Chapter Seven – Siblings Abroad


So, we left Araphan without supplies from Marquess Araphan. Spiteful old man, and I'm still sickened at the thought of us having anything in common. But now isn't the time for me to whine. We're marching for Caelin, racing against time. We have to make it to Caelin before Lyn's grandfather passes. I can see everyone becoming harried and impatient and hope I can come up with strategies that satisfy… especially when, knowing us, we'll find some distraction soon.


A little jolt brought me out of my reading of Ilian tactics. I blinked a couple of times, trying to get my bearings. And glanced around to check on everyone, since I was back in the real world, not lost in pages of aerial tactics far more intricate than anything my teachers ever described.

I was riding with Kent, and he was as focused as ever. Sain was a little further away, chatting about something with Serra. Florina was up in the skies, paired with Matthew to serve as scout, and to give her some extended time of being around a relatively strange male where she had the option of coming down and switching. On the other side of Sain, I saw Lyn chattering away as Rath nodded. I wondered if they were talking about the Sacae. It had to be tiring. Lady Madelyn this, Lady Madelyn that. Lycia this, Lycia that. She was proud of her Sacaean heritage too. Why not some of… Hassar. She said, long ago, that her father's name was Hassar. I should remember that. I should ask her questions about him. That way… she wouldn't feel alone in feeling pride about him too.

Mental check wasn't done yet, Katri. Keep focused.

Biting back a sigh, I checked behind us for those traveling on foot. Erk had his nose in a book, and I was convinced Dorcas's quiet watch was the only reason Erk hadn't tripped and fallen flat on his face. He also kept an eye on Wil as the archer looked around the area carefully. Was he scoping the area out for hunting? It might be smart to go ahead and take a break to let him. That way whenever we camped tonight, we could just get right to the cooking. It wasn't like our pace could be much slower. Though there was lunch to think about…

"Is everything all right, Lady Katri?" I twisted slightly to better look at Kent. "You stopped reading," he noted with a small smile. I made a face at him; he'd subtly teased me earlier about how many books I had.

"Everything is fine," I reassured after the moment of childishness. I marked my spot, though, and closed the book. "Just checking on everyone, and thinking about food."

"We're not far from a city, if I recall correctly." That would be good. We certainly had the funds to splurge a little. Thank you, Rath and Matthew. "It should be a quiet place to rest." Here was hoping. I didn't want to experience another Araphan. "You… mentioned to Marquess Araphan that you are of house Hanover." I think I did more than 'mention', Kent. Why was this being brought up? "The horses Sain and I ride are from Hanover stock." Wait, really? Was Caelin that rich or were Sain and Kent higher ranked than I originally thought? Good horses were expensive, and Father bred the best. There was a reason why even Bern was willing to swallow their pride and buy from him. "I've never had a better horse."

"Yeah, the ones sold have nice temperaments." You could leave a baby in their care, and know it would be safe. "Trained well." All of them got basic training before being sold. No exceptions. "Why bring it up?"

"I suppose I was startled." He hesitated before continuing, "I had heard it tended to be minor nobles who went to Etruria's tactician school. But Hanover is one of the highest, yes?" Hanover, Reglay, Caerleon, Eir, and Caliburn. The five noble houses that supported the king.

"It caused a bit of a scandal, yes." I sighed, remembering that time. "Luckily, I used to be even more hotheaded than both Lyn and Sain." Kent tried to smother his laugh, and I pretended to glare at him for it. "Mother still hasn't forgiven me for it, but Father gave his permission, so there wasn't anything anyone could do." Now that I remembered, even though Father had given permission, Pent had been the only one to fully support me from the very beginning. No wonder I'd gotten that mild crush on him. "I earned my place, though." Studying into the night, and then studying still. I'd been determined to be the best. "Only way I was treated differently than the others was how I spent my breaks." Louise taking me on walks, Pent showing me new tactics, Nichol lending me history books, Douglas letting me watch the soldiers practice… babysitting Perceval, Cecilia, and Mildain, and other toddler nobles since their mothers were busy with court antics…

"I didn't mean to imply otherwise. Certainly, we owe our lives several times over to your tactics." Thank you, Kent. "I'd simply been surprised."

"You and a bunch of others." I smiled wryly. "Ah, well. It got me Douglas and Nichol's respect." And it took a lot to earn the respect of the Knight General and High Tactician. "Anyway…" I glanced around again and noticed Sain was way up ahead. "Kent, why did Sain move ahead without saying anything?"

"I've one guess, and I hope it's correct." Kent sighed. "Otherwise, I'm going to have words with him." I was going to have words. I needed to know where people were! The fire at Araphan still scared me.

"Everyone, look!" Sain yelled, waving from the hill up ahead. "We're at Kathelet!" As Kent caught up to Sain, I could see the small, but lovely looking city sprawled out below, hugging the hills and mountains. "Caelin is due south from here!" Truly? We really were reaching the end, huh?

"How far from here?" I asked Kent, tilting my head back to look at him. Even now, he didn't seem to relax. "Couple of weeks?"

"Providing we have no delays, it's less than that," Kent answered. He eased his horse next to Sain's, and I saw Rath do the same on Sain's other side. "Ten day." So, ten days away, assuming no sidetracks? Well, we were about to get a distraction then, weren't we? "You look troubled."

"I'm just well aware of our luck." And now that I looked, wasn't there a small boy heading our way? "Let me down, Kent. I've got to talk to Florina."

"Hmm?"

"P-pardon me…" I heard the young boy pant as I slipped down and signaled Florina to land. As she slowly circled down, I studied the boy. Thin, with teal hair and red eyes. Dirt smudged, scraped up, and I could see a bruise peeking out from his collar. "U-um… are you mercenaries?"

