He had been born in Zozo, and had grown up in the mountains around the city. He wondered what his parents had been like. He had never met them personally but felt he knew them for he had heard many legends about them. He reflected on the past before he stepped into the future. For his future was to find the past. He wanted to find his lost parents, and learn of his ancestry.

"First thing's first..." he muttered, glancing about, looking for his chocobo. With a whistle his chocobo appeared, and with a jump they were in the constaint downpour of Zozo. With a gentle nudge, Qure's quest began.

Taking the quick and easy path they were out of Zozo in minutes. Rocks for as far as Qure could see were all around him. Sprouts of grass grew the best they could in between the cracks. Qure's sword gently swung back and forth against his back in the breeze.

* * *

Seeing movement not too far ahead, Qure stopped and removed his crossbow. His chocobo silently moved closer to the movement. A squat creature browsed leaves fallen from a group of trees not far from where Qure was. Qure reholstered the crossbow and got off of his chocobo.

Slowly crawling towards the creature, Qure noticed it was a ugly little Pug. He quickly darted toward the Pug, and before it could react, it lost the upper portion of its body.

Qure's stomach growled, but after looking at the Pug's remains, it promptly stopped growling. The chocobo, sensing the danger was over, walked to its master.

Qure gently ran his fingers through the feathers on the chocobo's head. The chocobo gently turned and rubbed its head under Qure's chin. After a moment, Qure sat down and the Chocobo drank from the brook. "Moments from Jidoor Secret. We'll get there within the hour," he said to the chocobo, beak submerged in water. The soft animal chirped in response.

Less then a half hour later, Qure rode into the town of Jidoor.

The inside of the pub was full of people. Travelers, drifters, wanderers - adventurers mostly; local people made up the rest. All of them were bragging about past voyages and distant lands. "I rememba back when Kefka was a boy I tat him everythun..." droned a nearby drunk man to three wide-eyed new adventurers, fascination gleaming in their eyes. *The biggest fish is always at the nearest pub,* thought Qure as he made his way to the bar.

The bartender walked toward Qure, drying the inside of a mug with a rather dirty towel as Qure sat down. Qure motioned t othe bartender, and a mug of dark greasy brew was placed before him. "New in town, eh?" said the bartender,

*The main difference between a bartender and a counselor is that bartenders accept tips,* reflected Qure. "Yes, stopped in for supplies," he said said, waiting expectantly to be bombarded by the local chatter.

"Ye're travelin' alone, I see. Isn't safe these days, always some crackpot after yer money." said the bartender, beginning the traditional speech bartenders always give right before they begin liquoring you up for tips.

"Yes I am..." began Qure.

But he was interrupted by a drunken drifter sitting next to him. "Ye lookin' for travelin' mates, is ye? I bet I saw a boy wanderin' in Zozo while back, Be tellin' ye about him if I could rememba," the drifter said, his breath stinking badly enough to give Qure a headache. Before Qure could reply, the drifter passed out and was carried away by his companions.

"Ye're freaks, the lot of ya!" shouted the bartender as the drifter was dragged out the door.

"Be a lot of people like that these days. Yessir, I be tellin' ye it ain't safe to do yer travelin' alone these days," the bartender said, as Qure got up, leaving behind a single coin on the counter.

Qure stood for a moment reflecting what the bartender had said about traveling alone. He also thought of the boy the drifter had talked about. He walked towards the shop. No, this world of healing was definitely not a safe place to travel alone.

Out of the corner of his eye Qure noticed a boy dressed in orange holding a rusty sword. Qure wondered if this was the boy the drifter had spoken about. The boy noticed his stare and walked towards him. Qure removed a dagger from his belt. The silver dagger gleamed in the sunlight; a small ruby was placed at the base of the handle. Some strange script was written along the blade in a foreign language Qure did not know.

As the boy got closer, Qure said, "Dangerous to travel alone, kid. M'names Qure. What's yours?"

"Dangerous to yell at people much bigger then you." Qure replied, confused at Koro's behavior.

"Even more dangerous PROVOKING me!" Koro snapped, and tried to take a swing at Qure.

Qure easily dodged the attempted attack. As Koro's outstretched arm swong just out of reach of Qure's body he noticed a familar ring on his forefinger. Taking advantage of the moment, Qure quickly reached behind him and pulled out his sword. He tossed it up in the air and grabbed the blade, adding to the sword's momentum. He brought its handle down upon Koro's head, knocking Koro out cold.

Koro's unconsious body fell to the ground. The ring flew off his forefinger as his hand slammed down on a rock. As the ring began to roll away, Qure noticed the markings and remembered hearing of a cursed ring in his training long ago.

Qure's first thought was to let the ring roll away, but then he thought it might come in handy. He used his already drawn sword and speared the ring. He removed a peice of cloth from his pack, and picked up the ring. Being careful not to touch it, he wrapped it and placed it into a pouch that he tied to his belt.

Koro moaned at Qure's feet. Qure removed some tonic and placed it about Koro's wounds. He looked at the boy laying there. Qure couldn't help feeling sorry for him. His life must have been hard. Qure thought about Koro's attack. His swing wasn't half bad, even though his mind was clouded by rage from the cursed ring. Qure thought the boy might have some talent in him.

