Usual Disclaimers Apply.  Konami own Suikoden 2 and all it's respective characters, places and names.  But they are really nice people who wouldn't dream of doing anything to the poor helpless fan fiction writer who is doing this for fun, not profit.

Well, after the longest delay, the new chapter is finally up.  Amazingly.  Writer's block's a bitch.  But that doesn't matter right now, on with the chapter!

---

Chapter Forty Four

Stuff Happened, It Was Interesting

(Location: North Window Castle)

---

There was much excitement around the old North Window Castle that day.  Rumours were rife amongst it's inhabitants.

"Did you hear? Lord Riou is going to be our leader!"

"Are you sure? He seems awfully young…"

"Did you know Riou was the adopted child of Master Genkaku?"

"No! That Genkaku? Amazing!"

"I hear he even has the very same Bright Shield Rune that Genkaku once possessed!"

"Wow, maybe he IS the leader we've been searching for…the one who will finally lead us to victory!"

Kahri concealed a smile as he walked through the castle.  There was so much he didn't know about Riou, and even less about this Genkaku guy.  Finally about to find out about it, Kahri quickened his pace as he reached the room designated as Riou's.  He could already hear Nanami in there, but that was nothing new really. 

Nanami really shadows him everywhere.  Just like a big sister should.  Trying to help, but so damn annoying at the same time.

Kahri grinned, as he knocked on Riou's door.  Nanami opened it.

"Ready to go?" Nanami asked, continuing before Kahri could answer, "Great! Viktor will be waiting for us.  Let's go!"

Nanami led the way, Riou following close behind, he simply shrugged as he walked past.  Kahri scratched his head, slightly confused.  He must still be thinking about what Shu said.

Kahri tapped Riou on the shoulder, "Don't worry about the all important one right now, let's just concentrate on learning about your grandfather tonight."

Riou nodded, almost a smile, I miss his smile. Kahri thought wistfully as they headed towards the bar Leona was setting up.  It's been too long since any of us had anything to smile about…

---

Viktor was already in the Tavern, and he already had a drink in his hands.  Nobody was surprised.  Viktor looked over as the three entered.

"You're here, good. Ha! Don't just stand there, come on in, sit down, have a...ummm," Viktor stopped, and laughed, "I guess you still can't drink, eh."

But Nanami was having none of this. "We came to hear about Grandpa Genkaku." She said, rather bossily. "Not to be treated like kids!"

Viktor took another gulp as he looked at Nanami, "Hey, c'mon now, what's the rush? It's a long story, and it's not a very happy one either, okay?" Viktor took another drink, "So whadda ya think? Still wanna hear it?"

Kahri walked over and sat down, "Duh, of course we do. Right Riou?"

Riou also walked over, "I still wanna hear it." He sat down.  Nanami soon followed.

Viktor nodded, "Okay...well get ready.  Like I said, it's a long story.  Sit down already." He said to Nanami, who was still standing, "You'll get cramp." 

Nanami sat down, at last, and Viktor began the story.

"Just before this war started, fighting between Highland and the State was pretty much limited to minor border skirmishes.  But...it must be around 30 years ago now.  Highland and the State fought a great war against each other."

"Sure," Kahri interrupted, "Everyone knows that."

"Quiet you!" Viktor chided, "I'm telling this story!"

"Pushy, aren't you?" Kahri grinned. It felt good to joke around again.

Viktor ignore Kahri, and continued the story again. "There are a lot of different stories about what happened, but it appeared that the State started the war. Anabelle's father, Mayor Darell of Muse, led the State, and the famous general, Han Cunningham, led the Highland Army."

Viktor sighed.  "But Darell was an amateur when it came to war, and before long he had lost half of Muse and the Matilda Domain."

"Ouch, I doubt even I could be that incompetent." Kahri said, pretty much to himself.  But Riou nodded in agreement.

"When the State needed it most, a hero appeared...your adopted father, Genkaku." Viktor paused for effect, it went unregistered by the impatient trio, and continued, slightly deflated. "Genkaku got command of a unit and raided Highland's supply tent.  This slowed down Highland long enough for the State to recover."

"Wow, he was pretty brave." Kahri looked over at Riou, "You must be so proud."

Riou was about to answer, but was interrupted by a small snore emanating from the general direction of Nanami.

Viktor raised an eyebrow, "Surely I'm not that boring…" He shook his head, and continued on again.

"The war went back and forth from then on in.  Genkaku and Han were from the same village, and apparently they were good friends. Sometimes they would drink together leisurely, right in the middle of both camps." 

"You know, I think I remember reading something similar to that," Kahri shrugged, "Only the two sides played a game of some sort during a holiday or something.  Oh wait, that was a story…"

Viktor reached over and clouted Kahri, "Now, as I was saying…Oh yeah, by doing so, they soon both realized what a stupid and pointless war it was."

Viktor ignored Kahri's cry of "That hurt!" and went on. "And so Genkaku and Han worked together to make a peace treaty.  The citizens of both countries were overjoyed.  All except for one man, the Mayor of Muse City..."

"And the plot thickens…" Kahri whispered, fearing another Viktor clouting.

"There was one border city that Darell refused to give over to Highland.  That city was your hometown, Riou, Kyaro.  And so negotiations broke down, and the war began all over again," Viktor grimaced, "That's when the King of Highland, Agares Blight, made a suggestion. The war should be decided by...a 'duel between both champions.'  Darell agreed to the idea, as did Han and Genkaku.  Their only wish now was that the war would finally come to an end."

