Chapter 83: The Fangs
By SodiumChloride12, derived from Fire Emblem, owned by Nintendo.
A/N: Oh. The last chapter was controversial. Oof. Well, I'm not doing something like that again.
Your feedback has notified that I need to make some decisions pertaining to the story. In order to do so, I need to take a week off to brainstorm changes to the plot. I've contacted a couple of readers, and I think I have an idea of what I need to do. Thank you for letting your thoughts known.
I'm planning on writing an addendum and a chapter that will sort out this convoluted mess of lore I've set up for myself. I'll also use them to close some loopholes. Since I write a week in advance, y'all won't be seeing this content for another three weeks. For the most part, it's business as usual for this chapter and the next.
I listen to everything y'all tell me. I've made mistakes, and I recognize that. Since I'm a first-time fanfiction writer, I still need to work through some of the growing pains associated with the craft. If there's something bugging y'all or something y'all want included, let me know either through PM or a review. Even if its something trivial like asking for a character to get more screen time. If its reasonable I will make sure to include it in the story.
Speaking of that, since someone asked for extra attention to be given to Nino several months ago, I have some plans for her! Should be an interesting read. Today marks her debut in this series, and I hope you enjoy!
N: Amid the army travelling through the nation of Bern, a hidden organization within them decides to meet with a possible new recruit. Still licking their wounds, they lament on a botched opportunity that happened not too long ago.
The fog rests low over the land of Bern. It hugs the green grass underlying its vast, rocky mountains, touching but never overcoming. The moon provides a dash of light onto the environment, which allows for the dark silhouettes of three figures to become visible.
Their two men and one woman. Cloaks drape over their bodies, though not to mask their identities as they were already a suitable distance away from the main camp. Instead, it serves as protection from the cold, a symptom of the coming Bernese winter.
One of the men, the red knight named Kent, struggles to speak through the clatter of his teeth. "...Meeting out...here might have been a...bad idea..."
Marcus, the senior knight, nods as he wipes some snot from his nose. "...You...are probably right. I suppose tonight represents...a rather suitable metaphor...for the unfortunate state of our organization..."
Fiora, the Ilian pegasus knight, responds by bringing her cloak closer. As a citizen of the northern wastes, this feels like nothing to her. The frigid air only tingles the outermost layers of her gradually reddening skin. "It's a shame our guest notified us to meet with little notice. Otherwise, I think we would have had the time to start a fire." She scratches the bottom of her bare chin, allowing her leather gloves to crinkle against her warm skin. "Forgive me, who is the guest? Guy woke me from my bed in the middle of the night, and I never got a briefing."
Kent looks at Marcus, who does the same at him. Truth be told, both had assumed the other would have told Fiora about their guest. Their knack for responsibility had left a void of miscommunication that neither worked through. Not that it mattered, such a thing is able to be rectified now.
Kent says, "A member of the army had informed me he wished to...join our organization. We had him go through an extensive process to ensure he wasn't a spy, and I believe he'd done well. He's a rather pragmatic soldier...if a tad recent addition."
Fiora asks, "What are his motivations? It's understood we're not simply an organization of resistance to the tactician. Our purpose is to ensure that the lives of our three lords, and by extension our comrades, are safe. The name itself, the Cell of Dissent, is in place to drive speculation on our intentions. I care not for conducting activities of dissent, my sole purpose here is to ensure my sister isn't compromised any further in this matter."
Florina. In many ways, her younger sister is her motivation to be here. In the past, she'd grown rather close to the tactician in Caelin. Florina insisted the relationship was only platonic, but Fiora sees a different tale in her eyes. Then, Fiora had no reason to be opposed to the tactician, but her friendship with Kent has changed all that. He revealed to her what he knew about Samuel's past, his atrocities, killings, and immoral behavior. Fiora can no longer stand idle. She has to do what she needs to protect her family. Even if her family doesn't want to be protected.
Marcus shakes his head. "Florina...forgive me, Fiora, but I would rather not hear that name at the moment. Her actions in Arcadia in defense of the tactician still leave a foul taste in my mouth. We almost had him...we nearly had the order to arrest him. But, amongst his clique of allies, the two mages, Rebecca, Lowen, and ultimately, Florina, they managed to plea that Samuel was under the influence of a demon, and his actions were not his own. They pleaded for mercy and compassion...for a murderer."
Kent closes his eyes and recounts the events of that day. Lyn was unconscious, and with the recent reemergence of Samuel, Kent found it wise to make a move before his biggest supporter woke. He rounded up the Cell and reinforced rumors of the tactician's past the morning after the previous battle. By that afternoon, it was the only thing people could talk about, and Samuel found himself socially isolated by everyone save for those in his inner circle. Everything came to a head when Eliwood and Hector brought him in to explain himself. Kent and several (unbeknownst to them) Cell members stood nearby to arrest him if the need came to be realized.
