Disclaimer: Fairy Tail is no property of mine. I think that'll about do it, now in this chapter reader's discretion is advised in because there are some unsavory details. If anyone's of weak stomach or simply doesn't prefer such scenes – don't read. Historical references, elements and some characters that I use in my story are borrowed and do not match with the real life facts.
Indomitable Heart
Chapter 15: That Which History Remembers Part II
''... As you can see, capitán, the situation is more than urgent. I've already sent the order for full-armed readiness, because there's no telling when we'll get attacked.'' Casillas presented his case. While he may have looked calm on the outside, the whole thing has put him on edge. It also wasn't helping his current health one bit.
And the one fact that his superior took the news in stride, barely reacting to the gravity of the whole situation. ''So you have, teniente. However, it has also come to my attention that there was a recent difficulties among our ranks. You wouldn't happen to know anything about that?''
The inquiry almost made the field soldier groan. How in the hell did he found out about that which happened only a good hour... ''Ahh, of course it'd be you.'' The brief, quick-to-miss glance, to the only other Alvarezian staff member explained everything. Ferrero, the jack of all assholes. ''I can assure you that any incident of note has been dealt with by me personally.'' There was no use in dodging the bolt here.
''And that would by just on of many minor problems that seem to follow you, teniente.'' The adjutant suddenly voiced. ''Forgive my impromptu encroachment, capitán, if you allow...?'' He received a nod to go on, ''Gracias. As I have mentioned, Teniente Casillas here, despite his commitment has a less than stellar record of performing the duties befitting his rank. These infringements can all lead to a series of charges...''
This time Casillas allowed a snort to leave his lungs. ''Those being?'' If a little prick wanted to have an mock court martial, then he'll get one. Maybe they were wasting time, and yes he was partly to blame, but there was something cathartic in putting the pretentious people like Ferrero in their place. It was well worth the risk.
Ferrero gave the other man a nasty leer for interruption, before composing and pushing his reading glasses up the bridge his nose. ''Unreported possession of magical equipment, disobeying the initial invasion plan, failing to report to your superior officer at the appointed briefing, illegal conscription of civilian personnel, harboring said conscript without an official notification, authorizing the combat-readiness without previous sanction and finally inability to reign in your own men.'' He finished with a huff, lightly slamming the writing material on the worn-out table. ''How do you plead?''
''Not guilty, your honor.'' Casillas said with the right pinch of sarcasm backing his claim.
''W-What...?!'' Ferrero sputtered briefly, not expecting such abrupt reaction.
The other lieutenant raised his hand. ''Firstly, as a commissioned officer I'm not obliged to show any of my personal belongings on my vessel unless someone of a higher rank specifically orders me to. I disobeyed no 'plan' because there was none that had a joint docking, my crew only simplified the entire ordeal. And I have every right to add attachment to my unit, especially if said one happens to be a willing high war-level potential.''
Captain Valdez, who simply skimmed through the process like reading a boring book, perked up at what lieutenant was saying. This bisoña had that much power? That had to be thoroughly investigated at the later date.
Dimaria had every right to feel uncomfortable at the scrutiny she was now under. Way the go Kiko.
''That is quite the s-statement.'' Ferrero stumbled in wonder, struggling to find his bearing from the initial surprise. ''How do we know the claim is accurate?''
''Tell them what you told me.'' Casillas said nonchalantly to the blonde standing next to him. He heard the story beforehand, though prying it from the girl wasn't an easy task.
Diamria sighed lightly, she hoped to keep this a need-to-know only, but the cat's out of the bag. ''In old times, there was a group of people devoted to... a deity. I won't bore you with all the small details, but the legend goes that in its acknowledgment of their reverence, the deity rewarded them with a gifts, one such in a form of a special power. Long story short, the direct descendants of the main priest caste passed this gift from one generation to another and, well, here I am.''
''Interesting.'' The remaining party decided to drop its Eurels in. ''Some people of Hellenia fostered comparable tradition. Do tell, is it a single God that you worship or does it exist as an entirely different pantheon?''
Such question was something that Dimaria wasn't very keen on answering. She already said enough to fit her resume, and that is only concerning her military background if nothing else. ''You'll forgive me for not wishing to divulge any more. I don't think we all gathered to talk about religion.'' Not to sound rude, but he was one man she definitely didn't need to answer.
The Bellatorian didn't take the news kindly judging by his frown, but opted not to add anything more to the related topic.
''I concur.'' The words came from, surprisingly, Captain Valdez. ''Much as the subject on Privada Yesta's life history seems intriguing, we have a more pressing matters at hand.''
''E-Espere, capitán! But there is still the unresolved matter of...''
Valdez gave Ferrero a sidelong glance. ''And when I start caring about a spat between two rascals, I will let you know.'' The bearded man shook his head disappointingly at his aide-de-camp. ''Francamente, un poco pegar fuerte nunca duele. Es construye el carácter. (Honestly, a little walloping never hurts. It builds character.)'' He said with a chuckle, the amusement only shared by the pair across from him. General Felix was left out of it, not that he needed him to understand in the first place.
Satisfied to a degree that his colleague suffered plenty, Casillas coughed to bring everyone's attention again. ''There is one other thing that needs addressing. Capitán, I don't mean to sound presumptuous here, but I'm afraid that we'll be fighting a losing battle if we don't get more supplies for the troops. Food and water should be the main priority.''
Valdez said nothing for a while, mulling over the lieutenant's words. It's not like he was completely unaware of the shortage in nourishment and material. Hell, there was a disagreement with him and some of the other captains during a sail. Unfortunately, they ended up spending most of their reserves, which should've been immediately restocked from the occupied land.
Of course, be it destiny or some other cruel jest, his force drew a short end of a stick, ending up in a desert front so to speak. ''Your point is quite valid,'' Valdez agreed, standing up and turning to the only window in the room, the sight of the afternoon sun blasting the outside with its might, ''But right now I can't do anything to remedy that.'' He finished solemnly, standing only a couple of feet from the opening.
Casillas tensed, cursing his luck. Well, not that it surprised him much. He already came here half-expecting a negative, but a silver of hope compelled him to look for at least a good deal out of it. ''You have to understand, that our men are getting discouraged out there. If we don't respond in some way to the problem then it might be too late when-''
''You think I don't know about that?'' Valdez turned his big frame to the younger officer. ''Poverty, hunger, thirst, filth... On top of our enemies those are all obstacles we as a loyal soldiers must face when waging a war. But we are the proud army of his Majesty's fleet and so help me we will never yield from such banal threats!''