Kahri cheered.  "Yay."

"Quiet you!  The time came for the duel to begin, up at Jowston Hill," Viktor paused, "Yeah, you saw the monument before we witnessed the Hilltop Conference. King Agares gave his sword to Han, and Mayor Darell gave his sword to Genkaku...this signalled that each champion was fighting as the representative of their own country."

"And this is where it all went horribly wrong, right Viktor?" Kahri asked, remembering the stories he read as a child.

"You're right for once, something did happen then. Genkaku refused to raise his sword in battle.  Darell kept on ordering him to fight, over and over again.  But Genkaku refused.  Time passed, and the people got angry because the contest was spoiled.  And naturally, they blamed Genkaku. With no other choice, Han knocked away Genkaku's blade, put his own sword to Genkaku's neck and declared victory for Highland."

Viktor stopped, and took another drink before continuing. "That's how your home, Kyaro, came to be Highland territory.  Genkaku was called a 'traitor' and was ordered into exile by Lord Darell.  He left without ever revealing the real reason he never once lifted his sword to battle."

Kahri looked really confused by now.  "But…Genkaku seemed like…such a hero before.  Why on earth…did he think too much of his friendship with Han or something?"

 "I'm getting to that part, geez, you're almost as impatient as I am." Viktor almost smiled then, "Anyway, many years passed by, Darell left his job as mayor...and it was finally revealed why Genkaku had refused to fight.  You see, Darell had secretly coated the sword he gave to Genkaku with a deadly poison."

Viktor paused as both Riou and Kahri gasped.

"Genkaku was ruined whether he won or lost. If he lost, fine.  If he won, Darell was planning to expel him anyway for his 'evil crime.'   Genkaku detected the poison on the blade, and he couldn't bring himself to swing his sword." 

"Wow…he really was a hero after all." Kahri nodded, "I wish I could've met him."

"Genkaku's name was rightfully cleared, but Genkaku would never again return to the City-State," Viktor finished his drink off, and continued on, "As for what happened after that...well, you know about that better than I do.  I guess it was more important to Genkaku to live happily with you two," Viktor nodded at Riou and the apparently sleeping Nanami, "than it was to return to the State to clear his name...damn, she can snore loudly..."

"Tell me about it." Riou said, grinning.

Viktor laughed, "Well, you must be tired too.  Anyway, that's the kind of life your 'grandpa' led.  But Riou... You're not 'Genkaku's son,' you're your own person.  Don't you dare ever forget that," Viktor looked up, "Oh, it's pretty late...I didn't mean to keep you up so long.  You should carry Nanami to her bed...hopefully her snoring won't wake up everyone else..."

Viktor got up to leave, but before he reached to door he stopped, and turned back to Riou. "You two are good kids. I think I sort of understand how Genkaku must have felt about you."

And then he left.

Kahri stood up, "Well that was an exciting story.  I'm glad I stayed up to hear it…" He paused, looking over at Nanami, "Shame she missed all the good parts."

Riou nodded, "We'd better get her to her bed."

"It would be so funny if we just left her here…" Kahri sniggered, "Just kidding. Come on, I'll help you."

And so they lifted Nanami up, with one arm over their shoulders, Riou and Kahri headed back upstairs.

"Has she been putting on weight?"

---

A new day dawned, and the sunlight drifted over North Window Castle.  Nobody slept very well that night, all wondering what Riou's answer would be.  Almost everybody has gathered in the Great Hall that morning, waiting to hear Riou's reply. 

Tuta stood around in a nervous silence.  Ryu and Rina were having an actual conversation, rather than Ryu trying to impress her with his…"charms."  Freed Yamamoto looked like he would faint at any moment.  Eilie and Bolgan were rather excited.  Barbara and Leona were in deep discussion about wine rations.  Pilika was acting like a lost child.  Tsai and Kain were reminiscing.  Kahri and Warren were chattering animatedly.  Andrew and Elaine seemed to be having a whispered conversation, which everyone thought was a bit strange. 

And at the main stage of the Hall, Apple, Flik, Viktor and Shu waited in silence, observing the scene in front of them. 

Time passed awkwardly…until the doors of the Great Hall opened in a slightly boring fashion.  All eyes turned to the door as Riou, flanked by Nanami, walked in.  Riou walked over to Shu.  The silence was deafening.

Shu gratefully broke the silence, "Well Riou...have you made your decision?"

Another awkward silence followed, as if Riou was doing it deliberately to annoy everyone.  He finally responded.

"...If you think I can do it...Then I will."

The room turned from deafening silence to an almighty eruption of cheering in a microsecond.  The only person who seemed the slightest bit sad about it was Nanami, but she clapped for joy anyway.

It took a while for the cheering to die down; it soon flowed around the halls, stairways, rooms, nooks and crannies of the castle.  The castle may have rumbled a little too.  Eventually there was enough silence for somebody to speak, and be heard too.

"Riou, thank you," Viktor boomed, "I'll lend you all my strength so that we can defeat the basta…um, Luca Blight!"

Tsai echoed Viktor's speech, "Lord Riou, it's not much, but I'll give you all my strength too."

""I...I'll fight for you too!" Freed yelled, surprising everyone, "For South Window, for Lord Granmeyer, for all the people who have suffered at Highland's hands!"

Shu also had something to say, natch, "Lord Riou, with all the power I have learned from the teachings of my master, I promise to help bring you victory."

