Time's Second Chance, A Xenoblade Story

[The Melee Master]

A/N: This is something I've thought of writing for months, as to explain and give backstory to two of my favorite Xenoblade characters, Alvis and D!ckson, after the events of Xenoblade Chronicles.

Updates will be slow, as I'm kinda struggling with this, but I needed to get the idea out of my head and typed out!

Credit for the title idea belongs to Ganondorf2! Again, thank you!

Story

Some people are convinced that life is a gift, that any time spent on Earth is as precious as anything they can ever dream of. And then there are those who believe they are greater than life; that they are invincible, and no one can touch them. That everyone are mere insects compared to your might! But what if, after your first life as a destructive being, you were given a second chance? To be given the chance away from your evil life to turn things around and live life for the better?

Or to experience what it's like to live the way everyone else does, while having your abilities that made you, well, you, taken away, and facing the hardships that didn't seem to exist in your former life?

These two former gods are about to find out...

...and I don't mean Zanza and Meyneth.

*******

"Shulk. This new world is boundless. It is home to not only you, but many forms of life. I can see it. In this world, all life will walk towards the future, hand in hand."

Those were the last words Shulk and his group heard from Alvis before a bright white light disrupted their visions and surrounded their bodies. The next thing they knew, everyone was in the new world, free to walk their own paths and determine their own futures...just as Shulk had wished for.

******

"Shulk's journey may be over, Alvis, but yours is just beginning,"

In the depths of space, surrounded by planets and stars, a green star, surrounded with an aura, was seen. However, the voice that was heard all around the cosmos wasn't his own.

"That is, if you'll accept the offer I'm about to bestow upon you."

The green star materialized into a silver haired Homs.

Alvis opened his eyes, and behind him, a man, dressed in white, standing before him.

"Hello, Alvis," he spoke.

Alvis closed his eyes and smiled, "Your arrival is on point, as I expected... Aeon, I presume?"

"Ah, you foresaw my arrival, then?"

He nods, "I did...since the awakening of the Mechonis. I foresaw your arrival, but kept it from the others. I knew it was not anything that had involved them."

Aeon smirked, "Smart. Then you know why I'm here before you."

Alvis shook his head, "I regret to inform that your reason escapes me."

"Well then, let's clear that up, shall we?" Aeon inched closer to Alvis, "The reason I'm here is to give you a proposition, as a gift for helping save the universe that you're a part of...that is, if you'll accept it."

He blinked, "I am listening,"

Aeon stopped and leaned against his clock-like weapon, "Do you truly wish to continue being an overseer for this world? Or would you rather be a part of it, as a true homs of flesh and blood?"

"Care to give an explanation?"

"You will receive the free will you lacked as an AI, and you will be given the experience to live the way other living beings do as of current." he got off his weapon and stood upright, "The only catch is that, being a homs, your powers will be gone, for now anyway, and you will learn and experience hardships like everyone else in this world."

"As I have said to the boy: not all that exists is perfect," Alvis wasn't phased, but Aeon wasn't either.

Aeon nods to this, "As long as you understand the risks. As stated, upon becoming a part of this world as a true flesh and blood homs, you will lose most of your abilities as a Seer. That means you will no longer be able to foresee future events at your own will." Aeon continued, "Sadly, that is beyond my control, or I would let you keep them."

Again, Alvis wasn't worried, "That is to be expected,"

"Hmm, so you do not have any concerns regarding this?"

"Life is filled with unexpected events, and some are not meant to be discovered." said Alvis, "Some mysteries of the world are best left unsolved. A time keeper such as yourself should be well aware of the fact, are you not?"

Aeon smiled, "So you do understand." he nods, "Apologizes for assuming otherwise."

"No apologizes necessary, Aeon,"

"Very well. I shall grant you the opportunity to live your life as a homs, while retaining memories of your former life, as well as allow you to retain your abilities as a Seer. Think of this as a special gift, as there's something about you that I familiarize myself with."

Alvis chucked at that, knowing what it was: their personalities weren't that far apart, and with Aeon being a time keeper, it was possible that he can foresee what was going to happen as well.

And Aeon knew it. He started back up, "However, there is a catch."

"Hm?"

"They will not appear until the time is right. If destiny allows it, it will come to you, but not before. Afterwards, you may keep your powers, but they will be limited."

Alvis blinked, "Was that not just established?"

"Just trying to see that you are understanding the risks, and you seem to understand them well." Aeon said with a smile, "As I said, it's beyond my control to allow you to retain everything from your current life, as my group forbids me to give you a free pass."

Alvis chuckled, "Then they are wise to do such a thing."

He c0cked his head, "You believe so?"

"As I explained: not everything in life is perfect, regardless if one wishes for it. If it is needed, then I shall accept this proposal, no matter the risks may be."

He nods, "Then it is time. I will send you to a time where the battle with Zanza had long passed, however, you will retain your physical age as you appear as a Homs, with memories of life from before, as to understand the consequences must your previous actions repeat themselves."

Alvis didn't quite understand, but he didn't argue with it.

"And as a bonus from me to you, I will be reversing D!ckson's death, as well as do the same for him," said Aeon, "I will give him one final chance to turn his life around, as he needs to learn that seeking ultimate power will end in great tragedy, if he is to repeat it. If he does, there will be no 3rd chances. Make sure he's aware."

"That is most wise," Alvis said with a nod.

"Time will tell if you and I are fated to meet again."

"I am certain you and I will most definitely will,"

Aeon nods, "As of now, go and find your place in this godless world, Seer," Alvis's vision began to fade, "you and D!ckson. Only the two of you can determine how you choose to live it."

And with that, Alvis's sight and consciousness blacked out.

***

A pair of eyes opened as a blonde haired man found himself within the remains of Prison Island.

Looking down, he noticed his clothing covered in blood, as well as a large wound, which despite that, he was alive. Slowly, he stood up, his body stiff and aching all over, as he attempted to remember what had happened.

Oh...that's right.

He remembered battling a group of Homs, and remembered the pain he felt when he was slashed in the chest by a weapon: Shulk's weapon. Despite the kid not possessing the Monodo at the time, this man had still been beaten.

Remembering such an embarrassing defeat made his blood boil. Even though he was the one who forfeit the battle, even though he was the one who didn't want to give Shulk the satisfaction of winning, his anger and hatred toward him still lingered and seethed with no end in sight. Eventually, that anger was replaced with pure confusion. How in the world is he here if he had just been killed?

Panting and placing his hand on his bleeding wound, D!ckson staggered and limped away from the area.

Where he was going, even he had no idea.

[ganondorf2]

Pretty good!

[The Melee Master]

Thank you!


Chapter 1

Aeon appeared in an abandoned cathedral somewhere in New England, just in time for Big Ben's clock tower rang for 12 in the afternoon.

"Preparations have been set," he said, seemingly speaking to no one in particular.

"Wonderful," said a voice.

A flash obscured Aeon's vision for a brief moment, and a man with a top hat and red coat appeared from it.