Qure removed the silver dagger again and looked at it. Qure noticed Koro's rusted dirk in Koro's belt. Qure gently slid the dagger into Koro's belt and removed the rusted dirk. He gently turned the dirk over and over in his palm. The dirk looked perfectly normal, nothing special about it at all. Thinking it might have some special value to Koro, he replaced it just as it had been.

Qure picked up Koro and slung him over his right shoulder. Koro moaned again and said something Qure didn't pick up. Qure carried Koro to the inn and got a room. Qure thought the boy needed rest. In the morning, Koro could tell Qure about himself.

Qure carried Koro to the room and laid him down on one of the beds. Koro opened his eyes just a slit and started to say something, Qure raised his finger and said, "For now, we rest."

The Doman boy had no memory of how he had gotten there. The last thing he remembered was putting on a cloak, and... a ring. A quick glance at his fingers told him that either it had fallen off, or that someone had taken it. The latter seemed more likely.

The door opened, and a man with black hair stepped in. He looked to be an experienced fighter, and to know how to use the sword strapped to his back. "You have awakened," he observed.

Koro watched him. "Uhh, yeah." They waited in silence for a moment. "Where are we?"

The man sat down. "Jidoor. You do not remember?" Koro shook his head. "Must have been the ring." He held up a ring that was hanging by a string around his neck, which Koro had not noticed. "My name is Qure." He held out his hand.

The boy accepted it. "You must know my name. Do you know how I got here? The last thing I remember was putting on a that ring. Everything after that is blurry..."

"I saw you at the edge of town. You seemed full of rage, and started attacking me. I managed to knock you out. I saw that you wore the Cursed Ring. It had been taking control of you, and draining your energy. That kept you out for awhile." Qure slipped the ring into his shirt, concealing it.

"As soon as you have your strength back, we shall leave."

Koro jumped out of bed. "I'm ready now! I'll need a sword, of course. And a war horse. And a shield, and armor, and potions, and, and..."

Qure interrupted with a laugh. "I can see that you do have your energy back. Just wait in here. They'll bring up some breakfast for you, and I'll get some supplies for you. Just wait for me to come get you."

The tall man turned, and walked out. Koro could hardly wait. 'But where are we going?' he wondered.

-----

Koro walked out of the Inn. He had finished his meal, and was growing impatient. He decided to go and find Qure. The sun's heat beat downn on him.

Qure was just purchasing a dagger for the boy. He spotted him, and walked over towards him. "I thought I told you to stay in your room!"

Koro smiled. "I know. I was bored."

Qure shook his head disaprovingly. "If you want to become a true warrior, you must learn to listen."

"Yeah, yeah." He eyed the dagger. "Where are we going, anyway? You never told me."

"To a small town, west of here. They have a ferry. We can decide where to go from there."

His young companion looked momentarily crestfallen. "I was hopin' I could fight some dragons, or rescue a damsel, or something." He grabbed the dagger from Qure and darted it in the air a few times.

Don't worry, Koro. You'll get your chance in the days to come." He looked at a clock in the Inn window. "We have to leave. You're sure about this?" Koro nodded. "C'mon, then. This way."

The swordsman from Zozo and the young boy from Doma set off on their journey.

-----

Qure was getting tired of Koro's antics. He would run off into the bushes, get himself cut up, then chase the birds for awhile with his dagger, making the man regret getting it for him.

He would have to wait while Koro fought imanginary enemies behind. "Get up here!" The boy laughed and ran ahead.

The wind blew in his hair, and the sounds of animals running reached his ears. This was much preferred to staying in Jidoor. He wanted to journey, experience the world.

Up ahead, Koro gave a yell. Qure caught up quickly to see what it was.

"Look at those mountains!" It was just the view of the mountains, although a magnificent one. "Mount Zozo!" The towering mountain was faintly visible over the range.

"Let's get going. I want to make it through this forest by nightfall." Koro reluctantly agreed. He lingered awhile, then caught up.

-----

The two men, as Koro thought of them, set up camp on a stretch of plains. It was a clear night. Qure started a fire, and the two sat beside it. They both talked of the recent events concerning the newly created Empire, and life in the World of Balance.

THe two talked for hours, then gradually drifted off to sleep.

-----

The next morning, Koro woke up to find the fire blazing. Qure was laying against the ground, listening. He sat up when he saw that the boy was awake.

"You sure do sleep a lot. I've been awake for hours!" Qure smiled.

Koro rubbed his back. "What's for breakfast?"

"Some food rations I brought, and this." He held up a dead rabbit. "I caught it this morning." He proceeded to start cooking it. Koro's mouth watered at the smell of it.

-----

Close behind them was a group of forty assorted imps and men. They were all ragged, but armed well. They called themselves Fortis Blade.

The leader, a mysterious man named Mask, surveyed the area. "Io." A bearded man stepped forward. "What did you find?"

"Ahead a ways is a man and a boy."

"Are they armed?" Mask asked, twirling a knife.

"The kid has a knife, and the man has a sword. He looks like he knows how to fight." Io was nervous in the presense of his leader.

