Author's Note: Another quickie, I added a reference again, this time to Disney's The Return of Jafar (one of my favorite Disney movies!), though it's probably not as obvious as the reference in chapter 2, so I'll explain. Sain says a line that's almost identical to one Aladdin uses in the movie. That line being "That's me! Ready for anything!" (which I always laughed at for some reason. XD) You'll know Sain's version when you see it. I felt it was fitting for the moment. lol

Chapter 4: Missing!

Later in the night, after a long time of back rubbing and comforting, Sain finally managed to get Nick to fall back asleep peacefully. He then went back downstairs to the living room to let Kent and Fiora know of this, only to find the former asleep on the couch and the latter not even there. Kent didn't stir at all either from Sain's entrance, he just continued emitting snores. He'd been more tired than he let on from his long journey. Fiora had probably gone up to bed, and Sain decided it was best that he did so as well. As such, he returned upstairs and retreated to the master bedroom. As he had suspected, Sain found Fiora already in bed asleep, though she had stirred as soon as she heard her husband's footsteps.

"Oh, Sain, there you are," she greeted. "Nick went back to sleep?"

"Yeah, he'll be okay. For now, at least," Sain replied with smile.

"I'm glad. I'd like one of us to comfort him every evening if he needs it, until he recovers from this."

"Alright, I can certainly do that. …Or, uh, we could take turns, if you prefer."

"Heh, taking turns sounds good. But no matter what, no overworking yourself. You know how you worry me when you do that."

"Yeah, yeah, I know. I'll try."

"Good."

With that, Sain proceeded to change out of his clothes and into some usual nightwear while Fiora attempted to go back to sleep. He was glad he could help Nick for the time being, but he still couldn't get many things off his mind. The fear of what his family would think of his parents after he revealed Kent's story still plagued him. And the worst of it, Sain shuddered to find out what his wife and children would think of him. At this point, he wasn't sure if he'd sleep well himself. However, he knew that Kent would want him to hope for the best and not worry too much about it. But as much as Sain tried to do that, it was difficult.

He and Fiora had been married for twelve years and had few serious family issues in that time. Fiora's parents had even accepted him due to his hard-working and dedicated nature. Not to mention the fact that Sain endlessly worked to become the excellent knight he'd been since the last war. But if they found out that all these years, those characteristics stemmed mostly from his womanizing habits, which had been majorly caused by a curse indirectly brought on by his own parents? Sain had practically been a living lie and for far too long. Such news could deal a major blow to everyone.

There was a possibility that Kent could help Sain out and soften that blow. But what if he couldn't? Or what if it caused Fiora's parents to hate Sain and his family regardless, causing a family feud to erupt? Sain wouldn't have any idea what to do if this happened and Fiora would likely be pestered by her parents to annul her marriage with him, whether she agreed to do so or not. And surely, Sain's parents would beg for forgiveness and want Fiora to stay a part of the family. She would be caught in the middle and all Nick and Emily would be able to do is wonder if their family could ever get along again, or if their parents were going to separate.

I should talk to Kent about this again, Sain thought as he lay down on the bed, pulled the covers over himself, and let his head fall to his pillow. He'd probably just say I'm worrying too much, but I can't help it. This is eating at me like hell. I just hope Kent can help…

With that, Sain turned over and attempted to sleep, despite his fears. He let out a deep sigh and decided to chat with Kent first thing in the morning. Hopefully he'd at least be able to ease Sain's mind on the situation. Even so, Sain was still afraid and eventually worried himself straight to sleep. Light snores left his lips and at first it appeared that he'd peacefully dozed off. Unfortunately, while Fiora still slept soundly, Sain eventually began to toss and turn, and images that he'd likely never forget anytime soon began to form in his head.

Sain found himself in his living room with Fiora and the kids as well as Kent. He sat down on the chair while the others were on the couch. He took a deep breath, and spoke.

"Fiora, Nick, Emily…" he began. "Look, uh… The reason I called everyone in here is because I have something important to tell you."

"Oh?" Fiora replied. "What's the matter, Sain? You don't sound very excited."

"Well… You see… Kent brought me some news while we were out the other night," Sain began. "It…wasn't exactly good. My parents…had a secret that they'd kept from me for years."

Sain then relayed the entire story Kent had told him, down to every detail. Kent added a little bit every now and then himself as well. When they finished, however, all Fiora and the kids could do was stare at Sain in shock and astonishment.

"Sain… Are you serious?" Fiora finally replied moments later, though her tone sounded rather irritated.

"Sadly, yes…" Sain reluctantly admitted, his eyes straying to the floor.

"…I can't believe this. You're telling us such a story after twelve years of being together? What's the matter with you?!"

"Yeah, Dad! This is stupid!" Nick added.

"You're scaring me!" Emily put in.

"Huh?! But I—" Sain began, but was cut off.

"But nothing! If your parents were hiding things all these years, how do I know they can be trusted anymore?! How do I know even you are trustworthy because of that?!" Fiora continued. "For all I know, you actually knew this all along and your parents only pretended it was a dark secret!"

