A Forbidden Bond
Chapter V: Unbreakable Bond
It is said that all is fair in love and war, yet we must consider how so. In times of war males and female many times form bonds of love and become closer with each passing day and if they lose their love in battle it could cause them to take their own life. We like to believe that love is eternal and can never be undone in such times, and in fact that can be true, but such bonds can cause great suffering to the ones who hold the bond. I speak of course of Evann and Lutina for their bond has become in breakable and will not be done even by a force with great magic strongest magic. However, the path they have chosen is harsh and long, and it will be a long time before the can find peace in that chaotic world.
Evann and Lutina, wasted no time in retuning to the capital, they knew how worried everyone must have been. Because they ran most of the way one trying to catch other, they got there sooner then they expected. Upon arrival they found the people setting things up for a festive...
"The Spirits Festive! Wow I didn't think they would still have it with the war and everything," Lutina said surprisingly with a smile. Any available
"Why are they holding a festive during a war?" Evann asked.
"It's held once every year, to honor the spirits, unlike in Nortis, here in Arcadia we rely on the spirits for bountiful harvest and protection," Lutina explained.
"So you worship the spirits," Evann said with a smile.
"You could say that," Lutina explained, "It must seem pretty strange to you?"
"Not at all, what your people do is not my business, besides it explains why Arcadian magic is so strong," Evann said with a little laugh and smiling.
"Yeah," Lutina replied smiling back.
They walked around the capital as dusk drew near and began helping get things ready, most of the Arcadian people refused Evann's help because he was a Nortis. They continued to work helping the people as much as they could until the sun set and the moon raised high into the sky and the festival began!
Evann and Lutina went about the festival alone of course. Lutina pulled Evann along from one show to the next wanting him to see all the great things about the festival! They first stopped to see a spellcaster perform a few simple magic tricks. From there they went to a combat tournament for the knights. They met up with Krotiz and Brandol their. Krotiz said he and Brandol would have enter accept a few the knights held disliking glances with deadly intentions when they looked at them. Evann wasn't afraid however and enter the tournament. He defeated one opponent after another until there was no one else who wanted to face him, then he left the ring and took off somewhere with Lutina. When the two grew hungry they stopped at a food stand being run by Myam and Titto. They got some snacks and then continued on their way. They walked about the fair and played a few of the games, until they got bored and went back to the area where all the shows were. They enjoyed the festival here more then they enjoyed the one in Koto. They came to the townsquare where they found music playing joyously and calmly with people dancing and Carmyne, leaning against the wall. When she saw them she walked over them with a smile.
"Hey! Evann Lutina, Myam told me told me early you were back," Carmyne said smiling.
"Carmyne, what are you doing here, alone?" Lutina asked.
"There's not much to do here. I just came here to relax, though I would like to do more then just stand around," Carmyne said gazing at Evann standing quite close to Lutina, "Hey, Lutina would you mind if I borrowed Evann a little while,"
"Ah...borrowed Evann..." Lutina said blushingly deep red, "Why would you ask me that?"
"It'll be real quick, don't worry I'll bring him back," Carmyne said. She grabbed Evann pulled him out onto the dance floor and began to dance with him and at the same time she question his feelings for Lutina, "Tell me Evann how do you feel about Lutina?"
"What do you mean?" Evann replied.
"I mean what does she mean to you, do you love her?" Carmyne asked.
"Well...I...I never really thought about it,"
"Tell me how much do you really care for her?" Evann was silent; he didn't know how to answer. Carmyne looked into his eyes and smile, "I see," she said, "You do love her and you'd be willing give your life for her wouldn't you," Evann said nothing as they continued to dance, "You don't need to say anything you're silence says it all. Evann, you and Lutina will soon reach a point of no return; you must make up your mind by then. Will take the risk of a forbidden bond, or will break the bond before then. The choice is yours but be careful about what you decide to do even for a strong woman like Lutina; a woman's heart can be easily broken," The two left the dance floor and went back to Lutina who was looking at the moon, when she saw them come over her, "He's all yours again," Carmyne said cheerfully, she then left the square and them.
Lutina looked at Evann, "Evann..." she said softly.
Evann was silent at first he then smiled lovingly and gazed at her as he held out his hand, "Shell we,"
Lutina smiled lovingly and his, "Yes..."
The walked out into the crowd of dancers and began to dance. As they danced the rest of the world for them vanished, it was just the two of them and the music that play slowly but beautifully and loving. They gazed into one another's eyes as they dance ignoring the world not noticing the two robed figures watching them from one of the castle's near by balconies...
"Is that the Nortis you mentioned at the meeting this morning, Farta?"
"Yes, Sinres, that's him, the son of Evrai, Evann," Farta said.
