Chapter V: Braguin discoveries.
It was around six in the morning when the battle was finally over. They managed to contain Gaston's army once again. As usual, Edgar was the last one to abandon the battle field to make sure nobody was left behind. When he arrived to the castle he ran to the throne room to make a review of what happened with his generals and Cyan.
-Good job, gentlemen – said Edgar sitting in the throne.
They all bowed their heads in sign of respect and gratitude.
-Your Majesty – said an old man with white hair and beard – For how long we have to keep fighting?
-I wish I have an answer for that, my dear Magnuz, but unfortunately I don't, but I hope this will be over soon... By the way, there were any loses? – asked Edgar. The 4 generals and Cyan lowered their heads. Edgar frowned.
-Unfortunately, yes you Majesty – said a grey long haired man – At the moment there have been 15 losses.
Edgar clenched his jaw and fists and in an access of anger he removed his helmet and crashed it into the floor.
-Damn it! – he shouted. He stood from the chair and said – Have you have the names, Scola?
The gray haired man gave Edgar a list. As Edgar read it he felt how guilt grew on his chest. He put the paper in his pants and after picking up his helmet from the floor, he abandoned the room. He walked fastly until he reached his private chambers. He was so angry with himself that he once again crashed the helmet in the floor and began to punch the wall with his left fist.
-Damn it! Damn it! – he kept saying as he hit the wall. He felt so responsible and miserable, that the only way to release his frustration was hitting the wall.
And that's how Terra and Sabin found him. Terra was worried because she didn't see him return with the others, and asked Sabin. Sabin told her that he had already arrived to the castle. They asked to Cyan for him and he answered that he may be in his room.
Sabin grabbed Edgar's arm in the air.
-What's your problem bro? Why are you hitting the wall like that? – asked to his twin.
Edgar retrieved his arm from Sabin's hand and took out the paper from his pants.
-Read – said giving it to Sabin.
Sabin did as he said. And like Edgar, he felt a huge anger.
-Now you understand? – asked Edgar – Those names are the names of the soldiers that died today...
-That bastard... - said Sabin – That miserable, he's going to pay...
-He's not the only responsible... - said Edgar in a low voice with guilt.
-Oh! No, no, no, no – said Sabin interrupting – You're no responsible for what happened, Edgar... I know you feel guilty, but it's not your fault... You fought bravely and do what you could to prevent this... but, there was no way you could've stop that thing from falling... And now that we're on the subject... What do you think that thing was?
Edgar shrugged slightly.
-The only way a fire ball can fall from the sky is using – and he looked Terra from the corner from his eye – Magic... -But Magic disappeared, it's gone, history – said Sabin in denial.
Edgar sat on the edge of his bed and said:
-Or Gaston has a far more advance technology than ours or he used Magic... I cannot find another explanation. Don't you fell something strange during the night? – he asked to Terra that was in the door.
Terra recalled the night before and she remember she felt a little cold, but that was it. And so she said to him. Edgar frowned.
-I guess that the one that is going to provide an answer is going to be Braguin – he said after a few minutes.
-Why Braguin? – asked Sabin.
-'Cause he's investigating the strange plaques that Gaston is tryin' to steal – said Terra instead.
Edgar nodded.
-Anyway, until Braguin has answer and says the opposite, I believe that thing was magic – he sighed and standing from the bed he said to his brother – Give me the list, please – Sabin returned him the list. Edgar read it once again while he said – We need to inform the families what happened... Most of them live in South Figaro...
-Are you going to write them a letter? – asked Sabin.
Edgar pressed his lips together before he answered.
-No... That's to impersonal... I'll go personally. Besides, I'm going to indemnify them.
-Indemni... what? – asked Sabin dumbly.
-Give them some money to try to compensate the loss... I know that money is not going to bring them back, but is the least I can do to help them.
-You're right, bro – agreed Sabin – And I'll go with you... You're not the only one responsible of this Kingdom... after all, I'm the prince.
Edgar smiled to his brother.
-Thanks, Sabin... - and he patted him in the shoulder.
-I'll got to prepare a carriage. I'll let you know when it's ready. Why don't you take rest until it's all set?
Edgar nodded slightly. Sabin abandoned the room. Edgar sat once again in the bed heavily. Terra, that was still standing in the frame of the door stared at Edgar.
-What's wrong, Terra? – asked Edgar while he rubbed his eyes.
-I was wondering if I can go with you to South Figaro – answered Terra shyly.
Edgar sighed as he smiled.
