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[Ricky Maze]

Farewell. Old Friend. Final Chronicle of Homecoming Fall 60th, 512 AV Unto the embrace of death once more we all come together, to wish our friend well on his final journey; as the gloom of darkness shall pass and be baned by light... The day had been a long and testing one for our crushed fisherman, after the Wave Guard had patched his hand and the wound on his right side of his torso Ricky carried his companion here. Wrapped in a cloth given to him as a generosity for his loss, Odis now rested in Ricky's lap lifeless as a doll. The tragic events that played out last night were horrific ones that Ricky dared not think about. Yet with the lack of sleep and terror of his lost temper still lingering Ricky waited for the two nuits to dig open the dogs grave. There was no specific time that this was suppose to happen, no real way of knowing if others had caught whispers of the operation that he and Sebastian discovered. It was only a tiresome late afternoon with doubt to follow into the eve. Ricky was still in the process of getting his thoughts together as he would pet the cloth mournfully, struggling with his inner self as he found it more difficult to keep his composure. The two that were digging Odis' grave were rather curious as to why someone would bury the dog, but respectfully and with question the agreed to help this broken bear. Had he not broken his hand in the act of losing control he would have done this by himself, as he would prefer little contact with anybody now that he was no longer able to hold himself up. The scene played out in his head over and over to before he blacked out, the moment Odis had lunged for the bastard's shin to tear him away. He was trying to save Ricky from certain death even if it would cast him his own life. Ricky could only remember the times that these two shared, all the way up to the final moment of Odis' life. He was indeed a great dog, a real hero to Ricky and irreplaceable friend; practically a brother Ricky never had. Now the dog had one last journey to make in their lives, one that Ricky could not follow him in. The time was drawing near now as the grave was nearing it's depth; those who would decide to show up would find Ricky in his grieving state, what they were here for mattered little to him. Today would be a day of few words from the fisherman, but he would still accept the respects of those that decided to come.

[Sebastian Stalinsa]

Sebastian sat staring quietly at the grave before him. It was small, made of plan stone and nearly unmarked expect for a brief engraving, To Lucile and Quinzel. May Dari carry you gently. They were the two children who'd lost their lives within the slaver's tunnels. One outright murdered the other left for dead in a damp cage. The Wave Guard who'd found the latter reported she wore a white dress, and it was the ghost of this girl Sebastian was now sure had lead he and Ricky to uncover the den of scoundrels. None had come to claim the bodies and their flat gravestone lay bare of offerings except for a small circle of colorful stones and shells Sebastian had found along the coastline. There were many things he thought of saying, many words of regret and safe travels, verses better said to the living then dead who could no longer hear. The simple yet elegant parting engraved upon the stone left very little to say which would not sound sour in its sweetness. His small respects bestowed Sebastian now sat in silence, with legs crossed, as he distantly contemplated death and the many places it held in a man's heart. He was not the only one in the cemetery today and softly were the steps that shuffled through the rows of dead. "Your daughters?" Crocked a wizen women bent with age and draped in black. "No." With sudden weariness he inclined his head. "Didn't know them. You?" Sebastian had never seen a women this old in his life. Her entire form shock with small tremors; her body nothing but skin, bones and wrinkles. What strength of spirit what passion for life must burn in that old husk to have fended off death for so long. Carefully she wobbled her head at his inquiry as if too sudden a movement might dislodge the orb. "My husband." She said, pointing to a set of nearby graves. "And our son. His wife. Their children. I have out lived them all." This was followed by a great sigh of resignation. "Living is not for the faint of heart young man. Don't go throwing your life away for a pretty cause. There is always someone who will morn you.” Sebastian didn't know what to say to this unexpected advice from an equally unexpected companion. "Let me help you home." He offered, wanting in some way to repay her. "Ni," She replied with a wave of a hand. "You have a friend that needs you more then I and these old bones will be fine after a brief rest." Not knowing what the women was talking about but after similar offers where meet with gentle denials Sebastian awkwardly left. No sooner had he turned than down the hill some ways he spotted Ricky kneeling at the mouth of a newly dug grave while two Nuits stood by with damp shovels. Looking back over his shoulder perplexed Sebastian started with surprise when the old women was nowhere in sight. A bit unnerved and deciding he’d spent enough time with the dead he stuffed his hands into his coat pockets and made his way down towards Ricky.

