Story: The Whimsical Wanderers (all chapters)
Authors: Shinigami_Shimai
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Chapter 1
The Whimsical Wanderers
By Kathryn K Williams
Chapter one
Trish poked at the campfire with a stick that she had recently sharpened. The light of another passing day peeked through the trees to the northwest of her campsite, bidding her a fond farewell. She added another log to the fire and watched as it sparked and the flames leaps at the newly acquired fuel like a hungry beast gnawing on the legs of a recently defeated prey. She moved away from the blaze ever so slightly, afraid that the small fire elemental that had been cast upon the flames earlier might suddenly desire a taste for her own legs.
Trish scanned the campsite, which was nothing more then a small clearing in the dense wood of the forest outside of Rainfield Valley. The night creatures would be coming out of their dens soon and here cat ears perked up in search for any sign of hostile life. She shifted on her makeshift stool, a chunk of log that was too big for the fire, and allowed her hands to rest lightly upon the hilt of her sword. The feeling of the steel at her side comforted her to some extent. She wished she had something deadlier then a simple long sword, but she figured that there wasn't anything in these woods that she had not vanquished before, so she took some pride in that. As long at there were not too many of them at once, then she would far the long night ahead.
Finally her eyes set upon the thing that brought her into her journey to Wesmoors City in the first place. A teenaged girl, only a few weeks younger then herself, curled up under a set of blankets, lightly sleeping. Trish smiled down at the peaceful look upon the girl's face and thought back to how she got herself into her current situation.
*****
It was a few hours prior and the sun shone brightly over the Land of Shalras. Trish rushed along an overgrown path around her home village, a small group of houses called Rainfield Valley. With a spring in her step she leaped over fallen trees and ducked under broken branches. Her short scruffy dirty blonde hair bouncing around her tabby ears with every step as she darted along the path with happy news upon her tongue. Nothing could ruin the mood she was in, her tail flickering in equal agreement, for she had finally passed her final exam. No longer would she have to weld that pitiful sorry excuse for a sword, which was made of magical oak, but was still a wooden sword nether the less, and now she could be brandish the mighty steel blades that she had seen other Hunters carrying throughout her travels.
Her mind filled with the many things she could buy with the money she had saved over the past while. A shiny new helmet, new chain mail armour, maybe those cute hiking boots that she saw the other day and of course the best sword that her money could buy. Everyday the past month she would visit the local black smiths and stare longingly at the weapons and armour, until the blacksmith asked her to move along. There was so much to buy that she could almost not decide. Long bows, swords, crossbows, armour and more magical charms then she could ever carry. She was so busy planning her expenses that she nearly crashed into a horse drawn hay cart as she burst out of the forest.
Not able to stop without colliding with the cart she sprung into the air, lightly touching the side of the cart, and leapt over the driver's head, "Sorry Mr. Giff!!" She cried out as she soared over head.
The old man laughed heartily, "Good evening Trish. Your in a spirit filled mood today. Something good happened I presume?" He inquired as the girl landed on the other side of the cart.
Trish skid to a halt on the dirty road and spun around to face the man, who had yanked on the rains to stop his house, "Very much so, sir." Trish exclaimed with a large grin upon her face, "I passed!!!" She pulled a small card out of the front pocket of her dark grey hoodie and held it out to the man.
Mr. Giff took the card from the girl and fixed his spectacles upon his face to get a clearer look. The card was small, and rectangular, with a small photo of Trish in one corner and a list of information filling up the rest of its surface. The card read as follows:
Hunter Membership ID
Name: Trish Fyn
Race: One Tenth Cat. Nine Tenths Human.
Born on the 7th day of the Month of Marble in the Year of the Hamster.
Home town: Rainfield Valley
Expedition Ranking: Tenth Class
The old man beamed proudly at the girl, "It has been a long time since Rainfield Valley had its own ‘Hunter' amongst us." He stated as he handed the card back to the girl, "I know you will make us proud."
Trish retrieved her card and stared at it for a moment before tucking it back in her pocket, "I hope to not let you down." She said worriedly, "I'm only a Novice Class and have a long way to go before I'm a Hero Class."
The man chuckled lightly, "After the way you handled those Squeegies that were attacking my turnips I think you'll do just fine, young lady."
"It's not that big a deal." Trish shuffled in her place, she did not find that task all that big of a deal. Squeegies were small balls of furry that bounced around and were nothing more then a mouthful of teeth. While they look scary at first, mostly when they yawned, they are rather harmless and were not known to attack people, just vegetables. She did not have the nerve to kill the little beasts so had a mage friend open a portal to somewhere that they would not cause damage and would not be harmed. She was ashamed to tell the old man that she had cheated, in such a way, and decided to keep the matter to herself.
"Well, I have to get this hay back home before Gilmore falls asleep." He stated with a nod to the horse that was already dozing off, "You take care and visit me sometimes. I would love to hear about your adventures."
"Sure thing." She waved a good bye to the man as he snapped the reins and the cart slowly started down the road again.
Before the cart was out of sight Trish turned on her heels and rushed down the road in the opposite direction. There was someone important that Trish needed to see and she did not want to delay any longer. A few years back Trish met a classmate at the academy who was practising to be a spell caster of some sorts. To this day Trish was not sure what this student was trying to be, an elementalist, a summoner, a dark mage, a light mage or a controller. One day the girl would be trying to cast fire balls and the next Trish would find her charming the birds that roost atop the academy walls. She never seemed to make up her mind, dabbling in a bit of everything.
From the first time Trish set eyes upon the girl she found herself strangely drawn to her. It took Trish only a week to learn the girl's name was Wendy Telbrand, for she frequently got yelled at by the teachers for her spells going afoul. She was a shy girl with long braided cotton candy pink hair that flowed in two paths around a pair of curly sheep's horns on either side of her head and down her back. She tended to wear long dresses of light pastel colours, long sleeved turtle necks and could always be seen caring a large brown book, with brass corners and a lock, between her arms. The book was massive, in Trish's opinion, so large in fact that when Wendy hugged it she nearly disappeared behind its pages, which she did whenever she was scolded, as if she were in hopes that it would shield her from harm.