"Good, good. He'll raise a good amount at the Zozo slave market." Mask rubbed his gloved hands. Io stepped back into the group of mercenaries.

"Those two must be looking for some treasure, or else they already have it. Otherwise, they wouldn't be traveling out here with so few weapons. You know what to do. Get your gear. They will give what is theirs to Fortis Blade."

"What do ya' want?"

Koro hesitated. Was this the woman Qure had meant? "Uh... Qure is with... me...?" She didn't appear to get the meaning.

"And?" The boy stood frozen to the floor. "Is that supposed to mean something? I don't know no Cur. Am I s'posed to?"

He cleared his throat. "Um, his name is Qure. He said to tell the you that he wa with me. Hmmmmm... are there any other women working here?"

The woman snorted. "There's plenty of women. D'you expect me to ask if they knows a guy named Queer?" Koro sighed.

"Look, it's Qure. I guess I'll just have to wait here until he gets back." He sat on a vacant stool. "I'll have something to drink. Have any Mist?"

A snicker rose up from the men, and the waitress sneered. "We're fresh out."

"Just fix me up something good." She bowed in mock courtesy, and proceeded to mix various bottles, pouring the result into a grimy glass, and pushed it in his general direction. He picked it up cautiously, and smelled it. He wrinkled his nose. "This smells disgusting!"

The woman shrugged. "It's all we got 'ere. But try it. Better than it smells. Trust me, boy." Koro wasn't inclined to trust her, but he took a sip. At first he couldn't taste anything. He winced, expecting to taste an oncoming rush of something terrible, but didn't. He slowly opened his eyes.

The waitress gave a toothless smile. "See? Isn't that bad. Pretty nice, I'd say." Koro swallowed, then nodded. He smiled.

Then it hit him. It had to be the worst tasting stuff he had ever had in his mouth. It was like an explosion going off, complete with smoke and fire. He gagged, and started coughing violently. His tongue was burning, and his eyes were watering. He vomited on the floor. Koro's vision was going hazy, and an incredible pain was building in his head.

He could feel one of the men pounding him on the back, and hear the waitress yelling. He crashed to the floor, and blacked out.

"Who's she?"

Qure gazed at her deeply. "Her name is Delta. She is the one I was looking for." They held hand, which made Koro want to throw up.

"Looking for?" He scowled, and crossed his arms. "Why would you want to look for a person, instead of a legendary sword, or to kill a dragon, or something."

"A long time ago, we were great friends. We went on a cruise, and the boat was struck by lightning. I landed near Zozo, and never heard from her again. But now..."

Delta laughed openly once more. "Now we are back together. Forever."

"Forever? What about going on a ferry? Our adventure?"

The swordsman chuckled. "No need. I found the one I love. What more do I need?" Koro scowled further, and Qure shifted in his seat. "Besides, the Empire is taking over. Just two people can't make an impact. Others will, like the Returners."

Koro threw the Man Eater on the floor. "Will you can have this back. I'm leaving. Don't need you, or anybody." He stalked out of the Inn angrily.

Qure shrugged, and turned back to Delta. "Don't worry about him. He's just a kid."

-----

Koro sighed. He still felt the pain in his head, but it wasn't his main concern. What mattered now was what he was going to do. Staying here certainly wasn't an option, but there really wasn't anyone else he knew that would help

A man on the corner caught his eye. He was a warrior, and was sharpening his sword. A full suit of plate mail was laying on the ground beside him. Several metals and ribbons were tied to it. He was obviously a great fighter.

/I'll be a fighter!/ He snapped his fingers, and pulled out a scrap of paper he had in his pocket. /I'll go and fight, and be a mercenary. With my trusty blade.../ Koro searched in his bag, but remembered that he had no equipment.

So he went into the Weapon Shop. The merchant was taking stock, and ignored Koro. "Let's see. Two dozen Sabers... right there. Five AutoCrossbows... ahh, on the top shelf. Ummm... now where'd those Ninja Stars go?"

Finally, Koro had to say something. "Can I see what dirks you have?" The man turned to face him, as if he hadn't known he had been there.

"Oh! Supposed to tell people when you enter. Now, then. What kind did you have in mind?" He rubbed his hands eagerly, hoping to make some extra money.

Koro studied the shelf, seeing what kinds he had. "Do you have any... Break Blades? I was thinking about one of those."

The merchant frowned. "Not here. Have a shipment in back, though. Just arrived. Should I go get some?"

"Yeah, if it isn't too much trouble." The man shrugged, and shuffled off to the back. Koro grinned, and quietly crept behind the counter. A box was on table, and was filled with money. He supposed that fighters were supposed to be honest, but he had to start somehow.

It was quick work to open it, and take most of the contents. Then, he stuffed in some notes that were lying on the counter, along with some pebbles he had. A noise came from behind, and Koro leaped back over to where he had been standing.

The merchant pursed his lips, and stared at Koro. Koro put on his most innocent face, and smiled. "Is something wrong? If you don't have any, that's fine."

"No, no. It's just that I thought I had heard something. Here are the Blades." He dumped a handful of them, and waited. Koro studied them, then scratched his chin.

"You know, I'm really not interested, now that I see 'em. Never mind." He casually stepped back. "Actually, I was wondering if you could recommend one. I'm looking for a sword. One that's strong, but not too heavy. Maybe some magical powers, or some- thing."

