Chapter 36

The following morning...

Rydia's eyes fluttered open to the rising sunlight. She sat up in her bed, and stretched her arms with a happy smile on her face; a smile which had stayed the night with her. She rose, and opened the curtains. Rydia put a hand over her eyes as the sunlight poured into her room. She sighed with contentment.

Kain... She had never believed she would have loved any man more than Edge. However, all her experiences with him and the night before had proven her initial belief wrong.

And she was grateful she had been wrong. Kain, thank you, Rydia thought, shuffling over to her dresser. Thank you for believing in me, and being there for me. She closed the drawer, and walked behind her changing curtain.

Moments later, she stepped out, changed into her usual outfit. Her smile waned a little as she looked at the sleeves, the drapes hanging from them, and how she had asked to have the outfit tailored to her requirements.

For her dream.

Rydia sighed, and clasped her hands together close to her chest. I hope... there's a way home. She begged as if speaking to a higher being. Please... allow me to go home, allow me to teach my children. Exhaling, she released her hands and began to head for the exit. She paused and gazed at herself in the mirror. Her smile returned. Though, honestly, I prefer this outfit to my old one.

Rydia faced her door and left her tower. The welcoming warmth of the sun felt pleasant against her skin. There was a slight breeze, which carried the lovely scent of the flowers from Rosa's garden. She glanced to her side and paused. "Kain?"

The dragoon hadn't noticed her. He turned slowly and smiled at her. "Good morning, my love," he said. "How did you sleep?"

"Well," Rydia said. She beamed. "Very well. And how are you? No dragoon training today?"

Kain faced her. "On the contrary, I have been instructing them since the break of dawn." He stepped forward. "Right now we are taking a break from training." He paused. "Oh, and yes, I am doing quite well, thank you."

Rydia walked over to him, and kissed him on the cheek. "Good. Like young children, even grown warriors need a recess," she said with a slight smirk.

"I am certain all beings, even eidolons, need rest from time to time," Kain said. He stroked the side of her hair.

"But you don't seem tired," Rydia noted.

Kain nodded. "I was heading down to see if the messenger from Troia had arrived yet. Ah, of course, you're not familiar with Cecil and Edge's plan," he said; catching her confused expression. He explained to her the current plan and information.

"The Lodestone Cavern...?" Rydia said. She placed her hand on her chin. "I suppose it's a good place as any to look. We've exhausted our other options." Kain nodded. After a moment of silence, Rydia asked, "do you... think I'll be able to return to Mist somehow if we defeat the rebellion?"

He gazed into her eyes. "That, I do not know, but it is something I hope for."

Her smiled widened and she jumped, embracing him. "I'll even take just a chance to return home." She loosened her embrace, but did not release. "And... then it will become—"

She was interrupted by the sound of a woman giggling. Rydia and Kain both shot their heads in the direction of the voice. "Rosa!" they both exclaimed.

"I'm sorry," she said, beaming. "but I can't help it. You are just delightful together."

Rydia sighed with a slight smile. She released Kain. "Was it really necessary?"

"I didn't intend to," Rosa said. She placed a hand on her chest. "You're right, it was a little rude of me. However, Cecil wishes to speak with Kain."

"Concerning...?" Kain started.

Rosa's smile faded. "The missive we sent to Troia yesterday."

"Ah... I see."

"I wonder how many black chocobos we'll need..." Rydia said. She placed her hands behind her back. "It's not possible we could get one for every soldier."

"Let's not worry." Kain placed his hand on Rydia's shoulder. She gave him a pleasant smile. "We'll cross that bridge when we reach it."

"Wise words." They looked up and saw Cecil walk up to them. He nodded. "It's good to see you in such high spirits, Rydia."

Her cheeks felt a little warm. "I... I'm just glad I have so many friends to support me."

