Fire Emblem: Dawn of Darkness

by EmblemQueen

My direct sequel to RD. The story follows the mercenary Azura as she and her friends fight against evil forces threatening Altarais, a continent west of Tellius, and solve the mystery behind Azura's golden pendant. Multiple pairings, some OC.

37. On Pegasus Wings

Author's Note: New chapter at last! And yay, I didn't have to split this one. :D

Chapter 35: On Pegasus Wings

As soon as Bryan and the others exited the throne room and the massive doors closed behind them, Kenth parted ways from the group, saying he would assemble those dragon soldiers which Cragen had promised as escort. Bryan nodded his thanks and turned to Owen. In stark contrast to the prince of Astryn's first, clumsy handling of statecraft, this latest performance had his father letting out a deep sigh, as though tremendously relieved.

"So, Dad, how did I do back there?" the prince wondered, a hint of anxiousness creeping into his tone.

Bryan had been worried that Owen would have disapproved of his using the memory of Cragen's late wife to persuade the dragon king. Yet, though Bryan had spoken the words he'd had on an impulse, he believed they had been what he'd needed to say. And, no less important, he believed they'd been what Cragen had needed to hear.

If Shigo did succeed where he'd once failed, then everyone who'd given their lives to stop him all those years ago would have died for nothing.

Bryan had gambled that Cragen would not let that stand, and the gamble seemed to be paying off.

Bryan shook himself back to attention in time to see a punchy smile dawn on Owen's features.

"Hmm, well, you didn't destroy any furniture with your lance this time," he replied. "It wouldn't have been good form, wrecking your neighbor's furnishings while on state business."

"Dad!" Bryan groused, eliciting a chuckle from his father, as well as Francois and Alec. "Come on, I'm serious!"

"Heh, I know, I know. I'm just teasing you," Owen admitted, still smiling. "I figured that with the dire situations we've been in lately, some levity wouldn't go amiss."

Bryan supposed he couldn't fault his father's thinking. He'd lost track of how many times he and the others had escaped death by the skin of their teeth, not to mention that the ever present weight of knowing that their friends and homelands yet remained in danger. But strangely, despite having been the butt of this joke, Bryan found his irritation melting away.

Perhaps it was seeing how returning from exile had helped his father's old wounds, allowing him to, at long last, honor his wife's memory by helping the land of his birth in its hour of need. Or, maybe it was the thinly veiled pride in his father's eyes as he regarded the prince of Astryn coming into his own. Maybe it was remembering the endless series of impossible escapades, from retrieving the Venoxic cure for Ike to retaking Jerusa, where the army had prevailed against impossible odds again and again.

Quite possibly, it was the sense that, at long last, Bryan, who'd once been an outcast boy, had found himself. Not Bryan the Emerald Sentinel, nor Bryan the prince of Astryn, nor even Bryan the man beloved by Faline. But simply Bryan, a man who'd finally arrived at the point where he could look in the mirror and know who and what he was, know his purpose, and know that he was equal to the task.

Whatever else happened, Bryan would always have that to lend courage to his spirit and bring peace to his heart.

"Well, I understand," he admitted, a grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. "But can we save it for when we're resting for the evening or something? I need to know if I'm getting better at this statecraft stuff, especially after the first council meeting."

"Don't remind me!" his father replied with an exaggerated shudder. "But I see your point. And in all seriousness, you did well this time. I was worried that matching up King Cragen's forwardness might backfire, but I was wrong. You're definitely improving. Although thankfully, King Cragen isn't as quick to anger, as his intimidating appearance might suggest."

"I see. And I'm glad I'm getting better. But is it true that he's slow to anger? I would've thought that after what happened to his wife and one of his generals, he'd fry anyone that gave him even the least bit of trouble."

"Yes, you would think that. Indeed, I did too. I don't doubt for a minute that he's grieved long and bitterly over the loss of those two dragons. Like you said back there, those wounds will never fully heal. But, though you would not know this, he hardly seemed different from back when I met him years ago, except that he's more protective of his loved ones now. Of course, we can hardly blame him. But to come to the point, I don't believe he's "gotten over" his wife's death, but that he's found it in himself to move on."

Here, Owen paused briefly, and meaningfully, before adding "I imagine that, if Nyarla hadn't been born, we would have found him in a much different frame of mind."

"Yeah…" Bryan said, sensing that Owen was also implying what had kept the former Grand Duke going after his wife's death.

Francois and Alec, who'd been following the pair in respectful silence, chose that moment to make themselves known as the group neared the castle doors and their waiting allies.

"Grand Duke Owen, if I may?" Francois interjected with a smile. "I'd heard some rumors about Prince Bryan destroying someone's furniture with a lance. But until hearing you earlier, I had little reason to credit it. Please, this is a story I simply must hear."

"Me too! Taking out furniture with a weapon, oh my goddess… Hahaha!" Alec added, bursting into laughter. It didn't take long for Francois to join in the hilarity.

One would have expected Bryan to be long past feeling embarrassed at that incident, especially when it was weighed against all that he'd gained since. But despite himself, Bryan found a hint of his earlier irritation simmering in his gut.

"Now look what you've started, Dad," he chastised.

"Heh, sorry," Owen apologized and then turned to Francois and Alec. "It was just before Bryan set out to claim his throne. We had arrived at Castle Talgria and were attending a meeting between the royals of the nations of central and eastern Altarais which are allied against Melora. By then, the war was going very badly and tensions between the leaders were running high. They were at each other's throats and King Wencelis couldn't restore calm. So, never one for subtlety, Bryan stepped in. He vaulted into the air and plunged the brave lance I gave him right into the center of the table, causing the whole thing to collapse under him. Needless to say, it shocked everyone into silence and a few terse words later, everyone had been brought back to their senses. I'll admit though, it still wasn't my son's brightest moment."

By this time, Alec was laughing so uncontrollably that he could barely keep his feet. Francois, meanwhile, was pressed up against one wall and laughing so hard that his eyes streamed with mirthful tears.

"Oh my," Francois gasped out while Bryan irately clapped a hand to his face. "Most amusing! But indeed, it's not the wisest solution, your highness. I would definitely not recommend resorting to such tactics in future political dealings. Some might not appreciate your…flourish."

"They might appreciate the extra firewood, though," Alec added, still laughing. "Castles are always so cold and drafty."

"Both of you, shut up," Bryan grumbled, rolling his eyes. "I may not have been groomed from the cradle like King Wencelis or Aunt Marion, but I'm not that inexperienced. Now let's hurry, we don't want to keep the rest of our group waiting too long."

"Of course."

I swear, that story is going to be carved on my gravestone when I'm dead, Bryan mused sourly as the group made for the massive doors that led outside of the castle.

Along the way, Bryan pondered the mission Cragen had given him. It almost seemed too simple that retrieving an item, however important, would be enough to secure the dragon king's aid. And, for that matter, what could be as important as that? Cragen hadn't even told Bryan exactly what it was, almost as if revealing that information might pose some sort of risk. So, it stood to reason that it most certainly had to be something extremely important, especially since Cragen had said it would prove important to the war effort. In fact, as Bryan chewed on that particular tidbit, he found himself almost feeling honored to have been charged with such a task.

And, if securing Cragen's aid really was that easy, it wasn't as if some good luck would go amiss.

He was eager to tell the others once his small party rejoined them outside. And the more he thought about it, the more his curiosity about this mysterious item tickled and nagged at him. Could it be some sort of magical jewel or gemstone? Or a document containing highly secret information they could use against Melora? Or, perhaps something else entirely? After all, Bryan knew practically nothing of Orenias and what secrets the dragons of Altarais might possess.

Whatever the answer might be, Bryan knew he wouldn't find out unless he accomplished his mission. The moment he stepped out into the open air, he immediately approached Azura. Unsurprisingly, Leyon was at her side, the two lovers all but inseparable since their reunion following the liberation of Jerusa. Faline was also there, eager to hear everything as well.

"Ah, Bryan, you're back!" Azura greeted. "How did things go in there? Will the king be giving us some aid?"

"Oh, it went very well, if I do say so myself," Bryan replied, unable to keep a hint of pride from his tone. "And yes, he's willing to help, but he also gave me a mission to complete first."

"Well, that figures. What do we have to do?"

Bryan quickly explained Cragen's request to retrieve an item of great importance which was hidden in the nearby mountains. He added that Kenth seemed to know where their destination lay and that they'd have to await his return before they set off.

"I see," Azura replied, intrigued. "I wonder what this item is. It really does sound important."

"Indeed. It's even got the lure of the unknown," Leyon commented, smiling broadly. "What poet could resist that?"

"I agree!" Faline chimed in. "But whatever it is, I know we can retrieve it!"

"Right," Bryan said with a smile. "But let's not get cocky. Before we left, his majesty also warned me that laguz bandits are on the prowl in the area where this item is supposed to be hidden. We might run into them, so we'd best be prepared."

"Ha, as long as I have my armor, horse, and axe, I'm always prepared," Leyon affirmed, every syllable resonating with self-assurance. "And with the skill of our troops, not to mention you, Azura, and myself leading them, I know we can win."

"Heh, sounds like that victory in Jerusa gave you quite a shot of confidence," Bryan observed, though he was hardly surprised.

"You'd better believe it! That was my greatest victory yet and by far!"

"I can certainly believe it," Azura agreed, lacing her fingers with Leyon's and gazing at him adoringly. "The stories you brought back of how you turned the battle around were amazing!"

