The Force's Shepherds
Chapter 14
March of the Plegians
Emmeryn rose early the next morning. But she felt like she had hardly slept. Her head felt heavy. Her eyelids even heavier. The entire affair revolving around the planning of a new war had already sapped most of her energy. And the war was only two days old now. She yawned as several handmaids rushed around her. One was pouring a glass of water. Another was laying out a lovely white gown with robes for her. And a third was combing Emmeryn's hair as she sat uncomfortably in a chair.
Once her hair was satisfactory (Meaning it was not sticking in every direction), she slipped into her gown and exalt robes. Just as she was about to place the halo esque crown of the Exalt over her head, the door to her chambers burst open.
"Your grace!" A healer cried, voice filled with panic, "He's not in his room!"
Emmeryn froze. She completely forgot to finish putting her crown on. Her handmaids watched in silence as the Exalt rushed out of her room and made her way towards the room where Ben was supposed to be resting.
The young swordsman had been severely injured in the first battle of the war. He had put himself between Emmeryn, her sister Lissa, and a Plegian Wyvern rider. The end result was a fractured leg, an ugly stab wound to the shoulder, a major concussion, and physical exhaustion that nearly made the man comatose. She had been worrying about him for most the day yesterday. Only Chrom's insistence that she go rest caused her to leave Ben's side.
She felt responsible. But she did not want Chrom or anyone else to know that. It was days like this that she envied Chrom and his skill with a blade. She never wanted to harm a living creature. Never wanted to lift a weapon against anyone. But out on the battlefield, surrounded by chaos and death, she could not help but feel useless. A sitting duck that men had to trip over in order to defend properly. It was one of the most sickening feelings in the world. And it was only made worse by Ben's injuries being a result of her being unable to defend herself.
Now she could understand why Exalts before her, all the way back to the days of the Hero-King Marth, knew combat. Knew strategy and how to conduct warfare. It was not just for conquest or defense of others. It was also for self defense.
If she did not have a war to lead, she would have considered asking Chrom or even Frederick for lessons. But now, with Plegia no doubt preparing to march, there was no time for that. She had to continue to be a symbol for peace. A light in the fog of war. It was the only way she would be able to help her people weather the coming storm.
She pushed her way into Ben's room. The healer was not lying. It was empty. The sheets on Ben's bed were through haphazardly off to the side. None of the candles were lit. The water on his beside table had not been touched. The only thing off about the room was the window. It had been thrown open. Emmeryn did not stop to search the room. She picked up her gown and raced down the stairs of the castle to the courtyard outside.
Her eyes scanned the courtyard. The morning sun was starting to illuminate the world for her. The courtyard was mostly dirt with some grass. The area designed not for comfort or luxury, but for training. Duke Rodrick took his duties to Themis seriously. And with Plegia so close by, he made sure that he always had a standing army ready to act against any threats. There was a large stable just outside of the courtyard walls. Several towers lined the stone walls as well. One of those towers housed the Shepherds. Several of them would start waking soon. Maybe they would help her search for Ben.
She was just about to shout his name when she finally noticed him.
He was sitting off to the side of the courtyard. Legs crossed, hands folded in his lap. Head held high, but eyes closed. The cool morning air did not seem to bother him, even though he was shirtless. Emmeryn shook her head and strode towards Ben.
The man did not move a muscle as she approached. He seemed lost in his thoughts. So deep into his meditations that the world around him could not possibly affect him. Emmeryn did not know how he was able to do it. Meditation was something she had tried herself. And while she could eventually achieve the peace and quiet that it required, it took time. And she could never detach herself from her surroundings completely. But Ben, he was like a stone when he was meditating. Unaffected by the world and it's troubles around him. Lost in his mind.
She felt a twinge of guilt at the thought of suddenly interrupting him. Perhaps this was his way of recovering from his injuries. Even though it would be better for him to stay in his bed and rest. Maybe it was a way he coped with the aftermath of a battle. An attempt to find some semblance of peace after such a terrifying moment of chaos. So, instead of tapping his shoulder or calling his name. Emmeryn took a seat in the patchwork of grass beside him. She folded her legs and took a deep breath.
Meditating might do me some good. She thought to herself as she closed her eyes.
But she could not quiet her own mind. It was filled with anxiety. How was she going to rally Ylisse's armies in time? Had her letter to Commander Edward reached Ylisstol? Was Duke Rodrick's army of two thousand going to be enough to withstand a possible Plegian invasion? Would it be enough to launch an invasion of their own if necessary? How was Phila? The Wing Commander had sustained serious injury after the Wyvern attack brought her down from the sky. Was she resting? Were her injuries extremely severe to the point where Emmeryn may have to relieve her of command? And how were they going to engage in desert warfare? So many supplies needed to be accrued? So much water? And then there was-
"Relax." Ben's calm voice interrupted her thoughts, "Take a deep breath."