There was an argument and plenty of screaming. Kent shouted at Samuel to repent for the lives of his fallen brethren, Hector and Leila pointed the finger at him for Oswin's death, and Eliwood chastised him for going AWOL. The man took the whole thing with his head down, a somber tone across his face. He said, "I'm sorry." He apologized for his weakness to hold back the demon in Caelin, and his mistake amidst the fog. However, he refused to apologize for leaving the army. He said that his niece meant the world to him, and he would gladly give his life again if the need arose. "I see that girl like she's my child, or little sister." He cried. "Isn't that something we can all empathize with? Wouldn't you have done the same?"
The commotion became impossible to ignore, and more of the army streamed into the chamber they were at. The room effectively became split in their opinions. Half sided with Hector, Leila, and Kent in their opinion that the tactician should be removed from his position immediately. The other half, like Eliwood (whose quest to rescue his father still rung soundly in his mind), Erk, Canas, and Serra argued that Samuel was a good-hearted soul, and regardless of if he was truly affected by demon, he'd grown stronger from it, and deserved a second chance. Ultimately, the decision to win the court of public opinion fell upon Matthew and Florina, though the former could only remain due to his conflicting position.
That should have been it. Kent knew Florina had been cooperating with the Cell for some time now, and her sister had been attempting to persuade her of the tactician's evils. But...against all odds...she swung her loyalty to him. Her momentous words, meek, but powerful, still resound clearly in his consciousness. "Sam's...a good person. He...wants to...protects us! He saved...me and Lyn...from d-death. If...he can do that...what isn't there...he can't do?"
Evidently, there are many things Samuel can't do anymore. His disability has made that fact clear. However, Florina's words were enough to change many people's perception of him. Samuel was welcomed into the army again as a dedicated tactician, tough warrior, and even better guardian to his niece. Laniakea's happy face only cemented this opinion of him further, serving as the final strike against Kent's quest as she dove into her uncle's arm. As a consequence for his actions, Eliwood and Hector decided Samuel would be put on probation. He could do no wrong, otherwise his position, and his life would be put under peril.
Kent's hands shiver as he removes some developing ice from his eyes. In some ways, the Cell had succeeded in their mission to throw suspicion at Samuel and put him accountable for his actions. However, this victory had come with its own loss.
Fiora bows her head respectfully. "My sister had informed me she no longer wished to cooperate with our organization. With our numbers small, this is an unfortunate predicament. I know the both of you wanted to bring the tactician down...but perhaps we should focus on other matters. We can keep the tactician under our surveillance and ensure he performs his duties without hurting anyone."
Marcus and Kent stare at her, a silent message they would rather not speak about this at the moment. Fiora sighs and shifts her gaze as she sees a figure emerge from within the darkness. His purple hair and scarred face reveals his identity to the trio, producing some relief.
The man bows and kisses Fiora's hand out of courtesy. For the men, he gives them an assertive handshake. "Legault, pleased to make your acquaintance. I take you three to be the leaders of the Cell?"
Fiora looks down on her hand, a little shaken from the sudden coldness on it. As for Kent and Marcus, they nod, the surrounding air making everything feel the same. "Indeed. You already know of our purpose. But, we wish to know yours. What do you have to gain by joining us?"
Legault smiles, his smirk reflecting some type of scheming in his mind. His bright, white teeth resemble the moon high in the sky. "I was around when Samuel's past was found out. I consider...the whole thing to be ridiculous. I'm curious to see how it will go, if you'll allow me to bend a few strings. I think your group can provide that."
Legault draws his blade, the cold steel shining under the moonlight. "We Fang fancied ourselves out of the social norm. Being among you all is a welcome change of pace for me. Allow me to make my blade yours. So we may all experience a better, and safer tomorrow..."
The next day...
"...What a day..."
Eliwood yawns as he extends his arms over his head, stretching his aching muscles. His wary, piercing blue eyes look around at the mountains surrounding them. They're high, and very foreboding, much like the country of Bern itself.
They've travelled far since their meeting with the living legend. Athos had teleported the entire army back home to Castle Pharae, much to his mother's delight. They'd spent the day there while Marcus and Samuel prepared logistics for the long trip to Bern, of which proved to be a daunting journey. The country's rough terrain had made it difficult to traverse freely, a predicament made much worse by the King's recent policies.