"Then this trial is well underway," he said again, "good work, Aeon. I knew it was a good idea enlisting you for this," He begins to walk around, "Now, all that's left to do is observe them, see how all this plays out."

"Indeed," he nods, "I'm quite curious about it myself...especially concerning D!ckson and his motives. What are your thoughts, Saint Germain?"

"Yes, he'll especially need to be kept an eye on," Germain closed his eyes, "though...I foresee...pain...in their future," the blond gentleman said, slowly opening his eyes, "something that they must undergo on their own. So whatever happens to them, I highly advise you not to interfere; touch nothing, change nothing, no matter the urge. Only observe."

"That was my intent all along,"

"Ah, good," he took a step back, "I shall leave you with your work, then." he was about to leave, but then he got an idea, "or perhaps, we shall work together?"

Aeon shook his head, "That won't be necessary,"

"Can you truly keep an eye on two people at once, though?" Germain turned to Aeon, "I can help keep an eye on one of them, while you focus your attention on the other,"

"I am quite capable of performing my job, but thank you, Germain,"

"Yes, I'm aware, but think of it as a friendly favor between time keepers," Germain smiled, "you can focus all your attention on one, and I can keep an eye on the other." He places his finger on his chin, "I'm actually quite curious about the former trinity member, D!ckson."

"You wish to keep an eye on D!ckson, then?"

"Quite so. Someone has to make sure he's kept in line and doesn't repeat his dark past, after all. Besides, I haven't received a mission from the time counsel in over 7 years. I could use the excitement."

Aeon chuckled, "All right. Then D!ckson is all yours."

"Splendid," said Germain, "and don't you worry; I will report back any unusual sightings or motives I see."

"And I shall do the same for you with Alvis,"

"Until next time, then, my fellow time keeper," Germain vanished in a flash of light.

***

D!ckson was struggling. He stumbled as he continued to walk aimlessly away from the remains of Prison Island and onto new grassland territory. How long had he been walking, anyway?

It was no use. He had to stop and rest. Though the wound he had no longer posed a threat to his life, it still hurt like hell. He found a place under a tree, and walked over to it, slowly sitting down underneath it, panting. A flash obscured his vision, and a man appeared from the light. Adjusting his hat, he turned to D!ckson, "Hello, D!ckson."

D!ckson wasn't in the mood for games. He took out his Sabre and aimed it at Germain.

"Now now," Germain took a couple steps back, hands raised, "there's no need to be so rash."

"Who the hell are you?" growled D!ckson.

"Someone who's here to help you. My name is Saint Germain, and I've been sent to assist you, really,"

"I don't need any help!"

"Oh, I truly believe you do,"

"No, I don't," D!ckson snarled, "now get the hell away from me!"

He shot off the Sabre, which Germain dodged with ease. D!ckson continued to shoot, and Germain continued to dodge. Eventually, there had to be a stopping point, and there was, as D!ckson dropped his weapon, panting in pain.

"You are just wasting bullets, my friend," said Germain, "no matter what you throw at me, I will always have a comeback."

D!ckson grabbed and shot off his weapon again, and this time, the bullet came dangerously close to hitting Germain in the left shoulder, making him gasp a little.

"Or maybe not," he quickly said, then turned back to D!ckson, "are you quite through?"

"Fine," D!ckson panted, leaning back against the rock and dropping the weapon for the last time, "I give up. So how the hell can you help me?"

"For starters, that wound of yours. I can reverse the damage done to your body, but I fear a scar will remain as a reminder of...well, your sins."

"Don't give me any of that philosophical crap!" he began to sweat.

"I'm afraid it's true, D!ckson. You see, I am a time keeper, and I've been sent to aid you into starting a new life for the better."

"Yeah, right," D!ckson took out a cigar and lit it, "and I'm the president of this god forsaken world..."

"You don't seem to understand," Germain said, "I'm here to help you take another path in life."

"I ain't buying it,"

"You see, D!ckson, there are those who continue to repeat their sins and meet the same fate...or worse," Germain began to walk around, "and there are those who choose a different path in life, and get rewarded for it." he stopped, "So what path do you wish to choose?"

D!ckson took out the cigar and blew smoke from his mouth, "The path that makes me the ultimate god in history,"

That made Germain sigh, "This is going to be harder than I thought..."

"I ain't for any of that bullsh!t," D!ckson said, "...having ultimate power... Heh, what a joke."

"Do you really believe so?"

"It ain't all that's cracked up to be. Just cause you got power, doesn't mean you're invincible."

"I'm surprised you figured that out on your own, considering your eagerness to serve a god and all."

"How the hell do you know?"

"We time keepers know everything that's going on...especially your defeat at the hands of a young boy named Shulk..."

"The kid was nothing more than a life support for Zanza. All I wanted was ultimate power, and to fight. Nothing more to it," D!ckson took another hit from his cigar and blew smoke, "think you can give me that?"

"Didn't you just say..." Germain sighed, "Oh well. I could...but I won't."

"Then you're just wasting your time with me,"

"Oh, believe me, D!ckson, I have all the time in the world to help you turn your life around," Germain said, trying to hint at something, "and no matter what it takes, I will see to it that this shall be a success."

D!ckson eyed Germain with anger.

"Otherwise, you will wind up back where you are now, and I fear you will not get another chance, if you don't take this one,"

D!ckson finally gave up. Obviously, Saint Germain wasn't going to leave him alone unless he agreed with whatever he wanted.

"I don't know what you're planning with me...but I'm too worn out to fight it," D!ckson grumbled, flicking the cigar away, "fine. I give. What is it you want with me?"

"Excellent, then allow me to start at the beginning, unless I'll just bore you and then I'll be on my way."

"I ain't going anywhere," D!ckson rolled his eyes, "so do what you must. You've already got my attention, so might as well finish."

"Very well then," Germain prepared to tell the story, "Allow me to explain..."

[ganondorf2]

Are you using Germain in the Rp too, or is he story only?

Love the chapter.

[The Melee Master]

Answered in the chat thread. And thank you!


Chapter 2

"To live life as a homs is to understand the hardships they undergo in life. You will be facing those same hardships, and there will be times where your powers, even after being re-obtained, will not help you. Another member of the time keepers, as well as myself, will be observing to see how you and your friend fair, so if you have further questions or are in need of anything else, we will not be far away..."

Those were the last words D!ckson and Alvis heard from their respective time keepers before they were sent into the new world.

*****

5 months later

*****

A dream. It was just a dream. A dream that had been plaguing his mind for a long time now. Alvis slowly opened his eyes. He knew it wasn't just a dream. No. It was a memory: a memory of his past, and they were getting frequent. Alvis remembered granting Shulk's wish for no gods, and afterwards, his work was complete.

Only for the time keeper, Aeon, to appear before him and offer him a chance to live within the world Shulk created, but as a homs rather than an AI. As a result, though, he didn't have any childhood memories. He was reincarnated as the physical age he appeared in the old world, but was given a family; a mother, father, a younger brother, and a twin sister, both with personalities that were very different than his own.

