Author's Note----
This chapter is the longest by far, I just really got into it. Hope you guys like.
Chapter 3: Band of Mercenaries
To meet her grandfather Lyn must head west to Lycia. A mountain range separates the Sacae plains from Bern. There are many bandit gangs that lurk here, the cruelest of which are the Taliver. They wreak havoc on both Sacae and Bern, and their savagery knows no bounds. It is now our tenth day from leaving the plains and it's no picnic.
"Oh magnificent light, you shine as though the stars in the sky are useless in these times of darkness... Ooh ooh, How's that, Kent?"
"Terrible!" Sain's three companions yelled together for the twelfth time that day.
"Awww, well I need something. I'm running out of lines," Sain sulked as he hunched onto Kent's back. Sain and Kent were sharing a horse and Lyn and I were on Sain's. "Sain, if you don't stop leaning on me you'll be walking the rest of the way to Caelin," Kent ground out. It was evident that he was fed up with Sain, as were the rest of us. Sain replied with a whine.
I shook my head in amusement and looked out at the horizon. We hadn't seen a village in ages and our food supply was getting low, that, and we hadn't seen any streams to wash in either. Lyn's hair was losing its shine and Sain's was as flat as ever, thus the site of buildings caught my attention instantaneously. "Lyn, please tell me that that isn't a mirage," I asked over my shoulder. She gasped, "Sain, Kent!"
The two knights, who were seconds before trying to shove each other off the horse, turned and cheered. "Finally," Kent sighed. "About time," Sain frowned. As the horses approached I could feel Lyn's hair hit my back as she shook her head, "This place... It's..." By then we could all see what she was talking about.
Sain jumped from behind Kent as he, himself, did the same, "The entire area is in ruins." Sain nodded and turned to his fellow knight, "Why doesn't their marquess do anything to help?"
"Taliver Mountains is home to a gang of vicious, ruthless bandits. No marquess holds power here," Kent answered with a disapproving glance over the damaged area. "My village," Lyn spook quietly as she dismounted, "was near here, on the other side of the mountain. My people were... The Taliver bandits came at night. It only took one night. They're soundless beasts. I will never forgive them. Never."
"Lyn..." I stepped off the horse and laid my hand on her shoulder. Sain and Kent stayed quiet. She shook her head vigorously, "I am not running away. I will be back...someday. I will be stronger... I will break their swords beneath me like twigs beneath a stallion's hooves. I will avenge my people. I will do everything in my power."
"When the time comes, bring me with you."
The voice issued a gasp from Lyn's lips. "Sain," she smiled weakly at his own bright one.
"Don't forget me, either."
"Kent.."
"And you know you can always count on me, Lyn," I smiled and tightened my hand on her shoulder.
"Ah, I... You're... Thank you," she smiled.
"Um, Lyndis? Do you think we could get out of here, this place gives me the creeps..." Sain shivered. Lyn laughed, "Sure, guys." To leave we'd have to go through the town, or lack of, so we decided to lead the horses through and not ride on them.
"What's this?" Kent said as some people came into view, "Be on your guard, Lyndis." Sain shielded his eyes from the sun, "Is that a woman with those thugs?"
"Sain, you bea-"
"Wait. That's...That's a pegasus, Could it be?" Lyn's mouth was slightly open and she walked towards the group. "Florina? Is that you, Florina?"
It was indeed a girl, she was rather short and slim and had fluffy purple hair that curled at her mid-back. She was dressed in a short white dress that showed that her legs were covered in long indigo boots that belted at her thighs. Armor of the same rich tone adorned her shoulders and she was holding tightly into the reins of a magnificent white pegasus with huge wings that looked to be at least six or seven feet high. "Ah!" She blushed at being addressed, "Lyn?"
"Florina!" Lyn ran full speed and picked the small girl up and spun her around. Florina's blush doubled as she dropped and reins and grabbed at her friend. They stopped hugging but stayed in close contact as the Lycians and I walked closer to the pair. The taller girl's mood changed dramatically as she scolded Florina like an older sister would,"What are you doing in place such as this?"
The girl still seemed to still be in shock, "Lyn!" Her eyes welled up with tears. "Come now, no crying," Lyn's hand went to caress the petite girl's face.
"I'm sorry," Florina sniffed. Kent stepped forth."Are you.." he struggled for a word, "..acquaintances?"
Sain smirked and leaned against the crimson-haired knight's shoulder, "I'd say they're more than that."
"She's my friend," Lyn glared in Sain's direction as he turned and pretended to find the scenery very interesting. "This is Florina, a pegasus knight in training from Ilia."
Ilia is a small country north of Sacae. The inhabitants usually keep to themselves unless they're training or fighting in a war. But it is still quite an event to meet one in person. "Wow, a pegasus knight," I commented. "I've always wanted to meet one." I issued my hand forth and she squeaked.
"Uh Touya, she's erm..a little uncomfortable around men," Lyn explained as I withdrew my hand. "Tell me, Florina, what happened here?"
