Chapter VIII: A bad omen.
Sabin walked around the library like a lion in a cage. Since they gave the plaque to Braguin he'd been with the old archeologist in the library and almost every five minutes he asked the old man if he had discovered something, but Braguin, or didn't listen to him or just ignored him, because he didn't answer. And the patience of the prince was beginning to fade. Although patience wasn't exactly one of his biggest qualities. So he decided to leave the library and he went with Cyan and Strago that were in the room of the later. But he quickly got bored, they were using words he didn't understand and he wasn't in a mood to ask what they meant so he abandoned the room and went to his favorite part of the castle: the roof of the main tower, that was also his brother's favorite.
He stared at the sky. It was a nice afternoon. It wasn't too hot as they often were in Figaro and even the breeze wasn't as warm as it used to be. He even dared to think it was a little cold. He took a deep breath as he stared at the men working on the reparations of the castle. It might take a while until the castle could be totally repaired, but if the battles continue to carry on, it may be longer than he imagined.
He sighed. It was in moments like that that he felt a great admiration for his brother. He was grateful with Edgar for letting him go, sacrificing his own freedom for his. Besides, he always knew that his brother was more capable to rule the kingdom, and he had proven it. Sabin couldn't imagine himself handling with the Empire, Kefka and with the other matters of the kingdom as well as his brother did. And with the present situation, his thoughts were reassured. And even if he wasn't a good leader as Edgar, but he was going to help his brother to defend Figaro, after all, he was the prince and he really loved Figaro, although it didn't look like it.
He stretched his arms and returned inside. As he walked towards the library he thought it maybe a good idea to write to Master Duncan. He was a great fighter and he could be of great help during the battles. Besides, he wanted to see his master. But he thought he may ask Edgar's opinion before writing to Duncan.
He opened the door of the library and Braguin was still examining the plaque. Sabin patted him in the shoulder as he asked: -How's it going?
Braguin answered without removing his eyes from the plaque:
-I'll need more time – and he said no more.
Sabin frowned a little upset. He was tempted to punch Braguin on the head, but he contained himself and left to the dinning room, after a maid informed them that the food was ready, but Braguin was so concentrated that he stayed in the library. When Sabin arrived, Strago and Cyan were already in their sits.
-He found something? – asked eagerly Strago.
Sabin shook his head.
-He said he needs more time – he said as the food was served in the plates.
Cyan and Strago only sighed. They ate in silence and when they were done, they decided to go to the main gate to wait for the arrival of their friends.
Around 8 o'clock, Clyde's group return. They seemed tired.
-You were lucky? – asked Sabin to Clyde as they approached them.
-No... It seems that Edgar was right, Gaston has a plaque in his possession – said Clyde upset.
Sabin cursed under his breath.
-How thou managed to return here so soon? – asked Cyan with his typical polite and respectful tone.
-His Majesty sent a ship to bring us here when we ended our searching – answered Thiago. -And it really was a fast trip – said Relm – It was not as fast as the Falcon, but certainly was fast... - she made a pause before she asked – Have Setzer and the other arrived yet?
Sabin shook his head.
-Remember that the mines of Narshe are huge – he said – I think they'll return in a couple of hours... I think it's better if we go inside... It's getting colder – he said as a clod breeze blew.
-Yeah... - said Clyde as he stroke the head of his dog – It's a strange breeze for a place like these.
They only nodded as they entered the castle. Sabin and Strago went to check on Braguin, that gave the same answer: I'll need more time. They went to the dinning room, were Clyde, Relm, Gau and Thiago had dinner. Gau told all the details of what happened in the cave.
-That means that Gaston and company knew the importance of the plaques before we even knew they existed – said Clyde as he gave a piece of dry meat to Interceptor.
-I wonder what are Gaston true intentions – said Sabin scratching his head.
-Well, one thing is sure, they're not good intentions – said Strago.
They nodded in agreement and finished the food in silence. It was almost ten o' clock when one of the guards entered the room and informed:
-The airship has arrived.
They ran to the back part of the castle. One by one they appeared on the Falcon's door, one's with a sad gesture, other's with an angry one. And for their surprise Mog appeared just behind Terra and was the last one to abandon the ship.
-What happened? – asked a worried Sabin to his brother, that had a really scary look on his face.
-Umaro is dead – was Edgar's answer.
-WHAT?! – exclaimed Sabin and Relm in unison – How it happened?
-He was killed, kuppo, by that guy named Gaston, kuppo – said Mog sadly – He traveled Umaro's chest with a sword, kuppo...
-That bastard – said Clyde clenching his fists – And why he did such a thing?
-Because Umaro didn't handle the plaque when he demanded... - said Setzer angry and sad.
-That means... - began to say Strago but Edgar finished the sentence for him:
-That Gaston stole the plaque from us...
-So now he has two – said Sabin in a low voice.
-Then I was right – said Edgar with a strange smile – Which one? The one in the Ancient Castle or the one in the Veldt?
-In the Veldt – answered Gau – The animals in the cave told that some men dressed in red armors went there a couple of months ago and left after they found a strange golden object.
Edgar only gave a single nod.
-So you find the plaque in the Ancient Castle – said Edgar to his brother.
-Yes... We had a fight with some of Gaston's men and with a behemot, but we defeated them. Braguin is in the library studying it. A cold breeze blew, making them to shiver. Edgar frowned.
-What the hell is this breeze? – he said to himself. Then raising his voice he said – Why don't we go inside? It's kinda cold out here.