-I'll appreciate the offer, my lady – he said with gratitude – but this is something that only concerns Sabin and me. Besides, this isn't going to be a pleasant visit... - Edgar's expression then saddened – I mean, I'm going to inform to several families that their loved ones died... - and he clenched his fists and jaw. Terra sat next to him and place her hand over his and gave it a gentle squeeze. Edgar took a slow breath. Having Terra next to him was strangely comforting and made him feel brave enough to face what was meant to come. That felling always appeared when Terra was by his side and it was so good to feel it. It was an empathy that always existed between them. The type of empathy in which you understand the other without the need of words, the one that Edgar needed, the one that she provided.
Sabin interrupted that intimacy, informing that the carriage was prepared and ready to go.
-Are you sure you don't want me to go? – asked Terra while Edgar put on his helmet and fixed his armor.
-Yes... - he took her hand in his – But I appreciate the intention, my lady – and he kissed her hand before he left to grab some bags of gold from the treasure room.
He got on the carriage and sat next to Sabin. The trip to South Figaro was not a long one. In half an hour they arrived to the capital of the Kingdom. They went house from house to give the bad news and to leave a bag of money with the promise to receive the same amount once a month. When they left the last house, Sabin suggested Edgar to eat something in the pub, because they hadn't eaten in all the day. Edgar agreed and they had a quick meal. They paid the check and returned to the carriage after making a quick visit to the major. When they were near the South Figaro Cave, they saw a strange man near the entrance. The man was certainly strange. He was wearing an old, dusty grey cloak, the old pants were brown and so the boots. The shirt was blue in the same conditions, like the rest of his outfit. His long hair was black with shades of purple. His eyes were brown, with a weird glow that suit perfectly in his hard face. He seemed not to notice the carriage and entered the cave. Edgar and Sabin stared at each other.
-That dude is certainly strange – said Sabin.
-You're right... - agreed Edgar – Shall we follow him?
-I think so... - said Sabin while he indicated the driver to stop the carriage.
-Return to the castle – ordered Edgar to the driver after they got off the carriage.
-Don't you want me to wait for you? – asked the driver with respect.
-No... We may delay and it's not safe for you to wait all alone here, so I prefer you to return to the castle and tell the chancellor that we had something to do in the cave – said Edgar. The driver nodded and urged the chocobos.
The twins entered the cave. They walked for several searching for the man but, except for a shadow, they didn't find a single clue of him.
-He entered the cave, didn't he? – said Sabin confused scratching his head – You saw he enter as well, right?
-Of course he entered... - said Edgar with a frown – This is strange...
Sabin nodded in agreement. They kept searching for around an hour, when Edgar suggested to go to check the place were the strange shrine was. Sabin thought it was a good idea, without mentioning he was curious to see the mysterious place, so they went there. Sabin couldn't believe such a place was in that cave and they never noticed before. Edgar snapped him out of his surprise reminding him they were searching for someone. Sabin nodded and they looked for the man. The man wasn't there, but a couple of soldiers form the army of Gaston did show up when they were near the entrance, and attacked the twins as soon as they saw them. Edgar and Sabin easily defeated them and decided to take them as prisoners, but before they could secure them, both men grabbed a knife hidden in their breast plate and buried it into their throats. Edgar and Sabin stared at each other with eyes widened with surprise.
-Why they do that? – said Sabin making a gesture of disgust because of the amount of blood.
-I can only imagine that those are their orders if they got caught – said Edgar – Die before being imprisoned.
-But why? – repeated Sabin.
-So they wont be forced to talk – explained Edgar.
-And what are we going to do about the strange man? Do we keep looking for him?
-I think we wont be able to find him... It seems he just... vanished – answered Edgar.
-But no one can just "vanish" ... That's impossible...
-There are a lot of weird things going on – said Edgar.
-Then, shall we go? – asked Sabin.
-Yes. But first, lets take these guys outside and buried them. I don't want to leave them here, so they decompose or get eaten by monsters...
Sabin nodded. They carried them outside and buried them under the sand. Then, they walked towards the castle without noticing a shadow that followed them closely.
*****
-Are you sure they stayed in the cave? – asked Terra for the tenth time to Locke. They were near the gate of the castle, staring at the desert, waiting for the return of the Figaro twins.
-That's what the driver told me... - answered Locke patiently.
-But it's been almost three hours since the driver returned and there are no signs of them.
-Don't worry, Terra – said Locke patting her in the shoulder – Maybe they found something interesting and they are investigating.
-I can't believe he left them alone... - said Terra worried – Specially Edgar... He just can go like if nothing is happening and he is the one who is in the greater danger. Gaston may be waiting for an opportunity to attack him and he is just making it easier for him.
-You're overreacting – said Locke – Nothing's going to happen to them... - he stared at the desert and with a smile he continued – Look. Here they come.
Terra followed Locke's eyes. The twins were walking slowly and quietly to the castle. They seemed tired and troubled about something.
-Finally – said Terra when they crossed the gate of the castle – I've been worried... What took you so long? – and watching their clothes tainted with blood, she asked concerned – And why your clothes have blood? Are you hurt?