"And I'm glad to know Cilae is safe for now!" Faline put in. "I mean, I may be about to settle in Astryn, but Cilae is still home. And my sisters will need a home to return to."

"That's true," Bryan acknowledged. "But like I said, let's not get too confident. We are in a land belonging to the dragon laguz, so some of them might be among the bandits Cragen warned us about. And I think we all know that they're definitely no pushover in a fight."

"That's true too," Azura admitted, her expression becoming pensive. "If that's the case, we'd best not be caught unprepared if we do meet them."

"Indeed. Now once Kenth gets back with Cragen's men, we move out!"

Leyon, Azura, and Faline nodded with understanding and, as they waited, the foursome continued to converse. They discussed possible strategies in case they found themselves up against dragon laguz bandits as well as other types of laguz in case foes from the beast or bird tribes might also be lurking about. Since Ike, Elincia, Ranulf, Boyd, and Soren had fought dragons back in Tellius, they were waved over and questioned. But, even the hero of Tellius could not downplay just how dangerous an enemy a dragon might be. They possessed a constitution that even the stoutest armored knight might envy and their fire and lightning breath was deadly. Apart from another dragon, such as Kenth and Cragen's promised escorts, the only real weapon against a dragon was a concerted attack with powerful thunder tomes. Bryan decided it might be best to use the latter strategy as best they could, since relying too much on their dragon escort might give Cragen second thoughts about backing the prince of Astryn.

Having learned all he could from Ike and his fellow Tellius natives, Bryan also sought out Skye and spoke with him, both about the upcoming mission and their shared brush with disaster during the battle with the Meloran dracoknights. The two had unsurprisingly been deeply concerned about one another ever since, but time and prying eyes had kept them from talking it over. And, though Bryan was still convinced that denial was at the root of it, he suspected the Skye did not appreciate his friend's choice of cover stories.

Craven though it might be for either man to admit, but Raela could be quite terrifying when riled.

Thankfully, it seemed that Skye had largely recovered from the incident and was feeling near to his old self. The scars which both young men carried would not soon be forgotten. But, for all the sheer terror they'd faced, in the recent and distant past, both men yet felt buoyed up by the knowledge that, so long as they stood shoulder to shoulder against their fears, they would never be broken. Unfortunately, the two friends had not realized that they'd been speaking a bit too loudly and that they'd caught Leyon's attention.

"Hey, I'm sorry to cut in, but your voices are carrying," he said. "And now that I think about it, you both have been a little on edge lately. Is there something you and Azura haven't told me about, Bryan?"

"…Oh, yeah. Ugh, me and my stupid blabbermouth," Bryan cursed himself. "Well, this isn't exactly something we want to be widely known. There would be…consequences. But, I think you deserve to know."

"I apologize too, Leyon," Azura stepped in. "I wanted to tell you, but I wasn't sure if Bryan was ready. Like he said, what he has to say is sensitive."

After securing his promise of secrecy, Bryan and Azura then told Leyon of how Eric's men had been framed by the Meloran dracoknights who'd been raiding across Larame's border and looting their stores. Bryan also shamefully admitted to his and Skye's shared moment of weakness and having covered it up with Eric's ironic assistance. By the time they'd finished their story, Leyon could only gape in horrified stupefaction.

"Damn it, Bryan!" he blurted angrily. "Do you realize how badly this could harm our chances of winning the war?!"

"Do you seriously think I don't know that?!" Bryan protested hotly. "Yeah, I know only too well. Astryn is so desperate for strong leadership, and my…lapse could have caused them to lose faith in me. But,I couldn't help myself! And neither could Skye!"

"Leyon, stop! It wasn't anyone's fault!" Azura interjected, her tone becoming firm. "And you, of all people, should know what it's like to live with something so terrible that it still haunts you years and years later!"

The backhanded reminder of Russell, whose loss still stabbed at his heart, drew Leyon up short. Indeed, hadn't his agonizing over how he'd failed Russell when it counted the most nearly cost him the battle when the Jerusa campaign seemed nearly lost? He knew this to be true, but he also knew that he'd been able to overcome it at the critical moment. Bryan, however, seemed to be another story entirely.

"I understand that, but we can't afford to let our fears get to our heads!" Leyon countered. "I almost did that in Jerusa, and it nearly cost us everything! We can't afford that, and we certainly can't afford for one of our own to throw a hissy fit in the middle of a goddess-damned battle!"

"HISSY FIT?!" Bryan thundered incredulously. "You try dangling a few hundred feet in the air from a wyvern's claws and see what it does for your nerves!"

"I'd expect that you'd be afraid. Only a fool wouldn't be. But, going into a panic?! I thought you were a stronger person than that, Bryan! But it looks like you have a long way to go if you want to be the king Astryn needs!"

Bryan was too flustered to speak, but there was no mistaking the furious tint of red that now spread from his chin to his hairline. His anger, which was always a force to be reckoned with, was fast reaching the boiling point.

"Uh oh…" Skye muttered nervously. He knew what was coming, and so did several others.

"Bryan! No!" Faline pleaded, futilely snatching at the prince of Astryn's elbow. However, her love was deaf to her pleas and easily broke free of her grasp.

In an instant, Bryan snatched Leyon by the collar of his tunic, yanking him off his feet and into the air.

"Aaagh!" Leyon gasped, finding himself wildly dancing over nothing.

"IF YOU THINK I'M WEAK JUST BECAUSE OF SOME OLD WOUNDS, THEN YOU'RE A GREATER FOOL THAN TAVON WAS!" Bryan fumed, his grip on Leyon's collar tightening until his gauntlets creaked in protest.

"You idiot! That's not what I meant and you know it!" Leyon shot back, frantically kicking his legs and digging his fingers under Bryan's to break the enraged prince's grip. One boot connected with Bryan's knee, causing his legs to buckle beneath him and sending both men sprawling to the ground. But Bryan quickly rose to his feet, seeming no less fierce for his unsteady footing. Snarling, he lunged at Leyon, only for Owen and Skye to seize him by the arms while Eliot and Azura each snatched one of Leyon's wrists and held him at bay.

"HEY!" Leyon blurted, struggling to free himself.

"Unhand me!" Bryan demanded, his words smoking with fury.

"Bryan, stop this! What has gotten into you?!" Owen demanded.

"Yeah!" Skye seconded. "Didn't you learn your lesson back when you mindlessly drenched yourself in enemy blood?!"

Those words seemed to pierce the blood red haze that had veiled Bryan's vision, calling to his mind's eye the horror on Faline's face when he'd gone berserk at Lysthe.

No, not just horror, but fear.

And, that memory was enough to cool his anger…but, not completely.

"I'm sick of being called weak!" Bryan growled. "I won't take it anymore! I'm not weak! Do you hear me?!"

"For the last goddess-damned time, I never said you were!" Leyon contradicted. "You might want to add that to what you need to learn about being king, how to freakin' listen!"

"Leyon, get a hold of yourself!" Azura demanded, sharply enough to startle her love into silence. "Do you seriously think this is what I wanted to see when you returned to us after I'd been worrying myself sick for weeks?!"

"What they said! Do I have to help break up every fight my superiors get into?!" Eliot complained, though a hint of relief crossed his features when Leyon relaxed in his grip.

Both men still regarded one another with hostility, but the standoff was broken with a lance was suddenly leveled between the two.

"Leyon! Bryan! Cease this foolishness immediately!" Louise ordered, having seen the commotion and flown over on her Pegasus to land between the two. "My brother might very well be staking the survival of his entire country on this mission, and the last thing he needs is our progress being hindered because two of our commanders were fighting each other instead of the enemy!"

At this, and the reminder of just how high the stakes riding on their success were, both of the would-be combatants sagged in mortification.

"Sigh… You're right," Leyon conceded, his voice very small. "You have my deepest apologies, Lady Louise. My brother wouldn't have been pleased either…"

"Nor would my advisors," Bryan admitted, taking note of the expression of disapproval on Francois's face. "Ugh, I can't believe I did this again! I've sworn over and over not to let my past get to my goddess-damned head. But, every time I think I have a handle on it, something comes out of the shadows to bite me!"

"I know, Bryan, I've seen it," Faline added, laying a gentle hand on his shoulder. "But, it seems like both you and General Leyon have a ways to go before you can lay those ghosts to rest. Perhaps the two of you will need to work together to help each other."

"I agree," Azura seconded. "We can't defeat Shigo or win this war unless we work together and you two need to make peace in order for us to do that. Now we have some time before we leave, so you'd best try to cool off."

With that, both women wheeled about and walked away, leaving their respective lovers to face one another. Both men felt disappointed and ashamed with themselves and it was a long moment before either man could bring himself to speak.

"Well, how do you like that? Our women are sore with us now too," Bryan noticed, his words shaky.

"Yep… But they're right," Leyon admitted. "I do know what it's like to have to live with something terrible like that. And, looking back, maybe I don't have as firm a grip on it as I said. Maybe we should talk it over, and with Skye too. It'll have to be later though, we've got a mission to finish."

"Right."

The two men sealed the agreement with a handshake and, moments later, the massive doors of the towering castle creaked open once more. This time, Kenth stood in the yawning doorway, followed by several red and white dragon laguz soldiers. Though all looked comically small compared to the doors they passed through, all were tall and had broad, muscular frames that could rival even Ike's. They also wore woven belts of crimson and ivory silk, likely meant to denote the color of dragon they transformed into. As the small unit of dragons drew nearer, Kiel inevitably found himself perspiring, but did his best to keep his composure. The red wolf, trying to appear unperturbed, instead succeeded in making himself as stiff as a fireplace poker.

