A Scout's Trial (Semi-closed)

[Knight Kat]

[align=center]Chapter One: Unexpected Decent [/align]

 

A chill wind blew through a Coerthas valley as a lone figure navigated the thick snow. Kiht Jakkya was on a scouting mission. However, it was not like one of her many other typical scouting missions; it was the scouting of Natalan.

 

Kiht considered herself fortunate that she had found a map of Natalan in an old library. Having been part of the Twin Adders for a short period of time, and having worked with the White Rams, had given her an opportunity to see many maps of Ixal territory. However, it was one of the biggest, most thorough maps of Natalan she had ever seen. Little did Kiht know, the map did not make things as easy as they seemed.

 

It was a long trek, and Kiht's mind raced in her boredom. Despite the fact that scouting usually improved her mood, this instance was different. This time she wanted to do something that would prove once and for all that she was still the Scout and Huntress that she wanted to be.

 

"I have grown soft". She thought to herself.

 

Kiht had become conflicted. She felt as if her mind had taken two forms. Since having become matron during her time in the Morbolvine Clan, she had been leading individuals from many life backgrounds. Then having become matron of the Shroudwolf clan, she felt like part of her had become everyone's mother.

 

"What have I let myself become? I am twenty-four winters old, yet I feel forty-four winters old. Is this who I am now?"

 

Kiht continued to pace through the snow; her thick white and black leathers helped keep her protected from the chafing, chill wind. She continued surveying the environment, but if anyone had been watching her, they would have seen that she was distracted. She gripped the rolled-up map tightly in her right hand.

 

"Nay, I am still me. I am still a Huntress. I am still a Scout. This has not changed because of many moons of leadership." She thought to herself.

 

Kiht let out an obstinate sigh as she continued to walk along. She was nearing Natalan due to the new map having shown her passages leading into the Ixal-infested territory. She could have turned the map over to the Twin Adders for a great amount of gil; however, Kiht convinced herself that doing this task as a Moon-keeper would help the reputation of her kin. But in truth, she was scouting the dangerous land to prove something to herself.

 

Eventually, the map lead her to a cave where she cautiously entered. The cave did not go underground, but seemed to actually be a straight passage through a small mountain. Even from the entrance, Kiht could see light on the other side. She turned around, and surveyed her surroundings one last time. She was an experienced Scout, and knew how dangerous being stuck in a cave could be with potential hostile beings near the entrance. She didn't know what was on the other side of the cave, so she traversed it cautiously. The cave was shown on the map, but there were no signs that it was being used - no footprints, no newly churned rocks and no tracking of snow.

 

Kiht took a deep breath then slowly continued. She constantly surveyed her surroundings; her mind had gone silent as she needed to focus on her environment. It was almost as if the cave hadn't been naturally formed. However, it wasn't a sophisticated mine shaft. The cave could have been created by many things like Ishgardians, Ixal or Dragons. None of the possibilities seemed very inviting; however, she continued onward.

 

Kiht's pace began to quicken as she began to put more aggravated energy into her stride; determined to get through the dark cave that left her only with her thoughts. Eventually, she arrived on the other side, and exited into the light. To her surprise, the other side of the cave was an extremely large and wide ledge. It was a great, open area jutting out from the side of a cliff; covered in snow and rocks. The only way to get to it would be to climb the mountain from below, fly in on an airship or travel through the cave. It was an odd place for a cave to lead.

 

Kiht sighed in frustration as she walked over to the ledge. She surveyed a massive, seemingly endless canyon that the large, jutting ledge overlooked. To her left and right were the rather uninviting sides of a mountain that looked difficult to climb. Above her, more mountain and sky.

 

As she gazed beyond the canyon, she saw more small mountains and rocky formations. It looked to be an uncharted place. Moments later, she noticed a plume of smoke in the distance. Kiht could not be certain, but the smoke pattern reminded her of the bonfires the Ixal built in their camps. She continued to gaze onward, and surveyed the smoke trails. She began to realize that she was watching smoke from Natalan.

 

“Gods damn it. Why does the map make it look like you can walk to Natalan from here?” She asked herself.

 

Kiht let out a sigh of frustration, rolled up her map and slid it into her pack. She was going to have to find a new way to Natalan. She could not fly in, and was not going to dare to try and climb down the mountain. Tree climbing was common enough for Kiht, but mountain climbing was very new to her. She turned around, and began back through the cave. In the dark, her mind wandered once again.

 

Several minutes later, Kiht neared the exit of the cave; however, a sudden appearance of shadow movement distorted the light that beamed in through the cave opening. She quickly moved into a crouch as squawking and guttural voices echoed into the cave. She recognized the sound of such voices - they were definitely Ixal.

 

“Shite!” She whispered to herself.

 

The shadows started moving inward. There was little cover inside the cave aside from the darkness. She slowly and quietly drew her spear off of her back; unstrapping the belt that held it on her body. She concentrated on her breathing, her ears pinned back on her bandana, her eyes widened and her muscles tensed. She didn't have much choice; she would either need to turn around, or go through them. However, if she turned around, she would go back out to the ledge with no exit.

 

She didn't know how many Ixal there were. There could have been an entire group. She couldn't afford to be attacked by many of them in the cave because it was not narrow enough for her to bottle-neck them. If she were attacked, as many as three at a time could go at her. If there were many of them, that would be too many for her to handle.

 

Kiht quickly turned around, and burst into a quick, quiet stride as she made her way back out to the massive ledge. While it's true she might have an advantage in the dark of the cave, Ixal were not foolish enough to enter a cave without torches. There was still a possible advantage if she could knock the torches out of the torchbearer's hands, but if they all carried torches, that would be another problem.

 

If she had to fight through them then she was going to do it on different terms. Ixal may not have had night vision, but their eyes would adjust to the dark. Stepping out on the other side near the ledge would cause their eyes to readjust to the light. That is when she would count them, and decide on whether or not she would attack. Large boulders that laid on the ledge would provide good hiding places, and there was a chance that once they found out it was a dead end, they would turn around and go back through the cave.

 

Kiht continued striding down the cave, and finally exited onto the snowy ledge. Before moving to a hiding place, she gazed out into the canyon. To her dismay, three objects were flying through the sky... They were Ixal airships. Most likely, the party was moving to meet the airships; it couldn't have been a coincidence. Kiht turned and leaped to take cover behind a cluster of large boulders. Her small form was easy to hide; especially, with her white leathers that helped camouflage her with the snow covered rocks.

[Knight Kat]

Kiht Jakkya waited a few moments until she started hearing footsteps. She slowly peered over the rocks. Fortunately, she was wearing a white bandana to cover her long black hair. The Ixal did not seem like they were even looking for anyone. However, there were ten of them. The ten Ixal lingered; four of them staying near the cave entrance, and the other six spreading out evenly across the massive ledge. The gaze of all ten seemed to focus on the airships as they muttered to each other in their beast-man language.

 

The three airships slowly descended. Fortunately, from the angles in which the airships approached, Kiht was hidden by the boulders. When the three airships finally landed, they lowered their ramps. Unfortunately, more Ixal disembarked; thus, creating a total of sixteen. That was far too many for Kiht to fight; especially in such a bad location. Kiht peered over the rocks towards the cave entrance, but the four Ixal had not moved.

 

Not yet willing to chance an escape, she was going to wait and see if the airships were going to collect all of the Ixal. She waited for what seemed like half an hour, but the Ixal continued to linger and mutter at each other in their strange language - every sentence and string of words punctuated with squawks. Kiht greatly hated the Ixal language. Her ears pined back on her bandanna, and she never let go of her spear. Once again, she slowly peered over the boulders, but the situation had only grown worse. The Ixal near the cave entrance had been met by three others.

 

“Damn them, what are they doing?!” Kiht thought to herself.

 

As if the Fates themselves were playing a jest on Kiht, a loud high-pitched roar from what sounded like a huge beast echoed from within the canyon. Kiht and the Ixal turned their heads to regard it. Suddenly, rising up from the canyon, was a large dragon. Kiht's eyes widened in shock as the Ixal began letting out high-pitched squawks, and guttural muttering sounds of panic. Some of the Ixal began raising their harpoons while a few more began scattering to the airships. Kiht glanced up over the rocks, and looked at the cave entrance. Unfortunately, that's where six of the Ixal had decided to run. If she was careful, she figured she could follow them out. They would likely be so busy trying to get away from the dragon that she might have been able to get by them.

 

Kiht leaped over the boulders, and slid along the snow. She sprang to her feet then bolted for the entrance to the tunnel. Some Ixal pointed at her and squawked, but the others didn't seem to care. Just as she anticipated, the dragon was incoming quickly and angrily towards their airships. A few Ixal on the ships were beginning to prepare for take-off while a few others were readying their harpoons as if they were going to throw them at the dragon. Kiht began running into the cave, but went into a sliding halt as her eyes widened in horror once again. All six Ixal were running towards her for some reason. Their arms were flailing in panic, and many of them had dropped their weapons. From behind them, Kiht's Keeper eyes saw a smaller dragon moving through the cave right after the Ixal.

 

“Gods damn it, holy shite! This must be a swiving jest. A Gods damned swiving jest!”

 

The Ixal were unlikely to attack her, but the dragon was big enough to take up much the entire cave's width. It squeezed itself along through it; digging and clawing at the rocks to scrape its way through the cave at them, there was no way Kiht would get through. She turned then ran to the Ixal airships. Two had already taken flight, but one was already set afire by the flying dragon. Only one airship remained on the ground. Kiht had little choice, so she charged towards the airship. A couple Ixal threw their harpoons at the flying dragon, but the weapons fell short of the target.

 

The airship on fire fell from the sky, but the other airship almost managed to escape the flying dragon until it turned around, and latched on the flying vessel. The dragon clawed at the airship's bladder; slicing it clean open. The airship plummeted along with the the dragon latched on to it.

