DISCLAIMER : I don't own suikoden, it belongs to Konami.
RULES : like usually, rational things don't exist here... drop your logic somewhere else.
Warning : I've warned you from the start, this story 'The Scene of Wanderer is not serious, no serious plots, not carefully written to meet adequate quality (especially if you want rational story, heh... heh... this one is nonsense actually, cause I'm bored! and I don't want to deeply thinking to write good story, cause Im lazy. forgive me, yes, because I'm LAZY), so read this if you really REALY BORED and have no productive enough things to do.
Chapter VIII : "Trapped in a Game Again?"
Hans felt cold. All of his body felt painful. He tried to open his eyes but it was so hard.. he stirred his body and he felt that his hands were tightly bound. Hmmm….where am I?
People chattering. People arguing. Well, he could not get the picture, his mind was cloudy.
"HE SAVED MY LIFE! For Sadie sake, Adrian!"
Brag brag brag….
"open the door." Shreek.." oh, I'll do it alone.", clank (metals)
Kreeek…
"He needs doctor, not prison. See?"
"*sigh* you can not risk your entire army and country just to save your savior, Ed. And you surely know that among other people."
Realization struck. No way…..I get it now…..I must get away from here….. doctor….if he found my rune…
Now Hans opened his eyes and was about to flee –which was rather dumb regarding the situation.
"look, you made the boy afraid." Hans felt his hand could move now. The rope or whatever it was had been loosen up by that man. He opened his eyes at last.
"…."
The two knights from before.
"from your story, it's not just a mere boy… You should report to council or do something more productive like preparing your men or thinking some good strategy instead. They had pulled out indeed but we do not know when they'll strike back. And we can not afford to loose more. You surely know that, Captain." and Adrian Harass left the place.
So, Hans was at the jail.
"…..It was not bravery…. You fool….. it's merely a fool miscalculated action…but I thank you sincerely." Redrum in fact could not believe he was saved by that boy. It hit his pride but being a fair man he felt grateful and tried to reasoning about his 'failure', and thanked his savior appropriate enough.
"Where is this….? *cough*"
"…Vinay del Zexay basement prison. But do not worry. After you got to my place in Brass Castle, I'll treat you appropriately. Say… what is your name?"
"Hans- " difficult but he managed to say it.
"Ok, do not talk." Edmund was now busy cleaning and dressing the wounds. He was about to check Hans as Hans realized it. No… not my clothes…not my gloves… He reacted defensively but he knew it was a hopeless attempt.
"Easy… this is terrible… you must be good enough to survive…." well I am. I'm ok so just leave me alone.
"Terrible. I'll get a doctor." Now Edmund had undone his upper shirt which made Hans felt uncomfortable but he stopped suddenly. "-I'll go get a doctor."
Then Edmund Redrum left the place in hurry. It was rather suspicious but Hans was too fatigue and severely injured without appropriate treatment, to notice nor think about it. He then fainted again but he knew he'll find himself much healthier after he awoke next time. The rune had made his regeneration and repair mechanism- the healing process- way too fast.
o.O.o
The three great Knights of Zexen were having discussion in their fine room in Brass Castle. Adrian Harras was not with them since he was in Zexay.
"…SEE? That's why I was summoned to meet the council a month ago…!", Edmund hit the table hard. He sometimes really could not control his emotion. A trademark of Redrum family, that's how Adrian often put it in jokes.
"Hey…easy… but see the point….. just in weeks they had cancelled the embargo policy… "
"damn that council! I can not believe we did their dirty job again! Involved ourselves in the already worse uprising!", Edmund yelled more. "what honor we do have now I suppose…."
"…another form to defend your country, Ed.", a man from elf race answered calmly.
"era of knight would end someday…", Edmund said more.
"Might be.", the elf replied the n he said again,"we are in rough position then… if Tinto knows we were behind the uprising… then no more diplomatic will solve this problem. While sadly, we could not afford to fight anymore. Not in this condition."
"What? But I say we just strike them back! That's the way Zexen deals!", a rather big man now answered.
"….not about nobility…. We must save our men and country even our dignity…..-", the elf said again. He was actually half elf and human and had lived in Zexay from the day he born, adapted and mingled well with human culture instead of the conservative and cold (and somewhat arrogant) culture of elf. But his sentence was cut off by the big guy next statement,"hey gents… isn't it obvious? That damn unworthy coward Tinto attacked us suddenly because they knew about that uprising matter! And we know that Tinto always wants our land for themselves. The embargo policy was just a fresh start to bring us down. Now they have commenced battle, so we will not just sit around doing nothing! What do you think about it, Ed? "
"Guys… you are just assuming things. We'll strike back of course, there's no way we would surrender. I myself prefer we fight them directly instead of doing some useless diplomacy which might put Zexen pride at bottom. That's if the council approve it."
"DAMN the council! !if they don't?", Rave, the big man asked more.
"I say the knights still fight.", Edmund answered. Rave was started to grin in agreement when Edmund said again, "but like I said, we are just assuming things. We should make things clear first. And you surely know that the council is literally hopeless."
"find the truth whether Tinto is behind the attack or no."
"you got me, Deus."
"BUT ISN'T IT OBVIOUS? You saw the flags aren't you? They burnt Zexay! Twice! And last was front attack… didn't it clear enough?", Rave furiously said.
"…..there might be third party who wants to worsen our already bad diplomatic relationship with Republic Tinto. In fact they had pulled back completely without really destroyed us is something … very intriguing. They could just annihilate us, made Zexay burnt completely, invade us, claimed us…but they just left without traces…if this Tinto wanted power to control our land, they had already got it, why loose it?"
