Chapter Ten

* Prove Yourself

Time & Again - The Queen of Darkness

'It's Amazing To Look Back

In Such A Short Amount Of Time

And See How Much You Have Changed.'

Grunts and groans fill the air as both men and women fight one another below in the training arena. The air is warm and the breeze plays with one's hair if it isn't tied back tightly out of the way. People come and people go all the time around here and that has always been the way of the Rebellion for the last three months that I have been here.

Three months – how fast time flies these days.

I look back on those first days that I was here and wonder how I survived. I know that I am stronger in mind and body but compared to that girl that was brought here I know I am changed. Funny, my hair is longer too. Stupid of me to noticed such a silly thing but then again I've been trained to notice the insignificant things.

I sit up in the branches of an old oak that stands near the training arena and watch those that watched me when I first started. They too have improved. Some have left and others – well they were never seen again. That's the reality here. I watched people cry and some who didn't weep but you could see that underneath their training mask they hurt when those people didn't come back.

Our numbers have fallen – again. Tatsuya, yeah that cocky moron is still here, is trying to find recruits. They send word out but no one comes. No one is game anymore. Draven and his men have hit hard recently. We watched the red glow light up the sky and the mountains in the distance. Thank God it was no where near us. I'd felt fear that night as I watched the sky burn. We hid inside the caves for days to avoid the smoke.

Damn it – even that monster's foul deeds reach us here in our sanctuary.

We didn't see Tatsuya or a few others for days after that. It seems he was off doing reconnaissance trying to find out as much as he could. The news he brought back was grim. Several larger villages were gone. Not even their defenses could hold off Draven and his men. So many people are gone. No wonder no one came when we called.

I watched them that night as they offered prayers for the deceased and lost and prayed for the evil to end. I stayed hidden in the branches of the trees and let my hands sketch that sad picture they made with their heads bowed and tears staining their dirty faces. That still remains under my bed, hidden from everyone.

I hear bushes rustle below me and I take my eyes off the scene in front of me to see Wolf emerge from the forest and raise his eyes to mine. I can't believe he has stayed with me all this time. He is no ordinary animal. Of that I am certain.

I watch him lick the blood off his maw before he settles himself beneath the tree and yawn widely. He must have been hunting all night.

I hear my name being called and both the Wolf and I lift our heads to see who it is. I already know that tone. It's Julian. He walks into the open clearing near me and looks around. I wait to see if he can find me. I always do it. I can't help but play childishly with him. I have come to see him as a some-what brother of mine. He is always looking out for me and he stops that over-stuffed pigeon from getting on m y nerves.

He spots Wolf and smiles. He then looks up into the branches and spots me. I move my way down through the foliage and drop to the ground. No jarring movements for me anymore. I use the flowing movements that idiot showed me to cushion me when I land heavily; another thing about me that has changed.

I listen as Julian tells me that it is time for my training. I smile, I am ready. Today will be my day. Not only will I put the Devil Incarnate into his place I will proudly smirk at that smiling twit who recruited me and made me swear an oath. Then if I feel like it I will tell him exactly where to put that smile.

I let my mind go blank as I walk into the now empty arena. Now it is my turn to be watched. I pick up my staff – one that I made myself with the help of Julian and twirl it around to get the feel of it.

Out of the corner of my eye I watch the tall dark man walk towards me. He is wary of me now. So he should be. He learnt to not let his guard down when he taunts me. It was a pleasure to watch the blood pour out his nose after the end of my staff connected with it. It had been an after thought, he had left an opening after blocking me, and so I didn't follow through with enough pressure to actually break it. Pity.

Three other men stand behind him and I smile to myself. I had requested it. I wanted it to be this way. I want closure – I want to know that I can handle this. I turn around and let my serious expression meet theirs.

It is time.

They spread out as I take a huge breath and get into the first attack position. With a growl the first man charges at me and I block him easily. Tori holds back, he watches me as I used to watch him. Another charges me and I block him as the first man again tries to catch me unawares. Their swords catch in the ends of my staff and I smirk. I tug and twist and they're forced to yank their swords out or risk loosing them.

Now it is time. The third male charges and I am kept busy blocking, defending and attacking. I am not shy as much anymore. I won't defend all the time, now I will attack. Grunts and growls, cries as pressure is used and curses are heard as we continue the dance.

I duck and stick the staff in the ground and leap up and plant a kick into the side of one of the males' faces. No time to see which one. Blood splatters from his mouth as he falls back. Dust puffs up into the air as he collapses.

Block, defend, attack. Defend, attack, block. The steps run through my mind like a mantra. A huge sword flies past my head, barely missing me; I look up eyes wide at Tori. He is in the first attack position. I snarl as I block another attack. So typical of him to wait until I am unprepared.

No more playing. Time to end this. Sweat is running down my back. I hate that. I hate that sticky feeling. I let out a battle cry as I attack one then another- I'm saving the demon for last. I kick a sword out of one hand and use my staff to whack the other's hand. I know it hurts when he sucks in his breath. I have done it many times myself and each time it sucks.

I shove my staff behind me and block Tori as he attacks and duck as I'm attacked from the front. I swing around and put all my strength into the movement. I watch as one of the men cry out and lay sprawled in the dirt a few feet away.

I lunge to the side and hear the ring of metal on metal. I see the annoyed look on Tori's face and the frustrated one of the other male as they pull theirs swords apart. Deep breathes. Remember to breathe I chant.