 

There was then a chance that the third airship could get by. Kiht darted onto the airship, and hid behind some strange contraption in the middle of it. The other Ixal didn't even seem to care. They were already priming the airship, and as a few more Ixal boarded the airship, it took off. Several other Ixal were left behind on the ledge; squawking as they tried to reach for the airship. A few even jumped, but it was a futile effort. The airship had cleared enough distance from the ledge to where the Ixal couldn't reach it. They plummeted to their death. The few remaining Ixal stuck on the ledge turned to face the dragon that immediately began throwing fire right at them. There was no way for them to hope to evade it.

 

Kiht stayed low, but kept her spear grasped in her hands. She was near panic; heart pounding in her chest as she began breathing quickly. The many Ixal squawked, and ran around her as they operated the airship frantically. The dragon on the ledge was preoccupied with its victims, and the other dragon was likely still latched on to the other airship, or beginning to take flight again. Perhaps it was stuck, or fell to its death with the airship. Kiht could only hope.

 

She remained still; not that her leathers actually camouflaged her with the deck of an Ixal airship. She was hoping they wouldn't care about her, or wouldn't notice. However, it was only a matter of time.

 

After many minutes, just as the Ixal began slowing down, standing and surveying the distances, the sounds of large wings flapping echoed from the canyon below. The flying dragon from before was coming back for their airship. The Ixal began squawking, and maneuvering around in a panicked manner; once again operating their airship. They were trying to get it to fly as quickly as it could. Ixal airships weren't that fast, unfortunately.

 

Kiht was learning that as she watched the dragon close in. Oh how she wished she could stab it in the maw, but it was far beyond her reach. Even if she threw her spear, she would not do much damage to it unless she could manage to hit its wings. It was a long shot, but it was Kiht's only hope. She still had her knives, so she could still fight. She stood at the edge of the airship deck, and turned her spear into an over-arm hold. She aimed, and tried to measure the dragon's distance with her left hand as her right hand held her spear, and prepared to throw it like a large javelin. Her spear was simple - the spear she often carried with her for hunting. It was a steel spear of standard build. Nothing had ever been special about it, but it was reliable.

 

Kiht took aim, and boldly stood her ground attempting to steady her body as it had the urge to tremble. The dragon closed in, and she could begin to see its eyes, but she had to wait. She had to wait, and try to hit it in the wings. Even if she did hit, it may not have been enough to bring the dragon down, but it was her only hope.

 

Suddenly, the dragon turned in an aerial maneuver that sent itself into a roll. It quickly dived, and glided beneath the airship at a surprising speed. It pulled ahead of the airship, turned its head around and shot fire at the airship's bladder. It was extremely graceful, and extremely fast. Kiht was shocked. She didn't have time to think about it; the airship was hit. The bladder lit aflame, and the dragon maneuvered out of the way. The Ixal began panicking and making louder noises. There was not much Kiht could do. All she could hope is that they had enough sense to try and land the ship before the entire thing was set aflame.

 

Kiht stood there helplessly as she watched the fire encroach down the material of the bladder. She began to feel the heat of the fire, and unfortunately, the dragon began spewing more flames at the airship. In panic, one Ixal jumped off the edge of the ship. However, it was only a few seconds before Kiht heard a loud thump, and the sound of rolling rocks. She peered over the edge of the ship, and saw that it was just above a massive rocky formation that jutted up from the ground. It was still a relatively long drop, but she had to risk it.

 

Suddenly, a loud popping sound erupted, and the airship jerked. They were not going to land it in time. Kiht jumped over the edge. She fell twenty feet, and landed hard on an asymmetrical rock surface. Her legs gave out from under her, and she began to slip. Her body was forced into a roll as she tumbled along; striking and skidding across rock after rock. As she descended the formation, her spear went flying out of her hands. She finally impacted a snow-covered boulder that was stable and flat enough to prevent her from continuing to slide.

[Knight Kat]

Kiht Jakkya blinked her eyes; her body facing up towards the sky as she slowly started to awaken from her daze. She let out a few groans, and slowly moved to sit up. Despite tumbling amongst snow-covered rocks, none of her bones were actually broken, or at least, it hadn't felt like it to her. She slowly stood to her feet. She was dizzy, and it was difficult to stand. Her body felt very weak, but she didn't feel any pain. Her entire body felt numb.

 

She peered up into the sky, and saw no sign of Ixal airships or dragons. Slowly, after a few minutes of recovery, she walked over to the edge of the rock and peered down into the canyon. There was still quite a distance between her and the ground; enough to where if she jumped or had fallen the rest of the way, she would've died. However, she saw a small glint at the bottom of the canyon. The spear somehow remained intact.

 

Despite losing her spear and crushing her pack, everything was still attached to her. She pulled out her two mythril hunting knives. It was time to climb down. Fortunately, the massive rock formation was asymmetrical and jagged enough to help with climbing.

 

Kiht had to descend slowly and carefully. There were rocks that gave way, and moments where she slipped a bit. Her feet would connect with a snow-covered rock, her blades were not always getting deep enough into cracks and it was difficult to maintain her holds. As she climbed down, she kept gasping nearly every time she felt she was going to fall. It took all her discipline to focus and continue; climbing as slowly and as carefully as she possibly could.

 

Before she was expecting it, her feet touched the ground. She slowly maneuvered away from the rock formation, and found herself on the bottom of the canyon. An exhale of relief escaped her lips as she fell to her knees. Her knives fell to the ground then she began to breathe heavily - almost as if she had been holding her breath most of the way down.

 

Kiht was exhausted, but another two loud, high-pitched roars echoed through the canyon to remind her that she could not linger. She surveyed her surroundings quickly, but saw no dragons. The roars sounded distant. She picked up her knives, sheathed them on her belt and moved to retrieve her spear.

 

After retrieving the spear, she strapped it around her shoulder, and looked into the sky to try and get her bearings. However, she didn't know where she was. As her adrenaline wore off, different parts of her body began to ache. Her surroundings looked all the same – rocks, canyon, snow, mountains, ice and formations. She pulled her map from her pack; trying to ignore the pain that coursed from her arm through her chest. She let out a hiss and winced, but slowly she moved to finish retrieving her map.

 

While what the material of the map was made out of could not be ruined by being squished, it did her little good. She could not see the ledge that she had originally come from, there were no airships flying or crashed nearby, there were no Ixal bodies, there were no dragons and there were no discernible landmarks. She growled in frustration. Everything looked the same. It was very possible she could be off the map, or in an area that was uncharted. Even if it was charted, she saw no landmarks that she could relate to the map. She rolled up the map, put it back in her pack and began walking a direction.

 

The Coerthas canyons were massive, and rather consistent. It was a repetitive wasteland with no signs of civilization, and no signs of trails. Kiht walked until; finally, in the distant sky just above a small mountain, she saw the smoke trails she had seen before. She clenched her fists and began striding towards the smoke trails.

 

It took several more hours, but finally, Kiht was to the mountain. By then she had tried her linkpearl, but it hadn't been working. She did not know why as she had no knowledge about how linkpearls worked. Regardless, she began navigating around the mountain; doing whatever she could to find a way. She kept the rising smoke trails as a consistent point of navigation. Not before long, she began to hear distant voices and a few squawks echoing quietly from somewhere ahead of her path. She had found Natalan.

 

It was a sight to see; a massive campground of tents and other tent-like structures. Various Ixal moved about, chopping wood, relocating supplies, stacking boxes, standing guard and tending bonfires. It was a busy camp with large palisade walls. Of course, the Natalan watch wolves were the real problem. Ixal sense of hearing didn't seem so strong, nor did their vision and sense of smell. However, the watch wolves that Ixal used to guard their encampments, and even help during battle, were abused, half-starved beasts that the Ixal intentionally trained in a way that would keep them vicious and ruthless. The huge gangly wolves with extremely sharp claws, teeth and fangs were one of the biggest problems Kiht could possibly face. Their sense of smell, sight and hearing was far better than the Ixal. That was the reason why they were used to guard the encampments, and they made it very difficult to infiltrate. Even if Kiht tried, and even if the wolves were tied to posts and unable to attack, they would detect her. They would bark and snarl.

 

Kiht knelt behind a snow-covered bush. It was the only bush that she could see. There was nothing but more snow, stone rocks and boulders. A quiet growl of frustration escaped Kiht's throat. Based on what she had seen in the camp, she drew out her map from her pack once more, and began to examine it. Unfortunately, it didn't help. The map was somewhat old, and the camp had been rearranged. She couldn't tell which part of the camp she was looking at. After all, Natalan was a huge series of interconnected Ixal camps. She had no way of knowing which one she was surveying. The way the Ixal had built their camps in Natalan meant that there were very few passages from camp to camp. They were all gated and walled. It was done so that attackers would have to fight their way through hordes of Ixal, and pass many walls and gates. It had been the construction of Natalan which had allowed them to hold out against the many dangerous forces in Coerthas.

 

Kiht was beginning to regret not having sold the damn map. She folded it up, and put it back in her pack. She unstrapped her spear, and readied it in her hands. The only path she knew of to get back home was to somehow make her way through the Ixal camps.

[Knight Kat]

[align=center]Chapter Two: Camping With Bird-men[/align]

 

Finally, night had fallen. Kiht had taken the opportunity to rest, but there was no sleeping. Aside from the fact that she was nocturnal, she felt far too tense to sleep. She checked and secured her gear then made her way to the point where she had surveyed the Ixal camp. Once again, she peered over the lone, dead bush. The Ixal were obviously not nocturnal. Their camp at night was very different from their camp that day.

 

The raging bonfires had been extinguished, and there was nothing but various lit torches distributed throughout the campgrounds. A camp that was once nearly crowded with Ixal was now almost completely silent. The watch wolves slept near their posts as the Ixal guards made slow, weary patrols. The tents and huts were closed. Kiht would find no better time to infiltrate the camp.