To his side, Erk grabs his attention. The bookish mage had spent the past hour reading while walking, though, evidently now he finds it wise to speak. He asks, "A moment, Lord Eliwood?"
Eliwood obliges, slightly off-put by the young man's request. Erk has usually kept to himself in the army, only speaking to fellow mages or his former client Serra. He's scarcely spoken to him, though Eliwood has never been one to turn down a friendly talk. "Of course, Erk. Do you need something?"
Erk points towards the thick, concealing robes covering his and the other lords' backs. "Those...robes. Are they supposed to be disguises? Any man or woman could identify you from within a comfortable distance."
Hearing those words causes Eliwood's gut to sink. I...spent a lot of time picking this outfit out. Keeping his noble upbringing in mind, he maintains his composure despite his temptation to react. "Erm...yes. You see, I'm not supposed to be traveling through this country. The King recently decreed all Lycian nobles were to be arrested if our noble presence were to be known. Samuel thought these robes would be enough to conceal our identities."
Erk facepalms, and Eliwood nearly hears him mutter, "Oh brother, what were you thinking?" Turning back towards the lord, he says, "Look, Milord. You three...really should have put some more effort into those disguises. I mean...Serra was able to recognize you." He jabs his thumb behind him. "She's the one who pointed it out to me."
Nearby, Serra waves her hands enthusiastically. The sight makes Eliwood chuckle, though more out of self-pity than anything else.
He says, "Well, what do you suppose we do?"
!
A voice interrupts the pair's privacy. "Mmhm. I think Erk has a point. Maybe you should...wear a mask?"
Leila and Ninian appear, the former's brow raised out of intrigue. Recently, she and Ninian have become fast friends. Somehow, their contrasting personalities had attracted them to one another, and it creates a dynamic much similar to Florina's and Lyn's. Leila's fiery, confidant aura mixes well with Ninian's polite and shy demeanor.
Eliwood's face turns bright red, and he suddenly feels very stuffy inside his armor. The abrupt appearance of the blue-haired maiden makes short work of the lord's internal stasis, though mentally, he works diligently to bring it back to normal. He succeeds in this task without bringing any notice to himself. Well...besides Leila.
The thief smirks, and she nudges Erk on the shoulder. Confused, the mage shoots her a look. She says, "Uhm...look at the time! Erk, I believe Canas asked for you earlier. You mustn't leave a friend idle!"
"...huh? Canas said no such thing during breakfast."
Leila pulls Erk away, this time more forcefully. It's at this moment he realizes he's due for a ride. All he can think is that somehow, some way, Matthew was involved in this.
"Off we go!"
The pair leave, presumably to pester the army's sole elder magic acolyte. This leaves Eliwood and Ninian alone, placing them in an air of awkward tension. They steal glances at one another, eager to initiate conversation, but unwilling to be the first to speak. If Samuel were here, he would've related the scene to a busted wind tunnel, two drunk, albeit shy flirts in a bar, or better yet, a subpar example of a fanfiction writer trying to create romance.
Regardless, the pair opts to share the moment in silence. Elsewhere in the caravan, the tactician has some business to attend to...
"S-Samuel?"
Florina looks on, concerned, as the tactician takes hold of his head, this part of him bringing him stinging pains. The sensation takes him a moment to shake, though never really leaving him. The pain is a steady reminder of his battle-hardened past, when he possessed the strength capable of turning the world on its head.
"...ah. Florina...it appears...it's another migraine of mine. Urgh..."
Samuel presses his hands against the sides of his cranium in a vain attempt to depressurize his beating organ. It's all for naught, however. Nausea takes hold of his stomach, and the weakness becomes too much to handle on his own.
He motions over to the pegasus knight, "Florina...can you...pull my chair for a bit? I'm sure...you and Huey...can handle it."
In front of Samuel's chair, there's a hook made explicitly for this purpose. If Florina, or any of the other mounted units wished, they could tow him with a rope. However, for this situation, it is unnecessary. The road they travel on is decent enough not to create too much friction, and a single person can do the job. Realizing this, Florina jumps off her steed, and informs him to go off and feed at a nearby pasture. Afterwards, she comes behind the debilitated tactician and rests her hands on the chair's handle.
"Huh, that's...unexpected." He mutters while popping some mint leaves into his mouth. "I would have never..thought you would be okay with this much proximity to...you know."
A man. Florina thinks. She tightens her grip on the handles and pushes him, wary to not lose pace with the travelling army. Samuel has every reason to be surprised by her actions, though he hadn't borne witness to the...oddly therapeutic session she had with a butler. She'd told nigh of the event, neither Lyn nor Fiora. She says, "I...understand. But...I want to...b-better myself. I want to...speak normally...to men. I want to...be more confidant."
