//------------------------------// // 32. Wall of Sacred Beasts // Story: The Ninth Fantasy - Gaia // by MrAlterad //------------------------------// Pinkie had offered to let Spike and Eiko ride her on the way back to Madain Sari. After all the walking earlier in the day, they were eager to accept the offer. As they quickly rode back to the village, Eiko looked over Spike's shoulder to see that he was using the point of his tail to etch a name into the Moonstone he got yesterday. “Spike, whatcha doing?” She asked, looking to distract herself from her worry over the village theft. He glanced to her before looking back to the Moonstone. “For some reason, gemstones on Gaia remind me of several of my friends back in Equestria. So when I get a new stone, I write their name into it.” He then carefully pulled out the four gemstones he had, trying not to drop them from Pinkie's gallop. Twilight's Garnet, Rarity's Amethyst, Rainbow Dash's Ruby, and Shining Armor's Peridot. He then took the moment to explain each of those friends to Eiko as time passed. “So, that's why they're important.” Eiko nodded as she she pulled out her light blue gemstone, the Sapphire, “Who does this remind you of?” Spike took the gem, curious and eager to find out. Holding the gem, he felt the urge to laugh. A feeling of unbridled happiness, and the urge to play around with others. This is Pinkie's! Spike thought as he addressed the mare. “Pinkie, this gem feels like you!” “What? Reallly~! Whatsit do~!?” She eagerly asked, having heard everything the two on her back had talked about. Glancing over her shoulder she smiled as she saw the gem, “That kinda resembles my element~” Spike had noticed the similar color as well, and couldn't help but wonder what it meant. “I don't know what it does. I'll try it out when we're not running!” He said energetically, then realized something as he handed the gem back to Eiko. “Thanks Eiko, I didn't think there would be gemstones for Pinkie and Applejack. I can't wait to see what AJ's is!” He finished with a smile, which got a small frown from Eiko as she looked to the gemstone. “Spike,” She began, offering him the stone again, “I- I don't need it anymore. If you're going to keep it and put Pinkie's name on it, I'd like you to have it.” She put on a little smile, and she got one in return as Spike accepted the gem from her. “Thanks Eiko!” And he gave her a small hug to show his appreciation, making her blush furiously. As they moved through the broken earth, Spike pocketed the new stone. Once I finish the Moonstone, I can work on Pinkie's. Eiko wanted to talk to Pinkie, so they switched places on her back, letting Spike give his attention back to the Moonstone. It was obvious who it reminded him of, he felt a sense of love for everypony radiating from it, as well as a sense of playfulness as he finished etching Luna's name into the smooth white stone. The stone granted him a spell that inflicted Sleep on his foes, but there was another spell he didn't quite know how to use. When he had the time, he intended to try and figure it out. Going back through the mountain path, they slowed down to navigate the terrain, allowing Spike to reflect on what happened earlier, clutching his chest, almost shaking when he recalled the fight with Mistcage. Something bothered the dragon more than the fight, however. They had survived it, thanks to Eiko and Applejack, but now the mist wouldn't reach the Mist Continent anymore, which meant no more Black Mages being born. Yea, they were made to fight. But couldn't they have been made just for the sake of having new friends? Spike imagined Black Mage Village, empty and alone, an image that would now become a reality. “Somethin' wrong sugarcube?” Applejack asked as she moved next to Pinkie, getting Eiko to glance over her shoulder. “Yer lookin' a little down.” Thanks to Applejack's forwardness, he was now the center of attention, not that he minded. “It's just. There's going to be no more Black Mages now.” No one had an immediate answer to his words. They couldn't summon up any fitting words to assure the young dragon. “I'm sorry Spike.” Applejack spoke up, breaking the silence. “I really am. I- I don't know how we could fix that. I suppose Kuja might have an answer,” she said with a frown, “But I honestly doubt he'd give us one we'd like.” “Um,” Pinkie began hesitantly, “Would you like it if we threw a party of some kind for them?” Just what kind of party would that even be? Spike wondered as he shook his head. “I just, I just wish everyone could have a happy ending. They were dolls that woke up as people. It's sad that they have a short life span, it's sad that no more will be born. I don't want that to be the ending in store for them. I want to help them. They were nice to us, back in the village. Even Black Waltz was decent once I 'woke' him up.” “Well, if you want to help them, then do it!” Eiko proclaimed, as if it was that simple. “But how?” “I don't know.” She quickly admitted, but gave him an assuring look. “You don't know how to get back home, but that doesn't stop you from looking, right?” She asked of him. Spike looked to her, her words