"Oh, come now." Cecil folded his arms. "We all know you gave Kain your mother's ring. I'm happy to help my little sister in whatever she needs, but..." He paused and his eyes trailed over to Kain. "He's the one giving you the most support of us all."

Kain scratched his head. "N-nonsense."

"Oh dear." Rosa giggled again. "It's not like you to be so bashful."

"'ey, ey!" shouted a loud, hearty voice. "Stop teasin' the couple. Let 'em enjoy themselves, ya rascals!"

"Cid!" Rydia ran up and gave him a hug.

"Now, now, don'tcha go fallin' for me now!" Cid chuckled. He accepted her gesture. "Glad you and Kain are gettin' along so well."

Rydia let go and beamed. "I am, too." She stepped back and looked at Kain. The dragoon nodded in agreement. Her smile widened and she walked back to her beloved.

The five gathered together. "Cid, Kain," Cecil said. "You wouldn't have happened to have hear anything about the messenger from Troia?" The two shook their heads. He sighed. "I thought so... perhaps I am too eager. I heard the missive reached Troia early this morning and... well, it may take a couple of days."

"Ha! Yer becomin' impatient like Edge!" Cid noted.

Cecil returned the grin. "Perhaps." His expression dimmed. "Yet, I worry about my people... and what the rebels are trying to accomplish."

"Yeah..." Cid folded his arms. "Ya know, I've been wonderin' for a long time now."

"Wondering what, Cid?" Kain asked.

"What do ya think the assassin—th' one we executed—was doin' at Troia?" Cid scratched his chin, his brows furrowed. "I heard he got into th' Crystal Room."

Cecil frowned. "It is odd," he said, lowering his head. He glanced up. "Witnesses from Troia said he seemed he was attempting to use some sort of ninjustu on the Earth Crystal."

"What could he do to a Crystal?" Rydia asked. She cast a skeptical look. "Not even black magic can affect those."

"Hmm... they have been creating and improving their ninjustu," Kain said. He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. He lightly tapped the butt of his spear on the stone floor. "I'm not sure what he was trying to accomplish."

"It did not appear he was trying to take the Crystal," Rosa said. She raised a finger. "And I do not believe he was trying to break it." She sighed. "It's certainly a mystery."

Rydia lowered her gaze, and worked her lips. "Indeed. I wish we understood." She placed a hand on her hip and looked out to the grassy fields outside Baron. I wonder... just how advanced has their ninjustu become? An uncomfortable chill snaked down her spine. Hopefully, not too powerful.

-S-

Two days later...

Dark clouds hung in the sky; occasionally breaking away for the sun's rays. Even under his mask, Edge could smell the musty air. He gently turned the helm of the Falcon toward the rim of the Baron Continent. In his mind's eye, he saw a pair of brilliant green eyes and a happy smile. It was his only comfort. Kain, thanks for taking care of Rydia.

The night before, Cecil had informed Edge the messenger to Troia had never reached the castle. Apparently, Rand, impatient for any news, had flown over to the kingdom to find out. The Epopts reported they had not received any missive from Baron. However, they would gladly gather a flock of black chocobos to aid Baron and Eblan in their assault against the rebels.

But why did the messenger not reach Troia? He frowned. He knew, he just knew somehow the rebels had found and murdered the messenger. The population of monsters, despite the rising tension between nations, had been on a massive decline. So, in Edge's mind, there was only one reason.

Edge was determined; even if the rebels expected an attack. With him was a squad of his best ninjas. But he glanced up at the shadowy sky. Something's not right... he thought. Yeah, they're probably expecting us, but if they're held up in the Lodestone Cavern, they won't have the defenses of a castle.

Edge didn't even know if it was their base of operations. However, he would not back down; half-certain the old abode of the Dark Elf had to be the rebel hideout. Where else would they hide?

The Falcon continued on, and before Edge's eyes, he could see the distant town of Baron and its castle beyond. His heart felt heavy; something was very wrong. He turned his thoughts back to his only source of comfort.

