The Kilika shores housed many small hots lined up and down the docks, a testiment to the sheer abundance of timber at their disposal in the nearby Kilika woods. In one small hut rested a powerful young man with a lot of soul and a lot of heart. Every other small hut along the docks was empty on this beautiful bright morning. High Summoner Lady Yunalesca was on her farewell trip, and Kilika was waiting to welcome her with open arms. She was the most promising Summoner ever, and hopes were high that maybe, just maybe, she could be the one to defeat the almighty Sin. Sin has plagued Spira long enough with destruction and despair, and the people are simply just tired.

Shinu began pacing back and forth in his hut, waiting to make his move. He really shouldn't have been on that radio show the night before, and he really shouldn't be doing what he was about to do. He was grounded for two months for his insubordination, and he was about to mess up again. The night before he thought long and hard and eventually decided that he would not only see Yunalesca, but he was going to attempt to meet her.

I'm ready.

The young nineteen year old man grabbed his favorite blade Nuraki and slowly crept out the back door and into the ocean he dipped quietly. He swam out to see, the large elaborate boat making its way to the shore. He spotted the side ladder, and was thankful for precautions. He swam up to the ladder and gripped it with his strong firm swordsman hands. As his body emerged from the water, his copper brown skin shined brightly under the gentle sun. He made his ascent onto the deck unoticed, assuming that most were at the front of the boat waving to the citizens of his hometown. He wiggled some of the water off of him and squeezed a lot more out of his shorts before sliding into the lower cabin chamber. There were four rooms, and Shinu got the sense that he only had one chance to get this right, so he lightly knocked on the door at the back right corner of the room. All he could do now was sit back and wait, and hope, because he didn't pray, that he chose the right door.

Yunalesca smiled, gray eyes staring out of the small window of the ship. She was greeted with the vast, endless blue ocean. At times like this, when she felt that her duties were all too much, she looked at nature. The sea seemed to wash her self-doubt away, if only a little. She’d been receiving so much praise as of late; it fueled her on, but at the same time it frightened her. Everyone wanted her to do so well, and she really wanted to. But what if she couldn’t? What if she failed? What if—

She blinked upon hearing a knock at her door; she couldn’t think who would be visiting her at this very moment. Everyone had pretty much left her to her thoughts. She was a bit grateful for the intrusion of her thoughts; she couldn’t let herself think like that. She had to stay positive and strong.

She stood, striding gracefully over to the door and opening it. She blinked once, twice. A third for good measure.

She’d never seen this boy before… He didn't seem like staff; no one aboard the ship really carried a sword with them. She smiled nonetheless, always grateful for new company. Tucking a strand of silver hair behind her ear shyly, she examined him curiously. “Hello,” She offered, tipping her head in greeting. She didn’t feel she needed to introduce herself so she settled for a polite, “Is there something I can assist you with?”

Shinu was never at a loss for thoughts, spending time with Mieli helped that area of his brain. He also input beauty very easily in his head, and not only did he input it, but he loved and appreciated it. Yunalesca, she had beauty, amazing natural beauty, the likes of which Shinu wasn't used to. Her gray eyes seemed so much brighter with her complimentary hair.

He must have looked mute just standing their staring blaknly. What was wrong? Shinu was doing radio shows for fun, this guy wasn't tongue tied ever, but this was a bit out of his league. This was not just a Summoner, but a High Summoner, a beautiful High Summoner! He gathered himself though, he knew better than to be starstrucked, and somewhere, this young man found a way to get comfortable and spoke.

Hello Lady Yunalesca, my name is Shinu. I don't think you can help me, seeing you and hearing your voice will be fine, thanks. I just, well when you defeat Sin, I want to be able to say that I met you.

Shinu stood tall, he was a full six feet and two inches now, and his height was noticable standing so close to Yunalesca. He couldn't help but smile, he got out more words than he thought he could, but it is Shinu. This was one of those moments where you knowthat you'll be thinking about it later on in life, and wishing you could relive it, so while you're there, you had better be enjoying it.

Yunalesca blushed, discreetly wiping at her face. That had to be why the boy was stairing at her, right? She had something on her face. Or at least, she hoped she didn’t. She was about to ask if he was alright, but he spoke.

…When you defeat Sin, I want to be able to say that I met you.

That phrase repeated itself in her head. She was very flattered at Shinu’s words, and they eased the doubt that had been gnawing at her for quite a while. She was truly grateful for his visit now. She smiled widely. “Thank you so much for that,” She began, controlling her happiness. “Your praise means a lot to me.” And it really did. All the praise she received meant a lot to her.

