Sudden Impulse
By Red Guard
Disclaimer: I do not, did not and probably will not own Suikoden or any of the characters appearing in or associated with it. Konami owns the characters and events appearing in this work.
Author's Notes: Right, now to try my hand at a short and fluffy Suikoden story, I hope I do not do too badly.
Chapter 2 : Perspectives
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Three years. Three years had passed since the Great War had ended. So much had changed because of it. She had changed because of it. Everyone had changed because of it.
She remembered the joyous reception that they received when they returned to the village. The Great Aunt bestowed the highest honors upon those warriors who fought in the war. At that time, the only thing on her mind was a return to the peaceful days of the past. She wanted to revisit the forest, to spend time with the nature that she loved so much. And so, that was how she spent the next few weeks, in the forest, admiring nature.
The tranquility never did last. A strange wanderlust seized her being. No longer was she content to stay within her village, after having seen the world. She spent many months confined within the wooden palisade walls of her village. As time wore on, the desire grew unbearable. Her daily meditations could not calm her soul. Nature herself no longer had the ability to sooth her. She had to leave the village. Her home was no longer there.
She remembered her sister's roars. Her sister could not understand her need. Indeed, she could not really comprehend it either. She was needed at the village, her sister told her. There was no reason to leave the village, her sister chided. On and on her sister went, reiterating the sacred teachings. She understood it all, but that did not quell her desire to leave. Nothing could.
After a long meeting, she was finally given permission to travel from the village. The only thing that the Great Aunt wanted in return was for her to promise that she would visit the village often. It was a promise that she readily made. She left the village with little fanfare. Her sister did not send her off, too distraught and angry with her. She hoped that her sister would understand someday.
The months after her departure were the most exciting times of her life. Time blazed by quickly. She helped Chief Hugo rebuild the Karayan Village. She helped Iksay with their harvesting. She even visited Lake Castle several times, aiding Thomas with a number of his myriad tasks. She visited many places. She visited many friends. For the first time in her life, she felt a sense of contentment.
She always did remember her promise. She always made it a point to visit her village often. While she enjoyed her freedom, nothing could replace the place she called her home. However, every single time she returned, her sister was never around. The realization that she may never receive her sister's forgiveness weighed heavy. Finally, during one of her visits to the village, she decided to confront her sister. She searched the whole village and the whole forest.
Her sister was nowhere to be found. Panicking, she sought an audience with the Great Aunt.
'Where is she?'
'Your sister?'
'Yes.'
'She is no longer here.'
'What?'
'Shortly after your departure, she decided to leave.'
'I thought that she.'
'Your departure shook her beliefs to their foundation. She spent a great amount of time in meditation, trying to understand your decision. A year ago, she approached me and bared her soul. I suggested that she leave the village for a while.'
'A year ago? Why didn't anyone tell me?'
'She told us not to tell you. She wanted to find the answers for herself.'
'But.'
'It is not your fault, child.'
'I need to find her. Where is she?'
'Try Brass Castle.'
'Brass Castle?'
'Your sister never returned after her departure. However, a Zexen merchant brought news of an Alma Kinan woman who frequented the castle. We thought it would be you.'
'I don't frequent the Castle, I prefer the freedom of the Grasslands.'
'Then, your destination has been determined. Hasn't it?'
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The first time she visited Brass Castle, she found out that the tavern served a fantastic lunch. It was one of the few things that never changed and for that, she felt a measure of thankfulness.
'Are you from Alma Kinan?'
She turned and found herself looking at a young Zexen knight clad in the usual Zexen garb of silver armor. 'Yes. How do you know of my village?'
He smiled. 'Everyone knows of the Alma Kinan warriors. At least every knight does. Several months back, one of your kin took up residence in the castle. We were all surprised when we were told that she would be our archery instructor.'
'What? Your archery instructor?'
'Yep. She is a fantastic marksman. Quite a lovely lady too. You should have seen the number of people who tried to woo her in the first few months.' He chuckled. 'However, it seems that she has someone else in mind.'
'What?' She hardly believed her ears. Her sister, the most disciplined of all the Alma Kinan warriors, attached?
'Not that everyone disapproves, they do make quite a cute couple.'
She stared at the knight, her mouth agape.
'Are you okay?' He asked, concerned.
'Does she stay in the castle?'
'Of course! All the trainers do.' He smiled. 'Ah, you must be here to see her. Do you want me to show you to her room?'