 

From her position atop a rock formation that stretched out and created a long rock wall only a few yards from the camp wall, she could see nearly the whole settlement. It was very large, but completely walled with only a couple of gates that were shut tight. Her only way in would be risky because she would need to jump from her position over the wooden wall. It was not impossible; it did not require Dragoon jumping powers, or anything of the sort. But, landing on the other side safely and quietly was the challenge.

 

After extensively surveying the camp, she had found what was one of the Ixal supply tents. Through careful observation, she had seen that it was not a tent that would likely have sleeping Ixal in it. It was a big risk for her to hope that the material would hold up under the force of her jumping onto it, but desperate times required desperate actions.

 

Once Kiht was in the right spot, she took a few paces back, and prepared her body for a long leap. She bolted then sprang from the ledge of the formation that was just as high as the Ixal camp's wooden wall. She soared right over the wall then landed firmly on the tent next to it with an abrupt thud onto the leathery material. Her body went stiff as she landed, and she heard the sounds of tearing. However, the tent top held. She heard no Ixal or wolves reacting to the noise, but she quickly shuffled and slid her way off of the tent onto the snow-covered ground below.

 

However, Kiht would not be as lucky as she had first assumed. She was in between two large tents. When she looked out from her position into the rest of the campgrounds, she saw the movement of a shadow that appeared right in front of the space between the tents. She quickly rounded the tent; taking position between the tent and the wall. It was a tight fit, but that was where being relatively small paid off.

 

She waited quietly, and it wasn't long before she heard the sounds of footsteps on the snow-covered ground. She heard a low, quiet muttering that was either a grumble of gibberish, or a silent sentence in the Ixal language. Regardless, she heard the footsteps stop then there was a shift. Once again, more footsteps, but it sounded like they were moving away. After a few moments, Kiht heard nothing. The Ixal had left. There was no glow of light, so the guard was likely not holding a torch. Between the tents it was too dark for him to see the footprints she had left in the snow. The Fates had smiled upon her.

 

It took Kiht what felt like an hour of careful sneaking and surveying. She avoided going anywhere near the torches, and stayed behind tents and boxes whenever possible. The Ixal patrols did not bear torches. Rather, they relied on the torch posts set up throughout the camp. The watch wolves were in a deep slumber. They could obviously sleep through the sounds of the Ixal walking around the camp, so the noise Kiht made, which was even softer, did not wake them.

 

However, it would not be that easy for Kiht. Eventually, the gate to the other camp was in sight. Aside the fact that going through the gate would bring her into another camp, two sleeping watch wolves were tied to posts right next to the gate while two Ixal guards also stood next to it. Torch posts burned brightly at their sides. It would be impossible for her to sneak past that.

 

Kiht began thinking carefully. Her options seemed nonexistent. The way the camp was built meant that there was no way around it; not unless she wanted to backtrack into the barren canyon maze where she had come from, and try to find another way back to the Central Highlands. Yet, the only way through the camp was through the heavily guarded gate that the Ixal guarded every moment.

 

Kiht was not left to her thoughts for long. When the sounds of chanting caught her attention, her ears perked up as she began surveying the camp anew. Curiosity burned inside her mind. There was little else she could do at the moment, so she made her way towards the chanting.

 

Eventually, she found the source of the chanting. In an open part of the camp that she had previously not seen from her position atop the rock formation, was a shallow pit with wooden stumps assorted in an organized semi-circle. They were mostly vacant, but three Ixal sat in the first of three rows. In front of the semi-circle was a massive pile of wind crystals. Standing on the opposite side from the semi- circle rows of seating, was a highly decorated Ixal with an ornately designed short spear held in one hand. This Ixal seemed a bit smaller than the three that were sitting. It was certainly not a child, but its build seems more slight. An almost uncountable number of trinkets and jewelry adorned the Ixal that chanted and moved its arms about as if to display greater meaning to its chanting.

 

Kiht knew that Ixal were matriarchal. This shaman or chief was likely a female Ixal. Kiht found it strange that they were doing some kind of ritual in the middle of the night. However, she assumed they were not actually trying to summon yet. It would make more sense for more Ixal to be in audience when they were ready to summon Garuda.

 

Kiht's curiosity had been sated. She turned around, and began to quietly make her way to find an exit to the camp. Suddenly, a blaring roar echoed in the skies. She was startled; her body shook abruptly, but she quickly regained her composure. However, watch wolves began to stir. Some of them awoke, but seemed very drowsy. She could hear the muttering of some Ixal within the tents, but quiet quickly returned to the camp as no signs of whatever created the roar was present. At that time, Kiht had recognized the roar as something a dragon would make, but nothing appeared.

 

It was then that she suddenly began to formulate an insane idea. The Ixal camp was mostly wood, cloth and leather. Two of those materials were very vulnerable to fire. It was very cold, but there was no rain or snowfall. The air was very dry, and that meant that the materials within the camp would likely be dry as well. Getting out of the camp would not be as easy as getting in, so she began entertaining the possibility of burning her way out...

[Knight Kat]

One wolf; one anxious wolf was all it took to put Kiht into the position where she no longer had time to entertain any possibilities. The roar had only caused many in the camp to stir, but one wolf became wide awake. Kiht was unlucky - she had moved into that position knowing that wolf was asleep. She did not anticipate the roar from a distant dragon. The wolf began barking and snarling then attempted to charge at her, but it was tied to his post by a long rope that wasn't quite long enough to allow the wolf to reach her. Kiht was startled to attention. More wolves began to awaken and bark in response. Ixal began to grumble and mutter as they emerged from their tents.

 

Kiht turned around, and quickly made her way back towards the ritual semi-circle. She had to find an alternate way to the gate. There was no more time; she would have to try her fire plan. Setting fire to the gate would likely move the guards away from it. As she moved from cover to cover and tent to tent trying to maintain her stealth, stirring Ixal created too many unexpected variables. She turned the corner of a tent; attempting to take another route towards the gate, but found an Ixal warrior waiting.

 

The Ixal warrior jumped back and let out a bird-like growl. It was just as surprised to see her as she was to see him. She took advantage of his hesitation, and quickly stabbed her spear into his abdomen then bolted to her right. The Ixal was not prepared to guard, but the wound was shallow. He staggered back, and let out a squawk of protest. Kiht's path began to lead her through the ritual circle; unfortunately, the three Ixal and the Shaman Chief were still there.

 

The three Ixal were armed. Two wielded scimitars while one wielded a halberd. They moved to intercept Kiht. She had no choice but to go through them. The first Ixal swordsman that charged at her raised his sword high, but she increased her speed unexpectedly. As his sword fell to try and chop, her spear flashed forward and struck against his lower arm; parrying his attack away. Quickly, in a flash of steel, Kiht's spear found its way to the Ixal's left inner thigh. The Ixal staggered out of the way then fell to the ground. Kiht moved past him, but the other swordsman was upon her quickly. The Ixal with the halberd unexpectedly threw the large pole-arm like a javelin. Kiht did not expect it, but it was inaccurate. A quick dodge to the side allowed her to avoid it, but the Ixal swordsman came upon her swinging wildly in short, quick slashes. Kiht interrupted the slashes with her own flurry of swings and strikes with the head of her spear. In a dance-like twirl, she spun her spear to once again strike the swordsman upon his arm. His sword went flying to the ground as he let out a yelp. She quickly took advantage of the situation, and brought her spear to thrust right into his chest. She yanked her spear free as the Ixal thrashed and fell to the ground.

 

The third Ixal, who tossed his halberd, had drawn a curved dagger. He let out a high-pitched roar as he charged her. The Ixal had long arms, but with only a dagger, Kiht still had better reach with her spear. She charged him with a flurry of thrusts. The Ixal staggered back after taking multiple wounds; just as Kiht had planned. Her spear quickly struck at his knees from between his legs. The beast-man collapsed; letting out a growling squawk of protest.

 

She was not going to turn around to see how many Ixal were now possibly closing on her, so she pressed on, but the Shaman Chief stood in her way. The female Ixal may have been smaller, but she wielded an ornate metal shield decorated with unfamiliar insignias. Even in the dark, it shined like polished bronze. Her right hand held an ornate short spear. It had a white haft with a three-pronged metallic spearhead that looked like it was made out of brass. Attached to two of the prongs were green feathers. The Shaman Chief took a battle-ready stance; determined to stop Kiht.

 

Despite the fancy weapons, Kiht confidently paced to face this fourth Ixal. As she charged in, the Shaman Chief thrust her spear forward before Kiht was even within reach. A sudden gust of wind blew forth from the spear, and knocked Kiht onto her back. She was surprised, but unharmed. She threw her legs up then forward; jumping onto her feet. She prepared her spear, but this time she would approach more carefully.

 

Kiht began to maneuver around; attempting to strafe and flank the Shaman Chief. That is when the Ixal swung her spear in an arc towards Kiht. Once again, Kiht was hit by a sudden burst of wind. That gust had taken her at an angle; thus causing her to stagger and nearly fall once again. The Shaman Chief came in quickly attempting to thrust, but Kiht barely dodged – she stepped back in a quick hop to avoid the attack. The wind spear was a big threat. Kiht needed to go on the offensive quickly. She was close, so she attempted a quick spear strike at the Shaman Chief's shoulder. However, the Ixal blocked the attack with her shield. She then stepped forward, and bashed into Kiht's shoulder with the shield. Kiht staggered back, but she was ready for the following thrust attack. Her spear swung down, and parried the thrust. The Ixal then flicked her spear towards Kiht's legs. A gust of wind impacted her legs; causing her to stagger, fall and roll on the ground.

 

Kiht growled in frustration as she began to climb back onto her feet. Suddenly, pain surged through her whole body as she felt a sharp impact on her shoulder blade. Her body was pumping with adrenaline, so she was still able to clamber to her feet. She realized she had taken a stab to her shoulder, and she realized that she lost hold of her spear. It was several yards away from her on the ground. She had little time to attempt any sort of defense as the Shaman Chief prepared to deliver another thrust. Kiht seemed almost helpless.

