This is an experimental writing that me and @IndyMystery are working on! We intended to make the writing sounds like you are watching a show. We would like to get feedback from this pilot chapter down below. Thank you in advance >w<
(The top text and the bottom text are letters written by the main character, which he addressed it to himself.
And the italics text are spoken by the narrator :D
There's a placeholder for an image as I intended to do something like Japanese Light Novels do. Yeah, it will be in anime style for the drawing ^-^ but we just want some feedback for the writting part first.)
Unknown snow fields
It’s snowing. In this land of Crystalia, it’s common to see a vast snow field almost devoid of life. However, on this day, there happens to be a pair of siblings here. Their names are Frion and Pruina respectively. Frion is clinging tightly to his older sister. They are carrying nothing and there doesn’t seem to be anything large in their coat pockets.
Pruina: [concerned] Hang in there Frion. He should come soon [hugs him]
Frion: [afraid] Wah… sister. [sniff] Will we make it through the night? How long have we been running…? [droops] I don’t even know where are we right now
Pruina: No Frion! [helps him up] Oh please goddess Crystarina… Please guide him here soon.
Frion: [shivers] I’m tired, sister… [looks at her] how can you stay so strong?
Pruina: I have to be. [pets him] We can’t give up yet, alright? [shiver]
Frion: [blinks at her reaction] Are you also afraid…?
Pruina: [startled] M-Maybe, but maybe not? [acts strong] I’m your sister after all~
Pruina sighs and takes out a letter then she stares at it. The letters say
“Please try to not run too far.
A Crystal Deliver will come to pick you up.
I know there’s a lot of scary monsters around, please take care”
Frion: There’s no sender name… and I don’t remember a thing…
Pruina: I’m with you Frion… I couldn’t remember anything. [puts the letter away] but I trust this letter
Frion: But why?
Pruina: Letters are always written with the heart of the sender, isn’t it? I could feel its warmth. [hands it to him] The sender must really care about us.
Frion: [relaxed] W-Wow… It really is warm… [smiles] I understand now, sister~
Pruina: [smiles] That’s great~ We couldn’t really remember anything, but at least we still know each other, and someone who cares about us is still out there.
Frion: [shivering] Brr… but I’m so cold-
Pruina: Oh Frion… [crouches and covers him] I don’t know why this ever happened to us, but it will be alright…
Frion: There’s so much snow. [looks around] It’s so cloudy too…
Pruina: [tight hug] We will be alright… [sniff]
Frion: Wah....
Eventually, the area darkens, snow starts piling on the very afraid siblings. They were cold and huddling together in hopes of being rescued. The light of the day started to dim and it almost seemed hopeless for them, but suddenly a voice broke out.
Duratus: Auro! Auro! Auro!
Frigero: Wait up, Duratus!
Duratus barks and stops next to Pruina then sniffs her.
Pruina: [startled] Ah! [pulls Frion away from Duratus]
Duratus, a wolf-like creature known as Wolfrolus whimpers and the man catches up to it. He reaches to the siblings. The man has some bags and wears a uniform. He must be a Crystal Deliver.
Frigero: Sorry about that [rubs his head] I hope Duratus didn’t hurt you. [turns to it] Can you stay away from them for a while?
Duratus: Auro.. auro… [ear droops and walk back to the man]
Frigero: Good boy [rubs Duratus’ head] Anyways sorry about that. I’m Frigero Serpentear and this is my parten, Duratus.
Pruina: [concerned] A-Are you… here to pick us up?
Frigero: [nods] Yes, I’m the Deliver who is tasked with escorting you to Anima Town.
Duratus: Auro! [wags tail happily]
Frigero: Sorry that he went really close to you, but I promise, he won’t bite.
Frion: [peeks from behind Pruina, scared, shivering] Um...
Pruina: Oh poor Frion... [pats him] Don’t worry, he will help us reach safety.
Frion nods and continues to hide behind Pruina, but she’s still staring at Frigero. Duratus tilts its head. It really seems to want to be friends with Frion. Frigero looks at Frion and goes silent for a moment. He appears to be concerned about the little boy’s reaction to meeting them.
Frigero: [slightly disappointed] He’s not the type to speak there?
Pruina: O-Oh.. he’s pretty shy. He’s always afraid of strangers.
Frigero: Ah I see. Don’t sweat it. [takes out paper] so let me confirm, you are Pruina Nivalis?
Pruina: Yes [holds Frion’s hand]
Frigero: And that’s Frion Nivalis?
Pruina: [nods] Yes, and it’s a pleasure to meet you, mister Frigero [bows and lightly push Frion’s head to make him bow too]
Frigero : [chuckles] No need for formalities. [looks at Frion] that’s a noble name. [Frion doesn't reply] Ah, anyways, can you two still walk? I don’t mind carrying you both
Pruina : [shocked] B-Both of us!? N-No it’s fine, mister. We can still walk.
