The Force's Shepherds
Chapter 61
Hiding in Plain Sight
Curse her loud feet! Curse the crunch, fallen leaves! Curse her panicked, heavy breathing! Curse the toddler that wanted to jump into every single pile of leaves! Marth felt like she could scream at any second. But if she screamed, they would hear her.
She managed to move pretty far north away from Fort Stieger before running into any major problems. The thick forests between the fortress and the Mila Tree helped conceal her movements. Something she was extremely grateful for. Stealth was not her strong suit. She did not know how to move with light footfalls or how to control her own racing heart. She was a warrior. Warriors never had to worry about such things.
But eventually, her luck ran out. The small Valmese company camped around the Mila Tree received word of what happened at Fort Stieger. She knew they did. Patrols were heavy near the roads and through the many forest trails. They were not this frequent before. Marth had to be careful otherwise she would be caught. Then all of this effort would be for nothing.
She ducked behind a fallen tree as another squad of Valmese soldiers marched past her. While they marched, Marth kept her hand clasped over Prince Kage's mouth. She could not blame the little boy too much. He had no idea what was going on. The poor kid had been kidnapped. Deprived of basic nourishment. Likely terrified by everyone around him, and was now expected to remain completely silent as Marth tried to rush back to Charlet.
Because any two year old was totally capable of staying still and being quiet.
She shook her head. She did not even belief her own thoughts on that one. Marth did not have many memories of herself at that age. Fragments and foggy images mainly. But she could recall someone else at that age. A sibling that did not know the meaning of staying still. She wondered how her little sister was doing? She followed her on this mission. Did she arrive safely in this time period with the others? She had yet to run into any of them, except for Kage. But she did not consider that bastard an ally anymore.
Her ears perked up as she heard the squad of soldiers talking to each other as they passed her hiding spot.
"Embargo? Yeah I heard about that. Stock up on your Archanean goods while you can."
"Ain't no one going back there in a few weeks. Wonder why the Conqueror is doing it?"
"Dunno. But regardless, I'm less than thrilled. My wife loves Plegian hot peppers."
"Would you two shut up! We are supposed to be patrolling for both rebels and that escaped prisoner."
Marth frowned. So that is how Excellus termed it. A prisoner escaped, instead of a child being freed from his cruel grip. The worm had to spin it in order to justify his actions. If she ever saw that man again, he would not be safe from her wrath. The poor child looked so thin and sickly from his treatment. No child should have to endure what the little Prince has.
The soldiers faded down the trail. Marth poked her head over the fallen tree in order to see if the coast was clear. The patrols were growing in frequency. She had to be getting very close to the Mila Tree now. Which meant the Valmese soldiers' presence would be very dense. Not many spaces to hide.
She glanced up at the sky. The stars were winking to life in the purple and orange haze above her. The moon would rise soon. Under normal circumstances, she would have taken advantage of the darkness. Used it to conceal her movements and slip by the enemy positions.
But she had a toddler with her now. And said toddler got very cranky when he was sleepy. Marth could not carry him in one arm while he slept. The kid squirmed too much. They would have to find somewhere to hide for the night.
She did not want to risk anything near one of the trails or the main road. It would be too easy for a soldier to wander from their patrol and stumble upon her hiding spot. Then Prince Kage would be in the hands of the Valm once again. Excellus would send the boy to Plegia for safekeeping. And nothing would change. He would still meet Maul. Still learn from him. Still become a monster.
She glanced at the sleepy toddler beside her. The kid's eyes were half open as sleep started to claim him. He was so innocent. A smiley mess usually. Full of energy and life. Such a stark contrast compared to what he became in the future. Maul's poison did horrible things to her friend's mind.
Marth took a deep breath. Sleeping on the ground was not the best option either. Again, too easy to be accidentally discovered. She flicked her eyes at the trees around her. Some looked sturdy enough for her to sleep on. But the branches were not thick enough for two people. Even with Kage's little body barely weighing anything, Marth did not want to chance it.
I need a branch big enough to hold both of us without risking falling off.
She frowned. A thought hit her. A crazy idea that would have made Robin and her Master proud. That or extremely dumbfounded. One of the two. Her eyes soared up towards the mighty boughs of the Mila Tree. That would be the last place the Valmese would look for her. Who in their right mind would hide under their noses like that?
Me. Marth thought to herself with a tinge of pride.
She scooped up Kage and dashed across the trail towards the Mila tree. She could see torches flickering nearby from various military encampments. But the thick forest hid her just enough. As long as she moved quick and quiet, she would not be found.
She reached the massive trunk of the tree. It stretched out to either side like the Longfort. Endless and massive. She took a deep breath and ruffled Kage's hair.
"Alright, kid," Marth breathed as the toddler woke up, "I'm going to put you on my back. You have to hold on. Ok?"
His bright blue eyes blinked at her. She saw him give her a very small, fearful nod. Gods, he was so intelligent. Even now, as a little boy. The Prince may not completely understand what was going on, but he did realize he needed to listen to her. Maybe he realized that she was rescuing him? Or maybe he just trusted her because she fed him as soon as they were far enough away from Fort Stieger to avoid capture. Regardless, his lips stayed sealed as Marth shifted him over onto her back. His small arms wrapped around her shoulders. Hands locked over the top of her chest like the clasp to a cape. A small smile crossed her lips.
"Good job, Kage." She breathed.
She looked up. There were strange, wooden stairs that ascended into the branches of the Mila Tree. But they were heavily guarded. Soldiers armed with bows and swords stood watch over that route. No one was allowed up the tree without permission from their General. And she could not fight them while worrying about Kage at the same time.