"What?! Fiora, I'd never ever lie to you!"

"Oh really? I have a hard time believing that. In fact, I don't want my children to see your parents anymore. Your family has problems!"

"W-What?! But they—"

"They're scary!" Emily finished. "I don't want to see them either!"

"Yeah, they creep me out now!" Nick seconded. "And Dad, to think I thought you were amazing. Now I know you're just mostly a fake!"

"B-But…" Sain tried to reply, but no more words came out.

"You're not really the man I thought you were either," Fiora added. "I'm sorry, Sain, but we can't deal with this. And when my parents find out we're through, it won't be pretty. I'd rather keep my children out of the conflict, however, so you're on your own in this. Kids, let's pack."

"Okay!" both Nick and Emily obeyed at the same time.

"N-No! Wait, Fiora, please!" Sain begged.

"No thank you," Fiora bluntly replied and stood up to lead the kids upstairs.

"Well, Sain, it looks like I'm going home early," Kent spoke up.

"Wait, what?! Why?!" Sain gasped as he turned to his friend.

"You've got issues to sort out. And I don't want to get caught in the middle. Sorry. I'll go get my things."

"Uh, hey! You're just going to leave me too? Please, no! I need help! You guys!"

"Please…! Come back!" Sain uttered in his sleep as he turned again, a grimace on his face. "Don't leave! Nooo!"

"…Huh?" Fiora muttered, Sain's blurting stirring her from her sleep. "Sain! Sain, wake up!"

Fiora nudged her husband until he shot up with a start.

"Ah!" Sain gasped as he did so. "Huh? Wha?"

"Sain, are you okay? You seemed to be having a nightmare," Fiora pointed out. "Don't tell me the incident at the well has gotten to your head too."

"Huh? Oh, no, it's not that," Sain assured. "It was something else."

"What? Then what is it? If something we don't know about is really bothering you, then tell me. I don't want you to be plagued with nightmares too."

"Well…see, I'd explain it, but I'm not sure how to yet. I…I need a little time to figure it out. I apologize."

"Oh, I see. Don't worry, I understand. I just hope you'll be okay."

"I'll try to be, I promise."

"Thank you, Sain. I just…I just worry about you a lot, you know. What with how hard you work and the dangers you could put yourself in while doing so…and more recently the trouble from this morning."

"I know… And I'm really sorry about that. All I want is to protect you and our kids. …And I feel that if I have to put myself in harm's way to do that, I will. And as for work, I try to be as careful as I can and it pays well enough to give my family a good home, nice clothes to wear, and three full meals a day."

"And I'm so glad of that, Sain. And I know I put myself at risk for the same reasons too. Just promise me that you'll never do anything too reckless or dangerous when you can avoid it. Please…"

"Don't worry, you can count on that."

"Oh, thank you… I love you, Sain. More than I can put into words."

"And I love you too, Fiora. You mean the whole world to me. You, and the kids."

All Fiora could do at this point was let a loving grin cross her features. She then wrapped her arms around Sain's neck and pressed her lips against his cheek. He smiled at the gesture, his mind somewhat eased.

"Now try to get more sleep, okay?" Fiora said afterward.

"Of course. And hopefully, I won't have another nightmare this time," Sain replied.

"Good."

With that, the couple went to sleep once more. Sain dodged an arrow by preventing himself from having to tell Kent's story to Fiora prematurely. Despite that, Fiora had been able to comfort her husband anyway. And thankfully for Sain, he slept soundly the rest of the night. And then Kent would hopefully finish what Fiora had started.

The next morning, Sain actually was the last to awaken. Fiora had the kids to help her with breakfast again and though the two wondered why Sain wasn't up yet, Fiora simply explained that he'd had some trouble sleeping the previous night.

"Let's just say he's had a lot on his mind lately," she finished, more correct than she realized. "We'll let your father sleep for a little longer."

With that, the children obeyed and the three continued in the kitchen. Kent eventually walked in to see if there was anything he could do, but Fiora insisted that he not do anymore work during his stay. Kent had no choice but to abide since it became clear that Fiora was never going to change her mind.

"Oh, hey Kent!" Nick spoke up a moment later. "We still have to spar! Can we do that after we eat?"

"Ah, that's right. Of course we can," Kent agreed happily.

"Yeah!" Nick cheered with a jump. "I just hope Dad gets up soon so we actually can eat. Breakfast is almost ready."

"Don't worry, I'll go wake him if he doesn't get up on his own by that time," Fiora assured.

"Daddy's a real sleepyhead this morning, isn't he?" Emily commented with a giggle.

"Heh, I'll say!" Fiora replied. "But he deserves it for how hard he works for us."

"Yeah, he certainly does," Kent agreed. "Well, I'll just wait here at the table since you're about finished."

With that, Kent took his seat at the table and waited patiently. Fiora would have liked to tell him about Sain having had a nightmare, but she didn't want to bring it up in front of Nick and Emily. And knowing her husband, he was going to talk to Kent about it anyway. The two had talked about their problems with one another for years, probably since before she'd even met them. They were best friends, after all.