"And if we are?" Lyn jumped down from Rath's horse and crouched to look the boy in the eyes. "We're in a bit of a hurry," she whispered. I saw her fists clench in her skirt, though. "If you need help, it might be better to ask someone else."

"Th-there's no time!" Tears filled the red eyes and his voice cracked. "I've asked all over the city and they wouldn't help!" No one in this entire city? That… had to be a lie, right? Yet… wait, when did I stop being cynical at scruffy kids? "And some bad men have taken away my sister!" …Oh, man. "I don't know what I'll do without her…" Cue outburst in three… two… one…

"Your sister?" I bit back a groan as Sain jumped into the conversation. Called it. "My lady, Lyndis! We must help him!" Sain insisted. I glanced at him and, while I figured he'd flirt with her the second he got a chance, I knew by the seriousness in his eyes that he was just worried about what could happen to a kidnapped girl.

"We haven't the time. Our marquess is ill." Now, someone might call Kent cruel, but I saw how tightly he clenched his hands. Sain picked 'good', but Kent picked 'lawful'. "And what if this is a trap?" he asked. I agreed at the possibility, but knowing Lyn… ah, Florina landed. Wonder what took so long.

"Kent," I heard Lyn murmur. I signaled Dorcas and Wil to get their weapons as I made my way to Florina and Matthew. "I… I want to help this child." Called it. "I'm worried about Grandfather, of course, but I cannot stand by and let a child be taken from her home!" I dug out paper and pen from my bag, thinking quickly as I nudged Erk to put down his book and get out his tome. "I'm sorry…"

"I am your loyal retainer." Ever the true knight, Kent. "You must do as your heart dictates, milady. I will follow you, no matter where that may lead." If it led to Lyn taking her vengeance on the Taliver, I was definitely intervening. I hadn't forgotten how scary she had looked back then.

"Ha! Such a noble speech, bosom companion!" Sain laughed. I could imagine him easily hitting Kent on the shoulder. I just shook my head and passed the pen and paper to Matthew. "You're in luck, laddie. Let's get your sister."

"And hopefully the smooth talking knight won't scare her." I choked on a laugh at Serra's deadpanned reply. Where had that come from?! "Well, let me down, Sain," I heard her order. I just studied Florina, silently asking if she was up for this. She nodded vigorously, eyes bright and stubborn. "I can't ride with you while we're fighting. I'll be in so much danger, and we wouldn't want that!" True. It was stupid to purposely expose your healer to danger unless they could defend themselves. "Boy, hold still. I'll heal you up." Shaking my hand at Serra's abrasive kindness, I watched Florina and Matthew mount up again and take to the skies. "Oh, where's Katri?"

"Getting her map," I answered, turning to face the others once Florina and Matthew were up in the air. "What?" I smiled at the surprised looks from Lyn, Serra, Kent, and Sain. "Was there any doubt Lyn wouldn't want to help the child?" Lyn immediately pouted, while Kent and Sain ducked their heads to hide their smiles. Serra was more open about her laugh, but she quickly turned her attention to the boy. "Okay, let's see…"

"Katri." I tilted my head towards Dorcas, even as I thought. "Enemy here," he informed me. I groaned and turned to see he was correct. Wearing a hooded robe of purples and black. Wasn't that hot in this weather? "Orders?" Give me a moment, Dorcas. I was trying to find their weapon!

Of course, when I did see the black tome they carried, I grit my teeth. "Everyone, watch your shadows," I ordered, softly. The child ducked behind Lyn, who stood protectively in front of him. "Erk, whatever you do, don't cast your magic at them." Erk wasn't strong enough yet to fight against the magic triangle. Okay, convenient universe, this is where you made someone with light magic suddenly appear and… yeah, that was absolutely ridiculous…

So, of course, that was exactly what just happened. Okay, at this point, I was willing to believe in guardian spirits and whatnot because there was literally no other reason why two lightning spells cracked through the shaman and killed them easily. This was entirely too convenient here!

The shaman's body crumpled to the ground, revealing the magic user who had appeared just as we needed them. I knew those robes. An Elmine monk. Well, things just got weirder. Monks normally stayed at churches or orphanages. "Ah, please forgive me," he murmured, ducking his head politely. Even in the middle of thinking strategy, I couldn't help but spare an envious thought for how pretty his hair was. I knew mine had to be a mess by now. "I happened to be at the inn when the child there came seeking help. The innkeeper was afraid to get involved and was… unpleasant." I swear by all that's holy, if those bruises came from him, I was bringing that innkeeper before a judge!

"It's okay," the child said as he poked his head out from behind Lyn. I didn't like how bitter and sad his smile was. "I'm used to being treated that way." Are you serious?

"Just because you're used to it, child, does not make it right." The monk had a kind and gentle smile. I was reminded of Yodel, actually. "My name is Lucius. I would like to help the boy, if possible." I was not saying 'no' to free help, especially when that help wielded light magic in a battle filled with shamans.

"Then you'll be listening to my orders," I answered, stepping up. I bowed to him, right hand resting on my shoulder, and he reciprocated the gesture easily. Lyn made a confused squeak, but I'd have to explain later about proper bows and the like. …Actually, I needed to give her a crash course in some basic etiquette as a sav… no, as Sacaean culture likely didn't have equivalents. "Glad to have someone strong to dark magic." Lucius just smiled. "You prepare for a long fight, all right?" He nodded and I turned to find Wil. "Check to make sure we don't have others sneaking up on us."

"Got it, Katri," he replied. He went ahead and notched an arrow as he moved ahead, likely heading to some of the nearby trees. All right. Hopefully, no one would ambush us. Florina and Matthew were still up in the air. Dorcas and Erk were checking their weapons, Serra was studying her staff, the horse riders were dismounted to give their horses a break before the fight…

"Katri?" And Lyn was still next to be, child behind her. "What did you mean by 'strong to dark magic'?" she asked me curiously. Right, Sacaeans didn't seem to have magic. "I've heard dark magic is strong." But inaccurate. Thankfully. "Is it like the weapons triangle you told me about?"