That left one option. Every time she jumped using the Force, she felt like her stomach would fly up into her throat. The amount of power it required from her usually wiped her out. Willpower kept her going. But once she made a leap like this, she would not have the energy to fight anyone.
She took a deep breath and closed her eyes. Focusing the Force around her body. She felt Kage squirm a little on her back. The kid could sense what she was doing. He always became a little antsy whenever she used the Force. Excited even.
The little boy pressed his head against the back of her neck. A sudden surge of power rushed through Marth. Surprise filled her. But she could wonder about where this power came from later. Without another thought, she jumped.
It took everything in her not to cry out with both fear and shock as she soared higher and higher. Over the first tree limb she had been aiming for and up onto a small platform above the wooden stairs. She hit the platform hard. Failing to land on her feet and instead hitting the flat space with her right shoulder. Pain shot through her shoulder down into the stump of her arm. She winced.
"You still there, Kage?" She whispered through grit teeth.
She felt his little head nod against her back. A small sigh of relief left her lips. Her eyes flicked back and forth. The coast was clear. She rushed across the platform towards another flight of naturally made stairs. Each step carved into the side of the Mila's Tree's massive trunk. She wanted to go a little higher. In order to avoid any curious soldier from stumbling on her.
She rushed up the flight of stairs. Once she made it to the top, she skidded to a stop.
At the very top of the stairs was a small platform. Sitting at the end of the platform was a little hut made out of the Mila Tree's massive leaves and some twigs. Marth hesitated as she approached it.
There were no torches burning inside of it. No furniture either except for a small, leafy bed that sat empty inside. Marth furrowed her brow. It was very dark up here in the Mila Tree. The dense canopy of leaves and branches around her blotted out most of the moonlight and nearly all of the starlight. She struggled to see anything inside of the hut.
Maybe someone lived up here before the Valmese took over the area? Regardless, it was shelter. She was far enough up into the tree in order to avoid any wandering patrols. She doubted any soldiers thought an enemy would slip by them and get this far into the tree's branches.
As quiet as a mouse, she slipped inside of the hut. Once inside she grabbed Kage and placed him back on the ground.
"We'll sleep here tonight." She told the little boy, "No wandering off. Okay?"
He nodded.
Marth held up a finger, "I mean it. It is not safe."
A loud yawn made Marth's hair stand on end. Her sword shot out of its sheath in a flash. Another yawn hit her ears. Someone was in the hut.
She grabbed Kage and yanked the boy behind her. The tip of her blade pointed into the hut's shadows.
"Who goes there?" She growled.
A pair of eyes blinked open. They appeared very sleepy. Big, bright, and green. They did not appear malicious. Rather, the seemed curious. And very, very tired.
Someone clapped their hands. A ball of light blinked to life above Marth.
Standing in the hut with her and Kage was a young woman. Long green hair ran down in messy waves from the top of her head. A slim, red dress clothed her figure while a pink cape covered her shoulders and back. Her small lips parted into another loud yawn before she blinked at both Marth and Kage.
"Mar Mar?" She asked. Her voice filled with both confusion and affection.
Marth kept her blade pointed at the woman, "Who are you!?"
"Me?" The green haired woman hummed, "I think I should be the one asking you that question. You are in my house, after all."
She yawned again and brushed some loose hair from her eyes. As the hair moved around her face, Marth saw pointy ears on the side of the woman's head. She focused her gaze on Marth. Her sudden happiness diminished as she stared.
"Oh… you're not him." She let out a heavy sigh, "But of course you would not be. It has been several thousand years."
Marth's eyes widened and her jaw fell open, "L-lady Tiki?"
"Yes?" Tiki gave the warrior a puzzled look, "And you are-"
"She's Marth!" Kage chirped behind her.
Tiki furrowed her brow, "Hm… unless something drastic happened; you don't look like Mar Mar." She rubbed her chin, "Maybe his name became common over the centuries? Then again, I don't think anyone would name their daughter after Mar Mar. Not unless someone wanted to be particularly unique."
Marth gulped and straightened herself upright. She gave the woman a small bow.
"I apologize for invading your privacy, Lady Tiki. If I had known-"
Tiki uttered a small laugh, "There is no need to fret. I am not offended. I am actually somewhat glad. It has been a long time since I have had good company." She smiled at Kage, "Especially the company of someone so brave."
Kage's cheeks flushed as his lips curled into a bashful smile. He tucked his chin into his chest as he swayed to and fro in front of Tiki. The woman smiled and rubbed the toddler's small shoulders.
"You look sleepy. Go ahead, lie down on my mat. It is very comfortable."
"I'm not-" Kage uttered a loud yawn. He rubbed at one eye as he continued to sway in front of Tiki, "tired."
Tiki smiled at him and tapped his nose with her finger.
"I think you are lying. Go on now. Go to sleep. Me and your friend must talk for a little bit."
Kage uttered another big yawn. The little boy nodded and stumbled past Tiki over to her little mat. He curled up on the soft leaves and drifted off to sleep. Tiki glanced back at him and smiled as he let out a soft snore.
"He is such an innocent soul." Tiki smiled before turning back to face Marth, "You must be so proud of your son."
Marth blinked, "S-son? What!? No! No!" She uttered an anxious laugh, "He's not mine. Gods, no he's not mine."
Marth's mouth felt dry as she swallowed hard. A shuddering breath escaped her lips as Tiki stared back at her.
Tiki, the Voice of Naga herself. Someone who could commune with Naga and deliver her will to humanity. Marth should have known she would eventually run into her. Someone so important to the Divine Dragon would almost certainly know that something strange occurred involving the goddess's power. Was that what she wished to talk about? Was Tiki aware of her mission? Of who she really was and why she came to this time period?