"so?"
"I'd like to have diplomatic meeting then, with me as Zexen representative while Tinto might send whoever they want. I'm going to talk to the council about it."
"with an unofficial mission first like always, Captain?", Deus asked, smiling, knowing.
Edmund nodded and he stood up, "I'm going to Vinay del Zexay now. Keep attention on any kinds of suspicious movements."
"Count on us. The Brass Castle will still stand whenever you go back.", Rave said, put a hint of joke there.
Edmund Redrum left the room.
"…. he said he hates the council but he deals with them again… that Ed…"
"…don't you see something odd in him lately?"
"what? His tantrum is always like that. Swordsman of rage is the trademark of his family anyway… ha ha…"
"…..well, the death of Philip… don't you think it affects him?"
"Philip… that loyal boy… perfect attendant…..I always thought he'd make a good knight someday, never thought-"
"and he now has a knack on picking some random mysterious boy from nowhere… "
"WHAT? Never heard about it….."
"Adrian told me in Zexay before."
"oh… out of his character…", he looked at the window, "But peaceful, isn't it? It's like the sudden attack had never been happened."
o.O.o
o.O.o o.O.o
Hans woke up in comfortable bed. The room was nothing luxury, just a small room with one bed. Much like storage room despite the bed.
"So, you've awake…No, Edmund is not here. Hans isn't it? My name is Adrian Harass. We've met before but never introduce ourselves properly."
"One of the mighty Zexen knight I assume. What a pleasure to meet you, Sir."
"…..Let's get this straight. What's a highland royal family doing here?"
Royal family?
"I think you misunderstand, Sir Knight. I am indeed from Highland but nothing related to royal bloodline.", he could not help but laugh a little.
"Don't try to fool me, boy…..so….what's about Hawk family ornament doing there in your shirt? Edmund found it…. And your swordplay… it's highly doubted it is a coincidence."
Hawk? Wooden symbol I got from Alberto? Don't tell me he had become some nice aristocrat living in the palace now…he recalled his times during Highland liberation war which resulted the establishment of New Highland Kingdom and remembered his vague friendship with Alberto Hawk during the war. He was…a good general indeed.
"Do you have some kind of relationship with Alberto Hawk by any chance?"
Speechless. But he knew he could turn this as an opportunity.
"Well, yes. Actually, I am Hans, younger brother of Alberto. And Hawk is not a royal family, sir...Blight is. " a little lie, but Alberto would understand my situation.
"live in the palace as well. *Sigh*….do you know what? A royal family or no, your presence here in Zexen land had already complicated the situation. And you better not lying to me, kid."
"…."
"and don't get me wrong. I honestly don't trust you. But I thank you to save my friend nevertheless."
"…Can I go now?"
"I am afraid not."
Then Adrian went out, leaving Hans locked in the small yet nice room.
What I've thrown myself into…
o.O.o
"So, you have talked to the council?"
"Yes… now it's up to them."
"So, your own mission? Who'll you send?"
"…I'll think of it later. Anyway, about that boy… how is he doing now?"
"Improving. The doctor takes good care of him…. You know that he might be a problem right, Ed?"
"A highland citizen in our land. What would that Kingdom think if its citizen died in our land. We could not protect our own citizens, and not safe for foreigner."
"..ha ha… I bet the council men become bald already…. the worst part is he is some kind of royalties."
"if that kingdom hears, our credibility is at stake and worst scenario, we'll ended up to have diplomatic issue with Highland. Royalties or no… is equally the same actually."
"Yes….we could not afford to loose. What if, Highland is behind this also… in these uncertain times, we don't even know who the enemies are… while making good friends for future alliance is really…. must be encouraging.", Adrian said more.
"Right. He could be a fake also but the risk is too-"
"-we can not afford any risks, Ed."
"I know. And if Harmonia still backs up the New Highland Kingdom… things would get much complicated. We really don't want to get problems with Holy Kigdom of Harmonia. That's why I think we should keep an eye on him, we can not release him yet. No if we aren't certain his position is. Anyway, don't let the council knows about this matter."
"Of course. It won't do any good. You know how the council are…"
"Right…hm, I honestly don't find any potential harm in him. But who knows?"
"So, wanna take some drinks now, Ed?"
He smiled, "Pass this night. Tinto might attack this night, ha ha …."
Edmund then walked to the place instead. He wanted to see the boy.
o.O.o
…how can I send message? Hans was observing the window. But no, they put suspicion on him already, that's why things could not be easier.
He shrugged. It would be a problem if he did not send his silly message to Alberto. Oh, my… he had already lost his reputation already. Could not think how that man would mock him. Anyway… there's no need to be hurry, I'll deal with it later. Hans could not believe now he was locked in this damn room after he saved that golden hair knight! He made a mental note, next time, do not even think of saving others…he could really flee unnoticed easily when that ruckus happened anyway but here he was… the fruit of his kindness. He tucked the window again and now was surprised to see two red orbs.
Krek. The sounds of wooden door turned his attention.
The door opened and revealed the Redrum Guy in his arrogant attitude like always.
"Feeling better?", he entered with a tray of meals. Arrogant with *kind eyes*, Hans added in thought.
"I suppose… I just can not understand why I should be locked in a room instead."
"Well, you're happened to come in a wrong time. And a merchant with a high skill in fighting just add more suspicion"
"….."