Frigero : Alright, but let me know if you’re tired [smiles]
And so, they walk together through the endless snow. Pruina and Frion hold hands tightly. The scenery never changes but Frigero never falters. The Deliver seems to know the way perfectly, which is natural since these people are trained professionals in navigation in these frozen wilderness.
2 hours later
They have walked for a while, but It’s still the snow plains, yet there are now dunes and alcoves, and maybe some caves too. This must be the snow dunes; another common landform in Crystalia. The group walk in from the left and stop in front of a large dune.
Pruina : [pants] Mister… can we take a break?
Frigero : Oh, no problem. [notices Duratus nibbling him] What is it, did you find something? [Duratus runs to a cave] Oh, you found a cave, great!
Frigero and Duratus go off to check the safety of the cave while the siblings look at each other. Frion clings tightly Pruina, afraid.
Frigero : [joyful] Hey you two, you can sit on the rock over there. The cave’s safe. I’ll get you some wood.
Pruina : Ah alright- [goes in and sit]
Frigero : I’ll be back soon. Duratus, watch over them. [Duratus barks “Auro” eagerly]
Frigero left and Duratus stands in front of the cave to guard the siblings. Pruina and Frion each sit on sufficiently flat rocks and face each other. They both seem uneasy as if something heavy is in their minds.
Pruina : Ah, he’s away… I think this is a chance I could ask you. [goes closer to him] Do you… remember anything before we end up in the plains?
Frion : [shakes head] No.. nothing at all, sister… but it’s scary, everything is scary… [curls up]
Pruina : Poor little Frion… [curls over him] I’m here with you.
Frion : [quietly] what are we?
Pruina : [confused] What.. are we? What do you mean by that?
Frion : Are we really humans?
Pruina : [concerned] Of course we are…
Frion : [shaky voice] are you sure…?
Pruina : [silent for a moment] I’m sure we are…
Frion : O-Okay... But I’m so scared.
Duratus : Auro? [moves to Frion, troubled]
Frion : [slight shock] A-Ah!? Um.. [tries to pet Duratus] So soft…
Duratus : Auro auro~ [nuzzles him, relieved]
Frion : So soft and fluffy [rubs fur, relaxed] I love this… [yawns and falls asleep]
Pruina : [at ease] He seems so relaxed. I guess he’s fine now~ [gently stands up and walks around a bit, leaving Frion on Duratus] Maybe I shouldn’t push him about it, but [ponders] what was that weird question he brought up…? There’s no way we can’t be humans. We look human in every way. Ice Demons won’t feel cold and afraid in places like these... [looks outside] They are one with the snow and ice. This is their home. We are not alike. We’re cold, we’re afraid, we’re lost. Was he fearing something I couldn’t grasp? Is there something he remembered but I couldn’t? To question such things lead me nowhere but more worries. [sighs] He’s sleeping so soundly, but something is still on my mind. Who really are we? Why are we here? What will be in store for us? Will there be a day we know our past, and all the answers to these questions that are ever plaguing our minds? To ever learn these would be a blessing, but shall that day ever come?
Duratus : Auro? [looks at Pruina]
Pruina : O-Oh is he too heavy for you? [walks to him]
Duratus : Auro auro! [wags tail, happy, eager]
Pruina : Oh you don’t mind? [relieved] Ah, I guess we are just tired from walking. [yawns] I should get some sleep too… [lies down and sleep]
Ah hour later
Frigero eventually returns with some wood. Nivalis is sleeping on top of Duratus and Pruina is right next to them. Frigero puts down the wood and smiles at them then slowly sits down near the pile of wood.
Frigero : They must be really tired. [chuckles] I’m not surprised. You’re a very good boy, Duratus. [pets, Duratus makes a quiet happy grunt]. They must be cold too.
Then Frigero arranges the pile of wood and puts some stones to surround it. He takes out a red crystal from his bag. He rubs it and places it in the middle of the wood formation, then it glows and sparks fly out, igniting the wood.
Duratus : Auro auro [slowly crawls near and attempt to retrieve the crystal]
Frigero : No Duratus, don’t. [holds Duratus] You know, I wouldn’t have to carry these crystals if I could use fire magic, but this will do because I’m just a wind user.
Frigero holds his hand out towards the direction of the crystal, but not too close. Then a gentle stream of air emerges as he focuses his attention. The crystal is slowly lifted out from the flames.
Frigero : You were so close Duratus, I was so afraid your fur would be burned. [flicks his arm and the crystal drops to the cold floor]. It’s still hot so give it a moment?
Duratus : Auro [ears droop, sad whimpers]
Frigero : Oh you’re so eager [taps the floor] Come here cutie. [Duratus does while Frion is still on its back] You really want to help them out huh. Well, you’re right. They don’t deserve to be out here alone by themselves.
Duratus : Aurooo-
Frigero : I know. It’s unfortunate… I don’t know what they went through, but the client said they are escaping some kind of threat [opens his bag] I believe these are their favorites though… I hope it doesn’t spoil.
Duratus : [sniffs] Auro! [happy barks] Auro auro!
Frigero : They’re still good? That’s nice. [sets the bag down] Let’s get some rest too.