This is where Casillas realized that he won't be getting anything from his plea. Captain's corny speech or not, he stood from his uncomfortable seat that barely passed as a stool. ''I see,'' He saluted with a heavy heart, but not too out of it for his sharp eye to notice a very peculiar detail on the outside.
Every muscle in his body screamed along with his actions, ''... Shit... INCOMING!''
Luckily, Dimaria was also on a stand-by the whole time, only a second behind she along with a lieutenant reached and lifted the table. The process knocked down General Felix to the side, and a screaming Ferrero was sent tumbling on the opposite. He was less than generous with his mouth though. ''Pinche culero...!''
No less than a moment after the initial curse, there were several 'thuds' heard from the other side of the table.
A single blade pierced the wood just shy from Dimaria's nose.
''Whoa! Too close!''
''Stay where you are!'' Casillas grunted in discomfort, part angry that such a simple action as holding up the table was straining him. He took a quick peek and confirmed his suspicions. Right on the opposite house stood two figures. The drab cowls made it hard to distinct their faces.
''You little cretins! Why don't you face us like real men, huh?! Get over here and fight!'' Valdez bellowed from the window after shoving Casillas away, swinging his meaty arm threateningly.
Casillas couldn't believe his own eyes. This guy was either very gutsy or had a few screws loose, maybe even both, allowing himself to be an easy target like that.
''Capitán, please step away, it's dangerous!'' At least Ferrero had more common sense.
''Bah, danger is what we serve for! You two! What're you waiting for down there?! Shoot 'em! Disparar!''
Two bolts were fired from the soldiers guarding the front doors, but the assailants proved to be more than agile to dodge. It was kind of amazing how impossibly they moved. ''Magic? Are they trained to handle the long-ranged weaponry to such a degree?'' Whatever the case, these weren't your common assassins.
''What kinda o' shooting is that?!'' Valdez fumed like an angry bull. ''Teniente, I order you to take them out!''
''Sorry, but I left my arbalest back... But you know something?'' The beefy captain gave the lieutenant a weird look at how different his voice sounded. It's as if he was... enraptured? ''This is one fascinating weapon.'' He traced the bare finger over a jutted edge, the shape was like nothing he has ever seen before, it was savage and so, so blood curling!
It was beautiful.
The remaining trio in the room watched him for a second before Ferrero broke the silence. ''Estás loco.''
Disregarding the insult to his mental condition, Casillas balanced the three-jutted blade carefully before gripping the leather handle. ''It's gonna get real busy around here soon,'' Bastard was about to throw more stuff at them, well he's in for a surprise, ''I'd duck if I were you.'' He finished and leveled his hand at the right angle.
''You can't seriously-?'' Whoever questioned the lieutenant's motives halted abruptly when the man pitched the blade outside toward its previous owners. The entire movement looked oddly like a person doing stone skipping.
*AUGH!*
The duo of would-be assassins wrongly estimated the trajectory, because Casillas wasn't aiming for them. At least not directly. The unknown weapon struck the eaves of the building adjacent to them, ricocheting once it found it's place in a desert man's lower side. To say that all watching were shocked would be an understatement.
The most shocked of the group was clearly Valdez, still closest to the window. He has seen it, but couldn't believe his eyes. That was one freaking magnificent shot. ''Color me impressed... Es fantástico! Haha, don't make lightly of Alvarez, coños!'' The navy man was positively beaming. ''Good job, I'll take n-Huh? Teniente?''
Casillas wasn't that much for celebration, clutching his right arm, with Dimaria not knowing how to react. ''Damn, haven't done that in a while...'' The Alvarez lieutenant groaned, he may have just blew his chances of a speedy recovery. Glancing at Dimaria, he saw her face changing from surprised to angry. ''Yesta.'' He warned.
''No way, nuh-uh! I'm not letting them get away with this.'' The blonde fumed. It was one thing to fight in the open, but infiltrating in their base and doing a sneak attack while they were in a middle of something? That was one thing she couldn't let go. They were getting bold, which was proven not moments ago. ''Capitán,'' the girl turned to Valdez and said, ''I'm requesting permission to go and hunt down our guests.''
Casillas's head snapped to the man in charge, but he was already too late.
''Granted.'' Valdez approved. ''And as for your men, general Felix, should Yesta need support I'm sure she won't be lacking it, yes?''
A truly bold thing to ask for, but maybe it was for the best. ''You need only mention my name. They will fall to command.'' The exiled general gave his answer without much mulling. Should the hunt prove successful, he might even gain more than he bargained for.
By the time he finished the sentence, Yesta was already out.
''...Hmm, she seems very eager young thing.''
Valdez hummed in thought, moving to the exit, his direction different than the departing blonde. ''Oh, the fervent Esturic blood and spirit of youth... Yes, indeed.''
''She's not ready for that.'' Casillas protested, but otherwise helpless to put a stop to his charge. ''These weren't some enemy soldiers like when we took this place.'' If they could infiltrate the town and go unnoticed until now, there's no telling what else the people of the desert had in store for their combatants. Even someone like Dimaria can still be caught off guard, it only takes a small mistake and she'd be a goner. ''Capitán I'm telling you, if the-''
''And I'm telling you, teniente, to stop trying to shelter that girl.'' The claim was enough for Casillas to shut up, head lowered. ''Taking up the sword is serious business, if Yesta is not aware of that by now then... well, I hope you know how casualty notes work.''
The implications weren't lost on the downed lieutenant, he stayed quiet until only one pair of eyes in the room remained beside his own. ''Attempting to control forces beyond our comprehension will often turn against us...''
Casillas peered slightly at the Bellatorian general. ''What?''
''You are not the first to try such a thing, I would advise to cease the oblivious act.'' Felix said. In spite of the accusation it didn't show on his face. The man seemed more envious if nothing.
Casillas stared at the wall blankly, then once again at the general. ''Right,'' he drawled, ''and you're just an innocent bystander looking to survive, huh?''
''But of course! Who are we but men of the world whose fates have brought us here!'' He pointed at the ruined table, the background noise largely ignored in his head. ''Soldiers is what we are, those who spill blood and sweat for the sake of our homes far away.''