"A Hawk family, aren't you? Why did you flee from your country?"
"I think I have my own reason, sir."
"the burden of family name?"
"…."
Nothing funny but Edmund laughed heartily. "that's why you turned to be a merchant instead…In the name of Zexen, I'm highly sorry for inconvenience. But once the peace had formed, we would escort you back to Highland."
"while we don't know how long that peace would be formed.", he sounded rather sarcastic.
"you are sure a funny one, kid.", Redrum said, laughed. "but true. And that is how it goes I'm afraid."
"and I don't want to go back to Highland. I swear I don't work for anyone… not a spy or something… nor cause-"
"I get the picture. But since you're now in Zexen Land and is…uh… under age, then you are under Zexen protection until everything relatively safe thus we escort you back to Highland or its nearest ambassador."
"is it officially?"
He nodded. "but you are great, don't you know it? Whatever reason you have back then, now you're here. You have the guts to see outside world and followed your own heart, which believe it or not- I don't.", he smiled.
Oh my….now this Edmund started to talk about himself…so funny, he tried to act mature infront of me…..way too fast 200 years, kid…and in 15 I've already thrown to be some leader of ongoing war…
Hans tried to steal gaze at the windows.
"Don't want to go back to Highland, huh…Do you want by any chance to be a knight? You have your skill there."
"…..Trading is my calling, Sir Edmund."
"…very determined… I see .. hmm….how about this? In these uncertain times, you could become my attendant… thus you don't have to be locked forever like this."
"…what? Then I could really stab you if I were spy like you thought."
"ha ha… I think I have found my new attendant… well, consider this as my way to reply your late fool miscalculated action, Hans… thus we square."
Then Edmund left the room with a lighter heart. Odd, but he found himself more entertained than drinking whole night with Adrian.
Krek. Hans approached the window. And a white bat came in.
"no…..go out…"
It turned to be the cute lady, Sierra. From the look of her, Hans knew she was about to burst in angry. Thus Hans shut her mouth with his hands. "….sorry, but I don't want to add more problems… I am already- suspicious enough."
"You just left me there….I can't b-", she whispered angrily and held again by Hans's hand.
"Here, could you send my friend a letter? If it is difficult, use the bird… I can not possibly doing it here."
"Why would I?"
"Oh, c'mon, Sierra….. and you should go away. After I got myself through this, we'll meet later."
She smiled suddenly. "I take your words, Ry- Hans."
Then the lady turned to the bat form and went outside the window grabbing the letter addressed to Alberto Hawk.
I have nothing to do anyway… no money…no place to live…. He looked at the hot meals Edmund brought in, even that nice apple pie was there too! …..no real destination except finding Tir…well, maybe it's not really a bad idea hanging around in Zexen for awhile, watching another….*sigh* bloodshed….
o.O.o
o.O.o o.O.o
It had already four days, and Hans had already been brought to Brass castle. Within three days, he had been to various important meetings, tailing 'his superior', Captain of the Zexen Knight, (the golden hair arrogant boy, Hans added), Edmund Redrum. His identity as Highland citizen was only for the 4 generals- the 4 mighty knights of Zexen- to know. He was called Redrum attendant since then. Within these days Hans had got the picture of what's going on. Tinto was apparently being accused of sudden attack. Twice attacks with lot of damage on Zexen side with a surprising full retreat of Tinto without even conquering the Zexen. It was truly odd. A month or two months ago, Tinto was applied embargo policy to this trading country. And everyone knew that Tinto-Zexen relationship never been in good terms for hundred years. But somehow, he did doubt Tinto was behind this all.
Now, he was sitting in the knight lounge, cleaning it precisely, together with his 'friend', Jeremy, who was a 15 year old teen. Jeremy, the copper brown haired boy in his armor was the attendant of Adrian, the cold knight. So, they were supposed to befriend, right? Oh c'mon… I'm wasting my time here…..Hans looked at that naïve boy. With a 15 year old teen, doing house chores, preparing his 'superior' bath and food, tailing him everywhere to that endless meeting… and supposed to be there also accompany his 'superior' when he went to the battlefield…
what a waste of time…
"w-what? Hans?", the boy he stared at for minutes realized Hans kept staring at him.
"..nothing."
There this Jeremy suddenly smiled sympathetically, "Do not worry. You will be a great knight someday. And in meantime, Captain Edmund Redrum will protect you!"
Yeah…...yeah…...
"Listen, in this world, there is nothing you can't do, it's about you want it or no… I deeply feel sorry about your family… but maybe it's fate… you can do, it, Hans…! The world outside us will teach us many, I believe it! Everything bad… must have the bright side!"
Yeah,,, yeah…. Now this 15 year old advising me about the world, how funny… do I look young? Ok, I forget, I changed my appearance but my face still tells I'm 15.
"cheer up! everybody else including me, how we put it…envy… you know, you just appeared and Captain picked you! What a lucky guy you are…. Oh, Philip… …..-I sometimes, could not believe he's dead….."
"Philip?"
"you did not know? seriously? You take his place…he's ddead…. during the sudden attack…he's always with Captain Edmund since he was 6 year old! So he had followed him since Sir Edmund had not become a captain…just like a brother…" I see…. So, he looks Philip in me. What a sentimental thing for a captain!
"ahem.", a certain man cleared his throat.
"Aren't you happy to find a new friend, Jeremy?"
"Oh, Sir Adrian!", Jeremy blushed lightly and became awkward.
Adrian looked at Jeremy brotherly then turned to look at Hans, much colder.