Florina looked to the ground, her voice was barely audible, "Well...um.. When I heard that you had left... I decided to follow you. Then I saw this village... I flew down to ask if the townspeople had news of you." By now the men that Sain had saw Florina with were walking towards us. "I didn't see these two, and ...well.."
Lyn's eyes went wide, "Did your pegasus land on them?"
Either Florina was the object of innocence or a very good actress because she made the plight sound as though she stepped on someone's foot, "Well, I... A little.." The thugs, though, didn't seem so happy, "Aha! You heard her!"
"I didn't," Sain shrugged and Kent elbowed him in the stomach.
The thug yelled and Florina retreated behind Lyn, "She admits her fault! She stepped on my friend, and now she's got to pay!"
Lyn turned to the cowering girl behind her, "Did you apologize, Florina?"
Florina stared at Lyn wide-eyed with her hands over her gaping mouth and nodded, " I told them I was sorry many times over. They just wouldn't listen..." She sniffed again.
"Don't cry. It's all right," Lyn cooed softly.
"Lyn..."
Lyn smiled and the girl and then bravely turned to the man, "Listen, she's obviously sorry. Can't we just let this pass? You don't appear to be injured or anything."
For a second I though the crying girl routine would work. The man seemed generally convinced, that is until his friend stepped forth, "No chance. The girl goes with us--by force if need be!"
Lyn gasped as the thugs ran behind a nearby house. His yell echoed through the deserted marketplace, "Hey C'mon out now, boys! The men are fair game, but don't put a scratch on the girls!"
Several men came out from various locations, a few archers and swordsmen were visible from our location. Lyn drew her sword and stepped forth, "Touya! We've got to fight back!" I nodded and started to plan out our upcoming duel.
"Lyn...I.." Florina whispered. "You're a pegasus knight, aren't you? You can fight, can't you?" Lyn smiled.
Florina blushed and smiled back, "...Yes!"
"Okay we're facing bandits. They're underlings, but we can't take them too lightly. Let's clear them out of here, you guys ready?" I asked Lyn, Florina, Sain, and Kent carefully. They nodded and drew each of their weapons but Florina looked cautious, "Lyn, who are these people?"
"This is Touya, he's our tactician." I waved and she blushed. "The brown haired knight is Sain and the red, Kent." Florina nodded and a look of quiet determination spread over her features. She was trying to appear brave for Lyn, how cute ( ).
"The layout would make it difficult to keep the troops together, so each person will need to be extremely careful. The enemy will be in the same predicament," I advised. "I see some archers, they will be the hardest to overcome, they strike weak but often and at a distance. If we can take them out we'll be on easy street.
"Lyn, you move first. Alert any of the remaining townsfolk of the battle."
"What makes you think that there's anyone still here?"
"We have to be sure, Sain," Lyn said as she and I moved to the nearby house. "Is anyone there?"
"Leave us alone you thugs!" a scared voice yelled from within. "Go away! Go away! We've no more gold for you!"
Lyn quickly she sheathed her sword, "No, wait! Please! We're not bandits! We want to help the village. Please listen!"
"Remain inside, everyone," a calm voice instructed from within. "I'll go see what's happening."
A younger man with messy mahogany hair came out. He was dressed in turquoise and had a padded leather sash hanging from his left shoulder down to his waist. The fabric held a pack of finely cut arrows. "Not bandits, huh? So, who are you?" He spoke quickly and with a comfortable air around him.
"My name is Lyn. My colleagues and I are traveling through here.. We saw some bandits about. We're going to duel with them, but.... We need you to go and warn the villagers," she carefully advised and at his nod began to turn away.
"Hey! Wait!" He walked forward and smiled, "The name's Wil. I'm a traveler of sorts, as well. Listen, these villagers have been kind to me and I wish to repay them. Mind if I fight along with you guys?"
Lyn jumped at the idea, "Not at all. We need all the help we can get! Welcome aboard, Wil!"
We exited the village and I gave Wil his order but Florina's tiny scream stopped me. "Lyn, get down! An archer."
"No, no Florina, this is Wil. He's on our side," Lyn quickly interjected.
I shook my head with a smile, "Okay Wil, move to the wall by the village. There is a swordsman there. Deliver the first hit. Florina, you will make the next move. Finish the swordsman up with your lance."
She nodded and climbed onto her large pegasus. Its wings sent gusts of sand in our direction but it was still a beautiful take off. Wil shot his arrow and successfully weakened the swordsman. Florina flew over the village and, gripping her slim lance, plowed through the unsuspecting bandit. One down, eight to go.
There was an archer to our left, along with more bandits and another archer. "A trap has already been set by the other side", I observed out loud, "If someone attacks the archer then another will attack them. So we need to draw the archer to Wil and then we attack."
Sain and Kent moved back, out of our opponent's striking distance. And the archer did as I hypothesized he would and went for our archer. Good for Wil in that his skills were not nearly as advanced his own. I directed Kent to go forth using his sword, the knight pulled the reins on his horse and ran at the attacking archer. Kent dodged the arrows sent his way and pushed his blade through the man. Another down.
