(A/N). Hi guys! As always, thanks for the reviews... I can't believe that we're on chapter 38 already (it only feels like yesterday since I started writing this story).
Anyway, enough of my talk. On with the chapter!
After putting out the flames and cleaning up the mess left behind by Vandran and Maleficent, Vernon and his troops pressed on to Devondale... Upon spotting the gate up ahead, Vernon pulled Gerald and Carter aside in order to give them instructions...
''If you don't find out where they are within a couple of minutes, then I'll come along and persuade the gatekeeper to be a bit more cooperative.'' Vernon flashed a smile. ''Alright?''
Gerald and Carter both gave a nod of their heads.
''Good. Get to it.''
Meanwhile, the gatekeeper was feeling rather bored. Watching over the gate at night was extremely tedious... Many people considered it to be an easy job, and in many ways it was. But spending countless cold nights looking out to an empty field was enough to make anyone feel slightly depressed... Still, he had to make a living somehow, he had a family to support... Luckily for him, the skies were clear, meaning he could look up to the stars above his head... He enjoyed gazing at the stars.. Trying to count them all was impossible, but it did help to wile away the time... All of a sudden, a voice called out.
''Hello there!''
The man got to his feet and looked towards the field. He spotted two men approaching towards the gate. ''Hello!.. How can I be of service to you two fine gents?''
''Well, aside from permitting us entry to this splendid town, we were hoping that you could help us find some friends of ours?'' Gerald said.
''Friends?''
''Yes. We believe that they're in Devondale.''
''Is that so?''
''Indeed.'' Carter confirmed. ''They probably arrived here some time today, in fact.''
''Ah. Well, can you describe your friends?''
''Yes,'' Gerald replied somewhat hesitantly.
''Good.'' The gatekeeper smiled. ''So, how many friends are we talking about?''
''Four.''
''I presume that they're all travelling together?''
''Er...probably.'' Carter looked unsure...
''Probably?'' The man seemed confused.
''What he means is, we don't know,'' Gerald said. ''We haven't seen them for so long that we're unsure as to whether or not they're still travelling together.''
''Ah, I see.'' The man nodded his head (pretending to fully understand). ''So, er...are they all men? Women?''
''Two men and two women.''
''Technically, that isn't quite right.'' Carter corrected Gerald. ''One of the females is in fact a fairy.''
''A fairy!?'' the man looked shocked.
''Yes.''
''Well, we've certainly had no fairies entering this town.''
''You're quite sure?''
''It's something I would have remembered, I assure you.''
''But you can't be here every hour of the day,'' Carter said.
''I'm not,'' the man replied. ''I only tackle the night shift.''
''Perhaps they entered at daytime, then? When you weren't here.''
''Trust me, if a fairy had entered Devondale, everyone, including myself, would know about it... Humans and fairies mixing together is a rare thing. In fact, I'm rather surprised that you two are acquainted with a fairy.''
''Well, she's a friend of a friend.'' Gerald lied.
''I see... Well, I'm sorry I couldn't help.''
''Wait.'' Carter reached across the gate. ''What about our other three friends?''
''All humans?''
''Yes.''
''Technically-''
''No, that won't be necessary.'' Gerald prevented Carter from telling the man that Diaval was a shape-shifter (deeming that information irrelevant).
''Why? What was he going to say?'' The gatekeeper wondered.
''It isn't important,'' Carter replied.
''Have you seen them? Two men and one woman?''
''Well, actually, I did see two men and a woman earlier on tonight.. What do your friends look like?''
''One of the men has fair hair and wears a strange jacket, while the other is a dark haired man with scars on his face.''
''Does the woman have red hair?'' the man inquired.
''Yes! Yes, she does.''
''That's them!'' the man exclaimed. ''They entered this town earlier tonight.''
Suddenly, a voice boomed from behind Gerald and Carter.
''What's taking so long!?''
Gerald gave a roll of his eyes before turning around to face Vernon. ''Captain! You're here!'' He feigned a smile.
''Of course I'm here!'' Vernon replied. ''And you've failed to answer my question. What's taking so long!?''
''Well, er...you see, Captain-''
''Captain?'' The gatekeeper seemed puzzled.
''They're here, sir.'' Gerald revealed. ''All except Maleficent.''
''Are you sure!?'' Vernon sounded giddy with excitement.
''He is.'' Carter pointed towards the man at the gate.
''Who are you people?'' The man started to look worried.
''Ah, well, that's no concern of yours.'' Vernon flashed a smile. ''Now, do your job and open the damn gate!''
The man was taken aback by Vernon's anger. He hesitated slightly before opening up the gate.
''Gerald.'' Vernon turned to his Lieutenant.
''Yes, sir?''
''Tell the rest of the men to move in.''
''Right, Captain!'' Gerald headed off to inform the rest of the men who were waiting in the field.
Vernon was just about to step through the gate when the man stood in his way.
''Hang on. I-I can't just let you-''
''Move aside.'' Vernon cut him off.
''I mean, what are-''
''Move aside!'' Vernon pushed him out of the way.
''Oi!'' the man exclaimed. ''Don't make me get tough with you.''
Vernon grinned. ''Am I supposed to be scared?''
''You should be. I've knocked down bigger men than you.''
''Is that a fact?'' Vernon glanced over his shoulder. ''Carter.''
''Y-yes, sir?''
With the man's eyes fixed on Carter, Vernon took this as his opportunity to attack, slamming his knee into the man's groin.. Vernon laughed in triumph as the man doubled over in agony... ''You see, the thing is.'' Vernon swung his foot up and kicked the man in his face, sending him crashing down to the ground... ''I never fight fair.''
At that moment, Gerald and the rest of the men arrived on their horses.
''Come on.'' Carter ushered the gatekeeper out of the way, dragging him aside.
''Move it, men!'' Gerald was just about to lead them into Devondale when Vernon raised his hand.
''Wait!'' Vernon declared. ''There's no point entering the town until we know whereabouts to look for them.. Wait here.'' Vernon marched over towards the gatekeeper (who had crawled to the side of the road).
''Touch me again and I swear I'll-''
''You'll what!?'' Vernon withdrew his sword.
The man began to breath heavily, suddenly fearing for his life... ''Please.''
''There's no need to be afraid.'' Vernon softened his tone. ''Just tell me what I want to know and I promise I'll leave you in peace.''
The man hesitated for a brief moment before finally agreeing... ''Alright. Alright.''
''Good.'' Vernon smiled as he hovered over the man. ''All I need to know is the location of our three...friends.''
''Well, I don't know for sure. But-''
Vernon placed the tip of his sword inches away from the man's throat. ''Oh, don't pay any attention to this. Please continue.''
''I-I-'' The man stuttered in fear.
''Go on! Spit it out!''
''They're somewhere at the center of t-town,'' the man replied.
''Are you positive of that?''
''Y-yes, yes.''
''How can I be sure that you're telling the truth?''
Just then, Gerald appeared on his horse... ''Sir!''
''Can't you see that I'm busy!?''
''Yes, sir,'' Gerald responded. ''But I just thought I should let you know that I can confirm that he's speaking the truth.''
''Really?''
''Yes. I've just had a chat with Fredrick.''
''Fredrick?'' Vernon was unfamiliar with the name.
''The owner of the house you lent to Syrena.'' Gerald explained with an eye roll (unimpressed that Vernon couldn't even remember the names of his own men).