When Shinu stood, Yunalesca was aware of how tall he was. Except for mild surprise—he was much taller than other boys the age she thought he was—she was unfazed and opened the door wider. “Please, come in. I would like some company at the moment, anyway.” She took his hand with another smile, leading him in. Not only did she want the company, but she didn’t want Shinu to get caught. He would most likely get in trouble.

She let his hand go after closing the door, walking over and sitting back in her chair. “Please, take a seat. Chat with me.” She said.

It's no problem Lady Yunalesca, we all have a lot of faith in you. I know I do.

When she opened the door wider, it came as just a bit of a surprise to Shinu. He didn't know what to expect because he'd never met anyone that seemed so larger than life. He felt lucky inside, probably from being a little starstruck. Shinu doubted that it was the fact that Yunalesca was such an accomplished Summoner with many aeons at her disposal that caused him to be so startled. It was her combination of talent and beauty, the combination he had become so praised for that captivated him. In his own small world, he was known as the most talented and the most handsome, but all of Spira, that person was Yunalesca.

Lost in all these thoughts was Yunalesca's inviting Shinu in to her room. It was probably better than he didn't hear her because his head may have blown up to the size of a balloon. Thankfully she had taken the initiative to grab his hand and walk him into the door. It felt semi familiar, as girls being forward with him was no foreign land to him, but not at this level. This was like trying to relate fighting against a Besaid Auroch armed with a blitball to Sin himself. If anyone was good at losing his thoughts in a moment and just being himself, it was Shinu.

Well if it's my company you want Lady Yunalesca, I have all day. Actually, I have a lifetime if that's what you ask of me.

She simply smiled at Shinu, he figured she was just amused, and he decided that this was a tree probably not worth barking up at. He wasn't hurt though, he knew all about her gaurdian and husband Zaon. Shinu wasn't exactly the boyfriend type either. Zaon, Shinu didn't know how he felt about him, but before he could make up his mind, Zaon would help him. Bursting through the door like a barbarian, Zaon made his presence known. Calling Shinu a boy wasn't the best idea in the world, and if not for Shinu wanting to spare Yunalesca's only gaurdian, well, she wouldn't have had one for long.

Alright young man, have it your way. I will move slowly, so it would be wise of you to not make a move.

Shinu was making a mockery of Zaon now, calling him a boy despite the fact that everyone knew he was well into his twenties. Shinu knew it, and he didn't care, he was lucky he got young man instead of something much more vulgar. But Shinu was in the presence of a lady, and his mother taught him better than that. He slowly straightened himself out and gave a kind, warm smile to Summoner Yunalesca, and gave her a nod.

Farewell Lady Yunalesca. The pleasure of our meeting on this day was all mine. May your power and beauty guide you to do the unthinkable.

He turned and faced Zaon now, and it was as if a button had been pressed in Shinu's psyche because there was no kind warm smile. He never made a reach for his sword, but his body tensed up and his muscles flexed as he stood tall, really tall, even in comparison the Zaon. Shinu walked by slowly and nonchalantly passed Zaon, keeping his eyes fixed on him, staring through him like a thunder through a water flan. At the last moment before he was out the door, he turned to see Yunalesca... smiling.

He angrily walked out of the lower level cabin and made his way to the upper deck of the boat. He enjoyed the view, and decided enough was enough, he had better try to get back home before his mother did. His trip back down the wooden stairs to the main deck was met with a violent shake of the boat. Shinu had no clue what was happening, but he wasn't so sure he wanted to.

The morning breeze was a welcome joy to Cino as he stood atop his airship. The cool air sifted itself though his red hair as he brushed a hand through it. The ship of course was on a temporary autopilot as he was not with anyone but himself. It wasn't that much of a bother to him as he had been alone consistantly since he had left. After all he was quite familiar with the workings of the ship despite not being Al Bhed. The sun was already in the sky as its rays shined down upon the glassy surface of the deck. Squinting his eyes, Cino looked around for a moment before taking a few steps closer to the edge of the ship. Dangerous yes, however worth it even more. The sight was beautiful as he laid his eyes upon it. The various buildings almost seemed so small, however he could discern most of the major landmarks. With a deep sigh, he flung himself back near the center of the deck, just lying there thinking of what to do.