Another village was in sight, although it was separated by mountains from our land units, Florina would be able to search for anyone and warn them. She landed by the village and after a few minutes came running out clutching a bag to her chest. She smiled and rattled it experimentally in the air, it clinked and clanked like coins would.
"Hey, is that money?" Sain asked no one in particular.
"If it is, it's not for you," Kent answered sternly. Sain whined and pouted. Kent stared him down. I didn't know how much longer of that I could stand, "All right, press forward guys."
A brigand stepped forth from behind a nearby wall. Wil hid and shot an arrow, it quickly flew and hit its target square in the face. "Great shot," Lyn gasped.
"Yeah, watch this," Sain smirked as he ran, sword high in the air, and finished the blind bandit with one last hit.
"Aiiiiiiiiiee!"
Sain looked into the air, "What was tha-"
"That was Florina!" Lyn yelled and quickly turned away from Sain. "Touya, can you see what's going on?"
"Brigand," I said offhandedly as I looked at the remaining five opposing troops.
"She can't defend, they'll rip her apart!" Lyn angrily came at me, "you're supposed to protect us!"
"Ly--Lyn," I was taken aback, she had never blamed me for anything like this before. She was staring wide-eyed at me, as were the other knights. Wil had been lining up a shot at a nearby enemy, but had turned to watch the fight. "She's fine, Lyn. He didn't attack her, he just showed up behind a swordsman."
Lyn covered her mouth and turned, "Touya...I'm...I just...She's my..."
Placing my hand on her back I whispered in her ear, "I know how much you care for her and how much she cares for you, don't worry. She's a big girl, she'll be fine."
"I just...I worry," Lyn let out pitifully.
Kent approached us, "Right now, she needs your support, Lyndis." The emerald-haired girl nodded and smiled, "I know, thank you."
"Wil, complete you shot," I nodded at him and he acknowledged me by giving a thumbs-up, "Lyn, attack this archer to the left."
I turned and yelled in the early scream's direction, "Florina, back over here." I was about to yell again but she flew back, eclipsed by the sun, completely unscathed. "All right, there should be a swordsman just in front of us, attack him and come back immediately."
The small girl nodded and disappeared from view again, only to return with a slightly bloody shoulder and a really bloody lance. She was breathing heavily but appeared to be fine.
"Got 'em," came the response from Wil as he turned from the thug he had just shot down, his eyes crinkled in happiness. Sain smiled and hit him on the back, "First fight?"
Wil blushed and laughed, "Now what makes you think that?"
"Sain, take this guy and use your sword. After him I'll we'll have left is that one thug..."
Sain nodded and charged forth, his only trail the dust and hoof prints left by his horse. After a view moments, and the sound of clanging, Sain yelled that the coast was clear.
"All right, this is the final battle," I said once everyone had gathered together. "Wil, you'll attack from the back and distract him and that is when Kent will come from his side. Sain, you'll back him up. Lyn, Florina, you will sit this one out."
"But...but.." Florina's face was flushed and she seemed to be struggling with her voice, "Can't we try to talk this out?"
"Listen girl, these are dangerous rouges. They don't believe in 'talking things out.' They strike first and don't ask questions," Kent's stern voice was full of meaning. It was truly sad to kill hurt someone over such a petty manner, but if we didn't get rid if them it would be someone else next time.
With a heavy sigh I gave the archer his command, "All right, let's go."
Wil took his place and at my nod, shot. The arrow hit his left shoulder and his response was anger, "Draw your swords! We're not listening to any of your stinking apologies!"
Florina squeaked from behind me and Kent had a 'I-was-right-once-again' look plastered on his face. "All right you two, go forth," I called to the two Lycian knights. Kent was first to charge, he got in a good hit but also took one. His second attack hit, but not as hard as the first resulting in Migal, the boss, to still have some fight left. "Too bad, pretty boy," he laughed cockily as he charged, full force, at the fallen Kent.
Sain took this as go and blocked the attack just in time, "You'll not hurt him." With one last triumphant strike his sword effectively knocked the adversary down.
"Ugh... You'll live to regret this... My brothers... The Ganelon bandits will not let this stand..." And with his last breathe uttered he sank onto the ground. Sain hadn't been paying any attention to Migar but he was to Kent. "Old bud? Are you all right?"
Sain had placed his head in his lap and was staring sheepishly at him through sweaty brown bangs. Kent was frowning, "I'm fine you fool. Just help me up." Sain smiled and kneeled next to his slim frame and pulled him to his feet. Kent had to lean against his companion and didn't seem too happy about it but Sain seemed rather pleased.
I walked over to the pair and inspected the wounds for myself, nothing too bad. Wil appeared by my side and seemed to be doing the same. "That's finally taken care of," Lyn sighed from somewhere behind me.
I turned to look at her and saw that she and Florina were sitting against the debris of a destroyed village. I wandered over to the two of them and took a seat next to Lyn, Wil sat on my other side. Sain helped Kent to a wooden beam that was stuck part way in the ground and was across from the two girls. He set him down carefully and began to cover his wounds. Lyn started to do the same to Florina's and they started a conversation.