It is at this moment that Samuel experiences a bit of..."pain forgetfulness." Or, rather, his occupation with Florina's predicament, and its accompanying emotions, causes him to forget about the pain brought upon by his migraine. This sort of thing happens to him all the time, though usually when under extreme cases, like the adrenaline of a life or death situation, the high concentration brought upon by cramming war strategies late at night, or experiencing his usual shy friend put together a sentence.
Florina continues, "You...are the only man I've ever felt...comfortable around. This changed with...everything that happened. But...in the past...there was a time I could speak to you...straight."
Samuel sighs, "The reason you could do that was because I put you at ease. I...had your trust then. Do I have it now?"
Florina stops, bringing Samuel with her. She's deep in thought, the memories of all her past engagements with Samuel flashing through her mind. She recalls her first with the tactician, his confident, analytical gaze as he observed the village for threats while she and Lyn met again in Sacae. She remembers Samuel's consideration for her wellbeing when she came down with injuries, and the several times he carried her off away from danger for treatment. His open-mind never saw Florina's stuttering problem as an issue and never pushed her to extend past boundaries she was ready to break. But she also remembers the negative memories. She knows Samuel did things behind her, and her fellow soldiers' backs, including the many private moments with her best friend. She also knows of the atrocities he'd involved himself, of which he only admitted to in Arcadia. But, even with all that notwithstanding, Florina understands that Samuel never intended to hurt her, or the army. He acted to protect himself, his niece, and in some ways, her. She is willing to throw her trust behind him, just as the rest of the army will when they inevitably go into battle again.
She squeaks out a smile, and refrains herself from patting Samuel on the head, just as she'd seen Lyn do any time she wanted to break some tension. To be truthful to herself, the curls on his head reach out to her. Her heartstrings tense up when she remembers she could never pass her fingers through them. They belonged to Lyn, her friend and liege.
She says, "...Yeah! Absolutely...I trust you. Just...help me...okay?"
Samuel reciprocates the smile. It's warm as the morning sun. "I will do my best. If all comes to fruition, we'll have you speaking like a socialite at a public gathering."
"What?"
Samuel chuckles, "Ah...that's probably too much. Anyway, I suppose we could start with a conversation." He proceeds to place his hand over his head again, the pain returning to him. "This migraine. A finicky thing it is."
"...How so?"
Samuel closes his eyes. "There are many triggers for it. Consuming caffeine is one, as is not receiving enough sleep, or bearing stress. I've committed none of the former, and I figured the stress I bore listening to Lyn complain about Hector might be a capable culprit. But, thing is, this is unlikely. I genuinely enjoy hearing my fiancé's voice, even if it's from a mouthful brought up by the clashing of personalities. So, I surmised this cannot be the cause."
"Can...these sort of things just...come randomly?"
Samuel shrugs his shoulders, "I suppose, but that's not a satisfying result in my eyes. Rather, I do think my body's bearing stress. But, not considering my constant pain, I experienced something unusual recently. I had a weird dream..."
He looks away, and fidgets with his mechanical hand. "In dreams, when you see a person, it's usually someone you've seen before. But, in this case, I had not. I saw the face of a girl with short, green hair. She had the face of an angel...though I could tell something sinister lurked nearby..."
Nearby...
Linus and Lloyd stand idle in the village square. Together, they wait in anticipation for the return of one of their scouts, a man sent to investigate reports of an approaching group of foreigners. They're the sons of Brendan, the leader of the Black Fang.
Linus impatiently taps his foot on the cracked stone of the underlying pavement. His eyes dart across the square, a slight, but definite indicator of his moniker, the "Mad Dog".
He says, "Where is Igor? He's late!"
His younger counterpart, Lloyd, calms him. "Settle down, Lloyd. Igor is a capable comrade. He will come soon enough."
Lloyd's poise is calm and stately, reminding all of a solitary wolf in the forest. In part, this alongside his cool aura had given him his nickname, the "White Wolf".
Linus sighs and shifts his gaze to a road that feeds into the square. He spots a small form nearing closer. His aggressive scowl transforms into a warmer, if more approachable smile. It's Nino, a Fang favorite, and his adopted sister.
Nino is a small girl of about fourteen years of age. A burgeoning mage, she has an innocent, cheery face complimented with vibrant, blue eyes. Her green hair messily sprawls across her head, amateurish in style, and hardly displaying any form expected among a child of her age. Much like a woman unwilling to style it, a simple band holds it back, as otherwise it would be a nuisance. One has to wonder if the girl's mother ever put together the time to teach her how to style it, as Nino hardly possessed a lazy bone in her body.
