So I had to add some Black Knight action in here for a lovely reviewer of mine. Thanks guys! Anyway, I don't own fire emblem or it's characters.
Chapter 34
Departures
Aeyori found herself in a familiar position standing in the posh surroundings of the Apostle's castle. She was biting her nails in on one hand and using the other to scrunch and ring the hem of her skirt nervously. She knew this had happened before; she'd been waiting in the lavish rooms anxiously waiting for Ike the first time. This time, however, the situation was worse.
Ikyna was fighting for her life just beyond the closed crimson door in front of the mage. She could still see Ike as he flew in on Tibarn's back like a hurried storm as he yelled for Rhys or Mist. Aeyori had finally managed to fall asleep when his frantic yelling shook the camp. She had stumbled through the dark and managed to reach her commander with little hindrance.
Aeyori saw him slide off the king's back with a very limp body nestled in his arms. She could barely choke out Ikyna's name as a wave of dread and sadness rolled over her like choppy ocean waves. She ran to Ike but he hardly acknowledged her as his voice peaked in urgency at the delay of the clerics arrival.
Finally Rhys came panting past the mercenary tents and a crowd of Ike's men began to form around the commander. They exchanged worried glances as Ike put Ikyna to the ground for Rhys to examine her.
Rhys made a mournful cry as he placed his hand on the archer's forehead. He asked Ike what had happened but the commander shook his head with a scowl. "I can explain later." He'd said sharply, "Just fix her."
The gentle cleric was not offended by Ike's curt speech. If anything, Rhys felt that Ike was being much calmer than he could have been, considering the situation. He pulled out his blue mend staff and held it over Ikyna and let the soft light cover her.
Soon Mist came charging in and yelling her sister's name. She practically slid into her brother through the dirt as she fell to her knees at Ikyna's side. Mist shook her and cried for her to open her eyes. Then Aeyori could see it; the panic that was racing through the Greil children's minds. Not long ago they'd been in the same situation with their father. The still new and painful memories were cycled into the front of their minds at the agonizingly familiar situation.
Mist kept shaking her sister as the large tears dove from her eyes and she begged her to not leave.
"Mist pull it together." Ike scolded as he forcefully lifted his sister into the air. He threw her over his shoulder as she screamed and kicked. She yelled at her brother to let her go, that she wanted to stay with her sister.
Rhys shot the auburn haired girl a troubled glance, he could sympathize with the young girl as she started to relive her not so distant sad past. It was only for a moment though, he returned his focus to healing Ikyna and tried to ignore Mists cries that tore at his heart.
Aeyori looked at Ike's hurt face as he carried his distraught sister away. Her thin hands were reaching for Ikyna the further her brother walked. Boyd ran up to the siblings, looked worriedly at Ikyna, then snapped his eyes to Ike's. "Take her." Ike said gruffly.
Mist loudly protested but Ike and Boyd understood what needed to be done. Mist was causing more trouble than help and she needed to be removed from the situation; even if it was against her will. She dug into the buffed green haired boy's back as hysteria started to claim her. She begged and pleaded to be released but Boyd secured his grasp around her thin waist even as she struggled more.
Ike watched for a moment then returned to Ikyna. His blue eyes were flickering as Rhys healed Ikyna at an unbearable slow pace. His lips were set in a grim line that masked a myriad of other emotions he wouldn't dare to vocalize.
His gaze was torn back to his sister as he watched her bloodied cuts and bruises start to fade away as if they had never been there. A harsh breath came out that came out almost like a barely contained sob mixed with relief. He saw the signs of her fight disappearing and allowed himself to relax.
But still her eyes did not open to meet him and she did not smile sheepishly at him. Ikyna's body was motionless and her breathing was rattling as it became more labored despite the mend staff. "What's happening?" the commander asked as his panic lurched into his throat and made his voice start to tremble.
Rhys didn't look at him but placed his staff down as he scowled. The unconscious girl's wounds were healing but she hadn't recovered. He placed a quivering hand on Ikyna's forehead again and found that she was burning with fever and sweat was beading across her forehead.
"By the goddess." He whispered in horror.
"What? What's wrong?" Ike asked as a whole new wave of unease washed over him.
Rhys's eyes were almost rattling in his head in fear as he covered his mouth and inhaled sharply.
"Rhys?" Ike asked sharply, finding his patience almost nonexistent. The cleric shot his glance up to Ike, almost dazed from his shock, "I think she's been poisoned."
"Poisoned?" Ike parroted in disbelief.
"Yes, probably from a venin weapon of some kind. That's the only time I've seen reactions like this." His worried glance wandered back to Ikyna as she started to moan in her sleep and shiver noticeably. Ike immediately scooped his sister into his arms and used his free hand to pull off his cape and wrap her in it. He held her tightly and looked at Rhys, "Can you help her?" He asked and felt that he wasn't going to like the answer as he watched Rhy's eyes look sadly to the ground.
"Not here. Not in the middle of the forest. I don't have enough supplies. I'm sorry Ike but if she stays here-"
"What about the Apostles castle?" he cut the cleric off before the orange haired boy could even dare to mention his sister's death. He that's what was going to come from the gentle man's trembling lips. Ike would have no part of that, his sister would make it no matter what.
Rhys nodded and shrugged his shoulders, unsure of an outcome after seeing the girl's bleak condition, "If it could be anywhere it would be back in Begnion's main city. But we'll need to hurry to get her there."
Ike needed no further incentive; if time was of the essence he'd sprint with her on his back to Begnion if that was the fastest way. Whatever it took he wouldn't let another member of his family die in front of him as he watched helplessly.
"King Tibarn!" he shouted as he stood and tucked his cape around his sister. The king flew up with his face grim.
"I need to get Ikyna to the Begnion castle as soon as possible. Can I ask for your help again?"
Tibarn shifted and lowered his chest as his wings were spread. "I owe Ikyna a great deal, tell me whatever I can do to help."
Ike nodded appreciatively and gingerly placed his sister on the kings back and then mounted the king himself. Aeyori ran up to the king and her commander and placed a hand on his thigh and looked up at him with terrified eyes. Ike wanted to reach for her face but there was no time.
"Titania!" He shouted through a strained voice.
"Yes commander." She was at his side quickly at attention.
Ike made a broad gesture, "Get everyone and the camp packed up. I'm heading with Tibarn. The rest of you should follow after. You're in charge of the camp here."
Titania gave a short bow of her head, "Yes commander." She said crisply and then immediately went to her work. She walked confidently in her white armor and began commanding the mercenaries. They watched her in partial dazes; the worry for Ikyna had them paralyzed.
"Do I need to repeat myself?" she questioned authoritatively. The crew made sheepish murmurs before jumping to fulfill their orders. Titania turned sharply to look at Ike, "I'll take care of everything here commander. Please just take care of Ikyna."