[Knight Kat]

The Shaman Chief Ixal suddenly found a handful of dirty of snow slamming into her eyes. Kiht had collected it while she was down. The Ixal let out a squawk of protest then raged forward in a series of vicious thrusts at nothing. In that split second of blindness, Kiht had moved away. She was sprinting as fast as her body could move towards the gate.

 

An uncountable number of Ixal and watch wolves surged in pursuit of her as she made her way towards the gate. She had spent a few minutes running, but finally arrived with torches that she had pulled out of the ground. Smoke began to slowly fill the air. Kiht had already set fire to a few tents. She set fire to the one closest to her before pacing out into the clearing before the gate.

 

She gritted her teeth as her ears pinned back on her bandanna then hurled the torches right at the wooden gate. The torches created patches of fire as reservoirs of fire-lit oil poured onto the wood. However, the fires were small – they needed time to engulf the entire wall. One of the Ixal guards began gathering up snow, but Kiht charged towards them. She hurled her two throwing daggers, that she had sheathed in her jackboots, towards the closest guard who was preparing to charge her. The daggers impacted his flesh; causing him to let out a yelping squawk. Kiht drew her two mythril knives, and bolted towards the guard. He was unprepared as she flurried upon him with a series of slashes that cut open his arm and leg then caused him to stagger away. He dropped his harpoon as he clutched his arm.

 

The other Ixal guard was throwing clumps of snow towards the flames; attempting to extinguish them before they could build into a blaze. However, the watch wolf was now within range of Kiht. The beast lunged at her, and immediately clamped onto her leg with its jaws. The thick leather on her jackboots began to slowly give way as teeth began to puncture her flesh. Kiht let out a shouting growl as she thrust one of her knives down into the wolf's head. The beast let out a yelp as it let go of her leg, and thrashed away from her. The other guard prepared his harpoon in order to attack her, but the other watch wolf was overly eager, and charged beneath the guard's legs. As the rope that tethered the wolf to his post grew stiff, it caused the guard to trip and stagger into a fall. That gave Kiht enough time to prepare for the second wolf. It lunged at her; attempting to latch onto her throat. Instead, the beast met with a kick to the chest. Its clawed paws thrashed through the snow as it landed and prepared for another lunge. But that time, she was ready to meet it half way. As the wolf began its second lunge, Kiht held one of her arms up near her neck while her right arm held her knife low in a standard grip. The wolf flew upward, but Kiht stabbed the blade into its neck, twisted at the hilt then threw the animal to the ground. The wolf thrashed and gargled as blood poured from its throat.

 

The wounded, unarmed guard was not feeling bold as he saw the horde of Ixal, who were not busy trying to extinguish the fires that Kiht had set, make their way towards her. She was barely keeping one step ahead of her pursuers. She began frantically turning the wooden peg-wheel mechanism that opened the gate. Just as her pursuers had closed on her, she opened the gate just enough for her small form to fit through. She darted through the gate into another Ixal encampment.

 

The noise and commotion had awoken the next camp as well. Ixal were standing outside their tents - many of them armed with weapons. Several watch wolves were already being unleashed as they barked and snarled at Kiht. A horde of Ixal approached from behind her as a group was forming in front of her. She would be surrounded quickly.

 

However, after gazing to her right, she saw that the camp was near the edge of a cliff. There were no walls between her and the cliff edge. She glanced to her left and saw a rock wall on the other side of the camp. She had little choice since being wounded, exhausted, outnumbered and almost surrounded.

 

Kiht bolted towards the edge of the cliff, and gazed over it. There would be a long fall, but a river flowed below. It was a potential suicide leap, but it was guaranteed suicide to stay and fight as the Ixal closed in on her. She leaped over the edge, and her body flew into the icy waters below.

[Knight Kat]

[align=center]Chapter Three: Aether Fishing With Ol' Dayn[/align]

 

Bright light was all Kiht could see. Slowly, the light became brighter as random shapes began to take form. The shapes became bright white light being dispersed through gray blobs as she gradually began to feel her thoughts forming.

 

“Where am I?” She thought to herself.

 

It was then that she realized she was staring up at the sky. There was the sound of a dull, gentle roar that was continuous and relentless. Her mind began to recognize that it was the sound of a river. That was when the body aches kicked in, and it caused her to let out a groan of protest. She slowly began to rise to her feet.

 

As Kiht came to her senses, the sounds of crackling caught her attention. Slowly, she gazed about her surroundings. A large pack, a leather tarp, a fire and something else; someone else. Sitting upon the tarp was a man in a thick snow coat. The middle-aged Hyur man, with a beard so blonde it was almost white, calmly gazed upon her. He gave her a curt nod.

 

“Oh, so you're awake now. Fates were with you. Not everyone who dives into a freezing river wakes up afterward.”

 

Kiht turned her weary gaze on him. It took her a few seconds to even understand what he said. Her body wobbled as her stance suddenly grew weak. But, she did not fall. She held herself steady.

 

“Who are you. What happened?” She asked in a groggy tone.

 

The man used a stick to turn over some of the small logs in the fire. He calmly gazed on Kiht for a few moments; giving her the opportunity to fully awaken her mind.

 

“You fell on the river, got washed down and managed to crawl yourself up onto the edge. Your body was probably too cold, so you passed out. I found you just lying there. You're right lucky.”

 

Kiht took a few steps closer to him. It was clear she had become wary, but if the man had wanted to do anything to her, he would likely have done so before then. Her body was still very weak, so she felt her legs about to give out. Instead, she let herself collapse into kneel near the fire, but she kept her gaze on the man. He calmly regarded her – he was waiting patiently for her to say more.

 

“I… I remember now. I escaped from an Ixal camp. I had no choice.”

 

The man slowly bobbed his head as if to nod an acknowledgment of what she was saying. Once again, he teased the fire with his stick.

 

“Well, them bird-men are one good reason to jump into an icy river, I suppose. You don't look like an Ishgardian knight. You don't look like one of them Adders. Are you seeking the lady?” He asked curiously.

 

Kiht furrowed her brows, and inclined her head as she studied the man. “Lady? I am lost… To my shame, I am lost. And I call myself a Scout… 'Tis quite a story. Mayhaps one you would not believe.”

 

The man blinked his green eyes then smirked and shook his head. “Girl, you might be surprised what I would believe. You gotta warm your body up before you can eat or drink anything. May as well tell me the story while we wait. Ain't no bird-men 'round here.” He replied in a good-natured tone.

 

Kiht let out a sigh then squinted as she gazed into the fire. All her gear was left on her. She still had her knives and her pack. She was not the man's prisoner, so she decided to be open.

 

“I tried using a useless shite map to scout Ixal territory. I got stuck between Ixal and a long fall. That is when the dragons appeared. I had no choice but to try and flee on the airship with the Ixal. You can imagine how that went.” She said in a tone that grew more weary.

 

The man grew an amused smirk, and nodded his head. “Yeah, no good ways for that to go.”

 

Kiht told him more details of her story. There was no use hiding what had happened. However, after she was done, they sat in silence for many minutes.

 

“Here, you should drink and eat something.” He said in a sincere tone.

 

He pointed to Kiht's water skin and pack. He had checked. He knew that she brought rations, and this suddenly made her more wary. She stood to her feet then poured her water skin out onto the snow. The man furrowed his brows, but didn't say anything at that moment. Kiht moved to kneel near the river, and filled up her water skin. After it was full, she took a large drink. She secured the cap then pulled the rations from her pack. The dried meats were still sealed in their leather pouches. The tight, awkward knots were just the way Kiht had tied them. It was unlikely that he tampered with her food then managed to tie the pouches back up the exact same way. She untied the pouch then began eating some of the dried meats.

 

The man smirked and bobbed his head again. “Smart. But I ain't done nothing to your water. It would've been easier to do whatever I'd wanted to do when you were not awake.” He said as his voice betrayed mild amusement.

 

Kiht calmly glanced to him as she continued eating. “Unless you preferred me to be awake, and more cooperative. Some things are not as fun when a person is asleep...” She said in a suspicious tone.

 

The man raised a brow, and slowly shook his head. “I ain't got time to get into whatever trouble that would have caused. Aside from that, I already have me a wife and kids.”

 

Kiht continued eating; unfazed. “That would not stop any male who wanted to.”

 

He shook his head again. “Well, believe whatever you feel comfortable with. I'm on a mission.”

 

Kiht finished eating her rations then drank more water. She stayed close to the fire as she collected her thoughts. Eventually, she found her gaze upon him once again.

 

“You have my gratitude. I did not mean to seem unappreciative. Tell me, what is this mission you speak of?” She asked in a kinder tone.

 

He smiled at her, and maintained a steady gaze. “I… Well, me and my group are on a sort of pilgrimage. Yeah, you can call it that. A pilgrimage. We seek a wonderful woman with great power. Hells, some of us even claim that she calls to us in our dreams. There are some truths hidden in history. This magnificent lady is one of the few who knows the truths.”

 

Kiht inclined her head as she studied the man. He seemed sincere in his words, but she could not help but wonder about his vagueness. Something seemed amiss.

 

“Does this lady have a name? If she knows such truths why does she not tell everyone? If she has such power, why does she not find you?”

 

The man calmly waited a moment; considering Kiht's questions. “She has a name for those who need to know it. I know it, but you shouldn't. She shares her truths freely, but most don't listen. She has great power, but she is not powerful enough to be invulnerable. She can call to us, but she would risk herself if she traveled too much. We need to be strong, we need to prove ourselves strong and find her. Otherwise, it would not be much of a pilgrimage, would it?” He said in a tone of reverence as he spoke about the Lady.

 

Kiht furrowed her brows as she thought to herself. It was strange that he did not want to tell her. However, there were far more important questions she needed to ask him.