"So," Tiki rubbed her chin, "If you are not his mother, then you must be his sister?"
Marth froze. That question was… unexpected.
"And judging by the look on your face, I am incorrect again. Hm…" Tiki furrowed her brow, "Are you an aunt?"
"Uh…"
"Cousin?"
"Lady Tiki-"
"A close family friend?"
Marth gulped, "I'm… well… how do I even explain this?"
"You are a stranger for him then?" Tiki narrowed her eyes, "I may not have all of my human customs in order, but I seem to recall children operate under the rule: Do not talk to strangers."
"I-" Marth cringed and rubbed the back of her neck, "It is not what it looks like."
"You kidnapped him, didn't you?" Tiki asked with a frown.
"No! I rescued him from kidnappers." Marth swiftly replied.
"Oh! Then you will be returning him to his parents?" Tiki saw Marth's face fall a little bit, "Or not. So… you are a kidnapper who just kidnapped a child from other kidnappers. I have heard many strange stories, Marth, but that is one of the strangest."
Marth hung her head, "I intend on rescuing him from a terrible future."
Tiki frowned, "A terrible future? Hm, clearly there is much more to this tale than what meets the eye."
"And unfortunately I cannot explain it all to you." Marth continued, "That would put far too many lives at risk." Marth gulped, "However, if you need a way for me to prove you can trust me, I will say to you my real name."
"A different name would be nice. That way I do not confuse you for Mar Mar anymore." Tiki replied, her tone extremely wary.
Marth took a deep breath. Even speaking her real name to another living soul was a risk. But right now, it was a risk she had to take. Tiki seemed to grow very protective of Kage in a very short span of time. And she viewed Marth as someone up to no good. Judging by how Tiki placed herself between the toddler and the warrior. No, this was something that had to be done. She needed Tiki to trust her. Trust goes both ways.
"My name is Lucina." Marth breathed.
"Lucina." Tiki thought for a moment then smiled a little bit, "That is a rather pretty name."
"Er… thanks?"
"And you are of the Exalted bloodline as well."
Lucina's stomach lurched. How did Tiki discern that so quickly?
"The small disguise you have over your eye." Tiki pointed at her own eye, "It works for those who do not know how to recognize it. But I can see the Exalt's brand in it." She pressed her lips together, "Although, I do not recall anyone of the bloodline being capable of using such powers. This must be a recent development."
Marth drew back in surprise, "You know about the Force? I did not think Manakete's knew about it."
Tiki gave Marth a mischievous smile, "How do you think I knew that you had good intentions? Even if you are technically a kidnapper yourself. If you were a bad person, I would have sensed as much and made certain you did not leave my house in the shape you are in."
Marth balked, "But- but-"
"Your mental defenses could really uses some sharpening." Tiki nodded.
Marth's shoulders sagged and she hung her head, "So I've been told."
Tiki uttered a small chuckle, "But if your mental defenses were sharp, then I would have been much more suspicious of your motives. In a way, it is a good thing you did not complete your formal training." Tiki thought for a moment, "By the way, who conducts training in the Force? I might venture out of here someday and speak to them. Is it another Manakete?"
Marth shook her head, "No, no. Um… my Master is a normal human being."
Tiki's eyes widened, "Really? Well, that is most surprising. Not many humans are capable of mastering such abilities. It is almost a lost art. What is you master's name?"
"Ben Kenobi."
Tiki furrowed her brow, "Ben Kenobi… I will remember that name." She took a breath, "Well, I am assuming you are up here because you want to avoid General Cervantes and his men?"
Marth nodded.
"The ones who initially kidnapped Kage were with the Valmese army." Marth clenched her fist at her side, "They treated him… I can't even describe it. If I did not have to worry about keeping him safe, I would have torn those monsters apart."
Tiki furrowed her brow, "You need to be careful with that, Lucina. You know what the Force is. You know how thin the line is between righteous and evil in it. While you have controlled those impulses for now, I do sense one that you may fail to stop if the opportunity presented itself."
Marth let out a heavy sigh. She averted her gaze from Tiki's steely stare. Naga, it felt like she was talking to the goddess herself. In a way, she might be. Tiki spoke for Naga. She did not gain the title of the Voice of Naga for nothing. Even if she had not asserted such a position on Marth yet.
"I sense anger in you, Lucina. It clouds your aura. Tearing away at your kindness and determination with vicious jaws." Tiki lowered her gaze at the girl, "Tell me, what is causing this?"
Marth's eyes shifted from side to side. Force, why was it so difficult for her to speak about it? She did not mind telling the Shepherds that she aimed to kill Kage. Perhaps because some of them shared her position on the matter. She knew her master would not approve. He would try to find a more diplomatic approach to the problem. But the others had made their displeasure for Kage known. Justice needed to be dealt. And if no one else was going to go after him, she would. As soon as she got the little Prince to safety she would find Kage and end him.
"To wish death on another is not seeking justice." Tiki warned, as if reading her mind.
Marth took a deep breath, "If you only knew what he has done."
Tiki closed her eyes and nodded. She motioned for Marth to take a seat on the soft, leaf covered floor. The Voice of Naga followed her as she sat down.
"I may never understand what he has done to you." Tiki began as they sat across from each other, "But what I do know, is if you continue down the path you are following, you will lose yourself." Tiki sat up straighter, "You take the name of Marth. Why?"
Marth frowned. What did that have to do with her wishing death upon Kage?