"Florina, why did you follow me? It's so dangerous."
"Do you remember the knighting ceremony of the Pegasus Knights of Ilia?" Florina asked.
I'd heard about that before, a knight joins a group of freelance soldiers to further their training. But what does that...oh..now I see.
"Is that what brought you here, Florina?" Lyn wondered.
She nodded, "Uh-huh. I wanted to talk to you before I set out. But when I went to Sacae, I heard that you left with some strangers, and..."
"You were worried for me?" Lyn asked and Florina flushed as she nodded again. "Thank you, but I'm more worried about you."
"Me?" Florina looked genuinely confused. Both were female fighters with similar strengths, what could be so different?
Lyn smiled in a way that made her appear wise as she tied the bandage she was fitting on Florina's arm. "Listen, most mercenaries are men, right? Bands of men? I can't imagine you being at all comfortable around them."
"I know, I know. Its just... I've always dreamt of being a pegasus knight. I imagined I would just... work it out. Somehow. After today, I'm not so sure." My eyes went from the ground to Sain, who had said something to Kent to make Wil gave him a disapproving look. I turned my attention from them to the young pegasus knight.
"Maybe I should just... give up..." She sniffled and stared at the ground and I could tell that she had been thinking about this for sometime.
Lyn wrapped her arms around Florina's shivering form, "Florina... Don't cry.." But she shook her head and Lyn leaned the smaller girl against herself.
"Yes! There's no reason to give up your dream!" a male voice yelled out.
"Hm?" Lyn moved back as Sain appeared out of nowhere. He was kneeling in front of the startled female knight. Smiling, he reached out and grabbed her hand in his own. "Lovely Florina! I have the most brilliant idea!"
Kent was glaring at Sain. Lyn looked highly offended and disappointed because Florina was no longer leaning against her. Wil had a large grin on his face. Florina, herself, was getting redder as Sain continued talking, "You should come with us! With the addition of Wil here," he motioned over his shoulder, "We're a fine group of soldiers, and freelance to boot!"
"Wait, did you just include me?" Wil sounded confused.
Sain waved at him to shush, "Of course! We were destined to meet here! It's fate! Come now, Lyndis's band of mercenaries is as good a training group as you will find anywhere!"
Kent's yell even scared me, "Sain! This is no joking matter!"
Sain turned and went to speak with the fallen knight as Florina whispered to herself, "Lyndis...?" She turned and looked Lyn square in the eye, "Mercenaries?"
Lyn stood and moved to take Sain's earlier space ahead of Florina and gave the young girl a sympathetic look, "I can give you details later. But, for once, Sain's right. Will you come with us, Florina?" Lyn laid her hands upon the pegasus knights'.
"Travel with you, Lyn? Truly?" Florina looked ready to burst. I felt Wil get up by my side and walk over to the bickering knights. He said something that made them peer behind his figure at the two girls, then back at him. They both nodded at Wil.
"I would be so...so happy!" I heard Florina squeal.
I smiled and looked ahead of me as a flash of green went by that caused my bangs to ruffle. "Fantastic! Beauteous Florina! Our earlier meeting was brief so we shall make this one count. I am a knight of Caelin. My name is Sain..." I shook my head and with a long sigh I reclined onto a rock behind me.
Florina shrieked, "Stay back! Don't get so close."
A teasing laugh greeted my ears, "Ah... Beautiful and yet so modest!"
"Sain, you playboy!" Kent yelled as I heard someone walk to the laughing knight as quieter foot steps went the opposite way to the hurt one.
"I beg your forgiveness. Calling us mercenaries.." Kent's quiet voice touched my ears. Lyn then spoke up, "No, I approve. We can't leave Florina on her own." I lifted my head to look at Lyn who was standing by the still-sitting Kent. She was staring at Florina, who was with Wil and Sain, with an emotion I couldn't place. "She requires special attention, though. Can I count on you?" Lyn had turned back to Kent who was getting up.
"Yes, you have but to ask," he arched is back slightly in the beginnings of a bow but thought better of it. With a nod he walked uneasily back towards Sain. Wil noticed and tapped Sain's shoulder and pointed. Sain dashed to Kent's said and slide an arm behind his back, "Argh, I'm fine Sain....."
Lyn settled down at my side and laid down next to me. We both looked to the sky for a few moments but our view was blocked by the tall figure of our newest comrade. "So...Is it really all right if I travel with you?" Wil asked while biting his lower lip.
Lyn sat up, "Oh, yes. Of course! If you're willing, Wil."
Wil took a seat next to me as I sat forward as well, "Actually, I'm very grateful. Truth be told, all of my money was stolen, and I'm...at a bit of a crossroads. I would be honored to count myself one of Lyndis's Legion!" He patted his chest and laughed.
"'Lyndis's Legion?'"
Sain yelled something about double the fun as Kent covered his face with his hand. Florina inched around the two knights and ran to Lyn's side.
She shook her head and turned to me, "This is getting stranger with every day, Touya."