''Is that so?'' Much as he would like to stay in the cooler place for a while, this guy's presence is infectious. Casillas knew better than to remain too long by a talking cesspool. Pushing himself of the wall, he headed to a certain place where a chest full of goods was waiting for him. God powers or whatever, Yesta will need backup. ''Then what are you doing all the way on this side?'' He felt inclined to ask.
To the lieutenant's astonishment, there were no traces of grief or shame in the man who was practically a traitor to his people. There stood only someone who would cross great lengths to fulfill his desire. It was, plainly speaking, very disturbing.
''When I fell from my position, for the longest of times I thought it a punishment by Gods to deny me what was righteously mine. Yet, I have seen it... The final missing fragment of my life. This is only a delay, the war will end one day, and I will stand to watch as justice finally strikes its might upon the real betrayers.'' Tibrus can hold off his presence for so long, the debts shall be settled.
The soldier offered no parting words, only a dull echo of his descending followed. It was fine after all, what needn't be said shall be done instead. On another note. ''Salvianus, you little rat.'' Of all the previously gathered in the room, it was his head that would count the most should they have managed to pull it off. Fate, however, once more had plans for him, there was no other explanation. ''To think you would stoop so low as to seek help from the savages... Hmm, no matter. Your death will be but one to pave the road to future.''
Because sometimes, you don't need to control things to get your way. Simply directing the flow of matters will bring you the exact result.
XxX
In retrospect, flying out of the building like a girl possessed might not have been the greatest of ideas. Being hasty leads to several problems along the way.
For one, Dimaria, with a delayed reaction from her adrenaline-addled mind was just beginning to realize how ill equipped she was for the task.
''My ass,'' She cursed under her breath while running, ''Keep running, bastardos, I got all the time in the world.''
The enemy was fairly agile, that's for sure. However, having to run with a bad leg will prove to be their downfall. By the looks of things, these two were obviously not some run-of-the-mill hitmen and the way one supported the other during escape proved a deeper connection than just a simple co-worker. Exactly what Dimaria needed.
Taking another turn, the blonde wanted to pull her hair out if she wasn't in such a rush. Another problem she encountered was how to reach them. The houses barely had a leverage or anything she could use to climb up and close the gap between her and the escapees. Even keeping a track on them while zipping left and right wasn't an easy task. Where the hell was her backup?!
''Whoa, Yesta!''
Finally!She couldn't slow down, so she quickly signaled to the familiar soldier to follow. He fell in line accordingly. ''Good to see you too, Fontes! Can you get a hit on the our roof-friendly conejos?!''
Fontes, in spite of only finding half the spare gear he could, gave a rueful grin. ''Hah, that a trick question? Watch and learn from your senior, niña!''
''I got the damn rank now, you know!''
''Excelente! I'll buy you an introduction drink later!'' The Alvarez Sergeant cheered, ready to release the deadly bolt. Steady... Steady... Drop 'em!
*WOSH*
''...''
''...''
The two could only stand in shock as the robbed person's fist unclenched, dropping the faintly bloodied bolt on the ground.
''... Oye, oye, oye... You've got to be kidding me?'' The blonde private muttered. Casillas's improbable aim she could understand, but this?
''Fucking damnation... What the hell are these guys?'' Fontes was positive he saw no magic take place. It couldn't be. One of the pros of having the crossbows in massive use is the sheer speed the could fire a shot, thus any mage could barely manage to chant or cast a spell without risking to get hit by a deadly projectile.
The other masked person stared at them, their glare palpable even when covered. Reaching to the waist where it had more weapons it was stopped by the other one.
Shaking the head violently, it pulled the companion along, the lower parts of the robe developing a crimson stain. ''Hapana! Ni lazima kuondoka. (No! We must leave.)'' This person was larger of the two, and had a distinct rougher voice.
''Sisi si kumaliza, Kamau! (We are not finished here, Kamau!)''
''Amara!'' Grabbing his partner by the shoulders, he dragged her down in a crouch, just in time to hear another bolt whizz above their heads. ''Wewe kufuata uongozi wangu! (You will follow my lead!)''
~Screw this! Fontes, give me a boost!~
Whatever the 'boost' was, he couldn't let them linger much longer. Soon both Bellatorians and foreigners will regroup, and the escape will be impossible. Damn them all to pits! He wasn't sure what to expect when coming, beside what scarce information the old man gave them. No one mentioned a man whose aim far surpasses many he has seen in a lifetime... But that was neithere here nor there, right now they had to make it to the rendezvous point, and fast!
''Hebu hoja. (Let's move.)''
Amara was hesitant, but complied while watching Kamau struggle to maintain the brave face. He was injured, that much is certain. ''Kuna wawili tu... (There's only two...)''
Kamau snorted, that stubborn head of hers will be the end of them. ''Ndiyo, na mbili hivi karibuni kuwa mia. Hoja. (Yes, and soon to be two hundred. Move.)'' It won't be today though. Although, this one in particular tailing them proved more than a handful. Something about her was off, he didn't know what, but down to his core he could tell she he didn't want to face the bright haired one on his worst day. Which was pretty close about now.
''Yeye ni kama mbwa. (She's like a dog.)''
Much as he would like to reach and whack her for throwing an off-hand comment in the middle of the jump, he had to agree. Like a persistent jackal she chased, meaning she was determined to capture the pray she marked. Or is it desperation ? Hmm. That might be what he needed to give them an edge, if it comes to resorting to that again...
The primary objective never was an assassination, maybe it was partly his fault for believing that man's word, but the opportunity was just too tempting to pass. Cut the snake's head and she is done for, writhing uselessly in dirt. Regrettably, said 'snake' had more than one competent counterpart by its side... How did those Hellenians used to tell... Cut one, two more shall grow? Or something...
''Hapa! (Over here!)''
He didn't have much to ponder as Amara directed them to the quaint house. Upon closer inspection it was the same one they had the briefing before taking off. He grunted upon landing, but managed to keep up until they were inside the storage behind the structure. No one really came here most of the day, and any slaves were directed to the other locations what with the foreigners needing more workforce to tend to menial tasks.
Now they had to regroup and be on their merry way towards the camp. But where was their third party?
''Jengo, kwamba mkundu! (Jengo, that asshole!)''
Well, that answers that.
