Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Traversing the bustling streets of a huge, towering city was far from ideal for any drifter.

It was a lonely lifestyle, often being rarely known beyond physical appearance, leaving only a footprint or a whispered word about them before disappearing in the wind.

Guardian was standing tall besides a transit station, heaving backpacking weighing their shoulders. Their companion sprite bobbed near their shoulder, hands clasped against their hips under their cloak. The buzzing of the crowd around them was put from their mind as they observed for a moment.

They could tell who was a local here by a quick glance; the people who wore more formal clothes or too much jewelry. Any lack of a backpack was always a telltale sign on who lived in the area. However, the majority that crowded the streets were more like themself, travelers and vagabonds of all kinds. Guardian never felt like they stood out in these types of crowds, their bright pink helmet nearly blended in with the vast array of other travelers scattered about.

They saw only four other drifters across the platform, their droids giving them away. Normally, it never painted a target on anyone's back, as all they collected was knowledge for the most part, but it never paid to be too trusting.

Guardian had a kind, giving heart, but this did not make them go forth to approach any of them.

Their idle observations were interrupted by the train pulling slowly up into the station, other travelers spilling out while the rest waited to start piling in. Guardian shifted with the crowd, and was one of the last to join inside, forcing them to a seat closer to the door. That was fine with them, since they didn’t mind the cold breeze that would slip through.

Settling into their seat, they laid their sack across their lap and tried to relax a bit. They were still aware of the people in the trolley around them, taking small glances around to figure who they were riding with.



A mother of two across from them, holding one and reading to the other. An elderly travelling couple to their left, with some type of swordsmen behind them. They leaned forward, resting their arms on their pack as a precaution, and settled as their companion sprite nestled the crook of their arm. It wasn’t often they traveled by train  in their youth; the areas they traveled didn’t have enough population for such needs. 

Still, the lull and bumps of the train put them at ease and they felt ready for the short trip ahead of them.

They had been on the road for a while now. Each town and village they had passed recently had blurred together in some strange flip book. The names and symbols for each town and village escaped them, their companion spite probably feeling restless with how little they had actually been using it. Hardly any photos or texts had been recorded in the past few years, perhaps for lack of trying on their part. The drive to travel had become somewhat numbing, no wonders of the world having caught their interest.

There was an unmistakable feeling of being watched that settled over them after a short while. It wasn't an uncommon occurrence, drifters were not seen regularly in most places-aside from frequent travel hubs. If nothing else, their floating companion sprite normally drew a few eyes on its own. It did not make them any less worried, as they tried to take a subtle peak at the swordsmen behind them for safe measure.

As they were trying to take a look, their own eyes caught the culprit sitting just a few feet away. The mother of two, one of the children having lost interest in the book she had been narrating in favor of staring at Guardian. They jumped when their head had finally turned from their small napping session, trying hard not to look like they had been staring so intently just a few moments before.

Guardian felt foolish for being paranoid, laughing internally at their behavior.

I've been on the road too long. 

Even far before they had their own child those years back, they always had a soft spot for children. The awe and wonderment that came from any bit of information when young could not be replicated, the way their eyes gleamed brightly with brimming curiosity. Smiling under the shadow of their helmet, they gave the child a nod.

They had on a small cloak and a scarf over their head, small horns sprouting from under their hood and curling backward. They lit up when Guardian acknowledged them, head shifting back and forth between them and their companion sprite for a moment. “Are you a drifter?” They asked, scooting to the very edge of their seat to bore holes into their armor.

Their mother finally took notice of her child’s weaning interest, and paused her reading to place a hand onto their shoulder. “Jael, I know I taught you better manners than to stare.” She chided, and cast Guardian an apologetic look.

The child shrank back, muttering under their breath. “I never see drifters though!” 

A familiar scene, not one they hadn’t experienced many times before, but the familiarity made them relax. They held up a hand to the mother, smiling still. “I promise they are not intruding, we still have a while until my stop. It’s healthy to feed that curiosity now before they go home and only have you to ask.” They pointed out wisely.

Remembering back to a time when Guardian had not wanted their own child bothering anyone for fear of being impolite, they and their spouse had then been left with endless questions at home. Anytime neither could answer, it tended to spiral.

Better to get the correct information from the source, in their opinion. They shifted their pack to the other side of their seat, scooting forward as well to show they were open to conversation. 

The mother looked reluctant to bother them, but her child did not, as they sprang up to cross the small space between them. Their hands were in the air, reaching for their companion sprite. “What is that! Can I feed it?”

“Jael!” Their mother reached to grab them, pulling them back to their side and onto her lap as they yelped. 

“Mom! They said I could ask!” They cried, squirming within her grasp as she held both of them firm, but her other child seemed more content to try and nap than deal with their siblings shenanigans. They were much younger than them, after all.

“But you do not leave this seat, child. And do not touch anything that is not yours!” She reprimanded gently, looking up to Guardian. “I’m sorry for them- they just seem to want to get their hands upon everything.”


“I assure you, it’s no issue.” They promised. “However, I do agree not to approach random strangers like that. Curiosity is best when it’s controlled.” As they said this, they reached up and plucked their sprite from the air. Their droid let out an indignant ‘Beep!’ at being swiped from the air like a cat’s toy, but remained docile as it was gently handed over to the child for observations.

“This is my companion sprite. It is a programmed droid to store all the information I gather. You cannot feed it, but if you are gentle, you may hold it with your mother’s permission.” They looked over to her now. “It has no sharp edges or weapons, just a camera and capped-on medpacks inside it.” They were quick to assure.

She seemed to think for a moment, but the big pleading eyes of her youngling wore her down as she nodded. Gently, the child’s small hands came out to latch upon the pink robot, pulling it closer to observe. They traced around its camera lens and the motor that kept it afloat into the air. The droid beeped softly as it was caressed and observed, making the child flinch unexpectedly before they set out to pet it like a small animal. They looked up to Guardian as they held the sprite close to their chest.

“It’s really pretty- like your helmet!” They said happily, looking at all Guardian was wearing. “I see a lot of draft- drifters all covered up too. Are you all kinda ugly?” They asked, still petting over their sprite and cooing at it.

Before their mother could get fed up with their insensitive line of questioning, they simply laughed. “No, young one, we aren’t all ugly I believe. We all look different for one thing, and it’s custom to keep our faces obscured in some way. It makes for easier travel if we do.” Any form of anonymity was necessary for the ways of their travel, and frankly, Guardian felt better somewhat shielded from prying eyes.

“Beauty is subjective, anyway.” They reminded aloud, leaning back against their seat with a soft chuckle. 

The child was enamored to have all their questions answered so honest and readily. After a few chains of thoughts, they stopped glancing so much at their mother for approval before all their focus was poured into Guardian and their travels. They asked about different lands far beyond, what beasts they had seen and of course any treasures hidden about the lands. 

If they embellished certain scenarios or how big a beast being slightly bigger than it really was, no one would be the wiser. The child wanted to be dazzled, and they had plenty of tales to spin for their curious mind.

“A whole desert in a night?” They gasped, clutching their droid like a comforting animal. It let out soft ‘ beeps ’ as it was cradled within their arms, Guardian was just glad it remained docile within the child’s grasp. 

They nodded. “Yes. It is easier to travel the deserts at night. Better to travel in the shade of night than risk overheating in the sun. Learning the ways of the land and how to protect yourself is the first rule of travel.” They warned firmly, their mother smiling in their peripherals.

A low whistle signaled the stopping of the tram, the next station carefully rolling into view. This was not Guardian’s stop though, as they still had quite a few to go before they could get back to the actual journey part of their quest.

It was the small family’s stop though. As the mother shifted to stand up, the baby in her arms swaddled in a sling across her chest as she hefted up her small bag and the hand of her curious one. The child had deflated, reluctantly releasing their sprite back up into the air. Quickly, it zipped back over to hover by their helmet, spinning in a small circle in greeting.

Guardian reached up to pat it, nodding to the family. “I appreciate the time. May our paths cross again.”

The mother bowed her head, her child following suite after a moment of sputtering, dipping far down as their mother spoke. “Thank you for the tales, and indulging my little one. May your journeys be safe, and knowledge vast.” 

The old wish made them smile, happy to hear some people knew of their odd, secretive ways. They bowed their head again, and waved to the child as they walked away.

“Bye, drifter!” They called out with glee as they stepped off the train. 

A soft moment in their time, and it made Guardian smile even long after the tram had pulled forward, moving on from their paths. They knew they would never see them again, but the thought could entertain them. The idea of seeing little ones’ grow up clung gently to their fragile heart, and made them let out a sigh.

At this rate, they could never be a caretaker again. They could not stop until they found a cure.

The lull of the train put them at ease, checking to make sure their next stop was not anytime soon. There wouldn't be another stop for three hours, and their stop was after the next. 

Seizing the opportunity to get some well needed rest, they placed their items between them and the wall, and covered themself up with their cloak tightly, helmet resting gently against their backpack. Their companion sprite spun in small circles around their head for a moment before staying by the window to pop open their solar panels on top of its head. It seemed it too wanted to recharge.

Guardian gave it a loving pet before snuggling up and falling into a deep rest.

-----

Through a few hours of lulling train noises, they only had their eyes closed for what felt like a moment before they cracked them open again. They blinked a few times, a feeling of static tingling up their spine, causing them to look around for a moment in confusion. They were no longer sitting on the train with their bag and their sprite. In fact, their companion sprite was nowhere to be found. They were no longer in a train interior, surrounded instead by some type of ocean, sun reflecting off its steady waves in the distance.

The change in scenery was enough to shock Guardian as they hadn't expected to simply wake up in a glorified puddle. They only had their weapons and clothes; nothing else had managed to travel here with them.


Where had they gone? Was this a dream? It felt far away, and almost numb with how heavy their head weighed on their shoulders.

Lucid dreaming?

A wary feeling blanketed them as they glanced around the shallows, spotting an apparition in the distance: a gleam of light beaming on the horizon, where the sky and sea touched. It was mesmerizing, catching Guardian's full attention as they turned to study the light.

And then the light turned back to them, with the eyes of a jackal haloed by a diamond. The dog studied Guardian back, holding their gaze intently as if they plunged into their very soul, knowing their past and everything they were capable of. It felt like they were nothing but glass against those diamond eyes.

They stood their ground, letting themself be observed by the being across the world. They knew this dog was somewhere they could never hope to touch, yet they felt if they reached their hand out across the endless expanse, they might be able to.

Slowly, the Jackal turned their head to the horizon, and Guardian followed its gaze into the distance. Where instead of the heavens touching the soil, there was an island. An island covered by storm, snow and crystal, sitting with the diamond halo around it as well, along with mounds of bodies piling against the island’s ocean, staining the water with deep red blood.

Distantly, a thought whispered to them:

The perfect cell

That was where Guardian needed to go.

-----

It was lucky the train took them to a port town that sat upon the ocean’s edge. The seas were covered in ships of all sizes bobbing upon the waters.

Hopefully, they had enough currency to buy a small ride into the waters, or at least find someone who knew of the island they had been dreaming about. As they had woken up, they had taken the opportunity to try and sketch out their vision, pulling over their sprite to take another look at their digital sketch.

An island with a storm, and a floating structure above it with a diamond enclosing it.

Guardian had traveled the lands far and wide, seen plenty of odd sights and breathtaking views, but this screamed “Important” .

Whatever being that was leading to this place made its importance abundantly clear, and they would make sure they got there. 

Returning their sprite to their rightful floating spot by their shoulder, they pressed forward into the far less busy streets of this coastal town. The cool breeze of the salty winds caressed them as they passed through the streets, giving respectful nods to the vendors they passed.

Finding transport wasn’t an issue with all the ships, but finding anyone who knew of their vague island vision was proving to be difficult. Granted, they had very little to go off of besides some magical force floating above the island, possibly.

Luck was on their side when they were asking around some of the docks - pointedly ignoring the harsh comments and odd looks at their request - there was one fisher who perked up at their description. 

Guardian saw it in the way her head snapped when they mentioned the floating crown structure above the island. Quickly, she tried to scurry away back to her boat, but they politely cut her off.

“Excuse me, may I have a moment of your time?”

She huffed slightly, crossing her arms as they smiled gently under their helm. “I noticed you seemed to run off after you heard tale of the place I seek.”

A roll of her eyes and another huff. “So you saw I didn't want shit to do with you, and you still approached me?” She let out a long scoff, glaring at them as she pointed up to their face. “You are perceptive, but an idiot.”

They shrugged their shoulders. “Indeed.” They had heard much worse through their travels. “However, I do need to reach this place, but I have no idea where to find it.”

She seemed fed up, and growled. “That’s not my problem, drifter.” She snapped.

“Ah- I have money.” They pulled out a fat pouch of their collected gearbits, shielding it from prying eyes with their cloak.

This finally stopped her as she eyed the offered currency. Gearbits were a somewhat common sight, as drifters were frequent in many areas such as these. The money was good, and by the way she kept glancing at her small sailboat, she was in a tight spot. 

“...I can’t help you.” She tried to say, still trying to inch her way around their imposing figure. 

Guardian wasn't one to force people into giving information - they’d never stoop so low to intimidate for something they wanted - but this was important. 

Carefully, they held a hand up to stop her one last time. “Please, we don't have to discuss anything here if you are afraid of prying eyes. I do need information at the very least, and I will make it worth your while. Is there some place I could meet you in private to inquire...about fishing work?” They asked the last part somewhat louder, glancing around to ensure they were not being scrutinized further.

Subtly, they placed their fat pouch back onto their person, noting the way she eyed it.

After a tense moment, she snapped under her breath. “Meet me under the docks at sunset.” She said quickly, and finally slipped past Guardian with a rough brush of their shoulders. 

“I don't have any work for you, drifter. Get lost.” She called over her shoulder, hopping into her sailboat.

Guardian nodded, smiling gently. “I understand. Forgive me for the trouble.”

They didn't know what the real issue was outright, but she had her reasons for being wary. They were a complete stranger talking of strange lands they only saw in visions.. Perhaps they did know the issue, now that they thought of it.

Finding something to do for a few hours was simple: stocking up on some last minute supplies, charging their droid, and doing some light exploring. They had an excellent sense of direction, but it never was a good idea to stray too far from a meet-point in unfamiliar lands. 

When sunset graced the Oceanside, it was quite the sight. Light glittering across the waters and all the ships in the distance signalling their passage. 

They were more comfortable around forest areas, but they could imagine a brief life here. A small house with their own boat, maybe even a market stall for selling. Their spouse would-

Abruptly, they stopped in their tracks at the fantasy entering their mind, the images of their long gone family still alive and well. It hurt their soul to try and create a new image of their family. It was better to remember them for who they were, after all.

A small house with a little garden, a tight knit family with evenings spent around a warm fire. They lived near a forest, and that’s where they would stay in their heart.

They shook their head, shoulders sagging with a long sigh.

I need to stay focused.

Their current quest was their main goal, not starting another family to lose in a matter of years. They had decided to head out to the docks sooner than later, may as well be early to make sure they ended up under the correct dock.

Walking along the beach side near sunset was always a beautiful sight, the crisp ocean winds causing their cape to billow behind them. The sand was soft under their boots, with plentiful seashells skittered across the shore.

Tempted as they were to snap a few photos, they had been to many beaches over their time drifting. 

Their companion bot hovered around their shoulders, bobbing gently in the winds as well as letting out tiny chirps in their idle state. It made Guardian smile, reaching up to give it a quick, affectionate pat.

As robotic as it was, it didn't stop Guardian from regarding it like a pet more than anything. 

The underside of the docks were never pleasant, it smelt like swamp water and salty, rotting fish flesh- which there no doubt was nearby somewhere. 

I shouldn't judge, this is the place she felt safest to meet…

Feeling their paranoia crawl up their spine and tingle their senses, they reached back and unsheathed their red blade, droid backtracking to float more behind their head as they carefully stepped ahead. 

The shadows cascaded around from the beams made them feel like they were being closed in on, anything able to lurk behind and sneak up on them.

Soft footsteps with a sharp inhale from behind them caused Guardian to whip around, sword raised at the ready.“Gods in hell- put that away!” The woman snapped harshly, sidling up to them cautiously even after they had lowered their blade.

“Do pardon me, I’ve walked into my fair share of ambushes. It never fails to be too careful.” To further this point, they did not sheath their blade yet.

“You don't have to go waving that thing around at me, you're nearly twice my size in stature alone. I promise I couldn't even dream of taking you on.” She pointed out, crossing her arms once more as she leaned back against a nearby beam, feet snuggled into the sands. “But, you did show up. Bring the bits?”

Guardian nodded, not bothering to flash their money again, even in the relatively safer environment. “Did you bring your information with you?”

She stared at them for a long, drawn out moment to look them uo and over a few times before nodding. “I can do you one better, drifter.” Taking a cautious step forward, she pulled out a digital map some sailors used to help with approximate water currents and which ways the wind blew from day-to-day. She held it out for them to see as she traced along her path while she spoke.

“I have only heard of it, but I have helped a few get about halfway there. Some blue skinned people and other travellers- but they have never come back. I don’t know what the hell is on that island, but everything they said you did too.” One more pointed look to them, and she sighed.

“I doubt you’ll listen, but if you have the money and can help, I’ll take you where I’ve taken the others.” She conceded softly, shoulders dropping.

Guardian smiled, bowing their head to her. “You have my upmost thanks, I will do my best to make it a smooth trip there. What happens after I step off your boat is not in my control.” They concluded.

She rolled her eyes. “Yes, I know, forever in my depth and all that. Spare me the speech.” She pointed to them with a deep frown. “As of now, you are a dead drifter walking.”

They paused for a brief moment at her words, before slowly nodding. “You have no idea.”

Not understanding their cryptic statement, she elected to ignore them to walk past. “Fine, if you're in a rush, we’ll leave in a few hours. I already stocked up on supplies, its only a weeks travel.”

They turned to follow her trek back up to the docks, happy to be away from the smell of the low tide, and having a guide for where they needed to go.

“You look strong, which is good. You’re going to help me load up enough fuel to last us for this trip, this isn't a ferry ride..” She snapped, leading them up the way to her ship.

It seemed standard, fuel and sail powered for maximum exploration across the waters. They could tell this was a modified ship as well, plenty of little personal touches that weren't on the standard baseline for a boat. It looked slim, and fast.

They couldn't stand to simply look at her ship all day, as she started to get too frustrated with their patient nature, and they started to help load up the fuel tanks.

Whatever hostility she held for them dint hinder her from giving them polite requests or strict direction on how to help. And soon when everything was in place, they untied the tether they had to the docks, and they were out upon distant waters.

Perhaps they ought to feel more somber, leaving the lands they shared with their spouse and child. Learning how to travel the lands easily while raising a child, their first kiss. How many time Guardian ventured out to pick flowers for their home.

Deep within their backpack, they had a small container of seeds to regrow those same flowers should they ever settle down again. If not, hopefully that shared moment of beauty count be shared with the new lands they’d come to.

They stared out at the shoreline as it grew more distant, a soft haze coming between them as their ship pulled them through the waters.

Rest easy, my love, my child. I will hold you in my heart forever.

The sails were tightly secured, winds pulling them forward with surprising momentum, but it only served to bring Guardian closer to this mysterious island.

Their host appeared less than willing to share her details as to how she came across so much information on the island, or why so many drifters flocked to her for transport. So, they thought of a safer question.

“Excuse me.” They piped up over the sounds of whistling winds. Her head turned to them with a flat expression. “I don’t believe I got your name?”

“Captain.” She said rather shortly. Not the talkative type, then.

“I appreciate your aid in my journey, Captain. I understand this is not something you enjoy, but I do give you my thanks.”

She scoffed at their words, but they could tell she was only hesitant about the situation as a whole. It made them happy that people like her still cared about drifters like them. 

“I’m shocked at the speed of this boat, I admit. I did notice its design strayed from the standard, bit of a personal touch. Was that all self taught?” They asked, leaning over to run their hand along the sides of the boat. 

“No, I studied under a mechanic since I was very young to learn how to build machines. This is simply the latest model I’m testing.” She explained, pulling some ropes to tie them secured to their designated hooks. It was almost therapeutic watching her hustle around her dock, but they were taking mental notes on how to care for the ship when asked.

“And what about you, drifter? I know you’re a private bunch, but humor me for a week long boat ride. How long you been drifting about?”

They blinked at the question. It wasn't exactly an uncommon question, but they had to pause for a moment to recall an approximation of how long they’d been doing this. “I’m not sure, exactly. Since I was young for one thing. My guardians had done so before me, and I took to their footsteps after they had passed. I was a bit younger than you, I’d say.”

She nodded to their answer, seemingly pleased they hadn’t been difficult about it. “You didn’t have parents?” She raised an eyebrow at that tidbit of info, and they shrugged. 

“I had parental figures, and that was good enough for my upbringing. I think I’m well raised.” They held up a hand to case her upcoming question or protest to their answer. “And now I have one for you; have you been sailing long?”

She huffed a bit at being cut off, but nodded. “I come from a family of sailors, and the ocean has always drawn me to it. Its quite easy to spend too much time here than on land if you like solitude. Which I do most times.”

They could understand that, the waters could be quite calming to be around for long periods, the constant lull of waves cradling them as they travelled. Guardian had not been much for boat travel most times before, but they enjoyed the journey when they did go.

“Perhaps there is drifting in your blood.” They teased with a faint chuckle. “One has to like the solitutde to pursue this way of life.”

That caused her to pull a small face. “I’ve seen some drifters travel with someone else before, though..”

“Yet, you know it is more common we travel alone, yes?” 

She frowned, but nodded. “That's true. But I have a whole port city to go back to when I feel like it, or need help. Tell me Guardian, what is it you do in the situation you fall and break your leg? And there is no city nearby to go to for help?” She asked curiously, even if she tried to hide it with her abrasive nature.

They didn’t even pause to think. “I would try my best to mend it on my own with a medpack, or a splint. If I could not do either, I’d die.” 

The answer caused her to recoil somewhat at the deadpan, honest answer. How could she have suspected any different, the road alone was dangerous in all ways. Harsh weathers, dangerous towns, infections. 

“It shouldn't be much a surprise, captain. I’m traveling out of my waters to unknown lands every day of my life, into the dangers of the unknown. Its only natural to not fear whats inevitable to come.” 

She finally rolled her eyes, shaking her head. “You’re morbid, and all drifters are cursed. I think this will be the last time I make this trip. I don’t like the idea of assisting people to their deaths..” 

They pursed their lips, unable to deny the thought, and simply nodded. “I am thankful you have opted to help me just this last time.”

“Well.. You’re welcome, but at least try not to die?”

They nodded, a smile beaming from under their helm. “I will try my best.” 

-----

The small boat pulled to a stop where the sands rose up to meet the surface of the waters. “This is as far as I take you, drifter.” She held her hand out expectantly, a deep frown as she cast an uneasy look to the waters.

Guardian fished out their gearbits and placed them gratefully into her palm before they hopped out her boat. They hefted their backpack up over their shoulders, companion sprite bobbing by their shoulder, and they gave her a grateful nod. “Safe travels, then.”

She nodded once, giving them a regretful look before she pulled at her oars to turn her back into deeper waters. “Safe travels...” She muttered under her breath.

Guardian only watched her for a moment to make sure she didn’t need help pushing her boat, before they turned to the great expanse of water they had to make this trek over.

And island surrounded by storm and strange waters with no clear path to it. In hindsight, they were not entirely sure that this was the way they needed to go, but it was their option at this point.

They had a months worth of provisions squirreled away, and perhaps they would find a creature they could scavenge for in these shallows.

It should have been simple for the most part. Just walk along the shallows as far as they could travel, and then they would try and go from there. Something, or someone, was calling to them. The very water itself felt like it pulled at their ankles as they trudged through the rippling waters. Their sprite bobbed by their shoulder idly as they traveled, content to forever follow their aimless companion.


Travel always came with its own brand of hazards. Fire burns, infection, hypothermia, heat stroke, etc, any careless wanderer would be swallowed up by the very lands they traversed. Guardian considered themself somewhat of a master at this, simply finding the easiest, safest routes they could traverse to save up on energy. Travel was only half the battle, after all.

As they watched the water slosh by their feet for days, they swore they felt eyes on their back again. Even all the way out here in the middle of a shallow ocean they could not shake that cautious habit.

Tossing a few looks over their shoulder, they spotted nothing, and their sprite did not ping for any-- wait.

Wheres my companion sprite?!

Guardian felt their chest stutter as they came to a stop in the waters, cursing slightly under their breath. They quickly turned about to try and spot their droid. Either it had somehow wandered off in a strong breeze, or it had lost power. It was solar powered primarily, so the clear open skies should have showered enough light rays to keep it fully powered. Surely, they would have heard the crashing splash as well.

They were pacing through the shallows now, racking their brain for any idea on what could have happened to the poor thing. Did something snatch it away when they had not been paying attention?

It was impossible to figure out when they had nothing to go on. There were no distant pings of its alert systems, nor were there any signs of robot guts in the waters. Bending down to get a better look into the sands beneath their boots, they were desperate to try and find their sprite. While the droids body could be replaced, they needed to find the memory card; it held the behavioral patterns they had first programmed so many years ago, not to mention the records of all their past travels together.

In the middle of their search, a familiar heavy feeling made itself known upon their limbs, weighing them down and covering their consciousness in a soft haze. It was a calming feeling at least, a welcome contrast to the anxiety of having lost their companion. They tried to blink away the tunnel vision clouding their eyes, a hand coming up under their helmet to rub their face. 

How...long have I been here? Where am I going?

Shifting waters behind them pulled them from their worried thoughts, whipping their sword from off their back and getting into a ready stance, scanning the area for danger.

Their senses were on high alert, a feeling of dread following right on their heels as they paced in a tight circle.

Was something at their heels? Could it be something within the water they could not see?

Painstakingly, they pulled their gaze downwards, fearing that they had somehow stepped into a trap or into the maw of some foreign sea creature.

To their initial relief, there was nothing but their shadow and sand. Then, to their sheer horror , the shadow moved without them, causing them to flinch and stumble backwards haphazardly. The rest of the darkness shifted and writhed as their own acted strangely, droplets of black rain flying up from the ground, making Guardian’s world seem tilted and wrong… so wrong.

Panic gripped their guts, pouring all their focus onto the threat, stepping backwards as their shadow rose up from the very ground they stood on.


Magic was common, but this was something else. If this had been a dream, they would have taken a guess that the shadow would look like them. A shadow was a reflection of themself, it wouldn’t be common for it to change drastic shape unless Guardian did first.


Their shadow’s form distorted, snapping. A static buzzing rang in their head as a gripping pain reached up from within, rattling against their ribs.


Gripping their blade tightly, they stood their ground as they tried to remain steady on their feet, breaths wheezing through their lips while their shadow drained all the light from the area, making it impossible to see what form they had taken.


Their breaths were shaky and shallow, eyes darting everywhere they could land, their knees shaking.

It had been years since they had felt such fear.

Finally, their eyes focused and their vision pinpointed onto a pink, floating diamond.

And in a flash, the giant form of a centipede was revealed, stretching around what felt like the world as it hissed and clicked its mandibles towards them. It reared its head, it's one diamond eye staring through them, seeing into everything they had done and all that they had come here to do.

It shrieked, screaming, and the static buzzes enveloped them in and outside of their head. They swore they felt their helmet rattle with the very vibration, and it pierced Guardian through their chest.

They couldn't move. They couldn't scream. They could do nothing as it ate its way through their chest and drowned their world in darkness.

----- 

Beep!

Beep!

Beep!


Guardian knew that medical ping from anywhere, but for a brief moment they couldn't bring themself to move yet to assure their companion.


Instead, their hand sluggishly came up to touch over their breastplate, feeling around for any type of wound or new crack in the armor. Nothing new is felt under their glove, which eased them somewhat for the moment.

Cracking open their eyelids, they were greeted with dark, stormy skies above in place of the previously clear suns. They hadn't even registered the gentle patter of rain against their face or the rumbles of thunder muffled by the water they were laying in.

Sitting up, they were completely soaked through and covered in blood despite finding no puncture wound on them immediately. A terrible sting had nestled deep in their chest, pulling a wheeze from their throat as they pulled themself up to stand. Their legs nearly trembled beneath them, weak and exhausted from a journey they could barely recall.

Their companion sprite zipped up by their head, making a few circles before settling over their shoulder obediently. The droid hovered closer than usual, causing Guardian to reach up and give its top an assuring pat. They were fine.

Finding shelter was first priority, then checking for any wound. They tested to make sure a bit of strain from climbing would not irritate the new, tight feeling in their chest.

Gripping the rocks and raising themself up, they were glad to find out they could climb up onto the higher grounds with ease, a few simple coughs spilling from them. Perhaps they caught a cold of sorts, laying in water for who knows how long.

They couldn't stand around and look at their surroundings for too long, weaving into the thicket to look for some type of shelter. There were tall, rotting pillars along the path alongside a gathering of big statues that looked like dogs, though not the same from their visions.

Luck was on their side: They stumbled across a small cave opening in some type of cliff side, where they slipped in easily to take shelter from the oncoming rain.

Once inside, they turned on their companions light to take stock of what had made it with them across the oceans journey. While they didn’t remember most of their journey, they certainly felt the familiar ache of a few days travel in their knees.

All of their stuff was accounted for, causing them to release a breath they had no idea they were holding. Drifters may live off the land, but having a few things to make travel easier never hurt.

Starting a small fire at the mouth of the cave and hanging up most of their clothes to dry, they settled in for the evening to let the storm pass and to take account of their wounds. By the light of the fire, they took a deep breath and looked down at their chest.

There was nothing.

Why wasn't anything there?

It was distressing not to find an immediate wound they cold simply patch up, or an easy scrape to forget about in a few minutes time. Here, there was nothing but their own black skin. Not even a bruise was there to ail them.

Guardian furrowed their brows, concerned, but couldn't place it yet. Something must have been in the air, perhaps, something that was now lodged into their lungs and causing them this strange pain. That was it, probably.


Absently in their hazy travel across the ocean, they caught a cold from being so thoroughly soaked for a few days.

While the idea of being sick in an unknown land wasn't ideal, they didn't have any giant wounds to worry about, and no tell-tale signs of any concussion despite their strange visions. They were fine.

Having a small meal, and tending to their minor scrapes and re-stitching their clothes, they were ready to head out by the time the storm finally passed.

There was something strange about these woods. Guardian could tell by the way the air felt a bit too heavy: the air felt still around them, like a heavy fog, despite the area being quite clear of any smoke screen.

One thing they noticed was that, as they walked through the wooded area, the clouds seemed to recede as well. It was as if they tended to just hover around in that area, a permanent storm alongside the boarders.

They may have accidentally been drawn towards a cursed island, slipping through its defenses and now stranded on it.

Trying not to let that bring them down immediately, They considered it could have just been a regular storm and they were looking too much into it. And, if it was a spell of sorts, the casters could have been peaceful and only wanted to ensure no violent types got in. Guardian didn't consider themself violent, but they had no clue how skittish the locals might be; they’d have to tread carefully.

The woods continued to emanate a strange energy, leaving them the feeling of being watched as they traveled. They cautiously stole glances over their shoulder as they walked, looking for any signs of a hidden foe, or the diamond outline over a dogs head from somewhere impossible to reach.

They found none of those as they walked, instead, a slight gust of wind pulled their gaze to a cliff side. There in the distance, an ancient city capital stood surrounded by forest and against time. Distantly, Guardian felt themself drawn closer to the edge as they marveled at the sight. An ancient city, still in tact and possibly in use, if the slight movement was anything to go by.

There was some type of magical floating structure floating above in the air, drifting softly in the breeze and phasing in with the stars in the morning light. Not a cloud in sight from the previous storm that had caught them as the sky blossomed with gorgeous reds and pinks, melding into the receding purples of night.

At least finding civilization was easy. Hopefully they could go and gather their bearings there and find out where the ocean had taken them. As they had traveled about, the distant ache of a long journeys travel weighed on their joints.

Setting aside a few moments to take in the view for themself, a land promising of plentiful secrets laid out before them. While their journey to this land had been fogged in mystery, they understood an ideal situation when they saw one. Knowledge was what was most important to them now, and any knowledge they could grab to cure their affliction was welcome.

Surely their previous years of practicing religion were finally paying off and they were being answered by some being above who took pity.

They recall the rumors from the depths of their mind about fellow drifters becoming plagued by disease before disappearing, leaving anyone to wonder about their fate. A constant among them was a vision: The image of a similar figure, a dog, and a shadow haloed by a diamond. They, like all drifters, had knowledge of the perfect cell's guardian - a jackal - and made the distant connection.