Meanwhile, minutes later, Sain finally awoke, lazily rolling over to stretch. He actually slept well the rest of the night, though it was probably only because Fiora had comforted him after waking him from a nightmare. Even so, Sain still needed to bring it up to Kent. He slowly sat up and then turned to see if Fiora had awakened as well. Much to his surprise, however, she wasn't there. In fact, her side of the bed was neatly made. And Sain knew that meant one thing.

"Ah, man! I hope the others don't mind that I slept a little late…" Sain said to himself as he bolted out of bed and began getting dressed. Just as he'd pulled his shirt off, however, the bedroom door opened. Fiora herself walked in and paused in her footsteps when she saw her husband.

"Oh! Sain! I'm so sorry, I thought you were still asleep," she quickly apologized. "I was coming in to wake you."

"Oh, don't worry about it," Sain replied. "I should've woken up sooner anyway. I'm just glad I only took my shirt off…heh."

"Yeah, that's definitely true. Plus, you know what I think of your shirtless-ness…hee hee."

"Heh, that I do."

Fiora then slowly approached Sain and let her arms slide across his shoulders lovingly.

"So, I assume you slept well?" she inquired with a smile.

"I most certainly did, thanks to you," Sain confirmed as his hands navigated to his wife's waist.

"I'm glad," Fiora commented, her hands sliding back and forth from Sain's chest to his back. "Well, I came to let you know that breakfast is ready and we're waiting for you."

"I figured. Sorry for being late this morning."

"Don't worry, it's perfectly fine. You deserve such rest once in a while, you know."

"Heh, I suppose that's true. Thanks."

"You're very welcome," Fiora replied lovingly. "Now hurry up so you can join us downstairs."

"Right."

With that, the two leaned in for a rather late good morning kiss. Once they parted, Fiora left to rejoin the others in the kitchen and Sain continued getting dressed. He hurriedly changed out of the rest of his nightwear into some everyday clothes and donned his usual headband. Sain had grown so used to wearing it that it had become force of habit for him to put it on every day, even when he wasn't planning on doing any training or mercenary work. Fiora never minded, however. In fact, she thought it made Sain look more handsome than he already was.

Once Sain was fully dressed, he quickly headed downstairs to join his family and Kent for another breakfast. This time, there wasn't as much to talk about as the morning before since they'd already caught up with Kent. Sain would've mentioned his nightmare to him right then, only he couldn't discuss it in front of Fiora or the kids for obvious reasons. Fiora wouldn't like him talking about having nightmares around Nick or Emily anyway. Once everyone finished and cleaned up their dishes, Sain pulled Kent aside in the hallway while the others headed out back.

"Kent, I need to talk to you for a second," Sain spoke up. "It's important."

"Oh? What's the matter?" Kent wondered.

"There was another reason Fiora let me sleep, I think. I woke up in the middle of the night from a nightmare about what you told me at the tavern."

"Really? So that's what she meant when you said you had a lot on your mind. But you didn't actually tell her what the dream was about?"

"I told her I didn't know how to explain it yet. But I know she's going to make me tell her eventually. This is Fiora we're talking about here."

"Yeah, I know. And I see. What happened in this nightmare?"

Sain then told Kent of the events from the nightmare as well as he could remember them. Though Fiora had managed to comfort him, it still made him more nervous than ever about how she and the kids would react for real once they were told of the mistake Sain's parents had made.

"…Wow," was all Kent could say. "That's…pretty terrible."

"Exactly! Kent, I need your help with this!" Sain pleaded. "I-I can't deal with this alone! Please don't leave me! Please!"

"Now why on earth would I do that? Sain, firstly, you need to remember that it was just a dream and dreams never make sense. You're my friend. And true friends don't abandon friends in their time of need. For any reason."

"Well, yeah, but…"

"Second, I highly doubt Fiora would just jump to conclusions like that and call you a liar. You of all people should know."

"Yeah, but I've never had to tell her something like this! And what of my kids? Emily always looked to me for support and comfort when she needed it and Fiora wasn't able to give it herself. And Nick looks up to me more than anyone. He sees Sain the famous Green Lance, not Sain the once cursed man that could've been anything from a jerk to a nobody if it weren't for it!"

"That's true, but I think you're overthinking this a little. Listen, I'll help you out as much as you need it. This I can assure you of. But the others are waiting outside so I can spar a little with Nick. He asked me if we could after we finished eating."

"Oh! Then let's go. I don't want to keep them waiting more than they need to. Can we talk more later?"

"Of course. In fact, let's go out riding after the spar. We'll be able to discuss this further without the others possibly overhearing us."

"Ah, great idea. Thank you so much, Kent. This means a lot to me."

Kent shot Sain a smile before replying.

"Like I said yesterday, what are friends for?"