helping him feel a little better. “You're right. Better to look for a way then to do nothing. Thanks Eiko.” She smiled brightly at his gratitude. “Doing something is better than doing nothing.” She added as they left the mountain path, and picked up speed towards the village. Its amazing, that she can say things like that. Isn't she younger than me? Spike wondered as they reached the outskirts of Madain Sari, prompting Eiko to hop off of Pinkie, running ahead of them. “I'm home!” Eiko proclaimed as they return to the ruined village. But there was no moogle to greet them. “I'm home!!” She repeated, as loud as her lungs could manage, which ended up hurting Spike's ears. Her cry was indeed heard, for shortly afterwards a string of moogles moved up the path to them. “Mocha told me the news.” Eiko stated worriedly, “Is everyone alright?” “Come. Now!” Morrison cried out, “Talk later! Kupo!” And the other moogles agreed with a kupo. And the moogles ran off, Eiko following after them. “Hey, Eiko?” Applejack asked as they were left behind, leading to them quickly chasing after her. Guess she isn't use to relying on us yet. Spike thought as they reached her home. They went past the kitchen down into the entrance of a pantry, where all the moogles had gathered. As Spike and the others entered the pantry, they found Eiko looking into an empty box resting on an altar. Her mouth hung open as she reached inside the empty container, as if to verify the facts. “It's... gone! The precious stone that has been passed down for generations is gone!” Her eyes fell to the floor, appearing to be fighting back tears. “My grandparents said-” She began as she turned and looked up to the others, “They said that we should take care of it because it's a symbol of the summoners' heritage.” Her expression made Spike's chest hurt, calling up a recent memory. Is that what I looked like, before I broke down at the cemetery? Not wanting her to make the same mistake he did, he spoke up. “Eiko,” he began assuredly, “if you want to cry, then cry. It helps, okay?” “I-I'm not gonna cry!” She claimed as she stared at Spike, trying not to glare at him. “I'm a grown-up, and crying won't help one bit!” “Alight.” Zidane interjected, before Spike could reply, “How about we start looking for clues then?” Applejack nodded as she walked up to Eiko with a light smile. “We can all help ya. 'Kay?” Eiko looked between the five of them, and nodded. As they started to look around, Pinkie went outside to talk to the moogles, giving Spike a knowing glance. Does she expect me to do something? Spike turned around and saw Eiko's back was to everyone, and she had hiccups. “Is it- Is it my fault?” She's blaming herself? “Is it because I broke my promise and opened the Iifa Tree's seal?” . Her words reminded Spike of when he and Dagger were caught in Alexandria, and his inability to protect her. What Pinkie said back then came to mind, and he nodded, putting his claw on Eiko's shoulder. “Eiko. It's not your fault.” She turned around to face him, she wasn't crying, but it was obvious she was holding it in. “It's the thief's fault, not yours.” “And besides, we asked you to break the seal. The bad guy is the thief, not you.” He finished, giving her a smile, and she gave him a sad one in return. “Spike's right.” Applejack affirmed, “We'll find some clues, and get yer stone back, just ya watch!” Eiko hiccuped again as she looked between Spike and Applejack, and after taking their words in, she took several deep breaths, composing herself and ending her hiccups before giving them a nod. “O-Okay!” Eiko proclaimed, brimming with renewed energy, her words laced with hope. Then she gave them all a fired up look. “I wasn't going to cry, you know.” She then stood tall and composed. “After all, I'm a grown-up, and a lady!” “We know, Eiko.” Zidane said. “But if you feel like crying, just cry.” Eiko shook her head, then adopted a contemplating look before looking back to her friends. “I'm gonna go pray to my grandparents, I'll be right back.” She said as she left them alone in the pantry. Spike didn't know what a clue looked like, but he pored his eyes over the scene of the crime as Zidane approached Dagger. “If you need to, you can cry too, Dagger.” He said with a playful smile. “My shoulder's always available.” “Yea, thanks.” She sincerely replied, smiling to everyone. Huh? Are Zidane and Dagger close? Spike considered that as she turned to Zidane. “What about you, Zidane? What do you do when you need to cry?” He contemplated her question a moment before speaking up. “Oh, I get real clingy when I'm sad!” He opened his arms wide, as if he was about to hug someone, his gesture directed towards Dagger. She stamped her foot down as she glared at him. “Hey, cut it out. I'm being serious!” “Hey, I was being serious.” Zidane replied as he scratched his head, looking a little hurt. Applejack chuckled a little, and Spike almost did the same as a memory came to mind. “Zidane,” Applejack began, “you were pretty down the one time I've seen ya sad.” She gave him a smug grin. Is she referring to- “Back when we saved Dagger from Zorn and Thorn, in the castle.” Zidane