The merchant paused. "You have any money?" Koro pulled out some coins, and showed them with open palms. He was visibly surprised. "How did you get all that?"

Koro gritted his teeth, and forced a smile. "I...clean tables at the bar after school. I've been savin' a long time."

The other mumbled something about kids getting too much money for their own good, and looked over his list of inventory. "Hmmm. Strong, and light. How about a Enhancer? They're really good. Some of the best use them."

"How much?"

"Only 12,000 GP. Best in town."

Koro added up the money, and did some hurried calculations in his head. He then frowned. "Don't have enough. Can I get a Illumina?"

The merchant chuckled to himself. "Illumina? Are you kidding? Even if I had one to sell, it would at least cost half a million! Give me a break." He wiped his forehead, and sighed. "Now then, let's see about something else." He scanned the paper again. "Ah, there they are. Pretty reasonable prices. Either a Mithril Blade, for 700, or a Regal Cutlass, for 1,200. Huh?"

"Um, do you have anything cheaper?" Koro swallowed uneasily.

"Cheaper? Those are the cheapest swords I have! Unless you'd like to have a rapier from a crate of 'em in the back. Nobody was buying, so I took them off the shelf." He leaned against the wall,

He thought awhile. "Sure." The merchant went in back again, being sure to not let Koro out of his sight, and returned with a long, thin sword. It was of good workmanship, but it was remarkably light and small compared to other ones.

The man handed it to Koro, and he darted it in the air experimentally. It fit him perfectly, and wasn't too heavy. "I'll take it." He gave the merchant a sum of money obviously over the price, partially settling his burning conscience.

-----

Koro walked out, and surveyed the street. It was evening, so there weren't many people out. He went over to the chocobo barn, and watched as a man locked the entrance. "Hey! Wait!"

He looked up. "You want somethin', kid?"

"I want to rent a chocobo!" He said this with the kind of tone that meant, you're supposed to know this.

"Closing up. Time to go home. Nobody wants a chocobo this time of day!"

"Well, I do. Please?" He looked so pitiful, that the man finally gave in. They entered the barn, and the smell of chocobos was sickening. Koro gulped. "I don't have much, but I want a fast one."

The man fingered his beard for a moment. "Most of them have been reserved for tomorrow. How about this one?" He gestured towards a unusual white black-spotted one.

Koro knew about chocobos, having been raised on a farm growing them. So he knew that ones with spots usually weren't the smartest creatures. "Why that one?"

"'Cause that's the only one left. Take it or leave it. Bunch of stuff in the saddle bag, for free. Some guy left it." Koro nodded slowly and reluctantly, and asked about the price. It was nearly all his remaining money.

He nodded in satisfaction. "Her name is Bit. You can keep her for as long as you want. Doesn't often get rented, that one." He pocketed the money, and opened the door. "Now get out."

Koro led the bird out, and looked in digust at her. She chirped, and a big chocobo-smile spread across her face.

The telescope was interesting, with numerous knobs and dials rampant on the viewing end. Two initials had been crudely ingraved on the side: SP. These held no meaning to Koro, other than the fact that in belonged to someone that had tacken the time to let it be seen that it belonged to them.

Keys really didn't matter that much to him, because of the fact that he wouldn't ever probably find the door that it belonged to. The only real use was if it was a skeleton variety, so he could open a number of doors.

The book was really interesting. The title page, visible due to the lack of a cover, had "Phoenix Cave" written neatly. Below, it showed the author of the writings, Salvor Pierce. This told him that the telescope had been his. "First edition" had been hastily written on the bottom section, with a date. Koro read the first few paragraphs on the page beyond that, discovering that it was various theories and records of exploration of Phoenix Cave. He learned that the man had been to the area many time, with a group of about a dozen experienced guides.

A slip of paper fell out, from the "Marandan Gazette." Koro read it to himself.

"WANTED: Young man willing to work long hours for doctor. Learning opportunities, with standard pay. Respond at 833 Chocobo Way, Ma., as soon as possible."

"Interesting," Koro said to himself, "very interesting." He pocketed this, and leaned against a tree. Bit walked up, but he ignored her. A fold-out map came out of the book, although loosely fastened to the spine. "Phoenix Volcano...?" Koro frowned. He knew of no volcano, only a cave. It was quite possible that it was a volcano, though.

He thumbed through the pages, noting the several pictures. Most were of a young man in a cave, kneeling beside a rock or pointing at a carving on a wall of stone. Dates were written on the back of all of the pictures, dating back to five years ago. A letter was taped to the back of a drawing of a large door, with twin gargoyles standing guard.

"We just discovered a hidden region today. This door appears to be the one we saw on the west side. A hidden keyhole lies behind the right statue, no doubt the one for that key of yours. The ones Demil collected don't quite fit.

I spotted the ad in the Gazette for your volunteer. Hope you get one soon, as the work would go much faster. If you won't be available for awhile, at least send him. Meet our agent at the Marandan Office, and he'll get the rest set up.

Join us soon.

-TG"

This set up a perfect opportunity for Koro. Why not go with them and pose for the young man? He could only hope that Salvor Pierce hadn't arrived there yet with one already.