"I admire the man." Marth replied, "The Hero-King united the entire land. No one else has managed to do that. He is a symbol of strength and determination."
Tiki nodded, "How do you think he accomplished such deed?"
Marth furrowed her brow, "Well, he had to be a great warrior in order to bring the entire continent to heel. I assume he was a master on the battlefield. Not allowing anyone to stand in his way and-"
"Mar Mar was perhaps one of the kindest, gentlest souls I have ever had the pleasure to call friend." Tiki cut of Marth, "Did he do battle? Yes. Did he enjoy it? Did he enjoy seeing the sacrifices and horrors of war?" She shook her head, "Never. He did not win the land with his sword. He won with his heart. No matter how many set backs or betrayals he suffered, he endured. And he never let those pains in his heart take over who he was. A good man. Before a hero-king, he was a good man." Tiki leaned towards Marth, "You carry his name. But if he heard of what you consider to be justice, he would not want you to have it."
Marth's eyes widened. A sharp stab of pain lanced through her heart. She took on the name Marth to rally the people during the end of the world. To give them a hero to look to. One known through both myths and legends. A name that even the Fell Dragon feared for a time. To be told by one of the legendary Marth's own followers that she brought shame to his name shook the young woman to her core.
"You do not bring shame to his name. Not yet at least." Tiki breathed, reading her thoughts once again, "But you carry a great burden on your shoulders by taking his name. You must live up to the legacy of the man who made it famous." She nodded over at the sleeping Prince, "That man would have done what you have done. Save a helpless child from terrible captors. But he would not have sought revenge. Remember that."
Marth swallowed hard then nodded.
Tiki uttered a loud yawn and stretched her arms high over her head.
"Now then, I am certain you are sleepy." She rubbed her right eye, "I know I am. You may rest up here for the evening. In the morning, I will show you a way down to the surface that the General does not patrol as heavily. You should be able to slip past any guards he has posted there."
Marth nodded, now aware of her own weariness.
"Thank you." She breathed.
"Don't mention it, Mar Mar." Tiki's head started to nod. Before Marth could speak to her again, the powerful Manakete was fast asleep. Loud snores escaping her lips as she slept upright.
Marth sat quiet in the night for a few minutes. Even when Tiki's little candlelight spell winked out, she remained awake. Her mind pondering the wisdom of the ancient Manakete. Tiki might not look it, but she had lived far longer than almost any other creature on the planet. She had been born before the first histories of the world had even been recorded. Had lived several lifetimes before the Hero-King even encountered her for the first time. It would be unwise to ignore her words.
But why was it so hard to heed them? Marth knew Tiki was right. She sounded like her Master in that regard. Her Master would have told her to spurn revenge. Such a violent path only led to pain and suffering. It did not end the violence. Only amplified it. Morphed the seeker of such violence into an unrecognizable monster by the end of it. While he would have been more vague and mystical in his explanation, probably referring to the Force and its many mysteries to guide her; Marth appreciated Tiki's direct approach.
Marth claimed to admire the Hero-King of old. If she truly did, she would live up to his legacy. Not tarnish it by doing something he would not have done himself. Tiki was right. The name was an enormous burden to carry. One of many she has shouldered most of her life. And like the others, it would not defeat her.
She still wished to confront Kage. At least ask him why he did what he did. Why did he follow Maul so loyally? Even though he knew everything Maul did was vile. Why did Kage not turn on his master when he ordered him to kill her? Why did he not take her hand in Plegia and run away from the darkness? Was he really that far gone? Was three years all it took to destroy a good person?
Marth let out a shaky breath as she lay back against the floor of the hut. The leaves that covered the floor provided a comfortable enough place to lay. Better than dirt, sticks, and pine needles. She would sleep well enough on it.
As her eyes closed, she could not help but feel the time was coming soon. She and Kage would meet face to face once again. Her heart hammered in her chest at the thought.
In the end, when they did meet again, she hoped they would part ways at least understanding each other. Understanding why such a massive wedge had been driven between them. But there was also a dark whisper in her mind reminding her of the monster her old friend now was. Reminding her of the horrible crimes he committed. The atrocities he had done in the name of his dark Master. There was still the distinct possibility that she would be unable to reconcile with him. That they would come to blows.
She turned over onto her side. Her eyes fell on the sleeping Prince across the room. Sleeping so peacefully. A small smile on his little face. Marth could feel her own lips parting into a smile.
She remembered seeing a face like that before. Filled with innocence and cheer. Quiet and shy. Mischievous and smart. He always ran around with Cynthia and her Justice Cabal. Causing mayhem and trouble. She would always bail him out of trouble. A wistful sigh left her lips. If he had not been her friend, her childhood probably would have been quite boring.
Marth let out a quiet laugh.
She missed those days.
It took a lot of quiet words and snappish phrases in order for Say'ri to get Cynthia to calm down and not do something stupid. Gods, it took Say'ri a lot of convincing herself in order to keep her from doing anything stupid as well.
Why? Why was she feeling worry for Luke? The man was an insufferable prick. An asshole, to say the least. Bitter and cold. She thought he did not care for them. And she had been content to not care about him either. She would tolerate him as long as he helped her rescue Kage. Once that goal was achieved, she would never look upon his face again.
Then last night happened. Luke's rage filled explosion that sent Cynthia flying away in tears. The subsequent reveal by Cynthia of her and Luke's past. The fact that Luke, somehow, was her little brother from the future. Dark and twisted by an evil master that he decided to learn from.