This chapter is the longest by far, I just really got into it. Hope you guys like.
Chapter 3: Band of Mercenaries
To meet her grandfather Lyn must head west to Lycia. A mountain range separates the Sacae plains from Bern. There are many bandit gangs that lurk here, the cruelest of which are the Taliver. They wreak havoc on both Sacae and Bern, and their savagery knows no bounds. It is now our tenth day from leaving the plains and it's no picnic.
"Oh magnificent light, you shine as though the stars in the sky are useless in these times of darkness... Ooh ooh, How's that, Kent?"
"Terrible!" Sain's three companions yelled together for the twelfth time that day.
"Awww, well I need something. I'm running out of lines," Sain sulked as he hunched onto Kent's back. Sain and Kent were sharing a horse and Lyn and I were on Sain's. "Sain, if you don't stop leaning on me you'll be walking the rest of the way to Caelin," Kent ground out. It was evident that he was fed up with Sain, as were the rest of us. Sain replied with a whine.
I shook my head in amusement and looked out at the horizon. We hadn't seen a village in ages and our food supply was getting low, that, and we hadn't seen any streams to wash in either. Lyn's hair was losing its shine and Sain's was as flat as ever, thus the site of buildings caught my attention instantaneously. "Lyn, please tell me that that isn't a mirage," I asked over my shoulder. She gasped, "Sain, Kent!"
The two knights, who were seconds before trying to shove each other off the horse, turned and cheered. "Finally," Kent sighed. "About time," Sain frowned. As the horses approached I could feel Lyn's hair hit my back as she shook her head, "This place... It's..." By then we could all see what she was talking about.
Sain jumped from behind Kent as he, himself, did the same, "The entire area is in ruins." Sain nodded and turned to his fellow knight, "Why doesn't their marquess do anything to help?"
"Taliver Mountains is home to a gang of vicious, ruthless bandits. No marquess holds power here," Kent answered with a disapproving glance over the damaged area. "My village," Lyn spook quietly as she dismounted, "was near here, on the other side of the mountain. My people were... The Taliver bandits came at night. It only took one night. They're soundless beasts. I will never forgive them. Never."
"Lyn..." I stepped off the horse and laid my hand on her shoulder. Sain and Kent stayed quiet. She shook her head vigorously, "I am not running away. I will be back...someday. I will be stronger... I will break their swords beneath me like twigs beneath a stallion's hooves. I will avenge my people. I will do everything in my power."
"When the time comes, bring me with you."
The voice issued a gasp from Lyn's lips. "Sain," she smiled weakly at his own bright one.
"Don't forget me, either."
"Kent.."
"And you know you can always count on me, Lyn," I smiled and tightened my hand on her shoulder.
"Ah, I... You're... Thank you," she smiled.
"Um, Lyndis? Do you think we could get out of here, this place gives me the creeps..." Sain shivered. Lyn laughed, "Sure, guys." To leave we'd have to go through the town, or lack of, so we decided to lead the horses through and not ride on them.
"What's this?" Kent said as some people came into view, "Be on your guard, Lyndis." Sain shielded his eyes from the sun, "Is that a woman with those thugs?"
"Sain, you bea-"
"Wait. That's...That's a pegasus, Could it be?" Lyn's mouth was slightly open and she walked towards the group. "Florina? Is that you, Florina?"
It was indeed a girl, she was rather short and slim and had fluffy purple hair that curled at her mid-back. She was dressed in a short white dress that showed that her legs were covered in long indigo boots that belted at her thighs. Armor of the same rich tone adorned her shoulders and she was holding tightly into the reins of a magnificent white pegasus with huge wings that looked to be at least six or seven feet high. "Ah!" She blushed at being addressed, "Lyn?"
"Florina!" Lyn ran full speed and picked the small girl up and spun her around. Florina's blush doubled as she dropped and reins and grabbed at her friend. They stopped hugging but stayed in close contact as the Lycians and I walked closer to the pair. The taller girl's mood changed dramatically as she scolded Florina like an older sister would,"What are you doing in place such as this?"
The girl still seemed to still be in shock, "Lyn!" Her eyes welled up with tears. "Come now, no crying," Lyn's hand went to caress the petite girl's face.
"I'm sorry," Florina sniffed. Kent stepped forth."Are you.." he struggled for a word, "..acquaintances?"
Sain smirked and leaned against the crimson-haired knight's shoulder, "I'd say they're more than that."
"She's my friend," Lyn glared in Sain's direction as he turned and pretended to find the scenery very interesting. "This is Florina, a pegasus knight in training from Ilia."
Ilia is a small country north of Sacae. The inhabitants usually keep to themselves unless they're training or fighting in a war. But it is still quite an event to meet one in person. "Wow, a pegasus knight," I commented. "I've always wanted to meet one." I issued my hand forth and she squeaked.
"Uh Touya, she's erm..a little uncomfortable around men," Lyn explained as I withdrew my hand. "Tell me, Florina, what happened here?"
