's cell, and AXEM immediately jumps up and greets his friends.
AXEM: "Hey shitbags! What the fuck is going on? Why am I back here? You couldn't imagine the look on my face when those Tanchi fucks ordered me to come here."
TRITHAL: "Well, we have some 'good' news, some 'awesome' news, and some 'bad' news. Which would you like to hear first?"
AXEM: "Umm, how about the awesome news."
TRITHAL: "Okay. The 'awesome' news is we found Ella and she's been brought back here to the Mountain Castle."
AXEM: "Wow! Holy fuck, for real? (trying to show genuine interest): H-h-how is she? Is she OK?"
TRITHAL: "Yeah, she's fine. To make a long story short which I will explain later, she was rescued by a family in Fafara and taken to Mordentshire. That's where we found her. However, she cannot remember anything before the first of the 324th Year of Nengo."
AXEM: "So that means she doesn't remember me?"
TRITHAL: "You, and everything else about her past before that time."
AXEM: "Well, that fucking sucks. The only person that doesn't think I'm a piece of shit doesn't remember a goddamn thing about me. Now how about the good news?"
THRAX: "...Well, we don't know what she thinks of you yet. She has been talking with the Saibot chicks and that brat Ali so she may not be too excited about the thought of you. Anyway, the 'good' news is we found and captured the punk-ass who attacked you and kidnapped Ella. He's in the King's custody now and will be tried tomorrow morning. If he's found guilty, Ali said she will let your ass outta here."
AXEM: "Ok, thats pretty cool... But what if he's found innocent?"
TRITHAL: "Then Ali will throw you in prison for the rest of your life."
AXEM: "That would suck major dick... How can it get any worse than that?"
TRITHAL: "Well, here's the 'bad' news: Rishna has missed her period."
AXEM (experiencing delayed reaction): "Oh... OH!!! AH, FUCK ME!!!"
CHRIS: "Yeah, that's what she did, alright! Heh! Now there's gonna be a little Axem running around! That's silly!"
THRAX: "Yeah. There almost would have been 2 of them! When we arrived in Mordentshire we learned that Ella had a 1-year old baby that might have been yours... but it turned out to be Phile's."
AXEM: "Well, this is all fucked up! You fucks have been on quite a journey while I was rotting away. I guess this is what I deserve for thinking with my dick instead of my brain. Goddamn it, what was I thinking?!! AAAAHHH!!! This will probably turn out to be a learning experience for me about how the consequences of my actions will eventually find me and chew me in the ass."
TRITHAL: "Yeah, it should be. Anyway, it's after midnight now and we all have a busy day tomorrow. We should go get some sleep. You need to do the same."
AXEM: "Good idea. I'll see you tomorrow then."
THRAX: "Yeah, ¡hasta mañana!"
The party exits the cell block and makes their way back upstairs to the South Wing, where they showered and slept.
As the group disembarked the coaches, Queen Mia immediately went and greeted her two nieces.
Mia: "Ali!! Ella!! Oh, we've missed you so much, Ella! You had us worried sick! We've missed you so much!"
Mia continues to show her love to Ella aka Lisa. Nobody is able to communicate to her that Ella has suffered amnesia so Queen Mia proceeds to go nuts over her lost niece. All the while, Ella is fronting a weak look on her face not knowing how to react. The group of them made their way inside to the Grand Entertainment Hall, a room which the party hasn't seen yet inside the castle. The inside of this room was about 10 times bigger than the entertainment room the party had used last time they were at the mountain castle... and it was filled with 10 times more stuff too. It would take a very long time to describe everything in it, so just use your imaginations.
During the celebration, the trio was anxious to find out when they would see AXEM.
THRAX: "Hey...[showing restraint]...Duchess Ali, when are we gonna see Axem?"
CHRIS: "Yeah, we reunited you with your missing family member, now we want ours."
Ali (showing some restraint in her words):...he is being transported from Tanchi City and will arrive either later tonight or early tomorrow morning..."
With that, the party excused themselves so as not to disrupt the family gathering, wondering if Ali could maybe be suffering from epilepsy... or if maybe there could be something brewing between Ali and AXEM.
----------
As the evening continued, Palledoris and the other Saibot chicks decided that now is as good a time as any to discuss the situation surrounding Danika. They obtain permission to use a conference room in the north wing, and the Saibots minus Danika meet in there and spend an hour or so discussing amongst themselves.
Meanwhile, TRITHAL, THRAX, CHRIS and Danika are in their usual entertainment room trying to find ways to help keep Danika's spirits up while her fate was being decided in the other end of the castle. They manage to find some movies that they can mutually agree upon, and spend time watching them.
After a while, a servant enters the room and says, "Please excuse me, sirs and miss. Miss Palledoris has requested the presence of Miss Danika in the north wing." Danika immediately became nervous. TRITHAL offers to escort her to the meeting room, and she accepts.
The two of them, led by the servant, make their way to the North Wing of the mountain castle, to the door leading to the meeting room where the other Saibot chicks were waiting. TRITHAL hugs Danika and tells her that he will wait here for her. Danika tries as hard as she can to keep her composure as she enters the room.
Danika walks in and faces the other Saibot chicks sitting at the long side of a rectangular table aligned parallel to the back wall. Palledoris is sitting in the middle.
Palledors: "Danika, daughter of Ghondu, we have called this meeting of the Saibot Order to discuss your recent change in behavior. We have reached an agreement on how to respond to this. Before we continue, is there anything you would like to say?"
Danika: "Yes, there is." (pauses for a moment) "In light of all that has happened since we've met Lord Thrax, I have come to a realization: I don't think I can uphold the beliefs of the Saibot Order in good faith anymore. After spending as much time with Thrax as we have, I cannot see how our beliefs can be valid, given the kind of person that he is. As hard as I've tried to, I really can't see him as our promised messiah in the same way the rest of you do. There's no way I would ever feel comfortable in my faith if I'm not completely certain of what I have faith in. Therefore, I wish to leave the Saibot Clan on my own accord."
Palledoris: "Well, I can see that you're absolute in your beliefs, and for that I commend you. However, if you choose to leave the Saibot Clan, you can never return. You will be forced to relinquish the powers of the Forest Dragon and you will not be allowed to see any of us ever again. Are you sure this is what you want to do?"
Danika hesitates, then says with confidence, "Yes, it is. I have already decided that this is what I want to do."
Palledoris stands up and says, "Very well then. Danika of the Forest Dragon, you are hereby expelled from the Saibot Clan." then says a phrase in the Saibot language which means 'You are dead to me', then turns her back to Danika. The other 4 get up and do the same... Rishna trying as hard as she can not to cry.
Afterward, Danika turned and left the room. Outside, TRITHAL was sitting in a chair waiting for her. When she walked out, TRITHAL stood up and Danika immediately fell into his arms crying. As soon as enough of her composure was regained, the two made their way back to the entertainment room with THRAX and CHRIS.
----------
By this time, the hour had grown considerably late. Outside, a Tanchi Military Police transport vehicle arrives, and from within it emerged 4 guards and the chained-up AXEM the Stone Pillar. A few palace guards meet the procession and escort the Tanchi guards and AXEM down to the dungeon beneath the Mountain Castle. Soon thereafter, a servant goes to the entertainment room containing THRAX, TRITHAL, CHRIS and Danika and informs them that AXEM had arrived, and the Duchess has granted them permission to visit with him downstairs. Danika, still an emotional wreck, and having never really cared for AXEM to begin with, stays behind and insists the rest of them go see him.
Down in the dungeon, Ali meets the party outside the cell block.
Ali: "You can tell him that tomorrow morning will be Red Phile's trial. If Phile is found guilty, Axem will.......(in a quotationative tone)...be set free.... If not, Axem will rot away in jail like he deserves to."
THRAX was about to utter a sentence comprised mostly of harsh derogatory words until TRITHAL grabbed his arm and pulled him into the cell block. The trio have been wondering in their minds why she seems to stutter and halt before she talks about AXEM. THRAX is more cognizant of it than the others. Wanting to make sense out of it, he asks Ali, "Uh, don't you wanna go in with us? I mean, regardless, you two did have a thing for each other..."
Ali simply walks away and mutters, "He is no friend of mine anymore..."
With that, the party makes their way down the cell block to AXEM's cell, and AXEM immediately jumps up and greets his friends.
AXEM: "Hey shitbags! What the fuck is going on? Why am I back here? You couldn't imagine the look on my face when those Tanchi fucks ordered me to come here."
TRITHAL: "Well, we have some 'good' news, some 'awesome' news, and some 'bad' news. Which would you like to hear first?"
AXEM: "Umm, how about the awesome news."
TRITHAL: "Okay. The 'awesome' news is we found Ella and she's been brought back here to the Mountain Castle."
AXEM: "Wow! Holy fuck, for real? (trying to show genuine interest): H-h-how is she? Is she OK?"
TRITHAL: "Yeah, she's fine. To make a long story short which I will explain later, she was rescued by a family in Fafara and taken to Mordentshire. That's where we found her. However, she cannot remember anything before the first of the 324th Year of Nengo."
AXEM: "So that means she doesn't remember me?"
TRITHAL: "You, and everything else about her past before that time."
AXEM: "Well, that fucking sucks. The only person that doesn't think I'm a piece of shit doesn't remember a goddamn thing about me. Now how about the good news?"
THRAX: "...Well, we don't know what she thinks of you yet. She has been talking with the Saibot chicks and that brat Ali so she may not be too excited about the thought of you. Anyway, the 'good' news is we found and captured the punk-ass who attacked you and kidnapped Ella. He's in the King's custody now and will be tried tomorrow morning. If he's found guilty, Ali said she will let your ass outta here."
AXEM: "Ok, thats pretty cool... But what if he's found innocent?"
TRITHAL: "Then Ali will throw you in prison for the rest of your life."
AXEM: "That would suck major dick... How can it get any worse than that?"
TRITHAL: "Well, here's the 'bad' news: Rishna has missed her period."
AXEM (experiencing delayed reaction): "Oh... OH!!! AH, FUCK ME!!!"
CHRIS: "Yeah, that's what she did, alright! Heh! Now there's gonna be a little Axem running around! That's silly!"
THRAX: "Yeah. There almost would have been 2 of them! When we arrived in Mordentshire we learned that Ella had a 1-year old baby that might have been yours... but it turned out to be Phile's."