[Zivilist Gott]

Zivilit dreaded going to the local cemetery, there rested his mentor, Valentino, who had trained him in the usage of the Rapier and basically a surrogate father. He would visit his grave once a year to pay his respects to him, but that wasn’t the reason he dreaded going there. No, in the graveyard rested his comrades in the waveguard, despite what some others would think of them, their duties carried the risk of death and naturally there were those who bit the dust because of it. He knew a number of them, not personally but he use to go out for lunch or drinks with them when their shifts were over. But he wasn’t going there for them, no, he was going there for the sake of another. As he walked past the various headstones, all seemed to vary from the very simple to the very elaborate ‘So many graves….’ He thought. Since he had requested this day he be free of his duty as a Wave Guard, he simply showed up in his civilian garb with only his Rapier at his side. His left arm was raised to his abdomen, as if it was supposed to be carrying some but instead the palm of his hand was resting on his abdomen. There he saw in the distance a wreck of man petting a corpse lovingly wrapped in Cloth ‘Richard….’ Seeing the man like this was a heavy weight on the chest, no matter how many times, whither it man or beast, it was always hard to see the loved ones left behind. He turned his head to his side that there was another who came to visit, giving a brief glance at the two Nuits who’ve dug a grave for the dog. Zivilist shook his head and muttered a prayer before standing next to Ricky, unable to come up with words to say to the grieving man ‘What could I say’ Whatever he said would sound meaningless ‘everything is going to be okay, you’ll get through this’ perhaps there was a bit of truth to them, but were they enough?

[Ricky Maze]

Amidst the blurry vision he had two figures were now approaching, their faces to high up to see from the corner of his eyes. Ricky would normally address them proper like any usual greeting, but this time was indeed far from usual. He only glanced up once to see the two faces of the strangers that had arrived, yet even if his vision was blurred he needed not a second glance. These two were not strangers at all, they were people he knew. As he let a few sobs out and paid no attention to the tears that ran free of his eyes, Ricky sighed as he could only look back to his furry companion. Wishing that the dog would awaken from his deep slumber and relieve Ricky of this hellish nightmare. He was far to exhausted and worn down to handle such all this, already he had lost his home and fishing gear to the effects of time, and now Ricky was suffering the loss of the last thing he had left in his life. How far did this bear have to fall before he hit rock bottom? Had he not already suffered enough? Apparently not if this were to happen, clearly some higher power must enjoy tormenting him like this. Either that or fate had a sick sense of humor in it's unfairness. He only wanted things to become better for the two, to lighten up a bit as they would recollect what they had lost. No. Nothing was right anymore, the world was now a darker place; and Ricky was no longer the man he once was. He wouldn't say anything to the two men, Sebastian being his comrade in last nights tragic turnabout would understand. The other being one that he met a time or two, Zig or whatever his name was when they met. Ricky hadn't spared any second thoughts, as his mind was occupied with memories the two shared together. The first day they had met Odis was but a simple pup, late in his teens as those kids were picking on him. The dog had imprinted itself to Ricky and in doing so followed him home. Twas since that day the two remained inseperable. Even if Ricky was slowly convinced Odis had worked his way into the fisherman's stone heart, bringing Ricky a new perspective and structure to his personal life. The grave was now finally finished to where the nuits had a deep enough hole. Four feet deep rather then six considering the different size of our departing friend, the time was now coming to a close for these two. After Ricky could gather up the courage to say goodbye to his friend the ceremonial burial would begin, and that would be where their rodes would finally come to part. Yet he couldn't. No matter how hard he tried he couldn't force himself to let everything go, no matter what he wished for nothing could undo what was now done. This was literally the end for them now, and yet Ricky was not yet ready to say goodbye. Who or what would be able to dismiss something, or rather, someone so important. Amidst the shattered remains of his stone heart he could feel the painful emotion well from within, spouting like a fountain as it washed from the empty shell in his chest. He wanted things to go back, he wanted to go back there and fix it. He wanted to save his dog even if it risked him further, he blamed himself for Odis' death even if it was at the hands of another. He had failed to protect the only family he had left, and in regard became a real disappointment. Overcome by the sadness that spurred about his left hand clutched the cloth tightly, as he buried his face into it and choked back the eminent tears that forced their way to his exterior. Such pity was something he could not tolerate as a man, as it clearly went against his nature. The very idea was an insult upon him and yet he had time to worry, for his mind was already beyond pity. Sebastian and Zig would hear his short gasps as Ricky would try to contain his sobs, wishing that he didn't have to look so miserable in front of the two.