A small snort left Say'ri's lips as she knelt down in the soft earth. Perhaps in the end, the explanation for her worry was that simple. Cynthia revealed that Luke was actually her little brother. Her family. As much of a pain as family could be, they often times were all a person had in the world. She could not rely on Yen'fay anymore. Not after his dishonorable betrayal of their parents memory. She could never forgive him for joining the Conqueror's armies the way he did. But Luke-Kage- he was the only true family she had left.
And last night, he showed that he was capable of some good. Equus, the Deadlord, had found them. Somehow caught up to them despite him being on foot and Say'ri and her friends flying on a Pegasus. She thought she would die in that field. Instead, Luke came to rescue them. Distracted the monster long enough so that she and Cynthia could escape and continue their quest.
Last minute sympathy. He earned it. He willingly stood toe to toe with an extremely powerful monster in order to save her life. If that had been his last honorable act, at least he made it memorable.
Cynthia wanted to race back and find him after they flew away. Say'ri had to remind the girl, and herself, that Luke did what he did in order to provide them time. This would be their only chance to save her little brother. They had to take it. He knew what he was getting into. They could not throw away his sacrifice by getting caught now.
And so, she and the young Pegasus Knight knelt inside of ditch near Fort Stieger. Both of their eyes trained on the sentries patrolling the walls and guarding the gate. Cynthia hummed nervously beside her.
"You know something," The young woman breathed, "There is not as many as I thought there would be."
Say'ri arched an eyebrow. When she looked back at the fortress, she realized the Pegasus Knight was right. The night guard did seem rather light. Only two sentries per section of the wall. Three holding the main gate. Maybe one or two at the top of the Fort's towers. It was as if they were not guarding a high profile prisoner within their walls.
Perhaps that is the facade they are aiming to achieve.
"We still need to get inside and find Kage."
Cynthia nodded beside her, "So, how do you want to go about it?"
"What do you mean?"
"Well," Cynthia drawled, "We could be super stealthy and sneak into the castle. Or we could have fun and fly in."
"Which would draw unnecessary and likely get us killed." Say'ri pointed out, "Besides, I think your loyal steed is worn out. She needs to rest so we can fly her out of here."
Cynthia glanced over at her Pegasus. The poor beast was weary. As soon as they landed in the nearby woods, the animal knelt down and drifted off to sleep. Cynthia made sure to leave her a couple apples for her to munch on when she woke up. That would help the Pegasus regain her strength.
"Fair point." Cynthia sighed, "Alright, engaging stealth mode."
Say'ri arched an eyebrow as the girl flopped onto her belly and started to crawl towards the Fortress.
"What are you doing?" Say'ri asked.
"Being stealthy." Cynthia put a finger to her lips, "Now we need to be quiet, Say'ri. Otherwise they will find us. Any big noise could give away our position."
A guard screamed as he plummeted down from the top of the wall. He landed in a bloody heap in front of Cynthia. The Pegasus Knight blinked, then screamed. Say'ri let out a long sigh.
Truly a stealthy operative.
Another terrified scream. Another guard joined his dead comrade on the ground in front of Say'ri and Cynthia. Both girls froze as they realized a battle was taking place on top of the walls. They could hear swords clashing, men crying out in pain. Arrows zipped through the night air. But none of them were aimed at the two girls.
Say'ri's heart pounded in her chest. Did rebels manage to infiltrate the Fortress? Was her brother in danger? Were the assassins that tried to kill her now after him as well?
She sprinted out the ditch and charged at the gate, sword drawn. A loud war cry rushed from her lips. The three guards did not even know what hit them. She grimaced as her blade cut into flesh and muscle.
The guard did not cry out. Did he not realize his bowels had been cut open by her blade? Say'ri yanked her blade free. The man's body slumped to the ground.
A choked cry left the Chon'sin Princess's throat. The man was already dead. Throat crushed by some unknown attacker. The other two guards slumped around her as well. Each one already long dead. Propped up by some strange force in order to give off the illusion of life.
Cynthia sprinted over to Say'ri. A low whistle left the girl's lips.
"Wow," She gave Say'ri's shoulder a light punch, "You work fast."
"This was not my work." Say'ri sprinted into the fortress.
Alarms were ringing throughout the massive compound now. Guards were roused from their barracks and scrambling out into the courtyard. Some of them still not even fully dressed. Both Say'ri and Cynthia slipped into the shadows in order to avoid being seen. Each guard appeared terrified.
"Rebels! Rebels are attacking!"
"Where!? I don't see any!"
"Don't you see the dead sentries! They're already inside!"
"CALM YOURSELVES MEN!" A sharp, strong voice broke out.
Say'ri recognized that voice from many royal balls in Chon'sin. General Pheros was a slender woman. More of a healer than a warrior. But that did not mean she was incapable of controlling an army. She was one of the Conqueror's top Generals for a reason. And she was one of the few military officials Say'ri actually tolerated.
"Captains! Roll call!" General Pheros barked as she marched down into the courtyard from the main keep, "I want to know who has been killed and who are missing. Once that is finished, organize a search, I want to know who or what is killing my men."
Cynthia tugged on Say'ri's sleeve.
"We don't want to be here when that happens."
Say'ri nodded, "You are correct. Come, we must hurry away from here and-"
Her voice trailed off. Someone stood on the roof of the Fortress's keep. He stared down from the highest point. Directly at General Pheros. Silently, the man jumped down. Surviving an impossible fall and somehow landing on his feet without making a noise.
A gasp rushed from Cynthia's throat.
"Kage."
A few of General Pheros's captains noticed him as well. They drew their swords and turned to face the young Sith Lord. General Pheros furrowed her brow and turned around.
"Or… our quarry could come to us." The General frowned.
Kage folded his arms over his chest.