 

“Very well, can you tell me your name then? Do you know the way out of this canyon?”

 

The man nodded. “The name's Dayn. My group and I do know the way out of this canyon, but the bird- men are clever. You see, they built their camps right in the bottleneck passageways that lead to the Central Highlands. Only way out of this canyon without the ability to fly is through the Ixal camps.”

 

Kiht let out a loud sigh as her ears lowered. Her entire posture slumped. “How did you and your group get into this canyon? How do you intend to get out? Mayhaps we can work together.” She stated then raised her head, and gazed upon him curiously to await his response.

 

He slowly shook his head. “Me and my group ain't leaving. Not yet. Part of the pilgrimage means doing a task for the Lady. Them bird-men airships are a problem. We plan to destroy some of them. And before you ask, none of us know how to fly them.” He said as his tone grew more stern.

 

Kiht seemed a bit upset at first – her expression betrayed disappointment and mild frustration. However, she nodded curtly.

 

“Point me the right way out of here, and I will help you. The Ixal are no ally of mine either. I would take great pleasure in destroying their contraptions.” She said with a mild growl in her tone.

[Knight Kat]

The next day arrived, and Kiht had attended to her wound. With the use of bandages and herbs she was keeping infection at bay. She was fortunate to have taken the blow to her shoulder blade. The quick jab was stopped by bone, but her muscle was quite sore. She needed long-term medical treatment, but Dayn had no medical expertise. She sat by the fire until Dayn returned from whatever errand he chose not to specify. She could have followed him, but he hadn't told her the way out of the maze of canyons and ravines that she was stuck in.

 

Eventually, Kiht could see Dayn returning from the distance. He walked along the riverbank until he reached there fire.

 

“So you're still here? Good. The group approves. You can join us in the attack, but you won't be with us. You'll be finding your own way.” He said in a casual tone.

 

Kiht grew a perplexed expression as she raised a brow. “I do not understand. How can I fight alongside your group without attacking along with your group? Do you even really have a group? How do I know you are not just an insane old man who sees things?”

 

Dayn chuckled loudly. His expression betrayed that he was entertained by Kiht's attitude. “Well, I have my reasons to prevent you from meetin' them. You'll understand when the attack begins. But, you'll have to just trust me. You ain't got much choice in the matter unless you want to go it alone. You're free to do that, ya know.”

 

Kiht furrowed her brows and scoffed. She shook her head slowly then took a few moments to think. “Fine, but I want to know the way out before we start the attack.” She said firmly.

 

Dayn nodded. “Of course. I'm a tell you that right now. But first, I need tell you something else. You see, you won't be as useful to us if you ain't fighting at your best.”

 

Kiht furrowed her brows more intensely as she grew a mild scowl. “Give me a spear of some sort, and I can be at my best. If you do not have that, worry not. I can fight just fine with these knives. Likely better than an old man can.”

 

Dayn regarded her. His expression was serious, but there were no hints of anger. He studied her for a short moment before speaking again. “I ain't talking about your skills with weapons. If I didn't know better, I'd say you grew up in Garlemald. Do you even know what you have? Do you even know why you survived that freezing river? Why are you fighting with spears and knives alone?”

 

Kiht's expression still displayed her agitation; however, it softened, and grew a hint of curiosity. “What the Hells are you talking about? I fight with such weapons because I am a Huntress. They are the weapons I was raised to use. I have trained with many mentors, and learned from much experience. There no other weapons I am better with.”

 

Dayn shook his head then looked her in the eyes. “No, you're still thinking about weapons. That's okay, weapons are good. But, you have enough aether to be a mage, girl. Why would you not do that? Why is it mostly dormant inside you?”

 

Kiht grew even more confused. She studied the man to see any signs that he might be jesting, but his expression was sincere and solid. “My role was chosen for me when I was a child. I was trained since I was a child. If they had seen any potential within me to be a conjurer, I would have been made one. Those who can heal with magic are very valuable. However, they tested me, and made sure that the best path for me was that of the Huntress and Scout.” She said in a confident tone.

 

“I'm not talking about that. You don't understand, girl. There are many different types of magic. Not all are meant for healing. No, your aether has an affinity for ice. Not just an affinity, but even more uncommon; a double affinity. Your aether has a stronger affinity for ice than I have ever seen.”

 

Kiht shrugged. Her expression relaxed, and her mind began calming. She wasn't surprised by his words. She revered the two goddesses of ice more so than the other ten deities. “What does it matter? I can use my aether, but what you are telling me is that my aether would be better for destructive magic? I do not need such. I have trained all my life to be what I am. I cannot be everything, and I do not have time to learn to be something else even if I wanted to be.”

 

Dayn let out a sigh. “Again, that ain't what I'm saying. What's stopping you from being able to use your aether in more dynamic ways even while continuing to fight with your best skills and weapons?”

 

Kiht was still unconvinced by the man she hardly knew. “I assume if it were best to be able to fight with weapons and magic at the same time, others would do it. There is nothing about me that can make me an exception. Unless you are saying my double affinity for ice somehow makes me stronger than most people?”

 

“No, I ain't saying that. I ain't saying that the double affinity for ice makes you immune to ice. You can still freeze to death. Ice magic can still kill you. But, you can resist the cold and ice better than those without the affinity for it.” He said then paused to collect his thoughts.

 

Dayn took a deep breath to continue. “There are those who can use magic and weapons. Things exist when there is a need for them. We need archers, so we have them. You don't see people who have it within their role to be javelin-throwers. But, that don't mean javelin throwing don't exist. And, that don't mean it's a useless art. It might be a bit outdated, but there are still some advantages to it that a bow don't have. Enough to replace the bow? No, it's the other way around. But there are still people who throw javelins and harpoons because it still has its applications. You're probably the type that is so obsessed with things that are time-honored that you don't see the advantage to being anything else. Well, I'm offering you an opportunity…”

 

Kiht perked a brow at him. Her expression grew curious. She crossed her arms then listened intently. She nodded to indicate that he should continue.

 

“Well, this ain't something that only I can do for you. You have a good amount of aether, but never really trained in spell-casting, have you? I ain't gonna teach you spells; that'll take too long. But I can help you unlock your aether.” He stated with certainty.

 

Kiht slowly shook her head. “I can already use my aether. You do not need to unlock it.”

 

“I ain't talking about the ability to use. I'm talking about the ability to control and formulate it. Like mages do. It ain't easy to explain. It's like, more than focusing energy, but actually being able to take hold of it. You will actually begin to learn how to use your ice affinity.” Dayn responded.

 

“And how would I go about doing that?” Kiht asked.

 

Dayn grew a wide grin – wider than she had seen since meeting him. “If you trust me enough, I can teach you. But, I ain't know a way to make you trust me anytime soon, so are you willing to gamble? Are you willing to take a chance with ol' Dayn?”

[Knight Kat]

[align=center]Chapter Four: Ice Between Wind and Fire[/align]

 

Many days had passed – Kiht couldn't keep track of exactly how many, but the time had come. Dayn had never let her meet the group she would be fighting alongside. It had her frustrated, but she didn't have much choice. The shortest way out was through three interconnected Ixal camps. Her plan was to hope that the attack would cause enough of a distraction for her to sneak through all three. It was a long shot, but at least she knew success would return her to the Central Highlands. What she had learned opened her mind. She could feel that her body was undergoing a change. Regardless, her objective was the same; she had spent enough time in the icy, rocky hell. It was time to go home.

 

Kiht stood atop a rock formation at the top of the hill. It was the dark of night, but with her Moon-keeper eyes, she could see the two camps clearly. An almost vertical rock wall; higher than the hill and rock formations she stood upon, was the backdrop of the small Ixal camp below. At least a dozen rope ladders were strung up the side of the rock wall. This appeared to allow the Ixal from the camp below to climb up to the larger camp above. The larger camp, sitting atop the plateau-like mountain, had its own set of walls. Because of Kiht's angle, she could not see into the camp atop the mountain. However, the camp below was easy to gaze into from her angle. The smaller camp had one Ixal war balloon. Like a typical Ixal camp, it had assorted torches and tents. There was a small amount of guards on patrol, and a half-dozen sleeping watch wolves roped to their posts. Kiht had already scouted the camp the night before. She made sure she memorized it, and had no need to take another thorough look.

 

She was told to wait. She would wait until Dayn and his group attacked first. Despite the Ixal camp being small, she had her doubts. Dayn and his group would get to surprise the Ixal, but with the walls and the gate, the Ixal would have plenty of time to prepare for battle. There were only a few ways that Dayn and his group could attack the camp without giving them the chance to prepare. Once again, she had no choice but to wait and see if Dayn's assurances would hold true.

 

Kiht was not left to wait much longer. Suddenly, a roar blared through the skies. Kiht immediately crouched, and attempted to take cover near a boulder. She recognized the roar, but before she could even think about what was happening, the dragon came to a loud, abrupt landing right in front of the Ixal camp's gate. The beast let out an abrupt burst of fire from its maw that set the Ixal wall and gate aflame. Watch wolves abruptly started barking and snarling. Every Ixal in the camp was quickly awake. However, without waiting long, the dragon crashed through the burning gate, and began spewing fire onto the tents and guards. Following behind the dragon were a group of men on foot. There were at least a dozen men; most of which were in rusty armor. They charged forward into the camp. It wasn't long before three more figures emerged from the from the darkness of the night behind the men. They were Aevis.

 

Battle ensued as Ixal and wolves frantically attacked the frightening intruders. That was why Dayn did not want Kiht to meet his group. That is why Dayn was so vague and cryptic. He and his group were Dravanians - human cultists fighting besides dragons to prove their loyalty to the Dravanian cause. It suddenly struck Kiht that she had been spending all those days with a dangerous, corrupt man. She began to wonder if she herself had been corrupt by his teachings somehow. However, it was too late for her to second-guess her choice. She was left with one objective.

