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An Unlikely Red String II: A Brief Memory
A Final Fantasy XI Fan-fic
By: Akashimo Hakubi, Akashimo of Seraph

Returning to the Dutchy of Jeuno, Akashimo, Liabelle and Nekoai sighed loudly.  The trio exhausted with disappointment.  Their attempts on Charybeus a notorious Kraken or Sea Monk which holds a powerful sword sought after primarily by Red Mages and Paladins for its unique ability to attack twice, but separate from the Warrior’s abilities of Double Attack and Warrior’s Charge.
“Uhg, one shot me with that same move, that same move!” Akashimo groaned.
“Then it went downhill for the two of us.” Nekoai and Liabelle sighed in unison.
“Now we got to wait another week at least for him to reappear.  And probally he’s gonna do this again to us.  Or worse, Maelstrom you two then save me for last.” The hume shuddered.
“Well, lets focus on getting better for that.” Nekoai spoke.
“I’m afraid that will have to wait honorable adventurers.  Akashimo of San d’Oria is summoned to Chateau d’Oraguille, and he is to bring Liabelle N Yoli and Nekoai Nanashi.” A ducal guard interrupted the trio.
“What could be so urgent that it requires a summoning of all three of us?” Akashimo asked in response.
“I’m sorry, but this is all that I was informed sir Akashimo.” The ducal guard answered before taking off.
Nekoai and Liabelle looked at each other.  “Something must be serious.” Nekoai whispered.
“No point in just wondering about it.  Let us find out why.” He sighed casting Teleport-Holla, transporting them to the Crag of Holla in La Theine Plateau.
Few gil from each person and the group was off on Chocobo heading northwest to West Ronfaure and ultimately San d’Oria.
“Race you slow poke!” Nekoai laughed dashing off ahead on her Chocobo.
“We’ll see about that sis!” Akashimo smirked taking off with his.
“At least they’re consistant.” Liabelle sighed, taking it easy while trying not to be left behind.
Moments later, the trio arrived within the walls of San d’Oria and into the Chateau.  Though contrayery to the normal for summons, they were greeted by Prince Pieuje.  “Akashimo, there is unusual and unnatural stirring of the undead Shadows and those of the Fomor.  Some reports suggest an alliance is made between to two different groups.  Speaking as a follower of Altana and that of the Temple Knights, I’m sure you of all people would know the need to elimentate threats of the fallen rising against the living.”
“As a Paragon of White Mage Excellence, and a citizen of this kingdom, I fully understand and will carry out this task sir Pieuje” Akashimo spoke respectfully.
“Nekoai Nanashi, I’ve spoken with your nation of Bastok and obtain permission to assign you on this mission aswell.  The ties of both your Paladin training with Monk and your relations to Akashimo would greatly aid in this missions urgent success.  As would Liabelle’s unique origins and to test her word to us all.”
Nekoai was about to speak out but Akashimo stopped her.  A look in her eyes saying, “We’ll talk later,” was given.
“Reports suggest the likely place to find these undead would meet within the area of very borders, King Ranperre’s Tomb.  Swift action is to be given Akashimo.  Find out their goal and remove their leaders at an instant.  May the light of Dawn shine upon you all.”
Akashimo saluted and kneeled, Nekoai and Liabelle followed, before they took their leave.
“Sis, change to Paladin, I’m changing my support to Dark Knight.  A strong instinct is telling me this.”
“Hold on brrrother!  Somethings fishy here and I want answers before we set foot in that tomb!”
“Very well Sis.  We are given orders, we carry them out.”
“You know full well what I meant.  Something isn’t being spoken, and I want to know what!”
“I agree, its just to odd to have an order for us to appear here, then suddenly to carry out a mission like this.” Liabelle aided Nekoai.
“I know full well with what you meant Neko.  I just can’t figure it out myself, so if we want answers we’d have to go there.”
Moments later, the trio arrived at the ruins known to all as King Ranperre’s Tomb, a set of caverns that housed numerous ghouls and ghosts.  While at the heart of it, the legendary wyrm, Vrtra, a giant black dragon, capable of charm and summoning undead, who is said to reside there as a pact to the great Dragon King to protect his tomb.
“Let’s split up, keep your linkpearls equip and open at all times and only speak if you find something.”
The others nodded.   With that they part ways in this massive tomb.  Akashimo, White Mage subbing Dark Knight, wielding his Reverend Mail, Blessed Trousers and Pumps, newly restored Healer’s Mitts + 1, Optical Hat, Genbu’s Shield and a Darksteel Maul.  White Mages are known to be healers and use Divine Magic to banish the undead and not to take up blades.  For that their weapons are that of blunt clubs and staves.  With their club second only to a Paladin’s yet, possess a skill known as Hexa Strike that only White Mages can master, these mages excel at fighting the undead.
Nekoai wore her full Gallant Surcoat attire, an Iron Rams Shield, and a sword called an Espadon she followed the Paladin’s training to defend others and use holy magic similar, to a White Mage, but limited.