"Yeah, dark magic 'suffocates' anima magic," I explained absently. How much longer would it take those two to make a map? Were there that many people we were fighting? Just what was going on? "Light magic 'pierces' dark magic and anima magic 'swallows' light magic." Thus the magic triangle or so my teachers explained.

"Swallows?"

"Anima magic is the magic of the world. Nature absorbs light to gain the strength to grow." Her eyes lit up and she nodded. I figured she'd understand that explanation. "So, let's see where we can hide the child-"

"Nils." I looked down and the boy was looking right at me. "My name is Nils," he repeated. I nodded, accepting the correction. "And I can help!" What. "See?" He produced a flute and played a few little notes… and I instantly felt it. The surge of energy that marked…

"You've the Bardic Gift." He nodded excitedly, eyes bright as he realized I knew what this was. "Is it just energy or…?"

"No, I know other songs!" He beamed at me, and I could feel everyone's confused gazes on my back. "Songs to strengthen and songs to elevate skill!" Both very useful for an offensive fight. "Miss, how do you know about the Bardic Gift though? It's rare." Yeah, well…

"Mildain has it." Nils's eyes blanked. "Sorry, he's a child I babysat when I was back in Etruria." And the crown prince, but no way was I mentioning that here. "Okay, give me a second to…" I heard wings and looked up to see Florina and Matthew were descending. "Okay, let me look at the map, and then I'll think of a strategy."

This was going to be a weird day, wasn't it? Ah, well. Weird was becoming normal.


After much consideration, and analysis of the map and enemy numbers Matthew and Florina had provided, I decided to send Florina and Lucius up over the mountain peaks to harry the group of dark mages stationed at the southern fortress. I prayed she'd be okay. She looked so nervous, but I was counting on them. She knew it too. I just hoped the strain didn't cause her to make a mistake… No, I had to have faith in her. I was trusting her, and I wouldn't let it falter.

While they did that, the rest of us would take the long way around. Sain and Kent were the vanguard, with Rath immediately behind them to cover their blind spots with arrows. Erk and Wil followed behind them, Wil focusing on any shamans he found and Erk focusing on archers. Dorcas brought up the rear of the formation, killing anyone who survived the initial assault. Lyn's primary job during this was guarding Nils, who would play songs for whoever he thought needed it at the time. Serra stayed by me, and Matthew was my guard and messenger. Or, well, was supposed to be. However, he disappeared as we approached a small group of houses located outside of the city limits, and that left me trying to run a strategy and look for a missing thief. And pissed me off because that gave me much more work than I needed. Especially when Lyn took a pretty bad injury to her side protecting Nils from a dark magic spell.

"I can heal this up easily," Serra declared loftily, already working. I bit back any retorts I had, knowing they'd just distract her. Instead, I just rested a comforting hand on Lyn's head as she grit her teeth in pain. "Without even a scar!" Because that was important. Still…

"I'm counting on you," I told her. She flashed me a bright smile before focusing on working. I took the opportunity to look over the area, taking into account things. Aside from a missing Matthew and an injured Lyn, we seemed to be doing rather well. But this was definitely more difficult than the previous fights. This was a very organized group. Why? Who would be after Nils and his sister? Someone hoping to profit off the Bardic Gift he had?

"Katri!" Wil appeared at my side. I grimaced at how empty his quiver was looking. "Bit of a lull, so I'm picking them out of the bodies," he explained, seeing where I was looking. I glanced around to confirm that the enemies had retreated. The tight grip on their weapons, though, suggested it was temporary. "Everyone is fine, though Erk mentioned something about ink and running out?" And considering we likely didn't have access to the special ink that tomes were written in, that meant having to buy him another fire tome. "Horses fine. Kent is liking the sword picked up in Araphan." Good. "Oh, I should get arrows for Rath, too." I glanced to make sure he hadn't taken a head injury. "I'm fine. Just tired." I nodded, crossing my arms. I glanced down to see Serra still tending to Lyn. "Dorcas's axe broke, but he picked up a replacement." All right. "Sain's lance snapped, so he's using the other sword gotten from Araphan." So, tomes and lances were what we had to buy as soon as possible. "And Matthew is in there." He pointed to a specific building in the group of houses. Oh, if that's where he was… "Orders?"

"Guard Serra," I replied. He nodded, clearly expecting it. "Nils, if there's a lull, take the break. Lyn, careful of moving once the fighting picks up again." Lyn sighed and nodded. "I'm going to get our thief."

"Have fun!" Wil, you probably shouldn't be gleeful, considering I planned on giving Matthew a lecture. Ah, whatever.

Waving farewell, I made my way to the building Wil pointed, grimacing as my leg protested. I was keenly feeling how much of a pain it was to limp everyone, both figuratively and literally. Ah, well. I'd get used to it, and not being able to run. I just wished I'd had the time to rest before going straight from riding to standing around.

Shaking my head, I entered the building, and grimaced as the smell of stale ale assaulted my nose. Clearly, this was a tavern, and not the cleanest of ones. It was pretty dimly lit, too. But Wil had said he saw Matthew duck into here, and I trusted his eyes, so I was going to find the 'thief' and drag him out by the ear for leaving without letting me know.

Or that was the plan. When I found him in the backroom, I was mildly distracted by the man Matthew was talking with. Mostly because of all the blue. Heavy blue armor, blue hair, blue eyes… clearly, someone had a favorite color. And he stared right at me, eyes narrowed in study, while Matthew fidgeted awkwardly at his side.