He wondered if that was one of the 'catches' Aeon had mentioned before. Even though it happened exactly five months ago, the memories still remained fresh in his mind.

Alvis slowly sat up and sat on the edge of his bed. Looking around, he was in a small room. A small bookshelf filled with old books, desk, a lamp, and a chair, made up a study section in the corner of the room. On the wall on the other side of a bed, was a closet that was partially open; cloths and other useless junk were seen inside. Finally in the corner beside his bed, was a silver claymore; the very same claymore that he once used before during a battle with a Telethia in his past.

He had just gotten over a cold he caught over a week ago, the reason he had slept most of the day. Getting out of bed, he prepped himself to head out of his room, but not before strapping the claymore on his back with a weapon strap. After all, one can never be too careful, especially in this world.

***

Alvis had been living in a home 5 months since he was brought into the new world. Since Shulk made his wish of a world without gods, he had lost his powers. The ability to see the future, and other abilities as a seer: gone, all because he had been reborn as a full blooded homs, as requested by Aeon. The only things that remained from his past life as an AI was his looks, obviously, his personality, and his speech pattern, which no one paid any mind to. Being human now didn't bother him. In fact, he kind of enjoyed it. No longer was he bound to anyone telling him what to do, or await permission for anything. He was free.

The house was quiet, as it usually is. He lived in a small old English style home. With all the money his parents made, you'd think they'd be living somewhere more fancy, not that this bothered him. It was still a roof over his head and food on the table, after all. Although, wealthy or not, it was never enough. As a result, his parents were at work. They always seemed to be working, so he and his two siblings were alone most of the time. Again, he wasn't bothered, but he couldn't stay. It was his turn to do some shopping, after all.

After prepping and eating a quick breakfast, he took a grocery list off the fridge magnet, and walked out the door to begin his day.

***

The market was busy, as always, but Alvis made his way toward the items on his list: Fruit, bread, meat, milk. In other words, the usual. Not much of a list, but Alvis didn't complain. They didn't need much anyway. One by one, he visited the marker vendors to retrieve the items on the list, receiving the food and paying the vendors as he left.

After returning home, he proceeded to put the food away in their proper places. This was his weekly routine, but he wasn't complaining. Although a change of pace would be nice.

Afterwards, he decided to go back outside for a bit.

***

Walking up a steep hill, the view of the small town surrounded by mountains and forests caught his eye as he turned around and reaching the top. His home was in a small quiet village. He sat down to enjoy the view. This was one of his favorite spots to unwind.

A gentle breeze blew, the sound of rustling trees filled the air. Then...footsteps.

Sensing someone looming over him, he opened his eyes, but then...

BAM!

He suddenly sat up, causing his forehead to collide with another.

"OW! OW! OW!" a voice shrieked, backing away and holding his forehead.

Alvis winced as he firmly placed his hand on his forehead as well.

"What was that for?!" said the voice again.

After regaining composure, Alvis looked and saw a young boy, possibly 6 years old, with short white hair and green eyes, and wearing a gray T-shirt and white jeans.

"Apologize," he said, "you startled me. Are you right?"

"Oww..." the boy whined, continued holding his forehead.

"Let me see," Alvis took his hand off where his head had been hit, to reveal a bruise, "oh dear, I did not realize we had collided that hard."

The boy looked up at Alvis, "Uh, you have a bruise, too, Alvis..."

"There you two are!" called out another voice.

A young woman approached them, having blonde hair and grey eyes, and wearing the same casual clothing as the younger male, but with a pink flower on the front of the shirt. She appeared to be no older than Alvis.

"Mia!" said the younger one.

"What happened to you two?" she asked after seeing the red bruises on both the boy and Alvis.

"Don't ask!" said the boy.

Alvis chuckled as he stood, dusting himself off, "We will be fine."

"Alvis, shouldn't you be in bed?!" asked Mia.

"I feel fine now, Mia," he said, "do not worry."

"Are you sure? Where did you go? And when did you get back?"

"Just a few moments ago," he replied, "I went to pick up things from the market, then came out here for some relaxation, but that seems to be enough for now."

"Well, I hope you're rested enough, because father called and wants you to go pick up his order at the repair shop," she handed Alvis a note, "I guess he knew you'd be feeling all right. Just show this to them, and they'll get it for you,"

Alvis nods to this as he took the note.

"Hey, you had the note!" said the boy to Mia, "Why won't you go pick it up?"

"Because, Zion, father told Alvis to pick it up,"

"But-"

"It is all right," said Alvis, trying to avoid an argument, "I require to have them check on my weapon anyway; kill two birds with one stone, yes?"

"Are you sure?" asked Zion.

He nods, "It will be fine. Thank you, Mia." Alvis then walked away and headed to the shop.

***

"D!ckson, how long have you been working on that gun?"

"Clam up, Maximus, I'm almost finished," he snarled, taking a rag and began to polish the weapon.

"Number fifteenth's order is ready, so take a break from that for a bit," Maximus said, "his son will be there to pick it up shortly,"

"Yeah yeah," D!ckson waved, and set the weapon aside.

D!ckson and his manager worked in an old building at the corner of the small town. The shop looked to specialize in repairing damaged goods and scraps, and selling said scraps. D!ckson had been working there ever since his revival. After all, there wasn't anything else he could do with his life anymore, and he needed money to live off of anyway. D!ckson may have been reborn in this new life as a true Homs himself, but memories of his old life remained with him, especially his defeat at the hands of a certain boy. He kept himself busy by polishing weapons and fixing them up, anything to keep busy to avoid old memories from plaguing him.

And sadly for him, they were becoming frequent, but he'll be d@mned if he ever saw the boy again.

A bell chime went off as Alvis entered the building.

"Good morning, sir," said the manager.

"I have an order ready for pickup," he replied, handing him the ticket.

"D!ckson!" said the manager, giving him the ticket.

"Yeah, I got ya father's repair order right here," said D!ckson, "just making a few touch-ups, so give me a second."

After touching up the weapon he was working on, D!ckson took the ticket from his manager, who then walked into the back room. He then read it off silently, and went over to pin it on a note board as confirmation that the order had been picked up.

"So, what do ya think?" he asked after he was finished.

"Hm?" questioned Alvis.

"You know what I'm talking about, Alvis..." his voice turned into a low growl.

"I am all right with this life," he replied, "the chance to live life like everyone else...even I must admit, it is a nice life to live,"

"Yeah...good for you," D!ckson took out a can of beer from a small fridge and offered it to Alvis, who shook his head, "still don't drink alcohol, huh? More for me, then," he closed the fridge door.

"What are your current thoughts of this?"

"Current thoughts of what?" D!ckson popped open the can, "Oh,this life? I don't know nor care... I'm here, and that's all that matters,"

"Need I remind you of the reason why you are here, however,"

"Ya don't need to remind me!" he took a quick drink of his beer, and cleaned his mouth with the back of his hand, "I know why I'm here now, and I still don't understand!" He took another quick drink.