Liabelle, being that of a Black Mage and Lamia, she had little to wear due to those facts.  Here Wizards attire was being refitted to accomidate her mix of a hume and snake body.  Until then all she has to was really her Kirin’s Staff and Igqira Weskit, a body armor of Mithran origins said to help ward evil spirits, but helps excels a Black Mage’s potentional.
Close to midnight, the group somehow ran into each other, with nothing to find.  All that was left to look was the entrance to the King’s true tomb where the legendary royal sword known as the Light Bringer was laid to rest.
“Its so unusal, to be given incorrect information about the undead…”” Akashimo mutted looking around.  Then something caught his eyes.  Body froze in shock.  On the ground laid a shield and necklace.  Not any normal shield and necklace.  The shield had unique patterns and tempered from that of arcane magics said to repeal the undead.
“Sis… please tell me I’m just imagining this…” He pointed at the shield.
Nekoai frozed as well before she started to sob.  “Its mom’s…. The shield and necklace we both made for her just a month before she went into the Crystal War….”
“We were just barely seven years of age back then…” Akashimo broke off walking closer to the objects only be knocked aside by a powerful sword strike.
Before the other two could call out to him they were knocked out from behind by a sharp blow to the head.
Awakening the group found themselves restrained with a powerful Bind spell.  Akashimo was Silenced and carelessly didn’t bring any Echo Drops.
“Brrrother…. Don’t look up.” Nekoai spoke, a strong tone of fear and sadness filled her voice.
Akashimo should have listened to her advice, but looked up.  A group of undead stand together.
A corse stood as the leader, but behind the group.  Infront of him there was two shadows similar to the ones that roam Fei’yin, they stood to the side, next to them there was a two fomors one a hume samurai, the other a galka paladin.  In the middle of the undead stood a mithra paladin, holding the shield that was on the ground, and the necklace around her neck.
The room formorly empty, now host these apparent leaders, and filled with doomed, hounds, ghouls and ghosts.  All undead and apparently under control of these that stand before the trio.
Liabelle tried to move in a Belly Dance in hopes of charming the undead to her control, but no avail.  They all are already under another’s charm control.
Akashimo, regaining his ability to speak, “Mother….” His eyes and voice sadden with grief of her fate and joy to see her again.
“How amusing, prey that’s related to the predator.  Quite unusual even in this long undead life of mine.  Even more intreging a cursed Lamia amoung the group,” Cackled the corse.
“Oh where are my manners, my name is Welyu R d’Arel, master of these that stand before you.  And soon, your master as well.”
“So you’re behind the sudden alliance of the Fomors and Shadows that would normally never interact with one another?” Akashimo snapped.
“Yes and no.  These fomor are that not of your precious ones haunting Tavnazia, nor those that roam the eastern lands of Aht Urghan.  These are selectively choosen after being killed by my master to become a new breed of fomor, with no true sense of self, hate or desire.  Those shadows, merely the test subjects of how to gain this ability.  Your Lamia friend should know well how to use this, for they are the ones who created it.  But my master has perfected it beyond simple soliders for the Astral Candesence.”
“Monster!” Nekoai cried out breaking the bind on her and drew her sword charging for Welyu.
But before she could get a second step the shadow closest to her smacked her down to the ground effortlessly.
“Sis!” cried Akashimo, “Nekoai!” Liabelle screamed.
“Foolish mithra always so eager to get knocked down, just like her.  Honestly, if they want to die so fast why not just stand still?” Welyu laughed.
“Bastard!” Akashimo yelled as he begun to cast Haste on himself then following with Repose and Stun on every undead in the room, with exception to his mother. “Mom snap out of it!” he cried grabbing her by the shoulders.
“Akashimo… we must flee for now, we’re at a disadvantage…” Liabelle suggest, sensing more coming.
“I’m not leaving until I get my mom to recognize us!”
“Brrrother…. I know how you feel, but what good would it do her, much less us if we stay any longer.”
As if on instinic, their mother patted Akashimo on his head then held his hands while removing them from her person.
“Run, now.” A weakened voice spoke from her.
“Liabelle, cast escape now.” He ordered solemnly.
The lamia nodded casting the black magic spell Escape, warping them to the safe area of East Ronfaure.
“Damn it all.” Akashimo screamed slamming his fists into the ground, crying quietly.
“Mother….” Nekoai broke off as she began to sob and cry loudly.
Liabelle only moved to each of them, giving them a conforting hug.  It was the only thing she felt she could do to at least remind them there is still some hope.
“Let’s make our report.” Akashimo spoke quivering.
No arguments from the other two.
Returning to San d’Oria they head to the cathedral in Northern San d’Oria, where they meet Pieuju in private and gave a report filling in on every detail of what transpired.
“This is most unsettling, to think Luamov Nanashi would be found in this dishonorable way.  One of the greated Paladins, a fomor under control of such a fiend.”