"You can save yourself and your men General, I just have a few questions."
"Oh?" General Pheros scowled, "Why should I even entertain what you have to say? You have already killed some of my men."
"An unfortunate necessity. They kept me from gaining entry."
"As was their job to do."
"And their job was to help kidnap small children as well?" Kage growled back.
Say'ri could see the General shift in her stance. Clearly uncomfortable with the accusation.
The General took a frightened step back as all of her captains were hoisted into the air. Say'ri's eyes widened as their blades were ripped from their hands, rotated in the air, and held to each of their throats.
"Now General, we can do this the easy way. Or we can do this the hard way." Kage's right hand was raised, "I close my fist, they all die. The hard way is always so bloody. A damn inconvenience really. So much paperwork you would have to file. Oh! And the letters to their families explaining their deaths. What would you say? That you were too stupid to entertain little old me? And as a consequence, you became the sentencer in their executions?" Kage clicked his tongue, "For someone who portrays themselves as a healer, that is rather cruel."
Say'ri bit her tongue. Damn, he was still a dishonorable asshole after all. Why did she worry for him again?
Because that asshole is still my little brother technically.
"You bastard." Pheros growled.
A dry laugh left the young Sith's lips.
"I have been called far worse by people I care about a lot more than you." Kage smirked, "So, should I start dropping bodies? Or are you going to answer my questions?"
"I could have an archer shoot you."
"Hm… you could, yes. But would they hit their mark before I close my fist? I will know if an arrow is fired. Bows are quiet, yes. But they are not completely silent." Kage flexed his fingers, one of the Captains uttered a loud whimper as the blade kissed his neck, "What do you think? Will this be just a close shave? Or a beheading?"
Pheros's face twisted into a hideous snarl. Say'ri knew the woman was seething right now. She cared for her men. Cared that they were healthy and taken care of. To see them at someone else's mercy likely made her blood boil so much that it would make the magma in the Demon's Ingle look cold.
"Damn Excellus." Pheros hissed.
Say'ri's eyes widened. Excellus? As in Emperor Walhart's personal tactician? What did he have to do with all of this?
Kage lowered his hand.
"Now, that is a start. Just right into the meat of things. No dancing around. I like that." Kage let one captain fall back down to the ground unscathed, "Proof that I am a man of my word."
Pheros clenched her jaw.
"What do you want to know?"
"Well, I am currently after the Chon'sin Prince."
"Why?"
"I'm asking the questions, General."
"And contrary to what you might see, I care for the boy's well-being. Unfortunately, Excellus does not. That I cannot do much about." Pheros admiited, "I wish to know what cold hearted monster wishes to steal him from my watch?"
Another dry laugh left Kage's lips, "Plegia of course."
Say'ri blinked. What game was he playing? Why did he not say Yen'fay wanted his little brother returned? She was certain that if he mentioned that, General Pheros would acquiesce. Yen'fay's army was far stronger that Pheros's. If he learned where his little brother was being held, he would storm the Fortress. Regardless of who was in command.
Or were Yen'fay's commands that specific? Did he not wish to be tied to the quest? Did her older brother play a secret game behind her back? One that involved secrets and dangerous gambles such as this?
"Why would the Plegians want the Chon'sin Prince?"
"Leverage of course." Kage shrugged, "Other than that, I don't know. I'm the hired sword. Who am I to question my employers? They pay me. I do my job. All parties involved leave happy. Well, not all. You're clearly pissed with me right now."
He dropped another captain back to the ground. The man's sword clattered down next to his feet.
"If I handed you the Prince, would you let my men go?" Pheros asked.
Say'ri felt some anger shoot through her. She could understand why the General made this suggestion. Her men meant more to her than some toddler. But it still stung that a woman as respectable and honorable as Pheros would have to stoop to such levels.
The suggestion was met with loud, hard laughter from Kage. The young Sith struggled to catch his breath. He held his chest for a minute and took several deep breaths.
"Oh, that is a good one, General. Really, good one."
"Do you think I am joking?"
"Yes!" Kage laughed, "Considering the boy is no longer here."
Pheros paled, "What?"
Kage furrowed his brow in confusion, "You were not aware that-"
"Gaurds! Bring me the Prince, now!" Pheros ordered, "Let us see how truthful this Plegian sellsword is?"
Say'ri and Cynthia waited with baited breath in the shadow of the Fort's wall. After several seconds of silence, a guard rushed out of the West Tower.
"General! Both the boy and Excellus are gone!"
Kage's lips parted into a wide grin as he saw the shock on the General's face.
"How was I not informed of this? Does this have something to do with that disturbance a few days ago?" Pheros asked her captains, "Who dared to not speak to me? Who dared to listen to Excellus's poison on this matter?"
"Do you want to know the answer to that? I can find the answer for you. All I need to do is start chopping fingers." Kage chuckled.
Pheros pointed a finger at Kage, "And you! How did you-"
Kage shrugged, "That commotion earlier... my doing. You have very poor sentries, General. The only way to catch their attention is to kill them."
"You damn bastard." Pheros snarled.
"Now then. Let us continue." Kage smiled, "You said something about a little incident a few days ago. One that your men kept you in the dark on? Care to explain?"
Pheros gripped her staff so tight Say'ri though it might shatter. The stern woman took a deep breath.
"We were infiltrated a few days ago."
"Oh ho! I'm not even the first!" Kage laughed hard, "Really General, do you know the definition of insanity. Because you clearly put those same sentries from that night on duty tonight. Well," Kage shrugged, "You won't have to worry about it anymore."
"Will you let me finish, cretin!"
"By all means, continue."