"It is because Shulk had wished you into this new world."

In response to that statement, D!ckson crushed the half-empty can in his hand, beer spilling onto his glove, but Alvis wasn't phased at his anger.

"I don't give a d@mn what that kid's reason is!" he spouted in anger, throwing the can to the ground, "Bested me like that, will he?! Now I'm here because of him, but why? To make fun of me?! To rub his victory in my face?!"

Alvis closed his eyes, "Did you not say before that you only served Zanza to gain the powers of a god? That ultimate power was the only thing you had pursued?"

"Again, I don't give a d@mn, if I ever see that kid again, I'll-"

"You betrayed and wanted him dead, following Zanza's orders, and he was able to kill you at the end,"

"Don't mock me, Alvis," he warned, but Alvis wasn't phased.

"He killed you, and yet you are here, in the new world that Shulk himself had wished for," said Alvis, opening his eyes, "what is the meaning for this?"

D!ckson was getting mad now, "How the hell should I know?"

"It is because Shulk gave you a second chance, that you continue to co-exist with everyone, even after everything you have done," said Alvis, "you were given you a chance of redemption. Does this not mean anything to you?"

D!ckson didn't say anything, making Alvis sigh gently.

"I implore you to ponder on it, D!ckson," he said, taking the weapon, "ponder whether or not you truly wish to exact vengeance against Shulk. However, you should know this: without Zanza, you are now free to walk a different path, any path you choose...even...a path where you can make amends with the boy."

That last part made D!ckson flinch, "And if I refuse?"

"Then it is possible that history will repeat itself, and you will not be given another chance," Alvis turned around and headed to the door, "I promise you. Regardless of that fact, it is ultimately your choice, D!ckson." He nods, "Thank you for fixing my father's blade. I was going to have you make touch ups with mine, but I see that it's getting late."

"Yeah, you should head back home," said D!ckson, "bring it in tomorrow and I'll check it then."

As Alvis left the shop with the weapon, D!ckson lets out an angry sigh as memories began to flood his mind.

"I just wanted the power of a god," he said as he walked away, sitting against a stone wall, "This martyr stuff's not for me. Go! I ain't gonna risk my life to stop you."

D!ckson remembered that pain well, the pain of being slashed in the chest by the Monodo. All he wanted was ultimate power, and despite Zanza granting his wish, it didn't grant him invincibility. Enteral life, yes, but physically, he was still vulnerable.

In other words, he felt that Zanza secretly betrayed him.

After finding that much out, D!ckson no longer wanted anything to do with power. It would just come back to bite him. Yet that still didn't soothe his anger toward Shulk, which lead to this question: Who was he the most furious with? Shulk...or Zanza?

"Do I need to call the CEO on you again?" his boss, Maximus, voice snapped him out of his thoughts.

"Er, sorry," D!ckson rubbed the back of his neck, "just got a headache, is all."

"Then why are you rubbing your neck?"

D!ckson growled as he lowered his arm.

"Your break isn't until an hour from now, you know that! Either get back to work, or I'm sending you home without pay this week...again,"

As his boss left to make his delivery rounds, D!ckson clinched his fists out of anger, taking out a cigar and lightning it.

"Yeah, second chances...with memories of my failure as a bonus," he muttered, blowing smoke from his mouth as he got back to work on a scrap of metal, "thanks a lot, ya d@mn kid...!"

((F*ck these bloody sensors! Seriously...! ))

[ganondorf2]

Agreed, and nice chapter.

[The Melee Master]

Thanks!

This is a rush job, and my last completed chapter. I'm officially out of ideas after this, save for one that I'm saving for later, so I'm gonna take a break and hope inspiration strikes me someday. In the meantime, enjoy!

Chapter 3

Night time had approached, and Alvis still hadn't made it back with his dad's weapon. Though the street lights made it easy to navigate, there were still potential threats around, and Alvis knew it, and that made him worry a bit. Even in his past, Alvis wasn't much of a fighter. Back then, he relied on his 'sight' to stay out of trouble, but now since his foresight was gone, he had no choice but to be physically involved from time to time. He didn't care for it, but he knew he didn't have a choice if he was to survive. And even in a world without a gods rule, one can never be too careful.

It was then he saw a shadow out the corner of his eye, and before he knew it, five thug looking men, each carrying a knife, surrounded the former Seer. Alvis didn't show any sign of fear, however.

"I regret to inform you that I have no money," he said, but the men didn't lose interest.

"Yeah?" asked one in a gruff voice, in which Alvis could smell a strong scent of alcohol in his breath, "then where'd ya get that blade?"

"Looks like it could fetch a pretty penny," another said.

"Hand it over nicely and you can keep your head!" said a 3rd.

They began to zone in, like panthers approaching their prey. Alvis took a step back.

"I implore you to reconsider that decision," he said.

"Well, we implore ya to bleed as much as possible!"

Alvis sighed, "You will not accept my mercy? Then you leave me no choice,"

Though he was unable to foresee what was going to happen, he sensed someone behind him, and swooped down, extending his leg to knock the would be murderer off his feet. A gun was sent sliding across the pavement. Quickly strapping his father's weapon on his back, Alvis took out his own claymore to fend off the ruthless thugs. One came after him with a knife, provoking Alvis to block with his claymore, and throw him aside. Another thug dove in after him, tackling Alvis to the ground but was kicked off, and the former Seer got back on his feet, still gripping the weapon.

"What the hell are you idiots doing?!" one member shouted, "Stop f*cking around and grind that kid's bones already!"

Alvis didn't make a comment toward them but didn't take his eyes off them, either, but before he could make another move, he was struck in the back by a heavy 2X4, knocking him to the ground. The gang members then proceeded to kick him continuously, until a couple of gunshots rang out, forcing the group to hightail it out of there, but not before a member swiped Alvis's claymore from his back.

"Alvis?!"

He opened his eyes to see D!ckson, Sabre in hand, approaching him.

"Are you all right?"

He helped the former seer to his feet. Alvis stumbled as he stood.

"What the hell's wrong with you?!" D!ckson questioned, "Never in my life would I imagine you'd had to be rescued, not like this!"

"Apologizes...but I am not much for combat, even in my past,"

D!ckson sighed, giving up, "Yeah, I guess ya relied way too much on those visions of yours. Last I checked, you only participated in one fight back then, with the kid and a telethia. Don't think I never knew."

Alvis didn't say anything.

"Anyway, let's get ya home," D!ckson tried to help, but Alvis limped away from him, wanting to walk on his own. The blonde shook his head at that.

***

The door swung open, provoking everyone to jump up. Alvis could see that his parents had made it back home. A woman with blonde hair and wearing a red evening gown, and an older male with short grey hair and rugged facial hair, his clothes filthy with sweat and dirt, looking like he had just got off from a dirty but well-paying job.

"Oh my word!" spoke the mother.