Florina looked to the ground, her voice was barely audible, "Well...um.. When I heard that you had left... I decided to follow you. Then I saw this village... I flew down to ask if the townspeople had news of you." By now the men that Sain had saw Florina with were walking towards us. "I didn't see these two, and ...well.."
Lyn's eyes went wide, "Did your pegasus land on them?"
Either Florina was the object of innocence or a very good actress because she made the plight sound as though she stepped on someone's foot, "Well, I... A little.." The thugs, though, didn't seem so happy, "Aha! You heard her!"
"I didn't," Sain shrugged and Kent elbowed him in the stomach.
The thug yelled and Florina retreated behind Lyn, "She admits her fault! She stepped on my friend, and now she's got to pay!"
Lyn turned to the cowering girl behind her, "Did you apologize, Florina?"
Florina stared at Lyn wide-eyed with her hands over her gaping mouth and nodded, " I told them I was sorry many times over. They just wouldn't listen..." She sniffed again.
"Don't cry. It's all right," Lyn cooed softly.
"Lyn..."
Lyn smiled and the girl and then bravely turned to the man, "Listen, she's obviously sorry. Can't we just let this pass? You don't appear to be injured or anything."
For a second I though the crying girl routine would work. The man seemed generally convinced, that is until his friend stepped forth, "No chance. The girl goes with us--by force if need be!"
Lyn gasped as the thugs ran behind a nearby house. His yell echoed through the deserted marketplace, "Hey C'mon out now, boys! The men are fair game, but don't put a scratch on the girls!"
Several men came out from various locations, a few archers and swordsmen were visible from our location. Lyn drew her sword and stepped forth, "Touya! We've got to fight back!" I nodded and started to plan out our upcoming duel.
"Lyn...I.." Florina whispered. "You're a pegasus knight, aren't you? You can fight, can't you?" Lyn smiled.
Florina blushed and smiled back, "...Yes!"
"Okay we're facing bandits. They're underlings, but we can't take them too lightly. Let's clear them out of here, you guys ready?" I asked Lyn, Florina, Sain, and Kent carefully. They nodded and drew each of their weapons but Florina looked cautious, "Lyn, who are these people?"
"This is Touya, he's our tactician." I waved and she blushed. "The brown haired knight is Sain and the red, Kent." Florina nodded and a look of quiet determination spread over her features. She was trying to appear brave for Lyn, how cute ( ).
"The layout would make it difficult to keep the troops together, so each person will need to be extremely careful. The enemy will be in the same predicament," I advised. "I see some archers, they will be the hardest to overcome, they strike weak but often and at a distance. If we can take them out we'll be on easy street.
"Lyn, you move first. Alert any of the remaining townsfolk of the battle."
"What makes you think that there's anyone still here?"
"We have to be sure, Sain," Lyn said as she and I moved to the nearby house. "Is anyone there?"
"Leave us alone you thugs!" a scared voice yelled from within. "Go away! Go away! We've no more gold for you!"
Lyn quickly she sheathed her sword, "No, wait! Please! We're not bandits! We want to help the village. Please listen!"
"Remain inside, everyone," a calm voice instructed from within. "I'll go see what's happening."
A younger man with messy mahogany hair came out. He was dressed in turquoise and had a padded leather sash hanging from his left shoulder down to his waist. The fabric held a pack of finely cut arrows. "Not bandits, huh? So, who are you?" He spoke quickly and with a comfortable air around him.
"My name is Lyn. My colleagues and I are traveling through here.. We saw some bandits about. We're going to duel with them, but.... We need you to go and warn the villagers," she carefully advised and at his nod began to turn away.
"Hey! Wait!" He walked forward and smiled, "The name's Wil. I'm a traveler of sorts, as well. Listen, these villagers have been kind to me and I wish to repay them. Mind if I fight along with you guys?"
Lyn jumped at the idea, "Not at all. We need all the help we can get! Welcome aboard, Wil!"
We exited the village and I gave Wil his order but Florina's tiny scream stopped me. "Lyn, get down! An archer."
"No, no Florina, this is Wil. He's on our side," Lyn quickly interjected.
I shook my head with a smile, "Okay Wil, move to the wall by the village. There is a swordsman there. Deliver the first hit. Florina, you will make the next move. Finish the swordsman up with your lance."
She nodded and climbed onto her large pegasus. Its wings sent gusts of sand in our direction but it was still a beautiful take off. Wil shot his arrow and successfully weakened the swordsman. Florina flew over the village and, gripping her slim lance, plowed through the unsuspecting bandit. One down, eight to go.
There was an archer to our left, along with more bandits and another archer. "A trap has already been set by the other side", I observed out loud, "If someone attacks the archer then another will attack them. So we need to draw the archer to Wil and then we attack."
Sain and Kent moved back, out of our opponent's striking distance. And the archer did as I hypothesized he would and went for our archer. Good for Wil in that his skills were not nearly as advanced his own. I directed Kent to go forth using his sword, the knight pulled the reins on his horse and ran at the attacking archer. Kent dodged the arrows sent his way and pushed his blade through the man. Another down.