''Nini kimetokea? (What happened?)'' He asked while peering to the outside through the small cracks in the wooden wall. There was no one in sight, not the blonde girl or any Bellatorian soldier either. It was quiet... Almost too quiet.
Amara cursed once more, pulled her facemask and spat on a squiggle that was on the opposite wall. That idiot better be prepared to face her when they see each other again, he's going to need all the luck that one. ''Na miungu Naapa... (I swear, by the Gods...)''
''Sahau. Ni inaweza kusubiri. (Forget it. It can wait.)'' Much as he shared her opinion of their seemingly distrustful colleague, if they were to escape with their lives then they needed to keep their heads straight. Getting too emotional would cause them to make serious lapses in judgement, a luxury they absolutely do not have right now. With Jengo out of the equation, it was do or die.
Not like it was any better from the start anyway.
''Sasa nini? (Now what?)''
Pulling down his mask to reveal the dark face with a similar eyes, Kamau breathed in frustration before looking at his partner. Or more precisely, the weapons she had on her. ''Kiasi gani wameondoka? (How much do you have left?)''
Patting her waist quickly, she gave the bad news right away. ''Si mengi. (Not a lot.)'' She was ashamed and disappointed of her lost kpinga, the same one that was made for her enemies ended up hurting her own kin in the process. ''Mguu wako ... Nasikitika ... (Your leg... I am sorry...)''
He quickly shook off her concerns. It wasn't her fault, nor will he ever blame her for it. With his own remaining makraka sickle he tore a part of his wear and had Amara tie it down enough to stop the bleeding for a moment. He was beginning to feel lightheaded, never a good sign. ''Kwamba lazima kutosha. Subira inaweza kuchukua huduma ya mapumziko ... Baada ya yeye hits mimi kwa kuwa mjinga kukata mwenyewe juu ya silaha yangu. (That should be enough. Subira will take care of the rest... After she hits me for being stupid to cut myself on my own weapon.)''
It drew a quiet chuckle from both of them. ''Na mimi itasaidia yake ndani yake. (And I will support her in it.)''
He had to snort at that. Of course they would gang up on him alone. When two women join in something, raging winds would blow where they direct it, in this case, him. Then she would calm down while he regarded the rest with the tale of a fruitful quest, the scary foreigners that used the weirdest of bows, and then he can pester Jengo about his poor skills in orientation. He can clearly see it, how a man tries to stifle an apology and bow his head in acceptance that he was not up to the task...
In that precious little seconds in thought, it never occurred to him on how eerily still the outside was for too long, or the slightest squeak of an old wood being pried open. It takes a little more than a second for one arrow, if fired properly, to reach its target. It takes considerably longer for a craft of the old to take place and permeate his being.
*SCHLICK*
And in no more than a tiny blink, a scenery to change. Amara's shocked face as she clutches her neck, staggering back, her life force slowly draining from the opening and falling onto the dusty floor. Had he been any faster, could he have caught her?
...No...
''You're a hard one to find.''
The strangers voice that echoed in the shack, hard edge rolling of her tongue. The fair hair discernible among the shadows, casting the only proverbial glow on a rather grim scene. Had he been more poignant, would he have reacted in time?
...No...
''Don't move too much, I don't wanna listen to the capitán grump on me. Stay still and you might just live to be useful as more than a parade trophy.''
The arrogance. The nerve?! This was their land, long before the foreigners stepped on the soil. Long before Bellatorians stuck their nosy heads in, and Helleninas first made contact with the coastal traders... There was always a story instilled into every child by their parents. 'Show respect to the nature'.
There was once a period of darkness, where ancestors lived in constant fear of being hunted down. Naturally they formed packs, and through periods they grew larger, some more so than others. they all worked together in unity, living their lives, doing what their position required of them. So, why did it come to such thing as slavery? Before foreigners, there was not a word such as 'slave'. It was a shameful and horrendous condition force upon a man. And now, it was his turn?
''Fontes! I got them, you can come in now!''
...NO!...
Something snapped, among the bleeding man's incessant grunting forcing Dimaria to give him an angry glare. ''I said stop wi-...!'' She spat and almost chocked on it seconds later, ''Ohhhhh, you can't be se-...''
Dark eyes filled with fury and primal rage stared back from high... And they got higher still. A befuddled blonde standing in a presence of a growing giant. She only had a second to raise both arms and put much distance but an elongated appendage snapped at her like a striking viper, only several sizes larger.
Dimaria registered the first crack of her bone before she went sailing through the timber of a shack, she rolled several times in dirt now sporting entirely new shade across her whole body. But all visually pleasing thoughts came secondary to what she was feeling right now. And gods did it hurt!
Somewhere in the the furthest recesses of her mind an ancient force must be looking down on her as if an elder scolding a child...
On the outside, earth started shaking, a profound rumble of an approaching doom neared and Dimaria clamped her jaw tight once.
THUMP-THUMP-THUMP...
The air was still moving, water running and the newly heavily builded monstrosity did not stop its advance. ''Fuck, fuck, fuck... FUCK!'' Panic swirled in her gut before not long after it spread throughout her entire body. The shock of the new discovery of being this helpless left her staring her own death in the eyes, and on this occasion she couldn't do anything nor improvise her way out.
...What a pathetic excuse you are...
''-sta!''
The words flied through head as she faced down the dread, only to find that after several seconds latter she was starring at the bright sky...
''Oye, snap out of it soldado!''
Someone's yelling her name...
Fontes was half-cradling her form, just barely managed to get her out of the way and redirect the man/creature. Or is it maybe that it straight out ignored him and went its way, because he wasn't sure how much damage could a single bolt do to that kind of thick skin.
Shaking his head quickly, his eyes focused on the girl. He did the right thing alright, but she still seemed a little dazed if judging by that faraway look. ''Just like last time during a siege.'' Dammit, mamá taught him never to treat women harshly, but desperate times called for desperate measures. Sergeant Fontes did the most logical thing to snap out a hyperventilating private. He slapped her across the face.
Hard.
''Pugh!'' Dimaria came back to the world, sputtering and red faced with a new bruise forming. It didn't take long to recover her speaking faculties. ''...Wha? Waht the... Where's, 'ho? Fontes...?'' She spoke unintelligibly, a far cry from the girl's usual demeanor.
''Buenos días mi sol! Had a good sleep?'' He just couldn't help himself from throwing a witty remark.