They lie down and stay near the fire to keep warm. Night falls and everything is dead quiet as they all drift into sleep under the warmth from the gentle flames.
Dawn
Pruina wakes up and looks at Frion. Then, she cries. Her crying wakes Frigero and Duratus up. The fire is dimming and weakening. The coldness seems to have settled back in.
Frigero : [worried] Something’s matter? Are you cold?
Pruina : [still crying] I-I don’t know… I started crying out of all of sudden… I didn’t even notice it’s cold-
Frigero : Huh… ah, well. [pats] I think it might be stress. Let’s forget about that for now and eat something.
Pruina : Eat something? [wipes her tears]
Frigero : Yes, I have some supplies.
Duratus crawls to Pruina and nuzzles her which eases her a little. Frigero grabs some wood and carefully adds them to the fire. He takes out pieces of meat from his bag and skewers them, then puts them over the fire. Frion soon wakes up from the fragrance of his favorite meat.
Frion : Mmm… Smells tasty…
Frigero : [content] Good morning~
Pruina : [happy] Oh Frion, just in time~
The three humans gather around the fire and eat Duratus stares at the meat and Frigero. When they are done, Frion grabs small pieces near the fire and tries making noises to call Duratus. Despite being afraid at first, he seems to have taken liking into the creature now.
Frion : [unsure] A-Ah um
Frigero : [looks] Oh you want to feed him? Go ahead~
Frion puts the food in his hand and Duratus eagerly comes, wagging its tail.
Frion : [happy] eat up~ [pets]
Duratus : [joyfully eats] Auro~
Frion : [adoring] so cute…
Frigero : [chuckles] Looks like you really like him
Frion : Y-Yeah~ I like fluffy things~
Pruina : [giggles] I’m glad to see you happy~
Frigero : [looks at them for a while] Anyways, we have to get going. We can’t stay here forever.
Pruina and Frion nod. When Frion finishes feeding Duratus, they start getting ready for travel again. Frigero collects the remaining unused wood and stuffs them into his bag. Then they walk outside of the cave and depart from the dunes.
Unknown crystal fields
Some time later
The scenery is once again, flat snow plains but this time littered with crystal bits and crystalline plants. The group walks along the area with less snow and avoids walking into crystals. This place may look slightly different from the previous field, but it’s mostly snow just like the former.
Frigero : I think this path should be safe. [takes out his map] There should be few to no Frosterrors nearby.
Pruina : Frosterror?
Frigero : They are terrifying creatures made from snow. Huge, strong, and relentless. They seem to seek warmth from magic and that’s why they always target Delivers like me. Letters are full of warmth from people’s hearts.
Frion : H-Huge?? [hides behind Pruina]
Frigero : Yeah, and they’re highly dangerous. We should keep away from them. [looks at the map again] According to the map, this area should be pretty safe.
Frion : Wah… I’m scared… [clings Pruina tightly]
Pruina : [smiles] We should be fine, Frion. He seems skilled.
Frion : [not convinced] Um…
Frigero : Let’s move. The sooner we reach settlements, the safer and better for us.
They keep on walking until they reach a clearing. The children slow down and have some distance to Frigero due to dense snow that made it hard to walk through. Frigero notices the absence of crystal piles and Duratus seems rather uneasy. Suddenly, there Duratus stops and barks nervously.
Frigero : Duratus! What’s wrong? [Duratus growls aggressively] What do you mean!? Frosterror nearby!?
Pruina : [gasp] No way!
Frion : [cries] waaah noooo!
Frigero : [serious] You two! Stay close to me!
Frigero runs to the duo and while he is at it, he waves his arm and a spear magically appears within his grasp. However before he could reach them, the snow under them collapsed into a pit. Frigero concentrates his magical power into a ball and throws it behind himself. It explodes, launching him forward to the children and the edges of the pit at great speed. However, he manages to catch only Frion while Pruina falls to the center of the pit. Duratus is just slightly away from the pit.
Frigero : [stabs the spear into the snow and hangs onto it] Oof! Am I too late!?
Frion : [fearful] Sister!!
Pruina : [also fearful] Frion!
A giant crab-like monster made entirely out of snow emerges from the pit and grabs Pruina with its left claw. It makes a shrilling roar and lifts two of its feet and slams them to the ground. Its landing impact causes snow in the pit to slide downwards.
Frion looks away in fear and trembles under Frigero’s arm. Frigero holds onto the spear very tightly but it is starting to give away under their combined weight.
Frigero : Argh this wouldn’t do! Duratus, help me find its weakpoint!
Duratus gives affirmative bark and glows a tiny bit with magical force before charging at the top carapace of the Frosterror. The monster flinches from the impact for a little moment, Duratus’ magic circles around a shiny crystal embedded in the huge enemy. The crystal is located right on the top center of its shell.
Frigero : There it is! I just have to--
The Frosterror stomps the ground once more, staggering them and almost dislodging the spear.