“Sir, I request permission for Nekoai and myself to personally set free to the light our mother if you are to send in our knights.  If not for our family honor, then for San d’Oria.” Akashimo spoke grimmly.
“I must ponder on this matter and inform Trion and father on this grave issue before I can give you a desicive answer.  Until then, rest yourself here and as an order, do not leave the Kingdom until I say otherwise.” Pieuje spoke, dissmissing the group.
The group entered Akashimo’s mog house and quickly he dropped himself on his bed.  He was defeated in the worse way.  Pride and honor.  Pride of being knocked out, honor to learn the fate of Luamov.
Nekoai collapse on the chocobo beding crying herself asleep.  She was heart broken to know her mother, one who adopted Akashimo, and the one who inspired Nekoai to train as a Paladin from her childhood memories since her disappearance during the Crystal War.  Nothing is more unsettling to see a Paladin become the very undead they fight to banish.
Liabelle crawled onto the spare bed and went to sleep sadly.  Her mind was wrecked.  She was afraid of loosing her new companions who she loves so much.  To make matters worse, she’s afraid that they might become the undead slaves like those following her Lamia sisters.
As Akashimo slepted, he dreamed an old memory, one of his childhood he long forgotten.  Being no more than three years old he became orphaned just year before the war broke out.  He walked aimlessly in the dangerous wilds of Pashshaw Marshlands.  There he fell to the ground from exhaustion and hunger.  He’d awaken to someone’s warmth, eyes opening he saw who would become his new mother, in a way, she was truly a mother to him.  He already lost his natural mother at the age of two, and just recently his father.  The warmth of this mithra filled him with comfort and all he could do was hug her and cry his eyes out.  Her voice was that of an angel, and beauty of one to compare.  Near her side was Nekoai, just a year younger than him, and was quick to take Akashimo as a true brother of her own.
Nekoai dreamed the same thing, how she felt sorry and wanted to cheer up the boy that her mother found and took in as her own.  Nothing else mattered, far as she felt, they were family and during their years together, that was true.
Liabelle’s mind was filled of the memories she has since her time in the dreaded Arrapago Reef. It was nothing more than training to cast black magic and charm the dead to her command.  She had no hope, felt no true joy.  That was until she meet Akashimo, curious of why he left himself so open and just staring into the distance.  Then held onto his shield that he left in a panic.  From a distance she always saw him waiting in the very spot, but was unable to greet him until that fateful Besiedged.
Nekoai woke up crying, and saw the other two still alseep, she walked over to Akashimo and saw his tears, knowning he’s probally reliving the memory where he became family to her and their mother.  “Brrrother…” Nekoai whispered sadly and decided to crawl into bed and hug him as she cried herself to sleep.
Morning finally came, and the trio awoke to a cloudy day and wet eyes.  Indeed they were in no condition to go out, but they knew they have to reguardless.  The air outside spoke of unrest as they walked the proud streets of San d’Oria, the Temple Knights that walked the streets seemed to be uneasy, which only raised more questions.
“You two go ahead, I’m going to pay a friend a visist.” Akashimo said to them.
They both meckly nodded. With that the hume headed to Chataeu d’Oraguille and quickly turned into the Temple Knight quarters where Curilla resided. “Lady Curilla…” Akashimo started.
“Akashimo, I see you already noticed the unrest with the Kingdom and the knights.” She interrupted.
“Aye, I have.”
“Last night that corse you spoke of in your report to Pieuje dared to mock our honor.  He came in by himself and with no effect slew the knights on duty and raised them as his own pawns.  With just as quick speed, that coward left before any other knights could arrive.” Curilla spoke with a hiss.
“He’s following Lamian tactics when they need more foot soliders.” Akashimo fumed.
“What do you suggest we do about this?”
“Truthfully, as we returned to give that grusome report, Liabelle said if he was to pull a stunt like this, then he must be aided by a group of Lamia and Merrow who vanished from Arrapago Reef a few months ago.  But to simply gain a foot holding in these lands and control the mindless dead that inhabbits both the tomb and Fei’Yin, seems out of place unless a higher power was to know about what…” Akashimo broke off eyes widening.
“You don’t suggest someone is trying to do the greatest evil and enslave the spirit of the Dragon King himself just gain that forbidden weapon?” Curilla spoke in shock.
“It certainly looks that way…”
“But who besides you and the royal family would know about that sword?”
“That’s what puzzles me so.  If its not the royal family nor me and my sibling then who?”
“If he were to also gain the knowledge of those he control, then-”
“Fei’yin holds the answer if my guess is right.” Akashimo interrupted.
“Fei’yin? How so?”
“The former Tavanazian Martisque, that’s were I laid him to rest in order to stop the Shadows from uniting against the living.  His remains are still in that place…”
“This is grave indeed.  Akashimo you are to head there and find out if he’s truly been raised from the dead once again.  I shall inform Pieuje.”
“Understood.” Akashimo saluted then as quick as the order was given he Teleported to Xarcabard with Teleport-Vhazl.