It was contagious, as Apple added, "I don't have much strength to give, but I promise I'll give you everything I've got."

"Yes, yes," Andrew interrupted, "We're all going to give everything we've got to help Riou, but this is getting annoying now."

Viktor burst out laughing, "Quite right! This is no way to celebrate such a momentous occasion. We've got a new leader! Let's have a party!"

Andrew and Elaine's eyes widened for a second, as they looked over at Kahri and Warren, who both shrugged.  But luckily, before the idea of a party steamrollered over everybody…

"I would like to congratulate you as well."

A figure in elaborate looking robes entered the hall.  Tuta jumped as he figured out who it was, and Andrew seemed to recognise the man too.

"Doctor Huan!" Tuta cried.

Indeed, the esteemed Doctor Huan had arrived, and was walking towards everyone.

Tuta continued, "Doctor! You're okay! I'm so glad."

"I'm sorry I had you so worried, Tuta." Huan replied.

Andrew felt he had to ask the question, "Dr. Huan, how did you manage to get out of Muse alive?"

"Well, I was helped out by a kind soldier and a strange, yet sweet, girl, I finally made it here, thanks to some brave sailors in Coronet." Huan replied.

Andrew frowned, "...that sounds familiar."

But before Andrew could figure it out, Shu had already begun talking again. "The soldiers will be happy to hear that we now have such a famous healer. Welcome Doctor Huan."

Huan nodded. "Thank you. I hope my small knowledge of medicine will be of some help to you and your troops," Huan then walked up to Riou, "Lord Riou. I'm happy to be here. I'll try to make myself useful to the other people in this castle."

"Oh," Elaine suddenly exclaimed, "...wait a second.  What are we going to call this castle?"

"Oh yeah, you're right..." Viktor added, "North Window Castle is no good... North Window was the name of a village that no longer exists..."

"Shall we have Lord Riou think of a name for the castle?" Freed suggested.

Eilie seemed excited, "Yeah! How about it, Riou? What would make a good name?"

Riou thought about it for a while, but inspiration came from an obvious source. "...I think we should call it 'Genkaku Castle'" He nodded at Viktor.

Everybody seemed to like it. "Oh, Genkaku Castle," Viktor smiled, "That's a great name!"

"Oh yes, a fabulous name worthy of this wonderful castle." Ryu added.

Kain nodded, "I agree, a good choice from our leader."

"Yes, I like it too." Eilie smiled.

Rina grinned, "Hoo hoo. You'd like anything he thought of..."

Eilie positively fumed, "Shut up, sis!"

Bolgan and Pilika began dancing, as Bolgan happily exclaimed "Genkaku Castle! Genkaku Castle!" repeatedly.

"Well, it's okay, isn't it?" Flik smiled, "It's the name our leader chose, after all."

Viktor also smiled, "Good. Now that our castle officially has a name, how about that party..."

But he was interrupted by a series of gasps, Viktor looked puzzled and turned around to see what everybody else had seen; a mysterious blue glow, from which an equally mysterious woman appeared.

Viktor couldn't contain his shock, "Waaah!"

Warren looked puzzled, "How in the world did she do that?"

"It would be a handy trick…" Elaine said, almost in awe.

Only Andrew seemed to be focused, "Who are you?" He asked, angrily.

"Hey...wait a second…" Kahri struggled to remember, "Hey...it's that lady who appeared in that cave in Toto!"

The lady spoke, "I am called Leknaat. I am the Keeper of the Gate Rune. The Watcher of the Great Balance.  Riou, inheritor of the 'Bright Shield Rune,' the cycle is complete. The Stars of Destiny are poised to gather once again.  I give you the Stone Tablet of the Promise. The names that appear on it show your followers, the source of your strength."

"Do you suppose we could get that in English?" Warren whispered to Kahri, who simply shrugged.

It was then it happened.  A green glow was emanating, and from it stood a slightly arrogant looking kid, with what could only be the Stone Tablet.

"You know," Elaine whispered to Andrew, "Those robes look kinda familiar…"

"I'm Lady Leknaat's pupil, Luc.  And this is 'the Stone Tablet of the Promise.' You should be grateful that the Lady has given you this.  I'll also favor you with my great presence. It's not what I choose, but Lady Leknaat has ordered it.  Also, you will find another in the bedrooms, he will recover shortly."

---

Meanwhile…

Malcolm's eyes fluttered open, he sat bolt upright, breathing heavily.  He was unsure of his surroundings, but there was one thing he was sure of. He was all alone.

"Huh? How'd I get onto a bed…"

He was about to finish, but a mysterious glow suddenly emanated from the other bed.  And just as soon as it had appeared, a teenage boy lay on the bed, unconscious – but otherwise fine.  The shock of what had just happened finally registered in Malcolm's brain, and he did the only thing he could do…

---

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"

Luc smirked, "I see that he has arrived okay. A pity."

Leknaat seemed to have more to say. "These old eyes see the future dimly. Many strands of fate are woven around you, young man.  Your friend... The inheritor of the 'Black Sword Rune...' I see him also. You both have hard roads ahead... So you must always look forward and proceed with caution...Riou."

And with those ominous words, Lady Leknaat vanished just as she had appeared.  Everyone was still stunned by what had just happened.

"So it's Viktor and Flik," Luc said, dismissively, "You're still alive then."

Viktor looked pretty angry at Luc's attitude.

"Is he a friend of yours?" Nanami asked.

Flik looked over, "Well...sort of. We once fought together."