"Excuse me," I began, nodding politely. Clearly, I'd interrupted a conversation and I would keep a modicum of manners. "But your companion is someone that I assigned a task to, and disappeared without informing me." I glared at Matthew, who smiled sheepishly. "We can talk thieves and spies later." Because the only reason I could see Matthew leaving so quickly was to report, and why else would he have to report? "I need him back immediately for a lecture from hell and his messenger skills." The man kept silent, studying me still, so I studied him too. Strong was the first impression I got. Perhaps unskilled, but strong nonetheless. "That armor for show?" The man shook his head, smiling slightly. "Great. You're conscripted for the fight." Matthew made an interesting strangled noise, but the man simply remained quiet. "Kid needs protecting from kidnappers."

"You talk a lot." Boy, if those were your first words to me, I was going to clonk you over the head with my pack full of books. Show some manners! "I was wondering when you'd get to the point," he continued, shrugging. He reached back and produced an axe. If I wasn't mistaken, it was a 'Wolf Beil', an axe designed to slaughter cavalry and cleave heavy armor. "So, kid in trouble?" I nodded, biting back any retorts I had. "I was wondering about the noise. Everyone said to not worry about it, so I figured it was something expected." If this was expected, I was having words with the marquess of Kathelet. "All right, where do you want me?" I opened my mouth, but heard some sort of scuffling. I turned and gawked when I saw some of the enemy actually come in, heading straight for me. Clearly, the temporary lull was over. I tried to move out of the way, but my crippled leg couldn't move quite right, so I braced myself for yet another injury.

Only it didn't come. Someone snagged me by the waist and then the man was in front of me, splitting the skulls with a strange ease. I tried to figure out what sort of 'style' he fought with, though. It 'clunked', so I assumed self-taught, but where? It reminded me of gladiators in the arena.

"Leg seize up?" I looked up to see Matthew had been the one to pull me back. "You limp, so I figured that's what happened," he continued lightly. I glowered. "I disappeared to deal with an assassin, and then got dragged by him." Well, that mollified me a little. Just a little. "I will accept whatever creative punishment you have later, but we should probably follow the young master."

"You better have given a favorable report on Lyn." He just grinned. "Yes, yes, let's follow him, damn it. I'm still mad." Manners, though. "However, thank you for saving me. I'd rather not give Serra more work."

"Yes, Lady Tactician!" Matthew helped me up and the two of us walked down the now bloody hall to find the 'young master' in the main room, peering out the door. The other patrons had disappeared. …I hoped they'd just disappeared, at least. "Ready for your orders, young master?"

"Yeah, there are a lot of them," the man mused. He had a slight grin. "All right, who's first?" Huh? Wait, was he just going to go charging again?!

"Hold it!" I lunged forward and snagged his cape, jerking him back just as he tried to step out the door. "You going forward like that is just going to get my group killed!" I yelled. He grimaced, but moved away from the door. Oh, good, he had some sense! "You're going to guard the boy they're after. He should be with a girl with long green hair in a ponytail. She'll probably grumble, so tell her 'Katri's orders' when she demands why you're there." He nodded. "Okay, now you can go charging like an idiot."

"And Matthew can keep you from dying from being a cripple." DID HE HAVE NO MANNERS?! "Why are you glaring?"

"Just go!" As he obeyed, I turned to Matthew. "Who forgot to teach him manners?!" Matthew just laughed nervously. "Argh, I'm really peeved now!" At least things should calm down a bi-

"Katri!" And there was Florina. Which meant problem. I hated everything right now. "Sorry," she mumbled as she landed in a flurry of wind and feathers. I forced myself to relax, waving the apology away. I was not mad at her. I should just tuck the anger somewhere else. It's unbefitting of a tactician. "Someone suddenly started helping us by the fortress." Wha…? "Which is nice, except it's thrown Lucius and me off, so…" So they needed a change in tactics. Right…

"Matthew, we're heading to them." I glanced at him and he nodded. "Florina, head up and focus on protecting our helpful person and Lucius." I'd really like no one to die, thank you very much.

"Do you need to lean on me?" he asked as we walked. He made sure to go ahead of me, both to clear a path and to lessen the chances of me walking into a trap. I appreciated it. "Also, the young master sometimes talks before he thinks."

"Sometimes?" I tripped over a rock and grimaced. Yeah, my leg was not liking me right now.

"Okay, most of the time. I promise, though, he didn't mean to insult you. He's just worried about your leg, since your limp is really pronounced right now." I was well aware of my limp, thank you. And I was taking that 'promise' with a grain of salt. "Oh, I think I found the helper!" He stopped in front of me, and let me use him as a crutch as I looked over his shoulder. "There. Person by the girl with long hair."

"I see them." And I hoped that girl was Ninian. It was a lot easier than dealing with having to run an organized group down. "Lucius and Florina?" Matthew easily pointed them out. Lucius was near the girl too, using his lightning spell to blind the attackers. Florina had her pegasus dive and retreat quickly to knock them off balance, not using her lance at all. I hoped hers hadn't broken. "I think they're falling back to regroup." Certainly looked like it. "Help me over to them."

"Gladly." I appreciated how subtle he was about it. He just stayed at my side, steadying me when I wobbled. "Lucius, Florina! Our lady tactician orders you to rest!" Both smiled tiredly at that. "Should I check the girl?" Since she seemed to be unconscious, instead of simply leaning against the tree like I'd originally thought? "Yes, yes. You have fun chatting with the newcomer." I certainly would, particularly since he came to me.

This man wore blue like the other one, but his hair was an eye catching red, and he wore a circlet. That, and the rapier, marked him for a noble. "Ah, my pardon, miss," he murmured, bowing to me, rapier at his side. "Are you protecting this girl?" I nodded, trying to think of how to reply. I assumed she was Nils's sister, at least. "I see." He smiled slightly. "I saw she was with a band of ruffians and seemed upset." Well, no duh. "Was I wrong to involve myself?" Well, no, but…

"It's nice to play the knight, but next time, check and see if there are others nearby," I scolded. I couldn't help it. Yes, he protected her, but he could've gotten Lucius and Florina killed before I knew anything had happened! Also, what was with today? People helping us of their own free will without us having to talk to them first? Madness. "You threw off two of mine."