Edgar and Sabin stared at each other. Edgar nodded and Sabin said:
-It's kinda long ... Why don't we go inside?
Terra and Locke agreed and they entered the castle. The shadow that had been following the twins entered the castle as well. They went to Edgar's private chambers. The king removed his helmet and breast plate and he sat in the bed. Terra sat next to him as she asked:
-What happened? What took you so long in the cave?
Edgar sighed.
-When we were about to return to the castle, we saw a strange man enter the cave, so we decided to see what he wanted – he said.
-That's why we ordered the driver to return to the castle, because we thought it was going to take us a while, as it did – said Sabin sitting in the chair in front of the desk.
-Any way – said Edgar – We got into the cave in order to search for the man...
-And why he was in the cave? – asked Locke who was leaning in the wall with his arms crossed.
-We didn't have the chance to ask – said Sabin.
-Why? – asked Terra confused.
-Because there was a inconvenient– answered Edgar throwing his head behind.
-We find a couple of guys from Gaston's army. We fought 'em and beat 'em – said Sabin – We decided to make them prisoners, but...
-They killed themselves – concluded Edgar the sentence – They cut their throats with a knife... They preferred death instead of being imprisoned.
-We buried them, that's why our clothes are tainted with blood – said Sabin pointing his shirt.
-And, the man? – asked Locke – Did you find him?
Edgar and Sabin shooked their heads.
-No... - mumbled Sabin – It seems he just vanished, or something.
Locke frowned. Terra bit her under lip.
-I know – said Edgar noticing their gestures – We felt... feel , the same way.
-Are you sure he entered the cave? – said Locke.
-Of course we're sure! – exclaimed Sabin – And when we entered we saw a shadow but that was it.
-That's strange – said Terra.
-I know – said Edgar – But we win nothing worrying... - he stood and he stretched his arms – So why don't we forget about it – he walked to the door – Now, if you excuse me I need to have a talk with Mr. Rugaon.
-I'll go with you – said Locke – I'm kinda curious about that mysterious plaque...
Edgar make a gesture with his head indicating Locke to follow him. Sabin said he take a shower while Terra went with Celes and Relm that were in the top of the castle.
Locke and Edgar arrived to the library. Braguin was so concentrated in the plaque that he didn't hear when they entered room. Edgar put his arm on Braguin's shoulder.
-How's it going? – he asked.
Braguin jumped a little.
-Oh! It's you.... – he said relieved – You scared me, Your Majesty.
Edgar smiled briefly.
-Sorry... So, how's it going? – he repeated.
-Actually I discovered something quite... I don't know if disturbing or amazing... - said the old archeologist.
-What is it? – asked Locke impatient.
-This two plaques indicated me that there are, according to what I decipher, three more...
Edgar and Locke share a glance of surprise.
-Three more?! – exclaimed Locke – Another three of this thingies?
-And where are they? – asked Edgar – You have any idea?
Braguin took a plaque from the desk.
-If what I decipher it's right... There's one of these in an entrance to the underground. And in the actual world there are five entrances to the underground – he explained.
Edgar put a hand on his chin in a pensive attitude.
-One plaque was found in the Cave of Figaro, the other one according to Clyde was in a train that came from Tzen and it passed under the town, so maybe it was in what we know as Phoenix Cave... - he said – And the other entrances to underground are... The Cave of the Veldt, the mines in Narshe and...
-The ancient castle – said Locke.
Edgar nodded.
-So you suggest we go to those places to look for the rest of the plaques? – asked the king.
-Yes – was Braguin's answer – but first I need to ask you for a favor.
-Sure – said Edgar – What is it?
-Can you take me to the Cave of Figaro? I would like to see that mysterious shrine you and Clyde told me about.
-Sure – said Edgar – but just let me change and we go after supper.
Braguin nodded. Locke and Edgar returned to the later room.
-This is getting more complicated – muttered Locke when they entered the room.
-I agree – said Edgar removing the rest of the armor and his shirt – I totally agree.
-Are you going to the cave? – asked Locke while Edgar went to the bath to clean up.
-Of course – answered Edgar from the other room – Only, Clyde, Thiago, Sabin and myself know how to get to the place.
-I'll go to – said Locke after several minutes– I want to see that place. I'm curious.
-But I warn you – said Edgar returning from the bathroom drying his long hair with a towel – There's nothing there you can steal – and his lips curved in a teasing smile as he put the towel around his shoulders.
Locke sent him an angry look as he said irritated:
-You're so funny that you kill me... - then he smiled evilly. He grabbed a vase from the table and throw it directly to Edgar's direction that was distracted putting a shirt and was hit in the forehead by it.
-What's your problem?! – reclaimed Edgar furious covering his forehead with his hand.