D!ckson walked in carrying Alvis on his shoulders.

"What happened?!" she asked, rushing over to the two.

"Your son was jumped," said D!ckson, "a bunch of cowards, really..."

"I am all right," panted Alvis, getting off D!ckson, but staggered as he stood.

"Honey-" the mother proceeded to say.

"Here you go," to change the subject, Alvis presented his dad with the blade he picked up, who took it and set it down beside a wall.

"I'll deal with that later," he said, "but where's yours? Don't you carry it everywhere you go? Why didn't you use it on them?"

Alvis hesitated for a bit, then replied, "I did...but it has been stolen,"

"Stolen?" asked his mother, "The same men who jumped you took your blade, too?"

So much for changing the subject...

"It will be fine," Alvis panted, trying to reassure them, "another weapon can be forged."

"We'll worry about that in the morning," said the mother, "go get yourself cleaned up."

"Mother-"

"I'll be up in a bit to check on you,"

"I am fine, mother," said Alvis, even though his body was aching from the beatings he received.

"See?" said the father, "I knew it was a bad idea to leave him by himself at night!"

"Alvis can take care of himself, you know that," the mother said, "he was just at the wrong place at the wrong time."

"I should've been the one to pick up my own weapon!"

"You heard what the boy said, Isaac," said D!ckson, "he's fine. Besides, I chased them off the moment I spotted them."

"I appreciate you looking out for him, but I can handle things from here!"

D!ckson scowled and took a step back, not saying another word.

"Really, father, I am fine," Alvis tried to persuade his parents, hoping a fight wouldn't start. He then proceeded to walk away and into the washroom, shutting the door.

"See?" said D!ckson, "He said he's fine, so let's leave it at that."

"Mother?" they turn to see their daughter, Mia, walking downstairs and yawning, "What's with all the shouting?"

"It's nothing, Mia," said Isaac, "go back to bed."

Ava shook her head at Isaac, "Your brother got hurt earlier retrieving your father's weapon."

Mia gasped, "Is he all right?!"

"He'll be fine," D!ckson tried to reassure her, "nothing but scratches and bruises,"

"Except he got his own weapon stolen,"

"Issac!!" shouted Ava.

"We'll get it back," ensured D!ckson.

"How do you-"

"A town nearby is filled with multiple trades and black market stores...I have a funny feeling why they wanted it, and that blade could cost a pretty penny with those one of a kind gems crafted into it, wouldn't ya say?"

"So you're going to go into that part of town just to get the weapon back?" asked Issac, "Isn't that dangerous?"

"Issac, I've faced a lot of monsters and once had death stare at me in the face," D!ckson said with a grin, "NOTHING scares me anymore."

"But D!ckson-"

"I'll get that weapon back for him one way or another. Hopefully, they don't find out about those gems and try to separate them from the blade..."

"Gems?" asked Ava.

"One of them is so rare, it can't be crafted a 2nd time due to the materials dying out," said D!ckson, "if they get their hands on it..."

"I didn't know Alvis had anything crafted into that blade,"

"But now you know why it was sought after, and I'm gonna get it back for him tomorrow."

****

As the morning sun pierced through the windows, Alvis awoke with his body aching from last night. Slowly, he sat up and moved to the edge of his bed, closing his eyes for a moment, until a knock at the door interrupted him.

D!ckson entered the room, "You up?"

He nods, and D!ckson presents him with his claymore.

"I found it at a black market this morning, just as I suspected it'd be. It looked familiar, so I thought I'd buy it and see if it was yours. If not, well...just take it anyway,"

Alvis took the silver claymore and examined it. Indeed, the weapon was his own, as he could tell by a small incision near the base of the blade where there use to be a stone.

"Well?" questioned D!ckson.

Alvis nods, "It is mine, although it appears they have pried out and stolen the gem that was once embedded in this blade,"

"Yeah, I figured that's what those goons were after. Think we can forge another one?"

Alvis shook his head, "The materials I have used to craft the Unbeatable VI gem can no longer be found. It will be impossible to recreate such a rare gem,"

"Well, then that means you'd better be careful from here on out,"

"It will be fine. Thank you, D!ckson."

"Don't mention it," he said with a wave, taking the claymore back, "I'll be holding onto this for a while longer. I'm gonna enhance it with something, as well as ask my boss to help make ya something special for the blade, like a proper holster or something, so that no one tries to steal it again."

"Appreciated,"

D!ckson lets out a wave and leaves the room.

[ganondorf2]

Pretty good.

[The Melee Master]

Thanks. This is possibly a rush job, but I don't care. I just want to get another chapter out!

Chapter 4

Several hours later, D!ckson was hard at work with the project he promised his friend. His boss, Maximus, was gathering supplies and loading them onto a buggy that was lead by an adult Armu.

"I have a couple delivery rounds to make across town," he said as he loaded the last of the boxes onto the cart, "could you hold down the fort until I get back?"

"Yeah, sure," D!ckson replied, focused on his work.

"I really appreciate it, D!ckson,"

D!ckson focused on his project: making a scabbard for Alvis's weapon. Taking some sand paper from a table nearby, he began to sand down the leather.

Maximus climbed onto the Armu and grabbed the reigns, "I should be back in 30 minutes, maybe even before then, but if I'm running late, don't get too concerned,"

"No problem,"

A crack of the reigns and the Armu trotted away from the building. D!ckson sighed, "At least he's in a better mood than he was yesterday."

After he finished sanding the holster down, he brushed the debris using a brush, then applied rust and weather resistant gloss on the outside, which was quick drying. Carefully, he set it between two boards to allow the gloss to dry over, then he walked over to the mini fridge and took out a can of beer.

"Not my break time yet, but screw him," he hissed, opening the can.

Alvis entered the building, and the second D!ckson saw him, he jumped up and walked toward the scabbard.

"Sturdy and theft resistant leather," said D!ckson, "I knew the dried Sauros hide I kept around would come in handy one day...though my enhancement idea for the blade itself fell flat after I realized I was out of the materials for it. Sorry,"

"Much appreciated," said Alvis as he handed D!ckson a few pieces of gil.

D!ckson took the gil without question, "Sorry I can't give it to ya for free. Maximus caught me giving a freebee to another customer once, and I was sent home for a week without pay. I ain't risking it again,"

"It is all right," Alvis said, strapping the holster over his shoulder. He then slid the blade into the holster, which was a tight fit. A click was heard, followed by a red light.

"I had the materials to enhance the scabbard, at least. I added a locking mechanism to it," explained D!ckson, "and it won't release unless you press a hidden switch on the base of the holder."

Alvis felt for and found the switch, which was a small button near the base where the sword was being held. After pressing it, the blade popped up, and Alvis took it out without trouble.

"The button was designed to blend in with the scabbard," he said, "so no one should know or see it except you. I put a lot of work into that thing, so you'd better take care of it."

"Thank you," said Alvis.

"Don't mention it," D!ckson threw the empty beer can into the trash, "just make sure you stay out of trouble next time."