They both advance and I know this could get ugly. Tori attacks first. My God he has been working out! I brace my arms as I continue to hold him off. I swing to the left and dislodge Tori's sword. The other man swings at me and I can feel myself weakening. Three men are fine, but put Tori in the mix and I know I am in trouble. Damn maybe I can't do this.

I see Tatsuya on the sidelines watching me and damn it he is smiling! I clench my teeth and look up and met the man's eyes. They are dark like Tori's. I snarl and strike him in the chest, a quick strike like a panther. He drops his sword as the wind leaves him and I swing around to block Tori. I kick back and hear the dust rise up as my previous opponent hits the ground.

I go back into the first attack position and met Tori's dark gaze. He is studying me and I wonder what he sees. I'm gulping in air and trying to calm my heart from pounding so fast. I shift and his eyes darken further and he blocks as I attack. This seems to go on forever. I attack, he defends and vice versa.

I block and I am shocked when his sword is embedded once again in the middle of my staff. I growl with annoyance and raise my eyes to meet his. Emerald lock on chocolate brown He is bent over, both hands grasping the hilt of the sword. It is now or never.

I hear myself wondering if I can do this but I am already placing my foot on his bent knee and ignoring his startled look, I shift my grip on the staff and somersault over his head. He is much taller than me but by jumping up on his knee I gave myself the edge and the necessary height to make it over his head.

My arms pull back but I shift my weight and use my position to pull the staff with me. I manage to yank the sword out of Tori's startled grasp and it clatters to the ground as I land on my feet, now behind him.

I hear a battle cry and have no idea it's from my own mouth. I swing the staff as he starts to turn and I hear it go crack against the Devil's back. I hear him cry out and then I crouch and kick my foot out and he topples. I watch as he twists trying to land so his back is not to the enemy. It is one of the core fundamentals here at the Rebellion. Never turn your back on your enemy.

I ignore the dust and dirt that flies up into my face as I settle onto Tori's stomach, holding the staff across his throat tightly. And that is how I guess everyone saw me defeat the Devil. When the dust settled, there I was straddling him as I pushed the staff against his throat.

But he doesn't know when to quit. I feel his muscles bunch beneath me and I know he is preparing to throw me off. I growl and shift so that my knee is pressed dangerously close to the favorite part of his anatomy and I mutter that one more move and his family jewels are gone. Crushed to dust and his eyes harden with dislike.

I hear a roaring and suddenly I snap back to reality and I look up and see that everyone is clapping and cheering. They're yelling our names. I look down at the Devil Incarnate and he pushes up and sends me flying backward. How I held him for so long is beyond me. He out does me a dozen to one.

I cough and spit out dirt as he gets up and glares at me. I give him the same treatment back but then as I stand, I can't help but allow the satisfied smirk to adorn my face. Seeing it, his eyes flash and I can feel the anger radiating from him in waves. I have finally defeated him and the scary truth is I know that I will never be able to do it again. He is just too strong.

I see the disappointment in Tori's eyes and I realize with sudden clarity that he isn't disappointed at me but with himself. I know that feeling only too well. I advanced towards him and I see the wariness instantly in his eyes. I hold out my hand and he looks at me startled.

The crowd holds their breath as I wait to see what he will do. He sighs and takes my hand in the unfamiliar gesture. I smile up at him and I can see that he is smiling (at least a little bit) back at me.

I look around and spot Tatsuya watching me from the sidelines. I smirk full of pride and flick my hair over my shoulder before I turn and walk off into the woods. It was time to soak in cool, refreshing water. But I can't help but shoot one more look over my shoulder. He is still watching me and I can't help but smirk once again. There is full meaning in my look. It says: Up yours. I won and I have proved myself today. You can't deny it and that's that. Childish I know but you take what you can get around here.

He nods and he smiles happily at me. He got the message and didn't expect anything less of me. God it feels great to be me right now.

Wolf pads alongside me and he is smiling – yeah I know it's weird but I still stick with the statement. His eyes are bright and I think there is a light step to his walk. I think I worked harder than I had before.

I make it to the stream and watch as Wolf takes up his guarding position. I strip off all my sweaty clothes and arrange them to dry out. I step into the water and almost groan with relief as it cools my heated skin.

Today my training is complete and now, just maybe, I can move on and find out what lies ahead.

Sakura lay on her bed later that night and stared at the ceiling. Wolf was out hunting and she was all alone. The torch outside her doorway sputtered and then flared as the wind passed down the hallway.

A dark shadow fell across her doorway and she looked up as Julian walked in. She would really have to teach these men about privacy and the act of knocking.

" Tatsuya wants you to come to the strategy room. " Julian said his face serious.

Sakura's brows arched as she rolled to her feet. She followed closely behind him. This was a change. What would Tatsuya want with her? She followed Julian down the halls until they stopped at the room that Sakura had been bared from.

Julian stepped back and ushered her inside. Sakura walked through and paused. Many eyes were watching her. Tori's was one of those pairs of eyes. Sakura raised her chin and dared them all to judge her.

" Please come in Sakura. " Tatsuya motioned and went back to studying the map that took up the table in front of him.

" Why am I here? " she asked seeing no reason to hide her curiosity. Tatsuya already knew she was curious.

"You're here so we can see your potential. " Tatsuya replied and then smiled. " You see before me lies a map of the area. At this moment, our spies have informed us that Draven's army is here – " he pointed to a place on the map. " This is our problem. "

" What's there that is a problem? " Sakura asked.