Viktor looked disappointed, "Bah.  Next time we'll have a real party!"

---

It wasn't long before Luc had set up the Stone Tablet that people began crowding around it, curious.

Elaine was one of the first, showing an unusual display of curiosity.  "Hmm…" She scanned the Tablet, "Oh, there's me! Hmm, 'Tensui Star…'"

She looked up at Luc, who was pointedly ignoring her. "What does 'Tensui' mean anyway?"

Luc continued to ignore her. Which only made Elaine angrier, "Listen you, I've had it up to here with arrogant mages! You tell me what this means or I'm gonna skin you alive."

"…Unhand me you brutal Amazon," He replied, "And do not touch the Tablet, it is fragile."

Elaine let him go with a reluctant sigh.  "Could you at least tell me what the 'Tensui Star' is?"

"It's the 'Star of Intelligence.'"

Elaine looked up to see a slightly groggy Malcolm walking towards her. "I read all about this in a musty old book my Grandmother kept.  The Stars of Destiny, eh?  How does it feel to be one, Elaine?"

"A little strange, actually." She replied, "'Star of Intelligence' huh…I like it."

Elaine scanned down the list, "Oh look, you're on it too."

Malcolm looked at where Elaine was pointing, "Well, I didn't expect that…" Malcolm joined Elaine to look at the Tablet, "'Chiyou Star.'"

"What does that mean?"

"I think it means 'The Magic Star' but I'm not one hundred percent sure of it." Malcolm looked over at Luc, "Which reminds me…were you the one responsible for that guy appearing in the medical room like that?"

Luc grunted, which Malcolm assumed meant yes.

Elaine grinned, "So that was you screaming then."

"Shut up…" Malcolm replied, "It's not something that I'm proud of you know."

Elaine had gone back to scanning the list, "Hmm…oh, here's that Ryu guy. Hmm, what does 'Tensatsu Star' mean?"

Malcolm sighed, "I don't remember you being this curious before I was unconscious…it means 'Murderous Star.'"

Elaine smiled, "I wonder which Star Riou is…well, what do you know? He's the first name on the list.  'Tenkai Star.'"

"'Chief Star of Heaven.'" Malcolm said, before Elaine could ask. "Appropriate enough for our leader."

"You heard then?"

"Please, I wouldn't be surprised if news of this hadn't reached the Toran Republic by now." Malcolm replied, now looking at the list too. "Hmm, Kahri is the 'Chitsu Star'…he's gonna love this one. It means 'The Childish Star'."

"On Kahri, it's kind of endearing." Elaine smiled, looking up suddenly, "Oh, over here guys!"

Malcolm looked up to, and saw Andrew, Warren and Kahri approaching. "It's all set," Andrew said, "Nanami agreed to bring Riou later."

"What are you up to?" Malcolm asked.

"It's a little surprise for Riou," Warren replied, "To celebrate, y'know?"

Elaine walked over to Andrew, "We were just looking at the Stone thingy."

That comment earned a small annoyed grunt from Luc, and Elaine smiled before continuing, "Oh, Malcolm…what's Andrew's Star of Destiny?"

Malcolm scanned the list again, "'Chiyu Star'…it can either be translated as 'The Brave Star' or 'The Heroic Star.'"

"I LIKE it." Elaine smiled again, "It suits you."

Warren and Kahri watched on in surprise. Malcolm was too busy examining the Tablet to notice.

Warren was first to comment, "You two seem awfully close lately…hey, Kahri. Maybe that rumour we heard was true after all!"

"What rumor?" Elaine and Andrew asked, simultaneously.

"Apparently some guard claimed he saw you two kissing last night," Kahri replied, "Well? Did you? Is it true? Come on, tell, tell, tell!"

Wistfully, Malcolm said, "Yep, he IS the 'Chitsu Star'."

Kahri looked puzzled, "What are you talking about?"

"Wow, this Tablet thing," Warren paused as Luc grunted angrily, "is so cool. There's Kain, the 'Tenyu Star!'…whassat mean?"

"The 'Star of Heroic Ferocity'." Malcolm answered, and was about to say something else until…

"Hey, I'm on it!" Warren exclaimed, "The 'Chiri Star', what's that mean?"

Malcolm frowned, "I believe it is translated as 'The Star of Justice', you must be out to avenge something or other."

Warren blinked, "Oh, now why would I do that? I have no reason to be vengeful."

"You're not a convincing liar." Elaine said softly, sending chills down Warren's spine.

"It's nothing.  Leave me alone already!"

And with that, Warren stormed off.  "What's his problem?" Andrew wondered out loud.

Kahri shrugged, "I'll talk to him later, after Riou's surprise."

Kahri walked off, followed by Andrew and Elaine.  If anybody was paying attention, they would have noticed Andrew and Elaine were holding hands as they left.  But nobody noticed. 

"Huh?" Malcolm gazed in amazement, as another name magically engraved itself onto the Tablet, "Hmm…'Chikei Star'…'The Avenging Star'…" Malcolm got up, even more puzzled than before, "Who is this Avara guy anyway?"

Malcolm left with a shrug.  Not noticing the look of pure disgust on Luc's face when he heard Malcolm utter Avara's name…

---

"Where are you taking me, Nanami?" Riou complained, being blindfolded was bad enough, but not knowing what was happening was even worse.

Nanami giggled, "Don't you worry about it. Just trust your big sister on this one!"