"She really cares for him doesn't she," Sinres said.
"Yes, so I've seen and heard,"
Sinres closed his eyes and went silent as the gentle night breeze blew his light green hair into the air and across his wise old face, "Well Farta, if she truly deeply cares for him you have my vote, but I can't speak for the others. A Nortis, on an Arcadian throne want to be favored by too many of our people, even if he is Evrai's son," Sinres left the Balcony and Farta went back to gazing down at Lutina and Evann as they dance forgetting and ignoring anything and everything around them. Time passed and the two continued to dance as new couples came in and old ones left. Krotiz and Diene appeared on the dance floor and gazed at Evann and Lutina with smiles. Many of the Arcadians also stared few of them smile in support, others frowned with disagreement and disgust.
The night passed and slowly the paper lanterns that lit the festival paths dimmed. Evann and Lutina left the dance floor at this point and Lutina led Evann into the forest. She led him to a clearing with shining blue water pond. They entered the clearing hand and hand as the blue light radiated from it.
"Lutina what..." Evann started to ask when Lutina put her finger to his lips and silenced him. She sat on the soft grass and he sat next to her. Then all of a sudden light blue balls of light began to appear one by one; they filled the clearly and danced about it slowly...
"Lutina these are..." Evann said.
"Yes, there spirits. Real spirits, not the fake ones created by magic to entertain the children at the festival," Lutina said, "I wanted you to see them,"
"Lutina..."
"You once told me that you're home village used to receive visits from the spirits, I wanted you to see them again,"
Evann looked at her as the spirits danced about her, "Thank you Lutina,"
"In another two days we'll be going to battle at the front, Evann, I want you to promise me something,"
"What..."
"Promise me...no matter what you'll make it through this alive,"
Evann looked at her and she looked back, "I promise...but you have to promise the same thing...if anything were to happen to you I..."
She touched his hand, "I know...me too...so I promise to come out of it alive too," Lutina replied.
The two looked at each other and then gazed the shining pond of light as the spirits moved about them.
The two sat there until the left later on that night. The two of them returned to the castle and walked to their rooms that were just right across from each other. They said good night and then entered their rooms and went to sleep; however they were unaware of the four figures that stood near by in the shadows watching them. They left and went to a room with a table and some chairs with three candles on it. They sat down at the table and gazed at one another.
"Sickening, isn't it...a Nortis and Arcadian in love...makes my skin crawl," one said coldly.
"The other council members can't be serious about letting this continue can they?"
"We can't allow this to continue, it will ruin our plans."
"Not so fast, we could use this to our advantage,"
"My lord, what do you mean?"
"Farta is sending the Guardian force to the front soon. Finyora being head of all military affairs will most likely be going with. With her gone we could get rid of Farta and the others and then I being the only one left can create a new council and take the position of Prime Minster and regret when the princess ascends to the throne,"
"The princess is strong in will and mind; she is not like most of the woman in Arcadia. She will not stand by and be our puppet, might I advise using the other members of the guardian force control her,"
"That want work, not well she holds the power of the Holy Egg, one of the three ultimate mana eggs. She could destroy us with a single thought, if Evann ever removed the limiters he put on the two he created,"
"True, true, but I doubt he will, Evann is too careful when comes to such power. He will not remove the limiters so easily; furthermore I believe it takes time, time we will not give them. We'll call them back to the capital at night, when the rest of the capital is asleep and we have dealt with Farta, Sinres and Tinton,"
"What of the princess's Nortis Love he will surely overcome his fear of the ultimate mana eggs true powers and remove the limiters to save her."
"Well brought up, we shell kill him, and make the princess believe he's still alive, he be a valuable puppet string to the princess. We shell exploit this bond of there's," Yoryin explained to his followers, "Will make the assassinations look like Finyora and the Guardian force are to blame and then take them into custody and then use them to further control the princess. A new era is coming my followers, Arcadia shell be mine as it was meant to be,"
The candles blew out and the figures vanished into the darkness!
Dawn came and Evann and his friends were awoken with great urgency. They gathered before the High Council and stood with respect before them.
"Lord Farta what the emergency?" Lutina asked.
Farta was silent and then turned a female Arcadian in white robes, "Finyora..."
"Yes," she replied. She stood up and spoke, "We have just received word from the Nortis Army," she picked up a letter from the long table they were sitting at and read it... "Councilman of Arcadia...
Our army entire army is prepared to march against you. As your forces stand now you will not be able to hold off our assault. We give you this one warning out of honor. Surrender now or face the consequences of refusal, you have two weeks to reply! If you refuse are fail to reply with the given time we will attack at full force.
Sign,
Supreme General Rynos!