AXEM: "Well, this is all fucked up! You fucks have been on quite a journey while I was rotting away. I guess this is what I deserve for thinking with my dick instead of my brain. Goddamn it, what was I thinking?!! AAAAHHH!!! This will probably turn out to be a learning experience for me about how the consequences of my actions will eventually find me and chew me in the ass."
TRITHAL: "Yeah, it should be. Anyway, it's after midnight now and we all have a busy day tomorrow. We should go get some sleep. You need to do the same."
AXEM: "Good idea. I'll see you tomorrow then."
THRAX: "Yeah, ¡hasta mañana!"
The party exits the cell block and makes their way back upstairs to the South Wing, where they showered and slept.
EPISODE NINETY-TWO: Reunion?
The next day, each party member kinda kept to themselves while they waited for the royal family to arrive. Per the request of the Sormeos, TRITHAL booked one of the hotel's meeting rooms for the occasion, since it would be too big of a spectacle for a royal procession to be in their neighborhood. Per the agreement, the party would meet the King and Duchess when they arrive at the hotel later in the day, then the Sormeos would arrive after they got home form work. Meanwhile, the party had to find something to do to pass the time.
CHRIS found a few books at the bookstore from the previous day, and is up in the suite reading them. Palledoris, after deciding to re-pursue her once-avid interest in the flute, is up in her suite playing around with a flute she bought the day before. Anri spends some time sitting on the floor of the suite meditating. THRAX eventually finds himself engaged in conversation with Palledoris and Alys discussing the increasingly-weird dreams he's been having for the past few nights, and why his skin is turning red and scaly in a few places. Rishna is sitting in her bed with a notebook, writing random shit and drawing sketches... still pre-occupied with her own problems. Danika has disappeared to somewhere nearby to try out her new Nunchaku. TRITHAL is downstairs in their reserved meeting room, seeing to it that it is arranged according to their needs. Aelle eventually joins him there.
Aelle: "Hey Tsutaru? Can I talk to you?"
TRITHAL: "I guess. What's up?"
Aelle: "I know Lord Thrax ordered us not to pursue this until after we're done with the mission, but I have to ask you this: What is going on between you and Danika?"
TRITHAL: "Well, to be quite honest, I'm not entirely sure myself. But, from what I gather, Danika doesn't seem satisfied anymore with the Saibot order... and she's under the impression that I know a better way."
Aelle: "And why would she think that?"
TRITHAL: "That's something you'll have to talk to her about yourself. I honestly couldn't answer that for you."
Aelle: "What I'm getting at is, have you done or said anything to her that would cause her to think ill of the Saibot clan?"
TRITHAL: "Aelle, while I do take a personal stance against any religion that teaches ignorance, I don't go about trying to disrupt any religious sect that I don't agree with. I wouldn't have anything to gain from such actions. As far as I'm concerned, Danika is acting of her own will. Now, she may have gotten some ideas from listening to what I said to those hippies in Mordentshire or whatever, but I would never intentionally cause her to want to leave the Saibot clan. She obviously has some issues with you girls that you, as a group, need to address. As for me, I don't want any part of your internal affairs so keep me out of it."
Just then, a hotel employee came in and informed TRITHAL the royal transport had arrived. As TRITHAL turned to exit the room, Aelle grabbed his arm and said, "Just promise me, Tsutaru, that you won't take advantage of her."
TRITHAL: "Ok, Aelle, I promise. Now, could you do me a favor and go tell everyone it's show time?"
Aelle nods, then exits to go upstairs and gather the party. TRITHAL makes his way to the front lobby to greet the King and Duchess.
Outside, there is a Mount Sabretooth Army escort vehicle, followed by what appears to be a rock star's tour bus bearing the crest of King Midus, followed by another tour bus bearing the crest of the Plains of Tanchi, with a Tanchi Military Police escort vehicle bringing up the rear. A coachman exits the first tour bus and sets down a step, then helps Duchess Ali step out of the vehicle, followed by King Midus. Trithal couldn't help but notice that Ali is even more hot than before, but because he "got some", he is able to act accordingly. The two are wearing royal-looking attire, but not all-out frilly... or something like that or something. Anyway, the two enter the lobby and meet TRITHAL.
TRITHAL: "Ah, King Midus and Duchess Ali. Welcome to Morgura Prefecture."
King Midus: "Greetings, Trithal the Divine Wind."
Ali: "You're looking well, Trithal... not as characteristically up-tight as usual."
TRITHAL: "Well, thanks... I think. The rest of the party should be joining us momentarily. Let me show you to our meeting room."
TRITHAL escorts the King and Duchess, and the servants following them, to the meeting room.
TRITHAL: "The Sormeos should be here within an hour."
King Midus: "Excellent. That should give our doctor plenty of time to set up for the DNA test."
King Midus gives an order to a servant, who runs outside. Moments later, a few more servants begin to carry in medical equipment, then a tall man in a lab coat enters the meeting room and begins to assemble the equipment. The Saibot chicks plus THRAX and CHRIS eventually file into the room and exchange greetings with the King and Duchess.
Almost immediately, THRAX confronts Ali and mutters in an angry tone, "If this girl turns out to be Ella, you'd better let Axem go, or else there'll be hell to pay!"
The Tanchi guards prepare to draw weapons in defense because he is being smug to the prefectural lord, but Ali motions for them to stand down. She then responds to THRAX, "If Lisa Sormeo does turn out to be my long-lost sister, I may consider reducing his sentence to time served... and that's ONLY if I feel like it. Axem is still responsible for me losing my sister to begin with. Kidnapping a member of the royal family is enough of a crime to warrant his execution... and as far as I'm concerned, Axem the Stone Pillar is guilty as charged."
THRAX (trying ever so hard to repress going 'nucking futs' on her): "But, we arrested the guy who really kidnapped her in Laurenstown the other day! If you're gonna execute somebody, execute him! Let Axem go!"
Ali: "Thrax, in the United Prefectures you're innocent until proven guilty. Red Phile will have his day in court... and if he's found guilty his head will surely be on a pike. If he's found to be not guilty, then that leaves Axem as the responsible party... and if that's the case Axem will spend the rest of his life rotting away in my prison. The only reason why I won't execute him is because I owe him for helping me retake Tanchi. But, he is still pond scum to me."
Realizing that it would be pointless to continue arguing with the Duchess, THRAX snorts in disgust and walks away.
Elsewhere in the room, TRITHAL is talking with King Midus, CHRIS catches up with THRAX and tries to be silly with him, and Ali meets up with the Saibot chicks. She could tell simply by the looks in their faces what was going on with both Danika and Rishna. The group of them engaged in an excruciating level of girl-talk. After about 45 minutes of scattered conversation and preparation, the Sormeos called TRITHAL to inform him that they're on their way.
TRITHAL and Danika met the family in the lobby and showed them to the meeting room. When they all entered, Ali noticed the face of her long lost sister and almost went hysterical... until TRITHAL sent a telepathic message to her reminding her of Lisa's fragile mental state so she kept it cool for the time being.
Alan Sormeo: "King Midus, it is truly an honor!!"
Midus: "Thank you, sir. And you have much to clear up with your daughter-in-laws' past, yes?"
Denise Sormeo: "Yes, Your Majesty."
Midus: "...As do we."
The group of them sat and discussed how Lisa most-certainly resembles the lost Ella, and other random bullshit. A few minutes later, the doctor informed the King that he is ready to conduct the DNA test.
The doctor first escorts Ali into a booth where he draws a sample of her blood. Then after he's done with Ali, he escorts Lisa into the booth to take a sample of her blood. The doctor informed the king that the test should be completed in about 5 minutes. During that time the group engaged in conversation.
King Midus: "After this is done with, you are all invited to the Mountain Castle for a few days. This joyous celebration deserves a more proper venue."
Alan Sormeo: "Uh, with respect... I just got back from vacation, so I don't think I'll get the time off of work."
Nathan Sormeo: "Well, I'll be able to go!"
TRITHAL: "Now, let's not get ahead of ourselves. We still don't know for sure if Lisa is indeed Ella."
After a few more tense moments, the doctor emerged with a printouts of the results of the DNA test. The doctor handed one of the copies to the King, then stood in front of the group...there is a long and dramatic, annoying pause before he speaks...
CHRIS: "I CAN'T TAKE THE SUSPENSE!"
Out of nowhere, a pillow flies across the room and nails CHRIS in the head. The camera pans over to TRITHAL, who has a 'faking innocent' look on his face.
Doctor: "I have conducted the prescribed DNA analysis of the two blood samples I collected. The result of which suggests a match between the two subjects. As a result, I hereby conclude that this woman is indeed Ella of the Light, daughter of Annan!"
Some silly fanfare music plays that everyone, except the trio, seems to be totally oblivious to.
Lisa sat there with a look of disbelief while the rest of the Sormeos, and the King and Duchess began rejoicing. Ali hugs Lisa and says, "Praise be to the gods! We've found my sister!"
Nathan Sormeo: "Did you hear that, Lisa? You're royalty!"
Lisa: "Yeah... so.... what does all this mean?"
The group of rejoicers reacted to the oddness of Lisa's question.
Alan Sormeo: "It means that we've finally found your lost family. Aren't you excited about that?"
Lisa: "Well, I guess I am... but does this mean that I'm gonna have to leave all of you and go to Mount Sabretooth?"
King Midus: "We would like it if you did. We've missed you dearly these past two years."
Lisa: "But then, that means I'll have to say goodbye to the Sormeos. They've been my family for these past two years."
Seeing the beginnings of the conflict he feared would arise, TRITHAL approaches Lisa and says to her "You don't have to do anything you don't want to do. I'm sure the King and Duchess will give you time to decide for yourself whether or not you want to leave here and move to Mount Sabretooth. No one will pressure you into anything."
King Midus: "Yes, of course. But I would like for you, Nathan and your child to come to my castle and see the rest of your family. Everyone will be pleased to know that you are alive and well. Afterward, you may come back here to the Sormeos if you would like."
Lisa thinks about it for a moment, then says, "Yes, I think I'd like that."
King Midus: "Very good, then. Tomorrow morning we shall leave here and return to Mount Sabretooth. You, Nathan, and the elemental warriors are all welcome to travel with us. We have plenty of room in both of our coaches."
Ali (to party): "You have fulfilled your end of the bargain...I'll have my Military Police bring Axem to the Mountain Castle and he can rejoin you there..."
Before THRAX could get in Ali's face again, TRITHAL said, "Thank you, Ali. That would be most appreciated."