Trish kept finding herself watching the magic students practice in the field behind the school, while she was supposed to be practising sword play, in hopes to get a glimpse of the girl. On more then one occasion she had been hit upon the head by an annoyed instructor and forced to wash the training room floors for not paying attention to the days lessons. On one such day she was told to wash all the windows on the first floor of the academy for her lack of attention. During that time she noticed Wendy out back practising a spell of some sorts. Trish stopped her work and watched the girl for a moment.
Wendy frustratedly tucked a stray hair behind her horns, rolled up her sleeves and she muttered something so softly that even straining her cat's ears Trish could not quiet hear what was being said. Suddenly the air crackled around Wendy and there was a small explosion that filled the air with a thick black cloud. The force of the blast threw Wendy backwards, leaving her entire front blackened with sot.
Trish ran over to see if the girl was alright when out of a black cloud, which Trish figured the girl must have summoned, came a valorous grey Death Crow. A fowl looking bird with a wing span that was double Trish's height and covered in tattered black feathers that blocked out the sun as it soared over the girls. A single eye stared out from the centre of its decaying head at Wendy and one leg, protruding from where should be two, scratched at the girl, who hide behind her book. It was not exactly a deadly beast, but for a lone magic student it was more then a unfair match, however, for Trish, this creature was only a moderate workout. She rushed across the field, screaming in order to gain the monster's attention, pulled out her magical oak sword, and lunged at the creature. Her screams started the bird and it was unprepared for Trish's blow to the side of its head. Trish used this to her advantage, ending the battle quickly, managing to escape with only a few minor wounds.
"You are hurt!!" Wendy cried out as she fussed over Trish's wounds, "I'm so sorry. It's all my fault."
Trish simply shook her head as she plopped on the ground to regain her breath, wiping some of the sweat from her forehead and running them through her hair. Sweat which was mostly accumulated during her hours of washing windows and made her look far worse then she truly was, "It's alright. Are you hurt?" She inquired worriedly of the young mage.
Wendy vigorously shook her head, "I'm fine. My book protected me." She held up the book that appeared to be unscathed. "Let's me heal your wounds." She scrambled over to Trish's side and began to roll up the leg of her tatter jeans, where a trickle of blood could be seen.
"It's alright." Trish protested, "It's only a scratch."
Wendy's lips trembled, "I... I'm sorry... I just wanted to help..." She stammered, "I keep messing up all the time and now someone gets hurt. The only thing I seem good at is healing." A tear streaked through her sot covered face.
The sight of that tear tugged upon Trish's heart and she could not bear seeing the girl cry anymore so relinquished her leg to the girl, "Actually it does hurt more then I thought." She fibbed, "Do you know something to stop the pain?"
Wendy smiled and nodded, "Yes... Yes I do." She stated excitedly as she flipped through her book
Since that day the two girls had become close friends and at that moment Trish wanted more then anything to have Wendy at her side during this tremendous occasion. She considered taking Wendy for a walk to town and maybe even getting up the nerve to ask the girl out to dinner. Everyone in the village could tell that Trish was smitten for the young mage, however she had never confessed those feelings aloud and she figured this would be the best way to end a perfect day.
She rounded a bend and started along the path to Wendy's home, a small two floor building with a few animals out front and a tiny garden out back. The Telbrand's were not incredibly rich and Trish knew that they had high hopes that their daughter's magical skills would pull them out of debt. She slowed her pace as she approached the building, the sight of which filled her with distress for some reason and just seeing it made her excitement of the day begin to dwindle. She forced herself to trudge on forwards and stepped up to the door. Just as she raised her hand to knock she heard voices from within.
"You are going to do this Young Lady, or you will fail school!" Trish heard Wendy's father stated in a gruff grumpy voice, "You have to stop being so indecisive for once in your life."
"You don't want to fail now do you, honey?" Wendy's mother chimed in.
"N.. no... but..." Wendy sputtered, "I... I can't..."
"You can and you will." Her father ordered.
"Now honey."
Trish had heard enough, she hated the way Wendy's parents treated the girl and she could not just stand there and allow them to yell at her like that. Calling on all her courage Trish knocked loudly upon the door. The house fell silent the moment her knock rang out and Trish almost thought that everyone inside had suddenly been frozen cold in their place by a freak ice spell. After a moment passed and she knocked again, in hopes that she would free the occupants from their startled state. If they did not answer soon she was not sure she could simply walk away and imagined herself charging in to Wendy's rescue. Thankfully Trish was not forced to break down the door or leap through any of the windows as Wendy's mother opened the door and greeted Trish with a smile that she could tell was fake.
"Why Trish, what brings you out this way?" The woman inquired with a friendly tone.
"I was wondering if I could see Wendy?" Trish inquired, "Is she in?"
"Well, ummm..." Wendy's mother stalled, when the door was suddenly pulled out of her hands and Wendy ducked under the woman's arm, "Wendy? Where do you think you are going?" She asked as her daughter rushed out the door and took Trish by the hand.
"I'm going to town with Trish, Mom." Wendy called out behind herself as she dragged her friend down the path, away from the house, "I promised to help her buy some things."
Wendy's mother crossed her arms, "Well, you don't be out too late, alright?" The woman warned, "And if you encounter any monsters you let Trish handle them, alright?"
"Sure mom." Wendy replied and pushed through the gate at the front of the house.
"Ummm... Wendy?" Trish inquired, still being pulled along down the road, "Could you slow down?"
Wendy abruptly stopped and blushed as she realized she was holding Trish's hand, "Sorry... I..." She let go of the girl's hands and wrapped her hands around the book that she held in her other arm, "I just needed to get away from there."
"What is wrong?" Trish lightly probed.
Wendy set her forehead upon the edge of her book, "I got my final exam back." She mumbled miserably.
"Not good, huh?"
Wendy shook her head, "I failed."
Trish rubbed at the back of her ear with one hand. The sound of distress upon Wendy's voice wiped Trish's excitement away and suddenly passing her own exam did not seem that great, "Geez... but they will give you another chance, right?" She inquired hopefully.
"Yeah... but..." Wendy opened the book a crack and pulled out a piece of paper, "I have to do a quest if I wish to pass..." She remarked as she handed the paper to Trish.