-I'm sorry – apologized Locke – I thought you'll avoid it... Guess I was wrong.
Now Edgar was the one with the angry look in his face.
-Let me take a look – suggested Locke. Edgar sat on the chair so Locke could check on the hit.
-It's just a bump – said Locke – It'll disappear in a couple of days.
-You're the one who's gonna disappear in two days – mumbled Edgar. Locke smiled before he said:
-I'll let you change – he walked to the door and opened it – Are we going to tell the others what Braguin told us?
Edgar pressed his lips together before he answered:
-Yes. Why don't you tell them while I change?
Locke nodded. He got out of the room and closed the door. Edgar put on his royal outfit and his cloak. He checked his forehead in the mirror. The right part was swollen with shades of red, purple, green and black.
-That Cole – he said in a low voice – If he weren't a friend I'll.... – he interrupted himself. In the mirror he saw a black reflection that moved rapidly around the room. He passed his eyes all over the room but he didn't see anything.
-It must have been my imagination – he said as he shrugged. He fixed his hair in the ponytail and he left the room being followed by the shadow.
He walked trough the corridors towards the top of the highest tower of the castle. He suddenly felt the need of fresh air, besides, Locke was going to inform the others what Braguin told them. And he certainly could use some time alone. He needed to think and clear his mind. He stared at the view. It was a nice afternoon. The sun was shining and there was a little air blowing. Edgar felt his lungs with the air and then he sighed. He began to recall the battle of the night before and when he got to the point when Gaston attacked them with the fireball, he thought:
-Magic... It has to be Magic... There's no other way he can produce a fireball of that magnitude and power... But how? That's the question... How? Unless... But that's impossible, if Magic had returned, the powers of Terra, Celes, Relm and Strago would be back too... Then how? – he closed his eyes trying to think on a reason, but all the thoughts that came to his head were highly improbable. Then a thought come to him. It could be the answer – But I'll need to ask something to Braguin – he muttered.
He left the tower almost running and he walked fastly until he reached the library.
-Braguin – he said – I need to ask you a question.
Braguin stared at the king surprised and nodded.
-Is there a possibility that the plaques are magical... I mean if they can provide magic to people – said Edgar.
Braguin took one of the plaques from the table.
-That's very probable – he said – This plaques share characteristics similar to the magicites, but they are more similar to espers, if you understand what I mean.
Edgar's eyes widened in surprise understanding what Braguin meant.
-The power of the plaques can be drained... And then infused to people?
Braguin nodded.
-Strago told me about what happened last night....
-That means that, at least, Gaston has one plaque on his power – interrupted Edgar – That's why he used that fireball, because he's been infused.
-I'm afraid so... - said the old archeologist – That's why you need to search for the other plaques. To be sure they don't fall in Gaston's hands.
Edgar nodded slightly. He pressed his lips together. What Braguin just told him confirmed his thoughts and mostly, his fears.
-I need you to promise me that you wont tell what we just talk to anyone, Braguin – said Edgar rubbing his chin – We better be sure before we dare to make an affirmation. Although I'm very sure that's the answer.
-Don't worry – sad Braguin smiling – I agree with you, is better we keep this for ourselves.
Edgar thanked Braguin with a movement of his head.
-And what else you've discovered? – asked Edgar.
Braguin put the plaque back on the table.
-The writings in the plaques have a logic. I mean they have an order in what's written on them... And for what I've been able to decipher, this plaques are number two and three.
-So, one, four and five are missing – said Edgar – And what's written on them? What it says?
-The first one says: The elements and their strength are safe within... Put all of us together and the true power will be released... The second one says: But beware, only the chosen ones can unseal the power... The ones with magic inside...
Edgar frowned as soon as Braguin ended reading.
-What does that mean? – asked the King.
-I'm not sure... That's why I need the other plaques to find out.
-I understand... - Edgar sat in a chair next to Braguin before he said – Look. First we go to the shrine in the cave of Figaro, then we see what we do about the other plaques...
Braguin nodded.
-I have the feeling that the shrine is going to unravel some mysteries – he said.
-I hope so – said Edgar as he sighed.
Braguin was going to say something about Edgar's bump when someone knocked the door.
-May I come in? – said Thiago's voice.
-Come in – said Edgar.
Thiago opened the door and made a reverence.
-Excuse me, Your Majesty, but meal is ready – said the young man.
-Ordered to serve it immediately – Edgar stood as he said – But I'm going to have my food in my office. I have work to do and it must be over before tonight.
Thiago made another reverence and he left the room.
-Why don't you join them – said Edgar to Braguin – When you're done, we go to the shrine.
Braguin nodded. They abandoned the library together. Braguin went to the dinning room, Edgar, to his office. He locked the door and laid his back against it.
-This is even worst that I ever thought – he whispered.