She gave silent thanks to the spirits. Such luck! 'Yes, I would love that.'
He smiled back at her. 'It is always a pleasure to serve a beautiful lady.'
She felt her face flush slightly.
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'Here we go. This is her room. Sadly, I am not allowed to enter.'
'Thank you.'
'Then, I will take my leave.' He bowed and walked away.
She took a deep breath and tried her best to summon up whatever courage she could muster. Her raised her fist and rapped on the door.
'The door is open.' A familiar voice called out.
The door slid open, and standing in the doorway was a beautiful woman. She wore a sleeveless teal gown, her skirt barely covering her knees. Her lustrous hair was set in a small braid on the side of her head, her already sharp facial features highlighted by a small dash of cosmetics. A light scent of perfume completed her radiant appearance.
She felt flabbergasted. Was this her sister? Was this Yuiri?
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'It is so good to see you again.' Yumi smiled at her sister. After the initial shock had worn off, Yuiri had invited her into the room.
'It is good to see you too, sister.' Yuiri hugged her sister.
Yumi looked at the floor, feeling slightly uncomfortable. 'Are you still angry at what I did? Can you forgive me for what I did?'
Yuiri sighed. 'I was wrong to have doubted you. In fact, I should be the one apologizing.'
'But.'
'To be honest, I was furious at you. I thought that you had abandoned out beliefs, our culture and our way of life. Your departure forced me to question many things. Why did you leave us? Why were you so eager to distance yourself from the people who brought you into the world? Why did you want to forsake your culture? Why did the Great Aunt let you go? I was furious at you for giving up on the village. I was furious at myself for not being able to convince you to stay.'
'I didn't.'
'I meditated for nights on end, searching for an answer, any answer.' Yuiri smiled sadly at her. 'You should have seen me then. Every day brought new questions and new pain. After a year, I was but a shadow of my old self. I was lost in my confusion, my anger, and my depression. The whole village tried to help me, but I refused their help. In the end, I ran into the forest, and stayed there, trying to find a way to commune with the spirits.'
'I never knew.' Yumi said, sadness evident in her voice. 'I could have helped.'
'I never wanted anyone to know. I was too proud to accept anyone's help. I, one of the finest warriors, never needed any help from anything.' She laughed slightly. 'I was so foolish back then.'
'Then, how did you get here?'
'In that state of mind, I was no longer able to think straight. The spirits refused to speak to me, although I did everything in my power to reach out to them. I was becoming desperate. I was going insane. Then, the Great Aunt found me.' Yuiri reflected. 'She told me to leave the village, to seek the life that you sought.'
'I sought?'
'Yes, sister.' Yuiri smiled at her. 'She knew that the only thing I wanted to know was why you left. The Great Aunt told me to search for the dream that you were so desperate to achieve. The Great Aunt sent me away from the village, in the hopes that I would understand what you so cherished.'
'It is all my fault.' Yumi felt her eyes tear. 'If I didn't.'
'It is not your fault.'
'But you loved the village so much. Your journey must have been difficult.'
'I still do and my journey was not easy. I drifted aimlessly for a long time. Visiting village after village, clan after clan, still unable to find the answers that I sought. That was until Lady Chris found me, tired, cold and hungry, and brought me to the castle. I was treated extremely well in the castle. At first, it was strange. I never knew that the Zexens could be such kind people, but after time, I managed to get used to the castle. When my health returned to me, I couldn't bear to leave, at least not after I repaid their kindness. So here I am.'
'You went through so much trouble because of me. I am so sorry.' Tears rolled down Yumi's cheeks. 'If I knew that this would happen, I would never had.'
'Stop that.' Yuiri chided. 'Do I look unhappy to you?'
'What?' Yumi looked at her sister.
'I would have never imagined myself speaking these words, but I am happy here. My time away from the village has taught me many valuable lessons. And one of them is to forge your own path in life, regardless of the teachings.'
'What?' Yumi exclaimed. 'Aren't the teachings the core of our culture? If we forgo them, we will become.'
'The teachings are a guideline, nothing more. I realized that after I began to live in this castle and when I did so, a great burden was lifted from my shoulders. I have never looked back since.'
'The spirits...'
'They still speak to me. I still speak to them. They never abandoned me even after I decided to stay in the castle. For that, I am thankful.'
'Yuiri.'