Rydia... he thought. He smiled. You made the right choice. Be safe.

-S-

Somewhere else in the world...

"All of our men are ready and able to attack, sir!" Druin announced proudly. "The naval ships and the Crimson Flare will depart at your command."

"Perfect," Gerad responded with his deep voice; it carried a tone of satisfaction. "The Crimson Flare will drop the force against Mist at the edge of the desert next to the town. In the meantime, our naval forces will prepare to attack the castle, as soon as the Crimson Flare approaches Baron, the ships will commence their assault.

"Our ninja forces will be on two of the naval ships, and our baron ones on the Crimson Flare. The dark knights will come with me to Mist, alongside some of our best ninjas. Once Mist is destroyed, we'll regroup and take Baron." Gerad paused, scrutinizing his officers in the room. "Is this well understood?"

They all nodded, and then saluted him.

"The time has come then," Gerad rose from the table. "Gentleman, a new sun rises over Baron and Mist this day."

-S-

Baron Castle...

Cecil bit his lip, his body shivered; it was unsettling to see the skies so shrouded in darkness. What could it mean? He shook himself. I hope it's merely the weather... he doubted.

He tried to turn his thoughts away from the shadows. Rosa was the first to come to Cecil's mind. His beloved wife had spoken to him about Rydia two days prior.

"Ever since Kain went to see her last night, she has been nothing but brilliant light. They seem so happy together. I wonder, though, what happened?"

Even on this bleak day, Rydia seemed completely at ease, even moreso than when her students visited her. Her joy gave the paladin a good amount of solace. Curious, he walked away from the battlements in search of his friend.

It didn't take Cecil long; Kain was just exiting his tower, most likely to make his way to the Dragoon Platform. The paladin paused, and then approached his friend.

"So... I heard you gave Rydia a visit about a couple of days ago?" The dragoon suddenly reached for his lance and shot his head toward Cecil. He exhaled, and released the grip on his weapon; his face relaxed. So, he feels it, too. Cecil noted.

"I did," the dragoon said. "She seemed to be in need of some comfort." His eyes turned toward the fields beyond the castle as if looking for something.

"I'm glad you did so," Cecil said with a smile. "Curious she required a little, considering the visit of her students. Far be it from me to pry, however." He looked at Kain. "Tell me, was there anyone else who aided you and Edge at Mist?"

He turned his eyes toward Cecil and nodded. "Edward. He came as a bard, but in a different disguise. He told us he would sing about Rydia among the townsfolk and at the tavern by night." Kain smiled. "Edward informed me his efforts were somewhat effective; he received an amiable applause."

Cecil sighed with relief. "It seems we're all looking for our dear summoner." He raised his head. "My thanks for telling me about Edward. Perhaps there is hope after all."

"Perhaps," Kain said. His smile faded. "Edward did note the townspeople seemed to enjoy his singing more than the actual message. They went their way... not speaking of Rydia." He bowed his head. "Yet, I hope you are correct, Cecil."

The paladin groaned. Back and forth, it seems. The two remained silent for several moments; Cecil searched his mind for something proper to say. His thoughts were interrupted when he heard footsteps approaching and turned around. "Rydia?"

She wore her usual green attire and carried a beaming smile. "Good morning, Cecil," she said in a rather pleasant voice. Her eyes laid themselves on Kain, and her smile brightened. "And good morning to you, Kain."

The dragoon walked up to her and embraced her. Rydia nuzzled against his neck and placed her hand on his chest. "Good morning," he said. "How fared your sleep?"

"Wonderful," Rydia said with a content sigh. "Just wonderful..."

Cecil's smile returned. I ought to leave them alone for a bit... he thought. He turned to his right and began to walk softly away.

But before he even took a few steps, he heard the roaring engines of an airship above him and the couple. Cecil spun, placing his hand on Ragnarok's hilt. His muscles relaxed as he recognized the red hull of the Falcon.