 

Kiht swiftly made her way to the camp, and into the fray. The situation began to fill her with a sense of familiarity. Once again, she was attempting to make her way past two opposing forces without wanting to join either side. She was shaken; running so close to Aevis and the dragon, but they paid her no mind, and continued to attack the Ixal and wolf targets. The air began to fill with smoke as everything in the camp was set ablaze. The dragon had gone directly for the war balloon, and destroyed it before the Ixal could even think of getting it off the ground. Kiht bolted to a rope ladder then began climbing quickly.

 

As she made her way up the rope ladder, she saw many Ixal from the camp above making their way down. An airship flew overhead; the Ixal planed to attack from above. That was when a smaller, flying dragon arrived. It shot a stream of flames on to the Ixal airship before the bird-men even realized it was there. Kiht was fortunate. No Ixal had tried to climb down the rope ladder she was climbing up.

 

She finally found herself at the top of the cliff. However, she could not rest. In front of her was a small army of Ixal - squawking and howling at the Dravanian forces. There was enough smoke in the air, and enough of a distraction that most of the Ixal didn't notice Kiht. She saw that the camp gate was wide open, and the wooden walls they built made it so that the only way to continue to the Central Highlands was through their camps. She bolted for the open gate while drawing one of her mythril knives. Unfortunately, one Ixal was not inclined to ignore her. He unleashed a watch wolf, and the snarling beast charged at Kiht.

 

Clawed paws scraped the rocky ground covered in a thin layer of snow as the wolf closed in on her quickly. She was so intent on getting through the gate that she almost didn't notice the beast charging at her. At the last moment she turned, braced herself and readied her knife by holding it low while keeping her other arm near her neck. The wolf lunged and latched on to her arm. Were it not for her plated guards, the massive fangs would have easily bit into the flesh of her arm. The force tackled her on to the ground, but she kept hold of her knife. As the wolf shook his head; attempting to thrash her around, she thrust her knife forward into the beast's neck. The wolf let go, and let out a gurgling yelp. In its final moments, it was thrashing away from her.

 

As Kiht got to her feet, the Ixal who unleashed the wolf was upon her. He was armed with a shield and scimitar. He attacked her with a flurry of slashes. She drew her second blade, and jumped away as she cut her knives out to parry a few of his attacks. However, the Ixal did not relent – he followed through with continuous combinations of slashes. Kiht was hard-pressed. She was at a disadvantage in terms of reach. She needed to change that.

 

In a bold act, she suddenly threw her left knife at the Ixal's neck. The blade connected with flesh, but did not cut very deeply. The Ixal thrashed back in reflex; pausing his attack, and giving Kiht a split second to charge in low. She was so fast that the Ixal didn't have time to bash her with his shield before she moved in to point-blank range. She thrust her knife into his chest over and over again; growling violently. It was her one opportunity to take down the Ixal before falling back into a disadvantageous position. It was enough – the Ixal staggered back and fell to the ground in a heap. Kiht recovered her second knife then continued towards the gate.

 

Just as she entered the gate, the flying dragon let out a stream of flames on to the Ixal force below as it flew right over their heads. Kiht was almost scorched by that attack, but she was fortunate enough to only feel the heat from it. She began to move from tent to tent; trying to stay out of direct notice. She only had to hope that the dragons would be more of a distraction than a subtle Miqo'te.

 

Suddenly, the large dragon that had attacked the camp below, abruptly landed in the center of the camp Kiht was in. It began indiscriminately setting fire to everything nearby. In the process, it had set fire to an airship, but there was another airship near the gate to another camp about to take off. A trio of Ixal frantically prepared the ship. It was clear they wanted to save it from the dragon's attacks. However, Kiht's objective was the gate.

[Knight Kat]

Kiht figured that she would do what the dragon was doing. She pulled a torch from the ground with the intention of setting the gate aflame. It would burn down eventually. Unfortunately, her plans were brought to an abrupt halt. The gate swung open, and a large force of Ixal charged through. A horde of watch wolves, despite their ferocity, refused to charge the dragon. They kept what they thought was a safe distance as they barked and snarled at the massive beast. However, the Ixal were much bolder out of desperation. They charged towards the dragon in a densely-packed crowd of armed, angry bird-men. Kiht was about to be crushed. The dragon turned its head, and let out an arcing stream of flames that torched the group of watch wolves. The beasts let out a yelps as they were engulfed in fire. In all directions, she was blocked; a burning wooden wall, a frenzied dragon, a horde of Ixal and a rock wall.

 

However, there was no going back. Kiht could not get through any of the obstacles in one piece. That was when the airship began to slowly lift off the ground. As much as she hated it, it was her only good option. She swiftly darted towards the airship then leaped to grab the steps that allowed passengers to ascend onto the deck. She was only able to reach the steps with her hands as the airship rose into the skies. She held on for dear life then slowly pulled herself up onto the deck.

 

Like before, the three Ixal operators did not notice her. They were too busy operating the ship; trying to get it to fly as quickly as possible. It seemed foolish to try and escape the dragons by flying, but they and the airship would have certainly been destroyed if it had been left on the ground.

 

Kiht wasn't sure if she was fortunate or unfortunate that none of the dragons followed that ship. The Ixal engaged them in battle, and they were not able to pursue. It was only a matter of time before the operators would notice their stowaway.

 

She swiftly surveyed the airship deck. It was small, and there was nowhere to hide. In the center was a large mass of machinery. To Kiht, it was just a noisy contraption, but it was her only cover. She slowly drew both of her mythril knives as one of the Ixal operators noticed her. He drew a dagger, but Kiht was more than ready. She lunged to the attack. In a quick flurry of slashes, she parried his attack, and cut open his arm then quickly swung one of her knives down to split open his thigh. The Ixal staggered back then tripped off of the airship deck. His body fell over the edge, and it would be the ground that would finish him off.

 

The other two Ixal operators were frantically pulling levers, and flipping switches on the large contraption. One of them every so often moved to a pegged wheel to turn it a few times; that likely steered the ship.

 

Just as the second operator noticed Kiht, she stepped in under him then thrust both of her knives into his neck. The Ixal thrashed backwards then drew his scimitar, but the damage was already done. His weapon flew from his hand and clanked onto the deck as he fell onto his back; gargling and thrashing in his final moments.

 

The final operator had noticed Kiht by then. He had drawn his shield and scimitar. He let out a howling squawk at her as he charged. She had little room to move, and already felt her body beginning to weaken, so she turned about, and began running. She was running in a circle around the center engine fixture as the Ixal gave chase. However, this was no game. He would abruptly turn around to try and intercept her circular path. She anticipated that, and also abruptly turned to try and run at his back. They continued to run and turn, intercept and flank. They were at a stalemate. The Ixal eventually roared in frustration then began sprinting faster around the center engine with large, beast-like strides.

 

Suddenly, he came to a stop. Kiht had disappeared. He held his weapons at the ready as he swiftly but carefully surveyed the entire deck. He slowly moved around the center engine fixture to see if she was hiding on the other side, but she was nowhere in sight. It was at that moment when his attention was drawn by the sound of something quietly rubbing against metal. He shot his gaze to the top of the fixture as Kiht lunged down upon him. The Ixal was quick to react, and raise his shield to block her. The force of her weight impacting his shield caused him to stagger back, but he quickly countered with a swift horizontal slash of his scimitar. His blade swooshed through the air; hitting nothing. Kiht had ducked low; anticipating his swing, and his shield held high had obstructed his vision. She sprang into him; stabbing her knives furiously and repetitively into his midsection. The Ixal thrashed forward with his shield arm, and bashed her on the shoulder. She staggered, and fell onto her side. The Ixal found his strength giving out as he suddenly fell into an unintentional crouch.

 

The Ixal's shield arm grasped at his stomach that had been stabbed full of several knife wounds. He let out a monstrous squawk of protest as he rose, raised his sword and prepared to strike at Kiht. However, his body was weakened, and he was slower. Kiht was on her feet by the time he had mustered himself up for the attack. She kicked forward, and the Ixal was still low enough to take the strike on the chest. He fell to his side; his attack interrupted. His body reflexively curled into a fetal position.

 

Kiht suddenly knelt near his head, and pressed one of her legs down on his blade to prevent him from raising it. The Ixal weakly looked up at her as she mercilessly thrust her knife into his neck, right below his head. He let out an abrupt gargle, but she twisted the knife, and ended it quickly.

 

She yanked the bloody blade from the Ixal's neck then rose to her feet, and took a few steps towards steering wheel. She felt a strong urge to collapse onto her knees. She had no idea how to operate the ship that she could feel continuing to ascend into the sky. The operators had just been killed, but she had little choice. She found herself suddenly needing to learn how to operate an Ixal airship. Slowly, she made her way to the wheel, but that was when something else caught her attention. Another airship was flying towards her's. She narrowed her eyes then spotted more Ixal on board.

[Knight Kat]

Drawing her blades, she prepared for whatever foes waited on the deck of the other ship. She had absolutely no idea how to operate the ship she was on, but it was not the same for the other operators of the other ship. The other Ixal airship closed in on Kiht's airship with swift intent. Despite her lack of knowledge on how to fly airships, she could tell that the other ship was obviously trying to at least get close to her's.

 

The other airship, which was the same type of design, flew up to side-by-side with her airship. The two decks were so close that the Ixal aboard the other airship could easily jump onto hers. Two Ixal remained on the airship as one leaped over onto the deck of her airship. Even in the darkness, Kiht's Keeper eyes recognized the figure. Bearing the same ornate shield and spear she had before, the Shaman Chief took a few paces toward Kiht then stopped to study her.

 

“You bring them! You steal our ship to them!” The Ixal blurted out in barely-understandable common Eorzean language.