[Gale Austin McCenry]

Hasty feet trudged along the streets, heading to one of the rare places that the man never passed by. It was the best prediction to where his new comrade was, at least a start to the search. Gale’s stomach wanted him to lurch over and heave up his previous meal from the intense feeling of anxiety he was burdened with. There was a feeling of hope that was directed to the possibility that his ears had deceived him or it was another man who owned a dog. However, that piece was very small in his mind, considering that the only person that the artist ever saw who adored their dog so much, that they’d be willing to carry it across town, was one who had grew on him because of a humorous meeting. It didn’t take much to put two and two together, for those with pets say that they aren’t just animals. That they are a family member among themselves. Death was a cruel thing and had a tendency to make the most horrid tales of all. If that dog was no longer with them then no doubt the prideful owner would be crushed.

Glancing down the streets for assurance that he did not miss the fisherman, Gale’s face wore his all familiar frown. He wore it often but there was no reason to smile at this point. A smile was irrelevant, same as the scowls that some of the gossipy citizens wore due to their distaste for the appearance of such a man and his beloved dog. Though most, the artist included, had no idea what it was like to lose a befriended animal. With how much care he put into that ball of fur it had to be just as devastating as the hypocrites’ loss.

Upon entering the mass amount of graves there wasn’t much to signify that anyone was there. With further observation, however, a small group of five could be seen, assuming around a grave. Hesitation was what kept the man from rushing over to see if it was Ricky whom the rumors have been about. A silent prayer was said in his narrow mind as he cautiously approached as if it was a thieves’ meeting. His approach lead him to the discovery that he had not seen four of them men before. Nonetheless, they were just assisting the one who has to suffer for their loss. To Gale’s dismay it was in fact the friendly bear he had met only a day or two ago. He stayed put where he was, a pace or two behind them, to not disturb the ceremony since he wasn’t formally invited. That was the excuse.

The man didn’t approach mainly because he didn’t know whether or not to say anything at all when doing so. Should he say something, try to encourage Ricky like the hypocrite he was or was it better to leave the moment in silence like he had appreciated with his own similar moment? Ricky was a very different man then he was which made deciding what to do difficult. To prevent anything from making the situation worse, Gale kept his deceitful words to himself .

[Sebastian Stalinsa]

Sebastian greeted both men with a solemn flick of an eye though whether the standoffish stranger was a friend of Ricky's or just a sympathetic bystander he couldn't say. It was unsettling to see his friend like this. Though great in size and of chiseled stature the man possessed a sensitive heart. Something Sebastian gleaned from their earlier adventure, but hadn't expected Rick capable of such unrestrained public grief. It was a display worthy of the loss of any deeply loved individual but, for a simple hound? It was hard to believe even as Sebastian watched with increasing apprehension the waterfall of tears spring from Ricky's eyes. Could it be that Odis was the greatest love Rick currently had in his life? The best and paramount of companions? In the brief time Sebastian had known Odis he'd indeed shown remarkable qualities for a hound, but a man needed more in his life then a dog. The others standing beside him and even perhaps the one some ways away displayed the solid friendships Ricky had built, but neither looked upon him as family or beloved. Perhaps then it was true, Odis had been Ricky's life, and now that life was gone. Only with this logic could Sebastian come close to understanding his friend's grief, and the true tragedy of Odis' death. Seeing much pity in his fellow's eyes but neither venturing a word Sebastian was the first to speak. "A greater dog I've never know." He heartening began, laying a comforting hand on Rick's shoulder. "And no more nobler a cause of death could any man or beast wish for. A loyal hound, if not for him we'd never have found that den of thieves, or lived to tell the tale. You're a lucky man Rick to have formed such a friendship, and Odis no less lucky to have such a loving master. If beasts such as men are reincarnated into the world then let us hope that the two of you may yet be reunited." Unsure of what reaction his speech would have and feeling he'd spoke perhaps one line too many Sebastian returned to respectful silence. His hand remained upon Ricky's shuddering shoulder.

[Zivilist Gott]

In one way, Zivilist could not imagine how Ricky was feeling, he had never had a pet before considering his mother was allergic to animals. But in another way, he could sympathize with his pain, for he had lost two important people in his life, his fencing instructor, who had imparted a good chunk of his knowledge on Zivilist and also acted as his father, and his biological father, who was lost at sea. Both were loved ones and both were mourned for greatfully 'Maybe that was what it was like' He wondered in thought. Another man stumbled upon them, one who looked like he had a perpetual frown, but considering the location and the current event, would easily be assumed to be another mourner, though if he was a friend,associate, or simply someone who came to watch was something Zivilist could only guess at. When Sebastian spoke he nodded, silently praising the mans words, Zivilist himself had no words to say 'What could I say?' Did he need to say anything at all? He barely knew the man, even if he was attending his pet's funeral, what words could put him at ease, if only slight? In the end, he chose to simply stand, for in the end he knew not the dog and knew so little of its master, his words would have no effect....only his presence.