" A fortress. The cocky bastard has taken the fortress at Helmsforde and is awaiting us to show our faces. We need to destroy that fortress and all the snakes inside it, but we can't risk getting shot down trying to get close to it. "

" Can't you plan a sneak attack? " Sakura asked not being able to see the map for herself.

" Come here and look for yourself. " Tatsuya stepped back and let her walk to the table and look down at where he pointed. " As you can see there is no coverage around the area. Draven is as smart as they come. We have to try and be two steps ahead of him. "

" Seems to me you need a weapon powerful enough to reach the fortress and damage enough of it to make Draven think twice but in saying that you have to stay out of reach of being shot down with arrows and other nasty things. "

" You understand our dilemma then. " one man spoke up catching her attention.

" Sounds to me you need a trebuchet. " Sakura replied straightening up. She'd learnt all about the famous weapon of old back in university and she knew the plans for one like the back of her hand. After all she had to build a miniature one to pass with flying colours. She's kicked her miniature fortress butt and then had felt a pang of guilt for all the hours of work gone.

" A what? " Tatsuya asked completely lost for once.

" A trebuchet. It's a weapon of ol – " she cut herself off at the weird looks she received. She couldn't exactly say it was a weapon of old now could she? " It's an old design. " she covered.

" I can have the plans made up immediately if you like. "

" What exactly does this trebu– " Tatsuya frowned as he stumbled on the weird name. " What exactly does this weapon do?

" It does exactly what you need. It is a device that can launch various missiles through the air, over a long distance, and can knock down even the strongest fortress. "

She watched the surprised and then wary expressions come into their eyes.

" I know it sounds suspicious but it does work. I will draw up the plans and then if I can have a team to help me build it, it should be done within two weeks maybe more. "

" Two weeks? " one man demanded, standing up outraged. " Draven will annihilate us well before then. "

" Stop being over dramatic. " Sakura said in a clipped tone. " You have to realize I'm not a magician. These things take time and I'll need to take a look at this fortress so I can draw up the plans for this design. "

" I was trying to think of something to be classed as your first mission but now I think you have solved the problem yourself. I will get a team together for you and you can go see the fortress for yourself. " Tatsuya replied.

" You can't be seriously thinking of sending her out like this. She isn't even qualified! "

Sakura let her gaze cut to the man that had spoken and watched as he faced Tatsuya. Either way she didn't care. She had proved her place here and now she could leave. She had learnt and even though she didn't want to stay here, the prospect of building a trebuchet and using it to smite that monster Draven was something that she was willing to put away her desires for home and concentrate on the task ahead.

" I believe that will be the perfect opportunity to see how Sakura will work. Who knows, we may be able to do all she says and defeat Draven. Imagine how happy everyone will be if we can succeed where we have failed for so long? " He turned and faced Sakura.

" In the morning I will send men to accompany you to the perimeter where Helmsforde is situated. Take whatever measurements you will need and report back to me. "

" Very well. " Sakura replied and then bowed her head which she had never done for this man and left.

" What do you think of her Tatsuya? " one man asked quietly. " Can she be trusted? "

" Time will tell my friend. But for now, I think you are wrong to misjudge her. There is great courage hidden within Sakura. That I do know. "

Dark eyes pierced the shadows as the figure of Sakura disappeared from view down the corridor. Tori sat with his arms crossed with the shadows all around him. He indeed did look like the devil brooding in the shadows. Across from him in the light cast from the torch on the wall, his companion watched his friend with building concern. He had never seen Tori this interested in someone before and that could be both good and bad. What was it about the young girl that had Tori so keyed up Julian wondered.

Underneath the table, Julian tapped his boot against the foot of his friend. He watched as Tori's dark eyes broke away from their contemplation and met Julian's concerned eyes. Julian arched his brows meaningfully and watched the frown form on Tori's serious face. They didn't need to use words to understand each other

Tori's dark eyes flashed and he turned away and then stood drawing the attention of the others in the room.

" If this meeting is over, I have better things to do. " he walked around the table left without a backward glance.

" What has gotten into that one? " another man asked looking at Tatsuya.

" Perhaps a little competition has got underneath his skin is all. " Tatsuya replied with a smile.

That's what I was afraid of. Julian mentally sighed as the thought went through his head. Tori was a man not to be crossed on the best of times but he hated competition. Julian was an exception to that because they were fighting companions. But now that Sakura had bested him not with strength but with cunning Tori's mood foretold the coming storm.

Julian stayed to listen to the rest of the meeting. Whereas Tori was the strong one, he was the listener. His strength lay in his knowledge. That was how it had always been. He was the brain and Tori was the brawn. Make no mistake though, Tori was not to be mistaken as simple minded. He was as smart as the next man. But he keeps so much of his personality hidden it was hard to know what really was going on inside his brain.

Tori had come to the Rebellion nine years ago, two years after the fall of the royal family. Julian had joined shortly after. Both had been boys then, green in the ways of the world. Their lives had just turned upside down and the world was in a state of chaos. All they knew was that the people that had protected them and made the world work were dead. Killed some whispered, died by their own hands others said.

Tori never liked to speak of the past so Julian knew a selected few things about his friend. He on the other hand remembered everything about his time before this life. He had lived on a farm on the other side of the Cerulean Mountains. How he had come to be so far away from his home he could not exactly recall. But like the others, he had wondered lost and alone a long time after his farm was burnt to the ground and his family gone.

He was not sure how Tori came to be in the Rebellion but he on the other hand had been taken in by Tatsuya when he had stumbled into a battle and had nearly died from starvation and a blow to the back of the head from one of Draven's men – yes the battle had been going on that long.