''Oh, yes, of course.'' (Vernon pretended to recall the name).
''What this man says matches what Fredrick told me,'' Gerald said. ''They're smack in the middle of town.''
''I told you,'' the gatekeeper spoke in a weak voice.
Vernon glanced to the man before looking back to Gerald. ''Lieutenant.''
''Yes, sir?''
''Lead the men in. I will follow.''
''Very good, sir.'' Gerald turned his horse around...
''And Gerald,'' Vernon spoke.
''Yes?'' Gerald looked over his shoulder to his Captain.
''Keep it quiet.. I don't want the whole town awake just yet.''
Gerald gave a nod of understanding before waving to the men, signaling for them to come through the open gate.
The men started to career into Devondale, Gerald having to instruct each and every one of them to bring their horses down to a slow trot.
Once all the horses had gone by, Carter looked to Vernon.
''Run along.'' Vernon commanded. ''I'll be there in a moment.''
''Yes, sir.'' Carter gave the gatekeeper a look of sympathy (knowing what was about to happen) before running after the others...
Once Carter was gone, Vernon turned his head back to the man, pressing his sword down ever so gently.
The man winced as he felt the chill of the blade touch against his throat. ''Please. Please don't kill me.''
Vernon's only response was to give a light chuckle.
''Please... I have a family.'' Tears started to form in the man's eyes. ''I have a son and a newborn daughter.''
''And how is that of relevance to me?''
''Have you no compassion?''
''Compassion?'' Vernon smirked. ''Compassion is for the weak...''
''Y-you promised to let me go.''
''No, I didn't. I promised to leave you in peace.'' Vernon corrected him... ''And I fully intend to keep that promise.''
''Good.'' The man sighed with relief...
Vernon suddenly pushed down on the sword. The blade pierced the man's throat, sending blood squirting everywhere... His body trembled for several seconds before finally falling still.
''There!'' Vernon beamed... ''Now you are at peace.''
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Back at the house, Diaval had drifted off to sleep in front of the fire.. Christopher's comforting words had given him renewed faith and confidence... Believing that some higher power was watching over and protecting them, Diaval (feeling safe and secure) dozed off...
Fraser, meanwhile, had been awakened by a particularly large spider walking on him.. Rather miraculously, his scream hadn't woken anyone in the house... After bursting out of his room and into the hall he'd contemplated calling for help, before ultimately deciding against it... ''I need a drink,'' Fraser said to himself, his nerves on edge... He slowly made his way down the steps before walking into the living room. He looked to the sleeping Diaval in front of the fireplace as he made his way over towards the kitchen (hoping that Syrena had some drink stashed away in there)...
Fraser began opening up all the kitchen cabinets in search of alcohol, all the while trying to be as quiet as possible... He searched and searched but couldn't find any. ''Blast!'' he cursed under his breath. ''Oh well. If a first you don't succeed.''
After wandering around the house for several minutes, Fraser eventually found his way into the back room.. It was a very small room (barely bigger than a broom cupboard), and it only contained two chests.
''Let's have a look in here, then, shall we?'' Fraser pried opened the lid of the chest that was nearest to him.. With it being so dark, Fraser couldn't actually see inside the chest, so he stepped back outside the room in order to retrieve his candle... Upon returning to the chest he let out a small giggle, as he spotted a bottle nested at the bottom of it.
''Aha! I knew that there was some good stuff in here somewhere!'' Fraser opened the bottle of mead and took a swig. ''Ah, that's better.'' Fraser placed the bottle down next to him before rifling through the chest. ''I wonder what else is in here?'' he mused... After rummaging through the chest and various junk, Fraser eventually found something that was of interest to him. ''Oh!'' He pulled a rolled up piece of paper from the chest... ''Hmm?'' Fraser picked up his bottle and the paper before stepping out of the room...
Once Fraser made it back up the stairs, he noticed that the door to Syrena's room was now open. Paying it no mind, Fraser went back into his own room, neglecting to close the door behind him... After taking another swig out of the bottle, Fraser unrolled the piece of paper and sat down on the bed.
''Hmm? It's some kind of document,'' Fraser remarked to himself as he examined it...
Just then, Syrena entered his room.
''What are you doing?'' Syrena inquired.
Fraser jumped up, a guilty look on his face. ''N-nothing! Nothing at all.'' His eyes darted around in a furtive manner. ''You bloody well gave me a fright.''
''Sorry about that. I just woke up and noticed that your door was opened so I-'' Syrena stopped talking, as her eyes looked to the bottle that Fraser was trying to obscure with his body. ''Where did you get that bottle from?''
''What bottle?'' Fraser feigned innocence.
''Fraser,'' she spoke his name in a stern manner.
''Oh, alright.'' Fraser revealed the bottle to her. ''I told you my acting capabilities have declined.''
''Oh, don't be silly.''
''No, it's true.. When I was younger I'd have been able to convince you that I was ruddy innocent... It's time for me to face facts. The magic's gone.''
''Fraser, it was clear to me that you were concealing it.'' Syrena took the bottle from him. ''I would have known regardless of your acting capabilities.''
''Yeah, I suppose you're right,'' Fraser replied. ''I mean, after all, it is your bottle.''
''My bottle?''
''Yes. I found it downstairs in the back room... Don't you recognise it?''
''Oh.'' Syrena sounded shocked.. ''I forgot about it. I put it down there myself.. Ooh, It must have been in there for years and years.'' She let out a nervous laugh.
''Oh, I see.'' Fraser turned his attention back to the paper. ''I found this as well.'' Fraser started to read.
''Really?'' Syrena turned to leave. ''What is it?''
''I'm not sure.'' He carried on reading... ''Oh, it's the deed to this house!''
''What!?'' Syrena span back around with an alarmed expression on her face.
''That's odd.''
''What is?'' Syrena was looking very agitated.
''Well, your name isn't listed on here,'' Fraser said. ''It says this place belongs to a bloke called Fredrick.''
''Fredrick?.. That is odd.''
''How can that possibly be?'' Fraser smiled (thinking it must be some kind of bizarre mistake).
''I don't know.'' Syrena winced (knowing that pitiful reply wasn't going to suffice). ''Oh! Of course!'' Syrena pretended to have a revelation.
''What?''
''I just remembered.''
''Remembered what?''
''Eh?'' Syrena struggled to think of an answer.
''What have you remembered?'' Fraser laughed. ''Blimey! You're worse than I am when I've had four bottles of that stuff.'' He pointed towards the bottle of mead.
Syrena giggled. ''Yes... Anyway...I, er...remembered that-'' Syrena suddenly thought of an excuse that would (hopefully) be sufficient. ''Fredrick was the previous owner of this house.''
''Oh, is that right?''
''Yes, yes.'' Syrena confirmed. ''I only moved in two years ago.''
''Well, how can-'' He stopped and smiled.
''What?''
''Oh, it's nothing. Just something you said that doesn't add up.''
''Tell me.'' Syrena sounded stern.
''Well...it's just that you said that you put that bottle of mead downstairs in the back room.''
''So?''
''Well, you said that was years and years ago. Except it couldn't have been if you've only been living here for the past two years.''
''It was just a slip of the tongue,'' Syrena replied.
''And Christopher seems to be under the impression that you've been living here for a lot longer than two years. Didn't you tell him about this Fredrick bloke?'' He gestured towards the document.