"Edge?" Rydia asked.

"He sent me a missive earlier," Cecil explained. "He intends to investigate the Lodestone Cavern now." He shook his head. "But we have yet to receive the black chocobos from Troia. I don't know how he'll manage to enter the cavern."

She chuckled. "That's Edge for you; impatient and impulsive. Though, I think I agree, we're short on time and who knows when they'll attack again?"

"True," Cecil agreed. "My concern, though, is for Baron and its people. If the rebels are not hiding there, we leave ourselves open to another surprise assault without enough warriors to defend."

"Indeed, but we've allowed ourselves to be on the defensive all this time," Kain said. He turned to Cecil and nodded. "The rebellion may not expect us to enact our own attack."

He raises a compelling point. Cecil watched the Falcon pass by and head towards the hanger. "Come, let's not keep him waiting." He beckoned to Rydia and Kain and together, the three headed down to the landing point.

-S-

Wind whipped through Rydia's hair as she watched the Falcon descend. She stood back as it gradually landed upon the hanger floor. Its humming propellers slowed to a stop and flung a blast of air throughout the hanger.

She, Kain, and Cecil had not been the only ones to notice Edge's approach: Rosa, Cid, Astral, Rand, some of Baron's soldiers, dragoons, and Cid's assistant engineers had gathered. Many of them, save Rosa, Cid, Astral, and Rand, wore curious expressions.

And they had good reason to.

Rydia could see a squad of ninjas along with the prince. That's a large force for an investigation, she thought. She rubbed her lips together in consideration. While it was a risk to search an empty cavern not knowing if it was for certain the rebel headquarters or not, Rydia had to admit, they had been on the defensive for too long. It was time to act. Besides, they did attack Troia not long ago, she reminded herself.

Yet, without the chocobos, how would they be able to land near the cave?

Two ninjas lowered the gangplank for Edge. He immediately noticed Rydia while descending and threw a smile at her. "How are you?" he asked.

She beamed. "Just wonderful!" Her thoughts turned to the night with Kain. Even in such a gloomy atmosphere, she could still feel the gentle warmth in her heart. She shot a glance at him, standing next to her, and he caught her eye. The dragoon returned his own loving smile.

"That's great to hear!" Edge said; there was a very pleasant expression on his face. "You're looking even more radiant than before." He looked at Kain, and to Rydia's surprise, he gave the dragoon an approving nod. "Anyway, good to see all of you here." He glanced at each of his friends.

Cecil nodded. "Likewise, Edge."

"So, did you get my missive?" Edge inquired. Cecil exhaled. "I'll take that as a 'yes.'" He laughed. He adjusted his mask and continued, "we planned on this. We can't defend forever."

"Kain said something similar," Cecil said. He sighed and worked his jaw a moment. "I agree it would be worth the risk, but we don't have the chocobos from Troia yet. Even so, I need to leave half my forces here in case of an attack."

"Dear?" Rosa said.

"What is it?"

"Are you certain?"

"No," he said. Yet he smiled, and placed his hand on Rosa's shoulder. "But if I hadn't taken the risk against Zeromus, we wouldn't be standing here now."

"No one would be," Cid said. "But ya had the guts in ya to face that monster!" He added with a hearty laugh.

Rydia chuckled quietly. She admired how Cid would do anything to remain lighthearted, regardless of how dire the situation. She noticed even the troops were amused, both Baron and Eblan. Even though they were planning to kill other human beings.

But they're monsters... like Golbez's, no Zemus's, men. They wouldn't hesitate to kill a child. Rydia exhaled through her nose and gently swiped her hand across her hair. "So, how do you plan to land there, Edge?"

He placed his hands on his waist. "My ninjas will use their ninjustu to get off the Falcon," he said. He turned to Cecil. "The dragoons could help some of your forces get on and off your airships, too. What do you think?"