Emmeryn inhaled. Paused. Then slowly exhaled.
"Approach each problem one at a time. And as they come to you. You do not have to handle it all at once." Ben advised.
Emmeryn cracked an eye open. He was still sitting still. Eyes closed and hands folded. He had not moved a single inch. Emmeryn raised an eyebrow. How did he know what she was thinking?
She found her eyes wandering. Ben had been wrapped in sheets when she saw him last. She did not realize just how well… toned he actually was. Thick bandages were wrapped around his wounded shoulder. But beyond that, his torso was bare. And while he was slim, it was not an unhealthy slim. It was lean, corded muscle.
"You're still distracted." Ben noted.
Emmeryn squirmed in her seat, "Well… it is kind of hard not to be."
Ben let out a small, quiet laugh. He then opened his eyes and glanced over at the Exalt.
"You may be much more peaceful, but you and Chrom share the same restlessness."
Emmeryn nodded, "Well, we are family." She pulled at several blades of grass, "I just find it so hard to sit still right now. There is just so much to do. So much I have to consider."
"You don't have to consider it all alone." Ben reminded her, "You have good people to help you. Chrom and Phila will help with the military side of things. As will Duke Rodrick. You just need to worry about looking out for your people."
Emmeryn gave Ben a small smile, "You seem to always know what to say."
Ben shrugged before closing his eyes once again, "It comes with experience."
Emmeryn raised an eyebrow, puzzled. Experience? What did he mean by that? Was he insinuating that he had experience in warfare? But he was so young. About Chrom's age. Chrom was just a toddler when the last war with Plegia ended. There had not been another conflict on the continent since then. So how could Ben have experienced war?
There was a possibility he was from Valm, but Emmeryn doubted that. Very few people escaped what was occurring across the sea. Virion was one of the few lucky ones. And even fewer soldiers from that land wished to leave it. Besides, he did not look like he was from Valm. Ben had a Ylissean appearance to him. A manner of speech and elegance that spoke of a noble Ylissean upbringing.
She saw his chest rise and fall before. And for a moment, she saw his hands clench tight then relax. His thoughts were roaming too. Just not as wildly as Emmeryn's.
Emmeryn pursed her lips, "I um… I mean to thank you."
Ben cracked an eye open, "For what?"
Emmeryn brushed some hair around her ear, "You saved my life. You saved Lissa's life. And you nearly gave yours to do so."
Ben shrugged, "I was just doing what anyone else in our company would have done."
"Anyone else?" Emmeryn leaned back onto her elbows, "I doubt anyone else could have jumped up onto a flying Wyvern like you did."
She saw Ben tense up. Emmeryn's eyes widened in realization. That impossible leap he made was not something she was supposed to have seen. She watched as his weight shifted from side to side.
"I um-"
"Are you a mage Ben?" Emmeryn asked.
It seemed like the only logical explanation. There were many unknown or lost magics in the world. The Grimleal were a prime example of that. Those Plegian sorcerers practiced many dark magics. Magics few knew let alone understood. Emmeryn recalled from her brief studies on the subject, that there were many hexes, curses, blessings, rituals, and spells that could be created or used. Perhaps Ben had simply developed some of his own.
She could see uncertainty on his face. He was struggling with a response. Something she said had hit a nerve with him.
"You can tell me, Ben." She reassured him before placing a hand on his shoulder. An action that only made him grow more tense.
Ben stared off across the yard then sighed, "You would not believe me if I told you." He muttered just loud enough that she could hear.
Emmeryn furrowed her brow, "Mages are not that uncommon, Ben. And those that experiment with magic… well that is rather normal. We have an entire school dedicated to the study in Ylisstol. Even Plegia engages in deep study of unknown magics. It would not surprise me in the least if you told me you were a mage utilizing spells no one knew."
Ben took in a deep breath, "I guess… I am a mage of sorts."
Emmeryn smiled, "You see? No harm done. I'm still very glad to see you with the Shepherds."
Ben gave her a small smile. A relieved one. But his eyes still looked… guilty? There was more he was not telling her.
His eyes flicked up to hers. In that moment, she felt like he was thinking the same thoughts as she was. Wondering about the same questions. Searching for the same answers. His lips drew into a thin line.