"What kind of quest?" Trish asked as she glanced down at the paper and read.
"Wendy Telbrand:
Due to your lack in training and your refusal to choose a single magical path to major in we have decided to review your position at this school. If you wish to continue to attend Cloverflow Academy then you are to do one quest for the Arch Mage before we deem you worth of taking the exam again. The quest will be given to you at the Magical Headquarters in Wesmoors City. You have one weeks to receive your mission or you will be expelled from the Academy. You will be given an Temporary Expedition Pass and be allowed one travelling companion of Expedition Class and no others, no students will be allowed to help you. If you do not appear at the Expedition Headquarters before the sun sets we will consider this matter closed and you will be banned from the school grounds.
Sincerely Head Master Gaven Halford"
"WHAT!!!" Trish angrily cried out, "They can't do this to you. Its unfair."
"I know." Wendy agreed, "But what am I to do? I can't do this alone and I don't know anyone of Expedition Class that would be willing to help a failure like myself, who can't even afford to pay them. It's hopeless." She knocked her horns against the book's cover and began to sob.
Trish lightly placed a hand upon the girl's shoulder, "Shhhh..." She cooed, "Things are not as bad as they seem. I'll be more then willing to accompany you."
Wendy glanced up over the brim of her book, "R... Really?"
Trish nodded, "Sure thing. I would never let you go on a mission like this alone. You couldn't stop me if you tried." She assured the girl.
"That is nice of you, but... But..." Wendy wiped at her tears with the back of her hand, "But you are not Expedition Class yet."
Trish grinned broadly and pulled out her newly acquired Hunters Pass, "As of today you are looking at Rainfield Valley's newest Expedition Class Hunter." She stated proudly.
Wendy dropped her book to the ground as she stared in disbelief at the card in her friend's hand, "Is that real?" She inquired, slightly mesmerized.
Trish nodded, "Every bit. I passed my last exam this morning and came to tell you just now. So this means I can help you on your mission." Her eyes flickered to the ground and back to the girl, "That's if you want me on your team."
Wendy suddenly threw her arms around Trish, nearly knocking her to the ground, "Thank you." She began to sob again, this time into Trish's shoulder, "Thank you so much."
Trish gently patted the back of the girl's head and enjoyed the feeling of Wendy's warmth against her body, "Is that a yes?"
Wendy nodded several times, "Yes, yes, yes."
Trish smiled to herself and allowed herself to embrace Wendy closely, "Good to hear."
And thus began their adventure.
*****
To be Continued . . .
*****
This story is copyright of Kathryn K Williams. All characters and settings are her creation and should not be used by any others. If you wish visit my site and see some of the art based on this series at http://www.shoujoai.ca
Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at Kathryn@KatAndNekoManga.ca
Chapter 2
The Whimsical Wanderers
By Kathryn K Williams
Chapter Two
"I'll be sure to take great care of your daughter." Trish promised with a slight bow to Wendy's parents as they stared, bemused, at the girl. Trish explained that she would accompany Wendy on her journey in a whirlwind of charm while Wendy rushed off to gather her things, "If we are to make it to Wesmoors City then we must leave immediately and I was hoping you will give us your approval and your well wishes upon our journey." She looked down at the floor to hide the embarrassed look that crossed her face. Wendy had insisted that if they were to leave together they would have to gain her parents permission first. Wendy explained that Trish should approach the girl's parents in the most polite and honest manner as possible and even coached Trish through what she should say. At that moment Trish was feeling as if she were asking for the girl's hand in marriage and not to go out on a several month long adventure.
"They are very old fashion." Wendy explained as they sat on a log outside of her house, "If they think you are sincere in your offer to help me then they will be less worried about me when I'm gone."
Trish rubbed her forehead in distress and nervously glanced up at the girl, "Don't you find all of this kind of overkill? I mean we are only going to be gone for a little while."
Wendy laced her hands together in front of her face, "Please Trish, go along with this. Just this once, for me." She batted her eyes twice.
Those eyes did Trish in and she could no longer protest, "Fine, if it's for you." She stood to her feet and gazed up at the house, then back down at the girl, "You are going to owe me big time after this."
Trish continued to stay in her bow as she awaited Wendy's parents decision.
Wendy's father crossed his arms gruffly, "How can a fledgeling Hunter like yourself protect my daughter?" He inquired disapprovingly.
Trish considered her response carefully when Wendy's mother stepped up to him, "Now honey, Trish has been looking out for our daughter at school this past year and I think she will do a fine job." She insisted with a nod of her head.
Trish glanced up at the couple with a smile upon her face and a thank you upon her breath when Wendy's father turned to his wife, "What makes you think a Cat can make a good Hunter? They are only good at sneaking around and should stick to being rogues, or thieves, or assassins."
Trish sighed heavily, she had heard this argument many times over and grew tired of it. It was true that most cats were known to take up a more stealth line of work, but she did not feel that would suit her. She stood to her full height and glared up at the man, "I am more then qualified to be a Hunter. All my life I've wanted to protect people and sneaking around would not work for me. So please don't question my abilities." She stated angrily, feeling the hairs on the back of her neck stand on end.
The man scowled at Trish, "Would you be willing to throw yourself in front of a Triton if it came charging at my daughter, huh?"
Trish stepped up to the man, returning his gaze, "I would face the Lands of the Deathless if that was what Wendy wished." She stated boldly. Now a Triton was a ox like creature was six legs and a mean temper, however any novice Hunter was trained how to handle them. The Deathless on the other hand were something entirely different and even the mention of the name made many tremble and Wendy's father back down from his stance in fright.
"Y..." The man was suddenly shaken and having troubles finding his voice, "You better not take my daughter near tha-" He was abruptly interrupted as Wendy came barrelling in to the room.
"I'm ready to go!!!" Wendy explained as she rushed to Trish's side, a torn and patched covered satchel slung around herself, filled with her clothes and any other items she thought they might need. "I guess this is good bye. Mom, Dad, wish us luck." She took Trish's hand and began to retreat out of the house, not waiting for any reply from her parents.
"Good luck, Wendy." Wendy's mother called out, "I believe in you."