Frigero : [pressured] We have to be quick… ugh. [holds Frion tightly and whisper to him] Hey Frion, I have a plan, but I need your help.
Frion: [shaky] M-My h-help..?
Frigero : We can save your sister, but there’s only one chance. Are you in?
Frion : [unconfident] A-Anything to save her!
Frigero : [nods] Good. Do you see where Duratus is pointing with his magic? That’s the monster’s weakpoint. We must strike it with enough force to shatter it in one attempt. You need to aim my spear at it. I need your power to give it enough energy to one-shot it.
Frion : [surprised] But how??
Frigero : [pats] Just focus on the spear. Let your energy into the spear.
Frion : [nervous] but can I do it…?
Frigero : I will support you but for now... Hang on tight.
Frion hangs on tightly as Frigero focuses his magical power in his hand. Then, he immediately shoots an eagle-shaped wind wave below. This magical bird-shaped wave is an advanced wind magic technique called Windy Bird. The force of the spell launches both Frigero and Frion upward. The Frosterror seems agitated and responds with energy orbs from its right claw. Duratus barks and counters with his own magical orbs. The orbs cancel each other out and disappear without traces.
While midair, Frigero positions himself so that he can easily strike the monster’s weakpoint. He uses his magic to call the spear back to him and aim directly at the target.
Frigero : Now grab the spear!
Frion : [startled] O-Okay! [does so anyway]
Frigero : [covers Frion’s hands with his own] The power of wind that flows through me…
Frion : [trying very hard, spears start to glow]
Frigero : [orb forms at the tip of the spear] Gather on my spear, resonate through the gales! Wind’s Resonance!
Frigero and Frion’s combined magical energy forcefully launches the orb from the spear to the monster. With the monster’s slow movements, it fails to dodge and the orb smashes into the center of its crystal. The Frosterror screeches as its crystal shatters. Its legs start to bend and break under its own weight.
As Pruina is released from the crab’s claw, Frigero lands and uses his wind magic to cushion all three of them from the impact. Duratus quickly uses its magic to help push Pruina out from the pit of the dying Frosterror.
Frion : Did we do it-?
Frigero : [relieved] We did. [turns to the monster]
Then all of them turn. The crab monstrosity starts collapsing and disintegrates into beautiful sparkles that causes them to watch until they completely disappear into thin air.
Pruina : [relief sigh] Oh Frion…
Frion : You’re back and safe… [hugs]
Pruina : Thank you mister Frigero [bows]
Frigero : Oh no need! It is my duty after all
Frion : [inspired] mister is so cool-
Frigero : [surprised] Oh you look much more lively than before. [pets him]
Frion : [cuddles and nuzzles] haha yeah~ I’m not worried about you anymore. You are so kind and strong!
Frigero : Oh thank you~ Still, we must move on since we are always in risk of running into another one. [worried] Can you still walk? You both look exhausted.
Frion : Um.. [legs a little bent]
Frigero : Oh you must have gotten hurt when the pit was revealed. [picks him up] Let me allow you to piggyback then.
Frion : [surprised] Ah??
Frigero : [chuckles] Well at least you’re not hurt. Everyone is safe and sound, and that’s a great thing.
Pruina : Oh mister Frigero.. You’re so kind. How can we ever repay you?
Frigero : No need. It’s my task to protect you after all. [looks far ahead] but we must be careful since that one seemed to be outside its territory.
Frion : Wah- [clings in fear]
Frigero : [firmly] Don’t worry Frion. I will protect you and your sister.
They start to travel once again and as the crystal piles start to disappear, the snow becomes less thick and there are traces of paths. They are getting near a town. Suddenly, Frion pokes Frigero.
Frigero : What is it?
Frion : [slightly worried] Can I… become a Deliver, like you?
Frigero : [happy] Oh of course you can! Anyone can become a Deliver if they wanted to be! [turns to him] but why would you want to be one?
Frion : [confident] I want to see smiles! Just like how you made my sister smile earlier!
Frigero : I see [chuckles] Well of course you can if you stay determined and never lose your ideals.
Frion : [confused] lose my ideals?
Frigero : [slight sad tone] Ah, one day you will understand what I mean. Anyhow, Anima Town is just ahead now.
Frion : [looks] A town…
Frigero : Maybe you can start here. Anima town has a Deliver station even though it's such a small town.
Frion : [space out a bit] a station…
Frigero : I’m sure you can do it if you put your heart into it. [looks to the town] For now, let’s go in there first.
They all walk towards the town with hopeful faces. They are relieved that they have now reached safety and can finally be at ease. The snowy tracks become clearer and clearer until they are local paths with snow swept aside. This may be the end of their long walk, but this is only the beginning of their real journey.
(The top text and the bottom text are letters written by the main character, which he addressed it to himself.
And the italics text are spoken by the narrator :D
There's a placeholder for an image as I intended to do something like Japanese Light Novels do. Yeah, it will be in anime style for the drawing ^-^ but we just want some feedback for the writting part first.)
"That one time I was lost.
Everything is so unclear, but I know things will get better soon.