They entered the castle. Before they arrived to the dinning room, Edgar and Setzer decided to go to the library first. Edgar walked next to Braguin and asked to the old archeologist that was writing something in a paper:
-How's it going?
-Oh! Your Majesty – said Braguin a little surprised – I finally managed to decipher what this one says... I would've end up earlier, but your brother kept interrupting me and distracting me.
Edgar smile lightly. Setzer asked:
-So, what it says?
-It says: When the world was created The Gods gifted it with a power that flows inside.
-I assume that Sabin found plaque number one – said Edgar.
-You're right, Your Majesty, this is plaque number one... Did you find another plaque?
Setzer and Edgar shook their heads.
-I'm afraid that Gaston has the other two plaques... - said Edgar trying to hide the hate that pronouncing Gaston name produced him.
Braguin sighed disappointed.
-Well, I'll try to see what else I can discover, but I without the other two plaques, I cannot assure anything. -I understand – said Edgar slowly. He sighed and asked – Why don't we go to eat something?
Setzer and Braguin nodded and they went to the dinning room, where the others were already eating. They sat and began to eat. When they were done, Braguin informed what he decipher in the plaque. They listen to him silently, not knowing what it could meant. Edgar broke the silence by saying:
-We better get ready for the battle.
They nodded and left the room to get prepared. As Edgar put on his armor, he thought that now that Gaston had two plaques in his hands, his attacks were going to be more violent and aggressive. After all, he was eager to posses the plaques, but if he wanted them, he had to pass over his dead body. And that was never going to happen, because he wanted to make Gaston pay for what he did to Umaro.
He abandoned his room and went to his post and waited for the attack. But there was no attack. Edgar's frown grew deep as them minutes passed and became two hours.
-I don't think they're coming tonight – said Locke a little relieved for not having to fight.
-We better return to the castle – suggested Setzer – It's getting colder out here – and a cold wind blew.
Edgar nodded and said to the general next to him:
-Order the return to the castle. But be prepared, just in case.
The general followed Edgar's instruction as they returned to the castle, where Celes, Terra, Relm and Strago asked:
-Why he didn't attack?
Edgar just shrugged.
-You must be tired. Why don't you go to bed? – he said to his friends. They agreed and went to their rooms. But Edgar went to his office instead, followed by Setzer and Thiago.
-Worried? – asked Setzer as Edgar sat in the chair.
-I just wonder what Gaston's up to now – said the king as he removed the helmet and scratched his head – I thought he was going to attack with all his power to take the rest of the plaques form us, but I never expected this.
-You're right – said Setzer sitting in the chair in front of Edgar – But if you ask me I think he's going to use a different pattern to attack.
-Maybe you're right – said Edgar. He sighed – If only we knew where his base is...
-Yeah... - said Setzer – But we're clue less where it could be... They just disappeared like if the earth swallowed them...
-There must be a way to find where his base is – murmured Edgar.
-Perhaps there's a way – said Thiago that was standing in the frame of the door.
-What do you mean by that, kid? – questioned Setzer turning to face him.
-Well, I think there may be a way to sneak in their base... - said Thiago.
-What way? – asked Edgar curious.
-The next time they attack Figaro, I can steal the armor of one of Gaston's men, put it on and, well, followed them into their base. That way I can find out where his base is and how we can attack it so we have the advantage – explained Thiago.
Edgar and Setzer stared at each other between surprised and pleased.
-That's a good idea – said Setzer raising an eyebrow.
-Something he'll never expect – said Edgar. Then staring at Thiago he asked to him – Are you sure you want to do it?
Thiago nodded.
-Of course – he said confident – I'll do anything to help Figaro.
-But I don't want to jeopardize your life – said Edgar a little concerned.
-Don't worry, Your Majesty – said Thiago smiling – I'm good at passing unnoticed and sneaking. Nothing's going to happen to me...
-Let the kid do it – said Setzer – I'm sure he'll do it well.
-Okay, Thiago – said Edgar – The next time they attack, we'll help you to put out your plan...
Thiago smiled once again and left the office after making little reverence with his head and closing the door behind him.
-A brave kid – said Setzer after he left.
-Just like his father – muttered Edgar.
-How his father died? – asked Setzer with curiosity.
-He was killed by one of his former ship companions in the pub of South Figaro. The man claimed that he stole from him, and killed him as playback. Of course the murderer is now in jail – answered Edgar.
-Poor Thiago – said Setzer with pity.
Edgar nodded.
-That's why I offered him to stay and work for me. He had no one else in the world, but his father, and I didn't want him to return to be a pirate. He's very handy and always willing to help, as you have seen – he said.
Setzer just sighed, nodding. He stood and said that he was going to get some sleep, advising Edgar to do the same. The gambler left the office, leaving Edgar submerged in his thoughts. He couldn't get the image of Umaro dying out of his head. He never imagined that he would see one of his friends die. He stood and walked to the window and opened it. It was really cold. Edgar didn't remembered a time where the night were as cold as that night. He rubbed his arms, and remembered that Terra kept his cloak. He took a deep breath and abandoned his office and went to his room. He laid in the bed, still dressed. In his mind, the image of Gaston, with that cold smile kept appearing, making him unable to sleep. But what make him felt more unease was the way that Gaston stared at Terra, with a twisted happiness. He stared at the ceiling until he fell into slumber.
******
-Why didn't you let me attack tonight? –asked Gaston angrily standing next to the red curtains – I would have smashed that stupid king once and for all, and recover the plaques from them.
-Because I have another plan – said the cold voice from the curtains.
-What is it? – asked Gaston still angry.