Was it truly an honor… Or a contract with damnation?

Guardian would assume they would find out shortly.

Stepping away from the cliff side slowly once they had snapped a few shots with their companion sprite, they returned back into the woods, hoping the path they were on would eventually lead them to the city below. It appeared promising enough, feeling the magical flow of energy all around them. Whether that was attributed to the structure in the sky or something beneath their feet, it mattered little; as long as this place held a cure they would find it.

Chapter Text

The rest of the forest hid no dangers within their shadows, nothing leaping out to take them from surprise, and there was quite an abundance of animals filtering around the brush they passed.

Knowing these woods were prospering eased them mildly as they travelled into the ruins of an old city. The civilization might have been lost, but the lands themselves stood strong against the test of time.

It took a few days’ travel to finally reach the mysterious city they had seen upon the cliffside, but they finally found signs of life the closer they got.

They had passed by the girth of a huge mountain- one they didn't have the supplies or energy to trek just yet, so they took the wide way around through the forests. A little bit of hunting never hurt, besides, their rations from the ocean journey had somehow gone bad.

Fresh meat and roots in they system, they saw a figure standing near one of the old, broken buildings. Unlike the grisly piles of skeletons on their way over, this one looked to be alive and alert. 

Cautiously, Guardian approached.

The being noticed Guardians approach, and watched them intently as the space between them grew shorter as they walked. And when they were in spear throwing distance, the creature watched them get closer, nodding their head to Guardian once they were nearly arms length away.

“Hey there, traveller. What brings you out this way?” 

Guardian was taken aback that they knew the language of these strange lands- and that it was such an old dialect. They had taken a few years to learn more of the older languages as a hobby. Normally they were only remembered in old tribes or villages and tight-knit communities, yet this person appeared young and in a ruined city. The rotting buildings they had passed all along the way should have been their first clue.

This person wore some type of mechanical suit with a helmet over their face. They were half leaning on their staff that they held as a weapon, guarding the entry way to the heart of this island. 

A sentry, perhaps.

Taking a moment to clear their throat, they prayed they weren’t too rusty. “The allure of the city, and the crown of the world.” They nodded up above to the floating structure drifting amongst the clouds.

The guard let out a small laugh. “See the sights, huh? I wish I could say this was a popular spot to pass through.” They took a shuffling step back to give them ample room to pass by. “Enjoy your stay, and don’t set anything on fire.” 

Not very involved sentries, then.

Nevertheless, they gave a polite nod of their head. “Thank you for the entry. I will be respectful in my time here.” They promised easily, giddy to have finally made it without much more of a hitch. They had to sneak into more cities than they'd ever like to remember.

Like the rest of the deserted town they had ventured through, even Central was half crumbling down. Covered with rot from ages long past, yet with just a small glace, they could see life had found its way into every available crevice.

And not just any life- civilization! As sparse as it seemed, this was certainly a community located at the very heart of what was a once impressive city. It was unfortunately hard to discern if they were locals of what was left of times before, or if they were all sorts of travellers.

They stood out quite a bit here, tall and big as well as bright pink. By this point in their life, they had come to terms that they'd stick out in some places, but they did not want to draw any attention here.

The inhabitants seemed wary about their sudden presence in their village, which was natural. The island was hard enough to find; they couldn't imagine many wanderers made it this far alive.

As they strolled through the small town, nodding to any passersby in a polite fashion- they spotted it.

A strange pattern on the ground pulled their attention, and beckoned them closer. It was blue, with odd diamonds in four points around it, evenly spaced apart. Foliage had clearly tried to grow over the small monument but hadn't been able to cover it completely yet. The strange, alluring pink glow still shined around the perimeter. 

While they inspected, they stepped onto the platform curiously to get a better look at the diamond in the middle.

Their gaze bore down to the diamond, studying its shine and allure in the sunlight. It drew them in, and they felt they almost recognized it as they stood and watched.

...how long have I been staring at this?

They blinked when they heard a nearby dog bark to them, the furry creature watching them as they knelt down to the figure. When had all the sounds left them? 

An unsettling feeling clung to them as they quickly shuffled off the platform closer to the animal, the light coming back into the area and a small headache clinging to their forehead. It was jarring, like they had faded from this plane of existence. Shielding their eyes from the too harsh light now, they stepped away from the odd platform. 

If they had to guess, they’d attribute that strange feeling to the presence of magic in this area. A quick glance upward showed they were under the center of the huge floating structure as well. 

The thrum of magic was no longer a harmless curiosity; they may have stumbled right into cursed lands. The odd ocean travel should have been their first clue to that.

Putting that from their mind, they stepped away from the strange markings upon the ground, noticing a few people watching them intently. Perhaps they had been there longer than they had realized.

They would draw eyes no matter where they went, but they did not want to risk getting an angry mob tossed their way. Being a stranger in new lands and staring at all their monuments like someone possessed. 

Carefully, they made their way slowly through this small village, spotting old shops with new signs, and well-kept exteriors. They were not familiar with the signage used, but thought if anyone would be receptive to a traveler, it would be a shopkeep.

Spotting a sign with a sword etched onto it, they decided to opt to go in there. If it was a weapons shop, they could try to upgrade their weapon. And if it was something? Well… They’d just figure it out when they got in there.

Rugs strewn about in neat sections, giving ample room for wide swing practice and a way to keep from others hitting each other. Though, that hardly seemed an issue as there were only two people in the space.

An otter, clearly skilled in the way of sword trying to display proper footwork to parry an overhead blow to a child. It was wise to go with an overhead block, as the child only nearly came up to Guardians waist from the looks of it. 

The otter didn’t lose her focus as Guardian had entered, concentrating on the child's movements before they fell flat on their butt, wooden sword clattering to the floor next to them.

She seemed to age a decade at such a small act, but didn’t let it show in her voice. “That’s better than last time, Dae. At least you don’t let it hit your head anymore.” She praised, the comment still causing Guardian to hold back an incredulous laugh. The teacher looked up to them, tossing her own practice sword over her shoulder. “Perhaps you can take a quick recess, go say hi to your sibling at the playing field. Back in an hour?”

The child stood up slowly from their fallen position on the floor, the teacher reaching her hand out to help lift them up. A sigh fell out of the child's mouth, shoulders slumping in dejection. “Okay.. See you later, master.”

Carefully, the child maneuvered around Guardian with wide eyes, but still dragged their feet with their pouting. Guardian had to suppress a hard laugh, instead opting to give the child a nod and a wave just as they were leaving.

Their attention was pulled to the teacher, as she was clearing her throat. “Apologises, traveler. I teach ways of the sword to them when I’m able. What brings you to my dojo?” She tilted her chin up to the sword hilt sticking over their shoulder. “I see you’re already one with the blade, surely you do not require my teachings?”

A quick shake of their head. “That was not my intention, no. I had assumed this was a sort of weapons shop, and wanted to sharpen my blade.” They explained, taking another long look around the complex. “It seems I was pleasantly misled.”

The teacher smiled from under the collar of her coat, nose twitching a bit. “I am not a shop, no, but I do have some sharpening tools I can sell to you.” 

“That.. that would actually be quite helpful, thank you. What is the currency in these lands?” They asked curiously, reaching for their coin purse to already try and fish out the exact amount. 

“We take gearbits around here, and these tools are pretty cheap, so just one will do it.” 

They paused a moment, eyebrows furrowing under their helm. “Ah, I see. I will have to get them at a later date. I only just got to this town an hour ago, and I had no idea people still lived here.” They explained, putting their items back into their utility pouch.

“Well, a few buildings around here might be hiding some away if you look hard enough, and some of the nearby monsters will take the shinier ones. You’re obviously a warrior, so I don’t mind telling you that.” She paused, a knuckle under her chin. “You are a warrior, correct? The sword isn’t just for show?”

They nodded quickly. “I am more than capable- I assure you.” A quick thought entered their mind. “I wouldn’t be adverse to learning from you if you’d also entertain the idea of giving me any lessons?”

She stared at them a long moment, black eyes blinking before they spotted a grin break out against her fur, a soft snort. “I’d love to, only when you can afford it. Three gearbits for each lesson.” 

Seemed steep, but if she was only training children- or just the one child- then they wouldn’t blame her for this. They did let out a small puff of air as they reluctantly agreed. “Very well. When I have four gearbits, I will return for your services.” 

“I’ll be waiting. Is there something I can call you in these lands, drifter?”

“Guardian.” They stuck a hand out to shake hers. “I am known as Guardian, though do not think me a protector.”

She took their hand into her own, nodding. “I can take care of myself, Guardian.” She rolled the name around for a moment, testing it. They knew titles were a little uncommon, but she used it well.

“You can just call me sword master. Most everyone here does, maybe if I know you a little better soon, Ill give you my name." 

So that was why she was so comfortable with their title, she used one herself even while not a drifter. It was interesting to witness, but Guardian wasnt one to be shaken by a small fact.

Guardian could do that. “Tell me, sword master, is there anywhere around here I could acquire some upgrades when I have the necessary money to do so?” If they were to survive their suspected indefinite stay in these lands, they may as well know where to look.

She only thought for half a moment. “Well, a good place to know is where the apothecary is. There’s an old racoon who runs and manages it. Not exactly a hospital but it’s the best first aid we have that isn't our own methods.. There’s the bandit across the way which is helpful for guns, but they don’t like drifters much. I’d be careful.” She warned quickly, putting her sword onto the floor to lean onto the edge. “The dash master just over there would be useful to visit- they sell these things that allow one to move about the ground faster. Should be something you’d find helpful.”

Hearing the names, Guardian supposed titles here were more common than they had previously anticipated. Maybe none of them were locals, and other drifters that had taken refuge here in this center of town.

“Thank you for the information, and for the chat. I will get out of your hair for now- and return when I have the funds for your lessons.” 

“I look forward to your next visit.” The challenge in her eye was clear, the twinkle of a good fight burning. They now wondered about what techniques she had hidden up her sleeve, a wonderful spar to expect in their future.

Stepping out into the sunlight once more, they scanned the nearby area to look for any of the sellers she had mentioned. They were not exactly proficient in using guns in the past, but perhaps they would have to become better skilled to survive. 

A peculiar sign was perched nearby, something resembling that of an arrow. She did mention someone that could help upgrade them with a dashing mechanic, or a technique- they were unsure about that. But it was the closest thing nearby, and they decided to take the short walk into the shop.

The dash master was... surely a certain type of character.

Either wholly a robot, or some type of cyborg, it was impossible to tell. They had their leg propped up against their counter with a long cigar smoldering. They had some type of metal gear strewn about up-top their counter as well.

If what the sword master said was true, they’d have to be headstrong in this to get their services. 

They strolled right up to their counter, making a show of looking down at the items they had set up across the space. The dash master sized them up with a few puffs of smoke into the air, digging their heel somewhat into where they had it propped. 

“The hell do you want, drifter?” 

They continued to hold their pointed gaze to the metallic boot soles, the homemade technology far superior than a lot of what they had seen still functioning in these desolate lands. “I was informed that you were the dash master, and sold items that could allow me to dash as well.” They finally pointed their gaze towards the master themself. “Is that true?”

The master sucked in a hard drag of their cigar, the ash smoldering before falling off the very tip as they dug their heel onto the stool it rested on as they eyed Guardian up and down.

“I’unno, drifter. Can your sorts handle that kinda thing?” They asked with a scrutinizing gaze to their pink reflective visor.

Guardian wanted to laugh at the question- asking a drifter if they could handle something to make them go faster? Anything to get them to their goals quicker would always be welcome.

“I certainly can, but I only just arrived in town and I would like to know how much these are so I may come back and purchase them first.” Hopefully buttering them up wouldn't hurt their chances at a good deal. 

The dash master paused for a long moment before laughing, loud and metallic at Guardians words. To this, they said nothing and let the cyborg have their moment as they pretended to wipe a tear away. “Oh you are a funny one, aren't you? Tell you what, if you can get fifty dashes in a row on these by today’s end, they're on the house- they’ll adjust to any shoe size.” They picked up a pair of dashing mechanics and laid them across the counter for Guardian to inspect.

It seemed to simply clasp onto the soles of their shoes, and perhaps over time they could even weld into the shoe itself. That would be inconvenient if they got burned- but if they could get these for free, then Guardian wouldn’t mind paying for their next pair should it come to it.

After carefully strapping them on and testing out its hold, the dash master directed them to their dashing room. Two small pillars in the middle with a screen on the far right that displayed the number zero, 

The master took up to leaning against the door frame, arms crossed with a small cloud of smoke puffing out the grill to their mask. “Now then, I usually use this here room for when I myself wanna keep my chain dashing record up- but I just want to see if you can even do fifty dashes at all without falling flat on your face.” They explained, taking their cigar out to give it a simple flick. “You lean forward to dash, and you dig your heels into the ground to stop, couldn’t be more simple.”

It did seem rather simple, even if they had never seen it before. They looked down to their own feet and around the room once more to try and figure out how they wanted to do this. Deciding to go clockwise, they braced themself as they attempted to dash forward. 

“ Shit! ” They shouted as their feet nearly flew out from under them, almost sending them head over heels as they tumbled onto the floor, sprawled out after a short skid.

Normally, they felt no shame in making mistakes in actions they could not help, but the way the dash master howled with laughter made them feel embarrassed beyond belief.

“Oh wow! Fuckin’ priceless right there, drifter! Hah!” They slapped their knee in their glee, shuffling forward to reach a hand down towards Guardian, offering to help them up. “I had to see if it were true. They say drifters have the knack for being the best at new things they try- I knew it was a goddamn lie. Thanks for proving that.”

Guardian didn't feel pleased by this turn of events, chuffing as they accepted the extended hand to pull themself back up. “I suppose I should feel honored to give you this opportunity. Disproving theories is one thing to live off of, I suppose..”

Once they were stood up and dusted off, they carefully looked down to their shoe upgrades and back to the dash master. “Do I still need to master fifty dashes in a row to get these, or can I give you some real currency?”

Another laugh sounded from behind their mask. “Keep them, drifter. You gave me something better. I’m telling the whole town about this. That’s more than enough for now.” They bounced their own heel against the ground for a moment. “I’ll have better upgrades in the upcoming weeks.You’ll have to give some gearbits for those, hear me?”

That brought a smile across Guardians face, and they gave a nod. “Would you care to show me how to actually use these, Dash master?” 

The title seemed to flatter the master, and they happily agreed to show Guardian the ropes of how to keep balance upon their feet while trying to dash forward. 

Guardian found it was a lot like roller skating, keeping their center balance as they slid quickly around the enclosure with the Dash master guiding them. They could not dash too much at once yet- that requiring a further upgrade they could not afford quite yet, but the movement certainly made for easier mobility.

Coming to a stop when they stopped skidding into walls, they shook out their leg a bit as they tossed a glance to the dash master. “Thank you, this should serve me well in my travels. Are you sure you need no other payment than me fumbling around on them?” They chuckled lightly, able to see the the humor in the dash masters currency.

They snickered behind their cigar, puffing out a small cloud. “Nah, you keep ‘em for now, drifter-”

“Guardian.” They corrected, taking a step forward to hold their hand out to them politely. “You have my upmost thanks for giving me this extra mobility, I’d like you to use my official title.”

The dasher huffed, clasping their hand to Guardians in turn. “Just call me dash master, Guardian. And don’t mention it, this way, you’ll give me some damn good business, yeah?” 

They nodded. “Oh, absolutely. You’ve been most helpful, and I will surely give any gearbits I’m able to scrounge up.”

That seemed to be the right thing to say, as Guardian had seen the twinkle behind the dash masters visor. It seemed gearbits were very valuable here, probably too much of a hassle to actually try and search for on their own. They’d remember that tidbit of info for sure.

“I will not keep more of your time, as I must be off now. I will be back when I’m able to afford more of those upgrades. Perhaps we could have a dashing competition if I get better?” They suggested, tapping the side of their chin idly.

“Hah! If you think you’re that good at it, I’ll take that challenge. You better not die out there then, yeah?” 

“I promise to try my best. If I fall off any cliffs, I expect you’d want to hear about it?” They both chuckled at that, Guardian pulling their hands away to depart. “I best be going, I appreciate your time.” Even if they were a bit of a trickster, Guardian would let it slide for how helpful they were in the end.

The dash master took up their post back behind their counter, leaning on the counter as they watched Guardian go. “Good luck on your travels, come see me when you want to challenge me.”

With a swift exit to the shop, they let out a long, soft sigh from their chest. So much socializing in one day for someone supposed to be a drifter, truly, they were a master at this.

They had noticed, on the stretch of time between now and when their family had passed, they had gotten too forward with others. Reaching out, getting to know the locals and those they passed, something more deep than being simply just polite. 

Perhaps with their wounded heart, they had become too lonesome in their travels. Having gotten so used to being with a true companion and lifemate, they supposed they missed that.

But I wont find anyone here to fill that void, I need to stop this somehow..

Moving forward with their settlement here would be a good distraction, they decided. 

With the knowledge in mind that they could settle into any abandoned building, they started to have a look around the village central to see what all was available. There were some tall buildings, more shack-like dwellings; at least there were some options to choose from.

Guardian was not surprised at how easy it was to find a place to live in a wasting city. Nearly every house was abandoned or not in use. The one they had discovered was halfway covered in moss. It was dusty, and had a bit of foliage coming in through the floor, but the electricity and water still worked fine, so they may as well set up shop here.

Crammed away in this private corner, with hardly anyone else squirreled away back here, it would be ideal. There was enough room there to start a warp pad as well, once they got their proper materials.


They only had to ask their neighbors - the nice travelers he saved earlier the week - to borrow a broom for the afternoon to help with dusting. They had to sweep and air out the place, and tear out any of the bigger roots from the doorway. Luckily, the floors further in were untouched. They'd only have to re-tile a little bit.

Grief would follow them wherever they went, but maybe the shadow didn't have to be so harsh.

-----

Renovating took some time, clearing out the old rubble and scoping out the intended floor plans. It would still be a while before anything meaningful could be done, but getting the lights working and the dust cleared would be first. Leveling out the floors was a bit of a hassle, but eventually got done as well. The walls had been deemed sturdy enough to not need much in renovations, which made Guardian’s life easier.

Eventually, they managed to scrounge up a measly two gearbits with just basic exploration of the nearby empty buildings. They were shocked that there were still so many undiscovered places here even though it appeared the inhabitants had been dwelling here for a long time now.

Well, whatever got them some currency, so be it.

They recalled what the sword master had said to them, that having a blaster would be useful within these lands due to the vicious monsters that dwelled here. Guardian had never been too good at using guns, but they would trust her judgment in this matter, and pay a visit to the Bandit. 

Getting out of their temporary home was nice, breathing in the fresh air and feeling some sunlight on their skin. They were becoming familiar with the locals by now, some birdfolk that had taken up a space in one of the higher buildings, lizardpeople who would wander around as they all tried to work on their wares. They sold clothes and rugs, curtains and anything else with fabrics involved. A few had approached Guardian in the recent days, inquiring if they would like to buy, but word traveled fast that Guardian was flat broke. They hadn’t been approached again since then, yet.

Safety was the first priority as opposed to getting decorations to their unfinished abode, and they’d need to make sure they were prepared for anything that would attack them in these lands. So they made their way into the bandits shop, the area past the threshold showcasing more guns in one spot than Guardian had ever seen before. They were mounted on walls, behind cases- they were afraid they’d step on one.

The bandit was sitting behind their shop counter, working on one of their larger guns when they heard Guardian approach. They did a brief double take at the sight of the drifter, and scrambled to quickly put their gun away into a nearby cabinet, locking it up in record speeds, eyes narrowed at Guardian under the shadow of their hat.

That’s odd. I don't believe I look that dirty.. or unsavory. 

A quick check proved they had not stepped in anything either, and they attributed it to general distrust of strangers. That was a reasonable assumption, they thought.

Carefully slow, they took their time to ogle the wares showcased upon the walls as they approached the counter, keeping a slight distance to show they were not about to try a fast one upon them in their own store. The bandit still did not let up on their evil eye towards Guardian, and didn’t say a word.

Taking it in stride, they cleared their throat. “I was told you sold guns here. Am I in the right spot, or is this a walk-in showcase collection of yours?” They asked, taking another glance around. “Either way, it’s quite impressive just how extensive this all is.”

The bandit didn’t seem to take their flattery, and had their arms crossed under their cloak as they regarded the drifter standing in their store.

“The fuck you want, drifter?” They all but nearly spat the word out, like the letters had some terrible taste to them.

...perhaps I should be more cautious of this one.

They straightened up, looking over the bandits glass case and pointing to one of the blasters. “I’m here to purchase a gun, if they are for sale. The sign outside and other locals have pointed me here to do so.” They explained thoroughly, tilting their head down so they could catch a glimpse of the teal in Guardians eyes.

Bandits face scrunched up, their leg bouncing after Guardian had explained why they were here. They seemed to think about it for a moment, eyes landing on a squint that looked like a mischievous smile. Leaning over to see the one Guardian had been pointing at, they shook their head.

“Ya’ here for a gun, yeah? You don’t want that shitty toy for those meat hooks you got for hands there. The damn thing’d jump out your hand before you’d get a shot in.” 

Pushing away from their counter and leaping up from their seat, they beckoned Guardian to follow. “No no, most of these are for show anyhow. I can’t just have all my shit out and in the open? Anyone could walk in here and could fuckin’ steal it.” They explained, leading Guardian to the nearby back door.

Hesitantly, they followed after the bandit with a wary gait to their step, making it obvious they didn't buy a word the bandit was saying. “Is that so? Then why are you leaving your shop unattended to show me the goods in the back? Have you no one else to man the shop for you?”

This did not make the bandit flinch, simply unlocking the door and stepping through. “It’ll only take a damn moment. Do you want your gun or not?”

They did, even if getting a safety precaution meant putting themself in a bad situation. A long sigh escaped through them as they stepped through the dark doorway.

Immediately they were shoved full force, head banging against the doorway on their way out as they momentarily lost their balance. They fell to a knee onto the ground, as they heard the heavy swing of a door slam shut beside them.

Taking a quick moment to leap up and take in their surroundings, they were surprised. The bandit had simply shoved them into a dark alleyway, with no immediate way out it seemed. They had been expecting something far worse, fleshing eating snakes or a gun to their head, but a simple inconvenience and no purchase wasn’t too bad. 

They’d have to try again to buy a blaster when they navigated their way out, dusting off some of the dirt and mud that had clung to them.

I wonder what their objective here was.. Do they not think I won’t simply find my way back around? I’ve had worse done unto me..

While they were pondering why the bandit had done such an odd act, they heard footsteps  approach from around the corner. Too many footsteps, actually.

Seeing the bandit with a small group of people behind them- other locals Guardian vaguely recognized- the situation dawned on them finally. A sort of trap, which should have been predicted from the moment they stepped through the threshold of the shop.

“‘Ey drifter! Thought you could just roll up and do whatever the damn hell you wanted? And you brought your ugly mug around my shop?” The bandit spat at the ground between them, finally, and Guardian simply stood with a hand on their hip.

“Bandit, I’m wearing a helmet.” They pointed to the pink metal covering their face.

Their observation was not appreciated as the small group approached them, a big burly mouse person cracking their knuckles in an attempt to intimidate Guardian. An otter batted the edge of their staff against the palm of their hand, the others taking up more or less the same posture.

The bandit scoffed as they approached up to Guardian, sizing them up. “My posse here has told me what you’ve been up to, sticking your nose in everything...and you took up a damn house? We can’t get rid of the fuckin’ blue skin, now you’re trying to stay here too? That’s two drifters too many, I think.”

Guardian did not move, besides watching themself get surrounded with small head turns to watch the members walk around them. 

“I won’t fight any of you. It wouldn’t be fair to you to name it so.” They could stand around and take any verbal berating, as it meant little in the long run. But if they had plans of trying to hurt them, they wouldn’t stand for that.

Their comment got a rise from the bird, a huge wooden bat over her shoulder as she clucked out a loud laugh. “Hah! Drifters think they're invincible, till they are just another pile of bones. You won’t be so big when were done.”

The humanoid who wore a bandanna over their face nodded. “We took the other one’s cloak and we’ll take yours too. See how tough you are when you got nothing left.” 

The comments were not unfamiliar, but the information made Guardian clench their fists tightly. They had done this to other drifters that had come through, ones that were not so sure of their abilities? 

“You’ll take my cloak from my dead body.” Guardian challenged, readying their stance into a bracing position and pulling their fists up. They wouldn't use their sword- they'd never stoop so low as to kill civilians in their own home town, even if they were horrid.

The mouse threw the first hit, their knuckle connecting with their metal breastplate, a loud painful clang echoing in the alley way. Guardian quickly retaliated, reaching to shove the brute as the pain from their hand set in, grabbing their shoulder and punching them across the jaw hard. 

Their action seemed to take the group by surprise as they threw the mouse to the ground, reeling back to see who was closest to Guardian now. It was the otter with their staff trying to approach upon them with their back turned. With their hands up, they took a quick step back to avoid the downward swing of the otters staff. It nearly caught them in the leg, but they thanked their long stride for the quick dodge. Before the otter could recover, they rushed forward to punch them once in their side with all of their might, reaching a hand behind their neck to yank them off balance, sending them into the wall of the alley. 

The bird took this moment to take a shot against their shoulder. Pain bloomed at the impact, but didn’t teeter Guardian off their balance thankfully. The humanoid tried to swoop in with a few hits to their gut, but their armor kept steady against the onslaught.

Guardian drove their attention to the bird, who hit them against their arm with their heavy bat, and gave a hard punch against their temple. They would have tried to kick, but their balance was the only thing they could count on right now, so they grabbed the bird’s arm that held the bat, and whaled on their head away from their sharp beak, shoving them the whole while to knock them down.

The bird let out some pained caws as Guardian did not relent on hitting their face, twisting their wrist painfully until the bat clattered loudly onto the ground beside the both of them.

When the bat dropped, they gave one last hit to the bird before giving them a hard shove onto the ground. The mouse was trying to get back up to their side, but Guardian only had eyes for the humanoid and the bandit. They threw a hard right hook down upon the humanoid who had almost gotten them in the leg, sending them off their balance and down unto the ground, and they moved briskly towards the bandit. 

Out of breath as they were, they were not unable to hit the bandit square in their jaw, their hat flying off them as they landed against the opposite wall, blood flying to the ground between them. 

Gods, did Guardian’s fists hurt. 

They shook their hand as they took this moment to look at the carnage they had left in their wake, disheveled and breathless. Their shoulder hurt like hell, but they couldn’t let their guard down yet.

The small group were individually trying to pick themselves back up, the otter unsteady upon their feet as they threw up a small bit while regaining their balance. The mouse person had been a problem, but they did not seem inclined to charge back towards Guardian at a moment’s notice. They kept their eyes peeled, aching fists clenched tightly as they glanced back down towards the bandit. 

They had their hat in their hand, smearing the pink blood across their face as they tried to wipe it away with their sleeve. Donning their hat back upon their head, they used the wall to drag themself back up slowly.

Guardian gave the group a long look, raising their shoulders to puff up once more. “I will give you this chance to now walk away. I can use my sword if that option does not seem enticing enough yet.” They warned dangerously. 

Just because they wouldn't actually use their sword, didn’t mean these people were aware of that fact.

The bandit spat once more, the bird on the ground letting out a shrill squawk at their words. “Fuck you, drifter! I hope you get lost and eaten by the crystal wolves!” 

Idly, Guardian wondered what they were referring to, and decided to ask around about that later.

“If all you have left is meaningless threats, then I will take my leave.” They announced, shoulders sagging just a bit as they glanced back down towards the bandit. 

“I’ll be back for that blaster tomorrow, and I expect this won’t happen again.” 

The bandit muttered some curses, and gave Guardian their middle finger as they couldn't help but smile in triumph. 

Pulling themself away from the alleyway, their body was a fair bit sore now as they shuffled through the empty passageway. They had come down this way once before when they were scouring the area for some gearbits and parts, but hadn’t come back this way since. 

There wasn’t a place for them to truly rest, and everyone knew where they had taken a dwelling, so hiding away in a different alley than the one they got jumped in wouldn't be so bad. As long as no one saw them, they’d be fine.

It was convenient that the bandit had holed themself away from most of the rest of the town after all, but they’d still have to pass the shop when they did decide to travel back to their home. They were not in any shape to try and scale any buildings in this state, and they wouldn't want to bring any attention to their slightly altered state. 

It was easy to find a little cubby to hole away in from prying eyes, kneeling down until they were in a sitting position, leaning against the far wall with a soft breath of air.

Gently, they pulled their companion sprite from their side pack, flicking it on and it came to life after a moment. Their drone was immediately upon them, scanning their vitals and beeping incessantly at their wounds.

They gave it a quick, assuring pet, allowing it to asses it was mostly flesh wounds they had received from the scuffle. They did had some bloody scratches, but they were not mortally wounded like their little companion had thought. They decided to forgo one of their medpacks, and reached for their bandages stored in their droid. 

They didn't feel comfortable stripping off all their armor, so they unclasped some parts of their teal metal to patch up any cuts they had gotten. Later that evening, they’d go through and asses themself more thoroughly, when they were sure the bandit and their crew wouldn’t plan on a quick sneak up on their home.

After a moment, they did hear footsteps approach, and they quickly whipped their red blade from off their back, pointing it towards to entryway with a ready stance. They were in no mood to play around, or continue this further. 

Luckily, it was only an otterperson. It wasn't the same as the one that had just tried to beat them, this one was different. A little shorter, wearing different clothes, and looked thoroughly shocked by the sight of Guardian kneeling in a kill position towards the entryway. 

“Whoa there boss, uh, I’m unarmed?” They quickly took a short step back, eyes wide as they looked over Guardian with fear and curiosity.

“So I see, my apologies. I do ask you to leave me alone for now.” They requested as politely as they could, still gripping their sword handle, even if they didn't assume this person meant no harm. They did not carry themself in a warriors gait.

The otter shuffled a bit, one foot to the next as they watched Guardian put their sword down.

“... This is a spot I like to hang out in. Is it alright if I share this spot with you, stranger? Strength in numbers and all that..” They tried to reason, fiddling with their pockets nervously. 

Guardian narrowed their eyes somewhat, not putting their sword away fully before nodding. “I should warn, I will not hesitate for any reason should you try to come at me. I do not know why the bandit is against me, but I will tolerate nothing.” 

The otter chortled, skittering along the edges of the building to take up a spot far across from Guardian, back pressed and tense from nerves. “I know the bandit, never go around that one.. They got a bit of a bad look about them, always sneering and selling guns.. They don’t like drifters much. Is that what happened to you?”

Guardian regarded them idly as they took a spot across from them. Carefully, they set their blade down to the side, but kept it out of its sheath, just in case. They had a bandage half covering their shoulder, and their hands came up to quickly tie it off so they could cover back up. 

“Perhaps, maybe not. Its not entirely something I’d like to share.” They said curtly, not letting their gaze wander away from their new acquaintance. 

Once more the otter held their hands up in an act of submission, not wanting to scare Guardian into attacking them. “Hey, no worries here, bud. Keep your secrets, just trying to be friendly.”

Trying to be nosy, more like.

Guardian didn't take their eyes off their new addition for company, still wary as they were openly patching wounds that no one was supposed to witness, and the aches of a small brawl were starting to set in. Easily, they could take this otter, but it’d still be a pain they wanted to avoid.

After they were all patched up, they felt immensely safer, and settled into a cross legged position across their side of the alley. Leaning against the old building with a long sigh of relief at not being jumped again. Briefly, they chanced to close their eyes, sword laid across their lap with their hand upon the hilt, and simply breathed for a few moments to re-center themself.

The sound of a small flicker of fire, and the oddly sweet smell of herb caught their attention a few moments later. Peeking their eyes back open to their companion, they saw they were smoking something. Taking a long drag from their pip, sucking it in and leaning their head far back before slowly exhaling the smoke. Their shoulders were dropped, their body turning to something akin to mush right before Guardians eyes.

Spotting their staring, the otter gently held out their hand. “Want a hit? Should help with what ales you.”

Guardian considered for a brief moment, eyeing the offered substance to them and humming softly. “I would, actually. Thank you for your kindness.” They kept their sword out as they reached for the item, the otter letting go of it easily and walking Guardian through how to use it. 

They had tried drugs before a handful of times, this one was one of their favored ones when presented the chance. It eased their body and calmed their nerves, which was something they needed after getting jumped. A kind gesture from a stranger, and something to take the rest of their edge off.