This, naturally, had the unwanted consequence of causing the dragons to glance at him as they passed, and Kiel felt his breath catch in his throat as their gaze fell upon him. A long moment later, much to his relief and Sara's annoyance, they passed on by.

"Pardon me, but is everything alright out here? I thought I heard shouting," Kenth spoke up as he arrived.

"Oh, we just had a small disagreement," Azura said dismissively, conscious that the truth might harm their standing. "Tensions have been high lately. But we're all fine now."

"Oh? Very well, then. Now, these are the only dragon warriors I could gather for right now," Kenth continued. "The others are occupied at the moment, watching our borders with Melora and Larame, as well as other areas of strategic importance. Hopefully, these escorts will suffice. Also, Prince Bryan, I've been assured that we dragons, including myself, will follow your orders and Azura's, if you two desire. You need only command us. However, if you prefer, we'll act on our own initiative. Is this acceptable?"

"Oh, yeah, that's fine with me," Bryan agreed, schooling his expression back to that expected of the prince of Astryn.

"Same here," Azura seconded.

"Good, then we're ready to go," Kenth replied. "Our destination isn't too far from here. If the weather favors us, we should arrive in about a few hours."

"Got it," Bryan said.

With that, the group gathered up and began journeying to their next destination. Since he would act as guide, Kenth took the lead. Bryan had suggested that Owen stay behind for his own protection, but Owen insisted that he would go along. In fact, he said this with such vehemence that Bryan was taken aback, prompting Owen to calm himself and explain. Watching the dragons with a wary eye in case they took too great an interest, he tried to put into words how terrified he'd been during Bryan's many missions abroad while he was left behind, worrying while his son was risking his life in parts unknown and always haunted by the terrible chance that he might not return alive. Though he knew he'd be of little use on the battlefield, Owen said firmly that he would rather be with his son, watching and aiding him as best he could. Ike, who'd been close enough to overhear, moved alongside Bryan and voiced his agreement. Indeed, the hero of Tellius understood Owen's sentiments very well, as Ike's sister, Mist, was the same way with him after Greil had been slain. Bryan, conceding the point, agreed, though only as long as Owen stayed where the troops could easily defend him if the enemy slipped past the army's front line. The Grand Duke, who nearly sagged with relief at these words, made no objection.

The march went on for several hours, during which Bryan and Azura soon noticed that Kenth, while making sure the group stayed on course, would sometimes leave his place at the head of the column to strike up a conversation with the women of the army. He first approached Leona, asking her opinion on Orenias and recommending sights for when she could visit at a more leisurely pace. When Marc intervened, however, Kenth promptly walked away. Leona hadn't seemed irritated by Kenth's attentions, but it seemed odd to those who'd seen the exchange. Kenth then moved onto Marina, asking after the sights in Cilae. Though perplexed, Marina answered politely until Lartz cut in, his expression one of thinly veiled displeasure. Almost as though he was jealous. In fact, Bryan found himself feeling rather wary, since Faline was nearby.

"Bryan, is it just me, or is Kenth up to something?" Azura spoke up. "I really think there's more to this than him playing at tour guide."

"I agree, he's definitely got something on his mind," Bryan replied. "I'm going to see what it is. Although, I have a feeling that I already know."

"Sigh… I have a pretty good idea myself."

Bryan then approached Kenth, who'd been eyeing Magali. The prince of Astryn, weary of this nonsense, caught him by the elbow and tugged him off to one side.

"Hey," he spoke up, somewhat amused to see the normally unflappable Kenth jump. "Are you guiding us or bothering the women?"

"Oh, your highness!" Kenth blurted, somewhat sheepishly. "Don't worry, I was only interested in meeting some of them! I must say, you have some lovely ladies in this army! And if you'll pardon my saying so, I'm quite the eligible bachelor."

"…Let me get this straight. You're on the prowl for a date?"

"More than that, if I can manage it. I thought it best to make a few overtures to some of these ladies. One thing I'll never forget from my time in Goldoa is that, even for us dragons, life is too short to not make the most of it. And, living alone for century after century has become dreadfully dull."

"Uh huh. Well, I'll have you know that some of these "lovely ladies" already have lovers. Including Faline, who is my girlfriend."

Kenth, who'd been quite at ease a moment ago, suddenly blanched when he realized what his "overtures" must've looked like.

"Oh….OH!" he spluttered mortified. "Dear me, no wonder those gentlemen looked so agitated. I did apologize when I sensed I wasn't wanted though, I assure you!"

"Well, it's an honest enough mistake," Bryan admitted, recalling his own lonely years. "But, watch yourself. And, we should get a move on. We'd best not keep King Cragen waiting too long, especially if this item's as important as he claims."

"Ah, yes, of course!"

After that, the two parted company and Kenth set them at a faster pace. As he rejoined Faline and explained what had happened, Bryan found himself wondering if Kenth might know the contents of the crate Cragen had asked them to retrieve. When he asked the red dragon, however, Kenth merely replied that he wasn't even entirely sure himself. He did say, however, that the dragon laguz of Orenias used that particular crate to store a number of things they considered valuable, ranging from family heirlooms to private journals. This tidbit served to whet Bryan's curiosity. His interest became mixed with perplexity when Kenth added that was probably something Bryan would never expect to be the object of a task set to him by royalty. What Kenth meant by this, Bryan wasn't sure, but he reminded himself that he would find out sooner or later.

Just as Kenth had originally stated, their destination lay a mere hours away. As they left behind the expansive grasslands, the ground steadily rose towards high, snow-capped mountains that brushed against the clouds. As the group surveyed the peaks, they spied dozens of shapes, little more than fluttering dots from such a distance, arcing and diving against the sun's rays. Even before the hawks had confirmed it, Bryan knew them to be dragons, both red and white, but whether they were friend or foe could not be determined. When he asked Kenth, the red dragon seemed unconcerned.

"If they were bandits, I think we'd know by now," he assured. "They'd either be sounding the alarm or swooping down on us. No, I think this is a patrol of Orenias's army. This depot we're traveling to is an important one, as King Cragen had said, and they'd easily spot any threats from such a height."

"I hope you're right," Bryan replied, not relishing the alternative. "We'd best press on in any case."

Kiel, who'd been quick to fear the worst, couldn't even manage a pretense of calm at the prospect of dragons trying to kill him. He trembled and shuddered and wished to the goddess that he could just turn and run until his legs fell off. Unfortunately, while he was surrounded by his allies and had Sara keeping a close watch on him, he knew he was trapped. Bryan, Azura, and Leyon were glad of this, as they couldn't afford such a distraction, or potential embarrassment, at a time like this.

"Alright, the entrance to the depot his majesty spoke of is right around…" Kenth began moments later, but his words trailed away as he suddenly jerked to a halt. "…Ah blast."

"What's wrong?" Bryan inquired. "Don't tell me those dragons we spotted were bandits after all!"

"No, but I fear we have another problem, unfortunately. This depot is supposed to be empty, only guarded from the outside, but I'm picking up fresh scents inside. There's some beasts, birds, and dragons up ahead."

"Well, we'll battle our way through them, then!" Azura proclaimed, her sword already drawn. "If we're going to secure King Cragen's aid, it's just as well we'd need to prove ourselves."

"Indeed. I didn't ride halfway across the continent to rejoin this lot just to turn around," Leyon added.

"So much for not getting too cocky," Bryan murmured under his breath, though Eronite was already in his grip.

The prince of Astryn had been about to sound the charge when he noticed that Kenth had gone as rigid as the mountain above them. Perplexed, he prodded at the red dragon with one finger, causing their guide to jump.

"What is wrong with you?" he asked, bewildered at this odd behavior. "It's just bandits, like King Cragen warned us about, right?"

"Yes," Kenth continued hesitantly. "But, there's something strange about this one particular scent I've picked up. It's a dragon, one with a heady, spicy aroma that calls to mind nights spent before the hearth with…by Cragen's claws, the scent is female!"

"Huh?" Bryan said, arching an eyebrow. Azura and Leyon could only give the red dragon blank looks as well.

"Your highness, why would a lovely lady be mixed up with bandits?!" Kenth wondered. "If she is lovely, that is."

"Oh for the love of…" Bryan fumed, driving his palm into his forehead. "Does it really matter what gender the bandit is?! Women can be villains too! Look at Melora's queen, Isis!"

The notion of fighting a woman, especially one whose very scent was so intoxicating, seemed to have Kenth in a quandary. The red dragon stared into the mouth of the cave for a long moment, torn between his duty and the tantalizing mental image of the she-dragon until, finally, the former prevailed.

"I suppose there's nothing to be done for it," he admitted, almost sadly. "It is indeed a sad day when a gentlemen must seek a lady's death, but we've little choice. To battle!"

Bryan, nearly stunned at the red dragon's lament, let out a heavy sigh and led the group into the cave. Unfortunately, the seeming luck Bryan and company had been enjoying in Orenias chose that moment to take a sour turn. The Prince of Astryn had expected this depot to be well lit, so that its contents would easy to find, but he was wrong. The passageway dug into the rock angled sharply downward, well away from the sun's rays. What's more, with every step he and the others took, the shadows of the cavern thickened until they might as well have been blind.

"Ah! It's pitch black in here!" Bryan called out, trying vainly to signal for a halt but quickly finding several armored bodies plowing into him from behind.