"Jeremy, can you prepare my finest weapon? I am about to go to Zexay."
"This night, Sir?" Adrian nodded, "sure, Sir. And your hot water has been prepared in your room as well, you might want to take a dip for awhile beforehand..."
Hot. Right, not warm. I bet this heartless Adrian severely need it. Ha ha.
"thank you."
Then Jeremy went out.
"…..I think both of you get along just fine… well, Hans, I come to talk to you."
Hans, who was wiping the floor with a broom stopped. "…..and that might be?"
"well, aren't you bored enough sitting moping here all day? A Hawk family moping our castle floor…"
"…..not really, with a cheerful accompany like Jeremy.", a sarcastic tone. "and attending important meetings with Sir Edmund is certainly… a worth – uh experience."
"I have a mission for you. It's a part of your training as Edmund attendant."
"…..you said you don't trust me."
"Well I don't, but obviously the other knights and the captain do. They give you this mission."
"find the truth in Tinto, whether Tinto was indeed behind the sudden attack?"
Adrian was truly surprised, amazed by this teenager.
"well, yes…. Next six days, Captain Edmund will have a diplomatic meeting as you know it…. So be back before that. And this sword… Edmund asked me to give this to you. A good one, the one he used before his current weapon."
"why me? Is it some kind of loyalty test?", Hans looked at the sword which looked finer than his late expensive sword.
Adrian smirked, "Kid, you must ease your suspicion on me. I'm trying to believe you, do you know that? In return, you should really trust me. I'll leave Jeremy in your good hand."
Jeremy? That Jeremy? Hearing that, Hans stopped and fully listening to Adrian's instruction.
After a thorough explanation, Adrian Harrass went out to call Jeremy. Then he gave brief explanation to over excited Jeremy and finally bid them farewell. "I can't believe I'm on real mission!", the naïve boy said innocently with obvious happiness.
"It's night….so be very careful…."
Both of them nodded, one with enthusiast beaming eyes, the other with apathetic look. "Hans, can you really handle horse?", Adrian asked more.
"Yes. Is there anything else you want to ask, Sir?"
"…..how old are you actually?"
Hans smiled mysteriously. "19 I think… do I somewhat look younger?" then he hopped on to the horse with Jeremy followed to ride along with him.
Adrian looked at the two youngsters walked away from Brass Castle engulfed by the night. He sighed. He felt a little bad for Jeremy. But, he could not truly believe that Hans Hawk. And the fast he rid that boy, it would be best for Zexen. First was to eliminate the risk of spying during this uncertain time, with that Edmund forced his decision to keep the boy as his attendant, things would be easier for the bad guy if Hans was the real threat. Second, in case he was indeed harmless but yet a real Highlander, if he died outside the Zexen territory, Zexen would not at stake for Highland involvement. If New Highland Kingdom was still backed up by Holy Kingdom of Harmonia, things would turn even worsen. And third, the mission….. well, it was a dangerous one, and Adrian could not risk his valuable men, while he could care less about Hans, and Jeremy was someone he cared but not that valuable literally- at least now. The worst scenario… if The Republic of Tinto found out, this 'case' could be 'washed'. Zexen could acclaim its innocence just fine. This was really a loose thread.
What a sacrifice…
He felt bad but he'd do anything for Zexen.
If they back safely….things would be less complicated….. half of him wanted to believe that Hans was good enough and could complete the mission well and brought back that innocent Jeremy. After all, that Hans had saved his best friend's life, the Captain of Zexen Knights. And the fact that just for days the boy seemed to have recovered despite severely injured before was something bailed out Adrian's curiosity. "Have faith, huh?", he said alone in the dark. And he would soon deal with Edmund for this matter.
Five days later…
Hans was really exhausted. Tinto was far, ok? Practically, he did the mission alone, not to mention babysitting the little Jeremy. That boy even could not handle the weapon properly and almost always got killed wherever and whenever he was within these five days. Luckily, the mission was rather too easy for Hans. He wondered what that Master Adrian of him had taught the poor Jeremy. Hans had already knew how to wield a weapon very appropriately in that age despite he was not a knight trainee. Somehow, he pitied this naïve boy.
"Can we please stopped at the inn for a while, Hans?", Jeremy whined. But apparently, innocent Jeremy had regarded Hans as his 'real' friends despite only for week they spent days together. It was because the poor boy had never got acquaintance beside the 4 knights, since he was a little boy. And Hans was his first 'friend'.
"No time, Jeremy….. c'mon….. Nice Brass castle is welcoming us…."
True. First no time. But second reason was, Hans thought he could save money Adrian gave for he himself if they saved for unnecessary expenses just like inn cost. It's fair enough… regarding the babysitting cost….
Third, he wanted to get rid of Jeremy as soon as possible. The thought that he was already at Tinto with horse and with more than enough money… -just perfect if he wanted to go continuing his cancelled destination- but must go back and indeed he ended up back to this Zexen land just because of that too naïve little boy named Jeremy tagged along, somehow infuriated him. Oh… I wish I were bad enough… have that cold heart just like your master Adrian… he looked at the poor boy who was busy catching up with himself. Annoyed but could not be annoyed.
"ok…I get it, Hans… but could you slower a bit?"
Look how the real world have taught you, boy…
"….the faster we get out from this city… we can ride the horse again… which is good for you, right, Jeremy? Endure the pain… c'mon… you shall become a great knight someday….."
"REALLY?"
"yes…. Just like – uh- Sir Adrian I suppose."