Those words caused Wendy to stop in her tracks and turned to face her mother, "T... thank you." She said softly. Her eyes darted to her father, who seemed to have a cloud over his head and refused to return his daughter's look, "I'll make you proud, Dad." She started out of the house again.
As the two girls quickly moved down the dirty road back to town Trish finally allowed herself to breath freely, "I thought that would never end." Trish stated, relieved to be out of sight of Wendy's home.
"I'm sorry to put you through that." Wendy sincerely apologized, letting her hand drop from Trish's to pull her pack upon her shoulder.
Trish eyed the bag curiously. It was filled with many holes that had been covered with different patterned fabrics and appeared as if it were to burst under the weight of Wendy's belongings, "Do you need a hand?" She inquired, offering her hand to the girl.
Wendy shyly shook her head, "N... no... I'll be alright." She assured with a nod. She glanced around as they turned off the main road away from town, "Where are we heading?"
"My place." Trish informed, "I need to grab my things." She explained as the travelled along the winding paths to a small set of houses in the hilled, "I should only be a moments..." She paused as if in deep thought then abruptly turned to face Wendy, slightly startling the girl, "Listen..." She held her hand up to stop the girl and glanced over her shoulder several time, as if she were afraid someone would be listening in upon her, "My parents... they..." She took a deep breath and let it out.
Wendy smiled sweetly at Trish, "They can't be that bad." Wendy assured, "I mean you've seen what my family is like, so don't worry so much."
Trish nervously peeked around again, "You don't understand..." She anxiously ran a hand through her hair, "They are beyond weird. I mean it... they are crazy."
Wendy cocked her head curiously at the girl, "Is that why you never invited me over? You are worried about what I will think of your family?"
Trish shifted slightly to look up the path, "It's not that..." She looked back at Wendy and could see the depressed look upon her face and let out another sigh, "It's not that at all... Well, you'll see what I mean soon enough." She remarked grudgedly as she started up the path once again.
Wendy fell in step beside the girl and watched as her friend's head bobbed apprehensively, her eyes never leaving the ground, her ears back to the sides of her head and her tail nearly dragging upon the ground, "Are you going to be alright, Trish?"
Trish quickly glanced up and then back at the path, "It... its nothing... come on..." She quickened her pace, forcing Wendy to lightly jog in order to keep up.
Within moment they arrived at a small house nestled in a small group of trees. For the most part it seemed like any other house and Wendy pondered what could make Trish so worried. Without breaking stride Trish walked straight up to the house and onto the front porch.
She suddenly spun around to face Wendy and gave her a nervous half smile, "I apologize if my parents treat you strangely..." She remarked apprehensively.
"Its alright." Wendy stated with a warm smile, "I'm sure I'll love them. They raised you after all."
Trish let out a uneasy laugh, "You may reconsider that when you meet them. I just hope they are out so we can avoid the trouble." On that prayer she turned the door knob and pulled the door open.
Inside the house was entirely dark with only the light of the sun peeked through a few cracks between the window coverings. Trish let out a sigh of relief and stepped into the house in search of the light switch when the lights suddenly turned on and several small explosions filled the air. "Congratulations!!!" Someone cried out as they sprung from their hiding places, setting off fireworks and throwing streamers at the girls. Trish was so startled by the attack that she stumbled backwards, falling into Wendy's arms. Wendy, not being strong enough to carry Trish, fell back as well and the two girls landed in a heap on the patio.
Trish scrambled to get off of Wendy, embarrassingly placing a hand upon the girls breast, "I'm sorry." She apologized as she quickly moving her hand to the ground beside Wendy and tried to push herself off the girl.
"Ummm..." Wendy flushed as she tried to find a way out from under the girl, but found herself pinned by her own pack and book.
"Now there will be none of that in public boy." A deep throated voice chuckled as a strong hand grabbed hold of Trish by the back of her belt and suddenly she was hauled off the ground, quickly followed by Wendy, who was carried by the waist ever so much more gentle then Trish, and hugged her book tightly between her arms while her pack hung from around her neck.
"Are you alright, son?" A large, burly, man with a red head of hair and bushy bread, that resembled a loins mane, inquired of Trish as she dangled in the man's hands.
"No, I'm not alright." Trish growled and kicked her legs frantically, "Would you put me down, Dad?" She insisted angrily.
The man did as he was told and lightly placed the girl down on her feet, "I'm sorry son. We didn't mean to frighten you. We were just excited." He explained as he placed Wendy next to the girl.
Trish fixed her pants and glared at the man, "You could have given us a heart attack. What is this all about anyway?"
A thin small woman with long blonde hair and tiny round cat ears stepped forwards with a cake in hand, "We heard from Mr. Gill that you passed your exam so wanted to throw you a party." She held the cake out to show it to Trish.
"Uhhhh... It's not a big deal." Trish stated modestly as she eyed the cake. The yellow frosting of which was sliding off one side of the cake and had, what Trish thought, must have been an attempt at words in purple frosting, but were undistinguishable as anything literate. Her eyes moved from the cake to her mother, "Uhhh... thanks..." She said, uncertainly.
"So who is your friend?" Trish's father boomed as he beamed down at the small sheep girl, towering over her like a rosy cheeked giant. He leaned in close to Trish, "Is she a lady friend?" He said with a wink and stroked at the mane of hair under his chin, "I've never found sheep much of my thing, but she is kind of cute."
Trish rolled her eyes, "No father!" She hastily protested, "She asked me to accompany her on a quest is all." She partly lied, she did not wish for her parents to know the entire truth of the situation at that moment.
"You hear that dear," Her mother boasted joyfully, "Only a Hunter one day and Trish is already sold."
"Good going my lad." Her father added his approval, "I knew you had it in you."
"I wasn't sold." Trish objected loudly, nervously glancing at Wendy and back to her father, "I'm not a slave."
"You don't have to be so modest." He chuckled, "I knew you would do me proud." He slapped Trish on the back, causing her to stumble into Wendy.
"I'm sorry..." Trish apologized as she straightened up. She suddenly noticed that Wendy was in some sort of state of shook and could not stop staring at the large man before her. Trish waved her hand before the girl's eyes, "You alright Wendy?" She inquired worriedly.