It was around six in the morning when the battle was finally over. They managed to contain Gaston's army once again. As usual, Edgar was the last one to abandon the battle field to make sure nobody was left behind. When he arrived to the castle he ran to the throne room to make a review of what happened with his generals and Cyan.
-Good job, gentlemen – said Edgar sitting in the throne.
They all bowed their heads in sign of respect and gratitude.
-Your Majesty – said an old man with white hair and beard – For how long we have to keep fighting?
-I wish I have an answer for that, my dear Magnuz, but unfortunately I don't, but I hope this will be over soon... By the way, there were any loses? – asked Edgar. The 4 generals and Cyan lowered their heads. Edgar frowned.
-Unfortunately, yes you Majesty – said a grey long haired man – At the moment there have been 15 losses.
Edgar clenched his jaw and fists and in an access of anger he removed his helmet and crashed it into the floor.
-Damn it! – he shouted. He stood from the chair and said – Have you have the names, Scola?
The gray haired man gave Edgar a list. As Edgar read it he felt how guilt grew on his chest. He put the paper in his pants and after picking up his helmet from the floor, he abandoned the room. He walked fastly until he reached his private chambers. He was so angry with himself that he once again crashed the helmet in the floor and began to punch the wall with his left fist.
-Damn it! Damn it! – he kept saying as he hit the wall. He felt so responsible and miserable, that the only way to release his frustration was hitting the wall.
And that's how Terra and Sabin found him. Terra was worried because she didn't see him return with the others, and asked Sabin. Sabin told her that he had already arrived to the castle. They asked to Cyan for him and he answered that he may be in his room.
Sabin grabbed Edgar's arm in the air.
-What's your problem bro? Why are you hitting the wall like that? – asked to his twin.
Edgar retrieved his arm from Sabin's hand and took out the paper from his pants.
-Read – said giving it to Sabin.
Sabin did as he said. And like Edgar, he felt a huge anger.
-Now you understand? – asked Edgar – Those names are the names of the soldiers that died today...
-That bastard... - said Sabin – That miserable, he's going to pay...
-He's not the only responsible... - said Edgar in a low voice with guilt.
-Oh! No, no, no, no – said Sabin interrupting – You're no responsible for what happened, Edgar... I know you feel guilty, but it's not your fault... You fought bravely and do what you could to prevent this... but, there was no way you could've stop that thing from falling... And now that we're on the subject... What do you think that thing was?
Edgar shrugged slightly.
-The only way a fire ball can fall from the sky is using – and he looked Terra from the corner from his eye – Magic... -But Magic disappeared, it's gone, history – said Sabin in denial.
Edgar sat on the edge of his bed and said:
-Or Gaston has a far more advance technology than ours or he used Magic... I cannot find another explanation. Don't you fell something strange during the night? – he asked to Terra that was in the door.
Terra recalled the night before and she remember she felt a little cold, but that was it. And so she said to him. Edgar frowned.
-I guess that the one that is going to provide an answer is going to be Braguin – he said after a few minutes.
-Why Braguin? – asked Sabin.
-'Cause he's investigating the strange plaques that Gaston is tryin' to steal – said Terra instead.
Edgar nodded.
-Anyway, until Braguin has answer and says the opposite, I believe that thing was magic – he sighed and standing from the bed he said to his brother – Give me the list, please – Sabin returned him the list. Edgar read it once again while he said – We need to inform the families what happened... Most of them live in South Figaro...
-Are you going to write them a letter? – asked Sabin.
Edgar pressed his lips together before he answered.
-No... That's to impersonal... I'll go personally. Besides, I'm going to indemnify them.
-Indemni... what? – asked Sabin dumbly.
-Give them some money to try to compensate the loss... I know that money is not going to bring them back, but is the least I can do to help them.
-You're right, bro – agreed Sabin – And I'll go with you... You're not the only one responsible of this Kingdom... after all, I'm the prince.
Edgar smiled to his brother.
-Thanks, Sabin... - and he patted him in the shoulder.
-I'll got to prepare a carriage. I'll let you know when it's ready. Why don't you take rest until it's all set?
Edgar nodded slightly. Sabin abandoned the room. Edgar sat once again in the bed heavily. Terra, that was still standing in the frame of the door stared at Edgar.
-What's wrong, Terra? – asked Edgar while he rubbed his eyes.
-I was wondering if I can go with you to South Figaro – answered Terra shyly.
Edgar sighed as he smiled.