looked at her in surprise before looking embarrassed, his face flushing. “Um,” he began as Dagger gave him a confused look, “well-” He was interrupted by a loud scream from outside, snapping all of them to attention. “That was Eiko!” Spike proclaimed in alarm, teleporting out of the pantry. “Damnit!” He heard Zidane say as they followed Spike outside. “The thief was still here!” Mocha moved before them, in a state of panic as he spoke up. “Eiko's been kidnapped by a girl with a large axe! Kupo! Pinkie went after them, they were heading towards the Eidolon Wall!” Hearing more than enough, they all ran off to rescue their friend. Spike got ahead of the others with several teleporting shortcuts, and met Pinkie at the wall. “Pinkie! Whats up!?” He asked her, they and a number of moogles were standing outside the wall, and Pinkie turned to Spike, and he almost stepped back from her expression. Pinkie frowning is always scary! “When we came to this land, we fought a mean lady with a big axe called Lani. She's scary, and she's inside with Eiko!” Pinkie explained as she nodded to the Eidolon Wall, and as she finished, the others caught up. Spike turned to the others, a fire in his eyes. “I'll take a peek inside!” He said, not waiting for their input as he teleported up on top of the broken dome, and peered inside. Lani was standing in the center of the room, holding onto Eiko from the back of her clothes, holding her out at arms length as Eiko swung around, trying to free herself. In Lani's other hand was her large axe, poised to strike in an instant. “This is no way to treat a lady!” Eiko proclaimed indignantly, more annoyed than afraid. “What's this wing ornament on your back?” Lani asked, clearly bored. “It makes you so easy to pick up.” She added as she shook Eiko a little. “My grandpa gave it to me! Get your grubby hands off it!” “Oh shut up.” Lani replied in announce. “Just be still until they get here.” Seeing more than enough, Spike teleported back to the others. “Lani's waiting for us!” He exclaimed, almost in a state of panic. “And I think she wants to hurt Eiko unless we do something for her.” Zidane nodded with a frown as he looked to Morrison. “Was Mog captured too?” He asked the moogle, and Pinkie moved behind Morrison and gently pushed the small moogle out for all to see. “She's right here. Be nice Zidane.” Pinkie said as she looked towards the wall worriedly. “Mog,” Zidane began as he knelt towards her. “I have a plan to save Eiko, but I need your help.” Mog quickly shook her head. “I promise, you won't be in any danger.” Mog shook her head again, prompting Morrison to speak for her. “It's no use. Mog's always been a coward.” He explained as she gave them an apologetic look. Zidane nodded as he turned to the others. “Well, we got to do something. Lani has a hostage, so handling this will be tricky.” “Well,” Applejack began, stamping her hoof down. “Standin' out here ain't helpin' anyone.” She looked to Spike. “Sugarcube, go back up top. If things go south, help out. She's never seen ya before, so ya can get the jump on her.” Spike gave her a nod as he teleported atop the roof, and quietly looked on as the others ran into the room. Eiko wasn't struggling anymore, she was passed out, which turned Spike's worry into anger. What did she do to her!? “Well, looks like my prize decided to show up.” Lani said as she glanced between Applejack and Dagger. “What have ya done to Eiko!?” Applejack shouted, looking ready to jump at Lani. “She was too energetic, so I put her to sleep with some sleeping weed.” Zidane shared a glance with Dagger as they all eased up a little. “Sleeping weed, eh?” Zidane said. “Then she's probably sleeping well.” His words caused Dagger to blush. Dagger shook her head of the memory and stepped forward, cautiously. “If it's my pendant you're after, then leave the others out of it!” “No can do.” Lani replied with a sly smile. “This is way too convenient to pass up! Hand over your pendant, and I'll hand over the girl, you follow?” Lani's eyes widened as she noticed something was off about Dagger. “What happened to the pendant you wore last time!?” Spike's was also surprised as he saw that Dagger wasn't wearing her royal pendant. When did she take it off? Zidane stepped forward, looking fairly smug. “I have it.” He said with a small smile. “Well, what good is that?” Lani asked in annoyance as she brought her axe closer to Eiko. “Now, cough it up already!” Zidane glared at her unspoken threat. “First, tell me something.” He began as he pulled out Dagger's pendant. “Was it you who stole the village stone?” “Queen Brahne is after the royal pendant, and I just happened to find another jewel just like it in this village!” She looked genuinely happy as she continued, “She'll no doubt give me a bonus for it! I'm glad I came all this way looking for you. Now, hand it over!” As they talked, Spike saw his shadow become swallowed by something bigger, and turning around in alarm, he stood rigid as he took in the figure before him. A large, muscular man with light blue skin, wearing a green sleeveless shirt and matching pants looked down to the dragon. His eyes were obscured