Great job , now he got that spirit….
But Hans stopped suddenly which made Jeremy bumped him from the back.
…no…it can't be… why would they here now?
A parade was there. Harmonian flags. Citizen of Vinay del Zexay watched in curiosity. But no, they were not invading. they seems… welcomed… as guest…
"Wow…..great! I've never seen real Harmonian before! ", Jeremy yelled. "Let's take a peek…"
Hans stood freezing. Blue harmonian high soldier. These were… high rank soldiers. And the bishop…. The high rank bishop..
Sasarai…
What is Sasarai doing here? Hans held his gloved right hand, the rune of beginning; the bright shield and dark sword.
"C'mon! let's go Jeremy!", he ran.
"aye! Wait for me!"
Sasarai stopped for a second in his fine horse, looked to the left and right, then to the direction Hans was standing before.
"What's the matter, Lord Bishop?"
"Nothing." Then he continued his walks. To the council building.
In the council building…
"I come in peace. Please understand. We, Holy Kingdom Of Harmonia ask your cooperation…"
Captain Edmund Redrum was about to speak, but his hands were touched by council man who sat beside him. He cursed deeply, now his anger become twice fold. To that crazy Harmonia Bishop, and to this council. Why would I was summoned in the first place if I could do nothing but sit?
The young bishop looked at Edmund and much to his annoy, the bishop smiled rather too warmly. "well, and Zexen will get advantage….. we will not involve in your war."
That snake! He asks our true rune just like THAT?
"but if you want alliance, we'll lend our help in matter of our friendship if that time comes…"
"if that time comes, we will defend our land by ourselves, no need to seek un necessary alliance.", Edmund could not suppress his anger. Now all of heads in the room looked toward him.
"…uh…I- , we are really apology, Lord Sasarai…. Our knight is rather too rambunctious sometimes… But I could assure you, it's not what he really mean… right, Captain Edmund?", the bald man, Sam, the head of council looked at Edmund with obvious angry. He was sweating and nervous, so pathetic to be seen. Edmund could not believe what he saw and heard, he was ready to explode and went out this room if not for Zexen's best.
"…..I understand, knights are full of spirit like always…Captain Edmund Redrum, isn't it? The swordsman of rage? It's really an honor to meet you….." the too young bishop nodded politely, his sincere kindness which reflected in his eyes almost melted Edmund's heart. "hmm… back to the business… if you don't agree at this friendship offer, then I'm afraid we don't have any choice but to use a rather rude way….. "
Damn it!
The bald man sweating "Uh-" but now the red curly young man who sat beside him, his apparent right hand man, stared him to support morally and took the conversation instead.
"…I believe that is a great way to reestablish our friendship, Lord Sasarai. But I'm afraid that we don't even know where the true water rune is… they said that it's just a myth… just like the true wind rune I suppose."
Prime Lowell, the red curly hair guy, how Edmund Redrum somehow despise this young man. The advisor who worked for council…. Graduated with flying colors from economic or whatever subject there at Greenhill University of Dunan.
Bishop Sasarai smiled again, "don't you afraid. My men could handle that. We just barely need to ask your permission to search directly in your land… "
"—t that's a very polite of you..", Sam retorted.
Very POLITE OF YOU? NOW THIS MAN licks that young bishop? Where on earth is our Zexen Pride?
Sasarai smiled for awhile, and continued calmly ".., retrieve it back, and ask for your cooperation. In case you find it, bring the true water rune back to us. Have we arrived to our agreement now?", Bishop Sasarai stood now, ready to shake hand.
"as for sir Edmund Redrum here… don't you afraid. We will not put Zexen land at harm… it's only a matter of interests. And I don't see that ours actually clashing each other. Please receive our friendly diplomatic relationship… we will aid Zexen in upcoming wars-"
"-you don't really need to interfere our business with Tinto, I remind you Lord Sasarai."
"EDMUND!", the bald man now standing. "apologize, now!"
BRAK! Edmund Redrum lost his cool. It was a matter of skill (which no other men could rival him in Zexen now) and his family name that he'd still used by the council, and that he was chosen as the current acting Captain of Zexen Knights.
"…..it's alright. I can see that Zexen Knights have pride. Unfortunately, we don't really have any choice now, do we?", Sasarai's and Edmund 's eyes locked.
"the matter you want to solve your own problems and refuse our alliance, I will not take hard. I appreciate your will of independence and Zexen way to settle things and we could still establish our friendship. But as our business here, which I mean about the true rune… you surely understand completely, that you don't stand a chance to fight Harmonia now, right, Captain Redrum?", now the bishop looked so serious yet still gracefully and emitted the kind aura, yet so firm stare it was. For a moment Edmund understood that this rather too young bishop was not just any random people, he was indeed important and had good qualities despite his young looks.
What a humiliating way to mock the pride of this country! Edmund held his breath. It was true but he was truly angry. But it was true. He prayed to Sadie secretly.
"-which I would like to avoid most… since we, Harmonia, don't like it. To remind you, we could gain our own advantage here during your ...- chaotic events with whatever enemy you have now… by crushing this land to retrieve the true rune. But fortunately, we really don't like to involve in bloodshed. We are a peaceful nation. Our holy teachings always taught us so."
Edmund fell to his chair, tried his best not to burst his anger. He witnessed the two high politicians shook hands in agreement.
"May God bless your day… I'm looking forward for our friendly cooperation."