"Yeah, I can't see a thing!" the disembodied voice of Azura added. "Could we get some—OUCH! Who did that?!"

"Oh, sorry! I should've mentioned this…" Kenth's voice called out. "I've dealt with beorc so rarely that I forgot that you cannot see in such low light. We dragons can simply use our breath to heat the stone. These caves are unique in that, when heated, they emit a glow we can use as a light source. Heh, sorry…"

"Damn it…" Bryan grumbled under his breath. "You're lucky we happen to have a few torches handy in one of the wagons. We'd best get some before we proceed."

"Yes, I agree. Though, if need be, we dragons can set the walls aglow, as I said earlier. It would allow your soldiers to fight with both hands, but we'd need to re-heat the walls from time to time so we can all see."

"That might not be such a bad idea. But, for now, let's use the torches. Even if you smell them, we don't know where the bandits might be in here. Let's not give them too much warning and risk them jumping us from out of nowhere."

"Right. Oh, but there are also some braziers around as well. We use them since it's too dangerous to use our breath while carrying supplies out of here. If you use your torches to light them, it would give us better light."

"Got it."

By this time, those at the rear of the procession had managed to retrieve a dozen odd torches and these were passed up the line. The group ignited their torches and began their trek through the cave, moving as quietly as they could and carefully peering around each corner for any enemies that might be lurking nearby. Several minutes passed before a low distant sound echoed back to the party. Bryan held up one hand to signal a halt and listened carefully for a long moment until he heard the sound of a heavy object being dropped up ahead, an aggravated voice ringing out over the crash. That had to be the bandits. Bryan had no need to voice this assertion, for Skye had nocked an arrow to his bowstring, Soren, Lily, and Francois had their tomes in hand, and everyone else drew their weapons, quietly maneuvering into formation for what, they suspected, would be a fierce battle. Raela, Norman, and Lisa stood at the ready with their staves, on the alert for any wounded that might need their aid. Despite how well armed the party was, they nonetheless found their hands trembling and their breath going short and ragged. In this terrible gloom, and knowing that enemies were lurking within, childhood fears of what might be lurking in dark places suddenly returned, lending a sinister connotation to every flicker of movement.

Ultimately, the passageway gave way to a huge cavern, large enough that the ceiling was lost to shadows. The cavern was littered with crates, a few of these, either due to carelessness or not containing anything of worth, had been reduced to splinters while others were being rifled through by several shadowy figures. Revealed by the light of a torch was a fairly tall, tan-skinned woman with a statuesque physique who stood at the back, apparently supervising the looting of the chamber. Barely a glance was needed to understand Kenth's lusty description of her scent. Apart from her shapely and well-toned form, she had hair that gleamed like silver in the torchlight, despite a tarnish of brown grit being mixed in. She wore a tattered dress with only one of its two shoulder straps yet intact, but the material was diaphanous and billowed suggestively with even the slightest motion. Her large blue eyes gleamed like gemstones, and the red mark beneath the left, which appeared much like the one on Kenth's shoulder, serve accentuate her strong features and pointed chin. As attractive as she was, however, there was no mistaking the avarice in her eyes as her gaze roamed over the crates. Kenth seemed almost crestfallen by this revelation and, despite shooting the red dragon an irate glare, Bryan felt genuine regret that a dragon could stoop so low as banditry. He was shaken back to attention, however, when a transformed red dragon bandit began plodding over to the woman.

"Captain Bruma, I think I smell intruders!" he said urgently, causing the other bandits to cease their looting and transform. "I've picked up a large group of people nearby, with scents from all parts of the continent! Even Melora!"

"Hm, so it seems!" Bruma repliedafter a cursory sniff of the air. "Well, we've gone to too much trouble to lose this precious loot. They want it? They'll have to pry it from our cold, dead claws! If they show up, get rid of 'em! Or at least hold 'em off until we've got what we came for!"

"Yes, ma'am! I'll pass the message along to the beasts and birds!"

With that, Bruma transformed, assuming the form of a grayish dragon. Once her transformation was complete, she let out a roar, as though challenging her enemies to make themselves known, while the red dragon who'd spoken earlier vanished into the darkness behind her, presumably heading deeper into the cave to pass along his message to the other bandits. Ranulf, who was able to see further and better than the others, reported that he could see a long corridor populated by several laguz bandits, apparently forming a message chain. As soon as one laguz bandit told another of the intruders, they assumed their animal forms as well. Luckily, Bryan, Azura, and the others had anticipated this since they knew very well that all laguz had a keen sense of smell, especially the beast laguz. What's more, since the bandits were scattered throughout the cave system, the army could fight them piecemeal instead of all at once.

"Time to divide and conquer," Bryan said, just loudly enough for the others to hear. "The dragons will block that tunnel to keep the enemy reinforcements from reaching us. The rest will deal with this scum."

On the prince of Astryn's orders, Skye and the magic users unleashed a volley of ranged attacks, creating enough confusion for the dragons to enter the chamber. Though the Orenias soldiers stuck to the shadows, beings of such size were not easy to hide and the laguz bandits moved to intercept. After another volley of arrows and spells, Bryan sounded the charge and took the fight to the enemy.

Ike managed to sidestep a blast of fire breath, the flames passing so close to his head that he swore it crisped a few strands of his hair. Regaining his feet, he rolled in close to one of the dragon bandits and clove deep with Ragnell. Though the sacred blade penetrated the scales, his foe yet came away standing, though barely. The hero of Tellius soon found himself wishing that they'd brought laguz-slaying weapons with them, as he recalled that they were far more effective against the shape-shifting people than normal beorc-made weapons. He even knew this from personal experience, as he'd obtained a laguzslayer, a sword meant to be used against laguz, in Crimea's Port Toha during the Mad King's War. The weapon's sinister appearance, a trait shared by the man he'd received it from, had repulsed him, but it turned out that the chance encounter had come at just the right time. During a subsequent battle, aboard Nasir's ship in the bird tribe's waters, they ran afoul of a flock of raven laguz pirates. He'd mentioned this anecdote to Azura, Bryan, and Leyon during their earlier conference and, though generations of peace between Altarais's beorc and laguz had caused both races to take a dim view of those grisly implements, they could hardly disagree that such weapons would've come in handy. Thankfully, they still had some magic wielders among them, and the dragons did an admirable job of interdicting the enemy reinforcements. Thus free to focus on the immediate threat, the mages in the group made sure to use the right tomes against the right laguz in order to subdue each foe as quickly as possible. Lily went after the beasts with her fire magic, Soren sent the birds plummeting with his wind magic, and Francois brought his thunder tomes to bear against the dragons.

The dragons, however, were in a class of their own. Francois's thunder magic took its toll, stunning and staggering several, but even when faced with their only true weakness, they yet pressed on with inexorable killing intent. Ultimately, Lily and Soren switched targets, riddling the dragons with spells while the burden of fighting the beasts and birds shifted to their friends. The healers moved as close as they dared, opting to use Physic staves in case the fighting drew too near for comfort. It was a risky tactic, one which Bryan would have been more confident in had their dragon escorts been available to help, but he sensed that taking the more dangerous portion of the battle upon himself would best make his case to Cragen. And, it seemed his luck was on the rebound, since the battle looked to be turning in his favor.

Bruma, apparently reaching the same conclusion, decided that now was a good time to enter the fray. She briefly resumed her human form again, though likely just for grand effect.

"Ya sure know how to make a girl feel important," she spoke up. "Sending fools from all over for my entertainment. Ya fight well, I'll give you that much! But we're not finished yet!"

"Good, because I'm just getting started!" Bryan retorted, sweeping Eronite's tip to alight upon the dragon bandit.

"Oh, what cruel wiles the fates work!" Kenth lamented, causing Bryan's charge to jerk to a scandalized halt. "I had hoped you to be a hostage of these villains, but instead I find you plundering supplies vital to Orenias's army! Oh, would that I were blind so that I could be spared this sight."

Bruma, and indeed, everyone within earshot, could only gape in stupefaction for a long moment before the dragon bandit clapped a hand to her forehead in unmitigated disbelief.

"Could you possibly be any more melodramatic?!" she screeched. "And, what the blazes are you supposed to be, some fool who thinks he can sweep any woman off their feet with his enflamed passions?"

"Well, considering that I'm a red dragon, you might not be far wrong," Kenth continued, his earlier melancholy vanishing as a grin dawned on his features. "In fact, one could say that I'm possessed of certain…smoldering charms."

The red dragon then brought up one hand to smooth back his hair. Kenth no doubt believed the gesture to be elegant, but his audience was patently unimpressed. Bryan, nearly mortified by the display, buried his face in his palm. Oh my goddesses, this guy…

"…Wow, that was pathetic," Bruma rebuffed, almost sounding disgusted. "But whatever, I do believe killing you will truly be a pleasure!"

Bruma then returned to her dragon form and roared out a challenge.

"...Ah, well. Can't save them all," Kenth reluctantly conceded.

With that, Kenth transformed and roared out an answer to his foe's challenge. As the two combatants closed in on one another, Ike shouted out a warning to his allies nearby, reminding them that white dragons were far more resistant to magic than their red brethren, which made it too dangerous for any of the mages to get close to Bruma as she and Kenth dueled. However, during his earlier conference with Bryan, he'd also pointed out that this resistance to magic came at the cost of leaving them more vulnerable to weapons. Sensing what Ike had in mind, Kenth allowed his allies to remain nearby in case he could create an opening for them to strike.