"WHAT! Rynos the Supreme General! But that means that..." Brandol said suddenly.
Farta nodded, "Yosera and Tovo have been assassinated!"
"This is bad, with Yosera and Tovo gone there's no way we can stop this war!" Ulk said worryingly.
"Don't be so sure," Krotiz said.
"What do you mean, Krotiz," Diene asked.
Krotiz smiled and then turned to Farta, "Lord Farta, tell me how many enemy soldiers are stationed at the front?"
"Our scouts have reported about one hundred and fifty thousand," a councilman Tinton reported
"Ha, as I thought," Krotiz said.
"What did you think?" Evann asked
"The Nortis Army can't afford to have Rynos as commander and chief and have that many troops at the front," Krotiz said.
"Could you be a little more elaborate," Jaid asked curiously.
"Of course," Krotiz agreed politely, "As you may know Rynos doesn't have too many supporters in among the people. He would have had to lie to the people and the soldiers and say that Arcadia sent an assassin over the border to kill Yosera and Tovo. In other words they'll blame Arcadia for the assassinations,"
"So the soldiers would be fighting for a false revenge, but I doubt the whole army was convinced. It's most likely at least thirty percent of the army and the Ranger's Guide will have figured out the truth by now and if so then the Rangers in Nortis will begin guerrilla tactics to pick of the Nortis army in rebellion if given the chance," Evann explained.
"And if they have hundred and fifty thousand troops at the front. The rangers would be bale to begin rebellion from the inside. Rynos would then be forces to remove soldiers from the front to deal with them we could then lunch a counter attack in support of the rebellion," Lutina suggested.
"The other High generals aren't all like Rynos, I believe there are two others who are dissatisfied with the war, if we kill Rynos then one of them could take his replace," Diene explained.
"I doubt it; Rynos will have most have removed them from rank to ensure he wouldn't be challenged," Carmyne said disappointingly.
"Perhaps if...no sorry I'm over stepping my rank," Myam said stepping back.
"No Myam go ahead you have permission, tell us what's on you're mind?" Finyora ordered kindly.
"Well, I was thinking that, those to High Generals...if Rynos removed them from rank then maybe they could tell the people the truth and join up with the rangers in rebellion. Maybe we could get a massage to one of the Ranger Guide's stations and have them inform then generals of the plan," Myam explained wisely.
"That's bad a idea, the soldiers hearing this would betray Rynos and join the rebellion, Rynos would be forced into a two front war. Arcadia at the border and rebels from the inside" Brandol said, "I say we go with it,"
"For once I agree with Brandol, but I doubt Nortis Rangers will accept such a request from Arcadia without wanting payment," Jaid suggested.
"Then it want be from Arcadia alone," Farta said turning to Evann, "Evann you're father is a hero to Arcadia, and I believe he is also considered to be one by the rangers, I would like you to send the request in your own words,"
"Of course, but I'll need an Arcadian Ranger to deliver the massage," Evann explained.
"Of course, we few at the boarder already, I'm sure they'll more then happy to deliver the request," Farta explained.
"Hey not to change the subject are anything but we should be getting to the front right about now," Titto said, "The sooner we get there to help out the better,"
"Agreed, I will accompany you," Finyora said, I need only change for battle I meet you at the stables in ten minutes,"
"Understood," Evann said nodding, "Alright let's prepare to leave," they all headed for the door just as Farta spoke once more.
"Evann, Lutina wait..." Farta said.
"Yes sir," Lutina replied respectfully.
"Evann, Lutina...you two are the symbol of Evrai's ideal, you're bond is great and powerful. The path you two have chosen to walk will be long and difficult. There are still those who dislike what they have seen happening between you two. If we are to truly end this foolish war, the bond you share must strong and wavering. You must so both Nortis and Arcadians that we can indeed live peacefully with each other. The two of you must survive the upcoming battle; Evann you must protect Lutina, Lutina you must protect Evann. Always remember how you feel of each other and how much you care for one another. Together you two can bring peace to this war torn world,"
Evann and Lutina looked at each other and smiled and looked and Farta and nodded and then left to catch up with the others.
"Farta my brother, are you sure you wish to place a Nortis on an Arcadian throne?" Finyora asked.
"If Evrai had become supreme general of the Nortis army, then they would have converted back into monarchy like we had planned to do. Evrai would have become king and Evann being a prince and Lutina and princess may have been promised to each other as way to show both Nortis and Arcadians that we were no longer at war. If all goes well and Myam's plan succeeds, Rynos and his followers will fall and peace will be brought to the world. Evann and Lutina will be able to be united and there joining will be a great leap for the people of Arcadia,"
Evann and his friends stood near the stables Evann and Lutina stood next to each other as the Finyora appeared, in golden armored top and dress, cloak with a hood tied on tightly, a sword at her side and sorceress staff in her hand, her long golden brown hair flew in the air and her serious, but kind expression could stare any pig headed man down to size. When she arrived they left with half of the soldiers in the capital to the front; upon their arrival they found the Arcadian lookouts gazing outward over the battle grounds for enemy movement. They went to the command tent where the met the commanders. The moment every one was sitting at the table there Finyora made changes in the chain of command.