With that, the two joined Fiora and the kids outside. Nick had already donned the headband Sain had given him and was practicing his swings with his wooden practice sword. Fiora warned him and Kent not to get too rough because doing a lot of moving around on full stomachs could make them nauseous. Sain added that this was true because he'd learned it the hard way. He once did some serious training after eating a rather large lunch, and ended up vomiting later. Both Nick and Kent definitely decided to take Fiora's advice and took their positions in front of their spectators.

Kent, of course, went easy on Nick since the boy was still a beginner. He also taught him a few of his own techniques as they sparred to further Nick's training. Nick decided that if he mastered the combined skills of both Sain and Kent, he'd be the greatest knight that ever lived. Both men merely chuckled, though they also decided it was certainly possible.

"Say, that reminds me," Kent spoke up after. "Nick, did your dad ever tell you about our strongest and most famous technique?"

"Oh, um…" Nick contemplated. "Ah, you mean that combination attack! Dad called it the Cross Strike, I think."

"That's right," Sain confirmed. "Kent and I are most well-known for forming such a genius move. It's magnificent and always thought I looked great doing it! It even got the ladies' attention. Hehe."

"Actually, that is true," Kent added, noticing Fiora rolling her eyes. "Sometimes we found ourselves being surrounded by several women from the area that we were protecting and they'd admire our skills…and our looks."

"Oh goodness," Fiora commented with a giggle. "Sain must've had a ball."

"I sure did!" Sain confirmed. "In fact, two girls pecked my cheeks at the same time and I was so overwhelmed with joy that I fainted. Ah, I have such fond memories of the past with my dear friend Kent!"

"Oh yeah, I'd forgotten about that," Kent realized with a punchy smile. "I had to carry you and lead your horse all the way back to the castle and practically shove a wash cloth in your face to get you to clean that lipstick off."

At this, Fiora, Nick, and Emily all burst into laughter. Sain's cheeks flushed a deep red.

"Hey! You were the one that made a big scene out of it!" he retorted with embarrassment. "Some of the other knights found us on the floor in one of the barracks bathrooms after you tackled me and thought we'd gotten drunk or something!"

"Heh, yeah, that was quite embarrassing," Kent admitted, scratching the back of his head. "But you could've just cooperated, you know."

"Well, I didn't want to," Sain replied, folding his arms. "It isn't every day you get kissed by two beautiful girls at the same time."

Fiora and the kids continued to laugh.

"You two are so entertaining, you know that?" she spoke up.

"Yeah, you did some really funny stuff!" Nick seconded, who was on the ground rolling by this time.

"You were so silly!" Emily added.

"Haha, yeah, I guess we were," Kent replied.

"Indeed, you've got me on that one," Sain conceded with a smile. "So Nick, would you like to actually see the Cross Strike?"

Nick instantly bolted to his feet upon hearing those words.

"Wow, would I ever!" he replied excitedly. "That would be awesome!"

"Yeah! I've always wanted to see it too, Daddy!" Emily seconded.

"Alright then! Shall we, Kent?" Sain asked his friend.

"It would be my pleasure," Kent agreed with a smile. "We have to go get our mounts first though."

"Right."

With that, the two headed over to the stable to saddle up their mounts. They didn't want to keep Nick and the others waiting, so they moved quickly. Once the horses were ready to go, Sain and Kent mounted them and rode back to the back yard. They then set up a wooden dummy in the middle of the area and Sain equipped himself with another wooden practice sword. Afterward, he and Kent positioned themselves on opposite sides of the yard, the east and west ends, but facing the dummy.

"Now Nick, just keep in mind that it's been years since Kent and I actually last performed this attack," Sain spoke up. "It probably won't be as great as it used to be."

"Oh, I know! But I'm sure it'll still be amazing!" Nick replied.

"Heh, I hope so. You ready, Kent?"

"Yep, ready when you are!" Kent confirmed.

"Alright then! Here goes!" Sain announced.

He readied his practice sword while Kent did the same with his own. At once, the two charged towards the dummy as fast as their mounts would go. Within seconds, they approached the wooden obstacle and as they did so, they struck it with the swords at the exact same time. Once Sain and Kent were at the ends of the yard opposite to where they had started, they steered their mounts into a curve until they faced one another again, only they were at the north and south sides of the yard. But they didn't stop there. Sain and Kent charged towards the dummy once more and repeated what they had done during the first charge. The dummy was cut down as a result, its pieces falling to the snowy ground below.

"WOW!" Nick shouted as he jumped up and down. "That was wicked cool! I see why you call it the Cross Strike!"

"I thought you'd say that!" Sain happily replied. "I'm glad I still have my touch."

"Same with me," Kent added. "Sure, we could practice charging at things all day by ourselves, but this attack isn't the Cross Strike if we're not doing it together and in perfect sync. It's named such because not only are we moving in a cross formation, but our sword swings form a cross shape as we attack as well."

"In addition to that, we don't even normally start sitting so far away from one another," Sain continued. "We actually are side by side most of the time when we begin, just facing opposite directions. This is so we can initiate the attack if we're surrounded by enemies. It's what made the move so famous."