by a large head of red dreadlocks, and he had a red pointed beard. Despite the dreadlocks, Spike could tell he was looking at him. The man brought his large hand to his mouth, motioning for Spike to remain quiet as he moved next to the young dragon, slouching down to take in the scene within the Eidolon Wall. Something about the man's presence kept Spike from acting, as if he was radiating an aura that implied that he would cause Spike no harm. Who is he? Is he one of Eiko's friends? I feel like I've seen that head of hair somewhere before. Not quite sure how to react to the sudden appearance of the stranger, Spike's eyes fell back to the scene before them, taking this tall stranger's appearance as a good omen. Zidane had just finished whispering something to the others, and was now approaching Lani. “Hold on!” Lani cried out as she glared at Zidane, making him stop. “You're plotting something, aren't you? Stay right there.” Zidane glared at her as he kicked the ground. “You, Applejack!” Lani said as she pointed at the orange mare with her axe. “What?” “Bring me the pendant! And remember, do as I say if you value this brats life!” Applejack glared at her, then moved to Zidane's side. The two of them shared a nod as he handed her the pendant. As Applejack approached Lani, the girl started to laugh, gripping harder on her axe. Wait, she's going to- Spike thought as he prepared to teleport, but was surprised when the large man next to him threw himself towards Lani. He's fast! “Look out!” He shouted in a deep voice that could only stand equal to Big Macintosh. Lani saw him flying towards her and abandoned Eiko, avoiding the man landing upon her. Eiko was caught by Applejack as Lani put some distance between the red warrior and the others. Spike stood on his perch, his eyes glued to the turn of events. “I donno who ya are,” Applejack said, smiling at the newcomer, “but ya got my thanks!” She then handed Eiko over to Dagger, the brooding warrior having no words for Applejack. As the warrior looked towards Lani, Spike sensed an aura of anger radiating from him. How is he doing that? It's like I can sense his emotions, as apposed to seeing them! No longer in Lani's custody, Dagger stirred Eiko awake. “Huh, what's going on?” Eiko asked as her sleep was dispelled, then realization dawned on her as Dagger helped her stand up. “Where's that old hag!” Eiko cried out as she looked around, glaring at Lani as she spotted her. “W-Who are you calling a hag!?” Lani replied indignantly. “You!” Eiko replied without hesitation. “So, the tables turn!” Zidane proclaimed as he drew out his doublesword. “Now, hand over the jewel you stole!” Lani ignored Zidane as she glared at the warrior that ruined her day. “What are you trying to do, Red!?” She asked of the scarlet warrior as she pointed her axe at him. “I thought you're suppose to be the number one bandit!” Her comment made everyone's eyes fall to him. “Wait. I've seen him before!” Dagger proclaimed. “I saw him on wanted posters in Treno!” She's right! At the inn where we met Marcus, his face was on the wall! 'Red' glanced to the others, his aura shifting to something more neutral. “I'm not here to help. I just want it to be fair.” “What are you talking about?” Lani asked, still angry, and now confused. His aura flared as his attention fell back to her, making Lani take a step back. “Leave the jewel, and get out of here.” It was an order, not a request. Spike felt that he wouldn't be able to refuse if that had been directed to him. “W-What!? We're partners on this job! You're suppose to help me get the gem and kill the orange pony!” Spike looked to Applejack in surprise, she had failed to tell him that part. 'Red' shook his head as he motioned to Lani. “I don't work with hostage taking scumbags. Now, get lost.” He then took up a fighting stance, “Or, would you rather fight me?” Lani glared at him as she tossed the jewel at his feet, which he deftly kicked up and caught. “Mark my words Red! I'll collect the bounty on you someday!” With that, Lani jumped on one of the pillars, and then onto the roof. She looked at Spike in surprise, then took up a dark grin, but it vanished when Spike teleported away from her to another side of the roof, sticking his tongue out at her. She glared at him, and fled. Looking back down to the others, he saw 'Red' take up a fighting stance towards Zidane. His aura was no longer anger, but it was still hostile. “Now, fight me!” “Just a second here.” Zidane said holding his blade back, confused. “What's going on?” “I told you. I'm not here to help. I just want to level the playing field." Well, that sure is kind of him. But why Zidane? Shouldn't it be Applejack? “Fair enough.” Zidane said as a cocky grin stretched across his face. “Let's do-” “Wait just a second sugarcube.” Applejack interrupted, getting in between Zidane and the man. “It's my job, no, its my wish to protect each and every one of ya. If he wants a fair fight, then I should fight him.” She then gave Zidane a smug aside-glance. “Ya'll probably just steal his things, and that ain't fair.” “No, I'm fighting him.” “No thanks AJ, it's between the two of us.” They both said in unison, making the mare frown. “I'm not gonna let ya get yerself killed fer this.” “Oh, and you think I'll let you do the same?” Zidane snidely countered, looking worried for her. His concern made her smile, before she covered it with a stubborn frown. “Look here Zidane. I don't want to Applebuck ya, but I will if yer intending to stick to yer apples. I'm fightin' him, no ifs, ands or buts about it.” Zidane folded his arms as he raised an eyebrow at the mare. “Stick to yer Apples?” He stated, causing Applejack to roll her eyes at him. “It's a figure of speech sugarcube. So whatsit gonna be?” Zidane looked to the man, then back to Applejack, sighing as he gave her a reluctant nod. 