-I'll appreciate the offer, my lady – he said with gratitude – but this is something that only concerns Sabin and me. Besides, this isn't going to be a pleasant visit... - Edgar's expression then saddened – I mean, I'm going to inform to several families that their loved ones died... - and he clenched his fists and jaw. Terra sat next to him and place her hand over his and gave it a gentle squeeze. Edgar took a slow breath. Having Terra next to him was strangely comforting and made him feel brave enough to face what was meant to come. That felling always appeared when Terra was by his side and it was so good to feel it. It was an empathy that always existed between them. The type of empathy in which you understand the other without the need of words, the one that Edgar needed, the one that she provided.
Sabin interrupted that intimacy, informing that the carriage was prepared and ready to go.
-Are you sure you don't want me to go? – asked Terra while Edgar put on his helmet and fixed his armor.
-Yes... - he took her hand in his – But I appreciate the intention, my lady – and he kissed her hand before he left to grab some bags of gold from the treasure room.
He got on the carriage and sat next to Sabin. The trip to South Figaro was not a long one. In half an hour they arrived to the capital of the Kingdom. They went house from house to give the bad news and to leave a bag of money with the promise to receive the same amount once a month. When they left the last house, Sabin suggested Edgar to eat something in the pub, because they hadn't eaten in all the day. Edgar agreed and they had a quick meal. They paid the check and returned to the carriage after making a quick visit to the major. When they were near the South Figaro Cave, they saw a strange man near the entrance. The man was certainly strange. He was wearing an old, dusty grey cloak, the old pants were brown and so the boots. The shirt was blue in the same conditions, like the rest of his outfit. His long hair was black with shades of purple. His eyes were brown, with a weird glow that suit perfectly in his hard face. He seemed not to notice the carriage and entered the cave. Edgar and Sabin stared at each other.
-That dude is certainly strange – said Sabin.
-You're right... - agreed Edgar – Shall we follow him?
-I think so... - said Sabin while he indicated the driver to stop the carriage.
-Return to the castle – ordered Edgar to the driver after they got off the carriage.
-Don't you want me to wait for you? – asked the driver with respect.
-No... We may delay and it's not safe for you to wait all alone here, so I prefer you to return to the castle and tell the chancellor that we had something to do in the cave – said Edgar. The driver nodded and urged the chocobos.
The twins entered the cave. They walked for several searching for the man but, except for a shadow, they didn't find a single clue of him.
-He entered the cave, didn't he? – said Sabin confused scratching his head – You saw he enter as well, right?
-Of course he entered... - said Edgar with a frown – This is strange...
Sabin nodded in agreement. They kept searching for around an hour, when Edgar suggested to go to check the place were the strange shrine was. Sabin thought it was a good idea, without mentioning he was curious to see the mysterious place, so they went there. Sabin couldn't believe such a place was in that cave and they never noticed before. Edgar snapped him out of his surprise reminding him they were searching for someone. Sabin nodded and they looked for the man. The man wasn't there, but a couple of soldiers form the army of Gaston did show up when they were near the entrance, and attacked the twins as soon as they saw them. Edgar and Sabin easily defeated them and decided to take them as prisoners, but before they could secure them, both men grabbed a knife hidden in their breast plate and buried it into their throats. Edgar and Sabin stared at each other with eyes widened with surprise.
-Why they do that? – said Sabin making a gesture of disgust because of the amount of blood.
-I can only imagine that those are their orders if they got caught – said Edgar – Die before being imprisoned.
-But why? – repeated Sabin.
-So they wont be forced to talk – explained Edgar.
-And what are we going to do about the strange man? Do we keep looking for him?
-I think we wont be able to find him... It seems he just... vanished – answered Edgar.
-But no one can just "vanish" ... That's impossible...
-There are a lot of weird things going on – said Edgar.
-Then, shall we go? – asked Sabin.
-Yes. But first, lets take these guys outside and buried them. I don't want to leave them here, so they decompose or get eaten by monsters...
Sabin nodded. They carried them outside and buried them under the sand. Then, they walked towards the castle without noticing a shadow that followed them closely.
*****
-Are you sure they stayed in the cave? – asked Terra for the tenth time to Locke. They were near the gate of the castle, staring at the desert, waiting for the return of the Figaro twins.
-That's what the driver told me... - answered Locke patiently.
-But it's been almost three hours since the driver returned and there are no signs of them.
-Don't worry, Terra – said Locke patting her in the shoulder – Maybe they found something interesting and they are investigating.
-I can't believe he left them alone... - said Terra worried – Specially Edgar... He just can go like if nothing is happening and he is the one who is in the greater danger. Gaston may be waiting for an opportunity to attack him and he is just making it easier for him.
-You're overreacting – said Locke – Nothing's going to happen to them... - he stared at the desert and with a smile he continued – Look. Here they come.
Terra followed Locke's eyes. The twins were walking slowly and quietly to the castle. They seemed tired and troubled about something.
-Finally – said Terra when they crossed the gate of the castle – I've been worried... What took you so long? – and watching their clothes tainted with blood, she asked concerned – And why your clothes have blood? Are you hurt?