"Maul." He breathed.
A shudder ran up Emmeryn's spine.
That man, creature, whatever he was still haunted her thoughts. He was a nightmarish looking thing. An intimidating presence that made Emmeryn want to crawl under a rock and hide. The way he had stared at her. How it felt like he could see her very thoughts. Feel her own feelings. And how he laughed at them. Mocked her. It made her feel both uncharacteristic rage and enormous fear. There was much more to Maul than being a simple adviser to King Gangrel. A power to him that could only be guessed at.
"Wh-what about him?" Emmeryn asked.
She could see a wave of sorrow sweep over Ben.
"He and I… we have crossed paths before."
Emmeryn's eyes widened, "When? How?"
Ben held up a hand to slow down any further questions, "Swear that you will not tell a soul."
Emmeryn frowned, "Ben, I don't think-"
"Please." Ben pleaded.
She could see the pain in his gaze. An anxiety and melancholy that betrayed memories of tragedy.
What has he seen?
Emmeryn gave him a nod. Ben took a deep breath and swallowed hard.
"Maul… Maul is an old enemy of mine." He said.
Emmeryn could not help but notice that he was being very careful with his words. Taking his time to formulate sentences. Thinking about each phrase, each word before he spoke them.
He's still hiding.
"I first encountered him with my own Master, Qui Gon."
Qui Gon? That sounds like a Chon'sin name?
That made sense in Emmeryn's mind. The Chon'sin were renowned throughout the world for their skills in swordsmanship. Even one of the Shepherd's newest members, a silent young man named Lon'qu, was from Chon'sin. And his skill with a blade was so good, that he was Khan Basilio's champion at one point in time. To be in such a position at such a youthful age spoke to his ability. And his people's abilities.
"We were… escorting a noblewoman." Ben said, "We had lost our way and were ambushed by him. At the time, my Master was barely able to fend him off before we managed to lose him an escape."
Emmeryn's eyes widened, "But-but he looked so decrepit."
She saw Ben drift off into though. His fingers almost instinctively going to the faint outline of a beard on his chin, "Yes, that is rather new. And most likely a ploy. A way to get enemies to lower their guard. He had become much craftier over the years. When I first encountered him, he was more of a skilled brute." Ben shook his head, "Anyways, after we had escorted the noblewoman to safety, she wished to retake her lands from an enemy. We agreed to help her. Little did we know, Maul would be waiting for us on that day of battle.
"Me and Master Qui Gon engaged him alone. Separating him from the rest of the battle." She saw Ben swallow hard, "We got separated and… and he struck Qui Gon down."
Emmeryn could feel her own heart breaking at the pain on Ben's face. Maul was responsible for the death of Ben's teacher. A man he clearly looked up to and respected beyond all others.
"I thought I defeated him. But… but he somehow managed to survive." Ben continued, "After that battle, he made it his life's goal to torment me. He laid low for several years afterwards. Then he came out of hiding when I was tasked with protecting an old friend."
Emmeryn saw mist starting to form in Ben's eyes. He was fighting off the emotions with everything he had.
"Her name was Satine. And-" Ben let out a shuddering breath, "And he killed her too." Ben wiped at his eyes, "I don't know what became of Maul after that. It appeared that he was done with me. Finished torturing me. Convinced he had broken me. And I went my own way." Ben bowed his head, "I hoped to leave all of that behind me."
Emmeryn could see it now. This Satine, Ben had loved her. Just from the crack in his voice when he said her name. The tears brimming along his eyes when he told her of the woman's fate. There was regret in those eyes. Emmeryn felt her hand slip into his.
"Ben…" She said softly.
"Has he not taken enough from me?" Ben growled. His eyes looked up at the pink sky, "Have I not been tortured enough!?"
She squeezed his hand. Ben froze. Suddenly aware how close she now was.
"Just as I am not alone in this war," Emmeryn said to him, "You are not alone in this life. We will face Maul together. Just as we will face this war together."
She could feel her heart fluttering in her chest. Just what was she saying? She was the Exalt of Ylisse. Her duties were to her people first. Anything else, friendships, personal ambitions… romance, they all had to take a back seat to her duty as Exalt.
So why did it feel right? Why was she so comfortable with Ben when so many other suitors had come and been rejected? He did some seem very comfortable with her. If anything, he was very awkward about this. Then again, Emmeryn suspected that she was the first person he had ever opened up to about this. About his past. Maybe he was comfortable with her. Just in his own way.
"Um…" Ben swallowed hard and sniffed, "I um… I think we are being watched."