TRITHAL had already arranged for quarters for the King and Duchess on the VIP level of the hotel. Ali invited Nathan and Lisa to stay with them that night and leave for Mount Sabretooth in the morning. King Midus invited everyone to an expensive dinner at the nicest restaurant in town on him. The whole group accepted. After dinner, Alan and Denise told their son and daughter-in-law that they will await their return from Mount Sabretooth, then left for home. The rest of the group made their way back to the hotel to turn in for the night.
CHRIS found a few books at the bookstore from the previous day, and is up in the suite reading them. Palledoris, after deciding to re-pursue her once-avid interest in the flute, is up in her suite playing around with a flute she bought the day before. Anri spends some time sitting on the floor of the suite meditating. THRAX eventually finds himself engaged in conversation with Palledoris and Alys discussing the increasingly-weird dreams he's been having for the past few nights, and why his skin is turning red and scaly in a few places. Rishna is sitting in her bed with a notebook, writing random shit and drawing sketches... still pre-occupied with her own problems. Danika has disappeared to somewhere nearby to try out her new Nunchaku. TRITHAL is downstairs in their reserved meeting room, seeing to it that it is arranged according to their needs. Aelle eventually joins him there.
Aelle: "Hey Tsutaru? Can I talk to you?"
TRITHAL: "I guess. What's up?"
Aelle: "I know Lord Thrax ordered us not to pursue this until after we're done with the mission, but I have to ask you this: What is going on between you and Danika?"
TRITHAL: "Well, to be quite honest, I'm not entirely sure myself. But, from what I gather, Danika doesn't seem satisfied anymore with the Saibot order... and she's under the impression that I know a better way."
Aelle: "And why would she think that?"
TRITHAL: "That's something you'll have to talk to her about yourself. I honestly couldn't answer that for you."
Aelle: "What I'm getting at is, have you done or said anything to her that would cause her to think ill of the Saibot clan?"
TRITHAL: "Aelle, while I do take a personal stance against any religion that teaches ignorance, I don't go about trying to disrupt any religious sect that I don't agree with. I wouldn't have anything to gain from such actions. As far as I'm concerned, Danika is acting of her own will. Now, she may have gotten some ideas from listening to what I said to those hippies in Mordentshire or whatever, but I would never intentionally cause her to want to leave the Saibot clan. She obviously has some issues with you girls that you, as a group, need to address. As for me, I don't want any part of your internal affairs so keep me out of it."
Just then, a hotel employee came in and informed TRITHAL the royal transport had arrived. As TRITHAL turned to exit the room, Aelle grabbed his arm and said, "Just promise me, Tsutaru, that you won't take advantage of her."
TRITHAL: "Ok, Aelle, I promise. Now, could you do me a favor and go tell everyone it's show time?"
Aelle nods, then exits to go upstairs and gather the party. TRITHAL makes his way to the front lobby to greet the King and Duchess.
Outside, there is a Mount Sabretooth Army escort vehicle, followed by what appears to be a rock star's tour bus bearing the crest of King Midus, followed by another tour bus bearing the crest of the Plains of Tanchi, with a Tanchi Military Police escort vehicle bringing up the rear. A coachman exits the first tour bus and sets down a step, then helps Duchess Ali step out of the vehicle, followed by King Midus. Trithal couldn't help but notice that Ali is even more hot than before, but because he "got some", he is able to act accordingly. The two are wearing royal-looking attire, but not all-out frilly... or something like that or something. Anyway, the two enter the lobby and meet TRITHAL.
TRITHAL: "Ah, King Midus and Duchess Ali. Welcome to Morgura Prefecture."
King Midus: "Greetings, Trithal the Divine Wind."
Ali: "You're looking well, Trithal... not as characteristically up-tight as usual."
TRITHAL: "Well, thanks... I think. The rest of the party should be joining us momentarily. Let me show you to our meeting room."
TRITHAL escorts the King and Duchess, and the servants following them, to the meeting room.
TRITHAL: "The Sormeos should be here within an hour."
King Midus: "Excellent. That should give our doctor plenty of time to set up for the DNA test."
King Midus gives an order to a servant, who runs outside. Moments later, a few more servants begin to carry in medical equipment, then a tall man in a lab coat enters the meeting room and begins to assemble the equipment. The Saibot chicks plus THRAX and CHRIS eventually file into the room and exchange greetings with the King and Duchess.
Almost immediately, THRAX confronts Ali and mutters in an angry tone, "If this girl turns out to be Ella, you'd better let Axem go, or else there'll be hell to pay!"
The Tanchi guards prepare to draw weapons in defense because he is being smug to the prefectural lord, but Ali motions for them to stand down. She then responds to THRAX, "If Lisa Sormeo does turn out to be my long-lost sister, I may consider reducing his sentence to time served... and that's ONLY if I feel like it. Axem is still responsible for me losing my sister to begin with. Kidnapping a member of the royal family is enough of a crime to warrant his execution... and as far as I'm concerned, Axem the Stone Pillar is guilty as charged."
THRAX (trying ever so hard to repress going 'nucking futs' on her): "But, we arrested the guy who really kidnapped her in Laurenstown the other day! If you're gonna execute somebody, execute him! Let Axem go!"
Ali: "Thrax, in the United Prefectures you're innocent until proven guilty. Red Phile will have his day in court... and if he's found guilty his head will surely be on a pike. If he's found to be not guilty, then that leaves Axem as the responsible party... and if that's the case Axem will spend the rest of his life rotting away in my prison. The only reason why I won't execute him is because I owe him for helping me retake Tanchi. But, he is still pond scum to me."
Realizing that it would be pointless to continue arguing with the Duchess, THRAX snorts in disgust and walks away.
Elsewhere in the room, TRITHAL is talking with King Midus, CHRIS catches up with THRAX and tries to be silly with him, and Ali meets up with the Saibot chicks. She could tell simply by the looks in their faces what was going on with both Danika and Rishna. The group of them engaged in an excruciating level of girl-talk. After about 45 minutes of scattered conversation and preparation, the Sormeos called TRITHAL to inform him that they're on their way.
TRITHAL and Danika met the family in the lobby and showed them to the meeting room. When they all entered, Ali noticed the face of her long lost sister and almost went hysterical... until TRITHAL sent a telepathic message to her reminding her of Lisa's fragile mental state so she kept it cool for the time being.
Alan Sormeo: "King Midus, it is truly an honor!!"
Midus: "Thank you, sir. And you have much to clear up with your daughter-in-laws' past, yes?"
Denise Sormeo: "Yes, Your Majesty."
Midus: "...As do we."
The group of them sat and discussed how Lisa most-certainly resembles the lost Ella, and other random bullshit. A few minutes later, the doctor informed the King that he is ready to conduct the DNA test.
The doctor first escorts Ali into a booth where he draws a sample of her blood. Then after he's done with Ali, he escorts Lisa into the booth to take a sample of her blood. The doctor informed the king that the test should be completed in about 5 minutes. During that time the group engaged in conversation.
King Midus: "After this is done with, you are all invited to the Mountain Castle for a few days. This joyous celebration deserves a more proper venue."
Alan Sormeo: "Uh, with respect... I just got back from vacation, so I don't think I'll get the time off of work."
Nathan Sormeo: "Well, I'll be able to go!"
TRITHAL: "Now, let's not get ahead of ourselves. We still don't know for sure if Lisa is indeed Ella."
After a few more tense moments, the doctor emerged with a printouts of the results of the DNA test. The doctor handed one of the copies to the King, then stood in front of the group...there is a long and dramatic, annoying pause before he speaks...
CHRIS: "I CAN'T TAKE THE SUSPENSE!"
Out of nowhere, a pillow flies across the room and nails CHRIS in the head. The camera pans over to TRITHAL, who has a 'faking innocent' look on his face.
Doctor: "I have conducted the prescribed DNA analysis of the two blood samples I collected. The result of which suggests a match between the two subjects. As a result, I hereby conclude that this woman is indeed Ella of the Light, daughter of Annan!"
Some silly fanfare music plays that everyone, except the trio, seems to be totally oblivious to.
Lisa sat there with a look of disbelief while the rest of the Sormeos, and the King and Duchess began rejoicing. Ali hugs Lisa and says, "Praise be to the gods! We've found my sister!"
Nathan Sormeo: "Did you hear that, Lisa? You're royalty!"
Lisa: "Yeah... so.... what does all this mean?"
The group of rejoicers reacted to the oddness of Lisa's question.
Alan Sormeo: "It means that we've finally found your lost family. Aren't you excited about that?"
Lisa: "Well, I guess I am... but does this mean that I'm gonna have to leave all of you and go to Mount Sabretooth?"
King Midus: "We would like it if you did. We've missed you dearly these past two years."
Lisa: "But then, that means I'll have to say goodbye to the Sormeos. They've been my family for these past two years."
Seeing the beginnings of the conflict he feared would arise, TRITHAL approaches Lisa and says to her "You don't have to do anything you don't want to do. I'm sure the King and Duchess will give you time to decide for yourself whether or not you want to leave here and move to Mount Sabretooth. No one will pressure you into anything."
King Midus: "Yes, of course. But I would like for you, Nathan and your child to come to my castle and see the rest of your family. Everyone will be pleased to know that you are alive and well. Afterward, you may come back here to the Sormeos if you would like."
Lisa thinks about it for a moment, then says, "Yes, I think I'd like that."
King Midus: "Very good, then. Tomorrow morning we shall leave here and return to Mount Sabretooth. You, Nathan, and the elemental warriors are all welcome to travel with us. We have plenty of room in both of our coaches."
Ali (to party): "You have fulfilled your end of the bargain...I'll have my Military Police bring Axem to the Mountain Castle and he can rejoin you there..."
Before THRAX could get in Ali's face again, TRITHAL said, "Thank you, Ali. That would be most appreciated."
TRITHAL had already arranged for quarters for the King and Duchess on the VIP level of the hotel. Ali invited Nathan and Lisa to stay with them that night and leave for Mount Sabretooth in the morning. King Midus invited everyone to an expensive dinner at the nicest restaurant in town on him. The whole group accepted. After dinner, Alan and Denise told their son and daughter-in-law that they will await their return from Mount Sabretooth, then left for home. The rest of the group made their way back to the hotel to turn in for the night.
EPISODE NINETY-ONE: Are you Ella?