Wendy blinked a few times and look at Trish, "Huh? Oh, Trish... You never told me you owned a lion." She inquired in a confused tone.
Now it was Trish's turn to blink in bewilderment, "Uhhh..." She turned to her father and gestured up at the man, "Wendy, this is my father." She then pointed over at her mother, still standing cheerully with the cake in her hands, "And this is my mother."
Wendy did a slight curtsy and smiled warmly at Trish's mother, "Please to meet you. I'm Wendy Telbrand and it would be an honour to have your daughter accompany me on this mission." She said politely.
"Why, what a pleasant young lady." Trish's mother stated and held out the cake, "Would you like some cake?" She offered.
"We don't have time for cake." Trish interrupted, taking Wendy's hand and leading her down a hall, "Thank you for the party, but if we don't get moving we will be late." She called out behind herself.
"Are you sure?" Trish's mother asked again, "It is your favourite, lemon cream."
"I hate lemons mother." Trish breathed under her breath as she approached her room at the end of the hall and wheeled around to face her mother, "Maybe when we return." She answered with a forced smile, then disappeared into her bedroom, dragging Wendy behind her and closing the door shut.
Trish leaned against the door as she tried to catch her breath, "They were friendly." Wendy stated in a small smile that quickly faded when Trish glared at her.
"They are a pain in the behind." Trish commented, kicking off the door and heading across the room to take a knapsack off the wall near her bed, "My father insists that because I choose to be a Hunter that I most be a boy, and my mother keeps thinking that I'm a slave for sell, never mind those horrible lemon cakes she bakes over and over again. It is enough to drive someone insane."
Wendy placed a finger to her chin in thought, "Is that why he kept referring to you as ‘Son'?" She inquired, "I thought I might have been mistaken about you being a girl."
Trish dropped the sack to the bed and spun around to face the girl, "Do I have to show you for you to believe me?" She asked, her hands moving to her belt buckle.
Wendy flushed brightly while hiding behind her book, "N... no..." She stammered as her eyes flickered to the many swords that lined the walls, "Wow... Are those all yours?" She asked in amazement, trying hard to change the subject.
Trish nodded, "Yeah, but they are fakes." She said miserably, "Wood painted to look like steel. I couldn't even buy a real sword until I passed tenth class. Now I can finally wield a real blade and I can't wait to hold some real steel in my hands." Trish clenched her fists several times and she envisioned the feeling of a sword in her hand, her eyes moving from one sword to another across the wall.
Wendy cocked her head curiously, "You really enjoy sword fighting, don't you?" She inquired curiously.
Trish shook her head slowly, "Not really the fighting. I've always dreamed of being a hunter. To rescue villages from wandering monsters or fend off a dragon from a damsel in distress."
"Damsel in distress?" Wendy mused, "Like the day you saved me from that Death Crow?"
Trish wheeled around to her dresser, hiding the blush that crossed her face, "Yeah, something like that." She opened the top draw and pulled out a small pouch filled with coins, "W... we should get moving before the sun sets." She nervously suggested as she grabbed some of her clothes and stuffed them into the knapsack.
"Thank you." Wendy said softly.
Trish glanced up at the girl, "For what?" She inquired, a flustered look upon her face.
Wendy sat atop of Trish's bed and smiled softly up at the girl, "For always rescuing me." She said timidly, "I know you have been watching over me for a while now and I wish I could have thanked you before." She explained nervously.
Trish occupied herself with filling the pack, "It's really nothing." With the pack full she swung it over her back and opened the window, "Come on, we'll be late if we don't hurry." She stated as she swung a leg out the window, grabbing a heavy deep green cloak off the corner post of her bed and tossed it over her other shoulder.
"Through the window?" Wendy inquired, glancing at the door in confusion, "Why don't we go out the front door?"
Trish let out a sigh, "Haven't you noticed how silent it has been?" She asked, tilting her head to listen to the air.
Wendy thought for the moment and listened closely too. She could hear the sounds of the cattle and birds outside, but other then that there was nothing. She shook her head and stared at Trish, "What does it mean?"
"It means..." Trish lowered herself out of the window, "That my parents are planning on surprising us as we leave my room. If we are to going to get to Wesmoors City in a week we can't afford to allow them to stale us any longer." She offered a hand to Wendy, "Coming?"
Wendy lightly took Trish's hand and permitted herself to be lured out the window, "Shouldn't we leave a note or something?" She whispered as they hurried across the back yard and over a small fence.
Trish shook her head, "Its better if they don't know we are gone." She insisted, "Knowing them they would suddenly appear out of nowhere to surprise us for some reason or another along the way, and I could use one less heart attack if you will."
Wendy glanced over her shoulder as she climbed over the fence, "How long do you think they will keep hiding for?"
Trish helped Wendy down, "With any luck they will stay like that until we get back."
Wendy let out a small giggle, "You are joking right?"
Trish simply shrugged, "We can only hope that I'm not."
*****
To be Continued . . .
*****
This story is copyright of Kathryn K Williams. All characters and settings are her creation and should not be used by any others. If you wish visit my site and see some of the art based on this series at http://www.shoujoai.ca
Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at Kathryn@KatAndNekoManga.ca
Chapter 3
The Whimsical Wanderers
By Kathryn K Williams
Chapter Three
The bell above the blacksmith's door jingled a welcoming tone and a muscular man with great bull's horns at the side of his head rushed out to greet his new customers, "What can I do for you to... day...?" His welcoming fell from his lips as he saw Trish enter his store, "Not you again." He rolled his eyes in disapprovingly, "Trish, how many times do we have to go through this. Please don't waste my time until you are of Expedition Cla-" His finally word stopped dead as Trish thrust two passes before the man.
"Expedition Hunter Class Trish and Mage Class Wendy here to purchase some items for a quest, Blacksmith Tal." She announced with a broad grin. She was glad they passed the Expedition Headquarters on their way to the blacksmiths for she was sure that Tal would not allow Wendy any items until they did not.
Tal took the cards from the girl and examined them carefully, "So you passed did you?" He inquired skeptically.