Life can be hard, but there's always light at the end.
To myself, never give up. Keep looking forward."
Everything is so unclear, but I know things will get better soon.
Life can be hard, but there's always light at the end.
To myself, never give up. Keep looking forward."
From: Frion Nivalis
Unknown snow fields
It’s snowing. In this land of Crystalia, it’s common to see a vast snow field almost devoid of life. However, on this day, there happens to be a pair of siblings here. Their names are Frion and Pruina respectively. Frion is clinging tightly to his older sister. They are carrying nothing and there doesn’t seem to be anything large in their coat pockets.
Pruina: [concerned] Hang in there Frion. He should come soon [hugs him]
Frion: [afraid] Wah… sister. [sniff] Will we make it through the night? How long have we been running…? [droops] I don’t even know where are we right now
Pruina: No Frion! [helps him up] Oh please goddess Crystarina… Please guide him here soon.
Frion: [shivers] I’m tired, sister… [looks at her] how can you stay so strong?
Pruina: I have to be. [pets him] We can’t give up yet, alright? [shiver]
Frion: [blinks at her reaction] Are you also afraid…?
Pruina: [startled] M-Maybe, but maybe not? [acts strong] I’m your sister after all~
Pruina sighs and takes out a letter then she stares at it. The letters say
“Please try to not run too far.
A Crystal Deliver will come to pick you up.
I know there’s a lot of scary monsters around, please take care”
Frion: There’s no sender name… and I don’t remember a thing…
Pruina: I’m with you Frion… I couldn’t remember anything. [puts the letter away] but I trust this letter
Frion: But why?
Pruina: Letters are always written with the heart of the sender, isn’t it? I could feel its warmth. [hands it to him] The sender must really care about us.
Frion: [relaxed] W-Wow… It really is warm… [smiles] I understand now, sister~
Pruina: [smiles] That’s great~ We couldn’t really remember anything, but at least we still know each other, and someone who cares about us is still out there.
Frion: [shivering] Brr… but I’m so cold-
Pruina: Oh Frion… [crouches and covers him] I don’t know why this ever happened to us, but it will be alright…
Frion: There’s so much snow. [looks around] It’s so cloudy too…
Pruina: [tight hug] We will be alright… [sniff]
Frion: Wah....
(Image: Nivalis siblings huddling in snow)
Eventually, the area darkens, snow starts piling on the very afraid siblings. They were cold and huddling together in hopes of being rescued. The light of the day started to dim and it almost seemed hopeless for them, but suddenly a voice broke out.
Duratus: Auro! Auro! Auro!
Frigero: Wait up, Duratus!
Duratus barks and stops next to Pruina then sniffs her.
Pruina: [startled] Ah! [pulls Frion away from Duratus]
Duratus, a wolf-like creature known as Wolfrolus whimpers and the man catches up to it. He reaches to the siblings. The man has some bags and wears a uniform. He must be a Crystal Deliver.
Frigero: Sorry about that [rubs his head] I hope Duratus didn’t hurt you. [turns to it] Can you stay away from them for a while?
Duratus: Auro.. auro… [ear droops and walk back to the man]
Frigero: Good boy [rubs Duratus’ head] Anyways sorry about that. I’m Frigero Serpentear and this is my parten, Duratus.
Pruina: [concerned] A-Are you… here to pick us up?
Frigero: [nods] Yes, I’m the Deliver who is tasked with escorting you to Anima Town.
Duratus: Auro! [wags tail happily]
Frigero: Sorry that he went really close to you, but I promise, he won’t bite.
Frion: [peeks from behind Pruina, scared, shivering] Um...
Pruina: Oh poor Frion... [pats him] Don’t worry, he will help us reach safety.
Frion nods and continues to hide behind Pruina, but she’s still staring at Frigero. Duratus tilts its head. It really seems to want to be friends with Frion. Frigero looks at Frion and goes silent for a moment. He appears to be concerned about the little boy’s reaction to meeting them.
Frigero: [slightly disappointed] He’s not the type to speak there?
Pruina: O-Oh.. he’s pretty shy. He’s always afraid of strangers.
Frigero: Ah I see. Don’t sweat it. [takes out paper] so let me confirm, you are Pruina Nivalis?
Pruina: Yes [holds Frion’s hand]
Frigero: And that’s Frion Nivalis?
Pruina: [nods] Yes, and it’s a pleasure to meet you, mister Frigero [bows and lightly push Frion’s head to make him bow too]
Frigero : [chuckles] No need for formalities. [looks at Frion] that’s a noble name. [Frion doesn't reply] Ah, anyways, can you two still walk? I don’t mind carrying you both
Pruina : [shocked] B-Both of us!? N-No it’s fine, mister. We can still walk.
Frigero : Alright, but let me know if you’re tired [smiles]
And so, they walk together through the endless snow. Pruina and Frion hold hands tightly. The scenery never changes but Frigero never falters. The Deliver seems to know the way perfectly, which is natural since these people are trained professionals in navigation in these frozen wilderness.