Waving his hands in the air, he invites her over towards them. "Hey, Nino! It's a pleasure to see you here."
Nino smiles as she approaches. Her dress is scant, though well taken care of. "Lloyd! Linus! What is it? I take it that the two of you are working?"
Lloyd replies coolly, "I suppose we are."
Linus points towards the letters firmly in her grip. "How about you? Where are you off to in such a hurry?"
Nino lifts one of the letters so that her brothers could see it. Although she personally cannot read it (she was never taught), the two of them recognize the names of them as belonging to several important figures of the Fang in town. "I have a job to do, too! I'm carrying messages for Mother, so I have to do my best! See you! Let's do something when your job is finished."
Then she goes on her merry way. The pair watch as she disappears into the winding roads of town. Frowning, Linus compares her image to that of her mother. Her lively, green hair contrasts with her black, and her warm, fuzzy heart cannot match her cold, borderline manipulative personality.
Lloyd says, "She's a good lass."
Linus replies, "Yeah. I find it hard to believe she's that woman's child."
Eliwood sighs as he watches the sun travel across the sky. He looks to Legault, whom has joined him, Hector, Lyn, and Ninian sometime ago. He says, "This waiting is hard. I get that Lord Pent and Lady Louise need some privacy to go see Lady Hellene, but there has to be something we can do."
Hector nods his head in agreement. "I get what you mean, but we have to lie low..."
Legault points towards the nearby village. Its form is barely visible past the fog, alongside several homes. "Why don't we try to gather information on the Black Fang?"
Lyn asks, "Information? Of what kind?"
He replies, "Erm...probably of their intentions. The Black Fang's headquarters is here in Bern. The location was never shared with me, however. The organization...has changed a lot since my heyday. Any information we could get would serve us well."
Eliwood says, "That's...a really good idea. I suppose we should inquire to Samuel about it." He looks around for the tactician, but cannot find him among the mass of people. "Hm? Where is he?"
Lyn replies, "He's near the end of the caravan with Florina. He was...suffering through some pain, so I entrusted her with him." She glances away, and Eliwood notices a glimmer of concern in her eye. "I...think he's going to be okay. This is a normality for him, unfortunately. I'm sure he would agree with this proposition."
Eliwood nods his head. "Very well. I hope he finds comfort. Regardless, we're in agreement. Let's get started..."
He turns towards the rest of the army. He proclaims, "We need to gather information. Split up and go. Try to blend in."
The army disperses to oblige the order. There's a hint of curiosity and elation in their step. For most, this is the first time they'd stepped foot in Bern. It is a pleasure to explore. Meanwhile, Hector says, "We'd best be careful. There's no telling if we're being watched."
Lyn rolls her eyes, "Well said, though, I think you need to be the most cautious."
"What?!"
The pair leave, allowing Eliwood and Ninian another solitary moment. Stretching his arms over his head, Eliwood prepares himself to question the local populace. Silently, he wonders if they'll confuse him and Ninian for a wandering couple.
He says, "Sometimes, I wonder if those two are friends or not."
Ninian chuckles, taking Eliwood by surprise. The act brings him a hint of joy. He asks, "Is something funny, Ninian?"
She nods, "It's just...listening to you grumble, Lord Eliwood. You sound like you're their chaperone!"
"Really? Is that what it sounds like to you?"
"Uh-Huh."
"...That's great."
Ninian laughs again, bringing Eliwood more joy. It's at this moment that another kink in his armor of composure reveals itself. He lets a single quip slip. "...I like it when you laugh."
Ninian pauses, taking in what he said. Then her face turns bright red. Questioning her memory, she says, "Excuse me?"
Eliwood shakes his head, and then confidently grabs Ninian by the hand. "Oh, nothing. Come on! Let's go!"
Later...
Igor emerges from behind an unseen corner and meets up with the two brothers who are standing alone. They're noticeably bored, though Linus quickly puts on a discontent scowl when he sees him. Igor's gut sinks.
Linus exclaims, "Where were you? We've been waiting ages for you to come back!"
Igor raises his hands defensively. "Woah, calm down there. I come bringing news. I found the lord's army snooping around near a village south of here. Their numbers are full and they are armed."
Lloyd takes a step back, perplexed. "...What? How can that be? Our sources said they were in Nabata. That's...too far a distance to close in such a short time."
Igor replies, "I'm certain of it. I saw the red-haired lord with a maiden a few minutes ago. His disguise was rather bad, if I could say."