Trish nodded, "With flying colours." She stated proudly.
"Uh-huh..." Tal mumbled warily, eyeing Wendy as he handed back the cards to Trish, "What about her? That looks like just a temporary pass. I don't know if I can allow her any weapons over Novice class."
Trish rummaged through her back and pulled out Wendy's mission orders, "She has been ordered by Head Master Gaven Halford to journey to Wesmoors City where she will be given a quest by the Arch Mage himself." She explained, holding the quest form out to the man.
Tal took the paper and quickly skimmed it, then scanned Wendy up and down, causing the girl to timidly hide behind Trish, "So you are to be this girl's retainer, are you? You sure you are ready for a mission of this sort?" He inquired curiously.
Trish nodded firmly, "I'm ready and willing to protect her from whatever threat appears." She said confidently.
Tal moved around a long glass counter filled with many items and browsed the wall of swords that hung behind the counter, "So how much did you bring with you?"
Trish stepped up to the display case and set a small green pouch down on the counter, "Five thousand seven hundred and thirty six mals." Trish announced, proud of her savings.
"F... f... Five thousand mals?!?" Wendy stammered in disbelief, "How did you managed to save so much?"
"I took every last stupid quest the school offered." Trish explained miserably, "From picking up garbage off the streets to gathering bottles of ink from the Fornal Lake Squids. Anything and everything in order to prepare for this day, the day I became a Hunter." Her eyes sparkled with anticipation as she watched the blacksmith take a few swords from the wall and place them along the counter before her.
"These should be all in your price range." He remarked as he added the last sword to the lineup.
Trish's hand quivered as she lightly touched the handles of the swords, "C... can I pick them up?" She inquired anxiously.
Tal smiled and nodded, "Now you can, Hunter Trish."
"Thank you." Trish took hold of the first sword and lifted it off the counter. The sword was light weight and she could feel its balance even while sheathed. Slowly she pulled the sword from its scabbard and watched as the flickering lamp light reflected off the steel of the blade. The sword held a faint blue glow and it sung softly as it left its home. Trish examined the blade carefully before returning it to its place on the counter and picked up another.
Wendy sat heavily upon a chair in the corner as she watched Trish move from one weapon to another. At first she thought the way Trish fussed over the blades was rather silly, but when she saw the concentration upon the girl's face and the way she gracefully took a few practice swings she soon found herself mesmerized by Trish in a way she never thought possible. She had never seen Trish training so alway thought of the Hunters as forceful and simply powerful brutes, however at that moment, as she admired her friends fluid movements, she began to have more appreciation for Trish's choice in career path.
After a time Trish finally decided upon a blade, "I'll take this one." She stated pointing at a simple long sword.
Tal was taken aback by the girl's choice, "Why not any of the others? They would protect you better then that plain sword."
"They would." Trish agreed with a nod, "However, I can't afford to buy just one sword. I would like a chain mail vest and some other odds and ends for the journey ahead."
Tal smiled, "A wiser girl then I expected. The way you stared at those blades this past while I thought you would waste all your money without a thought. I'll bring you a vest in your size while you pick out the other items you desire, if that is alright."
"Thank you." Trish picked up her sword and fixed the belt around her waist, then glanced around at the other items in the display case.
The moment Tal disappeared around a wall behind the counter Wendy rushed to Trish's side and whispered into her ear, "Why didn't you buy one of the other ones?" She inquired, confused by Trish's purchase.
"If we are to make the weeks journey we are going to need food." Trish stated simply, then glanced at the girl's pack, "And you need a new bag, plus a few protection charms wouldn't hurt."
"N... no... you don't need to buy me anything." Wendy protected worriedly, "You should buy one of the swords you wanted instead of worrying about me."
"It isn't a problem." Trish stated, "I promised to protect you and I will in any way I can."
"I... I don't need anything." Wendy insisted, "This sword looked so pretty. I liked the blue glow." She stated as she began to lift the sword off the counter. The weight of the sword surprised Wendy as it slipped off the counter and began to fall to the ground.
Trish reached out a hand and grabbed the sword before it could do any damage. Without a word she place the sword back with the others and turned to face Wendy, arms crossed disapprovingly.
"I..." Wendy backed up against the wall, wishing nothing more then to have not have left her book next to the chair. Her face hot with a blush and she could feel tears stinging the corners of her eyes.
Trish quickly moved towards Wendy and wrapped her arms around the girl, "Shhhhh... It's alright. Everything will be alright."
"I'm sorry." Wendy mumbled, "I feel so useless. I don't even know the names of most of these items and I don't even have the money to help pay for this trip and..."
Trish held the girl by the shoulders, at arms length, "Listen," She said firmly, "I choose to help you on this quest and I promised to protect you. Don't worry about the money, I don't really care about it anyway and we can get more along the way. I want to help you on this quest... I want to protect you. So let me do that."
Wendy stared up into Trish's eyes, "Why are you so kind to me?" She inquired weakly.
Trish turned away from the girl to gaze down at the display cases again, "Because you are a nice girl and I don't like the way the school is treating you."
Wendy walked around Trish to get a better look at the girl's face, "Is that all?" She inquired doubtfully.
Trish glanced into those big brown eyes and bit at her bottom lips as she tried to form the feelings in her heart into words for her tongue.
"Here is your armour." Tal announced as he returned.
Trish quickly spun around to face the man as he held out a chain mail vest out to the girl, "T... Thank you." She took the armour in hand and inspected the quality, "Fine craftsmanship as always Tal. How come you had one in my size?"
The man flushed lightly, "I suspected that you would pass your test." He stated proudly.
Trish smiled, "I hope I don't disappoint you." The two talked shop for a moment while Wendy quietly watched. Trish added a few more purchases to her order, a new pack for Wendy, several days worth of food, bottles of healing potions and a couple of magical charms. Before long they had all they needed for their journey and Trish had a far lighter purse then before, but they were prepared for nearly any eventuality.
"Thank you Tal." Trish waved to the man as she opened the front door, the chime filling the room for the last time that day.
"You have a good trip." Tal stated heartedly, "You take care too, Wendy."