-It involves Kraven – answered the voice.
-Kraven? – said surprised Gaston – But how? Remember he can't get in contact with anything material, because his infusion went wrong. And he won't be able to steal the plaques, not even touch them.
-Who said I wanted Kraven to steal the plaques? – said the voice.
-Then? – asked Gaston a little confused.
-You told me that the Terra that Kraven mentioned the King of Figaro was in love with was the same Terra we knew – Gaston nodded. The voice continued – Well, if she once helped us, she may do it again.
Gaston raised an eyebrow interested as he asked smiling:
-What's your plan?
-I want to explain it until Kraven arrives, but I can anticipate you that you'll collaborate too – said the voice.
Gaston only grinned. He could only imagine the suffering of the King of Figaro and his friends, and that was certainly an amusing idea.
******
Terra opened her eyes slowly. She stared at the window and thought it was pretty early, because, there was no sunlight, but for her surprise it was already 10 in the morning. She opened the window and noticed that there were grey clouds covering the sky, and the cold breeze kept blowing. She returned inside and sat in the edge of the bed, as she stared at Edgar's cloak that was in the chair next to the bed. She remembered the thoughts she had the day before in Narshe. For some reason, she no longer felt depressed, sad or unsatisfied. She no longer yearned for Leo. The simple thought of Edgar made her feel comforted and secure. The feeling that appeared everytime she was in his arms, everytime he smiled, everytime he was around.
But now she was confused about her feelings toward Edgar. Gratitude, friendship or maybe something else? She wasn't sure of the answer. Terra sighed and decided to put on her clothes and fix her hair. She grabbed Edgar's cloak from the chair and left the room. In the hallway she found a maid that informed her that Edgar, Sabin, Braguin, Setzer and Thiago were already up, and where in the dinning room. Terra thanked the information and went to the dinning room. In the way she met with Locke, Celes, Relm and Clyde. They entered the room and noticed that Edgar and Sabin were missing. Terra asked the others where they were. Thiago answered that they were in Edgar's office, with the major of South Figaro.
They waited for the others to wake (Mog, Strago, Cyan and Gau) and had breakfast, while they remembered some moments they shared with Umaro. Minutes later, Sabin entered the room alone, saying that Edgar stayed in his office, arguing he had to catch up with the work. After they finished eating, Braguin went to the library accompanied by Strago and Cyan. Celes, Relm, Mog and Gau went to the gardens. Setzer, Locke, Sabin and Thiago decided to stay and play poker. Terra was the first one to leave the room and went to Edgar's office. She knocked the door as she hold his cloak. She heard the voice of Edgar allowing her in.
-Busy? – asked Terra as she entered the room, closing the door behind her.
Edgar, that was reading a paper, raised his eyes and smiled at the sight of her.
-For you, never – he said. Terra tried not to blush as this comment.
-Sabin told us that the major of South Figaro came – she said after s moment of silence.
-He wanted to discuss about the situation with Gaston – said Edgar dully.
-Discuss? – asked Terra frowning.
-Yes... He said he was concerned about the citizens in South Figaro, because the war may affect the town. I told him I'll never allow the war reach South Figaro. I thought he believed me, but I'm not sure, and honestly I don't care. I have more important things to worry about – answered Edgar annoyed. He sighed and smiling he asked – What brings you here?
Terra remembered the cloak she was carrying in her arms and said:
-I came to return your cloak – and she stretched her arms. Edgar stood from the chair, but instead of grabbing the cloak, he grabbed Terra's hand. At the contact of his hand, Terra couldn't help to blush.
-What are you doing? – she asked nervously.
-Come with me – he said, opening the door with his free hand and pulling her outside.
-Where are we going? – she asked still nervous.
Edgar didn't answer. He just kept his hand on hers and dragged her until they reached the roof of the highest tower of the castle.
-Why you brought me here? – questioned Terra, as she began to shiver, because the air was cold.
-I wanted to talk to you without interruptions – he answered as he let go of her hand and grabbed the cloak in her arms and put it around he shoulders.
-Of what? – asked Terra.
Edgar lain his back against the rock banister and said:
-I just wanted to know how you were feeling, that's all.
Terra walked next to him and said as she fixed her eyes on the cloudy gray sky.
-Since our last talk, I've felt much better – she said – I just needed to talk to someone. And I'm so glad you forced me to talk, because now I understand that I just had to let Leo go. I didn't notice when it happened, but I no longer love Leo. I think I was just in love of the idea, of the memory of Leo. But now I realized that I was just obsessed of what would've happened if Leo lived – she took a deep breath and concluded – And I must thank you, Edgar. Because of you I was able to figure this out.
Edgar listened to her, feeling how happiness began to grow in his chest. He looked at her trying to make sure she was being honest and what he saw in her green orbs was the light that always lighten her eyes, that light he didn't see the past days, that unique light that make Terra so special.
-I'm glad I was of help – he said trying to contain the excitement that her words produced him – But I'm happier that you are just your old self.
Terra smiled and nodded. Edgar smiled back. Maybe know he had a chance with Terra. He bit his under lip, doubtful, staring at Terra's profile as she stared at the horizon. He heard the voice of Celes saying that he should tell her how he felt about her. He sighed and after more seconds of mental struggle, he made up his mind. He put his hands on Terra's shoulders and make her face him. Terra stared at Edgar with eyes of surprise. Edgar (maybe for the first time) didn't what to tell her. All the lines he used on those situations, sounded shallow and empty. The only he could think of one thing to do. Terra felt how her face turned bright red and how her heart began to beat furiously as Edgar's lips began to move closer to hers.