For a time, however, it looked as though that might not be necessary. Despite his show of regret for having to fight Bruma, Kenth fought with surprising skill and strength. He managed to crane his saurian head out of the path of blast of lightning breath and retaliated by spewing a gout of flame that left Bruma's chest smoldering.

"…Argh! How could a simpering dandy be this strong?!" Bruma gasped, her earlier show of blithe confidence forgotten.

"Surely you did not think I'd trained only my tongue!" Kenth replied, a smile dawning his draconic features. "I am a stranger in this fair land of Orenias, seeking to prove my worth. Not just to Orenias's army, but in hopes that my efforts would win the favor of a lovely lady! Those dreams were stirred by the intoxicating aroma that assailed my nostrils when I sensed you, and perhaps it is not too late. I can still spare you, if you will but repent your villainous deeds."

By the time Kenth was finished with his spiel, Bruma was positively livid.

"Abandon everything I do, everything I am, for you?!" she railed, her white scales seeming to redden with anger. "Oh, I'll have that tongue of yours hanging from my belt when I'm through with you!"

The dragon bandit swung her tail as hard as she could, catching Kenth off guard with a blow that was strangely akin to a woman slapping a man across the face. The red dragon, seemingly more stunned by the rebuke than the pain, was thrown off balance and went crashing to the stone floor. Bruma might have followed up with a blast of lightning breath, but a combined assault from Ike and Bryan bought the red dragon the time he needed to regain his feet.

"Aagh! …Heh, you're quite strong too, you know!" Kenth complimented, but more from habit than believing she would listen. "But alright… I guess I have no choice then."

He then lunged for Bruma, just as Ike and Bryan broke off their assault, and shoved her to the floor. Filling his lungs, Kenth blew out a licking tongue of flame, this time hitting Bruma square in the face. She managed a scream that was quickly choked away as her face, and most of her head, ran molten under flames so hot that they set the floor beneath her glowing like amber held against torchlight. Likely, despite his seemingly shallow flirting and regardless of her crimes, he had wanted to make her death a swift one. As expected, her demise effectively ended the battle, as what remained of her underlings soon fled the caves.

"Ah, I still wish I could've spared her…" Kenth lamented after returning to his human form, the apparent regret in his voice forestalling any snide comments about his obsession with the opposite gender.

"Well, you had no choice," Bryan replied, laying a hand on the red dragon's shoulder. "She would've killed you, or any of us, if she'd had the chance. And it's over now, so we need to move on. Where's this thing King Cragen wants me to get?"

"Erm…" Kenth murmured as he scanned the area, as though worried that the item they sought might have already been removed or destroyed in the fighting, but he soon spotted what he was looking for. "Ah, yes, right over here in the corner."

Kenth then led the prince to a corner in the back of the cave, not far from where they had first spotted Bruma. Sitting there, as Cragen had said, was indeed a large crate marked with blue sigils. It was nearly as tall as Kye was, and as wide as Ike's massive shoulders. At Kenth's invitation, Bryan drew in an expectant breath and approached, digging his fingers beneath the lid and prying it open.

When he got a look at the crate's contents, however, his anticipation became disbelief. Rather than gemstones or jewels or secret documents, he beheld numerous jars of some sort of thick liquid that, when he experimentally cracked a lid, exuded a strong aroma of spice.

"Ah, good, looks like those bandits didn't take much of it," Kenth said, apparently unperturbed by this strange turn of events.

"Much of what?" Bryan wondered, bringing the jar he'd opened towards his face and inhaling deeply. The aroma was pungent and heady, causing his mouth to shut as the smell seemed to wrench his sinuses open and overwhelm his nostrils. But, the aroma also stirred his memory, and he recalled how, at the meal the army had had to celebrate Leyon's victory in Jerusa. Ike, true to fashion, had dined upon a small mountain of flank steak which he had generously topped with—

"…What the—?!" he blurted as realization struck. "Do you mean to tell me we came all this way for a few jars of sauce?!"

At this, Azura, Leyon, Ike, and many others were left dumbstruck. What sort of bandits risked their lives stealing a supply of condiments? For that matter, why had Cragen risked their lives to retrieve it?!

"Kenth, this must be some sort of mistake! There's probably another crate with similar sigils here somewhere," Bryan insisted, unable to keep his befuddlement from creeping into his words.

"Heh, nope! This is definitely what his majesty wanted you to get," Kenth assured, seeming almost amused by the situation. "This sauce is a veritable keystone in Orenias's culinary culture. No meat dish is complete, or even acceptable, without it. I suspect his majesty likely wanted you to retrieve it so that his soldiers could enjoy the small comfort of a good meal while they fight at your side against Melora."

The prince of Astryn had encountered many strange things after he'd decided to embrace his rediscovered heritage, but this topped them all. Surely there were better things he could've been doing, both for his own country and to secure Orenias's aid, than fetching cooking supplies.

Yet, when he forced himself to calm down and think about the situation rationally, though this was not an easy task, he was forced to change his stance. Astryn was still a country beset by no end of troubles, both within and without. The aid of the Orenias dragons might very well change that and, though he bristled at the notion, a mildly degrading task such as this would be a small price to pay if it meant saving the lives of his future subjects.

"Oh for the love of the goddess…" he groused, hoping this wouldn't turn out to be a recurring theme of his reign." Alright, let's get it in one of the wagons and go."

Kenth, seemingly oblivious to the prince of Astryn's displeasure, nodded. He directed for Ike to join him and the two titans used their combined strength to carry the large crate out of the caves and deposit it into Bronwyn's wagon. Bryan wondered if they might have to hitch one of the knights' warhorses to the wagon in order to carry such a load. Thankfully, the mare Bronwyn already had was every bit as strong as her grizzled mistress. Despite this, the group still couldn't travel as quickly as before, so the return trip to the Orenas castle was likely to take much of the remaining daylight hours.

Despite the delay, the group was glad for the reprieve, as it gave them some badly needed time to relax and talk, a welcome respite after so days spent fighting and traveling from one part of the continent to another. Bryan noted that the dragon patrol they'd spotted earlier had belatedly realized the depot they'd been guarding had been breached and they had corralled the surviving bandits. Suspecting this wouldn't be the last time he'd need to do so, the prince of Astryn pasted on a smile and thanked them for their "invaluable assistance." In a far more sincere tone, he congratulated the dragons who'd accompanied him and the others into the caves. They bowed respectfully, and Bryan suspected his efforts to rekindle the alliance between Astryn and Orenias was progressing well, despite the oddities of the day.

Elsewhere in the marching column of fighting men and women, Kiel, with some prodding from Sara, caught up with Lartz and Marina. The pair was still trying to help ease his fear of dragons, especially since they were still in the homeland of the dragon laguz and, given the success of their mission, would likely be fighting alongside them in the future. So far, the red wolf had warmed up to Lartz's wyvern, but the trio sensed that he'd suffered a setback after he'd been unwittingly frightened by Kenth. Lily continued vying for Zarek's attention and, although he was still irritated by her prodding, he seemed less standoffish with her and even laughed a bit at her youthful antics. Similarly, Skye appeared to be growing less and less defensive when subjected to Raela's badgering and didn't even seem to mind her company as much as before. Bryan and Faline could only snicker to themselves, discreetly placing bets on when the two would confess and kiss.

In stark contrast to these easing tensions, Tessa made repeated, and unsuccessful, attempts to introduce Kiara to more of the beorc. She'd hoped to get her skittish friend talking to them in hopes that she'd become less shy around them. The timid cat laguz, however, was less-than-cooperative, and she still hardly said anything despite Tessa's efforts. But, though Tessa despaired, an opportunity presented itself.

"Hey, Ranulf!" Tessa called to the blue cat laguz, who'd been talking with Vorcas. The two had gotten into a nice chat about their respective nations again.

"It is Ranulf, right?" Tessa asked once she'd caught the blue cat's attention.

"Yeah, and you're Tessa, if I recall?" Ranulf replied, to which Tessa nodded. "What's up?"

"I need your help with Kiara. You're a laguz that's friends with a lot of beorc, but she's so skittish around them it's embarrassing. I've been thinking, you could probably get through to her," Tessa explained. "I think she'd open up to the beroc with your help. Please? She seemed to like you before too, when you fell flat on your face."

"Ah…" Ranulf murmured, his cheeks going red. Though whether that was from thoughts of Kiara or Tessa having brought up his little mishap from when they first met, he wasn't sure.

"Heh, sure, I can try to help," Ranulf continued, trying keep a silly grin off of on his face. I do want Kiara to like me! Oh man, but how do I do it?

"Great! Thanks!"

"Yeah, thank you, Ranulf," Kiara agreed with a gentle smile. "I really don't wish to be a burden. And being scared of every beorc I see won't help, I know…"

"Oh, well, don't worry! Way back when, I wasn't fond of them either," Ranulf assured, almost stuttering. "But, if I can learn to get along with them, so can you. We'll figure something out, okay?"

"Okay!"

With that, the two decided to talk a little more, Ranulf sharing stories of the beorc he'd met in hopes that these would motivate Kiara. Ike and Elincia took note of this as well, wondering just how long it would take Ranulf to embarrass himself again. Ike suggested that he ought to use Ranulf's newfound weakness to get back at the cat laguz for how many times he'd teased him over the years. However, Elincia objected, saying she suspected that Ranulf and Kiara might make a lovely couple and that she didn't want to ruin their chances. This struck a chord with Ike, who remembered how lonely Ranulf had been after losing Lethe and Lyre. He conceded the point and admitted that it would be nice for Ranulf to finally have someone to love.