When the party congregates back at the hotel, they decide that it would be best if only a few of them went to meet the Sormeos. To that end, they decide that TRITHAL and THRAX should go, since they would be the best investigators. Danika pleads to go with TRITHAL, so as to avoid being around the Saibot clan because they're waiting for the next opportunity to tear into her like a pack of hungry wolves, and CHRIS because he wants to feel her up just like TRITHAL did. TRITHAL agrees, likewise seeing the need for separation
TRITHAL, THRAX and Danika arrived at the Sormeo residence at the appointed time of 3:30 in the afternoon. At the front door of the residence, a gentleman who appears to be in his late 40's / early 50's answers.
TRITHAL: "Mr Alan Sormeo? I'm Trithal the Divine Wind" (presents ID badge) "It's nice to finally meet you in person."
Alan Sormeo: "Likewise, Mr Trithal. Please come in."
As Mr Sormeo shows the trio into his den, TRITHAL says "These are my associates, Thrax the Hell-Fire and Danika of the Forest Dragon."
Alan Sormeo: "Pleased to meet you all. This is my wife Denise."
TRITHAL, THRAX and Danika shake hands with Mrs Sormeo. Everyone takes their seats in the den, and TRITHAL withdraws his picture of Ella.
TRITHAL: "We are under the assumption that you have rescued this woman from Red Phile in the city of Fafara, in Muriad Prefecture. Is that correct?"
Denise Sormeo: "Yes sir, that's correct. We found her unconscious and half-naked outside Phile's hideout two years ago. She couldn't remember who she was or why she was there. She must have been seriously roofied or something. We took her in and took care of her, and brought her with us when we moved here."
Alan Sormeo: "About a year ago she married our son, Nathan, who is about the same age as her. The two of them have been raising her son."
TRITHAL: "Yes, your neighbor told me yesterday that she has a baby boy. You wouldn't happen to know who the father is, do you?"
Alan Sormeo: "We're almost entirely certain that it's Red Phile, because the baby's skin is slightly red and his ears are pointy. Red Phile is half-human half-elf, so that would explain it."
TRITHAL: "Hmm. I see. Mr Sormeo, have you heard about the member of the Tanchi-Sabretooth royal family who disappeared in eastern Muriad two years ago?"
Alan Sormeo: "We may have, but at that time we were more focused on trying to move out of there. We had grown tired of all the crime that had been happening there. I was lucky enough to score a transfer out here, even though it's a long ways away from Fafara."
TRITHAL: "Well, in light of some new evidence that has recently surfaced about this case, we have reason to believe that the woman you've been caring for is Ella of the Light, daughter of the late Annan, Duke of Tanchi, and sister of now-Duchess Ali of Tanchi."
The Sormeos give shocked facial expressions in reaction to what TRITHAL said.
TRITHAL: "Is there any way you could arrange a meeting with her so we can determine if she is indeed Ella or not?"
Denise Sormeo: "Sure. They only live five minutes from here. We could call them over right now."
As Mr Sormeo made the call, Mrs Sormeo offered the trio some coffee. About five minutes later, the young couple with baby arrived at their parents home.
Nathan Sormeo: "Mom? Dad? What's going on?"
Alan Sormeo: "Son, these people here are from the Mount Sabretooth Phi Considine."
Nathan Sormeo: "Mount Sabretooth? What would they want with us?"
Alan Sormeo: "They believe they have information about Lisa's past and want to ask her some questions."
Nathan Sormeo: "They're not gonna try and take her away, are they?"
Alan Sormeo: "I don't think so. They just want to ask her some questions. That's all."
As the young couple and the baby enters the room, the trio stands up and introduces themselves. Everyone notices that the baby has red skin and pointy eyebrows and ears, like an elf. Afterward, everyone sits down again and TRITHAL begins questioning.
TRITHAL: "Your name is Lisa, correct?"
Lisa: "Um, yes sir. At least, that's what Alan, Denise and Nate have called me."
TRITHAL: "Now, what do you remember about the day you were rescued?"
Lisa: "Well, I remember waking up outside without any clothes on, and then I remember Nate bringing me home. It's all a blur, but that's what I remember."
TRITHAL: "Now, can you remember anything before then?"
Lisa: "Well, I think I remember seeing a man with red skin and pointy ears---"
TRITHAL suddenly grasps his forehead in pain and lets out a semi-quiet "AAHHH!!"
Denise Sormeo: "Mr Trithal, are you alright?"
TRITHAL (wiping some blood that has leaked out of his nose): "Yes. It's just my sinuses. I apologize... Please continue, Lisa."
Lisa: "Well, the only thing I can distinctly remember is being happy, then suddenly being scared. That's all I can remember."
While TRITHAL is tending to his nose bleed, THRAX withdraws a picture of AXEM and asks Lisa, "Do you remember this person?"
Lisa studies the picture for a minute then says, "I feel like I've seen him before, but I can't remember who he is or anything."
THRAX: "This person's name is Miah Thorpatrick. According to his testimony, he was with you when you were abducted by Red Phile."
Lisa tries to remember, then says "Sorry, but I really can't remember."
TRITHAL, whose nose had stopped bleeding, says "That's ok." He withdraws a picture of King Midus, Queen Mia, Ali and Ella and shows it to Lisa. "Do any of the faces in this picture look familiar?"
Lisa takes the picture from TRITHAL and studies it. She points to Ella and says "That looks like me! These faces seem familiar, but I don't have any idea from where."
TRITHAL: "The two older people are King Midus and Queen Mia of Mount Sabretooth. The person on the left is Duchess Ali of the Plains of Tanchi. The person next to her is her sister Ella of the Light... who went missing about two years ago. Based on the evidence we've collected, we have reason to believe that that person is you."
Lisa enters a stunned silence while Nate says, "Seriously? Lisa could be royalty? That's amazing!"
TRITHAL: "Now, the only way we can know for sure is if we did a DNA test with Lisa and Duchess Ali. If we were to request it, would you be willing to do this?"
Alan Sormeo: "Well, of course! We would do anything to help Lisa find her past. If she has family who's searching for her, we'll be glad to help her find them!"
Lisa is still in a stunned silence and hasn't said anything. TRITHAL looks at her examiningly, then says "We'll contact the royal family immediately and see if we can get Ali to come down so we can do a DNA test. I will get in contact with you later this evening with their response."
After that, the trio leaves the Sormeo home and returns to the hotel. On the way, they discuss what happened.
TRITHAL: "She definitely has amnesia or some kind of brain damage. I wasn't able to scan any farther past her consciousness."
THRAX: "Is that what gave you a nosebleed?"
TRITHAL: "Yeah. Imagine the feedback from a PA system amplified 100 times and centered in the middle of your brain. That's what it felt like."
THRAX and Danika: "Ouch!"
TRITHAL: "What I did see, though, was disturbing. It seems like she has the mentality of an 8-year old girl. She doesn't seem to know how to think for herself."
Danika: "Is that bad?"
TRITHAL: "It has the potential to be. She doesn't seem to have a will of her own... therefore if she was asked to, she probably wouldn't be able to decide to either stay here with the Sormeos or go back with the royal family. That could get real ugly real quick."
THRAX: "Yeah, I guess you're right. So are you gonna call King Midus and try to get them all down here?"
TRITHAL: "Oh yeah! I'd better get on the phone."
TRITHAL withdraws his cellphone and calls King Midus. After being redirected and put on hold for a minute or two, TRITHAL finally gets Midus on the phone.
TRITHAL: "King Midus, You'll be happy to hear that we have came across someone who we suspect may possibly be the missing Ella."
Midus: "Excellent! That is most good news!! I can't begin to tell you how grateful we are..."
TRITHAL: "Wait, there's more... The subject doesn't remember anything past two years ago, and has some kind of brain damage that prevents me from verifying who she is... so there's the possibility that it may not be her. However, she has agreed to a DNA test, which would be the only thing that can prove conclusively if it is her or not. Can you arrange it so Ali can meet her here for a DNA test?"
Midus: "Yes, of course! We can meet you there in Kurgemenheim tomorrow afternoon."
TRITHAL: "Excellent! Now, you must be aware that the subject is in a very fragile mental state, and it would be in her best interest if there wasn't any smothering or anything from anyone. It could upset her and further her brain damage."
Midus: "Oh, yes, of course. I understand. I'll see to it that Ali is aware that she needs to show restraint when we arrive. Thank you again for your efforts! They are most-appreciated."
TRITHAL completed the call with King Midus, then afterward called the Sormeos and informed them of the royal family's planned time of arrival, which will be sometime the following afternoon.
When they returned to the hotel, they meet the rest of the party in the restaurant for dinner, then go to their respective suites (Danika goes with TRITHAL again... as if you couldn't see that coming)... having as little interaction with each other as possible.
TRITHAL, THRAX and Danika arrived at the Sormeo residence at the appointed time of 3:30 in the afternoon. At the front door of the residence, a gentleman who appears to be in his late 40's / early 50's answers.
TRITHAL: "Mr Alan Sormeo? I'm Trithal the Divine Wind" (presents ID badge) "It's nice to finally meet you in person."
Alan Sormeo: "Likewise, Mr Trithal. Please come in."
As Mr Sormeo shows the trio into his den, TRITHAL says "These are my associates, Thrax the Hell-Fire and Danika of the Forest Dragon."
Alan Sormeo: "Pleased to meet you all. This is my wife Denise."
TRITHAL, THRAX and Danika shake hands with Mrs Sormeo. Everyone takes their seats in the den, and TRITHAL withdraws his picture of Ella.
TRITHAL: "We are under the assumption that you have rescued this woman from Red Phile in the city of Fafara, in Muriad Prefecture. Is that correct?"
Denise Sormeo: "Yes sir, that's correct. We found her unconscious and half-naked outside Phile's hideout two years ago. She couldn't remember who she was or why she was there. She must have been seriously roofied or something. We took her in and took care of her, and brought her with us when we moved here."
Alan Sormeo: "About a year ago she married our son, Nathan, who is about the same age as her. The two of them have been raising her son."
TRITHAL: "Yes, your neighbor told me yesterday that she has a baby boy. You wouldn't happen to know who the father is, do you?"
Alan Sormeo: "We're almost entirely certain that it's Red Phile, because the baby's skin is slightly red and his ears are pointy. Red Phile is half-human half-elf, so that would explain it."
TRITHAL: "Hmm. I see. Mr Sormeo, have you heard about the member of the Tanchi-Sabretooth royal family who disappeared in eastern Muriad two years ago?"
Alan Sormeo: "We may have, but at that time we were more focused on trying to move out of there. We had grown tired of all the crime that had been happening there. I was lucky enough to score a transfer out here, even though it's a long ways away from Fafara."