A door slammed shut, making him look up. A group of five men were lumbering out of a warehouse. All had thick arms, with tremendous muscles concentrating on their arms. Grizzled beards were on two, with the rest badly in need of a shave. Numerous knives and pouches hung at the belts of the men.

One in particular caught his eye. He was more proportioned than his friends, and appeared slightly more cared for in the shaving department. A claw was on his right hand, with a twin hanging from his belt, both looking worn, but sharp.

Bit chirped questioningly at Koro, indicating them. He unconsciously rubbed her head-feathers. He was concentrating on the muffled conversation of the group.

"Do you see that bird over there, boys?" He aimed a clawed finger in their direction. "I figure we get it. Make for good transportation of the goods. Boy shouldn't be much of a problem. Just dump him in a trashcan." A companion at his shoulder snickered.

"But it's a runt, boss," another whined. "If 'ya ask me, it won't be able to even lift a single chest. I'm knowin' that if we end up with a weak one, I'll have to pull around the heavy loot. C'mon, Cinder. Let's go an' get one from a barn, or somethin'."

The boss growled. "Shut up, idiot." He slashed in the air menacingly, effectively silencing the other. "'Course that ch'cobo won't be enough. We'll prob'ly steal another. It's an easy grab. Follow me, men." He began creeping across the street to Koro, with the rest following. It would have been a stealthy and surprise approach, had not the boy been listening.

He called out to them, "What're you guys doin'? Don't have to sneak up just to strike up a friendly conversation with me, you know." The boss instantly stood up, visibly startled. The others followed his lead, if even more surprised.

Cinder recovered quicker. "We were just admiring your mount. She is yours, right?" He nodded, smiling. "Ahh. A fine creature, by her breed. Spotted Flytail, eh?" The man ran his fingers through the tail feathers of Bit, making her chirp deep in her throat. "I know a Flytail when I see one. Not worth much, y'know."

Koro knew that Bit wasn't worth much, but anything was higher than a Spotted Flytail. They were stupid beasts, basically impossible to train, and terribly unloyal to their owners. He judged that this man was trying to buy Bit off for a cheap price, to convince him that she was worthless. He held all this knowledge in, showing a look of thought. "I didn't really know what line she was of, really. Thanks for telling me. I _was_ curious."

"Don't mention it. Just a bit of information between friends. So, friend," he said warmly, giving a broad smile, "Not that many people come to this place. What's your business?" He leaned against a building, gazing at Bit with the corner of his eye. "M'self, I got family situated here."

A comrade drawled sneeringly, "Yeah, in the local jail..." He received a swift kick to the shins, causing a grunt of pain.

"Well, this and that," Koro remarked casually. "Came here from... the Opera House. Impresario himself, y'know. Message for a guy named Qure. Better be goin', so I can return to the Opera before night." He edged toward Bit, ready to bolt away on her in a moment.

Cinder walked slowly, until he was between Koro and the chocobo. He wouldn't be fooled so easily. "Impresario, you say? Well, then. That's a big job for one of your years, eh?" He growled deeply, pounding his chest. "In fact, this is Qure right here." He pushed forward one of the other men, who looked completely bewildered. "Right, Qure?"

The supposed Qure said in puzzlement, "I ain't Qure, boss. My name is Dell. Ain't even heard of Qure! What're you talkin' 'bout?" He held his hands in the air, as if to prove his honesty.

The leader of the men cocked his head silently. "Imagine that, not knowin' your own name. _Right_, Qure?" He nudged the other, mumbling something unhearable. "Qure?"

Qure's face lit up abruptly, with only a hint of the previous confusement. "That's right! I'm Qure. Been Qure all my life. Qure, uh... Qure... hey, boss. What's my last name?"

Koro shook his head in amazement. He, of course, knew that his man wasn't named Qure. The real was drinking in a bar with some woman. "I already gave the message to Qure. Sorry."

Cinder rumbled deep within his giant frame. His voice was strangely quiet, cold and calculating. "Ahhh. My mistake, surely." He vaulted with a quickness unlikely for one of his size, landing behind Koro. "You ever think of sellin' that runt of a bird? I could pay a good price, bein' an expert, 'n all. Huh?"

"Uh, not now. Need a fast way of getting across the plains. Goin' it by foot just doesn't appeal to me. The barn, when it opens, is sure to have a great selection. I'd best get going."

"Wait a sec, friend," Cinder smiled mockingly, pulling on the left claw. "We are in desperate need of a chocobo. Yours will do. Hand it over." He whistled softly, causing the four other men to draw their numerous weapons. "My men here, don't like it when someone refuses to me. Eh, Bromis?"

Bromis leapt onto Bit, who ruffled her feathers in protest. The man bent down to eye Koro, his eyes not registering any emotion. "Get lost, _boy_." The words rang harshly.

A rage flared in Koro. He couldn't explain it, but he threw himself into Bromis. He succeeded in knocking him sprawling to the ground, snarling. "Get your filthy scum away, and go jump off a cliff." He swiftly drew his rapier, leveling it to Cinder's chest. "One move, and he gets it."