Exhaling a few long puffs, they too relaxed with their new companion, passing the items back with one last sigh. 

“Thank you, and I apologize for my hostile attitude. You were correct in assuming what had been done unto me, I got wary about you in turn.” Technically, they still were. Trying to get Guardian with their guard down in a secluded alleyway, they were still being cautious where they could.

The otter nodded. “Figured, that there's a nasty bunch of people.. But they do their part for the town, don't steal or harass the kids. They just got something against drifters, and blueskins especially.” The otter lit up another long puff. “You see the village drunk in town?”

Guardian shook their head. “I cannot say that I have. What did blueskins do to deserve such ire?” They had heard of blueskinned people, even seen a few in their travels, but never enough to be overly curious about them.

A shrug from the otter. “Dunno, I don’t pay too much attention to all that. All I do is live here, drifter.”

“You may call me Guardian, if you prefer. That is my title.” They introduced finally, sitting up a bit straighter against the wall. “And you are?”

The otter smiled, snorting a laugh. “Hah! I did hear a rumor about you calling yourself that, its a funny way to go about names I think.” Not an uncommon thing to hear, but it still made Guardian chuckle. “My name is Tulsi, I've lived here for a few months now. My real village is in the east, but we came here for better quality of life.. We were going through hardships recently, and it was taking a toll on my family.” Tulsi let out a sad sight, placing their chin in the palm of their hand. 

“I hated having to leave the sacred lands, but as long as we’re alive, we can still practice our beliefs.”

Guardian nodded, taking in the information and wondering what had happened. “I’m sorry to hear that, perhaps in a short while the hardship will have passed? Maybe it wont be too long before you’re able to return to your sacred lands.”

Tulsi nodded. “That's the plan, Guardian. Its still a bit disheartening being away from everyone, but I think if I went back for a visit, I’d have a hard time leaving again..”

They could not understand that too well, but they did nod. “I could deliver a letter if you would like, I feel I must explore these lands in the coming months. I would not be opposed to playing a messenger for a moment.” Granted they did not get killed on the way to or fro.

Tulsi smiled at that suggestion, ears popped up. “You’d really do that for me?”

Guardian pointed to the pipe in Tulsis hand. “You did share your pipe with me, a complete, wounded stranger who practically threatened you with my blade. It is the least I could do.” They paused a brief moment. “I.. Am actually unfamiliar with the area. I would need some direction in getting there.” They had been lucky in finding Central at all unguided, but exploring the other areas would be rather tricky without some layout to go off of.

Tulsi perked up. “Oh, I have a digital map if you want.” 

That grabbed Guardians attention, eyebrows up under their helm. “You do?”

They nodded. “Yeah, I found it when me and my family moved into one of the buildings, whoever had lived there before left it on this hard drive thing. Its pretty cool, but, I'm not going to go around exploring anything..”

Guardian stared a moment before chuckling. “Are you sure you’re not just trying to get onto the big scary drifters good side?”

Tulsi grinned cheekily, shrugging. “Hey, you beat the shit out of Roscoe's gang, I want to make sure I don't get on your bad side.” 

“I don’t attack civilians without cause. They attacked me first, I promise I wouldn't ever randomly attack you.” They did look up to the otter now with a tilted head. “Roscoe?”

“Ah- thats the bandits name. They’re weird about their name too- but calling them bandit all the time gets old. I understand you drifters and your titles, thats a cultural thing, they're just being dodgy on purpose.” Tulsi huffed, a slight roll of their eyes.

Guardian considered the information for a moment, smiling. “I’ll be sure to use it next I see them.”

They both laughed at Guardians antics, already imagining the look of pure horror and disgust on their face when Guardian would eventually use it in their own shop. They would be sure to have their drone ready with the camera for it.

After a moments respite, the otter pulled their bag off to rifle through their many items, glass clinking together and jars of other herbs jiggled around before they pulled out a small, rusty drive, passing it to Guardian. “We just plug this into a view port and the map pops up. I had it like a poster for a bit, but the light from the hologram bugged me at night, so I took it down. Keep it, I don’t need it.”

Guardian looked it over carefully before beckoning their companion sprite down, finding a slot to plug the drive into. In a few moments, the map was uploaded onto the droid. It pinged and displayed the layout of the land for Guardian to look at for a few moments, eyes scanning over the island.

It looked to be a far bigger island than they had originally thought. If they had to take a guess, they had washed up along the shore closest to the north and simply avoided the mountain by the cover of the trees. They wondered why they hadn’t simply noticed it, but alas, they were disoriented and plagued by a shadow at that moment. The pull of the city was far more present at the time.

Observing now, the island consisted of four main points, four ancient cities of sorts placed perfectly apart from each other. Four sides of the island. Four points…

Four points.. Like a diamond.. 

The perfect cell.

“Guardian?” Tulsis voice pulled them from their brief daze, not realizing they hadn’t said a word in quite a long moment. 

They cleared their throat, playing it off as they shut off the hologram. “Right, my apologies.. I was lost in thought.. Thank you again for this map, I will use it well in my upcoming travels. I will let you know before I depart to the east.” 

Tulsi smiled at that. “You’re welcome, and thanks for not sticking me with your sword. Sharing some time with you has been real pleasant, come hang out with me again sometime?”

Guardian nodded as they stood up slowly, giving a few testing stretches before they regained their full footing. “I might like that, indeed. I will keep the invitation on note.” They leaned down to shake Tulsis hand to be polite. “I must return to my dwelling now, it was nice talking with you. Have that letter ready by the weeks end.”

They beamed. “I will, safe travels, Guardian.”

They would need it with the small trek back to their home. They passed by a few of the ruffians from the alley, getting holes burned in them left and right from the glares tossed their way through their black eyes. Guardian kept their stride steady and tall, showing no harm had come unto them from what they had done earlier that evening.

While they were not attacked on sight now, if they showed any visible weakness from their brawl, they might get the idea to storm their home. They’d not let that opportunity arise, maintaining eye contact with them as they stepped into the small clearing around the fountain by their home. Unlocking the door and stepping through the threshold, they finally relaxed with the door shut tight behind them.

That was quite a lot for one day, and their head was still ringing from the foreign thought in their mind.

The perfect cell, what could that possibly be?

I keep having this persistent thought in my mind, yet I have no idea what it is..

The image of a diamond kept flashing through their mind, something bright and far out of their reach. A vision from their dreams plaguing them as well, or something deeper. Were they cursed?

An odd weight had settled upon their chest as they had stepped foot unto these lands, and now they were hearing things that were not their own thoughts. It was mildly disorienting, and they wanted to blame the herbs Tulsi had shared with them. 

Deep down, they knew better.

Nothing a good evenings reprieve, and long nights rest wouldn't fix.

They’d deal with it tomorrow.

-----

As it appeared, the bandit did not open their shop today. 

It made Guardian feel a bit smug, seeing the locked door in their face with no real explanation on the storefront as to why. They had idly wondered if they could simply come in through the back door they had been so lovingly shoved through to pay them a visit, but opted against it. They were not trying to be a menace to this person, despite everything.

Their own bruises had yet to heal from the small scuffle they had gotten into anyway, they may as well not chance another beat up with more guns this time. 

As they had stepped away from the store, Guardian pulled out their companion sprite to glance at the map they had been given, scanning the surrounding areas briefly. They wanted to get a better footing on where exactly they’d be travelling to next, and they decided they would try to go east first. Even with their armour on, Guardian was deft at swimming.

Having a gun would certainly help them, they knew, but if the bandit would not come out they weren’t going to force that.

They’ll have to open their door back up eventually, I can wait.

The map did look rather pixelated, and much too broad for any meaningful direction besides a broad path to go along.

It gave them the idea to try and do something they hadn’t done in so long; art.

Of course they used to be such a diligent artist, taking sunny afternoons to draw the scenery's from their shared home, landscapes across their travels. The best part about having a companion droid was the fact they could capture all parts of the world they had passed by on a photo. Putting that photo into a painting was something of a delight.

Luckily, they had carried some of their old supplies with them along the way, and they could quickly go back to their place to grab it before they set out. 

They had easily figured out how to lock the door to their temporary home, all the walls intact enough to not need anymore reinforcing to stay up. If someone did break into their home- well, they had their essentials on their person, it wouldn’t bother them too much.

They did want to try and poke around for some more gearbits, they had gotten a lucky few as they were renovating their home and were keen to find more currency for these lands. Something to help them survive the rumored harsh wilds.

Guardian had to admit, there was a small thrill to that factor.

Harsh, taxing wilds with plenty of mystery to parse through as they pressed onward through each point upon the map. Uncovering long forgotten memories and deep wishes from those long past, what all had survived from long ago up to present day.

The thought was exhilarating, and for now, they kept that enthusiasm floating in the forefront of their mind as they set about their small quest for gearbits. Once they had a few more items, they’d feel better about going out to the nearby villages.

It took a small while to even find any abandoned building that did not look already torn from the inside out, anything that could have been hiding any loose change thoroughly ravaged. One had seemed promising enough, only to behold burnt wires and chipping paint. Broken windows looked to be a common sight in the ruins outside of Central.

They were considering cutting their losses when they heard a strange bang, and a small shout close by. Half through a caved in, tattered wall, they poked their head back out curiously as they tried to listen for anymore signs of life nearby.

Distantly, they feared it could be bandit and their gang again, and Guardian decided to investigate as their current search was yielding little results.

Stepping out from the crumpling ruin, they heard it again; a small shout that seemed to have come from one of the neighboring buildings. Guardian had been through quite a handful already, was this one they had missed?

Hearing a scuffle, they draw their blade and step briskly forward, gripping their hilt and raising it.


They nearly topple head first over a person running full speed in the opposite direction, nearly tripping over him as they dash around them, blade raised.

The pink man raised his arm pleadingly. “Wait- please!” He begged, shrinking down even further than his hunched frame demands. He was wearing a blue shawl of sorts, and had a white beard with no visible weapons. A civilian, then.

They knelt down and lowered their blade for a moment, hoping not to frighten the elderly man further. “Apologies. What is it you need?” 

He turned his head up to look at them, pointing to the closest building. “My companion! She’s trying to fend off these mechanical beasts and will be bested shortly! Please help her!” 

They didn’t answer, jumping back onto their boosters and dashed to the door, busting it wider for their entrance. There was an otterperson surrounded by some old robots, ancient technology reactivated with the intrusion. She had been successful in befalling a few, but the sheer bulk of them easily overwhelmed her.

Guardian was thankful they were built like a tank, as they marched forward to thrust their leg into one, shoving their weight against it and toppling it over and away from the ottergirl. The rest they simply sliced through with their red steel. 

The burnt and cut parts scattered to the floor as the machine fell apart, oil gushing like blood beneath their boots. In the moments they had joined the fray, the humanoid had taken the liberty to take the ottergirl from harm’s way, giving them a wide girth to battle.

Two other hulking figures lunged out and aimed at their shoulders and back, their bot swinging out of the line of fire as Guardian shoved their blade up through the jaw of one, slicing it across into the other’s torso, sparks raining down onto the floor below them.

A grisly sight of robotic, people-shaped mounds piled around, they quickly turned to scan for any more hidden threats in the shadows, sword raised high and firm. Finding none, they carefully turned to observe the two other travelers.

The humanoid was kneeling by his companion, as she rubbed the twisted horn on the side of her head, a quiet whimper escaping past her sniffles.

“Excuse me,” they started, clearing their throat after it came out as a croak. “Are you two alright?” They did not sheathe their blade quite yet, head still turning around the area, looking for hidden threats. After all, shadows could hide more than the physical now.

The one with the beard in blue nodded graciously, practically coming to bow by their feet. “Yes- yes thank you, stranger! Bless you!” He looked up to them in awe, a tear falling from one eye. “I thought they would have killed her! Thank you!” He looked back over to his companion, and she nodded, looking up as well but not yet standing.

“Yes- I’m okay. I do not think my ankle is, however…” She mumbled softly, her nose sniffling a little as she sat. Her companion left Guardian’s side to attend to her on the ground, fretting and checking her over for any wounds.

They knelt down as well, sliding their blade back into its sheath to be polite. If there were any lurking dangers, they had a blaster. “Do you need assistance? I only have a few medpacks, but they may help you.”

She shook her head violently at the mention of a medpack. “That’s very kind of you, traveler, but.. I do not believe in that type of healing.”

A fair stance; medpacks were common practice, but were used by only the strongest for a reason. They had a tendency to heal wrong if there wasn’t enough muscle tissue to work with.

“I can help take you somewhere safer instead.” They looked between the otter and her companion, brushing aside some of the robot parts with their foot.

“That would be kind of you. There is an apothecary nearby we visited earlier.” The man explained, reaching up to touch gently over Guardians arm. “Thank you- thank you so much.”

They nodded, leaning forward to gently scoop up the ottergirl. She winced when they stood up with her, shifting her wounds too fast, but she didn’t protest. Her companion quickly picked up their fallen gear, bundling it all out into their pack and leading them out of the crumbling building.

It was a brief walk from where Guardian had found the travelers to the supposed apothecary they hadn’t bothered to venture out more to the other shops yet as they had been focused on finding parts for their new home. 

There wasn’t a lot of work left to be done, thankfully.

However, carrying an injured otter across the short distance did grab them an unfortunate handful of looks. They got stared at a lot, tall, pink and teal armor, along with being a drifter never shied them away from handfuls of eyes. Helping someone in such a blatant matter was a different attention entirely, and they felt their gait pick up a bit, almost clipping the heels of the humanoid leading them.

They were lead up to a small shop with a lovingly put together garden just by the doorway. Everything was labelled with a small sign, and Guardian could see the care put into the rows of herbs there. That must've been where Tulsi bought their herbs, if Guardian had to guess.

Following the man through a doorway, they were assaulted by the smell of herbs burning, and greeted by the sight of the plants for them too. Shelves lined and stocked with medicines and boxes. There was an old raccoon hunched over his counter, diligently pouring some sort of liquids into one beaker.

“Come in, come in.” He crowed through a scratchy voice, but a smile seemed to fit perfectly upon his face. He looked up when the small group approached, and he let out an incredulous laugh at the sight. “You two barely left a few hours ago! Was the tea that good?”

The humanoid - they really should have asked for their titles beforehand - approached the counter and gestured to their companion. “Me and my companion got attacked, and have no lodging. She’s been hurt very badly...”

The old man shook his head, setting his supplies down. “I understand.. Such is the way of travelling. Tall one, bring her around back, and I will fix you right up dear.” He promised, scooting up from his chair and shuffling to the backroom, Guardian in tow.

It was just as compact in this room as it was out on the floor, yet still just as organized. There were a few cots separated by curtains, most folded up and hadn’t been used in a while from the looks of it. There were only two that were set up, and one looked to be his bed if Guardian had to guess about it.

“Let’s set you up here.” He instructed, pointing to the cleaner cot. 

Guardian knelt down to deposit the girl onto the cot, shifting her onto the cushion. She let out a few soft gasps as her wounds were irritated from the sudden shift, but she did not complain. Instead, she held onto the hem of Guardians cape. “Thank you, kind stranger.” 

They gave her a nod, lightly touching her hand. “I was glad to be of help. I will give the apothecary space to work.”

“Ah.. Yes of course, please be safe. And I thank you again.” She looked up to them with unyielding gratitude as her companion knelt beside her to share the same look.

They were glad to have helped, but they didn’t mean to do so much so quick. They had barley just arrived!

Trying not to exit as quickly as they wanted to, they slipped from the shop and tried to wander in any direction away from there. They ended up taking a hard right towards the west gate, watching past a fountain and up some stairs, they even passed another sentry-like person on the way out. 

That was too much. They far overstepped drifter rules already.

While it wasn't going to give them any real consequence to not follow, it wasn't morally ideal. 

They preferred to try and keep to their creeds code; Never stay too long, leave nothing behind but a trace, and become rumor on the wind. It didn’t sound difficult to follow, but in their training they had been taught not to make big, noticeable gestures. 

However saving two people from severe injury- if not death- shouldn’t be too out there..That did not change the fact that they still had to stay here for who knew how long. Already they were becoming familiar with the shops placed around and the architecture.

Anxious thoughts clouded their mind as they wandered, wondering what their plan of action should be if they were going to have to be here a while. Cursed lands, with a strange pull to this place keeping them rooted. It was clear they could not simply leave forever; they'd have to become a familiar figure as they traveled from point to point. It would be useless to try and conceal themself somehow.

With a suffering sigh, they knew they’d have to wait on getting their blaster for the time being, as they could at least not show their face now after that fiasco. They’d be the talk of the town, they simply knew it.

I suppose I’ll take a few days to camp out, search for more gearbits and… Simply return to Central.

It was their only option, in the end.

That did not make them any happier about it.

-----

Upon their return from a small respite in the closest nook in the woods Guardian had found, they made to pay a quick visit to the sword master once more- when a sight shocked them from their initial reason to stop by.

There was yet another drifter in this town.

However, unlike the poor drunk in the alley, this one looked much more assured of herself. She sat on the chair with an air of confidence; after all, she sat in a sword dojo with a drone in her hand, clearly bladeless. Guardian nearly smirked under their helm at the image, and mentally shook their head.

Approaching, they gave her a respectful nod to which their drone told them made her happy. They smiled, and cleared their throat, happy to have had the brief practice with the other drifter earlier. “Hello. It's good to see another of our kind around. Tell me, do you understand me?”

She wore an electronic, glowing mask over her snout, something akin to a muzzle, but they knew it was much more for her own protection than their own. Though, they didn't doubt she had a nasty bite under there as well.

Her bright, electronic laugh pulled through, and she nodded. “Yes, I have not forgotten my roots that easily, traveler.”

They chuckled. “I apologize. I try not to assume anything.” They gestured to the seat adjacent to her. “May I sit?”

She nodded, pulling her legs down onto the floor and shifting so that she faced forward to Guardian. They gave her another nod as they settled. “It is nice to formally meet you. Tell me, what is it I may call you?” They asked.

She spun around her companion sprite on the table like a dreidel as a metallic hum emanated from her.

“Alt.” She stated shortly, looking up to regard them curiously. “And you, traveler?”

They pressed a hand against their chest plate, tilting their head down politely. “I am known in these lands as Guardian.” 

“Guardian.” She repeated, testing the name out over the robotic drone of her muzzle. “I suppose that suits you. I’ve heard of far worse titles.”

I don’t think ‘Alt’ is an especially thought out title..

They did not voice their opinions, nodding instead to her underhand comment. “What brings you to these lands?” They asked curiously, leaning forward to rest their arms lightly over the tabletop.

She leaned her chair back idly, touching under her chin thoughtfully. “I came here to seek answers, and study the history of life. I have been led to believe this island was the birthplace of.. a source I’m looking for.” She nodded, satisfied with her answer. “What about yourself?”

They considered their answer for a brief moment, wondering how truthful they should be with her reason sounding so solid. “I have traveled here in search of a cure to an illness that has taken those close to me. If it has not taken root in me, it will, and I’d like to find a source to it before it takes me as well.” 

Alts ear flicked, turning her head over to give them a drawn out look.

They blinked back before sputtering out, “Ah- it’s not contagious. I should have led with that. It’s.. some type of magic-based illness, thought I do think the name ‘curse’ fits it better.”

Seeing their spouse and child, laying drained and dying in their shared bed, the brief memory pulling at something soft and painful next to their heart. 

“A magic disease, huh? Well, if you came here, it must be bad. I don’t know how you got here, but I have to say that being damp from the gods damned water gets old quick.” 

They chuckled lightly, nodding at the similar experience. “I can’t say I got too fond of the long, odd trek here. An island surrounded by eternal storm, with endless long muddy sands. It does not make for a leisure trek, no.” 

She let out a quick snuff, batting up her battle companion back up into the air. The little robot let out a quick buzz as it spun in the air for a moment before it settled adjacent to her other one.

“Have you found any information pertaining to this.. source you’re looking for?” They asked with a slight tilt of their head.

Alt nodded. “Ya pass by that big lift in the middle of central? Central’s central, if you will.” She let out a quick laugh, and Guardian simply smiled. “I think that has something to do with it, maybe, but its obviously fuckin’ locked. I’ll have to travel around the island to see if anyone else knows what it’s about.” She turned her head about, leaning back on her chair once more. “These lands have strange magic coursing through.”

Guardian nodded. “Indeed.. Thus far, I’ve heard of strange happenings throughout the land for the nearby villages. I feel something.. odd in the air here.” 

She snorted. “Perhaps it is the giant, glowing, floating structure above Central?” 

They huffed. “Maybe it’s not always something so blatant.” They shot back with a slight frown, tapping their fingers against the table. She was correct though, they had felt such a strange pull with the crown of the island drifting above their heads relentlessly since their arrival here.

She snickered, ear flicking. “To each their own, Guardian. If you feel there’s something more going on, maybe you ought’ta go on out and get lookin’ for it already!” She smacked her chair back against the floor, standing up slowly. “I won’t be learning much else sittin’ around here anyway. I think we ought to stop takin’ space in here.”

That was true. The sword master was a tolerant person, if her still agreeing to train Dae- her student- was anything to go by. Dae was a headstrong young one, and determined to become a skilled swords person by the time they were older.. but it wasn’t exactly working out just yet.

Guardian rose from their seat to join Alt in her way out, both drifters giving a nod to the sword master as they passed to exit the dojo. She gave them a brief wave as they left, eyes crinkled in a hidden grin.

Once outside, Alt gave a long stretch and ran a hand through the fur upon her head as she led the way.. well, Guardian wasn’t sure if she was expecting them to follow, but they did trail along after her, still interested in getting and sharing any ideas about this island. 

They both strolled along through the peaceful ambiance of Central, many of the locals and travelers passing through around them. Idly, Guardian had wondered what drew the average traveler here, as they had their odd visions to pull them forward. Was there rumor of riches in these lands?

It sure wasn’t gearbits, if Guardians empty pockets were anything to go by.

Alt’s companion droids floated up above her shoulders after she pulled them out to activate, letting them bob along the winds with Guardians sticking close to their own person. It was interesting, seeing she had two, but a closer look at the more round one gave better insight to the technology.

Alt’s weapon of choice had been a strange battle droid Guardian was not familiar with. It was grey with pink electric holographic sparks, spinning in the air almost dizzyingly.

It flashed around her like a caffeinated bee, popping up by her shoulders and hovering around her head. As they walked alongside her, they got concerned it might ram right into them by mistake. 

Her ear twitched as she glanced up to them, a hazy breath filtering through. “Yah like it? Built this baby myself.” She snatched it up from the air, ceasing its buzzing temporarily as she held it up for Guardian to get a better look at.

Leaning in, the make of the model droid was much more intricate than Guardian had previously thought. Wires were intricately woven in between sections on the metal plates, with running holographic stingers shifting inside. 

“It’s incredible. Did you study under someone to have learned this level of mechanics, or are you self taught?”

She shrugged, letting go of it to let it continue to zip and spin around her with a low whirr of electricity. “Bit’a both, picked up skills here and there when I could afford ‘em. I’m trying to learn a bit for the sword- but damn she is expensive. All I can do right now is kinda watch her train her neighbor’s kid.” She let out a loud huff, nodding. “Which is kind enough, when ya get right down to it.”

They supposed that was right; learning by studying from afar was better than nothing at all. “I am skilled in the sword, if you would want any guides on stances. Footwork is the most important aspect in using this weapon.” 

Guardian was giving, but they were not about to offer free lessons to a near stranger outright either. 

She seemed like she’d be the type to reject harshly anyway, as she seemed restless to continue standing here and talking to them. 

“Why don’t I let you get back to your travels then, Alt?” They stuck their hand out for her to shake. “It was nice to meet you. Perhaps I will run into you again.”

She laughed, taking their hand. “I do know where you live, so maybe we’ll cross paths again.” She beamed behind her mask, taking her droids as she gave them a parting nod. 

“Safe travels, Alt.” They returned her nod and watched as she started to make her trek to the west gate.

It was certainly interesting to learn they were not the only drifter pulled here, by one force or another. They hoped this wasn’t some sort of competition between drifters, see who could figure out the mysteries to these lands faster than the other. If that were true, Guardian was already behind.

Still, they’d trust that if time were more of the essence, the Jackal would make an appearance and allow them the knowledge of such.

They’d find their own way, all in due time.

-----

Finding parts to make their own warp pad was a little more difficult, but asking the right people and a bit of haggling was any drifter’s trade.

Building it was a whole different obstacle in itself, having to weave and twist wires into the correct sockets, their poor companion sprite working overtime to compartmentalize the transporting program over night. They would be sure to give it a good long rest and charge tomorrow afternoon.

Their hands were starting to shake from the strain of having to intricately twist every electrical wire together. Their blueprints were as in-depth as they came, but they couldn't make themself work so hard for so long. Just a few more hours, and they would be finished with this project. Hopefully the other warp pads were not as badly damaged from the touch of time.

Opting to take a quick break, they did need more supplies, and possibly a few questions for their warp pad. They’d have to go talk to the town’s technician soon anyhow, so they set a quick route to her shop with a quick stretch of their body. If they didn't constantly move, they got so stiff..

The technicians shop was always a welcome sight. 

Ava sat behind her counter, her current project gutted and laid out before her. She had her goggles over her eyes as she welded small pieces of metal into place. She never elaborated on her personal projects thus far, but as long as she was willing to sell the tech they needed, they didn't need to pry.

Drifters normally should keep to themselves anyhow; it wasn't their place to become so close to the townsfolk. 

Just because I do not know how long I’ll be here, doesn't mean I should try and insert myself into these people’s lives so much. 

Ava's feathers ruffled as she heard the door swing shut behind them, pausing her welding to look over, flame reflecting against her goggles.

“Oh, a customer. Come in, I’ll be just a moment.” She nodded to them, turning back to her work to finish up her patchwork.

Guardian stepped over to the counter, taking a moment to pop their sore knuckles, feeling themself relax somewhat. Glancing down to her immediate wares they were pleased with what all they saw. An abundance of wires.

“Sorry. Had to finish while the metal was hot. What can I do for you, Guardian?” She snuffed once, tapping her beak. “Unless you'd want to tell a better name finally?”

They smiled, a light chuckle pulling from their chest. “No, Guardian still suits me just fine.” They mockingly assured, pulling out their current warp pad blueprints and what all they had completed thus far. “I have been having issues with this area here, and wanted your opinion on how to fix that conduit cable. Otherwise, I’d simply like all the wires you can sell me for two gearbits.” 

She picked up their blueprints and held them close to her face, slipping her goggles down to focus in on the details they had drawn up. “We could try simple reinforcement methods, or if you prefer wire workings you could just split that into more outlets for them to feed into.”

A shiver had run down their spine at the thought.They had enough wires and outlets to deal with already, they did not want to double that. “Let’s try the first option then. If that doesn’t do its job well enough, I will simply come back to see you.”

“That sounds like a plan.”

A quick trade of gearbits and parts, they were tempted to leave- the itch to explore some more did not leave their mind. They knew they should finish all their current business first, and they cleared their throat. “Actually, if you have another moment, I have a question.”

They pulled their map out from their utility pack, rolling it out over her counter. They had a few places marked where the other warp pads were supposed to be, the one by their house highlighted in their favorite shade of green. They traced their finger along where the pads were scattered. 

“I will be traveling to these places soon- and I will need to link them to this warping pad that I am currently building. I’m unsure how to make the signal strong enough to ensure I do not vaporize in the beam..” While it wasn't a common thing to happen, Guardian wasn’t taking any chances with these cursed lands.

Ava peered down at their map curiously, gears turning within her head as she mulled over the question.

“I think if you just use these reinforced wires and fuses it should be more than okay. You can try a few tests with fruits- I could be okay to help if you really need..” She seemed to cringe at her own offer; the commitment to strangers, no matter how friendly. She did not recant however, and continued, “If it doesn't work- especially this one here in the north, we could even try to make a satellite.”

That seemed like it would be the best choice, and they nodded. “That seems like it would be in order, and I think I can test them on my own. I appreciate your offer, thank you.” 

Ava smiled, looking at Guardians map curiously, they saw her eyebrows knitted as she studied over it for a few minutes more than they had expected. Curiously, they leaned forward to see what had caught her attention. “What is it you see that troubles you?” 

She tore her gaze up to them. “Oh- no I’m not troubled. It’s only just.. this island is much bigger than I had thought before. I knew of these lands of course, but when I found this place, I never really felt the need to go exploring around.” She glanced back down to the map. “I guess it’s just.. kinda scary I don’t know what all’s here. But I guess as long as none of it bothers me, then it can stay over there.”

Guardian let out a huff of laughter. “I’ll be sure to keep those evils at bay. To be fair, they are all peaceful lands.. for the most part.” They shrugged. “Every place has its bad seeds. Sometimes those seeds just grow to something too much.” They explained cryptically. 

Ava did not appear amused with their words, as she gently slid their map back to them. “Right.. Well, as long as I’m safe from anything like earthquakes, I’ll be fine.” She tapped the side of her beak for a moment. “I think I have enough parts to make the signal strong enough for teleportation. That’ll take a lot of charge from your sprite, so make sure it’s fully charged before you try it, okay?” 

They nodded. “Of course, sounds reasonable. And how much would that be?”

She scoffed, shaking her head. “The parts you’re looking for are practically junk to me. I know you’re travelling a lot, so how about when you come back to visit, you bring me back some stuff from the other parts of the island?” She probed, leaning forward to smile up at them pleadingly. 

It was a bit too dangerous for the common people to make their way through these lands at this time, and they assumed she had already nearly picked apart Central dry for parts.

“I will admit, I’m not much of a scavenger.. but should I come across any interesting technology, I will bring it back to you.”

She beamed. “Thank you, Guardian! Let me grab you those parts then.” Shortly she returned with a small bag of their requested items, neatly tied off and placed into their hand.

“Thank you, Ava. On my next travel, I’ll try and bring you back something to use.” They pocketed their parts, and stepped away from the counter. “I should take my leave. Have a good day.”

She waved to them with a wide smile. “Safe travels, and come back when you can.”

-----

To be a Drifter, they had to be somewhat of a loner.

They were polite, and more than approachable with people with their extended friendly greetings. By no means were they anti-social; they loved people, but only in short bursts.

It was excruciating for them to open up to others, and they found that social relationships in close communities could become exhausting quick. Dealing with the daily interaction was enough to send them into the solitude the road provided them.

Drifters were to simply pass through, see the sights, learn the trade, but leave nothing more than an old tale or rumor. A figure to talk fondly of to curious children, or a week's worth of gossip at the pubs, and nothing more. The knowledge they collected was to be their own, and the librarians.

Finding a fellow traveler that they had clicked with, and fell in love with was beyond rare. They had remembered the giddy, intense feeling that had followed them everywhere they went with their old spouse, sharing secrets of their findings and soft kisses in hidden pieces of the past.

That was before, and here they were again, settling down in one place for too long, helping to shape its future while atoning for the sins of the land’s past. This time, they’re doing it all alone, too.

And even with that, they were still becoming a well-known figure in Central.

They extended their greetings and pleasantries with the people who took living here, the entryway guards more than welcomed their presence. The added sense of ease with a figure named Guardian was always assuring to have among the streets.

It was still odd becoming so well known in a place they hadn’t intended to stay in long. Yet the faintest whispers in their mind and their frequent dreams kept them in place, squashing the desire to leave the island.

Finding parts to repair the ancient technology was proving to be more difficult than anticipated. They were a bit of a mechanic - had to be with this type of life on the road - but making a warp pad from mostly scratch was never going to be an easy feat. Making one out of parts from a time too far forgotten with limited tools? It was going to be a long, rough while with this project.

At least they had plenty of places to look, the empty buildings of past civilization surrounding them and their place of living. Since they had explored most of the surrounding areas, they had a few places to trade from too.

They probed the locals gently to ensure it was okay to dig through the vacant buildings and take what they need, more than they were already doing. This felt more invasive, but no one they asked seemed to mind in the least.

With that in mind, they set about exploring the areas more thoroughly this time, busting through any broken doors or windows after they were sure the house wasn't occupied. It could be considered lucky that the people of before were technologically advanced and left in a hurry when they did all that time ago. It made for plentiful pickings as they filled their pack with wires, bolts, and fuses.

They never understood how warping actually worked; all they knew was that it didn't hurt to do so, and made for excellent easy travel if one could traverse the distance to be within range.

That could be beneficial, if they made the distance applicable with the entire island. It might take a while, but Guardian certainly had the time; their chest had not flared up besides a coughing fit every now and again. It was so infrequent they couldn't even remember the last time it happened.