"Thank you." He said. Then with one last glance to the white haired mage he gave Tibarn a quick pat on the back and the king took flight.
Aeyori felt like it took hours to pack up the camp and load the remaining supplies that hadn't been depleted during the long fight. And it took even longer to travel through the forest back to Begnion. She didn't remember the Serenes forest being so big. But at that time even a walk across the castle hallway would have seemed long if it kept her away from Ike and Ikyna.
Not that when she arrived things were any better. She still felt the agony as she waited outside the closed doors with nothing more than her grim thoughts and the sound of Yakuzo's pacing claws scratching against the tile to keep her company.
The others in the crew had scattered around the castle, all set to deal with their anxiety in their own way. Mist was still under Boyd's watchful eye and far removed from the situation. Only Yakuzo, Soren, the hawks, and herons remained beyond the ominously shut doors.
And then ages passed by until Aeyori thought she'd die from the wait. Then finally the doors slowly opened and moaned a foreboding groan and Ike tiredly walked out. His cape was no longer on, probably tossed off long ago, and under his eyes were dark bags. He rubbed his face as he walked toward the small group of people waiting while they rushed to him.
Aeyori was in front of him first as she put her hands on his arms and peered up and him while hoping for good news. "Ike?" She managed to choke out as her voice shook with her own fears.
Yakuzo was right behind her and waiting anxiously for the commander's response. His golden irises were swallowed by his terror stricken pupils. Ike took a deep breath and slid his arms from Aeyori's grasp so that he could hold her hands instead. He looked at the group of Laguz and Beorc before him, "Rhys was able to heal most of her injuries and now she's sleeping."
There was rush of relieved sighs that came out like hurried winds after Ike's words. The building tension slowly lessened. "But-" Ike began, "her right arm was very badly broken so Rhys could only heal it a little and the rest will take time to heal. The bone was almost completely " His mouth twisted in disgust as he remembered the bloodied mess her crushed arm was. He felt sick and angry but he had so little energy that he let his rage come out in a hissing exhausted sigh.
"That's still good that she'll recover though." Aeyori said as a little hope crept into her voice.
Ike just shook his head in disagreement, "The injuries weren't the worst of it. Ikyna had a lot of poison inside of her and it's taking its toll on her body."
"But what about the restore staff? Can't Rhys use that?" Aeyori interjected hurriedly.
The commander's shoulders sagged despondently, "That stopped the progression of any further poison but so much was already in Ikyna's body that Rhys couldn't null all of the effects. "
"Wait," Yakuzo began as he touched his forehead in confusion, "what does that mean for Ikyna then? What's going to happen to her?
"Rhys gave Ikyna some herbal remedies to help her fight the damage the poison is causing. He says that right now all we can do is wait for her to wake up to see if the medicine worked."
Yakuzo growled in response and cursed under his breath then drug a hand down his mouth roughly as he gritted his teeth. Aeyori's glance snapped for a second to the cat as he started to pace angrily again then back to Ike, "But she'll be okay right?"
The tired young lad shrugged his shoulders helplessly and shook his head. He released one of her hands and rested it tenderly on her head, "I don't know." He said weakly and sadly at his own powerlessness to help his sister.
She watched him let go of her second hand as he turned to the hawks and herons who were waiting patiently. Though the heron prince was noticeably paler than usual. "Thank you for all your help." Ike said tonelessly as he didn't have the strength to be lively about anything.
"Will you be heading back to Phoenicis?"
Tibarn and Reyson exchanged a quick glance and the king gave the white bird a small nod. Reyson stepped forward as he wrung his hands together, "For as long as possible, I would like to stay. At least until I know that your sister is on her way to recovering." He motioned to the hawks and his sister with an open palm, "That goes for myself as well as my companions."
"I appreciate that." Ike said with a partial grim smile. He wished their support was enough to wake his sister up, but he knew too well that it was not. He looked back at the door where his sister was fighting for her life and felt a burdening weight dropped on his shoulders.
"If there is anything we can do, please don't hesitate to ask." Reyson added as he put a thin hand on Ike's shoulder. The commander could feel it trembling slightly and knew of the sincerity in the prince's offer.
"I need to tell the rest of my crew what's going on with Ikyna. If you could keep an ear out for any changes with my sister and let me know that would be helpful."
"I've got the best ears available." Tibarn said with a flick of his head toward Ulki who gave a short inclination of his head. "You can count on us."
"Then I'll be right back." He turned stiffly and walked away as he rubbed his hands through his hair stiffly.
"I can't believe this!" Yakuzo yelled as he slammed his fist against a wall snapping Aeyori's head toward his direction. His fangs were bared as he held his arm against the wall and leaned into it. "If I ever find that damn lion-" he finished his sentence with a bitter growl.
"I don't think that's a good idea cat. That lion looked like he could have ripped you to pieces even without shifting." Tibarn said passively and received sharp glare from the beast laguz.
He stood straight and began a slow pace again, "I would have figured something out." He seethed through his canines.
"No, I think you're overestimating yourself," Reyson began as he looked down somberly, "Those men were different, dangerous."
"How dangerous could they be if Ikyna could kill two of them before she passed out from poison." Yakuzo stated while crossing his arms and scoffing, "Ikyna isn't helpless, she can handle herself very well."
Reyson shook his head and sent his blonde hair twisting from side-to-side, "But those men were killers, not just thugs and that green lion was on a different level." The prince shuddered at the thought of the steely cold stare of the Laguz who crippled Ikyna's arm.
"Green lion?" Aeyori suddenly interjected.
Reyson turned to the mage and her curious tone change. He heard shock and fear, emotions that he didn't understand from a girl who didn't see the massive beast Laguz.
Tibarn gave his eyes a weary rub, "Sound familiar to you kid?"
The prince watched Aeyori's face blanch to a ghostly white. "Kid?" Tibarn asked again at the mage's silence.
She looked at the ground abruptly and scuffed her feet against the floor. Aeyori gave her head a small hesitant nod, "No, not at all." She murmured before beginning to pull on her long hair.
Reyson tilted his head while trying to peer into her emotions. Her sudden change in behavior piqued his interest. He watched her begin a nervous process of spinning her hair into twists. Her heart clouded with dark memories that came in rapid flashes like a chaotic storm. There were glimpses of cages, rattling chains, and the back glimpse of long green hair with the sound of loud roaring.
The prince could n't stop his mouth from opening or his gaze from wandering to look at the mage's bowed head. He couldn't understand what he was seeing but he also could not stop himself from trying to see deeper. Then he saw a child, small and dirty on an unforgiving stone floor. He could almost make out the face but his heron perception became suddenly clouded then disappeared. Reyson lifted his eyes and was startled to see penetrating red ones glaring back at him.