"Ah, my deepest apologies." He… actually did look remorseful. Huh. "It seems there are still more of them, though." Yes, I could see that. Only three, including the shaman I assumed was the leader, so…

"Rapier, yes?" I pointed to his sword for emphasis and he nodded. "Okay." I looked around the area. If Florina and red-haired-person here could keep those two guards off the leader… "You take that axe-wielder there." After a moment's hesitation, he nodded. "Your objective is to keep him busy. If you kill him, great, but that's not going to be your job." This time his nod was a little firmer. "Florina?" She maneuvered her pegasus next to me, and I studied her. Sweat pouring down her face, breathing hard, but the grip on her thankfully intact lance was still strong. Okay. "You're distracting the sword-wielder." She nodded firmly, likely too tired to do anything else. "Matthew and Lucius, you're taking the leader." Lucius nodded and Matthew gave me a weird look. "Look, mister 'thief', you're dodgy. Distract him while Lucius prepares a spell to one or two shot him." Matthew sighed, but nodded. "I'll remain here with the girl." No way was I leaving her unattended while she was unconscious. "Matthew, how is she?"

"No signs of major trauma," Matthew rattled off easily. He stood with a stretch. "Fainting is from drug, exhaustion, or shock, with the last two being the most plausible." I see. "Have I mentioned I hate getting attacked?"

"Then make sure to dodge." He grimaced and I shrugged. "I have faith in your abilities." Now he really gave me a weird look. "Would you all move before they strike first?"

And they were off. I leaned against the tree next to the girl, getting weight off my bad leg at last, and making sure her breathing remained as steady as it was. I watched the red-haired man draw the axe-wielder away, wincing as the dodges were much closer than I'd like. But he was avoiding injury, so that was good. Florina was doing the same with the sword-wielder, taking advantage of her pegasus being quite willing to throw out its hooves and wings to disorient. Matthew… was practicing acrobatics with the constant dodging of the shaman, actually flipping over them to disrupt their concentration. And, a short distance away, Lucius held his tome to his chest, light magic circling around him as he whispered something. Maybe a prayer?

When Lucius opened his eyes, though, and raised his hand, I whistled to catch the attention of the other three. Florina and Matthew figured out what was going on immediately, and the red-haired man picked up on it after a second or two to get out of the way. As the shaman stumbled, knocked off-balanced by a well-placed kick from the feeling Matthew, Lucius's spell hit the mark, a lightning bolt straight through the heart. I resisted the urge to sigh in relief as the leader dropped like a stone. Upon seeing their leader dying, the rest just flat-out fled. Good. Over. Now, I should return to the others and…

"Ninian!" I looked up and saw Lyn and that armored man approach. Oh, good, they were just coming to me. That was nice. The man was carrying Nils easily, and I wondered if Nils had gotten tired. "Is she okay?" Nils asked, flailing to get down. The man dropped him easily and Nils scrambled over to the girl, shaking her. "Ninian!"

"Easy, sweetling," I murmured, resting a head on his hand. He was… surprisingly cold to the touch. "She likely just fainted from shock." He sniffled, and I knelt down next to him. "I'll have Serra give her a full check over."

"So, you were late because you were saving damsels in distress, Eliwood?" Thinking the name sounded familiar, I looked up to see the armored man clap the red-haired man on the back. "Just like you!" he laughed, clearly amused.

The red-haired man just gave him a disgruntled look. "Clearly, you found a way to pass the time, Hector," he sighed. "Have you even given your name?" The red-haired man sighed again at his friend's nonchalant shrug. "For goodness sake, Hector." While they chatted, I did a visual count. Lucius was resting by Florina, who had dismounted to lean on her pegasus. Matthew was favoring a leg, but he winked at me when he saw me looking, so I assumed it was something easily fixed. In the distance, I could see Kent, Sain, and Rath catching up, with Erk, Serra, and Wil as passengers. If I tiptoed, I could see Dorcas walking behind, carefully checking each of the enemy corpses. Okay. Strangeness aside, it looked like everyone made it through and things would be fine. "Please, pardon our rudeness." Oh, red-haired man was done talking to his friend and was looking at Lyn and me. "I am Eliwood of Pherae." …Wha…? "This is my best friend, Hector of Ostia." So, I conscripted the heir to Ostia and scolded the heir to Pherae? Just my luck. I stand by my words, but just my luck. "Might I ask your names?"

"I'm… Lyn," Lyn answered after a moment. She glanced at me, and I nodded. These were people to give a full introduction to. "I'm of the Lorca tribe, and I'm the granddaughter of the Marquess of Caelin." Eliwood looked a little startled, while Hector simply looked curious. Matthew, you better have given a favorable report about her. "I know it can be difficult to believe, but-"

"No, I believe you." …Eliwood, you must be very kind and trusting to believe her that quickly, and I hope you've a set of good advisors and a better sword arm, because there were going to be many who took advantage of that. "I've heard the people of the Sacae are too proud to lie." Too proud, or just didn't want to waste time with lying when they wandered? "And your eyes are very much like Lord Hausen." Oh? "But this sounds like quite the story." Eliwood smiled warmly. "Would you mind telling it to us over lunch?" Hmm? "I'll buy-"

"We'll buy," Hector cut off. Eliwood gave him a look and Hector matched it with a grin. "We both know I'm more stubborn." Eliwood simply sighed in agreement. "Sounds interesting, and you don't look like you'll talk in circles like your tactician." I was being polite, damn it!

"No insulting Katri," Lyn immediately snapped. I was surprised by the intensity of her glare and Hector held up his hands in a pacifying gesture. "But… lunch would be nice." Yay, food and, more importantly, rest for our poor group. "After the others catch up and we get Ninian to Serra." Right, if only to comfort the little boy resting against my leg.