Chest still heaving somewhat, she regarded him blankly and Fontes looked apprehensive by second, wondering if she was mentally still out there. ''Did you just hit me? On the freaking face?!''
Groaning audibly, the man raised his hands in surrender. ''Right, 'thank you Fontes, you saved my ass sarge, it's good having you as partner and all'... Shit, Yesta, I should be noting all these favors I did for you.'' And then carve it on a nice piece of wood and place it over the sleeping quarters.
''You punched me... In the face... Again! The hell is wrong with you marineros?! Is that your tough guy way of saying 'hello' or you just like to do that to every girl you fraternize?!''
''Huh?!'' Fontes exclaimed, taken aback, ''Oye, look, I almost got stomped on by a walking house of а... something! What was I supposed to do? Watch and let 'im make a paella out of you?!'' He almost fell on his behind when Yesta suddenly shot to her feet, he followed soon after. ''Wait... Stop!''
The blonde refused to listen as she walked in the particular direction with a light jog. It wasn't that hard to follow the destruction the man-animal left in his wake.
Since verbal warning didn't work out, Fontes decided to go physical. He placed a heavy hand on her shoulder, not enough to put her to ground but enough to say he was serious.
She let the hand slide off and simply continued straight.
''That's an order, private! Stop right there!'' Yesta regarded him with a look bordering on irritation and partly with desperation.
''Put it in my record then...'' Eyes wide and dreadful, ''I'm seeing this through the end.''
His mouth opened in disbelieve, the navy man clenched his fist until his knuckles popped, both the soldier and a man in him wanted to stop her even if it meant that things had to get ugly. ''Arderé en el infierno por esto...(I'm gonna burn in hell for this...)'' Muttering under his breath, stone faced he stormed after the private. Fine then, if she kicks the bucket today, he'll be there to see it and later tell Casillas how he tried his best to dissuade her but failed.
''I'm never forgetting that by the way.'' Yesta remarked offhandedly.
''Hmph, don't know what you mean, I was only administering first aid on the field.''
She wouldn't turn to look, no she definitely wouldn't. She won't let him see how her lip partly curved upward, because damn she was starting to get accustomed to this life. So this was real life?
The clamoring was getting louder, and just as they came around the heavily chipped wall, both set of eyes could only stare in horror at the scene ahead.
XxX
It was terrifying, it was fearsome and a one big fucking nightmare walking. At least that's what Sergeant Perez managed to think of, he didn't dare guess what the hell ran through the other's minds. Especially Bellatorians. Did they even know something like this was possible, did they expect it? By the looks of it, they didn't have proper countermeasure per se, but he caught of how when trying to subdue the creature they aimed mostly for the lower parts, legs, joints.
He was none the wiser in that department, so the best was to go with the flow. ''Bajo, dammit! Bajo! Isco, pull them to the right flank, pin it down the alley!''
The best he could do right now is to make the redirect the thing into going to one of the dead end passages. Easier said that done alright, whoever designed this town didn't like cramped spaces outside apparently. Lucky for them, it seemed to be working, his shooters coupled with Bellatorian man made wall of shields and spears drove it further down the path to the coast. No way something that big, with a thick hide, a pillar like legs and even more disproportionate arms could be good at handling water.
''Oye, Perez!''
The man in question turned his head sharply, trying to keep both the progress and newcomers in his line of sight. ''Fontes? Where'd you come... Never mind actually – I said the freakin' bottom, can't you tell head from its ass?! Bellatorians, hold that barricade steady!'' Yeah, it was a real nightmare. ''I sure hope you brought me some reinforcements, I don't know if we can hold it with these numbers.''
''... Ah, well, I got your backup right here.'' Fontes said lamely.
Perez waited him to clarify, but after getting no more than a contorted grimace his head went from him to the girl. Was that the one the entire regiment gossiped about? Rueful chuckle escaped his mouth before he grabbed Fontes by the front of his shirt and gave him a few strong shakes. ''What the fuck, ese?! Has command completely cracked?!'' He stopped briefly rounding upon a frowning blonde, ''And you querida? Got any fancy tricks up your sleeve or just playing the posey?''
''Look, Perez, it's just that...'' Fontes tried to but ended up showed back, Dimaria now taking the entirety of the man's interest.
''So, where's your hechizo, huh chica? Or was that back then just a folly all along?'' The man tried leering down at the girl, which would be more ironic if Dimaria wasn't a good two inches taller. Perez didn't seem to pick up the fact, he was either fueled by sheer urgency to notice or just didn't care. ''Thought as much, look like we-...''
''You all seem to be getting along.'' An amused voice drawled out, followed by a grunt as two more figures dropped the wooden crate just a couple of feet behind.
Perez recovered first, ''You two? And where've you been hiding all this time, don't you see we're getting killed out there?!''
Garcia stared at him incredulously, ''You are getting killed? Sign me up for your squad th- Nngh... Alright, alright!'' The Corporal hissed when Murillo punched him not to lightly in the side. ''Complements from one Lieutenant Casillas, never say I didn't do anything for you, eh.'' Dragging the chest closer, he fished the key out and opened it.
The trio had different reactions from the contents inside.
''Well I'll be damned...''
''Dios mio, is that guy for real...?''
''What exactly are we looking at here?''
Fontes snapped out of the mini trance and carefully took the weapon from the crate, it was long, had a modified crosshairs, and a muzzle big enough to load several spears. ''I've only ever heard of these... Rumors mostly, it must be somewhere... aha!'' He showed them the faded markings on the underside, a fading letters but still quite visible. It said 'El Gran Pescador'.
''What the hell does 'grand fisherman' even stand for? I thought we are trying to kill this thing not make it swallow a bait and reel. That thing looks like it can pull a whole ship.''
''This is so awesome.'' The sergeant giggled slightly like a child with a newest toy.
''Fontes, I swear I'll kick your ass if you don't explain right now.'' Perez grunted, everyone shooting him a meaningful glance in silent support.
The man waved the threat, but looked a bit flustered at being caught in an embarrassing situation like this, ''Relax, Neto, this is actually what they use back home to hunt down a larger quarry without having to kill it.'' He picked up the separate piece from the inside that looked like an elongated hook only several times bigger than your standard fishing version.