[Ricky Maze]

"A greater dog I've never know, and no more nobler a cause of death could any man or beast wish for. A loyal hound, if not for him we'd never have found that den of thieves, or lived to tell the tale. You're a lucky man Rick to have formed such a friendship, and Odis no less lucky to have such a loving master. If beasts such as men are reincarnated into the world then let us hope that the two of you may yet be reunited." Sebastian comforted Ricky and rested his hand on the fisherman's shoulder. Ricky was too lost in his weeps to say a word however, his dignity was rather gone in knowing the three men were watching; but dignity seemed less then petty compared to the amount of sorrow with such a sudden loss. Ricky could never have hoped to admit this before his friends but he was beyond glad they were here, he was unsure of anything anymore now that he was distraught with grief. He finally managed to bring his sobs to a more controllable pace though, and slowly started to look to Sebastian as he did. He wasn't ready to let Odis go, not now of course since he and Ricky both had a journey ahead of them. Now Ricky was left to face it alone, and he wasn't ready for it. He needed Odis now more then ever, how else would he get through the days that lie ahead? Finally the grasp of his arms loosened as he nodded to Sebastian, he then glanced to Zivilist and Gale to see what their expressions held. Then turned his attention once more to his lifeless companion. Music : This'll add to the mood of the next few paragraphs, sorry but I have to use youtube for now. Anyways enjoy! (Credit goes to DJ Michael Ortega.) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBwECpU-vUA&feature=youtube_gdata_player "I.... I'll never forget ya... Odis." He managed to speak before the three men, he put a great amount of effort into trying to stand while holding Odis; yet his expression revealed severe pain in his right hand. It was a situation he wanted banished from reality, so that he could do the honor of placing the dog in his grave. However with such a condition it appeared this wasn't going to turn out the way he wanted. With the help of the Nuits Odis was picked up, then gently placed within the fresh grave. As Ricky finally stood back with the three he watched as the Nuits shoveled the pile of dirt over his companion. Tears still left his eyes as each time they sprinkled dirt, as Odis was slowly being buried away within the ground before them. Memories. So many memories. There was the time he first met Odis, and the dog from then on chose to stick with him. Ricky didn't even want a pet to have, but the determination of an imprinted mutt had swayed won him over. Ever since then seperation was believed to be impossible. So much time together had made them grow so close, so many trials in life have bonded them even closer. From the time they spent simply living in Zeltiva to the journey they made. The wild bear that had awoken from early hibernation that had attacked, the time they both spent in Syliras. Both of those were just a milestone they accomplished, it wasn't until they were in Alvadas things seemed tricky. The city of illusions was beautiful yet strange to stay in, and the friends the two made now seemed like a distant dream. A past that no longer existed, and now he had a future that was shattered as well. The Nuits were done burying his lost companion now, as a fresh mound of dirt rested over his body. Ricky drew the cutlass from his belt with his left hand, looking into its steel with intense sorrow and anger. Though he may have finished off the bastard that murdered his brotherly companion, there was still nothing to take back the things that happened. No word or will could change what has been done. Finally ready to say his goodbye, Ricky plunged the sword a couple feet away from the head of the grave. It was all he could do for the dog, other than leaving the grave unmarked like it would've been. That mattered little to Ricky however. In his left pocket he reached in and pulled out the one thing he had left. The rope he had bought and used as a collar for Odis, on the day their journey first began. As he held onto it he gritted his teeth, and took a seat next to Odis' grave. His heart ached and begged to see his friend once more, to hold him and play with him again. To see the boundless energy the dog would have when he became excited, or the curiosity he would develope upon discovering something new. None of these things would ever happen again, and Ricky wasn't ready to let it all go. The others were still there to pay their respects, but it was clear they now knew the devastation Ricky suffered. For the fisherman now had nothing left. Not one thing in his life wouod make sense anymore, because the center of Ricky's world... was gone.

[Delirium]

Experience Rewards

Ricky :

Experience

Observation

1xp

Lores:
Grief for the loss of Odis
Memories of Odis

Gale :

Experience
Lores:
Witness to Ricky's grief
Caution around those who suffered loss

Sebastian :

Experience

Observation	1xp
Socialization	1xp

Lores:
Witness to Ricky's grief

Zivilist Gott :

Experience
Lores:
Witness to Ricky's grief
Comfort in presence, not in words

Notes: Short and sweet

If you have any queries with the grading, pleas don't hesitate to PM me