“One thing that is admirable about him, that lad is quick to take action for others.”  Curilla spoke amused as she headed to Prince Pieuje’s room to give a report.
Xarcabard, the cold baren land filled with a dead void, the central field of the Northern Lands and home to the Shadow Lord’s castle back in the Crystal War.  Akashimo ran quickly to the west for Beaucidine Glaicer, home to Fei’Yin at its northeastern tip.  Upon reaching a clift that would normally grant him a view of the Fei’Yin, his suspicions were already proven true.  The shadows that inhabbit the ruins are out protralling its borders with ghouls stationed at the entrance.  Amoung the shadows outside he spotted the formor Martisque who’s once again undead.
“This is truly a nightmare, as if an undead had created its own version of Dynamis and brought it to reality…” Akashimo broke off falling to the ground.
He awoke, but not in reality, Diabolos, the Avatar of Dreams and creator of Dynamis stood infront of him.  “I take it I must have hit the nail on the head there?”
“Close, but its more to the point they’re trying to take resident of Beaucidine’s Dynamis into Vana’diel.” Diabolos spoke.
“Shouldn’t that be a feat you set Dynamis not to do?”
“They are an unusual group.  Merely one has entered the dream to stay and a Timeless Hourglass had broken within the world set to allow those in Dynamis enter Vana’diel.”
“As long as the guidence that inhabbits that glass exist, there is nothing I can do to stop them from entering this world.” Spoke Diabolos as he spawned a copy of himself.
“Merely defeating them would not solve the issue, for they will just re-enter the living land again.” Another clone of Diabolos spoke.
“Then why haven’t they just entered the cities through the same means?” Akashimo inquirried the Terristal Avatar.
“As unsual as these event are, that is so for the reason they have not yet.” The first Diabolos spoke.
“The foes you have fought continuosly with are the answer.” The second continued.
“Enemies they are to Altana’s children they are, but they know the undead willl set their sights on them once their goals have been completed.” The third finished.
“So its merely to stop them from gaining more forces that can even stop the Beastmen that inhabbit the shrouded land.  Would that even imply that the Nightmare lands undead, the remains of the Fomors in Tavnaiza and Hydra Corps in Beacidine are already preoccupied in battles within the dream land?  What is stopping the Fomor to enter Tavnazia from their Nightmare?”
“The heiroglyphs I’ve set for those Nightmare realms work only one way, yet those foolish trail markings can work either.”
“So tell me then, how long til our temporay Beastmen allies will eventually fall for good?”
“As long as the soul which is divided remains divided, they will continue to raise up again and again.”
“Who would have though, the very cause of these shrouded realms filled with an endless war would be the one to stop others from entering the living world.”
“I suggest we part ways for now, there are others coming near your body.” Diabolos ended the conversation, thowing Akashimo back to the real world and awakened.
“Brrrother, are you alright?  You didn’t answer me on our linkshell.” Nekoai called out running to him.
“Yes, I just merely had a conversation with Diabolos.  Sis, hurry to San d’Oria, tell Pieuje there needs to be an emergancy meeting of nations in Jeuno now.  I’m going to head there myself.”
“Why? What’s going on?” She asked puzzled.
“I’ll answer that at the meeting, just go now.” Akashimo ordered running down the slops, stoping to slay any of the fallen that intercepted him as he went.
She sighed and used a scroll of warp to San d’Oria.  Moments later relaided the message to Pieuje, “And he did not say why just told you to?”
“Yeah, something is realy must be serious for him to request a meeting with the other nations…” Nekoai pondered.
“It seems things are getting even more complicated…” Liabelle spoke sadly.
The next day in the Ducal Palace of Ru’Lude Garderns, the allied nations representatives consisting of Volker and Ayame from Bastok, Prince Trion and Piueje from San d’Oria, Shantotto and Ajido-Marujido of Windurst and Wolfgang representing Jeuno, with guests to the meeting consisting of Nekoai and Liabelle.
“So what this emergancy meeting is about?” Volker asked.
“Apparently formerly internal San d’Orian matters have turned into threats for all nations, yet the one who called for us to meet has not arrived yet.” Wolfgang answered.
“Ohohohohoho!” Shantotto laughed.  “What’s got the elvaans so scared they can’t even get their source in on time?”
“Why you.” Trion started, only be interrupted by Diabolos appearing in the room.
Everyone went silent.  “You’re source wished me to take his place while he’s trying to get here in one piece, as he stated.”
Then the room filled with tension as Diabolos spoke in detail of what events and finding he uncovered with Akashimo.
“So tell me this then creator of that cursed world, why have you not destroyed it?” Volker asked angerly.
“Only the creator of the dream can do such a feat.” The avatar replied
“…”
Just as it went silent again, Akashimo entered the room out of breath.
“They’re about to mobilize…..” Akashimo said as he collasped.
“Brrrother!” Nekoai called out as she ran to his side.