Her expression was dangerous; the complete opposite of her timid nature only moments ago. "What did you just do?" he mouthed in surprise.
Aeyori kept an even stare on the prince that masked a calm fury that Reyson could sense without reading her thoughts. "I think I'll go check on Ike and see if he needs anything." She said flatly before bowing stiffly and walking passed the prince with one last cold glance.
Reyson turned to watch and frowned. "Is something wrong Reyson?" Tibarn asked to his friend as he noticed the strange expression the prince was making.
"That girl, there's something wrong with her."
"What do you mean?"
Reyson didn't go into detail about the dark memories he had seen, that wasn't his concern at the moment, something about Aeyori was much stranger. "That girl, I was reading her thoughts and her memories, and then she closed her heart so that I couldn't anymore."
Tibarn raised an intrigued eyebrow, "That is a little weird. What kind of Beorc even has the awareness to know they should block their heart around you." He scratched his chin, "Or how to for that matter."
Reyson turned the door that Ikyna was resting beyond with a concerned expression then finally answered, "A dangerous one."
...
Night was long under way when Aeyori managed to creep into Ikyna's room. There was one lone flickering lamp that cast a shivering shadow across the room and gave off enough light for Aeyori to see the twins bundled close together.
Ike had his hand over his sister's as he rolled his thumb waiting tiredly at her bedside while he sat on the ground. Through the poor lighting Aeyori could see the deep grooves dug into the commander's face that held all his worry and fear. Her footsteps didn't disturb his focused stare. She brushed her hand onto his tight shoulders and he rolled them after her fingers like a cat.
"Hey." She said in a hushed voice.
He mouthed a 'hey' back and followed her with his eyes as she circled behind him languidly before sitting beside him. She sat close enough to feel the warmth that always seemed to rise from his skin. When she'd settled by him he focused again on Ikyna; his momentary reprieve was over and the gravity of the danger his sister was in tightened around him like a noose.
He'd rather be lying in her place than watching helplessly while she fought for her life. He lifted his free hand to feel her forehead that was clammy with fever and then drug the back of his hand down her cheeks and neck and felt the same unnatural heat. Rhys said if the medicine worked then her fever would eventually break but there had been no sign of her temperature dropping. Though, fortunately it seemed to have stopped rising.
Her chills had lessened and Ikyna no longer moaned in her fitful sleep like a nightmare was consuming her feverish dreams. But she still hadn't awoken since she fainted in the forest. Rhys said they'd know if the medicine worked if she woke up; but if she didn't, the damage the poison had caused would kill.
As Ike's hand dropped onto the floor chilled by night he dug his nails into its stony tile and let out a harsh breath through his nose. What if Ikyna never awoke? What if the medicine didn't work?
The answer was obvious of course. It meant that he'd live to watch another important member of his family die in front of his very eyes while he could do nothing to stop it. It meant he'd have another man to hunt down after the Black knight.
That wasn't what the burdened young man wanted. All he cared about was his sister living. The lion could wait and so could the Black knight as long as she opened her eyes again.
He suddenly felt a hand grabbing his own. He could see its pale contrast to his own and he looked up at the owner as she peered at him with empathetic scarlet eyes. Her chest rose and sank heavily as she breathed deeply to hold in her emotions.
If Ike could manage to stay strong then she would do the same if that would support him. She laced her fingers with his, ignoring the embarrassment she felt at making the first move, but he didn't pull away from her. He turned his hand around palm up to clasp hers firmly.
"She'll be okay." Aeyori said, unable to completely mask her anxiety and hints of doubt. Ikyna did look very bad off from her fight. Not just her arm that was completely bandaged, or the few scars that couldn't be fixed with a staff, but it was her face that was twisted in pain even as she slept.
Ikyna breathed rapid raspy breaths as she slept. Aeyori could make out Ikyna's long hair that was stuck to her sweaty forehead like stickers and it had curled from the moisture. She looked worse off than her brother but not by much. Ike's face was equally twisted in pain, though emotional and not physical, circles darkened his lower lids, and his face was noticeably paler than normal.
Aeyori wondered if he'd slept at all since they brought his sister to Begnion almost a day ago. She assumed he hadn't from his disheveled appearance. But despite that he still turned and managed to give her a shaky smile, "Yeah, sure." His voice dropped in strained and withheld mental agony.
He looked at his sister again and frowned while he watched her.
"I just hate having to sit here waiting while I can't do anything." He said in exasperation.
Aeyori brought her free hand to Ike's shoulder and gave it a warm squeeze, "What you're doing now is enough." She said softly.
He looked to her and tilted his head quizzically.
Aeyori flicked her glance to where the twin's hands were joined, "You're by her side holding her hand; the rest Ikyna can do by herself."
Ike nodded at Aeyori's word. He wasn't sure if the words really were true or if he was just latching on to any shred of hope that made him feel worthwhile. In either case he felt a little better.
"Well, it really isn't fair, she gets to sleep through all of this while I'm stuck wanting to eat my fingers I'm so stressed." He said with a sad chuckle.
The mage offered him a similar gesture.
"Anyway since you're here tell me something interesting." He said as he turned his body to her while never letting go of Ikyna's hand.
"What do you mean?" Aeyori asked in confusion at the strange request.
"I need a distraction. I've been watching her for hours and not feeling any bit of relief since yesterday evening. Just tell me a story, anything, please Aeyori."
Aeyori gave an understanding nod. She could see how staying with his sister, though she knew he wouldn't want to be anywhere else, could be draining after some time. He wanted and desperately needed a mental break. Or at least something to take his mind partially of his sick sister, even if she couldn't completely distract him.
She tapped her chin as she thought of something good to tell him and all the while he watched her with darkened tired eyes and a stiff expression that said he was only a hairs length away from probably falling apart. Aeyori thought there wasn't much to tell about her life, at least not much that she wanted to share with Ike.
The mage settled on talking about her family. It wasn't always her favorite subject, there were still a lot of sour memories, but if it could help Ike she would risk minor discomfort. As it was, not all of her family life was bad.
"Well, you already know about my siblings. I have two younger brothers and one younger sister." She began as she crossed her legs and wiggled herself a little closer to the commander. Their legs and arms touched but neither minded in the least.
"The oldest of my brothers was a pretty studious one. He was reserved, controlled, and often came off as a bit cold and aloof, but he was very kind to me and had this very rounded sense of justice." She looked at her commander who was managing to look interested despite the whirlpool of angst he no likely had spinning in his head. She found herself letting out a soft giggle as she looked at her commander's familiar scowl that was not threatening in the least to her anymore. In a way she reminded her of her brother. A stern face that hid a kind heart.
"What?" he asked curiously.