 

Kiht shifted her body into a battle-ready stance with a knife in each of her hands. She barely understood her, but she felt no reason to respond. Nothing Kiht could say would change the situation. The Ixal wanted their ship back – they likely thought that Kiht was a Dravanian intent on stealing their airships. However, it didn't really matter. The two had unfinished business.

 

Kiht was a mess. Her hair was frayed and oily while her leathers were torn, covered with soot stains and marked with gashes. Her dirty face formed into a determined, feral scowl. Her lungs burned, and her muscles ached. However, she was almost eager for the fight. It was a strange feeling since she was almost certain the situation would end in her death; one way or another.

 

The Shaman Chief didn't wait long for a response before she thrust her spear forward; blowing a gust of wind from it. What would have staggered Kiht back, hit her like a breeze striking a rock. Kihts body was locked into a stance. It gave the Shaman Chief pause, but she thrust forward again with more force. The green feathers on the spear glowed as a more powerful blast of wind shot forth to strike Kiht.

She staggered back a few feet, but quickly regained her stance. The greenish hues of the wind that shot forth had impacted a dark blue aura that started to radiate in a faint glow around Kiht's body.

 

The Shaman Chief growled as she strode towards Kiht. The Ixal attempted to pierce her torso with a series of rapid, furious thrusts. Kiht had already begun moving the moment the Shaman Chief came in on the attack. She swiftly darted to her right then threw out her left blade to knock against the haft of the spear; preventing it from turning to thrust at her more. However, the Shaman Chief pulled back her spear. She attempted to bash Kiht with her shield, but Kiht hopped backwards. That opened her up to a thrust which the Shaman Chief followed through with. The two prongs that bore the green feathers and stuck out beside the main spear point were met with a block from two knives. The thrust was powerful, but performed with one arm. Kiht had held out both arms, and the spear point stopped short of reaching her body. The Shaman Chief was unfazed. She quickly urged the spear to let out a gust of wind to knock Kiht back again. The greenish-hued wind blasted from the green feathers, and dispersed upon Kiht as her body once again glowed with a faint dark blue aura. Kiht was unmoved.

 

The Miqo'te quickly kicked her right leg upwards to meet the haft of the spear. The weapon was knocked aside. The Shaman Chief moved in with her shield to attempt to bash her. However, Kiht threw herself upon the shield. The pressure pushed the air out of her lungs, but she remained pressed up against the shield since she had met the momentum of the attempted shield bash with her own forward momentum. She reached around the shield with her knife; using her other one to slash at the weapon arm of the Ixal. The Shaman chief pulled her spear-bearing arm back, and avoided the slashes of the knife, but her arm holding the shield was not so fortunate. The mythril knife pierced her flesh, and Kiht cut in as deeply and as forcefully as she could manage. The Shaman Chief let out a howling squawk then thrashed backwards. Kiht had expected that. She latched on the shield as the Shaman chief thrashed backwards, and pulled it loose from her arm.

 

Kiht sheathed one of her knives then held the shield in her left hand. It was a small shield for an Ixal, but a large shield for Miqo'te. The Ixal let out a roar of rage then swung her spear in a downward arc. A blast of wind traveled forth from the weapon; applying a downward force on Kiht's head and shoulders. She staggered back a foot as her body was almost pushed into a crouch. Fortunately, her blue aura lit up her body again, and most of the wind had dispersed on her as if she was a rock.

 

Kiht was able to quickly regain her stance as the Ixal Chief attacked with a forceful thrust. Kiht was not trained on the best use of the shield; however, she understood the general concept. She swiftly moved the shield in the path of thrust; causing the spear to deflect off of its surface. Kiht slashed forward with her knife in an attempt to reach the hand holding the spear, but the Ixal pulled her arm back in time to avoid it. The Chief furiously thrust forward in rapid succession, but Kiht nearly crouched behind the shield; using it to protect most of her body from the rapid blows.

 

The Shaman Chief kicked forward under the shield in an attempt to break Kiht's guard. However, she had a poor grip on the shield since she had not strapped it to her arm. The shield flew away from Kiht, and most the force had been concentrated on that, so her body had only been mildly affected by the force of the kick.

 

She slashed forward with her knife, and split open the Shaman Chief’s thigh. The Ixal reached forward quickly with her free hand, but Kiht swiftly slashed it aside. The Ixal staggered back a few feet to gain some distance, but Kiht aggressively pursued her. The Chief thrust downward at Kiht's left leg, but it was an inaccurate, desperate attack. It struck into the leather of her jackboot, and failed to directly pierce her leg.

 

Kiht drew her other knife, and slashed at the Ixal's weapon arm. She thrust her right blade in a multitude of furious stabs into the Ixal's torso. The Shaman Chief dropped her spear as she staggered back.

 

Her left arm hung limp as two gaping wounds let blood flow down her fingers that dripped onto the deck. Her right hand grasped at the multitude of wounds in her torso. Her stance was weak as she stood at the very edge of the airship deck; glaring at Kiht.

 

She leered at the Ixal as she paused her attack. “The Elementals took your wings away you stupid, foolish beast. You have no right to the skies. Allow me to show you.” She stated quickly in a cold tone.

 

Kiht jumped into the air as she threw her right leg out in a powerful kick aimed at the Ixal's midsection. The Shaman Chief was struck by the below, and sent over the edge.

 

The Miqo'te underestimated how tired her body was as she was unable to properly land despite having only jumped a few feet off the deck. She collapsed onto the hard surface as the Shaman Chief fell into the darkness below.

 

The Ixal operator steering the other ship let out a squawk of protest then began muttering something to the other operator. Both Ixal stopped what they were doing, and drew their weapons. They began to approach the edge of their ship's deck. They intended on jumping over to finish Kiht off.

 

She growled and furrowed her brows as she saw the Ixal preparing to jump. She dropped her knives then quickly crawled to the ornate spear left by the Chief. It was as if the world had suddenly started moving in slow motion. Just as she grabbed the haft of the spear, the two Ixal began their jump. Without hesitating, Kiht swung the spear in an arc towards them. Wind blasted forth in a chaotic eruption from the green feathers. The force let forth by the weapon caused it to break from her grip. The two Ixal were struck by a blast of wind as they were in midair.

 

One Ixal simply fell straight to his death while the other had his back slammed against the edge of his own airship deck. The impact stunned him, and he was not able to grip the edge of the deck before his body fell towards the ground far below. The spear flew back, and lodged itself into the large airship engine fixed in the center of the deck.

 

The spear had hit a few levers, and stuck into some kind of gear mechanism. The sound of grinding and buzzing erupted from the engine as steam released from somewhere within its inner workings. Kiht could suddenly feel the airship descending as her body became lighter. However, she was exhausted. She attempted to climb to her feet only to stagger back onto the deck. She crawled her way to the spear, and yanked it out of the engine. It took a large amount of force, but the weapon came free. Unfortunately, the buzzing and grinding did not stop.

 

The airship deck tilted, and Kiht's body began to slide towards the edge. She sprawled her arms and legs out in an attempt to create as much friction as possible. It worked for that moment; causing her body to stop sliding. Suddenly, she felt the airship begin to descend faster and faster.

 

Almost as if by the grace of the Twelve, Kiht felt a familiar ring from her linkpearl. Her trusty little orbs of communication had reactivated at some point. There was not much else she could do but speak through them.

 

“If anyone can hear me, this is Kiht. I… I am on an airship. I think it is about to crash. It is an Ixal airship. I do not know where it will land. If…”

 

Kiht was cut off as her body began to slide again; however, her fingers found a grip in between wooden planks in the deck. Once again, she stopped sliding.

 

“I think I am over the Central Highlands... If I survive this… I will try and make it to one of the settlements. I…”

 

Suddenly, anyone listening to Kiht's voice over the linkpearl would hear her cut off by a loud crash followed by static…

[MrPoopyButtHole]

One heart beat.

 

The sound of wings flapping drowned out everything else.

 

Two.

 

The roar of the dragons overhead heading to Ishgard.

 

Three.

 

The stinging sensation in his right hand....scarred and useless.

 

Four...

 

Pyralis opened his violet eyes and stared into the small fire he had built for the many cold Coerthas nights. Dragons....so many and Ishgard was under siege. He had heard such rumors but to actually witness it from a far with his own eyes. He prayed that Halone herself would defend the innocent and smite the wicked.

 

The small tent he had built for himself was covered in the daily snowfall of Coerthas weather but at least it kept all his supplies from being ruined. It was so quiet out here now...a couple suns ago he had heard a commotion at the bird men camp as well as the roar of dragons. Bird men and dragons fighting brought a small smile to his lips. Cracked and frozen as they were it was still good to think of the Ixal being devoured by the massive beast.

 

Five heart beats now and you still can't channel your aether anymore.

 

The former bard's violet gaze drifted to his gloved right hand which he still hadn't regained function in. This trip was supposed to bring answers but all it did was confirm that war was coming. A war between a nation of arrogant Elezen who would watch her sister nations burn and dragonkin who probably followed some primal like the rest of the beast.

 

The next sun he'd travel deeper into the Highlands and hopefully get more answers as to the incoming second calamity. Instinctively he reached with his left hand into his vestments to lightly trace his only means of defense...a pistol. Why did he feel like such a coward whenever he touched the damn thing?

 

Six heart beats...have you forgotten your own words?

 

To protect all life wisely. Never give up your own life for frivolous reasons. Living is harder than dying. Pyralis let out a heavy pained sigh and nodded, the truth hurt.

 

Seven heart beats....Kiht?

 

The Keeper's voice came out over the pearl and suddenly he felt his heart drop into his stomach. Why the bloody hells was she out here when she herself warned him about coming? Why was she---she's stubborn and she is a Jakkya. That summoned it all up as to why she was out here in the frozen tundra. Before Pyralis even had a chance to respond he heard the pearl cut off. Panic, worry, run around screaming....none of these things would help.