"May Honor with you like always, Lord Sasarai…. And uh…- about that alliance… we would-"
"let's just look forward it first then. We don't really need to hurry, do we?", the bishop smiled and nodded. Edmund believed, it was a soft refusal due to Edmund stubbornness earlier, but the council bald man, Sam, seemed to misinterpret the young bishop. Captain Edmund felt a little doubt and regret, could he just potentially harm his sworn- nation-to protect by confronted the young bishop of Harmonia? And the young bishop in his blue fine harmonia robe went out with his warm smile, followed by his soldiers, attendants and subordinates.
Whew… what a day… a warm bath and coffee from Hans would be nice…
And Edmund realized that Hans was not there in Brass that Adrian had sent him off without his knowing which made a big mouth fight between the two best friends 5 days ago.
Brass castle knight lounge...
"so… you've back! How about the meeting in Zexay?", Deus greeted him.
"..dreadful. A boy who has not even reached puberty controls the whole world."
"listen… Tinto is clear!", Rave said hastily.
"what? You mean Hans has arrived?"
"yes. These are the evidences and details… I must say that his work is quite praise- able.", Adrian said.
"he had explained much to us… you are just late… ", Rave said again.
"I see." Edmund examined the files and read the reports. Then he brought it with him.
"don't worry, let me explain it for you.", Deus said.
"…..uh, it's ok. I mean, I'm not in a mood to think now, the meeting was just too- exhausting. I think I'll just hear the details later, tomorrow I'll meet the Tinto representative anyway… as long as Tinto is clear, that means the meeting could safe enough. So, I'll just look forward tomorrow and hear the reports later. Where is he anyway?"
"Hans? You are sure fond of that boy… He excused himself earlier. Ill or something he said…", Rave said. Edmund noticed that Adrian was rather quiet this night.
"ill? I think I'll take a rest earlier this night. We don't know what will happen tomorrow."
Then Edmund went to his room beside the Knight Lounge. He was surprised to see Hans was half asleep in his usual chair. He soon awoke when Edmund entered.
"Oh, good night, Sir Edmund.. I was told you'd be back this night. I have prepared your warm bath and hot coffee. I assume you have taken your meals."
"…so you've back from the mission, huh? Aren't you ill or something?"
"*clear throat* Yes, that is why I was waiting for you…"
"save your reports later. I already got the picture, and these.", he appointed the files Hans brought home. "both of us are exhausted."
"thank you, sir. Anyway… that is why… I'm afraid I can not accompany you tomorrow, that's why…"
"you should not worry, Hans.", he chuckled. "you look pale. Get some rest. In fact you went to Tinto border and came back alive was rather surprising."
"so, if you excuse me, Sir Edmund…"
"well, you don't really need to act like a real attendant… or work your self to serve me, Hans.. I was asking you to accompany me wherever I go, as my right hand man or something, not practically doing the maids work…you're a Hawk family from Highland…"
"….I think I just have fun with it, Sir." He grinned. "my way to see the world…I suppose… ehm… and you could lock me again tomorrow to ascertain I'm not doing any harms for Zexen and well protected by Zexen army.", he added. "just let me rest for a day, sir."
"let us see then.", Edmund smirked.
Then Hans exited the luxury room. He got the excuse. It was a fake ill but he just could not be in Zexay while Sasarai was highly possible there.
Back in his room, Edmund Redrum was smiling satisfied …warm water and nice hot coffee… He relaxed for awhile, he felt like Philip back alive …with an amusing fact that this boy could really defend himself and was a really interesting young man.
Then he read the details and delayed his urge to rest. This was a serious matter. He went to the Knight Lounge and found Adrian was still there. Thinking by the window.
"…..what do you think, Adrian? If not Tinto, then who?"
Then the two knights discussed the odds.
The Zexen council building, days later...
"Republic Tinto is not behind this. We shall cooperate together to find whoever use advantage at our diplomatic issue."
"so, finally, we come to our peace agreement… may this last for centuries…"
Bla bla bla…. bla…a long meeting…. And finally the formal banquet.
Hans yawned. Another typical boring meetings… for centuries huh? What a joke….he cursed himself, regretting why so suddenly he ended up going to the important meeting, accompanying his 'supposed superior', and introduced as Redrum's attendant. Yeah…. Sasarai nor Harmonia flags were nowhere to be seen and this supposed to be a good 'farewell' to that Redrum boy… just need to find the right time to say since finally the peace had formed, right? He could set off from Zexen land finally…..
Which was not that great actually, with nothing to do….
With Sierra possibly tagged along…..well, should he consider to stay in Zexen for awhile?
Hans eyed important people there, no one he recognized. And he did not pay attention enough anyway. He just recalled that Sam guy, head of the council as always…, the Zexen knights…, that president of Tinto…the ministry of diplomacy of Tinto, Eldbert, that Ferulean boy- ministry of economy of Tinto…. And that somehow intriguing Sam's advisor, the too young advisor, curly red hair… Clowell or something… much reminded Hans of Silverberg family…
But no, he was just another nerd young scholar with thick eyeglasses…
Hans gazing around the banquet, looking for that certain figure, Edmund Redrum who supposed to be easy to find with that shiny golden blond hair…., he reached a glass of wine from the silver tray which a beautiful sexy waitress offered, with his hand, eyes still gazing around the room, looking for a hint of golden-
"10 years too fast, kid…", Hans felt his hand touched and his glass of wine grabbed by the man. "wine, huh?", the man, Adrian Harras, drank Hans's wine. Hans narrowed his eyes. "not for under age I believe."