''Give me that!'' Syrena snapped, as she tore the document from his hands. ''Must you constantly badger me!?''
''I'm sorry. I didn't mean-''
''You shouldn't have taken this, anyway!'' Syrena ripped the paper in half. ''Once a thief, always a thief, eh?''
''Oi! There's no need to get bloody insulting about it.''
''Oh, just shut up!'' Syrena turned to leave.
''I won't be spoken to like that!''
''Listen to me, you ungrateful toad!'' She span back around to face him. ''If it wasn't for me you'd be sleeping in the street tonight, just remember that... I was willing to let it slide that you broke into my home. But then you steal my things and accuse me of being a liar.''
''I never said that you were a liar. I was just confused.''
''Confused? Ha!..'' Syrena took a deep breath in a vain effort to calm herself. ''Look...just go to sleep.''
''No, I've had enough. I'm leaving.'' Fraser pushed his way past Syrena and walked into the hall.
''Wait!'' Syrena followed after him. ''Don't be so hasty all the time.''
''I'm leaving and that's that!'' Fraser started to walk down the stairs.
''Oh, fine. Good riddance.''
Fraser stopped halfway down the stairs and looked to Syrena. ''I don't know what it is that you're hiding, but I'll make sure to inform those two fine lads that you're up to something before I go.''
''You can't!'' Syrena's exclaimed in a frightened tone of voice (her emotions bubbling over).
''Watch me.'' Fraser walked down the stairs in a determined manner.
Syrena raced down the stairs after him and grabbed his arm. ''Please. Please don't say anything.''
''Unhand me or I'll scream bloody murder.''
Syrena suddenly lost control, grabbing him by the throat. ''You do and I'll break your neck.''
A gasping Fraser was dragged through the living room and towards the kitchen by Syrena. His hand reaching out towards the sleeping Diaval for aid as he past by him...
''Get in there.'' Syrena released Fraser and pushed him into the kitchen.
''What the-''
''Quiet!'' She closed the door behind them.
''No! I won't be quiet!.. You just tried to choke me.''
''I did not.''
''Yes, you did!''
''Shh!'' Syrena shushed him frantically. ''If you want to leave then leave. But don't try and cause trouble between me and my friends.''
''I'm sorry, but I'm afraid I have to tell them.. There's something not right about this. The whole way your acting is bloody weird!..''
''Then you leave me no choice.'' Syrena pulled out a sharp knife from a nearby drawer.
Fraser's mouth opened wide, before he made a run for the door.
''Come here.'' Syrena growled, as she grabbed Fraser and pinned him up against the wall.
''Please don't!'' Fraser pleaded, his eyes filled with terror.
Syrena put the knife to his throat... ''Believe me, I don't want to do this.''
''T-then don't do it.''
''I have to,'' she replied in a broken voice. ''You've left me with no other option.. You don't understand what I've been through in order to get this far... For once, I've finally made the right choice. I have a chance to build a new life for myself... And I will not allow for that to be wrecked by you.''
''All the more reason to let me go,'' Fraser said. ''I swear I won't say anything to them...''
Syrena began to wrestle with her conscience, weighing up the pros and cons of killing Fraser here and now... He'd found out too much and couldn't be allowed to speak with Christopher or Diaval, that's for sure.. Letting him go would be a risk. A huge risk, in fact.. What if he was to return the next day in order to warn Christopher that he was sharing a house with a potential lunatic?.. Telling Fraser the truth, that this was all an elaborate ruse, would only serve to make matters worse... No. Things had gone too far... She had to kill him.
''I can't believe this,'' Fraser said. ''Surely you can't kill a poor, old, innocent man?''
Syrena found herself weakening as she looked into his eyes...suddenly realising that she could never change. Not really... The whole point of this, the whole reason why she wanted to keep Fraser silent was because she was so desperate to sponge away her past. Yet, here she was, about to commit murder once again... The means to this particular end were marginally better than her reasons for killing in the past, but nevertheless, it was still the same terrible deed. She still needed to rob someone of life for her own gains... After what felt like an age had past, Syrena finally had a realisation... 'I can't do this...' Syrena dropped the knife to the floor... ''Get out of here.''
''W-what?'' Fraser seemed shocked that Syrena was letting him go.
''I said get out of here.''
''Oh...right.'' Fraser quickly opened the door and rushed out into the living room. He accidentally kicked a box that was on the floor, awakening Diaval in the process...
Diaval stretched before looking to Fraser. ''Oh. Hello, Fraser.. I must have dozed off.''
''I can see that,'' Fraser replied in a somewhat uneasy tone.
''Is something the matter?'' Diaval asked with a yawn.
''Nothing's the matter.'' He looked to Syrena (who was emerging from the kitchen). ''N-nothing at all.''
''Well, where are you going?'' Diaval asked, as he watched Fraser hurry towards the front door.
''I'm, er...just going for a breath of air.''
''Oh, alright.'' Diaval gave him a small smile.
Fraser returned Diaval's smile before opening the front door.. He shot Syrena one last look before stepping outside and onto the porch... The moment the door was closed, Diaval looked to Syrena.
''What was that all about?'' Diaval said.
''Hmm?''
''Fraser.''
''What about him?'' Syrena pretended not to know anything about his strange behaviour.
''Well, he was acting a little...odd.''
''Odd?''
''Yeah. He's normally so talkative.''
''Well, maybe he's just feeling a little dispirited.''
''Dispirited?'' Diaval echoed.
''Yes. You see, I caught him stealing.''
''What?'' Diaval got to his feet... ''What did he steal?''
''Nothing, thankfully. I apprehended him when he was in the back room attempting to steal.''
''Oh, I see.. No wonder he's avoiding you.''
''Yes. I'm starting to think it was a mistake for me to let him stay here.''
''Well, I certainly can't blame you for thinking that.'' Diaval agreed with her. ''It's a pity I fell asleep or I would have stopped him for you.''
''Oh, it's alright.'' She gave a faint smile. ''You can't help being tired, Diaval.'' Syrena looked around for Christopher.. ''But, what are you doing out here, anyway?''
''What?''
''Well, wasn't Christopher the one who was supposed to keep watch?''
''Yes, he was. But, I couldn't sleep so I offered to take his place out here.. And then, wouldn't you know it, the moment he goes to bed I nod off.'' Diaval let out a small chuckle.
''Well, no harm, no foul, as they say.'' Syrena headed into the hall. ''I'm just going to check to make sure that Fraser didn't steal anything before I caught him.'' (this was, of course, an excuse to make sure that there was no other incriminating evidence stored away in the house).
''Alright.'' Diaval sat back down...
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Outside the house, Fraser didn't know what to do. He just sat down on the porch, weighing his options up... He was a selfish individual at heart, he knew that... And yet, for some reason, he felt compelled to turn around and walk back into the house.. The way Syrena had attacked him in the kitchen was frightening. The fact that she had actually held a knife to his throat was hard for him to believe, as she'd seemed rather nice earlier on that night... 'She has to be hiding something.' Fraser deduced. 'But what?'... Going back inside and telling Christopher and Diaval what had happened would certainly strain credulity.. But could he leave things like this...? Fraser was torn from his thoughts by the sound of horses hooves coming up the street. He craned his neck and spotted several horses headed in his direction. At the front of the pack was a white horse, being ridden by a sinister looking bald headed man...