Pheros took another deep breath. Doing everything in her power not to lash out at the young Sith Lord.
"A woman broke into the fortress. We barely caught a glimpse of her. We did not know her objective at the time. I think it is fairly obvious now." Pheros breathed.
"Care to describe this woman? Who knows, I may just like how she sounds." Kage smirked.
Pheros furrowed her brow, "Blue hair."
Say'ri heard Cynthia's breath hitch. The Princess turned her attention over to Kage. His smile ran away from his face.
"One arm." Pheros continued, "A strange sword at her hip that she did not use. Even stranger abilities she used to infiltrate the walls."
Say'ri saw Kage's face go pale. Beside her, Cynthia was struggling to catch her breath.
"She ran North after my men drove her off." Pheros continued, "I thought that was the end of it. Apparently not. Apparently I have some house cleaning to do in regards to my general staff." She glared at all her officers before returning her furious gaze back to Kage, "Now, is there anything else you want to know?"
Kage remained still for a moment. His own mind reeling from what he heard. There was a subtle shake of his head. The other captains fell to the ground unharmed.
"Th-" Kage swallowed hard, "Thank you for your time, General. I apologize for the mess. Me and my friends shall leave quietly."
He waved over at Cynthia and Say'ri's hiding spot.
"Let's go you two."
Say'ri drew back in shock. How did he know they were there?
Cynthia hesitated, then emerged from the shadows. Say'ri followed suit. The two women endured both stunned, and furious stares from the fort's soldiers as they followed Kage out of the main gate. Say'ri could practically feel the surprise and fury from General Pheros's gaze. She made sure not to meet the General's eyes.
Once they entered the forest and were beyond the grasp of General Pheros and her men, Cynthia surged ahead of Kage, turned around and punched him in the nose. A loud pop rang out as her armored first slammed into his nose. The young man let out a loud howl as he fell back in the dirt.
"That," Cynthia breathed, "is for being a big meanie!" Cynthia reared back with her foot and drove it into his side. Kage cried out, winced, then wheezed, "And that is because I really felt like doing that!"
"Cynthia." Say'ri breathed as she pulled the girl back from him, "Lu-," She paused, "Kage how did you survive the Deadlord?"
Kage groaned as he clutched his side. Cynthia really landed a harsh blow on him.
"How do you think?" He wheezed, "I beat it, for now."
Say'ri furrowed her brow, "So it is not dead."
Kage shook his head, "I'm not sure if it is possible to kill those things. But I slowed it down. We have a head start on him. We must take advantage of it."
He carefully got to his feet and actually flinched a little as Cynthia moved to punch him again. Say'ri stopped the furious knight from doing so.
"Do you know who took my brother?"
Kage paused as he began marching north.
"I-" Kage swallowed hard again, "I'm not entirely sure anymore."
"Was it Luci?" Cynthia desperatly asked, "She has blue hair. Maybe Maul didn't kill her after all!"
"I don't know, Cynthia." Kage replied. His voice surprisingly soft. No venom or anger behind it, "Don't get your hopes up. I don't recall Lucina having only one arm."
Cynthia's face fell, "Oh, right. There was that too." She let out a long, sad sigh, "Well, we at least know where to go now."
Kage glanced back at the two women, "Still going to let me tag along?"
"It's either that, or death by Deadlord. And it is difficult to choose." Cynthia replied with a small smile, "One involves excruciating pain and torture. The other is a deadlord."
"Hey!" Kage cried, feigning offense.
Cynthia chuckled, "Just kidding." She waved for Kage to follow, "Come on. My brave girl should be rested up enough for an hour or two of travel."
She skipped on ahead in order to ready her Pegasus. Both Say'ri and Kage leisurely marched behind her.
"Kage," Say'ri breathed, "We-"
"Have a lot to discuss. I know." Kage drew in a long breath, "I was sort of aiming to avoid these types of conversations with you. But now I have no choice because of the airhead over there."
"I heard that!" Cynthia exclaimed.
"Good." Kage remarked with a light laugh. He let his laughter die away and anxiously massaged the back of his neck, "Look, Say'ri, the… the answers you want are very long and complicated. There is no short way to go about it. Can it wait until we have rescued the boy?"
Say'ri pressed her lips together.
"Fine." Say'ri sighed, "But you better have your story straight by then." She marched ahead of Kage in order to catch up with Cynthia, "No brother of mine becomes an evil monster without some harsh input from me." Kage heard her grumble.
The Sith Lord let out a small, quiet sigh before chuckling under his breath. He deserved both, the tongue lashing from Say'ri and the blow to the nose from Cytnhia.
He winced as he felt some pain grow in his side.
That kick to the ribs however… Cynthia was going to hear about that one.
Ben awoke first, as always. When he did, he found that their new companion, Cherche, had already dissapeared. The Rosanne Rebel had left them a small note on one of the food barrels. Once Ben had splashed some cold water on his face and properly woke himself up, he went over and read the note.
"Had to leave early. Boats don't wait up on rebels." Ben muttered as he read the note through bleary eyes, "The Mila Tree is directly west from here. Avoid the roads. They are heavily patrolled now that the rebellion is gone in the area. I wish you all the best of luck and I hope to see you in Regna Ferox. Sincerely, Cherche."
Ben drew in a deep breath. It made sense for her to want to get moving as early as possible. She likely had a smuggling contact at the Charlet harbor ready to take her and her Wyvern across the sea. Those kind of people tended to work when there was less traffic around. Less of a chance of getting caught.