But it had only been recently that Draven's men had gathered in strength and numbers and the threat from the North was starting to gather as well. They had never known about the threat from the North until recently. News had leaked that Everwood had gone to fight some unknown enemy and their entire clan had been destroyed and the villagers had fled in terror. The news had been passed on when a sailing boat full of frightened refugees had sailed down the coast to get supplies before they had set sail for the land across the sea. They had sworn, with terror on their faces that they would never return. Not with the monstrosity they had seen.

Since then the Rebellion has been struggling to find out anything more. Scouts that had been sent out to find out what they could had yet to return. They were feared lost. But Tatsuya was determined to find out what lie in the North.

Julian paused in the doorway of his companion and waited. He could easily see in the dark and he could make out the figure of his friend lying on the bed with his hands behind his head. He was staring at the ceiling.

" What do you want Julian? "

" I want answers."

" Hmph, you always seek answers. "

" The girl, Sakura, she gets to you. Why? "

" Don't talk to me about that girl. I don't care. "

" Then why go to such lengths to ignore the subject? Is it because she defeated you? "

" Defeat me? I let her win. She was handling herself and I was sick of putting up with her. "

" You know that Tatsuya wouldn't be happy with that report if that was the case, but it's not. Is it? So then, why is it that you hate her? "

" Leave the matter alone. I don't care to discuss it with you. "

" She's such a sweet little kid, how can you n - ? "

" Sweet? You call that little viper 'sweet'? "

" Now Tori – "

" I told you I do not wish to discuss it. Now, I wish to sleep. I'll talk to you tomorrow. "

" Fine. " Julian replied frowning. " But I'll say one more thing before I leave. I never considered you a coward. " and with that he let the curtain drop and he left his friend to brood in silence.

Tori watched the shadow disappear and sighed as he went back to staring at the ceiling. Why did the little brat annoy him and make him so angry? Why did she bring out the worst in him? Better yet, why did she challenge him? Her triumphant look after she had defeated him kept playing in his mind, narking him further.

The answer never came to him making him more frustrated and annoyed. He knew the answer would come in time; all he had to do was sit back and wait. But in the mean time he would fight back any way he could. A grin flashed on his face before he slipped into sleep. He was the Rebellion's best fighter and he would remain that way.

" YOU'RE NOT SERIOUS! " screeched through the courtyard. " I AM NOT WORKING WITH HIM! NO WAY! NOT IN A MILLION YEARS!"

Tatsuya looked at the furious girl calmly. Her face was flushed red with the exertion of her outburst, he cheeks puffed out with anger, her eyes flashing like fire. Her hands were clenched beside her and he thought she might get the courage to deck him if she was pushed further.

" You should have expected this." He replied and watched her tense. " He is after all the very person who has helped you get this far. "

Sakura turned and saw the smirk of pure male arrogance mixed with revenge as his dark eyes watched her with mirth. The hide of the man!

" Catriona was right! You are the Devil's Incarnate! You did this just to spite me!"

She watched him grunt with satisfaction as he loosened his stance and crossed his arms completely at ease with her annoyance. She whipped around to face Tatsuya.

" And you! " she spat not caring that they were the center of attention. " You're getting as much enjoyment out of this as he is! " she accused. " Well go hang! I refuse to work with him. I won't draw up the plans for your stupid weapon! I quit! " she went to storm passed them both but something grabbed the back of her shirt and she was promptly hauled back to face a furious Tori.

" Watch your mouth shrew. " he glared. " I don't care how you speak to me but watch how you speak to him. " he indicated Tatsuya. " You will go ahead with the plans to make your great weapon to defeat Draven. I will make sure you do. Now stop chucking a tantrum and prepare yourself. " he watched her eyes narrow and then they cleared and a sweet expression came over her making him instantly wary.

" Be wary my friend. " Tatsuya, having seen the look, warned. Tori looked up and in that split second Sakura's foot lifted and connected with his shin. Tori dropped her like a bag of potatoes as he howled holding his offended shin.

" You prepare yourself." Sakura replied calmly. " I leave in five minutes. " and she turned and walked back inside the cave network to get her staff and her parchment and pen that Tatsuya had supplied for her calculations.

" Termagant. " Tori muttered standing normally once again wincing with occasional pain. Tatsuya stood beside him watching the young girl walk away smiling broadly. His red/brown eyes full of laughter.

" I must admit that I was incensed when you and Julian brought her here, but I have to admit that she brings a smile to my face. I had almost forgotten how to do such an act but it is the truth. She and that Wolf have livened up this place. And I have another confession to make; I quite enjoy watching the two of you battle it out. "

" Glad I could please you sir. " Tori replied caustically.

" Now, now. I do not mean it as an insult Tori. You know this. But I am curious why she gets on your nerves so. From looking at the two of you together and the way you interact, one would think that you are family. "

" Now you surely mean to insult me." Tori bit out.

" Take it as you will but I mean nothing by it. But that's what I see. I think should I ever meet this Mountain Witch; I shall thank her profusely for sending Sakura this way. Perhaps she is the leverage we need to at least dent Draven's armor. "

" You trust her so quickly? "

" And you do not? " Tatsuya asked surprised.

" There is something about that girl that does not make sense. "

" What makes you think so? "

" The wolf. " he replied watching Sakura's form come back into the light.

" The wolf? " Tatsuya asked frowning.