2 hours later
They have walked for a while, but It’s still the snow plains, yet there are now dunes and alcoves, and maybe some caves too. This must be the snow dunes; another common landform in Crystalia. The group walk in from the left and stop in front of a large dune.
Pruina : [pants] Mister… can we take a break?
Frigero : Oh, no problem. [notices Duratus nibbling him] What is it, did you find something? [Duratus runs to a cave] Oh, you found a cave, great!
Frigero and Duratus go off to check the safety of the cave while the siblings look at each other. Frion clings tightly Pruina, afraid.
Frigero : [joyful] Hey you two, you can sit on the rock over there. The cave’s safe. I’ll get you some wood.
Pruina : Ah alright- [goes in and sit]
Frigero : I’ll be back soon. Duratus, watch over them. [Duratus barks “Auro” eagerly]
Frigero left and Duratus stands in front of the cave to guard the siblings. Pruina and Frion each sit on sufficiently flat rocks and face each other. They both seem uneasy as if something heavy is in their minds.
Pruina : Ah, he’s away… I think this is a chance I could ask you. [goes closer to him] Do you… remember anything before we end up in the plains?
Frion : [shakes head] No.. nothing at all, sister… but it’s scary, everything is scary… [curls up]
Pruina : Poor little Frion… [curls over him] I’m here with you.
Frion : [quietly] what are we?
Pruina : [confused] What.. are we? What do you mean by that?
Frion : Are we really humans?
Pruina : [concerned] Of course we are…
Frion : [shaky voice] are you sure…?
Pruina : [silent for a moment] I’m sure we are…
Frion : O-Okay... But I’m so scared.
Duratus : Auro? [moves to Frion, troubled]
Frion : [slight shock] A-Ah!? Um.. [tries to pet Duratus] So soft…
Duratus : Auro auro~ [nuzzles him, relieved]
Frion : So soft and fluffy [rubs fur, relaxed] I love this… [yawns and falls asleep]
Pruina : [at ease] He seems so relaxed. I guess he’s fine now~ [gently stands up and walks around a bit, leaving Frion on Duratus] Maybe I shouldn’t push him about it, but [ponders] what was that weird question he brought up…? There’s no way we can’t be humans. We look human in every way. Ice Demons won’t feel cold and afraid in places like these... [looks outside] They are one with the snow and ice. This is their home. We are not alike. We’re cold, we’re afraid, we’re lost. Was he fearing something I couldn’t grasp? Is there something he remembered but I couldn’t? To question such things lead me nowhere but more worries. [sighs] He’s sleeping so soundly, but something is still on my mind. Who really are we? Why are we here? What will be in store for us? Will there be a day we know our past, and all the answers to these questions that are ever plaguing our minds? To ever learn these would be a blessing, but shall that day ever come?
Duratus : Auro? [looks at Pruina]
Pruina : O-Oh is he too heavy for you? [walks to him]
Duratus : Auro auro! [wags tail, happy, eager]
Pruina : Oh you don’t mind? [relieved] Ah, I guess we are just tired from walking. [yawns] I should get some sleep too… [lies down and sleep]
Ah hour later
Frigero eventually returns with some wood. Nivalis is sleeping on top of Duratus and Pruina is right next to them. Frigero puts down the wood and smiles at them then slowly sits down near the pile of wood.
Frigero : They must be really tired. [chuckles] I’m not surprised. You’re a very good boy, Duratus. [pets, Duratus makes a quiet happy grunt]. They must be cold too.
Then Frigero arranges the pile of wood and puts some stones to surround it. He takes out a red crystal from his bag. He rubs it and places it in the middle of the wood formation, then it glows and sparks fly out, igniting the wood.
Duratus : Auro auro [slowly crawls near and attempt to retrieve the crystal]
Frigero : No Duratus, don’t. [holds Duratus] You know, I wouldn’t have to carry these crystals if I could use fire magic, but this will do because I’m just a wind user.
Frigero holds his hand out towards the direction of the crystal, but not too close. Then a gentle stream of air emerges as he focuses his attention. The crystal is slowly lifted out from the flames.
Frigero : You were so close Duratus, I was so afraid your fur would be burned. [flicks his arm and the crystal drops to the cold floor]. It’s still hot so give it a moment?
Duratus : Auro [ears droop, sad whimpers]
Frigero : Oh you’re so eager [taps the floor] Come here cutie. [Duratus does while Frion is still on its back] You really want to help them out huh. Well, you’re right. They don’t deserve to be out here alone by themselves.
Duratus : Aurooo-
Frigero : I know. It’s unfortunate… I don’t know what they went through, but the client said they are escaping some kind of threat [opens his bag] I believe these are their favorites though… I hope it doesn’t spoil.
Duratus : [sniffs] Auro! [happy barks] Auro auro!
Frigero : They’re still good? That’s nice. [sets the bag down] Let’s get some rest too.
They lie down and stay near the fire to keep warm. Night falls and everything is dead quiet as they all drift into sleep under the warmth from the gentle flames.