Cinder breathed deeply. He knew how to handle this, easily. He gently pushed the end of the blade away. "None of that now, my good man. What need is there for such violence on your part, eh?" He snapped his fingers, motioning for his men to tie the kid up. "Let's talk about it, shall we? Man to man, y'know."

Koro relaxed his grip slightly, his guard down. "Don't... tell that to me. You're trying to steal... my chocobo. Won't get anything from me, scu-" The boy's head drooped suddenly. "Tired..." Two of Cinder's thieves grabbed his hands, tying them together with a thick piece of rope. It was a simple matter of then tying his legs. Koro's head jerked up. "What're you doin'?" He thrashed violently, but in vain.

The man laughed. "Think you could gain the upper hand on Cinder, boy?" He dug though the bag, pulling out the bagel. Chewing it slowly, he looked at the newspaper ad. "You figurin' on working for this guy? Maybe you already are."

"Yeah, I do." A plan began to form in Koro's mind. "Actually, I'm gathering volunteers for an expedition. To Phoenix Cave. Treasure of the ancients, an' all that. Working for a Salvor Pierce. Heard of him?" He could only hope that the men hadn't.

At the mention of treasure, all of the thieves focused complete attention. Cinder did only more so. "Treasure?! I mean..." he paused, and replied casually, "I've heard of him. Who hasn't, these days?"

There was a greedy gleam in Bromis' eye. He chuckled to himself, and whispered to Cinder, "Why don't we trick this kid into leading us to the loot? Make us instant kings, no doubt. He already told us that it's in Phoenix Cave."

Cinder nodded thoughtfully. "But what about this Pierce guy? Might be trouble."

Bromis shook his head confidently. "Salvor Pierce sounds like some dorky scientist, or somethin'. I could take 'em." He pulled out a sharpened Tack Star, rubbing it eagerly in anticipation. "Let's not tell this boy, though. He might try to pull something on us. Get us scorched in lava, or worse." His leader agreed silently, and they both turned to Koro.

"We'd be willin' to take you to Phoenix Cave, free of charge. A public service, for the knowledge at sake in this expedition. The scientists will require your presence. We'll leave once you arrive safely, of course."

"Of course." Koro smiled. This was going to be easier than he thought, getting to Phoenix Cave and dispatching the men at the same time. Besides, he could use their protection on the open road.

"One more thing," Cinder added. "We have to make a short journey off the trail. Shouldn't take very long. Gather supplies and get some of my men stationed there. Check for calls."

"Where to?"

"Zozo."

Several of Cinder's men echoed the boy's thought. They stared at the ground, fingering knives worredly. Only Bromis seemed sure of himself, going ahead of the group to scout around. Cinder mentioned that the man had grown up in Zozo, knowing the hidden paths and traps.

A rustle made one man fire a flurry of arrows rapidly, causing the creature to fall out of the bushes. The leader kicked it with the toe of his boot, and grunted. "Good job, Argon," he remarked with scorn. "It took a real act of bravery to bring down an unarmed squirrel. Dell, relieve him of his bow, as he doesn't seem to know how to use it properly."

Argon cried out in protest, not wanting to be without a weapon, but the other man grabbed it from him. Dell was happy about it, not having a bow of such quality. Bromis came striding back, a black corpse slung over one shoulder. "Shot this up front, boss. Pretty good eatin', these deer."

Cinder nodded with approval, while gesturing at it with a claw. He turned to the rest, and said, "This is an example of what I want to see you guys doing, morons. Bromis is a saint compared to you losers." Angry mumbles came from the group, low and unhearable.

Koro was uncertain as to whether or not he should bolt away from them. Obviously Cinder wasn't pleased with his men, and they could quite possibly desert or even kill him. Either way, it would make him easy prey for the men or a wild beast passing through.

Bromis lit a fire, roasting the meat. An aroma soon drifted through the air, causing everyone to grow suddenly hungry. Selin chopped up the meat with his rusty sword, distributing it out on the end of sticks. Cinder whistled softly, and was slowly meandering over to Koro in an attempt at subtlety.

"So how long have you been searching, I mean working, for him?" He sat down, putting his hands in his pockets. "After all, with a famous guy like Mr. Pier..."

"Pierce," Koro corrected.

"... Pierce, it must be hard to land a job with him. Eh?" Cinder took off his claws, cleaning off the chunks of deer meat that were stuck on the points. "Good money?"

"Ah, well. Average money, but great benefits. Really wasn't that hard in getting it. My parents worked with him for many, many years. Helped him dig up the Fossils of Magi, last year. Remember those? Gave them quite a time, really." The man turned red in the face, although nodding.

"Who could forget? An event no true, uh, smart person could not know." An awkward silence hung in the air. "Well, I'd better go see what those idiots are doin'." He backed off to supposedly carry it out. Koro finished the meal. He was full, although hungered for something with a taste, not just the blandness of wild deer. Argon and the man Selin started playing cards on a tree stump, while Dell brooded in the shadows of a large oak tree. Cinder warmed his hand to the fire.

Bit, who had been hastily tied to a post in the ground, came up to Koro with a knot of rope in her mouth. She pressed her beak into him, begging for food. He tore some grass from a patch and fed it to her. The chocobo chirped in appreciation. "You're much smarter than some Flytail," he whispered to her.