Description
An Unlikely Red String II: A Brief Memory
A Final Fantasy XI Fan-fic
By: Akashimo Hakubi, Akashimo of Seraph

Returning to the Dutchy of Jeuno, Akashimo, Liabelle and Nekoai sighed loudly.  The trio exhausted with disappointment.  Their attempts on Charybeus a notorious Kraken or Sea Monk which holds a powerful sword sought after primarily by Red Mages and Paladins for its unique ability to attack twice, but separate from the Warrior’s abilities of Double Attack and Warrior’s Charge.
“Uhg, one shot me with that same move, that same move!” Akashimo groaned.
“Then it went downhill for the two of us.” Nekoai and Liabelle sighed in unison.
“Now we got to wait another week at least for him to reappear.  And probally he’s gonna do this again to us.  Or worse, Maelstrom you two then save me for last.” The hume shuddered.
“Well, lets focus on getting better for that.” Nekoai spoke.
“I’m afraid that will have to wait honorable adventurers.  Akashimo of San d’Oria is summoned to Chateau d’Oraguille, and he is to bring Liabelle N Yoli and Nekoai Nanashi.” A ducal guard interrupted the trio.
“What could be so urgent that it requires a summoning of all three of us?” Akashimo asked in response.
“I’m sorry, but this is all that I was informed sir Akashimo.” The ducal guard answered before taking off.
Nekoai and Liabelle looked at each other.  “Something must be serious.” Nekoai whispered.
“No point in just wondering about it.  Let us find out why.” He sighed casting Teleport-Holla, transporting them to the Crag of Holla in La Theine Plateau.
Few gil from each person and the group was off on Chocobo heading northwest to West Ronfaure and ultimately San d’Oria.
“Race you slow poke!” Nekoai laughed dashing off ahead on her Chocobo.
“We’ll see about that sis!” Akashimo smirked taking off with his.
“At least they’re consistant.” Liabelle sighed, taking it easy while trying not to be left behind.
Moments later, the trio arrived within the walls of San d’Oria and into the Chateau.  Though contrayery to the normal for summons, they were greeted by Prince Pieuje.  “Akashimo, there is unusual and unnatural stirring of the undead Shadows and those of the Fomor.  Some reports suggest an alliance is made between to two different groups.  Speaking as a follower of Altana and that of the Temple Knights, I’m sure you of all people would know the need to elimentate threats of the fallen rising against the living.”
“As a Paragon of White Mage Excellence, and a citizen of this kingdom, I fully understand and will carry out this task sir Pieuje” Akashimo spoke respectfully.
“Nekoai Nanashi, I’ve spoken with your nation of Bastok and obtain permission to assign you on this mission aswell.  The ties of both your Paladin training with Monk and your relations to Akashimo would greatly aid in this missions urgent success.  As would Liabelle’s unique origins and to test her word to us all.”
Nekoai was about to speak out but Akashimo stopped her.  A look in her eyes saying, “We’ll talk later,” was given.
“Reports suggest the likely place to find these undead would meet within the area of very borders, King Ranperre’s Tomb.  Swift action is to be given Akashimo.  Find out their goal and remove their leaders at an instant.  May the light of Dawn shine upon you all.”
Akashimo saluted and kneeled, Nekoai and Liabelle followed, before they took their leave.
“Sis, change to Paladin, I’m changing my support to Dark Knight.  A strong instinct is telling me this.”
“Hold on brrrother!  Somethings fishy here and I want answers before we set foot in that tomb!”
“Very well Sis.  We are given orders, we carry them out.”
“You know full well what I meant.  Something isn’t being spoken, and I want to know what!”
“I agree, its just to odd to have an order for us to appear here, then suddenly to carry out a mission like this.” Liabelle aided Nekoai.
“I know full well with what you meant Neko.  I just can’t figure it out myself, so if we want answers we’d have to go there.”
Moments later, the trio arrived at the ruins known to all as King Ranperre’s Tomb, a set of caverns that housed numerous ghouls and ghosts.  While at the heart of it, the legendary wyrm, Vrtra, a giant black dragon, capable of charm and summoning undead, who is said to reside there as a pact to the great Dragon King to protect his tomb.
“Let’s split up, keep your linkpearls equip and open at all times and only speak if you find something.”
The others nodded.   With that they part ways in this massive tomb.  Akashimo, White Mage subbing Dark Knight, wielding his Reverend Mail, Blessed Trousers and Pumps, newly restored Healer’s Mitts + 1, Optical Hat, Genbu’s Shield and a Darksteel Maul.  White Mages are known to be healers and use Divine Magic to banish the undead and not to take up blades.  For that their weapons are that of blunt clubs and staves.  With their club second only to a Paladin’s yet, possess a skill known as Hexa Strike that only White Mages can master, these mages excel at fighting the undead.
Nekoai wore her full Gallant Surcoat attire, an Iron Rams Shield, and a sword called an Espadon she followed the Paladin’s training to defend others and use holy magic similar, to a White Mage, but limited.