Emmeryn looked at him confused. Then she saw Frederick by the stables. The Knight's jaw hung wide open. His eyes were wide as he stared at Ben and Emmeryn. Holding hands… alone in the courtyard.
Emmeryn's face went as red as a tomato.
How did Ben see him? Does he have eyes in the back of his head!?
"Uh… we are."
Ben gulped, "It's Frederick isn't it?"
Emmeryn nodded stiffly, "The one and only."
"We should probably seperate then." Ben suggested.
Oh she did not want to. But she had too. The last thing she needed was any scandals. Emmeryn let her hand slip from Ben's. She gave him a sheepish smile before rising to her feet.
"Well… I um… there is going to be a war council in a few minutes, I'm sure."
Ben snorted, "Have fun with that."
"Oh it will be loads of fun." Emmeryn replied sarcastically, "Perhaps I will talk to you later. If you want to?"
Ben nodded. As Emmeryn began to walk away, he called her name.
"Emmeryn."
The blonde woman spun around.
"Thank you." Ben said, "I um… did not realize how much I needed that."
Emmeryn gave him a gentle smile, "Sometimes talking is better than meditation. And it was my pleasure."
Ben watched as she strode back into the castle. He noticed her cast one last peek back at him before dissapearing inside. Once she was gone, Ben's gaze snapped over to the stupefied Frederick. Ben shook his head and got his feet.
"You should close your mouth, or you may catch flies." Ben advised as he moved past Frederick.
"The-The Exalt and y-you." Frederick shook his head fast then spun on his heel to face Ben, "Wait a moment!"
Ben paused and sighed, "Frederick-"
The sound of steel sliding against a sheath rang in Ben's ears. The swordsman tensed before looking back at the knight. Ben's eyes narrowed at Frederick. The knight had drawn his sword. And he looked furious.
"I will not have a devilish rogue such as you ensnare the Exalt that I am sworn to protect." Frederick said firmly.
Ben cocked an eyebrow, "I've been called many things in life. But devilish rogue is most definitely not one of them."
That was more Anakin's thing.
"I doubt that." Frederick snarled.
Ben sighed, "Frederick you are being ridiculous."
"Then perhaps you wish to defend your honor!?" Frederick declared, "And I shall defend the Exalt's. Besides, we both agreed that there was a need to test your skills."
Ben frowned. His eyes glanced at his bandaged shoulder.
"Can't this wait a few more days?"
"In a few more days we will be marching on Plegia." Frederick replied, "So no. This cannot wait."
Ben shook his head. Force this man was a stubborn one. He could put some droids to shame. Ben ran a hand over his face.
"Then how about I rephrase and say, you really don't want to do this."
Frederick seemed taken aback, "Is-is that a threat?"
Ben shook his head, "No. But it is a warning."
Ben was not in the mood for this. And his body was in no condition for a fight so soon. He'd need at least another session with a healer before he even considered himself combat ready. But Frederick's own stubborn sense of honor and pride stood in the way of that.
Frederick scowled, "I'll have you know, that now I will not be taking this lightly."
Ben let out a small laugh, "I'd be surprised if you did." Ben held out an open hand, "Do I get a weapon? Or are we going to play unfairly?"
Frederick's scowl grew. Ben could see that the Knight was actually debating the topic. But his appeal to Frederick's high sense of honor prevailed. The Knight stomped over to a sword rack lined up against the wall, grabbed the bluntest blade available, and tossed it to Ben.
Ben easily caught the weapon with his right hand. He rolled his shoulders. Wincing as his left shoulder groaned in protest. He could feel it starting to ache again. Just when the force healing he had been doing before Emmeryn showed up was finally starting to take effect, he had to aggravate it again.
Frederick strode out to the center of the courtyard. Ben followed. Once in the middle, they stood several yards apart.
The silence was deafening. The rest of the castle had not awoken yet. There was only the sing song chirping of the morning birds in the air. A slight breeze drifted over the walls and through both warriors.
Frederick readied himself. He gripped the blade with both hands and held it high over his head. Ready to slash down at Ben. Meanwhile, Ben assumed a traditional Soresu stance. His finger pointing at his target while his own weapon was held aloft.
The knight across from him narrowed his eyes. Ben's stance puzzled him.
Good. Thought Ben, Perhaps I'll be able to end this quickly.
But in order to end it quickly, he'd have to switch things up. Ben nodded to himself then changed his posture. He gripped the blunt blade with both hands and held the weapon near his hip. The stance of an Ataru specialist.
Frederick took a deep breath.
"Are you ready, scoundrel." Frederick asked.