Several hours later, the group finally arrived back at the castle, and Bryan was eager to let Cragen know of his success. He was also quite eager to know why the dragon king sent him on such an odd mission in the first place. Though he still supposed he ought to consider himself lucky if Cragen's support could be won so easily, he still felt he ought to be mustering new recruits to defend Astryn, not running errands like a kitchen boy.

"Bryan, keep your temper," Owen warned his son as they approached the castle's massive doors once again. "I realize this mission turned out to be a bit strange, but I'm sure King Cragen had a good reason for it."

"Yeah, yeah, I know," Bryan replied. "I'm just a little irritated. But I know as well as you do that we can't afford to lose King Cragen's support. I promise I won't go off the deep end."

"Good. Now let's go. Francois and Alec, you two are free to join us again, if you'd like."

"Of course, Grand Duke Owen," Francois obliged.

"Right!" Alec added. "His majesty will surely be glad to know we're all in one piece."

With that, Kenth guided the prince of Astryn and his entourage made their way back to the throne room. The red dragon had been most impressed by Bryan's performance as was eager to relay his account of the prince of Astryn's success as well as his own.

When they reentered the throne room, they found King Cragen gazing out through a large expanse of window. The dragon king gave no sign of having heard his visitors enter, but instead continued to watch the sprawling grasslands beyond, a sad smile struggling to take shape upon his lips. After a long moment, the dragon king seemed to shake himself from his reverie and turned to greet his visitors.

"Oh, your majesty, we weren't interrupting anything, were we?" Kenth inquired.

"Don't worry, Kenth, you're not," Cragen replied with a smile. "I was just…reflecting."

His words ended as a heavy sigh parted his lips, leaving little doubt as to just what had been on his mind…

…or, rather, whom.

"Bryan, Owen, please approach," he said, and the two Astrynians moved to stand at Cragen's shoulder.

"You see that fringe of forest on the horizon, just shy of the hills?" Cragen said, pointing. "My wife and I used to fly there together when we just needed a moment away from life at the castle. I would let her win…once in a while, at least. When she did, she would turn in midair to greet me, the sun setting her scales aglow."

Here, Cragen had to pause to dab at his eyes.

"Such fond memories," he said wistfully. "These days, Nyarla and I fly now, in her memory. She always loved hearing stories about her mother and I when we were young."

"I see," Owen replied, his own eyes misting. "And, I believe I know how you feel. Caline and I had only a few years together, not centuries, but I remember many things about her. I remember how, when we were courting, we'd ride through the streets of Medann on a horse and carriage or go riding through the countryside. And, for anniversaries or birthdays, we'd dine at a fine restaurant and watch the playwrights perform at the amphitheater. We'd often see romantic comedies, and she'd laugh herself near to fainting."

The eyes of both widowers met, and Bryan could sense a moment of empathy and respect passing between the two men as they remembered the lives, rather than the deaths, of those dearest to them.

"It sounds like you two were very happy," Cragen remarked. "It is good that what little time you had was well spent. And, remembering all those good days brings a smile to your face, doesn't it?"

"Indeed, your majesty. The pain is still there, but I am glad for what time we did have. And, finally being back here and helping my son to win his birthright, I can't help but think my wife's gentle spirit is resting a bit easier."

A genuine smile finally dawned on Cragen's face and he gave Owen a, very, enthusiastic clap on the shoulder that nearly sent the former Grand Duke sprawling.

"Well said, my friend," he opined, turning his attention to the prince of Astryn.
"Now, I'm assuming you were successful, Prince Bryan?"

"Yes, your majesty," Bryan confirmed, though he once more found himself second-guessing his words. "We've brought what you asked for… I think. Once we dealt with the bandits, Kenth helped us find the crate you sent us to retrieve."

"Indeed, and our visitors acquitted themselves most admirably," Kenth added, giving Bryan an approving nod. "Should I order my men to bring our spoils to the castle granary?"

"Yes, thank you, Kenth."

"Of course."

Kenth gave a quick bow before the king and departed the room. Cragen then turned to Bryan, his once pensive look turning smug.

"Heh, you're probably wondering why I sent you on that particular mission, aren't you?" he guessed, his tone every bit as smug as his face.

"That…crossed my mind, yes," Bryan replied in his most blandly polite tone, though his face reddened a bit. "I'm just confused. What was the point of all that?"

"Bryan, he was testing you, remember?" Owen replied.

"But how so? Surely there must have been other ways for me to prove myself."

"Perhaps, but your father is right," Cragen seconded. "Tell me, you would go to any lengths to help Astryn, wouldn't you?"

"Of course. The country is in shambles and as the sole survivor of the royal family, it's my duty to save my people."

"Exactly. You would do just about anything, even if it was, admittedly, somewhat degrading, if it meant that the nation and people you've sworn to protect would be getting the help and support they need. That is what I needed to know, if you had the conviction to follow through on what you've set out to do, no matter what. And now, I have my answer. And, I know that your claim to Astryn's throne is one worthy of my support."

At this, Bryan blinked in amazement, nearly speechless with surprise and relief.

"You see now, Bryan?" Owen said smugly, putting one arm around his son's shoulder and giving an affectionate squeeze. "It may have been a strange episode, but your going through with it might save many lives."

"…Yeah, I believe you're right," Bryan admitted. "I'm sorry I doubted you, your majesty."

"Heh, don't worry, I would've expected any non-dragon to be confused," Cragen assured. "In fact, that was another reason I sent you on that mission. You were confused, but still did as I requested for the sake of your people and your quest. Such dedication to one's duty are traits that do credit to one who would occupy the throne."

With that, Cragen took a step back and inclined his head, one king bowing to another. Bryan returned the gesture, though bowing considerably lower.

"Now that that's done," the dragon king continued, "it is time I honored my end of the bargain. What aid I can lend to you and your cause, I shall give. When the time comes to confront Shigo and his troops, Kenth and his men will fight by your side. In addition, we will muster our troops to fortify our border with Melora. Once that is done, and we have assurances that Larame will honor our mutual boundaries, other dragons will be sent to aid Astryn and Allied Command."

That last sentence cooled Bryan's enthusiasm a bit, but he knew it couldn't be helped. According to Vorcas, Larame and her neighbors had a long history of mutual mistrust and misunderstanding with her neighbors. It stood to reason that Cragen would be leery of his beast tribe neighbors, but it also meant that only a fraction of the aid Astryn needed would be forthcoming until the tensions between the two were eased, at least for a time.

But, in spite of this, the prince of Astryn was not cowed. He already had Orenias's support, and his earlier success in exposing the Meloran dracoknights as the true culprits behind the raids on Larame had given him an opening in the land of the beast tribe. With luck, that would be enough for him to bring the two nations to terms and ensure that both would fight Melora instead of each other.

"Thank you, your majesty," Bryan replied gratefully. "And I vow that I will not to fail."

"I have every confidence in you. Also, be sure to keep some of that spice you retrieved on hand. I dare say what dragons are with you will be worth twice their number with some of that in their bellies. Now, if you'll excuse me, I must make the arrangements needed to fulfill our end of the bargain. In the meantime, I suspect your people are eager to learn of your success."

With that, the group bowed and took their leave, heading back outside to relay the news to Azura, Leyon, and the others. Kenth also went to fetch some of the spice as Cragen had suggested. As soon as it was packed into one of the wagons, the group began to march back to Astryn Palace once more. Laris and Canus were surely concerned by now learning of Bryan's success in securing the dragons' aid would gladden many a heavy heart.

Along the way, Ranulf decided to act upon Tessa's request to help Kiara. Unfortunately, he found it difficult to get her to even talk to a beorc, particularly Ike. That left Ranulf truly confounded, as he regarded the hero of Tellius as a veritable paragon of open-mindedness, able to look past appearances with beorc and laguz alike and judging each and all solely by the content of their character. Yet every time Ranulf tried to get her to approach him, she squealed and ran away. Even Ike was left scratching his head at this, not the smallest reason being that he normally had women doing the exact opposite when they saw him. Both Tellius natives apologized to Tessa and Vorcas anyway, though the two Larameans assured the two men that they'd done nothing wrong. Ike wondered if his imposing physique might be the reason. He was bigger and much stronger than many beorc he knew, and the two massive swords he carried only made him look all the more daunting. Whatever the case, Ranulf clearly wasn't going to give up on Kiara. When he voiced this sentiment to Ike and Elincia, however, both gave him knowing smiles and said they were impressed by his gallantry.

The return journey to Astryn Palace lasted more than a day, their journey slightly slower due to their greater numbers and the additional cargo. But the group was relieved to be back. Bryan had been especially anxious, concerned that either the Red Claw or Melora, or both, might have attacked his fragile realm while he had been gone. Luckily, though Medann and its outlying villages still looked as though they'd seen better days, neither looked any worse than usual. Bryan was relieved by this, but felt he still needed to ask Laris and Canus if there had been any news. He hadn't seen every part of the country, after all. By now, word that the lost prince of Astryn had returned had surely spread. And, though Bryan hoped it would inspire many to join his effort to guide his country back to greatness, he was worried about those who might take issue with his ascension. When the group approached the main gates, Bryan was immediately ushered inside, along with Owen, Francois, Eric, and Alec. He advised the others to remain outside, just in case they were sent off on yet another mission. He'd been mentally mapping his course to the throne room, so engrossed in not getting lost, that he almost failed to notice that Laris and Canus were waiting for him in the palace foyer.