Wendy gave a timid smile and a small wave as she followed Trish out the door and into the woods that surrounded the Village.
*****
To be Continued . . .
*****
This story is copyright of Kathryn K Williams. All characters and settings are her creation and should not be used by any others. If you wish visit my site and see some of the art based on this series at http://www.shoujoai.ca
Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at Kathryn@KatAndNekoManga.ca
Chapter 4
The Whimsical Wanderers
By Kathryn K Williams
Chapter Four
Trish's mind trudged through her memories. It might have only been a couple of hours before, but it felt more like an eternity to her. Her eye never left Wendy's sleeping form as she recalled those last moments at the Blacksmiths. She wished she could have just blurted out her feelings to the girl right then and there, however she knew that if she did it would only complicate things and she wanted Wendy to be on at her best if she is to pass this test. She shook her feelings free of their binds and forced them away when she heard the snap of a twig behind her.
Swiftly she unsheathed her sword and held it before her, awaiting whomever or whatever could be approaching. Her eyes darted about the dark trees in search of any sign of what could be lingering in the shadows. A pair of eyes caught in the fire light and flickered briefly. Her palms began to sweat and she could feel her arms slightly tremble. She had fought most of the monsters in this forest, but that was during the light of day and she had heard tales of creatures that only ventured out on the light of the moon, those stories alone frightened her dearly. Unsure if she should awaken Wendy, and prepare to flee, she kept her eyes upon the creatures and awaited its move.
"You can lower your arms, Trish." A guttural voice stated from beyond the darkness.
"M... Malcuse, is that you?" Trish inquired curiously, trying hard to hid her panic.
"Of course it is me." A large wolf stepped into the campfire's light, its immense, muscular, body covered in coarse grey fur that was so hard that it could break the finest of daggers, "What brings you to these parts at such an hour?" He inquired curiously.
Trish returned her blade to her side and sat back down next to the fire, "Her." She stated with a nod to the young mage.
The wolf circled around the camp to Wendy and sniffed at the girl, then gazed up at Trish, "Is she the one you spoke of?" He inquired in a whisper that only Trish's cat ears could hear.
Trish rubbed at her forehead and nodded in defeat.
Malcuse moved over to Trish's side and sat beside her, "So what is the deal?"
Trish glanced at Wendy then to the wolf, "I'm accompanying her to Wesmoors City on a quest for the Arch Mage." She mumbled into her hand.
Malcuse eyed the girl, "You do realize what you are getting yourself into right?"
Trish let out a deep sigh, "Yeah..."
The wolf observed Wendy, "Does she?" He said with a nod to the girl.
Trish shook her head, "She is too innocent to understand." She gazed at the wolf, "This can't be what we are thinking, can it? I mean it could just be a simple quest. Defeat a golblie gock or some other nasty critter and return home. No harm done."
The wolf shook his head in disappointment, "It is never that easy and you know it. The Arch Mage is very strict when it comes to matters involving Mages like your friend there. For now it will be a simple test, but expect much worse down the road. There is no avoiding it."
Trish ruffled her hair in frustration then stood to her feet and started to pace, "Why can't we be wrong?"
"You felt it didn't you?" Malcuse inquired, "You told me you felt it and I can smell it on her."
"And what if I refuse?" She stated coldly, "What if I keep her safe from harm?"
The wolf lowered its head, "You could not save her the world and you know it. Right now it is just the Arch Mage, but if words gets out about her then you will have to deal with every country looking for her."
Trish dropped to the ground, her legs and arms crossed in a huff, then her eyes set upon Wendy and she felt a need to turn away, "I know... but you can't blame me for wanting to try."
Malcuse moved over to Trish's side and set a paw on her knee, "I know how you feel about the girl. I can see it in your eyes every time you talked to me about her." The wolf took a deep breath and let it out, then smiled a toothy grin that only a canine could do, "Maybe I am wrong after all." He tried to assure the girl.
Trish stared at the large book in the girl's arms, "No... no... you are right. You warned me that this would happen and I kept ignoring it and yet here we are." She shook her head in disbelief, "I am so stupid."
"You are not stupid." The wolf insisted, "Most of the Village knew that this would happen and they kept it a secret from her. Hoping that if they did then they would not have to face the reality before them. You did the right thing by staying at her side when no one else would and I'm proud of you."
"Thank." Trish mumbled, "But for some reason that doesn't make me feel much better."
"Why don't you get some sleep while I keep watch." Malcuse offered, "You look like you need a good nights rest."
"Thank my friend." Trish hugged the wolf around the neck, "Will you be here for breakfast? I know Wendy would love to meet you."
"Probably not." Malcuse stated unhappily, "I have business elsewhere, but I will be sure to wake you before dawn breaks."
"I'd appreciate it." Trish patted Malcuse on the back, "Wish me luck."
"Luck..." He said half heartedly as he watched Trish pull out a blanket from her pack and curl up on the earthen floor. He stretched out beside the fire and watched the two girl's sleep, "I pray you are correct my friend, and I am just a paranoid old fool, but if I am right you will need more then just luck over the next while and I wish I knew how to protect the two of you." He muttered softly, "May the sprits of Shalras watch over the two of you."
*****
To be Continued . . .
*****
This story is copyright of Kathryn K Williams. All characters and settings are her creation and should not be used by any others. If you wish visit my site and see some of the art based on this series at http://www.shoujoai.ca
Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at Kathryn@KatAndNekoManga.ca
Chapter 5
The Whimsical Wanderers
By Kathryn K Williams
Chapter Five
Wendy awoke to the smell of cooking fish and let out a yawn. She was startled to find herself surrounded by many trees with the early morning sun greeting her through their branches, "Huh? Wha?" She glanced around quickly and spotted Trish sitting near the fire, roasting a couple of fish on sticks, "Trish?!?" She rubbed her eyes in surprise.
"Morning Wendy." Trish greeted the girl with a smile, "How do you like your fish?" She inquired as she turned one of the fish over on the flames.
"It wasn't a dream after all, was it?" Wendy asked groggily, still trying to gain her bearings.
Trish regretfully shook her head, "Nope, We really are in the middle of the woods on our way to Wesmoors City." She took one of the fish off the fire and bit into it with her tiny fangs, ripping a piece off and hungrily swallowed it, "Want one?" She offered the another fish to the girl.