Edgar and Sabin stared at each other. Edgar nodded and Sabin said:
-It's kinda long ... Why don't we go inside?
Terra and Locke agreed and they entered the castle. The shadow that had been following the twins entered the castle as well. They went to Edgar's private chambers. The king removed his helmet and breast plate and he sat in the bed. Terra sat next to him as she asked:
-What happened? What took you so long in the cave?
Edgar sighed.
-When we were about to return to the castle, we saw a strange man enter the cave, so we decided to see what he wanted – he said.
-That's why we ordered the driver to return to the castle, because we thought it was going to take us a while, as it did – said Sabin sitting in the chair in front of the desk.
-Any way – said Edgar – We got into the cave in order to search for the man...
-And why he was in the cave? – asked Locke who was leaning in the wall with his arms crossed.
-We didn't have the chance to ask – said Sabin.
-Why? – asked Terra confused.
-Because there was a inconvenient– answered Edgar throwing his head behind.
-We find a couple of guys from Gaston's army. We fought 'em and beat 'em – said Sabin – We decided to make them prisoners, but...
-They killed themselves – concluded Edgar the sentence – They cut their throats with a knife... They preferred death instead of being imprisoned.
-We buried them, that's why our clothes are tainted with blood – said Sabin pointing his shirt.
-And, the man? – asked Locke – Did you find him?
Edgar and Sabin shooked their heads.
-No... - mumbled Sabin – It seems he just vanished, or something.
Locke frowned. Terra bit her under lip.
-I know – said Edgar noticing their gestures – We felt... feel , the same way.
-Are you sure he entered the cave? – said Locke.
-Of course we're sure! – exclaimed Sabin – And when we entered we saw a shadow but that was it.
-That's strange – said Terra.
-I know – said Edgar – But we win nothing worrying... - he stood and he stretched his arms – So why don't we forget about it – he walked to the door – Now, if you excuse me I need to have a talk with Mr. Rugaon.
-I'll go with you – said Locke – I'm kinda curious about that mysterious plaque...
Edgar make a gesture with his head indicating Locke to follow him. Sabin said he take a shower while Terra went with Celes and Relm that were in the top of the castle.
Locke and Edgar arrived to the library. Braguin was so concentrated in the plaque that he didn't hear when they entered room. Edgar put his arm on Braguin's shoulder.
-How's it going? – he asked.
Braguin jumped a little.
-Oh! It's you.... – he said relieved – You scared me, Your Majesty.
Edgar smiled briefly.
-Sorry... So, how's it going? – he repeated.
-Actually I discovered something quite... I don't know if disturbing or amazing... - said the old archeologist.
-What is it? – asked Locke impatient.
-This two plaques indicated me that there are, according to what I decipher, three more...
Edgar and Locke share a glance of surprise.
-Three more?! – exclaimed Locke – Another three of this thingies?
-And where are they? – asked Edgar – You have any idea?
Braguin took a plaque from the desk.
-If what I decipher it's right... There's one of these in an entrance to the underground. And in the actual world there are five entrances to the underground – he explained.
Edgar put a hand on his chin in a pensive attitude.
-One plaque was found in the Cave of Figaro, the other one according to Clyde was in a train that came from Tzen and it passed under the town, so maybe it was in what we know as Phoenix Cave... - he said – And the other entrances to underground are... The Cave of the Veldt, the mines in Narshe and...
-The ancient castle – said Locke.
Edgar nodded.
-So you suggest we go to those places to look for the rest of the plaques? – asked the king.
-Yes – was Braguin's answer – but first I need to ask you for a favor.
-Sure – said Edgar – What is it?
-Can you take me to the Cave of Figaro? I would like to see that mysterious shrine you and Clyde told me about.
-Sure – said Edgar – but just let me change and we go after supper.
Braguin nodded. Locke and Edgar returned to the later room.
-This is getting more complicated – muttered Locke when they entered the room.
-I agree – said Edgar removing the rest of the armor and his shirt – I totally agree.
-Are you going to the cave? – asked Locke while Edgar went to the bath to clean up.
-Of course – answered Edgar from the other room – Only, Clyde, Thiago, Sabin and myself know how to get to the place.
-I'll go to – said Locke after several minutes– I want to see that place. I'm curious.
-But I warn you – said Edgar returning from the bathroom drying his long hair with a towel – There's nothing there you can steal – and his lips curved in a teasing smile as he put the towel around his shoulders.
Locke sent him an angry look as he said irritated:
-You're so funny that you kill me... - then he smiled evilly. He grabbed a vase from the table and throw it directly to Edgar's direction that was distracted putting a shirt and was hit in the forehead by it.
-What's your problem?! – reclaimed Edgar furious covering his forehead with his hand.
