Ferrah

Several second passed, but it felt more like several hours as Ferrah and the beast rounded each other. By now the slice had healed and was no more. The strange black pixels were also gone. There had been a mental note made about the black pixels, either ask someone or do some research. It was more out of curiosity than anything. But now was not the time to be distracted. This creature needed to be beat and a ShadowCat needed to be found so Ferrah could leave this god-forsaken place.

This time, both parties went for each other at the same time. With a quick set of jabs Ferrah had managed to land a few good hits on the creature. Nothing major though. The Smogon although had manage to land a fairly good it with it's claws across Ferrah's back. Spinning, she was able to put her sword up just in time as the Smogon went for her shoulder. The creature, which had unsuccessful tried to bite down, got her sword instead. With a wave of it's head the sword was toss clear across the battle field. (Shoot.) It must have realized what it had thrown because suddenly it was advancing on her quicker than normal. Backing up, Ferrah felt her back hit a rather large stalagmite. Trapped. Taking calming breaths she stared the beast down as it menacingly approached. Teeth clacking and claws scraping the earth.

With only a simple nod Takuto start off in a seemingly random direction. Not wanting to get left behind, or be alone in that forest, Ferrah took quick steps to catch up with the boy. It wasn't long until she was a couple feet behind him, making sure to give him plenty of space. There was no reason for it other than the fact that his personality suggested that the preferred to work alone. Ferrah respected that for in many ways she did as well. But there was something about this forest that sent chills down her spine a coldness through her bones. It made her not want to be alone.

Then Takuto came to a stop. Within second of stopping a wolf leaped from the right. He was able to dodge. Withdrawing the sword, Ferrah drew it back to her waist and charged. She would not let him fight alone.

Zeke's wide smile was contagious. It wasn't even seconds after that she found herself mimicking that exact same smile. Right then she decided that he was even more handsome with a such a sincere expression on his features. Ferrah had been perfectly aware that he was observing her while rubbing soothing circles on the backs of her hands. It wasn't long until the favor was returned. Letting her eyes slowly slide over him she took in features that would be committed to memory. Not only was he physically handsome but his personality was also very likable. He was sweet, somewhat awkward and caring. (How did this happen?)

"That sounds wonderful." Ferrah warming stated while gently untangling their hands and then hopping off. Her hands, which were once warm and tingly, were now felt cold and numb. Absent-mindly she flexed her fingers, but found that did not help. It had been Zeke's touch that made her skin prickle and feel warm. Becoming aware of that Ferrah's cheeks became and even darker red, if possible. What was even more embaressing was that the feeling was missed. Ever so tentatively, she linked her hand back with his and then looked him in the eyes, "Lead the way."

The fact that Takuto was also sending swift and precise glances around the clearing indicated that Ferrah was not paranoid. Ever since entering this forest there had been a strange sensation of something watching her every move. Every turn. Every step. It was there. Unfortunately when Ferrah whipped around to try and find what had been stalking her, there had been nothing but mist. At first there had been the mild thought that she had been in this forest for too long and that it was playing games on her. Takuto verified that the previous thought was not the case.

Something was out there.

Ever so casually Ferrah rested her hand on her hip, right next to the hilt of the sword in case something attacked them. "I wish I knew," Ferrah sighed while scanning the shadows outside the clearing, "But there is mention of this forest on any of my maps." It was plain as day that Takuto was just as jumpy as her. There best bet would be to keep moving. "Maybe we should get out of here."

As soon as those words left Zeke's mouth Ferrah felt herself freeze. Time itself came to a stand still as the organ in her chest began to beat rapidly. If the scarf had not been there Zeke would have witnessed her mouth parting somewhat due to the shock and her swallowing. There had been no denial that the chemistry was there between the two of them. It had been there since first colliding in the Starting City.

But it was strange for Ferrah.

Most of her life she had been so classically called "one of the boys"; rough housing with them, pulled pranks with them and even beating them at poker. No one ever viewed her as more of less. Now here was a boy, in particular a cute one, who was asking her on a date. To say the least the girl had never been on one before, but the feeling of being asked on one was nerve racking and exciting. It actually took a second for Ferrah to realize that she did indeed have a feelings for Zeke. It was then that she realized that she was leaving the poor boy hanging.

"Sure," Ferrah announced happily, but nervously, "Do you have somewhere in mind?"