" Yes, the way she talks with it and it follows her everywhere. There is something that is not right about it. "

" Now that you mention it – I always assumed that it was like a faithful pet. I have heard of it happening. "

" So have I but I have been watching them and there is something going on. Perhaps it is as you say, but it is also strange that she does not know much about our ways here. She says that she comes from far away. How far away I wonder? "

" These are questions I have spent much time pondering myself. But I have sensed no ill intentions from her. She is, hard as it may be to believe, innocent as she seems. "

" Perhaps. " Tori replied pinning the near girl with his dark gaze.

" A word of caution, I would be careful my friend. I don't know why she gets on your nerves so much, but I wouldn't let my emotions get in the way of things here. You are our best fighter; we need you to be alert in case of danger. "

" I would never allow my emotions to –"

" I know. " Tatsuya placated as Sakura came up to them. " But we must all be careful these days and we must all learn to put our differences aside if we are to succeed. " he walked off after those were delivered.

" What was that about? " Sakura asked as she thought that those words had included her.

" Never mind. Come on, we better get a move on if we are to meet with the others and get these calculations of yours done. "

Sakura watched him walk off and wondered what on earth that was about. Seeing how far he was getting in front of her she pushed those thoughts aside and hurried off after him.

On the other side of the forest, a day and a half's journey from the Rebellion honeycomb, where the trees gave way to fields filled with wheat, stood a medium sized fortress. It was built on top of a hill, a small dirt road leading up to its entrance. A huge gateway was the only way in and out of the fortress - both a disadvantage and an advantage. As medieval fortresses went, this one was pretty simple but big.

Torches flickered and spluttered as the wind swept by; little tendrils of smoke bursting up to disappear into the air. Horses could be heard nickering to one another inside the stables within the fortress walls. Only high ranking officers and Draven himself got the privilege of horse power but they were used for pulling the carts full of provisions as well.

The wheat bowed and swayed back and forth gracefully as men patrolled the barracks and watched the edge of the forest for any sign of movement. The yellow fields rippled like water as the wind swept across the land.

Some of the men stopped to watch the wheat sway back and forth making sure that it was the wind and not a sneak attack from the Rebellion. Their orders were firm and gave no room for mistakes. Make and mistake and you are dead.

Seeing nothing untoward, they kept walking watching and waiting – and they missed the dark shadows at the edge of the trees, watching and studying.

Meanwhile inside the keep, a man was seated down in a high backed chair looking into what one would assume on first glance, a crystal ball. He was dressed in rich clothes and wore leather gloves and knee high boots. Around his waist was a thick leather belt where a well-made sword hung. His eyes were a light shade of green, his hair a normal shade of brown. Apart from the richness of his clothes, this man looked like every normal human being. But he was far from that. He was much worse.

" It is all going according to plan Lady Jacousta. "

The miniature figure in the crystal ball sneered and angled her chin regally. " Is it Draven? " her voice demanded. " This is the first time in four months that I have heard from you and it is only until I send my minion to deal with you that you report in. Your petulance is starting to wear thin. Perhaps I should replace you. "

" You threaten that every time My Lady but you have yet to follow through. You need me too much and we all know it. " Draven smirked as her ruby eyes flared like hot coals.

" You insolence is intolerable. Give me the report Draven. " she demanded.

" Helmsforde is taken. We are currently occupying it at this moment. We are on the look out for those pesky rebels. Nagano, Nihon, Hyogo and Seaton are no more. We annihilated them all. There were no survivors. "

" You are meant to be gathering more forces for our armies Draven. How many times to I have to tell you, the intolerable chit that you are, that we need as many survivors as possible. Only those that refuse to change to our cause can be then slaughtered. "

" Forgive me Lady. I will make sure the men understand those orders. "

" Now what about the Rebellion. Tell me all. "

" As usual my men have been tracking down their spies and killing them. They have gained no further information about us other than the little slither of information that they had gained from the villagers who are now either drowned or living new lives across the sea. My men tell me that they are sending out word for recruits. It seems that we have been picking off too many for them to cope. They are looking for new people. "

" I see. " the miniature figure in the glass turned her head to the side as she listened to someone talking to her from behind. She nodded and then turned back to face him.

" Go on…Have you found their base yet? "

" No My Lady, we have not been able to find any suggestion as to where they may be hiding,. We know that they are in the forest that runs along the Ocaysia River though. My scouts go as far as they dare, but they have not been able to find the location as yet. "

" You disappoint me Draven. " she stated snidely.

He sat back steepling his fingers and resting his chin on top of them as he regarded her with a small smirk.

" I know… "

Her ruby eyes narrowed dangerously. " You have new orders Draven. Leave a third of your men in that blasted fortress, you however, are to move on with the rest of your men. We want more soldiers and you are going to give them to us. Kill who you must but spare those that will serve. Do I make myself clear? "

" And what about Masakuza? " she asked. " Where is he stationed? "

" He isn't stationed anywhere. " Draven replied unclasping his hands and resting his chin on top of one hand. " He was killed four months ago at Uniden. His men were attacked and as far as I know he went down fighting. Uniden has been taken back by the people. "

"WHAT? " the crystal ball glowed fire red and Draven sat back expecting it to explode.

" Who dared to take out Masakuza? "

" The people of the villages it would seem. My men heard a storyteller in a nearby inn tell a tale about a red veiled woman leading the villagers into battle. Masakuza was crowded into the valley and his men were picked off from behind until Masakuza was crushed beneath his horse and died."