"What do you think?" Ben asked. His voice chirped across at Frederick. An attempt to goad the knight. Ben had always found that his sense of humor was a good way at either ending a fight before it began, or unbalancing his opponent enough to allow a swift victory.
Frederick grit his teeth and charged. Ben bent his knees and swung to meet Frederick's first attack. A hard, overhand chop.
Their blades crashed together in a cacophony of metal scrapes. Before Frederick even had time to react, Ben yanked his blade free of their lock. The metal shrieked. Sparks spat out onto the ground. Ben countered, aiming a precise slash at Frederick shoulder.
To Frederick's credit, he moved fast for a man covered in such heavy looking armor. The knight just barely caught the counter. With brute strength that told Ben all he needed to know about Frederick's training regimen, the man threw Ben's sword to the side and attempted a devastating slash to Ben's midsection.
Ben parried again. With equal quickness, Frederick attempted to bring the pommel of his blade up to Ben's chin. An attempt to land a devastating blunt force strike. Such a blow would send him reeling backwards. And that would open him up to any number of deadly attacks from Frederick.
Ben felt the Force rip through his body. Using it's added speed, he stepped back and slashed down through Frederick's attempt at a guard. The blunt metal bit into Frederick's armor. Lodging itself into the Knight's chest piece.
Ben felt his heart get stuck in his throat. He did not mean to strike that hard. He only meant to give Frederick a light tap. A signal that he would have lost had Ben been taking this little duel seriously. He did not mean to cleave into Frederick's armor. Ben watched as Frederick swayed a moment then looked at Ben's blade in surprise.
The Knight's eyes whipped from the blade to Ben. Eyes wide with momentary terror before he closed them and refocused. His gaze was no longer angry. Instead his gaze was stunned. Amazed by the brute force and speed Ben had just displayed. Frederick gulped.
"I consider myself lucky that I wore an extra layer of chain mail underneath today." Frederick admitted before letting his sword fall in the dirt, "I yield."
Ben felt a relieved breath rush from his lungs. He had not harmed Frederick.
His mind drifted back to the vision he had while he was still asleep. Qui Gon said he had been neglecting his training. His mind may still be that of a seasoned Jedi Master, but his body was not. He had less control over the force. The gash he had created in Frederick's armor was evidence of that. The force push he used during the battle also came to mind. He had poured so much power into it that it had left him feeling exhausted. Then there was the mind battle that had taken place for only a few seconds. The event that actually caused him to lose conscious and fall on the field of battle due to exhaustion. If he had anywhere near the command over the Force he had before, then holding off a mental assault like that would not have drained him so much.
Ben sighed. He had a lot of work to do.
Frederick yanked Ben's blade free and tossed it to the side. The knight frowned down at his armor.
"I looks like I'll be paying a visit to the smith today." Frederick sighed, "A shame. This was a faithful set." He looked at Ben as the swordsman took several deep breaths, "I… I apologize."
Ben gave Frederick a puzzled look.
"What for?" Ben replied with a playful smirk, "We were only sizing each other up."
Frederick gave Ben a surprised look. The man seriously meant to let Frederick's insults slide? Clearly there was much more honor to Ben than met the eye. As well as skill. Frederick did not intend on conducting a rematch until he could match the man. He was looking forward to the training in order to do so.
Ben winced and rolled his left shoulder.
"That maneuver tweaked something."
"Shall I go get a healer?" Frederick asked as he started to remove his ruined breastplate.
Ben shook his head, "I can wait. Let them tend to the more seriously injured."
Ben then noticed, that once again, he had an audience. This time, the mysterious swordsman from Regna Ferox, Lon'qu. The dark haired man was leaning up against the barracks wall. Eyes furrowed at Ben. Not in a malicious way. But more of a contemplative way.
"Studying me?" Ben called over to the swordsman.
"Maybe." The normally silent Shepherd replied, "That was an impressive move. Despite your injury, you moved with the speed of a serpent and the ferocity of a tiger." Lon'qu inclined his head at Ben, "You have earned my respect."
Ben smiled, "At the rate I'm going, you might lose it just as quickly."
Lon'qu uttered his version of a laugh. A quiet snort.
"Are the others awake?" Frederick asked the newest Shepherd.
"Some." Lon'qu replied, "The Prince and the tactician are already up and moving. They said something about a war council."
The door to the barracks burst open. Vaike came strutting out. Ben closed his eyes. The man was not wearing pants. Or a shirt.
"Then there is him." Lon'qu grumbled.