Ten inches.
-I hope she doesn't reject me – thought Edgar.
Nine inches.
-Oh my! What's he doing? – thought Terra.
Eight inches. Seven inches.
-Just a little more – thought Edgar closing his eyes. Six inches.
-He's going to kiss me... It's the first time I'm going to be kissed like this – thought Terra as she closed her eyes too.
Five inches. Four inches.
-Oh dear Bahamut! – thought Terra excited and nervous as she put her arms around Edgar's neck.
Three inches. Two inches.
Their lips were bearly touching when they heard the deafening sound of a thunder. Terra release Edgar's neck and move a step backwards as she opened her eyes. Edgar also opened his eyes and raised them to the sky and said on a low voice:
-Damn nature – and he felt a drop of water of his face. He frowned – Water? – he murmured.
The drop multiplied into thousand of hundreds of drops as the storm unleashed. Terra ran inside for refuge. But Edgar stayed in the rain as he muttered:
-Impossible... It can't be raining. It's just impossible.
Terra noticed Edgar still in the rain. She shouted to him, but he didn't even move an inch. He kept muttering it was just impossible. Terra ran to him, grabbed his arm and dragged him inside.
-Why are you so surprised? – asked Terra, frowning, once inside – It seems looks like you never saw rain before.
-Not in Figaro – answered Edgar.
-What do you mean? – said Terra still with the frown.
-The last registered rain in Figaro was when my great grand father was the King.
Terra's eyes widened.
-And that was like 85 years ago – continued Edgar – Now you understand why I'm so surprised...
Terra nodded. They stayed in silence as they walked toward they chambers. Terra avoided to stare Edgar directly in his eyes. She wasn't sure why she did what she did up in the tower. If a few hours she was confused about her feelings for Edgar, now she was even more confused. On the other hand, it felt so fine, it felt correct. Like it was the right thing, and she was so eager for it to happen.
Edgar noticed Terra staring away from him. Edgar felt totally frustrated. When he finally was brave enough to do what he did, it began to rain. But even if he only caressed her lips, he felt something he never felt before for any woman he had kissed before. And that only confirmed his love for Terra. But he wanted to know how she felt about him. So, before they arrived to the hallway that lead to her room, he began to say:
-Terra, I ...- but he was interrupted by all his friends that ran to them.
-What the hell with the rain in a desert? – said Locke – First the creepy cold of yesterday, now, this rain.
-Yeah – agreed Sabin – I thought that in the deserts never rained.
-I was telling Terra that the last registered rain in Figaro was around 85 years ago. I think my grandfather was only a little kid, that's why he didn't remember it – explained Edgar, noticing that Terra walked rapidly to her room, sighed disappointed. He said he was going to change his clothes and went to his room.
******
It kept raining all day. And the rain make Edgar feel uneasy. Like if something extraordinary was about to happen. But he didn't have time to worry about that. It was almost midnight, and he was already in his position in the battlefield, that was like a gigantic swamp. It was going to be pretty difficult to maneuver with mud until their knees. Edgar, through the rain, saw the red armors of Gaston's men. He exchanged a quick glance with Thiago that nodded. It was time to put his plan on action. Edgar sighed, and gave the order to the troops to march.
The armies met and the battle began. Edgar and Setzer exchanged a sign with Thiago. At this, Thiago nodded and killed the man he was fighting, whose complexion was just like his. He dragged the corpse with difficulty until he was sure no one see him and put on his armor, and stayed there hidden, and waited for the battle to end.
Meanwhile, the battle was a rough one. The mud made it slow and they began to get tired quickly. Edgar was looking for Gaston, but he didn't see him, and the rain make the vision difficult.
Inside, Celes, Strago, Relm and Terra were in their respective posts. And although she could here the fight mixed with the rain, she was like in another place. She could feel vividly Edgar's breath in her mouth and she blushed at this memory. She was so submerged in her thoughts, that she didn't notice the shadow that began to materialize behind her. Kraven smiled when he realized Terra didn't feel his presence. Kraven open his arms and with a fast move covered Terra with his grey cloak. Terra only felt how she fell into shadow and she was transported away.
Terra wasn't sure how many time passed until she felt what was dragging her stopped moving. The shadows slowly vanished and she found herself outside the castle and far form the battle. She looked around and saw a man with rusty clothes kneeling behind her. She turned and almost fainted when she saw Gaston standing in front of her, smiling.
-Good work, Kraven – said Gaston to the man with the rusty clothes. That only bowed his head.
Terra tried to run away but Gaston hold her wrists and whispered to her ear:
-So, you're the famous half – esper that I heard so much about. You must wonder what I brought you here. Well, it's just you once served the Empire, and I thought it was time for you to do it again... - Gaston's tightened his grip – And now you must be asking yourself why? Well, it's just that you're the person that the pathetic King of Figaro holds dearest to his heart – he looked at her scared and surprised face – What? You didn't knew? How indiscreet of me. That's why is going to be so funny when you do what I want you to do... - he let go of one of her arms and took something out of his pocket – Remember the slave crown? – Terra's eyes widened with fear – Well, here I have something that it's even better – he showed her two little silver triangles of about an inch – This things can make you do as I say and be conscious of it. How about that? Even if you tried to refuse, you won't be able to control yourself, no matter how hard you try – Gaston smiled – Isn't it great? – Terra tried to release her hand, but Gaston casted:
-Sleep.
Terra felt how her eyelids began to close against her will. She tried to keep her eyes open, but her efforts were useless, and the last she heard was Gaston's laugh.