'Please stay for a while, we have a lot of catching up to do.' Yuiri walked towards the door. 'Feel free to use my room, but for now, I need to meet someone.'
'In that dress?' Yumi asked incredulously.
'Well, yes.' Yuiri smiled sheepishly. 'I'm going to have lunch.'
'With the suave young knight that everyone is talking about?'
'Who told you that?' Yuiri flushed a strange shade of red. 'He's just a friend. Nothing more.'
'Well.'
'Never mind, just stay in the room until I get back.' With that, a flustered Yuiri strode out of the room.
Yumi watched her sister leave, trying to recover from the shock that she had received. Her sister would never wear Zexen clothes. She would never forgo the teachings. She would never approve of having lunches with a male. And most of all, she would never, ever blush. She had changed so much. The Alma Kinan girl was now a confident woman, at peace with the world and at peace with herself. She thought of the villagers, and tried to imagine their reaction if they found out that Yuiri was forging a relationship with a Zexen knight. It was strange but Yumi was happy for her sister.
A relationship.
She touched her lips and remembered that morning in Lake Castle. She remembered his face, his hands, and his lips. She remembered drowning in his embrace. She remembered the incredible comfort she felt in those fleeting moments. She never forgot.
A relationship.
But it was impossible. They had parted ways after the war. And they did it without even saying goodbye.
Some relationship.
Yumi sighed.
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Three years.
He watched as the members of the Chisa Clan began their daily grind. Peace was such a beautiful thing to behold. It still amazed him that this tranquil village was at the heart of a ferocious battle a mere three years ago. So much had happened since then. So much had changed since then.
The news of his part in the war had spread very quickly. Soon, everyone had heard of the famed Maximillian Knights and their dashing captain. As a result of this newfound fame, the Knights were called to many places and were asked to perform many deeds. He had personally answered many calls for help. He slew monsters, rescued people and battled brigands. Honors and awards were lavished upon him and his companions, his name traveled far and wide. Throughout his journeys, his loyal squire always remained by his side. He remembered the many times when she refused to stay behind, constantly reminding him that he needed her to be around. While he always tried his best to remain aloof, he always did appreciate her company.
However, all good things must come to an end. He had become too famous. The Knights had become too well known. Young men and women poured in from all corners of the world, all of them wanting to train with the eminent Maximillian Knights. It was incredibly heartening to see so many raw recruits, but with that came a serious problem. Soon, it was evident that there were not enough knights to train the young recruits. It was not uncommon to see the more capable knights saddled with three or more squire and this ridiculous situation was rapidly getting out of hand.
Therefore, it was not surprising that someone suggested the idea of a training school, similar to the ones found on Zexen soil. While he heavily favored the intimate training a knight could give a squire, he had to agree that building the school was the logical solution to their dire problem. It took a few months, but soon, the Maximillian Knight College was ready to train its first batch of recruits.
It was with a heavy heart that he asked his squire to join the College. He had grown quite attached to her over the many months, but they had to part. After all, all the existing knights parted with theirs, and he was not going to make himself the exception. He missed her. He missed her young exuberance, her innocent laughter and her light laughter, but he had to carry on. He was the Captain, after all.
A burly man, dressed in a merchant garb, strode towards him. 'Lord Maximillian!'
He nodded towards the man. 'Lord Merchant, I trust that your caravan has arrived without mishap.'
'Of course it did. You were our escort, and I must say that I am truly honored that someone such as you would answer our plea.'
'You think too much of me. I am just a knight.'
'Such modesty.' The merchant chuckled. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a sheet of paper. 'Here is your payment. Present this parchment to any Zexen merchant guild. It will be exchanged for ten thousand potch.'
Fred accepted the parchment. 'Thank you. This money would go a long way in helping the fledging Knight College.'
The merchant stretched his hand out. 'It has been a pleasure working with you, Lord Maximillian. May the Goddess bless your journey.'
He clasped the offered hand, 'May the Goddess bless you too.'
Fred Maximillian watched the merchant turn away and trudge back to his caravan, ready to sell his wares to the villagers. He folded the parchment and placed it in his pouch. It was time to leave, he needed to return to Brass Castle and receive his payment.
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Even after all this time, Kuput forest had never changed. He could still remember his first visit to the Alma Kinan village. He could still remember the courageous sacrifice that one of the girls made. He remembered the headstrong Yuiri. He remembered the courageous Chris. And he remembered her.