"Jaid, I'm placing you of the Spell Knights Division," Finyora ordered, "Ulk I putting you engage of the Iron Wall defense units, Myam, the archery units are yours to lead, Titto I want you to lead the scouting units, Krotiz, Diene, my men not like this but you two I can tell are fine commanders, I place you in charge of one battalion, Carmyne, Brandol you will also lead a battalion and Evann, Lutina; the two of you will lead our second division, it's consisted of elite well trained swordsman and also elite rangers who volunteered to aid us in the up coming battle. You can use one of them to deliver the massage to the Rangers Guide."
"Yes ma'am," Evann replied.
Finyora then turned to a soldier, "You there, go and inform the commanders of the changes in command, anyone who has complaints can bring them to me, understood," she ordered seriously.
"Yes ma'am," the soldier said and he ran off to go and in form his comrades.
"Are sure it's good idea to place us in charge of your men?" Krotiz asked.
"We have to begin breaking down the wall that stands between our two races. Evann and Lutina's bond is one major step for everyone, but we can't just rely on that alone, we have to take other steps and risks. Placing you in command of our forces will be a sign of trust, I trust you to lead them wisely and show them that they have no reason to worry about being betrayed,"
"We understand we want fail you," Carmyne said.
"For your shakes and the peace we all desire I hope not," Finyora said.
They dispersed and met with their subordinates, there were many complaints about the chain of command from the Arcadian soldiers. Finyora handle them like a wise leader and explained to why she did what she did all but a few weren't convinced and those few were replaced with reserves who understood why things had to be done they why the were. Evann sent word to the Rangers Guide of the plan to start rebellion in Nortis territory and receive Arcadian aid. He was honored by the Arcadians and he heard many good and kind hearted stories honoring his father. He spoke to the men placed under his and Lutina's command, he got lucky and all of them held nothing against him or his race. He stands now in one of the lookout towers with a scout gazing out over the wide meadow covered in the dusk sky. When suddenly Lutina as always comes to him seeing that something is bothering him...
"Evann," she said as she stepped onto the platform and off the ladder.
"Lutina..." Evann replied taking her hand and helping her onto the platform
"I was looking for you," she said, the two of them looked the staring scout. He gazed back then...
"OH! Forgive me, I'll go now," he went passed them and down the ladder. Evann and Lutina gazed at the setting sun side by side, hand in hand.
"Evann...is something wrong?" Lutina asked.
"How can you tell?"
"We've gotten that so close that it's just natural for me to see now, tell me what's wrong,"
Evann was silent at first then, "I'll be fighting my own people soon Lutina, I was falsely accused of being a traitor and now I really am one. Don't get me wrong I kind of grateful, but it's going to be hard. I've fought them before, but never like this,"
Lutina looked at him, "I can probably never know how you feel right now, but I'll help you anyway I can,"
Evann looked and smiled, "Thank you Lutina,"
She nodded and the two sent back to gazing at the setting sun. There were some knights watching them from the ground and they weren't enjoying the site.
"Discussing, I think my stomach's going to turn!" one said.
"What can she possibly see in that Nortis? I mean what's he got that we haven't got?" another said.
"A kind heart, a proper sense of justice, and the soul and heart of a real hero like his father, Evrai,"
The two knights turned around and found Jaid standing behind them, "Sir Jaid!"
"You two should be ashamed of yourselves and you call yourselves knights! Evann cares for Lutina more then any of us will ever know and nothing and I mean nothing can break them apart,"
"Have they even reveled how they feel?"
"No they haven't," they all looked back and found Myam walking towards them, "They haven't because they're afraid, afraid of being rejected by society and you are only helping their fears come true," Myam said.
"Young Lady Myam," a knight said, "We're sorry it's just that we..."
"The only reason you care for her is because she was the only female officer in the Nortis army besides Madame Finyora. None of yo...no...none of us had any real reason for falling for her. Evann however does, I can see it in him. The two have shared such similar lives and this war coming to an end could very well depend on their bond," Jaid explained while looking up at them.
"They'll need our support not our disagreements about their relationship," Myam said.
The knight went silent and gazing up at Evann and Lutina as the sunset slow behind the meadow between the two territories that would soon be a battleground and it will also be the location of great news of sorrow would be heard...