(Should we have helped him?), Ferrah thought while staring at the Inn the players had brought the boy too. As Takuto had stated the boy had been a red player. But then again, just because one red player was considered evil didn't mean that the rest of them had to be stigmatize because of that. There were those that had there reasons for killing another player. The boy could be one of those with a reason. Personally Ferrah didn't know another red players, but moral dictated that she would at least give him the benefit of the doubt.

"Me too, especially with that information." Ferrah whispered while turning her attention back to Takuto. "Let's go see what is happening inside." It was a suggestion. Even if Takuto didn't want to Ferrah was going to. She wanted to know that the boy was okay. And also find out if the girl had been attacked survived. The two had left so quickly that there had not been a chance to check. (I hope she did.) It would be unfortunate to see another players life be taken by this game.

After putting on the clothes she then proceeded to get comfortable now that she was warmer. Legs hanging over the booth Ferrah rested her hands on the edge of the table and then settled her weight forward. At that time, there had been no one there, just empty air. And then suddenly there was Zeke. His face was a mere inches from hers, so close that she could feel his warm breath. Almost instantaneously a blush blossomed over her cheeks. Zeke had been the first to come to senses, practically scrambling away from her. Coming back to her senses Ferrah then quickly leaned back and adjusted the scarf so that was now covering her blush. Her heart felt like it was beating straight out her chest, almost like in the cartoons.

"Hello Zeke," Ferrah whispered, attempted to keep her voice even. "It went well. I faced Wes, who turned out to be quite the gentlemen. He was quite surprised by the way I fight. Apparently it isn't very ladylike." The thought that Wes had thought she was a lady was still funny to her, so much that she laughed a little. "What about you?"

For just a second all Ferrah did was stare at Takuto, lost in complete and utter thought. When realizing that she had been caught daydreaming a light blush blossomed over her cheeks. "Sorry,"she sighed with a sheepish smile, "It's a ba-" She had then suddenly been interrupted when a group of players passed near them. There was nothing particular interesting about them, expect for the fact that they were carrying the male avatar from the field into one of the local Inns. It seemed that Takuto noticed this as well.

"Well, I was going to get some food," Ferrah began but then turned her head in the direction of the Inn, "But that would probably be more intresting. Takuto, do you know what fatigue does to a person? I've never heard of it affecting someone's personality before." (Or it to causing people to attack.)

Back turned toward Wes she almost missed the fact that the sound of his feet were getting closer. Almost. Right as the male was a couple feet away Ferrah spun around to find that Wes had both hands on his sword and it was drawn back near his waist. He meant this to be the beginning of the end. She, on the other hand, was perfectly happy to comply to his request.

Only, it would be the beginning of his end, not her's.

Waiting until he was close Ferrah then ducked as the sword thrust right over her head. He had meant to hit her in the chest or shoulder. A shot that would have more than likely caused some damage and made it harder to pick up the sword. Even though the shot miss he still continued to go forward. Back still to him she then grabbed his arm and threw him over her shoulder. With a 'thud' he was on the ground in front of her, breathing heavy and sweating. There was downsides to being Wes size: 1)Stamina and 2) using there weight against them. After that, Ferrah made quick work of Wes by picking the sword up once more and placing three well placed jabs into his chest. As soon as Wes's health hit red Ferrah allowed herself to relax.

"Congratulations to the player Ferrah! You have won your second round battle. Meet at the event stand eight o' clock sharp, tomorrow. The same time as you did today. You will face the one of the thrid round players at that time and see who has what it takes to go on to the third round. Good night to you both!"

Then she found herself right back where she had been sitting before the battle had started. Hopping back up on the booth Ferrah figured that she would wait for a while to see if Zeke came. Just as last night, it was chilly, so she opened her menu and equipped the jacket and scarf that Zeke had so graciously given her. Now all that was left to do was wait.

They had been circling for awhile.

During that while Ferrah had been pushing Wes further and further toward the barrier; until his back hit it. Now he was trapped and she had the advantage. The two parried for more than a second before Ferrah's sword had been forced over Wes's shoulder and into the barrier. His hand suddenly grasped her's and squeezed hard. Her grip on the sword released and now Wes had both her and his sword. Throwing her's to the side he then righted himself off the barrier and toward her. "Sorry Miss Ferrah, you're done for now," Wes stated gleefully while approaching her. It almost seemed like he had forgotten about what had just happened mere seconds ago. Ferrah was more than capable without a weapon.