"Sounds like our best bet." Cecil looked at Kain. "Commander, what are your thoughts?"

Kain nodded. "It seems it would be our most effective way of getting into the forest and the cavern."

"Then," Rydia spoke up. "Who of us will go on the assault and who will remain behind to lead the troops?"

"I'll come," Rand said. "That is, if His Majesty will allow it."

"Actually, I need you to stay behind," Cecil said. "There's not many we can take into the Lodestone Cavern. Kain and Astral will head the attack taking the Enterprise with another airship. I want the Red Wings to remain to defend the castle. Understood?"

"Yes, your Majesty." Rand bowed. "We'll make sure Baron is safe."

"Rydia should stay," Edge said. "It'd be safer for her."

"Edge...!" Rydia frowned.

He stepped forward. "You're a prime target!" He placed his hand on her shoulder. "I don't want you to die."

She looked him in the eye. "And how many others will die if I don't assist?" Rydia countered. "Think about it, if there was an attack on the castle, wouldn't they be looking for me?"

"She's got a point," Cid said. "I don't think them rebels would expect 'er to walk right into their base with an army of ninjas, dragoons, and sun knights wit' her!" He approached Edge and clapped his shoulder. "C'mon, ya let her choose before, let 'er choose again."

Edge grumbled and turned his eyes back to Rydia. He snorted. "How many times have you given me that stony glare?" he asked with a chuckle.

Her face softened and she smiled. "Did you forget? We lost count."

Edge laughed. "You're right! We have!" He paused and lowered his arms. "Yeah, they wouldn't expect you to attack." He glanced at Cecil. "Well, you know I am going into the cavern."

"Yes, that much is clear," the paladin said with a nod. "I will stay behind and fortify the castle. Half the sun knights will remain here while the others go with your forces."

"Your Majesty, my pardons, but—" Astral began.

Suddenly, a dragoon scout dashed into the hanger. He slid to a stop and looked at Rand, then Kain, then Cecil. "Your Majesty! Master Rand! Master Kain! We have company!"

Rydia felt a cold shiver run down her back. What? She fingered her whip and bit her lip.

Cecil stepped forward and placed his hand on the dragoon's shoulder with concern. "What is it, soldier?"

"There's an unidentified airship approaching from the north!" He exclaimed, gasping.

"What was the color of the hull?" Rand asked; his muscles seemed tense.

"Red, mi'lord."

A cold flash of foreboding pierced the air. "It couldn't be... the... rebels?" Rosa muttered. Rydia looked; the white mage had already drawn her bow.

Kain stepped forward. Even with his armor on, Rydia could tell he was attempting to be calm, but the twitch in his fingers betrayed his fears. "Cecil," he said. "I think all of us should go and see this airship for ourselves."

"Indeed," Cecil said. He turned his head to the scout. "Lead us to where you saw the airship. And quickly!"

The scout bowed and dashed across the stone floor toward the battlements. Rydia and the others didn't hesitate to follow him.

She glanced at the sky and shivered again. Something was not right.

-S-

They arrived at the battlements shortly after. Rydia stared up into the sky. Sure enough, she saw a red shape to the north, and it was swiftly approaching the castle.

The soldiers had brandished their weapons, gazing intently at the shape in the sky. Mere seconds passed before it was, indeed, an airship. Her eyes widened and she shared the combined gasp. It was in the form of a Red Wings airship, but its hull was wider and it was armed to the teeth with powerful, yet sleek cannons.

"That's them," Edge said coldly. "I'll bet all of Eblan's treasury that is the enemy!"

"Rand!" Cecil spun. "Gather the Red Wings quickly and stop that—"

The sound of canon fire cut Cecil off. They glanced toward the sea, only to see flaming canon balls hurling at the castle walls. A fierce explosion rocked the castle. Rydia stumbled forward, but was caught by Kain's arm. He pulled her up. "What's happening?!" He roared.