Nanami opened the door and ushered Riou in.  Riou managed to get his blindfold off, but it didn't do much good.  It was pitch black in the room. 

Riou tried to figure out what was happening, "If I didn't know better, I'd say this was…"

"SURPRISE!!!"

Riou was caught off guard, and found himself slipping and crashing to the ground, butt first.  A row of candles was suddenly lit up, and the room was revealed.  A very well decorated room, filled with a whole lot of people…who were all staring at Riou.

"Aaaah!" Nanami yelled, "You're not hurt are you? Can you stand?"

"I'm fine…" Riou sighed.

"Well, that's not the best way to start your leadership, was it?" Andrew laughed.

"What's with the party anyway?" Riou asked, slightly embarrassed at all the attention.

"Come on!" Kahri yelled, "This is the biggest thing that ever happened to you.  Of course we want to celebrate! So should you!"

"We're just glad Viktor's idea for a party bombed," Elaine added, "I doubt you could've handled two parties."

"I'm very sure I won't be able to handle one…" Riou responded, but too quietly for anybody to hear.

"Oh leave him be." Malcolm said softly, "You're embarrassing our leader.  Wouldn't want that now, would we?"

Riou took that opportunity to look around, Ryu and Rina were enjoying a drink together, Bolgan and Pilika were playing as usual.  Andrew and Elaine were dancing to the music, which was slightly too slow to match their slightly too close dancing…and Eilie was now walking up to him.

"Congratulations," She said, "Who would have ever thought this would have happened, eh?"

Eilie hugged Riou, before wandering off again. "Yeah, who would have thought this…" Riou mumbled.

Malcolm walked over to Riou, "You're not enjoying this, are you?"

Riou simply shook his head, "I…well…it's too much."

"If it helps," Malcolm said, "I was unconscious when they planned this."

"How is that supposed to help?"

"It helps me a little," Malcolm shrugged, "Why don't you go and get some air, you look kinda pale."

"WHAT?!?" Nanami bellowed, "Don't tell me Riou's ill!"

"Fresh air sounds like a good plan…" Riou said softly, before leaving, Nanami close behind.

"I'm worried." Malcolm said, to nobody in particular.

"He just needs time to adjust."

Malcolm turned to see Kain outside the door.

"This was too much too soon.  I'm sure he will be grateful later, but not today." And with that, Kain walked away.

"Where's the guest of honour gone?" Kahri asked, walking up beside Malcolm.

"Fresh air, he…he's a little under the weather." Malcolm replied, trying hard to respect Riou's privacy.

"Oh, that's a shame." Kahri replied, "At least everyone else will enjoy the party."

"Yeah…" Malcolm waited till Kahri had gone, "Everyone else…sure."

He never finished, as a small yellow speeding creature knocked him down.

"Bonaparte's on the rampage again!" Kahri yelled, chasing after the Groundhog, Millie close behind.

"Oh man, that damn thing ate the entire cake!"

"The one that Nanami baked? No wonder it's so agitated!"

---

Bonaparte ran out of the castle, quickly followed by the flustered Millie and the exasperated Kahri.

"I like Bonaparte and all," He yelled, "But he's so high maintenance."

"For something so cute," Millie replied, "It's worth it."

Bonaparte suddenly stopped, allowing Millie to scoop him up in her arms, "Ooo, what am I going to do with you?"

Bonaparte squeaked, and seemed to be looking at something in the distance. Kahri looked, since Millie was too busy fretting over Bonaparte. 

He saw three figures approaching the castle.  One seemed to be injured, and was being carried by the other two.  Millie finally looked up.  She squealed.

"What is it now?" Kahri moaned.

"It's Chris!" She smiled.

"Chris?" Kahri was now utterly confused.

"A boy I met in Ryube Village once," Millie replied, "You'd like him!"

"Which one is Chris?" Kahri asked.

"The guy carrying the other guy," Millie smiled, "Let's go see!"

Millie had already run off before Kahri could protest.  With a sigh, he followed to, suddenly wishing he hadn't left his Spatula back at the castle.  He finally got a good look at the three figures.  The first, Chris, seemed like an average guy, he had a staff strapped to his back.  The second, a girl, was very pretty.  She had long blonde hair, wore a dark red skirt and a lighter red top.  Kahri noticed that there were two holsters on her belt, only big enough to hold small daggers.  The third, the one being carried, seemed to be an old man with grey hair, but on closer inspection he couldn't have been more than sixteen, his face was still young looking.  His clothes were all ripped, as if he was the victim of a lynch mob.

"Well, if it isn't Millie, and Bonaparte of course." Chris added as an afterthought, "Love to stay and talk, but we gotta get this guy some medical help."

"Yeah, he was really busted up by those South Windowers," the girl added, "They thought he was a spy."

"Was he?" Millie asked, intrigued.

"No, that would be me," The girl replied, "But he took the fall for me…I don't know why."

"Come on," Kahri motioned towards the direction of Genkaku Castle, "There's a doctor there."

"Thanks," Chris nodded, "I was heading there anywhere…guiding some guy named Fitcher around, but he sped off when I stopped to help Kara with this guy."

"Less talk, more moving," Kara replied, "This guy's heavy you know!"

"Here, let me." Kahri took Kara's place, allowing the blonde to recover.

"Thanks a lot," She said, brushing her hair back into place. "Cute groundhog, by the way."

Millie beamed as they all headed back to Genkaku Castle.  Doctor Huan's first patient already decided.