" That prig! He was too stupid to even die an honorable death. "

" Quite remarkable though. " Draven replied. " That a village could be so equipped with such advance battle tactics. This red veiled woman is intriguing. She must be more than what she seems. "

" I want her dealt with. " Jacousta's eyes flared red. " Anything else I should know about? "

" No My Lady. That is all. I will ship my men out and leave this fortress protected while I seek you more recruits. "

" We need all the ground we can succeed in getting Draven. We cannot expand our empire if we do not have our own lands waiting for us in the Southern quarter. Do what you say this time Draven, build me my empire that you promised me. And be warned - my power is growing and I will not let you get away with your willful ways any more. "

" Yes My Lady. " he bowed his head to cover up his smirk.

" Then that is all. " he watched as the crystal turned back to normal and it was once again silent around him. He smirked and then burst out laughing. He would do whatever he wanted and it would probably be another four months before he was tracked down again.

" Stupid bitch. " Draven muttered and picked up the globe and instantly cried out as pain lanced through his arm.

The innocent looking crystal ball flared red and he tried to drop it but it was stuck. He watched and felt it burn though his leather glove of his left hand and sear his skin. He screamed with the agony. Wisps of steam curled around the air as the ball continued to burn his hand.

Footsteps came running and several of his man barged into the room weapons drawn. They watched in horror as their master feel to his knees and tried to shake the magic free. Suddenly the crystal ball fell to the ground and Draven fell to his side panting with the pain remaining in his hand.

His eyes riveted to his left hand and saw the smoking remains of his glove. His hand was still cupped as if still holding the crystal globe and he forced himself to stretch his hand out. He groaned and pressed his lips tightly together to prevent his scream as the skin cracked and blood started to pool on the ground.

The crystal ball flashed where it had landed near him and Jacousta's smug face appeared watching him fight for composure. " I warned you that I was not to messed with Draven. My power has grown and you are the first one to test my patience. That mark on your hand is your punishment. "

Draven was staring at the round symbol burnt into his hand. It was an ancient spell he didn't recognize with all its twisting and curvy lines inside the mark. Already the blood was congealing and forming a scab.

" If you don't report to me within every fortnight you will feel that pain two fold until you summon me and I will expect results every time you call me. The moment something of importance happens I want to know. You should know that that is also a tracking spell. I will know where you are every moment of the day should you try to escape me and if you ever try, I shall show you no mercy and you will feel that pain ten fold. Do you hear me Draven? "

" Y-es My L-Lady. " Draven replied truly scared for the first time in his life.

" Then we understand each other perfectly. Good bye Draven. " He watched as the crystal globe returned to normal. He closed his eyes and wished the lingering pain away. He didn't even hear his men ask if he was all right.

Meanwhile…..

Sakura scribbled away furiously as she studied the land on the other side of the trees. They could easily cut a few of the trees away and not be seen. It was all going to be a huge experiment, but they had so little time.

She took in everything that she could absorb. She looked at Tori and nodded silently. She had everything she needed for the moment. Now all she could do was go back and draw up the plans and hope that she hadn't forgotten anything.

" She's been locked up in there all day… "

" She hasn't stopped? " Tatsuya asked looking concerned at his soldier.

" No sir, we asked if she would like a break but we all got told the same thing – 'Go away!'. "

" Hmmmm… " Tatsuya mumbled thoughtfully.

" She really does mean to succeed with this doesn't she? " Julian murmured.

" One can't find fault with her wanting to succeed but it's almost midnight and she needs to sleep. " Tatsuya replied.

Julian and the soldier watched as Tatsuya walked down the cave-like hall and announce himself outside of Sakura's door.

" Sakura – " Tatsuya pushed aside the curtain and walked into the room just as the girl in question jerked awake and tensed.

" Tatsuya – wha? " she asked blearily.

" I came in to see how you are. "

" Oh right, I was meant to report to you wasn't I. Sorry. "

" You've been working hard, " he stole a glance at the drawings on the table and frowned. " I can't imagine that this could actually turn out to do massive harm. "

" Believe me, people like you had trouble believing it too until it worked and totally wiped out the enemy. " she babbled.

" So this design has been used before? Then why haven't we heard of it? "

" Huh?" Sakura jerked more awake and realized what she had said.

" This trebuchet – exactly where did the design come from?"

" Umm – I don't really remember those facts, but I read about it in a book and copied the details to memory. " What? It was the best she could come up with on such short notice.

" I see. " was all he said.

Sakura sighed and relaxed back in her chair and felt her eyes droop. The design was almost complete. All she would have to do is add the final touches and then they could move on to building. But being tired didn't mean that she had to let her mouth run away with her. One more slip up and these people will start to think she's crazy – wait they probably already did – ok, how about freaked out because she was an intergalactic time traveler? She sighed again and tried to fight off the vestige of sleep.

" Poor thing, you've worn yourself out. " Julian's voice came from the doorway.

Sakura rubbed the sleep from her eyes as Julian stepped into her room. She looked at her drawings with fondness and then looked up and met Tatsuya's slightly suspicious gaze. He hid it well but she could tell.

" I would never try to put you or the others into danger. I swear to you that I am working thoroughly from my mind. These drawings are the same as what I have committed to memory. This will work. Believe in me. "

" Come – up you go. " Julian said as he placed his arms around her slight frame and picked her up. She clung to him sleepily as he carried her towards her bed. He laid her down gently and then proceeded to take off her boots. She yawned and let her eyes droop as he pulled up the covers to keep her warm.

" We will talk in the morning Sakura. " Tatsuya said softly as to not wake the sleeping girl.

They both heard a noise and turned to be met with dark, brooding eyes. Tori walked into the room and barely glanced at the sleeping girl. He let his gaze wander to the drawings and he noticed the detail and the precision. He frowned and met Tatsuya's gaze.