Linus shakes his head, and his veins bulges as he tightens the grip of his sword. "Why does it matter where they've been?!" His gaze turns murderous. "We've found them, so let's take care of them."
Lloyd grunts and strokes his chin in thought. After a moment of repose, his reason comes through. "Well said...Linus, go tell Father what's happening."
Linus protests, "Why?! They're right in front of us! You and I can finish this now!"
"Moron. It's a precaution. Fangs can not afford mistakes. Don't worry. My troops are capable and aplenty. I'll taunt the foe and lure them up north, towards the fortress. I doubt I'll lose, but...I'm sure you've heard of the stories."
Linus replies, "Of course I have. We all have. These guys slither out of the worst of situations and pull out wins like it's a magic trick. But that's exactly why we must deal with them together! We cannot afford to underestimate them!"
"You argue a good point...but you mustn't tarry. Someone needs to inform Father, and Igor here must stay behind. If you worry for my safety, then come back quickly with reinforcements."
Linus balks and begins to walk away. "Bah. Reinforcements. I have a feeling you'll do well, brother. I will come back with reinforcements. You better leave some for me."
Lloyd sighs and turns to deal with his own affairs. "Just get going..."
Samuel startles into increased awareness as he notices a stream of soldiers return towards him. They wear expressions of worry and shock, like they'd just seen something unpleasant. Their chatter fills the air.
Raven says, "Somebody didn't lie low, and we got found out. How hard is it to not look suspicious?"
Legault shrugs his shoulders. "It matters not who got found out, but of what we do now. We need to get ready for battle."
Serra shivers as she recalls what their presumed foe said to them. "That fangsman...said they were going to rip our throats out. Erky...is my throat safe?"
Erk sighs, "If I said yes, would you shut up?"
Among them, he finds Lyn. She hastily approaches him and Florina. They'd spent the past few hours having a long conversation about dreams, ideas, and their homelands. This represents a surprising change of pace.
Lyn says, "Samuel! We got found out! The Fang...they're everywhere! We need you to write up a battle plan as soon as possible!"
Samuel sits there for a moment as time around him slows down. He sees the congregating masses of his allies, all of whom are brandishing weapons for a fight. He sees the beating eyes of Lyn and Florina, both of whom look to him for guidance. Then, he sees the fog that grew thicker with each passing second. He takes a deep breath, then exhales. It's been a while since he was last called to action. But he can do this.
He recalls the words told to him by Kishuna. "Your army has no chance of succeeding. Your deaths are an inevitability. You cannot will yourself past fate."
Samuel squints his eyes as he feels the minty taste of leaves in his mouth. I'll show him. Screw that man.
Time returns to normal, and he claps his hands together. Orders leave his mouth like he'd never taken a leave of absence.
He says, "Okay, visibility is nearly zero, and the terrain ahead is rough. We have a single, winding river that's flanked by two villages. Objective? Defeat the Black Fang and ensure that the two villages are not raided by opportunistic bandits." He motions over towards the army. "Here's what we're going to do. Heath, Florina, and Fiora!"
The three report for duty. Heath and Fiora arrive with their steeds, while Florina whistles for Huey. He flies through the air like a bullet from a nearby meadow, landing onto the ground gracefully. Satisfied, Samuel says, "You three. I'm putting you all in the reserve since I cannot ensure your safety from archers hidden in the fog. However, you will serve a very important role. Since I am...disabled...I need couriers to help me receive and send information. Can you all do that for me?"
The three salute. Samuel smiles, as this will aid him greatly. His mind churns with further orders and he shifts his attention towards the quartet of calvary waiting nearby.
"Lowen, Sain, Kent, and Marcus. As usual, you four will play a very special role. Now, listen closely. This entire battle will rest on your backs..."
Later...
Nino blinks and rests her hands firmly on a letter in her possession. She's in a small house some distance away from the nearby village, a commoner's dwelling by its appearance. However, despite its humble atmosphere, this place holds a very different purpose. It is one of the many safe houses that dot the continent of Elibe, constructed to blend in like its clientele.
Nino walks over to a nearby table and places the letter on its dusty top. She mutters, "Let's see...I'm sure this is the place. But, I guess he's not here yet. The fog's rather thick today, I wonder if he got lost." She shakes her head at the thought. "No...he's one of the Fang's finest. There's no way he would—"
Suddenly, Nino senses a change in the air. It feels eerie, if a bit cold. She turns around and comes face to face with the man she was sent to see. Jaffar, whose red eyes peer straight through her.
She exclaims, "Eeek! Don't...scare me like that. What's wrong? You're never late for anything."
Jaffar gasps for air. Nino realizes that the assassin has sweat all over his body. Must've run to get here. She surmises.