If it made exploration easier, then so be it.

The Jackal had yet to grace them with another visit or guiding vision, so until they did meet again, Guardian would do what they could to make their journey a little easier.

They had been exploring the upper levels to their strange dwelling, trying to see if any of these rooms could be salvageable somehow, thinking the upper levels might be safer than the ground floors from any wandering foes. None had shown up, as each entrance guard they had met seemed more than capable of taking care of distant, wandering threats. Their need for safety compelled them to check, just in case. Their own arrival had been too easy, as they remembered.

A few coughs ripped through their throat as they pushed aside a few cracked ceiling panels with their foot, out of their way. The dust must be irritating their sinuses, and they decide to call off their investigating for the moment. As long as their door locked, they supposed it wasn't the worst set-up.

Slipping through the side window they had found three floors up, they carefully stepped out over any broken glass and clinging to the window sill. It was unfortunate they couldn't simply use the stairs, but it had to be sealed off. This floor was unusable due to the wear and tear of long times past.

Using their rope tether, they swiftly bounced down the wall to land onto the grass, taking another deep breath as they let their shoulders relax. Luckily, their breaths didn't rattle, so they blamed the dust and debris of their excursion.

Most of their dwelling had been put together now, working between building a warp pad and fixing their house, they didn't have much time for anything else. 

.... They had made a good amount of progress on things, and they had been feeling fatigued by the constant work they had been doing. It was time for a break.

Time to drift for a small while.

Earlier in their arrival, they had heard the east point was most peaceful among the different civilizations that remained on the island. Guardian wasn't looking to brave any harsh trails of these lands just yet, only aiming to take a small reprieve from being in one spot for so long.

They had been continuously buying supplies as they had been here working, stocking up for any future travels- of if they had to hunker down for a while. It was like second nature to them on how to pack their travelling gear, even if it was a lighter trip. Maybe a weeks worth at most, but the act in of itself was therapeutic. Signs of a good travel.

And for the fun of it, they stuffed in a bit of their art supplies to illustrate some interesting things they saw along the way. These lands had an odd, yet alluring aesthetic to them. Neon plants were somewhat prominent, and odd flowers they had not seen before. The sky seemed to be a constant shade of red in these lands, yet it wasn't unpleasant. Guardian would have considered a red sky to be somewhat foreboding, but this just set a unsettling calm atmosphere.

All the piles of skeletons along the roads as they walked never got more welcoming, and they tried to pay their brief respects to them as they passed by. Drifters expected death, the ways of their travel demanding they come into dangerous situations. These people were not drifters, however. They did not know what these people could have done to deserve this.

Even with the tragedy, the view was quite beautiful.

The sounds of water drew them closer through the thicket to their destination, and as they came to a small drop off, a lake with an ancient monument stood before them. Waterfalls splashing against near crystal clear waters that spread to lap at the cliff sides bases and some shores not far off. It was a stunning sight right off the bat, making Guardians eyes widen in awe and excitement. 

A new place to explore, and they strode forward to discover these new, beautiful lands.

Chapter Text

Guardian could spend a while here simply getting lost in the water’s colors and reflections of light against the lake’s surface.

It was oddly calming, considering their last venture near water was more than unsettling. Guardian felt at ease walking along the lakes edge. They still felt their eyes drift towards the shadows cautiously, but felt the beauty pull through. 

Seeing the old statues rising from the other side of the lake appeared promising enough, letting Guardian know they were on the right track to another civilization close by. So far, it had only been a few hours since they departed Central, maybe only three at most.

As they stepped closer to the edge against the lank, some rustling overhead drew their eyes upwards, assuming it was a bird of sorts. To their shock, it was a huge spider of some sort.

Guardian jumped back from surprise, pulling their sword out quickly as they watched the spider run around in a circle for a short moment. Getting its barings, perhaps?

It didn't take long for its target to become Guardian as it let out a hiss as it lunged forward at them. Luckily, Guardian already had their sword handy, so slicing it away was no effort.

Instead of blood or guts spilling as they had expected, wires and sparks flew out of its torso and splattered onto the ground. Blinking, confused, Guardian knelt down to the debris to investigate it. Just simple technology, but deadly if programmed in such a way.

They pulled open their pouch, digging through the smoking carcass of the robot spider for any working parts. Even if they didn't use them on their journey, they could give them to Ava when they got back.

Now to get across the lake to the entryway.

Guardian could swim, but they didn't want to risk getting so much gear wet. Luckily, they spotted some platforms that they could use to get across on, if they used their dash boosters they’d bet.

They'd have to give the dash master their thanks when they returned as well; the boots really helped the quick travel. They almost slipped a few times and went into the water anyways, but they made it across eventually.

The structure was quite beautiful up close, touched and a bit worn from time as well alongside the rest they had seen of the island. There were long tiles across the floors, and the two otter statues that stood tall made Guardian pause to study them. 

Moving forward, they watched the waters glisten and listened to the distant sound of waterfalls as they walked. Keeping an eye on the waters, they pressed forward as they finally entered into the city on water. 

It was a spacious area, giving them a distant feeling of walking through a garden as the moss and grass that covered the area drew their gaze. No threat had popped up above the waters just yet, and they felt the need to take their time to properly absorb the scenery.

And what a scene to behold, as a structure larger than life came into their view, standing out amongst the tiles and small spires they immediately saw. It was colored red and gold against the creams, blues and greens of the surrounding lakes. It stuck out, quite literally, from the water and other aesthetics built around the area. In fact, it didn’t look like a regular structure at all.

It was like a statue, but different... It caused Guardian to pause, studying the materials and the shape of what it was they were looking at. This was a hand, and a sword, but it wasn’t attached to any statue.

Guardian had understood that the otters were a peaceful civilization, so they didn’t understand quite yet why there would be a need to glorify a huge sword at the opening of their gate.

Curious things in these lands for sure, and Guardian reached a hand to pet their companion sprite and hold it to take some pictures. It beeped and floated closer to the statue, getting pictures of its overall shape and tracking what materials it was made with.

Once they had enough, they gave it another long glance before they carefully pressed on, wondering if they should've taken that as a warning sign.

If nothing else, they surely wanted to paint here, capture the essence of these beautiful waters. 

After a short walk into the settlement, they finally saw some of the inhabitants of this small city. Otters of all kinds were swimming through the waters, the ones on land carrying baskets and fabrics that billowed with the winds.

They weren't just fabrics upon closer inspection; they were tapestries, curtains and rugs. It was amazing to see people who were so closely tied to water take up the art of fabric weaving; it could get ruined in prolonged exposure to water.

They were already curious enough, but the thought that these people had created a way for fabric to withstand water damage, they certainly wanted to know about it. Thus their feet carried them forward at a respectfully cautious, but eager, pace. They feared little that the otters might actually do them harm, but they'd rather not air that thought aloud.

Guardian was cast cautious and wary stares in return, but their presence seemed to be intriguing enough to allow them close enough to speak. 

“Hello. I noticed those beautiful fabrics you have. I wanted to say they look quite lovely,” they complimented, glancing to said fabric held within the otter’s arms. Even standing a respectful distance away, they could still see the intricate beauty woven into the sheets.

The otter eyed Guardian curiously, watching them intently as they approached and even held the items away from them as an extra precaution.

“Thank you for saying so... drifter?” He tried, glancing over to their companion sprite with a flicker of wonder.

“Yes. I am called Guardian if you prefer. I will answer to both.” They smiled gently and took their eyes off the fabrics, giving the area another sweep over as other otters started to peer over at the two. “I have come to this island for my own quest, but I am not here to cause trouble. I simply noticed the beautiful craft and wanted a closer look.” They explained, looking back to the otterperson. 

He still appeared cautious, but nodded once. “I haven’t seen a drifter before.” The otter admitted, ear flicking just once as he turned to look at Guardian a bit more closely, his curiosity taking over. “My grandmother told stories about you all flocking here for years and years, all on your own little quest. You’re the first I’ve seen, though.”

That was certainly interesting news, making Guardian blink as they absorbed that information in. “She wouldn't have known their quests and told you, would she have?” They tried.

The otter snuffed, a small smile spreading on his features. “Would you tell me your quest, drifter?”

“...touché.” Guardian relented.

“Never thought I’d see one in my own day, and to have one trying to buy my woven fabrics right out of my hands!” He snickered softly, shaking his head.

“Oh, I was not looking to buy..” Guardian trailed off, eyebrows knitting somewhat as they considered. Were they looking to buy? They could pick up some things for their house, make it feel more like a home if they were planning on staying on this island. The general make of the fabrics looked similar to that of the sword masters back in central- that connection should have come earlier, now that they thought about it.

“Of course you’re going to buy! Got to have something to remember us by.” He pressed slightly, nodding them along. “Come. I will sell you something you’ll need, but these are for my family.” He noted about the stack in his hands, holding them close.

“Ah, well... if you truly insist, I’ll not decline that these do look like something I'd like to see on the daily.” They admitted sheepishly, falling in step behind the otter. 

“I’ve got a knack for spotting buyers.” He chuckled, nodding and waving to his neighbors as they both passed. Hopefully letting them know Guardian meant no harm with their presence here.

The inside of this community was just as beautiful on the outside, statues of their ancestors lining the buildings as the clear waters bore a peek at some of their renowned swimming skills. Guardian was decent, but it was always impressive to see people built for swimming thrive in their waters.

If possible, they felt they were getting a lot more stares here than in Central, which made them uneasy as they kept close to the otter leading them. Not that these folk seemed malicious by this point, but Guardian wasn’t fond of the staring. Helpfully, it seemed their companion sprite was more than happy to take the brunt of the attention thrown their way, pinging gently and hovering around their shoulders.

It didn't seem that these otters were interested in making technology, but they knew the general novelty of seeing something new. A pinging robot was certainly new to these parts lately, it appeared. 

Stepping through an open entryway, they were greeted to the sight of some small piles of rugs, curtains hanging against windowless walls for display. There wasn't an entirely wide selection, but what they did see was well kept and beautiful.

“Do you make all of these?” They asked, stepping closer to one to study the certain threading used. They were still curious about the general properties of how these fabrics handled being in water.

“I do, along with my wife. Her grandmother taught her, and she had the headache of teaching me.” He chuckled, setting his stack down into a basket before he went about digging through what looked like a wardrobe or a big cabinet.

Guardian pulled their eyes away, continuing to admire the skill. “I would ask if you sold these to travelers often, but I doubt many have come through here recently.” They mused, not touching anything yet, despite wanting to know how they felt. “Does my presence here... threaten anyone? The sentries near Central did not warn me away from traveling here.”

The otter looked up. “What? Oh, no you’re not a threat.. It’s just been unusual to see anyone pass through here in recent years, and a drifter no less!” His voice was light, but a frown crossed his features. “It’s simply… odd you’ve come here now is all. Not the best time either.” He added on before continuing whatever search he was on. 

Perhaps they had all assumed the drifters of the world died out from the profession, ancient secrets drowning them in their explorations. It was an easy conclusion to make here, secluded on an impossible to find island with a private community. Not to mention drifters were a secretive, elusive bunch when they wanted to be.

“I will note that there is another drifter on this island, actually. She is not with me in any way, but I have spoken to her once. She may yet come here as well.” They decided to say, let this otter know their creed was still strong.

“I do have to ask: Why is now not the best time to make an appearance after so long?” They had been cursed somehow, that was not always in the best interest of travelling, but how would otters be privy to their body?

The otter sighed, pulling out a large, pink rug before closing the wardrobe behind him. “We are... having our own issues in paradise.” He started, rubbing his temple, shoulder sagged. “It’s not easy to explain... We are in a sort of... civil unrest with our neighbors, and a small famine along with that unrest as well. I can sell you these fabrics, but I’d be careful about trying to stay here for long.”

That told them a lot, and not enough all at once. Intrigued, they raised an eyebrow as they considered him for a drawn out moment, contemplating that information. “Famine.” They repeated with concern. 

The otter nodded. “Yes... The toads nearby here have started to move in a bit more than what is welcomed, and our sacred fish population has dwindled down due to that.” He explained with sorrow.

Unfortunately, that made a lot more sense. 

Guardian would suggest they all move, but these very buildings were centuries old, the otters simply couldn't leave their ancient home. They had no idea what these toad neighbors held so dear they simply couldn't leave; perhaps it was the magical force that kept Guardian here as well.

It wasn't particularly their business to go meddling in the affairs of the inhabitants here, however. So they simply bit their tongue and nodded.

“I’m sorry that’s happening. It is no drifter’s place to try and go changing the lands. I trust you will all come to an agreement soon.” If they said it, let it be true.

The otter gave them an uncertain smile, and nodded back. “All we can do is try. This is our home, after all...” Another soft sigh as he finally perked up a bit, pink rug in hand. “Enough of that sorrow; you are here to buy this, not listen to an old otter rant.”

Unfurling the rug gave Guardian a hard pause, eyes widening at the sight of the print upon it. It was a diamond upon a bright pink backdrop. It seemed familiar somehow. Their immediate thought was the shape of the pattern at Central, but that didn’t quite sit correctly. 

It was something else, another imprint of an image they knew at the tip of their tongue.

Ah, if a jackal was in front of it, they’d recognize it easier perhaps.

“I’ve had this folded away for a while, been hoping to pass it along to a drifter all this time. I don’t understand why you all come here, but I had a feeling this might be of interest. It’s still a rug, however, and should hold up fairly well for your time here.” He explained with a smile, watching Guardian’s reaction to the print.

“...this is useful, to say the least. I appreciate it. How much do I owe?”

The otter gave the thought a few moments, humming. “Two gearbits, and I’ll take other things you might find interesting you could live without.” 

Things they might find interesting? “I don't think I have a lot to give up. Most of my items are my travel gear at the moment.” They paused, looking in their satchel for a brief second. “I just have this technology I recently picked up... perhaps I could visit again?” Trading knickknacks was not their forte, and it made them feel embarrassed.

The otter responded in kind, nodding. “Yes, that can be fine. I’ll simply relieve you of the gearbits I asked.”

That was reasonable, and they had no qualms handing the money over for the beautiful rug. Even if it wasn’t an informative piece of fabric, it seemed important enough that it made them want it. Luckily, the few robotic spiders they had fought on the way here held some gearbits within their circuits earlier. They were happy to spend their funds here in this village, hoping this helped in any way.

Folding up their rug and strapping it inside their pack diligently, they felt they shouldn’t linger. “I appreciate your help with my journey, and for telling me some information about what goes on around this village. I should be headed out, though. I have to explore the rest of this area before the days end.”

The otter nodded. “Of course. You drifters and your travel. I appreciate you taking the time to step into my shop for a moment.” 

“If I find anything that might interest you, I will make a stop back to drop it off. Thank you for your shared time today.” 

Privately, Guardian was getting fed up with themself for reaching out to so many people in only a matter of days. Their spouse had said they were just friendly by nature, which they knew was true, but this felt ridiculous by now.

Still, it wasn't like they didn't get valuable information from the venture, and even got a rug out the interaction. They would surely study it later when they next returned to their home in Central.

For now, they needed to press forward and start exploring the area. 

Stepping away from the shop and the other residents, Guardian pulled out the digital map they had gotten from Tulsi, glancing over it with curiosity. It wasn’t as detailed as they would have hoped, but it would do for now as an acting guide. There was a larger building furthest to the east it seemed, and something near the center of this village too that looked to be important. 

Figuring they’d aim for there, they set off on the puzzling journey to their destinations. 

For the otters, the layout of their home was nearly perfect for travel. They could choose to walk most of it, or swim the whole way and simply hop out of the water when they pleased to. It was smart, and almost made Guardian want to go try the waters themself.

The residents might not appreciate an outsider mulling about in their waters, though, so they refrained against that idea and simply used the opportunity to practice upon their dash boosters. Falling into the water was different than going for an outright swim.

Sliding across platforms separated by water was a bit nerve wracking, their legs shaky from trying to balance on the new device upon their boots. It was fun as well, in its own way, swaying and using their weight to help keep them upright as they waved their arms away from any ledges they got too close to.

No other otters approached them to comment on their silly behavior, most content to keep a cautious eye on them from afar. As long as no one thought they were a danger to their society, that was all well and good.

The scenery was just as beautiful here as anywhere else in the east, it seemed, if not morose. This was where the otters lived in full; not as many as Guardian had actually expected in the end. There were certainly groups of them in and out the waters, stranglers weaving in and out between, but even Guardian could tell this wasn’t even half capacity for the area to fill…

Starvation. That’s what they had been told. A battle for the shared resources.

Guardian had not been around many toad civilizations before, but they had heard more than plenty concerning their not-so-approachable nature. Still, Guardian held faith that they would commit to a solution; they had all been here this long. They had lived near each other for this long. A famine couldn't sour that relationship, could it?

While they were visiting the ideas of connections between civilizations, the place they had wanted to see finally graced their view.

The temple that these people used as worship was quite a sight: beautiful architecture with steaming waterfalls with the statues of the otters image standing proud. They had been seeing plenty of crumbling statues and lost buildings since their arrival, but these had a certain craft to them that stood out. They were smooth, polished like a marvel statue, and were more than abundant. The water falls gave a tranquil, almost otherworldly echo to the temples area, beckoning Guardian to look further around. It felt as if they couldn't take their eyes off anything too quickly, afraid to lose track of a single detail presented. 

It was a gorgeous sight to Guardian, eyes lighting up at just how serene this place was. They had been to many, many places on their travels, but there was a certain air here that put them at ease.

Pulling down their companion sprite, they did not hesitate to start snapping photos of everything they saw. 

The warp pad was a surprise.

It was covered in some long overgrown thicket, the grey patterns worn away from the elements and time, but it seemed in much better state than starting from scratch. 

They approached it curiously, and were even more surprised to feel a pulse of power still emanating from under the stone.

At least I won’t have to entirely build this one up from scratch.

Honestly, they wouldn’t particularly mind having to come back here a few times to hook it up, but their gut told them they shouldn’t dally too much in their time here. With quick work, they brushed off a fair bit of the overgrown brush on the warp pad until it was as good as they could get it without a broom and washcloth. Pulling over their droid to connect and sync with the ancient machine, they were thankful most of this process was automatic, ingrained in every companion sprites code for easy access. 

They were hesitant to actually use the machine just yet, though. They didn’t know how new technology and old would react to each other, yet they didn’t have anything to use as a test…

Ah, the parts from the mechanical spider might do the trick.

If they lost these parts, it would be far from the end of the world. Ava would understand; they were under no real obligation to give these to her. So if they burnt up in the light beam, it would still be a valuable experiment.

Carefully, they wrapped the parts up in some leather they had for storage, and placed it upon the center of the warp pad. Setting the coordinates on their companion sprite momentarily, they sent it up into the sky.

The beam looked healthy enough from where Guardian stood, but they wouldn't be able to determine much until they made it back to Central. Even if the parts got stolen, they could check the travel logs when they re-synced their sprite to the pad.

This will make a fine help if it works. I think another visit here will be delightful.

Although, any type of frivolous visit soon would have to wait, of course. They couldn't exactly pinpoint where the eyes of the Jackal were, but the sensation of being watched clung to their shoulders loosely.

It was going to be hard to figure out what exactly they were trying to find, and thus far, they had not found anything hidden among the pristine waters. 

The shape of a diamond flashed in their mind, and their brows furrowed, the sting of unknowing  simmering beneath their helmet. Being unable to figure out a quest was a heart-wrenching, yet exciting, experience. The thrill of a new puzzle, and the explicit task to solve it. 

With this in their mind, they pressed onward from the otters’ warp pad, a keener eye glued to their surroundings.

Skittering across ledges and nearly slipping on damp tiles into the crystal clear waters wasn't the hardest thing Guardian had done, but it was a sure test of the balancing skills. The wet tiles had proved to be a small bit of a hassle, nearly losing their footing and taking a dive into the serene waters below.

Luckily, it wasn't an irritating endeavor. And it wasn't long before something caught their eye, causing them to stop cold in their tracks as they looked up at the sight before them. 

Another impossibly large hand reached out from the water, and what was previously a huge rock had now become a head. The jaw of a titan fallen open, stalled mid-ascent from the depths. The passage of time was visible by glancing alone, algae and moss covering everything on the giant that was above the surface. The technology within had ceased for a moment, allowing them a closer look.

It was beautiful, however, awing Guardian as they stared up at the impossibly giant being before them. They could get closer and touch it if they wanted to.

They did want to.

Dashing forward another few platforms, their hand hovered for a moment above the robot, pausing. It was unlikely anything would happen if they touched it; the passage of time didn't do anything, so how could a simple hand cause anything drastic?

Touching against it, the metal was chilled. Moss covered even the outside here, where their jaw connected to the rest of their face. The closer Guardian got to inspect the intricate details lovingly crafted into the metal, the more impressed they were with the level of painstaking work that had gone into its creation.

It was only natural they’d beckon their companion sprite to hover around the mechanism, taking as many pictures as they could store for future use. Even if this was simply a remnant of the past, how often did one see a technologic titan?

That also led their mind to endless questions; who had created such a mechanical giant… and why would they? They had a suspicion that the arm with the sword they had seen earlier belonged to this head.

That did lead back to the question of why this contraption was here in the first place. How such tranquil lands could warrant such a huge beast to terrorize them, if it had at all. Perhaps this was a product of some old era long forgotten, a ruin of the past clinging to the present.

It was still hardly a comforting thought, that something this huge was created in the first place.

What exactly warranted such a creature to be manually crafted? What threat could be so big? 

Their gaze drew upwards to the skyline, the constant floating crown of the island bobbing along the winds. They could still feel the vicious magic brimming along the very tiles they stood upon. There was absolutely something from the past still clinging to present day. Was this evil strong enough to be the source of their family’s end?

Making a note of it, and one last long glance at the giant submerged, they decided to press onward.

No one here seemed too open to answer any of the questions Guardian had about their giant, and they did not want to create bad blood between them and these otterfolk so early on. They opted to choose wisely, and keep their questions to themself.

That didn’t keep their thoughts at bay, wondering if they had ever heard any legends about giants before or possibly read something about them. They knew that giant beasts had existed far before, skeletal remains and modern day creatures still bigger than they'd assume possible. But a mechanical beast of that measure was unheard of in Guardian’s mind.

Sighing, they opted to let the subject go for the moment, and redirected their focus to something more productive: Getting back to Central.

With any luck, the mechanical parts they had sent made it all intact and functioning, and they could use this as a way to fast travel. If it still needed some tweaking, Guardian thought coming back here would be one of the better places to revisit.

It was time to return to Central, and move onward with their quest.

-----

It was nice to see Central again after their short reprieve.

The familiar sight of the age-old buildings were a welcome sight to take in. Giving a meaningful nod to the east gates sentry, they took in the sights of their temporary home.

It was a small relief to see not much had changed in their absence; it meant nothing major had happened while they were away. That also meant that they still had little to nothing to go on for their journey.

The otters had offered them little insight in their quest in these lands, though Guardian could not fault them. A stranger telling tales about vivid visions and asking far too many questions about their giant surely were no incentive to share much.

It wasn't a fruitless venture, however; they still got some valuable information and some things to spruce up their current dwelling. Even if it was a temporary abode, they could still make it a comfortable place to be.

A big blanket for their future bed, a lovely rug, and some spare technological parts they had picked up along the way. They had promised Ava they would bring her back things they found useful, and they’d certainly need to stock up on some for their personal use. After all, they needed to pay a visit to the bandit soon.

The familiar pathway up to their house was a welcome sight, already feeling the ease of perceived safety wrap around them as they approached. Before they did enter into their home, they made a brief pause by their warp pad to sync up their droid and check the travel logs. They did not see the scrap parts they had sent, and a small huff managed to escape them.

It wasn’t imperative that they had them, but with a confirmation that they had landed, they knew someone had simply taken them. The giant, beam of light warp pads created were hard to ignore, they knew, it did not make it less irritating.

At least the warp actually works, think of the positives.

Having a functioning warp pad was a lot more important to their quest than making sure Ava had some spare parts to work with. Still, they did make a commitment, and they’d just bring her back something even better than simple robot spider guts next they went out.

With that thought in mind, they hoofed it to their home, input their door lock code and slipped inside, the early morning hours ensuring not many people saw them, giving them a small bit of relief. They wanted to get their home settled before they did any sort of socializing with these people. There were bound to be some questions, and Guardian wasn't quite ready to face that quite yet.

The interior of their home was a welcome sight, no dust having settled over their living space just yet. There wasn't much in there to begin with just yet, but they weren't keen on the idea of sweeping as soon as they returned.

Unceremoniously, they dropped their bags onto the floor and let out a loud sigh of relief, letting their shoulders finally sag, the relief of being truly alone washed over them.

First they'd wash, polish their armor, and sew up whatever got torn on their brief journey, then they’d find a place for their rug to go.

It was big, and would probably fit better in their living area rather than the kitchenette, and especially wouldn't go in their rest room....

That was for later. First: Washing.

Peeling off their disgusting clothes and hanging up their cloak, they drew a hot shower to step into, hoping to rinse off all the accumulated grime that had stuck to their person. While swimming a bit in the lake the otters inhabited was nice, it left them with a small swamp feel to their body that lingered even now. Luckily, some soap was a quick fix to finally start ridding themself of the feeling.

Guardian knew other travelers that were less keen on the idea of stopping for self upkeep so often, the want to keep exploring pulling them forward in nothing but tatters of their former outfits. 

But Guardian enjoyed the small breaks, a moment to absorb all they had seen and giving them valuable time to reflect on all that had happened. It was a time for them to fully realize what stood out the most.

Meeting a village of otters was certainly fun, a change of pace from what they were expecting and used back in the lands beyond the crown of the world. They had mostly stuck inland for a majority of their travels, going to bodies of water for quick travel jumps. It wasn't exactly uncommon to see folk still tending to their holy waters, but one so secluded and on an ancient island? It was inspiring. Perhaps if Guardian frequented there a bit more, they’d be willing to share some of their practices for upkeeping the land around water.

They sighed gently, stepping from their shower after a quick clean and drying themself off. 

If they survived that long, anyway.

Whatever was happening to them was strange, the sickness that laid semi-dormant in their chest. It was similar to the one that had taken their family all those years ago, causing coughs and blood wracking through their throat. 

But where their family was taken quick and brutally, their illness only rose in short bursts and waves. It felt as if they were a fish on a line, pulling before being jerked back continuously. They felt anxious, and kept touching over their chest to feel for any type of soreness every day. Nothing happened unless they were in that pain filled moment.

They didn't know what to do.

Whatever pulled their family away was beyond them and their spouse at the time, and, while the general symptoms were similar, they were still alive. The otters’ land offered no guidance or similarities of other illnesses, and they were not deft in the way of curses. And to top it all off, they were all tight-lipped about whatever pulled up the need to create a robotic giant.

Their mind wandered back to the rug they had bought, the symbol of the diamond etched into the stitches. It felt as though diamonds were a continuous symbol on this island, if nothing else.

A fresh pair of clothes and polished armor later, they decided to pull it out from their pack. 

The pink was vibrant like some of the reefs’ stunning corals, but the design is what gripped their gaze. It was stitched in a pure white, and in the shape of a diamond. It caused Guardian a long pause, and a minute of dazed blinking as they studied it. 

This shape feels important…yet, I feel some apprehension while I look at it.

It didn't make them tense, or feel fear, but some type of distant nerve was struck as the pattern bore up at them. 

Humming softly, they laid out the rug onto the floor below them in their rest area. A quick maneuver and lift, and their bed frame lay atop the pink rug. It certainly gave a new mood to the room, and they decided it was a good look.

They were not going to let a shape scare them, especially one they did not understand the significance of yet. 

They did recall the demonic centipede from the cursed shallows on the way here. The same shape, and the halo of the Jackal… Curious, but nothing solid enough to name in the end.

It would not hinder their rest, as they carefully laid themself down for a quick sleep. Thoughts plaguing their mind as they drifted off.

-----

It was a good idea to take a deserved rest, and their droid seemed bouncier than usual, happy to have been updated and synced accordingly. The sunlight reflected nicely off their teal armor, giving them a bit more dramatic flare as they walked to the fountain. 

Guardian sat on the edge of the fountain, the humanoid having set up a small shop of his wares, laying robot parts across a handmade rug. It seemed to be a nice set-up, near the fountain with a bit of shade nearby, the floating structure swaying above-head.

It was peaceful; not too many people out this early in the day just yet, and the sounds of the fountain behind them could almost be mistaken for a waterfall. 

“It’s good to see you again, Guardian,” he greeted as they both got settled where they had decided to set up. “I must say, while we only briefly met, I’m glad to see you back in one piece.”

Guardian nodded once. “It is nice to have returned after a short time away. The east is quite beautiful, however. I have already decided to take another trip back that way when I get the chance to.”

Dev smiled at Guardian, taking a swig of his tea. “It is a beautiful place, isn't it? My companion - the otter - you remember her, yes? Her name is Mallow... She got a very bad injury from those creatures you saved us from, and she’s been hesitant to move forward just yet onto other places. Though, she told me she ought to have some family to the east.” He explained with little prompting, smiling as he got to share their tale. 

“That’s quite lucky for her, as it’s a simply gorgeous place. We could all wish to come from somewhere so nice.” They mused, their own smile forming as they recalled the sheer beauty of the civilization.

“Yes, indeed. Hopefully with your safe return, I can convince her that it is safe to travel that way. I do want her to find her family again.” 

“I wish you both luck with your endeavors.” They were tempted to offer further assistance to them, but they had already overstepped with these individuals far enough, and they left it at that.

Dev seemed to be content with their conversation as well, as he went back to sitting quietly with his tea, trying to entice passerby's into looking through his wares as Guardian fiddled with their companion sprite. It had just updated and synced with their warp pad earlier, but running a quick diagnostic check before they let it charge was never too careful, in Guardians opinion.

Looking up to see Alt waltz in from the west gate was a surprise. What was even more so: she was covered in some green glitter.

She looked about ready to breeze right past Guardian, not intending to stop and chat it looked like. But if she was back, perhaps she had found something, and Guardian wanted to know.

“Alt,” They called out as she stepped past, shocking her to look over to where they sat. They gave her a steady once-over, making sure their eyes lingered on her wounds near her ankles. She furiously pulled her glittering cloak tighter around herself. “Nice glitter. Variety is always fun to change up one’s wardrobe.” 

She snuffed, shuffling to stand closer to them now with a soft frown. “Thanks, really. It’s all the fuckin' rage with those raccoons over to that forest.” She tossed her head back to the west gate, a low growl emanating from her chest as she nearly spat on the ground between them. 

“Glittery raccoons, huh.” They mused idly, leaning back to really give her their full attention, letting go of their companion sprite to let it float around in the air. “The west must be quite beautiful.”

Alt let out a low growl, shaking her head. “Ya, sure, it’s beautiful past all the blades that are thrown your way. Oh, I just love the look of the forest between two swords coming for my head!” 

Guardian smiled, watching as she stepped closer to stand by their side. The humanoid vendor gave them an odd look as they spoke, probably not used to drifters using their language in front of others, but seemed to know better than to try and eavesdrop. 

“I take it the locals were not exactly the friendly type then.” They made no move to stand, half hoping she might deign to take a seat next to them, but they wouldn’t pressure her to, simply leave enough room next to themself. 

“Hell no, if they can even be called locals at this point! It’s fuckin’ wild, they’ve gotten like... infected by the very forest!” She tried to explain, gesturing slightly with her hand around her shoulders. “They've got bits'a crystal stuck outta their body, and their eyes are all green. They foam at the damn mouths like they are rabid. It’s nuts.” She sighed, exasperated at the very memory of it. 

It did sound rather terrifying, foaming mouthed, crystal-infected creatures. “And what are these creatures that are infected?”

“They are raccoons. Looked to be a type of warrior - and fight like that - but... they're just…gone up here.” She pointed to her forehead, eyebrows furrowed. “It’s kinda really scary.” She admitted, shrugging. “But, they fall easy enough if ya can watch them close enough... I just didn't find anything for what I needed that way, so I came back.” 

Seemed like the safer choice; no point in pursuing a dangerous dead end.

“Next time, you can use my warp pad if it’s too long to walk.” They offered, watching how her ears lightly perked at the mention. 

“Maybe I’ll consider the option, but I didn’t mind the trip back. I found some gearbits along the way, and, while nothing I was truly looking for, I did find some interesting information.” She shrugged, reaching up to lightly pet the more docile companion sprite with the back of her knuckles. “Thanks, though. Could be helpful for later.”