Sabin walked around the library like a lion in a cage. Since they gave the plaque to Braguin he'd been with the old archeologist in the library and almost every five minutes he asked the old man if he had discovered something, but Braguin, or didn't listen to him or just ignored him, because he didn't answer. And the patience of the prince was beginning to fade. Although patience wasn't exactly one of his biggest qualities. So he decided to leave the library and he went with Cyan and Strago that were in the room of the later. But he quickly got bored, they were using words he didn't understand and he wasn't in a mood to ask what they meant so he abandoned the room and went to his favorite part of the castle: the roof of the main tower, that was also his brother's favorite.
He stared at the sky. It was a nice afternoon. It wasn't too hot as they often were in Figaro and even the breeze wasn't as warm as it used to be. He even dared to think it was a little cold. He took a deep breath as he stared at the men working on the reparations of the castle. It might take a while until the castle could be totally repaired, but if the battles continue to carry on, it may be longer than he imagined.
He sighed. It was in moments like that that he felt a great admiration for his brother. He was grateful with Edgar for letting him go, sacrificing his own freedom for his. Besides, he always knew that his brother was more capable to rule the kingdom, and he had proven it. Sabin couldn't imagine himself handling with the Empire, Kefka and with the other matters of the kingdom as well as his brother did. And with the present situation, his thoughts were reassured. And even if he wasn't a good leader as Edgar, but he was going to help his brother to defend Figaro, after all, he was the prince and he really loved Figaro, although it didn't look like it.
He stretched his arms and returned inside. As he walked towards the library he thought it maybe a good idea to write to Master Duncan. He was a great fighter and he could be of great help during the battles. Besides, he wanted to see his master. But he thought he may ask Edgar's opinion before writing to Duncan.
He opened the door of the library and Braguin was still examining the plaque. Sabin patted him in the shoulder as he asked: -How's it going?
Braguin answered without removing his eyes from the plaque:
-I'll need more time – and he said no more.
Sabin frowned a little upset. He was tempted to punch Braguin on the head, but he contained himself and left to the dinning room, after a maid informed them that the food was ready, but Braguin was so concentrated that he stayed in the library. When Sabin arrived, Strago and Cyan were already in their sits.
-He found something? – asked eagerly Strago.
Sabin shook his head.
-He said he needs more time – he said as the food was served in the plates.
Cyan and Strago only sighed. They ate in silence and when they were done, they decided to go to the main gate to wait for the arrival of their friends.
Around 8 o'clock, Clyde's group return. They seemed tired.
-You were lucky? – asked Sabin to Clyde as they approached them.
-No... It seems that Edgar was right, Gaston has a plaque in his possession – said Clyde upset.
Sabin cursed under his breath.
-How thou managed to return here so soon? – asked Cyan with his typical polite and respectful tone.
-His Majesty sent a ship to bring us here when we ended our searching – answered Thiago. -And it really was a fast trip – said Relm – It was not as fast as the Falcon, but certainly was fast... - she made a pause before she asked – Have Setzer and the other arrived yet?
Sabin shook his head.
-Remember that the mines of Narshe are huge – he said – I think they'll return in a couple of hours... I think it's better if we go inside... It's getting colder – he said as a clod breeze blew.
-Yeah... - said Clyde as he stroke the head of his dog – It's a strange breeze for a place like these.
They only nodded as they entered the castle. Sabin and Strago went to check on Braguin, that gave the same answer: I'll need more time. They went to the dinning room, were Clyde, Relm, Gau and Thiago had dinner. Gau told all the details of what happened in the cave.
-That means that Gaston and company knew the importance of the plaques before we even knew they existed – said Clyde as he gave a piece of dry meat to Interceptor.
-I wonder what are Gaston true intentions – said Sabin scratching his head.
-Well, one thing is sure, they're not good intentions – said Strago.
They nodded in agreement and finished the food in silence. It was almost ten o' clock when one of the guards entered the room and informed:
-The airship has arrived.
They ran to the back part of the castle. One by one they appeared on the Falcon's door, one's with a sad gesture, other's with an angry one. And for their surprise Mog appeared just behind Terra and was the last one to abandon the ship.
-What happened? – asked a worried Sabin to his brother, that had a really scary look on his face.
-Umaro is dead – was Edgar's answer.
-WHAT?! – exclaimed Sabin and Relm in unison – How it happened?
-He was killed, kuppo, by that guy named Gaston, kuppo – said Mog sadly – He traveled Umaro's chest with a sword, kuppo...
-That bastard – said Clyde clenching his fists – And why he did such a thing?
-Because Umaro didn't handle the plaque when he demanded... - said Setzer angry and sad.
-That means... - began to say Strago but Edgar finished the sentence for him:
-That Gaston stole the plaque from us...
-So now he has two – said Sabin in a low voice.
-Then I was right – said Edgar with a strange smile – Which one? The one in the Ancient Castle or the one in the Veldt?
-In the Veldt – answered Gau – The animals in the cave told that some men dressed in red armors went there a couple of months ago and left after they found a strange golden object.
Edgar only gave a single nod.
-So you find the plaque in the Ancient Castle – said Edgar to his brother.
-Yes... We had a fight with some of Gaston's men and with a behemot, but we defeated them. Braguin is in the library studying it. A cold breeze blew, making them to shiver. Edgar frowned.
-What the hell is this breeze? – he said to himself. Then raising his voice he said – Why don't we go inside? It's kinda cold out here.