Chapter V: Unbreakable Bond
It is said that all is fair in love and war, yet we must consider how so. In times of war males and female many times form bonds of love and become closer with each passing day and if they lose their love in battle it could cause them to take their own life. We like to believe that love is eternal and can never be undone in such times, and in fact that can be true, but such bonds can cause great suffering to the ones who hold the bond. I speak of course of Evann and Lutina for their bond has become in breakable and will not be done even by a force with great magic strongest magic. However, the path they have chosen is harsh and long, and it will be a long time before the can find peace in that chaotic world.
Evann and Lutina, wasted no time in retuning to the capital, they knew how worried everyone must have been. Because they ran most of the way one trying to catch other, they got there sooner then they expected. Upon arrival they found the people setting things up for a festive...
"The Spirits Festive! Wow I didn't think they would still have it with the war and everything," Lutina said surprisingly with a smile. Any available
"Why are they holding a festive during a war?" Evann asked.
"It's held once every year, to honor the spirits, unlike in Nortis, here in Arcadia we rely on the spirits for bountiful harvest and protection," Lutina explained.
"So you worship the spirits," Evann said with a smile.
"You could say that," Lutina explained, "It must seem pretty strange to you?"
"Not at all, what your people do is not my business, besides it explains why Arcadian magic is so strong," Evann said with a little laugh and smiling.
"Yeah," Lutina replied smiling back.
They walked around the capital as dusk drew near and began helping get things ready, most of the Arcadian people refused Evann's help because he was a Nortis. They continued to work helping the people as much as they could until the sun set and the moon raised high into the sky and the festival began!
Evann and Lutina went about the festival alone of course. Lutina pulled Evann along from one show to the next wanting him to see all the great things about the festival! They first stopped to see a spellcaster perform a few simple magic tricks. From there they went to a combat tournament for the knights. They met up with Krotiz and Brandol their. Krotiz said he and Brandol would have enter accept a few the knights held disliking glances with deadly intentions when they looked at them. Evann wasn't afraid however and enter the tournament. He defeated one opponent after another until there was no one else who wanted to face him, then he left the ring and took off somewhere with Lutina. When the two grew hungry they stopped at a food stand being run by Myam and Titto. They got some snacks and then continued on their way. They walked about the fair and played a few of the games, until they got bored and went back to the area where all the shows were. They enjoyed the festival here more then they enjoyed the one in Koto. They came to the townsquare where they found music playing joyously and calmly with people dancing and Carmyne, leaning against the wall. When she saw them she walked over them with a smile.
"Hey! Evann Lutina, Myam told me told me early you were back," Carmyne said smiling.
"Carmyne, what are you doing here, alone?" Lutina asked.
"There's not much to do here. I just came here to relax, though I would like to do more then just stand around," Carmyne said gazing at Evann standing quite close to Lutina, "Hey, Lutina would you mind if I borrowed Evann a little while,"
"Ah...borrowed Evann..." Lutina said blushingly deep red, "Why would you ask me that?"
"It'll be real quick, don't worry I'll bring him back," Carmyne said. She grabbed Evann pulled him out onto the dance floor and began to dance with him and at the same time she question his feelings for Lutina, "Tell me Evann how do you feel about Lutina?"
"What do you mean?" Evann replied.
"I mean what does she mean to you, do you love her?" Carmyne asked.
"Well...I...I never really thought about it,"
"Tell me how much do you really care for her?" Evann was silent; he didn't know how to answer. Carmyne looked into his eyes and smile, "I see," she said, "You do love her and you'd be willing give your life for her wouldn't you," Evann said nothing as they continued to dance, "You don't need to say anything you're silence says it all. Evann, you and Lutina will soon reach a point of no return; you must make up your mind by then. Will take the risk of a forbidden bond, or will break the bond before then. The choice is yours but be careful about what you decide to do even for a strong woman like Lutina; a woman's heart can be easily broken," The two left the dance floor and went back to Lutina who was looking at the moon, when she saw them come over her, "He's all yours again," Carmyne said cheerfully, she then left the square and them.
Lutina looked at Evann, "Evann..." she said softly.
Evann was silent at first he then smiled lovingly and gazed at her as he held out his hand, "Shell we,"
Lutina smiled lovingly and his, "Yes..."
The walked out into the crowd of dancers and began to dance. As they danced the rest of the world for them vanished, it was just the two of them and the music that play slowly but beautifully and loving. They gazed into one another's eyes as they dance ignoring the world not noticing the two robed figures watching them from one of the castle's near by balconies...
"Is that the Nortis you mentioned at the meeting this morning, Farta?"
"Yes, Sinres, that's him, the son of Evrai, Evann," Farta said.