"And you as well,"

"Tch," D!ckson shook his head and turned to Alvis, to see that he still retained some of the bruises on his face, "but seriously, how are you feeling?"

"I am all right," he replied.

"Yeah well, I recommend you brush up on your 'combat skills' of yours," D!ckson turned around, "I can't come rushing to your aid every time you get jumped."

Alvis nods to this.

D!ckson sighs, "Honestly, I don't know why you chose to live in an area where crap like that are common, anyway,"

"It was not my decision to live in such an area," replied Alvis.

"Then it was your parent's choice?"

"Yes,"

"Heh, ya got all the money in the world and yet they decide to live and raise their kids near a dump like this," D!ckson spat.

Alvis shook his head, "It matters not, though this is precisely why I do not go out at night."

"Oh, so it's not because you have a curfew or anything like that?"

Alvis shook his head again.

"Good, cause you're too old to be having a curfew,"

Alvis chuckled at that, "I am aware of the dangers the town has, most noticeable at night. I am not so foolish to go out at that time, as crime rates have grown over the past several months. I have gotten a late start that evening, is why I was late coming home that day."

"Yeah, a week ago, you were down and out with a cold. Never thought I'd ever see you get sick,"

Alvis said nothing to that. The sound of a bell went off as man entered the building.

"Excuse me," he said, walking over to D!ckson, "I'm here to pick up an order." He handed D!ckson a ticket.

"Ticket number 42," he read off, "you're the one with the rifle, right?"

"Yes sir,"

"Give me a moment," D!ckson turned around and walked to the back of the building. After a while, he came back with a large rifle. The tag of the repair order number was hanging off the hilt.

"I had to replace a few of the internals, to get it working again," he said, "that'll be 130 gill for the maintenance,"

"Good grief, man!"

"Hey, I had to tear the guts out of that thing and order a ton of replacement parts," he explained, "the inside was so rusted over, I've spent a good two hours chiseling everything out of there!"

"OK, OK, you've made your point," the stranger dug out $130 worth of gil and handed it to D!ckson. He took it and put it into a change bucket.

Alvis smiled at how professional D!ckson was concerning his job, despite his attitude from the other day.

"Have a good day," said D!ckson.

The customer nods and leaves the building.

"It would seem you are quite satisfied with your job?" questioned Alvis.

"I got to be, right?" said D!ckson, "I mean, it's all I got going for me anymore. Gotta rake in the gil somehow. Not everyone was gifted with a rich family, ya know!"

"I did not ask to be a part of a wealthy family," Alvis decided to clarify.

"Didn't stop your time keeper from giving ya one! What the hell makes you so special?"

"I did not have a family in my past life, and you need to atone for your dark past, or face repercussions," stated Alvis, "that was another point of your revival, was it not?"

"Don't remind me,"

Alvis didn't say another word about it. The groan of an Armu was heard as Maximus made his way back to the building. Jumping off the animal, he then looked at D!ckson.

"That was quick for 30 minutes," D!ckson joked. Maximus had a look of amusement on his face.

"I just came by to give you a new project, smart@ss," he joked back.

"Oh goodie..." D!ckson mumbled. Maximus ignored that statement.

"A customer's rifle got damaged in a battle yesterday. Caught up to me and told me he needs it by tomorrow, and I'd like for you to repair it."

"I just got done giving a rifle to-"

"This is a different rifle and a different customer,"

"Oh, so that's why you hightailed it back here so fast. Sure, sure, hand it over,"

"I'll give it to you after work, make it your home project for the night instead," Maximus said, jumping back on the animal, "the customer will drop it off before closing time tonight. I should be back around that time, but if I'm not, make sure you close and lock up before you leave,"

"Got it!"

As Maximus rode away on the Armu again, D!ckson scoffed.

"He turned around just to tell me that? I would've waited until I was finished with my errands, and then tell 'em."

"It would seem that he holds high priorities for you," said Alvis, "therefore, he must truly trust you."

"Only because him and I are the only ones here," D!ckson then sighed, "I'd better finish this up before dark."

"Then I shall leave you to your work," Alvis turned around, "thank you again."

"Anytime,"

Alvis walked away from the building.

***

At the start of late afternoon, D!ckson began to clean up his work station in preparation to leave for the evening. Maximus had returned from his errands hours before, and the two had worked on various scrap materials that were lying around the area.

"Slow day today," said Maximus, "barely any customers and orders put in,"

"You can say that again," said D!ckson with a cigar clinched between his teeth, finishing up his cleaning.

"Remember to take that rifle with you,"

"I know," D!ckson walked over and grabbed it, making sure the safety was on.

"Shouldn't take you no more than two hours at best. He claimed he attempted to fix it himself earlier, so that should save you most of the work,"

"Big mistake, if he didn't know what he was doing, ya know!"

"I took a look at it, and he did a pretty decent job. All you need to do is fix up the major parts of the weapon, and clean it up,"

"I'll get right on it,"

Maximus hopped on the Armu, "See you tomorrow, then,"

D!ckson lets out a wave as he walked away from the workshop.

***

As he finally made it back to his residence, D!ckson unlocked the door and walked inside. He lived in a small house, smaller than the one Alvis and his family lived in, but it was better than nothing. Inside was everything needed for a single person: table and chairs, a fridge, and a bed in another room, as well as a mini workshop in a corner. Since D!ckson was always working and traveling, he didn't need much anyway.

D!ckson pulled up a chair and sat down at a work-desk, placing the rifle onto it, and turning on a lamp as he looked it over.

"Yeah," he mumbled, "this is gonna take a while. I'd better be paid double for this!"

And with that, he began to work on the weapon, scraping the rust and gutting the inside.

[ganondorf2]

Pretty good.

[The Melee Master]

Thank you! Short rush job, but oh well.

Chapter 5

An endless sea blanketed underneath the endless sky. Two mighty titans of black and white, clashed their blades against one another. A piece of the sword from the black titian flew as the white one managed to slice it in half.

A hoard of various looking creatures, called Telethia, swarmed the skies and eradicated any and all life that they came across. Visions of a battle between a giant and a group of kids, visions of a god destroying another god as it was sliced in half by a blade of light; the Monodo, and at last, visions of the mighty Bionis crumbling into the ocean.

"There are those who continue to repeat their sins and meet the same fate...or worse, and there are those who choose a different path in life, and get rewarded for it."

Another vision came fourth: one of the time guardians, Saint Germain, appeared.

"So," he smiled, "what path do you wish to choose?"

***

D!ckson jerked his head up in a cold sweat. Panting, he looked around to find himself still at the workspace of his house. After managing to steady his breathing, he wiped the sweat from his face with his arm, and looked down to see that the gun he had been working on, still in pieces, but had gotten farther in fixing it than he expected.

A headache overpowered D!ckson, causing him to place his hand on his forehead, wincing.

"The hell was that all about?" he questioned about the dream he had, which was a memory of Zanza's revival, and hearing Germain's voice made him clinch his teeth, "Leave me alone!" he looked down at his work space, "Must've dozed off."