Vaike stretched his arms high over his head. He looked over at the trio and gave them a big, buffoonish grin, "Lovely morning eh?"
Frederick cringed. Lon'qu grumbled under his breath. And Ben laughed to himself. How was it that he always wound up with the crazy group?
"Vaike." Ben said, "You just keep enjoying yourself." Ben nodded at the door, "I'm just going to go make some tea. And hopefully not have to stare at another moon today." He finished under his breath. Doing his best to erase the image of Vaike's bare ass from his mind.
"I'll join you." Lon'qu said.
"I've got horses to tend to." Frederick said quickly.
"Hey guys!" Vaike said, "Did Teach say something wrong?"
….
Robin furrowed his brow as he stared at a massive map that covered the table. It was a map of the continent. Each major city and landmark was marked with a wooden piece. Cities with green pieces. Landmarks with red. Robin noticed the mountain range between the hills on the border, and the desert wastes that dominated most of Plegia's landscape.
The plan was for them to cross those mountains? Robin shook his head. The goal was a swift counter strike, not to get bogged down and allow the Plegians to strike first. So why were they passing through the mountains? They would take the Shepherds weeks to traverse them by themselves. An entire army? There was a possibility that moving men through the narrow passes could take a month, month and a half, at best. The tactician shook his head. He did not like it one bit.
Then there was the lack of support. Ylisse's regular army was still marshaling in Ylisstol. They had received Knight Commander Edward's reply only an hour ago. And he reported that his own men would not be ready for war for at least another month. He still had to arm and train several companies of men. Then there was the matter of moving what ready forces he had to the border.
In Robin's mind, this strategy was ill conceived. Poorly planned, and poorly supplied. The supply routes into Plegia would be thin and long. Having to cross mountains in order to bring food and water to the army. It was a recipe for disaster. Rodrick may be a skilled warrior. But a strategist he was not.
"It's settled then." He barely heard Duke Rodrick say, "I'll begin marshaling the men."
Of course you are. Robin thought to himself.
He had made his concerns known about the strategy. But Duke Rodrik and his military advisers had dismissed them. Concerns of an inexperienced child. That's what they said. His men had already fought and won one war with Plegia. And they could do so again. They would scale those mountains and cut deep into the heart of the desert nation. King Gangrel would never see it coming.
Except for the fact that this the exact strategy the previous Exalt used in the last war. Robin huffed to himself.
Gangrel may be mad. But he was not an idiot. An idiot would not have been able to set up an ambush as effective as the one they had all stumbled into. And even though his advisers were disturbing to look upon, they were cunning. Robin had a feeling that the woman, Aversa, was behind the Plegian strategy at the Parlay. If that was the case, then they were dealing with a very skilled tactician on the other side of the war.
And any tactician worth their salt would study both previous military victories and defeats. They would learn how their enemy moved. What their strategies were. How did they supply their men. Main routes through both nations. Possible points to sever potential supply lines. If Aversa was the Plegian tactician, then they were in trouble.
Robin tapped his fingers on the table and shook his head. Duke Rodrick was not going to listen to him. He had assumed command of the war for now. Until Commander Phila was healthy and until Commander Edward could arrive, he was the most senior military official. And in this case, his word trumped all others save the Exalt's. And Emmeryn was no military woman.
The commanders and officers began to filter out of the room. Emmeryn remained behind. Talking in whispers with Phila, who was confined to a chair due to her injuries. Robin glanced at Chrom as the prince slid up beside him.
"Don't let Rodrick get to you." Chrom said, "He's a hard man, that's all. He meant nothing personal by it."
Robin shook his head, "What he said to me does not worry me." He leaned up against the table and jabbed a finger onto the narrow point where Ylissean soliders could easily cross into Plegia, "It's obvious from recent events that Plegia has been gearing up for war for some time. This is not just a random occurrence. They planned for war. They will have fortified that region. Especially since they know that is where we will be going."
Chrom raised an eyebrow, "How could they know that?"
"If I was their tactician that is what I would assume." He rubbed his chin and hummed to himself, "The only other option is to sweep north from the Longfort. But we don't have enough time what with our goal being a swift attack to knock Plegia off balance immediately. That and the desert is desolate in northern Plegia. Moving troops through there would be nearly impossible. They know this, it's their land after all." He shook his head, "I really don't like this strategy Chrom."
Chrom furrowed his brow, "What would you do?"
"Honestly?" Robin pressed his lips into a thin line, "Gain control of the choke point." He tapped the border between Ylisse and Plegia. A few dozen miles from Themis, "Block the mountain passes and go no further. Dare them to cross. Let them exhaust their men in the mountains and hills while our own men marshal near Ylisstol. Let them stretch their supply lines through the desert while we easily feed our own men from Themis."