"Wow, that is so clever!" Nick complimented. "I really do have an awesome dad and a second awesome hero!"

"Yeah! What Nick said!" Emily seconded.

"Aw, shucks," Sain replied with a goofy smile. "But that's us! Ready for anything!"

"Well, you can definitely count on your dad and I to always be there for you," Kent proclaimed with an assuring grin.

"Oh, I wouldn't have thought anything else!" Nick agreed.

"And maybe someday, when Nick and I both know how to battle, we can learn the Cross Strike!" Emily added.

"Ah, not a bad plan!" Sain commented. "We could definitely teach you when you're older. Right, Kent?"

"Oh, certainly," Kent happily agreed.

"Hey, yeah, that's a great idea, Em!" Nick replied. "I say we go for it!"

"Oh, yay!" Emily cheered, jumping up and down.

For the next half an hour, Kent and Nick sparred some more, with Sain also coaching his son in the process. Kent was impressed with how well Nick had been learning from Sain regardless, however, and was more than happy to continue lending a hand. Both knights taught him techniques for dodging attacks, though avoiding being hit wouldn't be as easy while on horseback. Since Kent was quicker than Sain, though, Nick had a tougher time coming even close to landing a single blow. Kent explained that while Sain no doubt taught Nick that he has to watch his opponent's every move and that they could be unpredictable, a warrior also needs to learn to read said opponent. Sometimes one might just pick up a pattern or two in the opponent's attacks. However, doing such could take a lot of practice. Nick understood this and promised to remember it.

Eventually, Nick grew worn out and both he and Kent agreed to call it a match. Kent was getting somewhat exhausted himself as well, plus he had promised to go riding with Sain. The two then relayed the plan to Fiora, who of course was absolutely fine with it. Nick, however, protested.

"Dad, wait…" he said.

"Oh? What's the matter?" Sain wondered after he and Kent had remounted their horses.

"Well…I had fun sparring with Kent and all, but I'm still nervous cause of the bad dream I had last night. I just want to know everything will be okay for sure. Or maybe I could go with you?"

"Hmm…" Sain contemplated. "I'd let you come, but I kind of wanted to talk to Kent privately for a bit. We won't be gone for long, though, and I promise we'll take you next time. How does that sound?"

"Oh… Well, okay then. I just want you both to be careful!"

"We will, don't worry."

"Okay. I'm sorry, Dad, I just can't help being so scared…"

"Hey, I understand completely." And I know exactly how you feel too.

"You know, I have an idea," Fiora spoke up. "Nick, why don't you and Emily go to Ajay and Ashelle's? You two always enjoy playing with your friends and I bet they can cheer you up. Marianne would gladly give you support as well. And you walk there all the time since it's only two streets down from here."

Ajay and Ashelle, fraternal twin siblings, were Nick and Emily's best friends. Marianne was their mother. Their father, Phillip, or Phil for short, sometimes partnered up with Sain to do jobs. They considered one another friends, though Phil expressed a little envy towards Sain's fame. Yet, he was also known to brag occasionally about how he got to work with the Green Lance as much as he did.

"Ah, that's an excellent idea," Sain commented. "It ought to make you feel much better, Nick."

"Yeah, that sounds good to me!" Nick agreed.

"Oh, I'd love to go!" Emily seconded. "I always miss Ashelle!"

"Great! I'm glad. Kent and I can let them know you're coming too," Sain offered. "Or would you rather us bring you there ourselves?"

"Oh, you can just ride ahead, Dad," Nick replied. "We always take a secret path that we know is safe."

"Very true. Just make sure you both stick together as always."

"Right!"

"Also, one more thing."

Sain dismounted Goldie for a moment and kneeled to his son' s level.

"Nick, I want you to remember something for me," he began. "I know you're scared of that nightmare and what had happened at the well, and I don't blame you. But if you face your fears and stand up to them, you might find that a little courage can come a long way. And when you and Emily are by yourselves, it's up to you to be the big brother and be there for her when she needs it. You understand what I'm saying?"

"Yeah. Thanks, Dad," Nick replied with a smile. "I won't ever forget."

"Sain, those words were excellent," Fiora complimented. "I'm proud of you both."

"Aw…" Sain bashfully responded as he stood up again. "Well, we'll get going now, hun."

Sain then approached Fiora and leaned in to kiss her goodbye. Fiora happily returned the gesture.

"Ride safely, of course," she said.

"As always."

With that, Sain remounted Goldie and he and Kent spurred the horses into a trot. They traveled down the road until turning a corner in order to reach the street where Ajay and Ashelle lived. Sain still had his own troubles on his mind, however, and hoped he could hide his emotions from Marianne and Phil. Though, seeing how they were doing was appealing. Sain hadn't needed to partner with Phil in several days and never saw much of him or his wife in that time due to other work on both ends. What's more, Marianne was a mage and florist and enjoyed her profession just as much as her husband did his. Marianne had to import many flowers since the cold weather of Ilia wasn't suitable for growing any in, but the few she did grow herself were planted in pots inside a small glass building in her backyard. She heated it with candles and lanterns.