That got Perez to scratch his head under the hat, confused by logic, ''Why would anyone want to hunt without killing the prey? Makes no sense.'' If you hunt, it's for getting a meal and that's it. It was same at his homeplace, and probably the same everywhere.
''Sport.'' Dimaria chimed in, the pain in her arm coming back on and off occasionally.
''Of course, the richer echelons would compete among each other sometimes. I've heard of local Dons gather and organize hunting parties as a game.'' Garcia clarified, which earned him a weird look from the other Sergeant. ''It's nothing unusual, that's just their way to kill boredom... Or so I've heard.''
''Yeah, whatever stuff they're into doesn't really matter now, this thing's modified to take and give a punch, check this out,'' Fontes with Murillo's help finally loaded the weapon and pointed at the trigger's area, ''If I'm not wrong, this here works same like LT's explosive bolt, only instead of blowing to our faces, it actually gives the hooks an extra kick and BAM! Instant catch!''
''Vale, if you're finished gushing over the armament, let's get a move on. Fall in line men, Fontes in the middle, corporals cover the flanks and I'll be the vanguard.''
The group formed with a practiced ease, but right before making the first step, ''And just where do you think you're going?''
Dimaria froze briefly before narrowing her eyes at the bossy sergeant, ''I'm a soldier of the army, too. You need every help you can get.''
Ernesto Perez raised his brow in doubt, the way how uncomfortable both Murillo and Garcia looked around her made him question her usefulness. ''Uh-huh, and a soldier with a broken limbs are always appreciated. Chica, I get it you wanna show guts, but let's be honest here, you'd just drag us down.''
Seeing as there was no reasoning with him, the blonde mage shot the last hopeful look at Fontes, he was reluctant naturally, but if he gave her the boot from this there's no telling how it might end on her part. She needed this one, badly.
Those eyes were literally tearing him from the inside, even with presented with a chance like this she wouldn't back down. And can't she take a hint that Perez actually meant for her safety when he told her 'no'? Sighing out loud, Fontes made the call, ''She can cover the rear fine, just give her a spare blade will you. Ándale!''
Digging out his dagger, Perez grabbed her hand, the injured one and with no small amount of glee watched the blonde wince from the contact. ''I sure hope you're satisfied, if you end up dead I'm not taking the fall, private.'' He whispered once close enough, stiffly showing the knife in her hand.
''Unlikely...'' She said through the gritted teeth, watching the disappearing back of Sergeant Perez. Looks like she keeps making new friends today.
With their plan formed and formation established, the small team moved to strike the finishing blow to the menace of the day. It was all based on a solid theory; capture, disable, kill if necessary, Casillas provided them with good tools of trade for the job.
Then why is it, that Dimaria's stomach churned at every single thought of facing the man/animal. Was it her own failure and having to rely on others now? Or does it come from far deeper inner cognition?
Yet upon reaching the cluttering of mixed voices of Bellatorians and those of Alvarez alike, they came at the surreal scene. If not knowing any better, one could say that it looked like a stand off... Between several soldiers and a giant rock? With only the sound of waves hitting the shore, the dull colored mass of flesh was standing with its back turned towards the pursuers. Both legs and arms tucked in and the elusive face bowed, only the backside that had few throwing spears and bolts sticking from it. It was as if watching a stubborn hill telling the others off.
Perez, ever the true to his self-appointed position took a careful steps in reaching the nearest comrade. Thy guy was tense, sweating from both nervousness, battle haze and sun that he failed to notice his approach at first. ''Easy there, give me a quick report, soldier.''
The lad swallowed hard, not knowing if he should take his eyes from the target. Both seemed like a bad idea, from tactical or respectful stand point. ''I... I don't really know. It kind of stopped on its own.'' He mumbled with shaky breaths, having to re-arrange the heavy crossbow.
Perez nodded slowly, ''Damage and casualties?''
The young soldier again took several puffs of air before responding, ''Two Bellatorians out, none of ours. Sarge, the weapons had little to no effect, he takes any shot not aimed at the head like it's nothing. The ones at legs only give him a push if anything...''
That sounded about what he expected. There was no way to have a clear shot at the head like this, unless they manage to bring a ship on the other side. ''Only it's too shallow.'' And there goes that idea, but a smaller vessel, a boat maybe? Only where to find those right now. Nobody seemed to use them much in these parts, and why would they, it's a damn desert with no firth in sight. And would the creature even be willing to wait it out until they regroup with a new plan of attack.
A quick gander toward Fontes told them that they were equally at loss at what to do. One thought did came to mind though, as much as it was crazy, he didn't see any other way out of the deadlock. Taking a deep breath, he steeled his nerves for what's to come, ''Alright then, I'm going in,'' The nearest troops looked him like he was insane but it didn't steer Perez, ''Oye, Bellatorians, clear the way, coming through.''
''What in gods'...? Have you fallen from every reason?''
''He is clearly mad...''
''Crows ate his brains...''
Apparently the two different troops shared the same opinion, only these were willing to voice it out loud. Well, he wasn't afraid to take a dip in the unknown, but not without proper support. ''And who said I'll be going in alone?'' Perez allowed himself a grin that promised no happy ending, ''I'm not from around here, so I'll be needing some of your representatives. I'm sure General Felix would agree with me.'' As a cherry on top, he played that particular card.
The men forming the last bastion between the humans and a beast all tensed, the one, obviously the elder judging by his more roughish looks and a scruff on a chin spoke, ''What is it that you propose?''
He was getting through some, good. ''Take two of your men and tell the others to stand ready, we will be having a negotiations.''
The scruffy man, Hermos, was appalled by the idea, ''You wish to have words? With animal?'' He spat at each word.
''If you would rather spend the day and night here, I'm open to other suggestions.'' When none came, he continued, ''This was a man by all accounts. If he is a man on the inside, then there wouldn't be a problem communicating.'' That's the theory he only came with a minute ago. After picking two more, he signaled for others to stand ready, and made Fontes steer from clear sight. If things go the other way, they'd have the element of surprise if nothing else.
Now came a hard part, approaching the hulking mass went fairly, well, if not for the small movement that could only be assumed as breathing, Perez would've believed it just went into some weird out of consciousness state.
''Big guy over there!'' He wanted to slap himself, but the damage was already done, ''If you're not attacking us right now, does that count you'll be willing to listen to what our side offers?'' For his very first diplomatic attempt, he thought it went fairly well, above average maybe.