She shook her head to show her laugh should be ignored, she wanted to keep her thought as a sweet secret for herself. Ike kneaded his brows together questioningly but let the subject drop. "Anyway tell me more about your family." He prodded, not liking for there to be a lull in the conversation.
Aeyori snapped from her amusement and began again, "Oh right. My youngest brother was very timid and shy. He used to hide from anyone that wasn't family. He never raised his voice and could hardly look at people when he spoke. But he really is the sweetest boy you've ever met." She felt her heart ache slightly.
How long had it been since she'd seen that little boy. He wasn't a child anymore. "But I haven't seen him for some time, perhaps he's different." The thought struck her badly and she frowned disapprovingly at just the notion of him being anything than the sweet naïve child she'd left.
"I'm sure he's still the same." Ike encouraged as he watched the mage's face start to sour.
"Yes, I suppose." She remarked doubtfully, a scowl still present on her pretty face.
"Why don't you tell me about your sister now." He gently coaxed. In truth he didn't want to talk about anyone's sister but his own, but that didn't seem like the best idea in his mind. If the conversation hadn't been slightly derailed by the change in Aeyori's mood his mind might have been better occupied.
"Was she like you?" He asked and found himself managing to smile as he imagined a little girl with white hair and scarlet eyes like Aeyori's, running after her big sister on tiny legs.
Aeyori shook her head, "Not at all. My sister hated me." She said plainly as if her statement was completely normal.
"She hated you?" he questioned.
"Yes, completely." She put her hand to her chin and gave it a thoughtful tap while thinking of her troublesome sister who used to pull on her hair and bite her. "I think perhaps she didn't like having to share her mother's affection with her stepsister."
"Stepsister?" Ike said in shock at the second astounding statement Aeyori had casually brought up.
The mage nodded impassively, "Yes, after my mother died I was raised by my biological father and his wife with her three children."
"I had no idea." Ike said softly as the new information sank in. He could hardly imagine Aeyori's family situation as it was, but now she had thrown him this new addition to her mysterious background.
"Don't get the wrong idea, I know there are all kinds of horror stories about evil stepmothers, but my stepmom was really wonderful. She was kind and gentle and she loved me like I was her own child. She was really amazing." Aeyori ended her sentence with grin that looked both pained and happy.
"I'm glad despite losing your mom you had someone who took care of you."
"She really did. I gave her nothing at first and yet she loved unconditionally from the start."
Aeyori's praise of her stepmother made him think of his own mom. He never really had the time to, not with all the work with the mercenaries, but he did at the moment. He really did miss her. The way she sang, how she laughed, her gentle smile that was so much like Mist's, and even the way she used to scold Ikyna and him when they fought too much. Ike knew exactly what Aeyori meant about unconditional love; it was something that mothers could just do. They loved so much and never asked for anything in return.
"Wait a moment." Ike began as something of Aeyori's story struck him as odd, "I thought that after your mother died you were sold. How did you end up with your father and stepmother if you were in captivity?"
Aeyori felt her face flush at the questioning. He hadn't asked her in an accusatory way but she still felt a certain degree of unease after having the heron peek into her memories. There were many secrets the mage knew that she'd eventually have to tell her admired commander, but she wasn't prepared to tell him yet. As it was, she didn't know what it would be like to tell Ike that her father had stormed in with an army and had rained down like fire and brimstone on the smugglers that had her captive.
"I, I-" She began to fumble with her words as she grasped for the most honest yet least revealing explanation. She didn't have to worry about finishing her sentence as Ike's attention was ripped from her as Ikyna started moaning and slowly rising from her long slumber.
The commander dropped Aeyori's hand and turned to his sister as she gasped and cried into the air in a disoriented panic. He grabbed her hand tighter and pulled it to his chest as he leaned into her face, "It's okay Ikyna, I'm here. I'm not going anywhere."
He made comforting hushing noises as her eyes shot open and she let out a line of raspy coughs.
"Hold on Ikyna. I'll get you some water." He reluctantly let her go and she let out a mournful cry at his release. Her coughing continued and her voice rattled out as she barely managed to call her brother's name.
He was at her side quickly with a small ceramic bowl containing water. Ike muttered a low 'excuse me,' as he slid in front of Aeyori and placed his arm behind his sister's head and slowly brought the bowl up to her shaking lips. "Easy, easy." He practically cooed as she started to spill water over the ceramic rim.
His calm but firm voice betrayed how rattled he was actually feeling. She had finally woken up, and that was supposed to be a good sign according to Rhys. But Ike still felt rather unprepared to address her needs. As he slowly managed to pour the water into his sister's mouth he wished that he hadn't asked Rhys to get some sleep.
What if Ikyna needed him?
Ikyna brought her hands up and weakly pushed her brother's arms away to signify she was done drinking. Her brother paused and remained still to question if she was sure. She gave a short nod and Ike placed the bowl down on the ground before returning to hold her hands
"How do you feel?"
Her eyes glowed in the dim candle light as she let them wander around the room before answering, "Tired." She admitted in a scratchy voice.
"That's expected. You were beaten and badly poisoned. Rhys fixed most of you up except a few bruises and, well your arm is in pretty bad shape." He watched his sister's glance go to her bandaged and motionless arm. "but it will heal in a month or so and Rhys gave you some medicine to help with the poison."
Ikyna's expression was starting to cloud with drowsiness. Her lids began fall sleepily even as her brother was speaking. Ike almost wanted her to stay awake so he could see her moving around more and ease his worry. That wouldn't be the right call though. Ikyna needed as much rest as possible before they had to start moving ahead with their job to the princess.
"Nevermind." He said in a soft voice, "I can tell you later."
His slowly fading sister opened her mouth to speak but only a stream of rasping breath came out from her lips. Ike leaned towards her face to hear her better. "What?"
"How's the white prince?" She managed after a beat.
Ike sighed and shook his head. His sister was lying in a bed to damaged to hardly move or speak and still she was asking about someone else. "He's fine. You saved him sis." Ike said with a smile as he placed a hand on her forehead and gave it a light stroke. "And Yakuzo?"
"He's fine too. A little mad but he'll be alright."
Ikyna gave a slow nod of her head and let out a short grimace as her muscles groaned at their own soreness. "Good." She managed to whisper as she drifted back to sleep.
Ike's shoulders sagged as he let his body relax. He gave them a quick rotation with a groan. He hadn't realized how tense he'd been as he took care of his sister. Fortunately he hadn't needed Rhys and he felt that he'd handled the situation well enough.
Aeyori placed a hand on her commander's shoulder and he turned to look at her and she could see proof of his relief. "She woke up, that's a good sign."
Ike nodded before answering, "Yeah even if it was only for a few minutes."
"You can't blame her for being tired."
Ike agreed and then found himself unable to muzzle a long and loud yawn. Aeyori couldn't help but smile as she watched her commander shake his head and try to blink away his sleepiness. "It's seems that both of you are."