He had a feeling they would see the Wyvern Rider again. While Ben felt determined to find Luke and Marth, he now realized that he greatly worried for his friends. They sacrificed a lot by following him on this insane search and adventure. Not a single one of them had to board the boat to Valm with him. But they did so anyways.
And now they could all be trapped here if they were not careful. The swordsman grimaced and folded the note up. That would not happen. He would not allow it.
Now came the laborious task of waking every other Shepherd in the hideout. Ben marched over to Robin first. The tactician was always the easiest to rouse. Mostly because he was a light sleeper like Ben. The swordsman gave him a rough shake on his shoulder.
"I'm up." Robin groaned then yawned. He stretched his arms over his head and carefully sat up. He winced as a pop rang out from his back, "I think I slept on a rock."
"You always manage to do that." Ben chuckled.
"Unfortunately." Robin yawned again and took a look around, "Where is our lizard loving friend?"
"Gone. Had to catch her ship out of Valm." Ben explained, "We need to get moving as well. Every hour is precious at this point."
"Right." Robin nodded, "I'll let you deal with Tharja. I can handle the others."
Ben chuckled, "You know. She might not harm you either. After all, she does seem to hold a keen interest in you."
"Keen interest in me? She's actually waltzed through your head with you." Robin snorted, "I think you win in the, who is she more obsessed with department."
"She is not obsessed with me." Ben replied, "She is just helping me through some… rough memories."
"No need to explain to me, Ben." Robin raised a hand, "I won't ask. And I know you will eventually say something in time."
Ben smiled, "Thank you, Robin." He turned and looked down at the slumbering dark mage.
Tharja was no where near as intimidating when she was asleep. Her normally sharp eyes were soft when closed. Every inch of her body looked relaxed and at peace. A small line of drool leaked out of the corner of her mouth. Ben laughed a little to himself. Despite her peaceful demeanor now, this was when the dark mage posed the biggest threat to their safety.
"Tharja." He gave her shoulder a gentle shake, "We need to get moving."
She rolled over and mumbled under her breath. Her eyes remained stubbornly closed. Behind Ben, Robin managed to wake both Gaius and Panne. Panne got Donnel to his feet easily enough. A loud yawn told Ben that Laurent had woken up.
"Tharja." Ben sighed as he shook her shoulder again, "We don't have time for this."
"Leave me here to hibernate." She mumbled.
Ben rolled his eyes. His gaze flicked up to one of the water barrels. Then over to the large bucket they used for gathering said water. He marched over to the bucket.
"B-Benny what do you-" Gaius paled, "Oh gods! Clear out everyone!"
"What do you-" Robin's lips puckered as he watched Ben fill the bucket of water. The tactician scooped up the still sleeping Anna, "You heard the man!"
The other Shepherds just managed to scramble out of the hideout as Ben flung the water over Tharja. A wrath filled cry raced through the hideout. Both Robin and Gaius watched with wide eyes as Ben surged out of the hideout and jumped out of the way of a blast of fire.
"It is just a little water." Ben laughed as Tharja emerged from the hideout and shot another fire spell at him.
"If I wanted to get wet I would go swimming!" Tharja raged as she flicked through her spell book, "You have earned a hex this time."
"Whoa! Whoa!" Robin carefully inched between the two, "Let's simmer down now. We all need to be at one hundred percent for this march. We have a lot of ground to cover and very little time to do it."
Tharja narrowed her eyes at the tactician. She gave Ben another furious glare before smacking her spell book closed.
"You're lucky I like both of you." She grumbled before turning on her heel and marching West.
Robin let out an enormous breath he had not realized he was holding. Behind him, Ben chuckled some more and clapped a hand against his shoulder.
"I told you she would not harm you." Ben smirked.
"We were this close to you being wrong." Robin countered, "You are absolutely insane. You know that right?"
"I am known as the Mad Swordsman to our enemies." Ben replied with a wry grin, "Now come along, the furious dark mage is leading the way."
"I'm still debating, Ben Kenobi." Tharja called back as she tucked her spell book to her chest.
"I thought you said you liked me." Ben teased.
"I- you-" Tharja huffed and muttered under her breath. Robin's eyes widened when he saw her cheeks heat up ever so slightly, "I'm ready for this day to be over."
Ben paused as he waited for the others to catch up. Robin came to stop beside Ben and shook his head.
"You keep poking the bear."
"The bear likes me. She just admitted it."
"I know!" Gaius chirped as he wrapped an arm over Ben's shoulders, "Can I say I told you so, yet?"
"Gaius, the day I admit you are right will be the day I meet a being older than Master Yoda."
"Oh? And how old is this Master Yoda?" Gaius asked as he walked backwards. Gaze never leaving Ben's face.
"Very old. Perhaps as old as Nowi."
"As childish?" Panne asked.
"No, Master Yoda has the wrinkles to match his age." Ben smiled back, "Then again, he does have a rather playful mind at times."
"What is it with ancient beings not acting their age?" Robin wondered out loud.
"I don't know." Ben shrugged, "But you can explain it to me when you find out the answer."
"Ha! Sure. Like I'll ever learn that one." Robin laughed.
"Would you all stop being so cheerful and start walking!" Tharja snapped from ahead.
Robin, Gaius, and Ben all gulped at once.
"Yes, ma'am!"
And chapter. Uh oh. Here we go, all three major players are about to come to a head at the Mila Tree! It is going to be one heck of chapter. Finally these three story arcs collide. It'll be pure chaos.
I apologize for not having this chapter up sooner. I was busy one day, and the interent crapped out the other day. So yeah, my apologies on that one you guys. I made it extra long just for those reasons.
Anyways, let me know what you all think of this chapter! As always, I hope you all enjoyed! Have a nice day!