He replies, "...My last job took longer than expected."
"What? There are things that can slow you down? I would never have expected that."
Jaffar leans over and grabs the letter from the table. "I take...that this is my next mission?"
Nino nods, "Oh, right. Mother gave that to me..." Her eyes widen as she notices the blood dotting his clothes red. The dots grow larger with each passing second. "Huh? Oh! Wha-What happened?! You're covered in blood!"
Jaffar looks down and pats down his chest. He doesn't react as crimson sticks to his fingers. "It's...a scratch. Pay it no mind..."
Nino gets closer to him and places her hands over his cold body. "Scratches don't bleed like that! Let me see."
"Forget it. Next target...hurry..."
Then he closes his eyes and collapses onto the ground. A wave of panic washes over Nino's mind. She's never had to deal with wounds in her life, much less those this serious. Her mother nor her brothers haven't ever bothered to teach her basic first aid.
She grabs ahold of Jaffar's shoulders and tries to solicit a reaction from him. But none comes. "Jaffar! Come on, wake up!" She looks towards the ceiling, as if begging to her Creator herself for assistance. "What...should I do?!"
Later...
"This table will do well...thank you, Heath."
Samuel smiles approvingly as he and the wyvern knight settle down by a table in a tavern. They've come here to talk to the village's magistrate, partially to instruct them to close their gate, partially to inquire for information. The front guard had told them to come here while he sends for their leader. Together, they watch as a maid comes over to attend to them.
She asks, "Would you fine gentlemen like a drink? Perhaps something to eat? The lamb in this area is divine."
Samuel replies, "Thanks...but we'll have to decline. It's imperative that we return to the rest of the army promptly. How long until the magistrate is here?"
"Only a few minutes. The man is also the town blacksmith, and he's tending to some pressing matters."
Samuel frowns, and his face morphs to one of displeasure. "Tell him to hurry up. I demand it."
The maid stares into Samuel's eyes, and goosebumps form on her skin as she sees the severity behind them. She bows respectfully, her head nearly hitting the ground out of haste. "Of course. I'll see to it."
The maid leaves. Samuel impatiently taps his foot against the frame of his chair, and he takes out his watch to read it. Meanwhile, Heath sighs as he feels the anxiety in his system heighten. As the tactician's body guard, observing him act this way doesn't do anything to calm him. He says, "You can be rather forceful sometimes, you know. You didn't need to talk to the maid like that. She's only doing her job."
Samuel raises his head and closes his watch. "Perhaps. But, time is valuable. If we don't return to the army soon, someone might make a decision that could result in one's death. That is unacceptable."
!
"Aye, I heard someone over here talk rudely to my friend. Would you care to explain to me why?"
The pair turn their heads, and they notice an unfamiliar person has walked up to their table. He's a tall and imposing man, with a stout, lean build, and blond hair neatly on his head. He has a long, slick sword on his side, and his outfit suggests he's a swordsman. His appearance feels capable of being warm, though as of right now, it's frigid as ice.
Heath says, "And...you are?"
The man clears his throat. "My name...is Lloyd. That woman, her name is Angelica. She's a rather good friend of mine. I did not appreciate your tone towards her." He glares at Samuel, who's unfettered by the threatening tone of his voice. "Apologize when she gets back. That is my suggestion to you."
Samuel matches Lloyd's stare, and the two partake into a showdown of intimidation. Several moments pass, the ticks passing on Samuel's watch as time seems to go on slowly. Heath wonders if he needs to draw his dagger, though, this proves unnecessary. Lloyd extends his hand forward, impressed by the tactician's poise.
"...You have my respect. You lack use of your legs, yet, that did nothing to shake your will. Who are you?"
Samuel smiles and grabs ahold of Lloyd's hand. Lloyd flinches when he feels something...metallic behind his grip. "As I have for you. My name is...Carvel. Worry not, I will apologize for my actions. I'm only in a hurry, you see."
Heath blinks when he notices Samuel hadn't introduced himself with his actual name. He says nothing, however. He correctly surmises that he does not wish to make his identity known. It is likely a wise decision to make, given his reputation. Regardless, the two fall into conversation.
Lloyd asks, "So...what is your purpose here? I can see by your clothing that you are foreigners."
"I...came to warn the villagers about the violence outside. There's a bit of a battle going on." His eyes glance over Lloyd's outfit. "You wear neither the occupational dress nor the generic rags found among the peasantry. You are an outsider as well...right?"
Lloyd laughs. "You are a smart one. Yes, I suppose I am." He strokes the bottom of his chin curiously. "May I ask what your profession is? The man you're with is a wyvern knight. Is he...your bodyguard?"