Liabelle, being that of a Black Mage and Lamia, she had little to wear due to those facts.  Here Wizards attire was being refitted to accomidate her mix of a hume and snake body.  Until then all she has to was really her Kirin’s Staff and Igqira Weskit, a body armor of Mithran origins said to help ward evil spirits, but helps excels a Black Mage’s potentional.
Close to midnight, the group somehow ran into each other, with nothing to find.  All that was left to look was the entrance to the King’s true tomb where the legendary royal sword known as the Light Bringer was laid to rest.
“Its so unusal, to be given incorrect information about the undead…”” Akashimo mutted looking around.  Then something caught his eyes.  Body froze in shock.  On the ground laid a shield and necklace.  Not any normal shield and necklace.  The shield had unique patterns and tempered from that of arcane magics said to repeal the undead.
“Sis… please tell me I’m just imagining this…” He pointed at the shield.
Nekoai frozed as well before she started to sob.  “Its mom’s…. The shield and necklace we both made for her just a month before she went into the Crystal War….”
“We were just barely seven years of age back then…” Akashimo broke off walking closer to the objects only be knocked aside by a powerful sword strike.
Before the other two could call out to him they were knocked out from behind by a sharp blow to the head.
Awakening the group found themselves restrained with a powerful Bind spell.  Akashimo was Silenced and carelessly didn’t bring any Echo Drops.
“Brrrother…. Don’t look up.” Nekoai spoke, a strong tone of fear and sadness filled her voice.
Akashimo should have listened to her advice, but looked up.  A group of undead stand together.
A corse stood as the leader, but behind the group.  Infront of him there was two shadows similar to the ones that roam Fei’yin, they stood to the side, next to them there was a two fomors one a hume samurai, the other a galka paladin.  In the middle of the undead stood a mithra paladin, holding the shield that was on the ground, and the necklace around her neck.
The room formorly empty, now host these apparent leaders, and filled with doomed, hounds, ghouls and ghosts.  All undead and apparently under control of these that stand before the trio.
Liabelle tried to move in a Belly Dance in hopes of charming the undead to her control, but no avail.  They all are already under another’s charm control.
Akashimo, regaining his ability to speak, “Mother….” His eyes and voice sadden with grief of her fate and joy to see her again.
“How amusing, prey that’s related to the predator.  Quite unusual even in this long undead life of mine.  Even more intreging a cursed Lamia amoung the group,” Cackled the corse.
“Oh where are my manners, my name is Welyu R d’Arel, master of these that stand before you.  And soon, your master as well.”
“So you’re behind the sudden alliance of the Fomors and Shadows that would normally never interact with one another?” Akashimo snapped.
“Yes and no.  These fomor are that not of your precious ones haunting Tavnazia, nor those that roam the eastern lands of Aht Urghan.  These are selectively choosen after being killed by my master to become a new breed of fomor, with no true sense of self, hate or desire.  Those shadows, merely the test subjects of how to gain this ability.  Your Lamia friend should know well how to use this, for they are the ones who created it.  But my master has perfected it beyond simple soliders for the Astral Candesence.”
“Monster!” Nekoai cried out breaking the bind on her and drew her sword charging for Welyu.
But before she could get a second step the shadow closest to her smacked her down to the ground effortlessly.
“Sis!” cried Akashimo, “Nekoai!” Liabelle screamed.
“Foolish mithra always so eager to get knocked down, just like her.  Honestly, if they want to die so fast why not just stand still?” Welyu laughed.
“Bastard!” Akashimo yelled as he begun to cast Haste on himself then following with Repose and Stun on every undead in the room, with exception to his mother. “Mom snap out of it!” he cried grabbing her by the shoulders.
“Akashimo… we must flee for now, we’re at a disadvantage…” Liabelle suggest, sensing more coming.
“I’m not leaving until I get my mom to recognize us!”
“Brrrother…. I know how you feel, but what good would it do her, much less us if we stay any longer.”
As if on instinic, their mother patted Akashimo on his head then held his hands while removing them from her person.
“Run, now.” A weakened voice spoke from her.
“Liabelle, cast escape now.” He ordered solemnly.
The lamia nodded casting the black magic spell Escape, warping them to the safe area of East Ronfaure.
“Damn it all.” Akashimo screamed slamming his fists into the ground, crying quietly.
“Mother….” Nekoai broke off as she began to sob and cry loudly.
Liabelle only moved to each of them, giving them a conforting hug.  It was the only thing she felt she could do to at least remind them there is still some hope.
“Let’s make our report.” Akashimo spoke quivering.
No arguments from the other two.
Returning to San d’Oria they head to the cathedral in Northern San d’Oria, where they meet Pieuju in private and gave a report filling in on every detail of what transpired.
“This is most unsettling, to think Luamov Nanashi would be found in this dishonorable way.  One of the greated Paladins, a fomor under control of such a fiend.”