“Of course, and I appreciate you explaining what is to the west... I believe I might try to avoid that way for a brief time.” They glanced to said west gate, before turning their gaze east. “I have visited the opposite way, actually. I went to visit the eastern otters, and it was certainly a beautiful journey. It didn’t hold much in the way of information, though...” they admitted softly.

Alt tapped the underside of her robotic mask, snuffing out some filtered air. “And the south is still barred. I suppose that leaves only north.” She peeked around the vendor to glance towards the north gate, Guardians eyes following. “I saw it’s a huge mountain that way, and of course the birds put their temple at the summit. Because of course! Why wouldn't you put it in the most inconvenient spot ever, yeah?”

Guardian snorted. “It’s not exactly hard for them to reach, being birds.” 

“While true, I can still imagine putting it so high up and far away, with blizzard winds billowing around all the time, doesn't make much convenience for anyone.” She shot back, the impression of a wide smile settling upon her features.

“I suppose that’s true as well. I couldn't find the trip through such harsh conditions to be... pleasant, no.” They admitted with their own smile, shaking their head. “However, neither of us are any part bird it seems. So we don't have the ability to be unbiased in this.” 

Alt looked to huffed, shrugging. “Doesn’t stop me from bitchin’ about it.” She decidedly landed on looking past Guardian, back towards the gate. “I’m headed that way. Gonna freeze my tail near damn off, but that’s the next best choice.” She seemed to have her mind set, reaching down to brush off some of the crystals that still clung to her cloak.

“...would you at least like to do some upkeep before you go?” They offered. “I can-”

“Enough, Guardian.” She cut off abruptly, shaking her head. “This is far more important, but thank you. I’m in a bit of a hurry, ya’know?” She let out a soft snicker. “Drifters’ gotta keep moving.”

She had them there, so reluctantly they nodded. “Very well, I appreciate you stopping by to talk with me. I will let you be off then. Safe travels, Alt.”

“Safe travels.” She wished back, dipping her head before she started right off towards the north gate.

Guardian had noted that they quite liked stopping for short periods, getting their bearings and having short bursts of rest  to be able to absorb what all had happened. It seemed Alt did not share this aspect in character, as with tattered clothes and no new supplies, she simply pressed on.

It made Guardian curious about what was up there, in that library above the world. They had hoped to simply cross over some of the ancient ruins and get lucky with information, but having a set goal to investigate was always the better option.

They’d wait a few days, then decide on following Alt or not up the mountain. 

Reasonably they could have gone to the west, but if Alt’s explanation on the inhabitants there was accurate... They were hesitant to make their way over, wanting to spend their efforts on actually finding clues to their sickness.

First, they needed a blaster.

Checking their sprite had charged its batteries in the sun’s rays, they pushed off the fountain and bid Dev farewell. 

Luckily, it seemed the gun shop was finally open for business again. Taking a small trip away was probably wise; let the bandit feel safe again before Guardian showed back up.

A small smile cracked under their helmet, trying not to think that they were that scary, but a little bit of reveling in their mischievous nature wouldn’t hurt. They assured themself they had their sword strapped to their back, and opted to keep their companion sprite floating a little bit behind their head for safe-keeping before entering the shoppe.

It was exactly as it was the first time they had seen it, but it looked like the bandit had some wrappings around their face where Guardian had so lovingly given them a warning shot. 

The bandit was leaning over their side counter, parts scattered about as it appeared they were trying to put together an old blaster they had been given. When they saw Guardian hovering in their doorway, their purple eyes narrowed into a deep sneer at the sight of them, but they made no sudden moves.

Guardian stepped in with a polite smile on their features, taking only one glance around to make sure there weren't any other people hidden away for some type of sneak attack again. They weren't sure how the bandit was able to round up so many people so quickly last time, but today was no day to find out how.

“Afternoon, bandit.” They greeted shortly, eyes landing back on the bandit as they stayed seated behind their counter

If looks could kill, they felt Roscoe would have shot a laser beam right through Guardian’s helmet and into the sky.

They almost wanted to laugh, how ridiculous this was when all they were doing was bringing in business, but they bit their tongue in favor of smiling tightly. “I believe you know what I came here for, and I think I will be doing my dealings over the counter this time, thank you.” They paused, leaning forward a tad bit with a curious tone. “Unless, you wanted to see my sword in the alley?”

It was a tense moment afterward, but the bandit ended up scoffing in their face, rolling their eyes. “Keep it in your damn pants, drifter. Gearbits up front, two per blaster I’m willing to sell your type.” They pointed sharply to a case of handheld blasters to the right.

Guardian glanced over at the offered merchandise curiously, scrutinizing them for a few drawn out moments. Seemed light enough to travel with, and strong enough to help fell potential threats they’d come across. They were banking on the hope they wouldn't have to use it too much, but it always paid to be safe. 

“Two gearbits, you say? That’s all?”

“What, are you deaf too under that block of pink candy?” They nearly hissed, tapping their fingers against the counter. “Two gearbits. That case.” 

Seemed reasonable enough. All things considered with this person, they wouldn’t push it. 

“Very well, I would like the one closest to the left here.” They pointed and laid the offered gearbits onto the counter between them, letting Roscoe feel at ease, hopefully.

It seemed they did not, glaring at the offered gearbits and Guardian once more before snatching them up and quickly gathering the firearm for them. “You don’t need bullets for these, just swing your sword around and it should recharge that way. Got solar panels too.” they briefly explained as Guardian carefully picked it up, ensuring the end was pointed away from the bandit.

“How does that work?” 

Roscoe sneered. “Does this look like a library to you, drifter? If that’s all you wanted, get the hell out of my shop.” They demanded, the gearbits having long disappeared out of sight, no doubt already squirreled away for safekeeping.

Guardian huffed, placing the blaster onto its holster and nodding. “Very well, I will take my leave.” 

“And don't come back unless you have more gearbits.”

What could have possibly turned them away from drifters so badly, I must wonder?

They were not willing to stick around and interrogate the bandit about it, making a show of taking their leisure time as they exited the gun shop with little fanfare.

With nothing else on their list to do, and a fresh new gun, they had everything in order. It was time to make their trek to the mountain.

-----

Scaling the side of the mountain to the north was far from ideal. The harsh cold and winds that tore through them as they hiked wasn’t their favorite thing to ever happen to them. They had their cloak pulled tightly around their body the further up they traveled upward.

They had avoided the north for too long now, adverse to the snow they had heard rumor of, and they weren't sure how useful they’d be against foes that commanded the sky. 

Willing to brave the brief trek, they pressed forward. 

They had to connect their warp pads together to actually be able to use them, after all. They couldn't simply guess at where a pad was; it could lead to them getting burned in the ray of light that would carry them along the way.

Ultimately, they were not certain on how warping truly worked, but they didn't have to. As long as the light beam transported them safely, they would be fine.

The distant cry of some crystal wolves would not leave them fine, however.

How wolves had found their way all the way up here, they could never know for sure. But they quickly pulled their sword out when the howling became too close for comfort. Sure enough, in a matter of moments, green encrusted wolves leapt from the bushes with snarling foam spilling between their barred teeth. They barked once before they lurched towards Guardian, a few more popping out from the brush.

They cursed, quickly slicing the torso of the first one, green blood splattering onto the snowy ground beneath them.

The other two that had appeared rushed them at once, tripping over each other as they both tried to leap at them with their rows of teeth shining. One latched onto their gauntlet, while the other crashed against their chest, causing Guardian to lose their balance. 

More curses left their lips as they tried desperately to either steady themself or shake these creatures off, their sword coming down on the one that was attaching their breastplate. It bled and howled, but only struggled harder by thrashing as their teeth tried to find purchase.

Before they knew it, their heel had slipped off the side of the nearby cliff, and all three took a tumble.

“Fuck!” Guardian shouted as the solves jaw snapped over their forearm, teeth digging into a part of flesh not covered by their gauntlet. The force caused them to drop their sword, and the sheer impact from the wolf toppled both of them onto the ground painfully. Luckily, the wolves could find no proper footing either, and were flung off their body finally as they all rolled through the thick brush.

It was horrible, twigs scraping the parts of their arms that were exposed, and bruises were blooming all over their body as they landed harshly on their armor in odd spots. Desperately, they tried to lay as flat as they could upon their rapid descent. Their cape was what slowed their stop. Getting tangled and caught into some of the bigger bushes, they slid to a stop with some upturned earth as they listened to the wolves howls grow more distant. Hopefully they’d not survive the fall, and they would rest easy now from the crystal madness.

Guardian had to pause and lay there for a handful of moments, re-orienting themself and getting their head on straight. While their armor had bruised them, they were thankfully intact from their short fall. 

Slowly, they reached for their pack that was still attached to their person, and fished out their ropes to tether them to the nearby tree. Once secured, they chanced to try and stand up to see if their legs had taken much damage. Only a few sore spots ached as they tested their weight, which was good news. With that, they made small work of looking for their red blade. 

It wasn't essential they get it back, but the sword had treated them well through the past few years they had owned it, and they wanted to try and keep it if they had a say in the matter. 

Using their rope to steady them, they pulled themself up to start their brief search. They had let it go nearly as soon as they started falling, not wanting to impale themself upon the blade. They were thankful the wolves had tumbled down; they weren’t that confident with their shooting skills.

Just a bit aways they saw the telltale gleam of their sword, laying gently against the roots of a tree. They thank the stars for any small blessings, and carefully make their way across the slope to retrieve their gear. 

More relief filled them that, as they finally started to try and move down the mountain’s edge, no howling had sounded through the air. The crystal wolves had either died falling down, or had ran off after such a hard fall. Guardian was thankful now more than ever that their armor was crafted so well. They ought to polish it soon to commend it.

Eventually, through a few stumbles and close calls, they made it back to the bottom of the mountain, no longer at danger for falling and breaking their neck upon some rocks. 

Absolutely exhausted, sweat coating their forehead with a loud heave of their breath. Their chest gave an odd tighten- and they let out a choked cough as they took a knee. They blamed that due to the long journey, carrying the weight of another person down a steep slope. Their breathing rattled and they hacked harshly for a few moments before eventually passing.

Regaining their breath, they slowly sat back upon their haunches, breathing deeply through their nose and out through their mouth. They had to ensure they wouldn’t somehow pass out from whatever strange fit had overtaken them. Their breathing evened out after a short time passing, resting their eyes and taking note of the dull ache in their shoulders, otherwise they felt fine enough to press onward, standing up slowly and regaining their balance.

They could finally attach their rope back to their person and take a better survey of any damage they sustained. Their ankle was a dark shade of red, burning brightly against the rich pink of their skin. The rest were not as deep, nicks and cuts from where some stones had cut them between armor plates, but overall they seemed more than okay. Some bandages and  homemade medicine salve, and they were back onto their way. 

This was nowhere near where they had wanted to be, at the bottom of the wrong side on the mountain. Their pack still weighed heavy with the parts to the remaining warp pad, and they heaved out a long sigh at the realization as to why they felt so exhausted. 

It was by pure accident they stumbled back across the midnight woods, the place they had first arrived when they came here.

They had honestly forgotten this place existed. The familiar red trees lined their path as they looked around, and their heart lifted. It was nice to stumble across a familiar secret; not many of the towns people could even make it this far as the journey to the north was a bit treacherous, and the animal population here was low. Not enough chances for hunting could be found here.


They could hear the distant rumbling of thunder, the permanent storm cradling the island protectively to ensure its borders were safe. Soon enough, as they took a glance above the treeline, they noticed clouds had gathered in the short steps they had taken in their mindless train of thought.

Pausing their stride, they opted to try and turn back now, knowing there wouldn't be anything for them in that wretched storm. They were already dealing with enough wetness from the melted snow that had befallen them not long before.

As they turned to leave, their gaze was pulled to a flickering light. Craning their head to catch what it was, they gasped with wide eyes at the sight.

The jackal sat between the heavens and the land, a diamond halo encasing their head as it stared through Guardian.

The sight shocked them enough to flinch at the sight, arm twitching to reach for their sword, but they stayed their hand to the divine being. It was the centipede that had hurt them, not this god before them. As they were held under the microscope of its gaze, they watched back in awe as the rest of their surroundings became foggy, clouded in a drawing light.

Appearing satisfied with what it saw, the jackal turned and started walking. 

Like a moth to a flame, they followed.

They felt disconnected from their senses, the world fading away into darkness besides the jackal in front of them. Weakly, they tried to speak aloud, to question why they were brought here, seek any answer from this ethereal being that had led them here...but nothing was able to be forced past their lips. Mouth unwilling to cooperate, t heir joints and muscles pulled them forward as if controlled by strings. They had no choice but to comply.

Death, oblivion, heaven; they had no clue where they were being dragged towards. This jackal could be leading them to the centipede’s lair for all they know. After all, it too was black with pink eyes.

They both shared many similarities, but it's one difference was the absent feeling of dread with this creature. Neither did it ever once try to attack them before, compared to the centipede which had made its goal in life to haunt Guardian’s dreams and the edges of their vision.


It wasn't enough to completely trust it, but they couldn't deny their curiosity. They ceased to struggle as they paid as much attention their addled mind would allow.

After a short journey, feeling as though they had been walking on an endless path, the jackal stopped and sat, turning their head back towards Guardian. Their pink eyes bore into them once more, drawing their own gaze back as they stared into those deep diamonds.

Finally, the jackal looked down to a red blur Guardian initially mistook for a pile of leaves.

Guardian blinked, their haze popped like a bubble, as their world came back to focus in a matter of moments.

The Jackal had disappeared, leaving nothing but an afterimage in its wake.

The dog was gone.

It took a few moments for their fuzzy mind to slide back into reality, eyes blinking slowly as their vision came back into focus. And in a few moments, the piles of red leaves in front of them came into view.

A drifter laid in a crumpled, bloody heap before them. 

Chapter Text

Finding new lands and new people was not an uncommon sight to any drifter. In fact, it was probably at least most of the job description. Traveling to new lands to find secrets, old technology and forgotten history, as well as seeing how present-day cultures still had touches of their past. It was every Drifter’s dream to see the world in new and old light.

Being led by a dream god to a fellow drifter was very telling of this one’s importance.

He was blue skinned, and he looked absolutely miserable. Doubled over in a fetal position, he was laying limply on his side, motionless save for the shallow breaths racking his body.  His face mask was pulled down around his chin, the telltale sign of blood coating his cheeks and the grass around him, attaching a reason to the wet rattle in his breaths.

A bit of prompting showed that the traveler was unconscious, and he probably wouldn't be waking up from this anytime soon. They didn't find any major cuts or fresh blood, so they could only assume it was an old wound for now. Guardian wasn't about to start undressing their fellow drifter out in the open to find out just yet.

The jackal was watching them now, from somewhere between worlds, and they let out a sigh as they went about starting a fire for their unconscious companion.

He did not rouse from his sleep the whole while Guardian worked, tending to the fire and hoping to try and dry him off; he was probably caught up in the storm that had passed by earlier. Part of them wanted to help him dry off by laying his cloaks out, but they knew that was a terrible idea. That'd be horrible to wake up to. Perhaps when they get back home later - assuming he had not woken up by then they would relieve him of his wet cloak at least.. For now, they hoped the fire would help dry and warm him as he slept.

Waiting a few hours for him to wake, they took the time to sharpen their red blade, the sound not rousing their guest in the slightest.

When they decided the drifter wouldn't wake up before nightfall, they stomped out the fire and, ever so gently, they lifted him up into their arms. His smaller stature made it easier to carry, effortlessly lifting the drifter into their arms. They carried their own pack as well as the travelers added weight with no added strain once everything was positioned correctly.

The journey back to Central was as brief as Guardian could make it, checking over the stranger in their arms thoroughly with a trained eye. They looked for any gaping wounds they might have missed or signs of freshly coughed blood, but they saw none. The drifter was not showing any signs of agony in his sleep as they walked either; they laid peacefully still, hands folded over his middle where his droid was being cradled.

Central still had people roaming around the long worn stone paths - the evening was still too young to turn in after all. And not to mention the breeze from the north's mountain was not so biting this time of night; it made for a pleasant weather set up.


Guardian was well known by now; whoever didn't like them steered clear of their path. Even carrying what looked like a half-dead body, hardly anyone batted an eye at them.

They arrived at their temporary house, shutting and locking the door behind them as they thought for a moment. The drifter was absolutely soaked, which would be awful to rest in, so they made a brief stop by their washroom, and pulled out some towels, laying the drifter on top of them.

Guardian went with the safest bet and simply pulled his cloaks off, hanging them up by the bed so he could see it as soon as he woke. A quick glance to them, they noticed some intricate stitching on the outer red cape; it pinged familiar to Guardian. The more dedicated to the craft would sew in symbols for places they had been, a way to showcase their journey. From their brief check of it, this was a very well seasoned Drifter.

How curious.

Guardian hung up his cloaks and turned the heat up in their house, hoping to combat whatever dampness was still left over.

His companion sprite had reactivated, and was bobbing around in a circle near the drifter’s head, pinging incessantly in a soft tone. Guardian shushed it gently, hoping it wouldn't actually disturb their owner’s rest.

It chirped back to them, maybe somewhat in threat, as they hovered protectively closer to the drifter’s head. Guardian took the hint and backed off, sure that the drifter would be used to his own droid beeps by now. If not, then he would only wake up sooner, even if he needed the rest.

With their guest settled under some cozy blankets and the heater turned on, they made their way to the kitchen to start making something to eat. If their guest woke up anytime soon, they assumed he would be starving from nearly dying.


Glancing over their shoulder as they pulled out a pot, they took in the stranger. He was clearly brought up in a different environment, from the oddly worn cloak and unusual head coverings, to the strange technology on their gauntlets and boots. Not to mention, he was a blueperson.

They had heard of blue people in their travels across the lands; they were no real outlier other than the fact a majority of them were drifters, and no one knew where they came from. One day they had simply showed up at the main lands, and followed a nomadic lifestyle, yet were hard to catch. Not the most noteworthy folk they heard of on their travels, but an anomaly. And, judging by his clothes in comparison to that of the other blueperson they saw in town, he seemed much more versed in his travels.

Wherever he had been, it was nowhere Guardian was familiar with, and the twinge of excitement bloomed through their chest.


What all had he seen?

Did he know different languages?

Was he interested in local folklore?

What type of information did he store in his companion sprite?

It was considered rude to make assumptions on living drifters, and Guardian had done well not to up until this point, but even they had their weak points. There was something so bizarre about this situation, they couldn't fathom such a chance meeting, being led to one another by a benevolent God. They hadn’t the vaguest idea why they were needed here, or why he was, but the possibility of him having an answer was too tempting to ignore.

Guardian’s mind buzzed with questions, itching to reach out to their resting guest and probe his mind to share stories of travels, hear tales of combat and secrets, and gems of history preserved. Documented forever in the drifters’ archive.

When they had joined the creed, they had learned from the leaders that every companion sprite had a connection to the ancient Librarians, taking each drifter's snapshot of history to place upon their tablets for the eternal archives. 

While they reminisced, they pulled out some ingredients for stew; it would be good for him when he awoke. Easy to digest for the sick, and a general crowd pleaser. They paused, taking a glance at him again before adding a little more meat to the ingredients pile. With those claws he was sporting, and the dim gleam of teeth poking through his lip, he probably leaned towards meat.

Now, they waited idly. They rooted through some of the robot parts they'd found over their dinner table, screwdriver in one hand, spoon of stew in the other, they worked. Their food warmed them tremendously, tension in their shoulders relaxing out as they worked mindlessly on their easy project.


Rare was it their hands were ever steady, always fidgeting and fixing something; feeling useful made them relax. Their partner had once teased them that if they did stay completely idle, they would simply fall apart from boredom.


A soft chuckle escaped them at the memory as they braided red wires together, clipping them into the correct slots.

They were fine taking their time with things, but as long as they continued to slowly work on something, they were stimulated. One of their favorite things to do was to cook for that very reason - being forced to slow down and take a few moments to stir a boiling pot. They weren’t the best cook out there, but the few dishes they did know were always a great treat.

Briefly, they wondered when the last time the drifter had a nice warm dinner.

-----

Guardian considered themself an old sport at playing the waiting game.

Waiting for the inevitable to happen to their lost loved family, waiting for visions to appear when they deigned to grace their mind, waiting for the same sickness to take them as it had their family. Waiting shouldn't be an issue for them.

Being patient for one person to wake up should prove no effort on their part.

Yet, as they fiddled around with their droid, broken pieces of technology they had gathered, they felt their patience slip.

They needed to probe and ask the stranger anything and everything that thrummed under their tongue, and feeling the hours tick by was nearly torture. They prayed that their guest would be the talkative type; Alt had made it clear she wouldn’t be forthcoming with her answers on her travels. 

In general, drifters were trained to be elusive, full of tricks to keep anything about them secretive and their information under wraps. It wasn't a surprise that Alt had been cold towards their probing; that had been a bit rude of them, yet they never could quite nail down that part of their spirit. They had been raised to be polite and straightforward, and it was hard not to simply ask outright what couldn't be asked from the dead.

I shouldn't expect much from him.

They tried to remind themself of their creed’s ways, and the elusive nature of the blue peoples clan in general, but they held hope he'd be open to sharing information.

Finally, when dawn broke and Guardian caught a few winks, they noticed the Drifter shift in their bed across the room. He was disoriented, and sluggish - maybe sore from the trip getting here - but he managed to pull himself up into a sitting position. He took a long look around the room, but froze when he saw Guardian looking from across the room. They had been in the kitchen dozing for a while before deciding to make some tea for themself, but perked up when they saw their guest had finally woken up.

“Good morning.” They greeted in their old drifter tongue, putting the kettle on the stove before pulling over a chair to settle by their bed. They sat far enough away so as not to crowd him, allowing him the space to study his barings.

“Feeling any better? You've been asleep since I found you last evening.” They explained slowly, hoping that they even spoke the same language at all. All drifters learned one language to share between them, but that didn’t mean it stuck for long after their travels started.

When Guardian had met Alt that while ago, they had both used the common tongue of these lands without any hindrance. Alt appeared to have vast knowledge of tech on her side - probably studied a lot of language banks if they had to bet - but this drifter in front of them seemed so different from what they would expect from their fellow drifters. Using the old drifter speech seemed like the best option to go with, for now.

The Drifter had black eyes, a deep bruise under his right one, and his clothes were still a bit torn, though no longer damp at least. He said nothing to their inquiries.

Grimacing slightly, they asked. “Do you understand me?”

He nodded, getting a sigh of relief from Guardian.

Thank the stars for any small blessing.

“Good.” They said, folding their hands in their lap. “My title is Guardian. I am a fellow drifter. You were in the midnight woods and I brought you back to my temporary dwelling. You are free to rest here, if you'd like.”

The stranger watched them as they spoke, giving them a scrutinizing gaze. Guardian could understand the apprehension; trust didn't come with the lifestyle after all.

After a moment, the traveler’s hand came up unexpectedly, moving in some familiar gestures.

“Do you understand sign?” The drifter signed, tilting his head slightly, with a doubtful gaze cast over his eyes. He must not find many who understand it in his travels.

Guardian nodded slowly. “I am rusty. Maybe stay away from long words if you can help it, but I know enough.”

That seemed to please the other, as he nodded satisfactorily. His hands moved at a controlled, steady pace, easier for Guardian to understand. “My name is Drifter. I have traveled to these lands to seek a cure for my affliction. I've been led to believe this area carries what I’m looking for.”

Guardian touched their chin. “I see. Do you have any idea what this cure might be by name? If I know it, I will point you to it.” The way he spoke of it so nonchalantly made them doubt they shared the same sickness after all. It made them curious.

Drifter shook his head. “I do not have a name for it in common medicine.” He admitted, pausing for a moment before he added, “It is not contagious.”

“I assumed if it was, you would have said something sooner.” The whistling of the kettle reminded Guardian about tea, tearing them away from the bedside back into the kitchen to fix two cups of some relaxing brews.

They liked their own drinks sweetened. Life on the road caused them to give up many luxuries, but sweets were plentiful to come by in the correct areas. It was an easy, tasty comfort, but it seemed Drifter did not share that as he drank immediately what was handed to him. Both travelers were somewhat shy about showing off their faces, taking quick sips before readjusting their respective face coverings.

After a moment of idle sipping, his companion bot pinged, grabbing their attention. “Is this your house?” He signed curiously.

They blinked, smiling at the creative way to use a companion sprite. “Oh- no, I’m only staying here for now. This used to be a whole building to house fellow drifters coming and going, but these lands have become somewhat forgotten over time. I had to refurbish a good portion of this dwelling.” More like eighty percent of it.

This made Drifter cock his head to the side, eyebrows up under his helmet. “Why go to so much trouble to stay here?”

A fair question. Guardian hummed for a moment, mulling over how to answer.

“I was led here under my own circumstances. Those have forced me to make my passing through a little longer than a simple rumor and footprint. However, I still live by our ways otherwise, and in due time will also leave.” 

Guardian caught their tongue, tensing.  “Forgive me. I don't want to say too much at the moment.” If Drifter wasn’t a chatty type, they didn’t want to offer up so much information just yet.

Drifter held up a hand and nodded, understanding. “Completely fine.” He signed shortly; Guardian almost didn’t catch it. They’d have to watch him more diligently to keep up with his conversation.


It wasn't particularly rare to find a fellow drifter with manners, but it was never unwelcome. Guardian found it endearing, and their own smile spread under the shade of their helm.

“If I may actually pry, I did want to ask you a few things. There’s no need to provide an answer if it is too personal.”

Drifter seemed to ponder for only a moment before he nodded, hands coming up coyly. “Only if I can ask you things in return. Same rules apply.”

Their smile widened somehow, nodding once. “Deal. I will go first.” 

What a polite man, I like his way of thinking.

They were eager to start asking questions, they thought back to their earlier musings about their guest, eyeing him over for a few moments. “What languages do you know?”

He considered this a moment, shrugging. “A handful; common tongue, forestspeech, some that the birds use.  The only ones im not particularly proficient in are water based languages. I don't know any special languages, aside from some glyph writings I can interpret, but that is only area-specific.”

They raised an eyebrow. “And where is that area?”

“The ancient sky temples in the unending deserts of the main lands. They've been there for centuries, though all local folklore and the glyphs depict the temples having come down from the stars.” He explained mystically, fingers twiddling somewhat in his own stories’ awe.

“That is amazing.” Guardian said with no shame, teal eyes gleaming under the brow of their helmet. “To think that you did not consider that special.”

Drifter huffed. “It is not like it’s a dead language discovered or ancient technology that can be improved.”

“It’s important folklore to the people who live there. That is worth preserving.”

A pause, then a nod from the drifter in reluctant defeat. After a moment, his own hands came up once more, “Why are you called ‘Guardian’?”

They let out a gruff laugh. “It was a title given to me long before my time as a drifter by someone close to me.” They admitted truthfully. They pursed their lips slightly and looked away from those obsidian eyes. “It might also be perhaps because as soon as I arrived, I killed some monsters for harassing innocents.” They said, no shame as they leaned back in their chair. “The ways of drifters all differ from each one. My way of drifting involves my sense of personal morals, within reason.” Saving two people would not drastically change the outcome of history, after all. In fact, it’d help preserve the stories they held.

Maybe they were somewhat fearful of Drifter’s judgment, not wanting to scare him off with their need to bend the rules slightly to their whims. They had met a few drifters before that had nearly attacked them for trying to approach. They had a right to be wary.

It seemed it was unwarranted in the end, as Drifter nodded. “Attacking innocents is the most cowardly thing one could do.”

Immediately, they nodded in agreement. “I hold that belief as well.” They paused for a brief moment. “However, I am not here all the time. I am a drifter, after all, and am not always here to offer protection. The name is one that has been given for my general attitude, not something that is necessarily true.” Many times, they felt they needed to protect

As much as Guardian would like to stay and be the local sheriff, they couldn't ever guarantee anything. Every venture out was a risk with death.

“What type of information do you favor gathering?” They asked, turning to look at Drifter’s droid that bobbed in the air by his side as they avoided eye contact for a moment. Every drifter was drawn towards a different type of historical information: art, architecture, social class, even spoken word changed over time.

This caused Drifter to pause, eyeing Guardian for a moment, before deciding against probing and favoring instead to answer in depth. “I favor collecting data on technological advances through the ages, and things dead civilizations prefer to have kept hidden.” He signed with a certain muted smugness before continuing on. “Literature, clothing, and art sometimes. I do like seeing the statues the old civilizations I’ve crossed have made, yet the art I see never makes me feel anything.” He explained thoroughly, shaking his head a little at the end. “The clothing is useful for finding different lifesaving remedies for travel. Any clothing tricks to help retain heat in a blizzard is helpful, even if it's just tying your cloak a different way.”

Guardian did not respond immediately, Drifter stilling his hands and placing them in his lap as they had to take a moment to process all of Drifter’s sign. They understood it fine enough, but it had been a while since they had a long term conversation like this with the language. Slowly they finally nodded, pointing a hand out to Drifter's boots. “I can understand where the interest in technology comes from.”

Drifter followed their gaze down, nodding. “I made these a few seasons ago. I needed something that could handle the boosters and the weight of my drops, as well as retain the heat in my legs.” He signed this significantly slower than before, which Guardian quietly appreciated.

They chuckled somewhat. “You’ve mentioned keeping warm a few times. Do you not fare well in the cold?”

Drifter stiffened, but sighed, reluctantly signing, “That’s accurate. My build does not do well in low temperatures.”

A silent congratulations to themself for their earlier decision to raise the temperature before Drifter had woken up. Every little bit to make a guest feel comfortable was key.

"You may want to avoid the north for later, it was unbearably cold when I last ventured. It might not be wise to take it on at the moment." They offered. 

"Duly noted." He gave a thumbs up, looking up to the other. "How long have you been here?”

"Not long, perhaps a few weeks by now. It has certainly felt longer than that, it was essential I repair the warp pads first before I continue on my journey.” They cleared the tickle from their throat, patting their sore chest momentarily.

Drifter raised an eyebrow at that information. “You know how to repair warp pads?” He asked curiously, thinking for a moment and quickly adding. “Do you have blueprints?” His gaze flickered between them and their companion sprite.

They did, glancing to their own droid as well. "They are hard to make, and take much time, but I do." Of course he would be interested in their technology. Perhaps he could help find easier materials to use, something with longer lasting fuel power possibly. "I will sync our companions."

Ushering them both together, they opened up their settings app and went about transferring the data. Before long, Drifters sprite pinged to signal completion. They stilled their movements, hearing a snap. They turned to the owner, spotting Drifter waving his hand to get their attention.

"You are much too kind. I could never find a way to repay your giving nature."

"You can tell me of your travels?" They suggested, turning to pull up their chair to face Drifter so they could listen to their stories. “I have been to many lands, and seen great sights, but I still hear the wonders of even more distant and stunning areas from the stories of others. If you are not inclined to tell, I won’t pry..” They knew the blue people were notorious for being very private folk, but they couldn’t help but jump at the chance; Drifter seemed the type to tell them if they ever crossed a line.

Drifter smiled - they could tell by the way his eyes crinkled - and he leaned back against the headboard, pillow pulled up to be more comfortable. He pulled his mask down once more to take one last long drink of his hot tea, readjusting his coverings after finishing before his hands flew, speaking of his travels and showing off a few pictures from his companion.

Giant trees that glowed blue, resembling almost that of a mushroom. Strange beasts that flew far above alongside mountains, moving like snakes gliding upon the winds. He painted the image of these technicolored mushrooms that dwarfed even some of the taller ruins that littered the ancient lands here. Hearing more in depth about the sky islands was an interesting delight, and the trek up to them as well pulled a small laugh from Guardian. 

Drifter admitted he didn’t have much fright when it came to heights, but traversing those islands did trigger an instinctual fear he hadn’t felt much before. The sights he had caught on the way were worth it in the end.

He briefly touched upon weather conditions, and how some of the local villages reacted to his presence either neutrally or extremely violently. There were also many hidden cities he had stumbled upon, which turns out had been hidden for a reason.

Drifter then revealed he was no stranger to prisons of all sorts for accidental trespassing, and Guardian had to laugh at the statement. They couldn’t remember how many times they had been arrested, pulled aside for inadvertently disturbing private properties (somehow, in this post-apocalyptic world after the calamity) and for being a simple outsider. Luckily, most justice system's had a way for combat as a way to gamble for freedom, and they used that to their advantage in the past.

Drifter had agreed to the same, even going so far as to break out when he could and had done so multiple times in the past.

“I’m most likely wanted in many cities and villages. Unfortunately, those debts to their society will remain unpaid.” He signed with finality, most likely a personal vow to not be recaptured in the same place twice.