"Sir Adrian..", Hans nodded, "where's Jeremy?"
"Ha ha… I'm not Edmund who forced his attendant to be wherever he goes… I thought you were ill anyway… what's on earth are you doing here? And you, looked perfectly healthy… … you certainly don't look like amateur with that wines either…..somehow, I doubt your age, kid."
Hans smirked, "You don't have to worry, Sir. The peace have formed, thus I'd like to set off soon, probably go back to Highland…so, do you happen to see Sir Edmund?"
"…..How could I know you're not going to give information on us to whoever it might be there once you're free from Zexen? And with Tinto yes, but the culprit of the sudden attacks still beyond our knowledge-"
"-because I am not a spy. I'm just a merchant who happened to come in the wrong place in the wrong time.", Hans replied lightly. Then he grabbed two glasses of the wine, drank it completely each glass in one gulp, and – trek- dropped it back on the tray just next to Adrian's ear. "I'm going to find sir Edmund by myself, thank you, Sir Adrian. Oh, and the wine is good."
Adrian stood still, holding the wine, looking at the silver hair (which bound neatly) young man as he walked away. He became more and more certain that this kid was a dangerous person, yet he could not put his finger on it precisely. But Adrian Harras would not just watch doing nothing; he'd dragged that Hans to prison again somehow…
Meanwhile…
Luxury room, Harmonia
[in harmonia it was night already]
"argh….." *disgusting vomiting sound* Sasarai held his mouth. He vomited again.
Shsssrrrrsssssss….. the water sounded as he cleaned himself. He was in the bathroom inside the luxury room, wearing simple thin white-silvery night clothes, look so different than his formal outfit. He felt fatigue and not so well, maybe that was because he teleported too often these days. He vomited again. He had not vomited since that time, when Luc told him about his origin. My… how he hated it, it reminded him when Luc told him his theory…how he felt this nauseated feeling and vomited. Now, the uncomfortable feeling of vomiting become even more disgusting. Srssss…he opened again the tap water, looking at the mirror hanging there, seeing none other than his pale face. But it was rather gloomy now, just like his twin brother. He's almost delusional that the face in the mirror now mocking him skeptically.
Knock… knock….
"are you ok my Lord?", a heavy voice from outside. His subordinate, but not the loyal one, Frans, (since Frans now was still in his journey from Zexen) asked in polite tone. "It's Gordon, here, Your Highness."
"I hear water from your bathroom… and excuse me to disturb your time… but here… I got a message from Sir Frans. May I enter the room, Your Highness?"
Frans? He exited the bathroom and approached the door to unlock it. (locked the door was a habit he picked nowadays although he did never done it in his younger years).
Hachiim….! Sneeze? Sasarai turned his head toward the source.
Then the ever young- cute- transport magician stood there by his bed, looked just like she always looked : confused. She looked almost the same, white long robe, big eyes, staff, long brown hair with flat fringe, fair skin…
…Sasarai judging her.
"Huh? Where am I?"
"The place is not important, you're in Harmonia."
"Huh? Harmon- LUC?"
Sasarai held her mouth with his ungloved hand. "Sssst…. Calm down.", his eyes quite threatening the innocent mage. Sasarai put his forefinger in his lips to sign "silent please". And fortunately, the always confused young mage understood. Luc? Sasarai was a little disappointed hearing the name but maybe she had not even met him yet. He did not know which Viki it was.
"….but Luc's dead!", she said.
"Yes he is. Hm… ms, Viki isn't it? So, by any chance have you met me before?"
She gazed around innocently. "…..L-L LORD SASARAI? I'm sorry – really do apologize, Sir!",she was stammering now.
Sasarai sighed. His attempt to shut this lady's mouth was likely to no avail. He shrugged.
"So I assume we've met during the second Fire Bringer war, isn't it?"
"YES! 2 years ago!I was at this banquet-", she was about to chirp a long one so Sasarai held her mouth again gently.
"you are not supposed to be here, lady Viki. Now if you will go out…", he smiled. He was really tired and the confused magician visit was the last thing he needed right now.
Krek! What? Now Sasarai was surprised, so, he had not locked his door yet this night. The door opened and Gordon looked at them with a very shocked eyes. He could not believe his saint lord Sasarai was with a stunning beautiful woman in this late night. But he did not dare to assume.
"Oh…uh… ummm…. O- ok..", Viki said. She went clumsily to the direction of windows, avoiding the gaze of the newcomer. But Sasarai halted her, grabbed her shoulder in pure annoy, "The exit is this way.", he said waving his arm to the door gracefully like always.
Viki then awkwardly exited the door, almost bumped Gordon who stood there.
…while you can always transported out with your blinking rune, Viki…. Sasarai sighed as he watched the confused magician.
"What is it, Gordon?", Sasarai turned his attention toward his subordinate. Gordon could not find his words and looked awkward.
And as Gordon saw it, his superior eyes were not focus like they had always been.
"It's really nothing like you think…", Sasarai clarified.
"ahem..* Clear throat*, I apology to –uh- disturb your private time, Your Highness… here.", he said giving a letter to Sasarai and excused himself in a hurry.
Sasarai accepted the letter but now his mind was rather occupied by something else. As he knew, Viki's appearance was somehow always linked to tenkai star.
… Viki…..., could it be? The time has come? The game has started again…..?
Meanwhile...
There he is! Hans spotted the somewhat over styling golden curly hair. Edmund Redrum, was talking with two people, holding a glass of wine. Edmund then looked at Hans and reacted. Just by that, Hans spotted a hint of familiar green bandana outside the luxury hall- outside the building- behind where Edmund stood.