Dawn
Pruina wakes up and looks at Frion. Then, she cries. Her crying wakes Frigero and Duratus up. The fire is dimming and weakening. The coldness seems to have settled back in.
Frigero : [worried] Something’s matter? Are you cold?
Pruina : [still crying] I-I don’t know… I started crying out of all of sudden… I didn’t even notice it’s cold-
Frigero : Huh… ah, well. [pats] I think it might be stress. Let’s forget about that for now and eat something.
Pruina : Eat something? [wipes her tears]
Frigero : Yes, I have some supplies.
Duratus crawls to Pruina and nuzzles her which eases her a little. Frigero grabs some wood and carefully adds them to the fire. He takes out pieces of meat from his bag and skewers them, then puts them over the fire. Frion soon wakes up from the fragrance of his favorite meat.
Frion : Mmm… Smells tasty…
Frigero : [content] Good morning~
Pruina : [happy] Oh Frion, just in time~
The three humans gather around the fire and eat Duratus stares at the meat and Frigero. When they are done, Frion grabs small pieces near the fire and tries making noises to call Duratus. Despite being afraid at first, he seems to have taken liking into the creature now.
Frion : [unsure] A-Ah um
Frigero : [looks] Oh you want to feed him? Go ahead~
Frion puts the food in his hand and Duratus eagerly comes, wagging its tail.
Frion : [happy] eat up~ [pets]
Duratus : [joyfully eats] Auro~
Frion : [adoring] so cute…
Frigero : [chuckles] Looks like you really like him
Frion : Y-Yeah~ I like fluffy things~
Pruina : [giggles] I’m glad to see you happy~
Frigero : [looks at them for a while] Anyways, we have to get going. We can’t stay here forever.
Pruina and Frion nod. When Frion finishes feeding Duratus, they start getting ready for travel again. Frigero collects the remaining unused wood and stuffs them into his bag. Then they walk outside of the cave and depart from the dunes.
Unknown crystal fields
Some time later
The scenery is once again, flat snow plains but this time littered with crystal bits and crystalline plants. The group walks along the area with less snow and avoids walking into crystals. This place may look slightly different from the previous field, but it’s mostly snow just like the former.
Frigero : I think this path should be safe. [takes out his map] There should be few to no Frosterrors nearby.
Pruina : Frosterror?
Frigero : They are terrifying creatures made from snow. Huge, strong, and relentless. They seem to seek warmth from magic and that’s why they always target Delivers like me. Letters are full of warmth from people’s hearts.
Frion : H-Huge?? [hides behind Pruina]
Frigero : Yeah, and they’re highly dangerous. We should keep away from them. [looks at the map again] According to the map, this area should be pretty safe.
Frion : Wah… I’m scared… [clings Pruina tightly]
Pruina : [smiles] We should be fine, Frion. He seems skilled.
Frion : [not convinced] Um…
Frigero : Let’s move. The sooner we reach settlements, the safer and better for us.
They keep on walking until they reach a clearing. The children slow down and have some distance to Frigero due to dense snow that made it hard to walk through. Frigero notices the absence of crystal piles and Duratus seems rather uneasy. Suddenly, there Duratus stops and barks nervously.
Frigero : Duratus! What’s wrong? [Duratus growls aggressively] What do you mean!? Frosterror nearby!?
Pruina : [gasp] No way!
Frion : [cries] waaah noooo!
Frigero : [serious] You two! Stay close to me!
Frigero runs to the duo and while he is at it, he waves his arm and a spear magically appears within his grasp. However before he could reach them, the snow under them collapsed into a pit. Frigero concentrates his magical power into a ball and throws it behind himself. It explodes, launching him forward to the children and the edges of the pit at great speed. However, he manages to catch only Frion while Pruina falls to the center of the pit. Duratus is just slightly away from the pit.
Frigero : [stabs the spear into the snow and hangs onto it] Oof! Am I too late!?
Frion : [fearful] Sister!!
Pruina : [also fearful] Frion!
A giant crab-like monster made entirely out of snow emerges from the pit and grabs Pruina with its left claw. It makes a shrilling roar and lifts two of its feet and slams them to the ground. Its landing impact causes snow in the pit to slide downwards.
Frion looks away in fear and trembles under Frigero’s arm. Frigero holds onto the spear very tightly but it is starting to give away under their combined weight.
Frigero : Argh this wouldn’t do! Duratus, help me find its weakpoint!
Duratus gives affirmative bark and glows a tiny bit with magical force before charging at the top carapace of the Frosterror. The monster flinches from the impact for a little moment, Duratus’ magic circles around a shiny crystal embedded in the huge enemy. The crystal is located right on the top center of its shell.
Frigero : There it is! I just have to--
The Frosterror stomps the ground once more, staggering them and almost dislodging the spear.
Frigero : [pressured] We have to be quick… ugh. [holds Frion tightly and whisper to him] Hey Frion, I have a plan, but I need your help.
Frion: [shaky] M-My h-help..?