 

Before he was a bard he was a slaver. He could track, he could hunt, he could find whoever it was he needed given a few bells. Kiht was in trouble and it was his obligation to protect all life at all cost. Without giving it so much as a second thought he packed his first aid kit, food, water, wine, potions, and spare bullets. Within half a bell he was already in hunter mode searching for the woman he....searching for Kiht. Ears to the floor and eyes to the sky...she couldn't be too hard to find...right?

[Boo the Hamster]

He couldn't help but groan when he awoke.  He rubbed his eyes, the quiet night bringing some discomfort to him.  Just how long was he unconscious?  The last time was..nearly twelve bells ago if the chronometer was accurate.  Was it this late already?  He lacked energy as of late. his dreams becoming just as exhausting as his daily tasks.  All he can see were those shadows, and that blasted red star.  Every pulse the star made, a hammer along his chest.  And each night he woke, he felt like his head was trying to tear itself apart.  He couldn't help but to think of what the dreams were, but it was like something was blocking it.

 

Even he couldn't escape the horrors six, seven years past.  He didn't care at this point how long it was ago.  But this was something different.  It was as if his mind was blocking this memory intentionally, despite the horrors others forget, it was this odd memory that kept him awake.  He reached for his pearl, hearing a familiar voice.

 

"Where have you been?"  He listened to Reppu ask this question, a hint of concern along her voice.  An odd question from her.  His doubts began to rise, though the sincerity of it was enough for him to answer.  He knew she had business, and he would have attended but his dreams kept him bedridden.  A hint of shame went across his features before he responded in the pearl.

 

"I needed to clear my head.  I need to speak to you soon about what is happening."  His voice spoke in that neutral tone, hiding his worries.

 

"Once this is done, of course."  It was that short response that annoyed him, but she was busy.  He couldn't keep too much of her attention now, of course.

 

"Thank you."  He set the pearl down with a soft sigh.  His head throbbed once more.  He couldn't help but to blink as he overheard the pearl less than ten minutes afterward, his hand darting to it as he listened to Kiht's voice.  His hand quickly drew the pearl away at that crash, the sound drilling into his head like knives.  He moved to immediately check his armor, making sure it was in good condition as well as his lance.  He needed both, knowing the place as it was.  Filled with chaos and the maddening star that summoned the draconic wrath each..how many years was it?

 

'Mattered little now', he thought.  He had to wait, as much as it pained him to not go search for his friend immediately.  He was hoping to speak to his dear friend, but business and errands caught the both of them.  Reppu was long asleep by the time he was able to explain to her, but it was neither of their faults, he thought.  He went to her door, armor and lance along him in the dead of night, the only thing giving his appearance away was the polished metal, the black chain nearly invisible in the dark.  He stopped in front of it, not reaching to open it.

 

"I'm sorry, but I must repay my debt."  He spoke to the door, as if it would somehow retain the message of all things

 

The aether wrapped around him as he began to whisk himself to Coerthas.  He arrived in the fort, though he quickly abandoned it after paying his fee.  Rest is not something he needs.  He just hoped his friend would make it through the hellish nights.  The first place would be the cave east of the Observatorium.  Why was she here?  Did she not have a clan to move?  His eyes grew cold as he began to move, the servant's eyes turning to little less than one who would not hesitate to kill in a moment's notice.

 

He hated the effect this place has on him...

[Boo the Hamster]

His eyes went toward the bridge west of the Observatorium, north of the path to Mor Dhona.  He dressed in his black chain mail, ignoring the advice given to him about wearing to blend in to his surroundings.  He moved off of his chocobo, the bird scarred by battles of the past.  He let out a soft sigh, waiting at the edge of the bridge for a familiar figure to show up.

 

Ki'lari.  He's been kinder to her these suns at least, so she was willing to head out here for him to give him that advice.  She's been kinder in turn, and so long as they don't get in each others way, their talks are peaceful at least.  He asked her earlier for advice, his ears open for her words as she spoke.  He knew some of these things, yet he needed that refresher.  It's been years since he tracked people, and he needed that time to remember his instincts.  She came out from under the bridge, apparently beating him to the place.  He hunted Dravanians, traitors and kinsmen both, but a rescue is different.  Something struck out at him, an idea he's never heard before.

 

"It was said long ago, that summoners could actually contact the larger real ones...nae make copies...that they would offer their power n' aid ta make sure the land was treated with respect n' protected. Even the Ice Queen Shiva would lend 'er cold comfort to harm those who went against 'er pact makers..."

 

He wanted to yell at her at how foolish of an idea that was.  Shiva?  That heretic that started all of this Dravanian madness?  Why would anyone decide to befriend her, let alone make a pact with the woman.  His eyes grew cold, though he listened to her, trying to shove those thoughts away from his mind.

 

"Mind ye, I think most of em went mad...but iffin yer deseperate n' really wantin ta find 'er....Find someone who can talk ta the ice spirits...they know all...S'how I track folks in the forest sometimes. The water spirits help me. I've lived with em most of me life even with the goblins...Haven't ye noticed?"

 

He didn't notice the sprites helping her.  How could he?  He knew little of the ways of magic, let alone the movement of sprites.

 

"The spirits...they tie themselves ta other things. Monsters, beastkin...trees...places.."

 

It was this that he finally responded to, having something he can speak civil on.

 

"The sprites seem neutral to all here, even in abundance.  I was told of you living with the goblins, both from yourself and Reppu."

 

"They have a voice...needs...they'll help those who can understand, but them stupid adventerers they attack em n' try ta take the crystals."

 

He nods at that, letting out a soft sigh.  Most of the conversation was a blur from there, his mind racing as he began to think about her safety.  He closed his eyes briefly, quickly opening them once more as he began to see that damnable star again.

 

"...n' fer gobs sake wear somethin' white next time."

 

He couldn't help but to smile at that.  They parted ways, unable to help but think on what was just spoken to him.  Someone to talk to the ice sprites?  He'd have to be careful if he chose that path.  He doesn't need those that decide to do such be labeled as enemies of Ishgard.  Who knows what they'd say if they saw actions like that.

[Knight Kat]

[align=center]The Final Moment [/align]

 

It was dead quiet, and all she could feel was the cold. Her body was numb, and all she could see was white.

 

“Kiht!” A voice rang into her mind. The voice was familiar, but she couldn't quite tell who's voice it was.

 

Vision began to return to her. The white was clearing slowly as blurry shapes took form and danced chaotically about her field of view. Echos of sounds began emanating from the dancing forms as the numbness in her body began turning into a burning sensation.

 

“Kiht, wake up! The Clan needs you.” The voice again. It was louder, and clearly from outside Kiht's own mind. It was the voice of R'shesha Otharn.

 

Kiht's vision began to clear more as the forms in her field of view became warriors doing battle. Their opponents were Ixal and their wolves. Dashing across the snowy plain from the decks of their war balloons, the bird-men charged with no formation at a group of Miqo'te with one Elezen to their flank. Squawks and shouting filled the air as metal clashed on metal. The barks and snarls of wolves added to the noise, and were punctuated by the yelps of those who suddenly had weapons meet their hides.

 

Moment by moment, Kiht's body began to rediscover sensation. She was standing - her muscles and determination had locked her into a stance as the ice tried to make her a statue. Her gaze drifted to the sound of the voice, and she saw R'shesha standing next to her.

 

“Where am I?...” Was all Kiht could manage in a quiet, weak voice.

 

However, from that moment on, a new blur returned as her head suddenly felt like it was going to explode. One of the Ixal war balloons was struck by a flying object or person, and its flight bladder burst with a loud, deep pop. The vessel plummeted from the few feet off the ground it was hovering then a burst of fire scorched the area.

 

Ixal and wolves alike got set ablaze as a roar filled the sky. A large form abruptly landed onto the battlefield as the few remaining Ixal scattered. The sounds of it all suddenly became muffled. Kiht's momentary lapse into alertness was fading once more.

 

There was shouting and more roaring. Kiht could not tell what was going on. It was like the battle she had escaped followed her. Were the Gods not done trialing her? Had she not suffered enough? She wondered.

 

Suddenly, her body was overcome with pain. This was not from the cold, and no mere return of sensation. This was the pain of her soul being ripped to shreds. She could not even think about what was happening as someone or something was attacking her – it was killing her.

 

No more noise, and no more vision; she only felt intense pain. She wanted it to stop. She wanted to beg it to stop, but she could not muster her voice, or perhaps she was too busy screaming.

 

Memories flooded into her mind as if to occupy her from a pain she could not escape. Her mother, her first spear, her first hunt, being hauled off to Gridania, her first mentor Yvelont Navarre, sparring with Wood Wailers in their barracks, the Calamity, the Dusk Watch unit of Twin Adders, her first trek to the scorching Thanalan, a red-haired mercenary woman who would become a Free Paladin, a suave midlander man who helped her clear her name in Gridania, her first crush Kendha'to Burwani, her first Moon-sister Rinette Molkoh, her first lover Lyn Konge and a group of Hyur and Elezen gathered around her who were looking to her as leader.

 

The memories were as potent as the pain, and her mind was able to hold onto them, but she felt her body giving out. The pain did not stop, so her mind continued digging for memories. Her first hunt with Sanja Polaali, her first real mate Rinh'li, various members of the Morbolvine Clan, placing a bomb collar on her neck to save someone she shouldn't have, being forced to join an attack on an Ul'dah gate, being saved from taking part in the attack by her cousin, training in Coerthas with Nheu'a Polaali and the founding of the Shroudwolf Clan. However, even her memories were beginning to fade, and a darkness soon overcame her.

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

It felt like mere moments later, but had actually been several bells time. The blackness was replaced by a brightness as Kiht slowly opened her eyes. She was in a room on a bed. Enju was sitting next to her feet and several members of the Shroudwolf Clan stood over her.

 

Was it all a dream? She wondered. Their faces were heavy with concern and relief. Her body began to once again regain its senses. It was not a dream. It was all real, and the trial was over.

 

Kiht was home.