Bromis rushed back to camp, with a wearied look. He was breathing raspily. "It's... the Empire," the man managed to blurt out. "Whole... unit of Armors... on guard."

Koro leapt up. "What?! Empire? Give me a break. There... isn't any Empire any more. You must have been seeing things." The others nodded in agreement. "Edgar's dead."

"Haven't you heard? Some idiot named Akfek and his pet girl started another one. With real Magitek, 'n stuff. Like we said, whole troop stationed... in Zozo. No way that we c'n fight power like that." Bromis breathed deeply.

"Now wait a minute," Cinder said, staring his comrade straight in the eye. "When did I give the command 'bout not fightin' 'em?" His second-in-command was at a lost for words. "Got men in there, and I don't desert my men. We're going to fight those soldiers. I ain't never lost to nobody, and I ain't gonna start now. You guys thinkin' on desertin' me?"

"We didn't know there was troops there. That's different. Can't 'spect normal guys like us to battle them," someone argued.

"Normal guys?" Cinder sneered. "You're wimps, that's what. 'Normal' guys enjoy fightin', an' even start most of it!"

Some grumbles rumbled from the men. Argon stood, with Selin looking on. "Look here, Cinder. We've served you well, always fighting your battles, killing your enemies. Never questioned you, neither. Always trustin' you. But now, we could honestly get killed out there. Bromis 'imself said that there's soldiers out there, in whole suits of that Magitek stuff! I, for one, ain't goin'." Dell gave a weak cry of agreement, instantly hushed by a glance from Cinder.

He snorted, placing his hands on his hips critically. "So, boys. You thinkin' about disobeying me? That won't get you far. I'll continue, with or without anybody. Except," he pulled Koro forward, "this fine fellow. He's gonna lead me to treasure! Less of you means more for me!

"Maybe you don't care about money and gold. But who'll be your leader, eh? Thought about that? I'm the only one with knowledge about this place. Nobody to lead you out of here. What about that, fools?"

Selin drew his dagger. "Bromis knows the way."

Cinder turned to Bromis. "You figurin' on joining them, my man? Thinkin' of joining the chicken-hearted?" The man thought a minute, then shook his head slowly. "See, boneheads? Your guide doesn't seem to want to come with you.

The man opposing him advanced. "You're forcing him to. Let him go, or I'll slay you on the spot. This is suicide, Cinder. Look at the odds of survival." A heavy drizzle started, a passing storm from the city limits of Zozo.

He roared with laughter. "Slay me? Don't count on it, Master Selin!" Quicker than lightning, a dagger flew through the air, aimed for Cinder's throat. But he raised his left claw even quicker, making it glance off harshly. He threw a dart quickly after, it sinking into Selin's chest. The man sank to the ground, gasping for air. His face landed in the dirt, dead.

"So, any more wish to leave?" Silence. "Good. Amazing what some rain can do to bring out a rebellious air in people." He kicked at the glowing embers, putting out all light.

Only the crumpled body of Selin told of their presence, blood seeping from the deep chest wound into the damp soil. The group picked up their things, and marched quietly into the dark, rainy gloom.

He mentally went over the series of moves required for his attack. A few hours ago, the Hades Gigas had sighted a group of men. Perfect opponents. A chocobo had been darting around in the bushes, not that a single bird could withstand a teenage Gigas.

"Hurry up," he whispered. A human face peered around a corner. Soon after, the group marched single file into view. "Almost time..." Now Daan gathered inner strength. Breathing in, he leapt from his high point to the ground below.

*BOOM*

The crash echoed through the canyon. "WHO DARES ENTER MY DOMAIN?" the youth shouted, mixing in the proper amount of boom to create an aura of strength and greatness. "I GAVE NO PERMISSION TO MORTALS."

Cinder dropped to one knee instinctively. He relayed no fear. "No one told us of your rule of the area. We have all right to enter." A silent signal was given. The two men flanking him, Argon and Dell, drew daggers and backed a step. Bromis pulled an arrow to his bow.

Daan was surprised at this answer, although not losing his pose for a moment. "I USE SUPERB FIGHTING SKILLS TO TAKE DOWN HUMANS BY THE DOZEN. LEAVE NOW, OR RISK TERMINATION." As if to emphasize, the Hades Gigas chopped the air with an open palm.

"It's all talk, I'm sure."

"YOU QUESTION MY POWERS?" This was what he was eagerly awaiting.

"I'm not questioning your powers. Just leave us alone, or we'll cut your throat. Do else as you will, without interfering in our plans." Cinder knew that it was a show of will, and that he would win. He always won.

Not as Daan would have wanted, but it could be taken as an insult. "YOU NEED CONVINCING. OBSERVE." He threw himself against a wall, kicking a intricate pattern in the air. The wall seemed to disappear. Bricks and dust remained. A single thief that had been searching through a bag of money, attempting to steal it, screamed and fainted. "THE SAME WILL RESULT IN YOUR HEAD. LEAVE NOW."