Frigero : We can save your sister, but there’s only one chance. Are you in?
Frion : [unconfident] A-Anything to save her!
Frigero : [nods] Good. Do you see where Duratus is pointing with his magic? That’s the monster’s weakpoint. We must strike it with enough force to shatter it in one attempt. You need to aim my spear at it. I need your power to give it enough energy to one-shot it.
Frion : [surprised] But how??
Frigero : [pats] Just focus on the spear. Let your energy into the spear.
Frion : [nervous] but can I do it…?
Frigero : I will support you but for now... Hang on tight.
Frion hangs on tightly as Frigero focuses his magical power in his hand. Then, he immediately shoots an eagle-shaped wind wave below. This magical bird-shaped wave is an advanced wind magic technique called Windy Bird. The force of the spell launches both Frigero and Frion upward. The Frosterror seems agitated and responds with energy orbs from its right claw. Duratus barks and counters with his own magical orbs. The orbs cancel each other out and disappear without traces.
While midair, Frigero positions himself so that he can easily strike the monster’s weakpoint. He uses his magic to call the spear back to him and aim directly at the target.
Frigero : Now grab the spear!
Frion : [startled] O-Okay! [does so anyway]
Frigero : [covers Frion’s hands with his own] The power of wind that flows through me…
Frion : [trying very hard, spears start to glow]
Frigero : [orb forms at the tip of the spear] Gather on my spear, resonate through the gales! Wind’s Resonance!
Frigero and Frion’s combined magical energy forcefully launches the orb from the spear to the monster. With the monster’s slow movements, it fails to dodge and the orb smashes into the center of its crystal. The Frosterror screeches as its crystal shatters. Its legs start to bend and break under its own weight.
As Pruina is released from the crab’s claw, Frigero lands and uses his wind magic to cushion all three of them from the impact. Duratus quickly uses its magic to help push Pruina out from the pit of the dying Frosterror.
Frion : Did we do it-?
Frigero : [relieved] We did. [turns to the monster]
Then all of them turn. The crab monstrosity starts collapsing and disintegrates into beautiful sparkles that causes them to watch until they completely disappear into thin air.
Pruina : [relief sigh] Oh Frion…
Frion : You’re back and safe… [hugs]
Pruina : Thank you mister Frigero [bows]
Frigero : Oh no need! It is my duty after all
Frion : [inspired] mister is so cool-
Frigero : [surprised] Oh you look much more lively than before. [pets him]
Frion : [cuddles and nuzzles] haha yeah~ I’m not worried about you anymore. You are so kind and strong!
Frigero : Oh thank you~ Still, we must move on since we are always in risk of running into another one. [worried] Can you still walk? You both look exhausted.
Frion : Um.. [legs a little bent]
Frigero : Oh you must have gotten hurt when the pit was revealed. [picks him up] Let me allow you to piggyback then.
Frion : [surprised] Ah??
Frigero : [chuckles] Well at least you’re not hurt. Everyone is safe and sound, and that’s a great thing.
Pruina : Oh mister Frigero.. You’re so kind. How can we ever repay you?
Frigero : No need. It’s my task to protect you after all. [looks far ahead] but we must be careful since that one seemed to be outside its territory.
Frion : Wah- [clings in fear]
Frigero : [firmly] Don’t worry Frion. I will protect you and your sister.
They start to travel once again and as the crystal piles start to disappear, the snow becomes less thick and there are traces of paths. They are getting near a town. Suddenly, Frion pokes Frigero.
Frigero : What is it?
Frion : [slightly worried] Can I… become a Deliver, like you?
Frigero : [happy] Oh of course you can! Anyone can become a Deliver if they wanted to be! [turns to him] but why would you want to be one?
Frion : [confident] I want to see smiles! Just like how you made my sister smile earlier!
Frigero : I see [chuckles] Well of course you can if you stay determined and never lose your ideals.
Frion : [confused] lose my ideals?
Frigero : [slight sad tone] Ah, one day you will understand what I mean. Anyhow, Anima Town is just ahead now.
Frion : [looks] A town…
Frigero : Maybe you can start here. Anima town has a Deliver station even though it's such a small town.
Frion : [space out a bit] a station…
Frigero : I’m sure you can do it if you put your heart into it. [looks to the town] For now, let’s go in there first.
They all walk towards the town with hopeful faces. They are relieved that they have now reached safety and can finally be at ease. The snowy tracks become clearer and clearer until they are local paths with snow swept aside. This may be the end of their long walk, but this is only the beginning of their real journey.
"Perhaps being lost can be a good thing. It gives me a dream.
The dream that I will work hard to achieve one day.
And I'm sure he will be proud too when I follow his footsteps."
The dream that I will work hard to achieve one day.
And I'm sure he will be proud too when I follow his footsteps."
From: Frion Nivalis
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Frionivalis | FR +14 or +15 (UTC +7) | A lore lair Meepball Adopts Tailor Fae Subspecies Sparkle Dreams Hatchery My Experimental Writing, Feedbacks needed!
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