'Red' took a step forward, confused by this turn of events. Spike teleported down next to Pinkie, who was watching the entire affair, along with Dagger and Eiko, with mixed concern and curiosity. “I have no quarrel with you.” 'Red' admitted, pointing to Zidane. “He is my opponent, not you.” “As if. Ya were hired to kill me, so I'm the one yer gonna fight. Besides, ya ain't gonna get a fair fight unless yer fightin' me.” Then she gave him a hard look. “I won't let anyone harm my friends.” “How is that fair?” He scoffed, “When I best you, then I'll just have to fight him anyways, wounded.” “Look,” Zidane began with a smile. “If you win, you can have the pendant, and you can fight me after my friends heal you up, sound good?” Dagger and Eiko looked to Zidane in surprise, but Pinkie and Spike saw where he was coming from. There's no way Applejack will lose! The warrior looked between Applejack and Zidane in confusion. His aura fluctuated before calming, as he turned towards Applejack. His aura flared up, not with anger, but with determination, he slid on a pair of fist swords, bladed claws similar to what Pinkie used on the giant yesterday. He took up his stance, directed at Applejack as she drew her sword. Feeling the pressure in the air, the others stepped back, giving them more room for their duel. Show him what your made of, AJ! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ATE: Fierce Duel ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Applejack stared him down. He was radiating a fire that only her mind's eye could see. She knew he was going to give her everything he had, but she wouldn't falter. She was strong, and she channeled it through her stare. The air felt tense between them, as if it would ignite from their burning determination to win. Applejack blinked, and the fight began, as she suddenly saw him almost flying towards her, his claw forward to rake her neck. She knelt down, her hat deflecting the blow as she pushed into him, slamming into his chest. They both staggered back from the impact, Applejack cradling her head and neck, Red holding his stomach. The moment was short, as they both ignored the pain and will of their bodies, and lunged at each other again. This time, Applejack had her sword ready, and she swung towards his torso, but he caught her blade between his claws, a small amount of chill seeping into his weapons as he abandoned one of his claws to grab at her while the weapons were locked together. He grabbed her by the neck, his large arm easily grasping around it, Oh horseapples! She thought he was going to choke her, and she moved to get away from him. Planting her hooves in the ground, she pushed back, intending to throw him over her, and was terribly surprised when he threw her in the direction her hooves worked her towards. He used her own momentum, and added it to his strength, sending her crashing into one of the pillars, making it crumble from the impact. Ow. Applejack coughed as she quickly rolled out of the way of the collapsing pillar, scooping up her sword in the same motion. When she got up, she saw Red charging towards her flank, and she dropped low as he ran right into an Applebuck. He was sent into a pillar opposite of the one she crashed into, and it collapsed from the impact. Applejack crushed two small voices trying to get her attention in her head. One thinking about how Eiko won't like the mess, the other suggesting she heal. This is a fair fight, I won't cheat! Her determination and pride overpowering her pragmatism, she charged after Red as he rolled out of the rubble, his weapons ready for the orange mare. She brought her blade around, and again he caught it in his claws, but she was ready this time. She let go of her blade and brought her head up, right into his own, she felt the impact reverberate through her helm as their skulls collided, and he was sent staggering back. Applejack smiled until she saw he had her sword. Her eyes widened as he pulled it from his claws and threw her blade at her. With terrifying strength, her blade cut through the air, Applejack knelt down to the side, making her blade hit her helm, sending the blade flying high, and knocking her hat off, and rattling her senses. Shaking her head to collect herself, she felt two large hands grasp her head, and looking forward, she saw Red bring his head down, headbutting her, and they both staggered back again. Unable to see, she sensed an oncoming attack