Sain's thoughts were interrupted, however, when Kent spoke up.

"Say, Sain," he said. "You'd probably do well to follow your own advice."

"…Huh?" Sain replied, only paying half attention. "Oh, what do you mean?"

"What you told Nick just before we left. About courage and facing your fears?"

"Oh, that. Well, I want to say you might be right…"

"I am right. Your situation is hardly different. You're afraid of a nightmare and certain events relating to it happening, just as your son is."

"Yeah, but… I have a much bigger problem than he does. Nick is afraid of something that a lot of kids get scared of. Me, I have to worry about possibly losing my whole family because of a terrible mistake my parents made!"

"That's true, but I still think what you said should apply. How about we talk more after we're done with our little errand here? I wouldn't want your friends to accidentally get involved."

"Alright, good idea."

With that, the two continued on to their destination, which was right down the next street. It was built of the same material as Sain's home, but had a somewhat different design. The two dismounted the horses and approached the front door. Sain knocked and soon, they were greeted by Marianne herself. She was a somewhat plump woman with purple hair and wearing a white flowered dress, befitting her profession. Phil appeared soon after, and he reminded Kent a lot of Lord Hector, at least build-wise. He was a rather hunky man with dark brown hair and a slightly tattered dark red tunic. He carried a sword at his side and wore a burnt orange shoulder guard on his left shoulder. Sain introduced Kent after the greeting, and Phil was most enthusiastic to learn of his identity.

"Kent? You mean the famous Crimson Shield and steward of Caelin?" he said, his mouth dropping open and shaking Kent's hand. "Why, I am greatly honored to meet you! I've heard so many tales of your prowess alongside Sain!"

"Oh, why thank you," Kent replied with abashment. "I do try my best."

"Who'd have thought we'd get to meet you someday?" Marianne wondered. "It truly is a pleasure, Sir Kent!"

"Ah, same here."

"So, my friend, what brings you here?" Phil inquired after turning his attention to Sain.

"Oh, Nick and Emily are going to come by to see Ajay and Ashelle," Sain replied. "See, there was some trouble the other day that gave Nick a nightmare last night and we think he'd feel better if he got to spend some good quality time with his friends."

"Oh my, the poor dear," Marianne commented. "Of course he and Emily can come by! No child deserves to be traumatized or plagued with nightmares."

"Yeah, we'll help in any way we can if you need it!" Phil added. "You're a buddy and that's what we mercenaries do! It's our job to protect our friends and families and the locals! …Well, for a fee on that last one, but still!"

"That is true! And I know I can count on you if anything were to happen," Sain replied with a smile.

"That's right! Nobody around here is getting bothered on my watch! If any lowlife tries something so foolish, they'll be rewarded with my sword up their arse!"

"Exactly what I like to hear! Now, we must be on our way. Kent's only visiting, so we're going to go riding for a while."

"Well, okey dokey then! We'll keep an ear and eye out for your kids."

"And you know I'll be watching them every minute when they get here," Marianne added. "It only takes a few seconds for something awful to happen."

"Right," Sain replied with a smile. "Well, we'll see you later!"

"Take care," Marianne commented, returning the gesture.

With that, both she and Phil waved goodbye as the two knights returned to their mounts and continued on their way.

"Wow, he's certainly enthusiastic," Kent commented as they rode.

"Haha, yeah, Phil's like that," Sain replied. "He's got a good head on his shoulders though."

"He seems like it."

"Yeah. And Marianne can be a little overprotective at times, but she's very sweet. Phil's a lucky guy to have her."

"Heh, I bet. So, about your nightmare again."

"Ah, yes… Kent, as much as I'd like to take my own advice like you say, I just find it so difficult. I don't know how to explain any of this at all."

"That's why I'm here to help. And as I said before, I won't ever abandon you, no matter what happens."

"Oh, I know that now, but…even if Fiora and the kids don't decide to leave me, what if her parents still get angry? Surely Fiora won't let me keep something like this a secret from them and if our parents become at odds with each other, we'd be caught in the middle of a big fued. And what's worse, knowing Fiora's parents, they'll start spreading lies about me and my reputation would be ruined!"

"Hmm… That is indeed a possibility. We'll just have to do our best to convince them that your own parents aren't terrible people and that you're not a freak or anything."

"I'm afraid that's much easier said than done. But if you're present, that could really help. If Fiora's parents know I'm friends with good people, they have to admit I'm still a good guy and that my parents raised me well.

"True, my presence can definitely make things easier. And as I said, that's why I'm here. Now as for how we ought to explain this along with the nightmare, that's going to take some thinking."

"You're telling me…"

"But to be honest Sain, I think you're being a little too paranoid when it comes to Fiora and the kids. I really doubt they're just going to up and leave you like that, especially for a mistake your parents made. Look at what you've done for them in the past twelve years."

"Well…"

"And Fiora told me all about how great a husband and father you've been."

"…She did?"