How could he ever forget her? He remembered that argument that they had. The childish words they threw at each other, the angry stares that they shot at one another, those memories were still fresh in his mind. Most importantly, their shared embrace would be forever etched into his memory. The feeling that coursed through him when their lips locked was indescribable. He wanted to feel it again, he always did.
Three years ago, when the war ended, he didn't even say goodbye to her. He could not understand what had happened between them, he did not want to understand. He was afraid; he was a coward. He was frightened by what happened, and so he decided to run from her. He never saw her in the years after, he tried to stop thinking about her, but he could not help it.
Now, he for the first time in three years, he was this close to her. He could remember the path that he took to her village. Fred looked down the forest trail, wondering what was stopping him from proceeding. He spent a long time ruminating. He just wanted to look at her, to see her, to speak to her. That was all. He needed to apologize for the abrupt way that he left her, all those years ago.
His mind made up, he turned and headed towards her village.
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'Lord Maximillian! It is a pleasant surprise.'
He smiled at the Alma Kinan warrior who greeted him. 'I am glad to return. The village hasn't changed much since I last left.'
'No, of course not. We didn't see any need for change.'
'Ah. Is Yumi here?'
'Yumi?' The woman replied, questioning.
'Yes, I wish to speak with her.'
'She is not here at the moment.'
'Then I will wait for her, I trust that she will return soon.'
'Well.' The woman stuttered for a while. 'I think that it is best that you speak with the Great Aunt.'
'The Great Aunt? I have no right to speak with her.' Fred replied, remembering the conversations that he participated in during his previous visit.
'You fought in the Great War. You are a hero, and that is all the right you need. Now follow me.'
He followed his guide into the village.
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'Captain Fred Maximillian of the great order of the Maximillian Knights, it is good to see you.'
'Please, we are just an ordinary outfit trying to serve the people. Such lavish names do not suit us.' Fred waved the compliments away.
'Of course. I didn't mean any insult.'
'None taken.'
'I heard that you are here for Yumi.'
'I just wish to speak with her.' He clarified. 'We parted on difficult terms, and since I am passing by, I wish to apologize to her.'
'Yumi never told me that you two knew each other.'
'Well, we are just acquaintances. We only spoke to each other once.'
'I see. Yumi is no longer living in the village.'
'What?' He heard himself yell. 'That is impossible! She loves this village! She loved the forest! She would never leave.'
'In the past, I would agree with your sentiments. However, after she returned from the Great War, the way she looked at life changed. When she was away, she learned something; it shook her connection with the spirits, with nature, and with the teachings. In the end, she asked to leave the village, and I granted her that wish.'
He was speechless. Something drastic must have happened to Yumi. Could it be him? Could it be that shared moment that they had? Was he the one responsible for her actions? The more he thought about it, the more confused he felt. An incredible sense of guilt was building within.
'Yumi was always a kind soul and a carefree spirit. Her sister, on the other hand, was a stoic advocate of our teachings and our way of life. They complimented each other very well. However, Yumi had become bolder and her sister was unable to keep her in check. The resulting arguments strained their relationship to a great extent. When I finally relented and gave Yumi the permission she so desperately sought, Yuiri broke down.'
'Enough.' Fred rose to his feet.
'Lord Maximillian?'
'I have heard enough. Where is Yumi?'
'I told you, she isn't here.'
'I heard you the first time. Where is she now?'
'But she could be all over the continent!'
'Just give me a general area. I am going to look for her.'
'Why?'
'I want to talk to her. I need to talk to her. If you won't tell me where she is, I'll ask another person, then another, and another until I get an answer.' He began to walk towards the door.
'The Castle.'
'What?' He turned around.
'Brass Castle. They should be there.'
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Author's Notes: Well, I had enough ideas to forge another one or two chapters of this fic. I hope that these didn't turn out too bad. After finishing Suikoden III (again), I realized that it would be quite hard to write a fic about Yumi without throwing her sister in. so I did. Hrm, should I churn out another chapter just about Yuiri? I wonder, the idea does sound quite tempting.
No pre-readers were harmed in the making of this fic. If you want to become a pre-reader, feel free to contact me.
Anyways, please remember to email me at red_aurum@yahoo.com for any suggestions, critiques, reviews and the like. Please don't flame me, I have a fragile ego.