''Gerald!'' Vernon called to his Lieutenant (who was riding just behind him).
''Yes, sir?''
''Bring whatshisname to the front.''
''You mean Fredrick?''
''Yes. I need to know which house belongs to him.''
''Right away, sir,'' Gerald replied before calling out. ''Fredrick!''
Fraser got back to his feet, as he watched the men moving closer towards him, wondering why there were so many of them. And each and every one carrying weapons...
''Ah, Fredrick.'' Vernon smiled. ''If you wouldn't mind pointing out which house is yours.''
''Of course not, Captain,'' Fredrick replied. ''It's that one.'' He pointed towards it.
''Which one?''
''The one with the old man standing on the porch.'' Fredrick suddenly looked worried... ''What's he doing there? He isn't part of Maleficent's gang, is he?''
''Who knows?'' Vernon responded. ''Either way, I doubt he'll cause us a problem.''
Fraser started to panic, as he realised that they were looking straight at him. ''Oh well. Time to leave.'' Fraser trotted down the steps.
''Grab him.'' Vernon commanded casually before turning to his Lieutenant. ''Gerald.''
''Yes, sir?''
''Fetch me that piece of rope from over there.'' Vernon gestured towards a long piece of coiled rope that was laid next to someone's front door.
''Rope?'' Gerald looked puzzled. ''What do you want that for?''
''Oh, you'll see soon enough.'' Vernon flashed a grin...
''Get off me!'' Fraser protested, as he was grabbed by two of Vernon's men on horseback.
''Well done, men!'' Vernon's grin widened...
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Back inside the house, Christopher had being woken up by the sound of hooves outside his open window. He slowly got to his feet before peering outside the window. ''Oh no.'' He let out a sigh upon spotting his old nemesis...
After making a thorough check in the various rooms, Syrena returned to the living room.
''Ah, there you are.'' Diaval walked over towards Syrena. ''That took you quite some time.''
''Well, I was just making sure that nothing was missing,'' Syrena replied.
''And was there?. Anything missing, I mean?''
''No, thankfully.''
Just then, the door to the study flung open, as a startled Christopher stumbled out.
''Guys, we've got a major problem.''
''Christopher?'' Syrena turned towards him. ''What's the matter?''
''Can't you hear that!?'' Chris gestured to the living room window.
They both stopped and listened intently.
''Yes. Now that you come to mention it.'' Diaval started to walk towards the window.
''No!'' Chris pulled him back. ''He's probably got archers posted all around us.''
''I don't understand. What's going on?'' Syrena asked.
''Guess who's outside.''
''Oh no.'' Syrena's face fell.
''That's right. Our dear old friend...Vernon.''
''Are you sure it's him?'' Diaval sounded despondent.
''Of course I'm sure.''
''But have you actually seen-''
''Christopher!'' a familiar voice called from outside. ''Christopher!''
''Do you believe me now?'' Chris looked to Diaval.
Diaval gave a slight nod of his head whilst letting out a sigh.
''Oh, Christopher!''
''I hate it when he does that,'' Chris murmured (in reference to Vernon's annoying sing song tone of voice).
''What do we do now?'' Syrena looked worried.
''I'm thinking.'' Christopher furrowed his brow as he looked around the room. ''Hey, where's Fraser?''
''He left.''
''He left!?''
''Yes. Syrena caught him trying to steal.'' Diaval explained...
Suddenly, Vernon called out. ''Christopher! I have a friend of yours out here!.. Well, at least I think he's a friend of yours. I found him standing on the porch!''
''Fraser,'' Chris spoke his name with a sigh.
Syrena began to feel terribly guilty, knowing that Fraser's life was in danger because of her...
''I don't believe you!'' Chris shouted defiantly.
''Come and see for yourself.'' Vernon looked to the old man.
''You'll pay for this.'' Fraser shot him a glare.
''Keep him still!'' Vernon snapped.
Fredrick tightened his grip on Fraser...
''I'll go check.'' Syrena volunteered to look out the window (hoping that the men would recognise her before opening fire).
''Wait.'' Chris tugged Syrena back gently... ''I'll go.''
''No, I want to look.''
''Syrena, please!.. I can't risk any harm coming to you.'' Christopher gave her a ghost of a smile before slowly walking over towards the window. He took a deep breath before hesitantly peering out of it..
''See?'' Vernon gestured towards Fraser... ''So, do you know him or not?''
Christopher decided not to answer that question...
''You're not going to answer me, are you?''
Christopher remained silent.
''Well, no matter. Whether you know him or not is irrelevant, I think.'' Vernon smiled. ''Because you can't bear to see an innocent person die, can you.''
''Let him go, Vernon!'' Chris shouted. ''He has nothing to do with this.''
''Oh, I think you'll find that he does,'' Vernon replied. ''You see, I need to get you out of that house.''
''I'm not stepping out there to die!''
''If you don't then I'll kill him!'' Vernon boomed... ''Now do you see his point in all this?''
Christopher turned around and looked to Diaval and Syrena, unsure of what to do.
''If you come out now then I swear I'll release him,'' Vernon stated...
''We can't go out there, Chris,'' Diaval said. ''He won't keep his word, you know that.''
Christopher gave a solemn nod of his head before turning back to the window...
''Have you made a decision yet?'' Vernon inquired.
''Yes.. I'm not going to play it your way.''
''What?''
''I'm not coming out there.'' Christopher made it clear. ''You see, I don't trust you, Vernon.. You're liable to still kill him even if I do come out.''
''Don't test me, Christopher.'' Vernon's face darkened. ''I warn you.''
''No, I warn you!.. If you don't release him you will surely fail once again.''
''I agree with that.'' Fraser chimed in.
''Shut up! The both of you!'' Vernon bellowed. ''You are in no position to be making threats, Christopher!''
''You're wrong,'' Chris replied with a smile. ''If you and your men refuse to leave then Maleficent will come blasting through this window. And yes, I know that she can't hurt you directly. But by God, she can do some damage indirectly... Trust me on this one, Vernon.. Stay here and you will regret it.''
Vernon smiled. ''Nice try, but I'm afraid it won't work... You see, I happen to know that Maleficent isn't in there with you.''
''How?''
''Well, I had a little chat with the gatekeeper. He told me that only three people entered this town.. And he didn't see any winged beasts.''
''For all you know she could have arrived here later,'' Chris responded. ''You know how Maleficent dislikes mingling with humans.''
A flash of uncertainty appeared on the men's faces.. Vernon, however, remained confident that the fairy wasn't present.
''Alright, then. Come on out, Maleficent!'' Vernon shouted... ''Come on, you coward!''
A silence filled the air, as all of Vernon's men waited with bated breath for Maleficent to emerge from the house... Eventually, after several seconds had passed, Vernon spoke up again.
''Just as I though.'' He sneered. ''She isn't here...is she?''
Christopher didn't respond, but the look on his face was all the confirmation Vernon needed.
''Come on, Christopher. Give it up... It's hopeless.''
''I'm not giving in.''
''Sooner or later I'm going to win, you know this... Why postpone the inevitable?''
Christopher turned away from the window.
''I see.'' Vernon huffed. ''Well, if that's your attitude, I'm just going to have to up the ante a little... Gerald!''
''Yes, sir?''
''I think it's time to rouse the people of Devondale. Drag everyone on this street out of their homes.''