Ike couldn't disagree, it had been a very long time since he'd slept. He'd been on alert for hours and the tightness of his muscles and stress was wearing on him. "What about you?" He asked through another yawn.
Aeyori was sure that even if she denied how completely exhausted she was her disheveled bloodshot eyes would give her away. She didn't regret not sleeping though. There was nowhere she would have rather been than next to Ike as he went through the tough time.
She conceded to admit her tiredness, "I could use a little sleep." She murmured with a sleepy and shy grin. Ike let out a soft low sigh through his nose as he reached to pat the mage gently on her head. "I don't think there's anything wrong with that." He moved to put his back to the wall next to his sister's bed and gave an inviting pat to the ground next to him.
Aeyori hesitated but could not resist the temptation for long. She crawled slowly to his side and sat with her legs crossed but barely able to look at him as her cheeks burned. Ike reached for his discarded cape and wrapped it around both of their shoulders while effectively pulling her close to him.
She made no move at first but the warmth of his strong body seemed to call to her. She gave into her desire and let her head rest on his shoulder. Aeyori didn't see the smile but she heard her commander chuckle softly beside her. His hand crept around her back and grasped her hand under the cape, "Get some rest." He ordered softly.
"What about you?" she began through a yawn as he pulled her closer to him so that she was almost in his chest.
"I'll go to sleep. I'm just going to keep an eye on her for a little longer."
She wanted to protest and insist that he needed to rest his worn out body but he was running his hand slowly up her arm and the steady rise and fall of his chest sent her into a well needed sleep. Ike followed soon after once he'd woken up with his sister two other times and managed to soothe her back into slumber.
…
Ikyna could feel as much as she could see the sun starting to bore through her eyelids. She wanted to shut it out and stay asleep. The morning might have come but she was in no condition to be up and ready to face the world. But the sun kept calling to her and she could feel it creeping under her eyelids.
She screwed her face up in annoyance but finally complied with its annoying insistence. Her lids lazily lifted and she let her gaze take in the room. Not much had changed since the night. Ikyna did look better. She still looked a little pink around the cheeks but she was no longer scowling as she slept.
Aeyori wondered if her commander was looking any better. She moved to sit up but found her head pinned under Ike's. He was asleep with his arm still pulling her possessively into his body while his cheek rested on the top of his head. She wanted to let him keep resting, the goddess knew he needed it, but she couldn't completely resist the urge to watch him.
With steady movements she eased her head from under his while gently guiding his head to the crook of her neck. His slow breathing tickled her skin and made her toes curl. She could partially ignore the enjoyable sensation long enough to stare. They'd slept together before, but she hadn't really had a chance to look at him.
Aeyori felt her face burn at the scandalous thought. Yes she had slept with Ike but it hadn't been anything as racy as the term implied. Most of the night had been spent restlessly by her as she cringed every time her skin came in contact with Ike's. That night had been the most thrilling and miserable of her life. But it was different on that morning.
Her relationship with Ike wasn't the same. They were only getting closer as the time went on and she had lost some of her embarrassment that usually came with any intimacy with the commander.
She watched his blue lashes casting shadows over his peaceful looking face. He usually scowled when he was awake, but as he slept he looked just like the youthful lad that he was. Aeyori's hand moved slowly to trace his high cheekbones then up to his forehead over his headband and under his loose blue locks. He murmured in his sleep and Aeyori retracted her hands, afraid that she'd wake him and that her exploration would have to stop.
Ike settled quickly after and returned to his easy slumber. Aeyori waited a second before returning to her trail and let her fingers glide down to his sharp nose and chin that reminded her of Greil. The mage hesitated as she came steadily to his full lips that were barely parted.
A warmth rose in her cheeks as she felt a familiar tingling in her own lips as she watched his. She pulled her lower lip into her mouth as she thought of those two pink lips pressed against her own. Aeyori couldn't imagine how that would feel but her heart beat rapidly in response to the thought.
Her fingers startled to tremble as they slowly crawled to his mouth. She almost touched them when Ike's eyes opened suddenly. There wasn't enough time for her to pull her hand away so all she could do was stare at him as her face ripened like a tomato.
Ike raised a curious eyebrow and flashed a sleepy and unexpectedly playful smirk, "You look like you're up to no good." He teased and Aeyori tried to stammer out an excuse. Ike smiled broader as he watched her blush travel up to the tips of her ears. She was easy to fluster.
"What were you doing?" he asked again and could not hide his amusement.
"Nothing, I was just…" she couldn't think of any good excuse. He'd caught her red handed as she was about to trace a line over his mouth. Aeyori figured that her best bet was to tell at least part of the truth. "I was watching you."
Ike made a surprised sound but he didn't seemed annoyed by her statement. "Why?" he prodded and gained another satisfactory darker tone of red to color her face.
Aeyori swallowed a thick nervous lump but met his gaze, "I…I…I wanted to." She felt like she wanted to disappear the moment the words came out of her mouth. She thought she sounded like a stalker but it was the only form of the truth she could manage to admit without completely mortifying herself. Although she was feeling rather humiliated already.
She watched Ike raise his head and close his eyes before he let out a long heavy breath.
"Ike?" she asked in fear of his disapproval.
His lids slowly opened and he looked down at her with a sudden startling intensity that made Aeyori almost lose her breath. "If you keep saying things like that I may do something I regret." He thought as his gaze fell briefly to her inviting mouth that he'd already kissed once before.
"Regret?" She asked in confusion, still unsure if he was upset or not with her.
Ike shook his head and let out a rueful laugh, "Actually I probably won't regret it." It might not have been a good choice but it didn't mean he hadn't thought of it nor did it mean he wouldn't enjoy it; he was positive that he'd enjoy it immensely. "But you might."
Aeyori found a little courage as she watched Ike's face and saw that it was not scrunched in anger, "I could never regret anything you did."
Ike looked at the peering innocent eyes of the mage he was holding in his arms and wasn't sure if she was being coy or if she really didn't know what he meant. "Ike?" she asked again and suddenly her voice was pulling at him. His restraint was wearing thin and he thought that he would just act on the single crazy impulse he was having as he looked into her alluring scarlet irises. He could clean up the mess he might make after he kissed her.
"You asked for it." He said in dangerously soft voice.
The mage suddenly felt her stomach knot as the commander leaned down to her. She wasn't sure what he was going to do but she had a guess and she hoped she wasn't wrong.
The warmth of his breath was latching onto her lips and his hand had crept behind her head as he guided her steadily toward him. She closed her eyes and reached to fist his shirt in her hands and waited as a meek gasp escaped her.
Suddenly there was a loud knock on the door followed by the Soren's voice, "Commander Ike. Are you awake?"