TRITHAL: "Well, in light of some new evidence that has recently surfaced about this case, we have reason to believe that the woman you've been caring for is Ella of the Light, daughter of the late Annan, Duke of Tanchi, and sister of now-Duchess Ali of Tanchi."
The Sormeos give shocked facial expressions in reaction to what TRITHAL said.
TRITHAL: "Is there any way you could arrange a meeting with her so we can determine if she is indeed Ella or not?"
Denise Sormeo: "Sure. They only live five minutes from here. We could call them over right now."
As Mr Sormeo made the call, Mrs Sormeo offered the trio some coffee. About five minutes later, the young couple with baby arrived at their parents home.
Nathan Sormeo: "Mom? Dad? What's going on?"
Alan Sormeo: "Son, these people here are from the Mount Sabretooth Phi Considine."
Nathan Sormeo: "Mount Sabretooth? What would they want with us?"
Alan Sormeo: "They believe they have information about Lisa's past and want to ask her some questions."
Nathan Sormeo: "They're not gonna try and take her away, are they?"
Alan Sormeo: "I don't think so. They just want to ask her some questions. That's all."
As the young couple and the baby enters the room, the trio stands up and introduces themselves. Everyone notices that the baby has red skin and pointy eyebrows and ears, like an elf. Afterward, everyone sits down again and TRITHAL begins questioning.
TRITHAL: "Your name is Lisa, correct?"
Lisa: "Um, yes sir. At least, that's what Alan, Denise and Nate have called me."
TRITHAL: "Now, what do you remember about the day you were rescued?"
Lisa: "Well, I remember waking up outside without any clothes on, and then I remember Nate bringing me home. It's all a blur, but that's what I remember."
TRITHAL: "Now, can you remember anything before then?"
Lisa: "Well, I think I remember seeing a man with red skin and pointy ears---"
TRITHAL suddenly grasps his forehead in pain and lets out a semi-quiet "AAHHH!!"
Denise Sormeo: "Mr Trithal, are you alright?"
TRITHAL (wiping some blood that has leaked out of his nose): "Yes. It's just my sinuses. I apologize... Please continue, Lisa."
Lisa: "Well, the only thing I can distinctly remember is being happy, then suddenly being scared. That's all I can remember."
While TRITHAL is tending to his nose bleed, THRAX withdraws a picture of AXEM and asks Lisa, "Do you remember this person?"
Lisa studies the picture for a minute then says, "I feel like I've seen him before, but I can't remember who he is or anything."
THRAX: "This person's name is Miah Thorpatrick. According to his testimony, he was with you when you were abducted by Red Phile."
Lisa tries to remember, then says "Sorry, but I really can't remember."
TRITHAL, whose nose had stopped bleeding, says "That's ok." He withdraws a picture of King Midus, Queen Mia, Ali and Ella and shows it to Lisa. "Do any of the faces in this picture look familiar?"
Lisa takes the picture from TRITHAL and studies it. She points to Ella and says "That looks like me! These faces seem familiar, but I don't have any idea from where."
TRITHAL: "The two older people are King Midus and Queen Mia of Mount Sabretooth. The person on the left is Duchess Ali of the Plains of Tanchi. The person next to her is her sister Ella of the Light... who went missing about two years ago. Based on the evidence we've collected, we have reason to believe that that person is you."
Lisa enters a stunned silence while Nate says, "Seriously? Lisa could be royalty? That's amazing!"
TRITHAL: "Now, the only way we can know for sure is if we did a DNA test with Lisa and Duchess Ali. If we were to request it, would you be willing to do this?"
Alan Sormeo: "Well, of course! We would do anything to help Lisa find her past. If she has family who's searching for her, we'll be glad to help her find them!"
Lisa is still in a stunned silence and hasn't said anything. TRITHAL looks at her examiningly, then says "We'll contact the royal family immediately and see if we can get Ali to come down so we can do a DNA test. I will get in contact with you later this evening with their response."
After that, the trio leaves the Sormeo home and returns to the hotel. On the way, they discuss what happened.
TRITHAL: "She definitely has amnesia or some kind of brain damage. I wasn't able to scan any farther past her consciousness."
THRAX: "Is that what gave you a nosebleed?"
TRITHAL: "Yeah. Imagine the feedback from a PA system amplified 100 times and centered in the middle of your brain. That's what it felt like."
THRAX and Danika: "Ouch!"
TRITHAL: "What I did see, though, was disturbing. It seems like she has the mentality of an 8-year old girl. She doesn't seem to know how to think for herself."
Danika: "Is that bad?"
TRITHAL: "It has the potential to be. She doesn't seem to have a will of her own... therefore if she was asked to, she probably wouldn't be able to decide to either stay here with the Sormeos or go back with the royal family. That could get real ugly real quick."
THRAX: "Yeah, I guess you're right. So are you gonna call King Midus and try to get them all down here?"
TRITHAL: "Oh yeah! I'd better get on the phone."
TRITHAL withdraws his cellphone and calls King Midus. After being redirected and put on hold for a minute or two, TRITHAL finally gets Midus on the phone.
TRITHAL: "King Midus, You'll be happy to hear that we have came across someone who we suspect may possibly be the missing Ella."
Midus: "Excellent! That is most good news!! I can't begin to tell you how grateful we are..."
TRITHAL: "Wait, there's more... The subject doesn't remember anything past two years ago, and has some kind of brain damage that prevents me from verifying who she is... so there's the possibility that it may not be her. However, she has agreed to a DNA test, which would be the only thing that can prove conclusively if it is her or not. Can you arrange it so Ali can meet her here for a DNA test?"
Midus: "Yes, of course! We can meet you there in Kurgemenheim tomorrow afternoon."
TRITHAL: "Excellent! Now, you must be aware that the subject is in a very fragile mental state, and it would be in her best interest if there wasn't any smothering or anything from anyone. It could upset her and further her brain damage."
Midus: "Oh, yes, of course. I understand. I'll see to it that Ali is aware that she needs to show restraint when we arrive. Thank you again for your efforts! They are most-appreciated."
TRITHAL completed the call with King Midus, then afterward called the Sormeos and informed them of the royal family's planned time of arrival, which will be sometime the following afternoon.
When they returned to the hotel, they meet the rest of the party in the restaurant for dinner, then go to their respective suites (Danika goes with TRITHAL again... as if you couldn't see that coming)... having as little interaction with each other as possible.
EPISODE NINETY: Tensions
Downstairs in the hotel's dining hall where breakfast was being served, THRAX and CHRIS found an empty table large enough to accommodate the entire 9-member group. Danika took a chair right next to TRITHAL, opposite the rest of the Saibot chicks. One could say that the tension at that moment was so thick you could cut it with a knife. The 5 Saibots were staring daggers at TRITHAL and Danika, and Danika was pretending not to notice as if she didn't care.
In an effort to break the tense silence, THRAX asks TRITHAL: "Hey Trithal! Did the Sormeos ever call back?"
TRITHAL checks the messages on his cellphone to find that the Sormeos did call back. Mr. Sormeo left his work number in a voice mail message. TRITHAL called Mr. Sormeo at the number and arranged to meet him at his home after he got off work that evening.
TRITHAL (to group): "Ok then. This means we have an afternoon to kill. I suggest we split up and go into town. Everyone should go and stock up on needed supplies and what-not."
THRAX: "Good idea. I've been wanting to find some new magic scrolls.
CHRIS: "And I want to search for some rare Weird Al Yankovic merchandise that I've been looking for for years, but don't need."
TRITHAL: "I could use a few things, too. As soon as we finish breakfast, let's head out. We'll meet back here around 1:00 or so."
After breakfast, the party set out into town as planned. Although they each had individual places to go, the party sorta clung together for some reason. All the while, the other Saibot chicks were giving Danika and TRITHAL evil looks. TRITHAL approaches THRAX and says in the Macha language, "Hey Thrax!"
THRAX (in Macha language): "Yo..."
TRITHAL: "Obviously your followers are waiting on the next opportunity to pounce on Danika. It would be a good idea if you told them to leave her alone until after this mission is over."
THRAX: "Yeah, I agree with you. Now would be the worst time for a cat fight of that magnitude.
TRITHAL: "She told me she's wanting to part company with them, and will approach them when she feels it's the right time. She says she wants to leave them and come with me... although I don't know where exactly she wants to go."
THRAX: "Probably to bed with you again!"
TRITHAL: (chuckles) "Yeah, probably. But seriously, do me a favor and do her a favor."
THRAX: "Sure, no problem."
TRITHAL (to Danika, in English): "Hey Danika. Let's check out this weapons shop over here."
TRITHAL escorts Danika into a weapons shop while THRAX, CHRIS, and the rest of the Saibot clan continue down the street. As soon as they were out of ear-shot, the rest of the clan starts discussing the situation...
Anri (to Palledoris): "Palledoris, what are we going to do about this? It's obvious Trithal-san has poisoned Danika's mind."
Aelle: "I don't think so, Anri. Tsutaru is a good person with a good soul. I don't think he would intentionally brainwash Danika for his own reasons. It's not like him at all."
Anri: "Don't forget, Aelle, that he's also Macha-Rei... a cold-blooded assassin who used to work for Liiche. How can we be sure of what his intentions are?"
Alys: (interjects) "I think we should let Danika explain herself to us. It's obvious she has some reason for her actions. We should find out what they are and take them into consideration."
Rishna, still mentally-preoccupied with her own problems, does not contribute to the discussion.
Palledoris: "I don't know what to do here. This is the first time we've ever had to deal with something like this." (to THRAX) "Lord Thrax, what should we do here?"
THRAX: "Right now I say you should do nothing."
Anri: "But, Lord Thrax, this behavior cannot be allowed to continue! She is undermining the integrity of the Saibot Clan!"
THRAX: "Look, I really couldn't give two shits about what you girls do amongst yourselves. However, it would be a very bad idea to pursue this issue while we're still on our mission. I say you leave it be until we find Ella and get Axem out of jail... then you can deal with this matter in whatever way you see fit."
The Saibot chicks (obediently, in unison): "Yes, Lord Thrax."
THRAX: "Now, I'm going to this magic shop up here. You girls scram for a while."
The Saibot chicks continue up the street as instructed, while CHRIS follows THRAX into the magic shop.
CHRIS: "Heh, that's silly! Not only does Trithal have more followers than you, but he's stealing one of yours!"
THRAX: "Pssh! I don't care! The less people there are following me around like Jesus, the better. Speaking of which, why are you here?"