Wendy wrinkled her nose at the sight of the fish, "Gross..." She quickly turned away as Trish rip another chuck of fish free of its skeleton and devouring it, "That is disgusting. Couldn't you make it into a fishwich at least?" She suggested, keeping her eyes off the food.
"A fishwich sounds like a good idea." Trish picked up a loaf of bread from her pack.
"Do you have anything else to eat?" Wendy inquired, trying hard not to gag as Trish lopped off the fishes head with a large knife from her boot and placed it between two slices of bread.
Trish rummaged through her bag, "Well I have some jelly, peanut butter and butter." She stated as she pulled out a couple of small clear plastic cubes filled with spreadable goods, "I stored away some the last time I went to a restaurant. I think they should be still alright."
"Butter and Jelly sounds great." Wendy said hungrily, although the sight of the fish made her feel ill but the smell was causing her stomach to grumble.
"One butter and jelly coming up." Trish announced as cut a few more slices off the loaf of bread and spread the condiments upon the pieces, then handed it to Wendy, "Here you are."
"T... thank you." She said, embarrassed by her request. She bit into the sandwich and smiled, "Thank you." She said again.
Trish returned the smile, "Anything. Just ask." She offered, "I used to cook out behind my parents place a lot to prepare for this day, so it's really nothing. If it makes you more comfortable then just ask and I'll see what I can do."
Wendy flushed, "You don't have to go through so much trouble for me." She said between bites.
Trish waved her off, "It's really nothing." She glanced at her hand dirty hands, "I need to wash up so I'll be right back." She gestured behind herself, "There is a stream right over here so I won't be far."
Wendy nodded, "Alright." She continued to eat her sandwich as she watched the girl vanish into the brush. After a moment she finished her meal and decided to join Trish in cleaning up. She picked up the new sack that Trish had gotten her the other night and rummaged through it. The sack was entirely empty, not a single thing she had placed in the pack the other night was there. Worriedly she glanced around in search of her things, while shaking the pack upside down. When she did not see them around the campsite, and nothing fell from the sack, she began to panic.
"Trish!!!" She cried out, still searching the camp, "TRISH!!!"
Trish came charging out of the woods, sword drawn and knife in her other hand, "What is it!?!" She spun around in search for some sign of a monster, "Are you alright? Did something attack you?" She inquired worriedly.
"I've been robbed." She stated frenziedly, "They must of taken my things during the night."
Trish lowered her weapon, "Is that all?" She said with a sigh of relief, "I thought you were being attacked."
Wendy glared at the girl, "‘Is that all?'" She inquired in bewilderment, "I'm robbed and that is all you can say."
Trish took the sack from Wendy's hands, "You weren't robbed." She stated lightly, "I watched the camp all night and there was no one who could have robbed you."
Wendy wildly gestured about the camp, "Then were are my clothes and other things?"
"This is a Sack of Organization." She explained as she closed the pack, "Just snap your fingers three times and say what you want and it will appear." Trish snapped her fingers several times over the pack, "Clothes." She commanded, "They should be there now." She stated as she opened the bag and looked within. A broad grin crossed her face as she pulled out a black silk pair of panties, "These look interesting? Do you actually wear them?"
Wendy's face changed to a bright shade of red, "Gimme those!!" She quickly snatched the underwear from the girl's hands, but was not face enough to grab the sack.
"What else do you have in here?" Trish inquired, dodging out of the girl's reach.
"Come on..." Wendy whined, "Don't look!!!"
Trish handed the pack back to the girl, "I was just kidding." She tried hard to wipe the smile off her face, "I never thought you would be interested in fancy panties."
Wendy hastily took the pack and hugged it close to her body, her face getting redder by the moment, "You didn't have to look." She stuck out her bottom lip.
Trish felt guilty for her actions, "Sorry. You can look in my pack if you wish." She offered, picking up her own pack and opened up for the girl, "Organization Sacks are very handy. I even have a frost elemental with the food to keep it cold."
For the first time Wendy noticed icy fog drifting up from Trish's pack. She looked inside to see many different foods filling it to the brim, "I never knew they made things like this now a days." She stated in astonishment, "You didn't tell me it was a magical bag. That is amazing."
"You can look through it all you like." Trish proposed, holding the pack out to Wendy, "I really don't mind."
Wendy shook her head bashfully, "No. That is alright." She insisted.
Trish set her pack on the ground and picked up a small cube off the ground, "Wait until you see Wesmoors City. I hear it's filled with things that will make these items seem rather simple." She stated, opening the lid of the cube and holding it out to the fire, "Come come." She softly requested of the flames. In response to her bidding the flames leapt from their place on the chard log and into the cube, which Trish closed immediately after all the fire was entirely out.
"I never knew any of this stuff existed before." Wendy remarked in bewilderment, "I don't know if I'm ready for any of this." She stated in a slightly frightened voice.
"You will be fine." Trish insisted as she got to her feet and walked over to the girl, "You're a lot smarter then you think, you just have to get over your fear of new things." She took the girl's hand and set the cube in her palm, "Here, you watch over this little guy for me, alright?"
Wendy stared at the cube in confusion, "B... but...." Trish let go of her hand and started to bury their campfire site, "What do I do with it?" Wendy inquired worriedly.
Trish shrugged, "Put it in your pack if you like, or keep it in your pocket." She suggested, "But don't let it free anywhere. It's a hungry little devil." She warned.
"What does it eat?" Wendy asked, more curious of the creature within the cube.
"Whatever can catch on fire." Trish stated merely as she picked up her pack and through it over her shoulder, "Come on. We only have seven days to get to Wesmoors City and the trip will be close if we don't hurry." She picked up the last fish on a stick and started on her way.
"Al... alright..." Wendy hurried after her friend, stuffing the cube in her skirt pocket.
*****
To be Continued . . .
*****
This story is copyright of Kathryn K Williams. All characters and settings are her creation and should not be used by any others. If you wish visit my site and see some of the art based on this series at http://www.shoujoai.ca
Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at Kathryn@KatAndNekoManga.ca
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