---

Doctor Huan had finished the examination, "Well, he'll be fine.  He will need some time to recover though.  I must say, I did not expect my first patient to arrive so soon."

"Thanks Doctor Huan," Kahri nodded, "We'll leave him be then."

"So he'll be okay then?" Kara asked, concerned.

Kahri nodded, "Yeah, just needs time to rest, and Doctor Huan will deal with the injuries.  So, he'll be okay."

"I have a question," Millie looked over at Kara, "You said you were a spy?"

Kara nodded, "Yeah…I was sent to scout the situation in South Window.  I was a bit careless though…and when I thought I had been discovered, that guy protected me.  He was wounded trying to help me escape, but he refused to stop and rest…then he just collapsed.  If it wasn't for Chris, I would never have managed to get him here in time."

Chris smiled, "No problem.  Say, this is North Window Castle, isn't it?"

Millie nodded, "Except it's now called 'Genkaku Castle', Lord Riou chose the name."

"Well, this is where Fitcher was trying to get to…I'd better check and see if he's here yet," Chris stopped, "Um…anyone know their way around this place?"

"I'll take you!" Millie exclaimed, "That way we can catch up and stuff!"

Chris smiled, "Reminisce?"

"That too!" Millie dragged Chris away, Bonaparte hopping along after them.

"I suppose you're going to want to interrogate me," Kara said, turning to Kahri, "I mean, you just caught a spy and everything."

"Meh, I've dealt with treasure hunters, assassins, giant two headed snakes, numerous creatures, traitors, arrogant magicians…the last thing that's going to worry me will be a spy…especially one that's working against Highland," Kahri paused, "But who were you spying for anyway?"

"Can't say," Kara looked away, "Besides, it's not as if I enjoy being a spy…I'm only trying to make enough money to travel onwards…my mother and father asked me to find my older brother, but…I was robbed on the way, and with no money I couldn't get anywhere.  So I took on a few jobs, anything to make enough money to continue searching."

"What does he look like?" Kahri had to ask, "Your brother, I mean."

Kara sighed, "Oh, I don't know…I haven't seen him in three years."

"It's not that long…surely he can't have changed that much," Kahri shook his head, "No, I guess you're right.  Well, I'm sure you can stay here for a while, at least until you can make enough to go searching for your brother again."

Kara stopped him, "No, I have to report what I know…maybe I'll look around a little first though, it's a grand castle, very pretty."

Kahri nodded, "Well, okay.  See you around then."

Kahri walked away, shrugging at the slight weirdness of the girl.  So he didn't see her pleasant demeanour transform into one of utter seriousness.

"Shu…you'd better appreciate this."

---

Riou sat outside, trying to enjoy the balmy breeze flowing through.  Somehow, he had managed to lose Nanami, and was quite enjoying the rare moment of peace.  He was a little curious when Kahri and Millie ran past chasing after what only could have been Bonaparte, but even more curious when they came back with three others.  Still, that didn't matter right now; he treasured this relaxing moment, knowing full well it would end too soon.

"Okay, if I apologise now for the Party idea, will you promise not to whack me with the Tonfa?"

Riou looked up to see Andrew walking towards him.  "I appreciated the thought, but I'm not really a party person…I felt too…cooped up."

"Nanami's going mad inside, trying to find you," Andrew added, "Elaine figured you might want some alone time, so she's distracting Nanami for now…can't promise you that will last long though."

"Thanks."

Andrew could only sigh as Riou appeared to become more and more distant. "You're not just doing this because of Shu and the others, are you?"

"No."

"…well, if you're not going to say.  I won't pry."

Andrew began to head inside, stopping once hoping for a reaction…but there was none.  Andrew turned back around, Riou had fallen asleep.

"Poor kid.  I wish you knew what you are getting yourself into…"

"Hmmm, this should be it... Umm, excuse me. Is this North Window?  Can you believe that my guide ditched me on the way here!?"

Andrew turned around to see a slightly scruffy man standing there, he seemed out of breath too.

"Um, yeah…this is North Window." Andrew replied, puzzled as hell.

"Thank you. You see, I heard a rumor that a great hero here defeated the Highland Army. So I decided to come here and see for myself. Have you ever seen this hero? What's he like?" The man's quick questions gave Andrew a slight headache.

"He's unavailable at the moment, he's napping right now you see…" Andrew motioned over to the tree that Riou was napping under.

The man paused, and then let out a small laugh, "That's a good one.  Really funny stuff there, anyway I must be off."

"Well, that was unusual…" Andrew said to himself, and turned around to see…

"RIOU!!! Don't be sleeping there, you'll catch a cold!"

"Leave him alone Nanami," Andrew chided as Nanami ran towards them, "He needs the rest."

Nanami didn't calm down though, "Bah! I know what's best for Riou! Come on, up you get already…there's some kind of commotion at the Great Hall…Shu says you're needed."

"Oh, so Shu says he's needed, huh," Andrew scoffed, "Well I know EXACTLY what Shu needs right about now…"

"Will both of you be quiet, I'm up now anyway," Riou sighed, "Come on then…to the Great Hall."

---

"Well, I hope you're happy Shu, not only did your 'simple' reconnaissance mission go horribly wrong, but it almost got someone killed!"

Viktor and Flik watched the young, yet incredibly irate, spy yelling at Shu.  Both were trying their hardest not to burst into laughter.

"The information was worth it, Kara." Shu replied, curtly.

"And what if someone had been killed, what then?" Kara was on the brink of seriously harming the smarmy strategist.