Dell swallowed nervously. Cinder wasn't impressed. "Whatever," the man sneered. "You're obviously a threat to our peaceful existance. Bromis, take 'im down." The bulky second-in-command complied by cocking his bow level to Daan's shoulder. A sharp twang sounded, announcing the deliverance. An arrow embedded itself deep within the Gigas' tunic, and into the flesh.

He screamed in pain. Blood flowed openly. Now Daan called deep within to create a small earthquake. The effect was devastating. Cinder was severely hurt from falling debris. Dell fell into one of the numerous chasms, never heard from or seen again. Bromis was buried under falling boulders. Argon received a crushing blow by the enraged creature, killed instantly. Koro, who had been hiding behind a bench the whole time, ran to take shelter beneath the remains of the building Daan had attacked.

Cinder tore his shirt into strips and wrapped them around his wound. Then he took caution to get out of the Hades Gigas' way. "All he needs is a single arrow to the throat," he muttered. "Just... has to hold still."

The sharp projectile was let loose. It sunk into Daan's chest. The youth toppled over abruptly. Bromis moved a particularly heavy rock before joining his leader. The three remaining humans grouped together beyond the immediate view of the injured creature.

"Ugh..." Daan groaned. With some last reservoir of energy he started crawling across the ground. Shrubs and grass gave way to his bulky frame. Cinder kept a distance between them, while still keeping him in sight.

"Where's he going?" The reply was only a shrug.

On and on Daan went, always appearing tired and ready to give in the dull sensations of death. But he kept on going, a painfully slow pace. A few other creatures passed by, although either completely ignoring him or giving a gruff nod of acknowledgment.

Finally, the Hades Gigas youth reached his apparent destination. First thin layer of dirt was removed by a giant hand. Then, he dragged himself into the hole below. Daan vanished from sight. Bromis cried out in shock. The remaining thieves, along with Koro, searched the site.

"Where'd he go? I saw a hole, but now there ain't any." His remarks appeared true. Any opening that had previously existed was gone. "Must be hiding in it now, drinkin' healing potions. Might come back later to pummel us." Cinder gave a short laugh.

"Well, it has t' be well concealed. That Gigas seemed to know exactly where he was headed. Maybe his private inhabitance... ?"

Koro felt the ground. "The dirt... doesn't feel right. Artificial, or something."

"He's gone," Cinder concluded. "I say that we go on back. He won't bother us any more-" Without warning, the ground beneath the heavy man gave way. A deep pit enveloped the man. Bromis leapt down with him soon after, Koro trailing close behind.

* * *

"Complete darkness," the boy muttered. Their method of travelling farther into the tunnel was to simply feel the earthen wall along the way. It was a cavern when compared to the humans' height, but just right for the average Hades Gigas. It was crudely dug nevertheless.

Finally, Bromis pulled out his bow. He managed to produce a weak fire from rubbing the oak handle against a metal shard. Vision was drastically improved. "Wait a minute. Did you hear something, Cinder?"

The leader cupped an ear. "He went... that way! Hurry, before he gets away! Arrow to the string. What's left of it, anyway," he added hastily, remembering what was producing the flames. "Koro, next to me. When I give a signal, start waving that dagger 'fer all you're worth!"

"ARRRGGHH!"

Rocks fell everywhere. The passage out was effectively blocked. Bromis was hit by a hurtling object. He struck against the wall, unconscious. Cinder snarled and darted into the shadows. It wasn't that hard, since the light had gone out.

It was Daan, head-butting his way through to the surface. "GET OUTTA MY WAY, MORTAL CREATURES! FEAR... MY... WRATH!" Light burst in all directions. A familiar rain sprinkled on Koro's face. "WHOO HOO..."

And he was gone.

"I can't believe it. My best guys are dead, my men here were killed by Imperials, an' to top it all off, I'm stuck with a whiny brat like you."

"You don't know... that the Empire did it," Koro ventured.

The man waved his hands irritably. "Oh, of course they did. And even if they didn't, someone else did. Gotta get vengeance, that's for sure. 'Don't get mad, get angry', I always say."

"Uh, don't you mean 'don't get mad, get even'?"

"Whatever." He stumbled over the wreckage of a warehouse. Chairs and stained banners littered the floor. Crates had been torn apart, the contents spilling out. "Crime just doesn't appeal to me anymore. Maybe go into accounting, or law. Can't be as bad as this."

Koro chanced upon a letter. He read it aloud.

"To whom it may concern - namely all you thugs:

This residence has been identified as an organization

of thievery, burglary, and theft, and is hereby labeled as a

threat to all society in general. The Center for the

Advancement of Civilization, namely the Security Guard, has

shut this operation down. Do not attempt to form another

of the aforementioned groups, as we _will_ return.

If you wish to reply, send a letter via pigeon with a

SASE to:

Center for the Advancement of Civilization

1234 Genji Avenue, Jidoor

Sincerely,

I. Shurem Strict of the CAC"

Cinder buried his face in his hands. "I knew it would come to this. Caught by a group of rich people that want to pay others to slaughter the entire Zozoan community. Seems like anyone could get away from them." He was soaking in self-pity.

Koro gulped. This was the perfect opportunity to escape. The thief hadn't actually done that much to him, but freedom was freedom. Just step around the corner...

"I'm freeeeee!" he whispered.