CHRIS: "Uh, I don't know. I'd thought I'd see what this place had."
THRAX: "Chris, the merchandise in this place is way too advanced for you. There's a bookstore across the street. Go there!"
CHRIS: "Ok. Maybe I'll find an interesting Dave Barry book or something."
CHRIS exits the shop and makes his way across the street to the bookstore. The elderly shopkeep at the Magic Shop approaches THRAX and says "Looks like you're having a rough day, sonny."
THRAX: "You don't know the half of it! I never wanted any of this responsibility. How the hell did I end up with it?"
Shopkeep: "Well, shit seems to happen at the worst possible time for most people. Now then, what can I help you find today?"
THRAX: "What kind of defensive spells do you have?"
Shopkeep: "I got elemental boosters for all the elements. You appear to be of fire element, so I would suggest a few of these water scrolls. I also have a few endurance enhancers, but those would cost you more."
THRAX: "Ok then, I'll take a few of those water scrolls. They might come in handy."
Shopkeep: "Very well then."
The shopkeep completes the transaction. Afterward, the shopkeep asks THRAX, "Say, what's your name, son?"
THRAX: "Uh, I'm Thrax the Hell-Fire. Why?"
Shopkeep (surprised): "Well hell's bells! You do exist!"
THRAX: "Eau-kay... What's it to you?"
Shopkeep: "You're the fabled son of the great Myrmidon lord Xanatos, correct?"
THRAX: "Well, that's what they tell me... but I honestly don't know for sure."
Shopkeep: "Tell me, have you ever met your father?"
THRAX: "Well, no I haven't. He left my mother when I was an infant and no one's heard from him since."
Shopkeep: "Well, I happen to know a fella who lives on Ragnarok Island just off the eastern shore who knows where Xanatos is hiding. His name is Gwarlihim. You oughta seek him out."
THRAX: "Hmm, maybe I'll do that."
THRAX completes his business and exits the Magic Shop, while at the same time TRITHAL and Danika were at the weapons shop. TRITHAL was having his Wind Sword II cleaned and sharpened, and Danika was browsing through the selection of Wood element weapons. TRITHAL approaches Danika and says, "I told Thrax to tell Palledoris and the others to leave you alone until after we're done with the mission."
Danika: "Thank you, Trithal-san. I appreciate that."
TRITHAL: "You don't have to be so formal with me..."
Danika: "So, can I call you Tsutaru now?"
TRITHAL: "Maybe... At least drop the '-san' after my name. You make it sound like I'm some authority figure or something."
Shopkeep: "Here you go, sir! Your sword is clean and sharp!"
TRITHAL (to Shopkeep): "Thank you."
Danika (to Shopkeep): "How much are these Wood element Nunchaku?
Shopkeep: "Oh, those? Those are 400 GP. Those are good ones, because they become more powerful as you level up."
Danika: "Cool, I'll take them!" (to TRITHAL): "I'll be needing something that doesn't require the Forest Dragon if I'm gonna survive outside the Saibot Clan."
TRITHAL: "So I guess you're 100% serious about leaving them?"
Danika: "Of course. That's what I told you yesterday."
As TRITHAL and Danika were exiting the shop, TRITHAL asked Danika, "So, what do you think will happen when you tell Palledoris and the others you don't want to be in the clan anymore?"
Danika: "I don't know exactly. No one has ever parted company from the Saibot clan before. Since we have always been so small in number, everyone has stayed until death and passed on the legacy to the next generation."
TRITHAL: "You don't think they would maybe want to execute you or something? What kind of decree binds you to the Saibot Clan?"
Danika: "Well, I kinda just showed up one day out of curiosity... and since then I've been the Fifth Saibot of this generation. As far as I know, there's no real decree I'm bound to."
TRITHAL: "Hmm. Keep in mind that you're likely to face some kind of harsh consequences. The Saibot Clan strikes me as a pretty inclusive organization. They may not be very open to your desire to leave."
Danika: "Yeah, you're probably right. If they do object to it, would you back me up?"
TRITHAL: "I suppose... Although I'm sure that most of them... at the very least Anri... doesn't care for me at all so I don't know what kind of pull I would have in your favor."
Danika: "I know Aelle would side with you. The two of you seem to be quite in tune with each other."
TRITHAL: "That's true. Plus, she's the Second Saibot. We can probably count her as on your side."
TRITHAL and Danika continue in their conversation as they make their way through town. The rest of the party likewise finds something to do to pass their time until 1:00, when they agreed to meet back at the hotel.
In an effort to break the tense silence, THRAX asks TRITHAL: "Hey Trithal! Did the Sormeos ever call back?"
TRITHAL checks the messages on his cellphone to find that the Sormeos did call back. Mr. Sormeo left his work number in a voice mail message. TRITHAL called Mr. Sormeo at the number and arranged to meet him at his home after he got off work that evening.
TRITHAL (to group): "Ok then. This means we have an afternoon to kill. I suggest we split up and go into town. Everyone should go and stock up on needed supplies and what-not."
THRAX: "Good idea. I've been wanting to find some new magic scrolls.
CHRIS: "And I want to search for some rare Weird Al Yankovic merchandise that I've been looking for for years, but don't need."
TRITHAL: "I could use a few things, too. As soon as we finish breakfast, let's head out. We'll meet back here around 1:00 or so."
After breakfast, the party set out into town as planned. Although they each had individual places to go, the party sorta clung together for some reason. All the while, the other Saibot chicks were giving Danika and TRITHAL evil looks. TRITHAL approaches THRAX and says in the Macha language, "Hey Thrax!"
THRAX (in Macha language): "Yo..."
TRITHAL: "Obviously your followers are waiting on the next opportunity to pounce on Danika. It would be a good idea if you told them to leave her alone until after this mission is over."
THRAX: "Yeah, I agree with you. Now would be the worst time for a cat fight of that magnitude.
TRITHAL: "She told me she's wanting to part company with them, and will approach them when she feels it's the right time. She says she wants to leave them and come with me... although I don't know where exactly she wants to go."
THRAX: "Probably to bed with you again!"
TRITHAL: (chuckles) "Yeah, probably. But seriously, do me a favor and do her a favor."
THRAX: "Sure, no problem."
TRITHAL (to Danika, in English): "Hey Danika. Let's check out this weapons shop over here."
TRITHAL escorts Danika into a weapons shop while THRAX, CHRIS, and the rest of the Saibot clan continue down the street. As soon as they were out of ear-shot, the rest of the clan starts discussing the situation...
Anri (to Palledoris): "Palledoris, what are we going to do about this? It's obvious Trithal-san has poisoned Danika's mind."
Aelle: "I don't think so, Anri. Tsutaru is a good person with a good soul. I don't think he would intentionally brainwash Danika for his own reasons. It's not like him at all."
Anri: "Don't forget, Aelle, that he's also Macha-Rei... a cold-blooded assassin who used to work for Liiche. How can we be sure of what his intentions are?"
Alys: (interjects) "I think we should let Danika explain herself to us. It's obvious she has some reason for her actions. We should find out what they are and take them into consideration."
Rishna, still mentally-preoccupied with her own problems, does not contribute to the discussion.
Palledoris: "I don't know what to do here. This is the first time we've ever had to deal with something like this." (to THRAX) "Lord Thrax, what should we do here?"
THRAX: "Right now I say you should do nothing."
Anri: "But, Lord Thrax, this behavior cannot be allowed to continue! She is undermining the integrity of the Saibot Clan!"
THRAX: "Look, I really couldn't give two shits about what you girls do amongst yourselves. However, it would be a very bad idea to pursue this issue while we're still on our mission. I say you leave it be until we find Ella and get Axem out of jail... then you can deal with this matter in whatever way you see fit."
The Saibot chicks (obediently, in unison): "Yes, Lord Thrax."
THRAX: "Now, I'm going to this magic shop up here. You girls scram for a while."
The Saibot chicks continue up the street as instructed, while CHRIS follows THRAX into the magic shop.
CHRIS: "Heh, that's silly! Not only does Trithal have more followers than you, but he's stealing one of yours!"
THRAX: "Pssh! I don't care! The less people there are following me around like Jesus, the better. Speaking of which, why are you here?"
CHRIS: "Uh, I don't know. I'd thought I'd see what this place had."
THRAX: "Chris, the merchandise in this place is way too advanced for you. There's a bookstore across the street. Go there!"
CHRIS: "Ok. Maybe I'll find an interesting Dave Barry book or something."
CHRIS exits the shop and makes his way across the street to the bookstore. The elderly shopkeep at the Magic Shop approaches THRAX and says "Looks like you're having a rough day, sonny."
THRAX: "You don't know the half of it! I never wanted any of this responsibility. How the hell did I end up with it?"
Shopkeep: "Well, shit seems to happen at the worst possible time for most people. Now then, what can I help you find today?"
THRAX: "What kind of defensive spells do you have?"
Shopkeep: "I got elemental boosters for all the elements. You appear to be of fire element, so I would suggest a few of these water scrolls. I also have a few endurance enhancers, but those would cost you more."
THRAX: "Ok then, I'll take a few of those water scrolls. They might come in handy."
Shopkeep: "Very well then."
The shopkeep completes the transaction. Afterward, the shopkeep asks THRAX, "Say, what's your name, son?"
THRAX: "Uh, I'm Thrax the Hell-Fire. Why?"
Shopkeep (surprised): "Well hell's bells! You do exist!"
THRAX: "Eau-kay... What's it to you?"
Shopkeep: "You're the fabled son of the great Myrmidon lord Xanatos, correct?"
THRAX: "Well, that's what they tell me... but I honestly don't know for sure."
Shopkeep: "Tell me, have you ever met your father?"
THRAX: "Well, no I haven't. He left my mother when I was an infant and no one's heard from him since."
Shopkeep: "Well, I happen to know a fella who lives on Ragnarok Island just off the eastern shore who knows where Xanatos is hiding. His name is Gwarlihim. You oughta seek him out."
THRAX: "Hmm, maybe I'll do that."
THRAX completes his business and exits the Magic Shop, while at the same time TRITHAL and Danika were at the weapons shop. TRITHAL was having his Wind Sword II cleaned and sharpened, and Danika was browsing through the selection of Wood element weapons. TRITHAL approaches Danika and says, "I told Thrax to tell Palledoris and the others to leave you alone until after we're done with the mission."
Danika: "Thank you, Trithal-san. I appreciate that."
TRITHAL: "You don't have to be so formal with me..."
Danika: "So, can I call you Tsutaru now?"