"But nobody did, and unless you have any other qualms," Shu shook his head, "Then you may leave."

Kara sneered, "Hey, if it's going to annoy you, I think I might just stick around for a while."

"Excellent, I'll have someone show you to a room." Shu almost smiled.

Kara's jaw dropped, "You had this all planned out, didn't you?  Well, you son of a…"

"Excuse me, is Lord Riou around? I wish to speak to him immediately."

Everyone turned to face the scruffy gentleman who had just entered the Great Hall.

"And who, pray tell, are you?" Shu asked, slightly annoyed.

"Wait a second," Viktor piped up, "You're that guy from Muse City, Fischerspoon…"

"My name is Fitcher.  And I now work for Two River City."

And because fate is so fickle, Riou, Nanami and Andrew chose that moment to walk into the Great Hall.

"Ah, your timing is excellent," Shu motioned towards Riou, before turning back to face Fitcher, "This is Lord Riou, leader of the Orange Army."

Fitcher's expression was priceless, Kara burst into laughter, after muttering some apologies Fitcher finally spoke.

"Wha…WHAT? This little kid...?" Fitcher then realised how true it was from the expressions of those in the room (except Kara who was now trying to not laugh again), and turned much more respectful, "I, I beg you pardon, my lord. I guess I'm a pretty poor judge of character after all.  Heh heh heh...I used to work for Lady Anabelle, but that terrible accident happened while I was away.  I'm currently working for the mayor of Two River City." 

Shu sighed, "So what's your business here, Mr. Fitcher?"

"I heard that you were assembling an army to fight against Highland, so I came to check it out.  I was quite surprised to hear that you defeated the force led by General Solon Jhee."

Kara sneered, "It was nothing but luck."

Ignoring the stares of everyone around her, Kara let Fitcher continue.  "Well, that's what I mean. It was almost a miracle, eh."

Kara smiled, as Viktor almost blew his cool. "Shut up!"

But Fitcher didn't shut up, but at least he got back on the topic of discussion, "So I thought I've just got to meet that leader. That's why I came.  Lord Riou. Please come to Two River City. We must forge an alliance and fight side by side in order to defeat the Highland Army."

"Is that a formal request from Two River City?" Andrew asked, pleased he beat Shu to it.

"Let me speak frankly." Fitcher began.

"Hasn't stopped you so far…" Kara interrupted, but quietened down under Shu's evil stare.

"So far," Fitcher managed to continue, "I'm working on my own initiative."

"Wait a minute," Flik interrupted, "Your own initiative? You have that kind of authority?"

"No..." Fitcher admitted, "Officially I'm just here to scout out South Window. But we're going to need each other to stand up to the Highland Empire."

"Well, the rat has a point there," Kara added, "We can't do it alone."

Flik seemed to agree. "Well...what will we do? Should we trust this guy, Riou?"

Riou didn't take too long in deciding, "...Let's go to Two River."

"Great! I'll get started on the preparations immediately." Fitcher's enthusiasm drained then, "But... Umm... There is, er... There is one other problem."

Viktor asked, in a tone that suggested that he knew there was a 'but' coming, "And what would that be?"

"Uh, it's just the bridges connecting South Window and Two River City have been completely destroyed by the Empire." Fitcher shrugged, "I came here by boat, but the crew fled when the battle began, and now... Um... Can you send out a boat for us?"

Viktor was irate, "Hey... Is this whole thing just a ruse so you can hitch a ride back home?"

Fitcher trembled, but managed to keep his cool, "Of... Of course not!"

"We have a boat, but we'll need a talented captain to make it all the way to Two River City." Shu replied.

Viktor sighed, "I can't think of anyone who's up to a trip like that...I guess we'll have to find a captain before we go anywhere."

"Oh, if only my brother were here…he's a great boatman." Kara moaned.

"Come on, maybe we'll find someone in a neighbouring town," Andrew suggested, "Coming little lady?"

Kara pouted, "Oh, I might as well…I seem to be here for a while anyway."

"Okay, the role of finding a captain falls on you, Riou," Shu nodded, "Take care."

---

"A Captain?" Elaine asked, "Well, what about Warren? He's pretty good at boating?"

They decided to sit outside for a while, trying to figure out what to do next.  Riou, Nanami, Andrew and Kara had already filled in what had happened before now.

"Actually, I haven't seen Warren since this afternoon…" Kahri added, "After he stormed off like that."

"Well, if it's an expert sailor you need…"

Everyone turned to see Ryu walking up to them, "I just so happen to know the best man for the job."

Andrew was also deep in thought, "Well…if Ryu knows a guy…" He paused, "Wait, what about that guy…Tai Ho, I think…the guy who got us from Coronet to Kuskus?"

Ryu frowned, "Now why would you want that ragamuffin when you could have the very best in my friend Amada?"

"Amada…" Nanami began, "That rings a bell…"

"That was the guy Riou beat up in Radat Town so we could get the Sluice Gate opened." Andrew answered.

"Oh yeah, I remember him now." Nanami smiled at the memory.

"Well, we have two candidates, why don't we just split up and ask both guys?" Kara added.

"Okay then," Ryu nodded, "Of course our great leader will come with me to Radat to see Amada."

Riou almost laughed, "Oh, but of course."

Nanami did laugh, loudly. "I'm going with you too, Riou."