''Yes, sir!'' Gerald turned his horse around. ''Alright men, you heard the Captain!''
''What are they doing out there?'' Syrena wondered aloud, as she heard the men scurrying around outside.
Christopher rushed back to the window to see what was going on.
''Well?''
''Oh, dear God.'' Christopher watched as Vernon's men dragged people out of their homes. Breaking down doors and smashing windows to get to them. ''You madman!'' Christopher couldn't contain his anger.
Vernon's only response was to laugh heartily while shrugging his shoulders. ''You brought this on yourself, Chris!''
''What's happening!?'' Diaval exclaimed.
''He's ordered an attack on the entire street,'' Chris replied. ''They're literally dragging people out of their homes.''
''Why?''
''He's trying to goad me into coming out that door,'' Chris responded... ''And I might just have to do that.''
''No!'' Syrena disagreed strongly. ''He'll kill you for sure.''
''If I don't go out there he's gonna start killing those people en masse!... And I can't allow that to happen.''
''Don't you see? He will kill you and still kill them.''
''Perhaps.'' Chris knew that this was a strong possibility. ''But I'm the only chance they've got. And besides...I've got a plan.''
''A plan? What sort of plan?''
''Christopher!'' Vernon shouted from outside. ''My patience is all but gone!''
''Looks like our time's up.'' Diaval turned to the window then back to Christopher.
''Don't worry, he'll give us ten seconds,'' Chris said. ''He always does.''
''You've got five seconds to get out here!'' Vernon boomed.
Chris sighed. ''Gotta give him credit. He's learning.''
''I mean it! If you're not out here in five seconds then I'll start executing these poor, innocent people!'' Vernon glanced towards a crying baby. ''Children first, by the way!''
''Complete and utter bastard,'' Chris muttered under his breath.
''One!'' Vernon started to count.
''What's the plan? What's the plan?'' Diaval sounded frantic.
''Two!''
''What's the plan!?''
''Three!''
''Shh,'' Chris shushed Diaval. ''For my plan to work you have to stay silent.''
''Four!''
''Christopher!'' Syrena sounded worried (fearing for the lives of the little children).
Christopher turned to Syrena. ''Syrena, buy us some extra seconds while I explain the plan to Diaval.''
''How?''
''Five!'' Vernon finished counting. ''Right! You!'' He nudged the man who was nearest to him. ''Bring that baby over here.''
''Right, sir.'' The man marched over towards the woman and dragged the baby from her arms.
''Not my baby!'' the woman screamed hysterically. ''Please!''
''Don't blame me, blame those selfish twonks in there!'' Vernon pointed at the house. ''They could have saved you by electing to come out, but they didn't!''
''MY BABY!'' The woman's screams grew louder.
''You monster!'' Fraser shouted while struggling to break free from Fredrick.
''Kill me instead!'' The woman's husband pleaded.
''Don't worry, you will all have a chance to die.'' Vernon assured them. ''No need to get immature about who gets to go first.''
''AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!'' The man pushed his way past several of Vernon's soldiers in a desperate attempt to rescue his baby.
''Gerald!'' Vernon called on his Lieutenant.
Gerald instantly jumped from his horse and punched the man square in the face, sending him tumbling to the ground... Gerald proceeded to withdraw his sword.
''Kill him.'' Vernon instructed coldly.
The man's wife screamed while clawing at the guards nearest to her...
Just as Gerald was about to run the man through with his sword, a member of the crowd rushed forward and pushed Gerald aside, while two others burst forward and attacked the guard who was holding the baby. They managed to wrestle the isolated soldier to the ground before rushing away with the baby in their arms.
''Get them! Get them!''
Vernon's men all congregated together before beating back the furious mob of townsfolk...
''Well, it appears we have a fight on our hands.'' Vernon smiled (admiring their courage). ''Wipe them all out!.. Starting with him!'' He gestured towards Fraser.
''Oh, bugger, bugger, bugger.'' Fraser was absolutely terrified. ''First psycho women now this.'' He gulped as a large dagger was put against his throat. ''This really isn't my day.''
Just then, everyone was silenced, as Syrena bellowed at the very top of her lungs...
''DRAKE!''
Vernon froze upon hearing the fury in his undercover comrade's voice... ''Syrena.''
Syrena emerged at the front door of the house. ''You wanted us. We're here!'' She stepped out onto the porch.
''Where's Christopher?''
''Right here.'' Christopher followed Syrena out of the house.
''Ah. There you are... It's been too long.''
''Not long enough, actually,'' Chris retorted...
''Come on down here.'' Vernon motioned for them to step closer towards him.
Christopher and Syrena both stepped into the street.
Vernon carried on looking to the house.
''What are you waiting for?'' Chris had to ask.
''Where is he?''
''Who?''
''You know damn well who.''
''Ah, you mean Diaval?'' Syrena spoke.
Vernon gave a nod of his head.
''Well, where else would he be but by his Mistress's side?''
''Don't take me for a fool. I've told you, I already spoke with the gatekeeper. He saw three people enter this town. Three!''
''You miss the point, Vern.'' Chris butted in. ''You see, he was here...but he isn't here anymore.''
''What?''
''He's with Maleficent!'' Syrena exclaimed. ''How hard can it be to understand that?''
''Why would he come here only to leave right away?''
''He was only tasked with bringing us here,'' Syrena replied. ''After escorting us both to my house he-''
''Your house?'' Vernon scoffed.
Syrena's face fell, as she worried that Vernon was about to (intentionally) blow her cover.
''Diaval had to fly, if you know what I mean?'' Chris flashed a smile.
''Is that so?'' Vernon grimaced. ''Pardon me for not believing you, Christopher, but I'd much rather be sure of that before I start enjoying myself.. You three!'' Vernon spoke to three soldier's that were closest to Christopher and Syrena.
''Yes, sir?''
''Check the house!'' Vernon ordered. ''Make sure that their shape-shifting friend isn't inside.''
''Right away, Captain!'' The three men rushed past Chris and Syrena and entered the house.
''Oh, Vernon.'' Christopher shook his head. ''You're so distrusting.''
''If you're lying to me, I swear that the blood of EVERY SINGLE citizen of Devondale shall run in the streets.''
Syrena took a deep breath as she glanced back to the house (feeling very nervous)...
''Well, this is rather boring.'' Vernon sighed. ''I propose that while we wait for my men to finish checking the house, we get the executions underway. Who agrees with me?''
Vernon's suggestion was met with roars of approval from his men.
''Good show!'' Vernon beamed. ''Hurry up and kill that old duffer, would you, Fredrick?''
''With pleasure, sir,'' Fredrick replied.
''Hey, hang on a minute!'' Fraser protested. ''Can't we talk about this?''
''Vernon!'' Christopher exclaimed. ''Leave him out of this!.. If you want to kill someone then kill me.''
''Ah, Christopher. You make me sick. Always so noble. Always willing to do the right thing.'' Vernon sneered. ''The thing is, I know that it would cause you more pain to see all these people die around you than to die yourself... That's why you will be the last to die.''
''Oh, don't be so sure, Vernon,'' Chris spoke with a small smile.
Just then, the three men exited the house.
''All clear, Captain!'' one of them shouted.
''Splendid!''
''I wouldn't be so cheerful, Vern.'' Chris warned.
''What do you mean?''