-I'm sorry – apologized Locke – I thought you'll avoid it... Guess I was wrong.
Now Edgar was the one with the angry look in his face.
-Let me take a look – suggested Locke. Edgar sat on the chair so Locke could check on the hit.
-It's just a bump – said Locke – It'll disappear in a couple of days.
-You're the one who's gonna disappear in two days – mumbled Edgar. Locke smiled before he said:
-I'll let you change – he walked to the door and opened it – Are we going to tell the others what Braguin told us?
Edgar pressed his lips together before he answered:
-Yes. Why don't you tell them while I change?
Locke nodded. He got out of the room and closed the door. Edgar put on his royal outfit and his cloak. He checked his forehead in the mirror. The right part was swollen with shades of red, purple, green and black.
-That Cole – he said in a low voice – If he weren't a friend I'll.... – he interrupted himself. In the mirror he saw a black reflection that moved rapidly around the room. He passed his eyes all over the room but he didn't see anything.
-It must have been my imagination – he said as he shrugged. He fixed his hair in the ponytail and he left the room being followed by the shadow.
He walked trough the corridors towards the top of the highest tower of the castle. He suddenly felt the need of fresh air, besides, Locke was going to inform the others what Braguin told them. And he certainly could use some time alone. He needed to think and clear his mind. He stared at the view. It was a nice afternoon. The sun was shining and there was a little air blowing. Edgar felt his lungs with the air and then he sighed. He began to recall the battle of the night before and when he got to the point when Gaston attacked them with the fireball, he thought:
-Magic... It has to be Magic... There's no other way he can produce a fireball of that magnitude and power... But how? That's the question... How? Unless... But that's impossible, if Magic had returned, the powers of Terra, Celes, Relm and Strago would be back too... Then how? – he closed his eyes trying to think on a reason, but all the thoughts that came to his head were highly improbable. Then a thought come to him. It could be the answer – But I'll need to ask something to Braguin – he muttered.
He left the tower almost running and he walked fastly until he reached the library.
-Braguin – he said – I need to ask you a question.
Braguin stared at the king surprised and nodded.
-Is there a possibility that the plaques are magical... I mean if they can provide magic to people – said Edgar.
Braguin took one of the plaques from the table.
-That's very probable – he said – This plaques share characteristics similar to the magicites, but they are more similar to espers, if you understand what I mean.
Edgar's eyes widened in surprise understanding what Braguin meant.
-The power of the plaques can be drained... And then infused to people?
Braguin nodded.
-Strago told me about what happened last night....
-That means that, at least, Gaston has one plaque on his power – interrupted Edgar – That's why he used that fireball, because he's been infused.
-I'm afraid so... - said the old archeologist – That's why you need to search for the other plaques. To be sure they don't fall in Gaston's hands.
Edgar nodded slightly. He pressed his lips together. What Braguin just told him confirmed his thoughts and mostly, his fears.
-I need you to promise me that you wont tell what we just talk to anyone, Braguin – said Edgar rubbing his chin – We better be sure before we dare to make an affirmation. Although I'm very sure that's the answer.
-Don't worry – sad Braguin smiling – I agree with you, is better we keep this for ourselves.
Edgar thanked Braguin with a movement of his head.
-And what else you've discovered? – asked Edgar.
Braguin put the plaque back on the table.
-The writings in the plaques have a logic. I mean they have an order in what's written on them... And for what I've been able to decipher, this plaques are number two and three.
-So, one, four and five are missing – said Edgar – And what's written on them? What it says?
-The first one says: The elements and their strength are safe within... Put all of us together and the true power will be released... The second one says: But beware, only the chosen ones can unseal the power... The ones with magic inside...
Edgar frowned as soon as Braguin ended reading.
-What does that mean? – asked the King.
-I'm not sure... That's why I need the other plaques to find out.
-I understand... - Edgar sat in a chair next to Braguin before he said – Look. First we go to the shrine in the cave of Figaro, then we see what we do about the other plaques...
Braguin nodded.
-I have the feeling that the shrine is going to unravel some mysteries – he said.
-I hope so – said Edgar as he sighed.
Braguin was going to say something about Edgar's bump when someone knocked the door.
-May I come in? – said Thiago's voice.
-Come in – said Edgar.
Thiago opened the door and made a reverence.
-Excuse me, Your Majesty, but meal is ready – said the young man.
-Ordered to serve it immediately – Edgar stood as he said – But I'm going to have my food in my office. I have work to do and it must be over before tonight.
Thiago made another reverence and he left the room.
-Why don't you join them – said Edgar to Braguin – When you're done, we go to the shrine.
Braguin nodded. They abandoned the library together. Braguin went to the dinning room, Edgar, to his office. He locked the door and laid his back against it.
-This is even worst that I ever thought – he whispered.