MHD: Chronicle IX - Tartu's Darkest Secret

Taka was beginning to grow worried. The sun had set five minutes ago, and Mylie was not yet back safely in Canyon Village. He paced nervously in front of the entrance to the Desert Ravine, hoping that she'd show herself soon.

He turned in response to a soft noise behind him. He saw Relcia and the others walking toward him, their faces showing that they were just as worried as he was. He rapidly closed the short distance between them and stood there with a stoic expression.

"Mylie's been out there for a while now," said Illeera. "I hope she's all right." Taahnn looked nervous as he said, "I know that the war's over and everything, but what if she encounters a monster like that Pariapuria? What if it's out looking for easy prey, and since she can't speak the monster language..." His voice trailed off at that point.

Tenris stepped forth. "I sent her out there, looking for Cactus Flowers," she said, clearly guilt-ridden. "What if something happens to her, like Taahnn said? Then it'll be all my fault..." Elric tried to encourage her, but it didn't do much good.

Relcia looked concernedly at Taka. "What should we do?" she asked him. Taka took a long time to answer - he had never liked the concept of being a leader. He had led them well enough during the battle with the Taltaira, but that was really the only time he had done so.

"If she isn't back within ten minutes, we'll send out a search party," Taka finally said with all the confidence he could muster. There were nods all around. He continued, "I doubt that Mylie is in any danger, because with the war over, it's unlikely that a monster would attack for no reason."

A shadow passed over the ground. Taka looked up and gasped as he saw a huge, winged shape descending from the sky. Tenris breathed, "Necrocula... A Necrocula is landing in the village!" Everyone drew their weapons, except for Taka. He wanted to know what was going on. This was obviously not a common occurence.

REST COMING SOON