"Prince Bryan, we're glad to see you back," Laris greeted, sagging with relief.

"And I'm glad to be back," Bryan agreed. "What's more, we finally have some good news."

"You were successful then?" Canus inquired, guarded hope lighting his eyes.

"Oh, yes. It took some doing, but King Cragen has agreed to help us as best he can. He's sent some dragon allies back with me. But, with the Melorans on one side and the Larameans on the other, I'm afraid won't be able to provide much more until his own lands are safer."

"We do have an opening, however," Owen interjected. "If we can ensure that Larame and Orenias will not attack each other, both countries would be able to give us greater support. Given time, that could alter the course of the entire war."

"I believe you're right, though I hope we're all still here to see it…" Laris replied gravely. "Still, a little help is better than none. And, I'm sure I speak for all of us when I saw we're most fortunate that we can still count King Cragen as our friend."

"I agree. I know that, if we can bring Orenias and Larame to terms, Isis's days are numbered," Bryan affirmed. "But, why are you both out here though? We could've discussed this inside."

"You're right, but I'm afraid that while you were gone, another dire situation rose," Laris reluctantly explained. "Our efforts to get Astryn's army back on a war footing had met with a… setback. Commander Selene, the commander of our Pegasus knights… Several hours ago, she was found dead somewhere northwest of here."

"…Wait, what?" Bryan blurted, blinking in both shock and confusion.

"Oh dear…" Alec muttered.

"Are you serious?!" Eric thundered. "Could Shigo be taking the offensive?!"

"I'm afraid we don't know," Canus reluctantly admitted. "We pray that isn't the case. In fact, we suspect this might have been the work of Isis's henchmen, some sort of retaliation for Tavon's death."

Bryan merely sighed and brought a hand to his temples, vainly trying to massage away this latest headache.

"Okay, first of all, why wasn't I told about this commander sooner?" he demanded, only belatedly noticing Owen's cautionary glare and then moderating his tone. "I might have been able to help her."

"I do apologize, your highness," Laris lamented, bowing his head penitently. "You are right, you should have been told. We believed, mistakenly, that she and the remainder of our Pegasus knights would be safe while patrolling the skies so near the capital. In fact, we were expecting Selene back soon and wanted to introduce you to her. But even so, we should have informed you."

"I fear we have served you badly by failing to prevent this tragedy," Canus admitted.

Bryan had been about to voice his agreement, and in rather caustic terms, but Owen snatched at his hand and gave it a warning squeeze.

"Be that as it may," Bryan spoke, forcing down his anger at this debacle. "We now have no one to command the Pegasus knights! And since I don't know any of them, I have no way of knowing which of them might be fit to assume command."

"Indeed, this is a grave setback…" Laris agreed. "We do have some good fortune, however. Though we've had troubles with mutineers and deserters since the last war, the remaining Pegasus Knights are still loyal to Astryn's throne, as well as the memory of their late commander. If a suitable replacement could be found, I don't doubt that they'd follow our returned prince. Perhaps a temporary commander can be found in your group?"

"Well, that's possible. I did find myself in command of the Talgrian Royal Knights for a little while after their general lost his memory in an accident. He's since recovered, but I did pick up a few tricks while I was trying to fill his shoes. I'll have to see what I can do."

"Ah, thank you, your highness," Canus replied. "Again, our sincerest apologies for our failure. With these endless troubles we've had, there are times when it's all we can do to keep our heads mortared on straight."

That reminder of what Astryn had suffered while he'd been unknowingly in exile helped Bryan to wrestle down his anger. He once more recalled the abject poverty and despair he'd seen in much of Astryn, Sally's village in particular, where keeping a fragile hope alive was a labor that demanded every waking moment. Laris and Canus, who'd been keeping the listing ship of state afloat since the last war, surely felt such a burden no less keenly.

"I understand," Bryan replied, feelingly. "All we can do is press on as best we can. But in the future, I expect to be informed of such news in a more timely fashion."

"Of course."

"Right. Now, I'd best discuss this with the others. Like you said, one of them might be able to take Commander Selene's place. I just hope that the Pegasus knights will trust whoever I choose to lead them…"

"Yeah, you better make a damn good choice!" Eric added. "We can't have any more of them defecting or leaving!"

"Yeah, I know that!"

With that, Bryan returned to the gates and reported the news to the rest of the group. This latest news had put something of a damper on their success in Orenias since, according to the Astrynians in the army, Commander Selene was a well-liked and capable commander who'd been lost when Astryn's need was greatest. Armelle was particularly upset, as Selena had been a friend of hers. Well, that explains why Eric was so furious when he heard the news, Bryan mused, remembering the general's engagement to Armelle. This revelation, however, served to temper Bryan's resolve to make sure that those responsible for his country's decline and his people's suffering would pay dearly. He then announced his plan to choose a temporary commander for Astryn's Pegasus Knights, at least until a permanent replacement could be found.

"I'm honestly not sure who to choose right now, but I have to decide soon," Bryan said. "A unit can't fight for long without a leader, and we need all the strength we can muster in order to fight Shigo's army. So, let me see here…"

Bryan began mulling over who to ask, though his choices were few. As far as he knew, Marina and Louise were the Pegasus knights in the army who had at least some experience leading aerial units into battle. But, though his knowledge of political nuances was small, he suspected that the decision to appoint a foreign royal to command one of his best units would not be well received. Marina remained a possibility, though he wondered if her experience leading small Pegasus units would be enough. Alec, Leyon, and Eric had their hands full with their own commands. And despite the seeming truce the prince of Astryn had reached with the Astrynian dracoknight, he was hesitant to press his luck. Olivia was a possibility, if she was willing to temporary leave the dracoknights for a time. And, for that matter, if the Pegasus knights would accept her and if the dracoknights' performance did not suffer in her absence. Lartz he could rule out immediately, as he'd never held a command of note and, between his being Meloran and his Accurse ability, the Pegasus knights were unlikely to trust him. Bryan supposed that he could take command himself, but despite his earlier words to Laris and Canus, the prospect of juggling two commands wasn't one he relished. He was shaken back to the present when Faline vaulted off of Flower and raced over.

"Bryan, wait! Let me do it," she insisted, worried over this latest burden to befall her lover and past caring about how her actions might be construed by prying eyes.

"What? Faline, I don't know," Bryan hesitantly replied. "You've never commanded soldiers in battle."

"I know, but if I'm going to help you rebuild Astryn even after you're crowned king, I have to win the trust of as many people here as I can," Faline pointed out. "And I believe I can help you by doing this. You're already shouldering so much; like I said earlier, you're the pillar that's holding this country up. So, let me do as I promised and be the pillar that holds you up. Besides, ever since we met up again, I've been watching you, Lady Azura, General Leyon, and the other leaders we've dealt with along the way. I've learned a lot from them, and I know I can do this for you. For us."

His love's conviction was enough to forestall any objections Bryan had, though he was worried nonetheless. Being in command carried heavy burdens, as he and those same leaders Faline mentioned could attest to. One wrong decision on Faline's part, or even a cruel twist of fate, could cost the life of someone under her command…

…and, he shuddered to contemplate what that might do to her gentle, loving spirit.

But on the other hand, what choice did he have?

She was willing, motivated, confident, and certainly didn't lack for determination.

Armies had been built on less, as might very well be the case in this fragile realm he'd inherited.

"Well, you're right that you need to win over as much of the country as possible. And I think it's no secret that I don't have many alternatives. But are you sure? These Pegasus knights likely won't be like the ones you knew in Cilae. And if you've been watching me, Leyon, and the others, then you must know full well that leading troops isn't something you should be getting into lightly."

"Yes, I realize all of that," Faline affirmed. "I promise, Bryan, I'll do my best and I won't let you down!"

"Why not let her try, Bryan?" Azura put in. "A lot of us have been watching her, and she's come a long way since she first joined us. In fact, you both have. And as long as she's with you, she may end up commanding them anyway. After all, if it helps Astryn's people to see their lost prince fighting for them, why wouldn't they take heart from seeing his princess fighting at his side?"

The Lady of Elhorhi's stirring endorsement brought a blush to Faline's cheeks, and Bryan found himself nodding.

"That does make sense," he admitted. "Alright, I'll let you do it, Faline. Just promise me that you'll ask for some advice if you feel you need any."

"Of course, love!" Faline agreed with a smile. "Now let's go in and let Laris and Canus know."

"Right."

The two then returned to the palace grounds and rejoined Laris, Canus, and the others. Owen, who'd been belatedly informed of his son's latest challenge, couldn't help but allow a smug smile to cross his features when he saw Faline following her lover. Eric, however, had quite a different reaction.

"You can't be serious!" he protested in annoyance. "She's your choice?!"

"Yes, she is, Eric," Bryan sternly confirmed. "And before you ask, she volunteered knowing full well the risks of what she was getting herself into."

"I very much doubt that," Eric opined hotly.

"Why Eric, I thought you respected me," Faline said with a sweet smile.

"Don't get smart with me," Eric warned, leveling a finger in Faline's direction. "You're right, I did say before that I did come to respect you after seeing you clobber Tavon. But that doesn't mean I think you're fit to lead a unit of our troops! You have absolutely no experience! Grand Duke Laris, are you really going to allow this?"