TRITHAL: "Maybe... At least drop the '-san' after my name. You make it sound like I'm some authority figure or something."
Shopkeep: "Here you go, sir! Your sword is clean and sharp!"
TRITHAL (to Shopkeep): "Thank you."
Danika (to Shopkeep): "How much are these Wood element Nunchaku?
Shopkeep: "Oh, those? Those are 400 GP. Those are good ones, because they become more powerful as you level up."
Danika: "Cool, I'll take them!" (to TRITHAL): "I'll be needing something that doesn't require the Forest Dragon if I'm gonna survive outside the Saibot Clan."
TRITHAL: "So I guess you're 100% serious about leaving them?"
Danika: "Of course. That's what I told you yesterday."
As TRITHAL and Danika were exiting the shop, TRITHAL asked Danika, "So, what do you think will happen when you tell Palledoris and the others you don't want to be in the clan anymore?"
Danika: "I don't know exactly. No one has ever parted company from the Saibot clan before. Since we have always been so small in number, everyone has stayed until death and passed on the legacy to the next generation."
TRITHAL: "You don't think they would maybe want to execute you or something? What kind of decree binds you to the Saibot Clan?"
Danika: "Well, I kinda just showed up one day out of curiosity... and since then I've been the Fifth Saibot of this generation. As far as I know, there's no real decree I'm bound to."
TRITHAL: "Hmm. Keep in mind that you're likely to face some kind of harsh consequences. The Saibot Clan strikes me as a pretty inclusive organization. They may not be very open to your desire to leave."
Danika: "Yeah, you're probably right. If they do object to it, would you back me up?"
TRITHAL: "I suppose... Although I'm sure that most of them... at the very least Anri... doesn't care for me at all so I don't know what kind of pull I would have in your favor."
Danika: "I know Aelle would side with you. The two of you seem to be quite in tune with each other."
TRITHAL: "That's true. Plus, she's the Second Saibot. We can probably count her as on your side."
TRITHAL and Danika continue in their conversation as they make their way through town. The rest of the party likewise finds something to do to pass their time until 1:00, when they agreed to meet back at the hotel.
EPISODE EIGHTY-NINE: Kurgemenheim
As our party disembarks the train at the Kurgemenheim Station, they notice a bustling commercial center almost similar to that in Itsuka, the city outside the Mountain Castle in Mount Sabretooth Prefecture. The first thing the party does (after saving at the nearest save point) is go to a car rental place near the station and rent a minivan to move about town in.
The first place the party goes to is the address of the Sormeo residence, which is in a pretty nice upper-middle class neighborhood. Once there, TRITHAL knocks on the door and no one answers. A female neighbor who was working in her front yard approaches TRITHAL.
Neighbor: "I don't think they're back from vacation yet. They went out of town for a week."
TRITHAL: "I see. Am I correct in assuming that this is the residence of Alan and Denise Sormeo?"
Neighbor: "That's right. And who might you be?"
TRITHAL whips out his badge and says "My name is Trithal the Divine Wind. I'm a special agent with the Mount Sabretooth Phi Considine. I was sent here by King Midus to contact the Sormeos about a certain matter of the utmost importance. When do you expect them to return?"
Neighbor: "Well I think they should be back by either late tonight or early tomorrow. They asked me to collect their mail for them until then."
TRITHAL: "I see..." (withdraws picture of Ella) "Tell me, does the woman in this picture look familiar to you?"
The neighbor examines the photo then responds, "Of course. That's Nate's wife Lisa. Nate is the Sormeo's son. The two of them and her baby went with Alan and Denise."
TRITHAL: "Oh, she has a baby?"
Neighbor: "Yeah, a baby boy just over a year old."
TRITHAL: "Huh! Well this makes things a little more interesting. Thank you very much for your cooperation."
As TRITHAL turns to leave, the neighbor asks "Tell me, is there something bad happening?"
TRITHAL: "I'm sorry, but I'm not at liberty to discuss the details of the situation. I will come back tomorrow afternoon to see if they have returned."
TRITHAL gets into the minivan and drives away. He shares with the party the info he obtained from the neighbor. THRAX and CHRIS react to the fact that Ella has a baby that could possibly be AXEM's.
The hour is starting to grow late... so the party decides that, since they now have quite a bit of spending cash, they should splurge on nice hotel rooms. They find an Embassy Suites in town and were able to get two conjoining suites and one directly across the hall. The Saibot chicks take the two suites, and TRITHAL, THRAX and CHRIS take the one across the hall.
As the evening wore on, the party gathered in one of the two conjoining rooms and ordered room service and a pay-per-view movie, and just chilled for a while. The girls took turns taking showers during this time. Rishna was the last to have hers, and when she emerged, she had a concerned look in her eyes. She approached Palledoris and whispered something in her ear, to which Palledoris responded, "Oh dear!"
THRAX, curious, asks Palledoris what's going on. Since Palledoris worships THRAX, she whispers what Rishna told her to him. It takes a second or two for it to register, then THRAX tries as hard as he can not to chuckle out loud. TRITHAL, also curious, asks THRAX what's going on. THRAX whispers into TRITHAL's ear, and TRITHAL lets out a "Holy shit!" and a slight chuckle.
Also curious, CHRIS asks TRITHAL what's going on. TRITHAL whispers into CHRIS ear, and in response CHRIS says "Ok, so what does that mean?"
TRITHAL: "Think back to 9th Grade biology class. What would that possibly be a symptom of?"
CHRIS: "Duhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh............
THRAX: "Pssh! God, Chris! You're a retard!" (out loud) "Rishna thinks she might be pregnant with Axem's baby!"
Rishna begins to cry out loud, and Palledoris holds her.
TRITHAL: "Mother of Boreas! This whole thing is turning into a soap opera! What other plot twists could---"
THRAX stops TRITHAL from completing his sentence and says "You'd better not ask. I don't even want to think about it."
TRITHAL: "You know what? This is all too weird too fast. I need a drink."
TRITHAL exits the room and goes downstairs to the bar. THRAX and CHRIS retire to the room across the hall soon thereafter. After a short while, Danika exits the girl's suite and goes downstairs to the bar, and meets TRITHAL there.
Danika (to TRITHAL): "Hey."
TRITHAL: "Hey... What's up?"
Danika: "All that girl talk is sickening. I think I need a drink too."
Danika orders a shot of Jagermeister from the bartender.
TRITHAL: "So, do you think Rishna is really pregnant with Axem's baby?"
Danika: (sighs) "I don't know. I don't really care either. It's her own damn fault if she is, though. While on the topic, what about Ella's baby? Do you think it's really Axem's?"
TRITHAL: "If it was, it most-certainly wouldn't surprise me. He's as promiscuous as a sailor. I'd be surprised if there isn't some girl somewhere with a kid of his that he doesn't even know about. But, Ella's baby could also possibly be Red Phile's."
Danika: "That's true, I guess. I guess we'll find out tomorrow."
TRITHAL: "Yeah..." (takes a drink from his glass) "So then, what's on your mind?"
Danika: "What do you mean?"
TRIHTAL: "It's written all over your face that you want to say something to me, so out with it."
Danika downs her shot of Jagermeister then says, "I'm thinking about leaving the Saibot Clan."
TRITHAL: "そうですか。 Why is that?"
Danika: "Ever since we met Lord Thrax, and have gotten to know him, I've been wondering if all the things I've been taught by Palledoris and the others are actually true. I mean, you've said yourself that Thrax is the farthest thing from a god there is. Why would anyone want to worship him?"
TRITHAL: "Yeah. I've known Thrax for years, and I'd be the last one in the whole Land of Fantasy to admit that he's any kind of god."
Danika suddenly turns to TRITHAL, grabs his hand and says "I want to go with you, Trithal-san."
TRITHAL (confused): "Uh, go with me where?"
Danika: "Wherever it is you're going. I've heard everything you've said to Galaria, Jeff, and everyone else. Your words make more sense than anything else I've ever been told by anyone. Please, take me with you!"
TRITHAL: "What are you really after here? Where, exactly, are you wanting to go, Danika? And, what makes you think that I can take you there?"
Danika: "I don't know... it's just that, well, I really feel drawn to you. I know deep down that if I go with you, I'll be happier than I am with Palledoris and the others."
TRITHAL thinks for a moment then sighs and says "Ok, fine. I guess you can come with me..."
Danika immediately jumps up and hugs TRITHAL and says "Thank you!"
TRITHAL: "... But, keep in mind that I'm not promising you anything. I really don't know what you're looking for, so I don't know if I'll be able to help you find it."
Danika (still embracing TRITHAL): (whispers) "We'll leave that to fate."
Finally realizing that there's a totally obvious, unfettered opportunity staring him square in the face, TRITHAL says "How about we go upstairs and finish this conversation in a more private environment?"
Danika agrees, and after TRITHAL pays the tab, they head back upstairs to the guy's suite. It had already been agreed to that CHRIS and THRAX would have the back room with two beds, and TRITHAL could have the hide-a-bed in the front room. One would do well not to try to imagine what CHRIS and THRAX had planned for that night. Anyway, once there TRITHAL whips out his reefer stash and lights it up with Danika. As the already-late night continued to progress, the two discussed various topics, then eventually succumbed to the THC/hormone-induced urges and proceeded to make out on the hide-a-bed. The two were too high and drunk to notice how uncomfortable it was. TRITHAL was glad to finally be able to get some pussy without AXEM there interfering with, or objecting to it.
Sometime around sunrise the next morning THRAX emerged from the back into the front in search of some orange juice. When he spotted TRITHAL and Rishna laying there on the hide-a-bed naked and covered in a sheet, he let out a somewhat loud "Oh... my... God!"
This awoke the couple, and when TRITHAL was awake enough to notice THRAX, he said in a tired/semi-hung over voice, "Oh fuck..." then started to chuckle to himself over the humor of the situation. THRAX still stood there in shock over what he discovered.
Eventually, Danika said, "Good morning, Lord Thrax. How was your night?"
THRAX: "Obviously not as good as yours was! Holy shit!"
CHRIS (stumbling into room in his disgusting signature shirtless state): "What's going on?..." (noticing TRITHAL and Danika) "...Eww! Gross! Get a room, you two!"
Danika (to CHRIS): "'Eww, gross' yourself! Go put a shirt on!"
TRITHAL: "Yeah! And, we're in a room... and you're in it, too! Now get out of it!"
CHRIS turns around and butt-walks back into the back room murmuring to himself about how even TRITHAL is getting pussy and he isn't. THRAX expresses the need for some fresh air, so he exits the suite and steps outside to smoke some cancer sticks.