''Just because they couldn't see anyone or anything, doesn't mean to say that it isn't there,'' Christopher stated. ''For all you know, Diaval could have transformed himself into a tiny insect in order to remain unseen.. He could come charging through that wall any time now.''
A flash of uncertainty appeared on Vernon's face.. ''Fredrick, what are you waiting for!? Kill him!''
Fredrick was just about to slice Fraser's throat open when Christopher shouted out.
''Fraser!''
Fraser looked to Christopher, his whole body shaking like a leaf.
''I'm sure that this whole situation is making you feel very anxious, eh, Fraser?'' Chris gave him a wink.
''What?'' Fraser looked puzzled.
''And you know what you do when you're anxious, right?''
''Oh!'' Fraser finally understood what Christopher was hinting at.
''Enough of this!'' Vernon roared. ''Kill him already!''
Just as Fredrick was about to kill Fraser, he bit down hard into his hand.
''AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!'' Fredrick yelled as he dropped the dagger.
''Run, Fraser! Run!'' Chris cried out.
''Shoot him!'' Vernon pointed to Christopher ''Shoot damn it! Shoot!''
The men quickly pulled out their bows and crossbows and took aim.
Taking advantage of the unfolding chaos, Fraser broke away from Fredrick and made a run for it (albeit a very slow one).
Just as the men were about to shoot, Syrena called out in desperation.
''No!'' Syrena raised her hand. ''Don't!''
The men froze, unsure of whose order to follow.
Christopher looked to Syrena in confusion, wondering why the men had listened to her.
''Don't listen to her!'' Vernon shouted. ''Fire! Fire!''
Gerald reached up and grabbed his Captain's arm. ''Sir, Syrena is our-''
''I don't care about that!'' he screamed. ''This is our last chance! He's planning something!''
''You're right about that, Vernon!'' Chris admitted it.
''I think now's the time, Christopher,'' Syrena said.
''Not yet.. I'm waiting for the men to align.''
''Move in! Move in!'' Vernon's cheeks were red with anger.
The men moved forward, a dozen of them aiming straight at Christopher.
''Fire!''
The men were just about to shoot, when Syrena stepped in front of Christopher.
''What are you doing?'' Chris tried to push Syrena out of the way, not wanting her to get harmed.
The men froze for a second time, unsure of what to do.
''Kill them both! Kill them both!'' Vernon was practically hysterical.
Carter turned to face his Captain. ''Sir, we-''
''Oh, for God's sake!'' Vernon climbed down from his horse. ''I'll do it myself!'' He smacked Fredrick on the side of the head as he walked past him. ''You failure!'' he shouted in his face, before grabbing a crossbow from one of his men... ''Here! Let me show you all how it's done!''
''Christopher,'' Syrena whispered. ''Now's the time, now's the time.''
''Just a few more seconds,'' Chris replied.
''This is what you do!'' Vernon lifted the crossbow up. ''You take aim! And then you-''
''Monster!'' Vernon was interrupted by the cries of one of the people in the crowd.. Suddenly, a fight started to break out.
''We will not tolerate this!'' The group began to push Vernon's soldiers back.
''Stop them!'' Gerald commanded. ''Hold them back!''
With all the men distracted and in disarray, Chris realised that this was the perfect moment for a surprise attack... ''This is it, Syrena. Move.''
''I can't. They'll shoot you if I do.''
''Sorry, but I'm afraid you'll have to.'' Christopher shoved Syrena aside, sending her tumbling to the floor.
Vernon (undeterred by the commotion behind him) aimed directly at Christopher's head. ''Oh, I'm going to enjoy this.''
''NOW!'' Christopher boomed...
Vernon's eyes widened, as he heard a rumbling sound coming from inside the house... Knowing what was coming, Vernon dropped his crossbow and made a run for it.. Seconds later, Diaval came crashing through the front wall of the house in his rhino form, utterly decimating the porch in the process... Christopher jumped out of the way as Diaval shot by, smashing into the small row of soldiers that lay before him.
All of the townsfolk fled, as Diaval charged around in a circle, hitting the soldiers with his horn.
''Carter! Look out!'' Gerald pushed Carter aside, as Diaval missed the young man with inches, while another soldier jumped on Diaval's back, swinging his sword wildly.. Diaval twisted and turned until the man fell to the ground, before turning around and impaling him on his horn.
''Go, Syrena! Go!'' Christopher exclaimed.
Syrena ignored Christopher and rushed forward, swinging her fist and knocking out one of the soldier's.
''Wow! Good punch,'' Chris remarked.
''Thanks.'' Syrena took the soldier's sword and tossed it to Christopher. ''Here.''
''Thanks. Now get behind me.''
Christopher and Syrena both backed up, looking for an escape route.
''It doesn't look like there's a way out of this,'' Syrena spoke with a sigh, as she stepped behind Christopher.
''Oh, I wouldn't worry about that.''
''Why?''
''Diaval's gonna get us out of here by transforming himself into a horse.''
''Oh.. Well, he seems a little preoccupied at the moment,'' Syrena said, as she watched Diaval tearing past, being extra careful to avoid hitting innocent bystanders.
Vernon struggled towards a small alleyway (intending to keep out of Diaval's way). He stood on top of a barrel in order to look for Christopher. His eyes lit up when he spotted him... ''Everyone!'' he shouted at the top of his lungs. ''Avoid the rhino and go for Christopher! Make sure he's dead!''
''Damn,'' Syrena cursed. ''I really hate that man.''
''Yeah, I can understand why,'' Chris responded, as he noticed three men approaching towards him, all armed with swords. ''Well, here goes.'' Christopher gripped tightly onto his sword. ''If only you had a bow and arrow right about now.''
''Indeed... Wait here.'' Syrena waited for an opening in the crowd before bursting forward, intent on finding herself a suitable weapon.
''Syrena, no!'' Chris cried out, terrified that something may happen to her.
''What's the matter?'' one of the men spoke with a mocking look on his face. ''Need her to hold your hand?''
Christopher smiled. ''Okay.'' He raised his sword... ''Let's do this.''
The three men screamed simultaneously before charging forward, their swords swinging in the air... Chris waited until they were upon him before sidestepping and raising his foot into the air, kicking one of them in the stomach. With one hard swing of his sword, Christopher sliced one of the men's finger's clean off.
''ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!'' the man screamed in agony.
Christopher backed up while defending himself, parrying the advancing soldiers swords.. Another man charged out of nowhere and tackled Christopher, who collided with the man in front of him (missing his sword with inches). The three men tumbled to the floor... Swinging his right foot, Chris rendered one of the men unconscious, while the man who'd lost his left index finger rushed forward holding a dagger.. Just as he was about to plunge it into Christopher's back, Diaval charged into him, picking him up and tossing him towards a large piece of rubble that used to be the front porch of Syrena's/Fredrick's house.
''Somebody shoot the bastard! Shoot him!'' Vernon screamed.
''Who, sir?'' Carter asked as he crawled towards Vernon's barrel. ''Christopher or the beast?''
''I don't know! Both of them!'' Vernon kicked Carter underneath his chin, sending him tumbling onto his back.
''Yes, sir.'' Carter spat out some blood before removing a nearby bow and four arrows from a dead soldier.. ''Be at peace.'' he whispered to his dead comrade, before heading towards some stairs in order to make the shots...
Syrena spotted Carter moving up the stairs and started to make her way towards him, while dispatching anyone (innocent or not) who got in her way.