Both mercenaries were frozen only centimeters from connecting. Their chests were rising and falling against the others. Ike clicked his teeth and Aeyori quickly turned her face away as if she hadn't been less than a second away from kissing her commander.
"Ike?" Soren called a little more forcefully.
With a disappointed sigh Ike released the mage's silky hair and slowly stood but kept Aeyori wrapped in his cape. "Yes come in Soren." He said as he stretched his sore muscles.
The door slowly opened and Soren stepped in, his usual impassive face present as he looked at Aeyori. He saw her covered by his commander's cape and the obvious pink glow on her cheeks and ears. He could only imagine what she had been up to, but he knew he disapproved of it. Soren honestly didn't trust anything the light mage did. She was far too close to Ike and Ikyna for his comfort.
But that would have to be a complaint for another time. At the moment he had things to discuss with Ike and a need to check on the well-being of Ikyna. Despite his demeanor that most considered harsh and insensitive, Ike and Ikyna never judged him for it. He'd give anything for the twins. So seeing Ikyna in her battered and sick condition was more than a little painful.
"What did you need Soren." Ike addressed.
"Is Ikyna doing better?" he said with every attempt to hide the emotions that were resting in his throat.
Ike gave him a genial smile. He knew Soren was never one to show his feeling around others; but there was no doubt that he was worried sick about Ikyna. "She's getting better. She's been waking up and getting more coherent each time. She'll make a full recovery in not time."
"Really?" Soren asked, unable to mask his excitement.
The commander nodded, "Yeah, she's too stubborn not to."
Soren pulled his cheek into his mouth and looked at the ground as he let the news calm him.
"Is that all?"
"No, not so." Soren said as he straightened himself to gain his composure. "The apostle wanted to speak with you. I believe it's regarding princess Elincia." He paused to look at Ikyna once more who was sleeping without notice of the conversation, "She says that if Ikyna still needs your attendance, then she can wait."
Ike couldn't control the low grumble that escaped his mouth. Ikyna was getting better, but could the Apostle really not wait at least another day before she rushed him into another long and boring meeting? It couldn't be helped though.
"No it's fine. I can find someone to look after Ikyna while I meet with the apostle."
Aeyori began to chime in as she stood, "I can keep watch of her."
The response she received from both men were very different. Soren scowled disapprovingly at her suggestion while Ike offered her a very appreciative smile. He walked slowly to her and brushed the side of her cheek, "You've done enough for now. You should get some rest in a real bed and get something to eat. I'll probably do the same."
Aeyori looked at Soren who was silently murdering her in his thoughts she figured, "But I don't need…"
Ike shook his head and looked at her, his face going serious, "I'm not taking any excuses. Consider what I told you to be an order." He said with mock sternness. Aeyori returned his gaze thoughtfully but finally laughed instead, "Fine." She acquiesced as she handed him his cape.
As she handed him the red square of material their hands brushed against each other and Ike held her hand. Aeyori looked up at him as her eyes dilated. She went to speak his name but he spoke before she could, "I guess I'll have to live to regret another day."
He raised her hand slowly to his mouth and planted a soft feathery kiss on her fingers. Aeyori's breath hitched in her throat as she looked at the slow chest tightening smile he flashed her before releasing her hand and then ruffling her hair,
She watched him walk away, a definite confidence in his stride, and pass Soren as he left. Soren lingered to give Aeyori another withering glare but finally gave up and followed after his commander.
…
Ike looked at the surroundings of the hallway outside his sister's room. He felt like he'd been stuck in that room for so long everything else looked foreign. He caught Yakuzo sitting with his back against a pillar and staring dejectedly at his feet.
"Hey Yakuzo."
Yakuzo's ears came alive as he shot up and ran to the male twin. He placed his hands on Ike's shoulders with his gaze frantic. "She'll be fine and she's slowly getting better." Ike said as he saw the questions that were clearly about to run out of the Laguz's mouth.
The feline relaxed and dropped his hands as he started to pick at his claw-like nails. "That's good."
"Yes it is." Ike agreed.
There was a brief pause before Yakuzo gave a sad and guilt filled apology. Ike titled his head, not understanding why the cat was apologizing. Yakuzo sensed the confusion and went on to explain himself, "I should have been there to protect Ikyna. If I had..." He didn't finish his sentence but let his own disappointment eat the words.
"Listen," Ike began sympathetically, "there are very few people that I would trust to guard my sister as well as I would, but you're one of them. I know, without a doubt, that if you had been with Ikyna in the forest you would have protected her." Ike put a reassuring hand on the Laguz's shoulder, "It's no more your fault than it is mine. Anyway, Ikyna is safe now and once she heals I know she'll be running into even more trouble. But I'm not worried because I know you'll be looking out for her."
The cat seemed to be at least slightly soothed by Ike's point. It didn't mean that he didn't feel horrible about what happened to Ikyna but at least he could stop hating himself for what happened and focus on catching the lion that did. And he absolutely would.
"By the way, the apostles needs me for a meeting and Aeyori needs a break. Could you keep an eye on Ikyna for me? Let Rhys know if anything comes up."
Yakuzo hesitated, he wasn't sure if he was able to face Ikyna. On the other hand he didn't want to leave her without someone watching her. "I can do that." He said with his eyes darting to the floor.
"Thank you. I won't be long. I hope." Ike added the last part with a grimace through the teeth. He prayed the Apostle and her remaining snobby senators wouldn't be too long winded. Yakuzo stepped aside as the commander and his following mage shadow, Soren, walked passed. He looked to the closed door where his friend was lying and let out a sigh. Then he walked over to open it and stepped in.
…
Ike was doing that thing he did when things get to ridiculously out of control for him to even process. He stopped to pull at the annoying shoulder plate that was plated with silver and tugged on his new plush blue cape. He felt like an out of place duckling in all the ritzy cloths of the nobles.
As he adjusted his boots that were of a quality so high that it made his head hurt he said something foul under his breath. As he walked stiffly from annoyance down the halls, he kept reliving the insane meeting with the Apostle and the princess.
There were many high points to the meeting. The Apostle had finally agreed to support princess Elincia and lend them the Begnion army. For that Ike was extremely grateful. He knew his crew were getting stronger, but he had no misconceptions on what they could actually accomplish. The task ahead was a very great one and even help from Begnion was greatly needed and appreciated.
But that was where the good points ended. Against his better judgement the Empress had insisted that he become a lord in order to lead the Begnion army. She made some ridiculous condescending claim that her army could not be lead by a "No name mercenary,"
Apparently it wouldn't look good for someone not of a high social standing to lead the high and mighty Begnion army. For that reason he was walking around in expensive clothing feeling weirder than he ever felt.
