Leyland Adventures Chapter Twelve: Part Three

Returning to the lovely beach, the two began their walk back to the Kula Outlet. The salty breeze tickled their noses while the aroma of sweet relish rode the wind.

"Tysahi, how was your encounter with Aquiline? I hope she wasn't too worrisome."

"Heh, not at all! It was incredibly fun; she's way more powerful than she seems. I'd love to fight her again someday. Speaking of fighting, I'll need to gain some information on Umibosa."

"All I know is she's a Water/Spirit type. Her figure is built of black, slimy water. The shard rests in her right eye. Umibosa is terribly dangerous as her liquids will submerge you within her dark body. You must remove the shard from her eye to claim victory. If you don't emit the appropriate temperature, you'll be consumed by her fluids."

"Sounds terrifying, but I should be able to handle it. I'll need some rest before I battle her. But first, my stomach feels empty." He rotated his hand over his flat stomach.

"Hmm, would you like to get something here? During which, we can workshop battle strategies." She suggested.

He nodded with a shining smile. The alluring aroma of ketchup led his nose to a stand crafted of bamboo and leaves. On the side laid coolers packed with ice and beverages. Circular, wooden tables were neatly spread out for the customers. A lengthy line of fairies stood before them. Immediately after Tysashi's distinct appearance was caught, the citizens cleared the line for him. Just before he could place his order, a feminine scream called out for him.

"Tysashi!"

His eyes quickly turned to view Susana rushing towards him in her work outfit. She waved her hand at light-speed with a nostalgic smile.

"Tysashi, I missed you so much! It's only been a few days, but I can't resist the urge!" She cheered, coiling her arms around his chest.

"Heh. I've been busy lately, but it's nice to see you again." He replied, gaining a brief memory of their time together.

"Princess Aradressa, do you mind if we all ate together?" Susana questioned.

"Not at all." She responded.

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"So that's how you two met, intriguing." Aradressa sent the last portion of water down her throat.

Susana nodded in response. "Ever since, we've established the bestest friendship! So what's been keeping you busy, Tysashi?"

"Well, I've fought Tsunami, Spirya, went through Jisastu Forest, lost against Flora, got poisoned, and defeated Aquiline. Right now, I'm attempting to complete the challenges Aquiline set out for me."

Susana's mouth widened at his statement; her eyes were glued to him. "Goodness, you've been through so much! Good thing you have that Second Chance Ring. Did you know a goddess used her life energy to form that ring?"

Tysashi shifted his eyes towards the ring; its green glow kept him attentive. "No, I didn't. Please tell me."

"Ok! So there was this healing goddess named Vigoroth and just like Ampros, she was selfless. She'd use her powers anytime she saw even the slightest bruise, but more demands for her power came. At some point, she didn't want her godly abilities to be overused anymore. Vigoroth put her abilities into those rings; the healing ability is only utilized when the wearer is near death."

"Incredible."

"Yup. Hey, didn't you have another necklace? Did you lose it?"

"No, Aquiline threw it out. According to her, I've been too dependent on Aradressa and these necklaces. That's why she's making me conquer these challenges alone. Speaking of which, do you know anything about Umibosa?"

"In terms of a strategy, just dodge her water attacks. Try not to get hit by her black liquids as you'll lose energy. In terms of her story, it's pretty dark. Umibosa represents the vengeful spirit of a young girl who drowned in Shanghai Lake. The dark color of her water reflects her negative emotions as no one helped her. Shanghai Lake is located right at the ends of Orchtune; you can't miss it!"

"Ends of Orchtune, got it." Tysashi took one final bite before lifting his body from the table.

"H- hey, where are you going?" Susana asked.

"Going back to the castle to rest up for this fight. Even with this ring, I can't risk dying. We can hang out after I form the gemstone. Thanks for the information. Tysashi's eyes met with hers as he responded.

"Oh, ok. Well, good luck with the fight! I'll see you later."

Waving goodbye, the two began the backtracking to the castle. Tysashi relieved himself with a storm of warm water and soap before resting on top of Aradressa's bed. Silence loomed over until Tysashi finally spoke.

"Hey, Aradressa. Does Leyland have a Heaven? Do people go to a land above the skies when they die?"

"I'm unfamiliar with Heaven, but Rhapsody Skies may fit that description. When a person perishes, they are sent to Rhapsody Skies. Their sins will be weighed to determine if they will get a second chance at life. Depending on your deeds, a different path will be chosen by the three goddesses that decide your fate. Why do you ask?"

A sigh left his mouth. "I'm...kinda afraid of dying here. It's odd because I've never been afraid of it before. Maybe it's my encounter with Flora that's got me worked up. Because of her, I wanted as much info as possible on Umibosa."

"I see. You are petrified at the thought of letting your friends and family down. I understand such a feeling all too well. Furthermore, I also understand that you are a being who possesses bravery like no other. You're a valiant knight who doesn't require a sword nor shield. You're a champion who uses his failures as fuel for his goals. You may not be a fairy, but you show more humanity than most."

A smile rushed across his face; he thanked her kind words before sealing his eyes shut.

"Sweet dreams, Tysashi."