Hopping up and down, much like a boxer, Ferrah putt her hands up as they began to glow blue. This wouldn't last long, but just enough time to get her sword back. Running, she then dropped low and went after his feet. It didn't work. He was too big and his stance had been solid. On the ground Ferrah didn't have time to roll out of the way before the sword went through her upper thigh. "That must hurt. Allow me to apologize with dinner later." It took a second for Ferrah to realize what he said. (Is is hitting on me? In the middle of a fight?) Without another thought Ferrah took her free leg and kicked up. Wes cried out in pain and then fell over backward. It should not have hurt, but reactions from real life sometime transferred into the game. "Sorry about that," Ferrah grinned before pulling out the sword and standing. Jabbing it though his shoulder she watched as he eyes widened. She then walked away and grabbed her own sword. She was ready to finish this.

It had lost her scent.

Now was her chance.

Standing slowly Ferrah watched as the beast's head swiveled back and forth; nose in the air and tongue out. It looked almost like a giant ugly hairless dog when it did that. Only this anime was sentient. Almost human if she really thought about it, though she didn't like to.

Once standing she then started to run at the beast. It's head turned toward her but it was too late to back out now. It may not smell her, but it could still hear her. Fortunately, it seems like she was able to catch the beast of guard as her sword sliced open it's flesh like butter. Amazingly enough, Ferrah watched in amazing as black pixel poured out of the wound, before it slowly healed itself. Right after the slice was a quick jap, then a roll backwards to get more distance between them. A creature that 'bleeds' black pixels. What exactly was this thing?

The swords had caught once more. This time, Ferrah almost instantly dropped her hold. This time it appears that Wes was expecting the move because he sword sprang back up immediately to defense. "It was good attempt. But you already pulled in once. It will no longer work on me." Then he stepped forward, jabbing the sword at her. Ferrah too stepped forward, bypassing the sword, and then pivoted so that her elbow smashed into Wes's face. His body slackened and his mouth fell agape. Finishing it up Ferrah continued the pivot and rushed her sword through his side.

Jerking it out seconds later Ferrah then feels something slice into her side. She had messed up during her attack by ending up right next to the sword, which just simply had to move over to strike her. Rolling sideways she pops back up and then starts to circle Wes like a predator who circles it's prey. He had regained his posture by now and is tracking her movement. "That wasn't very ladylike." He comments, almost visibly taken back by the rough fighting style.

All Ferrah could do was smirk at that. (Who said I was a lady.)

"Hi... you a little lost?"

Swiveling around Ferrah was surprised to find the boy that had knocked her out of the tree on floor one. Takuto. Just like usual he was rubbing the back of his head in an almost sheepish manner. She had only talked to him a couple times but he was friendly enough.

Although the word lost was on one she did not want to hear; even if it was the truth. She was lost. Taking a deep breath, taking in the fresh smell of the foliage, Ferrah exhaled once more. "A think a more than a little." She commented while folding her arms across her chest. More annoyed at herself than anything. "Do you know how to get out?" (Please say yes.)

The only sounds that could be within the clearing was that of the wind rustling leaves and the deep breathing of both participants. This was new to Ferrah. Most people struck first and thought later. Wes appeared to be the opposite of that. It was think first and attack later. That also happened to be Ferrah's strategy.

This led to them both standing there for several seconds.

Neither wanted to be the first one to make a move. It was Ferrah who deiced that now was the right time. As it turns out both rushed forward at the same time. Swords met in the center of the clearing. She was on the defense, sword caught under Wes's. He started to add pressure on the downward hit. Causing Ferrah's knees to bend and her to slightly give in. There was no way she could match this person in strength. That much was clear. There were other ways though. Releasing her hold Wes's sword continued downward. She took her chace, jolting forward to try and hit him in the shoulder. The tip of of the sword just barely went in before Wes's sword flew back up and they clashed once more. They were almost even. This would be a long battle.

Welcome Andrew! ^^

I have to say that I respect you for doing a Microbiology major, seeing as that topic tends to get me into trouble. I am glad that you enjoy it though! Hope that you enjoy your stay here on SAO online. May your time be filled with marvelous adventures and challanges. See you around!