He started to rub his head again and tried to think of the positives so that he would feel less bothered by the situation. On the bright side he'd be able to get out of Begnion and wouldn't have to be stuck in the silly traditions and rules. Ike found himself nodding happily; he was really looking forward to getting out of the 'high society.'
"Ike." A strong voice called his name from down the hall. He looked up from raking his hands through his blue hair. King Tibarn, his attendants, and the herons were walking toward the commander.
"Good afternoon. I'm sorry you guys had to give up so much of your time staying here. I was needing to talk to you by the way." He began as he remembered that the birds were waiting for an update on Ikyna.
Tibarn crossed his strong arms, "You and your sister have given me and my friends much more than your time."
"It's true." Reyson began, "Anyway, I don't want to leave until I know she's well." He gave Ike an inquiring look, "How is Ikyna?" His voice was lowered as he spoke.
"She's doing better now. Her fever lowered in the middle of last night and she's woken up a few times. It looks like she'll make a full recovery."
Reyson couldn't hide the relief that washed over him. He would have liked to hide the attachment he was feeling for this Beorc girl but he couldn't. All he could think about is how much he would hate for that somewhat mouthy, kind, and brave girl to be cut down because she saved his life. Tibarn raised an intrigued eyebrow at the prince's out of character response. Reyson immediately straightened his stance and cleared his throat as he reigned in his emotions. Tibarn smirked at his friend and for a brief moment sincerely wished he had the heron ability to read people's thoughts. He guessed that Reyson would be thinking something very interesting.
"The prince cleared his throat and looked away from his smug looking friend, "I'm very relieved to hear that."
"That makes two of us. So what will you do now? Ikyna will be fine, will you be leaving soon?"
Tibarn nodded as he exchanged a glance with the heron siblings, "We should be leaving soon. It's not really friendly territory for Laguz here and I'm sure the king of the herons will be thrilled to have his children back with him."
Leanne looked genuinely happy at those words. She knew her father had been bed ridden since the massacre but she hoped that being by his side could bring him back to her and her brother.
"That's probably true." Reyson said and felt an unpleasant dread at leaving. He rolled fingers through his golden hair and looked at Ike, "But if it's possible, I'd like to say goodbye to Ikyna." He wanted to see her once more, because he couldn't think of a time when he would see the Beorc again, and give her his deepest gratitude for the two times she saved his life.
"I'm sure she'd like that."
…
Ike and the group of Laguz approached the Ikyna's room. Ike gave a soft knock to alert Yakuzo he was coming. He turned the knob and motioned for the rest of the group to follow, Reyson was at the front and seemed very eager to see Ike's sister. The heron squeezed through, brushing Ike with his white wings and turned to the corner where the bed was.
Ikyna was resting on her back with one hand over her stomach. Curled up at the head of the bed was Yakuzo in his half shifted form. Ikyna's head was resting on his back as he was laying behind her with his own red feline face resting next to hers. He raised his ears at attention when the group walked in but he lacked the enthusiasm to lift his head.
His feral yellow eyes watched as Ike approached, "You doing okay? And Ikyna?" Ike asked cautiously to the depressed cat. Yakuzo gave a short unhappy sound as he lifted his head briefly then let it rest again on his front paws. "She's fine, she woke up a little a while ago. We talked a bit but she went back to sleep."
"That's good. I'm glad you were able to chat with her."
Yakuzo titled his head from side-to-side and mulled over Ike's point. It hadn't been a lengthy conversation but Ikyna had managed both to insult, tease and annoy him in a few minutes. If their brief conversation meant anything it was that a least her personality was still very prominent. But he was still hurting to see Ikyna suffering.
The prince slowly walked behind Ike and then stood at Ikyna's bedside. Yakuzo watched him almost suspiciously but the prince ignored it. He looked down at the sleeping Beorc and felt a swelling compassion that almost hurt as saw her heavily bandaged arm and scrapes and small bruises. What he saw in front of him was something he thought he would never see. A Beorc was before him who almost was beaten to death to save him. He bent over her face and whispered a thank you to the girl who saved his life.
He stood and looked at Ike with a straight face, "We will be leaving for Phoenicis tonight but I would like to thank your entire crew for all you've done."
Ike stuck his hand out and Reyson looked down at it quizzically. It took time for him to realize what the Beorc wanted to do. But finally the prince reached to shake his hand. Ike didn't smile as he shook the prince's hand but Reyson felt a similar warmth from Ike like he'd felt from Ikyna.
Tibarn came up next and initiated a hearty handshake with Ike, "I second what the prince said. You, your sister, and all your mercenaries will always have friends in Phoenicis."
Ike nodded at the comforting thought of having new very powerful friends. He couldn't foresee the future but with the difficult journey ahead he knew he would need as many friends as he could find.
…
Deep in the heart of Daein was a stone fort buried among a forest of trees with only one well-worn dirt path leading to its wide open gates. The owner of the house had no need to fear intruders nor did he care to. But that is what the fort had. The black armored imposing kind of intruder who didn't worry as he confidently strode through the open entry.
Inside the fort were groups of both beast and bird Laguz, plus seedy and filthy mercenaries. They had formed a ring and were shouting loudly and taunting at a bloody fight taking place in the center between a white tiger and a Beorc with a venin edge.
Despite the actively involved crowd the knight was not interested in the carnage in the ring. He walked passed silently and received several loud snarls from cats and tigers who began to stalk him with deadly intent.
But even as cats sprung at him he had his sights set on only one thing. A young man with slicked back blonde hair and a sneer wide enough to live in. He was sitting on some steps with two tigers on each side and his chin resting casually on his fist. In front and to the left stood a stone faced green lion with a silver hammer on his back.
The black knight was not intimidated by the row of protective Laguz in front of him as he easily sliced through the bodies of every cat or tiger that was foolish enough to lunge at him. They came from all sides, slashing their claws and bearing their sharp fangs. It made no difference the speed or strength of the beasts. With one blow he sent their bloodied remains flying into walls.
He was close to the blonde finally, though the young man looked far from worried, and one of the tigers at his side stood and charged to the knight. The black knight swung his sword at the unfortunate tiger and sent it hurling toward man without mercy.
Before the body made contact the green lion stepped into its path and knocked it violently with his bare fists to the ground. The second tiger stood with a low growl and crouched, ready to attack the intruder.
"How much more of this game are we going to play Thorne? Are you going to let me kill all of your men?" the knight asked with mild impatience.
Thorne paused before answering and then gave a toothy wide grin. "Fine, fine." He said and brought his hand up to let out a sharp whistle. The tiger beside him immediately stilled and bowed its head before lying down submissively.
The knight shook his sword out and sent a spray of blood from its shimmering edge onto the ground. "I'm not one of you pawns Thorne, I don't want to play your games."
Thorne laughed, "You? A pawn? Of course not. But you can't blame me for letting them have at you for a while. You're just so much fun to watch." He said with a wicked grin on his face.