Till next chapter!
By Red Guard
Disclaimer: I do not, did not and probably will not own Suikoden or any of the characters appearing in or associated with it. Konami owns the characters and events appearing in this work.
Author's Notes: Right, now to try my hand at a short and fluffy Suikoden story, I hope I do not do too badly.
Chapter 2 : Perspectives
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Three years. Three years had passed since the Great War had ended. So much had changed because of it. She had changed because of it. Everyone had changed because of it.
She remembered the joyous reception that they received when they returned to the village. The Great Aunt bestowed the highest honors upon those warriors who fought in the war. At that time, the only thing on her mind was a return to the peaceful days of the past. She wanted to revisit the forest, to spend time with the nature that she loved so much. And so, that was how she spent the next few weeks, in the forest, admiring nature.
The tranquility never did last. A strange wanderlust seized her being. No longer was she content to stay within her village, after having seen the world. She spent many months confined within the wooden palisade walls of her village. As time wore on, the desire grew unbearable. Her daily meditations could not calm her soul. Nature herself no longer had the ability to sooth her. She had to leave the village. Her home was no longer there.
She remembered her sister's roars. Her sister could not understand her need. Indeed, she could not really comprehend it either. She was needed at the village, her sister told her. There was no reason to leave the village, her sister chided. On and on her sister went, reiterating the sacred teachings. She understood it all, but that did not quell her desire to leave. Nothing could.
After a long meeting, she was finally given permission to travel from the village. The only thing that the Great Aunt wanted in return was for her to promise that she would visit the village often. It was a promise that she readily made. She left the village with little fanfare. Her sister did not send her off, too distraught and angry with her. She hoped that her sister would understand someday.
The months after her departure were the most exciting times of her life. Time blazed by quickly. She helped Chief Hugo rebuild the Karayan Village. She helped Iksay with their harvesting. She even visited Lake Castle several times, aiding Thomas with a number of his myriad tasks. She visited many places. She visited many friends. For the first time in her life, she felt a sense of contentment.
She always did remember her promise. She always made it a point to visit her village often. While she enjoyed her freedom, nothing could replace the place she called her home. However, every single time she returned, her sister was never around. The realization that she may never receive her sister's forgiveness weighed heavy. Finally, during one of her visits to the village, she decided to confront her sister. She searched the whole village and the whole forest.
Her sister was nowhere to be found. Panicking, she sought an audience with the Great Aunt.
'Where is she?'
'Your sister?'
'Yes.'
'She is no longer here.'
'What?'
'Shortly after your departure, she decided to leave.'
'I thought that she.'
'Your departure shook her beliefs to their foundation. She spent a great amount of time in meditation, trying to understand your decision. A year ago, she approached me and bared her soul. I suggested that she leave the village for a while.'
'A year ago? Why didn't anyone tell me?'
'She told us not to tell you. She wanted to find the answers for herself.'
'But.'
'It is not your fault, child.'
'I need to find her. Where is she?'
'Try Brass Castle.'
'Brass Castle?'
'Your sister never returned after her departure. However, a Zexen merchant brought news of an Alma Kinan woman who frequented the castle. We thought it would be you.'
'I don't frequent the Castle, I prefer the freedom of the Grasslands.'
'Then, your destination has been determined. Hasn't it?'
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The first time she visited Brass Castle, she found out that the tavern served a fantastic lunch. It was one of the few things that never changed and for that, she felt a measure of thankfulness.
'Are you from Alma Kinan?'
She turned and found herself looking at a young Zexen knight clad in the usual Zexen garb of silver armor. 'Yes. How do you know of my village?'
He smiled. 'Everyone knows of the Alma Kinan warriors. At least every knight does. Several months back, one of your kin took up residence in the castle. We were all surprised when we were told that she would be our archery instructor.'
'What? Your archery instructor?'
'Yep. She is a fantastic marksman. Quite a lovely lady too. You should have seen the number of people who tried to woo her in the first few months.' He chuckled. 'However, it seems that she has someone else in mind.'
'What?' She hardly believed her ears. Her sister, the most disciplined of all the Alma Kinan warriors, attached?
'Not that everyone disapproves, they do make quite a cute couple.'
She stared at the knight, her mouth agape.
'Are you okay?' He asked, concerned.
'Does she stay in the castle?'
'Of course! All the trainers do.' He smiled. 'Ah, you must be here to see her. Do you want me to show you to her room?'