"Naval ships!" Rand yelled. "It's the rebels! We're under attack!"

The castle shook from additional canon fire. Rydia was shoved aside and covered by Kain just as the enemy airship bombarded the castle battlements with fire.

Kain moved away from her and looked up. Rydia followed his eyes toward the crimson airship in time to see its bomb bay doors close. The aerial vessel then swooped over the castle, blasting a gust of wind across the battlements, and around to the back in the blink of an eye.

"That... speed...!" Edge gasped.

"Rand!" Cecil pushed himself from the battlement he had been leaning on and dashed toward the Lord Captain. "Get the Red Wings mobilized now! We need to neutralize the enemy ships! Both air and sea!"

"At once!" Rand acknowledged.

"Are ya kiddin'?!" Cid bellowed. The two froze and stared at him. "Did ya see how fast their ship is? And how mobile it is? It'll fly circles 'round the Red Wings!"

Rosa approached Cecil and placed her hand on his shoulder. "Dear, Cid's right. That airship is meant to keep the Red Wings from attacking the naval vessels." She shook her head, eyes wide with worry. "Not to mention..."

"I know," Cecil said. He looked over to the walls. Rydia saw that even after two attacks, the eastern walls of the castle were broken. "We need to destroy those naval ships!"

"Let me get my ninjas down—" Edge started.

"Wait!" Rydia interrupted. "Cecil, why not let Rand take the Red Wings and distract the airship? The rebels don't—" She was cut off as the airship swooped in for another bombing run. The top of the northeastern tower shattered in a deafening explosion.

The summoner fell, but a couple of arms snatched her. She looked up and met Edge's eyes. "Thank you."

"Always," Edge said. He helped her up. "What were you saying, Rydia?"

She turned and looked at each of them. "The rebels don't think I'm here! Otherwise, they wouldn't have brought naval ships to attack!" Rydia sighed, catching their confused expressions. "I can summon Leviathan!"

"That's right..." Rand said. "Even those ships can't withstand the Lord of All-Waters!"

"Good thinking, Rydia!" Cecil said. The castle rumbled again as it was hit by another naval assault. "Hurry!" He turned to Rand. "Mobilize the Red Wings, and slow down the enemy airship! Kain will assist you." He turned to him. "Gather your strongest dragoons and have them jump onto the enemy ship!" Kain and Rand saluted him and ran off. Rydia caught Kain's eye before he left, a look which said: "I will see you again soon."

"My liege?" Astral's voice sounded. "What do you wish I and my sun knights to do?"

Cecil faced him. "Have them defend the front gate," he said. "It's possible our enemies are attacking from all directions."

"All right! We got a plan!" Edge exclaimed. "Sons of Shadow, form up!" There was a massive explosion of smoke and the squad he had brought appeared around him. "I need guys to mass Shadowbind those canons on the naval ships. Remember, work together! We got to slow them down while Rydia gets Leviathan onto the battlefield. Shadow hide you!"

"And you, Your Highness!" In unison, they unleashed a flurry of dark needles upon the enemy weapons. The needles covered in dark clouds took the canons in a tight embrace, preventing another round.

Rydia began to gather her strength. The commotion, the explosions, the screams, the yelling clouded her mind. But Leviathan was their only chance at handling the naval assault; she had to be to successful.

I won't fail this time, Rydia assured herself. She cupped her hands together and finally her mind clicked and she could feel her energy radiating down to the Feymarch. Her eyes shot open, barely noticing the green orbs circling her, and she said, "O Lord of All-Waters, Ruler of the Feymarch, and King of the eidolons, aid me and my allies against the enemies of the sea!"

The wind whipped around Rydia and she heard the roar of a beast. She glanced below, and the waters swirled in a large maelstrom appearing under one of the ships. Screams sounded from the rebels as Leviathan's body wrapped itself the southern most naval ship. Leviathan's head shot out of the water, and he let out a piercing roar, crushing the ship to pieces.