"Thorne." The knight began in a serious and commanding tone. The young man put a finger up to stop the knight, "Just a moment. I just have something really quick to take care of." He jumped from the steps and snapped his fingers and sent a wave of motion through the Laguz and Beorc around him. Soon the crowd split and two Beorc carried in a third man who looked to have been beaten within an inch of his life.
They dropped the man on the ground roughly and he groaned in agony as his bruised body hit the unforgiving stone floor. But he didn't rest long. He lifted himself up and sat on his knees with his head down as Thorne approached and began to circle him with a scowl. "Morok, Morok, Morok." He began as he made a series of tsk sounds.
"You failed me." He began in a calm voice that didn't seem to put Morok at ease who was trembling with his hands on his knees as he didn't dare to even look at Thorne.
"Lift your head." Thorne said flatly.
Morok raised his shaking head and barely managed to look at Thorne. One of his eyes was completely purple and swollen shut and he had a busted lip.
"I asked you to bring Aeyori back to me, but you failed and then, instead of reporting to me you ran away." Thorne gave his chin a quick tap, "And then we had to look really hard to find you. It was really a bother for us." He said with false pout as if he was deeply hurt and inconvenienced.
"But I'll forgive you for that because I believe in second chances. I mean after all, everyone makes mistakes right Morok?" Thorne gave a broad smile that never reached his eyes.
Morok saw the danger in the false grin and quickly replied with a hurried nod of his head.
"Yeah, that's right so I'm going to give you a second chance." He stretched his hand out to the green lion who handed him a rolled paper.
Thorne held it in front of the beaten man. Morok took it quickly. "That's your next job for me. I'm counting on you to complete this one okay Morok?" he asked again with another painfully unfriendly smile. Then his face darkened and he grabbed Morok's shirt collar as he forcefully pulled him up to his face, "And know this Morok, if you fail me again, I will find you and cut out your throat and feed it to the crows." He said and made sure to clearly enunciate his threat before he shoved Morok to the ground.
Morok scrambled back to his knees and nodded frantically as his eyes widened in panic. Then as fast as the rage had come it was gone and Thorne was giving the kneeling man a friendly pat on the shoulder, "I'm glad you understand. You're really such a great worker." He looked dead at Morok then added, "Now get out of my sight or I swear on the goddess I will break your neck right here, okay?" he said with a grin.
Morok complied without hesitation and scurried from Thorne's sight despite the bad limp he had gained from his prior beating. Thorne was still grinning cheerily as his mercenary limped away. He turned to the black knight and pointed at Morok with his thumb, "He's really a great guy. So wonderful." He mused while shaking his head. Then he gave a loud clap, "Now what brings you here my well armored friend?" He said and sat back on the steps.
The black knight tossed Thorne a rolled paper, "Ike and his mercenary group have left Begnion and are planning to march on Daein to get to Crimea." He said with no further explanation.
Thorne's eyes lit up as he unrolled the paper and excitedly read its contents. When he'd finished he looked up with a toothy grin, "So it seems it's time to get to work then. Though I do think it's rude that Ashnard couldn't deliver the message himself. I thought we were closer than that." He mused, "This has put me in a bad mood, I don't think I want to do this."
"You mean to disobey your king?" the knight asked.
"I don't know, maybe. Not that it matters. I mean what is Ashnard going to do? Sick his mindless oversized lizard on me?" he scoffed as he rolled the paper back up, "A lot of good that will do. It's not like I haven't killed a dragon before."
The knight silently waited for the mercurial young man to end his little ruse. Thorne was a wicked sadistic man who would never pass on the opportunity to wreak havoc no matter who was giving the orders. Of all King Ashnard's men, Thorne matched the 'madness' portion of the kings personality the best.
"Fine, Fine. You've wore me down." Thorne purposely drawled.
"Like I said before, there are no time for your games."
"There's always time for games." he retorted with a wink.
The knight shook his head and began to leave, "Wait, where are you going friend? Won't you stay for some entertainment?" he said with a gesture to the brawl still happening between the Beorc and the tiger.
"We may work together, but don't mistake that for meaning you and I are the same. I have no interest in your form of entertainment."
Thorne shrugged at the statement. He was not offended by the words at all. "Well at least tell me where you're going."
"To catch a heron." He replied simply.
"I see. So you're not going to find your little boy toy." He teased. "What's the boy's name again? Mike? Tyke? Ike! That's it, Ike. You're rather fond of that boy aren't you?" Thorne pushed his lip out and pumped his shoulders once, "I don't see why. He's rather ordinary. Isn't that what we thought Marquinna?" He addressed to the green lion who gave a short nod in reply.
Thorne continued, "He's rather insignificant to be keeping your attention. What's so special about him?"
The knight paused and thought of ignoring Thorne. But the man was persistent when he wanted to be and the Black knight just wanted Thorne to complete his job. "He is Gawain's son."
Thorne's mouth dropped in an exaggerated gasp. He looked around as his hands flew to the side of his face. "Now that is something. If that's the case I may have to take a swing at him myself."
The Black knight swung around quickly with his hand on the hilt of his sword. Marquinna quickly placed himself between Thorne and the Knight and raised a slow hand to his hammer. "You leave the son of Gawain to me." The knight ordered in a cold metallic voice.
Thorne peeked from behind Marquinna and gave the lion a mild scolding for interrupting his conversation. Then he threw his hands up in playful resignation, "Fine, I won't lay a hand on the boy. Anyway, there's only one person I'm interested in."
"The half-ling." The black knight stated in recognition.
"Yes." Thorne began as his steadily began to change again, "She's somehow managed to find herself under the protection of your Ike and he may start getting in my way of retrieving what is rightfully mine. And if he does, I will eliminate him with or without your permission."
The knight released his sword only to let out a short but threatening sentence, "I guarantee to do that, would be very unwise." Silence came over the conversation as the two Daein soldiers stared each other down. Neither one wanting to back down. Marquinna once again stood between the knight and Thorne and finally the Black knight began to leave without looking behind him.
When he was gone Thorne let out a sigh, "Well that was close." He said with a laugh.
Marquinna shook his head disapprovingly, "You need to be more careful about who you challenge Thorne. Neither you or I could defeat that Knight."
Thorne shivered with a chuckle and smiled, "I know, the man is a complete monster isn't he?"
Marquinna nodded, "Yes, you need to be more careful."
Thorne laughed again, "I'll try old friend. But can you blame me for wanting to make him angry?"
"Yes." He said flatly in response, "Why would you want to?"
The lightning sage grinned wickedly at his lion companion, "Because the black knight thinks he so different from me, but there's madness in all of us Marquinna. I just want to know which one's in him."
Finally done. Thanks
PG