Drifter did have the base model companion sprite, the most common among drifters, and Guardian had seen more blue people as drifters than any other. He was a lot smarter than they had previously thought him to be, the realization of how well Drifter could adapt to avoid detection. A simple clothing change, burn the old cape and hide whatever evidence; they thought it was near genius.

“If it is any consolation, I’m sure some petty breaking and entering charges won't be enough to make a whole village remember you.” The obvious question of whether Drifter had done something worse to warrant such punishment went unvoiced.

Drifter wisely opted not to clarify the unasked question, pulling a hand up to cough into his fist. It sounded rough, and Guardian noted he had been out of tea for a while now. They stood up and collected their empty cups. “Would you like some more to drink? It might help with the cough.”

He nodded, clearing his throat and sagging against the pillows that he had propped up against.

“Perhaps you should rest some more. Your travels don’t seem to have been kind to you.” They poured some warm tea into Drifter’s cup, filling it as high as it would go before returning to place it in Drifter’s hands.

After he took a few gulps - completely downing the drink - he handed the empty cup back to sign with gratitude. “Not particularly, but your hospitality is appreciated. I will rest now.”

Guardian finished off their own cup finally. “I have business to attend to, so I will take my leave. Rest easy, Drifter.”

That appeared to satisfy him, as he shifted to lay back down into the sheets, flat on his back. While Drifter got comfortable, Guardian left him on their bed and went to nab their cloak from the closet. They had no idea how long they’d be gone, but they might as well dress for long travel.

They stick the empty cups into the sink, and grab their companion sprite from its charging dock.

Taking one last look at Drifter's form on the bed, his hands folded loosely over his stomach and head turned away from the doorway. They took the liberty to pull the curtain down from the wall, letting it drape over the doorway as they walked away. Drifter seemed to be a fan of his privacy; Guardian could accommodate that easily.

Slipping out their front door, they took care to lock up for their guests safety.

I can’t believe what luck has brought our paths together.

To think… such an interesting man is plagued with the same illness. It must be very bad if he cannot talk due to it.

Be it through biology or a different type of training, Drifter did not seem entirely too perturbed by his illness. They were not sure if it was the same illness that plagued themself and their lost family; the symptoms appeared the same, but Drifter was still alive at this stage. 

Granted, Guardian had not been too affected by their own plague in their time here, so maybe they had all suffered from something different. 

They were no apothecary, and they shouldn't muse about their guests' privacy either. 

So they turned their attention towards their next goal: Figuring out what to do next.

There was no ethereal Jackal around to lead them towards other drifters that they could tell, so they figured they may as well upkeep their gear before heading out once more. They could try and brave the mountain again, but something told them to stay close.

Well, if no godly force was actually going to show itself to tell them to stay put, they may as well go forward with what drifting entailed. Until the jackal showed up once more, they would carry on as normal. 

After all, it seemed their main goal was to help Drifter the once, not continuously. They were not his caretaker, as far as they knew.

So they decided to pay Ava a small visit first. Entering her shop full of gadgets was going to continue to be a pleasure, they could tell. They were quite handy themself if the warp pads were anything to go by, but these were all created from scratch from what they observed. That seemed much more impressive to them.

She had her back turned to the doorway but looked over when she saw their shadow. A smile and light chirp escaped her as she greeted them. “Looky here, Central's guardian made it back! How have your travels been?”

Guardian approached the counter, a hand coming to touch over their chin as they thought about it. “It was nice for the utmost part. Had a run in with some crystal wolves, but nothing too bad.” The roll down the mountain was far worse, but they didn’t feel up to disclosing that blunder. “The east was quite beautiful, a rich culture and kind individuals. I was honored I was even allowed to traverse their village for a short while. I am happy to add it to my list of beautiful places I’ve traveled.”

Ava leaned against her counter with a soft smile, eyes lighting up with curiosity. “Really? Care to paint a picture for me?”

While in hindsight they knew she meant verbally, it didn't stop the slight jump that came from them at the immediate thought of; How could she know that? I did not recall telling her about my artistic habits…

They cleared their throat to give them an extra moment to collect themself before shaking their head. “Ah, no, I don’t have the time to take any commission work at this moment, I’m busy with travel.” They tried to explain gently, shrugging.

Ava blinked once, twice, before her hand shot to her beak to contain her poorly contained laughter. “Oh, Guardian.. I meant in the figure of speech.” She let loose another snicker even with Guardians growing dismay. “Like, I just wanted you to explain it to me!” One last giggle escaped before she regained her composure.

Guardian didn’t know what to say now. The heat had risen up to their ear tips at their fumble of words, wondering how that could have happened. A slight language barrier- or something. It wasn’t becoming of them, and now a cat had their tongue to boot. How embarrassing.

“Oh.” They finally landed on awkwardly glancing anywhere but Ava’s bemused face at their stumble. “Um.. Well, it was wet for one thing.. A lot of water. And the otters live there too. I saw a few.” They summarized lamely.

Ava, the sweet thing she was, simply nodded with a soft smile on her features. “Sounds very lovely, maybe I'll have to go sometime if it ever gets safer. Thanks for telling me, but I'm guessing you came in here for a real reason maybe?” She asked quickly, blessedly moving along to let Guardian recover.

“I did stop by for two reasons. I wanted to let you know that I have not yet gathered any useful tech on my travels I was able to bring back, but I should be on another endeavor soon. I will bring you new technology soon enough. The other reason.. I suppose I wanted to check in with you. Have you any wares that you have made recently?”

“Oh! I've actually got one thing that might be useful for you- It's a prototype right now, but I've got some good groundwork on this one done.” She pulled up a purple sphere with a button on top, a black circle in the middle. “It's a bomb that will put itself back together in seconds, but there is a recharge time for the fuses. But the idea is to buy one once, and never have to get more again.” She explained, holding it up for Guardian to see.

“You press this down on top and simply toss it a good ways away. I’ve been having some trouble finding some good spots to test it out with, so this is a beta version... but I'll sell it to you at half price if you want to be my test runner?” She probed with a cheeky shrug.

“Is it a live bomb? Does it have any chance to go off at random?” They asked cautiously.

Ava shook her head. “I’ve tried a few things to make it randomly set off, and there is a safety latch for the button. I think it should be okay. I made it after all.” She beamed proudly. 

They still heavily considered this, thinking of the options presented. “... I think I will have to pass this one time. So far I have not dealt with many hoards as of yet, and I tend to go into close combat the easiest.” They explained, waving a vague gesture towards the sword upon their back, causing their sprite to beep when almost hit by their gesture. They patted its rim in silent apology.

Ava seemed disappointed by their answer, but nodded as she set it simply aside. “I see. Well, maybe when it's out of beta, I'll offer it up again? Maybe your little friend might be interested?” A smile flashed against her face quickly.

Guardian felt the grimace wash over them and a long sigh escaped to boot. “Word travels fast here, doesn't it?”


“It sure does!” She let out a soft snicker. “I’ll try not to pry, but blueskins aren't a real common sight anymore. And I thought you big scary drifters did not help each other.” She wasn't subtle with her newfound probing, smiling with her scheme. “Bandit let loose a few words to his cousins who told shopkeeps, told buyers, etcetera.” She waved a hand with a mischievous grin.

Guardian took a moment to sigh again for good measure, ensuring that she'd really hear it before shrugging. “I suppose I can't help how rumors come about. But, that is not all true about drifters. If we accept help, then we get it. But, we are trained to be secretive for our reasons.” They said cryptically. “I may not be around to ask him should he leave before I return, but I’m sure he's smart enough to know a good shop when he sees one.” They smiled now.

Ava grinned back. “Flattery won't give you any cheaper prices, but thank you.” She smiled with their charmed words. “Maybe you’ll tell me about drifters someday?”

That pulled a short laugh from them. “When you become one yourself, I won't need to tell you anything.” 

Ava pouted at them with a sigh. “You're no fun. What would be the harm in telling someone about your ways? Besides the travel part.” 

“It is just not part of the creed’s way. Some might, but I've never met another drifter who shared their secrets with me openly.” It took years and a proposal to get their spouse to have that conversation with them. “If that is all, I should actually be moving along.”

Ava nodded. “Oh, yes I've probably been keeping you from your very important and secretive work.” One last small laugh pulled from her. “Thanks for stopping by to chat. If I see your friend, I’ll say hello,” she assured. “Safe travels.”


They bid her goodbye with a simple nod, and left her shop with a suffering sigh to add to their pile. They felt like they were doing that a lot as of late. 

In hindsight, they really shouldn't be shocked at the curiosity anymore. Of course it wasn't an uncommon question, but the same frame of mind and similar questions got repetitive after years of drifting. Guardian personally didn’t ever want to intrude on other people's personal habits or otherwise; their concern was history, after all. 

They tried not to dwell on the thought long, stepping back out into Central’s hub for a breath of fresher air. They saw plenty of people mulling about, giving a cursory nod to some of the other shopkeeps they noticed. 

A part of them wanted to go visit the sword master, but they didn't have the credits for it, even with skipping out on buying Ava’s beta. They could try their hand at bargaining, but they felt they wouldn't win against someone with ‘master’ in their title. 

The symbol in the middle of the square tried to pull their gaze, feeling the gentle hum of whatever it was through their boots. 

Not wanting to spend the next hour staring, they force their legs to go west, feeling elated to see a new place that wouldn't freeze them, or have long cliffs to tumble down. They did recall Alt’s warning of this place and her explanation of the crystals, so caution followed their every step. 

Their companion sprite shared no outward happiness at their bout of travels, but Guardian liked to think it did. As they walked, they gave a long affectionate pet to its rim, causing it to beep in reply. “Well, at least we are back where we belong.” They noted, gesturing to the road. 

The sprite did not reply, but they smiled anyway.

The road was not too treacherous just yet, which made Guarian feel happier about their current 

The landscape was not so treacherous as the north, to Guardian’s relief; no immediate mountain to scale and no bitter cold tearing through their armor. And, in their humble opinion, the area seemed quite beautiful. It appeared to stem off from the midnight woods they had first encountered on the island: big trees and distant animal life walking through the trees. It was deceptively peaceful, and Guardian could appreciate the beauty outfront.

It was nice to be walking again, not having to guess about locals or talk to anyone aloud for a while. They certainly gave small chatter to their sprite on trips, as it was their permanent companion, but knowing deep down it wasn't judgmental to begin with was nowhere near the same as a stranger.

The long, lonesome road gave them an inner peace, and they were glad to get some new artistic inspiration. 

There was something very stunning about this island so far: nearly everything was brightly colored and caught their eye. Guardian had not been one for the approach of stealth, taking more of the cautious but brunt way of life; it was nearly fitting that their bright pink and tealed armor blended in here better than anywhere else they had previously been.

They attributed that fact to how strange this island was. Guardian was a well seasoned drifter, having seen so many sights upon their travels, but somewhere so heavy with a sick feeling of magic and a giant titan standing at the bottom of a lake had truly caught their breath.

Not to mention the floating structure floating above.

Guardian turned their gaze upward to look at said contraption as they walked, trying to make some tangible sense of it. It was huge, and yet did not seem solid as it floated with the wind, shimmering with light. It was an oppressive force, and it did not enter their mind all that often since their arrival. They wondered if that was part of its magic essence, causing anyone under it to look away and forget about it. It could be a stretch, but to test their theory, they beckoned their sprite over to tap onto the pop-out holo screen to set a reminder for themself. Hopefully this would not invoke a further curse on their person.

With their reprieve underway, it was not long until they stumbled across another warp pad along their path.

Part of them should have expected it, as there was evidence of this being some sort of drifter hub in eons past, but it still took Guardian by surprise when the clearing came into view.

Some blue cranes were grazing along the edges of the warp, long beaks picking at the dirt to search for some bugs on the ancient relic. It was a very serene scene, and once again, Guardian’s breath nearly caught at the sight. Luckily, their hands worked faster than any shock, and they directed their droid to quickly take a photo of the scene before they approached slowly.

It was no surprise when the cranes flew away, and Guardian gave them a long glance as they flew away before directing their attention to their wonderful find.

All of these would make travel much easier, and it made Guardian on some level of giddy at the idea of being able to travel as old drifters did. Warp pads were nowhere uncommon, but to find an ancient hub like this was something else altogether.

Eager to inspect it, they set about their work of running diagnostics and checking for any loose panels or wiring.

Old age and disuse were present, but otherwise it seemed perfectly fine. They had 

a wide smile at their revelation, and quickly jotted the location down onto their map. 

The new find had Guardian elated by their find, knowing they were walking the footprints of fellow drifters long since passed.

It raised more questions in Guardian’s mind as well, like “Why this location?”. They understood why an island, but Guardian had not heard of many drifters being magically talented. There were plenty of religious aspects to their creed, but even those rules were bendable to conform to whichever drifter decided to take up the lifestyle, previous religious practices included. (Truly, their only main rule was the anonymity aspect to their travels, for safety measures to their data collected). The librarians were not gods, but they were certainly something else in their own regard.

Another question that wandered into their mind was how they had not heard of this place before.

Private by their followings’ demand, drifters were protective of what knowledge they had picked up as to avoid any game of telephone through ages passed. History often got distorted on who told the story, and spoken word was unreliable in long term practice. What was more useful was to take many accounts of the same thing to cross-examine what was written to see any overlaps in reports. But drifter safe havens and hubs were a popular topic amongst fellow travelers, especially the older ones that stayed closer to cities in their older years. Offering guidance and suggestions to fresh drifters, even within the companion sprites’ base form should have some kind of program with a drifter hub marked somewhere when they had found it.

This place seemed to have been rich with drifters, and no one had spoken a word of it in all of their time here prior. 

The alternate option was that they had specifically not told Guardian about its existence.

They weren't sure which answer they deemed more favorable.

And yet, another had popped into their mind immediately. There were at least three civilizations here upon the island: Central’s residents of all kinds, the eastern otters, and the birds up north. Central appeared the most recent out of everything they had encountered here thus far. The residents seemed more to have found some solace in the ruins left by those before; a city of old empty buildings was the perfect place to hole up in and preserve. Communities could bud up basically anywhere, so why build elsewhere when there was plenty of unused space here already built? It made sense, as the melting pot of people they had seen there.

Then, on the other hand, there were the otters. And they were just otters when they had visited. Guardian had stuck out like a beacon amongst their furry peers, and their spires had been lovingly carved from generations long before, and yet the tiles still shined against the reflective waters they took dwelling in. But they had a warp pad with them. How long had the otters truly been here?

And in all of this, where were the drifters?

Seeing all the warp pads around gave clear evidence drifters had frequented here, and yet the only ones here were themself, Alt, and Drifter, who had both arrived after they had. The fact that many of the residents were surprised to see them alone was daunting when they truly thought about it.

The spire above them was truly starting to resemble that of an omen: a promise of something bad to come.

Even so, Guardian would persist. They had to. Whatever had taken their family away led them here, and Guardian would find out the root of what had happened no matter how cursed the land might be.

And cursed lands they were.

The beauty of the forest had started to morph along their walk, their wandering thoughts had taken their legs with them across the forest floors. This was a careless thing, to walk through unknown lands with their thoughts so layered, but they trusted themself to get through whatever was thrown their way.

With their attention brought back to their surroundings, they were surprised to see the lands were changing the more they progressed. Alt had given Guardian a warning about the crystals, but it was still a sight to behold as they watched the trees become crystalized with each step, the grass disappearing under their feet.

Crystals and rocks replaced the forest the further they went, and the very landscape seemed to crumble around them. Peering over edges, Guardian saw a long crevice that had been carved into the planet, giant crystals lining the bottom to impale anything so unfortunate to fall over the cliff.

Concerned, Guardian decided to keep their wits about them and their rope handy as they pressed onward. They hadn't encountered anything dangerous here yet, and they had to wonder how far they had to travel to find the crystal raccoons Alt had mentioned.

With further curiosity, they noticed a bridge with some crystal embedded into the ground oddly. It didn't seem safe, but a quick glance around didn't show any alternate route immediately. While not in any outright hurry, they did want to press on sooner rather than later. 

They pulled out their ropes easily, stepping forward to try and find a base to support themself when they stepped over the crystal floor.

They only had a moment to react as they jumped back, their cape suffering the most damage as a crystal shot up from the ground, the sound of glass ringing out as the bundle of spikes grew. 

Guardian stared at the crystal from their spot laying breathlessly upon the ground, amazed by the sudden burst of adrenaline coursing through them by the crystal defense. And only moments after they took it all in, the crystal shattered easily into the ground below them.

They had to take a few moments after what they had just seen, blinking rapidly a few times to gather their thoughts. 

A trap! An ancient trap that still works so well, and I cannot see how it works.

Guardian had dealt with their fair share of floor pressure and ‘string trip’-type traps in the past, but this one was certainly a lot more dangerous, they thought.

To be fair, anything labeled as a trap was probably not safe to be around.

But to utilize the lands' very crystals in such a way was a fascinating use for them. Extremely brutal, but clever in their eyes. It wasn't hard to set up and disguise, and it would surely cause many travelers to become too wary of the land, if they survived this at all.

Now that Guardian knew what to look for, they had confidence they'd survive this with a gentle step and sharper eye. Carefully, they readied their dash, aiming to a spot where no crystals littered the ground, and sprang forward.

A shower of the crystals shot up from the ground in a trail behind them, but luckily they were quick enough to not let their cape get snagged. It was almost fun doding the crystal traps, if the threat of getting punctured wasn't there.

Or maybe that just added to the thrill.

It was interesting to dissect the land apart as they traveled through it, the leaves turning to stone the deeper in they went. The sight of a huge skeleton caught their eye; it was nothing like the mechanical giant that laid in the waters of the east. 

What kind of creature could have roamed these lands in times prior? Did the librarians know? 

These were questions they had no answer to - less than their own quest - but they took pictures for documentation anyway. It was best to leave sleeping bones where they lie anyway.

Crossing more forest thresholds lead them to a small group of crystal wolves, causing a frown to form beneath their helm. They shouldn’t hold any ill will toward them… but it wasn't easy to deal with creatures that had lost their mind. They sighed, unsheathing their blade from its holster and approached the growling, foaming beasts. As soon as they were noticed, the group howled before charging nearly all at once. 

Bracing themself, they sliced through them, splattering neon green blood onto the grass below, straining their boots and the ground beneath them. At least it was a swift end to them; hopefully they had long passed on since their bodies became untethered.

A quick scan of their surroundings showed that no more wolves were hidden in the nearby bushes. They let out a sigh of relief, holding their sword loosely in their hand as they relaxed for a moment. 

Distantly, Guardian wondered when they would come across the samurai Alt had mentioned. Thus far, they only had to deal with these frightening wolves. 

They kept their sword out as they moved forward, determined to see for themself what she had meant. It was possible that the racoons had some connection with the land's corruption, the way Alt had explained them. Lost minds, infected by the land's crystals..

Determined, they pressed on, holding their blade at the ready as they scanned the forest around them, straining their ears for any stray noises.

Finally, they broke out into a small trail, away from the clearing by the creatures bones. Once the area had opened up, they could see how the crystals spurred out from the roots of trees nearby, climbing up to crystallize the leaves to the branches. They saw some cracks start to form that were deeper than they had seen previously. A few feet away, there was an overgrown canon of sorts, and leftover remains from some big robot.

Their thoughts were torn away as they heard something mechanic fall nearby, and they whipped their blade out, seeing the robotic spider flit towards them. They cut it apart, and the next two to drop down and join the first. They huffed at the number of them, but glad they didn't cause much damage, tearing at the fabric of their boots rather than drawing blood before they cut them easily with their sword.

A pile of robot spider guts surrounded them, and they figured this would be an opportune place to scavenge on their way back, marking it on their map to come back to. They had planned not to spend more than a few days here, and they hoped that wasn't long enough for someone to come by and scavenge before them.

The spiders were strange, and yet, the next area was a little stranger. Some leftover platforms that had survived the tremors these deep crystals had caused, an empty open canyon stretching out before them. They chanced stepping over to the edge, taking a peek down to sate their curiosity.

Guardian couldn't help but let out a low whistle, hearing it echo below them into the cavern; it seemed crystals held a sound pretty well. They waved their companion over, pulling up their holo screen to snap a picture over the cliffside. Whatever had gone wrong to cause something like this must have been worth of attention, they could envision a use where crystal support beams held buildings, if they could manage any control better than this. 

Well, that was for the librarians to consider, they guessed. They took another look at the next platform, steadying their nerves to jump over a high cliff and dashing across to safety. A tight breath let out; one down, only a few to go. 

It got easier, which they assumed they should expect the further they went. As long as they reminded themself not to look down as they were midair, it wasn't so daunting. They were glad they were as used to wearing armor as they were, or these jumps would've been harder to make.

Guardian couldn't hide their breath of relief when they made it fully across, feet touching on fully stable ground, their shoulders finally fell from the tension they had built up.

I hope I won't have to do that anymore.

Rolling their shoulders, they pressed forward, keeping a keen eye on the cracks running through the land. They didn't seem to be caused by an earthquake. Guardian had seen the aftermaths of those on occasion, but this felt more catastrophic, and left such a land altering impact. It made them more concerned as the crystals even became more spiked, hostile architecture surrounding every step in between the breaths of forest trees they passed. 

They found a small forest trail hidden off to the side, and they decided it might be an easier path to take with less crystals, hopefully. 

They were greeted by what they had hoped for: More trees and a sweet smell wafting through the wind from the flowers that grew around the crystalized tree branches. It gave them a brief moment of calm, smiling at the breath of tranquility. 

Guardian held their hand out, trailing their fingers against the trees as they passed by, the different textures bumping under their gloves. It was mesmerizing, seeing how thorough this infection was, despite the tree trying to grow up from where the crystal had grounded it, bark contorting to grow away from the rock. The crystals were slower growing than the trees, but in the long battle they'd overtake the whole forest if left unchecked. They wondered how long these crystals had been forming, if they were this extensive.

The thoughts plagued them as they roamed through the brush, ducking through vines and checking behind bushes, looking for any landmarks of items of interest. It was a surprise they found a gearbit case hidden behind some trees, the symbol still blinking on a case covered with dead forest debris. They were quick to dig it out, attaching their droid to intake the credit. It pinged happily, displaying their wallet to them. 

It was too bad they only took gearbits as currency here; they had stockpiled a comfortable amount before they had ended up here. Still, one gearbit was better than none. It gave them the idea to poke around the forest brush more thoroughly, wondering what else they had missed up to this point.

A sign of movement shifted in their peripherals; stopping Guardian in their tracks. They did not hear any running footfalls come near, so they felt secure enough to get down low and peer around the edge of the tree’s bark. 

They were… somewhat similar to the apothecary in Central, but bigger, they noted. They stood high up with a weapon brandished far above head, and crystals were sprinkled  and embedded into their fur. It was an oddly intimidating sight, how they moved in a sluggish way, but their eyes and ears were pointed with intense focus. Waiting for something to hunt. 

Guardian slid their sword from its holster with a careful hand, not taking their eyes off of them. 

These creatures won’t go down easy. I have to keep my wit up.

If they were lucky, they could just sneak past without a conflict… but a part of them did want to test out the abilities of these racoons. If they were going to try traversing around this area, it could be beneficial to ensure they were prepared for anything to happen.

They didn't get the chance, however, as they soon peered back around the tree and saw two of the nearby racoons begin to sniff around in the air, starting to stalk closer to their tree. 

Of course, they had underestimated the poor creatures and their abilities. It was a good thing that, despite whatever illness these crystals had caused, was not able to completely zombify them. 

Well, good for the raccoons, not so good for Guardian. 

Internally cursing at being caught so swiftly, they decided to drift out into the clearing, engaging the samurai in battle. Despite whatever madness had taken over their minds, they had the posture and confidence of warriors they had clashed with before, and the crystals gave them a ferocious gleam to their eyes. 

If Guardian had been a lesser drifter, they may have faltered. 

Instead, they stood firm, bracing on their heels as the samurai tensed, their crystals pulsing soft light around their forms. Faster than Guardian’s drift, the samurai launched forward, slim swords clanging against the bulk of their own with a brilliant ring. 

Guardian grunted softly, rearing a fist back and punching the samurai on their left, shoving back the one on the right. They hefted up their sword to bring down a long range slice, hoping to get both of them at once.

They cut through the left one's chest, and buried their blade's edge into the right racoon's neck, an inch shy of cutting their head clean off. It fell to the ground, as the remaining samurai backed away from the width of Guardian's sword.

Guardian hefted their blade up, the pink blood splattering below into the dirt, striding forward to corner their remaining foe. 

The racoon snarled at their approach, bile dribbling past their bared gums as they readied their own to parry. Guardian brought their sword down to cut through their shoulders, the racoon glowing blue to slide away from their assault, whipping forward to lunge at Guardian’s chest.

Guardian’s armor took the brunt, metal grinding against the racoon’s strike. Guardian used their arm to bash it into the racoon’s neck, shoving them to the ground as they gagged harshly upon impact. With a final blow, they buried their blade into the creature’s neck, an inch shy of decapitating it whole.

They took a rough breath, shaking their shoulders out and straightening back to their height. A steadying glance around told them no more had heard the scuffle, and they were alone for the moment.

Guardian took their breath back, shoulders slouching from the fading tension of battle and sighing long and hard.

They glanced down at the fallen samurai, feeling pity well up in their gut at the poor creatures. Even infected beyond repair, weaned down to nothing but their aggressive instincts, they remained fearsome foes. In a way, it was admirable; they would have loved to have gotten the opportunity to see them in their prime.

The tragedy outweighed that feat, and Guardian felt they'd pay special attention to whatever relics they found here. 

Perhaps I will not have to pay the sword master for lessons afterall.

They let out a low chuckle to their thoughts, sheathing their sword.

Once they were relaxed enough, they pressed on through the woods, mind wandering to what this civilization could offer in the way of combat. The way the samurai’s image had shifted before them was quite efficient, hiding their intended strike zone as they had readied their weapon. If Guardian could learn even some of that technique, it’d come in very handy.

The farther they traveled, the less likely that thought seemed to be true. To say this place was experiencing ruin was an understatement. Central was far run down, covered in moss and crumbling buildings, yet standing mostly full as a whole. This place had been gouged through the very earth itself, deep crystal caverns placing dangerous cliff sides every few steps.

How could anyone survive here?

It made them wonder how far Alt had gotten when she passed through here, and how the racoon warriors could navigate these dangerous terrains. The earth falling apart under their feet, the cliffs became deeper as they walked, and the land shifted to a more broken, dismantled landscape.

Every time they chanced a peek over the edge, they felt their stomach clench at the height they realized they had, and the endless grater of crystal shards ready to catch any wrong step. They had to pause for a moment to reorient themself, a soft dizziness settling over them, they remembered to breathe. 

If anything were to kill them, they weren't going to let it be the elements of some cursed island.

Steeling their nerves, they opened their eyes to continue to press forward when something odd caught their eye.

Guardian was surprised to see smoke from a campfire rising up over the crystal canopy. Their first thought was that it was somehow a forest fire, but it was quickly quelled as they studied it from afar. There would have been a lot more smoke if that was the case. 

No, someone was out here in the forest with them.

Maybe I should steer clear, Alt had said there were some rather ravenous types out in these woods..

But the other thought of gathering valuable information about these lands won over; anything that could make the trek of these lands any easier would be useful in their quest to say the least.

They did have nearly a full pack of things they had picked up along the way, hopefully to trade with in town, so they were confident this would go fine. If not, their blade was always within reach.

It was a little difficult to make their way over, the ground splitting apart into platforms again that gave way to the crystal stakes jutting up from the ground in large spires. They took the time to make sure they had a steady hold upon their makeshift grappling hook before they held their breath, powering up their boosters. As quickly as they dared, launching themself across the small expanse between the platforms, breathing a soft sigh of relief when their feet landed upon solid ground

They were assured in their abilities, but the memory of the north mountain was still in their mind, so they were careful.

When they repeated the process a few times, they finally got close enough to the fire’s source. They could see it was not just a simple campsite; a small hut had also been placed here. There was someone sitting across the fire that Guardian had seen, and they were making eye contact with Guardian.

They looked like a racoon, which put Guardian a little on edge. They heeded Alt’s words, but they could not see any crystals embedded into their fur at this distance. They just looked old.

Guardian was hesitant to approach, so they raised their hand slowly in greeting, giving an acknowledging nod from their head to the raccoon. From across the way, the old racoon raised a wrinkled paw up back, returning their greeting.

That was promising enough. Maybe the apocrathy owner had a relative out here, or possibly a mate. They resolved their nerves and crossed the last dash across the yawning expanse of sharp spikes below them, luckily making it safely.

"Hello, traveler." It was an old lady. Her little fire had a pot of stew brewing above it, now that Guardian was close enough to see. Her hut was a makeshift one, small, but well kept overall. She looked a fair bit older than the apocrathy in Central, however. "What brings you to such cursed lands? Only those who are under a curse themselves venture out this way." She mused with a gravelly voice and wry grin.

They stood a respectful distance from her, hands loosely by their sides. "I have come to look for answers here, to simply behold a new place and hear stories that locals want to share." They stated gently.

She perked up at their answer, slightly cloudy eyes boring into them. "To leave nothing but a whisper and a footprint behind?" She asked in awe.

They were surprised at her reciting the drifters' words, and they nodded. "Yes, exactly that." It was curious how a hermit of all people would know their following ancient sayings.

She nodded with a wide grin. "You are a drifter!" She gasped, excitement in her tone.

They nodded. "I am." They pulled over their sprite to show her the little floating bot by their shoulder, the companion letting out a soft 'Beep!' at being presented.

"I thought you all would have died off by now." She said with little flare, an odd grin upon her features. "There is so much corruption that comes with ancient sins, and I heard a tale that is all your following seeks out."

A fair assumption, even if Guardian did not want to admit that. "It is a risky practice, I will say, but I believe at least on my personal travels I have encountered more beauty than anything evil." And that was including the looming shadow of the centipede that seemed to follow them now.

She grinned. "Then I will consider you lucky, drifter." She gestured to her small fire between them. "Please, come sit for a while. I could have all the secrets to these lands, or I could simply use the company. There is no way to tell with strangers. I do not get many visitors these years." Her eyes were sparkling at them, a small tone of begging edged into her voice.

It was hard to say no to a lonely old woman, and Guardian was getting a little frustrated with their good nature, but she was right; this would be a quick way to gather information on the lands as they had first thought.

"Of course." They amended all too easily, a soft sigh escaping them as they sat in a polite space across from her.

She could not take her eyes off of them, studying their frame and what they wore with her poor eyesight, likely trying to commit their figure to her memory. Whatever she was doing, it was a good way to pull at their heart strings all too easily, making them feel better about taking the time to sit with her.

"Tell me then," she started, pulling over a spoon to stir about her stew. "Why did you come to the crystal forest? This is such a dangerous place, even without the help of the poor fallen samurai." She nodded to the cliff closest to them. "All it takes is one bad trip and a nasty fall."

Guardian raised an eyebrow towards her. "I should return the question to you, ma'am. What is a very old woman doing out here, living her life in solitude on the edge of such a dangerous cliff?"

She smiled, expecting the question. "My family lived here. It was not always a cliff; you see, this used to be nothing but full lands. We did have some caverns carved through the land long ago, but it appears over the ages. They have expanded quite a ways out to knock on my doorstep."

That certainly piqued their interest. "Really? I do not believe you were alive to see it as such, you're far too young for that..." At least they thought she was. She was certainly an elder, but if what she explained was true, they doubted she'd be alive to see the very land change so drastically through the ages.

She laughed. "Ah, no, I was naught but an idea at the time, but in my youth, I remember the land being more connected than it is now. The many tremors that come about this place give way for more caverns to cave in, letting the land sink down to allow more crystal spires to grow." 

She explained with a soft sigh. "My grandfather told me tales of what happened to make our holy land as such, but it is a dreaded tale that has been passed on by many. I am afraid it might not be as accurate as I'd like to think..." She admitted, glancing around. "Oh, how I would have loved to have seen this place in its true glory. But alas, this is what I live with now."

Guardian shook their head slowly. "Accurate or not, it is your story, and part of your clan's heritage. If you would be willing to share, I will hear your people's story." They said with no amount of subtlety, eyes trained on her and body leaning forward a touch. "I am afraid I cannot tell much of my own story in exchange, but I may share what interests you." They offered.

She smiled fondly at them. "You're quite a polite drifter, aren't you?"

Too polite, one of their creed might say. "My guardians raised me well."