An elderly, yet royal voice entered into her head. You seem to require my aid often these days, dear Rydia. Do you wish for the other ships to be destroyed?

She nodded, as if Leviathan could see her. Yes. We need all the help we can get... please!

Very well! Leviathan pulled himself and the remains of the ship under the water, avoiding the fiery blasts which helplessly landed in the water around him. The ships immediately turned north as another swirling pool of deadly water came for them.

"It's working!" an Eblan ninja exclaimed.

"I'd never thought I'd see the day The Lord of All-Waters would aid us..."

She turned and saw Edge with a proud smile on his face. "Well, when you have a summoner as powerful as Rydia at your side, anything can happen!" he said, throwing her a wink.

"Quick! Smoke us out!" a loud voice shouted over the tumult. Rydia looked down at the sea and immediately, the two naval ships were covered in a gigantic blast of smoke. A massive Smoke justu, even larger than when the rebels had directly attacked Baron weeks ago. The ships faded away as the smoke dispersed... and nothing but rippling water remained.

Rydia heard Leviathan curse. It's all right. She thought to him. We can get the rest later!

Dear child... the castle may be saved, but the Mist is gathering...

What?! Rydia's eyes widened. Your Majesty! What do you mean?!

Go, seek her out. Farewell. Leviathan dove under the water and vanished.

"Damn!" Edge punched his fists together. "They got away! But how did they make such a powerful Smoke justu?"

Rydia approached him, about to tell him what she heard from Leviathan, but then the sky screamed with fire. She ran for cover, but realized the enemy airship was not assaulting them, rather it was being assaulted.

Her eyes turned to the clouded skies. The Red Wings had encircled the swift, but now smoking, airship of the enemy forces. Rand had the fleet unleashing all the firepower against the rebels. Kain...! She gasped. "Edge! Is there anyway you can get me up there?!"

Edge blinked. "Why—oh... it's Kain, right?" he said. She nodded. "I can, with a little help from your Warp spell and my ninjas here, but you'll put yourself in danger!"

"I know! But he could get killed in the cross-fire!" Rydia said, tears broke from her eyes. If anything were to happen to Kain...

"Look!" She heard Rosa yell. Rydia followed her finger to the sky. The rebel airship had swooped outside of the Red Wings' trap and began to fly northward. She saw the dragoons escape onto Rand's fleet, and one them bore a white, glimmering lance.

She sighed in relief. Thank goodness.

Cecil waved to the Red Wings, signaling to Rand to come down close to the castle. The enemy airship had moved so quickly, Rydia almost didn't notice it as a red spot in the sky. She looked around.

The castle walls were broken, rubble—large and small—scattered over the entire castle, spoiling its once majestic appearance. She glanced down and saw that Rosa's garden had also suffered; sun knights had gathered large barrels of water and were putting out flames. Rydia's heart twisted in pain and she frowned, sad.

"Rosa, your garden..."

"It'll be fine," she said. "The plants will grow back in time." She walked over to Rydia and and gave her a reassuring embrace. "You did wonderfully."

"Thank you," she said. She let go. "Rosa, I heard Leviathan tell me something."

"What was it?"

"He said—" Rydia was cut off as the Red Wings drew close and the loud hum of their propellers drowned out almost all other sound. She clapped her hands over her ears and winced. A gangplank was lowered and Rand appeared. He beckoned to all of them, a light of urgency in his eyes.

Rydia followed Rosa over to the Red Wings, recalling Leviathan's message. She shuddered, and wondered what the King of the Eidolons had meant. She rubbed her chin; a warning was all she could think of. But of what? The rebels had underestimated Baron and Eblan's combined forces again, and had retreated with heavy wounds.

Rydia scratched her head in deep thought. A warning of what? She sighed, and felt exhausted. Without paying attention to the gathering, she fell into Kain's arms, and continued to ponder the words:

The Mist is gathering...