Another village was in sight, although it was separated by mountains from our land units, Florina would be able to search for anyone and warn them. She landed by the village and after a few minutes came running out clutching a bag to her chest. She smiled and rattled it experimentally in the air, it clinked and clanked like coins would.
"Hey, is that money?" Sain asked no one in particular.
"If it is, it's not for you," Kent answered sternly. Sain whined and pouted. Kent stared him down. I didn't know how much longer of that I could stand, "All right, press forward guys."
A brigand stepped forth from behind a nearby wall. Wil hid and shot an arrow, it quickly flew and hit its target square in the face. "Great shot," Lyn gasped.
"Yeah, watch this," Sain smirked as he ran, sword high in the air, and finished the blind bandit with one last hit.
"Aiiiiiiiiiee!"
Sain looked into the air, "What was tha-"
"That was Florina!" Lyn yelled and quickly turned away from Sain. "Touya, can you see what's going on?"
"Brigand," I said offhandedly as I looked at the remaining five opposing troops.
"She can't defend, they'll rip her apart!" Lyn angrily came at me, "you're supposed to protect us!"
"Ly--Lyn," I was taken aback, she had never blamed me for anything like this before. She was staring wide-eyed at me, as were the other knights. Wil had been lining up a shot at a nearby enemy, but had turned to watch the fight. "She's fine, Lyn. He didn't attack her, he just showed up behind a swordsman."
Lyn covered her mouth and turned, "Touya...I'm...I just...She's my..."
Placing my hand on her back I whispered in her ear, "I know how much you care for her and how much she cares for you, don't worry. She's a big girl, she'll be fine."
"I just...I worry," Lyn let out pitifully.
Kent approached us, "Right now, she needs your support, Lyndis." The emerald-haired girl nodded and smiled, "I know, thank you."
"Wil, complete you shot," I nodded at him and he acknowledged me by giving a thumbs-up, "Lyn, attack this archer to the left."
I turned and yelled in the early scream's direction, "Florina, back over here." I was about to yell again but she flew back, eclipsed by the sun, completely unscathed. "All right, there should be a swordsman just in front of us, attack him and come back immediately."
The small girl nodded and disappeared from view again, only to return with a slightly bloody shoulder and a really bloody lance. She was breathing heavily but appeared to be fine.
"Got 'em," came the response from Wil as he turned from the thug he had just shot down, his eyes crinkled in happiness. Sain smiled and hit him on the back, "First fight?"
Wil blushed and laughed, "Now what makes you think that?"
"Sain, take this guy and use your sword. After him I'll we'll have left is that one thug..."
Sain nodded and charged forth, his only trail the dust and hoof prints left by his horse. After a view moments, and the sound of clanging, Sain yelled that the coast was clear.
"All right, this is the final battle," I said once everyone had gathered together. "Wil, you'll attack from the back and distract him and that is when Kent will come from his side. Sain, you'll back him up. Lyn, Florina, you will sit this one out."
"But...but.." Florina's face was flushed and she seemed to be struggling with her voice, "Can't we try to talk this out?"
"Listen girl, these are dangerous rouges. They don't believe in 'talking things out.' They strike first and don't ask questions," Kent's stern voice was full of meaning. It was truly sad to kill hurt someone over such a petty manner, but if we didn't get rid if them it would be someone else next time.
With a heavy sigh I gave the archer his command, "All right, let's go."
Wil took his place and at my nod, shot. The arrow hit his left shoulder and his response was anger, "Draw your swords! We're not listening to any of your stinking apologies!"
Florina squeaked from behind me and Kent had a 'I-was-right-once-again' look plastered on his face. "All right you two, go forth," I called to the two Lycian knights. Kent was first to charge, he got in a good hit but also took one. His second attack hit, but not as hard as the first resulting in Migal, the boss, to still have some fight left. "Too bad, pretty boy," he laughed cockily as he charged, full force, at the fallen Kent.
Sain took this as go and blocked the attack just in time, "You'll not hurt him." With one last triumphant strike his sword effectively knocked the adversary down.
"Ugh... You'll live to regret this... My brothers... The Ganelon bandits will not let this stand..." And with his last breathe uttered he sank onto the ground. Sain hadn't been paying any attention to Migar but he was to Kent. "Old bud? Are you all right?"
Sain had placed his head in his lap and was staring sheepishly at him through sweaty brown bangs. Kent was frowning, "I'm fine you fool. Just help me up." Sain smiled and kneeled next to his slim frame and pulled him to his feet. Kent had to lean against his companion and didn't seem too happy about it but Sain seemed rather pleased.
I walked over to the pair and inspected the wounds for myself, nothing too bad. Wil appeared by my side and seemed to be doing the same. "That's finally taken care of," Lyn sighed from somewhere behind me.
I turned to look at her and saw that she and Florina were sitting against the debris of a destroyed village. I wandered over to the two of them and took a seat next to Lyn, Wil sat on my other side. Sain helped Kent to a wooden beam that was stuck part way in the ground and was across from the two girls. He set him down carefully and began to cover his wounds. Lyn started to do the same to Florina's and they started a conversation.