"Oh, no parents? From what I heard rumor of, none of you have parents, or is a guardian what you call your parents?" She probed lightly, taking a sip of her soup to test the taste.

"...I do not know where you heard such a rumor, but it is not accurate." How inaccurate, they would not elaborate. Even if she was a solitary woman in a dangerous forest, it was the principle of their creed to be vague.

"I see, then I will have to chisel my brother from some crystal to tell him he's full of shit!" She laughed, long and breathy as Guardian could not help but crack their own grin.

"I am sorry for your loss," they mentioned, to which she waved them off.

"It is long past. There is no use crying over long faded scars, yes?" She poured her soup into a bowl, blowing on it gently as she took a moment to think.

"Now, let me take a moment to gather my thoughts...where to start, I have to wonder?" She hummed as she glanced around her little home, hoping to find inspiration among the surroundings.

"The beginning is just like so many others, so I think I will start where it all started going downhill. We were warriors, according to what my grandfather told, and I suppose those poor samurai still roaming around are proof of that. We had riches within the crystals: they were said to hold some sort of power within them. And when those giants broke out and laid our land to waste. They would have destroyed everything I'm sure, if we were not raccoons. We have trouble letting things go, territory especially.” She snickered softly, flicking her striped tail and curling it over her lap.

"That dear old king of ours, how his heart must have ached to see his prospering kingdom fall in just under a few hours. It was his idea, I believe, to use those crystal guns we had tried to make. We had perfected the ability to do so with simple blades, ones that can appear when activated, and disappear when sheathed. A useful travel item, no?" She questioned rhetorically, snuffing the air from her nose. "The guns were not perfected, you see. They had not been tested much prior, and at the scale we had already built them at, it was a dangerous gamble. One we obviously lost, as the guns clearly malfunctioned and have cut deep rifts through these once sacred valleys. It pains me to think such an outcome happened because of our own desperation, but what else could we have done in such a situation?"

Guardian couldn't say for sure to answer themself, so they said nothing, elbows placed upon their knees as they listened.

"The guns had a different effect on our king and subjects.. I'm not sure how to explain it, truly. It breaks my heart to see my clan in such pain like that. But from my understanding, the bigger crystals absorb you whole, and if you do not break it in time, you fuse with it forever. I do recall my relatives trying time and again to chisel someone out, but when they broke away, the crystal still preserved them somehow. It is almost like how a tree fuses around metal…but deeper." She tried to parse, face twisting as she tried to find any sense in her own words. "I cannot be more clear on that. But with the smaller ones and the shards…it is as if they crawl through your body to control your limbs, everything but your lungs and heart. The mind corrodes so fast and they walk, and they kill." Her shoulders slouched as she rubbed at her eye.

Guardian could understand her pain, and slowly drew a breath. "I'm sorry you've had to endure this, and for your loss." They said softly, not wanting to raise their voice and ruin her moment of remembrance.

She nodded, setting her empty bowl to the side, a sorrowful sigh falling from her. Her hands folded serenely over her lap as she took a moment to collect herself. "To think our own machines have done more damage than that abomination could have hoped. The crystals may spread slowly, but ever surely do they continue to consume the land. I fear that in the decades to come, this whole island will be nothing but a crystal tomb." She finished, and smiled softly.

"I am comforted by this chance, however, to share our mistakes and hopefully preserve something of my kind that is not just zombies. I'd be more than willing to tell you more about us, if you visit me again." She grinned slightly, raising her head higher before bowing it. "I appreciate you willing to listen to an old woman's sad tale."

Guardian sat and listened, their droid having flicked on to record the conversation in case they forgot. They absorbed her story with interest and no small amount of delight. Even if it was not all accurate, they had nothing to compare it to prior, and that was a valuable step forward. It was just what Guardian had hoped to find; the otters had been a little more secretive with their past, and with the current unease with the toads? It made sense. Not everything could be intriguing in sorrow, some things were just too upsetting to share; to a stranger no less.

They gratefully bowed their head back to her in thanks. "I appreciate all that you have shared with me so far, and should our paths need to cross again, I would love a second visit." It was no lie either. If she was always this chatty, she'd be a valuable resource for their quest of knowledge.

That appeared to make her happy, as she set her soup pot to the side, and started a kettle of tea in its place. They hoped that was an invitation to stay a bit longer.

They thought of something simple to ask that wouldn't necessarily tie to her past, and found it quite easy. "If I may ask, why are there so many blue people here, if you recall?" Did the blue skinned people originate from here as well? If so, it would be a wonder how Drifter got away from all of this.

They wondered how old he was.

The racoon hummed thoughtfully, shifting through jars in her bag, looking for the herbs she wanted for the tea. "My grandfather told me about why they were here, the poor things. I don't know where they came from originally. My dear brother said the south, but I do not know why he thought that. The blue people came right before the giant." She lifted her head to take another look around where they sat, glancing down to the deep cavern. "They were supposed to help destroy us, but my grandfather told how so many turned to fight amongst themselves instead, once the collosal awakened. A change of heart, perhaps… destruction can do that to people." She shrugged, pouring some leaves into the kettle's water. "I suppose we won’t know that for sure until one may pop out and tell us."

How unlikely it was to happen when unvoiced.

Guardian having the acquaintance of a live one remained unsaid as well.

"Whatever the case," she continued. "I fear I am one of the coherent last of my kind, and all the rest of the blue people are trapped in our crystals." She smiled softly. "Though now a drifter shares a fire with me…I do suppose anything could happen."

They didn’t want to give her false hope, but she was right. “I suppose anything could. These lands hold a strange power. Maybe that can be directed towards the good.” If anything, they didn’t think anyone but a racoon could find a good way to reverse the land's devastation of the crystals. “I do appreciate the opportunity to share this fire with you, hearing the stories others want to share. I know it's nice to have a listening ear every few moons.” They patted their droid with affection.

The statement made her smile. “Indeed, and I must say I’ve always been fond of drifters. I myself am bound to my homeland, and I do love it even now, but seeing the world outside has always intrigued me. Stranger lands than these? I assume it's a sight to see!” 

They smiled. “Quite so. Your forest is enchanting. I will visit you again.” They said easily, looking forward to their return trip, hopefully with more information. “Until next time.”

She smiled back, raising a hand to wave them along. “Safe travels.”

----- 

On their nosing around, they had come across an elevator shaft hidden behind a growing treeline, and had taken the moment to investigate. Their efforts to find any combat tablets for the racoons’ style had been a fruitless effort, and they needed to find another gearbit if they were going to afford anything from the sword master. 

They stepped upon the hidden shaft, their droid pinging as the elevator veered down below. Upon the descent, Guardian became concerned when they heard a familiar song course through the tunnel with them. The call of a module, suddenly not so distant. 

As the elevator came to a stop, Guardian saw they were in a dimly lit room, the perfect cell from the visions pulsing ethereally the small distance away from them. Guardian stood frozen; the sudden grip the module had upon their gaze should have been more nerve wracking than it was, but they couldn’t help but be entranced.

Quietly, they had started to wonder if their vision was just a strange product of their grief, but this was tangible proof. Something they could document, and touch.

The perfect cell.

Even without the jackals' eyes to burn into them from across worlds, they couldn’t believe their dumb luck at finding something like this. Distantly, they understood why the Jackal had chosen drifters as their champions to find these cells. 

The perfect cell was as mesmerizing as they recalled in their fever vision that felt so long ago now, its soft angelic light pulsing as the gentle ring took over their mind. They could feel their limbs become too heavy, the room losing focus aside from the drawing light. 

It was hard to tell how long they stood there, numb and out of focus before they noticed something skittering around in the shadows. It writhed in and out of a solid shape, near flickering as Guardian felt their eyelids slowly blink, squinting. It lurked just beyond the module now, gathering itself around the pulsating light. Its crystal eye carved itself out of the shadowy mass, glowing in beat with the module before it, cutting its gaze through Guardian. 

The cell's song became piercing, and they felt woozy upon their legs, swaying in place as they stared down those pitch mandibles, hearing an echoing call.

APPROACH THE MODULE.

The words practically screamed inside their head, feeling the reverberation in their helmet, standing statuesque as their heart caught in their throat, choking them. The sharp edges of the centipede's eye bore into them as their breath came out in short strangled gasps, and Guardian could nearly feel their chest tearing apart by those pinsters that writhed, aching to sink into the flesh beneath their breastplate.

They tried to move, to shuffle backwards, to reach for their companion, anything. They couldn't feel their body, their heart beating too loudly to focus on anything fully as the centipede stalked closer. 

Gods help me.

The shadow flared its fangs to Guardian, a thunderous hissing emanating from it as it lunged the last distance between them, stabbing right through their ribcage. Guardian gagged as they were skewed onto one of their mandles like a stake, blood oozing down their chin and down the blade of the shadow, staining their pink diamond eye. 

Violent, spasming coughs caused them to retch, as the centipede tossed them back to the darkness below, chasing their mangled body to devour the rest as Guardian fell away from the violent vision, gasping their helpless cries in the drowning darkness.

—---

Waking from that nightmare was simple agony.

After they had blessedly blacked out, they dreamt of nothing. But the memory was waiting for their consciousness, and the ringing of the module had not ceased. What had initially caused dumbfounded joy, caused Guardian immediate panic as they sprang up, reaching for their blade to point it outward.

There was nothing there. They gripped their sword tightly, arm shaking as they stared blankly ahead in the dark room, the ominous call of the module still only a few feet away. They were alone.

 Their companion sprite beeped as they had suddenly sprang up, chiming to them gently, causing them to flinch and gasp. They swung their sword in a long arch, their companion sprang up above their shot, landing their sword embedded into the wall with their outburst.

"Sorry." They blurted to their sprite, sweat rolling down their cheek due to their nerves. Guardian heaved, yanking their blade from its embedded point and shuffling to a kneel.

Guardian pulled their body up, feeling weak and light headed as it seemed their vision was somewhat blurry, the light from the module smearing with every move they made.

Carefully, Guardian backed away from the beckoning light, staggering their way onto the elevator as they caught their breath back. Their sprite beeped and gravity shifted as they were lofted back into the dim sunlight.

Guardian only managed to move themselves a few steps away before they sat in a patch of lush grass with a long drawn out breath, calming down whatever nerves continued to lick at the base of their spine. Their brow was covered in sweat, and a soreness gripped at their chest.

Whatever that shadow was that followed them was certainly not their full imagination, despite any earlier doubts they might have had before. The feelings that came from the being were real, if the soft tremors of terror still coursing through them was anything to go by. It certainly left an impression on them, and it was a long time before they fully calmed down.

Their sprite pinged gently next to them, alerting them to their raised heart rate from before, but showed it had evened out finally. They took a long sigh, and smiled at their sprite.

“I suppose it's time we left this place for now, don't you?” 

Not waiting to hear the robots lack of response, they pulled themself up with another long breath and set their sights for central. They had enough power to warp back on their sprite, and they were eager to get out of here as fast as they could.

Punching in the coordinates on the holo pad that pulled up from their sprite, they took to a kneel as they took a deep breath when a beam of light formed around them. It swallowed them up and they were shot up, feeling weightless even as they never broke their form. They often wondered exactly how these warp pads worked, but they had never been able to really dissect how this light travel functioned overall. Beams of light taking people places without letting them burn up… it felt so strange, like some other place between worlds. 

They allowed a small moment to close their eyes and enjoy the feeling of limbo as they were taken back to Central.

-----

 

This time when they return, he’s gone.


Guardian isn’t surprised by the absence, but they are glad that he didn’t stoop so low as to steal. Everything in here would be left behind when Guardian departed, of course, but they still liked to lay claim on it for the time being.


The bed was made, and the copy of their map had been taken, but everything else was just the way they had left it.

That was a few days ago, and none of the locals they had inquired to had seen where he had gone. That was that, it seemed. 

It did not feel right, Guardian was generally friendly with people, they knew that, but Drifter somehow felt different. The Jackal had led them right to him, he had been such an interesting person to talk to, and the way he spoke was incredibly memorable. There was also a comfortable air of quiet confidence in his skill; despite the fact Guardian had carried his unconscious body all the way to their house, he accepted them with ease and mutual curiosity.


They felt misguided though. The Jackal had led them to this specific drifter, made sure they helped heal him, and now he had vanished into thin air? It left them with an uncomfortable feeling, as if they were being pulled astray from the correct path.


Trying not to let that get to them was no easy feat; they had to stay driven and keep exploring this island. Whatever they were searching for lied in these lands somewhere, and all they had to do was keep searching.

I shouldn’t get so attached. This is my quest, after all. Not his. 

Alt had put this into perspective: “Every Drifter who came here had a different path with the same goal”. Their paths might have just been to keep Drifter alive slightly longer before he picked up his own quest again.

The idea of helping Drifter insisted on clinging to their mind.

Months ago, they had been wary and self conscious about offering such blatant support to others. Being close and knowing with someone else they were not comfortable with. Their short time here had given them their first sense of community in far too long, and while not always entirely pleasant, it gave them better knowledge on how to be drawn and receptive to other people.

Yet there was something odd to their pull towards Drifter.

A strange feeling in their gut, and the ghost of a whisper they could never make out telling them something about him.

They couldn’t just go out to find him, however. That would be invasive. While it was normal for Guardian to be helpful to others, Drifter might not be used to such treatment. If the other blueskin in town was anything to go by, it could have just been his nerves telling him to bail before something happened.

A skittish thing, he must have been. Once more, Guardian couldn’t feel drifter needed any blame for that aspect

-----

The south was cut off.

They had approached the gate in hopes of one last place to explore, somewhere to dig for answers, and all they got was a pillar in the way.

Worst off, they could feel the evil magic emanating from the pillars before them. That cursed color of pink sent them back to that endless waterscape with a menacing centipede all over again.

A hand gently pressed against their chestplate, the phantom ache of a wound that was never there panged against their chest. Even if they could find a way around these things, they felt repelled from here, and they were not willing to risk that just yet.

Stepping quickly away from the clearing, they sighed.

That was my last lead… Perhaps it is time to go north once more…

Something about that didn't appeal either, and a small feeling of dejection settled over them with the thoughts. It wasn't an easy thing to feel lost as someone who traveled as much as a drifter did, and they huffed. 

I may as well regroup back at the house.

A quick moment to collect their thoughts wouldn't hurt them, and perhaps they could try to gather some more information from Central's locals. It was not like they were tight-lipped exactly, but they would prefer something a little more solid to go off of than strange feelings and fever dreams. Spoken word was always more reliable in their opinion.

They let a long sigh escape their lungs before turning on their heel to head back to Central. Their companion drifted lazily by their shoulder, probably feeding off of their own misdirection. Not always were driftere's considered lost; wandering aimless was the goal, in broad terms. 

But this felt too taunting; an entire ancient land full of secrets, and still Guardian had no idea what to do. They were lucky enough to have crossed a module finally, the diamond imprinting itself into their mind, but they had only found the one. The jackal had been kind enough to act as a shield against the module before it overtook them, but it still gave them no guidance to go off of.

The memory of the centipede's eye flashed through their mind, clinging to their chest with those dark mandibles, itching for their flesh. A shudder ran through them as they wandered into Central, taking a deep breath to calm themself.

Whatever the hell that thing is, it is not chasing me now.

It was easy to worry when they felt so lost.

As they wandered aimlessly in thought, something did end up catching their eye, or rather a person.

Another blue person was here.

Guardian recognized them from their walks through central, and that Tulsi had referred to them as ‘a drunk’, which Guardian could see was not far from the truth.

They sat against a fence with a few empty bottles at their legs, one half drank in their hand, looking completely miserable. Sagged eyes, a jaded look across their face, and extremely unkempt. They had known blueskins to be a majority of drifters, and if they did not they stayed within their nomadic tribes. One alone without a companion sprite was a rare oddity.

Guardian had been raised better than to show open pity like people were animals; sometimes people just got down on their luck in these unforgiving lands. So they approached, taking a seat not far from them as they settled against the grass. They went unregarded by the drunk blue person, who was too busy trying to doze off than pay them any mind. Guardian didn't know whether to count that as a good sign or not.

“Hello.” They greeted as casually as they could, studying as they finally lifted their head up to see who had bothered to come so close. They did not seem impressed by the sight of Guardian.

“Well, looky here. You found one in the woods, now you wanna see what my deal is.” They shook their head with a sharp hiss, big fangs flashing as they did so. 

Guardian couldn't even be fazed anymore about how much these people gossiped. “Not in the same way, no. I was led to him by a sign I needed to, but I was simply curious about you, nothing more.”

“Ah, so you've just come to waste my time?” They scoffed, taking a long swig of their bottle.

“I suppose I did, yes, and I do apologize for any inconvenience. You may ask me to leave.” They offered, shrugging.

They mimicked the shrug back to Guardian in return. “Guess ‘m not doing much. What do you need?”

Guardian took a moment to look around the area briefly, taking the time to consider what to say. “It is not really a need, I suppose I was just curious about you.” They started with honesty. “For starters… What are you doing here?” 

They thought the question over, similar eyes to Drifters lulling as they shrugged. “Taking a few sips more than I should... sitting.” They let out in a long, half hearted drawl.

“Yes, but I meant more of what got you here? I assumed you were a drifter like myself, but you have not moved much from what I can tell since I got here. And I don't see your companion.” They cocked their head. “Did I assume wrong?”

Their companion shrugged with a long, whiskey filled sigh. “I wanted to be one, but then I dragged my sorry ass here. Found out I wasn't cut out for this.”

A familiar feeling, biting off more than one could chew. They nodded once, relaxing in their sitting position. “The life of a traveler is not an easy one. May I ask how much training you went through before you went off on your own?” Lack of training could certainly get someone off on the wrong footing.

“A couple of months, but I survived on my own for a year before I came here. I never had to deal with groups of angry people before.”

They cringed beneath their helmet. “I suppose Bandit was the one to greet you then?”

They nodded. “Bingo. Score one to the walking piece of candy.” They took a long swig from their bottle.

Guardian spared a laugh to their companion, letting them speak their mind. After all, they did dress rather brightly. 

Unprompted, they continued. “They beat the shit out of me, took my robes and anything else that wasn't covered in blood. I figured I didn't like being left for dead, so I took up a new calling. I sit here, and I don't worry about shit.” They spat with a long huff, frowning irritably as they nursed their drink.

“I suppose there are worse things one could do after something traumatic. I’m sorry that happened.”

They scoffed. “Save your pity, I do enough of that on my own. Just kinda sucks, I really thought I was ready.” They frowned, looking towards Guardian full on now. “So you found one of my kin. Is this why you're bothering me?”

Guardian considered a moment, before nodding. “Yes, actually. I haven't had any interaction with blue skinned people before, and you are apparently a bit of controversy, from what the shopkeepers tell me. I wanted to know if all blue skinned people took up drifting, but you seemed an outlier.” They stated factually. “So I wanted to ask, and you answered. I appreciate you speaking with me.”

They moved to stand up, pausing slightly as they fixed their cape. “I do have one last thing to ask: Do you know sign?”

They snorted softly, one hand coming up to lazily sign. “Of course, you fool.”

Guardian let out another laugh. “Fair enough, thank you for answering. I will stop bothering you now.”

Their companion let out an annoyed grunt as Guardian rose up. They wouldn't acknowledge Guardian before huffing out. “Safe travels.”

Guardian beamed under their helm, nodding to them in respect. “Safe travels.” They answered before departing. 

That had gone better than they could have anticipated; for some reason, they thought this could help them connect better with Drifter. It wasn’t the best thought in all honesty, and its very presence made Guardians step falter. Why were they concerned about Drifter so much at all?

There was the obvious reason, his involvement with the Jackal is a tell to his significance. The other reason: they found him incredibly interesting. After their visit to the west and learning some of this land's past, it raised a mound of questions regarding Drifter. Guardian was a curious fellow; perhaps a good mystery is what drew them to him. 

Guardian had recalled their conversation a few days prior, and how well versed in drifter exchange he was. Somehow, they didn’t imagine him the type to pick too many conversations with people, and yet Guardian had enjoyed their talk. Like the drifters of old, in a place away from any spying eyes and keen ears, a story of one in exchange for another. Money was an option, but an item with a story was by far the best. 

He had certainly told of his travels well, his hands made for expressive tools to display what he explained. Guardian remembered learning their first sign language from their own caretakers. It came in use when they had grabbed interest in sign language. 

Watching Drifter use his sign told them they were either wildly rusty, or that they were less fluent than they had originally thought. The pictures he drew, and the sheer wonder he conveyed he felt in that moment, they daresay it was inspiring.

Once more, the familiar itch to paint tingled their fingertips, wondering how Drifter might have described one of their works. Maybe if they didn't make any progress soon, they'd be forced to take a step back for a while. They could try and paint again.

“Hey mister.” 

Guardian paused briefly, pulling away from their thoughts as they looked to the small voice calling them a few feet away. The sword master's pupil, they recalled, standing on the stoop of the dojo with a discarded broom.

“Do you mean me, child?” 

The kid’s nose wrinkled, but they nodded their head. “Uh-huh. You’re making me nervous, you keep pacing right there.” He pointed out, eyes squinting, suspicious.

Oh. 

“I do apologize. I did not notice I was lost in thought. I didn’t mean to trouble you.” 

That seemed to clear up any suspicion for the moment, as their eyes lit up and peered at Guardian. “Are you doing you a drifter thing? Teacher mentioned some stuff you do.” 

That got their attention, raising an eyebrow. “Oh, can I ask what she might have mentioned?” 

The child seemed too happy to answer. “She told me you look for buried treasure!” He announced all too happy. 

Guardian had never heard their lifestyle described in that way, but it wasn't wrong, really. “I suppose that is accurate, yes. I am curious about certain things that are buried here.” They gestured to the lift at the island Central. 

The child cocked his head. “Is there treasure over there?”

“Possibly. The strange shapes on the ground lead me to believe it's an elevator of sorts. I assume there's something of value down there.” They placed a hand on their hip, frowning softly. “Getting down there is proving to be the hard part." They allowed themself to let out a hard sigh.

The child looked over to where their difficulties lay, squinting. "Lot of drifters came here and looked at that. Must be something good."

Guardian quirked an eyebrow. "Really..." If that were true, where were the other drifters? They thought about how skilled the racoons were and let a shudder roll off them at the theory. If not that, then there were plenty of dangerous cliffs. "Do you have any suggestions, child?"

He huffed. "My name is Dae."

"...Dae, then. Do you have any guidance I might use to get into the vault?"

He shook his head. "It's fun to play ball on, ‘cause it rumbles?" He offered with a little shrug.

They hummed thoughtfully. They wouldn't be playing ball on it anytime soon. “Is the sword master in right now? I have enough gearbits for a lesson, if she's available.” 

He nodded. “She's sharpening the swords and sent me out to sweep!” He picked up his discarded broom to show off a big sweep proudly. There was still dirt and leaves everywhere, and it made them smile and offer an approving nod.

“Then I won't disturb your work any further. Thank you for the chat, Dae.”

Dae grinned with the praise and started sweeping with vigor, looking determined to impress Guardian further. Their spouse had said they had a way with children, being so broad and strong looking; it made children feel quite special when they got Guardian’s praise. 

The thought made them flutter and ache all at once, and they stepped inside the dojo. Not much had changed, and the sword master was doing as Dae had said, sitting at one of the tables with her arsenal of blades laid out on top, shining with expert care.

“Guardian! Good to see you in one piece.” She said as they stepped closer. “I heard you talking to my pupil. What can I do for you?”

“I would like one of your upgrades or a lesson if you are available.”

She smiled, standing up and grabbing a sword. “Do you have the gearbits for it?”

They pulled down their sprite, unlocking its code and displaying their wares. Not as much as they would have liked, but this was important to splurge on. “I was interested in the heavy slash you have available.” 

“This is an interesting sword. It's pretty light for its size," she observed, shifting it in her grip to get a full feel for it. "I think I can add on a little upgrade to give you a harder slash. Just give me a few moments."

"Of course, thank you."

She had them take a seat as she pulled out her toolkit, fiddling with the hilt of their red blade.

"I have to admit, this was not exactly my only reason for stepping in. Your pupil told me you knew of drifters."

She glanced over to them for a moment before focusing back on her work. "When enough drifters pass by, it's not hard to figure out the general goal you all have. I don't know much more than that."

"I would have guessed as such. Forgive my prying, but what happened to those other drifters?" 

“I never saw any of them again…not even to leave, if they did. They could have used those warps you use, though.” She shrugged, clicking a few more pieces into the hilt of their sword. “None of them were particularly chatty, or they just passed right through. I think they were all interested in the same thing you are.” 

It was nice to have confirmation of that little fact, but it still wasn't anything tangible. “Would there be anyone in Central to ask about the lift?”

She shook her head, and they sighed, a little dejected. This had been a complete aimless whim, but they were hoping for anything more than what they had found out: essentially nothing.

“Whatever you're doing though, I'd say keep it up. You're the first one I've seen around for so long, I don't think whatever’s down there can be worth a pile of bodies.” She muttered skeptically, fur ruffling under her collar. 

They wanted to agree with that, with the mindset that those bodies came because of some tyrant's decision over a group of innocents, but if a group of separate individuals chose to throw themselves off the same cliff? 

That raised a good question: what could be worth it, though?

Guardian didn't know. It felt like a strange compulsion, different than their usual drifting. It felt like a desperate need, reaching for the surface as one drowns, grappling for a lifeline.

The small heaviness in their chest tightened, and they cleared their throat. 

"I suppose not much." The desperate need to try every option wasn't always the right thing to do, they supposed. And yet, they didn't see any other options presented, and they let it go.

The sword master clicked their sword with finality. "If you want my advice? Whatever's got you poking around the most dangerous corners of the world doesn't sound like something you all should be looking for." She held their sword out for them to take.

Guardian rose back to take it from her, weighing it in their hand to find not much- if anything felt different. “Pardon my cluelessness on this, but if something is supposed to strengthen my swings, one would think it would be heavier.” They noted aloud, shifting to look back to the sword master with a curious eye.

She smirked, picking up her own blade from the hilt on her side, it was a similar blue to that of Drifters to their surprise, but this one was completely metal instead of a light blade. She held it up in an expert blocking pose, beckoning them. “En guarde, Guardian.”

They felt a smile bloom over them, hefting their sword back and flicking the trigger to charge it up, feeling the tension contort into the air around their sword, the soft tremor of power vibrating against their palm. Guardian unleashed it down upon her sword, a reverberating ‘clang!’ rolling through the room, and they had to adjust their footing at the shock of force that came through the sword.

Guardian stepped back, and the sword master had to shake out her dominant sword hand, a beam of pride covering her. “How did it feel?”

They held up their own dominant hand, feeling the tingles course through their fingers. “Color me surprised, I didn't think something so small would pack such a great punch.” They praised easily, holding up the small device latched onto the bottom of their sword’s hilt. They barely even noticed it was there.

“I've been studying swords for a long time. I always think that less is more when it comes to weapons, and it's nice when there's not much to worry about in a fight. Nothing is worse than something that’s supposed to help you only getting in the way.” That sounded like it came from personal experience, if they were to hazard a guess.

Guardian could agree to that however, swinging their blade in a loose swing, nodding. “I agree.” They slipped it onto their back, the satisfying grind of metal slotting back into the hilt. “Thank you for this, I think it will aid me well on my journey.”

“And where are you headed to now?” She asked, raising a skeptical eyebrow at them. They suddenly felt like a scolded child. 

The sword master was wrong if she thought they could be intimidated away from this quest, despite her good reasons. They shrugged. “I can’t say for sure, but when I get back, I’ll let you know.”

She was not satisfied with that answer, but without anything else she could say to them either, she sighed. “Well, try and keep your head on your shoulders, if you can.”

They smiled. “I can only try. Farewell, sword master.” They bid her goodbye, slipping from the dojo and nodding to the pupil. They waved to Dae as they passed by, leaving them to their important work of sweeping the stoop. 

I may as well go back and gather my bearings, and some sleep never truly hurt.

Guardian slipped back to their home, intent on figuring out a plan to move on.

—---

They’re dreaming again. They can tell by the way their cloak feels like it floats behind them, and how the world seemed to have a fish-eye effect, curving in and away from their hands as they reached outward.


It was dark, so they walked, following a light they could barely see and was too overwhelming to stare at for long. It was leading them like a moth to a flame.


The Jackal met them on a cliffside, if the steady stream of wind they felt was anything to go by, yet it was quiet. They stood next to the god, who stared ahead at seemingly nothing… or perhaps, it stared back at the void that seemed to swallow all else?


“I do not understand why I cannot leave,” Guardian started, their voice an echo, far away. 

“I’ve explored nearly all I can here, yet everytime I try to leave, you keep me here.”


They paused now, trying to focus on the shape of the dog. They could only make out its head.


Continuing, they asked. “What must I do to be cured?” They turned to look fully at the dog despite how it appeared to ignore them. “My family has been taken from me so long ago by this strange illness, and you are still telling me nothing on how to fix this.” They forced out, feeling like they were talking through a mouthful of cotton.

The perfect cell.

A diamond flashed beneath their feet, causing Guardian to jump a little, head turning to see their goal. It was pure white, and glowing brightly with all the power of the world, pulsing softly rhythmically beneath them.


Guardian knelt down, hands hovering unconsciously near the cell that gleamed in their eyes. This was the end goal. The cure they had been searching for.

Beneath their hands, the perfect cell morphed into something else. It still assumed its diamond shape, but it had turned blue with some sort of activation handle on top, pink running along its edge. It was an activation module.


Further down the black canyon, a flash of purple and a mechanical roar tore Guardian's gaze upwards. A purple titan screamed at them, larger than life and towering above them both, even as said giant was kneeling down. As they drew closer, Guardian reached for their sword, only to find it had not accompanied them into this dream.


Before they could panic, a crystal erupted into its forehead, its jaw falling slack as well as the light drained from them was put to rest. Its empty eye sockets bore down into Guardian, as well as the god next to them.


The jackal was looking at them now, and then to the cell beneath them.

Find them.

-----

Guardian had found themself in the far west at the Jackal’s call, following its shadow as it cut corners and weaved through the trees. Guardian had been here before, and had learned how to avoid the crystals near expertly. A few nicks here and there were hardly noteworthy to count as wounds.

They had their sword drawn and at the ready, dashing across crystal spikes before they could impale them, and listening for any nearby wolves. When they felt it was safe, they continued forward, ready to head back home for the day as the sun started to set.


While they traveled, they glanced around at the forest trees and its crystals lining the path. The crystals were a sign of great tragedy, if that chatty local was anything to go by. A civilization preserved in the heat of battle, a dead titan looming ominously over the pink leaves of the forest. Still, the brilliant greens held some beauty to them, especially in the setting sunlight as the light beams twinkled through, painting their path in an array of prisms and colors. It was stunning, and if Guardian ever felt it, they’d want to paint this someday.


Traversing along and glancing by the crystals, it was not uncommon to see a few of the old civilization embedded in deep, ancient crystals along the treeline. For these people, there was nothing Guardian could do; they had been there far too long for any good to come from breaking them now. If they hadn't died from starvation or some form of suffocation, time had simply passed too much.


However, one face was newer than the rest.

Guardian stopped, and did a double take as they stepped back. A crystal jutting out in the middle of the path, holding behind it a crystallized Drifter who looked to be in the middle of a combative stance. Either he was tripping, or reeling back from the shock of the crystals. While they studied their acquaintance, they heard it behind them: the unmistakable skittering of a crystal spider, blasted quickly away by Guardian’s gun.

Giving Drifter a quick glance, they resigned to pulling their sword out and, taking a chance, hacked away at the green crystal.

Thankfully, it wasn't anywhere near as hard as Guardian feared. They broke the surface and Drifter toppled out with a loud gasp and hard cough, hitting their chest for a moment.

“Are you alright?” they asked, kneeling down to gently hover, but not touching him. “You weren't in there too long, were you?”

Luckily, Drifter shook his head, coughing again before signing with shaky hands. “No, I just got here and stepped around a corner too fast. One of those crystal spiders caught me in the calf.” He huffed, seeming annoyed by that fact.

“To be fair, they have a tendency to sneak up in numbers. All it takes is one touch.” They finally pat Drifter on his shoulder carefully. Luckily, he didn't seem averse to the contact.

“Maybe I should upgrade my gun after all,” he signed slowly, claws coming up by their hip to trace over their simple firearm.

“That could be wise, if you have the gearbits for it. The bandit is…” They waved their hand in an uncertain, sweeping gesture. “Not exactly the most kind. However, they do easy business.” They shrugged. “I purchase from them regularly.”