Meanwhile, Diaval was starting to have difficulty moving, as more and more of Devondale's civilians poured into battle, as they realised that the rampaging rhinoceros was on their side.. Frightened of hurting an innocent individual, Diaval had slowed his pace down, presenting Vernon's men with the opportunity to attack him.. He tried to turn while moving fast but found himself unable to, as his rhino body was far too restricting and clumsy... He had to think of something. He needed to transform into a leaner creature, one that was more agile, yet still posing a threat... 'Ah. I've got an idea,' Diaval thought.
Christopher gagged as he was lifted to his feet by a particularly large soldier, who proceeded to pummel him in the face over and over again until Chris was dazed... The man put his other hand on Christopher's throat and began to choke him.
''Now, Garth! Now!'' he shouted to the soldier beside him.
''With pleasure.'' The man removed his knife from his belt and was just about to stab Christopher when the young man swung out his foot and kicked the man in his groin area, causing the big fellow to release Christopher.
''How does that feel, huh!?. AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!'' Chris screamed as he threw himself through the air at both men, knocking them both to the ground. He grabbed the knife that had fell right beside him and slammed it into the big man's kneecap, before jumping to his feet and diving at his sword. He grabbed hold of its hilt and spun around to block the blows that were raining down on him from the crazed man who was missing a finger.
Noticing that Diaval was in difficulty, Carter took the liberty of shouting out orders to the men below. ''Concentrate all fire on the beast!'' Carter then lifted his bow up while readying his arrow, aiming at Christopher who was at the opposite side of the street.
''Carter!'' a familiar voice called from the stairs.
Carter turned to his right and noticed Syrena rushing up the stairs... ''My lady?''
''Hello, Carter.'' Syrena flashed a smile. ''Sorry about this.''
''What?''
''This.'' Syrena punched Carter square in the jaw, sending him crashing through the railing. Luckily for him, he landed in a cart that was filled with hay...
Syrena bent down and picked up the bow and arrow before taking aim at the men who were surrounding Christopher.
''Ha ha!'' the man hit Chris with his four fingered hand and pinned him up against the rubble, waving a small knife in Chris' face he whispered. ''Goodbye.''
Syrena released her first arrow...and scored a direct hit! Killing the man who was holding onto Christopher...
''Goodbye.'' Chris smiled, as he pushed the dead man's body away from him. ''Oh, boy.'' He sighed, as the remaining three men surrounded him.
''All together!'' one of the men declared. ''On three!.. One! Two!'' Just as the men were about to charge one of them dropped to the floor, an arrow protruding from his back.
''What the-'' before the second soldier could finish his sentence, he too was struck with an arrow.
The final soldier turned around in alarm (wondering where the shots were coming from). His eyes were on stalks as he watched an arrow flying through the air towards him. ''AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!'' he screamed while jumping aside, the arrow missing him by inches.
Syrena stamped her foot in frustration. Now out of arrows, all she could do was watch as the man began to swing at the unarmed Christopher with his sword...
Diaval was being overwhelmed with arrows. Most were connecting with him but his tough hide were preventing them from really hurting him. Nevertheless, he had to go ahead with his plan. He had to change form or else he'd never clear the way for Christopher and Syrena... 'Here goes.' Diaval prepared himself.
''Aim for the eyes!'' Gerald shouted, as he prepared to throw a knife at Diaval... He pulled his arm back and prepared to throw, when, suddenly, one of the townsmen punched him in the bottom of his back, causing him to drop his weapon.. Gerald span round and punched the man, before hearing a loud scream from everyone around him... Gerald slowly turned around to see that the rhino had disappeared and had being replaced by a cloud of black smoke.. He jumped back in shock upon hearing an almighty roar.
''LION!'' Vernon shouted, as he pointed towards the black lion with a mane of feathers...
Diaval sprung forward before pouncing on a soldier, ripping away at him with his claws.
''Look out!'' Fredrick shouted to the nearby men, as he was knocked backwards by the advancing Diaval...
Distracted by the anarchy, the man who was attacking Christopher stopped swinging his sword (contemplating whether or not to flee), presenting Christopher with a golden opportunity to attack.. Christopher flew through the air and kicked the man in his chest.. As he fell, the man grabbed Chris' foot and dragged him down to the ground with him, causing the sword to fly out of reach... The man elbowed Christopher before beginning to crawl towards his sword.
''No, you don't!'' Chris grabbed the man, as they both began to wrestle for the blade. Swinging, biting, scratching and gouging their way closer to the sword... The soldier reached out his hand, his fingers brushing against the handle.. Chris pulled back on the man as hard as he could, the veins on his neck were bulging, he felt as though he was about to pass out...
''AAARRRRRGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!'' The man let out an ungodly sound, as he grabbed the sword and swung it behind him, the sword just missing Chris.. Christopher managed to wrap his foot around the man's body and pinned his hand down, preventing the sword from moving... Just then, a figure approached them... She was holding onto a sword.
''Syrena,'' Chris spoke her name weakly.
The man looked up to Syrena with a joyous look on his face, expecting her to strike down his opponent.. However, the longer she hesitated the more he began to doubt her loyalty.. The look on his face changed to that of a hopeful one...before finally descending to a pleading one.
Syrena looked to the two figures before her. Both were representing different parts of her life. One, the past. The other, the future... She knew what she had to do.
''Please,'' the man begged, quietly.
With an ounce of regret, Syrena plunged the sword down into the man...killing him.
Vernon and Gerald both bore witness to this... By chance, they had looked to her at that very moment.. Both witnessing her betrayal, they both uttered the same word...
''Traitor.''
Vernon and Gerald looked to one another.. Vernon was completely enraged, whereas Gerald was feeling ever so slightly hypocritical for deeming her a traitor, as after all, he had been conspiring with Vernon to not only kill her, but even Vandran himself... Vernon gave Gerald a nod of his head, indicating for him to kill Syrena right here, right now...
Christopher groaned as Syrena helped him to his feet. ''Thank you,'' Chris whispered as he kissed her cheek... ''You have to get out of here.''
''No. There's no way out.''
''I beg to differ... DIAVAL!'' Chris called out, using what was left of his energy.
Hearing his cue, Diaval tore past the soldiers and jumped through the air, landing right beside Syrena.
''Get on.''
''What? You want me to ride a lion?'' Syrena was baffled at his suggestion.
''Of course not.'' Chris smiled, as Diaval transformed himself into a horse.
''Stop them!'' Vernon boomed as he rushed out into the street. ''Stop them!''
Suddenly, a hoard of people rushed towards Christopher, Syrena and Diaval. Some were soldiers, the others were townsfolk trying to fight the soldiers. Either way, it was going to make things very difficult for them to escape.
''Get on!'' Chris hurried Syrena aboard Diaval.. ''Take care of her,'' he whispered into Diaval's ear.
Diaval looked to Christopher before giving a nod of his head. His horse form wouldn't allow him to speak, but the look on his face spoke volumes.. It was a look of sadness, as he knew what Christopher was about to do...
''Go!'' Christopher stood back.
''You're not coming!?'' Syrena looked alarmed.
''I will find you,'' Chris said. ''I promise.''
''No. Don't leave me.''
''I'm sorry.'' Chris apologised. ''I have to do this... Farewell.''
''No!'' Syrena screamed, as she watched Christopher rush straight towards the men in an effort to hold them off.