" These are good. But is it meant to work? "

" She says that it will and that is good enough for me. " Julian replied frowning at his friend.

The heard a snuff and looked down at doorway where the brown wolf now stood. He took them all in and met each of the three with his piercing gaze. He stood regally a moment before taking a few hesitant steps into the room.

" It's all right my friend, " Julian whispered and instantly gained the attention of the wolf. " We were merely placing your mistress into her bed so she could sleep. "

" Call me crazy but I think he resents the term 'mistress'. " Tatsuya spoke up watching the wolf.

" Perhaps 'friend' might be better suited. "

" You're all crazy. " Tori murmured still watching the wolf.

The Wolf seemed placated by the statement and made his way further into the room before jumping up on the bed and settling himself down into his comfy spot at the base of her bed. He raised his head and looked at the three men before they murmured to themselves and hastily made excuses as they left. Julian took the torch Sakura had been using as her light to draw with and placed it in an empty holder out in the hallway.

Once the room was smothered by darkness, only then did the wolf nudge his nose against Sakura's arm and gently lick her hand. He then settled down and closed his eyes. It had been a hard night's hunt and he was exhausted.

Hearty whacks and grunts carried on the air in the clearing as the trebuchet came to life. They had been at it all day and already they had the base made up for it. Sakura stood nearby and yelled orders and directed as best she could. She picked up tools and helped when the men became stuck.

Tatsuya had men posted heavily around the working site in case their voices carried and Draven's men became curious. Of course they were no where near the fortress at Helmsforde but the wind did carry and he couldn't afford to have his men and his secret weapon destroyed.

He had come out to survey the project himself and had to admit that he was a little overcome by the size and majority of what they were doing. They were taking a stand and they were going to knock back harder and Draven wouldn't know what hit him.

Tatsuya had spared every man and woman that he could to help with the building of this weapon. He watched as they cut and shaped the wood and felled the trees to make the beams and the wheels for the trebuchet. He could see how it would look in the end, he had seen Sakura's pictures and he believed that this really could work.

He stepped forward and took the axe from one young boy and started chopping into the tree. Within moments sweat ran down his forehead with the force he put behind the swing before the axe bit into the wood. Bark and chips flew into the air with each swing. They were all going to be a part of this and everyone was going to help – even if it only small part they played. Every bit counted. Well at least that is what he thought.

2 Weeks Later….

The night was chiller than it had been over the last couple of weeks. A strong southerly was blowing down from the mountains changing the warm nights into a mind numbing chill. The trees swayed and bowed to the force of the cold wind rustling through the trees. The moon was at its zenith above the trees, shining down on the world below turning the dark night into one of washed out blue.

Several bodies huddled inside their cloaks were station closed together. They sat in their positions with their hoods pulled up trying to prevent the bitter cold from penetrating what little body warmth they had.

They sat in the darkness with no light to keep them warm because the risk was too great. But make no mistake these men where not so chilled by the wind that they were not on edge. They were alert to every sound, every movement.

They all sat around a tall, dark object, covered so that it was well hidden and not easy to see if noticed by mishap. It was tall and solid and one would have to stop and ask what in the world it was for.

The ground shifted and two eyes gleamed suddenly in the darkness. One hood was thrown back like lightning and a sword drawn. Dark eyes bored into the darkness waiting as the wind tugged at his dark hair and blew into his face, his cloak billowing out behind him like an impressive sail.

Two paws and a furry nose came into view followed by amused amber eyes. The dark warrior swore and lowered his sword and looked very unimpressed as he watched the wolf lick the blood off his maw.

More footsteps were heard and the moonlight revealed two emerald green eyes and honey-brown hair and a serious face. The other men saw their visitor and stiffly got to their feet cringing when their muscles cramped from the cold.

" Sakura what are you doing out here? " Julian demanded when he got close enough, his eyes taking in the darkness around him to make sure no enemy was lurking nearby.

" Tatsuya wants you to change shift. There is hot food and drink waiting for you back into the honeycomb. " she replied in a lowered tone. The wind was strong but she didn't want to raise her voice in case Draven's men were nearby.

" I don't see anyone waiting, " Tori replied frowning in the moonlight. " I won't go until someone comes to claim my place personally. "

" Why are you always so contrary ?" Sakura demanded. " Anyone would think you don't trust me – and in that case – I don't trust you either. "

" Now is no' the time no' the place for ye to be gettin' into ye petty squabbles. " one man spoke up firmly. " We have a job to do an' we can't be distracted by the likes of ye always bickering. "

" I'm not the one with issues. " Sakura crossed her arms and glared up at Tori – the moonlight making her seem like she had cat eyes.

" Geez, ye can't leave ye two alone for one minute now can we? " the same man shook his head. " Eitha way I'm going to go warm my arse in front of the fire and drive this insistent chill from me bones. "

" Lovely character that one. " Sakura replied dryly as she watched the man walk off.

" You'd do well to learn from him. " Tori replied turning away to go back to his position.

" Oh aye, " she mocked in the same brogue. " I could always learn a lesson or two about warming me arse in front of the fire. I'd be sure to warm the lads hearts with that accomplishment."

A snort was heard as Tori whipped around to glare at her. Sakura smiled quickly at Julian who she was sure was the one trying to hold in his laughter. At least he knew she wasn't making fun of the old man who felt the chill more than the others, just this imbecile in front of her that always grated on her nerves.

" Why you little – " Tori begin stepping forward.