Not soon after he said those words the mass slowly dipped in front, and noone knew how exactly to interpret such behavior.
The silent treatment was slowly working up the sergeant's nerves, but he was in a delicate spot and couldn't afford to lose his cool, not in front of so many men watching him expectantly. ''If you surrender now, I can promise to have a word with my leaders on a fair treatment for you and anyone else of your group we might have captured.'' Perez almost bit his tongue, he wasn't really aware the depth of what the man in the animal's guise committed, but he was truthful on fulfilling that part of the given promise.
There was a much stronger reaction, a heavy jerk and and apparently the mass only increased in size, no, it would be correct to assume it bloated some.
''Pohrmiss... To... Monsta...'' A gurgle of noise came, to what it meant was anyone's guess, but Perez was late to even make another attempt at talk as Hermos yelled orders and pulled the man back, ''... Worths...''
''Wait a sec, what're you-?!''
''Form Testudo!''
Like one, Bellatorians started assembling into the maximum defensive formation.
''...NUTTIN!''
A raging sound was a half word to a merciless torrent. Salt and air mixed together filled the wind only intensifying the breath of the sea only yards away.
To Dimaria, Fontes and the rest, it could only be described as if someone took the sea water and gave it a deadly directive. Heavy limbs stomped again, without caring for where or who was in the path, carried the gray behemoth, two gleaming elongated fangs protruded from the sides of the collarbones and a fully grown proboscis swiveled left and right, releasing streams of high-pressured water upon the enemies.
This was a complete failure.
When Dimaria cleared the misting film of water from her face, she came to eyes of a molten amber, not unlike her own colour tone. There was no trace of human left in the man she chased down all those streets away. This was a mad beast with a goal, and she was standing in the way of it.
''Boy, you're even uglier than the last time...'' The creature let out the sound that reminded her on a long moan, not a pleasurable kind, but of those who was struggling with something. It's heavy, moving such body around after a sudden mass change can't be an easy task.
But she didn't let it deter her, she wouldn't let anything make her stand aside and watch. ''Alright, it's you and me, how about we do the dance of death! COME ON!'' With a savage grin, Diamria dashed at the thing six times her size. She dodged the initial jet of water, but underestimated the amount he could use at once, this water whip was smaller and far deadlier.
It caught her on the shoulder, blowing the protective pad, just when she snapped her teeth once.
It stopped...
Never was she more happy than to see her powers weren't lost, maybe it was a fluke, a strike of misfortune, she gave it little thought, while slamming the knife in the right joint and pulling with all strength of one arm.
Muscle and skin tore open...
...But so did the passages of time and space...
She fell, a painful grimace that sent a final words to her fellow man at arms. ''FIRE!''
*CRACK*
The grand fisherman was an ingenious tool, by design it was clear who was its predecessor. Made from lengthening the traditional arbalest, but instead of a string that served as a catalyst to release the deadly bolt, a big innovation was added. An energy based trigger, it added more then several times the strength of a projectile. The sharp, harpoon-like hook would usually pierce the target, but not enough to kill it at first, for at the other end was a chain with a heavy metal bob weight. Hence the extra power needed. It was a more twisted version of a much older brother that started the old Esturic hunting tool – lasso. The best of both worlds.
''Confirm hit!'' Fontes cheered, ''Someone drag Yesta here. I would, but she's bound to responded rudely.''
Murillo was the one to do it, if reluctantly, ''What's the point if you'll get a...'' He was cut off as Yesta separated and with a clumsy step and an even clumsier motion kicked Fontes in the shin, enough to bring a painful reaction. Murillo could only roll his eyes. ''Whatever, man...''
Slumping next to Fontes against the old fence, Dimaria gave an appraising look, ''That's pretty neat.''
''Heh, thanks, I really tried my best to-''
''I meant the weapon.''
''... Oh.'' The non-commissioned officer let out down-heartedly.
Minutes flowed and nobody seemed to make any move, beside few Bellatorians who were picking themselves up, those that got swept by the artificial stream were not be getting up anymore. It painted a gruesome scene, they were sitting among the dead, half-living and a chosen knuckleheads lucky enough to stay conscious.
''What now?'' That was the question of a day.
Fontes closed his eyes and allowed his body to fully settle against the hard wood, the big fisherman lying on his right. ''Now, mi amigos, we venture into a fun corner of Villanueva, a quaint but loud bar...'' Garcia who stood leaning on a separate paling hacked a spit, ''... And then, with a swish of a wind a fair, but bright maid with locks as dark as the bark, gracious but humble would sing us a song of a hundred birds and dance the best cha-cha you ever saw in your life!''
''... There's still booze involved, right?''
''Si, seguro! Tequila that burns down your throat!''
''... Dammit all then, I'm in.'' Murllo agreed prompting Fontes to beam his way.
''Fontes,'' Dimaria droned in a dead voice, ''Why is it that a dancer takes more than half of your narrative?''
''...''
''...''
''...''
''... I regret nothing.'' Despite how serious he tried to sound, the dazed sergeant hid his face behind the helm.
''MMMmmghhhhhhhhhh...!''
''I think he's still alive.'' Garcia pointed out.
''Of course he's alive, it's not meant for killing, I told you so.'' Fontes, still behind the safety of his headgear patted the weapon blindly.
''Ahh, and we're gonna stand here and do nothing if the big guy decides to jump up and buries us six feet under?'' Once more, Garcia layed it out with no small amount of sarcasm.
''Hmm, that sounds bad, could be worse though... I mean, I got us all here not jumping at each other's throats! It's a huge win from this morning, we're making progress!''
''Uhh, no, I never tried to jump anyone's throat, my hands are clean in this.'' Murillo defended himself. He spared a glance at the two likely suspects, but something didn't quite add up. ''Wait, you said 'us', as in you were, you know...'' He didn't dare name names, not with Yesta so close by.
Fontes peaked from his cover, cheeks yet to lose color, ''You don't know this, but Yesta and I didn't get along at start, we might have had some slight misunderstandings.''
Now that was curious, ''Like?'' Couldn't be more than a verbal smackdown with these two.
''I drew a sword at him...'' The blonde confessed shamelessly.
''Eh, you drew sword at him?''
''Wait, who drew swords with who?''
''Bah, makes no difference, we're like best of buddies now... Uhh, siblings that can't stand each other, or uhh...?''