Let's see how much stranger this day would get, yes?


Lunch was… actually nice. Well, aside from Wil challenging Sain to a drinking contest rematch and Kent being dragged into it. And Serra stealing Erk's book so that he was forced to socialize. And Florina falling asleep in her chair and Lucius hastily catching her before she fell face first into her food. And Matthew stealing food from everyone's plates. …Honestly, only Dorcas and Rath didn't cause a ruckus, and I half-wished they'd at least intervened, but nope.

"Quite the lively group you have!" Eliwood laughed, clearly amused. I was subtly trying to get the juice out of my hair from where Erk had accidentally splashed me in his attempts to get his book back. Which didn't work because Sera had disappeared in to the back room to tend to Ninian, and to make sure Nils had eaten something. "Though, given your tale, I can see how they would all join up." Lyn and I exchanged a look and just shrugged. Eliwood was a little word. Adorable, but weird. "Still, what a thing. I know Lord Hausen was excited about having a granddaughter, but for his own brother to cause him such trouble." Eliwood sighed and shook his head. I was going to be keeping a running tally of how many times he sighed at this rate. "What do you think, Hector?"

"Why are you asking me?" Hector asked dryly. Though all of us had finished eating, he was casually drinking his ale. His fourth mug. Still stone cold sober. By Eliwood's look, I assumed such a thing was normal. "Just because Uther and I argue doesn't mean I want his throne. Far from it. I'm content in being the feckless heir, thank you very much, and I want him to marry soon so that I don't ever have to deal with it." He knocked back the last of his drink for emphasis. "Or are you talking political things? You know I prefer not dealing with that." Judging by his fighting style, I could believe it.

"Never mind." And that was four sighs. Yep, definitely keep a tally. "Still, you'd congratulated Lord Hausen when he told us."

"Eliwood, the guy has been treating us like his grandkids for years." He nodded at Lyn, who sat up straighter "Careful. He'll spoil you rotten if you let him."

"So, he's like that?" she asked softly. Both Hector and Eliwood nodded. "What else is he like? I don't… know much about him." She drooped, and I saw her fiddling with her hands. "Mother spoke kindly, but she said it was hard to talk about him, because they parted with harsh words." Yeah…

"He's calm," Eliwood answered her. He folded his hands and rested them on the table, making sure to look Lyn right in the eye. "Kind, and calm. He gives advice to the younger lords of Lycia, and gives us encouragement when we falter." Eliwood smiled. "He's incredibly reasonable, though he frequently mentions it was age that gave him wisdom, and that he made foolish mistakes for pride when he was younger." Like disown his daughter for eloping? "My father adores him greatly, and he always makes sure to visit the surrounding villages of Caelin, even though he's quite old." Aw… sounded like someone Lyn could get along with nicely! "Caelin is the richest of the territories." Well, considering what Kent said about his and Sain's horses, I could believe that. "But you'd never know it just by looking at him. He's modest and subtle about the wealth."

"I see…" Lyn had an adorable smile on her face. "I really want to meet him now." Yeah, don't worry, Lyn. I'd get you there no matter what the cost to me. "If only my great-uncle would be so reasonable…"

"He's always been ambitious," Hector rattled off. He stretched in his seat, rolling his shoulders. I bit back my snark about how he'd probably be more comfortable without his armor. Wasn't my fault if he strained something. "Not sure why, since he's unmarried." Wait, he was? Then why the hell did he want the throne?! All power, no legacy? Stupid. "Stupid, really." …Oh, I wasn't sure how much I liked that he and I thought the same thing. "Guess he's just power hungry without the sense. Making deals and the like." Both Eliwood and Lyn gave him confused looks. "What?"

"Goodness, sounds like Ostia has spies all over," I commented lightly, resting my hands in my lap just like a 'proper' Etrurian lady. Eliwood sighed (five now), and Lyn looked curious. "Certainly, you do your footwork."

"I know nothing about that sort of thing." Yet the smile said you did, Hector. Whatever. "What is it, Lyn?"

"Is spying like hunting?" she asked. I suppose sav… damn it, brain, think better. I suppose Sacaeans didn't really 'spy' on people. For now, at least. "Following a trail, waiting until the perfect time to strike?" Actually…

"Yeah, that sounds about right," I murmured. Lyn smiled, clearly glad to have a good analogy. "Though a spy goes for information, or people, rather than animals or plants."

"I see." Lyn nodded, smile widening. "That actually sounds really interesting." Somehow, I wasn't surprised. Hmm, if Caelin had spies, Lyn might actually do well in organizing them with a couple years of training? Maybe not. She still had a few hothead tendencies. Though that might cool a little with maturity… ah, why am I thinking on it? It would be Lyn's decision, and I'd be wherever Etruria placed me by then anyway.

Movement caught the corner of my eye, and I twisted to see Serra waving at us to come into the room. "Ah, seems Serra is done with Ninian," I murmured. Lyn instantly got up. I wasn't surprised. "Let's go check on her." I stood up as well and bowed to the two lords. Lyn did the same a moment later. "Thank you for the meal."

"Would you like assistance in getting to Caelin?" Somehow, I got the feeling Eliwood had been waiting to ask that. It was his earnest eyes. "I can only imagine things will get rougher as you get closer to Caelin," he explained. I resisted the urge to rub my temples at the thought of that headache. Because he wasn't wrong. But, if I knew Lyn, and I knew by now that I did…

"Thank you, but this is a personal problem." Called it. "I would like to try and reach my grandfather without dragging more people into it," Lyn added. She bowed her head again. "Thank you for the kindness, though." I half-wanted to protest, mostly because no one here had really been dragged (barring Erk, but he didn't complain). But, politically speaking, it would be better for Caelin to solve this without outside influences, if only to avoid favors. And we were still in a situation where we wouldn't need it. I think.