"Fine, you three can go to Radat Town, while rogue kid, spatula boy, and pale skinned girl can go to see this Tai Ho guy." Kara deliberately avoided the gazes from Andrew, Kahri and Elaine.

"And what, pray tell, will you be doing?" Andrew asked, scornfully.

"Looking for this Warren kid, of course," Kara smiled, "Just in case, you know?"

"Shouldn't one of us look for Warren?" Kahri asked, "We do know him better?"

"Oh…I suppose you are right…" Kara pouted, "Fine, you can look for Warren and I'll go with the lovebirds there."

Andrew and Elaine self-consciously moved apart slightly, Kara smiled, "Relax, it's so obvious. I'm surprised your friends here haven't noticed already."

"So it's true?!?" Kahri grinned, "Wow, that's so cool!"

Ryu rolled his eyes, "Okay, now that it is all sorted out, we should be on our way soon Lord Riou."

"Yeah, we don't want Shu nagging us any more than necessary." Nanami added, getting up.

"Well, good luck to all of you," Kahri smiled, "I'll try to find Warren."

And with that, the six sailor hunters (not scouts, never scouts…) left Genkaku Castle.  Malcolm approached as they left.

"I don't think Warren's in the castle anymore," Malcolm said sadly, "Nobody has seen him."

"Guess he just needs time to cool off." Kahri said, with a shrug.

Malcolm sighed, "Oh, it's kinda my fault too…"

"Yeah.  But…well, he'll be back soon. I think." Kahri looked back at the exit.

"Who was the new girl?" Malcolm asked, "She looked kinda familiar."

"Oh, you know…I forgot to ask her name." Kahri blinked, "Oh well, Shu seems to know her.  I think she's part of the army now…"

Malcolm thought about it, "Well, we can always check the Stone Tablet thing, she might be on it."

"I'll just wait here, see if I can find Warren." Kahri frowned, "You said someone else had appeared in the infirmary, right?  Did he…have a blonde ponytail?"

"Nope, he had black hair, blue robes…I think he was a mage of some kind."

"Oh, never mind then…" Kahri sighed, as Malcolm headed back inside.

Oh…why'd you do it Jowy?

­---

"You."

Luc turned around, and easily avoided the bolt of lightning that was aimed right at him.  Everyone in the main hall stared in shock as the blue robed figure walked calmly down the stairs, his black hair billowing around with evil intent.

"I've finally found you Luc." Avara sneered as he prepared to summon another lightning bolt.

"You're just lucky the good Lady still had some feelings for you, I would have just left you to rot in that infernal town," Luc replied, "You should be grateful that I even bothered."

"You'd be amazed," Avara fired another lightning bolt at Luc, which Luc easily dodged. "So, how IS Leknaat's lapdog doing?"

"Aren't you even curious why you are here?" Luc smirked, "You're in the same situation as I am.  I suggest you put your hatred on hold for a while, we might just have to work together for once."

"You…how dare you ever suggest that I would EVER work with you!" Abandoning magic attacks completely, Avara ran over and punched Luc right on the jaw, causing Luc to fall to the floor.

"It's on the Tablet now, you have no choice. Destiny has woven it's thread around us," Luc said, "See for yourself…and don't do that again."

Avara couldn't, wouldn't believe Luc. But it was true…his name was there. Avara, the Chikei Star.  And Luc's name was there too. Luc, the Tenkan Star.  Avara cursed his misfortune, "Damn you Leknaat, you have no right to do this to me!"

Luc finally showed some emotion, anger. "Do NOT speak ill of Lady Leknaat, you owe her your LIFE!"

"I owe her nothing but contempt, Luc," Avara yelled, "And you should too dammit!"

Both had summoned enough energy to level a city the size of Muse by this point…

"ENOUGH!"

Both turned to see Shu, Viktor and Flik approaching.  Shu was irate, "You are both necessary members of the Orange Army, and I will NOT have you attacking each other! If I hear anything about either one of you attacking the other, I will personally order your execution!"

Viktor and Flik both jumped at this show of anger from Shu, but if anything he was looking for respect from the two rebellious mages.  Malcolm had just walked in, and felt a little sad he missed all the action.

Avara and Luc stared at each other, and both dissipated their energies at the same time.

"Fine," Avara said, turning to leave, "But as soon as this war is over…we WILL finish this!"

"Indeed." Luc said simply, watching Avara leave.

Malcolm shivered after watching the scene.  He couldn't believe it when Luc returned to guarding the Stone Tablet as if nothing had happened, how can anyone be so cruel, yet so calm? He…isn't human.

---

"ARRRRGH!"

Several lightning bolts crashed down onto the remains of a building outside the castle, Avara was breathing heavily.  Slowly his breathing returned to normal, as he calmed down just enough to see reason.

"This is bullshit Leknaat!" He yelled, "You haven't the right to meddle in my affairs anymore! I don't care about destiny, why must you always torture me so!?"

Avara fell to his knees, and for the first time realized he was in great pain. "…My stomach," He began, but never finished, as he slumped to the ground…

Unconscious.

---

INTENSE! ANGST! ACTION! Hee hee, that seemed like the best place to end this pretty mixed up chapter.  Doctor Huan is certainly being kept busy already, eh? Find out how our intrepid heroes fare when searching for a Sailor and much, much more in the next chapter, hopefully coming soon!  Most of the character's chosen Stars were chosen by the creators, but some I had to improvise on (Kain's, Kahri's, Warren's and Andrew's).  I'll be adding the Stars to the character profile pages next, and then getting to work on the next chapter.