and jumped high, feeling the air beneath her shift. As she landed, she wiped the blood from her eyes as she took in her opponent. He was just as injured as she was, and had blood trickling down his forehead too. He still had both of his claws, while Applejack lacked her sword, seeing it several paces behind Red. He was staring at her, both of them glaring, waiting for the other to move, both of them not intending to fall for the others tricks again. As she took in her foe, waiting for him to twitch, a strange realization came to mind. Am, Am I smilin'? She was surprised that she was enjoying this. It was the first time she's fought someone on even footing, in a fair fight. The fact that they were both giving it their all only made it more thrilling. They were throwing themselves at each other, and she found it exhilarating. That's strange. I know nothin' 'bout this guy, and yet... She lowered her aggression, making Red hesitate as she spoke up. “Gotta say, yer pretty good.” Applejack complimented, surprising Red. And yet, I like him. We're fightin', he's tryin' to kill me, and yet, that doesn't bother me. He looked to her, appraising her before replying. “You're putting up a better fight than I thought.” She sensed something from him, an aura of satisfaction. He glanced to her sword, and rolled over to it, tossing it over to her. “I did say a fair fight.” She eyed her sword as it landed before her, Is that it? Is it because he insists on bein' fair? Yes, that has to be it. I find that respectable, honorable, and I don't want to disappoint that notion. Looking from her sword to him, she smiled as she raised an eyebrow. “Heh, alright then. Let's do this, fist to hoof.” And she slid her sword away as Red looked to her, then chucked his claws to the side. She smiled at him, then charged. He lunged at her, and seeing her chance, planted her forward hoof into the ground and pivoted on it, swinging herself around and bringing her hind legs forward, waiting to deliver an Applebuck. As her legs fired off, she saw him slide by the attack, dodging it by a fraction of an inch. Her's ears fell as he brought his large fist down on her back, smashing her into the ground, making her cry out in pain. Sensing another hit oncoming, she rolled into him, surprising him with her direction, knocking him down as she staggered up. Horseapples! That buckin' hurt! She rubbed tears from her eyes as she limped away from him. Not good! My hind legs don't feel right! Despite her condition, fear was far removed from her thoughts. Fear for her life, that is. She didn't want to lose, or suffer what that would entail for her friends. Her eyes watched Red, he looked to her, poised to charge her, but he didn't move. What's he waitin' fer? She tried to stand tall, but her back cried out, and she struggled to stay on her hooves as Red's posture became more open. “This fight is over.” He stood tall as he abandoned his battle stance. “Your name is Applejack?” He asked of her respectfully. She heard her friends call her name, but she closed them out, it was just him, and her, at this very moment. “I won't forget it.” He then crouched low, preparing to finish her. Ya think ya've won? I still have a trick fer ya! Applejack gave him a smile, her brow furrowed, as he charged forward. Applejack drew on an ability she rarely used. An ability she gained from a blade. It was the most basic of abilities for a swordsman, an ability that becomes stronger the more wounded your are, Minus Strike, a power that takes strength from burning desire. As Red reached Applejack, she braced her hind legs and brought her forward hoof to connect with his punch. As they connected, he felt her pain, transferred through the contact, and her magic made it real, causing him to grunt in agony. Not expecting such an attack coming, his own attack faltered as he crashed into Applejack, her planted hooves keeping her from moving as his movement came to a halt. She bit back crying out as lightning coursed down her spine, and in his moment of confusion, she separated herself from him, rolling around him and taking the opportunity to Applebuck him into the far wall. The Applebuck, in hindsight, was a bad call. Applejack collapsed to the ground as the pain in her back redoubled from her sudden exertion. Fighting to not pass out from the jagged pain coursing down her spine, she rubbed blood and sweat from her eyes as she saw that Red lay where he crashed. He was still breathing, but unmoving, making her certain that the fight was over. Despite the pain in her back and skull, she was still smiling. And with the battle over, the world seemed to return to her, all at once. She noticed she was surrounded by her friends, Eiko and Dagger were working a healing spell, and she felt the pain in her back melt away as she turned her smile towards them. “I'm sorry I scared ya'll.” She admitted, she didn't really hear their words through the fight, but she guessed the fight didn't do their nerves any favors. “Thanks fer not buttin' in. Can ye help him too?” She asked as she got up, nodding to Red. She felt someone small hug her, and was surprised when she saw it was Spike, her face flush as he looked to her. “That was amazing Applejack,” he said excitedly, “you both looked so cool! I mean, it was kinda scary, but still cool!” “I'll say! You were glowing~!” Pinkie admitted as she joined in the hug, putting Applejack's hat back on the orange mare. “Ahh shucks, thanks ya'll.” She wasn't sure if it was from her friends warmth, or the rush of the fight, or the boost to her pride the victory brought, but Applejack felt satisfied. The most satisfied she's ever been since ending up on Gaia. “That was a great fight Applejack,” Zidane admitted, then adopted a smug smile. “I could have taken him.” “Yea, sure,” she replied as she rolled her eyes, with a smile. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ As Dagger's healing magic fell upon 'Red', he stirred, and looked to Applejack, who stood before him. “I... lost?” He shook his head, looking to Applejack. “Why did you heal me?” He then glared at them. “Well? Go ahead. Finish me!” “Can ya stand?” Applejack ask offering her hoof to 'Red'. He looked at it, confused. “Well, take it. And give back what isn't yers.” Realization dawned on his face as he got up on his own, and pulled the gem Lani had thrown at him. Applejack grabbed the gem and turned to Eiko. “Over here sugarcube.” Eiko quickly moved to received the gem from her. As Applejack gave it to her, Eiko looked up to her with a smile. “Thanks Applejack, I'm glad you won.” Then she glared at the mare. “But did you have to make a mess of the Eidolon Wall!?” She asked, prompting Applejack to blush and force out an apology. Having given them what was taken, 'Red' spoke up. “Now. Finish me!” He asked, almost pleading. “No.” Applejack sternly replied as she turned back to him, “Do ya really want to die?” Applejack asked sadly, her tone making him look taken aback. “I ain't gonna do it. Ya wanted to fight fair, and ya gave back what wasn't yers. I wouldn't even think of killin' ya.” “Yea,” Zidane began, “you're barking up the wrong tree if you want someone here to kill you. She's sparing your life, and I would have done the same.” “So what, you want to banish me then?” He asked, still confused by the way the one he intended to kill was treating him. “Ya can leave, we won't keep ya.” “So then, you're trying to trick me?” His accusation made Applejack stomp the ground. “No! Ya dunder head!” “Then why? I tried to kill you! And I still want to kill that man.” He pointed out as he looked to Zidane, “So why are you letting me go?” “Because I want to.” She replied as she held her hoof to her chest, “I'm doin' what my heart feels is right, and lettin' ya go, feels right. We got back what was stolen, and ya scared off Lani. So as far as I see it, there's no more quarrel between us.” “What is this, caring for an enemy so quickly.” 'Red' folded his arms as he shook his head in disappointment. “I can't believe I lost to someone so soft.” “She isn't soft.” Spike quickly interjected, “She's strong!” He looked to Spike, seeming to take his words in as he looked over the others. Seeing that they were not going to change their minds, he leapt up out of the Eidolon wall as Lani had, and was gone. Applejack looked where he departed for several moments before turning to Eiko, letting out a sigh. “Eiko, I think ya should keep that with ya. Lani might come back fer it when yer away.” Eiko nodded at her suggestion, and moved to leave, but stopped and turned to Spike expectedly. What? Did I miss something? Spike thought as she sighed. “Well?” She asked of the dragon, who tilted his head in confusion. “Are you gonna leave me behind while Lani is still around?” Catching the hint, Spike shook his head and moved to Eiko's side as they left the Eidolon wall behind them, the rest of his friends a short distance behind them. Leaving the wall, Spike saw all the moogles cheer for him and the others, and they flew off ahead of them to Eiko's home. In short order all of them were back at the pantry the gem had been stored in. Eiko looked to the altar, the gem in her hands as she turned to the others. “Hey, guys. Let me ask you something.” She looked back to the empty box as she continued, “My grandfather told me not to leave the village until my sixteenth birthday. But I really want to go with you all. I really do. You know, beyond the Iifa tree. Do you think it's okay if I leave the village?” “Well, ya've already saved out tails, twice.” Applejack admitted as she appraised Eiko. “Yer more capable than a number of adults I know. So I'll agree with ya, it that's what yer lookin' fer.” Zidane nodded as he spoke up. “Eiko,” he began in a dry, monotone voice, “come with us. Forget what your grandpa said.” His words prompted no response from Eiko who was looking at the gem in consideration. Zidane leaned down next to her. “It doesn't matter what any of us say." He said with his normal tone, "You've made up your mind already.” Zidane then looked to Applejack expectedly. “What?” Applejack asked in confusion. “Well,” Pinkie chimed in, “Wouldn't some words of wisdom from an honest apple be pretty good right about now~” She sang out as Applejack blushed. “Err, um.” She quickly composed herself