The item he had been working on all night was far from being finished, although he managed to scrape a good chunk of the rust away. He looked out the window to see the sky slowly lighting up from the sun rising.

"Morning already?" he mumbled, and looked down at the weapon, "And I ain't even finished with this piece of junk yet." he sighed, "Might as well do what I can before I go back to work in 4 hours."

Disregarding his headache, D!ckson buckled himself down and put all his focus on the weapon, hoping to get something done with it before it was time to leave for work.

***

Hours later, D!ckson got himself ready and headed off to work, rifle in hand with the safety on. As he made his way through the bustling town, he kept his eyes forward and quickened his pace, trying not to bump into anyone in the process. He stopped to the side for a quick bite, a small bread loaf, and of course paid the vendor for it with two pieces of gil.

After finally arriving to the shop, D!ckson saw that Maximus was working on a small blade at his work station. He looked up and saw D!ckson.

"Well, I see you're on time for once," he joked.

"Har har har," said D!ckson in the same tone, taking a bite of his roll before walking over to his work station.

"How'd the repairs go?"

"Awful!" he spat, finishing up his breakfast and swallowed before speaking again, "The inside was so rusted up, I had to take a chisel just to break and tear it all apart! How anyone can let a weapon like that go and not take care of it is beyond me."

"Some people are that careless, I'm afraid," said Maximus, taking a swig of his coffee, "but its those kind of people that pay the big bucks, too."

"Well, you got that right," D!ckson noticed a rifle sitting on another table nearby and went over to pick it up, "guess I'll get started on this, then,"

"Ah, be careful with that, D!ckson," Maximus warned, setting his coffee down, "that weapon is loaded with-"

D!ckson was caught off guard when the rifle shot off, causing a green substance to shoot at high speed, shattering an overhead lamp on the ceiling, with glass from the bulb falling to the floor. The bullet then struck a bird that had been perched high on a rod inside the building, which fell to the ground.

"D@mn it!" growled D!ckson, startled by the mess.

After catching his breath, Maximus sighed, "D!ckson, that rifle didn't have the safety on!"

"NOW you tell me?" he rolled his eyes and walked over to the bird, which of course was dead. D!ckson was then taken aback when he noticed a familiar green gas rising from where the bullet had struck, in the chest, and quickly began eating away at the animal.

"Is that what I think it is?!" he asked.

"If you're thinking concentrated ether, then you're correct," stated his boss.

"But how did you get a hold of some?"

"We got ties with the military and defense force, and they provide us with it," answered Maximus, "as long as we keep providing them weapons, they provide us with stuff we need to get our jobs done,"

"Scratch each other's backs, huh?" D!ckson stared at the bird until it became a disgusting pile of muddle, staining the ground.

"Next time, please be careful! I can't ever tell what weapon has ether unless it's properly tested first,"

"I thought customers were suppose to let you in on that!"

"Some do, and some are too shady to trust, D!ckson," he explained, "don't you remember what happened with my wife, Maria? Opened up a box delivered to her, and the next thing she knew, nasty ether explosion," Maximus sighed, "nearly ate up her face."

"Yeah, I remember," D!ckson said, "she's lucky you grabbed and threw the package out the door before it exploded."

"And the time we received a rifle weapon, and it turned out to have a bomb inside? All I can say is thank goodness I'm able to recognize certain wires from my early years as a cop. I knew red and white wires weren't suppose to be hanging out of a rifle..." then mumbled, "or have wires to begin with."

"That was a rough day for the both of us," D!ckson almost chuckled, "had to shut down the shop for two days until bomb squad told us it was safe,"

"Exactly! You can't ever be too careful these days," Maximus walked back over to his work station, "I've seen a lot of crazies during my 57 years of life, and will keep seeing them."

"Heh," D!ckson then pondered, this time setting the safety on the rifle as to not repeat that incident, "glad he's in a better mood. So even in this kids world, there's still crap like that around. Well, at least I won't be so bored living here."

Whether he was joking or serious was never quite answered.

[ganondorf2]

Short and sweet.

[The Melee Master]

Thank you! Might be having short chapters for a while, but I don't know. This one, though not short, was thought up on a whim, so it may or may not make sense. Oh well...


Chapter 6

Later that day, D!ckson and Maximus had managed to fix up a good amount of weaponry, using broken down parts as scrap material to hold them together for the time being.

"We should be getting a new shipment of parts in a bit," spoke Maximus, "this scrap material should hold it all together until then."

"They'd better," D!ckson spoke with a sigh, "took me over an hour to keep it steady without it breaking down for the 3rd time!"

"Shouldn't be much longer," his boss encouraged, then flinched at the sound of metal hitting the ground.

"D@mn it!!" D!ckson hissed as pieces of material fell onto the floor from the weapon he had been working on, and it wasn't long before the weapon completely fell apart in his hands. It was taking everything the former Trinity member had to hold back his rage.

"Uhh..." Maximus scratched his neck, "Why don't we take a break?"

D!ckson sighed and attempted to regain his composure.

"It's almost closing time anyway," Maximus looked outside, the sun was in the 2:00 position.

"Don't we close at 5?"

"I want to get an early start on my vacation tomorrow," he replied, "so this is your lucky day; you get to go home early!"

"Yeah, go home to an empty shack all by myself... What fun,"

"You saying you'd rather stay here and work all week? With me not being here, you won't get paid for it, you know,"

"I don't have anything better to do with my time,"

"Sure you do; take some of the weapons and armor that our customers left weeks ago, you know, the ones I've been getting onto you about fixing for half a month?"

D!ckson grumbled.

"Seriously, D!ckson, we need to get those done before we get in trouble again by CEO,"

"All right, all right," he admitted defeat, "I'll make sure they're nice and sturdy before you get back,"

"And who knows? Maybe I'll add it to your bonus for when you repaired that rifle last night," Maximus let out a grin.

"Now you're talking!"

"I knew that'd make your day. Now let's get to work. We got a lot of repairs to do," Maximus commanded, "and remember what I said about-"

"Yeah yeah, be careful of ether filled weapons, I remember,"

"And the one you're holding now has ether in place of iron bullets," Maximus quickly warned, "so put the safety on the rifles and guns first and foremost before you tear into them,"

"Yes sir," D!ckson rolled his eyes as he took a handgun and switched the safety on before taking a rag in hand, applying polish onto it.

"Honestly, D!ckson," Maximus sighed, "I don't know why I have to tell you all this. You're pretty handy with weapons and your knowledge about them is impressive."

"Heh, I guess my knowledge has been a little rusty since my last job," he lied as he looked outside.

"Well hurry up and get with the program; we need to get as much done as possible before the week is up,"

"All right, all right," D!ckson spoke in a low tone, "be nice if we could hire some extra help around here..."

Overhearing his words, Maximus spoke seriously, "And if I could afford to, I would. Sorry about that,"

D!ckson didn't reply to his boss about that.