Diaval neighed loudly before shooting off down the road.
Vernon, observing this from a distance, shouted out. ''Gerald!''
Gerald looked to his Captain.
''Take half a dozen men and get after her!'' Vernon commanded.
''Yes, sir!'' Gerald clambered through the crowd, heading towards his horse.
''And the rest of you, kill CHRISTOPHER REYNOLDS!'' Vernon shouted as loudly as he could.
''AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!'' Christopher screamed as he rushed into the men, miraculously not getting impaled on any of their swords.. After pushing his way through over a dozen men, he lost his footing and fell to the ground.. Lost amidst the confusion, Chris started to crawl through the fighting group towards a small alleyway.
''Where is he!?'' Vernon shouted in alarm, as he looked through the crowd. Realising that the resisting townsfolk were the problem, he bellowed ''Stop it! STOP IT!''
The fighting slowly diminished, as the townsfolk suddenly realised that the lion was gone, along with the others who these soldiers were pursuing.
''Resist anymore and you shall all die!'' Vernon declared. ''You!'' he called out to Carter (who had just dragged himself out of the cart full of hay).
''Yes, sir?'' Carter sounded weary.
''Help me find him!''
''Who, sir?''
''Christopher!?'' Vernon replied in an angry tone of voice...''Now, I want three groups of four to split up and find him!. The rest of you stay here and watch over this pack of wild animals!'' Vernon gestured to the people of Devondale. ''Move it!''
While Carter organized the men into groups, Vernon walked off on his own, hoping that Gerald would catch up with Syrena and Diaval before they left the town.. As he turned back around he spotted something in the corner of his eye... Looking back he saw that it was a man. He was laid on the ground next to a house. He was...asleep!?.. Vernon pulled out his sword and hesitantly approached him (suspecting that this could be surprise attack)... ''You!'' he exclaimed, upon recognising the old man on the ground.
Suddenly, Fraser opened his eyes and scrambled to his feet... ''Oh, bugger.'' He froze upon spotting Vernon hovering over him. ''It's you.''
''Yes, it's me... What were you doing just then?''
''Sleeping,'' Fraser replied. ''I suffer from this strange condition where I fall asleep all the time.. One moment I'm awake, the next I'm dead to the world.''
''Hmm? Sounds to me like a touch of narcolepsy.''
''That's it! That's what Christopher called it.''
''Ah, yes... So you do know him after all.'' Vernon smiled. ''I should have known, considering the fact that Christopher seemed to know your name... Fraser, isn't it?''
''That's right.''
''So, you are acquainted with Christopher and his allies?''
''Well, I suppose you could say that.'' Fraser tried backing away, but that only caused Vernon to step closer towards him... ''So, where is he now?''
''Christopher? He got away.''
''Oh, good!''
Vernon's face darkened.
''I mean, oh, what a pity.'' Fraser backtracked.
''Mm. Indeed.''
Fraser looked behind him and noticed that there was no way out.
''Something the matter?''
''Er...no,'' he responded. ''It just that there's no way out down there, so, I'll be going this way.'' Fraser tried to walk past Vernon.
''That won't be possible.'' Vernon raised his sword, preventing Fraser from leaving.
''Oh, bloody hell.''
''Quite.'' Vernon agreed with that sentiment. ''I'm afraid you're going to die, Fraser.''
''W-what?'' Fraser started to panic. ''You wouldn't kill me, would you?''
''Yes.''
''B-but, I haven't done anything wrong.''
''That doesn't matter,'' Vernon replied. ''I've recently discovered that I actually enjoy killing.''
''B-b-but, I'm not a threat to you. Honest!'' Fraser started to back away.
''So?'' Vernon began to advance towards him.
''I'm an old man?''
''So?'' Vernon chuckled.
''I-I'm defenseless!'' Fraser backed up until his back was touching the wall.
''So!? What is the point to all this meaningless information? It is of no consequence to me.''
''I'm homeless...''
The expression on Vernon's face changed upon hearing this... ''Homeless?'' he echoed, as unpleasant memories came flooding back to him...
''That's right.'' Fraser confirmed it.. ''That's why I was staying with Christopher and Syrena.''
Vernon fell silent (feeling conflicted)... Eventually, he lowered his sword... ''Get out of here,'' he spoke in a low voice.
''W-what?'' Fraser sounded shocked. ''You're letting me go?''
Vernon stepped aside while motioning with his hand for Fraser to walk past him. ''Just be thankful that I'm a kind and sympathetic soul.''
''Yes, of course.. Thank you, sir.'' Fraser walked past Vernon. ''Thank you.''
''Fraser!''
Fraser stopped before slowly turning around to face Vernon. ''Yes?''
''Leave this town and never return,'' Vernon said. ''If I ever lay eyes on you again...I'll kill you.''
Fraser nodded his head frantically. ''I understand, sir... Goodbye.'' He smiled nervously before running away as fast as he could...
Vernon let out a sigh, before turning around and walking back out onto the street...
''Captain!'' Carter exclaimed, as he jogged over towards his Captain.
''Unless you're about to tell me that we've just captured Christopher then I'm not interested!'' Vernon snapped.
''But, sir-''
''Oh, fine!'' Vernon agreed to listen.. ''What is it?''
''I was just going to tell you that I did as you instructed, sir. The men have split up into three groups and are currently searching for Christopher.''
''Good.. Now, I want you to remain here and keep things in check. I want this whole street in lock-down. Understood?''
''Yes, sir!''
Vernon walked past Carter.
''Where are you going, Captain?''
''I'm going to look for Christopher,'' Vernon replied.
''On your own? Is that wise, sir?''
''I can take care of myself.. You just make sure to keep these savages in check.''
''And if they start to fight back again?''
''Then I suggest you start executing them,'' Vernon responded before marching away... ''And make sure to start with the youngest!''
Carter flinched, appalled at his Captain's suggestion...
.
.
.
.
Meanwhile, unbeknownst to Vernon and his men, after somehow avoiding being trampled and spotted, Christopher had got to his feet and sneaked down a nearby alleyway... However, unknown to Chris, Fredrick had spotted him.
''Hey.'' Fredrick quietly called to the men who were grouped with him.
''What is it?'' one of them asked.
''He's gone down that alleyway.'' Fredrick point towards it.
''What?''
''You mean Christopher?'' Another asked for confirmation.
''Yes.'' Fredrick confirmed.
''We better tell the Captain.''
''No!'' Fredrick grabbed the man and prevented him from moving. ''Don't you see? This is the chance for us to make a name for ourselves. A chance to gain our Captain's approval.''
''You're only doing this because you failed miserably earlier.'' The second man deduced. ''You're the only one here in need of approval from the Captain, Fredrick. Don't forget that.''
''Alright. Suit yourself.'' Fredrick gave a shrug...
''For what's worth, I agree with Fredrick.'' The third soldier spoke up in agreement. ''We can take Christopher alone.''
''Last chance men.'' Fredrick looked to them all. ''Are you with me?''
In turn, they all nodded their heads (the second soldier delaying the longest before doing so)...
''Good.. Now, come on!'' Fredrick slowly started to move towards the alleyway. ''We keep our distance until he boxes himself into a corner.''
''And then...?''
''Then we kill him.''
(A/N). And so we reach the end of the chapter. Please don't forget to leave a quick review before you go.
Thanks for reading.
Until next time, totsiens.