"She really cares for him doesn't she," Sinres said.
"Yes, so I've seen and heard,"
Sinres closed his eyes and went silent as the gentle night breeze blew his light green hair into the air and across his wise old face, "Well Farta, if she truly deeply cares for him you have my vote, but I can't speak for the others. A Nortis, on an Arcadian throne want to be favored by too many of our people, even if he is Evrai's son," Sinres left the Balcony and Farta went back to gazing down at Lutina and Evann as they dance forgetting and ignoring anything and everything around them. Time passed and the two continued to dance as new couples came in and old ones left. Krotiz and Diene appeared on the dance floor and gazed at Evann and Lutina with smiles. Many of the Arcadians also stared few of them smile in support, others frowned with disagreement and disgust.
The night passed and slowly the paper lanterns that lit the festival paths dimmed. Evann and Lutina left the dance floor at this point and Lutina led Evann into the forest. She led him to a clearing with shining blue water pond. They entered the clearing hand and hand as the blue light radiated from it.
"Lutina what..." Evann started to ask when Lutina put her finger to his lips and silenced him. She sat on the soft grass and he sat next to her. Then all of a sudden light blue balls of light began to appear one by one; they filled the clearly and danced about it slowly...
"Lutina these are..." Evann said.
"Yes, there spirits. Real spirits, not the fake ones created by magic to entertain the children at the festival," Lutina said, "I wanted you to see them,"
"Lutina..."
"You once told me that you're home village used to receive visits from the spirits, I wanted you to see them again,"
Evann looked at her as the spirits danced about her, "Thank you Lutina,"
"In another two days we'll be going to battle at the front, Evann, I want you to promise me something,"
"What..."
"Promise me...no matter what you'll make it through this alive,"
Evann looked at her and she looked back, "I promise...but you have to promise the same thing...if anything were to happen to you I..."
She touched his hand, "I know...me too...so I promise to come out of it alive too," Lutina replied.
The two looked at each other and then gazed the shining pond of light as the spirits moved about them.
The two sat there until the left later on that night. The two of them returned to the castle and walked to their rooms that were just right across from each other. They said good night and then entered their rooms and went to sleep; however they were unaware of the four figures that stood near by in the shadows watching them. They left and went to a room with a table and some chairs with three candles on it. They sat down at the table and gazed at one another.
"Sickening, isn't it...a Nortis and Arcadian in love...makes my skin crawl," one said coldly.
"The other council members can't be serious about letting this continue can they?"
"We can't allow this to continue, it will ruin our plans."
"Not so fast, we could use this to our advantage,"
"My lord, what do you mean?"
"Farta is sending the Guardian force to the front soon. Finyora being head of all military affairs will most likely be going with. With her gone we could get rid of Farta and the others and then I being the only one left can create a new council and take the position of Prime Minster and regret when the princess ascends to the throne,"
"The princess is strong in will and mind; she is not like most of the woman in Arcadia. She will not stand by and be our puppet, might I advise using the other members of the guardian force control her,"
"That want work, not well she holds the power of the Holy Egg, one of the three ultimate mana eggs. She could destroy us with a single thought, if Evann ever removed the limiters he put on the two he created,"
"True, true, but I doubt he will, Evann is too careful when comes to such power. He will not remove the limiters so easily; furthermore I believe it takes time, time we will not give them. We'll call them back to the capital at night, when the rest of the capital is asleep and we have dealt with Farta, Sinres and Tinton,"
"What of the princess's Nortis Love he will surely overcome his fear of the ultimate mana eggs true powers and remove the limiters to save her."
"Well brought up, we shell kill him, and make the princess believe he's still alive, he be a valuable puppet string to the princess. We shell exploit this bond of there's," Yoryin explained to his followers, "Will make the assassinations look like Finyora and the Guardian force are to blame and then take them into custody and then use them to further control the princess. A new era is coming my followers, Arcadia shell be mine as it was meant to be,"
The candles blew out and the figures vanished into the darkness!
Dawn came and Evann and his friends were awoken with great urgency. They gathered before the High Council and stood with respect before them.
"Lord Farta what the emergency?" Lutina asked.
Farta was silent and then turned a female Arcadian in white robes, "Finyora..."
"Yes," she replied. She stood up and spoke, "We have just received word from the Nortis Army," she picked up a letter from the long table they were sitting at and read it... "Councilman of Arcadia...
Our army entire army is prepared to march against you. As your forces stand now you will not be able to hold off our assault. We give you this one warning out of honor. Surrender now or face the consequences of refusal, you have two weeks to reply! If you refuse are fail to reply with the given time we will attack at full force.
Sign,
Supreme General Rynos!