"A defensive strategy?"
"Just until we are prepared for a full scale assault." Robin frowned, "Two thousand men will not make it through those mountain passes. It's just no feasible."
Chrom nodded, "I have to agree with you. Now that you've explained it like that, this does seem very dangerous."
"Extremely. We are hoping that Plegia is just sitting on their hands and not acting already." Robin took a breath, "But everything about Gangrel tells me that is the last thing he would do. He wanted this war. He's going to initiate it. And every battle will be on his terms."
"Only if we let it."
"Or walk right into it." Robin finished before pulling himself away from the map.
Chrom clapped a hand on his shoulder, "Of course, we could both be wrong. Right? C'mon, let's go get something to eat. I'm sure that'll help both of our moods."
Robin nodded and followed Chrom out of the council room. The duo walked in silence until they stepped out into the courtyard.
Robin sucked in a breath. There was chaos. Everywhere! Soliders were rushing between the armory and the stables. Horsemen were jumping up onto their mounts in frantic waves before spurring their steeds towards the main gate. Men were barking orders at other men. There was panic surging through the castle and seeping out into the city. Robin looked at Chrom.
"What is-"
"Captain Chrom!"
Both Chrom and Robin turned to see Sully riding hard up to them.
"Sully?" Chrom said.
"The Plegians. They are here." Sully said breathlessly.
Robin's eyes bulged from his skull. How!? They could not possibly have moved that fast! Not unless-
He closed his eyes and uttered a curse. Their armies were waiting across the bordering.
"Duke Rodrick plans to meet them in open combat." Sully said.
"What!?" Robin cried.
"Two thousand men against the entire Plegian army?" Chrom said, "Is the man a fool?"
"He's convinced his calvary will ride down, and I quote, 'those damn desert rats like the scum they are'."
Chrom's face darkened, "Gather the Shepherd's, Sully." He turned to Robin, "We need to find the Duke."
Sully nodded and spurred her horse towards the Shepherd's barracks. Robin sprinted after Chrom as the Prince weaved his way through the chaos.
Robin was nearly knocked over several times by horsemen rushing towards the city gates. Chrom had been barreled over once by one. The horseman had stopped to apologize, but had to hurry on his way. The Duke was swiftly ordering his men to marshal out in front of the city. Robin could not help but think the man was insane. Two thousand horseman charging in the open against the entire Plegian force? They would be crushed.
The two finally found Duke Rodrick. He was standing on top of a fruit cart, yelling orders at his officers and men. The Duke was strapped haphazardly into his armor. But he did not allow his disheveled appearance get in the way of his ability to command. If anything, it made him appear even stronger. He appeared unafraid of the battle to come. His face filled with grim resolve. Posture tall and straight.
"Duke Rodrick!" Chrom called out.
The Duke waved at the Prince. Beckoning both him and Robin to him. As he did this, he hopped back onto his horse and met them halfway to the fruit crate he had been standing on.
"Prince Chrom." He started.
"Duke Rodrick, the Shepherds are ready to stand by your side."
The Duke shook his head, "I cannot allow that your grace. I need you and your Shepherds to escort as many of my people out of the city as you can."
Robin heard the desperation in the Duke's voice. And the tactician in Robin could predict exactly what the Duke was going to do.
"You intend to buy us time by engaging them in the open." Robin concluded.
Duke Rodrick gave Robin a weary nod.
"But that's insane!" Chrom exclaimed, "If their archers don't kill you all from the hilltops then their wyvern riders will rip your men to shreds."
"Maybe." The Duke breathed, "But this is the only way I will be able to buy any time for my people to evacuate. I don't have enough men to man the walls if there was a siege. The Plegians would break through in hours. I will not subject my people to the horrors of a siege. Not to those desert rats." The horse grunted beneath. Anticipating the battle to come, "Make sure my daughter goes with you, Prince Chrom. I trust you to take care of her."
Before Chorm could reply, the Duke spurred his horse out of the city gate so he could rally his men.
As the Duke exited the city, Chrom noticed hoof beats come to stop near him. Sully, Stahl, and Frederick had all come to him and Robin.
"Captain Chrom!" Sully said.
"Are we to ride to battle as well?" Stahl asked as he balanced a lance in the crook of his arm.
Frederick just gripped his own lance tighter. He was filled with anticipation. Ready to go to battle in defense of those he cared about.