His stomach gave a low moan as he waited there while the ever so familiar engine whirred in the wind. He hadn' eaten that much in days and his figure was starting to show it. Paying for food was hard enough when he hardly had any to start with. Doing odd jobs and even helping the random Al Bhed with mechanics payed off the most part of his necessities. None the less, food was still a bit short for him. Cino felt it was enough of his 'sight seeing' and proceeded back into the airship. The metal doors sliding open with a whoosh before lowering himself in the elevator. It creaked for a moment as the airship wasn't exactly new, but was kept in good condition because of him. It was a lot of work to keep the ship maintained and often took him weeks more than others at docks as he was the only one working most of the time.

Making his way along the dimly lit corridors, he made it to the bridge of the ship. Most of the controls still on automatic as he glanced over the screens and various key boards. He took the helm of the central controls and flicked a few switches. Checking everything was fine, he kicked back his legs on top of the deck of the console and shifted around his chrome lined goggles on the top of his forehead. Everything was right in the world.

Mieli saw Shinu loose his balance as he was leaving the upper deck to reach the main deck. He knew Shinu's footwork was no sign of seasickness, and he had just enough time to joke around with his buddy a bit.

"Did she literally sweep you right off your feet?"

"Wha?"

"Well you met her didn't you?"

"Yea, more than that, but not much more. Zaon stole my thunder."

"You're not the only acquaintance she'll make today."

"Really, who else."

"He's a really really big star here in Spira now. He's changed the whole way of life."

"Who's that?"

Before Mieli could answer Shinu's question a tidal wave splashed up and neve flipped the boat. All the passengers were soaking wet. Mieli was all business when he had to be, and his joking demeanor quickly changed to a stoic stare as he drew his sword.

"Someone who's about to mortify your crush if you don't act fast. Sin is no fan of the final summoning, and your Yunalesca seems awfully threatening to him now."

As the wave desisted and the water was cleared off the deck, the stairs to the main deck were covered with sinscales. They weren't necessarily frightening, but their toxin could deliver a random dose of amnesia.

Sin screamed as he definately sensed Yunalesca's prescence. He dove back down underwaster splashing the vessel with another tidal wave. When the waters cleared off the deck again, right in front of Mieli was Sinspawn, quite the gangly creature.

"Let's go Mieli!"

"Yes indeed, I reccomend you make your way down those stairs to the lower deck. They won't threaten you, but some others you know below deck are comparatively defenseless."

As Shinu sprinted to the stairs, Mieli was occupied by the winged Sinspawn in front of him. If flapped it's scaly wings hoping to blow Mieli overboard with the sonic blast. Mieli thrusted his blade into the ground to hold him in place. Unfortunately for Mieli, the cigarette he was smoking was blown straight out of his lips. He released his last drag.

"Damn, my last one. You weren't planning on me finishing the ride were you. Well that is a choice that is not up to you."

Before Mieli would let the Sinspawn taste his steel, he blew out his last drag and threatened the beast. It flinched for a moment when the smoke got in its eyes. Mieli seized the moment to rush up on the sinspawn. He leaned forward for a quick stab that the Sinspawn blocked with it's talons. Staying afloat the Sinspawn countered with wingslap that sent Mieli back a short foot.

"Would've been to easy for a spawn of Sin. I guess I'll have to keep the faith after all."

Mieli went in for another strike. He jump towards the bird and slashed horizontal on the forehand. He landed a minor hit on the wing, before he hit the ground with his backturned, he tried a backhanded slash. He felt his blade meet resistance, and as he hit the ground of the upper deck, he turned. The sinspawn was bleeding, he struck a direct hit. The spawn screamed and fell to the ground bleeding green sinslime.

"Sorry, not done get."

Before the bird hit the ground Mieli wound up his sword. He stretched it tall and spun it quickly two times to get some momentum going. On the last spin when the tip nearly singed the deck, Mieli released all his strength sending the Sinspawn far off into the distance. The passengers on the deck saw a flash resembling a shooting star off in the distance and cheered.

Mieli turned his attention to the stairs leading to the main deck. Where he saw Shinu and those irritating sinspawns.

"Hmm, he'll get better."

Mieli tosses a potion his way.

Shinu was none too pleased about Sin raining on his parade, but since he was soaking wet, he might as well get some of that frustration out. He couldn't see what was so hard about it, it was about four sinsacles, no big deal. He'd been in sparring matches against the Kilikan boys, but now that he thought about it, he'd never fought a fiend. Oh well, Shinu is strong, athletic, graceful, and skilled all around, he is ready.