Samuel replies, "...I'm an engineer bound for Bulgar. Heath here is a mercenary assigned to me for my protection. We were only traveling through the area when we desired to help out this village."
"I...see. I have no reason to assume you are lying. You say you are an engineer...yes. We need one of those. Tell me, would you be interested in an opportunity?"
Samuel pauses, his veins contorting with intrigue. I need to choose these next few words carefully. He thinks. I'm almost certain this man is with the Black Fang. He's going to try to recruit Heath and I towards his cause.
Pretending to be open to anything, Samuel says, "I suppose. My employers pay me much, but if you offer something I can't refuse...then..."
Lloyd's eyes widen slightly. He surely thinks I'm interested. Samuel ponders. Let's see if I can get some information out of him.
He continues, "I might have to make some hard decisions."
Heath gasps. He's not actually... He calms when Samuel gives him a look of reassurance. This was all a part of his little game. In it, he was just a pawn under Samuel's possession. There's no telling if his gamble will produce something useful.
Lloyd says, "Well...this decision will be very hard indeed. Tell me, are you tired of the nobility? Are you tired of unjust nobles doing what they please to common men like you and me?"
Samuel replies enthusiastically, "Of course. If I could, I'd replace the system with something better." At least in this respect, Samuel didn't have to lie. He truly believed the words that came out of his mouth.
Lloyd replies, "Well then, what if I could tell you there existed an organization...where the common man can fight back against them? Where we punish the greedy nobles that overstep their mandate of rule and bring terror onto the peasantry? Where we take power away from their hands and give it back to people who actually deserve to rule? Would you...like to join such an organization?"
Samuel pauses again, as if contemplating Lloyd's proposition. He shifts his hands and taps the table's wood with his fingers. The answer to him is obvious. Despite Lloyd's pompous words, he understands the Fang do not desire to replace the system of monarchy with the democracy he seeks. Hardly any such organizations exist in Elibe, save for the one in Carazan. Even if they did, their actions would surely start a revolution Samuel would not, and could not see through.
Samuel clasps his hands together and sighs. He recalls an some old words he told Kishuna while he was under his imprisonment...
"Breaking the people's belief in the royal's divine right to rule is hard. The people of Lycia, Etruria, and Bern all have too much faith in their monarchs stemming from the myth of the Eight Legends. A revolution would have to be one won in people's hearts and minds, not on the battlefield, despite what you might think. I'd work with the monarchs that have good hearts in order to prepare this land for a world without them."
He shakes his head. A peaceful revolution rested easier with his soul, he'd seen far too much bloodshed to keep on fighting after dealing with Nergal. This would be an organization he would never want to join, especially since they stand in opposition to his goals.
He says, "Thanks...but I'll have to decline. I...have a family to take care of. If my fiancé were to hear of me running away to some revolution, she'd probably divorce me. So...no. My apologies."
Lloyd sighs and turns his back towards them. "That's a shame. We could have used a member like you in our ranks. Oh well. Farewell. I hope to see you soon."
I hope we don't.
He leaves, allowing Heath and Samuel the table to themselves. Samuel frowns and ruffles up his hair with his hands, stressed from the adrenaline in his system wearing off. That conversation with Lloyd hadn't accomplished what he wished. He hadn't learned anything new about the Fang and only received a dose of disappointment.
He says, "It's a shame, Heath, don't you think?"
"...How so?"
Samuel leans back against his chair and looks towards the ceiling. He rubs the sides of his forehead, trying to ease some pressure in his cranium. "These people...their message is sound. But...they're mission is terrible. You cannot hope to end the exploitation of the peasantry without first dismantling the absolute monarchies that rule this land. If you get rid of one incompetent ruler, their replacement could be the same if not worse. The issues with this land are systemic. The people will only find salvation through learning to rule themselves."
"...I have no idea what you're talking about, Samuel."
Samuel groans and plants his head onto the table. This does nothing to ease his headache, but his frustration has to be expressed somehow. "Ah, whatever. I'm just a babbling idiot. Where is this damn magistrate, anyway? I'm starting to lose my patience..."
A/N: I'm going to use the addendum and the chapter to explain the confrontation between the cell, the lords, and Samuel after the battle with Kishuna. I'm also going to dwell into what happened while Samuel was with Kishuna, and their conversations. If there's anything else y'all want me to write about, let me know! Thank you for helping me improve!
Also, as a member of my university's Smash Bros. Community (I main Roy, because duh) I'd like to say: #FreeMelee. #SaveSmash. Praise Fizzi.