“Sir, I request permission for Nekoai and myself to personally set free to the light our mother if you are to send in our knights.  If not for our family honor, then for San d’Oria.” Akashimo spoke grimmly.
“I must ponder on this matter and inform Trion and father on this grave issue before I can give you a desicive answer.  Until then, rest yourself here and as an order, do not leave the Kingdom until I say otherwise.” Pieuje spoke, dissmissing the group.
The group entered Akashimo’s mog house and quickly he dropped himself on his bed.  He was defeated in the worse way.  Pride and honor.  Pride of being knocked out, honor to learn the fate of Luamov.
Nekoai collapse on the chocobo beding crying herself asleep.  She was heart broken to know her mother, one who adopted Akashimo, and the one who inspired Nekoai to train as a Paladin from her childhood memories since her disappearance during the Crystal War.  Nothing is more unsettling to see a Paladin become the very undead they fight to banish.
Liabelle crawled onto the spare bed and went to sleep sadly.  Her mind was wrecked.  She was afraid of loosing her new companions who she loves so much.  To make matters worse, she’s afraid that they might become the undead slaves like those following her Lamia sisters.
As Akashimo slepted, he dreamed an old memory, one of his childhood he long forgotten.  Being no more than three years old he became orphaned just year before the war broke out.  He walked aimlessly in the dangerous wilds of Pashshaw Marshlands.  There he fell to the ground from exhaustion and hunger.  He’d awaken to someone’s warmth, eyes opening he saw who would become his new mother, in a way, she was truly a mother to him.  He already lost his natural mother at the age of two, and just recently his father.  The warmth of this mithra filled him with comfort and all he could do was hug her and cry his eyes out.  Her voice was that of an angel, and beauty of one to compare.  Near her side was Nekoai, just a year younger than him, and was quick to take Akashimo as a true brother of her own.
Nekoai dreamed the same thing, how she felt sorry and wanted to cheer up the boy that her mother found and took in as her own.  Nothing else mattered, far as she felt, they were family and during their years together, that was true.
Liabelle’s mind was filled of the memories she has since her time in the dreaded Arrapago Reef. It was nothing more than training to cast black magic and charm the dead to her command.  She had no hope, felt no true joy.  That was until she meet Akashimo, curious of why he left himself so open and just staring into the distance.  Then held onto his shield that he left in a panic.  From a distance she always saw him waiting in the very spot, but was unable to greet him until that fateful Besiedged.
Nekoai woke up crying, and saw the other two still alseep, she walked over to Akashimo and saw his tears, knowning he’s probally reliving the memory where he became family to her and their mother.  “Brrrother…” Nekoai whispered sadly and decided to crawl into bed and hug him as she cried herself to sleep.
Morning finally came, and the trio awoke to a cloudy day and wet eyes.  Indeed they were in no condition to go out, but they knew they have to reguardless.  The air outside spoke of unrest as they walked the proud streets of San d’Oria, the Temple Knights that walked the streets seemed to be uneasy, which only raised more questions.
“You two go ahead, I’m going to pay a friend a visist.” Akashimo said to them.
They both meckly nodded. With that the hume headed to Chataeu d’Oraguille and quickly turned into the Temple Knight quarters where Curilla resided. “Lady Curilla…” Akashimo started.
“Akashimo, I see you already noticed the unrest with the Kingdom and the knights.” She interrupted.
“Aye, I have.”
“Last night that corse you spoke of in your report to Pieuje dared to mock our honor.  He came in by himself and with no effect slew the knights on duty and raised them as his own pawns.  With just as quick speed, that coward left before any other knights could arrive.” Curilla spoke with a hiss.
“He’s following Lamian tactics when they need more foot soliders.” Akashimo fumed.
“What do you suggest we do about this?”
“Truthfully, as we returned to give that grusome report, Liabelle said if he was to pull a stunt like this, then he must be aided by a group of Lamia and Merrow who vanished from Arrapago Reef a few months ago.  But to simply gain a foot holding in these lands and control the mindless dead that inhabbits both the tomb and Fei’Yin, seems out of place unless a higher power was to know about what…” Akashimo broke off eyes widening.
“You don’t suggest someone is trying to do the greatest evil and enslave the spirit of the Dragon King himself just gain that forbidden weapon?” Curilla spoke in shock.
“It certainly looks that way…”
“But who besides you and the royal family would know about that sword?”
“That’s what puzzles me so.  If its not the royal family nor me and my sibling then who?”
“If he were to also gain the knowledge of those he control, then-”
“Fei’yin holds the answer if my guess is right.” Akashimo interrupted.
“Fei’yin? How so?”
“The former Tavanazian Martisque, that’s were I laid him to rest in order to stop the Shadows from uniting against the living.  His remains are still in that place…”
“This is grave indeed.  Akashimo you are to head there and find out if he’s truly been raised from the dead once again.  I shall inform Pieuje.”
“Understood.” Akashimo saluted then as quick as the order was given he Teleported to Xarcabard with Teleport-Vhazl.