Being on the floor three had not turned out like planned. The first thing that happened to Ferrah was finding his forest. This particular forest was unlike anything the girl had ever encountered on floor one or two. It was dense, shadowy and mysterious. And of course, she had to enter it. Really, she should have turned around when the mist started to take over the ground and make the surrounding hazy and unclear.

But no, she had kept going.

Therefore, ending up with her being lost. Now Ferrah only had a couple maps for floor three, and none of them mentioned anything about a forest. So much for being useful. By now, it had been about thirty minutes of wandering though this strange territory. Finally stopping in a clearing, Ferrah sighed, "Of course, I get lost now of all times." The girl didn't like to brag, but she considered herself good with directions. This forest was proving to be very challenging though.

It shifted right.

Then left.

And back right.

This pattern continued until it's front claws left the group and it was in a fully lung. Ferrah, not having time to effectively, put her sword up in defense. Only, there was no automatic contact. The creature had lunged to far over to the left. But that didn't stop something from slamming into the sword. There was a wounded cry as Ferrah's body rolled backwards a couple feet.

Stopping on her side she stared as the creature cradled a wounded arm to it's upper body. Much like a mother holding a nursing child. It's nostrils were flaring as hard breaths passed by them. It's head was frantically going back and forth in search for her presence. That was strange. It had her scent earlier, why not now. It was only that she realized that unlike before, she had been covered in dirt, so she smelled like her surrounding. Getting hit had been a blessing in disguise. Now, did she want to charge or sneak attack.

Hello there kind sir. And thank you, I am glad to be here. :D

In a flash Ferrah found herself back in the empty clearing located within the woods. It had been the same exact place that the fight against Mikoro had taken place. Well, maybe not the same, but certainly an exact copy. Hand on the hilt of her sword Ferrah turned a complete circle before realizing that she was the first to make it to the clearing this time. Sighing, she focused her attention on the spot before her. There was really nothing left to do but wait. One minutes later, a glow filled the area.

It was her challenger.

It, was actually a he. With long dark blonde hair and bangs that framed his face. In the back of his head was a tiny ponytail to keep extra hair from falling in his face. He was obviously older than her by a couple years. And he had muscles, which was made clear by his sleeveless shirt. There was no doubt that his main fighting style dealt with strength. This was going to be an interesting fight."Seconds rounds match Ferrah Vs. We.. is ready to commence, begin!"

The male across from Ferrah suddenly bowed very deeply. "A pleasure to be your competitor. I wish you the best of luck." He then righted himself and drew his sword. She didn't know how to respond to that. So she just simply leaned forward slightly. "Thank you. I wish you luck as well." Then she too drew her sword.

Greetings Atlus, if I may call you that, I would love form some type of relationship with you! It could even be friends and rivals. So many options! I will hopefully see you around then. ^-^ And I hope that you have fun too!

Upon taking notice of her presence Zeke then proceeded to move over so that he was sitting next to her. Not even two seconds later he was transferring the jacket and scarf back into her inventory. Confused, but mostly surprised, Ferrah was about to ask why. But she didn't even have to ask because Zeke quickly jumped in explaining that he wanted to try and fight with less equipment. As much as Ferrah wanted to put the jacket and scarf back on, she didn't. There was no way she was going to chance ruining them in the upcoming battle.

Then he hugged her.

It was a brief one, but still a hug none the less. There had not even been time to respond before he let her go once more. By now Ferrah was sure that her face was beet red. Thank goodness it was dark outside. Watching as he then extended his hand, proclaimed a cheesy (but cute) speech and then look expectantly at her; Ferrah couldn't help but smile. He was more brave than he had been the other day.

Locking hands with his, Ferrah locked eyes with him. "Le'ts show them." And then she was gone. It was eight o' clock on the dot.

That entire day, with little to no rest, had been spent in the Grassland's fighting boar...after boar...after boar. At first the task had seemed daunting. Almost like writing a 50 page paper for Biology. But after the first couple it had not seemed so bad. And then then about halfway throughout the day it had even started to be fun. Although that was probably due to the fact that Ferrah had started to try different ways of fighting. Speed. Strength. Wits. The whole nine yards. It was though that experimenting that she found her talents mainly lied within wits; with some speed and little to no strength.