"Yeah, it was last night while you were comforting Nick. She went on about how hard you worked and how well you took care of your family. Everything. She's so in love with you and your kids love you so much, I don't think anything could make them leave you."

"That really warms my heart… But what I wonder is if it's really me they love and not the "fake" my parents ended up with."

"Well, you know my answer is clear."

"Yeah, and I pray that you're right. But as I said, even if you are, Fiora's parents could be another story entirely."

"Alas, indeed…"

Time passed as Sain and Kent continued discussing the matter. They had decided that the only place to start with the explanation was the beginning. But where was the beginning, exactly? Was it the nightmare, or Kent having received his letter from Sain's parents? Or maybe it could even be Sain simply saying "I found out my parents were carrying a dark secret." Whichever it was, Kent advised his friend to remain calm and not panic. If he became too nervous, Fiora and the kids could begin to worry more than they should to and that was the last thing Sain needed. Kent also said he ought to be as clear as possible so no one misinterpreted anything. Sain was still unsure of himself on how it would turn out, but all he could do at this point was worry about it when the time came. And Kent agreed that they'd tell the others when Sain felt ready enough to do so.

As they rode on through town, the two friends' conversation eventually strayed to other topics, mainly events from the past. They talked of battles they fought together, their time as squires, the war from twelve years before, and more. Sain was enjoying the conversation so much that he had forgotten about being nervous, which had actually been Kent's intent. He didn't want to see his best friend worried all the time, especially while Kent was supposed to be on vacation with him. More than two hours passed and Sain himself was glad he could cheer up as well. The topic soon went to Fiora's talk with Kent the previous night.

"You know, I really had no idea Fiora thought so highly of me," Sain admitted. "I mean, I know I work hard and all, but those times I worried her crazy by making myself ill… I thought maybe I'd been taking things too far. She does keep reminding me not to overwork myself."

"Nooo, don't be ridiculous," Kent protested. "Nobody's perfect, you know. And as far as I've seen, I have to agree with her. You really are a fine husband to Fiora and father to your kids. You've done better than I ever expected, I can tell you that."

"I'll take that as a compliment," Sain decided with a grin. "You know, it's so ironic how instead of you, I'm the one out of the two of us that got married and began raising a family."

"Oh shut up," Kent retorted, glaring to the side. "I…I just don't have time for women. My duties in Caelin keep me too busy."

"Sure. Kent, really, I know you. It's because of Lady Lyndis, isn't it? You're still torn up about her choosing Lord Hector over you. You know I know how much you loved her."

Kent's gaze then strayed to his saddle and a tear trickled down his cheek. He sniffled before speaking again.

"…Well…I guess it's true. I kept trying to convince myself that I was over those feelings. But I'm not… I loved Lyn and I still do, yet I know I can never have her. Sain, the truth is…I always wished I was more like you when it came to these situations. Whenever a woman turned you down, you didn't mope about it, you kept going. You never gave up on the idea of finding true love. And you won Fiora's heart. But me? I…I'm too damn sensitive! I mean, just look at me!"

More tears trailed down Kent's face as an old wound was ripped open.

"…Oh. I guess we both have troubles lately," Sain realized. "I'm really sorry I brought this up. But don't talk about yourself like that. You did your best. And I'm sure it was a very tough choice for Lady Lyndis to make. Although…I was…rooting for you. And in all honesty, I expected you to get married before I did for obvious reasons. From the moment I figured out you'd fallen in love with Lady Lyndis, though, I realized how great it would be if we both settled down someday to raise families, yet still remain good friends. So I continued striving for it."

"Sain…"

"I'm serious, Kent. The idea of both of us with wives and our own children to raise…and then allowing the kids to meet and play together… It sounded amazing."

"Yeah… It certainly does. But Nick is already ten isn't he? And Emily is eight if I recall correctly."

"That may be so, but you still have time. You're a magnificent guy, one I can't imagine many nice and pretty girls not falling for. And I believe your future wife is out there somewhere. I've always believed it. And I want you to go get her!"

Kent's frown then turned upside down as he sniffled again.

"Sain… Thank you," he said. "I will!"

"That's my best buddy!"

Before either of them could say anything else, some bells rang out from another part of town. They chimed twelve times, signaling that it was noon.

"…Damn! It's noon already?!" Sain realized. "We've been out too long!"

"Shoot, I'm so sorry! I got too carried away, didn't I?" Kent apologized.

"No, it's not your fault, I was distracted too. Let's hurry back to the house before Fiora decides to have my head."

"Right."

With that, the two directed their mounts to turn around and head in the direction of Sain's home. Hopefully Fiora wouldn't mind them being a little late coming back simply due to having such a good time. And maybe by the time they arrived, Sain would be ready to reveal the secret his parents had been keeping. He'd have to wait for Nick and Emily to get home though, as he knew revealing it to them separately would be a terrible idea. Still, it would give him time to prepare a little more and eat lunch first. He definitely didn't want to go into such a long and troublesome story on an empty stomach. And this notion made him wonder what delicious meal Fiora might have in mind this time.