"I understand." Eliwood looked reluctant to accept it, but Hector nudged him into nodding. "Hector and I will be in the area for a couple of weeks, to discuss things with the reigning lord here." Oh, was that why they were here? "Please, if you need help, do not hesitate to come to us, Lyndis." Aw, how wonderful! Lyn got powerful friends that could help her in the court!

"I will remember that." Both Lyn and I bowed again and left the table, skirting around the other patrons to reach the back room. Lyn went straight in.

I lingered outside with Serra, waiting for her report. "She fainted from shock," Serra immediately explained. She clasped her hands behind her back and smiled. "And I think she missed a couple of meals." Wouldn't surprise me. "The worst damage, though, seems to be a twisted ankle." I caught the implication and sighed in relief. Good. She hadn't been sexually assaulted. "Except the ankle, she should be just fine with a bit of rest and food." Right, staves didn't really do well on things like twisted ankles. It was better to just let the body heal on its own, to prevent the healing magic from making a crippling mistake.

"Good job," I told her. She instantly beamed, and I wondered if I should note that Serra was very praise driven. "Go rest, okay? We've still got traveling after this." She nodded and curtseyed before leaving. I wondered where she hid Erk's book, before shaking my head. That was something for later.

I stepped inside, glad to see Ninian was awake, sitting in the borrowed bed with Nils burrowed into her side and Lyn sitting in front of her. I studied her as she and Lyn went through introductions. Calm with a gentle and fragile air, her coloring was noticeably lighter than her brother's, and I'd certainly never seen garb like hers before. Then again, if her brother was a bard, then perhaps it was some sort of costume?

"Serra reports you've a twisted ankle," I murmured, announcing my presence to the three. Ninian, Nils, and Lyn all squeaked at my voice, and I smiled. "Sorry, didn't mean to startle you." I held up my hands peacefully and the three slowly relaxed. Lyn sent me a pout, but Ninian and Nils just stared at me curiously. "Have you decided on what you'll do as you recover?" I didn't want the two of them to stay in this city that had spat on them when they needed help, but it was difficult traveling on a twisted ankle.

"Um… can we come with you?" Silence fell at Nils's hesitant question. "We won't be a hindrance!" he insisted, leaning forward slightly to better emphasize his words. "My Bardic Gift is useful in a fight!" I could grant that. "And… okay, Ninian can't do her dance…" So, she had the Dancer's Gift. Made sense. I'd heard it ran in families. "B-but she cooks really well!" …Oh, that was a good reason to bring anyone along. "Please?"

"Well, you'll certain fit in with the rest of our strange legion." I glanced at Lyn. "It's ultimately her choice, though. She's the leader, and I'm the tactician. She makes the decisions, and I make the plans to make it work." Lyn smiles at that, but it seemed a little… off. Was she that reluctant? "I will note that given that group we just fought, I highly doubt they'll be in more danger with us."

"That is true," Lyn murmured, sighing as she nodded. "All right, but you make sure to listen to everyone, okay?" Both of them nodded, and that's when I noticed something. Ninian kept pressing against her right middle finger, even as she clasped her hands together.

"Is your finger injured?" I asked her, moving to look her better in the face. She stared at me a moment before ducking her head. Was she shy or was I scary? "You keep pressing against it, like a child wiggling a tooth." She smiled a little at that, and I heard Nils and Lyn giggle. "So?"

"N-no, that's not it," Ninian mumbled after a moment. She kept her gaze on her hands. "I'm just not used to not having my ring." Ring? "Nini's grace. It's a keepsake from our departed mother." …Ah… "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said anything…"

But she did, so Lyn and I exchanged a look, mine carefully stoic and hers, entreating. Oh, I knew what she wanted. And I had an idea why. She didn't seem to have much of anything of her parents, or even her Clan. The idea of someone stealing a keepsake, from anyone, was too much.

So, I couldn't blame her, even though I could feel a headache coming on from how we were going to get all the goals fulfilled. "Let me gather supplies, Lyn." Her responding smile was brighter than the sun. "Make sure everyone rests until I'm done. Especially these two." Both of them were staring at us like we were insane. Maybe we were.


Okay, I got the supplies. Now, to put them in the saddlebags. That were on the horses because someone decided it was a good idea to get them already saddled up. For some stupid reason. And I… really didn't want to get near them when their riders weren't around and I just realized that if we're to have a chance at getting that ring, we'd have to go at a really fast pace, and I was already feeling sick at the thought and-

"Hey." I froze and whirled at the sound. It took a couple of blinks to focus on Rath. When the hell did he enter the stables? "You're pale," he noted. I ducked my head, wondering if there was a way I could pinch my cheeks or something to get color in them again. "Are those the supplies?" I opened my mouth to answer, but my throat was dry, so I decided to just nod. "I see." He walked towards me and easily took the supplies from my arms, stepping into the stall holding Sain's horse with an ease I envied. "You're afraid." H-huh? "Of the horses." He glanced over his shoulder as he very efficiently packed some of the supplies in the bags. Clearly, he had practice with this. "You're afraid of them."

"I am not!" I protested immediately. Oh, I could feel myself coloring now. I knew I flushed darker when he glanced at me again. "I just…" What was the excuse I used with Kent again? "I just spaced out." Except Rath kept staring, unlike Kent, and I really thought he'd keep it up until I said the truth. "…Okay, I'm scared." But they were evil, evil creatures, so that was okay.

"Have you always been?" He went back to packing, leaving the stall to go to Florina's pegasus. I stepped in with him to make sure said pegasus behaved. Besides, pegasi weren't scary.