" Enough – Tori the men are coming. Are you coming in? " Julian asked stepping forward also.

" Not yet, " Tori replied when he watched Sakura brow arch. " I'm going to go check the perimeter. "

" But you've already pulled a double shift. " Julian protested.

" So? You're point is? " Tori asked before turning around and disappearing into the darkness.

" Good riddance. " Sakura muttered but Julian heard her all the same.

" Really Sakura you should know better. Why must the two of you always bicker? It does no one any good in the end and it only causes people to get hurt or upset. You should be mature enough to accept Tori's faults and learn to get along. " Julian rubbed the bridge of his nose in frustration.

" So you're taking his side? " he heard the anger and the hurt in her voice and sighed.

" It is not a matter of choosing sides Sakura. But you should be grown up enough to know when to leave well enough alone. "

" Whatever. " Sakura turned her head away dismissing him. She didn't want to talk to him if he was going to be unreasonable. She headed off in a different direction than Tori and didn't look back. If grumble bum was checking the perimeter, then so could she.

" I really have changed a lot haven't I? " she looked down at Wolf beside her as he padded alongside her. " I mean I use to be so…docile I guess. I would never torment someone and go out of my way to get a bite out of someone. I guess Tori brings out the worst in me. I used to be so sweet tempered and now look at me – I'm kicking butts for a living and helping them build the ultimate war weapon of this time. "

Wolf snuffed and rolled his eyes in the darkness. Sweet tempered? A memory of a young girl up in a pine tree throwing pine cones down upon several bandits' heads while she taunted them flashed through his mind and he smiled a wolfish smile. Yeah – sweet tempered.

They walked all around the trail that she had learned to memorize to heart and was just coming back around toward the camp when Wolf stopped and his hackles rose. She listened to the deep growl emit from his throat and looked up her heart up in her throat. What could Wolf sense that she couldn't?

A silver flash and Sakura whipped to her left but it was gone. Wolf had ceased his deep growl but she could see he was tense and watching. What in the world had the moonlight reflected off? She ducked behind a tree and poked her head around the rough bark to watch.

She let her eyes scan the darkness and then spotted something – no someone – standing near the small creek that branched off from the Ocaysia. She studied the tall form and broad shoulders and recognized that stance anywhere. It was just Tori coming back from his patrol. He was staring at the bank of the creek and she frowned. What had he found?

Wolf growled again and she tore her eyes away from Tori's form and watched as Wolf crept through the foliage on the ground not making a sound. He had his eyes fixed on something and she had no idea what he was looking at. Tori was the only one – wait! There was that silver flash again!

Sakura ducked from tree to tree as quiet as a mouse and hide once again. There! There was another shadowy form coming up behind Tori. She gasped as she saw whoever it was raise their sword and bring it down towards Tori's back. Her heart stopped and she watched in slow motion as Tori tensed and then time seemed to speed up as two swords clashed together and Tori faced his opponent.

She watched them battle it out and wondered if she should make her presence known. The clang of steel rang through the night and she wondered how long it would take for the others to hear it and come running

Tori blocked an impressive attack and she thought for a second that Tori was losing ground but then quick as lightning, he rammed his sword through the man and he fell to the ground dead. She stepped out from behind her hiding place and watched as Tori stared down at the man that had tried to kill him. He looked up and spotted her and she stepped forward hesitantly.

" Are – Are you all right Tori?" she asked her heart thumping in her chest. " We came just as whoever that was came up behind you I – " were her eyes playing tricks on her? She could have swore she saw something move up on those lower branches.

" You what? " he grated out, annoyed with her preoccupation.

" I didn't know if I should have revealed myself and helped out – but then I knew you wouldn't appreciate that. Are you truly all right?"

" I'm fine. Tatsuya was right though, Draven's men are out sniffing around it's only a matter of time before the honeycomb is discovered. This proves it. Well have to move base. "

" The Rebellion will just pack up and go? Just like that? " Sakura asked surprised.

" We have no other choice. If this one was out sniffing there are bound to be others around. Draven doesn't send his men out singularly. He likes them to hunt in packs like the dogs they

are. " Tori spat bitterly.

" Did you say packs? " Sakura choked out her mind working furiously as Wolf started to growl.

It must have only been seconds – but to Sakura her whole life was turned back and set forth again and she was forced to feel like she was swimming through time as her eyes darted to the lower tree branches that were directly behind Tori's shoulders.

The wind picked up the dirt and the leaves and swirled them around their feet as the leaves parted and moonlight revealed the other assassin aiming the bow straight at Tori from the low branch at least a hundred feet away.

Sakura reached out as if to snatch him from the tree and stop what she knew was about to happen. Tori, who had been watching her closely, reacted as a seasoned fighter would. He dove out of the way just as Sakura moved forward to protect him.

A "twang" from the bowstring being released followed by the whistling of the arrow flying towards them gave them little warning. Within seconds there was a sound of the arrow embedding itself into meaty flesh followed by a shocked gasp.

Tori's eyes were the size of saucers as he trembled in shock. He seemed frozen as if he couldn't believe what had happened. Sakura seemed frozen as if she couldn't believe what had happened either. Her emerald eyes were the same as Tori's – huge and full of fear. She trembled and stared at him as he stared in return at her.

The leaves shook wildly as the wind bowed the trees and teased their hair. The shadow sat watching from the trees, the moon illuminating his face as the leaves danced and swayed. No on moved as the group remained frozen.

It was almost like the Guardian of Time had turned the hour glass on its side and forgotten about them.

TBC