They entered the castle. Before they arrived to the dinning room, Edgar and Setzer decided to go to the library first. Edgar walked next to Braguin and asked to the old archeologist that was writing something in a paper:
-How's it going?
-Oh! Your Majesty – said Braguin a little surprised – I finally managed to decipher what this one says... I would've end up earlier, but your brother kept interrupting me and distracting me.
Edgar smile lightly. Setzer asked:
-So, what it says?
-It says: When the world was created The Gods gifted it with a power that flows inside.
-I assume that Sabin found plaque number one – said Edgar.
-You're right, Your Majesty, this is plaque number one... Did you find another plaque?
Setzer and Edgar shook their heads.
-I'm afraid that Gaston has the other two plaques... - said Edgar trying to hide the hate that pronouncing Gaston name produced him.
Braguin sighed disappointed.
-Well, I'll try to see what else I can discover, but I without the other two plaques, I cannot assure anything. -I understand – said Edgar slowly. He sighed and asked – Why don't we go to eat something?
Setzer and Braguin nodded and they went to the dinning room, where the others were already eating. They sat and began to eat. When they were done, Braguin informed what he decipher in the plaque. They listen to him silently, not knowing what it could meant. Edgar broke the silence by saying:
-We better get ready for the battle.
They nodded and left the room to get prepared. As Edgar put on his armor, he thought that now that Gaston had two plaques in his hands, his attacks were going to be more violent and aggressive. After all, he was eager to posses the plaques, but if he wanted them, he had to pass over his dead body. And that was never going to happen, because he wanted to make Gaston pay for what he did to Umaro.
He abandoned his room and went to his post and waited for the attack. But there was no attack. Edgar's frown grew deep as them minutes passed and became two hours.
-I don't think they're coming tonight – said Locke a little relieved for not having to fight.
-We better return to the castle – suggested Setzer – It's getting colder out here – and a cold wind blew.
Edgar nodded and said to the general next to him:
-Order the return to the castle. But be prepared, just in case.
The general followed Edgar's instruction as they returned to the castle, where Celes, Terra, Relm and Strago asked:
-Why he didn't attack?
Edgar just shrugged.
-You must be tired. Why don't you go to bed? – he said to his friends. They agreed and went to their rooms. But Edgar went to his office instead, followed by Setzer and Thiago.
-Worried? – asked Setzer as Edgar sat in the chair.
-I just wonder what Gaston's up to now – said the king as he removed the helmet and scratched his head – I thought he was going to attack with all his power to take the rest of the plaques form us, but I never expected this.
-You're right – said Setzer sitting in the chair in front of Edgar – But if you ask me I think he's going to use a different pattern to attack.
-Maybe you're right – said Edgar. He sighed – If only we knew where his base is...
-Yeah... - said Setzer – But we're clue less where it could be... They just disappeared like if the earth swallowed them...
-There must be a way to find where his base is – murmured Edgar.
-Perhaps there's a way – said Thiago that was standing in the frame of the door.
-What do you mean by that, kid? – questioned Setzer turning to face him.
-Well, I think there may be a way to sneak in their base... - said Thiago.
-What way? – asked Edgar curious.
-The next time they attack Figaro, I can steal the armor of one of Gaston's men, put it on and, well, followed them into their base. That way I can find out where his base is and how we can attack it so we have the advantage – explained Thiago.
Edgar and Setzer stared at each other between surprised and pleased.
-That's a good idea – said Setzer raising an eyebrow.
-Something he'll never expect – said Edgar. Then staring at Thiago he asked to him – Are you sure you want to do it?
Thiago nodded.
-Of course – he said confident – I'll do anything to help Figaro.
-But I don't want to jeopardize your life – said Edgar a little concerned.
-Don't worry, Your Majesty – said Thiago smiling – I'm good at passing unnoticed and sneaking. Nothing's going to happen to me...
-Let the kid do it – said Setzer – I'm sure he'll do it well.
-Okay, Thiago – said Edgar – The next time they attack, we'll help you to put out your plan...
Thiago smiled once again and left the office after making little reverence with his head and closing the door behind him.
-A brave kid – said Setzer after he left.
-Just like his father – muttered Edgar.
-How his father died? – asked Setzer with curiosity.
-He was killed by one of his former ship companions in the pub of South Figaro. The man claimed that he stole from him, and killed him as playback. Of course the murderer is now in jail – answered Edgar.
-Poor Thiago – said Setzer with pity.
Edgar nodded.
-That's why I offered him to stay and work for me. He had no one else in the world, but his father, and I didn't want him to return to be a pirate. He's very handy and always willing to help, as you have seen – he said.
Setzer just sighed, nodding. He stood and said that he was going to get some sleep, advising Edgar to do the same. The gambler left the office, leaving Edgar submerged in his thoughts. He couldn't get the image of Umaro dying out of his head. He never imagined that he would see one of his friends die. He stood and walked to the window and opened it. It was really cold. Edgar didn't remembered a time where the night were as cold as that night. He rubbed his arms, and remembered that Terra kept his cloak. He took a deep breath and abandoned his office and went to his room. He laid in the bed, still dressed. In his mind, the image of Gaston, with that cold smile kept appearing, making him unable to sleep. But what make him felt more unease was the way that Gaston stared at Terra, with a twisted happiness. He stared at the ceiling until he fell into slumber.
******
-Why didn't you let me attack tonight? –asked Gaston angrily standing next to the red curtains – I would have smashed that stupid king once and for all, and recover the plaques from them.
-Because I have another plan – said the cold voice from the curtains.
-What is it? – asked Gaston still angry.
-It involves Kraven – answered the voice.