I hesitated before answering. "No. I loved them when I was little." Before I learned just how evil they really were. "My family breeds horses." He remained silent, but his head was tilted towards me as I talked, carefully listening. "It's just what they do. Horses love the land." We left the pegasus's stall and went to Sain's horse. I didn't follow him in this time. "Most of them are warhorses, trained for battle. Slower than some other breeds, but strong and enduring." Rath pointed to Sain's horse and I smiled wryly. "Yeah, Kent says they're Hanover stock." He nodded, and continued to pack in the supplies. "The gentle ones are sold. The spirited ones are kept." We moved then to his horse. Again, I didn't follow him in. "When I was six years old, my brother got the fun idea of having me sit on one of the more fiery stallions." In his defense, my brother had been eleven at the time. What eleven year old wasn't a little stupid? "Didn't have a saddle. Just had me sit on it." So high up. I remembered that clearly. I'd been so, so high up. It had been scary even before… "But this horse was afraid of his shadow, and he caught sight of it while I was on." Hearing Mark scream as the horse knocked him to the side. The stallion galloping off, jumping the fence, and me clinging for dear life. "It took me all the way into the countryside, in a place I'd never been." I could feel myself shaking as I remembered and part of me wanted to stop. But the words kept coming despite it. "And then I fell, with the damn thing nearly trampling me as it kept on running." Hit the ground hard. Couldn't breath. Couldn't cry. Blood all over the place. "I was bedridden for two weeks, even with healers tending to me." Mark had taken a bad hit to the head that left him blind in one eye. The memory of him sobbing with his head half bandaged, apologizing over and over again, was one I'd never forget, no matter how much I tried. "I've been scared ever since."

"We'll have to ride to get that ring." Please don't remind me. "Why?" In confusion, I just stared at him. He met my gaze, hands falling to his side. Was he done? "Why are you willing to go so far for Lyn?" …Something told me he'd been waiting to ask me that.

What to say to that, though? Something in his gaze… told me to be honest. He'd know if I was lying. "Honestly, I don't know anymore." I laughed bitterly, feeling myself droop. My gaze dropped to the ground, admiring the dusty hay scattered about the wood. "I… used to think like Marquess Araphan." It hurt to admit. I wanted to be sick. But to deny it would be denying I was ever horrible. And that was even worse. "And I only chose to help Lyn because I owed her for saving me and because I wanted her grandfather indebted to me." I heard a sound. It sounded like a step. Was he coming towards me? Going away? I didn't want to look up to find out. "Now, of course, my head is a mess, and all I can think is how I want to live up to Lyn's expectations of me." Now I lifted my head, and thought he was a little closer. But he was still quiet, still listening, so I kept talking. "I don't want to let her down. I want to be the person she thinks I am." And I… "I want her to meet her grandfather. I don't want her to be alone anymore." And also… "I want Kent and Sain to finish their mission with their heads high. I want Florina to become the full-fledged pegasus knight. I want Wil to find a home again. I want Dorcas to get enough money to help Natalie. I want Serra to return safely to Ostia, and Erk return triumphantly to Pent." I didn't know Rath's goals, but I wanted him to fulfill them too. And whatever the goals Nils, Ninian, and Lucius had, I wanted them to reach the. "So, I don't know. Like I said, my head is a mess." I smiled wryly, unable to help it. "And here I am whining your ear off. Pathetic for a tactician."

"…I think it's a sign of strength to change." Startled, and a little confused, I wanted to call them empty words meant to placate, but he looked right at me, gaze unwavering, and I couldn't help but think he truly believed them. "You can ride with me." H-huh? "When we leave. My mare has a smoother gait." That… "Even at faster speeds." I…

"Thank you." I should just smile. Even though I was still scared, I should just… "I appreciate it." Him trying to help me. Him listening without judgment. It wasn't how a tactician should act, but it was… nice nonetheless. "All packed?" He nodded. "Then…" Wait. Hold on. Kathelet had a horse market. Well, Araphan did too, but we were in a hurry to get away from there. And considering the speeds… "I need to purchase horses." Three of them, to be precise. And possibly have crash courses in how to ride. Whoo boy, this wasn't the best time, but… "Can you… come with me?" His gaze took a more hesitant air, and his shoulders shifted to make himself less of a target. "You don't have to talk." He watched me closely. "I'll do all of that. But…" I was scared. And I wanted good horses for them.

"…All right." He sighed and I smiled hesitantly, hoping he wasn't too fed up with me. "No talking."

"No, I'll handle that. You can just poke me if you see a good one or something." Was he smiling? I think he was. "Let's get that done, and then we're off!" If I faked cheer, eventually I'd become cheerful again! Hopefully.

Let's just get that damn ring and then get Lyn to Caelin.


Notes on Lucius

· Damn good magic. Held back a bit by the weaker power behind light magic, but damn good magic.

· Poor health, though. He admitted to me he sometimes feels faint, so I'll have Serra stick close to him.

· Very kind and gentle. Reminds me a bit of a less crafty Yodel, actually.

Notes on Nils

· Dodging. He can't fight, and insists on being in the field, so he'll need to learn how to dodge everything, even better than Lyn.

· Holds Bardic magic, re-energizing and strengthening people with music.

· Has foresight as well. He's offered to also look into the bonds between people, but I'd better leave that mostly alone for now.

Ninian is a noncombatant, so I won't jot notes down, but Nils says she's got the same powers as him. Could be useful in an emergency situation, but hopefully, she'll just stay safe by me.


Author's Notes: Yes, Hector has a more substantial cameo here. I thought it would be fun. If you're wondering why Katri confides in Rath, it's because he comes off to me as the right mix of stubborn and willingness to listen, something Katri would NEED in a listener. Describing dancers and bards for convenience sake. Letting Nils have abilities of Filia's Might and Thor's Ire, while Ninian has the abilities of the other two. Mildain, Perceval, and Cecilia are characters from FE6.

Next Chapter – The Black Shadow