“One thing that is admirable about him, that lad is quick to take action for others.”  Curilla spoke amused as she headed to Prince Pieuje’s room to give a report.
Xarcabard, the cold baren land filled with a dead void, the central field of the Northern Lands and home to the Shadow Lord’s castle back in the Crystal War.  Akashimo ran quickly to the west for Beaucidine Glaicer, home to Fei’Yin at its northeastern tip.  Upon reaching a clift that would normally grant him a view of the Fei’Yin, his suspicions were already proven true.  The shadows that inhabbit the ruins are out protralling its borders with ghouls stationed at the entrance.  Amoung the shadows outside he spotted the formor Martisque who’s once again undead.
“This is truly a nightmare, as if an undead had created its own version of Dynamis and brought it to reality…” Akashimo broke off falling to the ground.
He awoke, but not in reality, Diabolos, the Avatar of Dreams and creator of Dynamis stood infront of him.  “I take it I must have hit the nail on the head there?”
“Close, but its more to the point they’re trying to take resident of Beaucidine’s Dynamis into Vana’diel.” Diabolos spoke.
“Shouldn’t that be a feat you set Dynamis not to do?”
“They are an unusual group.  Merely one has entered the dream to stay and a Timeless Hourglass had broken within the world set to allow those in Dynamis enter Vana’diel.”
“As long as the guidence that inhabbits that glass exist, there is nothing I can do to stop them from entering this world.” Spoke Diabolos as he spawned a copy of himself.
“Merely defeating them would not solve the issue, for they will just re-enter the living land again.” Another clone of Diabolos spoke.
“Then why haven’t they just entered the cities through the same means?” Akashimo inquirried the Terristal Avatar.
“As unsual as these event are, that is so for the reason they have not yet.” The first Diabolos spoke.
“The foes you have fought continuosly with are the answer.” The second continued.
“Enemies they are to Altana’s children they are, but they know the undead willl set their sights on them once their goals have been completed.” The third finished.
“So its merely to stop them from gaining more forces that can even stop the Beastmen that inhabbit the shrouded land.  Would that even imply that the Nightmare lands undead, the remains of the Fomors in Tavnaiza and Hydra Corps in Beacidine are already preoccupied in battles within the dream land?  What is stopping the Fomor to enter Tavnazia from their Nightmare?”
“The heiroglyphs I’ve set for those Nightmare realms work only one way, yet those foolish trail markings can work either.”
“So tell me then, how long til our temporay Beastmen allies will eventually fall for good?”
“As long as the soul which is divided remains divided, they will continue to raise up again and again.”
“Who would have though, the very cause of these shrouded realms filled with an endless war would be the one to stop others from entering the living world.”
“I suggest we part ways for now, there are others coming near your body.” Diabolos ended the conversation, thowing Akashimo back to the real world and awakened.
“Brrrother, are you alright?  You didn’t answer me on our linkshell.” Nekoai called out running to him.
“Yes, I just merely had a conversation with Diabolos.  Sis, hurry to San d’Oria, tell Pieuje there needs to be an emergancy meeting of nations in Jeuno now.  I’m going to head there myself.”
“Why? What’s going on?” She asked puzzled.
“I’ll answer that at the meeting, just go now.” Akashimo ordered running down the slops, stoping to slay any of the fallen that intercepted him as he went.
She sighed and used a scroll of warp to San d’Oria.  Moments later relaided the message to Pieuje, “And he did not say why just told you to?”
“Yeah, something is realy must be serious for him to request a meeting with the other nations…” Nekoai pondered.
“It seems things are getting even more complicated…” Liabelle spoke sadly.
The next day in the Ducal Palace of Ru’Lude Garderns, the allied nations representatives consisting of Volker and Ayame from Bastok, Prince Trion and Piueje from San d’Oria, Shantotto and Ajido-Marujido of Windurst and Wolfgang representing Jeuno, with guests to the meeting consisting of Nekoai and Liabelle.
“So what this emergancy meeting is about?” Volker asked.
“Apparently formerly internal San d’Orian matters have turned into threats for all nations, yet the one who called for us to meet has not arrived yet.” Wolfgang answered.
“Ohohohohoho!” Shantotto laughed.  “What’s got the elvaans so scared they can’t even get their source in on time?”
“Why you.” Trion started, only be interrupted by Diabolos appearing in the room.
Everyone went silent.  “You’re source wished me to take his place while he’s trying to get here in one piece, as he stated.”
Then the room filled with tension as Diabolos spoke in detail of what events and finding he uncovered with Akashimo.
“So tell me this then creator of that cursed world, why have you not destroyed it?” Volker asked angerly.
“Only the creator of the dream can do such a feat.” The avatar replied
“…”
Just as it went silent again, Akashimo entered the room out of breath.
“They’re about to mobilize…..” Akashimo said as he collasped.
“Brrrother!” Nekoai called out as she ran to his side.