-Kraven? – said surprised Gaston – But how? Remember he can't get in contact with anything material, because his infusion went wrong. And he won't be able to steal the plaques, not even touch them.
-Who said I wanted Kraven to steal the plaques? – said the voice.
-Then? – asked Gaston a little confused.
-You told me that the Terra that Kraven mentioned the King of Figaro was in love with was the same Terra we knew – Gaston nodded. The voice continued – Well, if she once helped us, she may do it again.
Gaston raised an eyebrow interested as he asked smiling:
-What's your plan?
-I want to explain it until Kraven arrives, but I can anticipate you that you'll collaborate too – said the voice.
Gaston only grinned. He could only imagine the suffering of the King of Figaro and his friends, and that was certainly an amusing idea.
******
Terra opened her eyes slowly. She stared at the window and thought it was pretty early, because, there was no sunlight, but for her surprise it was already 10 in the morning. She opened the window and noticed that there were grey clouds covering the sky, and the cold breeze kept blowing. She returned inside and sat in the edge of the bed, as she stared at Edgar's cloak that was in the chair next to the bed. She remembered the thoughts she had the day before in Narshe. For some reason, she no longer felt depressed, sad or unsatisfied. She no longer yearned for Leo. The simple thought of Edgar made her feel comforted and secure. The feeling that appeared everytime she was in his arms, everytime he smiled, everytime he was around.
But now she was confused about her feelings toward Edgar. Gratitude, friendship or maybe something else? She wasn't sure of the answer. Terra sighed and decided to put on her clothes and fix her hair. She grabbed Edgar's cloak from the chair and left the room. In the hallway she found a maid that informed her that Edgar, Sabin, Braguin, Setzer and Thiago were already up, and where in the dinning room. Terra thanked the information and went to the dinning room. In the way she met with Locke, Celes, Relm and Clyde. They entered the room and noticed that Edgar and Sabin were missing. Terra asked the others where they were. Thiago answered that they were in Edgar's office, with the major of South Figaro.
They waited for the others to wake (Mog, Strago, Cyan and Gau) and had breakfast, while they remembered some moments they shared with Umaro. Minutes later, Sabin entered the room alone, saying that Edgar stayed in his office, arguing he had to catch up with the work. After they finished eating, Braguin went to the library accompanied by Strago and Cyan. Celes, Relm, Mog and Gau went to the gardens. Setzer, Locke, Sabin and Thiago decided to stay and play poker. Terra was the first one to leave the room and went to Edgar's office. She knocked the door as she hold his cloak. She heard the voice of Edgar allowing her in.
-Busy? – asked Terra as she entered the room, closing the door behind her.
Edgar, that was reading a paper, raised his eyes and smiled at the sight of her.
-For you, never – he said. Terra tried not to blush as this comment.
-Sabin told us that the major of South Figaro came – she said after s moment of silence.
-He wanted to discuss about the situation with Gaston – said Edgar dully.
-Discuss? – asked Terra frowning.
-Yes... He said he was concerned about the citizens in South Figaro, because the war may affect the town. I told him I'll never allow the war reach South Figaro. I thought he believed me, but I'm not sure, and honestly I don't care. I have more important things to worry about – answered Edgar annoyed. He sighed and smiling he asked – What brings you here?
Terra remembered the cloak she was carrying in her arms and said:
-I came to return your cloak – and she stretched her arms. Edgar stood from the chair, but instead of grabbing the cloak, he grabbed Terra's hand. At the contact of his hand, Terra couldn't help to blush.
-What are you doing? – she asked nervously.
-Come with me – he said, opening the door with his free hand and pulling her outside.
-Where are we going? – she asked still nervous.
Edgar didn't answer. He just kept his hand on hers and dragged her until they reached the roof of the highest tower of the castle.
-Why you brought me here? – questioned Terra, as she began to shiver, because the air was cold.
-I wanted to talk to you without interruptions – he answered as he let go of her hand and grabbed the cloak in her arms and put it around he shoulders.
-Of what? – asked Terra.
Edgar lain his back against the rock banister and said:
-I just wanted to know how you were feeling, that's all.
Terra walked next to him and said as she fixed her eyes on the cloudy gray sky.
-Since our last talk, I've felt much better – she said – I just needed to talk to someone. And I'm so glad you forced me to talk, because now I understand that I just had to let Leo go. I didn't notice when it happened, but I no longer love Leo. I think I was just in love of the idea, of the memory of Leo. But now I realized that I was just obsessed of what would've happened if Leo lived – she took a deep breath and concluded – And I must thank you, Edgar. Because of you I was able to figure this out.
Edgar listened to her, feeling how happiness began to grow in his chest. He looked at her trying to make sure she was being honest and what he saw in her green orbs was the light that always lighten her eyes, that light he didn't see the past days, that unique light that make Terra so special.
-I'm glad I was of help – he said trying to contain the excitement that her words produced him – But I'm happier that you are just your old self.
Terra smiled and nodded. Edgar smiled back. Maybe know he had a chance with Terra. He bit his under lip, doubtful, staring at Terra's profile as she stared at the horizon. He heard the voice of Celes saying that he should tell her how he felt about her. He sighed and after more seconds of mental struggle, he made up his mind. He put his hands on Terra's shoulders and make her face him. Terra stared at Edgar with eyes of surprise. Edgar (maybe for the first time) didn't what to tell her. All the lines he used on those situations, sounded shallow and empty. The only he could think of one thing to do. Terra felt how her face turned bright red and how her heart began to beat furiously as Edgar's lips began to move closer to hers.