"What?", Edmund expression was questioning Hans. "Looking for me?"
"Well, yes… Sir, Edmund,is Toran Republic invited too?"
Now Edmund raised an eyebrow. This was not the question he expected from Hans.
"Toran? For Sadie sake, Hans! How could on earth Toran Republic invited in closed meeting between two countries who hold a peace agreement? Ha ha…", he laughed, "so? What is it you want to talk about? I have already had the hint anyway."
But it is him!
"…so the peace have formed in not even 3 weeks, right? Do you want to go back to Highland now?"
"I said-", eyes still looked for the man outside.
"I know… you went to Zexen purposely for trading… but why, you can defy your blood, if you have your own reasons to leave Highland then it is your choice, but here, I offer you again… be a knight here in Zexen?"
"I-uh-", Hans wanted to leave to catch up the green bandana man.
"trading is your calling again…. Ha ha… of course…..I'm just teasing you. You can work here start your trading activity if you want as the real peace has formed yet we don't-"
"I apology, Sir Edmund. I want to excuse myself for I'm not feeling well right now.", Hans said and ran outside, leaving a confused then annoyed Edmund. But it was not totally lie. He did feel a strange feeling and somewhat dizzy, just like whenever he got close to Sasarai. He wondered if Tir was really there or this was because of the wine. And it helped much, his lips were already pale so Edmund might buy it. Anyway , Edmund always been taught, Knight was just for pure Zexen, Zexen citizen, not foreigner, so he just stood there silently, watched Hans going out of the building.
Damn it! What is Tir doing here? where did he go anyway? Or did my mind and sight blurry because of wine?
Then he caught a glimpse of red hair. Clowell or something. He was running. Hans decided to follow him. But then Clowell was back to the banquet.
As Hans went back to approach the hall entrance, he saw the president of Tinto was having discussion with the bald man, Sam, and his advisor, Clowell-or- something. They laughed diplomatically. The middle aged bald man looked so hopeless and pathetic, nervous and yeah- pathetic.. Then this Clowell -the red hair man- whispered something to Sam and Sam suddenly smiled mischievously and turned his back to call Edmund who was standing not far from the entrance. Then they're both leaving, entering the banquet again. Having conversation together, with an obvious annoy look of Edmund.
It was night already, and the representatives had been offered nice luxury rooms of the council building. The president with his fine bodyguards was accompanied by Lowel Prime toward his room. Hans eyed the red hair advisor again. Both of them now talking seriously, with an occasional friendly laugh in between, and they had been led to the fine room.
"no fun again in this land…", Clowell -or something- said. (Lowel Prime, but Hans did not remember his name appropriately)
"…"
"I don't have any hatred toward you. But you seemed to be in the wrong place. I'm in the middle of… chess game. And he's almost found out.", he grinned mischievously.
What? What is this all about? Geez…
Three bodyguards had died silently. Hans looked toward the place where the president of Tinto lied helplessly, who was now bleeding severely. He pitied this man. And he surely could help the man, by any chance, this president would survive. If he removed the blade… or if he used the rune… His kindness conscience calling him... But Hans would not want to be trapped in that kind of game again. Not, if he ever had that 2 centuries ago. YOU PURPOSELY MADE ME FOLLOW YOU? Just to blame on me?
Kid… I'm not going to be trapped in dull game again…
Hans sighed and hurry ran from the place, very carefully not to leave any traces nor touching anything, very experienced to 'wash' himself from the murderer scene. He did not care whether that the red hair man also fled from the place or not. He now must be in his supposed room, lying in bed, ill. If then any soldiers investigate this, there would not be any proofs directed to him.
Not long after that, Edmund and Adrian arrived at the scene with a widen shock eyes.
The peace agreement had just formed and was ironically broken already in the banquet celebrating it.
Not trapped in a game again…. Hans thought, lying in his bed, trying to sleep.
o.O.o
*author note: to clarify things...
Setting of this story is 179 years after suikoden 3. (194 from suikoden2)
Riou met (reunion) Tir soon after he decided to live separately with nanami and jowy. Both of them then became best friend and traveled together. Until, about 50 years later back in Kyaro village, Ryou mourned at two graves of his beloved ones, Tir left him alone in his stubbornness. They said goodbye since Riou depressed enough to insist stood still there. Tir decided Riou needed to left alone for awhile. And he's left him for Island Nation to seek his 'old friend'. Rumored that someone who looked and sound like Ted was there in history. He knew that Ted was dead right infront of his sight, but he was just wondering and hoping that something might be yet not cleared. Or else he could find someone who had runes like Ted or himself. It's worth to try, especially since he had eternity to live with nothing else to do.
There, Riou met Geddoe since he was still worked for harmonia. they had met before during that Luc chaos but never been really befriended. Geddoe was no longer work as southern defense force but worked as spy (just like Nash) for Harmonia secret missions just for a change (since he was obviously not getting ANY older, could not stay too long in the same job). Thus they encounter was as enemy. Harmonia demanded Riou true rune. But, he ended up befriending Riou and always put a false direction on his presence. Hate and more to bored to the current harmonia politic, Ged then chose a break and ended up traveling together with his friend, Riou.
As hikusaak and sasarai new regiment with new political structure, Harmonia was no longer pursuing true runes for itself. Secret societies and missions were still there but more to take role as watching and "keeping the balance".
that's it I think... review please.