She gave silent thanks to the spirits. Such luck! 'Yes, I would love that.'
He smiled back at her. 'It is always a pleasure to serve a beautiful lady.'
She felt her face flush slightly.
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'Here we go. This is her room. Sadly, I am not allowed to enter.'
'Thank you.'
'Then, I will take my leave.' He bowed and walked away.
She took a deep breath and tried her best to summon up whatever courage she could muster. Her raised her fist and rapped on the door.
'The door is open.' A familiar voice called out.
The door slid open, and standing in the doorway was a beautiful woman. She wore a sleeveless teal gown, her skirt barely covering her knees. Her lustrous hair was set in a small braid on the side of her head, her already sharp facial features highlighted by a small dash of cosmetics. A light scent of perfume completed her radiant appearance.
She felt flabbergasted. Was this her sister? Was this Yuiri?
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'It is so good to see you again.' Yumi smiled at her sister. After the initial shock had worn off, Yuiri had invited her into the room.
'It is good to see you too, sister.' Yuiri hugged her sister.
Yumi looked at the floor, feeling slightly uncomfortable. 'Are you still angry at what I did? Can you forgive me for what I did?'
Yuiri sighed. 'I was wrong to have doubted you. In fact, I should be the one apologizing.'
'But.'
'To be honest, I was furious at you. I thought that you had abandoned out beliefs, our culture and our way of life. Your departure forced me to question many things. Why did you leave us? Why were you so eager to distance yourself from the people who brought you into the world? Why did you want to forsake your culture? Why did the Great Aunt let you go? I was furious at you for giving up on the village. I was furious at myself for not being able to convince you to stay.'
'I didn't.'
'I meditated for nights on end, searching for an answer, any answer.' Yuiri smiled sadly at her. 'You should have seen me then. Every day brought new questions and new pain. After a year, I was but a shadow of my old self. I was lost in my confusion, my anger, and my depression. The whole village tried to help me, but I refused their help. In the end, I ran into the forest, and stayed there, trying to find a way to commune with the spirits.'
'I never knew.' Yumi said, sadness evident in her voice. 'I could have helped.'
'I never wanted anyone to know. I was too proud to accept anyone's help. I, one of the finest warriors, never needed any help from anything.' She laughed slightly. 'I was so foolish back then.'
'Then, how did you get here?'
'In that state of mind, I was no longer able to think straight. The spirits refused to speak to me, although I did everything in my power to reach out to them. I was becoming desperate. I was going insane. Then, the Great Aunt found me.' Yuiri reflected. 'She told me to leave the village, to seek the life that you sought.'
'I sought?'
'Yes, sister.' Yuiri smiled at her. 'She knew that the only thing I wanted to know was why you left. The Great Aunt told me to search for the dream that you were so desperate to achieve. The Great Aunt sent me away from the village, in the hopes that I would understand what you so cherished.'
'It is all my fault.' Yumi felt her eyes tear. 'If I didn't.'
'It is not your fault.'
'But you loved the village so much. Your journey must have been difficult.'
'I still do and my journey was not easy. I drifted aimlessly for a long time. Visiting village after village, clan after clan, still unable to find the answers that I sought. That was until Lady Chris found me, tired, cold and hungry, and brought me to the castle. I was treated extremely well in the castle. At first, it was strange. I never knew that the Zexens could be such kind people, but after time, I managed to get used to the castle. When my health returned to me, I couldn't bear to leave, at least not after I repaid their kindness. So here I am.'
'You went through so much trouble because of me. I am so sorry.' Tears rolled down Yumi's cheeks. 'If I knew that this would happen, I would never had.'
'Stop that.' Yuiri chided. 'Do I look unhappy to you?'
'What?' Yumi looked at her sister.
'I would have never imagined myself speaking these words, but I am happy here. My time away from the village has taught me many valuable lessons. And one of them is to forge your own path in life, regardless of the teachings.'
'What?' Yumi exclaimed. 'Aren't the teachings the core of our culture? If we forgo them, we will become.'
'The teachings are a guideline, nothing more. I realized that after I began to live in this castle and when I did so, a great burden was lifted from my shoulders. I have never looked back since.'
'The spirits...'
'They still speak to me. I still speak to them. They never abandoned me even after I decided to stay in the castle. For that, I am thankful.'
'Yuiri.'