When seven o'clock had rolled around, making the sky slowly change and the air become chilly, Ferrah resolved that it was time to call it quits. Dispensing of the last boar she quickly put up her blade in it's side sheath and started back toward town. The goal right now as food. Having worked for almost an entire day without stopping really worked up a girl's appetite. This time, instead of going to a sit down place, Ferrah visited a little stand right inside the Starter city. It sold kebabs of all kinds; chicken, stake, shrimps, beef, and etc. Buying a chicken one she then advanced further into the city.

Having finished the kebab long ago she wandered into the meeting place once more. The people from this morning where present, as well as a few others. Sitting on the booth across the way as Zeke. There was now five minutes left before it started. Might as well just hang out and prepared. Striding over, she leaned on the opposite side from him and stared at the sky. "Five more minutes."

A couple minutes before eight struck Zeke had appeared at the at the meeting location. Here, he approached her. And while doing so, showed her that the battles started at night, not in the morning. Within seconds her face her beet red. This was embarrassing to say the least. (Way to go smart one.) At the mention of his belongings Ferrah suddenly remember that she did indeed have his clothes. "I'll return them." She stated while opening her menu and transferring the items. "Thanks again."

At the mention of something to do Ferrah felt herself freeze. What was she going to do? If the tournament started that night then it was about a twelve hour wait. Then again, there was really only one thing to do. Train. Going to Grassland's once more to kill some boar. As much as she liked training, the Grasslands were starting to get boring. She wanted to go higher. Investigate new places. Meet new people. Not stay on the first floor doing nothing but killing boar. Not making any contribute to attempting to beat the game. But if she wanted to get there, then she would have to get stronger first. So more boar it was. The only reassuring thought was that the front line players had started out just like her. They, too, had to work to get to the top.

"Sounds like fun. Good luck."Ferrah stated while righting herself off the wall."I'll probably be in the Grassland's if you need me. Or just shoot me a message." By now, her face has stopped glowing brighter than Rudolph's nose and returned to it's natural color.

The atmosphere in the cafe was pleasant. There was only a few people in there so it wasn't very noisy, And it smelled wonderful. Closing her eyes and taking a deep breath, the aroma of fresh baked pastries filled her nose; causing her to smile. Ferrah probably had the biggest sweet tooth out of everyone that she knew. There was just something about the sugary substances that got to her. Plus, with how active she was it never really effected her. Thank goodness for running and kickboxing.

Taking another sip of coffee Ferrah leaned an elbow on the table and then rested her head on the heel of her hand. Naturally, Ferrah had noticed Zeke walk in. But he didn't sit with her. Not even near her. As much as Ferrah hated to admit, that had kind of stung. But her being her, she attempted to reason with herself. (He can do what he wants.) In the back of her mind though, a voice was gently whispering that she really did care. Exhaling and placing her coffee down Ferrah the started rubb her eyes. "I must be tired still."

Then she noticed the time. 7:30. An hour. She had been sitting there for an hour. Feeling the need to get to the tournament meeting location early; Ferrah stood, stretched and then started on her way. Since she was in no rush the girl meandered, taking her time and enjoying the scenery. Turns out, she wasn't the only one who was early. There was about three other guys, all from yesterday, standing near the location. Not wanting to sit Ferrah leaned against a building and waited until the clock struck 8.

MEEP...MEEP...MEEP...

Groaning, both due to the sudden loud noise and the the fact that she now had to get up, Ferrah rolled over and let her bare feet hit the cold wooden floor. The chill of the wood was enough to put a shock thorough her system. If she wasn't wake, that definitely did the trick. Stretching and yawning the girl then stood and started to toward the bathroom that was attached conveniently to the room. It there the morning routine started with a shower. After that it was taming her hair and then getting dressed. A fairly easy routine. Especially since putting on clothes required no other thoughts besides clicking a bottom. By time she was done, it was 6:30 in the morning. There was still an hour and a half to burn. Might as well get breakfast.

Checking out, she then pressed on to go find a local cafe of bakery to eat at. By the time she had found one, Ferrah realized that not only was she searching for a cafe, but also the male that had been met yesterday. (Get a grip.) She scolded herself while gliding in. Ordering a coffee and pastry she occupied a table near the window and ate slowly. It was interesting to see the streets come alive in the morning.

Right as the last bite of her pastry was taken, the notification of an incoming message sounded. (Zeke?) Quickly opening she was surprised to see a simple good morning. It made her smile. So, now in a good mood, she returned the message. Once it was sent she took another sip of coffee and just let her enjoy the quiet.