''Oh yeah, you're like an older brother I never wanted. Pretending to be all stuck up, but a real softie on the inside.'' Dimaria clarified, while using Perez's knife to scratch an itch on her back. She'd have to arrange a bath somehow, it was getting annoying.
''Yeah, well you're... Yeah, it's not like I ever had a hermana, and not like I ever thought I'd be serving with girls in the army... So, there...''
''That's lame, man. Trust me though, little sisters can't be all that great. Hell, I got two older ones that won't stop calling me baby names. Still act like I'm five...'' Murillo shared his own suffering at home.
''Mmmgghnnnhh...''
''This is all touching, but the thing is trying to get up and leave.'' Trust Rodolfo Garcia to be the voice of reason.
Murillo snorted, not appreciating the atmosphere change, ''And where's it gonna go? In a few minutes, this place will be crawling with troops, and we did our part anyway so I say we let it roast in sun... What I would give for a nice, warm spit and a bath...''
Garcia tried to shake off his partner's incoherent lines, ''Oye, stop daydreaming, Guilliermo! That doesn't even make sense, ohhh mierda, we're loosing him... Snap out of it, don't go there, you hear!''
''If I might recommend a good whack.'' Fontes raised his pointer in suggestion and Garcia seriously started contemplating the tried and tested method.
''You tell him, it's your area of expertise. Had a lot of practice lately...'' Dimaria was giving him a sidelong glare, still busy with her scratchy issue.
''In my defense, I had good reasons and every time I did it, you wound up making a miracle... It's like a victory slap!''
''... No, Fontes, just... No.''
''But seriously, I was scared for a while you might get a payback for, you know... Your magic is kinda scary.''
At this, Dimaria dared to smile, ''Scary? Do I give away that impression... Aww, you poor baby.~'' She cooed, but her expression never betrayed the intent.
''Well, yeah, that instant-speed thing you do... I swear I can't even follow with my eyes! I don't thinks even LT could! Scary!''
He didn't quite nail it, but the point was still there. It was scary. Having something like that would make any person doubt themselves, but scary? That was reserved for her enemies, it would do her well not to enforce it as such when it comes to the troops. The Esturic part of Alvarez for instance.
The right time might be just about now, and she still had one last shot if her estimate is correct. ''Fontes.''
''Hmmh?''
''We got to move.''
Glancing at the writhing mass of gray, the man lifted himself and helped Dimaria up, mindful of her injured arm, which she gave a helpless smile. ''Guess we do, huh...''
''Before that, you mentioned that part of the fisherman being like one of Kiko's bolts? Big boom?''
''Right, but I'm not sure if we depleted all of...'' He stopped, knowing the implications behind her query. ''You do realize the distance is...?''
''Sure do.'' She extended her left, uninjured hand. ''Trust me, you're gonna like my next trick.'' After walking the safe distance from the range of the blast, Dimaria smirked confidently, with the grace of the best one-armed pitcher the core was flung at the rising animal.
The remaining crowd was rewarded with a resounding blow and a small firework. With all its strength out, the creature that was one a man of Nubian practitioner of spiritual arts, crumbled to the ground, unmoving while vermilion flames consumed the mismatched form of Kamau.
Slow clapping noise filled their ears, Casillas in a manner of a teacher congratulating his students strode with a light step. ''Wasn't that a sight to behold. You did good, for a bunch of freshmen boots.''
Fontes wanted to argue that he wasn't exactly what one could call 'fresh' but decided against it.
''Do we get a passing scores here?'' Dimaria, ever the bundle of energy and cockiness despite her ragged state, inquired, ''And what do you mean by that, we've seen battle like two weeks or so ago.''
Casillas was not amused, but he should've expected that from her by now, ''Compared to what I saw, you're all still kids for me. And as for your performance, on a scale from one to ten; a solid six I say.''
Both Fontes and Yesta made a 'boo' in disapproval, Murillo was on cloud nine to care, and Garcia knew enough respect to utter a word of protest.
''Since the interference has been dealt with, I think you four could use a little rest from duties,'' He quickly silenced the greedy look from the sergeant and private, ''A reasonable time-out only, you three are getting a day to sort things out, and as for you Yesta, a physician is in order.''
The blonde's healthy complexion was slowly being replaced with white, ''Do I have to? I think Fontes is to blame for half of my injuries, shouldn't he take responsibility?'' It was sneaky trying to get away like that, but somehow the idea of some old coot prodding her wasn't that appealing.
''Sergeant and I will have a talk later, and then you will have some explaining to do, I've not gone senile yet, private.'' Returning to more professional tone, Casillas motioned them to follow and made a note to honor those fallen today, their first real casualties of war. While a squad of Bellatorians passed him among them a certain general threw him a meaningful look.
XxX
His knees scrapped the dirt as he was shoved.
''Waak, Suungan.''
He understood that much, being in this place that frankly stood as one step from the fiery underworld. And in all that time, the savages never learned how to properly adress them by titles... Well, he doubted that they even knew what it was, the only thing they acknowledged was the ruler and the subject.
What Salvianus failed to grasp, however was why the man brought him to this place of all. It was a... 'camp' in the lack of a better expression. Tents flapped in the desert wind along with his headkerchief. ''This cannot be right... Where is your tribe king?'' His escort, Jengo he believed, tilted his head and looked upwards. Salvianus followed the gaze and found scavenger birds circling them.
''Him gaan, headed elsewhere.'' Jengo said while laughing at his own phrasing for some reason.
''Elsewhere? You promised me with an audience! Do you have any idea just who the man in the Cy – hngh!'' The prefect yelled, scandalized when Jengo decided it was enough and clamped a hand around his neck, kicking his kneecap for good measure.
''No more chat, you waak now, speak lata'...'' The Nubian pulled the shorter man almost effortlessly.
For once, Salvianus swallowed his pride and decided to bide his time for now. The beginning of an unlikely alliance was needed, if Felix could make one with the foreigners, he had no other choice than do similar thing.
''For the Republic... One last attempt...''
One last breakthrough for the impossible. Convince once bitter adversaries to cooperate. First step is always the hardest though, and Salvianus was a man running on a tight schedule.
How long was I gone, almost a year from IH?! For real?! Thing are gonna have to change here...
Read and enjoy, and if there are any questions, advises, confusions, you know how it goes; Review or PM, I'll always respond if there is a link.