"WHAT! Rynos the Supreme General! But that means that..." Brandol said suddenly.
Farta nodded, "Yosera and Tovo have been assassinated!"
"This is bad, with Yosera and Tovo gone there's no way we can stop this war!" Ulk said worryingly.
"Don't be so sure," Krotiz said.
"What do you mean, Krotiz," Diene asked.
Krotiz smiled and then turned to Farta, "Lord Farta, tell me how many enemy soldiers are stationed at the front?"
"Our scouts have reported about one hundred and fifty thousand," a councilman Tinton reported
"Ha, as I thought," Krotiz said.
"What did you think?" Evann asked
"The Nortis Army can't afford to have Rynos as commander and chief and have that many troops at the front," Krotiz said.
"Could you be a little more elaborate," Jaid asked curiously.
"Of course," Krotiz agreed politely, "As you may know Rynos doesn't have too many supporters in among the people. He would have had to lie to the people and the soldiers and say that Arcadia sent an assassin over the border to kill Yosera and Tovo. In other words they'll blame Arcadia for the assassinations,"
"So the soldiers would be fighting for a false revenge, but I doubt the whole army was convinced. It's most likely at least thirty percent of the army and the Ranger's Guide will have figured out the truth by now and if so then the Rangers in Nortis will begin guerrilla tactics to pick of the Nortis army in rebellion if given the chance," Evann explained.
"And if they have hundred and fifty thousand troops at the front. The rangers would be bale to begin rebellion from the inside. Rynos would then be forces to remove soldiers from the front to deal with them we could then lunch a counter attack in support of the rebellion," Lutina suggested.
"The other High generals aren't all like Rynos, I believe there are two others who are dissatisfied with the war, if we kill Rynos then one of them could take his replace," Diene explained.
"I doubt it; Rynos will have most have removed them from rank to ensure he wouldn't be challenged," Carmyne said disappointingly.
"Perhaps if...no sorry I'm over stepping my rank," Myam said stepping back.
"No Myam go ahead you have permission, tell us what's on you're mind?" Finyora ordered kindly.
"Well, I was thinking that, those to High Generals...if Rynos removed them from rank then maybe they could tell the people the truth and join up with the rangers in rebellion. Maybe we could get a massage to one of the Ranger Guide's stations and have them inform then generals of the plan," Myam explained wisely.
"That's bad a idea, the soldiers hearing this would betray Rynos and join the rebellion, Rynos would be forced into a two front war. Arcadia at the border and rebels from the inside" Brandol said, "I say we go with it,"
"For once I agree with Brandol, but I doubt Nortis Rangers will accept such a request from Arcadia without wanting payment," Jaid suggested.
"Then it want be from Arcadia alone," Farta said turning to Evann, "Evann you're father is a hero to Arcadia, and I believe he is also considered to be one by the rangers, I would like you to send the request in your own words,"
"Of course, but I'll need an Arcadian Ranger to deliver the massage," Evann explained.
"Of course, we few at the boarder already, I'm sure they'll more then happy to deliver the request," Farta explained.
"Hey not to change the subject are anything but we should be getting to the front right about now," Titto said, "The sooner we get there to help out the better,"
"Agreed, I will accompany you," Finyora said, I need only change for battle I meet you at the stables in ten minutes,"
"Understood," Evann said nodding, "Alright let's prepare to leave," they all headed for the door just as Farta spoke once more.
"Evann, Lutina wait..." Farta said.
"Yes sir," Lutina replied respectfully.
"Evann, Lutina...you two are the symbol of Evrai's ideal, you're bond is great and powerful. The path you two have chosen to walk will be long and difficult. There are still those who dislike what they have seen happening between you two. If we are to truly end this foolish war, the bond you share must strong and wavering. You must so both Nortis and Arcadians that we can indeed live peacefully with each other. The two of you must survive the upcoming battle; Evann you must protect Lutina, Lutina you must protect Evann. Always remember how you feel of each other and how much you care for one another. Together you two can bring peace to this war torn world,"
Evann and Lutina looked at each other and smiled and looked and Farta and nodded and then left to catch up with the others.
"Farta my brother, are you sure you wish to place a Nortis on an Arcadian throne?" Finyora asked.
"If Evrai had become supreme general of the Nortis army, then they would have converted back into monarchy like we had planned to do. Evrai would have become king and Evann being a prince and Lutina and princess may have been promised to each other as way to show both Nortis and Arcadians that we were no longer at war. If all goes well and Myam's plan succeeds, Rynos and his followers will fall and peace will be brought to the world. Evann and Lutina will be able to be united and there joining will be a great leap for the people of Arcadia,"
Evann and his friends stood near the stables Evann and Lutina stood next to each other as the Finyora appeared, in golden armored top and dress, cloak with a hood tied on tightly, a sword at her side and sorceress staff in her hand, her long golden brown hair flew in the air and her serious, but kind expression could stare any pig headed man down to size. When she arrived they left with half of the soldiers in the capital to the front; upon their arrival they found the Arcadian lookouts gazing outward over the battle grounds for enemy movement. They went to the command tent where the met the commanders. The moment every one was sitting at the table there Finyora made changes in the chain of command.