Chrom took a breath and looked at Robin. The tactician swallowed and nodded. He agreed with Duke Rodrick. The battle was already lost. All they could hope for was time to escape.
"No." Chrom breathed, "Stahl, I need you to relay a message to Exalt Emmeryn's personal guard. Tell them to start evacuating as many people from Themis as they can. They are to lead the column east towards Ylisstol."
"Sir!" Stahl barked before riding hard back towards the castle.
"Frederick, get Commander Phila, Lissa, and Emm out of the city. Guard them with your life."
"I always have and will." Frederick saluted before rushing back to the castle.
"Sully, let the Shepherd's know that were are to trail behind the refugees. We will fend off any Plegians that attempt to harass the column from behind. Understood?"
"Yes, Captain!"
"Go!" Chrom barked.
As Sully galloped away, Chrom turned to Robin.
"I don't like this anymore than you do." Robin said as he saw the look of fury on Chrom's face.
The Prince kicked a broke crate of oats that had fallen onto the road in the chaos. The wood splintered and oats scattered along the cobblestone road that led out of the main gate. He took a deep breath and clenched his jaw.
"Robin. I'm going to be relying on you to come up with a strategy to keep the Plegian's off of our back as much as possible." He marched towards the castle with Robin in tow, "I will not lose my Shepherds today!"
….
Duke Rodrick stood out in front of his army of two thousand horseman. His armor glittering in the morning sunlight. A grim expression on his face as he faced the hills near the Plegian border. He sat uneasily on his horse. The poor animal could feel the anxiety coming from it's kind around him. His own men looked just as nervous. But they were all defiant in the face of their invading enemy.
Stretching out in a long line of black was the Plegian army. Tens of thousands soldiers armed to the teeth with every manner of weapon made for war. They dominated the hilltops near Themis. Looking down on Rodrick and his small force of men. Rodrick looked back at the city. He could see groups of citizens starting to flee. All of them following the Exalt and her personal guard.
Good. He shifted in his saddle and drew his sword, All that is left is for us to create what little time we can.
He clenched his teeth and took a deep breath through his nose. Savoring the calm air before the coming battle. Then he turned his horse so he could face his men.
"Soldiers of Themis!" He shouted. His voice was hoarse as he tried to shout so every single soul under his command could hear him, "Soldiers of Ylisse! Hear me now!"
He rode along the line of horsemen. His horse trotting at a slow canter so that he could pass by every young man and woman under his commander. So he could look into the eyes of the brave soldiers who were about to lay down their lives so that his people, their people, would be saved. So they could look him in the eye and know that he did not give these order lightly. His heart sat heavy in his chest as he passed by one youthful face after another.
"We are what stands in the way of darkness! Of war coming to our homes and families! To pillage and burn and kill all that we hold dear! We are the last line to stem the coming tide! The will show you no quarter! They will give you no mercy! And neither will you!" He turned his horse around when he reached the end of his line. He reached up and lowered the shield of his helmet, "RIDE FOR ME NOW! RIDE FOR THEMIS! RIDE FOR THE EXALT AND THE HALIDOM!"
He dug his spurs into his horse. The animal reared up and uttered a loud cry before charging towards the Plegians. And to the Duke's immense pride, a great war cry erupted from his men behind him.
The horses snorted. The men and women roared. Their steel shook and rattled as the hoof beats thundered up the grassy hill at the Plegian army.
Duke Rodrick grit his teeth and braced himself as they got closer. The Plegians were forming a pike wall. A nasty maw of metal teeth ready to shred his men once they slammed into their shields.
But they would slam into them. And they would break them. For they were men of Ylisse. And they would not fall without a fight.
He raised his blade over his head and roared as loud as he could.
Plegian sorcerers emerged from behind the shield wall. Black tomes clutched in their arms. With a haunting chant that chilled Rodrick's bones, they pointed their open palms at the charging Ylisseans.
Black spells rocketed towards his men.
The thunder went silent.
And chapter! This was a beast of a chapter to write. I struggled a bit with how to go about writing it. I've written plenty of fight scenes, but I've written very few full scale battle scenes. It is something I am still learning how to do. My main goal in this was not to show the all out tactics of the battle as much as the chaos and desperation about it. I hope I did that well. I am open to suggestions on how to this better though. It's the only way I'm going to learn. We will be getting back to Fire Emblem's main story in the next chapter. After all, Validar and Maul's apprentice have something nefarious planned. Hopefully our Shepherds will be ready for it. Anyways, let me know what you all think of this chapter! As always, I hope you all enjoyed! Have a nice day!