'Please stay for a while, we have a lot of catching up to do.' Yuiri walked towards the door. 'Feel free to use my room, but for now, I need to meet someone.'
'In that dress?' Yumi asked incredulously.
'Well, yes.' Yuiri smiled sheepishly. 'I'm going to have lunch.'
'With the suave young knight that everyone is talking about?'
'Who told you that?' Yuiri flushed a strange shade of red. 'He's just a friend. Nothing more.'
'Well.'
'Never mind, just stay in the room until I get back.' With that, a flustered Yuiri strode out of the room.
Yumi watched her sister leave, trying to recover from the shock that she had received. Her sister would never wear Zexen clothes. She would never forgo the teachings. She would never approve of having lunches with a male. And most of all, she would never, ever blush. She had changed so much. The Alma Kinan girl was now a confident woman, at peace with the world and at peace with herself. She thought of the villagers, and tried to imagine their reaction if they found out that Yuiri was forging a relationship with a Zexen knight. It was strange but Yumi was happy for her sister.
A relationship.
She touched her lips and remembered that morning in Lake Castle. She remembered his face, his hands, and his lips. She remembered drowning in his embrace. She remembered the incredible comfort she felt in those fleeting moments. She never forgot.
A relationship.
But it was impossible. They had parted ways after the war. And they did it without even saying goodbye.
Some relationship.
Yumi sighed.
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Three years.
He watched as the members of the Chisa Clan began their daily grind. Peace was such a beautiful thing to behold. It still amazed him that this tranquil village was at the heart of a ferocious battle a mere three years ago. So much had happened since then. So much had changed since then.
The news of his part in the war had spread very quickly. Soon, everyone had heard of the famed Maximillian Knights and their dashing captain. As a result of this newfound fame, the Knights were called to many places and were asked to perform many deeds. He had personally answered many calls for help. He slew monsters, rescued people and battled brigands. Honors and awards were lavished upon him and his companions, his name traveled far and wide. Throughout his journeys, his loyal squire always remained by his side. He remembered the many times when she refused to stay behind, constantly reminding him that he needed her to be around. While he always tried his best to remain aloof, he always did appreciate her company.
However, all good things must come to an end. He had become too famous. The Knights had become too well known. Young men and women poured in from all corners of the world, all of them wanting to train with the eminent Maximillian Knights. It was incredibly heartening to see so many raw recruits, but with that came a serious problem. Soon, it was evident that there were not enough knights to train the young recruits. It was not uncommon to see the more capable knights saddled with three or more squire and this ridiculous situation was rapidly getting out of hand.
Therefore, it was not surprising that someone suggested the idea of a training school, similar to the ones found on Zexen soil. While he heavily favored the intimate training a knight could give a squire, he had to agree that building the school was the logical solution to their dire problem. It took a few months, but soon, the Maximillian Knight College was ready to train its first batch of recruits.
It was with a heavy heart that he asked his squire to join the College. He had grown quite attached to her over the many months, but they had to part. After all, all the existing knights parted with theirs, and he was not going to make himself the exception. He missed her. He missed her young exuberance, her innocent laughter and her light laughter, but he had to carry on. He was the Captain, after all.
A burly man, dressed in a merchant garb, strode towards him. 'Lord Maximillian!'
He nodded towards the man. 'Lord Merchant, I trust that your caravan has arrived without mishap.'
'Of course it did. You were our escort, and I must say that I am truly honored that someone such as you would answer our plea.'
'You think too much of me. I am just a knight.'
'Such modesty.' The merchant chuckled. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a sheet of paper. 'Here is your payment. Present this parchment to any Zexen merchant guild. It will be exchanged for ten thousand potch.'
Fred accepted the parchment. 'Thank you. This money would go a long way in helping the fledging Knight College.'
The merchant stretched his hand out. 'It has been a pleasure working with you, Lord Maximillian. May the Goddess bless your journey.'
He clasped the offered hand, 'May the Goddess bless you too.'
Fred Maximillian watched the merchant turn away and trudge back to his caravan, ready to sell his wares to the villagers. He folded the parchment and placed it in his pouch. It was time to leave, he needed to return to Brass Castle and receive his payment.
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Even after all this time, Kuput forest had never changed. He could still remember his first visit to the Alma Kinan village. He could still remember the courageous sacrifice that one of the girls made. He remembered the headstrong Yuiri. He remembered the courageous Chris. And he remembered her.