TRITHAL and Danika eventually get up, stretch the discomfort of sleeping on a hide-a-bed out of their joints, shower, get dressed, and exit the room to head downstairs to join the rest of the group for breakfast... when in the hallway outside the room the other 5 Saibot chicks stand there with cold, piercing expressions on their faces.
Alys: "Great Xanatos, Danika! You and Trithal-san?"
Aelle: "What are you trying to do? Make us look like a bunch of sluts?"
Palledoris: "It's bad enough Rishna has fallen into the quagmire of hormones! If this trend continues, pretty soon we all will be falling like dominoes!"
Anri: "Where will our honor be then? What kind of disciples of Thrax and Xanatos will we become? We will have wasted all those years in Kaivez meditating and preparing for nothing!"
Danika looks up at TRITHAL, then back to the Saibots and says hesitantly, "Um, about that...."
TRITHAL: "... Let's save this talk for a better opportunity. Right now we need some breakfast. We have a busy day ahead."
TRITHAL escorts Danika downstairs to the dining room, followed by the rest of the Saibot chicks, where they meet THRAX and CHRIS who went ahead to find a table.
The first place the party goes to is the address of the Sormeo residence, which is in a pretty nice upper-middle class neighborhood. Once there, TRITHAL knocks on the door and no one answers. A female neighbor who was working in her front yard approaches TRITHAL.
Neighbor: "I don't think they're back from vacation yet. They went out of town for a week."
TRITHAL: "I see. Am I correct in assuming that this is the residence of Alan and Denise Sormeo?"
Neighbor: "That's right. And who might you be?"
TRITHAL whips out his badge and says "My name is Trithal the Divine Wind. I'm a special agent with the Mount Sabretooth Phi Considine. I was sent here by King Midus to contact the Sormeos about a certain matter of the utmost importance. When do you expect them to return?"
Neighbor: "Well I think they should be back by either late tonight or early tomorrow. They asked me to collect their mail for them until then."
TRITHAL: "I see..." (withdraws picture of Ella) "Tell me, does the woman in this picture look familiar to you?"
The neighbor examines the photo then responds, "Of course. That's Nate's wife Lisa. Nate is the Sormeo's son. The two of them and her baby went with Alan and Denise."
TRITHAL: "Oh, she has a baby?"
Neighbor: "Yeah, a baby boy just over a year old."
TRITHAL: "Huh! Well this makes things a little more interesting. Thank you very much for your cooperation."
As TRITHAL turns to leave, the neighbor asks "Tell me, is there something bad happening?"
TRITHAL: "I'm sorry, but I'm not at liberty to discuss the details of the situation. I will come back tomorrow afternoon to see if they have returned."
TRITHAL gets into the minivan and drives away. He shares with the party the info he obtained from the neighbor. THRAX and CHRIS react to the fact that Ella has a baby that could possibly be AXEM's.
The hour is starting to grow late... so the party decides that, since they now have quite a bit of spending cash, they should splurge on nice hotel rooms. They find an Embassy Suites in town and were able to get two conjoining suites and one directly across the hall. The Saibot chicks take the two suites, and TRITHAL, THRAX and CHRIS take the one across the hall.
As the evening wore on, the party gathered in one of the two conjoining rooms and ordered room service and a pay-per-view movie, and just chilled for a while. The girls took turns taking showers during this time. Rishna was the last to have hers, and when she emerged, she had a concerned look in her eyes. She approached Palledoris and whispered something in her ear, to which Palledoris responded, "Oh dear!"
THRAX, curious, asks Palledoris what's going on. Since Palledoris worships THRAX, she whispers what Rishna told her to him. It takes a second or two for it to register, then THRAX tries as hard as he can not to chuckle out loud. TRITHAL, also curious, asks THRAX what's going on. THRAX whispers into TRITHAL's ear, and TRITHAL lets out a "Holy shit!" and a slight chuckle.
Also curious, CHRIS asks TRITHAL what's going on. TRITHAL whispers into CHRIS ear, and in response CHRIS says "Ok, so what does that mean?"
TRITHAL: "Think back to 9th Grade biology class. What would that possibly be a symptom of?"
CHRIS: "Duhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh............
THRAX: "Pssh! God, Chris! You're a retard!" (out loud) "Rishna thinks she might be pregnant with Axem's baby!"
Rishna begins to cry out loud, and Palledoris holds her.
TRITHAL: "Mother of Boreas! This whole thing is turning into a soap opera! What other plot twists could---"
THRAX stops TRITHAL from completing his sentence and says "You'd better not ask. I don't even want to think about it."
TRITHAL: "You know what? This is all too weird too fast. I need a drink."
TRITHAL exits the room and goes downstairs to the bar. THRAX and CHRIS retire to the room across the hall soon thereafter. After a short while, Danika exits the girl's suite and goes downstairs to the bar, and meets TRITHAL there.
Danika (to TRITHAL): "Hey."
TRITHAL: "Hey... What's up?"
Danika: "All that girl talk is sickening. I think I need a drink too."
Danika orders a shot of Jagermeister from the bartender.
TRITHAL: "So, do you think Rishna is really pregnant with Axem's baby?"
Danika: (sighs) "I don't know. I don't really care either. It's her own damn fault if she is, though. While on the topic, what about Ella's baby? Do you think it's really Axem's?"
TRITHAL: "If it was, it most-certainly wouldn't surprise me. He's as promiscuous as a sailor. I'd be surprised if there isn't some girl somewhere with a kid of his that he doesn't even know about. But, Ella's baby could also possibly be Red Phile's."
Danika: "That's true, I guess. I guess we'll find out tomorrow."
TRITHAL: "Yeah..." (takes a drink from his glass) "So then, what's on your mind?"
Danika: "What do you mean?"
TRIHTAL: "It's written all over your face that you want to say something to me, so out with it."
Danika downs her shot of Jagermeister then says, "I'm thinking about leaving the Saibot Clan."
TRITHAL: "そうですか。 Why is that?"
Danika: "Ever since we met Lord Thrax, and have gotten to know him, I've been wondering if all the things I've been taught by Palledoris and the others are actually true. I mean, you've said yourself that Thrax is the farthest thing from a god there is. Why would anyone want to worship him?"
TRITHAL: "Yeah. I've known Thrax for years, and I'd be the last one in the whole Land of Fantasy to admit that he's any kind of god."
Danika suddenly turns to TRITHAL, grabs his hand and says "I want to go with you, Trithal-san."
TRITHAL (confused): "Uh, go with me where?"
Danika: "Wherever it is you're going. I've heard everything you've said to Galaria, Jeff, and everyone else. Your words make more sense than anything else I've ever been told by anyone. Please, take me with you!"
TRITHAL: "What are you really after here? Where, exactly, are you wanting to go, Danika? And, what makes you think that I can take you there?"
Danika: "I don't know... it's just that, well, I really feel drawn to you. I know deep down that if I go with you, I'll be happier than I am with Palledoris and the others."
TRITHAL thinks for a moment then sighs and says "Ok, fine. I guess you can come with me..."
Danika immediately jumps up and hugs TRITHAL and says "Thank you!"
TRITHAL: "... But, keep in mind that I'm not promising you anything. I really don't know what you're looking for, so I don't know if I'll be able to help you find it."
Danika (still embracing TRITHAL): (whispers) "We'll leave that to fate."
Finally realizing that there's a totally obvious, unfettered opportunity staring him square in the face, TRITHAL says "How about we go upstairs and finish this conversation in a more private environment?"
Danika agrees, and after TRITHAL pays the tab, they head back upstairs to the guy's suite. It had already been agreed to that CHRIS and THRAX would have the back room with two beds, and TRITHAL could have the hide-a-bed in the front room. One would do well not to try to imagine what CHRIS and THRAX had planned for that night. Anyway, once there TRITHAL whips out his reefer stash and lights it up with Danika. As the already-late night continued to progress, the two discussed various topics, then eventually succumbed to the THC/hormone-induced urges and proceeded to make out on the hide-a-bed. The two were too high and drunk to notice how uncomfortable it was. TRITHAL was glad to finally be able to get some pussy without AXEM there interfering with, or objecting to it.
Sometime around sunrise the next morning THRAX emerged from the back into the front in search of some orange juice. When he spotted TRITHAL and Rishna laying there on the hide-a-bed naked and covered in a sheet, he let out a somewhat loud "Oh... my... God!"
This awoke the couple, and when TRITHAL was awake enough to notice THRAX, he said in a tired/semi-hung over voice, "Oh fuck..." then started to chuckle to himself over the humor of the situation. THRAX still stood there in shock over what he discovered.
Eventually, Danika said, "Good morning, Lord Thrax. How was your night?"
THRAX: "Obviously not as good as yours was! Holy shit!"
CHRIS (stumbling into room in his disgusting signature shirtless state): "What's going on?..." (noticing TRITHAL and Danika) "...Eww! Gross! Get a room, you two!"
Danika (to CHRIS): "'Eww, gross' yourself! Go put a shirt on!"
TRITHAL: "Yeah! And, we're in a room... and you're in it, too! Now get out of it!"
CHRIS turns around and butt-walks back into the back room murmuring to himself about how even TRITHAL is getting pussy and he isn't. THRAX expresses the need for some fresh air, so he exits the suite and steps outside to smoke some cancer sticks.
TRITHAL and Danika eventually get up, stretch the discomfort of sleeping on a hide-a-bed out of their joints, shower, get dressed, and exit the room to head downstairs to join the rest of the group for breakfast... when in the hallway outside the room the other 5 Saibot chicks stand there with cold, piercing expressions on their faces.
Alys: "Great Xanatos, Danika! You and Trithal-san?"
Aelle: "What are you trying to do? Make us look like a bunch of sluts?"
Palledoris: "It's bad enough Rishna has fallen into the quagmire of hormones! If this trend continues, pretty soon we all will be falling like dominoes!"
Anri: "Where will our honor be then? What kind of disciples of Thrax and Xanatos will we become? We will have wasted all those years in Kaivez meditating and preparing for nothing!"
Danika looks up at TRITHAL, then back to the Saibots and says hesitantly, "Um, about that...."
TRITHAL: "... Let's save this talk for a better opportunity. Right now we need some breakfast. We have a busy day ahead."
TRITHAL escorts Danika downstairs to the dining room, followed by the rest of the Saibot chicks, where they meet THRAX and CHRIS who went ahead to find a table.
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