as she stood tall, and approached Eiko. “Look sugarcube, let me tell ya somethin' about honesty. It isn't just about tellin' the truth to others. It's also about bein' true to yerself.” Eiko took in Applejack's words, thinking on them a moment before nodding. “I see. So I shouldn't lie to myself. I want to go with you, I feel it's important, more so than staying here.” She then nodded as she looked to the small jewel. “So, I'll go with you, and I'll wear this as an earring. It will be safer with all of us, than sitting in a dusty box.” “Eiko.” Dagger spoke up. “I think Mog wants to talk to you.” The small moogle walked into the pantry, eyes on the ground in shame, yet again. Mog's eyes met Eiko's, and she shied back from them. “What?” Eiko began innocently, “You think I'm mad at you?” She asked sweetly. Mog approached her as Eiko stamped the ground. “I'm furious! You went off without me, again!” She then looked to her friend, a little disappointed. “You promised me you wouldn't! What would you do if you went off and got into trouble!?” “Kupo...” Eiko let out a sigh. As they talked, Spike noticed Dagger quietly leave. Is she going back to the Eidolon wall? “Oh well.” Eiko said as she let go of her anger, letting out a soft sigh. “Thank goodness we're both alright.” Spike caught Pinkie's glowing smile as she spoke up. “Your always nice to Mog.” She pointed out, “It's so sweet~” “Well, yea. We're best friends after all!” She then puffed her chest out. “We were born on the same day, and we've always been together!” She then indicated the ribbon on her head. “This is our friendship ribbon! Mog gave it to me!” She then looked to her best friend. “Mog, do you have the ribbon I gave you?” Mog turned to her and nodded with a kupo. Mog pulled out a striped pink and white ribbon. “This is the one I gave Mog. It's too big for her now, but once we're both sophisticate ladies, we'll wear them together!” She then looked to Spike, sheepishly. “And maybe then, Spike, you'll dance with me?” Spike didn't reply, looking at Eiko in confusion. What, like a dance party? “Um. Well.” Eiko began, a little embarrassed Spike didn't reply, “I, I think I'll get some dinner going!” “Ya mind if I help?” Applejack asked, getting a surprised look from Eiko. “I'm mighty good with apples, but I can manage with other foods too.” Eiko nodded as they all left the pantry behind, looking forward to the coming evening. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Moogle Notes: ~~~~~~~~~~~ 'Greetings Equestrian! This, is moogle notes!' ''Red' is also called Amarant, who's from Treno, and that city is not kind to the lower class. Kupo. Though he is wanted there, no one in Treno bothers attacking him, because of how strong he is.' 'My friends have become quite strong since reaching the Outer Continent, Amarant is stronger than Lani, and Applejack beat him one-on-one! Suffice to say, Lani isn't a physical threat anymore.' ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Spike the Dragon ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Items Equipped: Oak Staff: Stop(mastered), Bio(mastered), Drain(mastered) Add ST: Slow. Magus Hat: Slow(mastered) Raises Ice Elem-Atk Glass Armlet: Steal Gil, Antibody(mastered) Elem-Def: Water damage reduced by 50%. Magician Robe: Auto-Potion(mastered), MP+10% Moonstone: Shell, Beast Killer, Sleep, Dream Walk Lvl-28 HP 1128/1128 MP 143/143 AP 2/29 *Auto-Reflect(15) - Automatically casts Reflect in Battle. Add Status(3) - Adds weapon's status effect when you attack. Antibody (4) - Prevents Poison and Venom. *Ability Up (3) - Doubles the amount of Ability Points earned from battles. *Generosity (6) - Lowers the price of items by a small amount. *Auto-Potion (3) - Automatically uses Potion when damaged. *Dragon Scales(0) - You take no fire damage. Abilities: Black Magic: Fire 6 MP - Causes Fire damage to single/multiple targets. Sleep 10 MP - Puts single/multiple targets to sleep. Blizzard 6 MP - Causes Ice damage to single/multiple targets. Slow 6 MP - Slows a single target. Thunder 6 MP - Causes Thunder damage to single/multiple targets. Thundara 12 MP - Causes moderate Thunder damage to single/multiple targets. Stop 8 MP - Stops targets from taking any action. Poison 8 MP - Inflicts Poison to single/multiple targets. Bio 18 MP - Causes Non-elemental damage and Poison to single/multiple targets. Drain 14 MP - Drains HP from the target and transfers it to the spell caster. Friendship's Magic: Spike's Flame 0 MP - Green and harmless warm fire. Perfect for lighting up any party. Teleport 2 MP - Increase chance of physical attacks missing Spike for short duration. Whining 4 MP - Causes enemies to flee. You get no rewards from fleeing enemies. Flame Breath 8 MP - Causes Fire damage to a single target. Cannot be reflected. Rainboom 14 MP - Causes Non-elemental damage to multiple targets, Slows and Confuses. Brotherly Shield 20 MP - Generates a powerful shield on the party that blocks a single attack. Dream Walk 6 MP - Allows you to look and interact with the dreams of others. Trance - Can use Tetra-Breath, mixing three Black Magic spells into a breath attack. It cannot be reflected.