How could he ever forget her? He remembered that argument that they had. The childish words they threw at each other, the angry stares that they shot at one another, those memories were still fresh in his mind. Most importantly, their shared embrace would be forever etched into his memory. The feeling that coursed through him when their lips locked was indescribable. He wanted to feel it again, he always did.
Three years ago, when the war ended, he didn't even say goodbye to her. He could not understand what had happened between them, he did not want to understand. He was afraid; he was a coward. He was frightened by what happened, and so he decided to run from her. He never saw her in the years after, he tried to stop thinking about her, but he could not help it.
Now, he for the first time in three years, he was this close to her. He could remember the path that he took to her village. Fred looked down the forest trail, wondering what was stopping him from proceeding. He spent a long time ruminating. He just wanted to look at her, to see her, to speak to her. That was all. He needed to apologize for the abrupt way that he left her, all those years ago.
His mind made up, he turned and headed towards her village.
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'Lord Maximillian! It is a pleasant surprise.'
He smiled at the Alma Kinan warrior who greeted him. 'I am glad to return. The village hasn't changed much since I last left.'
'No, of course not. We didn't see any need for change.'
'Ah. Is Yumi here?'
'Yumi?' The woman replied, questioning.
'Yes, I wish to speak with her.'
'She is not here at the moment.'
'Then I will wait for her, I trust that she will return soon.'
'Well.' The woman stuttered for a while. 'I think that it is best that you speak with the Great Aunt.'
'The Great Aunt? I have no right to speak with her.' Fred replied, remembering the conversations that he participated in during his previous visit.
'You fought in the Great War. You are a hero, and that is all the right you need. Now follow me.'
He followed his guide into the village.
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'Captain Fred Maximillian of the great order of the Maximillian Knights, it is good to see you.'
'Please, we are just an ordinary outfit trying to serve the people. Such lavish names do not suit us.' Fred waved the compliments away.
'Of course. I didn't mean any insult.'
'None taken.'
'I heard that you are here for Yumi.'
'I just wish to speak with her.' He clarified. 'We parted on difficult terms, and since I am passing by, I wish to apologize to her.'
'Yumi never told me that you two knew each other.'
'Well, we are just acquaintances. We only spoke to each other once.'
'I see. Yumi is no longer living in the village.'
'What?' He heard himself yell. 'That is impossible! She loves this village! She loved the forest! She would never leave.'
'In the past, I would agree with your sentiments. However, after she returned from the Great War, the way she looked at life changed. When she was away, she learned something; it shook her connection with the spirits, with nature, and with the teachings. In the end, she asked to leave the village, and I granted her that wish.'
He was speechless. Something drastic must have happened to Yumi. Could it be him? Could it be that shared moment that they had? Was he the one responsible for her actions? The more he thought about it, the more confused he felt. An incredible sense of guilt was building within.
'Yumi was always a kind soul and a carefree spirit. Her sister, on the other hand, was a stoic advocate of our teachings and our way of life. They complimented each other very well. However, Yumi had become bolder and her sister was unable to keep her in check. The resulting arguments strained their relationship to a great extent. When I finally relented and gave Yumi the permission she so desperately sought, Yuiri broke down.'
'Enough.' Fred rose to his feet.
'Lord Maximillian?'
'I have heard enough. Where is Yumi?'
'I told you, she isn't here.'
'I heard you the first time. Where is she now?'
'But she could be all over the continent!'
'Just give me a general area. I am going to look for her.'
'Why?'
'I want to talk to her. I need to talk to her. If you won't tell me where she is, I'll ask another person, then another, and another until I get an answer.' He began to walk towards the door.
'The Castle.'
'What?' He turned around.
'Brass Castle. They should be there.'
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Author's Notes: Well, I had enough ideas to forge another one or two chapters of this fic. I hope that these didn't turn out too bad. After finishing Suikoden III (again), I realized that it would be quite hard to write a fic about Yumi without throwing her sister in. so I did. Hrm, should I churn out another chapter just about Yuiri? I wonder, the idea does sound quite tempting.
No pre-readers were harmed in the making of this fic. If you want to become a pre-reader, feel free to contact me.
Anyways, please remember to email me at red_aurum@yahoo.com for any suggestions, critiques, reviews and the like. Please don't flame me, I have a fragile ego.
Till next chapter!