They were aware of what they had done to the other drifter in central, but the other had no interest in seeking revenge on their attackers. Guardian wouldn't overstep, as long as the bandit caused no more havoc.

“I might have to do that tomorrow.” Drifter finally stood back up, dusting himself off of any left over crystal shards from their cloak. “You know, it’s rare I run into the same traveler twice like this,” he mused, hand coming up to touch under his covered chin, hinting of a grin.

Guardian smiled slightly. “I suppose we're just lucky.” They could feel the eyes of the Jackal burning into them from somewhere far away.

“I suppose.” He took a quick glance over his shoulder before nodding ahead. “I should get going.”

“Ah, where are you headed to now?” Guardian asked, curious about where he had been thus far.

Drifter shrugged, and gestured vaguely around behind Guardian. “Not sure yet, but I think I can explore this area.” He pinged his sprite, it coming up by his shoulder to display his scanned copy of their map, pointing around the area ahead. “This all here seems interesting, and I'm looking for something that might be there.” He signed, tilting his head for a moment as he considered the holo-screen a moment.

“This is a very well designed map.” He pointed out, looking to them as they blinked, surprised by the compliment.

“Oh, thank you.” they said, a smile pulling onto their face at the praise. “I took a liking to art as a child. It always relaxes me and, apparently, makes for a handy skill in learning certain areas.”

Drifter’s eyes crinkled in a smile hidden by his mask. “You’re welcome. I never could get into art, but those who can, I think, have a unique skill.” He looked to Guardian now, shutting off the holo-screen from his bot. “Do you only draw maps?”

A quick pause, and a shrug. “I don’t know. I haven't tried drawing much else the past few years,” they admitted. “I used to do scenery for forests and horizons, things of that sort.” They glanced around. “...forests without crystals in them, but I might have to consider this for a nice painting, maybe when I retire from drifting.” A deep chuckle escaped Guardians lips, making Drifter huff out a few laughs as well.

“What is it you are searching for anyways?” they inquired, watching as Drifter scrolled through information on their bot, displaying the blueprints for a module that Guardian had found and left on their kitchen table.

“I need to find these and activate them. Have you seen any?” He asked as he looked between Guardian and the blueprints.

It made Guardian wonder how convenient this all was, having spent a few days finding the very thing Drifter was apparently going to activate. How did he manage it, Guardian wondered. Did he not have a centipede following him in the shadows, shimmering and shuffling about near the modules?


No matter. It lined up very well for Guardian, and that was a good thing.

They nodded. “I have, actually. Let me sync my map with your own.”

A quick few clicks later, and their bots had swapped information between each other with a few chirps, bots returning to their respective owner’s sides.

Drifter bowed his head, a claw reaching forward as his other signed. “Thank you. You are much too generous. I'll find some way to repay you.”

Guardian reached out to take the extended hand, a firm grip. “It's no trouble, but if I ever think of anything, I promise I will let you know should our paths cross again.”

That answer seemed to satisfy him finally, and he nodded, looking back over to the side where he had previously been trapped inside a crystal. He looked for a long, drawn out moment, before looking up to Guardian to ask. “How do you escape crystals if you're alone?”

Guardian’s head raised a bit, intrigued by the query. They had assumed Drifter was just being polite up till this point, in his own way, but to further the conversation himself was welcomed. “Eventually the crystal will break apart on its own. You might be sore afterward, though, and risk catching the crystal madness.”

He narrowed his eyes, confused. “Crystal madness?”

“Yes. It is a sickness that comes with being infected by the corrupted crystals.” They pointed to one of the other blue people embedded in green crystal, frozen in a moment. “It keeps encasing its victim in crystal until it finally plants into the ground and hardens. If it doesn't plant you into the ground, then it will start to encase your bloodstream, so try not to touch them too much if you can help it.” they warned lightly.

Drifter visibly shivered for a moment, nodding. “Noted.”

They paused for a moment, thinking. “Have you visited the dash master in Central?”

He nodded once more, lifting up his boot to display his advanced dash boosters.


“Did you master multi-dashing yet?” Guardian had trouble controlling their turns at first, skidding past corners and nearly off edges. They could still hear the dash masters furious rants at how bad they had been every time they went to skid into a wall.

Drifter tilted his head. “No. What is that?”


That was odd; the dash master normally at least explained how to use his wares. Perhaps Drifter appeared to be the disinterested type? They did not know. “It is an ability with these boosters. If you dash immediately at the end of your first one, you may keep going until you need to stop.” They thought for a moment. “It’s like roller skating.”

Drifter only looked more confused, leaning forward to slowly sign out with a suspicious gaze, “I feel you are making up words now.”

They grunted. “I am doing no such thing, Drifter. Which word am I making up?” Drifter had a large vocabulary already, despite their own understanding of sign language was rusty, so they knew some big words when they saw them.

Drifter ran a hand down his face, incredulous, before his hands came back up. “The last thing you compared dashing to, I don’t have a sign for it.”

Thinking back a moment, they squinted, perplexed. “Roller skating? It’s an activity where you have shoes with wheels on them, and you have to balance on top of them for sport.” Their own hands came up now, demonstrating the movements used to skate, the similarities to dashing became apparent.

“Sounds like it would be fun to watch.” He let out a soft laugh from under his cloak.

Guardian nodded. “I was never bad at it, but never got great at it either. However, the method was useful in some of my training to help find my center.” Trying to do a homemade obstacle course with their spouse on roller skates was neither of their brightest moments, but the experience did come in use in the end. “I’m more surprised you have never heard of the activity before today.” They paused for a moment, chuckling. “Perhaps I should show you at some point.”

Drifter let out a huff of laughter himself, nodding. “Just to prove it's not fake.”

“What reason would I have to lie to you?” They understood caution in drifting, of course, but this seemed overly cautious.

And all Drifter had to offer was a shrug, with no further explanation.

Guardian pursed their lips. “Well, I assure you I am not the type to deceive others.” 

Drifter had nothing to say to that, and instead opted to study the walkway they both trekked upon.

They allowed him a small moment to himself; drifters are not exactly renowned for their conversational skills. Drifter himself seemed to be the type to be used to stretches of silences anyhow.

It didn't appear Drifter would stay silent on his own for long, to Guardian’s surprise, as only a short walk later did his hands rise up to sign some more... but a humbled weight sat on their chest as most of the signs Drifter was using were a bit too fast, nearly every word he used flying past their understanding.

It was testing their mental acrobatics, watching his hands fly off as he attempted to explain to Guardian what it was he liked about their map - if they had to guess. They were able to pick a few words such as ‘well-crafted’ and ‘accurate’, but most of the rest was too fast for them to pick up on.

“Drifter.” They held up a hand to halt his speeding hands, fingers stuttering to a stop as he looked up to them. “I can’t understand a word you’re saying. My sign is passable, but I am still rusty…” It was embarrassing to admit that, but if they couldn’t understand Drifter, he shouldn’t waste his enthusiasm.

He seemed to consider this a moment, his hands signing something Guardian also did not understand, so he had to pull out his companion sprite’s holo-screen. He quickly typed out some text that read: “Apologies, I did not consider that possibility. I was trying to tell you that this map has been very helpful for these travels. I am a wanderer at heart, and most map systems do not come easy to me besides the star guide. Yet as I read this map, my travels have been cut in nearly half. You have my thanks for allowing me a copy.”

Guardian pulled the companion closer to squint at the screen as they read, nodding once with a broad smile hidden. “You are most welcome, Drifter. I am glad my map has served you well in your travels. Unfortunately it cannot warn you about the crystal spiders.” They chuckled, leaning back to place their hands upon their hips.

“Come now. Maybe we can travel together until you feel comfortable being left to the elements alone.” They offered, sweeping their arm in a gesture around the area. “These lands are dangerous, as you’ve seen. It might be of benefit to have someone with you.”

Drifter pulled a face, hands signing slowly, “Yet you traversed these crystalized lands on your own?”

They shook their head. “No. I was guided by another drifter as well. Perhaps it can be considered a temporary tradition.” It wasn’t a complete lie; while Alt hadn't traveled these lands with them, she did offer valuable guidance for their survival. Drifter did not have to know that detail.

“ Tradition. ” A low hiss was accompanied by the harshly signed word, and a hard shake of his head.

“Whatever you’d like to call it, then.” They stood their ground to the fussy drifter.

It appeared Drifter was too annoyed to continue to try and be picky about their words, and jabbed a thumb against his own chest once more to sign, “Fine. You win again, Guardian. I will follow your lead through these forests for the time being.”

“Just until you are comfortable enough to traverse them on your own.” They wouldn’t dream of coddling him, just ensuring he did not meet the same fate as many other drifter skeletons in these forests did. Or become another one of the blue faces trapped in crystal.

Drifter seemed to share the same sentiment, as he stuck a step behind Guardian for a while as they pressed forward through the woods. 

Having a companion by their side was a familiar feeling, one that tugged at their chest in a way their illness did not. An old feeling that made them cringe at themself; had they really become so desperate for company again that this drifter was already so comfortable to be around? 

They wanted to berate themself. It was one thing to have small connections to locals for short periods, but to already feel a connection with another drifter? Surely their paths wouldn’t cross once their travels here were finished. It was foolish to try and think otherwise, even if the Jackal had pointed out Drifter’s importance in these lands, they couldn't be trying to point Guardian to him for any other reason.

Luckily, Drifter was not privy to their internal dialogue, as he carefully tugged on their sleeve after an hour’s worth of silent travel.

“The trees are changing?” He pointed up at some of the leaves that had started to harden, and became more of something they would find at the top of crystalized caves. 

“Ah, yes. This appears to be an effect of the crystals, I believe. They seem to be a sickness upon the land of sorts. I was surprised they could affect the ecosystem such as this...” There was a difference between overtaking the land with crystals, and transforming it into such.

Drifter did gaze upon the trees as they both walked at a steady pace, Guardian keeping an eye on him to catch his signs. 

“They’re oddly beautiful.” He decidedly signed out.

Guardian blinked, nodding slowly. “I agree.” The locals did not share their opinion on that, but neither of them had to live around them either. It would be bad to consider that the crystals would overtake the entire island in the ages to come.

With any hope, their quest would deter the progression of that, if the Jackal’s guidance was anything to trust. 

“Have you seen much of anything like this in your own travels?” Drifter signed slowly, curious. 

They shook their head. “Not quite like this, no. I have seen magical effects upon lands, but nothing so intruding. Machines like the ones that made such things are unknown to me. Have you?”

Drifter shook his own head. “No, nothing like this.”

-----

Deeper into the forests, they encountered the infected samurais again.

No matter how many times Guardian came across these creatures, they couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for the deteriorated warriors. The echoes of pride still hung to the way they held their fighting stances, the 

Now, they were being eaten alive from the crystal machines they built and driven mad from the lands infected with magic. Their bodies propelled forward with blades forged to perfection, and the training ways of old still seeped deep in their minds.

While they were happy that not the entirety of their being had been eaten by crystal, Guardian had wished their combat skills weren't the thing they had retrained. It couldn't have been speech or clear thought?

The old clan had Guardian’s sympathy, however, even as they had to bring their blade down upon them.

Holding a sliced one by the scruff at the back of their neck, they gently drop them to the grass. They had little time to try and worry about burying them all as a true warrior would deserve, but they hope their spirits were laid to rest many years ago.

Drifter watched a few paces behind, black eyes trained on the ways their hand held their blade. He certainly knew how to mimic as he would continuously adjust his own grip while they walked.

“Here, you may ask to see how I hold it instead of trying to steal glances from under my cloak.” They held their hand out, showing off how tightly they gripped the hilt and their hand placement.

He looked mildly embarrassed as he stepped forward to readjust his own grip once more as he took a lasting look, studying his own hands now.

“I don't know if that would be a good idea, considering our swords are weighted far differently.” They pointed out, but angled themself so Drifter could see better. 

“Having the general guideline for what works for you is helpful, however.” Drifter signed back absentminded, placing his fingers decisively where he felt they fit best, nodding. “This should work, thank you.”

Guardian smiled, chest swelling. Such a fast learner, he was. “Of course. I’ll be interested to see how you will implement that into battle.” They glanced around the small pile of carnage, shoulders dropping slightly.

“It’s a shame, really. I heard a rumor a while back from a survivor, this used to be a proud clan. Honor and victory were what they strived for, and when the titan decimated most of their lands, their…‘Solution’ seemed to have these lingering effects.” They pointed down to the crystals embedded into the fur around the racoon's necks, eyes glassy and stained with the familiar green hue.

Drifter knelt down to get a better look, gently prodding at the crystals jutting out from the skin beneath the matted fur. He grimaced, slowly signing. “So this is what happens to overexposure to the crystals...”

Guardian nodded. “I assume that, at the very least. The crystals have morphed this very land, tainted most of its natural wildlife growth. it wouldn't be too far a stretch to say they infected the remaining racoon clan into these poor husks...” they said solemnly, lowering their head for a brief moment of respite for their lost souls. If the crystals could infect trees and the very land, they supposed it shouldn’t have been such a shock to see they could also infect the ones who had lived here as well.

Drifter straightened out, glancing around at the other bodies and surrounding forests. “May their spirits be at rest.” He signed now, keeping his head respectfully low at the carnage that laid around the two. “Perhaps we will find glyphs of their power, and something to preserve for the librarians to study.”

Guardian smiled slightly. “Wherever the librarians may be, hopefully they will love and respect our contribution to preserving this clan's history.” They paused. “Even if it appears there's not any left alive to tell the full details of it, what we can see may help them.” 

Drifter nodded his agreement, huffing softly as he looked down at the handle to his blade, signing. “My blade is based on some of these crystal mechanisms here. I've never seen it malfunction in such a way. Then again, one sword is no match to the contraptions the racoons have made.”

That was interesting, Guardian raising their eyebrows at his signed words. 

Does this mean Drifter originated from these lands as well?

They wanted to ask, to know further about him and his significance to the jackal and these lands, but perhaps it wasn't their place to know just yet. If what the hermit told them was true about the other blue people, perhaps it was best to allow Drifter his anonymity in his time here.

“I see…that is quite the interesting blade you have, I never would have guessed it was made from the same crystals found here.” They paused. “Where did you get the blade?”

Drifter's eyes crinkled in a grin. “I made it myself.”

Guardian felt impressed by that, eyebrows shooting up. “You did not find it on your travels?” That was essentially a right of passage for drifters, finding an old weapon and modifying it, but one built from scratch? 

Drifter nodded, hefting his glowing blade up for both of them to look at, signing with one hand. “Yes, I know our creed pushes the importance of finding old relics to suit the new world, but I made this with my tribe before departing. It serves as excellent protection. You've never seen one like it, I’d guess.” 

They shook their head slowly, shocked at his admittance. “I have not seen anything like it.”

He nodded, looking at them for a moment and gesturing to their armor. “Does your armor protect you from bullets?”

Guardian looked down to their pink breastplate, shrugging. “Some, but not all. Certainly not the bigger kinds, or exploding ones.”

Drifter nodded, touching over the green crystal that tied his cloaks together around his shoulders. “I do not wear armor like that, but I can use my sword to cut them away from me. And since it is heat-based, there's not a lot of flesh or armor it cannot cut through.”

Guardian couldn't help the snort that escaped them at Drifter's reasoning, a grin spreading over their face. “So you decided the best defense was a good offense?” 

A firm nod and a quick sign. “Precisely.” They could feel his swell of pride emanate off him.

Guardian found the image funny: A young Drifter joining the creed with a homemade, deadly blade, ready to set out and cut through the world for its buried secrets.

The Creed did try to put importance into self preservation, but the allure of ancient secrets had claimed the lives of many in their following. The world was a dangerous place, it couldn't exactly be helped. Accidents, monsters, and weather were all very real everyday threats.

It was a dangerous profession, so it made sense Drifter would try to be more deadly than anything he came across. He seemed awfully light on his feet too; metal armor would not aid him that feat.

“Did you make it before or after you started drifting?” They probed, curious, but polite.

Drifter regarded his blade a moment, sheathing it into its handle and watching the blue glow fade. He placed it in its holster for a moment to sign unhindered. “Before.” He started looking to Guardian again. “And what of you? Is your armor significant to you?”

They smiled easily, relieved they were both honoring their prior agreement. A question for a question.

“My armor is handmade by me. My guardians were warriors in a way. If one wanted to take a challenging path like the life of a drifter, you would have to be well prepared for the journey.” They touched over their breastplate fondly. “It means a lot to me, and it protects me greatly.” 

Drifter cocked his head to get a closer look at the pink metal, looking up to them. "May I feel it?"

The question surprised them, Drifter had kept a polite bubble between them up to this point, as most drifters generally did. It made them smile, feeling endeared that he felt so trusting of them, holding their arm out to him. "Of course. I'm not sure how it will feel against your gloves. It makes an interesting sound when struck, though."

Drifters fingers touched over the metal closest to their wrist, mindful to not graze his claws against them as he poked about with a curious glint in his eye. They were close enough to hear the tiny huff of a laugh from him as he signed, "Are you trying to tell me to hit you with my sword?"

Guardian smirked. "I'd prefer not to be sliced through with your laser sword, thank you."

They both shared a small chuckle.

Drifter takes his time inspecting their gauntlet and observing their breastplate. Part of them almost felt a little squeamish under his gaze, someone really appreciating their passion project.

Drifter eventually pulled away, back in their polite bubble, giving Guardian a smile. "It looks nice. I think it suits you."

It was hard not to be bashful at that, and they felt some heat rise up their neck and end at their cheeks. They couldn't pinpoint why hearing it from Drifter made them feel so sheepish. "Thank you."

Drifter afforded them some mercy, continuing their trek in a comfortable quiet, both thinking over the information they'd both shared.

A real conversation with a fellow drifter like this was exhilarating in a way. A part of them figured perhaps they were just lonesome. It was usually a solitary lifestyle, and they had thought they were extremely lucky with their spouse, but there was something about Drifter that made them feel light and too warm.

They couldn't discern if they were having the same effect on Drifter, and it was almost a scary thought. On one hand, they were very comfortable around Drifter, and he was respectfully curious about them. They had both set up an interesting dynamic that Guardian couldn't help but be fond of, but there was still the lingering feeling of disease.

Am I simply latching on to the first person so genuine with me?

Or even the Gods of this island could simply be messing with me..

It was a hard feeling to parse through, but they silently decided being a little too friendly with a nice man was nowhere near as dangerous as a vengeful centipede. Somehow, they doubted the Jackal cared that much about their personal relationships between the drifters.

That didn't make it less complicated to parse through, and really, this wasn't the time to be muddling through their feelings; they were in the middle of very dangerous territory. It would also be embarrassing to be taken off guard around Drifter. He had seen them fight not only an hour or so ago, but would he be disenchanted with them if they were foolish?

They wanted to kick themself.

Luckily, it was a short while between them and a new group of enemies: A dirk encampment. Both drifters draw their weapons out as they silently peeked around trees. Guardian spoke low. “I don't know your way of fighting, but if you would like to fight together, I'll go high and you go low?” They offered, glancing over to see Drifter's response, trusting they were in a good spot to take their eyes off the enemy.

Drifter nodded and gave a thumbs up, and to their surprise he made the first move; blade alight as he took off running full speed to the nearest dirk, slicing through their body with quick brutality. Guardian had to rush in as well, as the others had jumped up at the quick surprise attack. A chorus of snarling dirks stalked around them, almost making them shudder, but they reminded themself there were far scarier things they had faced.

They hefted their blade at the ready, charging up their heavy slash they had gotten from the sword master, and swung it in a wide sweep. The red cut cleanly through three of the dirks that had stood before them, a large splash of blood too pink splattered onto the ground and the dirks behind them. Guardian was pleasantly surprised at how well the upgrade had worked. 

Immediately following their swing, Drifter stabbed through the neck of another, pulling his sizzling blade out to the side and ramming the point into another one. Guardian turned their back against Drifter’s, thrusting their sword against one trying to rush them. 

Neither got into the other’s way, and Guardian was shocked at how quick Drifter was, weaving around the dirks and staying out of far range of their own blade and larger swings. The colors his sword made as he sliced down were almost hypnotizing; the blue would leave a small light trail that seemed purple at some angles, and blue in others. 

Guardian tossed their blade quickly to the chest of the racoon samurai, a resounding cry and tear of flesh rang as their body hit the ground. Quickly, they slid forward along the grass and yanked out their blade, holding it tight to thrust forward through the remaining dirk.

A deafening ‘ crack! ’ sounded to their side, whipping their head over to see what had caused it.

They couldn’t help it; they let out a loud, hearty laugh at the sight. 

Oh stars above… He’s been caught in another crystal. 

He was caught midair, his face scrunched in an angry scowl as his arms had flailed back behind him. It looked like he had been in the middle of dashing away from the crystal spider, but just couldn’t quite manage to avoid it.

Gasping to hopefully catch their breath back, they wiped away a tear under their helmet before hacking away at the fresh crystal.

When Drifter toppled out, he simply laid on the ground in a crumpled heap for a moment, while he caught his breath, Guardian knelt by him with a wry grin. “So, how is that sword working out for you?”

Drifter's hand slowly came up to flip them off, shifting his head to glare up at them for a moment. He sat up with a disgruntled look as he signed. “I think I have found something I hate .” He emphasized the hate gesture with a sneer.

That pulled another chuckle from them, reaching forward to grasp Drifters hand and pulling him back up to stand. “So long as you figure out how to avoid them, hate them all you please.”

Drifter still let out a drawn out sigh, shoulders dropped as he slowly signed. “How is it that your much broader, taller frame seems more capable of avoiding those little crystal spiders than my own frame?” 

Guardian smirked, shaking their head. “I am only familiar with how they move about. You are not. It’s not a matter of physical difference here, I believe.” They reached to pat over Drifter’s shoulder before he could start hissing again. “You are a fast learner, I’m sure. By the end of this day, it shouldn't be an issue for you.”

The unspoken challenge rang true; if Drifter could not get used to this, Guardian would most likely continue to offer their assistance. 

He locked his jaw as he stared up to Guardian, before he nodded tightly once, nodding to the door. “Lead the way, Guardian.” 

They smiled. "My pleasure." They turned on ahead to continue on weaving through the crystal thicket, hearing the songs of the teal cranes flying nearby. Drifter fell into step by Guardian's side; even with a foot's worth of height difference between them, Drifter's stride kept him in pace. It made Guardian chuckle softly, wondering how if he was so quick, how he kept getting stuck in the crystals. They did not voice this even when Drifter gave them a wry look.

It was easy to let the silence filter between them, comfortable and interesting to re-explore a bit. They had encountered many things here, and after a while, they were struck by the thought of the modules they had found.

Drifter was looking for something, and they had been tasked with finding modules. Drifter had not mentioned anything about benevolent Gods leading him through these lands yet, but on the other hand, neither had they.

They glanced to Drifter, who had his holographic map in front of his face as they walked, putting it away for a small while before checking it once more. Maybe he was trying to plan the quickest way back to the modules after they parted ways, or he was just getting himself familiar with where they were. It was interesting to see other travelers' habits, and Guardian was happy to study Drifter's own. He seemed to know how to carry himself through a forest like he was born in one, barely stepping on any leaves or twigs even if it seemed like he was hardly paying attention to where he stepped. Those dark eyes could hide much, it seemed.

They finally came to an area Guardian was eager to recognize: The ancient trap of crystals. They slowed their step to a stop, Drifter faltering for a moment to glance up at Guardian curiously. They pointed ahead at the ground. "Look there."

Guardian stooped down to pick up a rock as Drifter squinted ahead, noting the crystals embedded in the ground in a strange manner. They took the moment to toss the rock forward, letting the sharp crystals shoot out in a dangerous display of spikes. They made near the same sounds of glass as they built up and disappeared after a few moments, shattering to dust and sprinkling back into the dirt below.

Drifter stood, blinking twice, hand coming up to sign. "O.H."

Guardian barked a laugh, nodding. "Yes, it was a big shock to me as well. I was not so lucky to think of having a rock with me."

Drifter gaped at Guardian. "How did you survive?"

They tapped their chestplate. "My armor comes in a lot of handy for surprise traps such as that."

Drifter snorted, before pausing. "I don't have armor like that."

"That's right. So be careful when we pass through here." They smiled under their helmet, and Drifter shot them an unamused look. His hand came up to sign something Guardian wasn’t familiar with, one of Drifter’s hands coming over to tap on his other wrist with his middle finger, looking far too mischievous.

"I don't know that sign, can you spell it for me?"

Drifter seemed all too giddy to comply as he slowly signed it out. "P.R.I.C.K."

Guardian blinked, squinting at his hands as he signed and took a moment to process the word. "Now that is just childish. I'm only trying to help." They grunted, placing a hand on their hip.

Drifter waved them away. "I know. You don't have to look so smug when you do so." He shot back with a small snort from under his veil, taking a step forward to dash quickly across the crystals before Guardian could say anything else, causing them to gasp. Luckily, the crystals shattered to show that Drifter had made it across unscathed.

"And you do not have to be so reckless!" They called across the gap between them, dashing forward to slide right next to him, a chorus of glass behind them. "You have nothing to prove to me. You do not need to put yourself at risk."

Drifter stared at them a moment, before he slowly nodded. "I did not mean to worry you."

Guardian sighed, shoulders sagging. "No, you're fine. These crystals are a lot more dangerous than the last you got stuck in - I wouldn't know how to safely get you out of these. And you would not know how to get me out should I get stuck." They pointed out, seeing Drifter wilt a bit. "...though I do admit, I might have been a bit too boastful with my armor. I'm proud of it, but I did not mean for it to come out in an undignified way." They looked away sheepishly for a moment, huffing at themself. 

What am I trying to do, impress him? I am the one acting childish...

They heard the softest chuckle from Drifter as he shook his head. "Well, it does look very nice. I've passed many travelers in my time, yet your armor does stand out from those numbers." He took a once over from Guardian, looking at the armor more thoroughly. "Why these colors?"

Guardian thought for a moment, looking down to themself and back to Drifter. "I will tell, if I may ask about all the red?" After they asked, they took another dash through the piercing crystals, Drifter already hot on their heels. A fast learner indeed.

"Deal." He signed, keeping his sharp eyes on their surroundings, making them feel at ease to speak more, glad he was so applicable to their chatting.

Guardian smiled, thinking back. "I did not come from any family of long term travelers, just trips to bigger markets and one nearby city when we were able to. I only took up the lifestyle after I earned my companion." They smiled fondly. "The place I used to live at was near a teal lake, and pink trees not too unlike those around us." They gestured through what remained of the midnight woods surrounding them on their trek. "I was always in love with the colors, especially when the full moon would shine over the lake. It was a very beautiful sight, and I wanted something that would remind me of home even on my travels." They explained with a soft grin crossing over their features as they recalled home for the first time in a while. 

Drifter had nodded once they had crossed the rest of the spiked crystals, giving the spikes a stink eye once they were both safe from being skewered, turning back to sign. "It sounds like a beautiful place. What made the lake teal?"

Guardian paused for a moment to remember. "I believe it was a type of plant species that lived in the lake, though I cannot recall why exactly they grew there. It has been many years since I have been back there."

"No family?" Drifter asked, blinking to suddenly add, "If that's alright to ask. You don't have to answer."

The gesture was appreciated; Guardian knew how uncertain and unfair the world could be. "It's quite alright. I did have some family there the last I visited, but I was very dedicated to the lifestyle and I had made the choice it would be unlikely I would ever return. They understood and supported that once we all learned about the drifter lifestyle.”

Drifter smiled at that, stepping along with Guardian across the crystalized grass. “That sounds nice. It surprises me they took an interest. Most people find the profession a bit too extreme to want to learn further.”

They chuckled, nodding their agreement. “They were hesitant at the level of dedication needed to join, but they saw my passion and they raised me well. I am an expert at keeping my limbs attached.” 

Drifter snickered beneath his mask, poking around behind some trees and bushes, looking around as if he had dropped something. 

“And what of you, Drifter? I know blueskins are typically drifters, and you don't need to answer, but I can't deny that I’m curious.” The question had bugged them since Drifter mentioned not many blueskins did anything but drift. It made them wonder.

He didn't seem taken aback by the question, tapping a claw against his chin for a moment. “It’s a tradition, mostly.” His hands shifted uncertainty for a moment, face pinching as he looked hesitant to go on or not as he thought about it. 

“We are nomads in general, but circumstances lead us to take to the ways of drifting more often than not.” He explained shortly, shrugging. “You are either a drifter and travel alone, or you travel with the tribe. There's few exceptions that I am aware of.” 

Guardian wondered why that was, but Drifter was having a hard time being vague with this, so they let that answer be the end of it.

“So, why the red?” They asked instead, hoping this would be safer territory to return to.

Drifter seemed thankful for the topic turn, and looked down to his cloak in thought for a moment. “The easy answer is it helps to hide when I bleed, and the color represents a lot about me as an individual.” He paused another moment, shrugging, “Determined, strong, things of that sort. Red is given to those who embody that of an unyielding spirit.” 

He stopped mid sign, feeling caught again at the thought he may have over shared, and turned away to avoid their openly curious gaze.

With such timing as well, Drifter stopped in his step rather abruptly, holding a hand up as he flicked his head to and fro. If he were a cat, Guardian could imagine how his ears would be moving as he listened closely.

“There is something nearby, I assume more raccoons.” He signed slowly, pulling his sword hilt back out swiftly at his theory. 

Guardian followed suit, pulling their blade up at the ready and creeping low instep with Drifter. They were confident to lead their attack, but with how quick he was, he seemed eager to take the lead. They couldn't fault him for that, and seeing how he fought was pleasant to witness.

Just as before, he followed the same recipe; he took in the situation for a moment as he counted the enemies, glancing to Guardian to confirm their fighting stance, and he rushed the samurai. He pierced his sword through the back of the nearest racoon, a guttural howl as the blade seared through its chest. 

Guardian followed his lead, swinging their momentum forward to throw their sword into the neck of the one creeping upon them, the racoon's body falling backwards. Guardian leapt to rip their sword from its neck and clanged it to meet the parry of another samurai phase attack. It snarled in their face, snout pulled back to bare its teeth in their face. They sneered at the display - and the stench coming from the zombie - and they shifted to give it a hard kick to its gut, sending it stumbling backward.

It jumped back from their next stab, growling lowly at them. They glowed briefly, blinking only a foot away with their glowing sword grating against their armor. They felt a small slice upon their arm with the swing. They grunted in pain, but did not let themself falter, reaching to grab the racoon by the scruff, yanking the snarling raccoon's head to the side to shove their sword into its neck.

It sputtered out its gurgling infected blood, body spasming as it tried to keep a hold of its sword as the infected light finally faded from its eyes. Guardian pulled their sword from it, laying it into the grass and turning back to watch Drifter.

He was pulling his blade out of the remnants of his own samurai, flicking his light sword of its steam as he huffed loud enough for them to hear. He had felled the samurai simply enough, even with only a brief hand from themself, and it made them smile. It was sad they had to end the racoons in such a brutal way, but on the odd thought, it was a warrior's death.

A more prominent thought that came to mind; he seemed more than familiar with the area now.

The sun would be down in a few hours, and they had planned on walking back to Central instead of warping. Using that transport system was helpful in a bind, but they never found themself in a huge hurry, at least not yet.

“I think this is where I will leave you for the day. You seem more than comfortable with the layout of these lands, and I did have a bit of business to attend to.” 

This seemed to take Drifter somewhat off guard, as he looked over from where he stood by the body of the crystal wolf. He looked over to Guardian with surprise, hands stalled as he stood for a moment.

“I see. I didn't mean to keep you from your business.” He signed quickly, bowing his head down politely.

Guardian shook their head, chuckling. “You kept me from nothing more important than making sure you have safe travels. This was no trouble, and it seems we have a similar goal in these lands anyhow. I am happy to assist.” They assured.

Drifter did not appear to be convinced, but wasn't keen on arguing further either, so he nodded. “Alright... Thank you for your time, I appreciate your kindness.” 

They beamed with a wide smile that went unseen, and stepped forward to reach a hand out to Drifter. He hesitated for only a moment before taking them by the forearm. 

“You’re welcome, Drifter. My place of living continues to be open to you. I hope the labs are kind to you.” They gave his arm a gentle squeeze, a friendly gesture.

Drifter’s shoulders sagged at their offer, but he only nodded to their offer, stepping away after a moment as they both nodded to each other from afar. Drifter’s hands coming up one last time to sign, “May our paths cross again. Safe travels.” Before he turned and headed onward, leaving Guardian to watch the red flutter of his cape wander away.

Idly, Guardian mused to themself as they made their way back to Central.