***

Hours later, the two were sitting in chairs away from their tidied up workspaces.

"Hey now, we got more done than I expected from two people," Maximus smiled, "I guess it's true when they say money motivates most people,"

"Har har..." D!ckson spat sarcastically, "I'm just looking forward to this vacation you promised me. So...?"

"Hey, I'm a man of my word," he smiled, "as promised, we both get an entire week off work, and your paycheck for the week will be doubled for helping out with the repair you've done last night."

"Glad to see my efforts didn't go to waste,"

"Seriously, though, I'm more than thankful for your help with the extra repairs. Sorry I had to spring that rifle on you last minute, but at least you got money out of the deal!"

"Also about the principle," D!ckson corrected, "I'm not all about the money, you know,"

Maximus smiled, "Once again, I'm just joking with you."

"With you, it's hard to tell," D!ckson stood from the chair and stretched.

"Well, I'll be closing shop soon, so you may go ahead and go home," Maximus stood up, "enjoy the week off, D!ckson,"

"You too," he spoke with a wave before turning around and leaving.

***

D!ckson made it back home without any trouble. After unlocking the door and walking inside, he turned on a lamp and shut the door behind him. Walking into a washroom, he proceeded to take off his shirt, then stopped and looked into a mirror. Sure enough, behind his necklace, a large red scar, though healed over, was visible where he had been slashed by the Monodo.

"Eh, I'll clean up later," he walked out the room and into his bedroom, "just need a nap first."

"There are those who continue to repeat their sins and meet the same fate...or worse, and there are those who choose a different path in life and get rewarded for it."

D!ckson grumbled as those thoughts ran through his mind.

"And this is my reward?" he spat, throwing himself onto his bed on his back, "Heh, what a joke," Staring up at the ceiling, D!ckson lets out a frustrated sigh, "I still have no idea what the hell I'm supposed to do, you piece of crap timekeeper!!"

"That's for you to decide," a voice made him bolt upright from his bed. In the corner of his bedroom stood a man clothed in white with a large clock weapon.

Surprised by the sudden intrusion, D!ckson heaved, "You're not Saint what's-his-name,"

"Saint Germain is 300 years in the future to observe a matter at the request of our group, so he sent me to check up on you in his place," he replied, and bowed, "my name is Aeon."

"Ever heard of knocking??" D!ckson took his Sabre that was on his bed, and right when Aeon straightened back up, the weapon was shot off, but the bullet missed. A bullet hole was seen in the stone wall just inches beside Aeon's arm.

"Perhaps that was my fault for being so erupt," Aeon spoke calmly, "but I must ask you to put aside your Sabre,"

"Or else what?"

"Or else the next shot you make will be redirected to your own shoulder," he replied, "more importantly, must you kill me or Germain, your atonement will no longer be valid, and you will be severely punished by the time counsel themselves. Please believe me when I say that you do not want to stand before them in a trial. Their punishments are harsher than what Zanza could ever do to you."

"Zanza ain't involved in this, is he?" D!ckson growled.

Aeon shook his head, "No need to fret. He no longer exists; records of his existence have vanished upon the recreation of your world. No one aside from you, Alvis, and the group who took him down, are aware he ever existed."

"Is that so?"

"This is precisely why Germain and I were sent to assist you," Aeon spoke sternly, "your purpose in this world is to atone for your dark past. You were serving a god who abused his status and power, and Zanza would've rid of you, Lorithia, and even Alvis, once he obtained all he desired,"

D!ckson's eyes widened at that, "You're lying!"

"Lying is beyond my occupation. Did you not notice that Zanza did not give you true immortality? Not to mention, he did not bring you back from the dead."

"Stop lying!!"

"Zanza never cared what happened to you or Lorithia as long as he obtained his wishes at the end. You two were merely scapegoats for his desires."

D!ckson bared his teeth angerly at Aeon.

"You were told such, I'm sure, and you were aware, but you have not seemed to have allowed it to sink in as of yet."

D!ckson sighed, "Is that why I keep having these dreams?"

"It's plausible," he nodded.

"Are you timekeepers always this cryptic?!" D!ckson sighed, "And what about Alvis? Why was he reborn as he is now? He's got a family to care for, so it sounds like he received the better end of the deal! How the hell is that fair?!!"

"The reason is more complex than it appears on the outside," Aeon replied, "even Alvis is not exempt from the harsh realities of the world, and he will find out soon."

"You ain't gonna tell me, are ya?"

"I'm not allowed to inform you or Alvis on such matters, as it's something you two must discover on your own."

Running his fingers through his hair and letting his hat drop off, D!ckson mumbled before picking the cloth back up and putting it back on his head, "You two aren't gonna let this go, are ya?"

"Sorry, D!ckson, but we have our orders,"

"So...other than what Alvis told me, what's the point in all this??"

"Did we not inform you? The point was to not only atone from your sins, but to live a new life for the better. Everything, from your nightmares, to your job, is genuine. No smoke and mirrors, or anything of the sort," Aeon smiled, "How you choose to live it is all up to you, though, as Germain and I play no part in how you decide to live this life; we were firmly instructed not to interfere, no matter what happens. All we were assigned to do is observe, and check up to see how you and Alvis are fairing. I'm sure Saint Germain had already told you all the details."

"Yeah," he spoke in a low tone, "though he was a bit obscure about it,"

"Because we aren't allowed to reveal any more information than what we're allowed to inform you, nor are we allowed to act upon such matters, not this time,"

"So if one of us happens to be in trouble..."

Aeon shook his head, "Sorry D!ckson,"

"Tch, some help you are,"

"Even we timekeepers have rules that we must follow to help preserve the flow and laws of time, and the laws of Nature itself,"

"Don't worry, I got that much," D!ckson waved, "I just...don't know what I want to do yet. Granted, I have a choice...but..."

"Everyone has a purpose in life, and you just haven't found yours yet," he spoke, "once you find your purpose in this new world, everything will fall into place as intended."

"And what about-?" D!ckson stopped, looking down at his feet, "Uh, forget it."

"If it concerns Shulk and his friends, then it's up to you whether or not you wish to make amends and move on,"

D!ckson didn't speak after that.

"We're not certain of the result if you and Shulk meet again, but Germain and I are not allowed to interfere with anything of the sort. You must find out on your own, whether or not your former friends will accept you back after attempting to make amends, that is, if you choose to."

"Shut up!" he spat, "I don't even want to think about the kid, so just shut up!!"

Aeon wasn't swayed as he let out a smile, "Very well, then I'll leave you to gather your thoughts back together. Germain and I shall assist you whenever you wish, so don't hesitate to call upon one of us when needed."

"And how do I do that?"

"We will know," was all he replied before vanishing.

"Wait!" D!ckson spoke out, but he was alone. Heaving a heavy sigh, he got up from the bed and walked out of his house, locking the door and taking off, shoving his hands in his pockets as he needed to go for a walk to clear his head, and calm himself down.

[ganondorf2]

Pretty good.