Sain and Kent weren't much further than halfway home when a rumbling noise echoed from somewhere not far outside of town, causing them to stop for a moment.

"What the—? Damn it, not again…" Sain grumbled in frustration.

"Was that an avalanche?" Kent inquired with surprise.

"Yeah, and the third one that's happened here this week. I don't know why, but a gut feeling tells me that this isn't natural."

"Why's that? We are in a snowy area at the foot of some mountains."

"Yeah, but for avalanches to occur this frequently and when there isn't a lot of wind or noise up there? Something isn't right here."

"If that's true, then I agree. How about we investigate after getting some lunch?"

"What? No way. You're on vacation, Kent. I should go by myself."

"Sain, are you crazy? You're a skilled warrior, but I'm not going to just ignore trouble, especially if it involves my friends. Even if I'm supposed to be relaxing. Plus, it always helps to have backup."

"…Well, when you put it that way, you do have a point. Alright."

"Thank you."

With that, the two hurried the rest of the way back to the house, eager to relay their next plan to Fiora. Sain could easily predict her insisting that the two get some of the local militia or Phil to help them, but he didn't want to cause the town to needlessly panic. If the problem could be solved before anything really serious happened, then there was no point in spreading any news of danger. Sain only hoped that this would actually happen. If the avalanches continued long enough at the rate they were occurring, the entire town could end up buried in snow. Everyone would have to flee from their homes and it would take days to remove all of the snow, if such a feat was even possible. And if it wasn't, the people would have to migrate to another town, or even across the border, with little food, money, clothing, and all their belongings lost. And such a situation would potentially be fatal.

Only a short time passed when Sain and Kent finally came in view of the house. They were about to make way for the stable when they noticed Fiora standing outside near the house's front door, frantically glancing around and looking frightened. Sain hardly expected her to be that worried about him and Kent. …Or had something else happened? Sain and Kent quickly directed their horses towards Fiora, and she soon spotted the two as well, running over to them afterward. Her face was flushed red and she looked like she had been crying…and actually still was. Sain and Kent dismounted as soon as they brought their horses to a halt.

"Oh, Sain! Kent! Thank goodness you two are back!" Fiora cried as she buried herself in Sain's torso.

"Fiora! What's the matter? You weren't really this worried about us, were you?" Sain wondered.

"Yeah, is everything alright?" Kent added.

"No, something terrible has happened!" Fiora replied with a sniffle. "Marianne was just here a little while ago. Nick and Emily never showed up!"

"What?!" Sain gasped. "You can't be serious!"

Kent gaped in fear at Fiora's words.

"Are you sure? When did they leave?" he inquired.

"Just a few minutes after you two did," Fiora replied. "Marianne said she, Phil, and the twins waited all that time, but never saw a trace of Nick or Emily! Marianne then came and told me that something was wrong. Oh, I'm so afraid!"

Fiora buried her face in Sain's chest, tears trailing down her face. Sain took his wife into his arms to comfort her.

"Fiora, don't worry, Kent and I will get to the bottom of this," he assured. "You can count on it."

"That's right, we'll find the kids," Kent seconded. "We won't stop searching until we do."

"Oh, thank you both… Just please hurry," Fiora pleaded.

"Of course," Sain promised. "You stay here in case the kids come back."

Fiora nodded and with that, he and Kent remounted their horses and rode off once more. Sain led Kent to the path Nick and Emily normally took to get to their friends' home, which was a snaking trail around several homes. It sloped in areas as well since it was the foothills of the nearby mountains. Much to their disdain, there was no sign of either child, and many of their footprints in the snow had been brushed over by wind or more snow and footprints. It was as if Nick and Emily had simply vanished into thin air.

"Oh no…" Sain uttered to himself with a grimace. "My kids… They really are gone…"

"This is madness," Kent commented. "I hate to say it, but I've a feeling they were snatched. And if this is the case, then whoever's responsible will be punished."

"I'll tear the rotten scum limb for limb!" Sain threatened.

"I'm with you, but we're going to need some help. Let's report this to the militia headquarters. They should send out a search party or two."

"Right. We can probably get Phil to lend a hand afterward as well."

"Sounds good. Let's hurry!"

With that, Sain and Kent spurred their horses into a gallop and made for the militia headquarters in another part of town. Sain wondered how Nick and Emily could've possibly been kidnapped from the path that he and Fiora had thought only people living nearby it knew of. All he could think of was that somehow, the wrong person or people gained knowledge of it. And the only kinds of people around Ilia that Sain knew would sink so low as to kidnap a child were bandits. But what would they want with his kids? Any ruffians Sain encountered wound up dead in a matter of seconds. But if this wasn't a kidnapping case, then what had happened? Sain's mind now completely puzzled and filled with fear, he could only hope that he and Kent would find the answer soon…before it was too late.

Author's Note: NOW things are really heating up, huh? What has happened to Sain's kids? And how is their disappearance connected with the mysterious avalanches? We'll find out soon enough…