"I'm afraid I have to agree with Eric," Canus added, though with obvious reluctance. "Lady Faline is an outstanding warrior, but she has no experience in commanding troops. What's more, she is a commoner, and she isn't even from this country! Your highness, I would advise you to reconsider."

Bryan had, by this time, quite lost track of how often his newfound role of the prince of Astryn had left him reining in his temper, but, when he saw in Faline's eyes that she wanted to plead her own case, he swallowed his incredulity and nodded for her to speak.

"Eric, Duke Canus, I understand your concerns, but I really want to try for everyone's sake here," Faline replied. "I love Bryan and he loves me. What's more, regardless of what you think of me, I plan to stay by his side. It is true that I have no experience in leading soldiers, but every leader started somewhere, isn't that right? I've fought alongside and learned from some of the best leaders during this war, and I've already gained the trust of some Astrynian soldiers already. Ever since I learned of Bryan's heritage, I've been asking myself what I can do to help him, really help him, save this country. He already has my love, but I believe I can serve him even better by defending him from on high at the head of your Pegasus knights."

For a long moment, Faline's entreaty was greeted by a long, pensive silence. Then, all eyes fell on Laris as he stepped forward and nodded toward the Falcon Knight.

"You make an impassioned case, Lady Faline," Laris opined. "I must admit, I'm uncertain about your suggestion. But as is often the case, Astryn has few options. And, if Prince Bryan has seen fit to place such faith in you, I suppose I must do likewise."

"Oh, thank you so much," Faline gushed, racing over and hugging the Grand Duke hard enough to squeeze the breath from his lungs. "I promise I'll do my best!"

Eric could only watch in slack jawed disbelief while Canus sighed, secretly praying to Ashunera that Astryn's newfound prince and those around him knew what they were doing.

"Yes, thanks, Laris," Bryan said with palpable relief. "And, as Faline said, she's learned from some of the best and we will be there to back her up all the way."

"Good. Now, we should investigate Commander Selene's death. If this is some first strike against us by Melora, then we must know so that we can defend our country," Laris pointed out. "You also have to find the remaining Pegasus knights so they can be reformed under Lady Faline's command. Can you and your group head northwest and do that?"

"Oh, of course. I had already decided to do so anyway."

"Ah, excellent. Now wne Pegasus knight returned here not long ago. She was the one that delivered the news of Commander Selene's death, so she'll guide you to the last known location of her sisters-in-arms. I'll send her to join you as soon as you're ready to depart again."

"Great, thanks. If any other Pegasus knights return though, question them. We need as many clues as possible; not just who did this, but how they pulled it off."

"Of course, your highness. I pray for your success."

"Thank you."

With that, Bryan and the others parted ways with the dukes once again and rejoined their comrades outside the palace. Bryan hoped that the Pegasus knight who'd act as their guide wouldn't take too long to arrive. With their commander dead and enemies likely still nearby, the rest of the Pegasus knights were very likely still in danger. After they passed throughthe gates, Owen approached his son and Faline.

"Bryan, you and Faline are sure you can handle this?" he inquired. "Even after all everything else you've done and how well you've been doing, this is a gamble. I don't want to see it blow up in our faces."

"Dad, you don't need to worry," Bryan assured. "I was unsure of this myself at first, but as Laris said, Faline makes a good case. And I've made sure she knows to seek guidance whenever she needs it. And it goes without saying that I'll be here too."

"That's right, Owen, we'll be fine," Faline added with a smile. "I wouldn't have volunteered if I didn't think I could do this."

"Well, alright then," Owen replied, a guarded smile tugging at his lips. "Although, Faline, I'm here for you too, you know. If you need my help, you need but ask."

"Aw, thank you."

Bryan quickly apprised the group of their new mission and they departed immediately. Azura also decided that, once the Pegasus knights had been rescued, it would be time for her to inform them, in full, of the war against Melora. As for how they'd react to the idea of her and Bryan working to bring Astryn and her neighbors into the war on the side of Allied Command, she could only hope for the best. Bryan's legend was gaining strength and spreading, but much work remained to be done before Astryn could save herself, much less save Altarais itself. Still, if Melora was behind this latest assault, Isis might very well have made Azura's case for her. She was brought back to the present when a shadow passed over her from above. She turned her gaze upward to see the Pegasus knight that Laris had sent to guide them. She was a girl with short brown hair and garb similar to what Faline wore prior to becoming a Falcon Knight. Bryan also introduced himself and, as soon as the Pegasus knight saw Eronite in his mailed fist, she threw herself to her knees and bowed before him. The prince of Astryn, still self-conscious about what that title entailed, then motioned for Faline to join them.

"Prince Bryan is saying you're going to command us?" the Pegasus knight said, more than a bit warily.

"Yes, at least temporarily," Faline confirmed. "I know I'm a stranger to you and your fellow Pegasus knights, but I would not have volunteered if I wasn't certain that you could trust me. I've known Bryan for a long time, even before he found out he was royalty. I've taken it upon myself to help him however I can, and I can do that by helping you and your sisters."

"She speaks the truth," Bryan affirmed. "I've seen her in battle many times, and I'm certain you couldn't be in better hands."

"I see. Well, I'm eager to see you prove yourself then, Miss Faline. Anyway, Grand Duke Laris has told me at least some of your mission. If it's Melora you're after, today's your lucky day. At the time I was sent back here, my allies and I were certain that Melora was responsible for our commander's death. So, if you want to watch us to make the skies weep with their blood, then follow me!"

The Pegasus knight heeled her mount into the air and the group followed as she soared towards the northwest, seeking the final resting place of the late commander. As they drew near, their guide explained that, while she and several other Pegasus knights had been on patrol, they'd heard screams coming from nearby and immediately went to investigate. They soon found the crumpled form of their commander and her steed, their corpses bristling with arrows. Undoubtedly, their deaths had been the work of a coordinated attack from enemy snipers. And given that Pegasus knights were inherently vulnerable to archers and that such a tactic was beyond the ken of the bandits that effectively ruled half of Astryn, not to mention the ever-spreading tales of the lost prince's return, the Meloran connection seemed all the more likely. Leyon said that he wouldn't be at all surprised, as he recalled that he had nearly been killed by a lone sniper himself, only to see Eliot take the arrow in his stead.

Between Leyon, for having such a devoted comrade, and Eliot, for living to tell of his gallant act, he couldn't decide who had been luckier that day.

"I was stunned for a moment," Leyon finished. "Up until then, Eliot had seemed, shall we say, a marginal knight. Dedicated, but more a troublemaker than an asset. But, during this war, he's really come into his own. And, he's earned my respect and that of his fellow knights. After that near miss, we've also taken the pains to root out any enemies lying in wait after the battle has ended."

"Good for you. Meloran soldiers can be sneaky like that," the Pegasus knight commented. "When I was learning about the first war, I heard that Melora had often used tactics such as those. While their regular troops acting as a diversion, a small group of soldiers, or even one, would seek out the strongest enemies and attempt to take them out while they're the most vulnerable."

"It's such madness…" Azura agreed, recalling the Venoxic poison that nearly killed Ike, whose train of thought was likely wending in that direction as well.

"It's genius," their guide contradicted, causing every pair of eyes to snap in her direction. "Think about it. You've seen enemy units break and run when you kill their leader. Why? Because an army is only as strong as its leadership. That's why Melora has been trying to kill or discredit the prince, if those stories are on the mark. Melora can't fight all of Altarais, but if they kill the people leading the fight against them, then they won't have to."

"I see your point. And, that's all the more reason they must be stopped. We'll need all the strength we can muster to defeat them. If we can save those Pegasus knights, it'll buy us more time to bring southern Altarais into the war. Then, we'll teach Isis a lesson she won't soon forget!"

"You'll get no argument from me. Now, can you give me a minute? I need to fly ahead and let my comrades know you're coming, otherwise they might mistake you for hostiles."

"Sure, that's a good idea," Bryan agreed. "If any are wounded or unable to fly, send word immediately. We have skilled healers and more than enough medicine."

The Pegasus knight gave a perfunctory nod and then took to the air. The group had been about to discuss plans for searching the area for any foes that might still be in the area, but their guide returned almost immediately. The desperate look in her eyes was more than enough to suggest what must've happened.

"You guys! We have to move!" she shouted, nearly breathless from her flight. "My comrades are under attack again!"

"What?!" Bryan thundered. "The Melorans are still in the area?!"

"I don't know, we didn't actually see who killed our commander. I just saw my fellow knights trying to fight off what looked like a horde of bandits!"

"The Red Claw!" Azura immediately guessed. "They have a lot to answer for! Come on!"

"Oh man, those cretins? You don't have to tell me twice!"

The Pegasus knight leapt skyward once again, the group quickly readying their weapons and racing after. If the Pegasus knights were, indeed, still under attack, it stood to reason that the Red Claw either sought to wipe them out or to lure in and destroy any would-be rescuers. Maybe both. Whatever the case, the army charged on, hurrying to save as many as they could. If the Red Claw came prepared, with many axe wielders, archers, and wind mages, then time was very much against the group. It was taken as a given that the Red Claw would come prepared for such a battle, given the tactical acumen they'd demonstrated thus far. And so, Bryan urged his comrades on, praying they'd arrive in time.

Far too many Astrynians had died already, both at the hands of Melora during the first war and from the upheaval that had nearly shaken Astryn apart in the years since. But now, things had changed. Melora's day of being able to terrorize and slay Bryan's people at will were drawing to a close. And if Melora needed to be convinced of this, Bryan was only too happy to oblige.