He made it to stairs in a full out sprint and wasted no time in leaping over a spines attack and grabbing onto the top of the stair rail with his open hand. He used it to propel himself into a fast slide back down the rail, and sliced straight throguh the back of a sinsacle's head. The green guts splattered and flailed in the wind, some back onto Shinu's shirt, and that was never a good thing. He continued to slide, and abruptly fell off as his butt hit the end of the rail and sent him flying. Very smooth.

As he looked up from the ground, one of the sinsacles was flying through the air screeching with his wings open and his mouth wide open, ready to bite. Shinu rolled over quickly and gave a vertical jab of the sword. The sinsacle couldn't stop its downward charge now, and it's midsection landed on Nuraki, its life gone. In a last ditch effort, it released some toxin out of its mouth that narrowly missed Shinu's neck as he swiveled his head out of the way. By partail instinct, and partial luck, he rolled again. He dislodged the sinsacle from his sword with his feet as he rolled.

Two more sinsacles were already on the way, and if not for having to avoid their dead comrade, Shinu would have been eaten alive. He sprang up to his feet, tired of fighting from his back. Both of the sinsacle's wings began to flicker as the howled out at Shinu. He knew what was coming from one of Mieli's many stories about Sin, and tried to jump vertically into the air. The spines came and clipped his feet, penetrating his flimsy shoe material and penetrating his feet and causing him to land flat on his face. He sat up on his butt and turning his attention to a small flying object. He saw the glass container flash and reached out to catch it right handed. The content was blue in color, and he knew it could be from one person, Mieli. Shinu quickly popped it open and drank the potion. He tossed the glass at the ground in front of oncoming sinsacles and rolled backwards, letting go of Nuraki for a second for evasive purposes.

He gathered himself and grabbed Nuraki, sliding the blade flat on the ground, punishing many sinsacle toe/fins in the process with the side of the blade. He stood tall and leapt up into the air, coming down hard with the tip of the blade smashing into one of the impaled sinsacles skull, and crushing through, wedging into the ground. He held on with both hands to the hilt of the blade and used it to drive a spin kick into the wing of of the last sinsacle. He ripped Nuraki through the plank it in and got hit a bit with some of the discharge of the wood chips. Perhaps a bit less force would have done the trick. At any rate, Shinu was ready to finish off the spinning sinsacle, still reeling from the kick, and he would swing with a flat wide horizontal hooking motion. It used the sinsacles momentum in an adverse way to maximize the effect, slicing it in two clean pieces. As the lower body flailed around, Shinu dragged the tip of the blade on the ground before an uppercut was sent vertically through the head.

Immediately, Shinu began to survery the ocean, trying to find Sin. He must have been underwater, he could feel the presence, but couldn't see it. He stopped when Mieli came into his view.

Thanks for the help. Care to tell me what the hell is going on? Sin is going to rip us apart if we don't get out of here in a hurry Mieli!

Shinu didn't understand why Mieli seemed unphased. He was always cool and collected, and that's why he and Shinu had in common, but this was huge! Mieli didn't care that he just single handedly defeated a sinspawn, or that Sin was so close. He was just in complete control as if he was a brilliant composer with the best orchestra in the world at his disposal. Shinu desperately wanted to know not only what was going on, but how they were going to get out of this situation.

"What's going on? You can use your eyes and ears and sense the representation of what is going on, or you can think about this practically. You've met your modern day hearthob only to be cut off by Sin halfway through the romance movie. Sensibly you feel like you've just been fighting for you life. Thinking practically though, this story...is your story."

"Err, and about peacing out from Sin and his homies?"

Before Mieli could answer Shinu's follow up quesiton. Sin rose up from the sea again, as it seemed to stand tall in the water, it stopped for a moment. It seemed to stare directly at Shinu.

"Think he knows you from somewhere, Shinu?"

Now, before Shinu could respond Sin charged the ship. Mieli stood still as Sin was just about to breach the hull using nothing other than its own massive physical force. Shinu went absolutely berserk.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH THIS IS BUUUUUUUULLLLLLLSHIIIIIIIIIIIIIITTTTTTTTTT!"

Neither Mieli nor Shinu felt the impact of Sin's collison with the vessel. Strange enough they felt nothing at all except for being in the middle of a light so gentle is separately enveloped both of their bodies as they were unconscious of anything else but the touch of the light. As each felt their feet hit the ground gently, all that was certain is that something had changed.

"Is this what it feels like to die?"

"No Shinu, this is quite different."