"Florina, why did you follow me? It's so dangerous."
"Do you remember the knighting ceremony of the Pegasus Knights of Ilia?" Florina asked.
I'd heard about that before, a knight joins a group of freelance soldiers to further their training. But what does that...oh..now I see.
"Is that what brought you here, Florina?" Lyn wondered.
She nodded, "Uh-huh. I wanted to talk to you before I set out. But when I went to Sacae, I heard that you left with some strangers, and..."
"You were worried for me?" Lyn asked and Florina flushed as she nodded again. "Thank you, but I'm more worried about you."
"Me?" Florina looked genuinely confused. Both were female fighters with similar strengths, what could be so different?
Lyn smiled in a way that made her appear wise as she tied the bandage she was fitting on Florina's arm. "Listen, most mercenaries are men, right? Bands of men? I can't imagine you being at all comfortable around them."
"I know, I know. Its just... I've always dreamt of being a pegasus knight. I imagined I would just... work it out. Somehow. After today, I'm not so sure." My eyes went from the ground to Sain, who had said something to Kent to make Wil gave him a disapproving look. I turned my attention from them to the young pegasus knight.
"Maybe I should just... give up..." She sniffled and stared at the ground and I could tell that she had been thinking about this for sometime.
Lyn wrapped her arms around Florina's shivering form, "Florina... Don't cry.." But she shook her head and Lyn leaned the smaller girl against herself.
"Yes! There's no reason to give up your dream!" a male voice yelled out.
"Hm?" Lyn moved back as Sain appeared out of nowhere. He was kneeling in front of the startled female knight. Smiling, he reached out and grabbed her hand in his own. "Lovely Florina! I have the most brilliant idea!"
Kent was glaring at Sain. Lyn looked highly offended and disappointed because Florina was no longer leaning against her. Wil had a large grin on his face. Florina, herself, was getting redder as Sain continued talking, "You should come with us! With the addition of Wil here," he motioned over his shoulder, "We're a fine group of soldiers, and freelance to boot!"
"Wait, did you just include me?" Wil sounded confused.
Sain waved at him to shush, "Of course! We were destined to meet here! It's fate! Come now, Lyndis's band of mercenaries is as good a training group as you will find anywhere!"
Kent's yell even scared me, "Sain! This is no joking matter!"
Sain turned and went to speak with the fallen knight as Florina whispered to herself, "Lyndis...?" She turned and looked Lyn square in the eye, "Mercenaries?"
Lyn stood and moved to take Sain's earlier space ahead of Florina and gave the young girl a sympathetic look, "I can give you details later. But, for once, Sain's right. Will you come with us, Florina?" Lyn laid her hands upon the pegasus knights'.
"Travel with you, Lyn? Truly?" Florina looked ready to burst. I felt Wil get up by my side and walk over to the bickering knights. He said something that made them peer behind his figure at the two girls, then back at him. They both nodded at Wil.
"I would be so...so happy!" I heard Florina squeal.
I smiled and looked ahead of me as a flash of green went by that caused my bangs to ruffle. "Fantastic! Beauteous Florina! Our earlier meeting was brief so we shall make this one count. I am a knight of Caelin. My name is Sain..." I shook my head and with a long sigh I reclined onto a rock behind me.
Florina shrieked, "Stay back! Don't get so close."
A teasing laugh greeted my ears, "Ah... Beautiful and yet so modest!"
"Sain, you playboy!" Kent yelled as I heard someone walk to the laughing knight as quieter foot steps went the opposite way to the hurt one.
"I beg your forgiveness. Calling us mercenaries.." Kent's quiet voice touched my ears. Lyn then spoke up, "No, I approve. We can't leave Florina on her own." I lifted my head to look at Lyn who was standing by the still-sitting Kent. She was staring at Florina, who was with Wil and Sain, with an emotion I couldn't place. "She requires special attention, though. Can I count on you?" Lyn had turned back to Kent who was getting up.
"Yes, you have but to ask," he arched is back slightly in the beginnings of a bow but thought better of it. With a nod he walked uneasily back towards Sain. Wil noticed and tapped Sain's shoulder and pointed. Sain dashed to Kent's said and slide an arm behind his back, "Argh, I'm fine Sain....."
Lyn settled down at my side and laid down next to me. We both looked to the sky for a few moments but our view was blocked by the tall figure of our newest comrade. "So...Is it really all right if I travel with you?" Wil asked while biting his lower lip.
Lyn sat up, "Oh, yes. Of course! If you're willing, Wil."
Wil took a seat next to me as I sat forward as well, "Actually, I'm very grateful. Truth be told, all of my money was stolen, and I'm...at a bit of a crossroads. I would be honored to count myself one of Lyndis's Legion!" He patted his chest and laughed.
"'Lyndis's Legion?'"
Sain yelled something about double the fun as Kent covered his face with his hand. Florina inched around the two knights and ran to Lyn's side.
She shook her head and turned to me, "This is getting stranger with every day, Touya."