"Jaid, I'm placing you of the Spell Knights Division," Finyora ordered, "Ulk I putting you engage of the Iron Wall defense units, Myam, the archery units are yours to lead, Titto I want you to lead the scouting units, Krotiz, Diene, my men not like this but you two I can tell are fine commanders, I place you in charge of one battalion, Carmyne, Brandol you will also lead a battalion and Evann, Lutina; the two of you will lead our second division, it's consisted of elite well trained swordsman and also elite rangers who volunteered to aid us in the up coming battle. You can use one of them to deliver the massage to the Rangers Guide."
"Yes ma'am," Evann replied.
Finyora then turned to a soldier, "You there, go and inform the commanders of the changes in command, anyone who has complaints can bring them to me, understood," she ordered seriously.
"Yes ma'am," the soldier said and he ran off to go and in form his comrades.
"Are sure it's good idea to place us in charge of your men?" Krotiz asked.
"We have to begin breaking down the wall that stands between our two races. Evann and Lutina's bond is one major step for everyone, but we can't just rely on that alone, we have to take other steps and risks. Placing you in command of our forces will be a sign of trust, I trust you to lead them wisely and show them that they have no reason to worry about being betrayed,"
"We understand we want fail you," Carmyne said.
"For your shakes and the peace we all desire I hope not," Finyora said.
They dispersed and met with their subordinates, there were many complaints about the chain of command from the Arcadian soldiers. Finyora handle them like a wise leader and explained to why she did what she did all but a few weren't convinced and those few were replaced with reserves who understood why things had to be done they why the were. Evann sent word to the Rangers Guide of the plan to start rebellion in Nortis territory and receive Arcadian aid. He was honored by the Arcadians and he heard many good and kind hearted stories honoring his father. He spoke to the men placed under his and Lutina's command, he got lucky and all of them held nothing against him or his race. He stands now in one of the lookout towers with a scout gazing out over the wide meadow covered in the dusk sky. When suddenly Lutina as always comes to him seeing that something is bothering him...
"Evann," she said as she stepped onto the platform and off the ladder.
"Lutina..." Evann replied taking her hand and helping her onto the platform
"I was looking for you," she said, the two of them looked the staring scout. He gazed back then...
"OH! Forgive me, I'll go now," he went passed them and down the ladder. Evann and Lutina gazed at the setting sun side by side, hand in hand.
"Evann...is something wrong?" Lutina asked.
"How can you tell?"
"We've gotten that so close that it's just natural for me to see now, tell me what's wrong,"
Evann was silent at first then, "I'll be fighting my own people soon Lutina, I was falsely accused of being a traitor and now I really am one. Don't get me wrong I kind of grateful, but it's going to be hard. I've fought them before, but never like this,"
Lutina looked at him, "I can probably never know how you feel right now, but I'll help you anyway I can,"
Evann looked and smiled, "Thank you Lutina,"
She nodded and the two sent back to gazing at the setting sun. There were some knights watching them from the ground and they weren't enjoying the site.
"Discussing, I think my stomach's going to turn!" one said.
"What can she possibly see in that Nortis? I mean what's he got that we haven't got?" another said.
"A kind heart, a proper sense of justice, and the soul and heart of a real hero like his father, Evrai,"
The two knights turned around and found Jaid standing behind them, "Sir Jaid!"
"You two should be ashamed of yourselves and you call yourselves knights! Evann cares for Lutina more then any of us will ever know and nothing and I mean nothing can break them apart,"
"Have they even reveled how they feel?"
"No they haven't," they all looked back and found Myam walking towards them, "They haven't because they're afraid, afraid of being rejected by society and you are only helping their fears come true," Myam said.
"Young Lady Myam," a knight said, "We're sorry it's just that we..."
"The only reason you care for her is because she was the only female officer in the Nortis army besides Madame Finyora. None of yo...no...none of us had any real reason for falling for her. Evann however does, I can see it in him. The two have shared such similar lives and this war coming to an end could very well depend on their bond," Jaid explained while looking up at them.
"They'll need our support not our disagreements about their relationship," Myam said.
The knight went silent and gazing up at Evann and Lutina as the sunset slow behind the meadow between the two territories that would soon be a battleground and it will also be the location of great news of sorrow would be heard...