Ten inches.
-I hope she doesn't reject me – thought Edgar.
Nine inches.
-Oh my! What's he doing? – thought Terra.
Eight inches. Seven inches.
-Just a little more – thought Edgar closing his eyes. Six inches.
-He's going to kiss me... It's the first time I'm going to be kissed like this – thought Terra as she closed her eyes too.
Five inches. Four inches.
-Oh dear Bahamut! – thought Terra excited and nervous as she put her arms around Edgar's neck.
Three inches. Two inches.
Their lips were bearly touching when they heard the deafening sound of a thunder. Terra release Edgar's neck and move a step backwards as she opened her eyes. Edgar also opened his eyes and raised them to the sky and said on a low voice:
-Damn nature – and he felt a drop of water of his face. He frowned – Water? – he murmured.
The drop multiplied into thousand of hundreds of drops as the storm unleashed. Terra ran inside for refuge. But Edgar stayed in the rain as he muttered:
-Impossible... It can't be raining. It's just impossible.
Terra noticed Edgar still in the rain. She shouted to him, but he didn't even move an inch. He kept muttering it was just impossible. Terra ran to him, grabbed his arm and dragged him inside.
-Why are you so surprised? – asked Terra, frowning, once inside – It seems looks like you never saw rain before.
-Not in Figaro – answered Edgar.
-What do you mean? – said Terra still with the frown.
-The last registered rain in Figaro was when my great grand father was the King.
Terra's eyes widened.
-And that was like 85 years ago – continued Edgar – Now you understand why I'm so surprised...
Terra nodded. They stayed in silence as they walked toward they chambers. Terra avoided to stare Edgar directly in his eyes. She wasn't sure why she did what she did up in the tower. If a few hours she was confused about her feelings for Edgar, now she was even more confused. On the other hand, it felt so fine, it felt correct. Like it was the right thing, and she was so eager for it to happen.
Edgar noticed Terra staring away from him. Edgar felt totally frustrated. When he finally was brave enough to do what he did, it began to rain. But even if he only caressed her lips, he felt something he never felt before for any woman he had kissed before. And that only confirmed his love for Terra. But he wanted to know how she felt about him. So, before they arrived to the hallway that lead to her room, he began to say:
-Terra, I ...- but he was interrupted by all his friends that ran to them.
-What the hell with the rain in a desert? – said Locke – First the creepy cold of yesterday, now, this rain.
-Yeah – agreed Sabin – I thought that in the deserts never rained.
-I was telling Terra that the last registered rain in Figaro was around 85 years ago. I think my grandfather was only a little kid, that's why he didn't remember it – explained Edgar, noticing that Terra walked rapidly to her room, sighed disappointed. He said he was going to change his clothes and went to his room.
******
It kept raining all day. And the rain make Edgar feel uneasy. Like if something extraordinary was about to happen. But he didn't have time to worry about that. It was almost midnight, and he was already in his position in the battlefield, that was like a gigantic swamp. It was going to be pretty difficult to maneuver with mud until their knees. Edgar, through the rain, saw the red armors of Gaston's men. He exchanged a quick glance with Thiago that nodded. It was time to put his plan on action. Edgar sighed, and gave the order to the troops to march.
The armies met and the battle began. Edgar and Setzer exchanged a sign with Thiago. At this, Thiago nodded and killed the man he was fighting, whose complexion was just like his. He dragged the corpse with difficulty until he was sure no one see him and put on his armor, and stayed there hidden, and waited for the battle to end.
Meanwhile, the battle was a rough one. The mud made it slow and they began to get tired quickly. Edgar was looking for Gaston, but he didn't see him, and the rain make the vision difficult.
Inside, Celes, Strago, Relm and Terra were in their respective posts. And although she could here the fight mixed with the rain, she was like in another place. She could feel vividly Edgar's breath in her mouth and she blushed at this memory. She was so submerged in her thoughts, that she didn't notice the shadow that began to materialize behind her. Kraven smiled when he realized Terra didn't feel his presence. Kraven open his arms and with a fast move covered Terra with his grey cloak. Terra only felt how she fell into shadow and she was transported away.
Terra wasn't sure how many time passed until she felt what was dragging her stopped moving. The shadows slowly vanished and she found herself outside the castle and far form the battle. She looked around and saw a man with rusty clothes kneeling behind her. She turned and almost fainted when she saw Gaston standing in front of her, smiling.
-Good work, Kraven – said Gaston to the man with the rusty clothes. That only bowed his head.
Terra tried to run away but Gaston hold her wrists and whispered to her ear:
-So, you're the famous half – esper that I heard so much about. You must wonder what I brought you here. Well, it's just you once served the Empire, and I thought it was time for you to do it again... - Gaston's tightened his grip – And now you must be asking yourself why? Well, it's just that you're the person that the pathetic King of Figaro holds dearest to his heart – he looked at her scared and surprised face – What? You didn't knew? How indiscreet of me. That's why is going to be so funny when you do what I want you to do... - he let go of one of her arms and took something out of his pocket – Remember the slave crown? – Terra's eyes widened with fear – Well, here I have something that it's even better – he showed her two little silver triangles of about an inch – This things can make you do as I say and be conscious of it. How about that? Even if you tried to refuse, you won't be able to control yourself, no matter how hard you try – Gaston smiled – Isn't it great? – Terra tried to release her hand, but Gaston casted:
-Sleep.
Terra felt how her eyelids began to close against her will. She tried to keep her eyes open, but her efforts were useless, and the last she heard was Gaston's laugh.